Vehicle seat element, particularly automobile

Abstract

A seat element (10) for a vehicle, in particular an automobile, comprising: a typically metallic structure (2), a lining (3, 3a, 3b) comprising a solidified 3D tangle (30) of continuous thermoplastic fibers (5) arranged irregularly forming loops welded together, an interface (4, 4a, 4b) located between the structure (2) and the lining (3, 3a, 3b), the interface (4, 4a, 4b) comprising a receiving surface (46) covered at least in part by the lining (3, 3a, 3b), and a plurality of fixing elements (80) for fixing the lining (3, 3a, 3b) to the interface (4, 4a, 4b), each fixing element (80) passing through at least a part of the lining (3, 3a, 3b) and the receiving surface (46) of the interface (4, 4a, 4b). 4b), transversely to these. Abstract figure: Figure 6

Description

Title of the invention: Vehicle seat element, particularly an automobile Technical field

[0001] The present description relates to a vehicle seat element, in particular but not exclusively an automobile, as well as a seat comprising such a seat element. Prior art

[0002] The vehicle seat elements, in particular automobile seat elements, each comprise at least one structure, or frame, as well as padding and a cover forming together a trim, assembled with each other during assembly. There is a need to reduce the number of steps required during assembly of the seat elements and the number of parts required for producing these automobile seat elements.

[0003] Furthermore, the padding of vehicle seat elements, particularly automobile seat elements, is conventionally made of urethane polymer foam (or polyurethane, PU), particularly polyurethane foam obtained from polyols of the polyether / polyol (or PUR) type. Such foams can be shaped in molds relatively easily, to form different shapes of padding for different vehicle seat elements, such as the seat, the backrest, the armrest or the headrest, for example.

[0004] Polyurethane foam padding is satisfactory, but can retain moisture, particularly in humid conditions. This can cause discomfort for an occupant of a vehicle seat, an element of which includes such padding.

[0005] Furthermore, polyurethane foam is conventionally made by mixing, among other things, polyols with isocyanates. The chemical reaction carried out emits CO2 to form a foam, the emitted CO2 contributing to global warming.

[0006] In addition, polyurethane foam is not recyclable.

[0007] Also, it appears desirable, at least from an ecological point of view, to limit the use of polyurethane in the padding of vehicle seat elements.

[0008] Furthermore, there is a need to reduce the mass of a vehicle seat.

[0009] There is also a need to be able to easily change the upholstery of a seat using modules, for upgrading and / or for changing and / or for refurbishing worn elements, as part of the management of reconditioning and the end of life of vehicles. Summary

[0010] The present disclosure improves the situation. A vehicle seat element, in particular an automobile seat, is proposed, comprising: a. a typically metallic structure, b. a trim comprising a solidified 3D tangle of continuous thermoplastic fibers arranged irregularly forming loops welded together, c. an interface between the structure and the lining, the interface having a receiving surface covered at least in part by the lining, and d. a plurality of fasteners for securing the lining to the interface, each fastener extending transversely thereto through at least a portion of the lining and the receiving surface of the interface.

[0011] This provides a lining made of a material other than polyurethane foam. This lining material is advantageously a recyclable plastic material and its production generates less CO2 emissions than the production of a polyurethane foam, thus reducing the ecological impact of the seat element comprising this lining. In addition to the environmental benefits, the seat element comprising this material for the lining can make it possible to produce a lining that is significantly lighter than a similar lining made of polyurethane foam. Furthermore, the lining material can be more breathable, allowing air and any moisture to pass through the lining better.

[0012] Furthermore, the attachment provided between the upholstery and the interface can make it possible to secure this assembly of the upholstery and the interface regardless of the posture or movements of the occupant of the seat.

[0013] The features set out in the following paragraphs may, optionally, be implemented, independently of one another or in combination with one another:

[0014] The trim may be made of said 3D interlocking. In this case, the plurality of fastening elements is in contact with the trim.

[0015] By "the plurality of fastening elements being in contact with the upholstery" is meant that the plurality of fastening elements is in contact with an exterior surface of the upholstery forming a bearing surface for an occupant of the seat.

[0016] Alternatively, the trim comprises a cap covering said 3D entanglement. In this case, said cap is advantageously fixed to the interface. This fixing is advantageously done using the same fixing elements which pass through the cap, the 3D entanglement and the interface.

[0017] The lining may cover the entire receiving surface of the interface. Alternatively, the lining covers only part of the receiving surface of the interface. In particular in the latter case, the lining may comprise several separate lining elements, connected or not to each other, each covering part of the receiving surface of the interface, at different locations on the latter.

[0018] The lining may form a lining layer, in particular with a thickness of between 15 mm and 100 mm. The lining layer may have a substantially constant thickness over its entire surface, for example with edges that have been rounded.

[0019] The interface, in particular the receiving surface, may be made at least partially of polymer material. The interface may comprise a layer of polymer material, delimited in thickness by the receiving surface and by a surface opposite the receiving surface and comprising these. Such a layer of the interface may have a thickness of between 20 mm and 40 mm, preferably equal to 30 mm. This thickness does not include reliefs, for example reinforcing ribs or the like, which may be present on one or other of the surfaces of the interface.

[0020] The number of fixing elements per m2 of trim may be between 12 and 120, in particular between 30 and 120. Such a number may make it possible to improve the fixing. The fixing elements may be arranged at regular intervals from one another, for example in a pattern such as a grid.

[0021] Each fixing element advantageously passes through the lining in its entire thickness.

[0022] The interface preferably comprises a plurality of openings, each opening receiving a fastening element. Such openings are then formed before assembly, using the fastening elements, between the interface and the lining. Similarly, the lining may comprise a plurality of openings, each opening receiving a fastening element. In this case, the openings are formed before assembly between the interface and the lining, in particular during the lining manufacturing process. In particular, the openings may be made in the lining by thermoforming, in particular at the end of the lining manufacturing process.

[0023] When the interface and / or the lining, preferably the interface and the lining, comprise openings formed before assembly, the quality of the fixing using the fixing elements can be improved and the durability of the fixing can be extended.

[0024] The upholstery may have an inner surface in contact with the receiving surface of the interface and, on the opposite side, an outer support surface intended to come opposite a user, said outer support surface being free and being intended to come directly into contact with a user. By “being free” is meant “not being covered”. In this case, the seat element is devoid of a cover, that is to say of an outer layer of appearance forming a covering, covering all or part of the seat element.

[0025] In this case, the lining may comprise a main layer forming the inner surface and an outer layer covering the main layer and forming the outer bearing surface. Such an outer layer may be obtained by rolling at the end of the manufacturing process of the lining. The outer layer may have a density greater than the density of the main layer. The abrasion and fraying resistance of the outer bearing surface may be improved by this rolling. In addition, the contact for the user may be more comfortable or pleasant.

[0026] At least one fastening element, or even all of the fastening elements, may be formed from a single piece.

[0027] Alternatively, at least one fastening element, or even all of the fastening elements, may be formed from two complementary parts and assembled together, for example by snap-fastening, screwing, gluing or other assembly technique. In this case, one of the parts may be in contact with a surface of the interface which is opposite the receiving surface and the other of the parts may be in contact with the outer bearing surface of the lining. The two parts may cooperate with each other, for example in an inner part of the lining.

[0028] The fixing elements may be identical to each other. At least two fixing elements, or even all of the fixing elements, may be arranged substantially parallel to each other.

[0029] At least one fastening element may comprise at least one head and one elongated body. The head may rest on the outer surface, in particular the outer bearing surface, of the lining. The elongated body may pass through all or part of the lining and the interface. The head is advantageously wider than the elongated body. In particular when it comprises said two complementary parts, said at least one fastening element may comprise two heads and at least one elongated body connecting said two heads, the heads preferably being wider than the elongated body. In this case, one of the heads may rest on the outer surface, in particular the outer bearing surface, of the lining. The other of the heads may rest on the surface opposite the receiving surface of the interface. Said at least one elongated body connecting the two heads may pass through the lining and the interface.

[0030] The seat element may be selected from the group consisting of a seat back, an armrest, a seat base, a headrest, a part thereof and a set of all or part thereof.

[0031] The seat element may form a seat back. In this case, the interface is a backrest interface preferably comprising at least one shell, in particular a deformable shell, of the backrest, receiving the upholstery which is a backrest upholstery, the shell comprising the interface receiving surface. The shell, when deformable, can be configured to take different shapes, in particular from an initial position of lumbar lordosis to a final position of lumbar kyphosis in response to a variable load applied by the back of the seat occupant.

[0032] In addition, the backrest interface may comprise a system coupling the shell, when deformable, of the backrest to the structure comprising upper movement control links, and lower movement control links.

[0033] The backrest interface is advantageously made at least partially of polymer material. Such a backrest interface is ergonomic and dynamic.

[0034] The seat element may form a seat base. In this case, the interface is a seat interface preferably comprising at least one seat shell receiving the upholstery which is a seat upholstery, the shell comprising the receiving surface of the interface.

[0035] According to another aspect, in combination with the above, there is provided a vehicle seat, in particular an automobile seat, comprising at least one seat element as defined above.

[0036] According to another aspect, in combination with the above, there is provided a method of assembling a seat element, comprising manufacturing a lining as defined above, fixing the lining to the interface receiving surface using the fixing elements, and assembling the entire lining and interface with the structure. The method may include painting the lining, especially after its manufacture. Brief description of the drawings

[0037] Other characteristics, details and advantages will appear on reading the detailed description below, and on analyzing the attached drawings, in which:

[0038] [Fig-1] is a schematic perspective view of a motor vehicle seat, according to an example.

[0039] [Fig.2] is a partially exploded schematic sectional view of an example of a motor vehicle seat.

[0040] [Fig.3] is a schematic representation of an example method of manufacturing a seat element trim according to an example.

[0041] [Fig.4] is a cross-sectional view of an example of a packing made using the method illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0042] [Fig.5] shows schematically, in cross-section, an example of a seat element forming a seat.

[0043] [Fig.6] is a schematic front view of an example of a seat element forming a backrest.

[0044] [Fig.7] shows in an isolated and schematic manner, seen from behind, the interface of the seat element of [Fig.6].

[0045] [Fig.8] shows in an isolated and schematic manner, in front view, the trim of the seat element of [Fig.6].

[0046] [Fig.9] shows in isolation and schematically, in front view, a plurality of fixing elements for the seat element of [Fig.6], arranged as they are in the seat element of [Fig.6].

[0047] [Fig. 10] shows in front view, in isolation and schematically, a finishing frame used in the seat element of [Fig.6].

[0048] [Fig. 11] shows schematically, in isolation and in perspective, an example of a fixing element which can be used in a seat element.

[0049] [Fig. 12] is a view similar to [Fig.8] of a trim of a seat element according to another example.

[0050] [Fig. 13] schematically shows in front view a seat element according to an example, comprising the upholstery of [Fig. 12].

[0051] [Fig. 14] schematically represents in front view another example of a seat element. Description of the embodiments

[0052] The drawings and the description below contain, for the most part, elements of a certain character. They may therefore not only serve to better understand the present disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, where appropriate.

[0053] In the various figures, the same references designate identical or similar elements. For the sake of brevity, only the elements which are useful for understanding the embodiment described are shown in the figures and are described in detail below.

[0054] In the following description, when reference is made to absolute position qualifiers, such as the terms "front", "rear", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", etc., or relative position qualifiers, such as the terms "above", "below", "upper", "lower", etc., or to orientation qualifiers, such as "horizontal", "vertical", etc., reference is made, unless otherwise specified, to the orientation of the figures or of a vehicle seat in its normal position of use.

[0055] In particular, the longitudinal direction X means the longitudinal direction of the seat. The longitudinal direction of the seat is considered to be the same as the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle in which the seat is mounted. This longitudinal direction X corresponds to the normal direction of travel of the vehicle. The longitudinal direction X is horizontal. The transverse direction Y of the seat thus corresponds to the transverse or lateral direction of the motor vehicle. This transverse direction corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the normal direction of travel of the vehicle. The transverse direction Y is horizontal. Finally, the vertical direction Z is a vertical direction of the seat, perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions.

[0056] Reference is now made to Figures 1 and 2 showing a seat 1 comprising a backrest and a seat forming a seat element 10 comprising a typically metallic structure 2, a trim 3, an interface 4 located between the structure 2 and the trim 3.

[0057] In [Fig.2], an XYZ reference frame is illustrated, the X direction oriented along the sliding direction of slide G between the seat structure 2 and a floor of the vehicle, the Y direction, oriented along a transverse direction of the seat, and the Z direction along the vertical.

[0058] The structure 2, typically made of metal, comprises a seat frame 20 and a backrest frame 21, articulated around a transverse axis of rotation, for example by means of continuous-type joints.

[0059] The seat frame 20 comprises in this example two lateral flanges, extending from a rear edge of the seat and to a front edge, in the longitudinal direction X, or slightly inclined relative to the longitudinal direction X (in particular by plus or minus 30 degrees) around a transverse axis. The seat frame may also comprise a front piece, connecting two front ends of the flanges, and extending in the transverse direction. The front piece and the flanges are typically shaped sheets, for example, by stamping techniques.

[0060] The backrest frame 21 typically comprises side uprights, extending in height, as well as an upper cross member connecting two upper ends of the uprights. The uprights and the upper cross member are typically shaped sheets, for example by stamping techniques.

[0061] The upholstery 3 comprises in this example a seat upholstery 3a which provides the comfort of the seat and which is received on a seat interface 4a inserted between the structure 2, in particular the seat frame 20, and the seat upholstery 3a. The upholstery 3 comprises in this example a backrest upholstery 3b which provides the comfort of the backrest and which is received on a backrest interface 4b which is inserted between the structure 2, in particular the backrest frame 21, and the backrest upholstery 3b.

[0062] The upholstery 3, in particular the seat upholstery 3a and / or the backrest upholstery 3b, comprises a three-dimensional (in “3D”) tangle 30 of continuous, thermoplastic fibers 5, arranged irregularly, forming loops welded together between the fibers 5.

[0063] The seat upholstery 3a extends lengthwise in a longitudinal direction Xa. of the seat from a rear edge to a front edge of the seat, and in width along a transverse direction of the seat from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge, as well as in thickness along an orthogonal direction Za, which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and to the transverse direction of the seat. The thickness of the layer forming the seat upholstery can be between 60mm and 100mm.

[0064] The backrest upholstery 3b extends in length along a longitudinal direction Xb of the backrest from a lower edge to an upper edge of the backrest, and in width along a transverse direction Yb of the backrest from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge, as well as in thickness along an orthogonal direction Zb which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and to the transverse direction of the backrest. The thickness of the layer forming the backrest upholstery may be between 20 mm and 40 mm.

[0065] The interface 4, in particular the seat interface 4a or the backrest interface 4b, may comprise a fully or partially polymeric material. For example, the interface 4 is made of ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) and / or PC (Polycarbonate) and / or P / E (Polypropylene / Polyethylene Copolymer).

[0066] Generally, the interface 4, in particular the seat interface 4a or the backrest interface 4b, may comprise a shell 40, in particular a deformable shell. The shell may be a molded part or a thermoformed part.

[0067] The lining 3 is supported and at least partially covers, by an inner surface 47 of said 3D entanglement of continuous thermoplastic fibers 5, a receiving surface 46 of said interface 4, in particular the shell 40 of the seat interface 4a or the backrest interface 4b. The lining 3 forms, opposite this inner surface 47, an outer support surface 32 intended to be in contact with the user and visible to the latter.

[0068] The lining 3 is preferably not glued and not welded to the interface 4. Recycling is advantageously simplified, said lining 3, in particular said 3D entanglement of continuous thermoplastic fibers 5 forming the lining 3, being able to be easily separated from the interface 4.

[0069] The shell 40 of the backrest, deformable in this example, can be configured to take different shapes, in particular from an initial position of lumbar lordosis and in particular up to a final position of lumbar kyphosis, in response to a variable load applied by the back of the occupant of the seat.

[0070] The interface 4 may also comprise a system coupling the deformable backrest shell 40 to the structure 2, comprising upper movement control links 41s, and lower movement control links 41i. The upper movement control links 41s and / or the lower movement control links 41i are typically articulated links which may comprise connecting rods.

[0071] The lining 3 resting on the shell 40 is held on the shell 40 by a plurality of fixing elements 80.

[0072] The lining 3 can accompany the deformation of the shell 40, when deformable, in response to a variable load applied by the back or the thighs or the buttocks of the occupant of the seat.

[0073] Generally, the interface 4, in particular the seat interface 4a or the backrest interface 4b, may comprise, in a transverse direction Ya, Yb, raised edges comprising a vertical component Za, Zb, on either side of a central portion 42 of said interface 4, in particular of the shell 40.

[0074] The raised edges of the interface 4 can ensure the shaping of the upholstery 3, in particular the seat upholstery 3a or the backrest upholstery 3b. The upholstery 3 comprises a 3D interlocking layer of thermoplastic fibers 5 of substantially constant thickness to form a seat or a backrest and comprises, in the transverse direction Ya, Yb, a central portion and lateral holding portions, projecting from the central portion.

[0075] In the case of the seat, the central portion receives the thighs and / or the buttocks of the occupant of the seat, and the lateral support portions, arranged on either side of the central portion in the direction Ya, provide lateral support, typically when cornering.

[0076] In the case of the backrest, the central portion receives the back of the occupant of the seat and the lateral support portions, arranged on either side in the transverse direction Yb, provide lateral support, typically when cornering.

[0077] To manufacture the lining 3, the continuous manufacturing method described with reference to [Fig. 3] can be implemented.

[0078] This continuous process comprises, as schematically illustrated in [Fig.3]:

[0079] - / A / Extrusion of a thermoplastic polymer in an extrusion die 6 comprising extrusion nozzles 60 distributed along a length direction X6 and along a width direction Y6 of the extrusion die, generating a curtain 50 of continuous melted fibers, falling by gravity,

[0080] - / B / Reception of the curtain 50 of continuous melted fibers falling by gravity between two counter-rotating guide members 7, 8, with generation of a 3D entanglement of fibers 5 according to a random distribution with fusion of the loops between the continuous fibers, in particular according to a layer of thickness determined by the ETR center distance between the two guide members 7, 8,

[0081] - / C / Solidification of 3D fiber entanglement by immersion in a liquid cooling, such as water,

[0082] - / D / rolling by passing between two rollers, at least one of which is of rolling 52, heated to a temperature preferably between 160°C and 180°C.

[0083] The extrusion nozzles 60 are preferably distributed regularly along the length direction X6 of the extrusion die, as well as in width along the width direction Y6.

[0084] The thickness of the lining layer formed by the entanglement can be adjusted by adjusting the center distance ETR between the two guide members 7, 8.

[0085] In / B / , the two guide members 7, 8 are rotated at a speed, typically lower than the falling speed of the fibers, ensuring an accumulation of the fibers at the origin of the formation of loops which heat-seal between fibers, generating the irregular three-dimensional entanglement. The solidification in / C / is obtained just after step / B / , the two guide members being able to be immersed halfway up, for this purpose.

[0086] The temperature of the extrusion carried out in / A / in the extrusion die is typically between 180°C and 240°C. The extrusion die is supplied with polymer granules.

[0087] The continuously scrolling 3D fiber entanglement layer is then guided out of the coolant tank to be dried, typically by shaking / vibrating.

[0088] In / D / , a top layer is laminated by the laminating roller 52, which creates a reduction in thickness and a densification of the 3D entanglement of fibers.

[0089] The scrolling layer is then cut, in particular by transverse cuts, allowing the production of different linings 3, as visible in [Fig.3]. These linings 3 extend in length, for example in length along the longitudinal direction Xa of the seat lining layer (or in length along the longitudinal direction Xb of the backrest lining layer), typically along the direction transverse to the scrolling of the layer. An abrasive treatment or thermoforming can be applied so as to round the edges, for example or if a 3D shape is desired.

[0090] As illustrated in [Fig.4], after rolling an upper layer in / D / , the tangle 30 of fibers comprises a main layer 34 and an outer layer 35. The outer layer 35 has a thickness e. The thickness e is preferably between 1 millimeter and 4 millimeters. The main layer 34 has a first density between 45 kg / m3 and 65 kg / m3. The outer layer 35 has a second density between three and eight times the first density. The tangle 30 of fibers has an outer bearing surface 32 of the lining 3 extending at the periphery of the tangle 30 of fibers. The outer bearing surface 32 is intended to come opposite a user. The outer bearing surface 32 belongs to the outer layer 35. The tangle 30 of fibers is not covered, so that the entire outer bearing surface 32 is visible and is intended to come directly into contact with the user. Because the outer layer 35 has been laminated, the abrasion and fraying resistance of the outer bearing surface 32 is improved. In addition, contact for the user is improved. The lining 3 does not include or is not covered by any cap in this example.

[0091] It does not depart from the scope of the present disclosure if the density of the lining is substantially uniform, without distinction between layers 34 and 35, for example in the absence of implementation of / D / during the manufacturing process.

[0092] In the example of [Fig. 5], a seat element is shown comprising the interface 4, which comprises the shell 40. The lining 3 covers in this example the entire receiving surface 46 and is fixed to the interface 4 using the plurality of fixing elements 80.

[0093] The shell 40 has raised edges 45 ensuring the shaping of lateral holding portions, projecting on either side of a central portion 42 of the interface 4.

[0094] The fixing elements 80 pass through the lining 3 and the receiving surface 46 and the rest of the interface 4, transversely to these, in their thickness, and fix them together. The fixing elements 80 are all identical in this example. The fixing elements 80 are, in this example, formed from a single piece. They comprise a head 81 in contact with the outer bearing surface 32 of the lining 3, possibly pressing on it so as to slightly depress the outer bearing surface 32 of the lining 3, as visible in this [Fig.5]. The fixing elements 80 comprise an elongated body 82 under the head 81, passing through the thickness, the lining 3 and the interface 4. They have a screw shape, with the head 81 forming the screw head, wider than the elongated body 82. The fixing elements 80 may be rigid or elastically deformable.If they are stiff, it may be best to push them deep into the trim 3. .

[0095] In the example of Figures 6 to 10, the seat element 10 comprises a seat back. As visible in [Fig.6], the lining 3 completely covers the interface 4. The fixing elements 80 are equally distributed according to a regular grid whose contours are adapted to the shape of the seat back, as visible in [Fig.6] and also in [Fig.9]. The number of fixing elements 80 per unit area can be approximately 50 per m2. As visible in [Fig.6], only the heads 81 of the fixing elements 80 are visible, flush with the outer bearing surface 32.

[0096] As visible in [Fig.7], the interface 4 comprises a plurality of openings 83 formed in the shell 40 and passing through it. The shell 40 comprises a plurality of reliefs 84 forming, for example, reinforcing ribs.

[0097] The trim 3, visible in isolation in [Fig.8], comprises a plurality of openings 85 produced for example during the manufacturing process, by thermoforming.

[0098] The openings 83 and 85 are through openings forming a housing for receiving the elongated bodies 82 of the fixing elements 80. The openings 83 and 85 are distributed in the same manner as the fixing elements 80, according to the same grid.

[0099] Still in this example, as illustrated in [Fig. 10], the seat back comprises a finishing frame 86 surrounding the seat back and which can be provided to conceal the outline of the seat back and in particular the superposition of the upholstery layer 3 and the shell 40. The tubular frame 86 can only fulfill a decorative function and not a structural function.

[0100] In the example of [Fig. 11], the fastening element 80 comprises two complementary parts 87, intended to be assembled together as the arrow illustrates, by snap-fastening, screwing and / or gluing, for example. Each of the complementary parts 87 comprises a head 88 and an elongated body 89 narrower than the head 88. One of the heads 88 is intended to rest against the outer bearing surface 32. The other of the heads 88 is intended to rest against the surface of the interface 4, in particular of the shell 40, which is opposite the receiving surface 46. The parts 87 may be identical or not. It is not outside the scope of the disclosure if the fastening elements 80 are different from those of the example of [Fig.9] and the example of [Fig.11].

[0101] In the example of Figures 12 and 13, the positioning and the number of fixing elements 80 is done according to another pattern. In particular, the fixing elements 80 are distributed according to a regular grid, but not all the corners of the grid are provided with fixing elements. The positioning locations of the fixing elements 80 are chosen such that the lining 3 is correctly retained against the receiving surface 46 of the interface 4, whatever the posture and / or whatever the movements of an occupant of the seat element 10. In this example, the number of fixing elements 80 is less than that of the example of Figures 6 to 10. Of course, other distribution patterns of the fixing elements 80 are possible without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0102] The disclosure is not limited to the examples just described.

[0103] The fibers may be hollow fibers and / or solid fibers. The fibers may have a diameter of between 0.2 mm and 2 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm. The term "continuous" in "continuous fibers" means that the fibers are of a length much greater than the diameter of the fibers, and due to the process described below, typically at least by a ratio of 100, or even 500, or even 1000.

[0104] The fibers 5 comprise a thermoplastic polymer, the composition of the fibers preferably comprising at least 95% by weight of PET. For example, the composition of the fibers, or even of the filling, comprises 95% to 99% by weight of a first polymer of the polyester family such as PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) and 1% to 5% by weight of a second polymer of the polyester family such as PTT (Polytrimethylene terephthalate) or PBT (Polybutylene terephthalate). The sum of PET and PTT (or PBT) can make up 100% by weight of the fibers, or even of the filling. The 3D entanglement of the filling 3 can have an apparent density of between 45 kg / m3 and 65 kg / m3.

[0105] Preferably, the voids between the fibers 5 of the 3D tangle of fibers 5 of the lining 3 are left free. A very breathable lining is obtained, due to the numerous inter-spaces between the fibers which promote air circulation.

[0106] The lining may cover the entire receiving surface of the interface.

[0107] Alternatively, the upholstery covers only a portion of the receiving surface of the interface. In the latter case, the upholstery may comprise several separate upholstery elements, connected or not to each other, each covering a portion of the receiving surface of the interface, at different locations thereof. [Fig. 14] shows an example of a seat element comprising such upholstery elements 36 forming the upholstery 3, four in number in this example, separate, arranged on the interface 4 in a patchwork manner. Each upholstery element 36 is fixed using the fixing elements 80, as visible.

[0108] The trim 3 may in a variant comprise a covering, in particular textile, forming a cover, externally covering the 3D entanglement 30 and with which the occupant of the seat is in contact. In this case, the cover is advantageously fixed to the interface 4. This fixing is advantageously done using the same fixing elements 80 which pass through the cover, the 3D entanglement and the interface.

[0109] The fastening elements 80 may be in the form of a single-piece clip.

Claims

Claims

1. A seat element (10) for a vehicle, in particular an automobile, comprising: a. a typically metallic structure (2), b. a lining (3, 3a, 3b) comprising a solidified 3D tangle (30) of continuous thermoplastic fibers (5) arranged irregularly forming loops welded together, c. an interface (4, 4a, 4b) located between the structure (2) and the lining (3, 3a, 3b), the interface (4, 4a, 4b) comprising a receiving surface (46) covered at least in part by the lining (3, 3a, 3b), and d. a plurality of fastening elements (80) for fastening the lining (3, 3a, 3b) to the interface (4, 4a, 4b), each fastening element (80) passing through at least a portion of the lining (3, 3a, 3b) and the receiving surface (46) of the interface (4, 4a, 4b), transversely thereto.

2. A seat element (10) according to claim 1, wherein the lining (3, 3a, 3b) is made of said 3D interlocking (30), the plurality of fixing elements (80) being in contact with the lining (3, 3a, 3b).

3. Seat element (10) according to claim 1 or 2, in which each fixing element (80) passes through the lining (3, 3a, 3b) in its entire thickness.

4. A seat element (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the interface (4, 4a, 4b) comprises a plurality of openings (83), each opening (83) receiving a fixing element (80).

5. A seat element (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the trim (3, 3a, 3b) comprises a plurality of openings (85), each opening (85) receiving a fixing element (80).

6. A seat element (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the number of fastening elements (80) per m2 of upholstery is between 12 and 120.

7. A seat element (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one fastening element (80) is formed from a single piece.

8. Seat element (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which at least one fixing element (80) is formed of two complementary pieces (87) assembled together.

9. Seat element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the lining (3, 3a, 3b) has an inner surface (47) in contact with the receiving surface (46) of the interface (4, 4a, 4b) and, opposite, an outer bearing surface (32) intended to come opposite a user, said outer bearing surface (32) being free and being intended to come directly into contact with a user.

10. A seat element (10) according to any preceding claim, selected from the group consisting of a seat back, an armrest, a seat base, a headrest, a portion thereof and a set of all or part thereof.

11. Seat element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, forming a seat back, in which the interface (4) is a backrest interface (4b) comprising at least one shell (40), in particular deformable, of the backrest, receiving the upholstery (3, 3a, 3b) which is a backrest upholstery (3b), said shell (40) comprising said receiving surface (46) and being configured to take different shapes, in particular from an initial position of lumbar lordosis to a final position of lumbar kyphosis in response to a variable load applied by the back of the occupant of the seat.

12. Seat element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the lining (3) comprises several separate lining elements, connected or not to each other, each covering a part of the receiving surface (46) of the interface (4, 4a, 4b), at different locations thereof.

13. A seat element (10) according to claim 1, wherein the upholstery (3) comprises a cap covering said 3D entanglement (30), said cap being fixed to the interface (4, 4a, 4b).

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