Set of reclining vehicle seats for easier access to the rear seats

Abstract

In a seat assembly (10), a seat frame (11) pivots relative to a movable element (14) of a slide (15). A connecting rod (27), linked to a fixed element (16) of the slide (15), is guided in translation relative to the seat frame (11). A stop limits the translation of the connecting rod (27). The stroke length of the slide (15), the connecting rod (27), and the stop are configured so that when the slide (15) is extended while the connecting rod (27) is in contact with the stop, it causes a rotation (F3) of the seat frame (11), supported by the action of a linear actuator (30) mounted between the movable element (14) of the slide (15) and the seat frame (11). [Fig. 6]

Description

Title of the invention: Vehicle seat assembly with reclining seat cushion to facilitate access to the rear seats technical field

[0001] This description relates to a vehicle seat assembly. A method for implementing such a vehicle seat assembly is also described. Previous technique

[0002] In the automotive field, in particular, a vehicle seat is known that is configured to provide a position facilitating access to the seats located behind the seat (or the so-called "easy entry position"). Such a seat is generally implemented in a vehicle with fewer pairs of doors than rows of seats, to allow access to the last row of seats in the vehicle, that is to say, the row of seats arranged longitudinally furthest to the rear of the vehicle.

[0003] Conventionally, the easy entry position corresponds to a forward-tilted position of the vehicle seat, particularly the seat backrest. When the seat is mounted on rails, the easy entry position can advantageously also correspond to a seat position as far forward as possible in the motor vehicle.

[0004] It was envisaged to implement the motor, already present under the vehicle seat to control the longitudinal movement of the vehicle seat along the rails, to control the passage of the vehicle seat from its nominal position, allowing to receive an occupant of the vehicle seat, to its easy entry position.

[0005] However, the weight of the seat then requires the implementation of an oversized motor compared to its sole implementation to move the vehicle seat longitudinally along the rails.

[0006] It was then proposed, for example in application FR-A-3 116 771, to implement a spring between a control rod for tilting the vehicle seat into its easy-entry position and a lock for securing the seat to the moving part of one of the slides. In particular, the control rod is located at a front end of the vehicle seat and the lock at a rear end. In this case, when the lock is closed, it prevents the vehicle seat from tilting into its easy-entry position, against the force exerted by the spring. When the lock is open, on the contrary, the spring controls the tilting of the vehicle seat into its easy-entry position. However, it proved difficult to control the pi- voting for such a vehicle seat, with such a spring.

[0007] It was also proposed, in unpublished application FR 22 04922, to implement a torsion bar to control the tilting of the vehicle seat, when the lock holding the seat frame fixed to the moving part of at least one of the slides, is open.

[0008] Such a solution has however proven unsatisfactory for vehicle seats or vehicle seat benches, which are relatively heavy. Summary

[0009] The present disclosure is intended to improve the situation.

[0010] To this end, a vehicle seat assembly comprising: - a seat frame; - at least one slide, the slide comprising a first element and a second element capable of being moved relative to the first element, along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle seat assembly(ies), - at least one connecting rod, - a linear actuator, preferably a cylinder, preferably a gas spring, mounted at one end pivoting around a first transverse axis relative to the second element of at least one slide, the linear actuator being mounted at a second end pivoting around a second transverse axis relative to the base frame, in particular relative to a front end of the base frame, in which: - the seat frame pivots relative to the second element of the slide, around a third transverse axis, the third transverse axis being in the vicinity of a front end of the vehicle seat assembly, opposite a rear end of the vehicle seat assembly in the longitudinal direction; - a first end of at least one connecting rod is mounted pivotally relative to the first element of at least one slide, around a fourth transverse axis; - the second end of at least one connecting rod is mounted guided in translation relative to the base reinforcement, along the longitudinal direction, the at least one connecting rod being pivotal relative to the base reinforcement around a fifth transverse axis, movable along the longitudinal direction by translation of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the base reinforcement; - a stop limiting the movement of the second end of at least one connecting rod relative to the seat frame in the longitudinal direction, towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly(ies); - the length of the stroke of the second element relative to the first element of the at least one slide, the length of the at least one connecting rod and the position of the stop being configured so that a displacement of the second element relative to the first element of the at least one slide tending to increase the distance between the third transverse axis and the fourth transverse axis, while the second end of the connecting rod is in stop limiting the displacement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat frame in the longitudinal direction, towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly, causes a rotation of the seat frame around the third transverse axis, supported by the action of the linear actuator.

[0011] Thus, advantageously, the linear actuator, in particular the gas spring, can contribute to the pivoting of the seat frame to move the vehicle seat assembly(ies) into the easy-entry configuration. The sliding actuator, if the vehicle seat assembly(ies) includes one, can then be smaller and therefore less expensive. In the absence of such a sliding actuator, the effort required by an individual to move the seat assembly(ies) into its easy-entry configuration is less.

[0012] According to preferred embodiments, the seat assembly(ies) comprises one or more of the following features, taken alone or in combination: - the seat assembly includes a lock to selectively fix one rear end of the seat frame to the second element of at least one slide; - the seat assembly includes a device to unlock the lock at least when the second end of the connecting rod is in stop limiting the movement of the second end of at least one connecting rod relative to the seat frame in the longitudinal direction, towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly; - the seat reinforcement includes a slot or a rib, a slide being received in the slot or on the rib, sliding in the longitudinal direction, the slide being fixed in the vicinity of the second end of the at least one connecting rod, fixed or free to rotate around a transverse axis; - the stop is formed by a relief adapted to cooperate with the slide to limit the displacement of the second end of at least one connecting rod relative to the seat reinforcement in the longitudinal direction; - the base reinforcement includes a first relief, at least one connecting rod includes a second relief and the first and second reliefs are shaped so that, when the slider is moved without being in contact with the relief forming a stop, then the first and second reliefs are not in contact and when the slider is in contact with the relief forming a stop, then the first and second reliefs are in contact so as to prevent the slider from moving away from the relief forming a stop; - the relief forming a stop is a non-through longitudinal end of the slot; - the seat assembly comprises two slides separated along a transverse direction of the seat assembly, the seat frame being fixed to the second element of each slide pivoting around the same third transverse axis, a connecting rod is mounted between the first element of each slide and the seat frame, the two connecting rods being joined by means of a cross member, the first end of each connecting rod being mounted pivoting relative to the first element of a respective slide, around the same fourth transverse axis and the second end of each connecting rod being mounted guided in translation relative to the seat frame, along the longitudinal direction, the connecting rods being pivoting relative to the seat frame around the same fifth transverse axis, in the vicinity of their second end, the fifth axis being movable along the longitudinal direction by translation of the second end of the connecting rods; - the seat assembly includes an actuator, preferably a single one, to control the movement of the second element of the at least one slide, relative to the respective first element; and - the seating set includes two seats arranged transversely next to each other.

[0013] Also described is a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising a chassis and a body defining a passenger compartment with a floor, and at least one seat assembly as described above in all its combinations, the fixed element of each slide being fixed to the floor or formed by the floor of the passenger compartment.

[0014] The vehicle may, in particular, include at least one door arranged longitudinally at the level of the seat assembly(ies), and at least one other seat arranged longitudinally behind the seat assembly(ies). The vehicle may not have a door arranged longitudinally at the level of said other seat.

[0015] According to yet another aspect, a method of implementing a vehicle seat assembly as described above in all its combinations is described, allowing the transition from a first configuration adapted to receiving an occupant, to a second easy entry configuration, the method comprising step i) consisting of moving the second element of the at least one slide relative to the first associated element in a direction tending to increase the distance between the third transverse axis and the fourth transverse axis while the second end of the at least one connecting rod is in a stop limiting the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat frame in the longitudinal direction, towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly.

[0016] The method may include a step ii), preceding step i), consisting of moving the second element of the at least one slide relative to the first associated element, until the second end of the at least one connecting rod is against the stop limiting the displacement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat frame in the longitudinal direction, towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly(ies).

[0017] The method may include a step of unlocking the lock, preferably prior to the butting of the second end of the at least one connecting rod limiting the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat frame in the longitudinal direction, towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly(ies). Brief description of the drawings

[0018] Other features and advantages will become apparent during the following description of one embodiment thereof, given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0019] [Fig-1] schematically represents in perspective an example of a set of seat(s) of vehicle in a first nominal configuration for receiving at least one occupant, adapted for receiving at least one occupant, the set of seats being without upholstery;

[0020] [Fig.2] schematically represents in cross-sectional view according to plane II-II, the example of vehicle seat(s) assembly, in the position of [Fig.1], without trim;

[0021] [Fig.3] schematically represents a view analogous to [Fig.2], the seat assembly without trim being in an intermediate configuration, between the nominal configuration of [Fig.1] and an easy entry configuration;

[0022] [Fig.4] schematically represents in perspective, a detail of the seat assembly of [Fig.1] in an intermediate configuration between the configuration of [Fig.1] and the configuration of [Fig.3];

[0023] [Fig.5] schematically represents in perspective, a detail of the seat assembly / s of [Fig.1], the seat assembly / s being in an easy entry configuration;

[0024] [Fig.6] schematically represents a view analogous to [Fig.2], of the seat assembly(ies), without trim, in an easy entry configuration;

[0025] [Fig.7] is a view analogous to [Fig.6], the seat assembly(ies) being in a so-called emergency exit position. Description of the implementation methods

[0026] In the various figures, the same reference numerals designate identical or similar elements. For the sake of brevity, only the elements that are useful for understanding the described embodiment are shown in the figures and are described in detail below.

[0027] In the following description, when referring to positional qualifiers absolute, such as the terms "front", "rear", "up", "down", "left", "right", etc., or relative, such as the terms "above", "below", "superior", "inferior", etc., or to orientation qualifiers, such as "horizontal", "vertical", etc., refers, unless otherwise specified, to the orientation of figures or of a vehicle seat in its normal position of use.

[0028] In particular, the longitudinal direction X refers to the longitudinal direction of the seat assembly(ies). The longitudinal direction of the seat assembly(ies) is considered to be the same as the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle in which the seat assembly(ies) 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 assembly thus corresponds to the transverse or lateral direction of the motor vehicle. This transverse direction is 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 assembly, perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions.

[0029] Figure 1 schematically represents a seat assembly 10 of a motor vehicle. Such a seat assembly 10 is generally located at the rear of a motor vehicle, behind one or more front seats, along the normal direction X of travel of the motor vehicle. The front seat(s) may, in particular, be closer to the steering wheel of the motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may, in particular, include two or three front seats. The front seats may be separate and distinct, or even spaced apart in the transverse direction Y. A console may then be installed between two front seats and in front of the seat assembly 10.

[0030] According to the illustrated example, the seat / s assembly 10 comprises two seats 1, 2. Alternatively, the seat / s assembly 10 may comprise a single seat or more than two seats, in particular three seats or even more than three seats.

[0031] The seat assembly 10 comprises, as illustrated, a seat frame 11 and a backrest frame 12. The backrest frame 12 is pivotally mounted relative to the seat frame 11 about a first transverse axis A1, by means of a hinge 13. The hinge 13, well known to those skilled in the art, is not described in further detail here. The hinge 13 allows the inclination of the backrest frame 12 relative to the seat frame 11 to be adjusted and / or the backrest frame 12 to be folded down opposite the seat frame 11. The hinge 13 can thus allow the entire backrest of the seat assembly 10 to be folded down simultaneously.

[0032] Here, the backrest frame 12 of the seat assembly(ies) 10 defines a frame of backrest 12i of a first seat 1 of the seat assembly 10, and a backrest frame 122 of a second seat 2 of the seat assembly 10. Advantageously, at least a part of the backrest frame 122 of the second seat 2 is pivotally mounted relative to the seat frame 11 around a second transverse axis A2, independently of the backrest frame 12x of the first seat 1. Thus, it is possible to fold down the backrest of the second seat 2 while leaving the backrest frame 12x of the first seat 1 in position to accommodate an occupant of the first seat 1.This is particularly interesting in the illustrated example, where the backrest of the second seat 2, narrower than the backrest of the first seat 1, is intended to be positioned substantially in the middle of the vehicle and can be folded down to be implemented as an armrest for an occupant of the first seat 1, lateral, or of another lateral seat, arranged symmetrically to the first seat 1, with respect to the second seat 2 and which is not formed, in the illustrated example, by the seat assembly(ies) 10.

[0033] The seat frame 12 is mounted here on movable profiles 14, also called slides or male profiles, of rails 15. Each movable profile 14 is associated with a fixed profile 16 in a rail 15. The fixed profile 16 is also called a rail or female profile. The fixed profile 16 is, for example, attached to the floor of the motor vehicle, formed by the body or chassis of the motor vehicle. The fixed profiles 16 and movable profiles 14 of the rails 15 may, in particular, be metallic. A rail 15 is arranged here on each lateral side of the seat frame 12. The rails 15 are thus spaced apart in the transverse direction Y. The two rails 15 are parallel and extend along the longitudinal direction X.

[0034] The seat assembly 10 includes an actuator 17 for synchronously controlling the movement of the movable profile 14 of the two slides 15 relative to the associated fixed profile 16. The actuator 17, which is well known to those skilled in the art, is not described in further detail here. The actuator 17 includes, in particular, a motor 18, preferably a single motor 18. The motor 18 can be arranged, as illustrated in [Fig. 1], between the two slides 15. The actuator 17 is associated with at least one device, not shown but well known to those skilled in the art, for locking the movable profile 14 of one of the slides 15 against the associated fixed profile 16. The actuator 17 is preferably associated with two such locking devices, each locking device allowing the sliding of a respective movable profile 14 to be locked relative to the associated fixed profile 16.Once the locking device(s) is / are unlocked, the movable profiles 14 can slide, under the action of the actuator 17, relative to their respective fixed profiles 16, in the longitudinal direction X of the slides 15, corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the seat assembly(s) 10.

[0035] Alternatively, the movement of the movable profile(s) 14 relative to the fixed profiles 16 associated is obtained by pulling or pushing on the seat frame 11 and / or the backrest frame 12. In this case, the seat assembly 10 may be without actuator 17.

[0036] Each seat 1, 2 may include a headrest (not shown in the figures). For example, sockets 19 for receiving headrest support rods may be integral with the backrest frame 12i, 122 of each seat 1, 2. Here, the sockets 19 are welded to the backrest frame 12i, 122 of seats 1, 2. The headrest support rod(s) may be of variable length to allow height adjustment of the headrest position. Alternatively, or additionally, a headrest frame of each headrest is movable relative to the headrest support rod(s) to allow this height adjustment of the headrest position.

[0037] Each seat 1, 2 also includes a seat frame 1115 112, the two seat frames 1115 112 being formed by the seat frame 11 of the seat assembly 10. Here, the seat frames 111, 112 of the two seats 1, 2 are fixed relative to each other, the two seat frames 111, 112 being here joined together.

[0038] The seat frame 11 of the seat assembly 10 here comprises two side flanges 20, connected by cross members 21. Here, the seat frame 11 comprises three cross members 21, one of which is located near a front end of the seat assembly 10 and two are located near a rear end of the seat assembly 10. A longitudinal member 22 located between the cross member 21 located near the front end of the seat assembly 10 and one of the cross members 21 located near the rear end of the seat assembly 10, delimits the seat frames 1115 112 of the seats 1, 2.

[0039] The seat frame 11 of the seat assembly 10 further comprises two lateral supports 23. Each side flange 20 is rigidly fixed to a respective lateral support 23. Thus, each side flange 20 is integral with a respective lateral support 23. Each lateral support 23 is pivotally mounted about a third transverse axis A3 – common to both lateral supports 23 – relative to a movable profile 14 of a respective slide 15. Thus, here, the third axis A3 is movable along the longitudinal direction X. The third axis A3 is preferably located near a front end of the lateral supports 23 and / or the movable profiles 14 of the slides 15.

[0040] In the position illustrated in [Fig. 1] and [Fig. 2], the pivoting of the lateral supports 23 relative to the third transverse axis A3 is prevented by a lock 24 securing a lateral support 23 to a respective movable profile 14. A lock 24 may be provided on each lateral support 23. For example, each lock 24 comprises a bolt attached to a movable profile 14 of a slide 15, and an associated strike plate attached to the seat frame 11, in particular to one of the lateral supports 23. For example, each bolt is received at least partially in the strike plate in the locking position of the Lock 24, the strike plate releasing the bolt in a lock unlocked position. A control device can operate the lock or both locks synchronously.

[0041] Furthermore, as can be seen in particular in [Fig. 2], each lateral support 23 has a slot 25 extending along the longitudinal direction X of the seat assembly 10. Each slot 25 has a closed rear end 25a. Here, each slot 25 forms a notch at its rear end 25a. The notch is, for example, substantially circular, with a diameter greater than the width of the remainder of the slot 25. According to the illustrated example, each slot 25 also has a closed front end 25b. Thus, each slot 25 has a finite length. The length of each slot 25 is less than the stroke length of the movable profiles 14 within the respective fixed profiles 16.

[0042] The seat assembly 10 further includes a structure 26, here in "H", for connecting the seat frame 11, in particular the lateral supports 23, to the fixed profiles 16 of the slides 15. Thus, the connecting structure 26 includes, according to the illustrated example, two connecting rods 27 linked together by a cross member 28. The two connecting rods 27 and the cross member 28 are thus fixed together.

[0043] The two connecting rods 27 are mounted pivotally relative to a respective fixed profile 16, at one end, around a common, transverse fourth axis A4. This transverse fourth axis A4 is fixed.

[0044] Each connecting rod 27 is also pivotally mounted about a fifth transverse axis A5, at a second end, relative to a slide 29 guided in translation along the longitudinal direction X by the slot 25 of a respective lateral support 23. The fifth transverse axis A5 is thus movable along the longitudinal direction X of the seat assembly 10, by sliding along the longitudinal direction X of the second end of the connecting rod 27.

[0045] The seat assembly 10 further comprises a gas spring 30 (or "gas spring"). In a manner known per se, in such a gas spring 30, a piston forming a first longitudinal end of the gas spring 30 is pushed away from a gas spring body forming a second longitudinal end of the gas spring 30, by a pressurized gas received in a chamber delimited by the piston and the gas spring body.

[0046] The gas spring 30 is here pivotally mounted, at a first end, relative to a movable profile 14 of a slide 15, about a sixth transverse axis A6. The gas spring 30 is further pivotally mounted, at a second end opposite to the first end, relative to the seat frame 11, more precisely here a flange 20 of the seat frame 11, about a seventh transverse axis A7. The sixth and seventh axes A6, A7 are thus movable along the longitudinal direction X of the set of seat(s) 10.

[0047] In the following, with regard to [Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.4], [Fig.5] and [Fig.6], the kinematics allowing modification of the configuration of the seat / s assembly 10, from a first configuration 10A allowing the reception of at least one occupant of the seat / s assembly 10, to an easy entry configuration 10C.

[0048] As shown above in [Fig. 2], the seat assembly 10 is in a 10A configuration allowing for the accommodation of at least one occupant of the seat assembly 10. It should be noted that this 10A configuration for accommodating at least one occupant is variable. In particular: - the backrest frame 12 can be more or less inclined relative to the seat frame 11 around the first transverse axis Al; - the backrest frame 12 can even be folded down opposite the seat frame 11; - The longitudinal position of the movable profiles 14 may differ from that of the fixed profiles 16 of the slides 15, for example, to accommodate occupants of varying heights. The longitudinal position of the movable profiles 14 in the first configuration 10A can, a priori, vary over the entire range permitted by the length of the slot 25, which receives the slide 29.

[0049] In all cases, in this first configuration 10A of the seat assembly 10, the lock(s) 24 are closed, preventing the rotation of the seat frame 11 relative to the movable profiles 14 of the slides 15, around the third transverse axis A3.

[0050] The slide locks 15 are also closed, to prevent relative movement of the movable profiles 14 with respect to the fixed profiles 16.

[0051] From the configuration 10A illustrated in [Fig.2], to move to the configuration 10C for access to the rear seats illustrated in [Fig.6], the opening of the locks of the slides 15 is first commanded and a displacement Fl, along the longitudinal direction X, of the movable profiles 14 of the slides 15 relative to the fixed profiles 16 is moved. This displacement is carried out under the effect of the slide actuator 17.

[0052] During this movement, the slide 29 is moved inside the slot 25, until it comes to rest against the rear end 25a of the slot 25. The seat assembly 10 is then in a second, intermediate configuration 10B, illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0053] Preferably, the lock(s) 24 are locked here over most of the movement Fl. Thus, preferably, the lock(s) 24 are kept locked over most of the movement Fl, preferably substantially until each slide 29 comes to a stop against the rear end 25a of the slot 25. The lock(s) 24 are therefore preferably unlocked when the slide 29 comes to a stop against the rear end 25a of the slot 25, by being received in the notch which there is formed, or just before the slide 29 comes to rest against the rear end 25a of the slot 25. This can be achieved using a position sensor, for example of the slide 29 or of one or more movable profiles 14, an unlocking of the lock(s) 24 being commanded when the movable profile(s) 14 approach or reach the position of [Fig.3], such that the slide 29 is abutted against the rear end 25a of the slot 25. Other means of commanding the unlocking of the lock(s) 24 shortly before the end of the movement Fl, when the slide 29 approaches the rear end 25a of the slot 25, are accessible to those skilled in the art.

[0054] It should be noted that during this movement of the slider 29 in the slot 25, a first relief 31 of the seat reinforcement 11, here of a lateral support 23, shaped to extend in the direction of a respective connecting rod 27 of the connecting structure 26, does not come into contact with a second relief 32 on the respective connecting rod 27. The first relief 31 here takes the form of a cylindrical lug, the axis of which is parallel to the transverse direction Y of the seat assembly 10. The second relief 32 has substantially an "L" shape with a first branch extending along the connecting rod 27 and a second branch extending parallel to the transverse direction Y, up to the vicinity of the lateral support 23 - that is to say that the free end of the second branch of the second relief 32 is at a distance from the lateral support 23 less than the height of the lug forming the first relief 31, measured along the transverse direction Y).Indeed, the lug forming the first relief 31 extends vertically below the second branch of the second relief 32 when the slider 29 travels through the slot 25, without being abutted against the rear end 25a of the slot 25. .

[0055] However, when the slide 29 comes to rest against the rear end 25a of the slot 25, upon being received in the notch formed there, then the first relief 31 is abutted against the second relief 32 as illustrated in [Fig. 5]. Indeed, since the notch is circular here with a diameter greater than the width of the slot 25, the second relief 32 extends vertically lower when the slide 29 is received in the notch than when the same slide 29 travels the rest of the slot 25, and is thus positioned opposite the first relief 31. The abutment between the first and second reliefs 31, 32 then prevents relative movement of the slide 29 in the slot 25 and, consequently, prevents sliding along the direction of the slot 25 of the seat reinforcement 11 relative to the movable profile 14.

[0056] From the intermediate position 10B of [Fig.3], the seat frame 11 is tilted (see arrow F2) forward, around the fourth transverse axis A4, this being made possible by the unlocking of the lock(s) 24 which occurred just before the seat assembly 10 reached the second intermediate configuration 10B or when the seat assembly 10 reached the second intermediate configuration 10B.

[0057] In this case, the continuous displacement F2 of the movable profiles 14 relative to the The fixed profiles 16 tend to increase the distance between the third axis A3, of rotation of the seat reinforcement 11 relative to the movable profiles 14 of the slides 15, on the one hand, and the fourth axis A4, of rotation of the connecting rods 27 relative to the fixed profiles 16 of the slides 15, causes a rotation of the seat reinforcement 11 around the third axis A3, which here results in a forward tilting of the seat reinforcement 11. Advantageously, this rotation of the seat reinforcement 11 around the third axis A3 is supported by the gas spring 30. In other words, the gas spring 30 helps to rotate the seat reinforcement 11 around the third axis A3.Thus, the motor 18 of the actuator 17 can maintain reduced characteristics and dimensions, as the actuator can be primarily used to move the movable profiles 14 relative to the fixed profiles 16, thereby reducing and limiting the contribution of the actuator 17 to the pivoting of the base frame 11 around the third axis A3. The actuator 17 and the motor 18 of the actuator 17 are therefore less bulky, quieter, lighter, and less expensive.

[0058] The rotation of the seat frame 11 allows, at the end of the travel of the movable profiles 14 relative to the fixed profiles 16, to reach the easy entry configuration 10C, illustrated in [Fig. 6]. In this configuration 10C of the seat assembly 10 allowing access to the rear seats, the seat frame 11 is advantageously pivoted forward, around the third axis A3, at an angle between 30° and 45° relative to the first configuration 10A. Thus, the seat assembly 10 frees up a considerable space at its foot, facilitating passage for an individual wishing to reach the seats arranged behind the seat assembly 10. To achieve this forward inclined position of the seat frame 11, the connecting rods 2 are themselves pivoted around the fourth axis A4 by an angle between 75° and 85°.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, the backrest frame 12 forms, in the easy entry configuration 10C, an angle between 70° and 90° with the vertical direction Z, thus limiting the bulk of the backrest of the seat assembly(ies) 10 and further facilitating access to the seats arranged behind the seat assembly(ies) 10.

[0060] To return from the easy entry configuration 10C to the first occupant reception configuration 10A of the seat assembly 10, the actuator 17 is controlled to move F4 the movable profiles 14 relative to the fixed profiles 16, backwards. Initially, as shown in [Fig. 5], the first and second reliefs 31, 32 are in contact, so that the movement of the movable profiles 14, tending to bring the third and fourth axes A3, A4 closer together, causes a rotation F5 of the base reinforcement 11 around the third axis A3 in a clockwise direction on [Fig. 6], tending to fold the base reinforcement 11 into contact with the movable profiles 14 of the slides 15. As the movement F4 continues, the slide 29 is released from the notch at the rear end 25a of the slot 25, so that the first and second reliefs 31, 32 are no longer in stop. The slide 29 can then slide in the slot 25, at the same time as the movable profiles 14 slide in the fixed profiles 16. It is then possible to control the locking of the bolts 24 when they are in a closed position, in which the bolt is received in the strike plate.

[0061] Figure 7 illustrates a fourth configuration 10D of the seat assembly 10, allowing for emergency egress of rear seat occupants, for example in the event of an accident. This configuration 10D differs from the easy-entry configuration 10C in that the movable profiles 14 of the slides 15 are not, a priori, in an extreme forward position (unless a corresponding adjustment is made in the first configuration 10A). Consequently, the slides 29 are not abutted against the rear end 25a of the slot 25 in the lateral supports 23 of the seat frame 11. This fourth configuration 10D is achieved by unlocking the lock(s) 24, for example by means of a lock(s) release device 24 accessible to a rear seat occupant.Next, the occupant of a rear seat can push F6 on the backrest frame 12 to cause a pivoting F7 of the seat frame 11 relative to the movable profiles 14 of the slides 15, around the third axis A3. The gas spring 30 also contributes to the pivoting F7 of the seat frame 11, once the locks are unlocked. The movable profiles 14 are not displaced within the fixed profiles 16 by the push F6.

[0062] As can be seen in [Fig.7], the seat frame 11 is less inclined forward in this fourth configuration 10D than in the easy entry configuration 10C. For example, here, the seat frame 11 is inclined at an angle between 40° and 60° with its position in the first configuration 10A. Similarly, the backrest frame 12 is more inclined relative to the vertical, so that the backrest frame 12 has a larger footprint here than in the easy entry configuration 10C of the seat assembly / s 10. For example, the backrest frame 12 forms an angle between 60° and 70° with the longitudinal direction X in this fourth configuration 10D of the seat assembly / s 10. Likewise, the connecting rods 27 are less inclined relative to the horizontal in this fourth configuration 10D than in the easy entry configuration 10C of the seat assembly / s 10.For example, the connecting rods 27 form an angle between 40° and 60° with the horizontal, particularly with the longitudinal direction X.

[0063] This disclosure is not limited to the examples described above with respect to the figures. On the contrary, this disclosure encompasses all the variants and combinations that a person skilled in the art may consider within the framework of the protection sought.

[0064] In the case of the examples described, the actuator 17 contributes to switching from a confi The seat is configured nominally for easy entry. However, in a degraded version, the seat may lack an actuator 17. In this case, the transition from an occupant reception configuration to the easy entry configuration is at least partially manual: with each lock 24 unlocked, the seat assembly 10 is rotated by applying force in the horizontal longitudinal direction X to the seat assembly 10, particularly to the backrest and / or the seat cushion. This force may be a push, especially if applied by the person behind the seat assembly 10, or a pull if applied by a person from outside the vehicle equipped with the seat assembly 10.

[0065] Preferably, the number of connecting rods 27 of the linking device 26 is equal to the number of slides 15. Alternatively, however, a single connecting rod 27 may be provided, even in the case where the seat assembly 10 includes two slides 15.

[0066] Furthermore, the seat assembly 10 preferably does not include any other connecting rod(s) or other connections between its constituent elements than those described above. Alternatively, however, the seat assembly 10 may include other connecting rods and / or other connections between its constituent elements, particularly to ensure other seat functionalities corresponding to configurations other than those described above.

[0067] Furthermore, in the examples described, a slide 29 is received in a slot 25, the second end of each connecting rod 27 being mounted pivotally about the fifth axis A5 relative to the slide 29. However, those skilled in the art can devise other ways of mounting the second end of each connecting rod 27 pivoting about a movable axis in a longitudinal direction, relative to the seat frame 11. For example, the slide 29 can be mounted on a complementary rib.

[0068] In the example described, a gas spring 30 is used. However, a person skilled in the art could imagine using any linear actuator, that is, any actuator whose length can be modified or adapted, in particular a cylinder. The gas spring 30 appears, however, to be a preferable solution in that it does not, a priori, require an external energy source.

[0069] Finally, in the examples described, the longitudinal displacement of the slides 29—and therefore of the fifth axis A5—is limited by the stop of the slide 29 against the longitudinal end 25a of the slot 25. However, those skilled in the art can devise other means of forming a stop that limits the longitudinal displacement of the slides 29 and, more generally, of the fifth axis A5. For example, the stop can be formed by a relief distinct from the end of the slot 25.

Claims

Claims

1. Vehicle seat assembly / s (10) comprising: - a seat frame (11); - at least one slide (15), the slide comprising a first element (16) and a second element (14) capable of being moved relative to the first element (16), in the longitudinal direction (X) of the vehicle seat(s) assembly (10), - at least one connecting rod (27), - a linear actuator (30), preferably a cylinder, more preferably a gas spring (30), mounted, at a first end, pivoting about a first transverse axis (A6) relative to the second element (14) of the at least one slide (15), the linear actuator (30) being mounted, at a second end, pivoting about a second transverse axis (A7) relative to the seat frame (11), in particular relative to a front end of the seat frame (11), in which: - the seat frame (11) is pivotable relative to the second element (14) of the slide (15), around a third transverse axis (A3), the third transverse axis (A3) being in the vicinity of a front end of the vehicle seat(s) assembly (10), opposite a rear end of the vehicle seat(s) assembly (10) in the longitudinal direction (X); - a first end of the at least one connecting rod (27) is pivotally mounted relative to the first element (16) of the at least one slide (15), around a fourth transverse axis (A4); - the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) is mounted guided in translation relative to the seat frame (11), in the longitudinal direction (X), the at least one connecting rod (27) being pivotable relative to the seat frame (11) around a fifth transverse axis (A5), movable in the longitudinal direction (X) by translation of the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) relative to the seat frame (11); - a stop limiting the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) relative to the seat frame (11) in the longitudinal direction (X), towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly (10); - the length of the stroke of the second element (14) relative to the first element (16) of the at least one slide (15), the length of the at least one connecting rod (27) and the position of the stop being shaped so that a movement (F2) of the second element (14) relative to the first element (16) of the at least one slide (15) tending to increase the distance between the third transverse axis (A3) and the fourth transverse axis (A4), while the second end of the connecting rod (27) is in abutment limiting the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) relative to the seat frame (11) in the longitudinal direction (X), towards the rear end of the vehicle seat / s assembly (10), causes a rotation (F3) of the seat frame (11) around the third transverse axis (A3), supported by the action of the linear actuator (30).

2. A seat assembly / s according to claim 1, comprising a lock (24) for selectively securing a rear end of the seat frame (11) to the second element (14) of the at least one slide (15).

3. Seat assembly / s according to claim 2, comprising a device for unlocking the lock (24) at least when the second end of the connecting rod (27) is in abutment limiting the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) relative to the seat frame (11) in the longitudinal direction (X), towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly / s (10).

4. Seat assembly / s according to one of the preceding claims, in which the seat frame (11) comprises a slot (25) or a rib, a slider (29) being received in the slot (25) or on the rib, sliding in the longitudinal direction (X), the slider (29) being fixed in the vicinity of the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27), fixed or free to rotate around a transverse axis (A5).

5. Seat assembly / s according to claim 4, in which the stop is formed by a relief (25a) adapted to cooperate with the slider (29) to limit the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) relative to the seat frame (11) in the longitudinal direction (X).

6. Seat assembly / s according to claim 5, in which the seat frame (11) comprises a first relief (31), the at least one connecting rod (27) comprises a second relief (32) and the first and second reliefs (31, 32) are shaped so that, when the slider (29) is moved without being in contact with the relief (25a) forming a stop, then the first and second relief (31, 32) are not in contact and when the slider (29) is in contact with the relief (25a) forming a stop, then the first and second reliefs (31, 32) are in contact so as to prevent the slider (29) from moving away from the relief (25a) forming a stop.

7. Seat assembly / s according to one of claims 4 to 6, in which the relief forming a stop is a non-opening longitudinal end (25a) of the slot (25).

8. Seat assembly / s according to any one of the preceding claims comprising two slides (15) spaced apart in a transverse direction (Y) of the seat assembly / s (10), the seat frame (11) being fixed to the second element (14) of each slide (15) pivoting about the same third transverse axis (A3), a connecting rod (27) is mounted between the first element (16) of each slide (15) and the seat frame (11), the two connecting rods (27) being secured by means of a crosspiece (28), the first end of each connecting rod (27) being pivotally mounted relative to the first element (16) of a respective slide (15), about the same fourth transverse axis (A4) and the second end of each connecting rod (27) being mounted guided in translation relative to the seat frame (11), in the longitudinal direction (X), the connecting rods (27) being pivoting relative to the seat frame (11) around the same fifth transverse axis (A5),in the vicinity of their second end, the fifth axis (A5) being movable in the longitudinal direction (X) by translation of the second end of the connecting rods (27).,

9. Seat assembly / s according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an actuator (17), preferably a single one, for controlling the movement of the second element (14) of the at least one slide (15), relative to the respective first element (16).

10. Seat assembly / s according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising two seats (1,2) arranged transversely next to each other.

11. A method of implementing a vehicle seat assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, allowing the passage from a first configuration (10A) adapted to receive an occupant, to a second configuration (10C) for easy entry, the method comprising step i) of moving the second element (14) of the at least one slide (15) relative to the associated first element (16) in a direction (X) tending to increase the distance between the third transverse axis (A3) and the fourth transverse axis (A4) while the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) is in abutment limiting the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) relative to the seat frame (11) in the longitudinal direction (X), towards the rear end of the vehicle seat / s assembly (10).

12. Method according to claim 11 comprising a step ii), preceding step i), consisting of moving the second element (14) of the at least one slide (15) relative to the associated first element (16), until the second end of the at least one connecting rod is in abutment limiting the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) relative to the seat frame (11) in the longitudinal direction (X), towards the rear end of the vehicle seat(s) assembly (10).

13. Method according to claim 11 or 12, the seat assembly / s being according to claim 2, comprising a step of unlocking the lock, preferably prior to the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) being brought into abutment, limiting the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod (27) relative to the seat frame (11) in the longitudinal direction (X), towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly / s (10).

Images