Set of vehicle seats with reclining seat for easy access to the rear seats

Abstract

In a seat assembly (10), a seat frame (11) is pivotable relative to a movable element (14) of a slide (15). A connecting rod (27), connected 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 length of the stroke of the slide (15), the connecting rod (27) and the stop are shaped so that a deployment of the slide (15) while the connecting rod (27) is in contact with the stop, 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). Abstract figure: [Fig. 6]

Description

Title of the invention: Set of vehicle seats with reclining seat to facilitate access to the rear seats Technical field

[0001] The present description relates to a vehicle seat assembly / s. A method of implementing such a vehicle seat assembly / s is also described. Prior art

[0002] In the automotive field, in particular, a vehicle seat is known which is configured to be able to have a position facilitating access to the seats located behind the seat (or so-called "easy entry position"). Such a seat is generally implemented in a vehicle comprising a number of pairs of doors which is less than the number of rows of seats, to allow access to the last row of seats in the vehicle, i.e. 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, in particular the back of the vehicle seat. When the seat is mounted on slides, the easy entry position can advantageously also correspond to a position of the seat, as far forward as possible towards the front of 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 slides, 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 use of an oversized motor compared to its sole use to move the vehicle seat longitudinally along the slides.

[0006] It was then proposed, for example in application FR-A-3 116 771, to implement a spring between a connecting rod for controlling the tilting of the vehicle seat into its easy entry position and a lock for fixing the seat to the movable part of one of the slides. In particular, the connecting rod for controlling the tilting 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 tilting of the vehicle seat into its easy entry position, against the stress 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 has proven difficult to control the pivot voting of such a vehicle seat, with such a spring.

[0007] It has also been proposed, in application FR 22 04922, unpublished, to implement a torsion bar to control the tilting of the vehicle seat, when the lock holding the seat frame fixed to the movable part of at least one of the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

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

[0009] The present disclosure aims to improve the situation.

[0010] To this end, a vehicle seat(s) assembly is described 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, in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle seat(s) assembly, - at least one connecting rod, - a linear actuator, preferably a jack, more preferably a gas spring, mounted, at a first end, pivoting about a first transverse axis relative to the second element of the at least one slide, the linear actuator being mounted, at a second end, pivoting about a second transverse axis relative to the seat frame, in particular relative to a front end of the seat frame, in which: - the seat frame is pivotable 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(s) assembly, opposite a rear end of the vehicle seat(s) assembly in the longitudinal direction; - a first end of the at least one connecting rod is pivotally mounted relative to the first element of the at least one slide, around a fourth transverse axis; - the second end of the at least one connecting rod is mounted guided in translation relative to the seat frame, in the longitudinal direction, the at least one connecting rod being pivotable relative to the seat frame around a fifth transverse axis, movable in the longitudinal direction by translation of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat frame; - 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 / s; - 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 shaped so that a movement 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 abutment 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, 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 / s into the easy entry configuration. The slide actuator, if the vehicle seat assembly / s includes one, can then be smaller in size and therefore less expensive and less costly. In the absence of such a slide actuator, then the effort required of an individual to move the seat assembly / s into its easy entry configuration is less.

[0012] According to preferred embodiments, the seat assembly / s comprises one or more of the following features, taken alone or in combination: - the seat assembly / s comprises a lock for selectively securing a rear end of the seat frame to the second element of the at least one slide; - the seat assembly / s comprises a device for unlocking the lock at least when the second end of the connecting rod is in abutment 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 / s; - the seat frame comprises a slot or a rib, a slider being received in the slot or on the rib, sliding in the longitudinal direction, the slider 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 slider to limit the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat frame in the longitudinal direction; - the seat frame comprises a first relief, the at least one connecting rod comprises 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-opening longitudinal end of the slot; - the seat assembly / s comprises two slides spaced apart in a transverse direction of the seat assembly / s, 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 secured by means of a crosspiece, 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, in 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 in the longitudinal direction by translation of the second end of the connecting rods; - the seat assembly / s comprises an actuator, preferably a single one, for controlling the movement of the second element of the at least one slide, relative to the respective first element; and - the seat set / s comprises 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 set of seat(s) 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 comprise at least one door arranged longitudinally at the level of the seat assembly / s, and at least one other seat arranged longitudinally behind the seat assembly / s. The vehicle may not have a door arranged longitudinally at the level of said other seat.

[0015] According to yet another aspect, there is described a method of implementing a vehicle seat assembly as described above in all its combinations, allowing the passage from a first configuration adapted to the reception of an occupant, to a second configuration of easy entry, the method comprising step i) consisting of moving the second element of the at least one slide relative to the associated first 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 abutment 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 comprise a step ii), preceding step i), consisting of moving the second element of the at least one slide relative to the associated first element, 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 relative to the seat frame in the longitudinal direction, towards the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly / s.

[0017] The method may comprise a step of unlocking the lock, preferably prior to the second end of the at least one connecting rod being brought into abutment, 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 / s. Brief description of the drawings

[0018] Other characteristics and advantages will appear during the following description of one of its embodiments, given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings:

[0019] [Fig-1] schematically represents in perspective an example of a seat assembly / s of vehicle in a first nominal configuration for receiving at least one occupant, adapted to receive at least one occupant, the set of seats being devoid of upholstery;

[0020] [Fig.2] schematically represents in sectional view along plane II-II, the example of a vehicle seat assembly / s, in the position of [Fig.l], without upholstery;

[0021] [Fig.3] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.2], the seat assembly / s without upholstery being in an intermediate configuration, between the nominal configuration of [Fig.l] and an easy entry configuration;

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

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

[0024] [Fig.6] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.2], of the seat assembly / s, without upholstery, in an easy entry configuration;

[0025] [Fig.7] is a view similar to [Fig.6], the seat assembly / s being in a so-called emergency exit position. Description of the embodiments

[0026] 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.

[0027] In the following description, when referring to position qualifiers absolute, such as the terms "front", "back", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", etc., or relative, such as the terms "above", "below", "upper", "lower", etc., or orientation qualifiers, such as "horizontal", "vertical", etc., unless otherwise specified, reference is made to the orientation of figures or a vehicle seat in its normal position of use.

[0028] In particular, the longitudinal direction X means the longitudinal direction of the seat assembly(s). The longitudinal direction of the seat assembly(s) is considered to be the same as the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle in which the seat assembly(s) 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(s) 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 assembly(s), perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions.

[0029] [Fig.l] schematically represents a set of motor vehicle seats 10. Such a set of seats 10 is generally arranged at the rear of a motor vehicle, behind one or more so-called front seats, in the direction X of normal movement of the motor vehicle. The front seat(s) may in particular be closer to a steering wheel of the motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may in particular comprise two or three front seats. The front seats may be distinct and separate, or even distant from each other in the transverse direction Y. A console may then be placed between two front seats, and in front of the set of seats 10.

[0030] According to the illustrated example, the seat assembly / s 10 comprises two seats 1, 2. Alternatively, the seat assembly / s 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 / s 10 comprises, as illustrated, a seat frame 11 and a backrest frame 12. The backrest frame 12 is here pivotally mounted relative to the seat frame 11 about a first transverse axis A1, by means of an articulation device 13. The articulation device 13, well known to those skilled in the art, is not described in more detail here. The articulation device 13 makes it possible to adjust the inclination of the backrest frame 12 relative to the seat frame 11 and / or to fold the backrest frame 12 opposite the seat frame 11. The articulation device 13 can thus make it possible to fold the entire backrest of the seat assembly / s 10 simultaneously.

[0032] Here, the backrest frame 12 of the seat assembly / s 10 defines a frame of backrest 12i of a first seat 1 of the seat assembly / s 10, and a backrest frame 122 of a second seat 2 of the seat assembly / s 10. Advantageously, at least a portion 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 receive 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 arranged substantially in the middle of the vehicle and can be folded down to be used as an armrest for an occupant of the first seat 1, lateral, or of another lateral seat, arranged symmetrically to the first seat 1, relative to the second seat 2 and which is not formed, in the illustrated example, by the seat assembly / s 10. .

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

[0034] The seat assembly / s 10 comprises 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, well known to those skilled in the art, is not described in more detail here. The actuator 17 comprises in particular a motor 18, preferably a single motor 18. The motor 18 may be arranged, as illustrated in [Fig.l] between the two slides 15. The actuator 17 is associated with at least one device, not illustrated and well known to those skilled in the art, for locking in translation the movable profile 14 of one of the slides 15 relative to the associated fixed profile 16, the actuator 17 preferably being associated with two such translation locking devices, each locking device making it possible to lock the sliding of a respective movable profile 14 relative to the associated fixed profile 16.Once the locking device(s) 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 associated fixed profiles 16 is obtained by pulling or pushing on the seat frame 11 and / or the backrest frame 12. In this case, the seat assembly / s 10 may be without an actuator 17.

[0036] Each seat 1, 2 may comprise 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 the seats 1, 2. The headrest support rod(s) may be of variable length to allow height adjustment of the position of the headrest. Alternatively or in addition, a headrest frame of each headrest is movable relative to the headrest support rod(s) to allow this height adjustment of the position of the headrest.

[0037] Each seat 1, 2 further comprises a seat frame 1115 112, the two seat frames 1115 112 being formed by the seat frame 11 of the seat assembly / s 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 integral.

[0038] The seat frame 11 of the seat assembly / s 10 here comprises two lateral flanges 20, connected by crosspieces 21. Here, the seat frame 11 comprises three crosspieces 21, one of which is arranged in the vicinity of a front end of the seat assembly / s 10 and two of which are arranged in the vicinity of a rear end of the seat assembly / s 10. A longitudinal member 22 arranged between the crosspiece 21 arranged in the vicinity of the front end of the seat assembly / s 10 and one of the crosspieces 21 arranged in the vicinity of the rear end of the seat assembly / s 10, delimits the seat frames 1115 112 of the seats 1, 2.

[0039] The seat frame 11 of the seat assembly / s 10 further comprises two lateral supports 23. Each lateral flange 20 is rigidly fixed to a respective lateral support 23. Thus, each lateral 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 arranged in the vicinity of 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.l] 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 secured to a movable profile 14 of a slide 15, and an associated striker, secured 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 striker, in the locking position of the lock 24, the strike plate releasing the bolt in a lock unlocking position. A control member can control the lock or both locks in a synchronized manner.

[0041] Furthermore, as can be seen in particular in [Fig. 2], each lateral support 23 has a slot 25, extending in the longitudinal direction X of the seat assembly / s 10. Each slot 25 has a rear end 25a, which is plugged. 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 rest of the slot 25. According to the example illustrated, each slot 25 also has a front end 25b, which is also plugged. Thus, each slot 25 is of finite length. The length of each slot 25 is less than the length of the stroke of the movable profiles 14 in the respective fixed profiles 16.

[0042] The seat assembly / s 10 also comprises a structure 26, here in “H” shape, 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 comprises, according to the example illustrated, two connecting rods 27 connected together by a crosspiece 28. The two connecting rods 27 and the crosspiece 28 are thus integral.

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

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

[0045] The seat assembly / s 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 back 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, around a sixth transverse axis A6. The gas spring 30 is further pivotally mounted, at a second end opposite the first end, relative to the seat frame 11, more precisely here a flange 20 of the seat frame 11, around a seventh transverse axis A7. The sixth and seventh axes A6, A7 are thus movable in the longitudinal direction X of the seat assembly / s 10.

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

[0048] As indicated above, in [Fig.2], the seat assembly / s 10 is in a configuration 10A allowing the reception of at least one occupant of the seat assembly / s 10. It should be noted that this configuration 10A for receiving 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 A1; - the backrest frame 12 can even be folded down opposite the seat frame 11; - the longitudinal position of the movable profiles 14 may be different from the fixed profiles 16 of the slides 15, for example to accommodate occupants of varying height. The longitudinal position of the movable profiles 14 in the first configuration 10A may a priori vary over the entire range permitted by the length of the slot 25, receiving the slide 29.

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

[0050] The locks of the slides 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 into the configuration 10C for access to the rear seats illustrated in [Fig.6], the opening of the locks of the slides 15 and a movement F1, in the longitudinal direction X, of the movable profiles 14 of the slides 15 relative to the fixed profiles 16 are first controlled. This movement is carried out under the effect of the slide actuator 17.

[0052] During this movement, the slider 29 is moved inside the slot 25, until it comes into abutment at the rear end 25a of the slot 25. The seat assembly / s 10 is then in a second, intermediate configuration 10B, illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0053] Preferably, the lock(s) 24 are here locked over the greater part of the displacement F1. Thus, preferably, the lock(s) 24 are kept locked over the greater part of the displacement F1, preferably substantially until each slider 29 comes into abutment against the rear end 25a of the slot 25. The lock(s) 24 are therefore preferably unlocked when the slider 29 comes into abutment against the rear end 25a of the slot 25, being received in the notch therein. is formed, or just before the slider 29 comes to a stop on the rear end 25a of the slot 25. This can be achieved using a position sensor, for example of the slider 29 or of one or more movable profiles 14, an unlocking of the lock(s) 24 being controlled when the movable profile(s) 14 approach or reach the position of [Fig. 3], such that the slider 29 is in a stop at the rear end 25a of the slot 25. Other means for controlling the unlocking of the lock(s) 24 shortly before the end of the movement F1, when the slider 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 frame 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 / s 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 in the transverse direction Y).Indeed, the lug forming the first relief 31 extends here vertically below the second branch of the second relief 32 when the slide 29 travels through the slot 25, without being in abutment against the rear end 25a of the slot 25.

[0055] However, when the slider 29 comes into abutment against the rear end 25a of the slot 25, being received in the notch formed therein, then the first relief 31 is in abutment against the second relief 32 as illustrated in [Fig. 5]. Indeed, the notch here being circular with a diameter greater than the width of the slot 25, the second relief 32 extends vertically lower, when the slider 29 is received in the notch, than when this same slider 29 travels the rest of the slot 25, and is opposite the first relief 31. The abutment between the first and second reliefs 31, 32 then prevents a relative movement of the slider 29 in the slot 25 and, in doing so, a sliding in the direction of the slot 25, of the seat frame 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) forwards, around the fourth transverse axis A4, this being made possible by the unlocking of the lock(s) 24 occurring just before the seat assembly / s 10 reaches the second intermediate configuration 10B or when the seat assembly / s 10 has reached the second intermediate configuration 10B.

[0057] In this case, the continuous displacement F2 of the movable profiles 14 relative to the fixed profiles 16, tends to increase the distance between the third axis A3, of rotation of the seat frame 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 frame 11 around the third axis A3, which here results in a forward tilting of the seat frame 11. Here, advantageously, this rotation of the seat frame 11 around the third axis A3 is supported by the gas spring 30. In other words, the gas spring 30 contributes to pivoting the seat frame 11 around the third axis A3.Thus, the motor 18 of the actuator 17 can retain reduced characteristics and dimensions, the actuator being able to be mainly implemented to move the movable profiles 14 relative to the fixed profiles 16, the contribution of the actuator 17 to the pivoting of the seat frame 11 around the third axis A3 being able to be reduced, limited. The actuator 17 and the motor 18 of the actuator 17 are thus less bulky, less noisy, less heavy 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 / s 10 allowing access to the rear seats, the seat frame 11 is advantageously pivoted forward, around the third axis A3, by an angle of between 30° and 45° relative to the first configuration 10A. Thus, the seat assembly / s 10 frees up a substantial amount of space at its foot, facilitating passage for an individual wishing to reach the seats arranged behind the seat assembly / s 10. To achieve this forward-leaning position of the seat frame 11, the connecting rods 2 are themselves pivoted, around the fourth axis A4 by an angle of between 75° and 85°.

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

[0060] To return from the easy entry configuration 10C to the first configuration 10A for receiving occupants of the seat assembly / s 10, the actuator 17 is controlled to move F4 the movable profiles 14 relative to the fixed profiles 16, towards the rear. 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 together causes a rotation F5 of the seat frame 11 around the third axis A3 in the clockwise direction in [Fig. 6], tending to fold the seat frame 11 into contact with the movable profiles 14 of the slides 15. As the movement F4 continues, the slide 29 is unlocked 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 abutment. The slider 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 locks 24 when they are in a closed position, in which the bolt is received in the strike plate.

[0061] [Fig. 7] illustrates a fourth configuration 10D of the seat assembly / s 10, allowing emergency exit of the occupants of the rear seats, 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 there is a corresponding adjustment in the first configuration 10A). Consequently, the slides 29 are not in abutment at 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 device for unlocking the lock(s) 24 accessible to an occupant of a rear seat.Then, 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 moved in the fixed profiles 16 by the thrust 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 of between 40° and 60° with its position in the first configuration 10A. Likewise, the backrest frame 12 is more inclined relative to the vertical, so that the backrest frame 12 here has a larger footprint than its footprint in the easy entry configuration 10C of the seat assembly / s 10. For example, the backrest frame 12 forms an angle of between 60° and 70° with the longitudinal direction X in this fourth configuration 10D of the seat assembly / s 10. Similarly, 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 of between 40° and 60° with the horizontal, in particular with the longitudinal direction X.

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

[0064] In the case of the examples described, the actuator 17 contributes to switching from a confi nominal configuration to an easy entry configuration. The seat may however, in a degraded version, be without an actuator 17. In this case, the transition from a configuration for receiving an occupant to the easy entry configuration is carried out at least partially manually: each lock 24 being unlocked, the seat assembly / s 10 is pivoted by exerting a force in the horizontal longitudinal direction X, on the seat assembly / s 10, in particular on the backrest and / or the seat. This force may be a push, in particular if it is exerted by the person behind the seat assembly / s 10, or a pull if it is exerted in particular by a person from outside the vehicle equipped with the seat assembly / s 10.

[0065] Preferably, the number of connecting rods 27 of the connecting 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 comprises two slides 15.

[0066] Furthermore, the seat assembly / s 10 preferably does not comprise any other connecting rod / s, nor any other connection / s between these constituent elements than those described previously. Alternatively, however, the seat assembly / s 10 may comprise other connecting rods and / or other connections between these constituent elements, in particular in order to ensure other functionalities of the seat, corresponding to other configurations than those described previously.

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

[0068] In the example described, a gas spring 30 is implemented. However, a person skilled in the art can imagine implementing any suitable linear actuator, i.e. any actuator whose length can be modified, in particular a jack. The gas spring 30, however, appears 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 - therefore of the fifth axis A5 - is limited by the stop of the slide 29 against the longitudinal end 25a of the slot 25. Those skilled in the art can however design other means of forming a stop limiting the longitudinal displacement of the slide 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(s) assembly (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).

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