Leg support mechanism for a seat

Abstract

Vehicle seating arrangement (10), comprising: a seat base (14), a leg rest (16) which is rotatably connected to the seat base (14) and can be moved between a stowed position and an unfolded position, an arm (110) having a near end region (112) which is rotatably held by the seat base (14) or the leg support (16), wherein the arm (110) defines a cam surface (120), a spring (140) which is held by the seat base (14) or the leg support (16), wherein the spring (140) is in contact with a remote end region (114) of the arm (110), and a follower (130) which is connected to the other of the seat base (14) or the leg support (16), wherein the follower (130) can engage with the cam surface (120) of the arm (110) when the leg support (16) is rotated between the unfolded position and the stowed position, wherein the arm (110) defines a planar surface opposite the cam surface (120), and wherein the spring (140) can engage with the planar surface of the arm (110) to move along it when the leg support (16) is rotated between the unfolded position and the stowed position.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a mechanism for a vehicle seat assembly with a fold-out leg rest. BACKGROUND

[0002] A vehicle seat assembly may be provided with a fold-out leg rest. Examples of such vehicle seat assemblies are given in German Patent No. DE 10 2016 215 741 B4, Chinese Patent No. CN 1 09 228 987 B, US Patent No. US 10 293 717 B2, and Korean Patent Publication No. KR 10 2019 0 041 631 A.

[0003] DE 10 2016 215 741 B4 relates to a lower leg support device for a vehicle seat.

[0004] JP 2006 - 239 291 A shows an upholstered stool and its adjustable attachment to a seat cushion.

[0005] JP 2002 - 065 393 A relates to a seat used as a massage or comfort seat and having a footrest. TECHNICAL TASK AND SOLUTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The object of the invention is to provide a vehicle seat assembly optimized over the prior art, which has a legrest that can be adjusted easily and quickly. This object is achieved by a vehicle seat assembly having the features of claim 1, a vehicle seat assembly having the features of claim 2, a release mechanism for a leg support member of a seat assembly having the features of claim 14, and / or a method for installing a release mechanism for a leg support member connected to a seat assembly having the features of claim 16. SUMMARY

[0007] In one embodiment, a vehicle seat assembly includes a seat base and a leg rest pivotally connected to the seat base and movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. An arm has a proximal end portion pivotally supported by one of the seat base and the leg rest, the arm defining a camming surface. A spring is supported by one of the seat base and the leg rest, the spring contacting a distal end portion of the arm. A follower is connected to the other of the seat base and the leg rest. The follower is engageable with the camming surface of the arm when the leg rest is pivoted between the deployed position and the stowed position. The arm defines a planar surface opposite the camming surface.The spring can engage with the flat surface of the arm to move along it when the legrest is rotated between the unfolded position and the stowed position.

[0008] In another embodiment, a vehicle seat assembly includes a seat base and a leg rest pivotally connected to the seat base and movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. An arm has a proximal end portion pivotally supported by one of the seat base and the leg rest, the arm defining a camming surface. A spring is supported by one of the seat base and the leg rest, the spring in contact with a distal end portion of the arm. A follower is connected to the other of the seat base and the leg rest. The follower is engageable with the camming surface of the arm when the leg rest is rotated between the deployed position and the stowed position. A mounting bracket defines first and second guide slots spaced apart from one another, the follower being received in the first and second guide slots.The arm is arranged between the first and second guide slots and is rotatably connected to the mounting bracket.

[0009] In another embodiment, from the deployed position, the follower biases the arm to rotate the legrest relative to the seat base using only a force applied to the legrest.

[0010] In another embodiment, the spring is preloaded to bias the arm in a first direction. The cam surface defines a depression and a convex transition region located between the distal end portion and the proximal end portion of the arm. In response to engagement of the follower with the transition region, the spring is further tensioned and the arm is rotated in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0011] In another embodiment, the spring is a cantilevered spring member having a central portion disposed between a first end and a second end. The first and second ends are held by the mounting bracket, and the central portion is in contact with the arm.

[0012] In another embodiment, the spring is a first spring. A second cantilevered spring has a central portion disposed between a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the second spring being held by the mounting bracket. The central portion of the second spring is in contact with the arm and adjacent to the central portion of the first spring.

[0013] In another embodiment, a proximal end portion of the arm defines an opening. A fastener extends through the mounting bracket and the opening of the arm to connect the arm to the mounting bracket.

[0014] In another embodiment, a first eccentric sleeve and a second eccentric sleeve are connected to the mounting bracket via the fastening member. The arm is disposed between the first and second eccentric sleeves. An outer surface of the first eccentric sleeve contacts the spring adjacent the first end, and an outer surface of the second eccentric sleeve contacts the spring adjacent the second end. Rotation of the first and second eccentric sleeves varies a biasing force of the spring on the arm.

[0015] In another embodiment, the fastening member includes a shank defining a first non-circular cross-sectional shape. Each eccentric sleeve defines an opening extending therethrough having a second non-circular cross-sectional shape. The first and second non-circular cross-sectional shapes are form-fitted to one another such that rotation of the fastening member relative to the mounting bracket rotates the first and second eccentric sleeves.

[0016] In another embodiment, a third sleeve and a fourth sleeve are connected to the mounting bracket via the fastening member. The third and fourth sleeves are disposed between the first and second eccentric sleeves, and the arm is disposed between the third and fourth sleeves. Each of the third and fourth sleeves defines an opening extending therethrough having a second non-circular cross-sectional shape. Each of the third and fourth sleeves defines a cylindrical outer surface dimensioned to be received by and in contact with the opening of the arm such that the arm rotates about the third and fourth sleeves.

[0017] In another embodiment, the spring is a torsion spring having a central portion disposed between first and second end portions. The first and second end portions are held by the mounting bracket, and the central portion is in contact with the arm.

[0018] In a further embodiment, at least one of the first and second end regions of the torsion spring is formed as a spiral.

[0019] In another embodiment, a first fastening member extends through the mounting bracket and the proximal end portion of the arm to pivotally connect the arm to the mounting bracket. A second fastening member extends through the mounting bracket and is spaced from the first fastening member. The second fastening member holds the torsion spring adjacent to the distal end portion of the arm.

[0020] In another embodiment, a release mechanism for a leg support member of a seat assembly is provided with a retaining member for connection to a seat base or a leg support member. An arm has a proximal end portion rotatably connected to the retaining member and a distal end portion. The arm defines a camming surface. A biasing member is connected to the retaining member and is in contact with the distal end portion of the arm. A follower is provided for connection to the corresponding other of the seat base or the leg support member and is adapted to engage the camming surface of the arm when the leg support member is rotated between a deployed position and a stowed position. The biasing member biases the arm in a first direction. The camming surface defines a depression and a convex transition portion disposed between the distal end portion and the proximal end portion of the arm.In response to the follower engaging the transition region, the tendon is further tensioned and the arm is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction as the tendon moves along a surface of the arm.

[0021] In another embodiment, the follower sequentially engages the recess and the transition region as the leg support member is rotated from the deployed position to the stowed position.

[0022] In one embodiment, a method for installing a release mechanism for a leg support member connected to a seat assembly is provided. A retaining member is connected to a seat base or a leg support member and defines at least one guide slot extending therethrough. A proximal end portion of the arm is pivotally connected to the retaining member, and the arm extends from the proximal end portion to a distal end portion. The arm defines a camming surface. A follower is connected to the other of the seat base or the leg support member such that the follower extends through the at least one guide slot. The follower is engageable with the camming surface of the arm when the leg support member is rotated between a deployed position and a stowed position. A biasing member is connected to the retaining member.The tendon is prestressed such that the tendon is in contact with the distal end portion of the arm to prestress the arm in a first direction toward the follower.

[0023] In another embodiment, the arm is connected to the support member using a fastening member. An eccentric sleeve is held around the fastening member for rotation therewith and is in contact with the prestressing member. A prestressing force on the prestressing member is adjusted by rotating the fastening member and the eccentric sleeve.

[0024] In another embodiment, the leg support member is moved from a deployed position to a stowed position using only a force applied to the leg support member. In response to the force applied to the leg support member, the follower engages a convex portion of the cam surface to further tension the biasing member and rotate the arm in a second direction opposite the first direction, and the biasing member moves along the arm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of a vehicle seat assembly with a fold-out leg rest and mechanism according to the present invention. Fig. 2 is a schematic side sectional view of a release mechanism in a first, deployed position according to an embodiment and for use with the seat assembly of Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a schematic side sectional view of the mechanism of Fig. 2 in a second position between an unfolded position and a stowed position. Fig. Figure 4 is a partially exploded view of the mechanism of Fig. 2. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a release mechanism according to another embodiment and for use with the vehicle seat assembly of Fig. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Detailed embodiments of the present invention are described below. It should be understood, however, that the embodiments described herein are merely exemplary, and the invention may be embodied in various alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, with some portions being exaggerated or reduced in size to show details of particular components. The specific details described herein are not limiting, but merely provide a representative basis for one skilled in the art to practice the invention.

[0026] Fig. 1 shows a vehicle seat assembly 10 including a seat back 12, a seat base 14, and a leg support 16. The seat base 14 may be formed by or include a portion of a vehicle frame 20. However, it may also be a separate component that connects to a vehicle frame 20. In one example, the vehicle seat assembly 10 may be provided in a second row of seats.

[0027] The leg support 16 or leg support member is pivotally connected to the seat base 14 so that the leg support 16 can be folded, pivoted, or rotated between a first position and a second position. In the example of Fig. 1, the first position is a stowed position, allowing a seat occupant to place their feet on the floor below. The second position is a deployed position, indicated by dashed lines. In the deployed position, the leg support member 16 supports the lower leg area, such as the lower legs, of a seat occupant.

[0028] The leg support member 16 is pivotally connected to the seat base using a mechanism 22. In the non-limiting example shown, the mechanism 22 is a connection of four rods, but other mechanisms may be used in conjunction with the leg support member 16.

[0029] The mechanism 22 is also provided with an electric motor. The electric motor can be operated or controlled by the seat occupant to selectively move the legrest 16 from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0030] The vehicle seat assembly 10 includes a release mechanism 24. The release mechanism 24 is connected to the seat base 14 and the leg rest 16 and translates the leg support member 16 from the deployed position to the stowed position when a force or load is applied to the leg rest while the leg rest is in the deployed position. Thus, a seat occupant can release the leg support member 16 from the deployed position by applying force to the leg support member with their legs. The force required to release the release mechanism 24 may have an associated threshold to prevent inadvertent release of the leg rest 16. The release mechanism 24 releases the leg rest 16 without actuation of the electric motor and operates independently of the electric motor.

[0031] In the prior art, to return the leg rest from the deployed position to the stowed position, the seat occupant must activate one or more mechanisms. For example, the seat occupant must operate the electric motor to retract the leg rest, or must operate a lever or provide some other input to the mechanism 22.

[0032] Fig. 2-4 shows a release mechanism 100 according to one embodiment. The release mechanism 100 may be used as a release mechanism 24 in conjunction with the vehicle seat assembly 10 as shown in Fig. 1. The release mechanism 100 is connected to or held by the leg support 16 and the seat base 14.

[0033] The release mechanism 100 includes a mounting bracket 102. The mounting bracket 102 may be connected to an end portion of an actuator rod 104 connected to the motor of the mechanism 22 and connected to or supported by the seat base 14. The actuator rod 104 may be moved by the motor via a lead screw or the like to move the leg support 16 from the stowed position to the deployed position. In other examples, the mounting bracket 102 may be connected to or supported by the leg support 16.

[0034] In one example, the mounting bracket 102 includes first and second guide slots 106, as shown. The guide slots 106 may be aligned with each other and spaced apart from each other. The guide slots 106 may be formed on opposite side portions of the mounting bracket 102, which may, for example, be a U-shaped mounting bracket 102.

[0035] An arm 110 is pivotally connected to the mounting bracket 102. The arm 110 includes a proximal end portion 112 and a distal end portion 114. The proximal end portion 112 is pivotally connected to the mounting bracket 102 and the associated seat base 14. The proximal end portion 112 of the arm 110 defines an opening 116. A fastener 118 extends through the mounting bracket 102 and the arm opening 116 to connect the arm 110 to the mounting bracket 102.

[0036] As in Fig. 4, the arm 110 is disposed in the mounting bracket 102 and between the first and second guide slots 106.

[0037] The arm 110 defines a cam surface 120, or first surface 120. The arm 110 further defines a second surface 122 opposite the cam surface 120. The cam surface 120 defines a depression 124 and a convex transition region 126 disposed between the distal end portion 114 and the proximal end portion 112 of the arm 110. In various examples, the cam surface 120 may have one or more linear, concave-arc, convex-arc, or other profile shapes known in the art. The second surface 122 may be a planar surface as shown or may be provided with a different shape.

[0038] A follower 130 or pin 130 is provided in connection with the release mechanism 100. The follower 130 may be connected to or retained by the leg support 16 when the mounting bracket 102 is retained by the seat base 14. Alternatively, the follower 130 may be connected to or retained by the seat base 14 when the mounting bracket 102 is retained by the leg support 102.

[0039] The follower 130 or pin is received by the first and second guide slots 106 and moves within the guide slots 106 as the leg support 16 moves between the stowed and deployed positions. The follower 130 engages the cam surface 120 of the arm 110 as the leg support 16 is rotated between the deployed position and the stowed position.

[0040] One or more springs 140 or prestressing members 140 are provided. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figures 2-4, the release mechanism 100 includes a pair of springs 140. In other examples, the release mechanism 100 may include only a single spring or three or more springs.

[0041] Each spring 140 is held by or connected to the mounting bracket 102 and the seat base 14. The spring 140 is in contact with the second surface 122 and the distal end portion 114 of the arm 110.

[0042] Each spring 140 may be a cantilever spring, as shown. Each spring 140 has a first end 142 and a second end 144. The first and second ends 142, 144 are held by or connected to the mounting bracket 102. The first and second ends 142, 144 may be received in openings in the mounting bracket 102, as shown. As shown in Fig. 2-4, the springs 140 may be bent or otherwise shaped so that each spring 140 extends from the opening in the mounting bracket 102 to the second surface 122 and then along the second surface 122 of the arm 110. The springs 140 may also be bent as shown in Fig. 4, by nesting one spring in the other spring.

[0043] A central portion 146 of the spring 140 is disposed between the first and second ends 142, 144 of the spring. The central portion 146 of each spring 140 is in contact with the arm 110. For a release mechanism 100 having multiple springs 140, the central portions 146 of the springs may be arranged as shown in Fig. 4. The central portion 146 of the spring 140 is in contact with the second surface 122 or planar surface of the arm 110 and moves or slides along the second surface 122 as the leg rest 16 rotates between the deployed position and the stowed position.

[0044] The spring 140 is preloaded upon installation of the spring 140 in the release mechanism 100 so that the arm 110 is preloaded in a first direction. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 2-3, the first direction is clockwise. Multiple springs 140 may be required for the release mechanism to apply the desired preload force from the spring(s) 140 to the arm 110.

[0045] For operation of the release mechanism 100 to release the leg rest 16 from the deployed position to the stowed position, a force is applied to the leg rest 16 by a seat occupant. The force applied to the leg rest 16 causes the follower 130 to apply a force to the cam surface 120 of the arm 110, so that the follower 130 engages the cam surface 120 and biases the arm 110 to rotate the leg rest 16 relative to the seat base 14 using only the force applied to the leg rest.

[0046] In response to the engagement of the follower 130 with the transition region 126 of the cam surface of the spring, the spring(s) 140 are further tensioned and the arm 110 is rotated in a second direction opposite the first direction. As the follower 130 moves along the cam surface 120, the central region 146 of the springs 140 can move along the second surface 122 of the arm 110. With reference to the example of Fig. 2-3 is the second direction counterclockwise.

[0047] When the release mechanism 100 releases the leg support 16 from the extended position, the follower 130 sequentially engages the recess 124 and the transition area 126 and moves to the proximal end 112 of the arm 110 and into the guide slots 106 as shown in Fig. 1-2. The leg support member 16 is released by the mechanism 100 and rotates from the deployed position to the stowed position.

[0048] In one or more examples, it may be desirable to adjust the biasing force of the springs 140 on the arm 110. Increasing the biasing force provided by the springs 140 on the arm 110 also increases the force required to release the release mechanism 100 on the leg support 16. Similarly, decreasing the biasing force provided by the springs 140 on the arm 110 reduces the force required to release the release mechanism 100 on the leg support 16.

[0049] The fastening member 118 has a shank 150 defining a first non-circular cross-sectional shape. In the example shown, the non-circular shape is square. However, other non-circular shapes may also be used.

[0050] A first eccentric sleeve 152 and a second eccentric sleeve 154 are connected to the mounting bracket 102 via the fastening member 118. The arm 110 is arranged between the first and second eccentric sleeves 152, 154. The mounting bracket 102 is also arranged between the first and second eccentric sleeves 152, 154.

[0051] Each eccentric sleeve 152, 154 defines an opening 156 extending therethrough having a non-circular cross-sectional shape. The second non-circular shape may be the same as or similar to the first non-circular shape. The first and second non-circular cross-sectional shapes mate with each other such that rotation of the fastening member 118 relative to the mounting bracket 102 rotates the first and second eccentric sleeves 152, 154.

[0052] An outer surface 158 of the first eccentric sleeve 152 contacts the springs 140 adjacent the first ends 142 of the spring(s), and an outer surface 158 of the second eccentric sleeve 154 contacts the springs 140 adjacent the second end 144 of the spring(s). The outer surface 158 of each of the eccentric sleeves 152, 154 is eccentric relative to the central or longitudinal axis of the attachment member 118 and to openings of the mounting bracket 102 and the arm 110.

[0053] When the fastening member 118 is rotated relative to the mounting bracket 102, the interference fit between the first and second non-circular shapes rotates the first and second eccentric sleeves 152, 154 with the rotation of the fastening member 118. Therefore, the position of the first and second eccentric sleeves 152, 154 relative to the mounting bracket 102, the arm 110, and the springs 140 can be adjusted. The first and second non-circular shapes also maintain the position of the first and second eccentric sleeves 152, 154 relative to each other so that their respective outer surfaces 158 remain aligned with each other.

[0054] When the mounting member 118 and the eccentric sleeves 152, 154 are rotated, the outer surface 158 of the eccentric sleeves contacts the spring(s) 140 and exerts a force on the springs 140 that moves the central portion 146 of the spring toward and away from the distal end portion 114 of the arm, thereby adjusting the position at which the central portion 146 of the spring 140 contacts the arm 110 and varying the position of the spring's biasing force on the arm. Rotation of the first and second eccentric sleeves 152, 154 thus varies a biasing force of the spring 140 on the arm, with the biasing force increasing as the central portion 146 of the spring moves toward the distal end portion 114 of the arm 110. Fig. 2-3 show the eccentric sleeves 152, 154 interacting with the spring 140 to provide a lower preload force on the arm 110, which is determined by the position of the eccentricity of the sleeve 152, 154 relative to the spring 140. When the eccentric sleeve in Fig. 2-3 is rotated by 180 degrees, the eccentric sleeves 152, 154 interacting with the spring 140 exert a greater preload force on the arm 110.

[0055] The release mechanism 100 also includes third and fourth sleeves 160, 162 connected to the mounting bracket 102 via the attachment member 118. The sleeves 160, 162 provide rotation of the arm 110 relative to the attachment member 118 because the shaft 150 of the attachment member 118 has the first non-circular shape.

[0056] The third and fourth sleeves 160, 162 are disposed between the first and second eccentric sleeves 152, 154, and the arm 110 is disposed between the third and fourth sleeves 160, 162. Each of the third and fourth sleeves 160, 162 defines an opening extending therethrough having the second non-circular cross-sectional shape. Each of the third and fourth sleeves 160, 162 also defines a cylindrical outer surface 164 dimensioned to be received within and in contact with the cylindrical opening of the arm 110 such that the arm 110 rotates about the third and fourth sleeves 160, 162 and the arm rotates relative to the mounting member 118 and the first and second sleeves 152, 154.

[0057] To install the release mechanism 100 on a seat assembly having a leg support member 16 such as the vehicle seat assembly 10 of Fig. 1, a support member such as a mounting bracket 102 is connected to the seat base 14 or the leg support member 16. The proximal end portion 112 of the arm 110 is rotatably connected to the mounting bracket 102 using a fastening member. Eccentric sleeves 152, 154 are held by the fastening member for rotation with the fastening member.

[0058] The follower 130 is connected to the corresponding other of the seat base 14 or the leg support member 16 such that the follower extends through the guide slots 106 of the mounting bracket 102 and that the follower engages the cam surface 120 of the arm 110 when the leg support member is rotated between a deployed position and a stowed position.

[0059] One or more tendons or springs 140 are then connected to the mounting bracket 102. The springs 140 are biased to contact the distal end portion 114 of the arm 110 to bias the arm in the first direction toward the follower 130. The springs 140 are in contact with the eccentric sleeves 152, 154. The bias force on the tendon is adjusted as needed by rotating the follower 130 and the eccentric sleeves 152, 154.

[0060] The leg support member 16 is moved from a deployed position to a stowed position using only a force applied to the leg support member. In response to the force applied to the leg support member 16, the follower 130 engages a convex portion of the cam surface 120 to further tension the springs 140 and rotate the arm 110 in the second direction, causing the springs to move along the arm.

[0061] Fig. 5 shows a release mechanism 200 according to another embodiment. The release mechanism 200 can be used as the release mechanism 24 in conjunction with the vehicle seat assembly 10 as shown in Fig. 1. Elements that are the same or similar to those shown above with reference to Fig. 1-4 are indicated by the same reference numerals and are generally referred to as Fig. 1-4. The release mechanism 200 has a similar operation as described above for the mechanism 100.

[0062] The arm 110 includes a proximal end portion 112 that is pivotally connected to the mounting bracket 102 and the seat base 14 via a first attachment member 202. The pin 130 is connected to the leg support 16. The follower 130 engages the cam surface 120 of the arm 110.

[0063] The release mechanism 200 includes a spring 140. The spring 140 is a torsion spring 204 and includes a central portion 206 disposed between the first and second end portions 208, 210. The first and second end portions 208 and 210 are secured to the mounting bracket 102 by the corresponding plates 212 on a second attachment member 214. The second attachment member 214 extends through the mounting bracket 102 adjacent the distal end portion 114 of the arm 110 and is spaced from the first attachment member 202. The second attachment member 214 holds the torsion spring 204 adjacent the distal end portion 114 of the arm.

[0064] The middle region 206 is in contact with the second surface of the arm 110. As in Fig. 5, the torsion spring 204 has first and second spiral sections 216, each spiral section 216 being disposed between the central region 206 and an associated end region 208, 210.

[0065] The position of the plates 212 can be adjusted to adjust the tension in the spring 204 and to vary the preload exerted by the spring 204 on the arm 110.

[0066] In general, as in Fig.1-5, the follower 130 engages the cam surface 120 of the arm 110 when the leg rest 16 is moved from the deployed position to the stowed position based on a force applied to the leg support member 16 exceeding a threshold. In one example, this threshold is 400 Newtons, but other values ​​may be used and may be based on the geometry of the seat assembly 10 and the maximum load for the motor. The follower 130 follows the cam surface 120 as the leg rest 16 rotates with respect to the seat base 14. The springs 140 are compressed in response to the follower 130 engaging the cam surface 120, causing the arm 110 to rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0067] As the profile of cam surface 120 changes, follower 130 moves arm 110, and spring 140 is elastically deformed. As the arm moves, the force exerted by spring 140 on arm 110 changes as follower 130 moves relative to cam surface 120. For example, follower 130 moving across transition region 126 causes a large deformation of spring 140 over a short distance of cam surface 120 because of its steep profile and convex shape.

[0068] The springs 140 hold the arm 110 in contact with the follower 130. In response to a force applied to the leg support 16, the follower 130 exerts a force on the arm 110. When the force applied by the follower 130 to the arm 110 is greater than the biasing force applied by the springs 140 to the arm 110, the follower 130 moves along the cam surface 120, the springs 140 are elastically deformed such that the arm 110 rotates in the second direction, and the central portion 146 of the springs can move along the second surface 122 of the arm 110. It should be noted that the biasing force applied by the springs 140 can be set to correspond to the desired threshold force on the leg support for releasing the mechanism.It should also be noted that the preload force value may or may not equal the threshold force value based on the geometry of the seat assembly 10 and where the forces are applied to the assembly 10.

[0069] To move the leg rest 16 from the deployed position to the stowed position, the user applies a force to the leg rest that overcomes the biasing force applied by the springs 140, wherein the user does not operate a lever or provide any other user input to the mechanism 22, and the motor of the mechanism 22 is not operated. This simplifies operation for the seat occupant and provides load protection for the motor when the leg rest is released based on the biasing force. The eccentric sleeves 152, 154 or the plates 212 provide fine adjustment or control of the biasing force applied to the arm 110 via the springs 140. In one example, the biasing force can be varied by 20 percent or more using the eccentric sleeves 152, 154 or plates 212.

[0070] Additionally, the type and location of the springs 140 according to the present invention provide a release mechanism with a smaller package size, particularly in the vertical direction, thereby enabling use in reduced clearances under the seat assembly, lowering the seat assembly in a vehicle, and the like.

[0071] While exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described above, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein. This description is intended to be exemplary and not restrictive, and various changes may be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, features of different embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the invention. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 10 Vehicle seat arrangement 12 seat back 14 Seat base 16 Legrest 20 vehicle frames 22 Mechanism 24, 100 release mechanism 102 mounting clamp 104 Actuator rod 106 guide slots 110 Arm 112 near end area 114 distant end area 116 Opening 118 Fastening link 120 cam surface or first surface 122 second area 124 Deepening 126 Transition area 130 follower or pin 140 spring 142 first end 144 second end 146 middle range 150 shaft 152 first eccentric sleeve 154 second eccentric sleeve 156 Opening 158 exterior area 160 third sleeve 162 fourth sleeve 164 cylindrical outer surface 200 release mechanism 202 Fastening link 204 torsion spring 206 middle range 208 first end area 210 second end area 212 plate 214 Fastening link 216 spiral section

Claims

[1] Vehicle seat assembly (10) comprising: a seat base (14), a legrest (16) which is rotatably connected to the seat base (14) and can be moved between a stowed position and an unfolded position, an arm (110) having a proximal end portion (112) rotatably supported by the seat base (14) or the leg support (16), the arm (110) defining a cam surface (120), a spring (140) held by the seat base (14) or the leg support (16), the spring (140) being in contact with a distal end portion (114) of the arm (110), and a follower (130) connected to the other of the seat base (14) and the leg support (16), the follower (130) being engageable with the cam surface (120) of the arm (110) when the leg support (16) is rotated between the deployed position and the stowed position, wherein the arm (110) defines a planar surface opposite the cam surface (120), and wherein the spring (140) is engageable with the planar surface of the arm (110) to move along it when the leg support (16) is rotated between the deployed position and the stowed position. [2] Vehicle seat assembly (10) comprising: a seat base (14), a legrest (16) which is rotatably connected to the seat base (14) and can be moved between a stowed position and an unfolded position, an arm (110) having a proximal end portion (112) rotatably supported by the seat base (14) or the leg support (16), the arm (110) defining a cam surface (120), a spring (140) held by the seat base (14) or the leg support (16), the spring (140) being in contact with a distal end portion (114) of the arm (110), a follower (130) connected to the other of the seat base (14) and the leg support (16), the follower (130) being engageable with the cam surface (120) of the arm (110) when the leg support (16) is rotated between the deployed position and the stowed position, and a mounting bracket (102) defining first and second spaced-apart guide slots (106), the follower (130) being received in the first and second guide slots (106), wherein the arm (110) is disposed between the first and second guide slots (106) and is rotatably connected to the mounting bracket (102). [3] The vehicle seat assembly of claim 2, wherein the spring (140) is a cantilevered spring member including a central portion disposed between first and second ends, the first and second ends being supported by the mounting bracket (102), the central portion being in contact with the arm (110). [4] The vehicle seat assembly of claim 3, wherein the spring (140) is a first spring, and wherein the vehicle seat assembly further comprises a second cantilevered spring including a central portion disposed between a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the second spring being held by the mounting bracket (102), the central portion of the second spring being in contact with the arm (110) and being adjacent the central portion of the first spring. [5] The vehicle seat assembly of claim 3 or 4, wherein a proximal end portion (112) of the arm (110) defines an opening, and wherein the vehicle seat assembly further comprises a fastening member (118, 202, 214) extending through the mounting bracket (102) and the opening of the arm (110) to connect the arm (110) to the mounting bracket (102). [6] The vehicle seat assembly of claim 5, further comprising a first eccentric sleeve (152) and a second eccentric sleeve (154) connected to the mounting bracket (102) via the fastening member (118, 202, 214), the arm (110) being disposed between the first and second eccentric sleeves (152, 154), wherein an outer surface of the first eccentric sleeve (152) contacts the spring (140) adjacent the first end and wherein an outer surface of the second eccentric sleeve (154) contacts the spring (140) adjacent the second end, and wherein rotation of the first and second eccentric sleeves (152, 154) varies a preload force of the spring (140) on the arm (110). [7] The vehicle seat assembly of claim 6, wherein the fastening member (118, 202, 214) has a shaft defining a first non-circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein each eccentric sleeve (152, 154) defines an opening having a second non-circular cross-sectional shape, the first and second non-circular cross-sectional shapes being form-fitted together such that rotation of the fastening member (118, 202, 214) relative to the mounting bracket (102) rotates the first and second eccentric sleeves (152, 154). [8] A vehicle seat assembly according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising a third sleeve (160) and a fourth sleeve (162) connected to the mounting bracket (102) via the fastening member (118, 202, 214), the third and fourth sleeves (160, 162) being disposed between the first and second eccentric sleeves (152, 154), and the arm (110) being disposed between the third and fourth sleeves, wherein each of the third and fourth sleeves defines an opening extending therethrough having the second non-circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein each of the third and fourth sleeves defines a cylindrical outer surface (164) dimensioned to be received through and in contact with the opening of the arm (110) such that the arm (110) rotates about the third and fourth sleeves. [9] The vehicle seat assembly of any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the spring (140) is a torsion spring having a central portion (206) disposed between first and second end portions (208, 210), the first and second end portions being held by the mounting bracket (102) and the central portion (206) being in contact with the arm (110). [10] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 9, wherein the first and / or second end portion (208, 210) of the torsion spring (204) has the shape of a spiral. [11] A vehicle seat assembly according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising: a first attachment member (202) extending through the mounting bracket (102) and the proximal end portion (112) of the arm (110) to rotatably connect the arm (110) to the mounting bracket (102), and a second attachment member (214) extending through the mounting bracket (102) and spaced from the first attachment member (202), the second attachment member (214) holding the torsion spring (204) adjacent the distal end portion (114) of the arm (110). [12] A vehicle seat assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein from the deployed position, the follower (130) biases the arm (110) to rotate the leg support (16) relative to the seat base (14) using only a force applied to the leg support (16). [13] A vehicle seat assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring (140) is biased to bias the arm (110) in a first direction, wherein the cam surface (120) defines a recess and a convex transition region disposed between the distal end region (114) and the proximal end region (112) of the arm (110), and wherein in response to engagement of the follower (130) with the transition region (126), the spring (140) is further tensioned and the arm (110) is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction. [14] A release mechanism (24, 100) for a leg support member (16) of a seat assembly, the release mechanism (24, 100) comprising: a holding member for connection to a seat base (14) or a leg support member (16), an arm (110) having a proximal end portion (112) rotatably connected to the support member and a distal end portion (114), the arm (110) defining a cam surface (120), a biasing member (140) connected to the support member, the biasing member (140) being in contact with the distal end portion (114) of the arm (110), and a follower (130) for connection to the other of the seat base (14) and the leg support member (16), the follower (130) being engageable with the cam surface (120) of the arm (110) when the leg support member (16) is rotated between an extended position and a stowed position, wherein the biasing member (140) biases the arm (110) in a first direction, and wherein the cam surface (120) defines a recess and a convex transition region (126) disposed between the distal end region (114) and the proximal end region (112) of the arm (110), and wherein, in response to engagement of the follower (130) with the transition region (126), the tendon (140) is further tensioned and the arm (110) is rotated in a second direction opposite the first direction as the tendon (140) moves along a surface of the arm (110). [15] The release mechanism of claim 14, wherein the follower (130) sequentially engages the recess (124) and the transition region (126) as the leg support member (16) is rotated from the deployed position to the stowed position. [16] A method of installing a release mechanism (24, 100) for a leg support member (16) connected to a seat assembly, the method comprising: Connecting a support member to a seat base (14) or a leg support member (16), the support member defining at least one guide slot (106) extending therethrough, rotatably connecting a proximal end portion (112) of an arm (110) to the support member, the arm (110) extending from the proximal end portion (112) to a distal end portion (114), the arm (110) defining a cam surface (120), Connecting one follower (130) to the other of the seat base (14) or the leg support member (16) such that the follower (130) extends through the at least one guide slot (106), wherein the follower (130) can engage the cam surface (120) of the arm (110) when the leg support member (16) is rotated between a deployed position and a stowed position, Connecting a tendon (140) to the holding member, and Prestressing the biasing member (140) such that the biasing member (140) is in contact with the distal end portion (114) of the arm (110) to bias the arm (110) in a first direction toward the follower (130). [17] The method of claim 16, further comprising: Connecting the arm (110) to the holding member using a fastening member (118, 202, 214), Holding an eccentric sleeve around the fastening member (118, 202, 214) for rotation therewith, the eccentric sleeve being in contact with the biasing member (140), and Adjusting a preload force on the preload member (140) by rotating the fastening member (118, 202, 214) and the eccentric sleeve. [18] The method of claim 16 or 17, further comprising moving the leg support member (16) from a deployed position to a stowed position using only a force applied to the leg support member (16) in response to the force applied to the leg support member (16), wherein the follower (130) engages a convex portion of the cam surface (120) to further tension the biasing member (140) and rotate the arm (110) in a second direction opposite the first direction, and the biasing member (140) moves along the arm (110).

Images