Seat assembly and seat backrest assembly for a motor vehicle
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
- Filing Date
- 2017-08-01
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-09
AI Technical Summary
Modern automotive seat assemblies face challenges in accommodating varying sizes and shapes of drivers and passengers while ensuring comfort and durability, with complex assembly processes leading to high costs and limited design flexibility.
A modular automotive seat assembly design featuring a one-piece composite inner support substrate mechanically interlocked to the seat back frame using headrest guide sleeves, along with a modular seat back cover and suspension system, allowing for efficient assembly and customizable design elements.
The design provides improved comfort and durability by accommodating diverse passenger sizes, reduces assembly costs, and enhances design flexibility through modular components and efficient manufacturing processes.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
AREA OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to a mechanical locking mechanism for a one-piece inner composite support substrate and a backrest frame of an upwardly extending backrest of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle, and in particular to a pair of headrest guide sleeves attached to an upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate and an upper section of the backrest frame to mechanically lock the one-piece inner composite support substrate to the backrest frame. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART
[0002] Modern automotive seating assemblies are becoming increasingly comfortable as designers refine their understanding of human ergonomics, posture, and comfort. Seating assemblies incorporating comfort components can provide drivers and passengers with enhanced comfort and extended durability on long journeys. However, accommodating the diverse sizes and shapes of drivers and passengers can pose a challenge when selecting a seating assemblies. Therefore, aesthetically pleasing seating assemblies, featuring components optimized to accommodate the varying sizes and shapes of drivers and passengers, as well as their desired postures and seating positions, are becoming increasingly important.
[0003] Consequently, current automotive seat assemblies now contain hundreds of individual parts. Assembling such current automotive seat assemblies requires bringing these hundreds of parts together to form a final automotive seat assembly, typically using so-called "Kanban" or "Just-In-Time" (JIT) assembly processes to achieve the complete automotive seat assembly. Using such assembly processes, it has been found that it is advantageous to modularize the automotive seat assembly into discrete sub-assemblies to reduce the costs of final assembly. This allows the sub-assemblies to be sourced from a location independent of the final JIT assembly line.An improved motor vehicle seat assembly design was desired to meet all the needs of the motor vehicle seat assembly, in particular a design that positively and practically couples the one-piece inner composite support substrate to the backrest frame. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a motor vehicle seat assembly for a motor vehicle comprises a lower seat assembly and an upward-extending seat back assembly. The upward-extending seat back assembly includes a headrest with a headrest cushion and a headrest mounting pin, a seat back frame having a vertically oriented frame opening in an upper section thereof, a seat back and suspension module having an upper section and a vertically oriented module opening in the upper section, the frame opening and the module opening being vertically oriented relative to each other, and a headrest guide sleeve that is vertically received and held in the frame opening and the module opening, the headrest mounting pin being received and held in the headrest guide sleeve.
[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a seat backrest assembly comprises a headrest, a seat backrest frame having an opening in an upper section thereof, a seat backrest and suspension module having an opening in an upper section thereof, wherein the frame opening and the module opening are vertically aligned with respect to each other, and a headrest guide sleeve which is received and held in the frame opening and the module opening.
[0006] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a motor vehicle seat assembly comprises a lower seat assembly and an upwardly extending seat backrest assembly, wherein the upwardly extending seat backrest assembly comprises a headrest with a headrest cushion and a headrest mounting pin dependent on the headrest cushion, a seat backrest frame having a vertically oriented frame opening in an upper section thereof, a seat backrest and suspension module attached to the seat frame, wherein the seat backrest and suspension module further comprises a one-piece inner composite support substrate having a pair of vertically extending side elements, wherein an upper transverse element has a vertically oriented module opening, the frame opening and the module opening being vertically oriented relative to each other, and a lower transverse element.wherein an outer edge of each of the side elements, the upper transverse element and the lower transverse element forms an outer circumference, and a seat backrest cover has an outer circumference comprising a plurality of seat backrest cover attachment devices arranged around a circumference of the seat backrest cover at locations corresponding to the individual locations of the outer circumference of the inner support substrate, and a headrest guide sleeve which is received and retained in the frame opening and the module opening, the headrest mounting pin being received in the headrest guide sleeve.
[0007] These and other aspects, tasks and features of the present invention are understandable and comprehensible to the person skilled in the art after reading the following description, the patent claims and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The following applies to the drawings:
[0009] Fig. 1 is a perspective front view of a motor vehicle equipped with the motor vehicle seat assembly of the present disclosure;
[0010] Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective front view of the motor vehicle seat assembly made of Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0011] Fig. 3 is a stretched perspective front view of the motor vehicle seat assembly made of Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0012] Fig. 4 is a perspective front view of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0013] Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective rear view of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0014] Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective rear view of an upper section of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0015] Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective rear view of a lower section of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0016] Fig. Figure 8 is another perspective rear view of a lower section of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0017] Fig. Figure 8A is an enlarged perspective view of a seat backrest cover attachment device of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0018] Fig. Figure 9 is a perspective rear view of a lateral section of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0019] Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective front view of a one-piece inner composite support substrate of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0020] Fig. Figure 11 is a front view of a one-piece inner composite support substrate of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0021] Fig. Figure 12 is a rear view of a one-piece inner composite support substrate of the seat backrest and suspension module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0022] Fig. Figure 13 is a perspective rear view of the decorative seat backrest back panel module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0023] Fig. 14 is a perspective expanded rear view of the decorative seat backrest back panel module of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0024] Fig. Figure 15 is a perspective front view of the seat backrest frame of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0025] Fig. Figure 16 is a perspective front view of the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate and the upper section of the seat backrest frame of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0026] Fig. Figure 17 is a perspective rear view of the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0027] Fig. Figure 18 is a perspective lateral cross-sectional view of the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate and the upper section of the seat backrest frame of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation;
[0028] Fig. 19 is a lateral cross-sectional view along the XIX-XIX line in Fig. 18 of the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate and the upper section of the seat backrest frame of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present revelation; and
[0029] Fig. Figure 20 is a perspective top view of the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate and the upper section of the seat backrest frame of the motor vehicle seat assembly according to Fig. 1 according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS
[0030] With regard to the references in the figures, the same reference symbols may be used here to refer to the same parameters and components, or to similar modifications and alternatives. For the purposes of the description in this document, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and variations thereof refer to the present revelation in its orientation in Fig. 1. It is understood, however, that the present disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, unless expressly stated otherwise. Furthermore, it is understood that the specific devices and methods illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the concepts according to the invention as defined in the accompanying claims. Thus, specific dimensions and other physical properties in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. The drawings referred to herein are schematic representations, and related views are not necessarily drawn to scale.
[0031] Regarding the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 denotes reference numeral 10generally a motor vehicle seat assembly for a motor vehicle 8 with a lower seat assembly 12 and an upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14 The seat backrest assembly 14 preferably wears a headrest 16 on it. The upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14 It is swivelling with the lower seat assembly 12 coupled, such that the upwardly extending seat backrest assembly 14 between an upright and an inclined position relative to the lower seat assembly 12 can be moved. The headrest 16 is functionally and preferably gliding with the seat backrest assembly 14 connected and also in a variety of positions and heights relative to the upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14positioned to support the head and neck of a driver or passenger.
[0032] In relation to Fig. 3 includes the lower seat assembly 12 a lower seat frame base 18 , on which a lower seat cushion and suspension module 20 It is attached. A decorative plastic cover. 22 is on the lower seat assembly 12 and around the seat cushion and suspension module 20 attached. The upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14 includes a seat backrest frame 24 , an upper seat backrest and suspension module 26 , a decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 and the headrest 16 , as discussed further herein.
[0033] The best way to show Fig. 4, that the seat backrest and suspension module 26 a one-piece internal composite support substrate 30 and a suspension system32 includes the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 is attached and supported by it. As in the Fig. 10– Fig. Figure 12 shows the one-piece inner composite support substrate. 30 preferably formed as an integrated and uniform structure using an injection molding process from a rigid plastic material containing reinforcing fibers, such as glass fibers. The one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 generally consists of a pair of vertically extending side elements 34 , an upper transverse element 36 and a lower transverse element 38 A generally rectangular opening 40 is formed by the vertically extending side elements 34 , the upper transverse element 36 and the lower transverse element 38 defined.
[0034] The result is an outer diameter. 42, which surrounds an outer edge 44 the vertically extending side elements, an outer edge 46 of the upper transverse element 36 and an outer edge 48 of the lower transverse element 38 Furthermore, an inner circumference is required. 50 , which generally forms a rectangular opening 40 defined by an inner edge 52 the vertically extending side elements 34 , an inner edge 54 of the upper transverse element 36 and an inner edge 56 of the lower transverse element 38 A multitude of access openings were created. 58 is around the outer circumference 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 arranged.
[0035] The one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 of the seat backrest and suspension module 26 forms a support structure to which a seat backrest cover can be attached.60 can be attached, as in the Fig. 6– Fig. 9 shown. The seat back cover 60 It can be made from any material typically used for such applications, such as leather, vinyl, fabric, or any combination thereof. The seat backrest and suspension module 26 It also includes a layer of cushioning foam. 62 , which are below and next to the seat back cover 60 is hidden. The seat back cover 60 has an outer circumference 64 , which is slightly larger than the outer circumference 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 of the seat backrest and suspension module 26 , which corresponds to the outer dimensions 64 of the seat backrest cover 60 permitted, beyond the outer extent 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30to be folded, as further described below.
[0036] A variety of seat backrest cover attachment devices 66 , wherein preferably each includes a “J” retaining element, is around the outer circumference 64 of the seat backrest cover 60 provided, as best as in Fig. 8A shown. The J-holding attachment devices are described as an advantageous feature of the present disclosure. 66 at strategic points around the outer perimeter 64 of the seat backrest cover 60 positioned. The J-shaped mounting devices. 66 are also preferably selected from a specific size from a variety of sizes of J-shaped mounting devices. 66 , which correspond to the tension that acts on the position around the outer circumference 64 of the seat backrest cover 60is applied. This means when applied to the one-piece inner composite support substrate. 30 installed as described herein, that the seat backrest cover 60 at different points around its outer circumference 64 It experiences a different stress when occupied by a seated occupant. Therefore, at these points experiencing higher stress, it is advantageous to have a larger J-shaped retaining device attachment. 66 is selected to provide a more robust approach to the seat backrest cover 60 to the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 to provide. The approach openings 58 , which are around and near the outer circumference 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 are arranged, are preferably dimensioned such that they accommodate the corresponding J-holder attachment device. 66 in the one-piece inner composite support substrate30 record at a specific location.
[0037] The J-retainer lug fasteners 66 , as they are well known in the field of engineering, each comprise a plastic clamp with a main section 70 and a hook 72 , which is located at a distal end 74 of the main section 70 is provided. The catch 72 preferably has a U-shaped configuration with an engagement section 76 on, which runs parallel to the main section 70 extends. An inwardly extending grasping barb. 78 is preferably applied to a distal end 80 of the intervention section 76 , which has an edge 82 the J-retainer attachment openings 58 The circumferential covering engages elastically and detachably, provided as in Fig. Shown in 8A. Preferably, the plastic from which the J-retaining attachment devices are made is 66 consist of an unbreakable material, such as polypropylene. The main section 70 the J-retainer lug fasteners 66 Furthermore, it is preferably applied directly to the outer circumference 64 of the seat backrest cover 60 sewn, which, if attached to a J-shaped fastener opening 58 of the circumferential covering around the outer perimeter 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 is attached, the seat back cover 60 tightly against the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 holds.
[0038] During the assembly of the seat backrest and suspension module 20 will the seat back cover 60 , while an exposed surface 84 relative to the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30is positioned facing forwards, with the foam padding layer 62 including against a front 86 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 is arranged and the suspension system 32 to the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 is mounted and supported by it. The outer circumference 64 of the seat backrest cover 60 , wherein the J-holding attachment devices 66 at places around its extent 64 are installed, which correspond to the separate locations of the J-shaped fastener openings. 58 the circumference corresponds to the outer circumference 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 folded. The J-retainer lug fasteners 66 are then inserted into the J-holder attachment openings 58 of the perimeter cover introduced and included to cover the seat backrest 60at separate points around the outer diameter 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 to assemble the seat back cover 60 to keep it in a tense state.
[0039] As in the Fig. 6– Fig. As shown in 12, each of the J-holding attachment openings has 58 of the perimeter covering, which extends along the vertically extending side elements 34 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 arranged over a variety of opening widths corresponding to the size of the J-holder attachment device 66 correspond to those for this position around the outer circumference 64 of the seat backrest cover 60 are selected and applied for this purpose. However, the width of the J-holding attachment openings can vary. 58 The outer cover should be dimensioned in such a way that it meets the requirements of the seat backrest cover. 60at any position around the outer circumference 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 fulfilled. A lower section 88 of the seat backrest cover 60 is preferably attached to the lower transverse element 38 of the outer circumference 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 over a transversely extending integrated comb 90 the J-tether fasteners 66 , which within a transversely extending and corresponding multitude of approach openings 58 are recorded along the lower transverse element 38 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 are arranged, mounted, as best as possible in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 shown.
[0040] As a result of using the J-type mounting devices 66 and the J-holding attachment openings 58of the perimeter overlay, which is strategically designed around the outer perimeter 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 are arranged, the seat backrest cover 60 quickly and easily around the outer circumference 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 to be mounted. The J-shaped mounting holes 58 of the perimeter covering, which surrounds the outer perimeter 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 are arranged, therefore allowing the seat back cover to 60 to all critical points around the seat backrest and suspension module 26 can be mounted from top to bottom to ensure that the seat back cover 60 remains tense and maintains a refined appearance, even when the occupant is seated on the vehicle's seat assembly 10when it is inserted or exits. Additionally, the J-retainer attachment openings are... 58 The perimeter cover is intentionally positioned to allow for easy assembly, low assembly effort and faster assembly times.
[0041] The decorative seat backrest / back panel module 28 This represents another invention. In the past, most decorative backplates were typically manufactured as a one-piece cast component, some of which were wrapped in vinyl. However, this approach tends to prevent the ability to offer unique designs and contrasting materials and surface finishes. Additionally, a modular design and assembly concept offers reduced costs and allows for the integration of additional components, such as airbag inserts, within the automotive seat assembly. 10 provide.
[0042] Accordingly, the decorative seat backrest backplate module includes 28 a first seat backrest posterior circumferential plate 94 and a second seat backrest center panel 96 , which is the first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 is interconnected and together they have a rear outdoor area 98 of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 define. In contrast, a second seat backrest center panel includes 96 a cast substrate with a rearward-facing outer surface and a coating 104 , which faces the outer surface 102 of the poured substrate 100 arranged and attached. As in the Fig. 13 and Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the poured substrate is included. 100 furthermore, an outer dimension 106 , wherein the coating 104 about the outer circumference 106 of the poured substrate100 It is folded. Preferably the cover 104 at all contact areas via a thin layer of adhesive on the cast substrate 100 It is attached to provide a smooth, wrinkle-free surface. Additionally, as noted above, the cover can 104 It may be made from any of the materials used for coverings of motor vehicle seat assemblies, such as leather, vinyl, fabric, and combinations thereof. Preferably, it also includes a second seat backrest center plate. 96 a baseboard cladding panel 108 depending on a lower section 110 the second seat backrest center panel 96 on.
[0043] The first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 It is preferably injection-molded from a semi-rigid plastic material. The exposed rear exterior surface serves as a decorative component. 98the first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 an A-surface within the interior of the motor vehicle 8 and is preferably equipped with a high-quality, structured, granular surface to simulate leather or another predetermined surface finish.
[0044] As in Fig. As shown in 14, the first seat backrest posterior circumferential plate includes 94 a smaller section of the rear exterior surface area 98 of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 and the second seat backrest center panel 96 encompasses a larger section of the rear exterior surface area 98 of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 Preferably, the first seat backrest back circumferential plate comprises 94 approximately 30% of the rear exterior surface area 98 of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28and the second seat backrest center panel 96 covers approximately 70% of the rear exterior surface area 98 of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 This ratio between the sections of the rear outer surface area 98 the first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 relative to the second seat backrest center panel 96 provides what is probably an unprecedented level of flexibility in design and layout, due to the interchangeable second seat backrest center panel. 96 , each with different features and covers, which can be easily interchanged to provide a wide variety of different automotive seat assembly designs. For example, as in Fig. 13 shown, the coating 104 for the second seat backrest center plate 96a sewn fabric cover that includes a sewn-in map pocket 112 It features a cup holder and lockable compartments (not shown). Alternatively, cup holders and lockable compartments (not shown) can be located within the second seat backrest center panel. 96 integrated and then simply attached to the first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 for subsequent assembly into the automotive seat assembly 10 for a specific vehicle manufacture without the same second seat backrest center plate 96 for each motor vehicle seat assembly 10 to have to take over, which is installed in a specific series of motor vehicles.
[0045] For a light month, the first seat backrest backrest plate has 94 over an outer extent 114 , which defines the outer perimeter of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 and an inner circumference 116 with a first mounting flange118 defined. The second seat backrest center panel 96 has a complementary outer dimension 120 with a second mounting flange 122 , which is connected to the first mounting flange 118 of the inner circumference 116 the first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 overlaps and is attached to it. The second mounting flange 122 the second seat backrest center panel 96 is preferably attached to the first mounting flange 118 the first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 heat-compressed. Alternatively, the second mounting flange can be 122 the second seat backrest center panel 96 to the first mounting flange 118 the first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 be vibration welded.
[0046] Regarding the assembly of the upward-facing seat backrest assembly 14As noted above, the one-piece inner composite support substrate features 30 over a pair of vertically extending side elements 34 The outer edge 44 the vertically extending side elements 34 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 preferably includes a variety of vertically oriented, molded-in attachment devices. 124 , preferably snap-in fastening devices, as best described in the Fig. 10– Fig. Figure 11 are shown. The first seat backrest back circumferential plate 94 of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 , which in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, a similar arrangement is achieved with a pair of vertically extending, forward-facing and opposite side edges. 126 provided, each similarly a multitude of complementary vertically oriented, molded attachment points 128include the vertically oriented, molded attachment devices 124 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 correspond to, are aligned with, and accommodate them. With the vertically aligned, molded attachment points. 124 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 , which is located at the molded attachment points 128 of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 The molded-in attachment devices are aligned and correspond to these. 124 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 easily through the molded attachment points 128 of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 secured when the seat backrest and suspension module 26 on the seat backrest frame 24is mounted. Preferably, the J-shaped mounting devices alternate. 66 of the perimeter, which extend onto the vertically extending side elements 34 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 are arranged with the vertically oriented, molded-in attachment devices 124 , which are based on the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 are arranged, from.
[0047] Additionally, the side edges 126 the first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 of the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 preferably configured to extend forward to form a cladding panel 130 to form the resulting folded circumference 64 of the seat backrest cover 60adjacent to form an aesthetically pleasing and complete appearance when attached to the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 is attached.
[0048] Preferably, the one-piece inner composite support substrate carries the suspension system. 32 within the generally rectangular opening 40 , to accommodate the weight of an occupant in the motor vehicle seat assembly 10 It fits flexibly and is easy to wear. The suspension system 32 generally comprises a first set of metal, preferably spring metal, wires. 132 with a nominal wire gauge that runs transversely between a second set of metal wires 134 extend vertically between the vertically extending side element 34 extend, how best to do this in the Fig. 11– Fig. 12 shown. A pair of transversely extending wires. 136 connects the second set of metal wires134 with each of the vertically extending side elements 34 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 .
[0049] One of the pair of transversely extending wires 136 can be attached to any of the vertically extending side elements 34 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 via a load cell 138 , which are located within a cavity 140 is attached along the inner edges 52 each of the vertically extending side elements 34 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 is formed, be assembled, as in Fig. 11 shown. The result is a suspension system. 32 , which has a feather mesh that is located within the generally rectangular opening 40 is arranged and which provides flexible support against the weight of the occupant in a motor vehicle seat assembly 10provides. In the event of a rear-end collision, the inertia of an occupant in the vehicle seat assembly exerts pressure. 10 sits, back against the upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14 and leads to tension in the suspension system 32 Optionally, the load cell 138 , which are connected to the suspension system 32 is connected to the vehicle and positioned in such a way as to detect this event and transmit a corresponding signal to a vehicle control unit (not shown).
[0050] Thus, the one-piece internal composite support substrate offers an additional advantage. 30 and the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 the present disclosure in that they can be easily provided with additional features or structures by modifying the shapes for the one-piece inner composite support substrate. 30or the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 can be changed. For example, one or more vertically extending side elements can be modified. 34 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 modified and adapted to provide a housing or other mounting structure for a side airbag assembly used in the motor vehicle seat assembly 10 It is mounted (not shown). Similarly, the pair of vertically extending, forward-facing, and opposite side edges can be used. 126 the first seat backrest circumferential plate 94 It will be configured to include an integrated side airbag mounting chamber (not shown).
[0051] Another innovation of the present invention is the way in which the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 of the seat backrest and suspension module 20on the seat backrest frame 24 is coupled. In the past, ensuring the structural integrity of the upper section was 142 the vertically extending seat backrest assembly 14 an important design consideration. In accordance with the present invention, headrest guide sleeves are 150 used as structural elements to form the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 of the seat backrest and suspension module 26 on the seat backrest frame 24 to be mechanically locked. The headrest guide sleeves 150 are carried out during the final seat assembly through aligned openings 152 , 154 in each of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 or the seat backrest frame 24 Press until they are fully seated and locked into place. Once installed, the headrest guide sleeves will function. 150in their usual way and form guide sleeve cavities 156 , in which the headrest mounting pins 158 the headrest 16 They can be adjusted vertically. This innovation contributes to the modular design revealed herein and provides an assembly concept that offers reduced costs and improved design flexibility.
[0052] As in Fig. As shown in 3, the headrest is 16 rather conventional and consists of a headrest cushion 160 and a pair of headrest mounting pins 158 , which are from a lower surface 162 the headrest cushion 160 depend on each other. As in Fig. Shown in section 15 is the seat backrest frame 24 the main structural element of the upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14 and consists of a pair of vertically extending side elements 164 , an upper transverse element 166, which forms an upper section of it, and a lower transverse element 168 An optional swivel assembly 170 couples the seat backrest frame 24 and the upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14 rotationally attached to the lower seat base frame. The seat backrest frame 24 thus forms a forward-facing surface 172 and a rearward-facing surface 174 and is equipped with a pair of vertically oriented frame openings 154 within the upper transverse element 166 , which forms its upper section, is provided. Similarly, the upper transverse element is provided. 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 , which is the upper section of the seat backrest and suspension module 26 forms, with a pair of vertically oriented module openings 152 Provided in the upper section. The module openings 152and frame openings 154 are arranged vertically in relation to each other.
[0053] The pair of headrest guide sleeves 150 It is recorded vertically and within the module openings 152 and frame openings 154 held, with the headrest mounting pins 158 within the headrest guide sleeves 150 can be recorded and held in an adjustable position, as in the Fig. 15– Fig. 20 shown. As further described below, the headrest guide sleeves are 150 within the module opening 152 and the frame openings 154 of the upper transverse element 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 or the upper transverse element 166 of the seat backrest frame 24 absorbed and held to form the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 mechanically on the seat backrest frame 24 to lock.
[0054] Vertically oriented openings 148 through each of the upper sections of the seat backrest cover 60 and an upper section of the upholstery foam layer 62 , which the upper section 142 the upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14 overlap. Thus, the headrest guide sleeves pass through. 150 the upper section of the seat backrest and suspension module 26 , which is the upper section of the seat back cover 60 , the upper section of the upholstery foam layer 62 and the upper transverse element 36 of the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 includes, and into the upper transverse element 166 of the seat backrest frame, which includes the headrest guide sleeve 150 after the assembly of the upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14It receives and locks. The module openings are injection-molded as a single component. 152 within the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 molded to fit the headrest guide sleeves 150 to record and the headrest guide sleeves 150 on the upper transverse element 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 to the upper transverse element 166 of the seat backrest frame 24 to lock.
[0055] The upper transverse element includes this. 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 also a pair of molded integral elastic locking pawls 176 , preferably located in a peripheral position near a rear edge 178 the molded module openings 152 are arranged as in Fig. 16 shown. Each of the elastic locking pawls 176is adjacent to each of the aligned module openings 152 in the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 arranged and extends in their direction. Each of the elastic locking pawls 176 also extends relative to an upper surface 180 of the upper transverse element 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 in a cantilevered upward manner and is adjustable between a released position and a locked position, as further discussed below. Furthermore, each of the elastic locking pawls has 176 via an inwardly sloping upper surface 182 , a flat vertical front face 184 and a lower edge 186 The front and side edges 188 , 190 the molded module openings 152 They do not necessarily have to be circular and can be relative to the frame openings. 154in the upper transverse element 166 of the seat backrest frame 24 be oversized. Most importantly, the downward-extending headrest mounting pins 158 the headrest 16 easily the molded module openings 152 in the upper transverse element 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 through. Instead, the headrest guide sleeves are 150 via the frame openings 154 in the upper transverse element 166 of the seat backrest frame 24 held rigidly and firmly in position.
[0056] How best to Fig. As shown in Figure 19, the pair of headrest guide sleeves includes 150 each a tubular element 92 with an outer cylindrical surface 194 and the guide sleeve cavity 156 , in which the fastening pins 158 the headrest 16to be picked up and held. The outer cylindrical surface 194 each of the headrest guide sleeves 150 features a locking tab 196 The outer cylindrical surface 194 the headrest guide sleeve 150 also includes an attack 198 , which opens the frame 154 of the upper transverse element 166 of the upper section 142 of the seat backrest frame 24 engages when the headrest guide sleeve 150 is fully inserted.
[0057] If each of the headrest guide sleeves 150 after the seat backrest was installed and the suspension module 26 with the decorative seat backrest back panel module 28 Once assembled as described above, the outer cylindrical surface 194 the headrest guide sleeve 150 within an aligned opening 148in the seat backrest cover 60 and the upholstery foam layer 62 , then the module opening 152 of the upper transverse element 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 and the frame openings 154 of the upper transverse element 166 of the seat backrest frame 24 recorded. Once inserted, the locking tab takes effect. 196 the headrest guide sleeve 150 against the inwardly inclined upper surface 182 the elastic locking latch 176 and shifts the elastic locking latch 176 elastically away from the module opening 152 to the released position, until the locking tab... 196 relative to the flat vertical front face 184 moved downwards, freeing it. If the headrest guide sleeve 150 to the limit 198 Once fully inserted, the bottom edge moves. 186the elastic locking latch 176 to the locked position and takes up an upper surface 200 the locking tab 196 mechanically engaged to retract the headrest guide sleeve 150 from the module opening 152 in the upper transverse element 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 to prevent this. If desired, the headrest guide sleeve 150 To remove, an upper section can be used. 202 the elastic locking latch 176 can be manually adjusted to the released position, whereby the lower edge 186 the elastic locking latch 176 the upper surface 200 the locking tab 196 releases and the headrest guide sleeve 150 can be removed.
[0058] The two headrest guide sleeves 150 , when they pass through the molded module openings during final seat assembly152 in the upper transverse element 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 When pressed down and fully seated, they act as "mechanical locks" for the one-piece inner composite support substrate. 30 on the seat backrest frame 24 The advantage of the "locking mechanisms" is that they prevent the one-piece inner composite support substrate from shifting. 30 during dynamic events, it is guided forward and attached to the seat backrest frame. 24 It remains "locked" until it is manually unlocked.
[0059] Preferably the upper transverse element comprises 36 of the seat backrest frame 24 a U-shaped beam 204 with an upper horizontal flange 206 , a vertical central section 208 and a lower horizontal flange 210 , which provides structural support to the seat backrest frame 24adds. Each of the upper horizontal flange 206 and lower horizontal flange 210 features vertically oriented frame openings 154 , in which the outer cylindrical surface 194 the headrest guide sleeve 150 is appropriately received. Preferably, each of these frame openings has 154 over a downward-curved and widened edge 212 , to insert the headrest guide sleeve 150 to facilitate, as in Fig. 19 shown. The upper and lower horizontal flanges. 206 , 210 They also provide a mechanical fastening that establishes a "line-to-line" contact to ensure that the headrest guide sleeves 150 do not tilt or move in a longitudinal or transverse direction when installed, and provide a passage feature for the headrest guide sleeves. 150 provides.
[0060] Preferably the upper section comprises 214 the headrest guide sleeves 150 a coating panel 216 , which are in the Fig. 15 and Fig. Figure 19 is shown. As noted above, the outer cylindrical surface includes 194 the headrest guide sleeve 150 in addition, an attack 198 , which opens the frame 154 of the upper horizontal flange 206 of the upper transverse element 166 of the seat backrest frame 24 engages when the headrest guide sleeve 150 is fully inserted. Preferably the stop 198 opposite the locking tab 196 on the outer cylindrical surface 194 the headrest guide sleeve 150 and below the cover plate 216 arranged by a distance that corresponds to the total thickness of the seat backrest cover 60 and the upholstery foam layer 62, located below the seat backrest cover 60 on the seat backrest and suspension module 26 It is arranged as follows. Thus, the cover plate conceals it. 216 , once it is installed, the openings 148 in the seat backrest cover 60 and also provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
[0061] As described above, the seat backrest and suspension module 26 and the seat backrest frame 24 The present disclosure provides integrated modular assembly features and supports JIT assembly practices by modularizing the seat backrest and suspension module. 26 into a single module, and therefore the costs of final assembly are reduced by allowing this assembly to be moved to a location independent of the traditional JIT assembly line. The described seat backrest and suspension module 26uses a one-piece internal composite support substrate 30 , that it is the seat back cover 60 allows, fully assembled and around the outer circumference 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 to be attached in order to create a sophisticated, easy-to-assemble, and more cost- and time-efficient product for an upward-extending seat backrest assembly 14 to provide.
[0062] To the upwardly extending seat backrest assembly 14 To modularize and thereby reduce the costs of final assembly by requiring less time for cover assembly and eliminating the difficulty associated with "filling" the seat cover, as well as by offering the option of sourcing this assembly from a single location independent of the conventional JIT assembly plant, the disclosed one-piece inner composite support substrate can be used.30 can be used. Furthermore, the upholstery foam layer can be used. 62 , located below the seat backrest cover 60 The arrangement is reduced, resulting in the use of less material and a lower weight for the upward-extending seat backrest assembly. 14 This leads to the use of strategically positioned coating openings. Furthermore, it enables the use of strategically positioned coating openings. 58 and the J-shaped mounting devices 66 around almost the entire outer circumference 42 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30 and the seat back cover 60 Easy assembly, low assembly costs, and good manufacturing durability. The use of headrest guide sleeves. 150 , which are within the module opening 152 and the frame openings 154 of the upper transverse element 36 of the one-piece inner composite support substrate 30or the upper transverse element 166 of the seat backrest frame 24 They are picked up and held, providing a ready-to-use and reliable mechanical locking mechanism between the one-piece inner composite support substrate. 30 on the seat backrest frame 24 Ready. The one-piece inner composite support substrate. 30 Advantageously utilizes a joining technique to obtain a high-strength composite structure, while integrating various advantages and features into a cost-effective and robust design, resulting in a new look for the design.
[0063] It is obvious to the person skilled in the art that the design of the present disclosure and other components is not limited to specific materials. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure presented herein can, unless otherwise described, be constructed from a wide variety of materials.
[0064] In the present disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms such as couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally denotes the direct or indirect connection of two (electrical or mechanical) components to one another. Such a connection may be essentially immovable or movable. Such a connection may be achieved by forming the two (electrical or mechanical) components and any additional intervening elements in one piece with each other or with the two components as a single, unified body. Unless otherwise specified, such a connection may be essentially permanent or essentially removable or detachable.
[0065] In the present disclosure, the term “interconnected” generally refers to the functioning of one component in relation to another component, even if other components are arranged between the first and second components, and the term “operable” defines a functional relationship between the components.
[0066] It is equally important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of this disclosure, as illustrated in the exemplary embodiments, serve only for illustrative purposes. Although only some embodiments of the present innovations are described in detail in this disclosure, it is readily apparent to the person skilled in the art, considering this disclosure, that, unless otherwise described, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes, and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, fastening arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without substantially departing from the new teachings and advantages of the subject matter.For example, elements depicted as being manufactured in one piece may be constructed from multiple parts, or elements depicted as being manufactured in one piece may be constructed from multiple parts; the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise modified; the length or width of the structures and / or elements, connecting links, or other elements of the system may be changed; and the type or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be changed. It should be noted that the elements and / or arrangements of the system may be constructed from a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, and in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, it is intended that all such modifications are included within the scope of the present innovations.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating positions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.
[0067] It is understood that all described processes or steps can be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of this disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed here serve only for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting.
[0068] It is further understood that changes and modifications can be made to the aforementioned structures and methods without deviating from the concepts of the present invention, and it is further understood that such concepts are to be covered by the following claims, unless expressly provided otherwise by the wording of these claims.
Claims
[1] Motor vehicle seat assembly for a motor vehicle comprising a lower seat assembly and an upward-extending seat assembly, the upward-extending seat assembly comprising: a headrest with a headrest cushion and a headrest fixing pin that depends on it; Seat backrest frame having a vertically oriented frame opening in an upper section thereof; a seat backrest and suspension module comprising an upper section and a vertically oriented module opening in the upper section of the seat backrest and suspension module, wherein the frame opening and the module opening are vertically oriented relative to each other; and a headrest guide sleeve which is received and held vertically in the frame opening and the module opening, wherein the headrest mounting pin is received and held in the headrest guide sleeve. [2] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the seat backrest and suspension module comprises a one-piece inner composite support substrate having an upper section and a cover having an upper section, wherein the upper section has an aligned opening in both the one-piece inner composite support substrate and the cover in which the headrest guide sleeve is received. [3] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 2, wherein the opening in the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate comprises the module opening and wherein the headrest guide sleeve received and held in the module opening of the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate and the frame opening of the upper section of the seat backrest frame mechanically locks the one-piece inner composite support substrate to the seat backrest frame. [4] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 2, wherein the one-piece inner composite support substrate is an injection-molded component and the opening in the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate is a molded opening that receives the headrest guide sleeve to lock the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate to the upper section of the seat backrest frame. [5] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 2, wherein the seat backrest and suspension module further comprises a padding foam layer arranged below the cover and the cover comprises an outer circumference which is mounted around an outer circumference of the one-piece inner composite support substrate, wherein the vertically oriented module opening in the upper section of the seat backrest and suspension module passes through each of an upper section of the cover, an upper section of the padding foam layer and the upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate which receives and locks the headrest guide sleeve after assembly of the upwardly extending seat backrest assembly. [6] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 2, wherein the seat backrest frame comprises a pair of vertically extending side elements, an upper transverse element and a lower transverse element, wherein the upper transverse element comprises the upper section thereof. [7] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 6, wherein the one-piece inner composite support substrate comprises an upper transverse element having an elastic locking pawl arranged next to the aligned opening in the one-piece inner composite support substrate, and the headrest guide sleeve comprises a tubular element having an outer cylindrical surface, wherein the outer cylindrical surface of the headrest guide sleeve has a locking tab, wherein when the outer cylindrical surface of the headrest guide sleeve is received in the opening in the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate, and the locking tab of the headrest guide sleeve elastically displaces the elastic locking pawl until it is fully inserted, whereupon the elastic locking pawl mechanically engages the locking tab,to prevent the headrest guide sleeve from being pulled back out of the aligned opening in the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate. [8] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 7, wherein the elastic locking latch comprises a cantilevered and inclined surface extending from the one-piece inner composite support substrate in the direction of a peripheral position adjacent to the aligned opening in the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate, wherein the elastic locking latch has an engaged position and a released position. [9] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 7, wherein the upper transverse element of the seat backrest frame comprises a U-shaped beam having an upper horizontal flange, a vertical central section and a lower horizontal flange, and wherein each of the upper horizontal flange and lower horizontal flange has one of a pair of vertically oriented openings in which the outer cylindrical surface of the headrest guide sleeve is appropriately received. [10] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the upwardly extending seat backrest assembly further comprises a decorative seat backrest backplate module. [11] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 10, wherein the seat backrest and suspension module is arranged against a forward-facing surface of the seat backrest frame and the decorative seat backrest backplate module is arranged against a rearward-facing surface of the seat backrest frame, wherein the seat backrest and suspension module is attached to the decorative seat backrest backplate module around a circumference of each of the seat backrest and suspension module and the decorative seat backrest backplate module. [12] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 11, wherein an outer edge on each side of the seat backrest and suspension module includes a plurality of vertically oriented molded fastening devices and each side of the decorative seat backrest backplate module is provided with a pair of vertically extending, forward-facing and opposite side edges, each of which also includes a plurality of complementary, vertically oriented molded attachment receptacles that correspond to and are aligned with the vertically oriented molded fastening devices of the seat backrest and suspension module in which the plurality of vertically oriented molded fastening devices is received. [13] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the headrest further comprises a pair of dependent fastening pins, wherein the upper section of the seat backrest and suspension module further comprises a pair of vertically oriented module openings, the upper section of the seat backrest frame comprises a pair of vertically oriented frame openings aligned with the pair of vertically oriented module openings of the seat backrest and suspension module, and the upwardly extending seat backrest further comprises a pair of headrest guide sleeves which are received and held in the pair of vertically oriented module and frame openings in each of the upper section of the seat backrest and suspension module and the seat backrest frame in which the pair of headrest fastening pins is received and held in the pair of headrest guide sleeves. [14] Seat backrest assembly comprising a headrest, a seat backrest frame having an opening in an upper section thereof, a seat backrest and suspension module having an opening in an upper section thereof, wherein the frame opening and the module opening are vertically aligned with respect to each other, and a headrest guide sleeve which is received and held in the frame opening and the module opening. [15] Seat backrest assembly according to claim 14, wherein the seat backrest and suspension module comprises a one-piece inner composite support substrate having an upper transverse element and an elastic locking pawl arranged on the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate adjacent to an opening in the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate, and the headrest guide sleeve comprises a tubular element having an outer cylindrical surface, wherein the outer cylindrical surface of the headrest guide sleeve has a locking tab, and wherein, when the outer cylindrical surface of the headrest guide sleeve is received in the opening in the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate, and the locking tab of the headrest guide sleeve elastically displaces the elastic locking pawl until it is fully inserted,whereupon the elastic locking pawl mechanically engages the locking tab to prevent the headrest guide sleeve from being pulled back out of the opening in the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate. [16] Seat backrest assembly according to claim 15, wherein the elastic locking latch extends upwards in a cantilevered manner relative to the one-piece inner composite support substrate in the direction of a peripheral position next to the opening in the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate, wherein the elastic locking latch has an inwardly inclined upper surface, a lower edge and an engaged position, wherein the lower edge engages the locking tab and a released position, wherein the lower edge releases the locking tab. [17] Motor vehicle seat assembly comprising a lower seat assembly and an upwardly extending seat backrest assembly, the upwardly extending seat assembly comprising; a headrest with a headrest cushion and a headrest fastening pin that depends on the headrest cushion; Seat backrest frame having a vertically oriented frame opening in an upper section thereof; a seat backrest and suspension module attached to the seat frame, the seat backrest and suspension module further comprising a one-piece inner composite support substrate with a pair of vertically extending side elements, an upper transverse element and a lower transverse element, wherein an outer edge of each of the side elements, the upper transverse element and the lower transverse element forming an outer perimeter of the one-piece inner composite support substrate, and a seat backrest cover having an outer perimeter with a plurality of seat backrest cover attachment devices arranged around a perimeter of the seat backrest cover at locations corresponding to a plurality of separate locations around the perimeter of the one-piece inner composite support substrate; and a headrest guide sleeve which is received and held in the frame opening and the module opening, wherein the headrest mounting pin is received in the headrest guide sleeve. [18] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 17, wherein the one-piece inner composite support substrate is an injection-molded component comprising the opening in an upper section of the one-piece inner composite support substrate and an elastic locking pawl arranged next to the opening, and the headrest guide sleeve comprising a tubular element having an outer cylindrical surface and an inner cylindrical cavity, wherein the outer cylindrical surface of the headrest guide sleeve has a locking tab which is elastically mechanically engaged by the elastic locking pawl to prevent the headrest guide sleeve from being withdrawn from the opening. [19] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 18, wherein the elastic locking latch extends upwards in a cantilevered manner relative to the one-piece inner composite support substrate in the direction of a peripheral position next to the opening in the upper transverse element of the one-piece inner composite support substrate, wherein the elastic locking latch has an inwardly inclined upper surface, a lower edge and an engaged position, wherein the lower edge engages the locking tab and a released position, wherein the lower edge releases the locking tab. [20] Motor vehicle seat assembly according to claim 18, wherein the seat backrest and suspension module further comprises a cover and a layer of upholstery foam arranged below the cover, wherein the cover and the upholstery foam layer have a total thickness, an upper section of the headrest guide sleeve comprises a cover panel, and the outer cylindrical surface of the headrest guide sleeve comprises a stop that engages the frame opening of the seat backrest frame when the headrest guide sleeve is fully inserted, wherein the stop is arranged at a distance from the locking tab on the outer cylindrical surface of the headrest guide sleeve and below the cover panel that corresponds to the total thickness of the cover and the upholstery foam layer.