Vehicle seat and vehicle comprising such a seat

Abstract

Seat (1) for a vehicle, the seat (1) comprising a frame (2) intended to be rigidly fixed to a chassis of the vehicle, a first panel (7) called the seat panel and a second panel (8) called the back panel, the seat panel (7) and the back panel (8) being articulated relative to each other so that the seat (1) can take at least the following two positions: A seated position; A reclined position, the seat (1) further comprising at least a third panel (18) called the elongation panel, articulated on the one hand relative to the back panel (8), so that: in the seated position, the elongation panel (18) is substantially folded against the back panel (8); in the reclined position, the elongation panel (18) and the back panel (8) are substantially in the extension of each other in the longitudinal direction. Figure for the abstract: figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Vehicle seat and vehicle comprising such a seat FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of passenger transport vehicles, and more particularly to vehicles known as motorhomes or caravans, i.e. vehicles comprising a living space.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to a seat for such a vehicle, the seat being transformed to provide a sleeping surface, i.e. intended to receive a user in a lying position. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

[0003] In the field of motor vehicles, it is known to have one or more seats comprising a seat and a backrest, the backrest being tiltable relative to the seat to allow a passenger to assume a quasi-reclining position, more comfortable than a seated position. Such seats are commonly found at the front of passenger cars and utility vehicles. However, the position can only be quasi-reclining, the tilt of the backrest being limited by the rear seats, and / or in order to maintain a space at the rear of the car that is sufficient for a passenger seated at the rear of the car

[0004] Motorhomes or caravans are vehicles comprising a living space, that is to say a space in which there are equipment relevant to the accommodation, such as a table, a kitchen area, a sleeping area. These include motorhomes and caravans. The living space also comprises a bench seat, possibly associated with a table, and a sleeping area. In order to optimize the living space, it is known to have a bench seat that transforms into a sleeping area to provide a sleeping surface.

[0005] For this purpose, it is known, for example, to use two benches facing each other on either side of a table. The table is lowered to be in a low position in line with the seats of the two benches, so as to obtain a substantially flat horizontal surface intended for sleeping. The cushions on the back of the benches can be removed to be used as mattresses for sleeping.

[0006] However, the operations to be carried out to transform the bench seat into a bed are tedious. In addition, the bench seat cannot be used as a seat while the vehicle is moving.

[0007] Document CN215621554 describes a vehicle seat that transforms into a bed by pivoting the backrest relative to the seat by operating a handle. However, a This solution does not address the problem of possible clutter behind the seat back. However, it is common in a recreational vehicle to place a seat in the living space with the back against a wall.

[0008] Document US3282625 describes an example of a vehicle seat convertible into a sleeper, in which the seat comprises a seat and a backrest each covered with a cushion fixed to the metal structure of the seat. In a seated position, the seat and the backrest of the seat are inclined relative to each other, while in a lying position, the seat and the backrest are substantially in the same horizontal plane. During movement from the seated position to the lying position, the backrest and the seat are pivoted relative to each other, and the axis of rotation between the backrest and the seat is also slid longitudinally in order to move the backrest away from any wall against which it is applied in the seated position. To prevent the seat from moving from the seated position to the lying position while the vehicle is moving, for example under the effect of sudden braking, the seat is locked in the seated position by locking means.The locking means consist of a notch on the metal structure that supports the seat. The notch abuts against a bar fixed to the vehicle chassis. To unlock the transition from the sitting position to the lying position, the seat must be lifted to disengage the notch from the bar and allow the seat to pivot relative to the backrest.

[0009] Such a solution does not provide complete satisfaction.

[0010] First of all, the seat is sized to find a compromise between comfort of the passenger seated on the seat and space requirement, so that the surface area of ​​the seat and the surface area of ​​the backrest are limited. However, the sleeping surface, which corresponds to the sum of the surface area of ​​the seat and the surface area of ​​the backrest, is also limited, and may be insufficient to allow an adult user to lie down comfortably.

[0011] Furthermore, locking in the sitting position is not reliable, since vibrations or jolts on the road can cause the seat to lift while the vehicle is moving, and thus unexpectedly unlock the lying position.

[0012] In document CN215621554 already presented above, the seat and the backrest each comprise a support bar which slides transversely so as to form a support for a cushion. Thus, the sleeping surface is increased transversely. However, it remains limited longitudinally. Furthermore, in this document, the backrest is pivoted relative to the seat to move from the sitting position to the lying position, requiring that there is sufficient space to position the backrest

[0013] The invention thus aims to provide a solution at least to the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0014] A first object of the invention is to propose a vehicle seat which can be transformed into a bed and which can provide a comfortable sleeping surface.

[0015] A second object of the invention is to propose a vehicle seat which can be transformed into a bed adapted to the reduced space of a habitable vehicle.

[0016] A third object of the invention is to provide a vehicle seat which can be transformed into a bed and which is easy to move from the seat position to the bed position, and vice versa.

[0017] A fourth object of the invention is to propose a vehicle seat which can be transformed into a bed adapted to road safety requirements.

[0018] A fifth object of the invention is to provide a vehicle seat convertible into a berth which can easily be installed in a vehicle. Summary of the invention

[0019] Thus, according to a first aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle seat, also called a bench seat. The seat comprises a frame intended to be rigidly fixed to a chassis of the vehicle, in accordance with the regulations in force, a first panel called a seat panel and a second panel called a backrest panel. The seat panel and the backrest panel are articulated relative to each other around at least a first axis of rotation extending in a transverse direction so that the seat can take at least the following two positions: • a sitting position in which the back panel and the seat panel are inclined relative to each other at substantially right angles; • a lying position in which the back panel and the seat panel are substantially in line with each other in a longitudinal direction, so as to form a sleeping surface.

[0020] More specifically, in the seated position, the inclination between the seat panel and the backrest panel is not strictly equal to 90°, but corresponds to the inclination required by the regulations and / or recommendations relating to automobile seats.

[0021] The seat further comprises a sliding system for integrally moving the seat panel and the back panel relative to the seat frame in a longitudinal direction, and a locking system for locking and unlocking the sliding system at least when the seat is in the seated position. Preferably, the locking system can prevent any movement of the seat panel relative to the frame, when the seat is in the seated position.

[0022] The seat further comprises at least one third so-called extension panel, articulated on the one hand relative to the backrest panel around at least one second axis of rotation extending in the transverse direction, distinct from the first transverse axis, and on the other hand relative to the frame around at least one third transverse axis distinct from the first transverse axis and the second transverse axis, so that: • in the seated position, the extension panel is substantially folded down against the back panel; • in the lying position, the lying panel and the back panel are substantially in line with each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0023] The seat in the lying position then forms a berth and makes it possible to obtain a sleeping length greater than that obtained solely by the seat panel and the back panel, so as to offer improved comfort to a user. The size of the seat in the sitting position is however not increased, remaining similar to that caused by the seat panel and back panel alone. The seat is thus particularly suitable for equipping a vehicle of the motorhome or caravan type.

[0024] According to different aspects, it is possible to provide one and / or the other of the characteristics below taken alone or in combination.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the locking system comprises at least one latch rigidly fixed to at least one of the seat panel or the back panel, and which comprises at least one lock rigidly fixed to the frame, the locking system being able to take two positions: • A locked position, in which the latch is blocked in the lock, with the seat in the seated position; • An unlocked position, in which the latch is moved away from the lock.

[0026] The locking system moves from the locked position to the unlocked position by actuating a locking finger. The locking system thus makes it possible to provide locking of the seating position of the seat, to prevent any movement of the panels while the vehicle is moving. In particular, the latch / lock system is robust and reliable, and completely blocks any sliding and / or rotational movement of the seat panels. The seat thus meets safety requirements.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the sliding system is of the slide type, and comprises at least one longitudinal rail on the frame and at least one slide on the seat panel cooperating with said rail. The sliding system makes it possible to obtain the longitudinal movement of the panels efficiently.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the slide may comprise at least one longitudinal slide bar mounted to slide on the rail, the slide being able to take at least two positions: • A retracted position, in which the length of the slide bar outside the rail in the longitudinal direction is minimal, the seat being in the seated position; • A deployed position, in which the length of the slide bar outside the rail in the longitudinal direction is maximum, the seat being in position lying down.

[0029] The slide bar allows the seat panel to be fixed thereto to cause movement between the two positions of the seat. The bar may be telescopic, for example in at least two sections, so as to increase the maximum stroke to allow the seat to move into the reclined position by moving the at least three panels.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the seat panel may comprise a plate provided with hooks to form a safety system, for example of the Isofix and / or Lsize type, intended for attaching a child seat. The safety system moves with the seat panel, so that it does not interfere with the other panels when the seat moves between its two positions. The safety system allows the seat to be used in a manner identical to a vehicle seat, and meeting safety requirements.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the seat may comprise a lateral extension system, which comprises at least one support intended to support a cushion. Said support is slidably mounted on at least one of said panels in a transverse direction. The lateral extension system can then take at least two positions: • A retracted position in which the bracket is integrated into the panel on which the bracket is mounted; • A deployed position in which the bracket is at least partially extended out of the panel on which it is mounted.

[0032] The extension system thus makes it possible to laterally increase the surface area of ​​at least one panel when the seat is in the lying position. In practice, each panel is provided with a lateral extension system, making it possible to laterally increase the entire sleeping surface.

[0033] According to one embodiment, said support may be provided with a pivoting foot intended to come into contact with a floor of the vehicle when the support is in the deployed position. The robustness and balance of the seat in the lying position are improved.

[0034] According to one embodiment, at least one of the seat panel, the back panel and the extension panel on which the support is mounted comprises a cushion. The support in the retracted position can then be integrated into the cushion of the panel on which the support is mounted. The support in the retracted position is thus invisible, and can be easily revealed to move into the deployed position. The aesthetics are increased, and handling is facilitated. It is preferably on the lower side of the cushions of the panels, so that a user sitting on the seat in a seated position or a user lying on the seat in a lying position does not feel them.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the lateral extension system may comprise at least least three brackets, each bracket being mounted on one of the seat panel, the back panel and the extension panel.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the backrest panel may comprise at least one headrest. The extension panel may then comprise a negatively shaped housing for the headrest, so that in the reclined position the headrest of the backrest panel is inserted into the housing of the extension panel. Comfort in both the seated and reclined positions of the seat is increased.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the seat may comprise an actuator for moving the seat from the sitting position to the lying position and vice versa, the actuator comprising at least one electrically controlled cylinder. The cylinder may bear on the one hand on the frame and on the other hand on the lying panel. The transition from one position to the other is done without effort for the user. Optionally, the cylinder may be manually disengageable, so as to be able to move the seat from one position to the other even in the event of failure of the cylinder.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the seat may comprise at least one safety belt with at least two points, and preferably at least three points, in order to be able to use the seat while the vehicle is moving, and depending on the safety requirements according to the countries.

[0039] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle, for example of the motorhome or caravan type, comprising at least one seat as presented above. The vehicle thus offers, in a reduced space, the possibility of quickly and easily obtaining a berth which is particularly comfortable. Brief description of the drawings

[0040] Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, briefly described below:

[0041] [Fig.l] represents a three-dimensional elevated view of a seat convertible into a bed for a vehicle, according to one embodiment, in a seated position.

[0042] [Fig.2] represents a side view of the seat of [Fig.l].

[0043] [Fig.3] represents a top view of the seat of [Fig.l], on which panels have been removed.

[0044] [Fig.4] represents a three-dimensional view from below of the seat without the panels of [Fig.3].

[0045] [Fig.5] represents a detailed view of a locking system of the seat of figures 1 to 4 and 6 to 12.

[0046] [Fig.6] shows a view similar to that of [Fig.l], the seat being in an intermediate position between the sitting position of [Fig.l], and a lying position.

[0047] [Fig.7] represents a side view of the seat of [Fig.6].

[0048] [Fig.8] shows a top view of the seat of [Fig.6], on which panels have been removed.

[0049] [Fig.9] represents a three-dimensional view from below of the seat without the panels of [Fig.7].

[0050] [Fig. 10] shows a view similar to that of [Fig.l] and [Fig.6], the seat being in a reclined position.

[0051] [Fig.11] shows a side view of the seat of [Fig.10], a side extension system being in the deployed position.

[0052] [Fig. 12] represents a three-quarter top view of the seat of [Fig. 11].

[0053] In the drawings, like references designate like objects or if military. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] In Figures 1 to 12, a seat 1 is shown that can be transformed into a bed. The seat 1 is particularly intended to be embarked and installed in a vehicle comprising a living space, in particular a so-called habitable or leisure vehicle. Such a vehicle is for example an automobile, such as a camper van or a van, but not necessarily, such as for example a caravan or a mobile home. The seat 1 is intended for at least one passenger seated on it. According to the example presented below, the seat is intended for at least two passengers seated on it.

[0055] The seat 1 comprises in particular a frame 2 intended to be rigidly fixed to a chassis of the vehicle. The frame 2 is for example formed of a metal frame, typically comprising at least one, and in practice at least two longitudinal bars 3, connected by at least one, and in practice at least two transverse bars 4, and comprising vertical feet 5, for example four vertical feet, intended to be rigidly fixed directly or not to the chassis of the vehicle, for example to a floor of the chassis. The frame 2 of the seat 1 may further comprise a sole 6, intended to be rigidly fixed directly or not to the floor of the chassis of the vehicle.

[0056] In the following, a longitudinal direction is defined as substantially parallel to the longitudinal bars of the frame 2, a transverse direction is defined as substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction defining a horizontal plane. A vertical direction is also defined as perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and which is the direction of extension of the feet 5.

[0057] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, a forward direction and a rearward direction are defined below in the longitudinal direction.

[0058] The seat 1 further comprises at least a first panel called the seat panel 7 and a second panel called the back panel 8.

[0059] According to one embodiment, each panel 7, 8 comprises a rigid frame, for example example, metal or wood, and a cushion fixed to the rigid frame. By cushion, we generally mean a soft element, comfortable for a passenger, preferably elastic. This is for example foam, or any other filling that can provide softness, wrapped in a soft cover, for example fabric, plastic or leather. Preferably, the cover can be removable. The cover can wrap the rigid frame entirely or partially in order to hide it.

[0060] The seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 are articulated relative to each other around at least one first substantially transverse axis A1 of rotation, so that the seat 1 can take at least the following two positions: • A sitting position in which the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 are inclined relative to each other substantially at a right angle; • A lying position in which the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 are substantially in line with each other in a longitudinal direction, so as to form a sleeping surface.

[0061] More precisely, in the seated position, the inclination between the seat panel 7 and the backrest panel 8 is not strictly equal to 90°, but corresponds to the inclination required by the regulations and / or recommendations relating to automobile seats.

[0062] Preferably, the seat panel 7 retains, whether in the lying position or in the sitting position, a configuration in which it is substantially horizontal. Thus, when the seat 1 is in the sitting position, the seat panel 7 provides a seating surface for a passenger to sit on. In the sitting position, the backrest panel 8 is then substantially vertical, so that the passenger seated on the seat panel 7 can rest their back on the backrest. The inclination of the backrest panel 8 relative to the seat panel 7 can be adjustable by any known means when the seat is in the sitting position, so that the passenger can adapt the inclination to their comfort. Therefore, in the lying position, the backrest panel 8 becomes substantially horizontal, so as to provide a surface in continuity with the seating surface of the seat panel 7, that is to say so as to provide a sleeping surface on which the passenger can lie down.

[0063] In the following, the upper side of a panel will be designated as the side intended to be in contact with a user, as opposed to the lower side.

[0064] Immediately, the seat 1 can take any intermediate position between the sitting position and the lying position.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the articulation between the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 is achieved by a pantograph-type articulation around four first transverse axes A1, A'1 and A2, A'2 distinct from each other, namely an axis A1 formed on the seat panel 7 and an axis A2 formed on the back panel 8, connected by at least one first link 9, and an axis A' 1 formed on the seat panel 7 and an axis A'2 formed on the back panel 8, connected by at least one second link 9', which crosses the first link 9 when the seat 1 is in the seated position. Preferably, the axes A1 and A2 are connected by two first links 9 arranged, in the transverse direction, on either side of the seat panels 7 and 8 of the back. Similarly, preferably, the axes A' 1 and A'2 are connected by two second links 9' arranged, in the transverse direction, on either side of the seat panels 7 and 8 of the back. The pantograph-type joint makes it possible to create a space between the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 when the seat 1 is in the seated position, this space allowing access to safety systems in particular, as will be seen later.

[0066] The seat 1 further comprises a sliding system 10 for moving the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 relative to the frame 2 in the longitudinal direction. More specifically, the sliding system 10 makes it possible to move the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 together, as well as the at least one first axis of rotation.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the sliding system 10 is of the slide type. More precisely, the sliding system 10 may comprise a slide or rail formed on the frame 2. For example, each longitudinal bar 3 of the frame 2 is shaped as a C-shaped rail, so as to receive a slide 11 of the sliding system 10, said slide 11 being rigidly fixed on a lower side of the seat panel 7. The slide 11 comprises for example at least one slide bar 12, which is inserted into a rail formed on a longitudinal bar 3. In practice, the slide 11 comprises two slide bars 12, each slide bar 12 being inserted into a rail formed on a longitudinal bar 3 of the frame 2. Thus, each slide bar 12 can take at least two positions: • A retracted position, in which the length of the slide bar 12 outside the rail in the longitudinal direction is minimal, the seat 1 being in the seated position. • A deployed position, in which the length of the slide bar 12 outside the rail in the longitudinal direction is maximum, the seat 1 being in the extended position.

[0068] By length outside the rail, we mean here the longitudinal dimension of the portion of the slide bar 12 which is extended from a rail formed on a longitudinal bar 3 of the frame 2. In other words, it is the longitudinal dimension of the portion of the slide bar 12 which is cantilevered on a longitudinal bar 3 of the frame 2. The cantilever can be reduced or eliminated, for example by resting the end of the slide bar 12 on an element of the vehicle, such as on a podium of a another seat located opposite seat 1.

[0069] Thus, by actuating the longitudinal movement of the seat panel 7 relative to the frame 2 by implementing the sliding system 10, the seat 1 can move from the seated position to the lying position, and vice versa. By convention, a front longitudinal direction is chosen corresponding to the direction in which the sliding is carried out to move from the seated position to the lying position; the rear direction is the direction in which the sliding is carried out to move from the lying position to the seated position.

[0070] As explained below, each slide bar 12 may be telescopic in order to obtain a maximum length outside the rail of the slide bar 12, i.e. in the deployed position, which is the greatest possible. For this purpose, each slide bar 12 may comprise two, three or more sections sliding relative to each other, the seat panel 7 being fixed to the section which has the greatest travel during longitudinal movement relative to the frame 2.

[0071] According to one embodiment, in order to facilitate the kinematics of movement between the seated position and the lying position, the at least one first axis of rotation is mounted to slide in the longitudinal direction relative to the frame 2. More precisely, according to the example of the figures, the axis A1 formed on the seat panel 7 is mounted to slide in the longitudinal direction relative to the frame, to the exclusion of any other degree of freedom relative to the frame 2, so that the seat panel 7 maintains a substantially horizontal position during the movement of the slide 11 between the different positions of the seat 1.

[0072] The seat 1 further comprises a locking system 13, in order to lock and unlock the sliding system 10, at least when the seat 1 is in the seated position. Indeed, when the seat 1 is in the seated position, it is useful to be able to use it during the movement of the vehicle like a conventional seat for a passenger, that is to say in particular while the vehicle is traveling on a road. The movements of the vehicle on the road, as well as the accelerations and decelerations, can cause the slide 11 to slide along the rails of the frame 2, and accidentally cause the seat 1 to move into the lying position. The risks of injury to a passenger then seated on the seat 1 are high. Even in the absence of a passenger, the unexpected passage into the lying position of the seat 1 can cause damage to the interior of the vehicle.Thus, the locking system 13 prevents the user from moving from the sitting position to the lying position in the absence of voluntary action on the part of a user.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the locking system 13 comprises a lock-type element 14 rigidly fixed to the frame 2 and a striker-type element 15 rigidly fixed to one of the seat panel 7 or the back panel 8, on the lower side. According to the example of the figures, the striker is fixed on the seat panel 7, on the lower side. More precisely, according to one embodiment, the lock 14 comprises an opening 16 in which the striker 15 can be inserted by longitudinal sliding. The lock 14 further comprises a finger 17 which can be actuated so as to block the opening 16 or to leave the opening 16 clear. The finger 17 is elastically constrained in the position in which it blocks the opening 14. The locking system 13 can take two positions: • A locked position, in which the latch 15 is blocked in the lock 14, in this case in the opening 16 of the lock 14, the seat 1 being in the seated position; • An unlocked position, in which the latch 15 is out of the lock 14, in this case out of the opening 16 of the lock 14.

[0074] The locking system 13 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position by actuating the locking finger 17 so as to clear the opening 16 and allow the latch 15 to come out.

[0075] Thus, in the seated position of the seat 1, the latch 15 is in the opening 16 of the lock 14, and it is blocked by the finger 17. To move the seat 1 into the lying position, an actuator is for example engaged by a user in order to unlock the locking system 13. The seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 are then free to move longitudinally forward by implementing the sliding system 10. Once the actuator is released, the finger 17 is again in the position in which it blocks the entry 16 of the lock. To return the seat 1 to the seated position, the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 are moved backwards by means of the sliding system 10, until the latch 15 comes into abutment against the finger 17.The finger 17 then moves, either by the implementation of the actuator, or by pressing on the finger 17 with the latch 15, the shape of the finger 17 being adapted to cause the movement of the finger 17 against the elastic constraint, to release the opening 16 of the lock 14. The finger 17 returns to its position of blocking the opening 16 as soon as the latch 15 has passed the finger 17 during the rearward movement.

[0076] The seat 1 finally comprises at least a third panel 18, called the extension panel 18, making it possible to extend the sleeping surface. More precisely, the extension panel 18 is articulated on the one hand relative to the backrest panel 8 around a second transverse axis A3 of rotation, distinct from the first transverse axis A1, A2 extending in the transverse direction, and on the other hand relative to the frame a third axis A4 of rotation extending in the transverse direction distinct from the first axis A1 of rotation and the second axis A3 of rotation, so that: • in the seated position, the extension panel 18 is substantially folded down against back panel 8; • in the lying position, the lying panel 18 and the backrest panel 8 are substantially in line with each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0077] In other words, the angle between the backrest panel 8 and the extension panel 18 can be substantially 0° in the seated position and substantially 180° in the lying position.

[0078] Thus, in the lying position, the total length corresponding to the sleeping length is formed by the three panels 7, 8 and 18. This increased length makes it possible to improve the comfort of a user when lying on the seat 1 in the lying position. More precisely, when the seat panel 7 is moved by means of the sliding system 10, the angle between the extension panel 18 and the backrest panel 8 varies, in a portfolio. Thus, the position of the extension panel 18 is guided by the sliding of the seat panel 7.

[0079] In a similar manner to the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8, the extension panel 18 may comprise a rigid frame, in particular a metal one, on which a cushion is fixed.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the second axis A3 of rotation is formed by a hinge-type element, rigidly fixed on the one hand to the rigid frame of the backrest panel 8 and on the other hand to the rigid frame of the extension panel 18. The hinge is preferably fixed on the lower side of each panel 8, 18.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the seat 1 comprises a so-called position actuator, for example electric, for moving the seat 1 from the seated position to the lying position and vice versa by implementing the sliding system 10. According to the example presented, the position actuator comprises at least one electrically controlled jack 19, the jack 19 bearing on the one hand on the frame 2 and on the other hand on the extension panel 18, on the lower side, and more particularly on the rigid frame of the extension panel 18, so as to pivot the extension panel 18 relative to the frame 2 around the third axis A4.The rotation of the extension panel 18 around the third axis A4 relative to the frame, in one direction or another, thus causes the longitudinal movement of the seat panel 7 and the backrest panel 8 forwards or backwards relative to the frame 2 by the implementation of the sliding system 10, so that the seat passes from one position to the other. According to one embodiment, the position actuator is merged with the actuator of the locking system 13: its implementation can jointly cause the unlocking of the safety system 13 and the implementation of the sliding system 10. The actuator comprises a control button (not shown) accessible inside the vehicle, for example near the seat 1. Preferably, the . The actuator button is located at a height on a wall inside the vehicle, limiting the risk of a child pressing it.

[0082] When the seat 1 is in the seated position, the locking system 13 is in the locked state. To move to the lying position, the actuator is operated. According to one embodiment, the actuator is operated by engaging the control button, which controls both the movement of the locking system 13 into the unlocked position and the exertion of a pushing force between the frame 2 and the extension panel 18 by the jack 19 to cause the rotation of the extension panel 18 about the third axis A3. The seat panel 7 is then moved forward along the rails on the longitudinal bars 3 of the frame 2, the striker 15 coming out of the lock 14, until the slide bars 12 reach their maximum stroke, putting the slide 11 in the deployed position.At the same time, the backrest panel 8 and the extension panel 18 follow the sliding of the seat panel 7, the angle between the backrest panel 8 and the extension panel 18 opening up to substantially 180°. The seat 1 is then in the reclined position.

[0083] When the seat 1 is in the reclined position, the actuator can be re-operated by engaging the control button, which commands the cylinder 19 to exert a tensile force between the frame 2 and the extension panel 18, to pivot the extension panel 18 around the third axis A3, and so as to effect a rearward movement of the seat panel 7. At the same time, the angle between the backrest panel 8 and the extension panel 18 closes, to substantially 0°. The latch 15 enters the opening 16 of the lock, and is blocked by the finger 17: the locking system 13 moves into the locked position when the seat 1 reaches the seated position.

[0084] The actuator 19 is automatic: once the control button is engaged to move the seat 1 into one position or another, no additional intervention is necessary. The seat 1 may however comprise, in addition to the automatic actuator 19 or as a variant, a manual actuator allowing a user to put the seat into one or the other position by manually unlocking or locking the locking system 13, and by manually exerting the pushing or pulling force on the seat panel 7 to move it along the rails of the longitudinal bars 3 of the frame 2. For example, the jack 19 may be manually disengageable, in order to allow the position of the seat 1 to be changed manually, for example in the event of a power supply failure to the jack 19, or any other type of failure.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the seat 1 further comprises a lateral extension system 20, making it possible to transversely increase the dimensions of the sleeping surface. The lateral extension system 20 is associated with at least one of the panel 7 seat, back panel 8 and extension panel 18. According to one embodiment which is the one presented here, the lateral extension system 20 is associated with each of the panels 7, 8 and 18. Thus, the extension system 20 comprises three supports 21. Each support 21 is rigid, for example metallic, and is mounted to slide in the transverse direction relative to the panel 7, 8 or 18 with which it is associated, on the same side of the seat 1. More precisely, each support 21 is mounted to slide relative to the rigid frame of the panel 7, 8 or 18 with which it is associated, so that the lateral extension system 20 can take two positions: • A retracted position in which each bracket 21 is integrated into the panel 7, 8 or 18 on which the bracket is mounted; • A deployed position in which each support 21 is at least partially extended out of the panel on which it is mounted.

[0086] For example, in the retracted position, the support 21 is integrated into the cushion of the panel 7, 8 or 18 on which it is mounted, i.e. it is enveloped by the cover. The cover comprises for this purpose a closable opening, for example with a zipper, along a lateral edge of the cushion of the panel 7, 8 or 18, the support 21 emerging from the panel through said opening of the cover. Preferably, the support 21 in the retracted position is on the lower side of the cushions, i.e. it is covered by the upholstery of the cushion so that a sitting or lying passage on the seat 1 does not feel the supports 21 in the retracted position.

[0087] Each support 21 in the deployed position can be covered by a cushion 22 or 22', which is placed on the support 21. Optionally, the cushion 22, 22' can be temporarily attached to the support 21. The cushions 22 can for example be stored in a specially dedicated storage space in the vehicle, near the seat 1.

[0088] Each support 21 may comprise a pivoting foot 23 intended to come into contact with the floor of the vehicle when the support is in the deployed position. The foot 23 makes it possible to increase the stability of the support 21. More precisely, the foot 23 is for example pivotally mounted on the longitudinal branch of the U-shaped support 21, around a substantially longitudinal axis, so as to be able to be folded into the same plane as the U of the support and to be integrated into the panel 7, 8 or 18 when the support 21 is in the retracted position.

[0089] From the lying position of the seat 1, and from the retracted position of the lateral extension system 20, a user can manually slide each support 21 in the lateral direction, if necessary after having opened the cover of the cushions, in order to move them into the deployed position. For this purpose, each support 21 can be provided with a handle 24 on the longitudinal branch of the U, facilitating handling by the user: the user grasps the handle 24 and pulls on it to slide the support 21 into the deployed position. Then the user can unfold the feet 23 to put in contact with the floor. Finally, the user places the cushions 22, 22' on the supports 21.

[0090] Each cushion 22, 22' may be placed on a single support 21, or overlap two or more supports 21. According to one embodiment, a cushion 22 is placed astride the support 23 associated with the seat panel 7 and the support 23 associated with the backrest panel 8, a second cushion is placed astride the support 23 associated with the seat panel 7 and the support 23 associated with the extension panel 18, and a third cushion 22' is placed on the support 23 associated with the extension panel 18. The third cushion 22' may have a portion overhanging the support 23 associated with the extension panel 18, so that it may be provided with a retractable foot (not shown) allowing it to rest on the floor of the vehicle and limit the overhang.

[0091] The seat 1 thus offers an increased lateral surface both longitudinally thanks in particular to the extension panel 18 but also transversely thanks to the lateral extension system 20. One or more users can thus lie down on the sleeping surface offered by the seat 1 in a lying position in a comfortable and stable manner.

[0092] According to one example, the width of the seat 1, i.e. the maximum transverse dimension of the seat panel 7 or the back panel 8 or the extension panel 18, may correspond to one, two or three places. It may be between 600 and 1500 mm (millimeters), more precisely between 650 and 1300 mm, more precisely still between 830 and 930 mm, and is for example equal to 880 mm. In the lying position, the total length of the seat 1, i.e. the sum of the longitudinal dimensions of the seat panel 7, the back panel 8 and the extension panel 18 end to end is suitable for sleeping an adult man. It may be between 1650 and 2250 mm, more precisely between 1700 and 2200 mm, and is for example 1930 mm.The width of the lateral extension system 20, i.e. the maximum transverse dimension of the cushions 22, 22', makes it possible to achieve a total width for the sleeping surface of between 800 mm, and preferably at least 1700 mm, and more preferably between 1000 and 1500 mm, and is for example equal to 1250 mm.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the seat 1 may comprise a safety system 25, for example of the Isofix or Lsize type, making it possible to attach a child seat or car seat. The safety system 25 is for example carried by the seat panel 7, and comprises a plate 26 rigidly fixed to the seat panel 7 on the side, on the lower side. The plate 26 comprises means for attaching a child seat type seat in accordance with the Isofix or Lsize system, these means being accessible to a user on the upper side of the seat and back panels, when the seat 1 is in the seated position. For example, the plate 26 includes hooks 27 available between the seat panel 7 and the backrest panel 8, for a user when the seat 1 is in the seated position. The hooks 27 allow a child seat to be attached in a conventional manner as for any Isofix system. The safety system 25 then moves with the seat panel 7 when the seat 1 moves from one position to another. The latches 15 of the locking system 13 can be carried by the plate 26 of the safety system 25. The attachment of the plate 26 to the seat panel 7 complies with the safety requirements relating to Isofix. The movement between the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 obtained thanks to the connecting rods 9, 9' and the first axes A1, A2, A' 1 and A'2 presented above makes it possible in particular to maintain a space between the seat panel 7 and the back panel 8 when the seat 1 is in the seated position so that the hooks 27 are accessible.

[0094] According to one embodiment, in order to be able to use the seat 1 while the vehicle is moving, the seat 1 is equipped with at least one safety belt 28. According to the example of the figures, the seat 1 is equipped with two safety belts 28, the seat 1 in the seated position being able to accommodate two passengers. The safety belt 28 is at least two-point, and preferably three-point, in accordance with road safety regulations. Conventionally, each safety belt 28 comprises a strap 30 rigidly fixed to the chassis of the vehicle at one end and associated with a reel (not shown). The belt 28 then comprises a first hook 31 sliding along the strap 30 and comprises a first housing 32 for receiving the first hook 31. The safety belt 28 further comprises a second hook 33 at the free end of the strap 30 and a second housing 34 for receiving the second hook 33.The first housings 32 are arranged on either side, in the transverse direction, of the seat 1, so as to be available to each passenger. The first housings 32 are rigidly fixed to the frame 2 of the seat, or directly to the chassis of the vehicle. The second housings 34 are likewise rigidly fixed to the frame 2 of the seat, or directly to the chassis of the vehicle. A cutout 35 on the backrest panel 8 allows the second housings 34 to be arranged on the lower side of the panels, while leaving them accessible to users, between the seat panel 7 and the backrest panel 8, when the seat 1 is in the seated position.

[0095] More specifically, the safety belt 28 comprises a vertical mast 36 rigidly fixed to the chassis of the vehicle. The mast 36 may be common to both safety belts 28. A crossbar 37, i.e. a transverse bar, is rigidly fixed to the mast 36. The housings 32, 34 are mounted on the crossbar 37: the first housings 32 are each mounted on a portion of the crossbar 37 transversely extending beyond a longitudinal bar 3 of the frame 2; the second housings 34 are mounted in a central region of the crossbar 37. The strap 30 of each belt 28 is mounted along the vertical mast 36 rigidly fixed to the chassis of the vehicle. The mast 36 supports a guide 38 for guiding the unwinding of the strap 30. A user can thus grasp the strap 30 of a safety belt 28, unwind the strap until the first hook 31 is hooked into a first housing 32, then adjust the length of the strap 30 and the position of the second hook 33 along the strap 30 so as to hook the second hook 33 into the second housing 34.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the housings 32, 34 of the seat belts 28 are fixed to the crosspiece 37 by means of a rod 39 which has a flexibility suitable for admitting deformation without breaking during changes in position of the seat 1. In particular, in the extended position, the extension panel 18 can exert a force on the first housings 32, so as to maintain them on the lower side of the panels 7, 8, 18 and limit their discomfort. The rods 39 are preferably elastic, so that in the absence of a force the housings 32, 34 return to a determined initial position.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the backrest panel 8 comprises at least one headrest 40. According to the example of the figures, the backrest panel 8 comprises two headrests 40. The extension panel 18 can then comprise, for each headrest 40, a housing 41 of negative shape, or hollow, corresponding to the shape of the headrest 40, so that in the reclined position of the seat 1, each headrest 40 of the backrest panel 8 is inserted into the housing 41 of the extension panel 18. The headrests 40, offering comfort for the users when the seat 1 is in the seated position, thus do not cause any discomfort when the seat 1 is in the reclined position.

Claims

Claims

1. Seat (1) for a vehicle, the seat (1) comprising a frame (2) intended to be rigidly fixed to a chassis of the vehicle, a first panel (7) called the seat panel and a second panel (8) called the back panel, the seat panel (7) and the back panel (8) being articulated relative to each other around at least a first axis (Al) of rotation extending in a transverse direction so that the seat (1) can take at least the following two positions: • A seated position in which the backrest panel (8) and the seat panel (7) are inclined relative to each other substantially at a right angle; • A lying position in which the backrest panel (8) and the seat panel (7) are substantially in line with each other in a longitudinal direction, so as to form a sleeping surface, the seat (1) further comprising a sliding system (10) for integrally moving the seat panel (7) and the back panel (8) relative to the frame (2) of the seat in a longitudinal direction, and a locking system (13) for locking and unlocking the sliding system (10) at least when the seat (1) is in the seated position, the seat (1) being characterized in that it further comprises at least one third panel (18) called an elongation panel, articulated on the one hand relative to the backrest panel (8) around at least one second axis (A3) of rotation extending in the transverse direction, distinct from the first transverse axis (Al), and on the other hand relative to the frame (2) around a third transverse axis (A4) distinct from the first transverse axis (Al) and the second transverse axis (A3), so that: • in the seated position, the extension panel (18) is substantially folded against the backrest panel (8); • in the lying position, the lying panel (18) and the backrest panel (8) are substantially in line with each other in the longitudinal direction.

2. Seat (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the system (13) locking system comprises at least one latch (15) rigidly fixed to at least one of the seat panel (7) or the backrest panel (8), and which comprises at least one lock (14) rigidly fixed to the frame (2), the locking system (13) being able to take two positions: • A locked position, in which the latch (15) is blocked in the lock (14), the seat (1) being in the seated position; • An unlocked position, in which the latch (15) is moved away from the lock (14); The locking system (13) passing from the locked position to the unlocked position by actuation of a locking finger (17).

3. Seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the sliding system (10) comprises at least one longitudinal rail (4) on the frame (2) and at least one slide (11) on the seat panel (7) cooperating with said rail (4).

4. Seat (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the slide (11) comprises at least one longitudinal slide bar (12) slidably mounted on the rail (4), the slide (11) being able to take at least two positions: • A retracted position, in which the length of the slide bar (12) outside the rail in the longitudinal direction is minimal, the seat (1) being in the seated position; • A deployed position, in which the length of the slide bar (12) outside the rail in the longitudinal direction is maximal, the seat (1) being in the extended position.

5. Seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the seat panel (7) comprises a plate (26) provided with hooks (27) to form a safety system (25) for example of the Isofix and / or Lsize type intended for the attachment of a child seat.

6. Seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a lateral extension system, the lateral extension system (20) comprising at least one support (21) intended to support a cushion (22), said support (21) being slidably mounted on at least one of said panels (7, 8, 18) in a transverse direction, the lateral extension system (20) capable of taking at least two positions: • A retracted position in which the support (21) is integrated into the panel (7, 8, 18) on which the support (21) is mounted; • A deployed position in which the support (21) is at least partially removed from the panel (7, 8, 18) on which it is mounted.

7. Seat (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said support (21) is provided with a pivoting foot (23) intended to come into contact with a floor of the vehicle when the support (20) is in the deployed position.

8. A seat (1) according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein at least one of the seat panel (7), the back panel (8) and the extension panel (18) on which the support (21) is mounted comprises a cushion, and wherein the support (21) in the retracted position is integrated into the cushion of the panel (7, 8, 18) on which the support (21) is mounted.

9. A seat (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the lateral extension system (20) comprises at least three supports (21), each support (21) being mounted on one of the seat panel (7), the back panel (8) and the extension panel (18).

10. Seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the backrest panel (8) comprises at least one headrest (40), and in which the extension panel (18) comprises a housing (41) of negative shape to the headrest (40), so that in the extended position the headrest (40) of the backrest panel (8) is inserted into the housing (41) of the extension panel (18).

11. Seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an actuator for moving the seat (1) from the seated position to the lying position and vice versa, the actuator comprising at least one electrically controlled cylinder (19), the cylinder (19) bearing on the one hand on the frame (2) and on the other hand on the lying panel (18).

12. Seat (1) according to any one of the claims comprising at least one safety belt (28) with at least two points.

13. Vehicle comprising at least one seat (1) according to any one of the previous claims.

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