Vehicle seat

Abstract

TITLE: Vehicle Seat Vehicle seat (1) comprising: A structure (3) mounted on the vehicle (2), a seat (4), tiltable by an inclination α4, a backrest (5), linked to the seat (4) by a pivot joint (6) around a first axis (A1), tiltable by a backrest inclination α5, a front connecting rod (7) linked to the structure (3) by a pivot joint (8) and linked to a front part (41) of the seat (4) by a pivot joint (9), a rear connecting rod (10) linked to the structure (3) by a pivot joint (11), and linked to either the backrest (5) or the seat (4) by a pivot joint (12) of a second axis (A2), a first linear actuator (13) linked to the backrest (5) by a pivot joint (14) along a third axis (A3) distinct from the first axis (A1) and linked to the seat (4) by a pivot joint (15), the actuation of the first linear actuator (13) ensures simultaneous adjustment of the seat inclination α4 and backrest inclination α5. Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Vehicle seat technical field

[0001] The scope of this disclosure is that of vehicle seats, in particular motor vehicles.

[0002] More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a vehicle seat.

[0003] This disclosure also relates to a vehicle, including such a seat. Previous technique

[0004] A vehicle seat, whether passenger or driver's, typically comprises an assembly including a seat cushion and a backrest, the assembly being designed to accommodate a vehicle occupant. It is known to provide a mechanism for adjusting the inclination of these seat cushion and backrest sections, particularly with respect to horizontal and / or vertical planes of the vehicle, as well as for adjusting the overall height. These adjustments improve the seat's comfort and also the safety of the occupants. Indeed, particularly for the driver's seat, such adjustments also improve the occupant's visibility and facilitate access to the various controls.

[0005] Prior art vehicle seats typically comprise a seat frame and a backrest frame, each movable relative to a fixed anchoring structure, or more commonly, movable, for example, in translation via a sliding system relative to the vehicle floor. The backrest frame is typically mounted for rotation on the seat frame by means of a manually or even motorized joint, which allows adjustment only of the backrest's inclination relative to the seat, without affecting either the position or the inclination of the seat. The seat frame can conventionally be rotationally linked to a front and a rear connecting rod, each of the connecting rods also being rotationally linked to the anchoring structure. The mechanism generally includes a first linear actuator rotationally linked to the anchoring structure and the rear connecting rod, the actuation of which allows for seat height adjustment.It is known to use a second linear actuator, rotationally linked to the anchoring structure and to the front connecting rod, which is actuated to adjust the seat tilt.

[0006] Although this type of mechanism is satisfactory in that it allows for a wide range of adjustment, it comprises numerous components, including a manually or motorized articulated joint and two linear actuators, and remains complex to implement. Furthermore, it is necessary to reinforce and provide a locking mechanism for the joint between the backrest and the seat in the event of sudden braking or a crash, in order to This prevents the seat back from rotating due to vehicle deceleration. Such a mechanism therefore presents a greater risk of failure and a significant mass, which can increase the energy consumption of the vehicles on which it is installed.

[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is therefore to mitigate at least in part the disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above.

[0008] In particular, one objective of this disclosure is to propose a solution that is simpler and more reliable than known mechanisms, that is also lighter, while maintaining satisfactory performance with regard to the comfort and safety of the vehicle occupants. Summary

[0009] The objectives mentioned above are achieved in particular by vehicle seat comprising: - A seat anchoring structure configured to be mounted on the vehicle, - a seat frame, tiltable with respect to a longitudinal axis by an inclination a4 - a backrest frame, linked to the seat frame by a first pivot joint around a first axis, tiltable relative to a vertical axis by a backrest tilt angle a5 - a front connecting rod linked to the anchoring structure by a second pivot joint and linked to a front part of the base reinforcement by a third pivot joint, - a rear connecting rod linked to the anchoring structure by a fourth pivot joint, and linked to either the backrest frame or the seat frame by a fifth pivot joint around a second axis, - a first linear actuator linked to the backrest frame by a sixth pivot joint along a third axis distinct from the first axis and linked to the seat frame by a seventh pivot joint, configured so that the actuation of the first linear actuator ensures simultaneous adjustment of the seat tilt a4 and the backrest tilt a5.

[0010] The solution in this disclosure has, among other advantages, the benefit of being greatly simplified compared to known mechanisms. Indeed, the tilt adjustment of the backrest and seat is performed simultaneously by a single linear actuator, and the mechanism eliminates the complex articulation between the backrest and the seat.

[0011] The features described in the following paragraphs may optionally be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other:

[0012] According to an improvement, the actuation of the first linear actuator, according to at least a first seat tilt adjustment mode, simultaneously allows the rotation of the front connecting rod relative to the anchoring structure, the rotation of the seat frame relative to the front connecting rod, the rotation of the backrest frame relative to the seat frame and the rotation of the backrest frame relative to the rear connecting rod, while the rear connecting rod is static relative to the anchoring structure.

[0013] According to an improvement, the seat includes a second linear actuator linked to the anchoring structure by an eighth pivot link and linked to the rear connecting rod by a ninth pivot link.

[0014] According to an improvement, the actuation of said second linear actuator, at least according to a second mode of adjusting the seat height, ensures an adjustment of the height of the seat frame and the backrest frame, by simultaneously allowing the rotation of the front connecting rod relative to the anchoring structure and the rotation of the rear connecting rod relative to the anchoring structure, as well as the rotations of the seat frame relative to the front connecting rod and of the seat frame relative to the rear connecting rod, and while the backrest is static relative to the seat frame.

[0015] According to an improvement, the seat includes a second linear actuator linked to the anchoring structure by an eighth pivot link and linked to the rear connecting rod by a ninth pivot link, configured to, at least in a combined seat tilt and height adjustment mode, simultaneously actuate the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator so as to simultaneously allow the rotation of the front connecting rod relative to the anchoring structure, the rotation of the seat frame relative to the front connecting rod, the rotation of the backrest frame relative to the seat frame and the rotation of the backrest frame relative to the rear connecting rod, while the rear connecting rod is movable relative to the anchoring structure around the fourth pivot link, so as to simultaneously ensure an adjustment of the seat height and a simultaneous adjustment of the seat tilt a4 and the backrest tilt a5.

[0016] According to an improvement, the rear connecting rod comprises a first end connected to one or the other of the backrest frame or the seat frame and a second end connected to the second linear actuator, said fourth pivot link connecting the rear connecting rod to the anchoring structure being located in a separate area from the first end or the second end.

[0017] According to an improvement, the first linear actuator, and / or the second linear actuator as appropriate, are irreversible actuators, configured to block respectively the rotation of the backrest frame relative to the seat frame, and the rotation of the rear connecting rod relative to the anchoring structure when not actuated.

[0018] According to an improvement, the first linear actuator, and the second linear actuator if applicable, each comprise a motor, a screw and a nut capable of translating along the screw by the action of the motor.

[0019] According to an improvement, the second axis is coincident with one of the first or third axes.

[0020] According to an improvement, the third axis is located at a height relative to the anchoring structure which is less than the height of the first axis relative to the anchoring structure.

[0021] According to an improvement, the actuation of the first linear actuator allows, for a variation of 1° of the seat inclination a4 with respect to the longitudinal axis, a variation of the backrest inclination a5 with respect to the vertical axis of between 2.5° and 4°.

[0022] According to an improvement, the second linear actuator is linked to the anchoring structure in a first zone located in front, with respect to the longitudinal axis X, of a second zone in which the second linear actuator is linked to the rear connecting rod.

[0023] According to an improvement, the seat includes a user interface configured to selectively: - trigger said at least one first seat tilt adjustment mode, by selectively activating the first actuator during deployment or retraction, while the second linear actuator is not activated, and / or - trigger said at least a second seat height adjustment mode by activating the second actuator during deployment or retraction, while the first linear actuator is not activated, and / or - trigger said at least one third combined seat tilt and height adjustment mode.

[0024] This disclosure further relates to a vehicle comprising a seat as described above. Brief description of the drawings

[0025] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analysis of the accompanying drawings, on which:

[0026] [Fig-1] shows a kinematic diagram of a seat adjustment mechanism according to an example of the state of the art.

[0027] [Fig.2] shows a perspective and three-dimensional view of a seat according to an example in this disclosure.

[0028] [Fig.3] shows a kinematic diagram of a seat according to an example in the present disclosure.

[0029] [Fig.4] shows a kinematic diagram of a seat according to a second example of the present disclosure.

[0030] [Fig.5] shows a kinematic diagram of a seat according to a third example of the present disclosure.

[0031] [Fig.6] shows a kinematic diagram of a seat according to a fourth example of the present disclosure.

[0032] [Fig.7] shows a side view of a seat according to an example of the present disclosure, in the so-called "nominal" position.

[0033] [Fig.8] shows a side view of a seat according to an example of the present disclosure, in the so-called "relaxed" position.

[0034] [Fig.9] shows a side view of a seat according to an example of the present disclosure, in the so-called "low" position.

[0035] [Fig. 10] shows a section along a plane XZ at a first transverse value along the Y axis of a seat as shown in an example in this disclosure, in the so-called "nominal" position.

[0036] [Fig. 11] shows a section along a plane XZ at a first transverse value along the Y-axis of a seat, as shown in an example in this disclosure, in the so-called "relaxed" position.

[0037] [Fig. 12] shows a section along an XZ plane at a second transverse value along the Y-axis of a seat according to an example in this disclosure, in the so-called "nominal" position.

[0038] [Fig. 13] shows a section along an XZ plane at a second transverse value along the Y-axis of a seat as in an example in this disclosure, in the so-called "low" position. Description of the implementation methods

[0039] The drawings and description below contain, essentially, elements of a definite nature. They may therefore not only serve to better understand this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

[0040] In the various figures, the same reference numerals designate identical or similar elements. For the sake of brevity, only the elements that are useful for understanding the described embodiment are shown in the figures and are described in detail below.

[0041] In the following description, when reference is made to absolute position qualifiers, such as "front," "back," "up," "down," "left," "right," etc., or relative position qualifiers, such as "above," "below," "superior," "lower," etc., or to orientation qualifiers, such as "horizontal," "vertical," etc., reference is made, unless otherwise specified, to the orientation of a seat of vehicle in its normal operating position, facing forward, so that a seat occupant is facing in the direction of travel of the vehicle.

[0042] A direct frame of reference X, Y, Z is also given, in which the X axis extends from the rear to the front in a horizontal direction, which typically corresponds to the direction of travel of the vehicle. The Z axis extends from the bottom to the top in a vertical direction, and the Y axis extends in a transverse direction, in the conventional direction of a direct frame of reference.

[0043] Reference is now made to [Fig. 1], which represents a prior art adjustment mechanism. In the example shown, such a mechanism comprises a seat frame 104 and a backrest frame 105, each movable relative to a fixed anchorage structure 103, or more commonly movable in translation via a sliding system relative to a vehicle floor. The backrest frame 105 is typically rotationally mounted on the seat frame 104 by means of a first manually or even motorized joint M, which allows adjustment only of the inclination of the backrest 105 relative to the seat 104, without affecting either the position or the inclination of the seat 104. Such an adjustment is represented by a double arrow in the figure. The seat frame 104 can conventionally be rotationally linked to a front connecting rod system 107.1, 107.2, 107.3, and a rear connecting rod 110, each of the connecting rods also being rotationally linked with the anchoring structure 103. The mechanism includes a first linear actuator ALI, rotationally linked with the anchoring structure 103 and the rear connecting rod 110, whose actuation, resulting in a decrease or increase in the length indicated by the double straight arrow, allows for seat height adjustment. The mechanism is also equipped with a second linear actuator AL2, rotationally linked with the anchoring structure 103 and with the front connecting rod 107.2, which is actuated to adjust the seat tilt. That is to say, the angle between the backrest and the seat remains constant while the assembly is tilted forward or backward.

[0044] An example of a mechanism proposed according to this disclosure is shown in [Fig. 2], in a three-dimensional perspective view. A so-called "kinematic" diagram of an example seat proposed according to this disclosure is shown in [Fig. 3]. In these two figures, a seat frame 4 and a backrest frame 5, movable relative to an anchoring structure 3, are visible. Where the anchoring structure 3 comprises a fixed part and a movable part, for example a slide, the term "anchoring frame" is understood to refer to the movable part of said structure relative to the vehicle floor.

[0045] The backrest frame 5 is linked to the seat frame 4 by a first pivot joint 6, allowing rotation of these elements relative to each other around a first axis AL. Unlike known mechanisms, this pivot joint allows Free rotation, meaning it is neither motorized nor manually operated. It can typically be a bearing comprising two complementary cylindrical shapes, with or without bearings.

[0046] The seat 1 also includes a front connecting rod 7 linked, at one end, to the anchoring structure 3 by a second pivot joint 8, and linked at the other end to a front portion 41 of the base reinforcement 4 by a third pivot joint 9. Said front portion 41 can be defined as the portion of the base reinforcement, when substantially horizontal, extending forward from the midpoint of the distance between its two longitudinal ends (along the X-axis). In other words, the front portion 41 can be the front half of the base reinforcement 4. It can also be an area in the vicinity of the front end of the base reinforcement 4, or the front quarter of the base reinforcement 4.

[0047] The mechanism is also provided with a rear connecting rod 10 linked to the anchoring structure 3 by a fourth pivot joint 11, and linked to one and / or the other of the backrest frame 5 or the seat frame 4 by a fifth pivot joint 12 about a second axis A2. This second axis A2 may be substantially parallel to the first axis AL

[0048] In some examples, this second axis A2 can be confused with the first axis AL. Indeed, it can be advantageous for the first and fifth pivot joints 6, 12 to share the same axis Al, A2. It is only in this configuration that the connecting rod can be linked to both the backrest frame 5 and the seat frame 4 without hindering the kinematics of the mechanism. In other words, the first and fifth pivot joints 6, 12 can be coaxial. Such an arrangement, shown as an example in [Fig. 4], can have the advantage of being less bulky and less complex to implement.

[0049] The rear connecting rod 10 can be linked to either the backrest frame 5 or the seat frame 4, since one of its functions is to allow height adjustment of the first pivot joint 6 that connects these two elements. Thus, this function can be performed regardless of whether the connecting rod 10 is linked to either the backrest 5 or the seat 4. In the non-limiting examples of Figures 2, 3, 10, 11, 12, and 13, the rear connecting rod 10 is fixed to the backrest frame 5.

[0050] Furthermore, the seat according to this disclosure comprises a first linear actuator 13 connected, at a first end 131, to the backrest frame 5 by a sixth pivot joint 14 along a third axis A3. This third axis A3 may be distinct from the first axis AL. The first linear actuator 13 is also connected, at a second end 132, to the seat frame 4 by a seventh pivot joint 15. This linear actuator 13 is configured so that its actuation varies the length separating its two ends 131, 132, which are respectively fixed to the backrest by the sixth joint pivot 14 and the seat via the seventh pivot joint 15. Thus, moving these two pivot joints 14 and 15 closer together or further apart allows for relative rotation between the backrest and the seat around the first pivot joint 6. The portion of the backrest frame 5 extending between the first pivot joint 6 and the sixth pivot joint 14 advantageously acts as a lever arm. For example, to achieve this lever arm mechanism, the third axis A3 can be positioned at a height relative to a horizontal plane at the anchoring structure 3 that is lower than the height of the first axis A1. In other words, the third axis A3 can be positioned lower along the vertical axis Z than the first axis A1.

[0051] According to examples, the second axis A2 coincides with the third axis A3. In other words, as shown by way of non-limiting example in [Fig. 6], it is possible for the fifth pivot joint 12 and the sixth pivot joint 14 to be coaxial with axes A2 and A3 coinciding. This configuration can similarly offer advantages from the point of view of the size or ease of implementation of the mechanism.

[0052] The controlled rotation described above, caused by the actuation of the first linear actuator 13, allows simultaneous adjustment of the seat tilt a4 and the backrest tilt a5, as shown by way of non-limiting examples in [Fig. 7] and 8. Indeed, the first linear actuator 13 can, at least according to a first mode of adjusting the seat tilt, simultaneously allow the rotation of the front connecting rod 7 relative to the anchoring structure 3, the rotation of the seat frame 4 relative to the front connecting rod 7, the rotation of the backrest frame 5 relative to the seat frame 4 and the rotation of the backrest frame 5 relative to the rear connecting rod 10, while the rear connecting rod 10 is static relative to the anchoring structure 3.

[0053] In some examples, the rear connecting rod 10 can be held statically by locking the fourth pivot joint 11, for example by a dog clutch mechanism, or by replacing the fourth pivot joint 11 with a fixed joint. In some examples, the rear connecting rod 10 can be held statically by adding a supplementary rear connecting rod linking a point on the rear connecting rod 10 to a point on the anchoring structure 3 distinct from the fourth pivot joint 11, thus permanently blocking, for example, rotation about this fourth pivot joint 11.

[0054] In other examples, the rear connecting rod 10 can be held static relative to the anchoring structure, at least according to a first seat tilt adjustment mode, by a second linear actuator 16 whose length can be controlled to remain constant during the actuation of the first linear actuator 13, this second actuator 16 being connected at one end by an eighth pivot joint 17, separate from the fourth pivot link 11, to the anchor structure 3, and at another end to the rear connecting rod 10 by a ninth pivot link 18.

[0055] The first and second linear actuators 13, 16 can be of any type known to those skilled in the art. As described in more detail below, they can include motors and screw-and-nut mechanisms, with or without balls. They can also be cylinders whose length varies through the action of a fluid. They can also be electric linear motors.

[0056] In examples where the seat is equipped with a second linear actuator 16, this actuator can adjust the height h of the seat frame 4 and the backrest frame 5. Its actuation can simultaneously allow the rotation of the front connecting rod 7 relative to the anchoring structure 3 and the rotation of the rear connecting rod 10 relative to the anchoring structure 3, as well as the rotations of the seat frame 4 relative to the front connecting rod 7 and the seat frame 4 relative to the rear connecting rod 10, while the backrest 5 remains static relative to the seat frame 4. Typically, the backrest 5 can be held static relative to the seat frame 4 by the first linear actuator 13. The first linear actuator 13 can be controlled to maintain its length constant, thus preventing the rotation of the backrest relative to the seat 4 around the first pivot joint 6.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the seat may thus include a user interface configured to selectively: - trigger said at least one first seat tilt adjustment mode, by selectively activating the first actuator during deployment or retraction, while the second linear actuator 16 is not activated, and / or - trigger said at least one second seat height adjustment mode by activating the second actuator during deployment or retraction, while the first linear actuator 13 is not activated, and / or - trigger said at least one third combined seat tilt and height adjustment mode 1.

[0058] The user interface may include electrical contacts, or a touch screen, said interface configured to control the actuation of the actuator (first or second), selectively in one direction for deployment or in one direction for retraction.

[0059] The first actuator can, for example, be selectively actuated during deployment or retraction, while the second actuator is selectively actuated during deployment or retraction (or vice versa).

[0060] In some examples, the second linear actuator 16 is linked to the anchoring structure 3 in a first zone 16.1 located forward, with respect to the longitudinal axis X, of a second zone 16.2 in which the second linear actuator 16 is linked to the rear connecting rod 10. In this way, the two motors of the two linear actuators 13, 16 can both be located in the front part of the seat, this makes it easier in particular to mount and wire the motors electrically, as well as to maintain them: it is not necessary to provide access to two separate areas to operate actions on either of the two motors of the two linear actuators 13, 16.

[0061] As shown in the non-limiting examples of Figures 7 and 8, actuation of the first linear actuator 13 allows simultaneous adjustment of the seat tilt a4 and the backrest tilt a5, thus varying the total angle α between a plane of the seat and a plane of the backrest. A particular seat configuration, called the "nominal position," is achieved for an angle α = an. Such a configuration is shown in [Fig. 7]. [Fig. 8] shows a second particular configuration, which corresponds to an extreme stroke of the first linear actuator 13, resulting in a so-called "relaxed" or "extended" position, which has an angle α = ar. The occupant is then placed in a reclined position. According to this disclosure, such a "relaxed" position can be achieved by actuation only of the first linear actuator 13, the second linear actuator 16 remaining at rest, in a state in which its length remains constant.

[0062] According to examples shown, in particular by way of non-limiting agreement, in Figures 3 to 6 and in [Fig. 9], the actuation of the second linear actuator 16 allows the rear connecting rod 10 to rotate around the fourth pivot joint 11 with the anchoring structure 3. This rotation of the rear connecting rod 10 results in an increase or decrease in the height h between a horizontal plane, parallel to the longitudinal axis X, located at the anchoring structure 3, and the axis A2 of the fifth pivot joint 12 between the rear connecting rod 10 and one or both of the seat 4 or the backrest 5. The second linear actuator 16 can thus allow adjustment of the seat height. It is particularly evident, by comparing the heights between the axis A2 and a horizontal plane at the anchoring structure 3 in [Fig. 7] and [Fig. 9], that this height can vary. In this example, the said height varies from a value hn to a value hmin.

[0063] It is also understood that, by means of the front and rear connecting rods 7, 10, the seat height adjustment is accompanied by a forward or backward movement. Such a movement occurs forward when the adjustment increases the seat height, and backward when the height decreases.

[0064] In some examples, it may be advantageous that, when the seat is in its nominal position with an angle a = an, the rear connecting rod 10 forms an angle 0 less than 60°, preferably between 30 and 60°, or even more preferably between 10 and 30°, with a horizontal plane parallel to the X-axis. This allows a relatively small variation in the length of the second actuator 16 to result in a relatively high variation in the height of axis A2. Potentially advantageously, the smaller this angle, the more the forward or backward movement that accompanies the seat height adjustment is reduced.

[0065] Reference is now made to Figures 10 and 11, which show in more detail the tilt adjustment according to a non-limiting example. The first linear actuator 13 is particularly visible here. In this example, it comprises a screw and nut mechanism coupled to an electric motor. In this example, the screw is connected to the motor, but it is of course possible to provide a reverse configuration in which the nut is driven by the motor. Here, it comprises a first movable end 131 equipped with a nut 133 and a second fixed end 132 equipped with a screw 134 that can be rotated by a motor. The nut 133 is configured to cooperate with the screw 134, which, when driven by the motor, drives the nut 133 in translation along the axis of the screw.The length between the sixth pivot joint 14 and the seventh pivot joint 15 can thus vary, and allow a tilting movement of the backrest 5 relative to the seat 4 around the first pivot joint 6. .

[0066] Figure 10 shows a seat according to an example in a so-called "nominal" position, in which the angle α = αn. In this particular configuration, the nut 133 is located at the free end of the screw 134, at a distance from the motor, the length between the nut 133 and the seventh pivot joint 15 being equal to Cln. The length of the first linear actuator 13 is at its maximum here, according to this example. Figure 11 shows a seat according to an example in which the nut 133 is this time butted against the motor, at the proximal end of the screw 134. This corresponds to the minimum length Clr of the first linear actuator 16 according to this example. This is the particular position known as "relax" in which the angle α = αr and the occupant is in a reclining position.

[0067] In examples, the length Cln of the first linear actuator 13 in nominal position is greater than the length Clr of the first linear actuator in “relax” position.

[0068] According to examples, actuation of the first linear actuator 13 can allow, for a 1° variation in the seat tilt a4 with respect to a horizontal axis X, a variation in the backrest tilt a5 with respect to a vertical axis Z of between 1° and 10°, preferably between 2° and 6°, and even more preferably between 2.5° and 4°. It is particularly evident by comparing Figures 10 and 11 that the seat tilt a4 varies less than the backrest tilt a5 when actuation of the first linear actuator 13 occurs.

[0069] In other words, according to examples, a variation in the length of the first linear actuator 13 of a given unit of length changes the inclination value of backrest a5 in a greater way than the tilt value of the seat a4. This is why the total angle a between the backrest and the seat varies by the actuation of the first linear actuator 13 alone.

[0070] It is possible, and this is the case in particular in the examples shown in Figures 10 and 11, for the first and second linear actuators 13, 16 to be actuated simultaneously. This is notably the case for the third combined adjustment mode for the seat's tilt and height. In this case, the height h of axis A2 varies along with the angle α between the backrest 5 and the seat 4. This can be advantageous, particularly for greater comfort in the "relax" position, to set the seat height h = hmin to its minimum while the tilts of the backrest 5 and the seat 4 are set to their maximum.

[0071] It is possible that actuation of the first linear actuator 13 alone can bring the seat to the "relax" position in which the angle has reached a value of 120° or more. It is also possible that simultaneous, partially simultaneous, or successive actuation of the second linear actuator 16 brings the seat to the "low" raised position, in which h = hmin. The value of hmin can, for example, be approximately equal to 100 mm.

[0072] It is possible, according to examples, that the user interface includes a command allowing the occupant to choose the "relax" position, the interface then controlling at least the first linear actuator 13 so that the seat reaches the value a=120°, and optionally, also controlling the second linear actuator 16 so that the seat reaches the height h=hmin, hmin being substantially equal, for example, to 100mm.

[0073] Reference is now made to Figures 12 and 13, which show, by way of non-limiting example, the adjustment of the seat height 1. The second linear actuator 16 is particularly visible here. In this example, it comprises a screw and nut mechanism coupled to an electric motor. The second linear actuator 16 is therefore similar in design to the first linear actuator 13, but in other examples, they may be of different designs, which those skilled in the art will be able to combine. The second linear actuator 16 here comprises a first movable end 161 equipped with a nut 163 and a second fixed end 162 equipped with a screw 164 that can be driven in rotation by a motor. The nut 163 is configured to cooperate with the screw 164, which, when driven by the motor, drives the nut 163 in translation.Similarly, it is possible to provide for a reverse configuration in which the nut 163 is driven by the motor. The length between the eighth pivot joint 17 and the ninth pivot joint 18 can thus vary, and allow a rocking movement of the rear connecting rod 10 relative to the anchoring structure 3. around the fourth pivot joint 11 allowing the axis A2 of the fifth pivot joint 12 to be lowered or raised.

[0074] Figure 12 shows an example of a seat in its nominal position. The height h of the axis A2 of the pivot joint 12 is equal to hn, which corresponds to the nominal height of the seat. In this case, the nut 163 is located approximately in the middle of the length of the screw 164. Indeed, it can be advantageous that, from the nominal position, it is possible to lower or raise the seat 1, the nominal position then corresponding to an intermediate position between the minimum and maximum heights (not shown) of the seat. In this example, in the nominal position, the second linear actuator 16 is such that the length between the nut 163 and the eighth pivot joint 17 is equal to C2n.

[0075] It is evident that the particular nominal, low and "relax" positions are shown here as particular examples to illustrate the operation of a seat according to this disclosure, but that the seat can be set to a multitude of other positions as long as they are permitted by the maximum stroke of the linear actuators, as well as to all intermediate positions between these notable positions.

[0076] Figure 13 shows an example of a seat in the so-called "low" position. The seat has been lowered from its nominal position so that the height h of the axis A2 is equal to hmin, which is less than hn. To achieve this, the second linear actuator 16 was actuated to decrease the length between the nut 163 and the eighth pivot joint 17, thus reaching the minimum value C2min, which is less than C2n. This height adjustment is performed by actuating a single actuator, the second linear actuator 16.

[0077] According to this disclosure, the vehicle seat 1 may have several front connecting rods 7 and several rear connecting rods 10. In particular, it may be advantageous for the vehicle seat to have two front connecting rods 7 and two rear connecting rods 10, each located at the lateral sides of the seat so as to balance and distribute the seat load efficiently. In other words, each of the front connecting rods 7 and rear connecting rods 10 may be located at different values ​​on the transverse Y-axis. In other examples, the seat may have more than two front and / or rear connecting rods, for example, three, four, or more.

[0078] According to examples, a first rear connecting rod 10.1 and a second rear connecting rod 10.2 can be distinguished. It is possible that the second linear actuator 16 is linked to only one of the two rear connecting rods 10. In one example, notably shown in figures 12 and 13, the second linear actuator 16 is linked to the first rear connecting rod 10.1.

[0079] According to examples, the first connecting rod 10.1 may have a different shape from the second connecting rod 10.2. Indeed, it is notably shown in Figures 10 and 11, a second connecting rod 10.2 which is not linked to the second linear actuator 16. It thus has a generally straight shape, connecting the fourth and fifth pivot links 11 and 12.

[0080] According to examples, the first rear connecting rod 10.1 can extend so as to connect, at a first end, the ninth pivot link 18 of the second actuator to the fifth pivot link 12 at a second end, the fourth pivot link 11 then being located between the first and second ends of the first rear connecting rod 10.1. In this way, a stress on the first end at the link 18 by the second actuator 16 causes the first rear connecting rod 10.1 to tilt around the link 11.

[0081] The first rear connecting rod 10.1 may have an angled shape, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, or a generally straight shape as schematically shown in Figures 3 to 6. Potentially advantageously, the first rear connecting rod 10.1 may have an elbow at the fourth pivot joint 11. Indeed, a first straight line passing, on the one hand, through the ninth pivot joint 18 and the fourth pivot joint 11, and a second straight line, on the other hand, through the fourth pivot joint 11 and the fifth pivot joint 12, may form between them a non-straight angle [3], that is to say, different from 0° and 180°. For example, this angle [3] may be between 90° and 135°.

[0082] In some examples, one or both of the first and second linear actuators 13, 16 may be irreversible. That is to say, no stimulus other than the controlled actuation of the actuator in question can change its length. In other words, if the linear actuator in question has a driving element and a driven element, the driven element cannot, under any operating conditions, assume the role of the driving element. This is particularly useful in the event of sudden vehicle deceleration, such as during a crash or other emergency situation. It may be advantageous that a force exerted on the driven element, for example, the backrest 5 in the case of the first linear actuator 13, cannot affect the length of the first linear actuator 13.

[0083] If they are reversible, the linear actuators 13, 16 can each be configured to respectively block the rotation of the backrest frame 5 relative to the seat frame 4, and the rotation of the rear connecting rod 10 relative to the anchoring structure 3 when they are not actuated. In one example, if the first and / or the second linear actuator 13, 16 include screw mechanisms 134, 164 and nuts 133, 163, the helix angle of the screw and nut threads can be dimensioned so that stress on the moving part 131, 161 of the actuator in question 13, 16 does not cause a variation in the length of said actuator 13, 16.

[0084] This disclosure relates to a vehicle seat, regardless of whether it is a driver's or passenger's seat. However, in some examples, the vehicle seat may be a passenger seat. Indeed, a passenger occupant requires less freedom in adjusting the seat's parameters (height, tilt) than a driver. The solution described in this disclosure therefore has an application that could prove particularly advantageous for a passenger seat.

Claims

Demands

1. Vehicle seat (1) (2) comprising: - A seat anchorage structure (3) configured to be mounted on the vehicle (2), - a seat frame (4), tiltable about a longitudinal axis (X) by an inclination a4 - a backrest frame (5), connected to the seat frame (4) by a first pivot joint (6) about a first axis (A1), tiltable about a vertical axis (Z) by a backrest inclination a5 - a front connecting rod (7) connected to the anchorage structure (3) by a second pivot joint (8) and connected to a front part (41) of the seat frame (4) by a third pivot joint (9), - a rear connecting rod (10) connected to the anchorage structure (3) by a fourth pivot joint (11), and connected to either the backrest frame (5) or the seat frame (4) by a fifth pivot joint (12) around a second axis (A2),- a first linear actuator (13) linked to the backrest frame (5) by a sixth pivot joint (14) along a third axis (A3) distinct from the first axis (A1) and linked to the seat frame (4) by a seventh pivot joint (15), configured so that the actuation of the first linear actuator (13) ensures a simultaneous adjustment of the seat tilt a4 and the backrest tilt a5.

2. Vehicle seat (1) of (2) according to claim 1, wherein, according to at least one first seat tilt adjustment mode, actuation of the first linear actuator (13) simultaneously permits rotation of the front connecting rod (7) relative to the anchoring structure (3), rotation of the seat frame (4) relative to the front connecting rod (7), rotation of the backrest frame (5) relative to the seat frame (4) and rotation of the backrest frame (5) relative to the rear connecting rod (10), while the rear connecting rod (10) is static relative to the anchoring structure (3).

3. Vehicle seat (1) (2) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a second linear actuator (16) linked to the anchoring structure (3) by an eighth pivot link (17) and linked to the rear connecting rod (10) by a ninth pivot link (18).

4. Vehicle seat (1) of (2) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least according to a second mode of adjusting the seat height, the actuation of said second linear actuator (16) ensures an adjustment of the height (h) of the seat frame (4) and of the backrest frame (5), simultaneously allowing the rotation of the front connecting rod (7) relative to the anchoring structure (3) and the rotation of the rear connecting rod (10) relative to the anchoring structure (3), as well as the rotations of the seat frame (4) relative to the front connecting rod (7) and of the seat frame (4) relative to the rear connecting rod (10), and while the backrest (5) is static relative to the seat frame (4).

5. A vehicle seat (1) (2) according to claim 1 comprising a second linear actuator (16) connected to the anchoring structure (3) by an eighth pivot joint (17) and connected to the rear connecting rod (10) by a ninth pivot joint (18), configured to, at least in a combined seat tilt and height adjustment mode, simultaneously actuate the first linear actuator (13) and the second linear actuator (16) so as to simultaneously permit rotation of the front connecting rod (7) relative to the anchoring structure (3), rotation of the seat frame (4) relative to the front connecting rod (7), rotation of the backrest frame (5) relative to the seat frame (4), and rotation of the backrest frame (5) relative to the rear connecting rod (10), while the rear connecting rod (10) is movable relative to the anchoring structure (3) about the fourth pivot joint (11),in order to simultaneously adjust the seat height and adjust the seat tilt (a4) and backrest tilt (a5).

6. Vehicle seat according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the rear connecting rod (10) comprises a first end connected to either of the backrest frame (5) or the seat frame (4) and a second end connected to the second linear actuator (16), said fourth pivot linkage (11) connecting the rear connecting rod (10) to the anchoring structure (3) being located in an area separate from the first end or the second end.

7. Vehicle seat (1) (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first linear actuator (13), and / or the second linear actuator (16) when the vehicle seat (1) is according to any one of claims 3 to 6, are irreversible actuators, configured to block respectively the rotation of the backrest frame (5) relative to the seat frame (4), and the rotation of the rear connecting rod (10) relative to the anchoring structure (3) when not actuated.

8. Vehicle seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first linear actuator (13), and the second linear actuator (16) when the vehicle seat (1) is according to any one of claims 3 to 6, each comprise a motor, a screw and a nut capable of translating along the screw by the action of the motor.

9. Vehicle seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second axis (A2) is coincident with one of the first axis (A1) or the third axis (A3).

10. Vehicle seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the third axis (A3) is located at a height relative to the anchoring structure (3) which is less than the height of the first axis (A1) relative to the anchoring structure (3).

11. Vehicle seat according to any one of the preceding claims, the actuation of the first linear actuator (13) allowing, for a variation of 1° of the seat inclination a4 with respect to the longitudinal axis (X), a variation of the backrest inclination a5 with respect to the vertical axis (Z) of between 2.5° and 4°.

12. Vehicle seat according to any one of the preceding claims in combination with any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the second linear actuator (16) is linked to the anchoring structure (3) in a first zone (16.1) located forward, with respect to the longitudinal axis X, of a second zone (16.2) in which the second linear actuator (16) is linked to the rear connecting rod (10).

13. A seat according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a user interface configured to selectively: - when the seat is according to claim 2, trigger said at least one first seat tilt adjustment mode, by selectively activating the first actuator upon deployment or retraction, whereas, when the seat includes a second linear actuator (16), the second linear actuator (16) is not activated, and / or

14. - when the seat is according to claim 4, trigger said at least a second seat height adjustment mode by activating the second actuator during deployment or retraction, while the first linear actuator (13) is not activated, and / or - when the seat is according to claim 5, trigger said at least one third combined adjustment mode for seat tilt and height adjustment (1). Vehicle (2) comprising a seat (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

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