Child seat for mounting on a motor vehicle seat
Patent Information
- Application Number
- EP2023776016
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-09-23
- Filing Date
- 2023-09-20
- Publication Date
- 2025-07-30
AI Technical Summary
Existing child seat side impact protection systems are not reliably in the functional position, posing a safety risk due to inadequate adjustment mechanisms, which are often complex, costly, and difficult to handle.
A child seat design featuring a side impact protection system with a movable side element that transitions from a rest to a functional position through a two-step mechanism, where the side element is adjusted to project further beyond the side surface in the functional position, utilizing position transfer means such as sliding surfaces and springs for manual or automatic operation, enhancing protection during side impacts.
The design ensures the side impact protection is effectively engaged in the functional position, significantly increasing protection compared to the rest position, while being simple, safe, and cost-effective, with improved ease of handling and operation.
Smart Images
Figure 1.1
Abstract
Description
[0001] Child seat for installation on a vehicle seat
[0002] DESCRIPTION
[0003] The invention relates to a child seat for attachment to a motor vehicle seat, as well as to a method for adjusting a side impact protection device of a child seat. EP 2 275 303 A1 already discloses a child seat in which a side impact protection device can be transferred from a rest position to a functional position. For essentially the same purpose, DE 10 2015 214 910 A1 also discloses side elements that can be transferred from a rest position to a functional position. In the functional position, the side element, referred to as the side protection block, is locked by means of a button referred to as a protective component. This button is to be pressed in order to be able to fold the side element in or to release a lock in the unfolded state. In the folded position of the protective component, the button is recessed within the protective component.The state-of-the-art solutions are considered to be in need of improvement from a safety point of view, with the risk that the side impact protection is not correctly positioned in a functional position when the child seat is used being considered to be high.
[0004] The object of the invention is to propose a side impact protection device for a child seat that has adjustable side impact protection in a simple, safe, and yet cost-effective manner. In particular, the object of the invention is also to propose a side impact protection device that is easy to use. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to propose a corresponding method.
[0005] This problem is solved in particular by the features of claim 1.
[0006] In particular, the object is achieved by a child seat for attachment to a motor vehicle seat, wherein the child seat has at least one side surface and a side impact protection (wherein the side impact protection can be formed at least partially by the side surface, or can be formed completely in addition to the side surface), wherein the side impact protection comprises: a side impact protection base, and a side element which is movable (in particular rotatable and / or displaceable) relative to the side impact protection base and which can be transferred between a rest position (rest position), in particular located within a predetermined width of the child seat, and a functional position, in particular located outside the predetermined width (and vice versa), wherein the side element projects beyond the side surface in the lateral direction in the functional position,wherein the side element in the rest position does not project beyond the side surface or projects beyond it to a lesser extent than in the functional position, wherein position transfer means (designed for manual and / or automatic actuation) are provided to enable a transfer from the rest position to the functional position, wherein the position transfer means are preferably configured such that in a first step a lateral projection beyond the side surface can be at least substantially determined and in a second step the side element or at least one displacement section of the side element, the weight of which preferably corresponds to at least 15 wt.% (more preferably at least 25 wt.% or at least 50 wt.% or at least 90 wt.%, optionally 100 wt.%) of the total weight of the side element and / or which is at least partially visible in the rest position (seen from the outside) (wherein partially preferably means that at least a 0.5 cm,2 , preferably at least 1.0 cm 2 , if necessary at least 2.5 cm 2 or at least 5.0 cm 2 a surface is visible), is displaceable, in particular is (translationally) displaceable, preferably in such a way that the side element comes to lie at least in sections (possibly directly, in particular touching) over (on) a section of the side surface adjacent to the side element.
[0007] The length of the displacement section preferably corresponds to at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, optionally at least 70% or at least 90%, optionally at least 100% of the length of the entire side element. Alternatively or additionally, the width of the displacement section can correspond to at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, optionally at least 70% or at least 90%, optionally at least 100% of the width of the entire side element. Alternatively or additionally, the height of the displacement section can correspond to at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, optionally at least 70% or at least 90%, optionally at least 100% of the height of the entire side element. Alternatively or additionally, a (maximum) diameter (understood as the distance between the pair of points of the displacement section or correspondingly referred to element / structure with the greatest distance from one another) of the displacement section can be at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, optionally at least 70% or at least 90%, optionally at least 100%at least 70% or at least 90%, or at least 100% of the (maximum) diameter of the entire side element.
[0008] One idea of the invention is to divide the kinematics of the side element into two steps during transfer from the rest to the functional position. In particular, in a first step, the side element is moved at least substantially into its end position as far as its extension or projection in the lateral direction is concerned (i.e., in particular outwards or in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the child's line of sight during use or in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of travel when the child seat is properly positioned). In the second step, a displacement then takes place in particular such that the side element comes to lie (sections) above the side surface, in particular directly.The term "over" is intended to imply in particular that a projection of the side element overlaps with a section of the side surface adjacent to the side element (if the projection is made onto this adjacent section). A direction of the projection preferably corresponds to a surface normal to the adjacent section. The overlap area preferably has an area of at least 0.5 cm. 2 , preferably at least 1 cm 2 , if necessary at least 2.5 cm 2 and / or a maximum of 40 cm 2 or a maximum of 25 cm 2 or a maximum of 10 cm 2 , if necessary, a maximum of 5 cm 2 on.
[0009] Among the position transfer means (or
[0010] Position transfer enabling means refers, in particular, to those structures of the child seat that contribute to enabling the position transfer. The position transfer means can, for example, comprise at least one sliding surface and / or at least one stop and / or at least one bearing, e.g., a plain bearing. Furthermore, the position transfer means can comprise at least one drive, e.g., at least one spring. The position transfer means can be configured to enable a transfer by manual and / or automatic actuation.
[0011] The side surface is in particular a surface directed outwards (at least essentially away from the child or a space intended for the child).
[0012] The distance between the adjacent section of the side surface and the side element in the functional position (in a direction parallel to the surface normal to the adjacent section of the side surface) can be at most 1 cm, preferably at most 0.5 cm, even more preferably at most 2 mm, and even more preferably at most 1 mm. Optionally, the distance can be zero, or optionally, the side element and the adjacent section of the side surface can touch at least at points in the functional position.
[0013] According to the invention, the side element itself (or at least significant components thereof, for example in contrast to the displacement of the comparatively small and therefore less robust button of DE 10 2015 214 910 A1) is advantageously displaced in order to block the side element in its functional position in a side impact situation (by being prevented from displacing towards the child by the adjacent section of the side surface).
[0014] Preferably, the side element or its displacement section is movable during the second step at least substantially transversely to the lateral direction and / or (at least in sections) at least substantially along the adjacent (outwardly directed) side surface. A substantially transverse movement is to be understood in particular as meaning that a direction of movement forms an angle of 90° ± 30°, preferably 90° ± 10°, even more preferably 90° ± 5°, with respect to the lateral direction (as defined above). A movement substantially along the adjacent side surface is to be understood in particular as meaning a movement that has a direction that is at least substantially parallel to the adjacent side surface (wherein in particular a difference in the direction is at most 30°, preferably at most 10°, even more preferably at most 5°).If the movement is a rotation, particular attention must be paid to the direction of movement of at least one point (or all points) of a surface of the side element that is opposite the adjacent section of the side surface. Such a point will traverse a circular path in a pure rotation. In general, the movement in the second step can be (purely) translational and / or (purely) rotational. Therefore, the above condition should apply to at least 30%, possibly at least 80%, or at least 95% of the entire length of the (possibly curved or straight) movement path.
[0015] The rest position (or "inactive" position) is preferably a stowed position in which the side element offers little or no protection in the event of a side impact. In the functional position (or "use" position), the side impact protection function of the side element is significantly increased (compared to the rest position). The rest position is also referred to below as the first position, and the functional position as the second position. The early connection of the child seat (and any child seated in the child seat) to the dynamics of the accident can also be considered as protection in the event of a side impact.According to the embodiment, a child seat with at least one side surface and a side impact protection is proposed, wherein the side impact protection comprises: a (side impact protection) base, and a side element which is movable relative to the base, wherein the side element is transferable (reversibly) between a first position and a second position relative to the base, wherein in the second position the side element projects beyond the side surface in the lateral direction, wherein in the first position the side element does not project beyond the side surface or projects beyond it less than in the second position, wherein the transfer between the first position and the second position comprises a first step and a second step, wherein in the first step the lateral projection is adjusted, and wherein in the second step the side element (orthe above displacement section) is moved at least substantially transversely to the lateral direction and / or at least substantially along the side surface.
[0016] The child seat may have a seating area and a backrest. Advantageously, it also includes a headrest. Depending on the design, the child seat may also include a seat base. Additional features such as restraint devices for restraining a child (e.g., a harness and / or an impact shield) may be provided alternatively or additionally.
[0017] The seating area preferably forms a seat surface for supporting the buttocks (possibly also parts of the thighs) of a child and may have first side surfaces. Alternatively or additionally, the seating area may comprise armrests that may extend at least substantially above the seating surface. Lap belt guides for guiding the lap belt of a vehicle seat belt may be provided, particularly between the armrests and the seating surface.
[0018] The child seat may comprise fastening means for attachment to a vehicle seat, in particular Isofix connectors and / or LATCH connectors and / or comparable means. The fastening means may be provided at a rear and / or lower end of the seat area. In versions with a seat base, the fastening means may alternatively or additionally be provided at a rear and / or lower end of the seat base. The backrest may be formed integrally with the seat area and rigidly connected thereto, or it may be movable relative to the seat area—in particular, adjustable in terms of inclination. Furthermore, the backrest forms a backrest support surface for supporting or resting on a child's back and preferably comprises second side surfaces (of which at least one side surface is preferably combined with the side impact protection explained above and / or below).The backrest may have side bolsters that may be integrally formed with and rigidly connected to the section of the backrest forming the backrest support surface, or that may be movable relative to the backrest support surface—in particular, adjustable in terms of width. The second side surfaces may be formed, in particular entirely or partially, by sections of the side bolsters.
[0019] The optional headrest can be formed integrally with the backrest and rigidly connected to it, or it can be movable relative to the backrest—in particular adjustable with regard to an inclination and / or a distance of the headrest from the seating area. Furthermore, the headrest can form a headrest surface for supporting a child's head and form third side surfaces. It can have side wings that can be formed integrally with the section of the headrest forming the headrest surface and rigidly connected to it, or that can be movable relative to the headrest surface—in particular adjustable with regard to a width. The third side surfaces can be formed, in particular completely or partially, by sections of the side wings. Shoulder belt guides can be provided on the headrest, in particular on the side wings and preferably at their lower end.
[0020] In versions with a seat base, the seat base can form fourth side surfaces.
[0021] The seat and backrest support surface as well as, if applicable, the headrest support surface and the inside of the armrests and / or side bolsters and / or side wings define a receiving area (receiving space) for a child.
[0022] Each of the first to fourth side surfaces can (optionally) be combined with the side impact protection explained above and / or below or form the side surface according to claim 1. In the context of the present application, the term "child seat" should be understood to include all types of child seats, for example infant carriers or so-called booster seats (and the like). Furthermore, directional information (such as front, back, right, left, top, bottom, inside, outside, side, etc.) should be understood to reflect the perspective of a child normally seated in the child seat and looking straight ahead. Insofar as reference is made to children and their body parts, the reference can equally apply to dummies, in particular dummies from Humanetics (according to the version that is or was current at the time of application or priority), for example to dummies from the Q series.In particular, depending on the seat size, a suitable dummy can be selected from these dummies, for example a Q0, Q1, Q1, 5, Q3, Q6 and / or Q10, where the number after the Q corresponds to the approximate age of a child of comparable size and weight.
[0023] The child seat in particular has a side impact protection device, which is described in detail below. In particular, the side impact protection device has a side impact protection base and a side element that is movable relative to the side impact protection base, wherein it is preferably provided that the side element is reversibly transferable between a first position (stowed position and / or retracted position) and a second position (use position and / or extended position). In the second position, the side element projects beyond a side surface (or an adjacent section thereof) of the child seat, while in the first position the side element does not project beyond the side surface or projects beyond it less than in the second position. The side surface is preferably a second side surface, but depending on the embodiment, reference can also be made to a first, third and / or fourth side surface.
[0024] Preferably, in its second position, the side element is the part of the child seat that projects furthest to the side.
[0025] The transfer between the first position and the second position of the side element preferably comprises a first step in which the lateral projection is (at least substantially) adjusted, and a second step in which the side element is (at least substantially) moved transversely to the lateral direction and / or along the side surface. The transfer from the first position to the second position preferably initially comprises the first step and then the second step. The transfer from the second position to the first position preferably initially comprises the second step and then the first step.
[0026] Preferably, the side impact protection is attached, in particular fastened, to the side of the child seat or to the side surface of the child seat (which in particular should not exclude the possibility that the side impact protection is also located at least partially further inwards than adjacent sections of the side surface).
[0027] It can be provided that the side impact base or a base outer surface is formed completely or partially in one piece, in particular integrally, with the side surface. The side surface and side impact base can merge into one another.
[0028] The side impact base can comprise a frame which can form an opening. The frame can be a section of the side surface which frames the opening (the optional function of which is described in more detail below). The side impact base can further comprise sections which completely or partially close off the opening on the inside. The opening can, for example, be completely or partially formed as a blind hole or as a through hole in the side surface and / or in the base. According to the embodiment, the side impact base can, for example, comprise sections which span the opening like a bridge or a web, and / or sections which protrude into the opening like a platform. The side impact base is preferably designed such that it interacts with the side element to provide one or more side impact protection functions.
[0029] The side element can have a side element outer surface which is visible in the first position (i.e., not obscured by other parts of the child seat) and which, for example, can completely or partially close the opening of the side impact base in the first position. The side element outer surface can be directed at least substantially away from the child in the first and / or second position. Furthermore, the side element can have an inner surface which is (substantially) not visible in the first position, for example because it is obscured by other parts of the child seat. The inner surface can be designed, at least in sections, as an edge surface, and it can be provided that the inner surface is (preferably only partially) visible in the second position. The inner surface can be directed at least substantially away from the child in the first and / or second position (possibly without taking the edge surface into account).
[0030] The side element can be constructed from several sub-elements. For example, it can comprise an outer part that forms the outer surface. It can also comprise an inner part that enables interaction with the base, which will be explained in more detail below.
[0031] Preferably, the side element is (particularly exclusively) rotatable about a, in particular fixed or movable, axis during the first step. Alternatively or additionally, the side element (or its displacement section) is (particularly exclusively) displaceable or translationally movable during the second step. Alternative or additional types of movement are explained further below.
[0032] The side element is preferably designed as a folding element (flap) that can be folded around a (fixed or movable) axis, in particular to perform the first step of transferring between the first position and the second position. The rotation can also be superimposed by a translation (or vice versa).
[0033] According to the design, the first step can be performed by a (pure) translation. Alternatively or additionally, the second step can be performed by a (pure) rotation.
[0034] Both steps can be performed by a (pure) translation, whereby the corresponding displacement axes or displacement directions can differ (for example by at least 10° or at least 45° or at least 80°).
[0035] Both steps can be performed by (pure) rotation, whereby the corresponding axes of rotation can differ (for example, by at least 10°, at least 45°, or at least 80°). The side element can comprise a proximal section close to the axis, and the side element can comprise a distal section that is further away from the axis than the proximal section and, in the second position, further outward (further away from the receiving area) than the axis. The axis can be physically formed, for example, as a separate component. However, the axis can also be a fictitious axis, e.g., a film hinge.
[0036] The second step is preferably performed as a translation of the side element. The side element can slide along the side impact protection base and / or the side surface of the child seat. Alternatively, the second step can be performed as a rotation. Preferably, one of the first and second steps comprises a rotation, and the other of the first and second steps comprises a translation.
[0037] As already explained, in a particularly preferred variant, the first step (particularly exclusively) comprises folding, while the second step (particularly exclusively) comprises translation. In another preferred embodiment, the first step (particularly exclusively) comprises translation, while the second step (particularly exclusively) comprises rotation.
[0038] To form the folding mechanism, as described above, an axle can be provided which can be designed completely or partially as a physical axle. The side element can comprise a side element axle receptacle in which the axle can be mounted. The side impact protection base can comprise (particularly in a rear section) a base axle receptacle in which the axle can be mounted. The side element axle receptacle and / or the base axle receptacle can be designed to allow a translation of the side element relative to the side impact protection base in at least one, preferably exactly one, folding position of the side element relative to the side impact protection base. For this purpose, the side element axle receptacle and / or the base axle receptacle can have at least one, preferably at least two, elongated hole(s) in which the axle can slide.The orientation of the slot(s) can be selected such that sliding of the axis in the (respective) slot is only possible when the side element is in a position between an intermediate position, in particular the one mentioned below (when the first step has been taken starting from the first position, or when the second step has been taken starting from the second position) and the second position.
[0039] The second step can comprise a translational movement of the axis in one of the side element axis receptacle and the base axis receptacle. The second step can also comprise a movement, in particular a translational movement, of the entire side element (or at least significant parts thereof, e.g. at least 15% by weight or at least 50% by weight or at least 90% by weight thereof) relative to the side impact protection base. With regard to the proximal section, the movement can be guided by the axis and the axis receptacle. The distal end can slide on the side impact protection base, in particular on a front section of the side element. For this purpose, the side impact protection base can have a sliding section that can guide the side element (at least in sections between the intermediate position and the second position).The side impact protection base may have a base support portion, which may be provided, in particular, adjacent to the sliding portion and / or at the front portion of the side impact protection base. The side element may have a side element support portion, in particular at the distal end, wherein the side element support portion may be supported on the base support portion in the second position.
[0040] Preferably, the first step and / or the second step (if necessary after a respective locking mechanism has been released) takes place automatically, preferably supported by at least one or exactly one spring (or another drive), or at least two or exactly two springs, more preferably by at least one first spring to support the second step and / or at least one second spring to support the first step.
[0041] The side impact protection can comprise a first spring which drives the side element to be completely transferred into the second position (in particular from an intermediate position in which, according to the first step, a projection beyond the side surface has already been at least substantially adjusted). The first spring can be, for example, a helical spring (e.g. a compression spring or a tension spring), a leg spring, a leaf spring or another suitable elastic element. The first spring can have two ends with which it can be supported on the one hand on the side element and on the other hand on another element of the child seat, in particular on the side impact protection base. For this purpose, a first side element spring attachment can be provided on the side element, and a first base spring attachment can be provided on the side impact protection base.The first side element spring attachment and / or the first base spring attachment can be designed as a projection, in particular an at least approximately cylindrical one, onto which the first spring can be placed. However, depending on the type of spring used, other embodiments are also possible, such as, in particular, groove-like recesses into which the respective end of the spring can be inserted. The embodiments described below in connection with the second spring are also possible.
[0042] The task of the first side element spring fastening or first base spring fastening is in particular to enable stable support of the first spring on the respective element in order to enable safe and error-free execution of the second step.
[0043] The side impact protection can comprise a second spring, which preferably drives the side element to be transferred into the intermediate position in which, according to the first step, an extension beyond the side surface is at least substantially set. Alternatively, but not preferably, the second spring can be designed to transfer the side element (in particular from an intermediate position in which, according to the first step, an extension beyond the side surface is at least substantially set) completely into the first position. The second spring can be, for example, a helical spring (e.g. a compression spring or a tension spring), a leg spring, a leaf spring or another suitable elastic element. The second spring can have two ends with which it can be supported on the one hand on the side element and on the other hand on another element of the child seat, in particular on the base.For this purpose, a second side element spring attachment can be provided on the side element, and a second base spring attachment can be provided on the side impact protection base. The second side element spring attachment and / or the second base spring attachment can be configured to allow engagement or engagement of the second spring (e.g., hooking a hook-like end of the second spring into a hole or engaging a projection with a ring-like end). However, depending on the type of spring used, other embodiments are also possible, in particular those described in connection with the first spring.
[0044] The task of the second side element spring fastening or second base spring fastening is in particular to enable stable support of the second spring on the respective element in order to enable safe and error-free execution of the first step.
[0045] Preferably, the side impact protection device is configured such that the first and second springs completely move the side element from the first position to the second position. The second spring can drive the side element to perform the first step from the first position to adjust the side element so that it projects further beyond the outer surface than in the first position. The first spring can drive the side element to perform the second step to prevent a laterally acting, inward force from moving the side element to the first position against the action of the second spring.
[0046] The side impact protection device can be configured such that the transition from the first position to the second position (after a first initiation of the transition, as explained in more detail below) is entirely spring-driven, in particular by the first and second springs. The transition from the second position to the first position preferably occurs during the second step against the force of the first spring. During the first step, the transition from the second position to the first position can occur against the force of the second spring.
[0047] According to the embodiment, the first spring and second spring can be formed by a single combined spring. It can also be provided that only a second spring is provided. Each first spring, each second spring, and each combined spring can comprise (exactly) one or more spring elements. However, preferably, there should be (exactly) one first spring and (exactly) one second spring, each of which is implemented by exactly one spring element.
[0048] Preferably, the functional position is lockable (against transfer to the rest position, in particular against folding). Alternatively or additionally, the rest position is lockable (against transfer to the functional position, in particular against folding out). Locking is understood in particular to mean that the side element can move (at least not without overcoming a force threshold of, for example, at least 0.5 N or at least 1 N or at least 10 N or at least 100 N) towards the respective other position between the rest and functional positions, in particular in any direction, before a corresponding locking mechanism is released.
[0049] The side member may include a side member stop, and the side impact protection base may include a base stop. The side member stop and base stop may be configured to cooperate to limit the outward movement of the side member. In particular, after the first step, during transfer from the first position to the second position, and / or in the second position, the side member may abut the base stop with the side member stop. In the first position, the side member stop may be spaced from the base stop.
[0050] In the first position, a further inward displacement of the side element, in particular a further folding of the side element, can be prevented at least substantially (possibly except for a slight remaining displaceability, see below) by the side element at least partially abutting against the side impact protection base.
[0051] The side impact protection device can further comprise a holding device for holding the side element in the first position. This is particularly useful if - as described above - a second spring is provided which is pretensioned in the first position of the side element in order to drive the side element to project (further) beyond the side surface in the lateral direction. The holding device can comprise a side element holding device and a base holding device. In this case, one of the side element holding device and the base holding device preferably engages with the other of the side element holding device and the base holding device in order to hold the side element in the first position. To initiate the transfer of the side element from the first position to the second position, the engagement can be released.According to the embodiment, for example, one of the side element holding device and the base holding device can comprise a latch, and the other of the side element holding device and the base holding device can comprise a latch receptacle.
[0052] The retaining device can be configured such that the transfer of the side element from the first position to the second position is initiated by pushing inward (toward the receiving space or the child). For this purpose, the side element can be displaced slightly further inward beyond the first position in order to release the side element from the first position and / or to release the engagement of the retaining device.
[0053] Specifically, the side element holding device can comprise a projection, in particular comprising a head. The base holding device can comprise a guide section, which is provided by structures of the side impact protection base, e.g., by structures of the bridge, or which can be provided as an independent component in a holding device receptacle. A movable section can be provided in the guide section, which can comprise, in particular, at least or exactly one or at least or exactly two arms, which are preferably designed to be resilient. The at least or exactly two arms can be designed to define an opening without external force, into which opening the side element holding device, in particular the head, can be inserted.The movable section can assume an extended position relative to the guide section, in which no force acts on the arms, and the movable section can assume a retracted position relative to the guide section, in which the guide section compresses the arms (against the spring force) to grip the side element holding device, in particular the head. A known mechanism (for example, like that of a ballpoint pen) can be used to switch between the extended position and the retracted position.
[0054] Preferably, the side element and the side impact protection base comprise a pair of mutually complementary engagement structures, in particular at least one projection-recess pair, which inhibits a transfer from the functional position to the rest position, preferably in such a way that the inhibition can be overcome by a force of less than or equal to 50 N, more preferably less than or equal to 10 N and / or greater than or equal to 0.1 N, preferably greater than or equal to 0.5 N, optionally greater than or equal to 1 N.
[0055] The side impact protection base may have a base retaining engagement (e.g., a recess), particularly on the base retaining portion. The side member may have a side member retaining engagement (e.g., a projection), particularly on the side member retaining portion. One of the base retaining engagement and the side member retaining engagement may engage the other of the base retaining engagement and the side member retaining engagement in the second position of the side member to inhibit movement of the side member (away from the second position).
[0056] It can be provided that the transfer of the side element from the second position to the first position is initiated by pressing or pushing on the side element (and / or rotating the side element), in particular opposite to the direction in which the first spring drives the side element. It can be provided that the side element is moved (slightly) away from the side surface in order to release the base holding engagement and the side element holding engagement from one another. It can further be provided that the transfer of the side element from the second position to the first position is completed by pressing the side element, in particular the distal section of the side element, inwards.
[0057] Preferably, the side element can be folded backward during the first step (in particular, such that, viewed from above, a side element attached to the right side of the child seat folds clockwise, and a side element attached to the left side of the child seat folds counterclockwise). Alternatively or additionally, the side element or its displacement section can be displaced forward during the second step.
[0058] Preferably, the side impact protection device is designed and attached to the child seat in such a way that, when transferring the side element from the first position to the second position, the movement of the side element in the second step does not occur backwards (but preferably forwards). During a backward movement, there is a particular risk that the side element will strike the backrest of the vehicle and / or an object arranged near the backrest in the second step and possibly not reach the second position. Furthermore, the side element may be difficult to access for release from the second position because the backrest of the vehicle and / or the object are in the way.
[0059] The side impact protection is preferably provided at least partially, if necessary completely, in a back section of the child seat, in particular behind a back support surface, and / or above a seat section (if necessary above a level of a topmost point of the seat section) of the child seat and / or on an outer side of a seat shell of the child seat.
[0060] Preferably, the side element is made of an at least substantially rigid material. This can be, in particular, hard plastic such as PE and / or PP or the like.
[0061] The above-mentioned object is further achieved by a method for adjusting a side impact protection of a child seat of the above-mentioned type, wherein the child seat has at least one side surface and a side impact protection, wherein the side impact protection comprises:
[0062] - a side impact protection base, as well as
[0063] - a side element which is movable (in particular rotatable and / or displaceable) relative to the side impact protection base and which can be transferred between a rest position, in particular located within a predetermined width of the child seat, and a functional position, in particular located outside the predetermined width (and vice versa), wherein the side element projects further beyond the side surface in the functional position than in the rest position, wherein preferably in a first step a lateral projection beyond the side surface is at least substantially determined and in a second step at least one section of the side element, the weight of which preferably amounts to at least 15% by weight (more preferably at least 25% by weight or at least 50% by weight or at least 90% by weight, if applicable
[0064] 100% by weight) of the total weight of the side element and / or which is at least partially visible from the outside in the resting position, is displaced, in particular shifted, preferably such that the side element comes to rest at least partially over (preferably on) a section of the side surface adjacent to the side element. Further method features emerge from the above description of the child seat, wherein functional features can be implemented as corresponding method steps.
[0065] Further embodiments emerge from the subclaims.
[0066] The invention is described below using exemplary embodiments, which are explained in more detail with reference to the figures. Herein:
[0067] Fig. 1 is a schematic oblique view of a child seat according to the invention;
[0068] Fig. 2 shows a section of the child seat according to Fig. 1;
[0069] Fig. 3 shows the section of the child seat according to Fig. 2 in a different configuration;
[0070] Fig. 4 is an exploded view of parts of the child seat according to Fig. 1-3;
[0071] Fig. 5 shows a cross-section of a section of the child seat according to Fig. 1-4;
[0072] Fig. 6 shows the section according to Fig. 5 in a different configuration;
[0073] Fig. 7 shows the child seat according to Figs. 5 and 6 in a further configuration;
[0074] Fig. 8 Parts of the side impact protection;
[0075] Fig. 9 Parts of the side impact protection;
[0076] Fig. 10 shows a section of an alternative embodiment in a schematic sectional view, in detail;
[0077] Fig. 11 shows the section according to Fig. 10 in a view from above;
[0078] Fig. 12 shows the section according to Fig. 10 in a different configuration; and Fig. 13 shows a view analogous to Fig. 11 in the configuration according to Fig. 12.
[0079] In the following description, the same reference numbers are used for identical and equivalent parts.
[0080] Figure 1 shows a child seat 10 according to the invention. The child seat 10 optionally comprises a headrest 40 with a head support surface 41, a seating area 20 with a seating surface 21, and a backrest 30 with a back support surface 31. The seating area 20 can comprise fastening means 22 for fastening the child seat 10 to a vehicle seat. The seating area 20 can comprise first side surfaces 24 on its outer side. Furthermore, side bolsters 32 are formed on the backrest 30, which have second side surfaces 33 on the outer side of the child seat 10 (the side facing away from the child in the child seat). A side impact protection 100 is formed on (or at) each of the second side surfaces 33 of the side bolsters 32. Side wings 42 can be formed on the headrest 40, which have third side surfaces 43 on the outer side of the child seat 10.
[0081] Figure 2 shows a side view of a section of the second side surface 33 of the side bolster 32 of a child seat 10 according to the invention. The side bolster 32 comprises the side impact protection 100, which includes, among other things, the side element 120 and the side element outer surface 121. As can be seen in Figure 1 and in particular in Figure 2, the side impact protection 100 can be embedded in the second side surface 33 of the side bolster 32, so that the side element outer surface 121 merges at least substantially flush into the adjacent sections of the second side surface 33 of the side bolster 32. The side impact protection 100 is located in the first position here.
[0082] Figure 3 shows a side view of a section of the second side surface 33 of the side bolster 32 of a child seat 10 according to the invention. The side impact protection 100 with the side element 120 and the side element outer surface 121 is in the second position in this figure. The side impact protection 100 is no longer embedded in the second side surface 33 of the side bolster 32, but protrudes at least partially beyond it. In contrast to the first position, the edge surface 122 can now be seen which protrudes beyond the second side surface 33, or protrudes from the second side surface 33, or projects beyond it. In this position, the side element outer surface 121 does not merge flush into the adjacent sections of the second side surface 33 of the side bolster 32.
[0083] Figure 4 shows the side impact protection device 100 according to the invention as an exploded view. Figure 5 shows a sectional view. The side impact protection device 100 comprises the side element 120, which can be arranged pivotably relative to the side impact protection base 140 by means of an axis 110. The side impact protection base 140 is a component of the side impact protection device 100 and serves as a particularly fixed (e.g., fixedly mounted or attached) counterpart to the movable side element 120. The side impact protection base 140 can be at least partially attached within the second side surface 33. The side impact protection base 140 can have an opening 142 between its rear section 149 and its front section 150, in which opening the side element 120 can be at least partially embedded.
[0084] The side element 120 preferably has a side element axle receptacle 126 through which the axle 110 can be guided. The side impact protection also has a second spring 112 that forces the side element 120 into a projecting position, i.e., to the left (away from the child), and a first spring 111 that pushes the side element 120 forward (away from the child) into the second position along the second side surface 33. Additionally, a base retaining device 144 can be provided, which is attached to the side impact protection base 140, which locks the side element 110 in the first position and which can be unlocked to initiate the transfer to the second position.
[0085] The base holding device 144 can include or consist of a guide section 145a, in which a movable section 145b is guided, and arms 145c. Furthermore, an optional frame 153 (which can be part of the side impact protection base 140) is provided, which surrounds the side element 120 in the first position and can serve as a support surface for the side element 120 in the second position. A side element stop 123 is provided on the side element 120, which limits the side element 120 in the second position from further unfolding, caused by the second spring 112. Figure 5 shows the side impact protection 100 in the first position in section, embedded in the second side surface 33 of the side cheek 32.The axle 110 is fixedly connected to the side impact protection base 140 at the base axle mount 146 and runs through the (guide-shaped, in particular groove-shaped) side element axle mount 126 at a proximal portion 129 of the side element 110, thus pivotally supporting the side element 120 relative to the base. The side element axle mount 126 is designed, in particular, as a guide, in particular groove-shaped and / or as an elongated hole. In the first position, the axle 110 is located at a distal end of the side element axle mount 126, which end is closer to the distal portion 130 of the side element 120.
[0086] The second spring 112 may be connected at one end to the side impact protection base 140 by a second base spring attachment 148 and at the other end to the side member 120 by a second side member spring attachment 128. The second spring 112 may be compressed in the first position, thus pressing against the side member 120 from the inside. The head 125 of the side member 120 may engage the arms 145c of the base retainer 144, thereby locking the side member 120 against unfolding under the force of the second spring 112, so that it remains in the embedded first position.
[0087] The edge surface 122 of the side element 120 rests at least at a distal portion 130 on the sliding portion 156 of the side impact protection base 140 and is at least partially guided by it (during the transition to the second position).
[0088] The first spring 111 may be connected at one end to the side impact protection base 140 by a first base spring attachment 147 and at the other end to the side member 120 by a first side member spring attachment 147. The first spring 111 may be stretched in the first position, thus pulling on a proximal end of the side member 120 (at the first side member spring attachment 147) and thus pressing a distal portion of the edge surface 122 against the sliding portion 156.
[0089] By applying force (towards the child) to the proximal section 129 of the side element 120, the movable section 145b of the base holding section 144 can be pushed along the guide section 145a (towards the child) and the arms 145c can thus be brought into the open position.
[0090] Figure 6 shows the side impact protection device 100 in a position (in particular, an unstable intermediate position) between the first and second positions in section, after being transferred by the second spring 112 (to the left) and before being transferred by the first spring 111 (forward). In this position, the axle 110 is still located at a distal end of the side element axle receptacle 126. The arms 145c of the base holding device 144 are open, whereby the head 125 of the side element 120 is no longer held by the arms 145c and thus the locking mechanism against unfolding of the side element 120 is released. The force of the second spring 112 pushes the side element 120 into the (open, unfolded) projecting position. The side element stop 123 rests against the base stop 143, whereby the unfolding of the side element 120 is limited by the second spring 112.The interaction between side element stop 123 and base stop 143 blocks further movement of side element 120 to the left (away from the child). The distal edge surface 122 of side element 120 is no longer guided by sliding section 156 and protrudes beyond sliding section 156, and in particular, lies outside of sliding section 156. The forward movement of side element 120 along the second side surface is no longer restricted in this position, thereby releasing first spring 111.
[0091] Figure 7 shows the side impact protection device 100 in the second position in section, after being moved by the second spring 112 (to the left) and after being moved by the first spring 111 (forward). In this position, the axle 110 is located at a proximal end of the side element axle receptacle 126, which end is closer to the proximal section 130 of the side element 120. The force of the second spring 112 continues to press the side element 120 into the overhanging (open, unfolded) position. The side element stop 123 continues to bear (slightly pushed forward) against the base stop 143, whereby further unfolding of the side element 120 by the second spring 112 is still prevented. By releasing the first spring 111, the side element 120 was pushed forward (into the second position) on the first side element spring attachment 147.Further forward movement of the side element 120 is prevented by the abutment of the axle 110 against a proximal end of the side element axle receptacle 126. In the second position, the distal section of the edge surface 122 now lies in front of the sliding section 156, thus preventing unwanted movement of the side element 120 due to a possible force (e.g., crash scenario) from the left (toward the child) back into the embedded first position. In this position, the side element retaining engagement 132 engages the base retaining section 151, and the base retaining engagement 152 engages the side element retaining section 131, thereby locking the side element 120 from sliding back (backward) in the event of a possible force being applied from the front.
[0092] Figure 8 shows the side element 120 from behind. Figure 10 shows the frame 153.
[0093] Figures 10 to 13 show a section of an alternative embodiment. The side element is displaced (translationally) in the first step and rotated in the second step. For this purpose, the side element can have at least one recess 120a, e.g., a groove, possibly a circumferential groove.
[0094] At this point, it should be noted that all parts described above, viewed individually and in any combination, particularly the details shown in the drawings, are claimed as essential to the invention. Modifications to these are familiar to those skilled in the art.
[0095] Furthermore, it is pointed out that the broadest possible scope of protection is sought. In this respect, the invention defined in the claims may also be further specified by features that are described with additional features (without these additional features necessarily being included). It is explicitly pointed out that parentheses and the term "in particular" are intended to emphasize the optionality of features in the respective context; this does not mean, conversely, that without such identification, a feature is to be considered mandatory in the corresponding context.
[0096] Reference symbol
[0097] 10 Child seat 11 Recording room
[0098] 20 seating area
[0099] 21 Seat
[0100] 22 fasteners
[0101] 23 armrests
[0102] 24 first side surfaces
[0103] 25 Lap belt guide
[0104] 30 backrest
[0105] 31 Back contact surface
[0106] 32 side panel
[0107] 33 second side surfaces
[0108] 40 Headrest
[0109] 41 Head contact surface
[0110] 42 side wings
[0111] 43 third side surfaces
[0112] 44 Shoulder strap guide
[0113] 100 side impact protection
[0114] 110 Axis
[0115] 111 first spring
[0116] 112 second spring
[0117] 120 page element
[0118] 120a recess
[0119] 121 Side element outer surface
[0120] 122 edge area
[0121] 123 Side element stop
[0122] 124 Side element holding device
[0123] 125 head
[0124] 126 Side element axle mount
[0125] 127 first side element spring fastening
[0126] 128 second side element spring fastening
[0127] 129 proximal section
[0128] 130 distal section
[0129] 131 Side element holding section
[0130] 132 Side element retaining recess
[0131] 133 Inside
[0132] 134 Outdoor part
[0133] 140 Base Base outer surface Opening Base stop Base retainer a Guide section b Movable section c Arms Base axle mount First base spring mount Second base spring mount Rear section Front section Base retainer section Base retainer engagement Frame Bridge Retainer mount Sliding section
Claims
CLAIMS Child seat (10) for mounting on a motor vehicle seat, wherein the child seat (10) has at least one side surface and a side impact protection (100), wherein the side impact protection (100) comprises: - a side impact protection base (140), as well as - a side element (120) which is movable relative to the side impact protection base (140) and which can be transferred from a rest position, in particular located within a predetermined width of the child seat (10), into a functional position, in particular located outside the predetermined width, wherein the side element projects laterally beyond the side surface in the functional position, wherein the side element does not project beyond the side surface in the rest position or projects less far than in the functional position, wherein position transfer means are provided to enable a transfer from the rest position to the functional position and are configured such that, in a first step, a lateral projection beyond the side surface can be at least substantially fixed, and in a second step, the side element or at least one displacement section of the side element (120), the weight of which preferably amounts to at least 15 wt.-% of the total weight of the side element (120) and / or which is at least partially in. Rest position is visible, is displaceable, in particular is displaceable, preferably in such a way that the side element (120) comes to lie at least partially over a section of the side surface adjacent to the side element (120). Child seat (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the side element (120) or its displacement section is movable at least substantially transversely to the lateral direction and / or substantially along the adjacent side surface during the second step. Child seat (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the side element (120) is rotatable during the first step, preferably about a fixed or movable axis, and / or the side element (120) or its displacement section is displaceable during the second step.Child seat (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first step and / or the second step, optionally after a locking device has been released, takes place automatically, preferably supported by at least one spring (111, 112), more preferably at least one first spring (111) to support the second step and / or at least one second spring (112) to support the first step. Child seat (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional position and / or the rest position can be locked. Child seat (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side element (120) and the side impact protection base (140) form a pair of mutually complementary engagement structures, in particular at least one projection-recess pair, which one. Transfer from the functional position to the rest position is inhibited, preferably in such a way that the inhibition can be overcome by a force of less than or equal to 50 N, more preferably less than or equal to 10 N and / or greater than or equal to 0.1 N, preferably greater than or equal to 0.5 N, optionally greater than or equal to 1 N. Child seat (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side element (120) or the displacement section can be folded backwards during the first step and / or can be displaced forwards during the second step. Child seat (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side impact protection (100) is provided at least partially, optionally completely, in a back section of the child seat (10), in particular behind a back contact surface, and / or above a seat section of the child seat (10) and / or on an outer side of a seat shell.Child seat (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side element (120) is made of an at least substantially rigid material. Method for adjusting a side impact protection (100) of a child seat (10), in particular according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the child seat (10) has at least one side surface and a side impact protection (100), wherein the side impact protection (100) comprises:. - a side impact protection base (140), as well as - a side element (120) which is movable relative to the side impact protection base (140) and which can be transferred from a rest position, in particular within a predetermined width of the child seat (10), into a functional position, in particular outside the predetermined width, wherein the side element projects laterally beyond the side surface in the functional position, wherein the side element does not project beyond the side surface in the rest position or projects less far than in the functional position, wherein in a first step a lateral projection beyond the side surface is at least substantially determined and in a second step at least one section of the side element (120), the weight of which preferably corresponds to at least 15% by weight of the total weight of the side element and / or which is at least partially visible in the rest position, is shifted, in particular displaced, preferably in such a way that the side element comes to lie at least partially over a section of the side surface adjacent to the side element.