Vehicle seat with interchangeable seat components, arrangement with the vehicle seat and method for configuring the vehicle seat
The vehicle seat design addresses the challenge of limited post-installation customization by incorporating a base system with an adapter frame and a configuration system of interchangeable components, enabling easy and safe adaptation and individualization by the end customer.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE102023211890
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-11-29
- Publication Date
- 2025-06-05
AI Technical Summary
Existing vehicle seats lack the ability for easy adaptation and individualization after initial installation, limiting the end customer's options for modifying the seat to meet future requirements without compromising safety or requiring professional assistance.
A vehicle seat design featuring a base system with a fixed adapter frame and a configuration system with interchangeable seat components, allowing for simple replacement of seat components without affecting safety or requiring specialized tools, thereby enabling easy customization and adaptation by the end customer.
The solution allows for easy adjustment and individualization of vehicle seats by the end customer, enhancing seat functionality and comfort while maintaining safety and simplifying the process of adapting the seat to changing needs without the need for professional intervention.
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Abstract
Description
Technical Field:The invention relates to a vehicle seat for a vehicle having the features of the preamble of claim 1.Background:Vehicle seats are known which are delivered to the end customer in a specific configuration or with specific equipment. In most cases, the end customer can specify in the vehicle order himself which configuration the vehicle seat should correspond to or which functions the seat should have. For example, the customer can select how many adjustment paths, e.g., 4-paths, 6-paths, etc., the vehicle seat is to have and whether the vehicle seat is to have a seat heater, a massage function, among others. After the vehicle order, the seat or seats are built and mounted into the vehicle according to customer requirements. A later adaptation of the vehicle seats after delivery is no longer possible or is only possible to a very limited extent, which is caused by the design of the seats.US 2015 360 738 A1 describes a method for designing or retrofitting a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle, in which interior components are selected for removable installation in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle, the currently installed interior components are removed from the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle; and alternative interior components are removably installed in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle, whereby an aesthetic appearance of the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle is modified or improved.Description:The object of the invention is to propose a vehicle seat which is distinguished by simple and reliable adaptation and a high degree of individualization.This object is achieved by a vehicle seat having the features of claim 1, an arrangement having the features of claim 9 and a method having the features of claim 10. Preferred or advantageous embodiments of the invention are evident from the dependent claims of the following description and / or the attached figures.The invention relates to a vehicle seat which is designed and / or suitable for a vehicle. The vehicle seat is preferably a driver seat, passenger seat and / or rear seat. An optional subject matter of the invention relates to a vehicle having the vehicle seat.The vehicle seat has a base system which comprises a seat structure and permanently installed safety and / or electronic components of the vehicle seat. In particular, the basic system comprises all components which must not be replaced by the end customer, since, due to improper mounting, they can influence driving safety directly or indirectly, can lead to failure of one or more functions, and / or special design and / or special knowledge is required for their replacement or handling, in order to be able to reliably avoid damage and / or injuries. Safety components can be understood to mean all components of the vehicle seat, such as an airbag, seat belt, etc., which contribute to driving safety. Electronic components can be understood to mean all components of the vehicle seat, such as e.g. cable harness, switches, buttons, control device etc., which contribute to the electrical supply and / or control of seat functions, such as e.g. electrical seat adjustment, seat heating, massage function etc. In particular, the seat structure is to be understood as a seat frame which is fixedly connected and / or connectable to a vehicle body.In addition, the vehicle seat includes a configuration system that includes a plurality of interchangeable seat components of the vehicle seat. In particular, the configuration system comprises all components which can be independently exchanged or configured by the end customer. Replaceable seat components can be understood here as all components of the vehicle seat that contribute to the seat design and / or to the seat geometry and / or to the seat comfort. The replaceable seat components are preferably designed such that the replacement cannot impair the permitted seat position and the driving safety. In simplified form, the basic system is invariable and the configuration system variable.Within the scope of the invention, it is proposed that the base system comprises at least or exactly one adapter frame fixedly connected to the seat structure, wherein the replaceable seat components are directly connected to the at least one adapter frame via a respective mechanical connection, so that the replaceable seat component and the adapter frame respectively form a connection partner. In particular, the at least one adapter frame forms the mechanical interface between the seat structure and the replaceable seat component. In other words, each replaceable seat component is directly connected to the at least one adapter frame via an associated mechanical connection. In this case, the mechanical connections can be designed in such a way that each replaceable seat component can be connected to the adapter frame exclusively via the mechanical connection assigned to it. The adapter frame is preferably manufactured or assembled from one or more plastic parts. The adapter frame can be connected to the seat structure in a releasable or non-releasable manner by means of a suitable connection, preferably in a positively locking and / or non-positive-locking manner, for example by screws and / or clips, or in a materially bonded manner, for example by adhesive bonding. Optionally, one or more of the interchangeable seat components may be connected to at least one electronic component of the vehicle seat via an additional electrical connection, e.g. a plug connection.The invention is based on the finding that there are no or only very limited possibilities for retrofitting or replacing parts or functions in a vehicle seat after it has been installed in the vehicle and delivered to the customer. This means that the end customer has the possibility, not at all or only to a very limited extent, of adapting the vehicle seat to future requirements. The object of the invention is therefore to configure the vehicle seat technically in such a way that specific parts of the vehicle seat can be replaced in a simple manner without influencing the safety and integrity of the seat. The end customer should thus be able to replace parts of a seat themselves without requiring a service station stay or even having to make a new vehicle be needed.The advantage of the invention is that the adapter frame provides a standard interface that is easy to operate by the customer to establish a connection between the fixed base system and the replaceable seat components of the variable configuration system. A vehicle seat is thus proposed which can be easily adjusted, for example, by the end customer in proper performance after the delivery of the vehicle, by replacing the replaceable seat components with alternative seat components. For this purpose, different seat components can be offered, which allow the customer to adapt the vehicle seat at any desired point in time. The provision of the mechanical connection through the adapter frame ensures that only the replaceable seat components can be removed or replaced, so that when the replaceable seat components are installed and removed, no influence is exerted on the driving safety by a manipulation of the permanently installed electronic and safety components.In a specific embodiment, it is provided that the safety and electronic components are connected fixedly and / or inaccessible to the seat structure and the replaceable seat components are connected to the adapter frame via the mechanical connection in a detachable manner, preferably without tools. In particular, safety and electronic components, preferably safety-critical components such as the airbag, are mounted and / or shielded when the replaceable seat components are removed in such a way that they cannot be removed or accessed from the outside. Preferably, the replaceable seat components are mounted and / or mountable via the respective mechanical connection ideally without tools or with simple tools, such as a clamp, a screwdriver, an allen wrench or the like, directly to the adapter frame, which holds ready the counterpart of the respective mechanical connection. This allows particularly simple assembly of the replaceable seat components and at the same time prevents improper dismantling of the safety and electronic components.In a further embodiment, it is provided that the mechanical connection can be produced in exactly one predefined orientation of the two associated connection partners. In particular, the replaceable seat component and the adapter frame have corresponding geometric asymmetry, so that the replaceable seat component can only be arranged on the adapter frame in a single orientation in order to produce the mechanical connection. In other words, the mechanical connection is not producible if the replaceable seat component is incorrectly oriented and / or an incorrect seat component is used. An orientation deviating from the predefined orientation is preferably geometrically and / or mechanically prevented. Thus, assembly errors in the assembly of the interchangeable seat components are prevented.In a development, it is provided that the replaceable seat components are formed by one or more seat cushion components and / or one or more seat back components and / or one or more headrest components. The seat cushion components are understood to mean all replaceable seat components which define the seat region of the vehicle seat and / or are arranged therein. The seat back components are understood to mean all replaceable seat components which define the back region of the vehicle seat and / or are arranged therein. The headrest components are understood to mean all replaceable seat components which define the head region of the vehicle seat and / or are arranged therein. Preferably, each seat cushion component or seat back component or headrest component has a mechanical interface and the adapter frame has a corresponding mechanical mating interface for forming the mechanical connection. A high level of individualization of the vehicle seat is thus made possible by virtue of one or more of the seat cushion component, seat backrest component and headrest component being replaceable or being replaced.In one refinement, it is provided that the at least one seat cushion component and / or the at least one seat back component and / or the at least one headrest component is designed as an exchangeable cushion and / or an exchangeable cover and / or an exchangeable cladding.By upholstery is meant the seat cushions of the vehicle seat which provide a seat surface and thus contribute significantly to the seating comfort. By replacing the cushion, the seat design and / or the seat geometry and / or the seat comfort can be changed. The seat cushion component may be formed as a replaceable seat cushion, the seat back component as a replaceable seat back cushion, and the headrest component as a replaceable headrest cushion, respectively. The pad may be formed of a foam or other resilient material. Preferably, standard cushions with a uniform foam hardness and / or foam thickness can be provided for the seat area and / or the back area and / or the head area and / or installed in series. These standard cushions can be manufactured, for example, essentially from a one-piece and / or homogeneous foam part. As an exchangeable alternative or configuration variant, seat cushions with a different foam hardness and / or foam thickness can be offered for the seat area and / or the back area and / or the head area. These seat cushions can be made of a multi-zone foam, for example.By reference is meant the seat covers of the vehicle seat that cover the seat surface of the vehicle seat and thus contribute significantly to the seat design. The cover can be formed from a flexible and planar material. In particular, the seat cover contributes, by its material, color and shape, to the seat rim of the vehicle seat. The covers serve as a direct contact surface between the occupant and the cushion and thus also have a direct influence on the seating comfort. By replacing the seat trim, the seat design and / or the seat comfort can be changed. Preferably, standard covers can be provided for the seat area and / or the back area and / or the head area and / or installed in series. These standard covers can be made of fabric, for example. As an exchangeable alternative or configuration variant, seat covers with a different material and / or different optics can be offered for the seat area and / or the back area and / or the head area. These seat covers can be made of leather, for example.Claddings are understood to mean the seat claddings of the vehicle seat, which cladding and / or cover the vehicle seat and thus contribute significantly to the seat design. Optionally, the seat cladding can also serve as contact protection against sharp edges of metal parts or for protection against parts which are movable relative to one another (anti-pinch protection). By replacing the seat trim, the seat design can thus be changed. Preferably, standard claddings can be provided for the seat area and / or the back area and / or the head area and / or installed in series. These standard claddings can be made of plastic, for example. As an exchangeable alternative or configuration variant, seat coverings with a different material and / or different optics can be offered for the seat region and / or the back region and / or the head region. These seat coverings may be partially or completely covered, for example, with fabric, leather, PVC, metal, etc. Optionally, the seat panels may have further mechanical interfaces to other parts. For example, the seat cladding can be used to prevent gap formation between the individual components of the vehicle seat. Alternatively or optionally additionally, connections to the electronic components, such as switches or buttons, can also be provided by the seat cladding.A vehicle seat is thus proposed which has a high degree of individualization due to the replacement of seat cushion, seat cover and / or seat cladding. In conjunction with a suitable seat cover, a seat cushion having alternative geometric shapes can be purchased, mounted, and the visual appearance of the seat can thus be easily adjusted and / or the vehicle seat can be equipped with a higher level of height. The exchangeability of the seat covers also results in the advantage that they can be easily cleaned.In a further refinement, it is provided that the replaceable cushion is placed in a form-fitting manner via a first mechanical connection directly with the associated adapter frame in an assembly direction, and the replaceable cover is fixed directly to the associated adapter frame via a second mechanical connection, wherein the replaceable cover secures the cushion counter to the assembly direction. In other words, the cushion is only placed on the associated adapter frame in the mounting direction, wherein the final fixing is effected against loss by the mounting of the cover. The seat cushion is preferably placed on the adapter frame, in particular a seat cushion adapter frame, in the mounting direction, preferably counter to a vertical direction, and is connected in a form-fitting manner to the adapter frame in the direction of travel and in the transverse direction via the first mechanical connection. In particular, the seat cushion cover is fastened to the adapter frame, in particular the seat cushion adapter frame, by means of the second mechanical connection, for example by means of a piping, clip or hook connection, wherein the seat cushion cover encloses the seat cushion in such a way that the seat cushion is fixed without play counter to the mounting direction.Alternatively or optionally additionally, the seat back cushion is placed on the adapter frame, in particular a seat back adapter frame, in the mounting direction, preferably counter to a seat direction, and is connected in a positive-locking manner to the adapter frame in the vertical direction and in the transverse direction via the first mechanical connection. In particular, the seat back trim is detachably fastened to the adapter frame, in particular the seat back adapter frame, via the second mechanical connection, for example via a piping, clip or hook connection, wherein the seat back trim encloses the seat back cushion in such a way that the seat back cushion is fixed without play counter to the mounting direction. Optionally, the respective cover can additionally be connected to the associated cushion via a further mechanical connection, such as a Velcro or snap fastener connection. The further mechanical connection can prevent the cover from slipping. A vehicle seat is thus proposed which is distinguished by a particularly simple mechanical connection of the replaceable seat components.In a further specific implementation, it is provided that the base system has at least one seat cushion adapter frame and one seat back adapter frame, wherein all replaceable seat cushion components are directly connected to the seat cushion adapter frame via the associated mechanical connection and all replaceable seat back components are directly connected to the seat back adapter frame via the associated mechanical connection. Preferably, the seat cushion adapter frame is fixedly connected to a seat cushion structure of the seat structure and the seat back adapter frame is fixedly connected to a back leg structure of the seat structure. Specifically, the seat cushion adapter frame and the seat back adapter frame are movable relative to each other. A seat cushion, a seat cushion cover and a seat cushion cladding are preferably connected directly to the seat cushion adapter frame via at least one mechanical connection in each case. Preferably, a seat back cushion, a seat back trim cover and a seat back trim are directly connected to the seat back adapter frame via at least one mechanical connection, respectively. Optionally, the base system may include a headrest adapter frame, wherein all interchangeable headrest components are directly connected to the headrest adapter frame via the respective mechanical connection.In an alternative embodiment, the base system has exactly one adapter frame, wherein all replaceable seat components are directly connected to the one adapter frame via the respective mechanical connection. In particular, the vehicle seat is designed as a shell seat in which the seat back and the seat cushion represent a single component and do not move relative to one another. The adapter frame can be designed in one or more parts due to production.A further subject matter of the invention relates to an arrangement with a vehicle seat as already described above, wherein the arrangement has for each replaceable seat component a set of alternative replaceable seat components, also referred to as configuration variant, for selection. In particular, the seat components differ in shape and / or color and / or material. In particular, the set of replaceable seat components each comprises a standard component and, as an alternative, at least one more superior seat component. For example, the set can have a fabric covering as a standard covering and a leather covering as a higher-order alternative and / or a one-piece backrest foam as a standing cushion and a multizone foam as a higher-order alternative and / or a plastic panel as a standard cladding and a clad and / or coated plastic panel as a higher-order alternative. In particular, the vehicle seat is equipped with the standard components in a delivery state. Optionally, the alternative, replaceable seat components can also be equipped with alternative or new functions, such as seat heating, massage function, seat ventilation, etc. A vehicle seat is thus proposed which is distinguished by a high degree of individualization, wherein the configuration variants can be combined with one another as desired.The invention further relates to a method for configuring a vehicle seat according to one of the preceding claims, in which a vehicle seat is provided with the base system and the configuration system; within the scope of a delivery configuration, the safety and electronic components are fixedly installed in the base system and the replaceable seat components are releasably installed in the configuration system, in particular via the respective mechanical connection; a selection of configuration variants of the replaceable seat components are provided; and within the scope of an individualization configuration, at least one replaceable seat component of the delivery configuration is replaced by a configuration variant if at least one configuration variant has been selected. The description of the method steps does not intend to define an order for execution thereof. Rather, individual steps may be interchanged, repeated or omitted. For example, the selection of the configuration variants can already take place before the delivery configuration.In particular, instead of the replaceable seat component of the delivery configuration, the configuration variant is directly connected to the adapter frame of the configuration system via the mechanical connection. Preferably, within the scope of the delivery configuration, only standard components are installed as replaceable seat components. Thus, each vehicle can be delivered with the same vehicle seat or a uniform standard seat.The selection of the configuration variant is preferably carried out before the delivery of the vehicle seat and / or in the context of an ordering process of the vehicle seat or of the vehicle by the end customer. Alternatively or optionally additionally, the selection of the configuration variant takes place after the delivery of the vehicle seat and / or within the scope of an individualization process of the vehicle seat or of the vehicle by the end customer. Particularly preferably, the configuration variant is selected from the set of alternative, replaceable seat components.Preferably, the replaceable seat component is replaced after the vehicle seat and / or the vehicle is delivered. Particularly preferably, the replaceable seat component is exchanged before the transfer of the vehicle and / or within the scope of an individualization process by the dealer. Alternatively or optionally additionally, the replaceable seat component is exchanged after the transfer of the vehicle and / or within the scope of an individualization process by the end customer.Further features, advantages and effects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention. The following are shown: FIG. 1 is a highly schematic illustration of a vehicle seat with replaceable seat components as an exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 2 shows a method for configuring the vehicle seat on the basis of a flow diagram; FIG. 3 shows an alternative method with reference to a further flow chart.Corresponding or identical parts are each provided with the same reference numerals in the figures.FIG. 1 shows a vehicle seat 1 for a vehicle in a highly schematic illustration. For example, the vehicle seat 1 is a driver's, passenger's or rear seat. The vehicle seat 1 has a fixed base system 2 and a variable configuration system 3.The base system 2 comprises a seat structure 4, which is substantially divided into a seat cushion structure 5 and a seat back structure 6. The seat structure 4 forms, for example, a seat frame, by means of which the vehicle seat 1 is fixedly connected or connectable to the vehicle. The seat cushion structure 5 and the seat back structure 6 may be movable relative to each other via a reclining mechanism for adjusting a seat position.Furthermore, the base system 2 comprises a plurality of safety components 7 and a plurality of electronic components 8, which are fixedly connected to the seat structure 4. The safety components 7 have airbag(s) 9 and seat-side belt system components 10, and the electronic components 8 have a cable harness 11 and electrical components 12, such as switches, buttons, etc. Furthermore, a cushion cushioning 13 and a headrest holder 14 can be fixedly connected to the seat structure 4. Preferably, at least the safety components 7 and electronic components 8 are non-detachably and / or inaccessible connected to the seat structure 4.According to the prior art, individual components of the vehicle seat 1 can usually only be disassembled and reassembled using special tools, frequently in the disassembled state and with special knowledge of the design of the seat. If the seat is not properly handled, damage and / or improper assembly and disassembly of the components can easily impair driving safety or even damage. Replaceable seat covers are also known, wherein the vehicle seat has for this purpose a type of simple undercover over the seat cushions, over which an overcover can be attached. Further option adaptations and more comprehensive adaptations of the seat functions are not available to the customer without a workshop stay being necessary. Therefore, a vehicle seat structure is to be proposed which ensures the simple replacement of seat components by the end customer and without influencing the vehicle safety.For this purpose, the configuration system 3 comprises a plurality of replaceable seat components 15, indicated schematically by dashed lines, which are replaceable with an alternative seat component with an identical mechanical interface for changing the seat design and / or the seat geometry and / or the seat comfort. The interchangeable seat components 15 are herein divided into interchangeable seat cushion components 16, interchangeable seat back components 17, and interchangeable head restraint components 18. The seat cushion components 16, seat back components 17, and headrest components 18 each include a replaceable cushion 19 and a replaceable trim cover 20.The base system 2 additionally includes a seat cushion adapter frame 22 and a seat back adapter frame 23. The seat cushion adapter frame 22 is fixedly connected to the seat cushion structure 5 on the one hand and provides a mechanical interface for the seat cushion components 16 on the other hand. The seat cushion components 16 are here connected in a releasable manner directly to the seat cushion adapter frame 22 via a respective mechanical connection 24 a, 24 b, 24 c. The seat back adapter frame 23 is fixedly connected to the seat back structure 6 on the one hand and provides a mechanical interface for the seat back components 17 on the other hand. The seat back components 17 are here directly connected to the seat back adapter frame 23 via a respective mechanical connection 24 a, 24 b, 24 c.For example, the cushions 19 of the seat cushion and seat back components 16, 17 are placed on the associated adapter frame 22, 23 in a positive-locking manner via a first mechanical connection 24 aand the respective associated covers 20 are connected to the associated adapter frame 22, 23 in a non-positive and / or positive-locking manner, for example by a piping, clip or hook connection, via a second mechanical connection 24 b. In other words, the first mechanical connection 24 ais produced by a form-fitting support between cushion 19, adapter frame 22, 23 and optionally the cushion underspring 13. To produce the second mechanical connection 24 b, the cover 20 is provided, for example, with piping, clips or hooks and the respective adapter frame 22, 23 is provided with the corresponding counterparts of the connection. The final fixing of the upholstery 19 against loss takes place by the mounting of the cover 20 in that it almost completely encloses the upholstery 19 and prevents a displacement or lifting of the upholstery 19 from the respective adapter frame 22, 23.The claddings 21 are connected to the associated adapter frame 22, 23 in a non-positive and / or positive-locking manner, for example, via a third mechanical connection 24 c, for example, a clip connection or a screw connection. The claddings 21 can have further mechanical interfaces, not shown, with other parts. For example, a releasable mechanical connection, e.g. a piping, can be used between the cladding 21 and the seat cover 20 in order to prevent gap formation between the individual components. Alternatively or additionally, however, connections to the electronic components 8, such as switches or buttons, can also be provided.Furthermore, the cushions 19 each have a further mechanical connection 25 to the respective cover 20. Hook and loop connections are preferably used for the further mechanical connection 25 between the cushion 19 and the cover 20. In this case, the covering 20 has, for example, the fluff tape of the hook-and-loop connection, whereas the upholstery 19 has the hook tape.The replaceable seat components 15 are the parts that can be replaced independently by the end customer. For this purpose, all mechanical connections 24 a, 24 b, 24 c, 25 of the configuration system 3 are designed to be detachable. The mechanical connections 24 a, 24 b, 24 c, 25 can be produced or can be lifted, for example, at least partially without tools in order to ensure tool-free assembly.The headrest of a vehicle seat 1 represents a particular case, since headrests according to the prior art are connected to the seat frame via so-called headrest sleeves and thus in principle already have the possibility of being replaceable. Referring to FIG. 1, the headrest components 18 include, in addition to interchangeable bolsters 19 and interchangeable trim 20, a headrest mechanism 26 that further utilizes the interface of the headrest retainers 14 as a connection to the seat structure 4. For example, the cushion 19 and / or the cover 20 are constructed as a sleeve which is open on one side and can be placed over the headrest mechanism 26. For example, the trim cover 20 is formed as a so-called bag cover, wherein the opening of the trim cover 20 is provided with a suitable closure, for example a piping or zipper, in order to be able to close the trim cover 20 after covering over the upholstery 19. After the trim cover 20 is closed, it positively retains the cushion 19 and itself to the head restraint mechanism 26.The aforementioned seat components 15 are the essential parts that can be replaced by the customer on a vehicle seat 1. Optionally, further components are conceivable, which, however, do not necessarily have to be in mechanical connection with the adapter frames 22, 23. Examples of such further components can be seat rail covers or similar parts.FIG. 2 shows a method for configuring the vehicle seat 1 on the basis of a flow diagram. In a first method step 101, a selection of configuration variants of the replaceable seat components 15 is provided, wherein the end customer can each select at least one configuration variant from a set of alternative, replaceable seat components per replaceable seat component 15. For example, the customer selects individual configuration variants or entire configuration packages that he wants to additionally purchase.In a second method step 102, a vehicle seat 1 with the base system 2 and the configuration system 3 is provided, wherein, within the scope of a delivery configuration, the replaceable seat components 15 are detachably installed in the configuration system 15. For example, within the scope of the delivery configuration, at least the safety and electronic components 7, 8 can be non-detachably mounted on the seat structure 4 and the replaceable seat components 15 can be detachably mounted directly with the respective adapter frame 22, 23 via the respective mechanical connection 24 a, 24 b, 24 c, 25. Here, the replaceable seat components 15 are designed as standard components, wherein the selected configuration variants or configuration packets are provided separately to the end customer. In other words, the vehicle seat 1 is mounted after the order with the standard components and the configuration variants or configuration packages are subsequently ready-made in the store.The end customer finally receives the vehicle with the vehicle seats 1 with the standard components installed in the delivery configuration, wherein the end customer can decide whether the configuration variants or configuration packages are replaced by internal power within the scope of an individualization configuration according to method step 103 or are installed by the dealer according to method step 104. For example, the end customer may be supported in exchange in proper service by a suitable form of instructions, e.g., paper, digital text, video, by a service provider, or the like.For example, within the scope of an individualization process, the upholstery 19, covers 20 and / or coverings 21 can be exchanged in order to change the seat design and / or the seat comfort of the vehicle seat 1. If the end customer wishes to equip the seat with a higher quality, he can, for example, select a leather covering as a configuration variant and exchange it for the covering 20, for example a fabric covering, which is installed in a stand-by manner.Alternatively or additionally, the end customer can select a comfort cushion as a configuration variant and exchange it for the normally installed cushion 19. In conjunction with a mating trim cover 20, the customer may, for example, purchase, mount the comfort pad having alternative geometric shapes, thereby adjusting the visual appearance of the seat. For example, the essential geometries that influence the seating position of the occupant are kept the same for all cushions 19 that the customer can purchase. Apart from this, however, geometries may be adjusted to the pads 19 in areas that do not influence the seating position of the occupant, so as to change the visual appearance or comfort.Alternatively or additionally, the end customer can select claddings 21 with different colors and / or different geometries as a configuration variant and exchange them for the claddings 21 installed as standard. In order to ensure easy exchangeability, the claddings 21 are each formed from a plastic part which, in the configuration variants, can additionally be clad with fabric, leather, PVC, metal, etc.Alternatively or optionally additionally, the end customer can compile his own headrest by purchasing one or more headrest components 18. For example, the vehicle seat 1 in the delivery configuration may be equipped with a standard headrest mechanism which has only one height setting. As a configuration variant, a comfort headrest mechanism can be provided which has an additional adjustment path in the seat direction. For example, by purchase and replacement of the headrest mechanism 26, the customer can provide the vehicle seat 1 with increased comfort.This results in the advantage that only standardized vehicle seats 1 of one configuration have to be mounted. Furthermore, the possibility arises of configuring, producing and offering new seat components at any desired point in time. Thus, for example, special design editions can be published and marketed, which cause special interest at the end customer, whereby an additional turnover can be generated.In an alternative method according to FIG. 3, the end customer selects the desired configuration variants during the vehicle order in the first method step 101. In this case, it also selects the adjustment paths and / or functions of the vehicle seat.Subsequently, the vehicle seat 1 is produced in the factory within the scope of the delivery configuration according to method step 102 and the configuration variants are installed on the vehicle seat within the scope of the delivery configuration and delivered to the end customer.Within the scope of the individualization process, further or alternative configuration variants can be selected or purchased according to method step 103 at a later point in time, in particular after delivery, and can be independently replaced by the end customer.While at least one embodiment has been disclosed in detail above, it should be appreciated that a variety of variations of the invention exist. It should also be appreciated that the at least one embodiment is exemplary only and is not a limitation on scope, areas of application, or configuration. Rather, the present disclosure is intended to be a pleasing travel plan for implementing at least one embodiment. Thus, it should be appreciated that various variations in the function or arrangement of the elements of the at least one embodiment may be implemented without departing from the scope specified by the claims and their legal equivalents.List of reference numbers:1 Vehicle seat 2 Base system 3 Configuration system 4 Seat structure 5 Seat back structure 6 Seat cushion structure 7 Safety components 8 Electronic components 9 Airbag 10 Belt components 11 Cable harness 12 Electrical components 13 Cushion cushioning 14 Headrest holders 15 Seat components 16 Seat cushion components 17 Seat back components 18 Headrest components 19 Cushions 20 Covers 21 Panels 22 Seat cushion adapter frame 23 Seat back adapter frame 24 a- cMechanics 25 Further mechanics connection 26 Headrest mechanics 101 First procedural step 102 Second procedural step 103 Third procedural stepReferences included in the specificationThis list of documents cited by the applicant has been produced in an automated manner and is only included for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent application or utility model application. The DPMA does not take any adhesion for any faults or omissions.Patent Literature citedUS 2015 360 738 A1
[0003]
Claims
Vehicle seat (1) for a vehicle, - having a base system (2) which comprises a seat structure (4) and permanently installed safety and / or electronic components (7, 8) of the vehicle seat (1), - having a configuration system (3) which comprises a plurality of replaceable seat components (15) of the vehicle seat (1), characterized in that the base system (2) comprises at least one adapter frame (22, 23) which is permanently connected to the seat structure (4), wherein the replaceable seat components (15) are directly connected to the adapter frame (22, 23) via a respective mechanical connection (24a, 24b, 24c), such that the adapter frame (22, 23) and the replaceable seat components (15) each form a connection partner.Vehicle seat (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the safety and electronic components (7, 8) are firmly and / or inaccessible connected to the seat structure (4) and the replaceable seat components (15) are detachably connected to the adapter frame (22, 23) via the respective mechanical connection (24a, 24b, 24c).Vehicle seat (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the mechanical connection (24a, 24b, 24c) can be produced in exactly one predefined orientation of the two associated connection partners.Vehicle seat (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the replaceable seat components (15) are formed by at least one seat cushion component (16) and / or at least one seat back component (17) and / or at least one headrest component (18).Vehicle seat (1) according to claim 4, characterised in that the seat cushion components (16) and / or the seat back components (17) and / or the headrest components (18) are formed by a replaceable cushion (19), a replaceable trim cover (20) and at least one replaceable cladding (20).Vehicle seat (1) according to claim 5, characterised in that the replaceable cushion (19) is placed directly on the associated adapter frame (22, 23) in a form-fitting manner in an assembly direction via a first mechanical connection (24a), and the replaceable cover (20) is fixed directly on the associated adapter frame (22, 23) via a second mechanical connection (24b), wherein the replaceable cover (20) secures the cushion (19) counter to the assembly direction.Vehicle seat (1) according to one of Claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the basic system (2) has at least one seat cushion adapter frame (22) and a seat back adapter frame (23), all replaceable seat cushion components (16) being directly connected to the seat cushion adapter frame (23) via the respective mechanical connection (24a, 24b, 24c), and all replaceable seat back components (16) being directly connected to the seat back adapter frame (23) via the respective mechanical connection (24a, 24b, 24c).Vehicle seat (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base system (2) has exactly one adapter frame (22, 23), wherein all replaceable seat components (15) are directly connected to the adapter frame (22, 23) via the associated mechanical connection (24a, 24b, 24c).An assembly with a vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the assembly comprises for each interchangeable seat component (15) a set of alternative interchangeable seat components for selection.Method for configuring the vehicle seat (1) according to one of the preceding claims, in which: - a vehicle seat (1) is provided with a base system (2) and a configuration system (3); - within the scope of a delivery configuration, the safety and electronic components (7, 8) are fixedly installed in the base system (2) and the replaceable seat components (15) are detachably installed in the configuration system (3); - a selection of configuration variants of the replaceable seat components (15) are provided; - within the scope of an individualization configuration, at least one replaceable seat component (15) of the delivery configuration is replaced by a configuration variant if at least one configuration variant has been selected.
Citation Information
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