Lever for a vehicle seat

Abstract

Lever (1A-1I) for a vehicle seat (6), comprising: - two bearing sections (11A-11E) for pivoting the lever (1A-11) to each other component, - a support element (3A-3F) through which forces can be transmitted between the bearing sections (11A-11E), - a sliding element (2A-2E) on which one of the bearing sections (11A-11E) is provided, and - a longitudinally extended guide section (22A-22E) which is blocked in an initial position by a deformation section (23A-23E) so that the displacement element (2A-2E) is fixed relative to the support element (3A-3F), wherein the deformation section (23A-23E) is deformable by the action of forces acting between the bearing sections (11A-11E) such that the guide section (22A-22E) is released and the displacement element (2A-2E) is displaceable relative to the support element (3A-3F), wherein the bearing sections (11A-11E) are located outside the deformation section (23A-23E).

Description

[0001] The proposed solution concerns a lever for a vehicle seat and a vehicle seat with such a lever.

[0002] Levers for vehicle seats are primarily used as part of a seat height adjustment mechanism. These levers, typically in the form of front and rear height adjustment levers, serve to adjust the height of a seat cushion on the vehicle seat base. When the vehicle seat is in use, the height adjustment levers transfer the loads exerted by the seat cushion and the occupant into the seat base. Such height adjustment levers are usually designed to transfer these loads into the seat base without themselves becoming irreversibly deformed. Therefore, these levers are typically made of a rigid material.

[0003] In an accident, particularly a rear-end collision with another vehicle at high speed, the vehicle occupant can experience strong acceleration relative to the seat base. Due to a rigid connection between the vehicle seat and the seat base, for example via the aforementioned height adjustment levers, this can lead to abrupt deceleration of the occupant. Such accidents can result in serious injuries, especially to the head. Furthermore, during such abrupt deceleration, numerous components of the vehicle seat are regularly subjected to high loads. Typical loads could include torques acting on the backrest and tensile forces acting on the seat height adjustment mechanism.

[0004] To protect the vehicle occupant and relieve stress on the seat, the height adjustment levers can be used to selectively convert the kinetic energy caused by the accident into deformation energy. It can be advantageous to convert as much of the kinetic energy as possible into deformation energy.

[0005] DE 10 2014 013 295 A1 describes a lever in which a deformation position in an accident allows a deformation movement of a bearing section of the lever within a ring area surrounding the bearing section. However, this solution allows only a limited deformation movement, especially in confined spaces.

[0006] German patent DE 20 2014 104 538 U1 describes an adjustment element for a vehicle seat, wherein a coupling area is designed as a deformation zone for deformation and energy absorption in the event of forces occurring between joint mounts during a rear-end collision. Further deformation zones are described in JP H04-356 240 A and JP 2009-220 744 A.

[0007] The task is to improve the reduction of loads introduced into the lever.

[0008] This problem is solved by a lever having the features of claim 1.

[0009] Such a lever for a vehicle seat comprises the following: two bearing sections for pivotally connecting the lever to another component, for example, a seat part and a seat base of the vehicle seat; a support element through which forces can be transmitted between the bearing sections; a sliding element on which one of the bearing sections is provided; and a longitudinally extended guide section. In an initial position of the lever, the guide section is blocked by a deformation section, so that the sliding element is fixed relative to the support element. The deformation section can be deformed by the action of forces acting between the bearing sections such that the guide section is released and the sliding element can be moved relative to the support element, with the bearing sections lying outside the deformation section.

[0010] For example, the deformation section can be positioned between the two bearing sections. The deformation of the deformation section can thus occur without deformation of the bearing sections. This prevents functional impairment of the bearing sections when the lever is triggered. In particular, replacing the triggered lever can be limited to replacing the deformation section. This can reduce the costs associated with the replacement.

[0011] The sliding element allows for a particularly wide relative movement between the bearing sections in a crash, which makes it possible to dissipate loads particularly efficiently.

[0012] The length of the deformation path, which can be released by deformation of the deformation section, can be determined by the length of the guide section of the sliding element. In particular, the guide section can essentially correspond to the distance between the bearing sections in their initial position. Fundamentally, the deformation path can correspond to a braking distance over which the vehicle seat occupant is decelerated in the event of an accident, in their relative motion to the vehicle, especially the seat base. By decelerating the vehicle seat over the longest possible braking distance, the risk of injury and / or the accident loads acting on the vehicle seat can be reduced. Thus, affected components of the vehicle seat, such as rails, backrest fittings, seat frame, and backrest frame, can be designed for lower maximum loads. This can reduce material and / or manufacturing costs.

[0013] Initially, the bearing sections are spaced at a first distance. If a load, particularly a tensile load, is applied to the bearing sections, the lever can be extended telescopically by the deformation path by moving the sliding element along this path. Thus, in its released position, the lever can have a second spacing between the bearing sections, which may be greater than the first. The second and first spacings can differ by precisely the amount of the deformation path. This deformation path can correspond to the longitudinal extension of the deformation section.

[0014] It can be designed so that the deformation section is only deformable by the application of forces (especially plastic ones) that exceed a predetermined threshold. This prevents deformation of the deformation section under normal operating conditions.

[0015] In one embodiment of the proposed lever, the deformation section can be made of a different material than the guide section and / or the bearing section of the sliding element. In particular, the material of the deformation section can have a lower strength than the material of the guide section and / or the bearing section. In an alternative embodiment, the deformation section can be made of the same material as the guide section and / or the bearing section. In this case, the deformation section can have material weaknesses to allow it to deform. Such material weaknesses can be achieved, for example, by a material thickness that differs, at least in certain areas, from that of the guide section and the bearing section. In principle, the defining section can be designed to dissipate loads introduced into the lever through irreversible plastic deformation.The term deformation encompasses both the plastic deformation of the deformation section and the destruction of the deformation section in the sense of breaking into several parts.

[0016] In particular, the deformation section can be deformable for the conversion of tensile loads by compression, and can therefore be designed and arranged in a compressible manner.

[0017] In general, the deformation section can be arranged (in particular, completely) between the bearing sections of the lever in its initial position. Specifically, each of the bearing sections can be spaced apart from the deformation section. The bearing section of the sliding element can be fixed relative to the sliding element, even in the case of loads caused by an accident.

[0018] For example, the guide section can be integrated into the sliding element. Thus, the guide section and the deformation section can both be arranged on the sliding element. This allows the support element to be manufactured with high stability. In particular, this approach can prevent local reductions in stability within the support element.

[0019] In one embodiment of the proposed solution, the support element can be connected to the sliding element via a fastening element. For example, the fastening element secures the sliding element to the support element, in particular in such a way that it cannot be separated from the support element in either its initial position or a released position. Such a fastening element can be designed and connected to the support element in such a way that the maximum load-bearing capacity of the fastening element exceeds the maximum load-bearing capacity of the deformation section. In principle, the fastening element can be connected to the support element by force-fit, form-fit, or material-fit connection. In one exemplary embodiment, the fastening element can be designed as a bolt fixed to the support element. On the sliding element side, the fastening element can abut the deformation section.Thus, the fastening element can be fixed relative to the sliding element if the deformation element is intact, whereby the deformation section can be deformed by forces exceeding the threshold value. Therefore, the fastening element can be displaced relative to the sliding element along the deformation path defined by the guide section by forces exceeding the threshold value. In this process, the deformation section can be deformed.

[0020] To connect the support element to the sliding element via a fastening part, the support element and the sliding element, in particular the guide section of the sliding element, can each have an opening.

[0021] The deformation section and the guide section can overlap. In particular, the opening of the guide section can thus be located within the deformation section.

[0022] In one embodiment of the proposed lever, the fastening element can extend through the opening in the support element and the opening in the guide section. For example, the fastening element could be a screw, a bolt, or a rivet.

[0023] The guide section is designed, for example, with a guide track. To fix the sliding element relative to the support element, the guide track can be at least partially closed by the deformation section in its initial position. The fastening element can extend through the guide track. This allows for a robust and space-saving design. For example, the guide track can be closed by the deformation element up to the opening through which the fastening element extends. Loads introduced into the lever that exceed the threshold value allow the fastening element to be moved along the deformation path within the guide track by deformation (especially compression) of the deformation section. The fastening element can bear against an edge of the guide track, at least partially. The guide track can be designed with two (especially rigid) parallel webs.These can adjoin the bearing section of the sliding element. The deformation section can be arranged between the parallel webs.

[0024] The guide track can be tapered along the deformation path. For example, the edge of the guide track can form an acute angle with the deformation path. This allows the lever to be locked in the released position, thus preventing it from returning to its initial position after release.

[0025] The lever can have a forming section. This forming section can be designed with a step that, through the action of the forces acting between the bearing sections, exerts a deforming and / or compressive force on the deformation section. Such steps can be produced using forming processes, thus requiring very little effort.

[0026] The forming section can be located on the inner side of the support element. For example, the support element is designed as a hollow body enclosing an inner space. The forming section can extend into this inner space, thus protecting it from external influences. This can reduce the likelihood of the lever malfunctioning in the event of an accident. Furthermore, the forming section can be positioned on the inner side by locally tapering the support element, further reducing manufacturing effort.

[0027] In principle, a lever can have multiple deformation sections and / or deformation paths. This allows, for example, the lever to absorb more energy when triggered. A multi-stage release mechanism can also be implemented.

[0028] The fastening element can be positioned adjacent to the forming section. This can improve the controlled deformation of the forming section by the forming section. The forming section can be displaced along the deformation path when the lever is released, thereby deforming the forming section itself. Furthermore, the fastening element can be displaced along a further deformation path when the lever is released, thereby deforming another deformation section. For example, the deformation of the forming section by the forming section can involve plastic material displacement. Alternatively or additionally, the deformation of the further deformation section by the fastening element can, for example, involve tearing the further deformation section open. This can enable a compact design for the proposed lever.

[0029] Furthermore, the sliding element can have an end stop (especially a rigid one) that limits the deformation path. This allows for a long deformation path while reliably preventing the sliding element from pulling out. Such an end stop can limit the telescopic displacement of the sliding element relative to the support element. Accordingly, the arrangement of the end stop on the sliding element can define the second distance between the bearing sections in the released position of the lever. For example, the rigid end stop can be designed with a web. The web can be arranged orthogonally to the deformation path defined by the guide section on the sliding element. In one embodiment, the end stop can be wedge-shaped relative to the deformation path.This allows the lever to be locked in the triggered position, thus preventing it from returning to its initial position after triggering. The length of the deformation path can be determined by the arrangement of the end stop and the length of the webs of the sliding element.

[0030] In one embodiment, the length (of a deformation path or) of the deformation path can correspond to at least one-tenth, preferably at least one-eighth, preferably at least one-sixth, preferably at least one-quarter, preferably at least half, or preferably at least one-three-quarters of the distance between the two bearing sections in the initial position. Longer deformation paths are also conceivable and possible in principle. For example, the length of a deformation path can particularly preferably correspond to or exceed the distance.

[0031] Optionally, the support element is designed as a hollow beam with an interior space. In this configuration, the deformation section can be located, particularly largely or completely, within the interior of the support element in its initial position. Designing the support element as a hollow beam can increase its stiffness. This can reduce the material required to achieve the desired lever stiffness. Furthermore, this design protects the deformation element from external influences, especially from unintentional damage. The sliding element can be guided by a section or element on the support element. In one embodiment of the proposed solution, the sliding element can have a guide element that is guided on the support element. For example, the guide element can rest against an inner surface of the interior of the hollow beam support element.The guide element is designed, for example, with a plastic element injection-molded onto the sliding element.

[0032] In one embodiment of the proposed lever, the support element can have the other bearing section of the two bearing sections. In particular, the bearing section of the support element can also be fixed relative to the support element in the case of loads caused by an accident.

[0033] In a further development of the proposed solution, the lever can include an additional guide section and an additional sliding element, on which the other bearing section of the two bearing sections is provided. In this alternative, both bearing sections are formed on one of the two sliding elements. The additional guide section can be blocked in an initial position by a deformation section, so that the additional sliding element is fixed relative to the support element. The deformation section of the additional sliding element can be deformed by forces acting between the bearing sections in such a way that the additional guide section is released and the additional sliding element can be moved relative to the support element along a deformation path defined by the additional guide section.

[0034] As an example, the additional sliding element can be identical in construction to the first-mentioned sliding element and have the additional guide section.

[0035] In particular, both the sliding element and the additional sliding element in the lever embodiment with one sliding element and another sliding element can each have a deformation path. The deformation path of the lever corresponds to the sum of the deformation paths of the sliding elements. This makes it possible to provide a particularly large deformation path. In one embodiment, the sliding element and the additional sliding element can be arranged coaxially. For example, the sliding element can have one longitudinal axis and the additional sliding element another longitudinal axis. In the coaxial arrangement, the longitudinal axis and the additional longitudinal axis can be identical. In an alternative embodiment, the sliding element and the additional sliding element can be arranged parallel to each other.Accordingly, the longitudinal axis and the secondary longitudinal axis can run parallel to each other. The longitudinal axis and the secondary longitudinal axis can be offset from each other in a spatial direction. In particular, the longitudinal axis and the secondary longitudinal axis can be offset from each other such that the displacement elements are arranged overlapping on the support element in the initial position (e.g., along the spatial direction). Each of the parallel displacement elements can have a deformation path that essentially corresponds to the distance between the bearing sections in the initial position. Thus, the deformation path of the lever can essentially correspond to twice the distance between the bearing sections in the initial position. In particular, the deformation path of the lever can be greater than the distance between the bearing sections in the initial position.This allows the lever to be manufactured with a particularly small installation space requirement. This can reduce assembly effort and / or manufacturing costs. Alternatively or additionally, the braking distance can be further increased compared to a design with only one sliding element.

[0036] In a supplementary or alternative embodiment, the deformation section of the sliding element and the deformation section of the further sliding element can be designed differently, e.g., they can have different material properties, such as different strengths. In particular, the deformation sections can have different material thicknesses compared to each other.

[0037] Due to differing strengths of the sliding element and the other sliding element, the deformation sections can exhibit different threshold values. Accordingly, the deformation section of one of the two sliding elements can become deformable when the applied load exceeds a first threshold value. Furthermore, the deformation section of the other of the two sliding elements can become deformable when the applied load exceeds a second threshold value. Thus, the lever can be triggered in multiple stages, particularly in two stages. With multi-stage triggering, the deceleration of the vehicle seat occupant can be non-linear and / or intermittent. In some applications, this can further reduce the risk of injury and the resulting structural loads.

[0038] In alternative or supplementary embodiments, the strength of at least one of the deformation sections can vary along the deformation path. For example, the deformation section can have a plurality of different materials along the deformation path. Optionally, the deformation section has a series of different material weakenings along the deformation path. In one embodiment, these can be formed by varying material thicknesses of the deformation section. However, in principle, identical material thicknesses and / or strengths of the deformation sections of all displacement elements are also conceivable and possible.

[0039] The support element can be a single piece. Alternatively, it can also be multi-part. In this case, two parts of the support element can be connected via a connecting element. The connecting element can have two connecting sections and two longitudinally braced guide sections. In a starting position, each guide section can be blocked by a deformation section, so that the connecting element is fixed relative to each of the two parts of the support element connected to it.The deformation sections of the connecting element can be deformed by forces acting between the bearing sections in such a way that the guide sections of the connecting element are released, and the connecting element, with each of its guide sections, can be displaced relative to one of the connected parts of the support element along the deformation path defined by the respective guide section. The two deformation sections of the connecting element can have different strengths to enable multi-stage release of the lever. In principle, the connecting element can be arranged parallel or coaxially with respect to the sliding element and any additional sliding element of the lever. By arranging the sliding element of the connecting element and any additional sliding element in parallel pairs, the installation space required for the lever can be further reduced.

[0040] Furthermore, the aforementioned task is also solved by a vehicle seat with at least one lever in one of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0041] Such a vehicle seat can comprise a seat base, a backrest, and a seat cushion. In a user position, the seat cushion can provide a seating surface for a vehicle seat occupant. Furthermore, in a user position, the backrest can provide a support surface for the back of the vehicle seat occupant. The seat cushion can be mounted on the seat base via at least one lever. The backrest can also be pivotally mounted on the seat base. In an alternative embodiment, the backrest can be mounted directly on the seat cushion.

[0042] The at least one lever is pivotally mounted on two components of the vehicle seat. Specifically, the at least one lever can be pivotally mounted on the seat cushion and the seat base of the vehicle seat. For this purpose, the seat cushion can have a front mounting point on a front side facing away from the backrest for the pivotable mounting of a front lever. Furthermore, the seat cushion can have a rear mounting point on a rear side facing the backrest for the pivotable mounting of a rear lever. The pivotable mounting of the front lever at the front mounting point of the seat cushion defines a front pivot axis of the seat cushion about which the front lever can pivot relative to the seat cushion. Similarly, the mounting of the rear lever at the rear mounting point of the seat cushion defines a rear pivot axis of the seat cushion about which the rear lever can pivot relative to the seat cushion.

[0043] Similarly, the seat base can have a front bearing point on a front side facing away from the backrest for pivoting the front lever. Furthermore, the seat base can have a rear bearing point on a rear side facing the backrest for pivoting the rear lever. Accordingly, the front bearing point of the seat base defines a front pivot axis about which the front lever can pivot relative to the seat base. In addition, the rear bearing point defines a rear pivot axis about which the rear lever can pivot relative to the seat base.

[0044] In one embodiment, at least one of the levers is part of a seat height adjustment mechanism for the seat section, with which the seat section can be adjusted relative to the seat base.

[0045] If the loads acting on the vehicle seat exceed the specified threshold, the seat section can pivot relative to the seat base by the deformation path of at least one lever. During this pivoting of the seat section relative to the seat base, at least a portion of the acting loads can be converted into plastic deformation of at least one section of the lever.

[0046] The at least one lever can be the front lever of the seat height adjustment, whereby, in the event of an accident, the front lever can be moved from its initial position to a released position by tensile loads acting on the bearing sections. This allows the forces acting on the vehicle seat occupant, particularly in the event of a rear-end collision, to be effectively converted into deformation energy.

[0047] The preceding explanations regarding the embodiments and advantages of the proposed lever also apply analogously to the proposed vehicle seat with at least one lever.

[0048] The attached figures illustrate possible implementation variants of the proposed solution.

[0049] This shows: Fig. 1A a perspective view of a first embodiment of a lever comprising a support element and a sliding element in a starting position; Fig. 1B a perspective view of a rear view of the lever from Fig. 1A; Fig. 2 a perspective view of the lever made of Fig. 1A in a triggered position; Fig. 3 a side view of a second embodiment of the lever; Fig. 4 showing a side view of a third embodiment of the lever, the support element and two of the sliding elements; Fig. 5 a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the lever showing the support element and two of the sliding elements in a coaxial arrangement; Fig. 6 a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the lever showing the support element and two of the sliding elements in parallel arrangement; Fig. 7 a side view of a sixth embodiment of the lever comprising a two-part support element, two of the sliding elements and a connecting element; Fig. 8 showing a side view of a seventh embodiment of the lever, the support element with a forming section in the initial position; Fig. 9 showing a side view of an eighth embodiment of the lever, the support element with the forming section and the sliding element with two deformation sections in the initial position; Fig. 10 a side view of the levers Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 in the triggered position; Fig. 11A showing a side view of a vehicle seat comprising a seat base, a seat section and a seat height adjustment with a lever in the initial position; Fig. 11B a side view of the vehicle seat according to Fig. 11A with the lever in the released position; and Fig. 11C a detailed view of the lever mounted on the vehicle seat from Fig. 11A.

[0050] The Fig. 1A and Fig. Figure 1B shows a lever 1A with two bearing sections 11A, 11B for pivotally connecting the lever 1A to a further component, a support element 3A, via which forces between the bearing sections 11A, 11B can be transmitted, and a sliding element 2A, which has one of the bearing sections 11A, 11B and a longitudinally extended guide section 22A. In a starting position of the lever 1A, the guide section 22A is blocked by a deformation section 23A, in this case completely occupied, so that the sliding element 2A is fixed in its position relative to the support element 3A against translation thereto.The deformation section 23A is deformable by the action of forces acting between the bearing sections 11A, 11B in such a way that the guide section 22A is released and the displacement element 2A with the guide section 22A can be displaced relative to the support element 3A along a deformation path S1 defined by the guide section 22A.

[0051] The support element 3A according to Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B is designed as a hollow body, for example with a substantially rectangular cross-section. The hollow body encloses an interior space 32, which is open at each of two opposing end sections of the support element 3A. In the region of one of the end sections of the support element 3A, the bearing section 11B for pivotally mounting the lever 1A on a component is arranged. This bearing section 11B is formed in this case by a bearing sleeve arranged at a through opening in the support element 3A.

[0052] The bearing section 11A, arranged on the sliding element 2A, projects through the other of the two end sections of the support element 3A. The bearing section 11B and the bearing section 11A are spaced a distance L1 apart. The bearing section 11A of the sliding element 2A is designed as a through opening in the sliding element 2A. The bearing sections 11A and 11B each have a cylindrical through-opening for forming a pivot connection. In this case, the corresponding cylinder axes are aligned parallel to each other.

[0053] The guide section 22A of the sliding element 2A is arranged in the interior 32. Along a longitudinal axis L2A of the sliding element 2A between the guide section 22A and the bearing section 11A, the sliding element 2A is connected to the support element 3A via a fastening part 4 in the form of a bolt. The fastening part 4 is attached to the support element 3A. The fastening part 4 extends through an opening 31A in the support element 3A and an opening in the sliding element 2A. As with reference to Fig. As will be explained in more detail below, the opening in the sliding element 2A is formed by a cam, which is otherwise closed by the deformation section 23A. The deformation section 23A extends along the longitudinal axis L2A from the opening (not shown) in the guide section 22A on the side facing away from the bearing section 11A.

[0054] Thus, the fastening element 4 is displaceable relative to the sliding element 2A by a tensile load introduced into the bearing sections 11A and exceeding a threshold value along the deformation path S1, while the deformation section 23A is simultaneously deformed. This allows the lever 1A to be extended telescopically. In the illustrated embodiment, the deformation section 23A has a material thickness that alternates along the deformation path S1. This reduces the strength of the deformation section 23A compared to the guide section 22A and / or the bearing section 11A.

[0055] The deformation path S1 is limited (on a side facing away from the fastening part 4 in the initial position) by an end stop 24. To guide the sliding element 2A on the support element 3A, the sliding element 2A has a guide element 25 on its side facing away from the bearing section 11A, which rests against and is guided on the inside of the interior space 32. In the Fig. 1A and Fig. In the embodiment of lever 1A shown in Figure 1B, the guide element 25 is designed as a plastic overmolding. In the embodiment shown in the Fig. 1A and Fig. In the embodiment shown in 1B, the guide section 22A, which is closed with the deformation section 23A, occupies essentially the entire length between the fastening part 4 and the end stop 24 (with the guide element 25).

[0056] The deformation section 23A is arranged between the bearing sections 11A and 11B. Bearing sections 11A and 11B each define a pivot axis of the lever 1A. The deformation section 23A is thus arranged between the pivot axes. The pivot axes are located outside the deformation path S1.

[0057] Fig. Figure 2 shows lever 1A in the embodiment shown in the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B in a triggered position. Accordingly, compared to the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B The sliding element 2A is displaced along its longitudinal axis L2A by a tensile force introduced into bearing section 11A relative to the other bearing section 11B. The fastening part 4 rests against the end stop 24 of the sliding element 2A. Due to the displacement of the sliding element 2A, the fastening part 4 is moved along the deformation path S1, causing a deformation of the bearing section 11A. Fig. 1A and Fig. The deformation section 23A shown in 1B is led to this. The deformation of deformation section 23A has resulted in Fig. 2. The opening 21A in the sliding element 2A, which is designed as a guide track, is released. The guide track is formed by two parallel webs 231, 232, which adjoin the bearing section 11A of the sliding element 2A and are connected on a side facing away from the bearing section 11A of the sliding element 2A via the end stop 24 (and the optional guide element 25).

[0058] In the depicted released position of the lever 1A, the bearing section 11A of the sliding element 2A and the bearing section 11B of the support element 3A have a second distance L2. This differs from the first distance L1 by precisely the deformation path S1 due to the telescopic displacement of the sliding element 11A relative to the support element 3A.

[0059] Instead of being a hollow beam, the support element 3A can also be, for example, solid. Furthermore, the sliding element 2A can, in principle, have a deformation section 23A that does not have alternating material thicknesses. A targeted reduction in the strength of the deformation section 23A compared to the guide section 22A and the bearing section 11A is also possible, alternatively or additionally, by using different materials. Additionally or alternatively, the deformation section 23A can be partially perforated and / or have a reduced material thickness compared to the webs 231 and 232 to reduce its strength.

[0060] Optionally, the guide element 25 is formed in one piece with the sliding element 2A. In particular, the guide element 25 and the sliding element 2A can be made of the same material.

[0061] Fig. Figure 3 shows a lever 1B with two bearing sections 11C, 11D and a sliding element 2B, which (in the plane of the figure) is completely aligned with the support element 3B. The sliding element 2B has one bearing section 11C. In the Fig. In the plane shown in Figure 3, this bearing section 11C is aligned with an elongated hole 33 of the support element 3B. The bearing section 11C is arranged at an end section of the elongated hole 33 facing the bearing section 11D.

[0062] To connect the sliding element 2B to the support element 3B, the sliding element 2B has an opening 21B and the support element 3B has an opening 31B. Thus, the sliding element 2B and the support element 3B can be connected via a fastening element (not shown, e.g., the fastening element 4 described above), which can extend through the aligned openings 21B and 31B. The opening 21B in the sliding element 2B extends through the guide section 22B, which is in turn blocked by a deformation section 23B. Therefore, the sliding element 2B is fixed with respect to displacement relative to the support element 3B, provided that the loads introduced into the bearing sections 11C and 11D do not exceed a predetermined threshold.

[0063] By introducing tensile loads exceeding the threshold value into the bearing sections 11D and 11C, the displacement element 2B with bearing section 11C can be displaced relative to bearing section 11D by the deformation path S2. In this process, the deformation section 23B is plastically deformed. Furthermore, the deformation path S2 is limited by an end stop 24.

[0064] According to Fig. 3 is one of the bearing sections 11C, 11D, in this case the bearing section 11C of the sliding element 2B, arranged between the other bearing section 11D (here of the support element 3B) and the deformation section 23B.

[0065] The lever 1D according to Fig. 4 has a support element 3C which, in areas of two opposing end sections, provides an opening 31B for connecting the support element 3C to one of two sliding elements 2B. Furthermore, this lever 1D comprises two sliding elements 2B, each analogous to the one in the Fig. The sliding element 2B shown in the illustrations is formed.

[0066] Each of the depicted displacement elements 2B is connected via a mechanism as described above. Fig. 4. The fastening element 4 (not shown) can be mounted on the support element 3C. Thus, each of the fastening elements 4 can be moved along a respective deformation path S2 in the corresponding guide section 22B by introducing loads exceeding the threshold value. The deformation paths S2 of the displacement elements 2B are each limited by an end stop 24. The deformation path of the lever 10 therefore corresponds to twice the deformation path S2 of one of the displacement elements 2B. In a triggered position, the bearing sections 11C can thus be adjusted telescopically from the first distance L1 shown to a distance L2 = L1 + 2 x S2.

[0067] Fig. Figure 5 shows a lever 1E with two coaxially arranged sliding elements 2C. Here, the support element 3D is again designed as a hollow body with a substantially rectangular cross-section. In the region of the end sections of the support element 3D, it has openings 31A through which a fastening element 4 extends. Each of the fastening elements 4 secures a sliding element 2C to the support element 3D. Furthermore, each of the sliding elements 2C has a bearing section 11A. In addition, each of the sliding elements 2C comprises a deformation section 23C and a guide element 25, which are arranged completely within an interior space 32 of the support element 3D.

[0068] The fastening element 4 extends through the guide section 22C of one of the displacement elements 2C, with the guide sections 22C being blocked in the initial position by the deformation sections 23C. Thus, the displacement elements 2C are fixed against displacement relative to the support element 3D as long as the applied loads do not exceed a threshold value. By applying loads exceeding the threshold value, both displacement elements 2C can be displaced along a longitudinal axis L2A of the displacement elements 2C while the deformation sections 23A simultaneously deform. Each fastening element 4 is displaced along a deformation path S3. Each deformation path S3 is limited by an end stop 24. Furthermore, both displacement elements 2C are guided on the support element 3D by a guide element 25.The guide element 25 rests against the inside of the interior 32 of the support element 3D.

[0069] Differently designed deformation sections 23C enable different threshold values ​​for each of the displacement elements 2C and thus a multi-stage triggering.

[0070] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the longitudinal extension axes L2A of the displacement elements 2C are arranged coaxially to each other.

[0071] In contrast, this shows Fig. 6. A lever 1F with two sliding elements 2D in a laterally offset, parallel arrangement. Accordingly, one of the two sliding elements 2D has a longitudinal axis L2A and the other of the two sliding elements 2D has a longitudinal axis L2B. The longitudinal axes L2A and L2B are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart.

[0072] According to Fig. 6 The support element 3E is designed as a hollow body with a substantially square cross-section. In the region of the end sections of the support element 3E, it has an opening 31A in each case, through which a fastening part 4 extends. Each of the two fastening parts 4 secures a sliding element 2D to the support element 3E. Furthermore, each of the sliding elements 2D has a bearing section 11A, which projects from one of the end sections of the hollow body. In addition, each of the sliding elements 2D has a deformation section 23D and a guide element 25. These are arranged entirely within the interior 32 of the support element 3E.

[0073] In this case, the deformation sections 23D of both displacement elements 2D have an identical material thickness D2. In alternative configurations, the material thickness D2 between the deformation sections 23D can also vary. This allows for the implementation of a multi-stage release behavior.

[0074] Each of the fastening elements 4 extends through one of the openings 21A in one of the guide sections 22D, the guide sections 22D being closed by the deformation sections 23D except for the openings 21A. Thus, the sliding elements 2D are fixed against displacement relative to the support element 3E as long as the applied loads do not exceed a threshold value. If the threshold value is exceeded, both sliding elements 2D can be displaced along their respective longitudinal axes L2A and L2B with simultaneous (or successive) deformation of the deformation sections 23D. In this process, one fastening element 4 is displaced along a deformation path S4. Each deformation path S4 is limited by an end stop 24. In the initial position, the two deformation sections 23D overlap each other at least partially.

[0075] Each of the displacement elements 2D forms one of two bearing sections 11A of the lever 1F. The deformation path of the lever 1F thus corresponds to twice the deformation path S4 of one of the displacement elements 2D. In the released position, the bearing sections 11D are therefore telescopically adjustable from the first distance L1 shown to a second distance L2 = L1 + 2 x S4. In particular, twice the adjustment path S4 can be greater than the distance L1 of the bearing sections 11A in the initial position.

[0076] Fig. Figure 7 shows a side view of another embodiment of a lever 1G of the proposed solution. In this embodiment, the support element 3F is formed in two parts. The two parts of the support element 3F are connected to each other via a connecting element 5. The connecting element 5 is attached to each of the two parts of the support element 3F by a fastening element 4.

[0077] The connecting element 5 has two connecting sections 51 and two longitudinally oriented guide sections 52. The guide sections 52 are in the Fig. In the initial position shown in Figure 8, each part of the connecting element 5 is blocked by a deformation section 53, so that the connecting element 5 is fixed relative to each of the two parts of the support element 3F connected to the connecting element 5. The deformation sections 53 of the connecting element 5 can be deformed by the action of forces acting between the bearing sections 11E of the lever 1G. This allows the guide sections 52 of the connecting element 5 to be released, and the connecting element 5, with each of the guide sections 52, to be moved relative to one of the connected parts of the support element 3F along the deformation path S5 defined by the respective guide section 52.

[0078] Furthermore, a fastening element 4 is arranged on each part of the support element 3F in the area of ​​the end section facing away from the connecting element 5. The respective part of the support element 3F is connected to a sliding element 2E via this fastening element. Each of the two sliding elements 2E has a bearing section 11E for supporting the lever on other components. Each of the sliding elements 2E also has a guide section 22E and a deformation section 23E that blocks the guide section 22E. The lever 1G thus comprises more than two (namely, in this case, four) deformation sections 23E, 53.

[0079] Each of the two fastening elements 4 for connecting the parts of the support element 3F to the two sliding elements 2E extends through one of the guide sections 22E of one of the sliding elements 2E. The sliding elements 2E are fixed against displacement relative to the part of the support element 3F connected to the sliding element 2E by the deformation sections 23E, as long as the applied loads do not exceed a threshold value. If the threshold value is exceeded, both sliding elements 2E can be displaced along their respective guide section 22E while the respective deformation section 23E simultaneously deforms. Each fastening element 4 is displaced along its respective deformation path S2. Each deformation path S2 is limited by an end stop 24. The deformation path of the lever 1G thus corresponds to the sum of all deformation paths S2, S5 of the sliding elements 2E and the connecting element 5.In a triggered position (not shown), the bearing sections 11C can thus be adjusted telescopically from the first distance L1 shown to a second distance L2 = L1 + 2 x S2 + 2 x S5. A multi-stage triggering behavior can be specified.

[0080] Fig. Figure 8 shows another possible embodiment of the proposed lever 1H. The opening 21C in the sliding element 2F is designed as an elongated hole and, unlike those in the Fig. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1A-7, the deformation section is not closed. The fastening part 4 can therefore, in principle, be moved within the opening 21C. To fix the sliding element 2F against loads that do not exceed a threshold value, the sliding element 2F is supported by at least one, here two, deformation sections 23E facing the support element 3G against a forming section 34 of the support element 3G, which is designed, for example, as two opposing steps. This secures the guide section 22E in the opening shown in Figure 1A-7. Fig. The starting position shown in section 8 is blocked (specifically against movement relative to the support element 3G).

[0081] Adjacent to the opposite steps, the fastening element 4 is connected to the support element 3G. If tensile loads exceeding the threshold are introduced into the bearing sections 11A and 11B, the sliding element 2F can be displaced relative to the support element 3G, causing deformation of the deformation sections 23E. This deformation (particularly plastic) occurs in the form of displacement of the material of the deformation sections 23E of the sliding element 2F. For example, the material can be displaced, and in particular compressed, in the direction of the opening 21C. During the displacement, the sliding element 2F is guided by the guide section 22E on the fastening element 4. This prevents, in particular, the lever 1H from retracting after release.

[0082] Fig. Figure 9 shows an embodiment of the lever 11, which is essentially the same as that described in Figure 9. Fig. This corresponds to lever 1H as shown in section 8. In contrast to lever 1H according to... Fig. In section 8, the opening 21C of the sliding element 2F is closed by an additional deformation section 23F (here: partially, alternatively completely). The lever 1I thus comprises several deformation sections 23E, 23F, specifically several types of deformation sections 23E, 23F. If tensile loads exceeding the threshold value are introduced into the bearing sections 11A, 11B, the sliding element 2F can only be displaced relative to the support element 3G by deformation of both types of deformation sections 23E, 23F of the sliding element. The deformation section 23F arranged in the opening 21C has a deformation path S7, which is shorter than the length of the deformation path S6 of the deformation sections 23E facing the support element 3G. In alternative configurations, the deformation sections 23E, 23F can also have an inverse length ratio or be the same length.

[0083] Fig. 10 shows the one in Fig. Lever 1H shown in 8, and applies equally to the one in Fig. The levers 1I shown in the diagram are each in the released position. Accordingly, the fastening part 4 rests against an end section of the opening 21C of the sliding element 2F. Compared to the Fig. 8, Fig. 9. The distance L2 between the bearing sections 11A, 11B is greater by the length of the deformation path S6 than the distance L1 between the bearing sections 11A, 11B in the initial position. The deformation sections 23E, 23F are deformed by the displacement of the sliding element, whereby material displaced by the deformation of the deformation section 23F of the lever 1I, which covers the opening 21C in the initial position, according to Fig. 9 in Fig. Figure 10 is not shown. It is evident that after the extension of the displacement element 2F, the opening 21C has a smaller width (perpendicular to the direction of the deformation path S6) than in the initial position. Due to the deformation, the webs 231 and 232 have a smaller distance between them, at least in sections, than in the initial position.

[0084] The Fig. 11A and Fig. Figure 11B shows a vehicle seat 6 with a seat base 61, a seat section 62, and a backrest 63 arranged on a vehicle floor. The seat base 61 is connected to the seat section 62 via a seat height adjustment mechanism 64 of the vehicle seat 6. This allows the seat section 62 to be adjusted relative to the seat base 61. The seat height adjustment mechanism 64 comprises at least one front height adjustment lever 1A and one rear height adjustment lever 642. The height adjustment levers 1A and 642 each have two bearing sections by which the height adjustment levers are connected to the seat section 62 and the seat base 61, respectively.

[0085] The height adjustment lever 1A shown is merely an example of the one described in the Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B and Fig. 2 illustrated embodiment of the proposed lever 1A. In principle, the illustrated vehicle seat 6 and the seat height adjustment 64 can also include any other embodiment of the proposed lever 1A.

[0086] The seat base 61 has a front bearing point 611 on a front side facing away from the backrest 63, which defines a front pivot axis 612. Thus, the front height adjustment lever 1A, which is articulated to the front bearing point 611, can pivot about the front pivot axis 612. Furthermore, the seat base 61 has a rear bearing point 613 in a rear area facing the backrest, which defines a rear pivot axis 614. Thus, the rear height adjustment lever 642, which is articulated to the rear pivot axis 614, can pivot about the rear pivot axis 614.

[0087] Similarly, the seat section 62 has a front bearing point 621 with a front pivot axis 622 on a front side facing away from the backrest 63, and a rear bearing point 623 with a rear pivot axis 624 on a rear side facing the backrest 63. The front lever 1A, mounted at the front bearing point 621 of the seat section 62, is pivotable about the front pivot axis 622. Furthermore, the rear height adjustment lever 642 is pivotable about the rear pivot axis 624.

[0088] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in 11A, the front height adjustment lever 1A corresponds to the one shown in the Fig. 1A and Fig. The lever 1A shown in Figure 1B is in its initial position. The front bearing points 611, 622 have the first distance L1 corresponding to the initial position. The sliding element 2A, except for the bearing section 11A, is completely enclosed by the support element 3A, which is designed as a hollow body. Thus, the deformation section 23A lies entirely within the support element 3A. The sliding element 2A and the support element 3A are held together by the fastening part 4, as explained above. Relative displacement of the sliding element 2A with respect to the support element 3A is blocked by the deformation section 23A as long as the loads introduced into the front height adjustment lever 1A do not exceed the corresponding threshold value.

[0089] Fig. 11B shows the one in Fig. The vehicle seat shown in Figure 11A undergoes a telescopic displacement of the sliding element 2A relative to the support element 3A due to the introduction of tensile loads 11 exceeding the threshold value. The front height adjustment lever 1A is thus in the released position. In this position, the front bearing points 611, 621 of the front height adjustment lever 1A exhibit the second distance L2. Due to the changed distance of the front bearing points 611, 621, the seat section 62 is pivoted relative to the seat base 61.

[0090] The second distance L2 in the triggered position corresponds to the sum of the first distance L1 in the initial position plus the deformation path S1. According to the preceding explanations regarding lever 1A as described in the Fig. In the embodiment shown in 1A-2, the fastening part 4 is opposite the one shown in Fig. The initial position shown in 11A is shifted along the guide section 22A to the end stop (not shown). In the process, the deformation section 23A is plastically deformed or destroyed by compression.

[0091] Fig. Figure 11C shows a detailed view of the front height adjustment lever 1A. Fig. 11A. The support element 3A encloses the interior space 32, which is open to both end sections of the support element 3A. In the area of ​​one of the end sections of the support element 3A, the bearing point 11B for pivoting the lever 1A is arranged at the front bearing point 611 of the seat base 61. For this purpose, a bearing bolt extends through the opening of the bearing point 11B.

[0092] The bearing section 11A of the sliding element 2A projects through the other of the two end sections of the support element 3A. The bearing section 11A is articulated to the front bearing point 621 of the seat part 62, in this case by means of a bearing bolt extending through the opening of the bearing point 11A. The bearing sections 11A and 11B are spaced a distance L1 apart.

[0093] The deformation section 23A extends along the longitudinal axis L2A in the guide section 22A.

[0094] Thus, the fastening element 4 is movable relative to the sliding element 2A by a tensile load introduced into the bearing sections 11A and exceeding a threshold value along the deformation path S1, while the deformation section 23A is simultaneously deformed. The deformation section 23A has a material thickness that alternates along the deformation path S1, specifically due to parallel, rib-shaped weakenings. This reduces the strength of the deformation section 23A compared to the guide section 22A and the bearing section 11A.

[0095] The use of the proposed lever 1A-1I as a component of a vehicle seat 6 is not limited to the specific embodiment of the illustrated vehicle seat 6. Furthermore, the lever 1A-1I can be used as one of many levers 1A-1I, or as the sole lever 1A-1I of an adjustment mechanism of the vehicle seat 6. In principle, a plurality of levers 1A-1I according to the proposed solution can also be a component of a vehicle seat 6. Reference symbol list 1A-1I Lever 11A-11E Storage section L1 Distance between the bearing sections in the initial position L2 Distance between bearing sections in the triggered position S1-S5 Deformation path 2A-2E sliding element 21A, 21B Opening 22A-22F Guide section 23A-23F Deformation section 231,232 Bridge 24 End stop 25 guide element L2A, L2B longitudinal extension axis D2 material thickness 3A-3F support element 31A, 31B Opening 32 Interior 33 Slotted hole 34 Transformation section 4 Mounting part 5 Connecting element 51 Connecting section 52 Leadership section 53 Deformation section 54 End stop 6 vehicle seats 61 Seat base 611 front bearing 612 front pivot axis 613 rear storage location 614 rear pivot axis 62 Seat section 621 front bearing 622 front pivot axis 623 rear storage location 624 rear pivot axis 63 Backrest 64 seat height adjustments 1A front lever 642 rear lever F force

Claims

Lever (1A-1I) for a vehicle seat (6), comprising: - two bearing sections (11A-11E) for pivotally connecting the lever (1A-11) to another component, - a support element (3A-3F) through which forces can be transmitted between the bearing sections (11A-11E), - a sliding element (2A-2E) on which one of the bearing sections (11A-11E) is provided, and - a longitudinally extended guide section (22A-22E) which is blocked in an initial position by a deformation section (23A-23E) so that the sliding element (2A-2E) is fixed relative to the support element (3A-3F), wherein the deformation section (23A-23E) can be deformed by the action of forces acting between the bearing sections (11A-11E) such that the guide section (22A-22E) is released. and the displacement element (2A-2E) is displaceable relative to the support element (3A-3F), with the bearing sections (11A-11E) being located outside the deformation section (23A-23E). Lever (1A-1G) according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide section (22A-22E) is formed on the displacement element (2A-2E). Lever (1A-1I) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the support element (3A-3F) is connected to the sliding element (2A-2E) via a fastening part (4). Lever (1A-1I) according to claim 3, characterized in that the fastening part (4) extends through an opening (31A, 31B) of the support element (3A-3F) and / or an opening (21A, 21B) in the guide section (22A-22E). Lever (1A-1I) according to claim 4, characterized in that the opening (21A, 21B) in the guide section (22A-22E) is designed in the form of a guide cam. Lever (1A-1I) according to claim 5, characterized in that, in order to fix the displacement element (2A-2E) relative to the support element (3A-3F), the opening (21A, 21B) in the guide section (22A-22E) is at least partially closed by the deformation section (23A-23E) in the initial position. Lever (1A-11) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the guide cam is tapered along the deformation path (S1-S5). Lever (1H-1I) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a forming section (34) with a step which acts deformingly on the deformation section (23A-23E) by the action of the forces acting between the bearing sections (11A-11E). Lever (1H-1I) according to claim 8, characterized in that the forming section (34) is formed on an inside of the support element (3A-3F). Lever (1H-1I) according to claim 8 or 9, insofar as it relates back to claim 3, characterized in that the fastening part (4) is arranged adjacent to the forming section (34). Lever (1A-1I) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by a deformation of the deformation section (23A-23E) releasing the guide section (22A-22E) the displacement element (2A-2E) is displaceable along a deformation path (S1-S5) defined by the guide section (22A-22E) relative to the support element (3A-3F), in particular wherein the displacement element (2A-2E) has a rigid end stop (24) that limits the deformation path (S1-S5). Lever (1A-1I) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a total length of at least one or of the at least one deformation path (S1-S5) corresponds to at least 1 / 10, preferably at least 1 / 8, preferably at least 1 / 6, preferably at least 1 / 4, preferably at least half, preferably at least 3 / 4 of a distance (L1), particularly preferably at least a distance (L1) or more than a distance (L1) between the two bearing sections (11A-11E) in the initial position. Lever (1A-1I) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (3A-3F) is designed as a hollow beam with an interior space, wherein the deformation section (23A-23E) is arranged in the initial position, in particular mostly or completely, in the interior space of the support element (3A-3F). Lever (1A-1B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (3A-3B) has the other of the two bearing sections (11B, 11D). Lever (1D-1G) according to one of claims 1 - 13, characterized in that the lever (1D-1G) has a further sliding element (2B-2E) on which the other of the two bearing sections (11A, 11C, 11E) is provided. Lever (1D-1G) according to claim 15, characterized by a further longitudinally extended guide section (22B-22E) which is blocked in an initial position by a deformation section (23B-23E) so that the further displacement element (2B-2E) is fixed relative to the support element (3C-3F), wherein the deformation section (23B-23E) is deformable by the action of forces acting between the bearing sections (11A, 11C, 11E) such that the further guide section (22B-22E) is released and the further displacement element (2B-2E) is displaceable relative to the support element (3C-3F). Lever (1D-1G) according to claim 16, characterized in that the deformation section (23A-23E) of the displacement element (2A-2E) and the deformation section (23B-23E) of the further displacement element (2B-2E) have different material properties, in particular different material thicknesses (D2). vehicle seat (6) comprising at least one lever (1A) according to one of the preceding claims and the two components with which the bearing sections (11A, 11B) of the lever (1A) are pivotably connected. Vehicle seat (6) according to claim 18, characterized in that a seat part (62) of the vehicle seat (6) is movably mounted on a seat base (61) of the vehicle seat (6) relative to the seat base (61) via the at least one lever (1A). Vehicle seat (6) according to claim 19, characterized in that the vehicle seat (6) has a seat height adjustment (64) for adjusting a seat height of the seat part (62) relative to the seat base (61), wherein the at least one lever (1A) is part of the seat height adjustment (64). Vehicle seat (6) according to claim 20, characterized in that the at least one lever (1A) is a front lever of the seat height adjustment (64) and the seat height adjustment (64) further comprises a rear lever arranged closer to a backrest (63) of the vehicle seat (6) in comparison, wherein the front lever (1A) is adjustable from the initial position to a released position in the event of an accident by tensile loads acting on the bearing sections (11A, 11B).

Images