Seat with surface element

The vehicle seat uses an infinity mirror effect to simulate openings, addressing structural rigidity and design complexity issues, achieving a lightweight and customizable appearance with enhanced safety and manufacturing simplicity.

DE102024104429B4Active Publication Date: 2026-01-22AUDI AG
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102024104429
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-02-16
Publication Date
2026-01-22
Estimated Expiration
2044-02-16

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing vehicle seats with bulky backrests and cutouts compromise structural rigidity, design complexity, and manufacturing costs due to the need for adaptive seat covers and additional components to compensate for weakened rigidity.

Method used

A vehicle seat with a surface element comprising a first mirror, a second mirror, and a frame, where the mirrors are oriented to create a reflective gap, and a depth-effect element between them, simulating an opening without actual cutouts, using semi-transparent reflective surfaces to create an infinity mirror effect.

Benefits of technology

The solution provides a structurally sound and aesthetically appealing seat with a lightweight appearance, maintaining rigidity and simplifying manufacturing, while allowing customization and reducing the risk of injury.

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Abstract

Seat (100), in particular vehicle seat, comprising a seat element (101) and a backrest element (102), wherein the backrest element (102) is connected to the seat element (101), wherein at least one surface element (1) is arranged on or in a surface of the backrest element (102), wherein the surface element (1) comprises a first mirror (11), a second mirror (12) and a frame (13), wherein the frame (13) connects the first mirror (11) with the second mirror (12) and there is a space between the first mirror (11) and the second mirror (12), wherein a reflective surface of the first mirror (11) is oriented towards the second mirror (12) and a reflective surface of the second mirror (12) is oriented towards the first mirror (11), wherein the reflective surface of the second mirror (12) or the reflective surface of the second mirror (12) and the reflective surface of the first mirror (11) are semi-transparent, wherein the surface element (1) comprises at least one depth-effect element (14) which is arranged between the first mirror (11) and the second mirror (12) such that it is visible to an observer through at least the second mirror (12) and the surface element (1) comprises at least one attachment element (15) which is connected to the first mirror (11), the second mirror (12) and / or the frame (13), wherein the attachment element (15) is further connected to a surface of the backrest element (102) or to an element inside the backrest element (102).
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Description

[0001] The invention relates to a seat, in particular a vehicle seat, comprising a seat element and a backrest element, wherein the backrest element is connected to the seat element, and wherein at least one surface element is arranged on or in a surface of the backrest element, the surface element comprising a first mirror, a second mirror, and a frame, wherein a reflective surface of the first mirror is oriented towards the second mirror and a reflective surface of the second mirror is oriented towards the first mirror. The surface element further comprises at least one depth-effect element, which is arranged between the first mirror and the second mirror, such that it is visible to an observer through at least the second mirror. The invention further relates to the use of a surface element for the optical simulation of an opening in a backrest element of a seat.

[0002] Seats typically consist of a seat element designed to support a person's buttocks. They also usually include a backrest against which a person sitting on the seat can lean their back. To ensure comfortable leaning and good back support, the backrest may be dimensioned to be longer and wider than the torso of a person sitting in the seat. Such a large backrest often appears quite bulky and can obstruct the seated person's view to the rear. Therefore, cutouts or openings are often incorporated into the backrest of a seat to give the entire seat a sleek, light appearance. These openings can also be used to allow an unobstructed view behind the seat.A disadvantage of such cutouts in the seat back is that the seat cover, which is applied to the backrest element, must be adapted to the cutouts. This makes the design and manufacture of such a seat cover complex. Furthermore, cutouts in the backrest element weaken the seat's rigidity, which must be compensated for by additional components inside the seat.

[0003] DE 10 2005 027 074 A1 describes a vehicle seat which has several openings in the backrest element. These openings are used, firstly, as an opening for the routing of a seat belt and, secondly, for the arrangement of a handle which serves to unlock the backrest element.

[0004] WO 2021 / 034866 A1 describes a component for vehicle interiors that has a multi-layered structure and incorporates a light source. At least some of the component's layers are transparent. The interaction of the light source with the different layers of the component creates an attractive visual effect for the vehicle interior.

[0005] CN 1 16 118 590 A discloses a transparent cover for a car seat, comprising a cover shell, a cover layer, and a cover base. The cover shell is transparent. Furthermore, the transparent cover shell includes a coating in the form of a decorative layer covering the inner surface of the cover shell.

[0006] The object of the invention is to provide a seat that is simple and stable in construction while also having an appealing, lightweight appearance.

[0007] This problem of the invention is solved by a seat, in particular a vehicle seat, comprising a seat element and a backrest element, wherein the backrest element is connected to the seat element, wherein at least one surface element is arranged on or in a surface of the backrest element, wherein the surface element comprises a first mirror, a second mirror and a frame, wherein the frame connects the first mirror to the second mirror and there is a gap between the first mirror and the second mirror. wherein a reflective surface of the first mirror is oriented towards the second mirror and a reflective surface of the second mirror is oriented towards the first mirror, wherein the reflective surface of the second mirror or the reflective surface of the second mirror and the reflective surface of the first mirror are semi-transparent, wherein the surface element comprises at least one depth effect element, which is arranged between the first mirror and the second mirror, so that it is recognizable by an observer through at least the second mirror and the surface element comprises at least one attachment element which is connected to the first mirror, the second mirror and / or the frame, wherein the attachment element is further connected to a surface of the backrest element or to an element inside the backrest element.

[0008] The seat according to the invention is suitable for use in a vehicle, for example, in an automobile. Alternatively, the seat can also be used in other applications, for example, in a restaurant, a cinema, or a treatment room. The seat comprises a seat element on which a person can sit. Furthermore, the seat comprises a backrest element which is connected to the seat element. The backrest element serves to support the back of a person sitting on the seat element. Preferably, the relative position of the backrest element to the seat element is adjustable. The seat according to the invention comprises at least one surface element which is arranged on or in a surface of the backrest element. The surface element is designed to create the visual impression of an opening or a perforation in the backrest element, without such an opening or perforation actually existing in the backrest element.

[0009] The surface element has a multi-layered structure and is relatively thin compared to its length and width. For example, the length and width of the surface element can be at least five times greater than its thickness. This allows the surface element to be positioned on or within a surface of the backrest element without significantly occupying internal space. This frees up interior space for other seat components, such as a stable, load-bearing seat structure. The surface element comprises a first mirror and a second mirror connected by a frame. The frame is a component that secures the two mirrors in such a way that a gap exists between them.The frame can completely encircle both mirrors. Alternatively, the frame can also be formed by one or more individual fasteners that connect the two mirrors and fix them in their relative position. Each mirror has a reflective surface, with the reflective surface facing the opposite mirror. At least the reflective surface of the second mirror is semi-transparent. Semi-transparent means that the reflective surface reflects some of the incident light while allowing another portion to pass through the surface and the mirror. For example, a semi-transparent reflective surface might reflect 50% of the incident light and allow 50% to pass through the mirror.The mirrors can include components made of glass or plexiglass. In the space between the first and second mirrors, at least one depth-of-field element is arranged, which can be perceived by an observer at least through the second mirror, which in this case has a semi-transparent, reflective surface. Due to the opposing arrangement of the two mirrors and the semi-transparent design of at least one reflective surface, the depth-of-field element is visible multiple times in succession to an observer looking at the surface element. Such an arrangement can also be called an infinity mirror, since it creates the impression that the depth-of-field element is visible infinitely far into the surface element.Physically, the optical effect created by the surface element is based on the fact that light is reflected back and forth multiple times between the two mirrors, with a portion of the light passing through a semi-transparent reflective surface into the viewer's eye. This creates the impression for the viewer of looking into an opening or tube that extends into the surface element and thus into the backrest element. The surface element therefore simulates the optical impression of an opening or penetration in the backrest element, even though no actual opening exists in the backrest element.

[0010] The surface element further comprises at least one attachment element, which can be designed in different ways. Possible embodiments of such an attachment element are described below. The attachment element serves to connect the surface element to the seat backrest element in a simple manner.

[0011] The seat according to the invention has the advantage of an elegant and lightweight appearance, achieved by the optical simulation of one or more openings or perforations in the backrest element. In reality, however, no opening or perforation is present in the backrest element. This allows the backrest element to be constructed simply and stably. In particular, it is possible to apply a simple and cost-effective seat cover to the backrest element. The seat cover forms a surface of the backrest element. Furthermore, the interior of the backrest element can be used entirely for arranging a supporting seat structure, a seat cushion, or other components essential for the seat's function. The arrangement of these components is not disrupted by any opening or perforation.A further advantage is that the appearance of the surface element can be easily customized or modified. In particular, the appearance of the surface element can be varied by designing and modifying the depth effect element. For example, the depth effect element can be made self-illuminating, with its color being electronically adjustable. In this way, the appearance of the seat can be adapted to personal preferences. Due to its simple construction, the seat is lighter than a seat with a physical opening or cutout in the backrest.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first and second mirrors of the surface element are oriented parallel to each other, and / or the depth-sensing element is self-illuminating, and / or the depth-sensing element is connected to the frame, particularly in that the depth-sensing element is designed as a self-illuminating strip that circumferentially around a normal to the second mirror, at least partially, within the space between the first and second mirrors. In this embodiment, the two mirrors, and in particular their reflective surfaces, are oriented parallel to each other. A viewer looking at or into the surface element thus sees an opening that extends straight to infinity. Alternatively, it is possible to align the two mirrors at an angle of a few degrees, for example, 3°, to each other.This creates an optical effect that simulates a curved opening. Preferably, the depth-of-field element is self-illuminating and comprises one or more light sources. With a self-illuminating depth-of-field element, the optical simulation of an opening works particularly well, and a viewer can see the simulated opening into the surface element over a large, virtual length. Alternatively, the depth-of-field element can be unilluminated but reflective. In this alternative embodiment, light enters the surface element through the second mirror and is reflected by the depth-of-field element. However, depending on the lighting conditions outside the surface element, only a small amount of light may reach the depth-of-field element in this alternative embodiment, resulting in a lesser depth being optically simulated than with an illuminated depth-of-field element.A self-illuminating depth effect element can be controlled in various ways, for which a control unit is provided. For example, the brightness or color of the depth effect element can be adjustable by the user. If the element is integrated into a vehicle seat, the control of the depth effect element's illumination can be combined with the vehicle's controls. For instance, the control unit can be configured to automatically activate the depth effect element's illumination when the vehicle doors are opened or unlocked. Furthermore, the illumination can be automatically deactivated when the vehicle is vacated. Additionally, the illumination color can be adjustable via a settings menu on a central control unit within the vehicle.Furthermore, the illumination of the depth-of-field effect can be linked to a driving mode selected in the vehicle. For example, the color of the illumination in the vehicle's sport mode can differ from the driving mode selected for rain. A particularly intense effect is created when the depth-of-field effect is designed as a self-illuminating strip that extends around the two mirrors in the space between them. In this case, the depth-of-field effect is a closed system. In this embodiment, the surface element creates an effect where the simulation of an opening is particularly pronounced, as the depth-of-field effect replicates the shape of the second mirror visible from the outside.

[0013] In a further embodiment, the mounting element is designed as a holder that is at least partially rigid and is firmly connected to the first mirror and / or the frame. The mounting element is also rigidly connected to an element inside the backrest element, in particular to a supporting seat structure. In this embodiment, the mounting element connects the surface element to an element or component inside the backrest element. The attachment and positioning of the surface element is thus rigid. For this purpose, the mounting element is designed as a rigid holder, which can be formed, for example, by a tube, a rod, or similar component. If the seat has a seat cover, the mounting element, designed as a holder, penetrates this seat cover.

[0014] In an alternative embodiment, the mounting element is designed as a connecting element that is connected to the first mirror, the second mirror, or the frame, and the surface element at least partially circumferentially around a normal to the second mirror, wherein the mounting element is connected to a seat cover of the backrest element, and in particular, wherein the surface element is not connected to an element inside the backrest element. The connecting element is understood to be an element suitable for connection to a seat cover that forms a surface of the backrest element. The connecting element can, for example, be designed as a circumferential flange into which an adjacent edge of a seat cover can be clamped.Alternatively, the connecting element can also be designed as a film or fabric strip, which is glued or sewn to an adjacent edge of a seat cover. In this embodiment, the surface element is only connected to the seat cover, but not to any element inside the backrest element. In this way, the surface element is suspended on or within the surface of the backrest element. An advantage of this embodiment is that the surface element can be easily removed or replaced along with the seat cover. Furthermore, this embodiment presents a very low risk of injury to a person sitting on the seat, since the surface element is not rigidly, but movably, connected to the other parts of the seat.If the seat is used in a vehicle, for example, the risk of injury to a person sitting in the seat in an accident can be reduced in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the surface element is also preferably constructed from elastic components. For example, the two mirrors can be made of polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate. These materials are at least partially elastic and exhibit better, safer breakage and splintering behavior compared to conventional materials such as glass.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the surface element is arranged on or in the half of the backrest element facing away from the seat element, with the second mirror of the surface element facing either towards or away from the seat element. In this embodiment, the surface element is arranged in or on the upper half of the backrest element. This makes it easily visible and gives the seat a visually light appearance. The second mirror can face forward, towards the seat element, or backward, away from the seat element.

[0016] In one embodiment, the backrest element is adjustable in its position and / or orientation relative to the seat element, with the surface element moving along with the backrest element when its position and / or orientation is adjusted. In this embodiment, the backrest element can be adjusted relative to the seat element. Preferably, at least the angle that the backrest element assumes relative to the seat element is adjustable. Due to the arrangement of the surface element on the backrest element, it moves along with the backrest element when the backrest element is adjusted. Alternatively, it is of course also possible for the seat to have no adjustability of the backrest element and, for example, to be integrated into a bench seat. Such a rigid embodiment of a seat can, for example, be integrated into the rear seat of a vehicle or installed in a train.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the backrest element comprises a headrest and a backrest, wherein the backrest is connected to the seat element and the headrest is arranged on the side of the backrest facing away from the seat element, and the surface element is arranged on or in a surface of the headrest or on or in a surface between the backrest and the headrest. In this embodiment, the backrest element has two functional sub-areas: a backrest designed to support the back of a person and a headrest designed to support the head of a person sitting on the seat. The backrest and the headrest can be formed by different components that are connected to each other. Alternatively, the backrest element can also be designed as a single piece, with the backrest and the headrest forming sub-areas of a single assembly.Particularly in this second case, the surface element can be used to great advantage in the visual design of the seat. If the surface element is positioned on or in a surface of the headrest, or on or in a surface between the backrest and the headrest, it creates the visual impression that the headrest is separate from the backrest. In reality, however, a one-piece backrest element is used, which is particularly stable and simple in construction. In this embodiment, the surface element thus gives the seat a particularly light and elegant appearance, while at the same time ensuring a very stable design and a high level of safety for the person sitting in the seat. This is particularly advantageous for a seat designed as a vehicle seat, as it contributes to the active and passive protection of the occupant in the event of a vehicle accident.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the backrest element is closed in the area where the surface element is arranged, in particular, a seat foam, a supporting seat structure, or a functional element of the seat is arranged at least partially below the surface of the backrest element, on or in which the surface element is arranged. Preferably, the backrest element is closed below the surface element and has no actual opening. This provides a particularly stable backrest element. Alternatively, however, it is also possible to arrange a surface element in an actual opening to achieve a particular appearance of the seat.

[0019] In a further embodiment, two or more surface elements are arranged on or in a surface of the backrest element. The at least two surface elements are arranged side by side on or in a surface of the backrest element, with the second mirrors oriented in the same direction. Alternatively, the at least two surface elements are arranged opposite each other on or in opposite surfaces of the backrest element, with the second mirrors oriented in opposite directions. It is also possible to arrange two or more surface elements on the seat. The surface elements can be positioned and oriented in different ways. For example, several surface elements can be arranged on or in a surface facing the seat element.Alternatively or additionally, further surface elements can be arranged on or in a surface facing away from the seating element. The size of these surface elements can be the same or different.

[0020] The object of the invention is further achieved by using a surface element for the optical simulation of an opening in a backrest element of a seat, in particular a vehicle seat, wherein the surface element comprises a first mirror, a second mirror and a frame, wherein the frame connects the first mirror to the second mirror and there is a gap between the first mirror and the second mirror, wherein a reflective surface of the first mirror is oriented towards the second mirror and a reflective surface of the second mirror is oriented towards the first mirror, wherein the reflective surface of the second mirror or the reflective surface of the second mirror and the reflective surface of the first mirror are semi-transparent, wherein the surface element comprises at least one depth-effect element which is arranged between the first mirror and the second mirror.so that it is recognizable by an observer through at least the second mirror.

[0021] By using the described surface element to visually simulate an opening in a seat, a seat can be provided that is both structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing. Using this surface element makes it possible to give a seat with a continuous, stable backrest a visually lighter and sportier appearance. However, the seat retains its robust construction and is cost-effective to manufacture.

[0022] Features, effects, and advantages disclosed in connection with the seat are also deemed disclosed in connection with the use. Conversely, features, effects, and advantages disclosed in connection with the use are also deemed disclosed in connection with the seat.

[0023] The invention is schematically illustrated with reference to embodiments in the drawings and is further described with reference to the drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1 in a schematic, cutaway side view a surface element of an embodiment of a seat according to the invention, Fig. 2 in a schematic, perspective view an embodiment of a seat according to the invention, Fig. 3 in a schematic, cutaway view three different embodiments a), b) and c) of a backrest element of a seat according to the invention.

[0024] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic, cutaway side view of a surface element 1 of an embodiment of a seat 100 ( Fig. 2) according to the invention. In Fig. Figure 1 shows a surface element 1 without the other components or parts of the seat 100. The surface element 1 comprises a first mirror 11, shown on the left, and a second mirror 12, shown on the right, arranged at a distance from it. In the illustrated embodiment, the first mirror 11 and the second mirror 12 are oriented parallel to each other. There is a gap between the first mirror 11 and the second mirror 12. The first mirror 11 and the second mirror 12 each have a reflective surface, with the reflective surface of the first mirror 11 facing the second mirror 12 and the reflective surface of the second mirror 12 facing the first mirror 11. The supporting structure of the mirrors 11, 12 can, for example, be formed by a glass plate or a plexiglass plate.The reflective surfaces can be formed, for example, by a reflective coating applied to the supporting structure of the mirrors 11 and 12. Such a reflective coating can, for example, be a metal oxide layer. In the illustrated embodiment, the reflective surface of the first mirror 11 is opaque to light and thus 100% reflective. The coating of the second mirror 12, on the other hand, is semi-transparent and only 50% reflective. This means that some of the light incident on the reflective surface of the second mirror 12 from the left is reflected by the semi-transparent reflective surface, while another part of this light passes through the second mirror 12 to the right. The two mirrors 11 and 12 are connected and positioned relative to each other by the frame 13.In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 13 circumferentially surrounds the two mirrors 11, 12, which are oriented parallel to each other, around a normal to the second mirror 12. Because the frame 13 completely encircles both mirrors 11, 12, the space between them is protected from dirt and environmental influences and sealed against the exterior of the surface element 1. The surface element 1 also includes a depth-of-field element 14, which is arranged in the space between the first mirror 11 and the second mirror 12. If an observer looks through the second mirror 12 from the right, they can see the depth-of-field element 14.In the illustrated embodiment, the depth perception element 14 is designed as a self-illuminating strip which runs along the frame 13, circumferencing the space between the first mirror 11 and the second mirror 12 in a perimeter direction around a normal to the second mirror 12. The self-illuminating strip can, for example, comprise a plurality of LEDs or other light sources. The depth perception element 14 can be electronically controlled in its illumination effect. For example, it can be provided that the depth perception element 14 is controlled such that it changes its color or brightness at the user's request. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface element 1 comprises two differently designed mounting elements 15. A single mounting element 15 is usually sufficient for attaching the surface element 1 to other components of the seat 100. Fig. Figure 1 shows two differently designed mounting elements 15 to illustrate their form and function. Pointing to the left, a mounting element 15 designed as a rigid holder is visible on the first mirror 11. This mounting element 15 can, for example, be formed by a rod or a tube, which is rigidly connected to the first mirror 11 at one end. The end of the mounting element 15 opposite the connection to the first mirror 11 can, for example, be attached to a supporting structure inside the backrest element 102 ( Fig. 2) of the seat 100, for example via a screw connection. A second mounting element 15 is shown circumferentially around the frame 13. This second mounting element 15 is designed as a connecting element, which is intended to be fitted with a seat cover SB ( Fig. 3) of the seat 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the second mounting element 15 runs circumferentially around the frame 13 about a normal to the second mirror 12. The second mounting element 15, designed as a connection element, can, for example, be a flange into which the seat cover SB is clamped circumferentially. Alternatively, the second mounting element 15 can also be made of film or fabric. In this case, the seat cover can be glued or sewn to the second mounting element 15 when attaching the surface element.

[0025] Surface element 1 is designed to optically simulate an opening or penetration at seat 100. For this purpose, surface element 1 is configured like an infinity mirror. Light emanating from the depth-effect element 14 is reflected multiple times in the space between the two mirrors 11 and 12. With each reflection, a portion of the reflected light passes through the semi-transparent reflective surface of the second mirror 12 to the right. This multiple reflection of light in the space between mirrors 11 and 12 is symbolized by several arrows in the space. Light from the lower section of depth-effect element 14 first falls onto the second mirror 12. Half of this light passes through the second mirror 12 to the right and is visible to an observer. An arrow pointing to the right from the second mirror 12 symbolizes this.The other half of this light is reflected by the second mirror 12 and thus directed to the first mirror 11. There, this light is completely reflected and directed back to the second mirror 12. Half of the light again passes through the second mirror 12 to the right, and the other half is reflected back to the left towards the first mirror 11. This reflection continues virtually indefinitely. For an observer looking at the second mirror 12 from the right, this creates the impression that the depth-effect element 14 is visible multiple times in succession within the surface element 1. This creates the impression of looking into an opening or perforation. The surface element 1 thus optically simulates an opening of greater depth, although the surface element 1 actually has only a small thickness in the direction of a normal to the second mirror 12.

[0026] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic, perspective view of an embodiment of a seat 100 according to the invention. The seat 100 shown comprises a seat element 101, which is designed for a person to sit on. The seat 100 further comprises a backrest element 102, which is connected to the seat element 101. In the illustrated embodiment, the backrest element 102 is adjustable relative to the seat element 101 and its angle of inclination can be varied. In the illustrated embodiment, the backrest element 102 comprises a backrest 102a, which is connected to the seat element 101. On the side of the backrest 102a facing away from the seat element 101, a headrest 102b is arranged, which is provided for supporting the head of a person sitting on the seat 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the backrest 102a and the headrest 102b merge seamlessly into one another.In the illustrated embodiment, the seat 100 comprises two surface elements 1, which are arranged in the surface of the half of the backrest element 102 facing away from the seat element 101. The second mirrors 12 of the two surface elements 1 face towards the seat element 101. In this way, the optical simulation of an opening created by the surface elements 1 is visible from the seat element 101. In the illustrated embodiment, the two surface elements 1 are further arranged in a surface of the backrest element 102 that is located between the backrest 102a and the headrest 102b. In this way, the two surface elements 1 optically create a separation between the backrest 102a and the headrest 102b. The backrest element 102 is closed in the area where the surface elements 1 are arranged, particularly in the thickness direction below these surface elements 1.Below the surface elements 1, for example, a continuous layer of seat foam, a supporting structure, or another functional element, such as an airbag, can be arranged. In this way, the entire backrest element 102 can be designed to be very stable. In the [reference to be added]. Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the two surface elements 1 are arranged side by side on the same surface of the backrest element 102. Alternatively, other embodiments are possible, which are described in Figure 2. Fig. 3 are shown.

[0027] Fig. Figure 3 shows in a schematic, cutaway view three different embodiments a), b) and c) of a backrest element 102 of a seat 100 according to the invention. Fig. 3 shows three sectional views a), b) and c), which show the section plane III - III, which is in Fig. 2 is shown. This section plane III - III lies between the backrest 102a and the headrest 102b. Sectional view a) shows the embodiment of a seat 100 made of Fig.2. In this embodiment, two surface elements 1 are arranged side by side on the same surface of the backrest element 102, and the two second mirrors 12 are oriented in the same direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the two surface elements 1 are connected to the seat cover SB via their mounting elements 15. The mounting elements 15 are designed as connection elements that are positively connected to the seat cover SB, i.e., via a clamping mechanism. The two surface elements 1 are thus integrated into the seat cover SB and are floating relative to the other components of the backrest element 102. The hatched area shown inside the backrest element 102 can be used for the arrangement of seat foam, supporting seat structures, or other components of the seat 100.

[0028] The second embodiment shown in section view b) is based on the first embodiment shown in section view a). However, the second embodiment additionally provides two further surface elements 1, which are arranged on a surface of the backrest element 102 opposite the first two surface elements 1. In this way, two surface elements 1 are always opposite each other. In the second embodiment, the optical simulation of an opening created by the additional surface elements 1 is also visible from behind the seat 100. Thus, viewed from both sides, the backrest element 102 appears as if openings or perforations are arranged in the backrest element between the backrest 102a and the headrest 102b. In the second embodiment as well, all surface elements 1 are integrated into the seat cover SB and connected to it via a mounting element 15.In the second embodiment as well, the hatched inner area of ​​the backrest element 122 is completely available for the arrangement of further components of the seat 100.

[0029] The third embodiment, shown in section c), comprises only a surface element 1, which is arranged within the backrest element 102. A special feature of the third embodiment is that both the first mirror 11 and the second mirror 12 of the surface element 1 have a semi-transparent reflective surface. In this way, an observer can see through the surface element 1, while also perceiving the effect of an infinity mirror. Thus, in the third embodiment, it is possible to see through the entire backrest element 102. The hatched area, in which seat foam, supporting seat structures, or other seat components can be arranged, is divided into two sections in the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, the surface element 1 is also connected to the seat cover SB via a mounting element 15 designed as a connecting element.

[0030] The three embodiments shown in the sectional views a), b) and c) can of course also be combined with each other. REFERENCE MARK LIST: 1 surface element 11 first mirror 12 second mirror 13 frames 14 Deep penetration element 15 Mounting element 100 seats 101 Seating element 102 Backrest element 102a Backrest 102b Headrest SB seat cover

Claims

[1] Seat (100), in particular vehicle seat, comprising a seat element (101) and a backrest element (102), wherein the backrest element (102) is connected to the seat element (101), wherein at least one surface element (1) is arranged on or in a surface of the backrest element (102), wherein the surface element (1) comprises a first mirror (11), a second mirror (12) and a frame (13), wherein the frame (13) connects the first mirror (11) with the second mirror (12) and there is a space between the first mirror (11) and the second mirror (12), wherein a reflective surface of the first mirror (11) is oriented towards the second mirror (12) and a reflective surface of the second mirror (12) is oriented towards the first mirror (11), wherein the reflective surface of the second mirror (12) or the reflective surface of the second mirror (12) and the reflective surface of the first mirror (11) are semi-transparent, wherein the surface element (1) comprises at least one depth-effect element (14) which is arranged between the first mirror (11) and the second mirror (12) such that it is visible to an observer through at least the second mirror (12) and the surface element (1) comprises at least one attachment element (15) which is connected to the first mirror (11), the second mirror (12) and / or the frame (13), wherein the attachment element (15) is further connected to a surface of the backrest element (102) or to an element inside the backrest element (102). [2] Seat (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first mirror (11) and the second mirror (12) of the surface element (1) are oriented parallel to each other and / or the depth effect element (14) is designed to be self-illuminating and / or the depth effect element (14) is connected to the frame (13), in particular wherein the depth effect element (14) is designed as a self-illuminating strip which at least partially circumferentially surrounds the space between the first mirror (11) and the second mirror (12) around a normal to the second mirror (12). [3] Seat (100) according to one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, wherein the mounting element (15) is designed as a holder which is rigidly designed at least in certain areas and which is fixedly connected to the first mirror (11) and / or the frame (13), wherein the mounting element (15) is fixedly connected to an element inside the backrest element (102), in particular to a supporting seat structure. [4] Seat (100) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the mounting element (15) is designed as a connecting element which is connected to the first mirror (11), the second mirror (12) or the frame (13) and the surface element (1) at least partially circumferentially around a normal to the second mirror (12), wherein the mounting element (15) is connected to a seat cover (SB) of the backrest element (102), in particular wherein the surface element (1) is not connected to an element inside the backrest element (102). [5] Seat (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the surface element (1) is arranged on or in the half of the backrest element (102) facing away from the seat element (101), wherein the second mirror (12) of the surface element (1) faces towards or away from the seat element (101). [6] Seat (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the backrest element (102) is adjustable in its position and / or orientation relative to the seat element (101), the surface element (1) moving together with the backrest element (102) when the position and / or orientation is adjusted. [7] Seat (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the backrest element (102) comprises a headrest (102b) and a backrest (102a), wherein the backrest (102a) is connected to the seat element (101) and the headrest (102b) is arranged on the side of the backrest (102a) facing away from the seat element (101), wherein the surface element (1) is arranged on or in a surface of the headrest (102b) or on or in a surface between the backrest (102a) and the headrest (102b). [8] Seat (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the backrest element (102) is closed in the area in which the surface element (1) is arranged, in particular wherein at least in some areas a seat foam, a supporting seat structure or a functional element of the seat (100) is arranged below the surface of the backrest element (102) on or in which the surface element (1) is arranged. [9] Seat (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein two or more surface elements (1) are arranged on or in a surface of the backrest element (102), wherein the at least two surface elements (1) are arranged side by side in or on a surface of the backrest element (102) and the second mirrors (12) are oriented in the same direction, or the at least two surface elements (1) are arranged opposite each other on or in opposite surfaces of the backrest element (102) and the second mirrors (12) are oriented in opposite directions. [10] Use of a surface element (1) for optical simulation of an opening in a backrest element (102) of a seat (100), in particular a vehicle seat, wherein the surface element (1) comprises a first mirror (11), a second mirror (12) and a frame (13), wherein the frame (13) connects the first mirror (11) to the second mirror (12) and there is a space between the first mirror (11) and the second mirror (12), wherein a reflective surface of the first mirror (11) is oriented towards the second mirror (12) and a reflective surface of the second mirror (12) is oriented towards the first mirror (11), wherein the reflective surface of the second mirror (12) or the reflective surface of the second mirror (12) and the reflective surface of the first mirror (11) are semi-transparent, wherein the surface element (1) comprises at least one depth effect element (14) which is arranged between the first mirror (11) and the second mirror (12) so that it is visible to an observer through at least the second mirror (12).

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