Seat assembly for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a seat assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising: a base assembly; a seat cushion; a seat back; first and second backrest driving devices; and a linkage mechanism that moves the seat assembly between a plurality of positions. The linkage mechanism comprises a first linkage mechanism and a second linkage mechanism. The first linkage mechanism comprises a single linkage piece, each linkage piece comprises a restraining end and a movable end, and the bottom end of the seat back is pivotally connected with the movable end of the linkage piece of the first linkage mechanism. A linkage piece of the first linkage mechanism can be driven by the first backrest driving device to pivot, and the seat backrest can be driven by the second backrest driving device to pivot. The second linkage mechanism comprises a first linkage piece, a second linkage piece and a third linkage piece, one end of the seat cushion is pivotally connected with the movable end of the first linkage piece, the other end of the seat cushion is pivotally connected with the first movable end of the second linkage piece, and the second movable end of the second linkage piece is pivotally connected with the movable end of the third linkage piece.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to the technical field of vehicle seats. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a seat assembly for a motor vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Seating assemblies for motor vehicles typically include a seat cushion and a seat back. It is known in the art to design seating assemblies for motor vehicles to be movable between two or more positions to provide a more comfortable seating experience for occupants. For example, some seating assemblies are designed to be movable between a folded position, a designed position, and an easy-access (also known as “EZE”) position. In the folded position, the seat back pivots toward the seat cushion and folds over it to increase, for example, cargo space in the motor vehicle. In the easy-access position, at least the seat back of the seating assembly can tilt forward to increase access space behind the seating assembly. Some seating assemblies are also designed to include a reclining position, in which the seat back pivots away from the seat cushion to a substantially horizontal position, thus forming a “double bed mode” or “double bed state” so that an occupant can lie down on the seating assembly. Other seating assemblies are also designed to include a “zero-gravity” position, in which an occupant can sit on the seating assembly in a substantially zero-pressure posture, thus feeling more comfortable.

[0003] However, while existing seat assemblies offer some angle adjustment for functions such as folding, reclining, and easy entry, the bottom of the backrest is typically mounted on the seat cushion (or its frame), or the angle adjustment is usually driven by a single motor. This structure presents several drawbacks. For example, because the bottom of the backrest is attached to the seat cushion, the center of rotation cannot be adjusted independently of the seat cushion. This makes it difficult to achieve the most comfortable seating experience in certain positions. For instance, when the seat is reclined, the seat cushion and / or backrest cannot be adjusted independently of each other, potentially creating a height difference between the seat cushion and the horizontally positioned backrest, thus affecting the occupant's reclining experience. Alternatively, when the seat assembly is in a zero-gravity position, the bottom of the seat back may be pressing against the occupant's lower back, while the top of the seat back may not be in contact with the occupant's shoulders, resulting in problems such as the occupant being pushed against their lower back and lacking shoulder support, thus affecting the occupant's riding experience.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need to improve existing seat components. Utility Model Content

[0005] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, a seat assembly for a motor vehicle is provided. The seat assembly includes: a base assembly; a seat cushion; a seat back; a first backrest drive; a second backrest drive; and a linkage mechanism configured to move the seat assembly between multiple positions; wherein the linkage mechanism includes a first linkage mechanism for the seat back and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion, the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism being configured to be driven independently of each other; wherein the first linkage mechanism includes a single linkage member on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly, each linkage member including a restrained end and a movable end, wherein the bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the movable end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism, and wherein each linkage member of the first linkage mechanism is configured to be able to pivot about a first pivot portion disposed at the restrained end of the linkage member under the drive of the first backrest drive. The seat back is pivotable, and the seat back is configured to pivot about a second pivot portion disposed at the movable end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism under the drive of the second backrest drive device; and wherein the second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member and a third linkage member, the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end, the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end, the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end, wherein one end of the seat cushion near the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the second movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

[0006] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the constraint end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the constraint end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly about a vertical direction.

[0007] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, one of the second linkage member and the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage member for realizing the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly.

[0008] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the seat assembly further includes a first seat cushion drive device and a second seat cushion drive device. The first seat cushion drive device is used to drive a first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism to pivot around a first pivot portion disposed at the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, while the second seat cushion drive device is used to drive the zero-gravity linkage member to pivot.

[0009] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, when the constraint end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the constraint end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are pivotally mounted on the slide rail, the seat assembly further includes a slide rail drive device for driving the slide rail to move linearly.

[0010] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, each linkage component of the first linkage mechanism includes a first component and a second component configured to be fixedly connected to each other.

[0011] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the seat back includes a backrest frame, wherein a first component of the linkage member of the first backrest drive device and the first linkage mechanism is mounted on the base assembly, and a second component of the linkage member of the second backrest drive device and the first linkage mechanism is mounted on the backrest frame of the seat back.

[0012] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, each of the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device includes a motor and an angle adjuster.

[0013] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the seat cushion includes a seat cushion frame, the seat cushion frame including two side connectors located on the left and right sides, a front connector for connecting the two side connectors at the front of the two side connectors, and a rear connector for connecting the two side connectors at the rear of the two side connectors; wherein, the second linkage mechanism includes two first linkage members, the two first linkage members being respectively installed on the left and right sides of the seat cushion frame at the rear of the two side connectors.

[0014] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the first seat cushion drive device includes a motor and an angle adjuster, and a seat cushion motor mounting bracket for mounting the motor of the first seat cushion drive device is provided on the inner side of one of the two side connectors.

[0015] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the front of the seat cushion frame.

[0016] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the third linkage of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage for realizing the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly, and the constraint end of the third linkage is pivotally mounted to the base assembly.

[0017] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the second linkage mechanism includes two third linkage members spaced apart from each other, the two third linkage members being connected together via a connector, wherein the second seat cushion drive device includes a zero-gravity motor, and one end of the connector for connecting the two third linkage members is provided with a zero-gravity motor mounting bracket for mounting the zero-gravity motor.

[0018] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the seat assembly moves between a designed position, a high-adjustment position, the zero-gravity position, a folded position, a reclining position, and an easy-entry position under the drive of one or more of the first backrest drive device, the second backrest drive device, the first seat cushion drive device, and the second seat cushion drive device. In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly forms a predetermined angle with respect to the seat cushion to support the occupant. In the high-adjustment position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height relative to the designed position. In the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state. In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly and the seat cushion are substantially stacked to increase the space of the vehicle. In the reclining position, the seat back of the seat assembly and the seat cushion are substantially flush. And in the easy-entry position, the seat back of the seat assembly pivots towards the seat cushion by a predetermined angle relative to the designed position and / or the seat cushion moves forward a predetermined distance relative to the designed position to increase the space behind the seat assembly.

[0019] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, during the movement of the seat assembly from the designed position to the zero-gravity position, the first seat cushion drive device locks the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism so that it cannot move; and during the movement of the seat assembly from the designed position to other positions besides the zero-gravity position, the second seat cushion drive device locks the zero-gravity linkage member of the second linkage mechanism so that it cannot move.

[0020] It should be noted that aspects of this disclosure described with respect to one embodiment can be included in other different embodiments, although these other different embodiments are not specifically described. In other words, features of all embodiments and / or any embodiments can be combined in any manner and / or combination, as long as they do not contradict each other. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Many aspects of this disclosure will be better understood after reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1a and Figure 1b These are perspective views of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, shown from different angles.

[0023] Figure 2a yes Figure 1a and Figure 1b Side view of the seat assembly shown;

[0024] Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of a seat assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0025] Figure 2c This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of a seat assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the backrest frame of a seat back of a seat assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 4a This is a perspective view of the seat cushion frame of a seat cushion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 4b yes Figure 4a The disassembled diagram of the seat cushion frame is shown.

[0029] Figure 5a This is a perspective view of a seat cushion frame with a front linkage mounted on it, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 5b yes Figure 4a An assembly diagram of the seat cushion frame and the front linkage component;

[0031] Figure 6a This is a perspective view of the base assembly of a seat assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 6b yes Figure 6a The disassembled diagram of the base assembly is shown;

[0033] Figure 7a This is a perspective view of a seat assembly with a zero-gravity linkage mounted thereon, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 7b yes Figure 6aThe diagram shows the assembly of the base assembly and the zero-gravity linkage component.

[0035] Figure 8a and Figure 8b These are schematic diagrams showing, from different angles, a zero-gravity linkage component directly driven by an angle adjuster according to another embodiment;

[0036] Figure 9a yes Figure 5a The seat frame shown and Figure 7a The diagram shows the assembly of the base assembly;

[0037] Figure 9b yes Figure 5a The seat frame shown and Figure 7a A perspective view of the seat cushion assembly formed by assembling the base components together;

[0038] Figure 9c yes Figure 3 The backrest frame shown and Figure 9b The diagram shows the assembly of the seat cushion assembly.

[0039] Figure 10a This is a side view of the seat assembly, which is positioned prominently.

[0040] Figure 10b and Figure 10c This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism during the process from the design position to the high-profile position;

[0041] Figure 11a This is a side view of the seat assembly in a zero-gravity position;

[0042] Figure 11b and Figure 11c This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism during the process from the design position to the zero gravity position;

[0043] Figure 12a This is a comparison diagram of the linkage mechanism of a prior art seat assembly and the linkage mechanism of a seat assembly according to this disclosure when both are in a zero-gravity position;

[0044] Figure 12b This is a schematic diagram of an occupant sitting on a conventional seat assembly in a zero-gravity position.

[0045] Figure 12c It is a schematic diagram of an occupant sitting on a seat assembly according to the present disclosure in a zero-gravity position;

[0046] Figure 13a This is a side view of the seat assembly in its folded position;

[0047] Figure 13b and Figure 13cThis is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism driving the process from the design position to the folding position;

[0048] Figure 14a This is a side view of the seat assembly in an easily accessible position;

[0049] Figure 14b and Figure 14c This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism during the process from the design position to the convenient access position;

[0050] Figure 15a This is a side view of the seat assembly in a reclining position;

[0051] Figure 15b and Figure 15c This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism during the process of moving from the designed position to the lying position;

[0052] Figure 15d This is a schematic diagram showing that when the seat assembly according to this disclosure is in a reclining position, there is essentially no height difference between the bottom end of the seat back and the rear end of the seat cushion.

[0053] It should be understood that the same reference numerals denote the same elements in all the accompanying drawings. For clarity, the dimensions of some features may be altered and they may not be drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure can be presented in many different ways and is not limited to the embodiments described below; in fact, the embodiments described below are intended to make the disclosure more complete and to fully illustrate the scope of protection of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in various ways to provide further additional embodiments.

[0055] It should be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. All terms used in this specification (including technical and scientific terms) have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. For the sake of brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail.

[0056] Unless otherwise specified, the singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in this specification include the plural forms. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “containing” used in this specification indicate the presence of the claimed feature but do not exclude the presence of one or more other features. The term “and / or” used in this specification includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items.

[0057] When a component is described in the specification as being "on", "attached" to, "connected" to, "joined" to, or "in contact" with another component, the component may be directly located on, attached to, connected to, joined to, or in contact with the other component, or there may be an intermediate component present.

[0058] In this specification, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used for ease of explanation only and are not intended to be limiting. Any technical feature represented by "first," "second," "third," etc., is interchangeable.

[0059] In the specification, spatial relation terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," "back," "top," and "bottom" describe the relationship between one feature and another in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that spatial relation terms include not only the orientation shown in the drawings but also the different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, when the device in the drawings is inverted, a feature previously described as "below" other features can now be described as "above" other features. The device can also be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), in which case the relative spatial relationships will be explained accordingly.

[0060] This disclosure relates to a seat assembly for a motor vehicle that is movable between multiple positions to achieve a specific function. For example... Figure 1a and Figure 1b As shown, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure may include a seat cushion 2 and a seat back 3. The seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure may also include a linkage mechanism 150, which is configured to move the seat cushion 2 and the seat back 3 to realize the movement of the seat assembly 1 between multiple positions.

[0061] Unlike existing seat components, such as Figure 2b As shown, the linkage mechanism 150 of the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 151 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 152 for the seat cushion 2.

[0062] In embodiments according to this disclosure, the first linkage mechanism 151 can be configured as a "single-link" linkage mechanism. For example... Figure 2b As shown, the first linkage mechanism 151 may consist only of the linkage member 1511. The linkage member 1511 includes a restraining end 1512 and a movable end 1513. The restraining end 1512 of the linkage member 1511 may be... Figure 2b The location shown at point B is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor 5 (as shown). Figure 2b (as shown), or is pivotally mounted on a slide rail 6 that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1 (as shown). Figure 2cThe seat assembly 1 is either mounted on the vehicle floor 5 (shown) or pivotally mounted on a rotating component (not shown) that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to allow the seat assembly 1 to rotate about a vertical direction. The restraint end 1512 may be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor 5, the slide rail 6, or the rotating component via an intermediate component, such as the base assembly mentioned below. The linkage 1511 may pivot about a first pivot portion located at the restraint end 1512 under the drive of a first backrest drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster), thereby causing the movable end 1513 of the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to move or swing. The bottom end of the seat backrest 3 can be pivotally connected to the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151. On the one hand, this allows the seat backrest 3 to move or swing in response to the movement or swing of the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 151 of the first linkage mechanism 151. On the other hand, it allows the seat backrest 3 to pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism 151 (more specifically, relative to its linkage member 1511) around a second pivot portion disposed at the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 151 of the first linkage mechanism 151. The pivoting of the seat backrest 3 relative to the first linkage mechanism 151 around the second pivot portion can be driven by a second backrest drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster). Therefore, the seat backrest 3 of the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can be referred to as a "dual-drive" seat backrest. When the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device are not working, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism 151 around the first pivot and the pivoting of the seat back 3 around the second pivot can be locked, so that the seat back 3 cannot move.

[0063] In embodiments according to this disclosure, the first linkage mechanism 151 may include two linkage members 1511, which are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two linkage members 1511 can move synchronously under the drive of the same drive device, for example, by means of two angle adjusters connected to each other, driven synchronously by a single motor.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2a As shown, each linkage 1511 located on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1 can be formed by two parts 1514 and 1515. These two parts 1514 and 1515 can be fixed to each other (i.e., cannot pivot relative to each other) to form the linkage 1511. This configuration facilitates the assembly of the seat assembly 1. In other embodiments, the linkage 1511 can also be formed as a single integral part.

[0065] In embodiments according to this disclosure, the second linkage mechanism 152 is configured as a "five-bar" linkage mechanism. The second linkage mechanism 152 may include a first linkage 1521 (also referred to as a "rear seat linkage," located at the rear of the seat cushion 2 near the seat back 3), a second linkage 1522 (also referred to as a "front seat linkage," located at the front of the seat cushion 2 away from the seat back 3), and a third linkage 1523 (also referred to as a "zero-gravity linkage," used to adjust the seat assembly 1 to a zero-gravity position). The first linkage 1521 includes a restrained end 1521-1 and a movable end 1521-2, the second linkage includes a first movable end 1522-1 and a second movable end 1522-2, and the third linkage includes a restrained end 1523-1 and a movable end 1523-2. The restrained ends 1521-1 of the first linkage 1521 and 1523-1 of the third linkage 1523 may be respectively located at... Figure 2b The seat assembly 1 is pivotally mounted at positions A and C on the vehicle floor 5, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail 6 that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 about the vertical direction. The restraint ends 1521-1 and 1523-1 can be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor 5, the slide rail 6, or the rotating component via an intermediate component, such as the base assembly mentioned below. The end of the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 closest to the seat back 3 (also referred to as the "rear end") 21 is pivotally connected to the movable end 1521-2 of the first linkage 1521, while the other end furthest from the seat back 3 (also referred to as the "front end") 22 is pivotally connected to the first movable end 1522-1 of the second linkage 1522. The second movable end 1522-2 of the second linkage 1522 is pivotally connected to the movable end 1523-2 of the third linkage 1523. Thus, the first linkage 1521, the second linkage 1522 and the third linkage 1523 of the second linkage mechanism 152, the seat cushion 2, and the components (vehicle floor, slide rail or rotating component) on which the constraint ends 1521-1 of the first linkage 1521 and 1523-1 of the third linkage 1523 are mounted constitute a so-called "five-bar linkage" mechanism.

[0066] The first linkage 1521 can pivot about a first pivot portion located at the constraint end 1521-1 under the drive of a first seat cushion drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster). The third linkage 1523 can pivot about a second pivot portion located at the constraint end 1523-1 under the drive of a second seat cushion drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster). Figure 2b and Figure 2c(As shown). The pivoting of the first linkage 1521 around the first pivot portion located at the constraint end 1521-1 and the pivoting of the third linkage 1523 around the second pivot portion located at the constraint end 1523-1 can both cause the seat cushion 2 to move or swing accordingly, thereby moving the seat cushion 2 to the desired position. When the first seat cushion drive device and / or the second seat cushion drive device are not working, correspondingly, the pivoting of the first linkage 1521 around the first pivot portion located at the constraint end 1521-1 and / or the pivoting of the third linkage 1523 around the second pivot portion located at the constraint end 1523-1 can be locked, so that the seat cushion 2 can move with restriction or cannot move. In some cases, when the first seat cushion drive device is not working, the movable end 1521-2 of the first linkage 1521 can be locked by the first seat cushion drive device, so that the seat cushion 2 cannot pivot around the movable end 1521-2 of the first linkage 1521, but the first linkage 1521 can still pivot around its pivot end 1521-1.

[0067] In embodiments according to this disclosure, as mentioned above, the third linkage 1523 is configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving a zero-gravity position of the seat assembly 1. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second linkage 1522 may also be configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving a zero-gravity position of the seat assembly 1.

[0068] Similar to the first linkage mechanism 151, the second linkage mechanism 152 may include two first linkage members 1521, two second linkage members 1522, and two third linkage members 1523, which are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two first linkage members 1521, the two second linkage members 1522, or the two third linkage members 1523 can move synchronously under the drive of the same drive device, for example, by means of two angle adjusters connected to each other, driven synchronously by a single motor.

[0069] In embodiments according to this disclosure, the bottom end of the seat back 3 and the first linkage mechanism 151 for the seat back 3 are not mounted on the seat cushion 2, but are mounted on the vehicle floor 5, the slide rail 6, or the rotating component. Furthermore, the first linkage mechanism 151 for the seat back 3 and the second linkage mechanism 152 for the seat cushion 2 can be driven independently relative to each other. This configuration enables independent control of the movement of both the seat back 3 and the seat cushion 2. This independent control, combined with the aforementioned "dual drive" of the seat back 3, gives the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure more flexible adjustment capabilities. This more flexible adjustment capability not only improves the comfort of the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure but also expands its application scenarios. For example, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can be positioned in a designed location (such as...). Figure 2a and Figure 2b As shown), high-profile position (such as) Figures 10a to 10c As shown), zero gravity position (as shown) Figures 11a to 11c (as shown), folding position (as shown) Figures 13a to 13c As shown), convenient access (EZE) location (such as...) Figures 14a to 14c As shown), and lying flat position (as shown). Figures 15a to 15c The seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can move between (as shown) and, compared to prior art seat assemblies, can provide increased comfort in these positions, as will be described in detail below.

[0070] Next, first refer to Figures 3 to 9b The specific structure of the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure will be described in detail.

[0071] As mentioned above, seat assembly 1 may include seat cushion 2 and seat back 3. Figure 3 As shown, the seat back 3 may include a backrest frame 31. The backrest frame 31 may be configured to be generally rectangular and may include a first frame member 31-1 and a second frame member 31-2 arranged approximately to the left and right of its central longitudinal axis L31. In the case where the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 is formed by two parts 1514 and 1515, the second part (also referred to as the "upper part") 1514 of the linkage member 1511 may be pivotally mounted at the bottom end positions of the first frame member 31-1 and the second frame member 31-2, respectively. In some embodiments, the second backrest drive device mentioned above for driving the seat back 3 to pivot about a second pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism 151 may include a motor 32 and an adjuster 33. The motor 32 may be mounted on the backrest frame 31 by fasteners (e.g., bolts). The adjuster 33 may include a fixed part and a rotating part rotatable relative to the fixed part. The fixed component of the angle adjuster 33 can be fixedly connected (e.g., welded) to the second component 1514 of the linkage 1511, while the rotating component of the angle adjuster 33 can be fixedly connected (e.g., welded) to a corresponding part of the backrest frame 31. Thus, when the rotating component of the angle adjuster 33 rotates relative to the fixed component, it can drive the backrest frame 31 to pivot relative to the linkage 1511. The rotation of the rotating component of the angle adjuster 33 relative to the fixed component is driven by the motor 32. In this embodiment, the second component 1514 of the linkage 1511 can be configured as a connecting plate for fixing the fixed component of the angle adjuster 33. Additionally, as... Figure 3As shown, the second backrest drive device may include a single motor 32 and two adjusters 33. The two adjusters 33 are respectively mounted on both sides of the backrest frame 31 for driving the backrest frame 31 to pivot from the left and right sides. To synchronously drive the two adjusters 33 using the single motor 32, the two adjusters 33 can be connected to each other using a rod 34. The motor 32 can drive the rotating parts of the two adjusters 33 to rotate synchronously by rotating the rod 34.

[0072] like Figure 4a and Figure 4b As shown, the seat cushion 2 may include a seat cushion frame 21. The seat cushion frame 21 may be configured in a generally rectangular shape and may include two side connectors (e.g., side panels) 21-1 located on the left and right sides, a front connector 21-2 (e.g., a front crossbar or front cross tube) for connecting the two side connectors at the front, and a rear connector 21-3 (e.g., a rear crossbar) for connecting the two side connectors at the rear. The seat cushion frame 21 may also include a seat basin 21-4, which may be supported on the two side connectors 21-1 and the front connector 21-2 at the front of the two side connectors. In some embodiments, the seat frame assembly 21 may also include a leg rest 4 (e.g., ... Figure 11b The leg support mounting bracket 21-5 (as shown)

[0073] The first linkage member (or rear linkage member of the seat cushion) 1521 of the second linkage mechanism 152 mentioned above can be mounted on the rear of the two side connectors 21-1 on the left and right sides of the seat cushion frame 21. The seat cushion 2 may include a first seat cushion drive device for driving the first linkage member 1521 to pivot around the first pivot portion. Figure 4b As shown, the first seat cushion drive device may include a motor 21-6 and an adjuster 21-7. For mounting the motor 21-6, a seat cushion motor mounting bracket 21-8 may be provided on the inner side of one side connector 21-1 of the seat cushion frame 21. The motor 21-6 can be mounted on the seat cushion motor mounting bracket 21-8 using fasteners (e.g., bolts). The adjuster 21-7 may have a substantially similar construction to the adjuster 33, and its rotating component may be mounted to drive the first linkage 1521 to pivot about the first pivot portion.

[0074] Specifically, the first seat cushion drive device may include a single motor 21-6 and two adjusters 21-7. The two adjusters 21-7 are respectively mounted on both sides of the seat cushion frame 21, for driving the two first linkage members 1521 of the second linkage mechanism 152 to pivot. To synchronously drive the two adjusters 21-7 using the single motor 21-6, the two adjusters 21-7 can be connected to each other using a lever 21-9. The motor 21-6 can drive the lever 21-9 to rotate, causing the rotating parts of the two adjusters 21-7 to rotate synchronously.

[0075] Reference Figure 5a and Figure 5b The second linkage component (or the front linkage component of the seat cushion) 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be pivotally mounted on the front of the seat cushion frame 21. For example... Figure 5b As shown, the second linkage mechanism 152 may include two second linkage members 1522, which can be connected together via a connector (e.g., a cross tube or crossbar) 1522-3. The first movable ends 1522-1 of the two linkage members 1522 and the connector 1522-3 can be welded together to form an integral second linkage assembly. The second linkage assembly can be pivotally connected to the front of the seat frame 21 via bushings (e.g., plastic bushings) through both ends of the connector 1522-3.

[0076] Reference Figure 6a and Figure 6b The seat assembly 1 may also include a base assembly 7. The base assembly 7 may include two base fixing plates 701 spaced apart from each other, two lifting brackets 702 spaced apart from each other, and a reinforcement (e.g., a reinforcing cross tube) 703 located between the two lifting brackets 702. The two base fixing plates 701, the two lifting brackets 702, and the reinforcement 703 of the base assembly 7 may be welded together to form the base assembly 7.

[0077] The first component (also referred to as the "lower component") 1515 of the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 for the seat backrest 3, and the first backrest drive device for driving the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to pivot, can be mounted on the base assembly 7. Specifically, the first component 1515 of the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 (more specifically, its restraining end) can be pivotally connected to the base fixing plate 701 via an arcuate groove 7011 provided on the base fixing plate 701 using bolts (e.g., stepped bolts), wherein the two ends of the arcuate groove 7011 are used to limit the pivoting or swinging angle of the first component 1515. The first backrest drive device may include a motor 35 and an adjuster 36. The adjuster 36 may have the same construction as the adjuster 33, and may include a fixed component and a rotating component capable of rotating relative to the fixed component. The fixed component of the angle adjuster 36 can be welded, for example, to the rear of the base assembly 7, while the rotating component of the angle adjuster 36 can be welded, for example, to the first component 1515 of the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151, so that the first component 1515 of the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 pivots when the rotating component of the angle adjuster 36 rotates relative to its fixed component. The motor 35 of the first backrest drive device can be bolted to the vehicle floor 5 or the slide rail 6. Similar to the second backrest drive device, as... Figure 6bAs shown, the first backrest drive device may include a single motor 35 and two angle adjusters 36. The two angle adjusters 36 are respectively mounted on both sides of the base assembly 7 for driving the first component 1515 of the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to pivot from the left and right sides.

[0078] exist Figure 6a and Figure 6b In the illustrated embodiment, the base assembly 7 is mounted on the slide rail 6 using fasteners (e.g., bolts). The slide rail 6 can move linearly under the drive of a slide rail drive device (e.g., a slide rail motor) 8. The slide rail drive device 8 can be mounted at any suitable location.

[0079] Reference Figure 7a and Figure 7b This shows a base assembly equipped with a zero-gravity linkage. For example... Figure 7b As shown, the constraint end 1523-1 of the third linkage member 1523 (i.e., the zero-gravity linkage member) of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be pivotally mounted (e.g., riveted) to the base assembly 7. The second linkage mechanism 152 may include two third linkage members 1523 spaced apart from each other, which can be connected together via a connector (e.g., a cross tube or crossbar) 1523-3. The constraint ends 1523-1 and the connector 1523-3 of the two linkage members 1523 can be welded together to form an integral third linkage member assembly. The third linkage member assembly may include a zero-gravity motor mounting bracket 1523-4 for mounting the zero-gravity drive device (i.e., the aforementioned second seat cushion drive device, which may include a zero-gravity motor) 9, which may be disposed at one end of the connector 1523-3. The zero-gravity drive device 9 may include only a zero-gravity motor. In some embodiments, such as Figure 8a and Figure 8b As shown, the zero-gravity drive device 9 may include an angle adjuster 1523-5. The third linkage 1523 of the second linkage mechanism 152 (i.e., the zero-gravity linkage) may be driven by the angle adjuster 1523-5.

[0080] Figure 9a It shows Figure 5a The seat frame 21 shown is Figure 7a The connection between the base assemblies 7 shown. The constraint end 1521-1 of the first linkage member 1521 of the second linkage mechanism 152 mounted on the cushion frame 21 can be bolted rotatably onto the base assembly 7 using bolts (e.g., step bolts), and the second movable end 1522-2 of the second linkage member 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be pivotally connected to the movable end 1523-2 of the third linkage member 1523, thereby forming a cushion assembly (e.g., Figure 9b (As shown). Fasteners (such as bolts) can be used to secure... Figure 3The backrest frame 31 shown is installed on Figure 9b The seat assembly 1 is formed on the seat cushion assembly shown. Specifically, fasteners can be used to mount the seat assembly... Figure 3 The second part 1514 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 on the backrest frame 21 shown and the first part 1515 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 mounted on the seat cushion assembly shown in FIG9 are fastened together to form the seat assembly 1.

[0081] Next, refer to Figures 10a to 15d The description will cover the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure from such... Figures 2a to 2c The process of moving the design position to other positions is shown.

[0082] In the design location, such as Figure 2a As shown, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion 2 to support the occupant.

[0083] In a high-profile position, such as Figure 10a As shown, the seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1 can be raised or lowered by a predetermined height relative to its designed position. For example... Figure 10b and Figure 10c As shown, to move seat assembly 1 from its designed position to a higher position, the first linkage member 1521 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be pivoted away from the seat back 3 using the first seat cushion drive device, causing the seat cushion 2 to move forward and upward, thereby raising the seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1. Alternatively, the first linkage member 1521 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be pivoted towards the seat back 3, thereby lowering the seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1. During this process, the zero-gravity linkage member (e.g., the second linkage member 1522 or the third linkage member 1523) can be locked using the second seat cushion drive device, preventing the zero-gravity linkage member from moving and allowing only the seat cushion 2 and other linkage members besides the zero-gravity linkage member to move. In addition, during or after the first linkage member 1521 of the second linkage mechanism 152 is pivoted away from the seat back 3 by the first seat cushion drive device, the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 can also be pivoted toward or away from the seat cushion 2 (i.e., forward or backward) by the first backrest drive device to raise or lower the seat back 3 accordingly, and / or the seat back 3 can be pivoted toward or away from the seat cushion 2 (i.e., forward or backward) relative to the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 by the second backrest drive device, so that the seat back 3 and the seat cushion 2 can still be adjusted to a predetermined position and a predetermined angle relative to each other in the high position to increase the comfort of the seat assembly 1.

[0084] At zero gravity, such as Figure 11aAs shown, seat assembly 1 is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state (e.g., seat cushion 2 and seat back 3 are adjusted to a predetermined angle and relative position, footrest 4 of seat cushion 2 extends and is in a predetermined position, etc.). Figure 11b and Figure 11c As shown, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to a zero-gravity position, the second seat cushion drive device can be used to drive the zero-gravity linkage (the third linkage 1523 or the second linkage 1522) to pivot toward the seat back 3 (i.e., backward and upward). During this process, the first seat cushion drive device can be used to lock the constraint end 1521-1 of the first linkage 1521, so that the first linkage 1521 cannot move, while only the second linkage 1522, the third linkage 1523 and the seat cushion 2 can move; alternatively, the first seat cushion drive device can be used to lock the movable end 1521-2 of the first linkage 1521, so that the seat cushion 2 cannot pivot relative to the movable end 1521-2 of the first linkage 1521, but the first linkage 1521 can still pivot around its pivot end 1521-1. In addition, during the process of moving the seat assembly 1 from the designed position to the zero-gravity position, the first backrest drive device can be used to drive the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to pivot away from the seat cushion 2 (i.e., backward), and the second backrest drive device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to pivot away from or closer to the seat cushion 2 relative to the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151, until the seat back 3 is pivoted to the desired position.

[0085] In the embodiments according to this disclosure, since the first linkage mechanism 151 and the seat back 3 can pivot under the drive of the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device respectively (i.e., they can be adjusted independently), the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can overcome the defects of existing seat assemblies in zero gravity, such as lack of support for the lumbar and shoulders, thereby providing occupants with a more comfortable "zero-pressure state" experience. This will combine Figures 12a to 12c To explain.

[0086] like Figure 12a and Figure 12b As shown, in the prior art seat assembly 1', in a zero-gravity position, the bottom 31' of the seat back 3' cannot move relative to the seat cushion in a zero-gravity position. This causes the seat back 3' to tilt so that its bottom 31' is closer to the seat cushion and its top 32' is further away from the seat cushion (see [reference]). Figure 12a (Comparison), resulting in the bottom 31' of the seat back 3' pressing against the occupant's lower back when the occupant is sitting on the seat assembly 1', while the top 32' of the seat back 3' does not provide sufficient support for the occupant's shoulders or head. Figure 12bAs shown. The seat backrest 3 of this disclosure, because it can be appropriately adjusted under the drive of the first and second backrest drive devices, can be adjusted to a more comfortable position that neither presses against the occupant's lower back nor hinders the occupant's shoulders or head (see...). Figure 12c This improves or enhances the comfort of the seat components.

[0087] In the folded position, such as Figure 13a As shown, the seat back 3 and seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1 are substantially stacked to increase the space of the motor vehicle (e.g., cargo space). Figure 13b and Figure 13c As shown, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to its folded position, on the one hand, the first linkage member 1521 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be driven by the first cushion drive device to pivot away from the seat back 3 (i.e., forward and downward); on the other hand, the second backrest drive device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to pivot toward the seat cushion 2 until it is substantially overlapped with the seat cushion 2. In some cases, before folding the seat back 3, the first backrest drive device can also be used to drive the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to pivot toward the seat cushion 2 (i.e., forward), thereby raising the seat back 3 to facilitate folding.

[0088] In this disclosure, the folding is more flexible because the movement of the seat cushion 2 and the seat back 3 can be controlled independently (e.g., controlled independently by a controller with a predetermined control program). In other cases, the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 can be pivoted away from the seat cushion 2 (i.e., backward) by the first backrest drive device. This pivoting method allows the folded seat back 3 to be in a lower position, thereby freeing up more cargo space.

[0089] In easily accessible locations, such as Figure 14a As shown, on the one hand, the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 can pivot forward a certain distance relative to the designed position; on the other hand, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 can pivot towards the seat cushion 2 at a predetermined angle relative to the designed position, thereby providing more space behind the seat assembly 1 to facilitate the entry and exit of occupants. Figure 14b and Figure 14cAs shown, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to a convenient access position, on the one hand, the first linkage member 1521 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be driven by the first cushion drive device to pivot away from the seat back 3 (i.e., forward); on the other hand, the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 can be driven by the first backrest drive device to pivot toward the seat cushion 2, thereby causing the seat back 3 to move forward toward the seat cushion 2. In some cases, after the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 has pivoted toward the seat cushion 2 by a predetermined angle, the second backrest drive device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to continue pivoting toward the seat cushion 2 relative to the linkage member 1511 until it has pivoted to the desired position.

[0090] Compared to existing seat assemblies, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can provide a larger space for easy entry and exit by means of the independently controlled first linkage mechanism 151. In addition, if the first linkage mechanism 151 and the second linkage mechanism 152 of the seat assembly 1 are mounted on the slide rail 6, the entire seat assembly 1 can be driven forward by the slide rail drive device 8, thereby further increasing the space for easy entry and exit.

[0091] In a lying position, such as Figure 15a As shown, the seat back 3 of seat assembly 1 is substantially flush with the seat cushion 2, allowing the occupant to lie down on seat assembly 1. Figure 15b and Figure 15c As shown, to move the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to a reclining position, the first backrest drive device can be used to drive the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to pivot away from the seat cushion 2. After pivoting at a predetermined angle, the second backrest drive device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to pivot away from the seat cushion 2 relative to the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 until it is substantially flush with the seat cushion 2. Alternatively, the first cushion drive device can be used to drive the first linkage 1521 of the second linkage mechanism 152 to pivot away from the seat back 3 (i.e., forward), so that the seat cushion 2 and seat back 3 are substantially unfolded onto the same plane or at the same height. Compared to existing seat assemblies, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure is more comfortable in the reclining position due to the independently controlled first linkage mechanism 151 and second linkage mechanism 152, because there is essentially no height difference at the connection between the seat back 3 and the seat cushion 2 (e.g., ...). Figure 15d Therefore, the common problem of the pressure on the passenger's lower back does not exist.

[0092] Exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. All changes and modifications are included within the scope of protection of this disclosure as defined by the claims. This disclosure is defined by the appended claims, and equivalents of those claims are also included.

Claims

1. A seat assembly for a motor vehicle, characterized in that, The seat assembly includes: Base assembly; Seat cushion; Seat backrest; First backrest drive device; Second backrest drive mechanism; and A linkage mechanism configured to enable the seat assembly to move between multiple positions; The linkage mechanism includes a first linkage mechanism for the seat back and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion, wherein the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism are configured to be driven independently of each other. The first linkage mechanism includes a single linkage member on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly. Each linkage member includes a restraining end and a movable end. The bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the movable end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism. Each linkage member of the first linkage mechanism is configured to pivot about a first pivot portion located at the restraining end of the linkage member under the drive of the first backrest drive device. The seat back is configured to pivot about a second pivot portion located at the movable end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism under the drive of the second backrest drive device. The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member, and a third linkage member. The first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end. The third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The end of the seat cushion near the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, while the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism. The second movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

2. The seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The constraint end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the constraint end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly about the vertical direction.

3. The seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, One of the second linkage component and the third linkage component of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage component for realizing the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly.

4. The seat assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The seat assembly further includes a first seat cushion drive device and a second seat cushion drive device. The first seat cushion drive device is used to drive the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism to pivot around the first pivot portion disposed at the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, while the second seat cushion drive device is used to drive the zero-gravity linkage member to pivot.

5. The seat assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the constraint end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the constraint end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are pivotally mounted on the slide rail, the seat assembly further includes a slide rail drive device for driving the slide rail to move linearly.

6. The seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each linkage component of the first linkage mechanism includes a first component and a second component that are fixedly connected to each other.

7. The seat assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The seat back includes a backrest frame, wherein a first component of the linkage between the first backrest drive device and the first linkage mechanism is mounted on the base assembly, and a second component of the linkage between the second backrest drive device and the first linkage mechanism is mounted on the backrest frame of the seat back.

8. The seat assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, Each of the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device includes a motor and an angle adjuster.

9. The seat assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The seat cushion includes a seat cushion frame, the seat cushion frame including two side connectors located on the left and right sides, a front connector for connecting the two side connectors at the front of the two side connectors, and a rear connector for connecting the two side connectors at the rear of the two side connectors. The second linkage mechanism includes two first linkage components, which are respectively installed on the left and right sides of the seat cushion frame at the rear of the two side connectors.

10. The seat assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first seat cushion drive device includes a motor and an angle adjuster. One of the two side connectors has a seat cushion motor mounting bracket on its inner side for mounting the motor of the first seat cushion drive device.

11. The seat assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second linkage component of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the front of the seat cushion frame.

12. The seat assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The third linkage of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage to achieve the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly, and the constraint end of the third linkage is pivotally mounted to the base assembly.

13. The seat assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The second linkage mechanism includes two third linkage components spaced apart from each other, and the two third linkage components are connected together by a connector. The second seat cushion drive device includes a zero-gravity motor, and one end of the connector used to connect the two third linkage components is provided with a zero-gravity motor mounting bracket for mounting the zero-gravity motor.

14. The seat assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The seat assembly moves between a designed position, a high-adjustment position, a zero-gravity position, a folded position, a reclining position, and a convenient access position under the drive of one or more of the first backrest drive device, the second backrest drive device, the first seat cushion drive device, and the second seat cushion drive device. In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion to support the occupant; In the high-profile position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position; At the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state; In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly and the seat cushion are substantially overlapped to increase the space of the motor vehicle; In the lying position, the seat back and seat cushion of the seat assembly are substantially flush. and In the convenient access position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted at a predetermined angle toward the seat cushion relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly.

15. The seat assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, During the movement of the seat assembly from the designed position to the zero-gravity position, the first seat cushion drive device locks the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism so that it cannot move; and during the movement of the seat assembly from the designed position to other positions besides the zero-gravity position, the second seat cushion drive device locks the zero-gravity linkage member of the second linkage mechanism so that it cannot move.

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