Seat support system for bench padding, modular seat cushion and bench including such a modular cushion.

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a seating support system for a bench seat, said system configured to support padding, said system comprising a first support (S1) configured to receive a first occupant, and a second support configured to receive a second occupant, as well as at least one mechanical connecting element (MO) joining the first support (S1) to the second support (S2) by means of a fixed joint, extending from two adjacent lateral edges of the first support (S1) and the second support (S2). This disclosure further relates to a modular cushion comprising such a support system, and a bench seat comprising such a modular cushion. This disclosure concerns a method for assembling a first bench seat and a second bench seat of different configurations. Abstract figure: Figure 7

Description

Title of the invention: Seat support system for bench padding, modular seat cushion and bench comprising such a modular cushion.

[0001] This disclosure relates to a bench seat support system, a modular bench seat cushion comprising such a seat support, and a bench comprising such a modular seat cushion.

[0002] The present disclosure is further related to a method of assembling a first bench seat and a second bench seat, the first bench seat and the second bench seat being according to the present disclosure.

[0003] The first bench seat and the second bench seat are of different configurations, chosen in particular from a seat: - in one piece, - in two parts (in particular 1 / 3 & 2 / 3 or 40% & 60%).

[0004] Regardless of the seating configurations, and according to a first advantageous alternative, the different seats can advantageously share identical seat supports, advantageously identical (first) lateral supports, identical central supports, and possibly identical second lateral supports. The first and second lateral supports can be identical or different. The different seats share mechanical connecting elements. When the three supports (the first lateral support, the central support, and the second lateral support) are identical, this advantageously allows for the creation of different bench configurations of the same length, or even width, using the same set of supports.

[0005] Such supports allow the implementation of an assembly process enabling the assembly of different bench configurations, advantageously limiting the number of references for the assembly of the seating system, and therefore for the production of the benches.

[0006] Also, the present disclosure relates to a method for assembling an assembly according to the present disclosure, and for obtaining the first and second bench seats, which are of different configurations, from the same set of identical side supports and the same set of central supports, or even possibly from the same set of second set of side supports. Such a method finds particular application for assembling different bench seat configurations in the same vehicle, namely typically when the dimensions The length of the seating remains the same, depending on the different bench configurations.

[0007] Regardless of the seating configurations, and according to a second alternative, the different seats can still share identical seat supports, but only with regard to the lateral supports (first and / or second), the central supports being advantageously of different widths in order to meet not only several bench configurations, which can also be of different lengths.

[0008] Such supports allow the implementation of an assembly process enabling the assembly of different bench seat configurations, advantageously limiting the number of part numbers required for assembling the seating system, and therefore for manufacturing the bench seats, even when the bench seats are of different lengths. Such a process can find a particularly advantageous application for accommodating different bench seat configurations for the same platform, shared by different vehicles, and which may include bench seats of varying lengths.

[0009] Such processes can be advantageously implemented on a motor vehicle production line, particularly to accommodate different seat configurations. Depending on the orders, it becomes easy to meet different seat configurations for the same vehicle model. technical field

[0010] The present disclosure relates to the field of automotive vehicle seats, which are found in particular in the second row of the vehicle. Previous technique

[0011] It is thus known of different bench seat configurations, and in particular: - a first seating configuration, in one piece, which includes according to a longitudinal direction of the seat, transverse to the vehicle, a single padding supported by a single support, which can typically be a wire basket overmolded by a PU foam of the padding.Such a one-piece seating configuration is known for example from document KR101222847, and which can be adapted to seat three occupants, sitting side by side on the bench seat, - a second seating configuration, in two parts, distinct, or even independent, along a longitudinal direction of the seat, such as for example a first part of the seat representing about one third of the length of the seat, or 40% of the length, configured to accommodate a single occupant, and a second part of the seat representing the remaining two-thirds of the seat, or the remaining 60%, and configured. to accommodate two occupants, side by side. The two mattresses of the two seating parts are typically supported by specific supports, namely a first specific rigid support configured to support the padding of the first part, and a second, separate, larger rigid support configured to support the padding of the second part.

[0012] Documents US6386629B1 or EP3718818 are examples of vehicle bench seats.

[0013] The same model of motor vehicle can be equipped with different bench seat configurations, namely at least the first and second configurations. On the vehicle production line, this necessitates logistics and line organization that allow assembly from one or the other configuration, typically depending on the options chosen.

[0014] According to the inventors' findings, and according to the known state of the art, the technical solutions to meet the two configurations are configuration-specific, which generates a large number of part references to meet the different seat configurations, and thus complicates their manufacture on the vehicle assembly line. Summary

[0015] This disclosure improves the situation.

[0016] A seating support system is proposed, according to a first aspect, for a bench seat configured to support a cushion, said system comprising a first support S1 configured to receive a first occupant, and a second support configured to receive a second occupant, as well as at least one mechanical linking element securing the first support and the second support in extension by means of a fixed connection, by two adjacent lateral edges of the first and second supports.

[0017] The features described in the following paragraphs may optionally be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other:

[0018] - According to one embodiment, said at least one mechanical connecting element is at least one first mechanical linking element, said system comprising a third support, configured to receive a third occupant, extending as a continuation of the first support and second support assembly along a longitudinal direction of the base, as well as at least one second mechanical linking element joining the second support and the third support by means of a fixed connection.

[0019] - According to one embodiment, said at least one mechanical connecting element, is a clip-on component configured to be elastically snapped onto the first support and on the second support, straddling the first support and the second support and / or said at least one second mechanical linking element is a clip-on element configured to be fitted onto the second support and onto the third support, straddling the second support and onto the third support;

[0020] According to one embodiment of the seat support system: - the first support and the second support comprise, at the adjacent lateral edges of the female interlocking portions, and wherein said mechanical connecting member, in particular said at least one first mechanical connecting member comprises a first locking wing configured to interlock in a lockable manner into the female interlocking portion of the first support and a second locking wing configured to interlock in a lockable manner into the female interlocking portion of the second support, the first locking wing and the second locking wing spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the seat, a connecting portion linking the first locking wing and the second locking wing by straddling the first support and the second support and / or in which - the second support and the third support comprise, at the level of the adjacent lateral edges of the female interlocking portions, and wherein said at least a second mechanical linking member comprises a first locking wing configured to interlock in a lockable manner in the female interlocking portion of the second support and a second locking wing configured to interlock in a lockable manner in the female interlocking portion of the third support, the first locking wing and the second locking wing spaced apart from each other, along the longitudinal direction of the seat, a linking portion connecting the first locking wing and the second locking wing by straddling the second support and the third support.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the connecting portion comprises a central portion interposed between the two lateral edges of the first support and the second support, or alternatively comprising a portion interposed between the two lateral edges of the second support and the third support, said central portion comprising a U-shaped section, comprising: - a first wing of the U extending parallel to the first locking wing, over an upper portion of said first locking wing, the first wing of the U linked superiorly to the first locking wing, along a first bridge of material, - a second wing of the U extending parallel to the second locking wing over an upper portion of the second locking wing, the second wing of the U connected superiorly to the second locking wing via a second material bridge - the first wing of the U and the second wing of the U connected in particular by reinforcing ribs, transverse, internal to the U. and in which a first space between the first locking wing and the first wing of the U receives a skirt from the first support or a skirt from the second support and a second space between the second locking wing and the second wing of the U receives a skirt (from the second support or a skirt from the third support.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the first support, the second support, and where applicable the third support may be plastic supports, and in which said at least one mechanical connecting member, in particular said at least one first mechanical connecting member and said at least one second mechanical connecting member is a plastic part.

[0023] The present disclosure also relates, in a second aspect, to a modular bench seat cushion comprising a seat support system according to the present disclosure comprising the first support and the second support linked in embedding by said at least one mechanical linking member, and where applicable, said third support linked in embedding with the second support and in which the modular cushion comprises a common padding covering an upper surface of the first support and an upper surface of the second support, and where applicable an upper surface of the third support.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the modular seat cushion comprises a cover covering the common padding and fixed to the support system by attachment devices of the first support and the second support and where applicable to the third support when the common padding covers the third support.

[0025] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure relates to a vehicle bench seat comprising a seating structure fixed to a vehicle chassis and a modular seat cushion according to the present disclosure, the first support forming a first lateral support intended to receive a first occupant of the bench seat and the second support forming a central support intended to receive a second occupant, and where applicable the third support, a second lateral support intended to receive a third occupant.

[0026] According to a fourth aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for assembling a first bench seat according to the present disclosure; comprising a modular, one-piece seat cushion comprising a first lateral support, a central support and a second lateral support, joined by interlocking means by said at least one first mechanical connecting member and by said at least a second mechanical connecting member, in the longitudinal direction, said connected supports covered by a common padding, and a second bench seat according to this disclosure comprising a first lateral support and a central support, mechanically connected by said at least one mechanical connecting member, said connected supports covered by a common padding, a third support being not mechanically connected to the central support, covered by individual padding, / A / Provide one set of identical lateral supports, one set of identical central supports, one set of identical second lateral supports, one set of identical mechanical connecting members and in which the assembly of the modular cushion of the first bench seat comprises: - / B 1 / Take one of the lateral supports of the game and one of the central supports of the game and one of the second lateral supports of the game and join them together, by means of mechanical linking elements, comprising first mechanical linking elements connecting the first lateral support and said central support, and second mechanical linking elements connecting the central support and the second lateral support, - / B2 / Lay down a common padding covering the first lateral support and the central support, and the second lateral support, - / B3 / Cover the common padding with a common cover and fix the common cover to said lateral support, to the central support and to the second lateral support, and in which the assembly of the second bench seat comprises: - / Cl / Take one of the lateral supports, one of the central supports, and one of the second lateral supports, and mutually secure the first lateral support and the central support using the mechanical linking devices connecting the first lateral support and said central support. - / C2 / Place a common padding covering the lateral and central supports, and place an individual padding covering the second lateral support. - / C3 / Cover the common padding with a first, common cover, and fix the common cover to the central support to form a first modular cushion, and cover the individual padding with an individual cover and fix the cover to the second lateral support to form a second modular cushion, independent of the first modular cushion.

[0027] According to a fifth aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for assembling a first bench seat according to the present disclosure and a second bench seat according to the present disclosure, the first bench seat and the second bench seat being of different lengths and in which the first bench seat includes a modular seat cushion, the modular cushion being a single piece comprising a first lateral support, a support central and a second lateral support, linked by at least one first mechanical connecting element and by at least one second mechanical connecting element, along the longitudinal direction, said linked supports covered by a common padding, or alternatively the modular cushion being in two parts comprising a first lateral support and a central support, mechanically linked by at least one mechanical connecting element and covered by a common padding, a third support being not mechanically linked to the central support, covered by individual padding and in which the second bench seat according to this disclosure comprises a modular, one-piece seat cushion including a first lateral support, a central support, and a second lateral support, joined by interlocking elements in the longitudinal direction, said joined supports covered by a common padding, or alternatively, the modular cushion in two parts comprising a first lateral support and a central support, mechanically joined by said at least one mechanical link, said joined supports covered by a common padding, a third support being not mechanically connected to the central support, covered by individual padding said process comprising: - / AO / Provide a set of identical side supports, a set of central supports of different widths including central supports of one width and central supports of a second width, a set of identical secondary side supports, a set of identical mechanical linkages, and in which the assembly of the modular cushion of the first bench seat comprises: / B 10 / / Take one of the side supports of the set and one of the central supports of said first width, of the set and one of the second side supports of the set and: - when the modular seat cushion is a single piece, they are joined together by mechanical connecting elements, comprising first mechanical connecting elements linking the first lateral support and said central support, and second mechanical connecting elements linking the central support and the second lateral support or - when the modular cushion is in two parts, mutually secure the first lateral support and the central support by means of mechanical linking devices connecting the first lateral support and said central support, / B20 / Install a common padding covering the first lateral support and the central support, and the second lateral support when said modular cushion is a single piece, or install a common padding covering the lateral support and the central support, and to place an individual padding covering the second lateral support when the modular cushion is in two parts, / B30 / Cover the common padding with a common cover and fix the common cover to said lateral support, to the central support and to the second lateral support, when the modular cushion is a single piece, or alternatively cover the common padding with a first common cover, and fix the common cover to said lateral support and to the central support to form a first modular cushion, and cover the individual padding with an individual cover and fix the cover to the second lateral support to form a second modular cushion, independent of the first modular cushion, when the modular cushion is in two parts comprising the first modular cushion and the second modular cushion, and in which the assembly of the modular cushion of the second bench comprises: / CIO / Take one of the lateral supports of the set and one of the central supports of the second width,of the game and one of the second lateral supports of the game and: - when the modular seat cushion is a single piece, to join them together by means of mechanical connecting elements, comprising first mechanical connecting elements linking the first lateral support and said central support, and second mechanical connecting elements linking the central support and the second lateral support or , - when the modular cushion is in two parts, mutually secure the first lateral support and the central support by means of mechanical linking devices connecting the first lateral support and said central support, / C20 / Install a common padding covering the first lateral support and the central support, and the second lateral support when said modular cushion is in one piece, or install a common padding covering the lateral support and the central support, and install an individual padding covering the second lateral support when the modular cushion is in two parts, / C30 / Cover the common padding with a common cap and fix the common cap to said lateral support, to the central support and to the second lateral support, when the modular cushion is in one piece or alternatively cover the common padding with a first common cap, and fix the common cap to said lateral support to the central support in order to form a first modular cushion, and cover the individual padding with an individual cap, and fix the cap to the second lateral support in order to form a second modular cushion, independent of the first modular cushion, when the modular cushion is in two parts comprising the first modular cushion and the second modular cushion. Brief description of the drawings

[0028] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and analysis of the attached drawings, on which: Fig. 1

[0029] [Fig. 1] shows an embodiment of a bench seat (first or second) of a assembly according to this disclosure (with the padding removed) comprising: - a seat comprising a support system comprising successively, along a longitudinal direction of the seat, a first lateral support intended to receive a first occupant, a central support intended to receive a second occupant, and a second lateral support intended to receive a third occupant, the first lateral support, the lateral support and the second lateral support being formed by separate molded plastic parts, said supports being supported by a rear structural support shaft, fitted into rear housings of the supports opening towards the rear of the bench seat, said support shaft carrying in particular the ISOFIX anchor loops and a front structural support shaft fitted into protruding housings under the supports. - a folder, in three parts, following the longitudinal direction, independently foldable from one another, comprising: — a lateral backrest support, extending from the lateral seat support, — a central backrest support, extending from the central seat support, — a second lateral backrest support, extending from the second lateral seat support. Fig. 2

[0030] [Fig.2] is a detailed top view of the three supports, namely the first support lateral, the central support and the second lateral support, in the form of three molded plastic pieces rigidly assembled together and in which: - two juxtaposed lateral edges of the first lateral support and the central support are joined by two mechanical connecting members, in particular clip-on, - two other juxtaposed lateral edges of the central support and the second lateral support are joined by two mechanical connecting members, in particular clip-on, and wherein the first lateral support and the second lateral support are two separate pieces, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in particular symmetrical to each other by a plane of symmetry. Fig. 2A

[0031] [Fig.2A] is a detailed view of the three supports (lateral, central and second lateral), following an exploded view Fig. 3

[0032] [Fig.3] is a bottom view of [Fig.2], the supports having interfaces mechanical components forming housings on a front portion of the supports, opening vertically downwards, intended to receive a structural front support shaft of the subframe. Fig. 4

[0033] [Fig.4] is viewed from the rear of [Fig.2], illustrating mechanical interfaces, rear supports with the housing opening towards the rear configured for the fitting of a rear structural support shaft of the subframe. Fig. 5

[0034] [Fig. 5] is a detailed view of [Fig. 2], illustrating the mechanical linking elements connecting the two lateral edges of the central support and the lateral support. Fig. 6

[0035] [Fig.6] is a perspective view of [Fig.1], when the seat supports are removed, revealing the foundation structure which includes: - said rear support shaft, carrying the anchor loops including ISOFIX, - said front support shaft, configured to support the lateral support, the central support and the second support, at the level of the front portions of the supports, said rear support shaft, being carried by four parallel flanges extending vertically from a chassis to a floor, the backrest supports, mounted pivotally respectively each on two of the flanges at the level of the upper ends of the flanges, above the rear support shaft, said front support shaft, arranged at a distance from the floor by four vertical supports. Fig. 6A

[0036] [Fig. 6A] is a detailed view of four vertical structural supports, shaped like a truncated pyramid, obtained by deforming a sheet of chassis metal, and as a support solution replacing the front support shaft illustrated in [Fig. 6]. The four supports extend vertically from the floor to support the seat supports, in particular the first lateral support, the central support, and the second lateral support. Fig. 6B

[0037] [Fig. 6B] is a detail view of a crossmember, formed by a profile bearing on the vehicle floor extending along the longitudinal direction, as a support solution replacing the front support shaft illustrated in [Fig. 6], the crossmember extending transversely across the vehicle to support the seat supports, in particular the first lateral support, the central support, and the second lateral support. Fig. 7

[0038] [Fig.7] is a detailed top view of the three supports, namely the first support lateral, the central support and the second lateral support, in the form of three molded plastic parts intended to be rigidly assembled together and in which: - two juxtaposed lateral edges of the first lateral support and the central support are intended to be joined by two mechanical connecting elements, preferably plastic and in particular clip-on, by fitting the elements into female portions of the supports, - two other juxtaposed lateral edges belonging to the central support and the second lateral support are intended to be joined by two mechanical connecting elements, preferably plastic in particular clip-on, by fitting the elements into female portions of the supports, and wherein the first lateral support and the second lateral support are two identical pieces, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 7A

[0039] [Fig.7A] shows a first bench comprising the three supports of [Fig.7], joined in pairs by mechanical connecting elements, including the first mechanical connecting elements linking the first lateral support and the central support, the second mechanical connecting elements linking the central support and the second lateral support, and according to a first one-piece seating configuration, preferably comprising a common padding, covering the upper surfaces of the three seating supports. Fig. 7B

[0040] [Fig.7B] shows a second bench comprising the three supports of [Fig.7], including the first lateral support, the central support and the second lateral support, and according to a second seating configuration in two independent parts, comprising a common padding, covering the upper surfaces of the first lateral support and the central support, which are joined together by mechanical connecting members, the common padding fixed to the lateral and central supports by a common cap, forming a first modular cushion, and an individual padding covering the second lateral support which is an independent support, the individual padding fixed to the second lateral support by an individual cap forming a second modular cushion. Fig. 7C

[0041] [Fig.7C] is a side view of the seat supports, when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the seat, covered with padding, and a cover over the padding fixed to the support(s), typically to attachment devices of the support(s). Fig. 7D

[0042] [Fig.7D] is a view from below of the support which includes molded plastic hooking elements configured to hook a clamping link of the cap. Fig. 8

[0043] [Fig-8] is a cross-sectional view along a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction, substantially vertical, illustrating the elastic interlocking of a mechanical linking element connecting in fixed position the second support forming a central support, and the third support forming the second lateral support. Description of the implementation methods

[0044] The present disclosure relates to a seat support system for a bench seat configured to support a padding MT, said system comprising a first support SI, and a second support S2, as well as at least one mechanical linking member OM securing the first support SI and the second support S2 by means of a fixed connection, extending by two adjacent lateral edges of the first support SI, and the second support S2.

[0045] The first support SI can be a lateral support SI configured to receive a first occupant, and the second support S2 can be a lateral support configured to receive a second occupant of the seat.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the seating system may include a third support S3 forming a second lateral support S12, which is independent of said assembly comprising the first support SI and the second support S2.

[0047] According to another embodiment, said at least one mechanical linking member OM is at least a first mechanical linking member OMI connecting the first support SI and the second support S2, said system comprising said third support S3 extending as a continuation of the first support and second support assembly along a longitudinal direction DL of the base, as well as at least a second mechanical linking member OM2 joining the second support S2 and the third support S3 by means of a fixed connection.

[0048] Advantageously, said at least one mechanical linking member OM may be a clip-on member configured to be elastically snap-on onto the first support SI and onto the second support S2, straddling the first support SI and onto the second support S2, or configured to be elastically snap-on onto the second support S2 and onto the third support S3, straddling the second support S2 and onto the third support S2.

[0049] To this end, the first support S1 (or the second support S2) and the second support S2 (or the second support S3) may include, at the adjacent lateral edges, female, for example through, interlocking portions. Said at least one mechanical connecting member OM, in particular said at least one first mechanical connecting member OMI, includes a first locking wing ALI configured to interlock in a lockable manner into the female interlocking portion of the first support S1 and a second locking wing AL2 configured to interlock in a lockable manner into the female interlocking portion of the second support S2.

[0050] The first locking wing ALI and the second locking wing AL2 are spaced apart, along the longitudinal direction DL of the seat, a connecting portion LI linking the first locking wing ALI and the second locking wing AL2 by straddling the first support S1 and the second support S2.

[0051] Similarly, said at least one second mechanical connecting member OM2 may be a clip-on member configured to be elastically snap-fit ​​onto the second support S3 and onto the third support S3, straddling the second support S2 and the third support S3. Preferably, the first mechanical connecting member OM1 and the second mechanical connecting member OM2 are identical. According to another embodiment, said first mechanical connecting member and the second mechanical connecting member may be distinct.

[0052] Similarly, the second support S2 and the third support S3 comprise, at the adjacent lateral edges, female, for example through, interlocking portions. Said at least one second mechanical connecting member OM2 comprises a first locking wing ALI configured to interlock in a lockable manner into the female interlocking portion of the second support S2 and a second locking wing AL2 configured to interlock in a lockable manner into the female interlocking portion of the third support S3.

[0053] The first locking wing ALI and the second locking wing AL2 are spaced apart from each other, along the longitudinal direction DL of the seat.

[0054] A portion of the LI link connects the first locking wing ALI and the second locking wing AL2 by straddling the second support S2 and the second support S3.

[0055] With reference to the cross-sectional view of [Fig. 8], and generally, the LI connecting portion may include a central portion interposed between the two lateral edges of the first support S1 and the second support S2 for the first mechanical connecting member, OMI, or may include a portion interposed between the two edges laterals of the second support S2 and of the second support S3 for the second mechanical linking element OM2.

[0056] Said central portion, interposed between the supports (S1,S2 or S2, S3) may comprise a U-shaped section, with: - a first wing of the U ALI U extending parallel to the first locking wing ALI, over an upper portion of said first locking wing ALI, the first wing of the U AL1U linked superiorly to the first locking wing, following a first material bridge BG1, - a second wing of the U AL2U extending parallel to the second locking wing AL2 over an upper portion of the second locking wing AL2, the second wing of the U AL2U linked superiorly to the second locking wing following a second material bridge BG2.

[0057] The first wing of the U, referenced AL1U and the second wing of the U, referenced AL3 can be connected by reinforcing ribs, transverse, internal to the U.

[0058] It is also noted, in [Fig.8] in particular, that a first space between the first locking wing ALI and the first wing of the U referenced ALI U receives a skirt JP from the first support SI or a skirt JP from the second support S2, and a second space between the second locking wing AL2 and the second wing of the U referenced AL2U receives a skirt JP from the second support S2 or a skirt JP from the third support S3.

[0059] In general: - a lower terminal portion of the first wing ALI may include a tooth configured to hook the support (first or second) of the second wing AL2 and for example an edge of the skirt, in particular at the level of a first notch and - a lower terminal portion of the second wing AL2 may include a tooth configured to hook the support (second or third) and for example an edge of the skirt, in particular at the level of a second notch.

[0060] Generally, the first support SI, the second support S2, and, where applicable, the third support S3 may be made of metal. The supports SI, S2, and even S3 may also be made of plastic, preferably each in a single piece of plastic, typically molded using injection molding techniques. Said at least one mechanical connecting element OM, in particular said at least one first mechanical connecting element OM1 and said at least one second mechanical connecting element OM2, may be a plastic part, typically injection molded.

[0061] The present disclosure further relates to a modular seat cushion for a bench comprising a seat support system according to the present disclosure comprising the first support SI and the second support S2 linked by at least one mechanical connecting member OM, in particular the third support S3 provided as an independent element, not linked to the first support assembly and second support. The modular cushion may include a common safety mattress MC covering an upper surface of the first support SI and an upper surface of the second support S2 only, as illustrated in [Fig. 7B]. A common cap can be attached to the first support and second support assembly by attachment devices on both supports SI and S2.

[0062] The modular cushion may further include at least one second mechanical linking member OM2 connecting the second support S2 and the third support S3. The common padding MC then covers an upper surface of the first support SI, an upper surface of the second support S2, and an upper surface of the third support S3, as illustrated in [Fig. 7A]. A common cap can be attached to the assembly of the first, second, and third supports S2 by means of attachment members OA of the three supports SI, S2, and S3.

[0063] Generally speaking, the present disclosure relates to a bench seat comprising a seat cushion and preferably a backrest. Such a bench seat finds particular application in the second row of a motor vehicle to accommodate three occupants sitting side by side.

[0064] Generally, the present disclosure also relates to a vehicle bench seat comprising a seating structure fixed to a vehicle chassis and a modular seat cushion according to the present disclosure, the first support SI forming a first lateral support SI intended to receive a first occupant of the bench seat, the second support S2 forming a central support Sc intended to receive a second occupant, and where applicable the third support S3, a second lateral support S12, intended to receive a third occupant.

[0065] The three occupants can be seated side by side on the modular cushion

[0066] Thus, generally speaking, the seat may include the seat support system including the central support Sc, and the lateral support SI, arranged laterally to the next central support, along the longitudinal direction of the seat DL, and preferably also the second lateral support S12. The three supports SI, Sc, and S12 are respectively configured to seat the three occupants.

[0067] According to this disclosure, the central support Sc, the lateral support SI and the second lateral support S12 are preferably formed from parts distinct from each other.

[0068] The supports can be made of any material, in particular metal or plastic. The central support, the lateral support, or even the second lateral support can each be a single, one-piece part, and for example, molded plastic parts, typically by injection.

[0069] Manufacturing the SI, Sc, S12 seat supports by molding advantageously allows the shape of the support to be given.

[0070] Each seat support, in particular the lateral support SI, the central support, or even the second support S12, may have a shape having: - a central section designed to accommodate the buttocks and thighs of the occupant, and preferably, - raised edges relative to the central part, configured to ensure lateral support of the occupant of the seat support, following the longitudinal direction DL of the seat.

[0071] Each SI, Sc, S12 support can extend from a rear edge, typically adjacent to the backrest, to a front edge forming a nose of the seat. A section along a vertical plane of the central part of each SI, Sc, S12 support can have an upward-sloping profile, from rear to front, thus forming an anti-submarining profile.

[0072] A rear portion of the support can be hollowed out, for example by a series of openings distributed along two directions of the support, along the longitudinal and transverse directions, in order to give the hollowed-out wall of the support increased elasticity, particularly compared to a non-hollowed-out portion. This increased elasticity of the support SI, Sc, S12 on its rear portion allows the support, especially a plastic one, to deform under the oscillations of the occupant's load, thus acting as a suspension. The seat is therefore preferably without metal suspension.

[0073] The plastic molding of the supports can further enable the formation of different functions, and in particular: - mechanical interfaces of the support allowing the supports to be fixed to a structure, in particular with an LG housing; typically U-shaped at the rear, opening towards the rear, configured to receive a rear structural support shaft, and where applicable a lower LG2 housing opening below the support, configured to receive a second front structural shaft, and / or - said attachment devices OA, for fixing a cover Cf intended to cover the padding system of the seat.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the lateral support SI and the second lateral support S12 can be identical, as can be seen in the example of [Fig. 7]. It is thus possible to form a bench seat with seating for three occupants, and with the same part number to form the lateral support SI and the second lateral support S12, to the right and left of the central support Sc.

[0075] According to another embodiment, the lateral support SI and second lateral support S12 can be distinct, and in particular formed by parts substantially symmetrical with respect to a median vertical plane, and as can be seen in the example of [Fig.3].

[0076] The design of the seat support system is advantageously modular in order to accommodate several seating configurations, as illustrated in Figures 7A, 7B, and in particular different seat padding configurations.

[0077] The padding is typically made of a soft material providing seating comfort. The padding may, for example, be made of polyurethane foam, in a well-known manner. The padding may also be an entanglement of continuous thermoplastic fibers forming loops welded together, typically obtained by extrusion, and as described, for example, in document FR3140296 of this Applicant.

[0078] Also, the seat includes a padding system which may include one or more independent paddings.

[0079] Thus, and according to a first possibility, the lateral support SI, and the central support Sc, or even the second lateral support S12 can be covered by a common padding MC.

[0080] A common padding is understood to be a padding which extends in one piece over several seat supports, at least over the lateral support and the central support ([Fig.7B]), or even also over the second lateral support (see example in [Fig.7A]), or at least over the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12; and as opposed to an individual padding MI which extends only over one of the supports (lateral, central or second lateral), in other words without covering the other supports.

[0081] The seat support system comprising at least two of the supports among the lateral support SI, the central support Sc and the second central support S12 are self-supporting by the addition of the mechanical linking members OM.

[0082] Thus, when two or three supports SI, Sc, and S12 are covered by a common padding MC, said seat supports covered by the common padding are mechanically linked to form a set of self-supporting supports by one or more first mechanical linking members OM1 between the lateral support and the central support Sc, and by one or more second mechanical linking members OM2 between the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12.

[0083] Such a self-supporting set of seat supports can then allow the common padding MC to be fixed to the supports, typically by adding a common cover Cf over the common padding. A common cover is understood to be a cover over a common padding, as opposed to an individual cover which covers an individual padding.

[0084] The modular cushion can thus be obtained comprising the supports SI, S2 or even S3, mechanically linked, the common padding, and the cover. Such a modular cushion is advantageously self-supporting, facilitating its storage and transport. During the manufacturing, the modular cushion comprising (the support(s), the padding and the cover) can be assembled at a first manufacturing site, and with a view to assembling the modular cushion onto the seating structure, attached to a vehicle chassis, which can advantageously be carried out at a second manufacturing site, away from the first site.

[0085] Thus, the modular design of the support allows, according to a first possibility, the assembly of a bench seat in one piece, comprising the lateral support SI, the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12, all three of which are preferably covered by a common padding MC extending longitudinally along the longitudinal direction of the seat.

[0086] However, and generally and according to a less preferred variant (not illustrated), it is possible to use several separate paddings to cover the three supports, such as three individual paddings for the three supports, or a common padding and an individual padding covering respectively two adjacent supports, and the remaining support.

[0087] The three supports are joined, two by two, by the addition of mechanical linking members OM, and in particular the first mechanical linking members OMI linking the first lateral support SI and the central support Sc, and the second mechanical linking members OM2 linking the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12.

[0088] One or more first mechanical connecting members OM1 can rigidly join two juxtaposed lateral edges belonging to the lateral support and the central support Sc. One or more second mechanical connecting members OM2 can rigidly join the other lateral edge of the central support, and a juxtaposed lateral edge of the second central support S12.

[0089] The mechanical connecting member OM is a part that straddles the two supports (lateral and central, or central and second lateral) to be connected and is preferably a clip-on part, for example, in the shape of an inverted U

[0090] Generally, the mechanical connecting element OM can typically be a single-piece plastic part. The female portions of the seat supports (namely the lateral support, the central support, or even the second lateral support) can be obtained by molding during the injection molding of the seat supports.

[0091] The common cover covers the common MC padding and is fixed to the three seat supports (lateral, central, and second lateral) in order to obtain the modular cushion in one piece, and according to the example of [Fig.7A].

[0092] According to a second possibility illustrated by way of example in [Fig.7B], the modular design of the supports makes it possible to obtain a bench seat in two independent parts, along the longitudinal direction DL, in particular 2 / 3 & 1 / 3 or (60% & 40%).

[0093] To this end, the lateral support SI and the central support Sc can be covered by a common padding MC according to a first embodiment, the lateral support and the central support being previously mechanically linked by the mechanical connecting members OM. A common cover Cf can cover the common padding MC and be attached to the lateral support SI and central support Sc assembly. This yields a first modular cushion of the first part, which can represent 2 / 3 or 60% of the seat depending on the longitudinal direction of the seat. The second lateral support S12 is covered by individual padding, and the individual padding is attached to the second lateral support by an individual cover. This yields a second modular cushion of the first part, which can represent 1 / 3 (or 40%) of the seat depending on the longitudinal direction DL of the seat.Such a modular cushion can advantageously be self-supporting, facilitating storage and transport, and allowing for manufacturing at a first site located away from a second manufacturing site where the final assembly of the modular cushions onto the seat structure on the subframe, inside the vehicle, takes place, as already explained. Alternatively, and according to a less preferred option, it is possible to replace the common MC padding with two individual, secure cushions.

[0094] According to a second variant of this second possibility, comprising a seat in two independent parts, the common padding can cover the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12, with the individual padding covering the (first) lateral support SI. In this variant, the individual padding is attached to the lateral support SI by an individual cap, and the common padding is attached to the central support Sc and second lateral support S12 assembly by a common cap Cf. Alternatively, and according to a less preferred option, it is possible to replace the common padding MC with two individual paddings.

[0095] The OA attachment elements under each seat support (lateral, central or even The second lateral brackets are configured to secure the headgear or headgear, depending on the configuration. The attachment devices may, for example, be plastic hooks extending outwards under each bracket, with the hooks distributed around the periphery of the bracket. These hooks form a discontinuous, outwardly open attachment groove, configured to house a LS (long-sleeved) cable tie forming a loop, extending at various points from the loop into different hooks.

[0096] When the headband is an individual headband covering an individual padding MI, the fastening link LS is hooked into the hooking members of the same seat support, namely the lateral support, or the second lateral support.

[0097] When the cover is a cover that goes over a common padding MC, the fastening link is attached to fastening elements OA belonging to the seat supports covered by the seat padding, namely: - the three supports (namely the lateral support SI, the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12) for a single-piece seat, - the two supports (namely the lateral support SI and the central support Sc or the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12).

[0098] Alternatively, the attachment member may include a periphery attachment groove, the groove opening beneath the support. The cap then includes, along its edge, attachment profiles configured to lock by elastic interlocking in the attachment grooves.

[0099] When the headgear is an individual headgear covering an individual MI safety mattress, the hook profiles are hooked into the hook groove of the same seat support, namely the lateral support, or the second lateral support.

[0100] When the cover is a cover that goes over a common MC padding, the attachment profiles are configured to lock into attachment grooves belonging to the different seat supports covered by the seat padding, namely: - the three supports (namely the lateral support SI, the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12) for a single-piece seat, - the two supports (namely the lateral support SI and the central support Sc or the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12).

[0101] Generally, when the seat comprises two independent parts, the different parts, preferably in the form of modular cushions, are free to move relative to each other. It may also be envisaged to provide a substructure, in several independent parts, along the transverse direction of the vehicle, the different structures associated respectively for the support of the different parts of the seat, and for example provided in whole or in part with slides between the vehicle chassis and the substructure to allow adjustment of the forward or backward movement of the seat, and independently for each part of the seat, and for example the forward movement of a first part of the seat representing 1 / 3 (or 40%) of the seat relative to the other part representing the remaining 2 / 3 (or 60%) of the seat, along its longitudinal direction DL.

[0102] The bench seat may further comprise a substructure including legs Pi projecting from the vehicle chassis floor, in particular four of them, in the form of metal flanges. The legs are aligned along the longitudinal direction of the seat and carry said rear support shaft AS, which connects the flanges to each other, in an intermediate position of the flanges along the vertical direction. It is noted that said typically metal support shaft AS may carry the pairs of anchor loops of a fastening system typically known as The ISOFIX designation, and typically used for anchoring and locking a baby seat to the vehicle.

[0103] The folder can be in one piece (embody not illustrated) or comprise several independent folder supports, and in particular three independent folder supports as illustrated by way of example in [Fig.6].

[0104] In particular, the three supports, respectively lateral, central and second lateral, extend, in line with the seat supports, namely that preferably: - the lateral backrest support Sdl extends in line with the lateral seat support so that the occupant's back rests on the lateral backrest support when the thighs rest on the lateral support SI of the seat, - the central backrest support Sdc extends in line with the lateral seat support so that the occupant's back rests on the central backrest support when the thighs rest on the central support Sc of the seat, - the second lateral backrest support Sdl2 extends in line with the second lateral seat support so that the occupant's back rests on the second lateral backrest support when the thighs rest on the second lateral support S12 of the seat.

[0105] The independent backrest supports are each covered by individual padding which is attached to the support by an individual cap. Each backrest support Sdl, Sdc, Sdl2 can be articulated to two flanges of the base structure and in particular: - the (first) lateral backrest support Sdl is articulated along an axis of rotation at the upper ends of a first and second flange, - the central backrest support Sdc is articulated along a rotation axis at the upper ends of the second flange and a third flange, - the second lateral backrest support Sdl2 is articulated along an axis of rotation at the upper ends of the third flange and a fourth flange.

[0106] The axes of rotation of the three backrest supports can be coincident.

[0107] According to such an embodiment, the three independent file supports can to be folded down, independently of each other, by pivoting around the axis of rotation.

[0108] Generally, and in a folded-down position of the backrest, the backrest can form a flat floor; for example, as an extension of the surface of a trunk.

[0109] The substructure may further include a front support shaft AS, which extends parallel to said rear support shaft AS.

[0110] During the assembly of the bench seat, the modular cushions can be assembled to the base structure by implementing a kinematic system comprising: - insertion of the rear support shaft into the rear LG housing(s) of the support(s) (lateral and / or central and / or second lateral) - a pivoting of the modular cushion around the rear support shaft, and until the insertion of the front ASv support shaft is obtained in a second LG2 housing.

[0111] The support of the lateral support SI, central Sc and of the second lateral support S12, on a front portion of the supports, can be obtained, as previously described, in particular by the front support shaft ASv, as previously described.

[0112] It is noted that the rear LG housing opens towards the rear of each support, namely substantially in a direction from front to rear of each SI, Sc or S12 support, and that the front LG2 housing opens in a vertical component downwards.

[0113] The insertion direction of the rear AS support shaft in the rear LG housing and the insertion direction of the front ASv support shaft are not parallel, typically inclined to each other at an angle between 45° and 135° such that 90°. When the front ASv support shaft is housed in the second LG2 housing and the rear A support shaft is housed in the rear LG housing, it is only possible to remove the rear support shaft from the LG housing after extracting the front ASv support shaft from the second LG2 housing by pivoting the support around the rear AS support shaft.

[0114] A locking means may be provided to ensure that the front support shaft ASv is locked in the front housing LG2. This locking means may be an elastic fit of the shaft in the housing LG2 that is elastically deformable. This locking means may also be a latch, or a part fixed to the support that prevents the front support shaft ASv from being removed from the housing LG2.

[0115] Generally, alternatively, the support of the portions of the supports SI, Sc, S12 can be obtained by projections Sa of the floor, for example in truncated pyramids, as illustrated in [Fig.6A], in place of the front support shaft, or by a cross member Tr. The cross member Tr can be formed by a profile bearing on the floor of the vehicle extending along the longitudinal direction, as a support solution in place of the front support shaft, the cross member extending transversely to the vehicle to support the seat supports, in particular the first lateral support, the central support and the second lateral support.

[0116] In such a case, the modular cushion pivots around the rear support shaft until it is supported by the projections Sa or by the cross member. A locking system may be provided between the projections Sa and the support, or between the cross member Tr and the support. Industrial application

[0117] These technical solutions may be applicable in particular to meet different bench seat configurations during vehicle manufacturing.

[0118] Thus, and according to a first alternative, the present disclosure relates to a method of assembling a first bench B1 comprising a modular seat cushion in one piece comprising a first lateral support SI, a central support Sc, and a second lateral support S12, linked in a fixed fashion by said at least one first mechanical linking member OM1 and by said at least one second mechanical linking member OM2, along the longitudinal direction DL of the seat, said linked supports covered by a common padding MC, and a second bench B2 comprising a first lateral support SI and a central support Sc, mechanically linked by said at least one mechanical linking member OM, said linked supports covered by common padding, a third support S3 being not mechanically linked to the second support, covered by an individual padding MI.

[0119] The assembly process for obtaining the first bench seat B1 and the second bench seat B2 comprises: / A / Provide one set of identical SI lateral supports, one set of identical Sc central supports, one set of identical S12 secondary lateral supports, and one set of identical OM mechanical linkage components. and in which the assembly of the modular cushion of the first B1 bench seat includes: - / B 1 / Take one of the lateral supports SI and one of the central supports Sc and one of the second lateral supports S12 and join them together by the mechanical connecting members OM, comprising first mechanical connecting members OM1 linking the first lateral support SI and said central support Sc, and second mechanical connecting members OM2 linking the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12 - / B2 / Lay down a common padding MC covering the first lateral support SI, the central support Sc, and the second lateral support S12 - / B3 / Cover the common padding MC with a common cap and fix the common cap to said lateral support SI to the central support Sc and to the second lateral support S12 in order to obtain a modular cushion in one piece.

[0120] According to a less preferred option, in / B2 / , the common padding can be replaced by three individual paddings MI, or alternatively, a common padding MC covering only two adjacent supports (namely the central one and one of the two lateral supports) and an individual padding for the remaining support. The cap in / B3 / then simultaneously covers the different paddings.

[0121] The assembly of the second bench seat B2 comprises: - / Cl / Take one of the lateral supports SI, one of the central supports Sc and one of the second lateral supports S12 and secure them together, by the mechanical linking elements OM connecting the first lateral support SI and said central support Sc, - / C2 / Place a common padding MC covering the lateral support SI, the central support Sc, and place an individual padding MI covering the second lateral support S12. - / C3 / Cover the common padding with a first common cap, and fix the common cap to said lateral support SI to the central support Sc in order to form a first modular cushion, and cover the individual padding with an individual cap, and fix the cap to the second lateral support S12 in order to form a second modular cushion, independent of the first.

[0122] According to a less preferred option, in / C2 / , the common padding can be replaced by two individual paddings MI. In / C3 / the first cap then covers the two individual paddings.

[0123] Therefore, this disclosure also relates to a set comprising: - a first bench B1 comprising a seat including a self-supporting, one-piece modular seat cushion comprising the three supports SI, Sc, S12 (lateral, central and second lateral support) rigidly joined by mechanical connecting elements, preferably covered by a common padding MC, the common padding fixed to the three supports by the common cover Cf, - a second bench B2 comprising a seat including a first modular seat cushion, and a second modular seat cushion, the first modular seat cushion, in one piece comprising the lateral support SI, the central support Sc rigidly joined by said at least one mechanical connecting element OM, preferably covered by a common padding MC, the common padding fixed to the two supports SI, Sc by the common cover Cf, the second modular seat cushion, independent comprising the second lateral support S12,The individual padding MI covering the second lateral support S12, and the individual cover Cf covering the individual padding MI and fixed to the second support S12 by the attachment devices OA.

[0124] Advantageously: - the first SI side support of the first bench seat B1 and the first SI side support of the second bench seat B2 are identical, and / or - the central support Sc of the first bench seat B1 and the central support Sc of the second bench seat are identical, and / or - said at least one mechanical linking element in particular said first mechanical linking element IMO, and the second mechanical linking element are identical, and / or; - The second side support S12 of the first bench seat B1 and the second side support S12 of the second bench seat B2 are identical, or even - the first side support SU and the second side support S12 may, depending on the variant, be identical

[0125] In this first alternative, the first bench seat B1 and the second bench seat B2 can typically be the same length, along the transverse direction of the vehicle. Such a method finds application to accommodate different bench seat configurations that are typically the same length, namely, typically to accommodate different bench seat configurations for the same vehicle.

[0126] However, and advantageously, the present disclosure can accommodate different bench seat configurations, and even when the bench seats are of different lengths, always sharing identical supports, and in order to accommodate different bench seat configurations for the same vehicle platform which may typically be used by several separate vehicles.

[0127] Also, according to a second alternative, the present disclosure also relates to a method for assembling a first bench seat according to the present disclosure and a second bench seat according to the present disclosure, the first bench seat and the second bench seat being of different lengths

[0128] The first bench seat comprises a modular seat cushion, the modular cushion being a single unit comprising a first lateral support SI, a central support Sc and a second lateral support S12, joined by said at least one first mechanical connecting member OM1 and by said at least one second mechanical connecting member OM2, along the longitudinal direction DL, said joined supports covered by a common safety mattress, or alternatively the modular cushion being in two parts comprising a first lateral support SI and a central support Sc, mechanically connected by said at least one mechanical connecting member, said joined supports covered by a common mattress MC, a third support S3 being not mechanically connected to the central support Sc, covered by an individual mattress MI. Optionally the common mattress MC may be replaced by several safety mattresses according to a preferred option already described.

[0129] The second bench seat B2 according to this disclosure comprises a one-piece modular seat cushion including a first lateral support SI, a central support Sc and a second lateral support S12, connected by said at least one first mechanical connecting member OM1 and by said at least one second mechanical connecting member OM2, along the longitudinal direction DL, said connected supports covered by a common padding, or alternatively the two-part modular cushion comprising a first lateral support SI and a support central (Sc), mechanically linked by said at least one mechanical link and covered by a common padding MC, a third support S3 being not mechanically linked to the central support (Sc), covered by an individual padding MI. Optionally the common padding MC may be replaced by several paddings according to a preferred option already described

[0130] Said method comprising / AO / Provide a set of identical SI lateral supports, a set of Sc central supports of different widths including central supports of a first width and central supports of a second width, a set of identical S12 secondary lateral supports, a set of identical OM mechanical linkage components,

[0131] The assembly of the modular cushion of the first bench seat includes: / B 10 / Take one of the lateral supports SI of the game and one of the central supports Sc of said first width, of the game and one of the second lateral supports S12 of the game and: - when the modular seat cushion is a single piece, join them together, by the mechanical connecting members OM, comprising first mechanical connecting members OM1 linking the first lateral support SI and said central support Sc, and second mechanical connecting members OM2 linking the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12 or - when the modular cushion is in two parts, mutually secure the first lateral support SI and the central support Sc, by the mechanical linking members OM, connecting the first lateral support SI and said central support Sc, / B20 / Lay down a common padding MC covering the first lateral support SI and the central support Sc, and the second lateral support S12 when said modular cushion is in one piece or lay down a common padding MC covering the lateral support SI and the central support Sc, and lay down an individual padding MI covering the second lateral support when the modular cushion is in two parts, / B30 / Cover the common padding MC with a common cap and fix the common cap to said lateral support SI, to the central support Sc and to the second lateral support S12, when the modular cushion is in one piece or alternatively cover the common padding with a first common cap, and fix the common cap to said lateral support SI to the central support Sc in order to form a first modular cushion, and cover the individual padding with an individual cap Cf, and fix the cap to the second lateral support S12 in order to form a second modular cushion, independent of the first modular cushion, when the modular cushion is in two parts comprising the first modular cushion and the second modular cushion.

[0132] Possibly, and according to said less preferred option, and as already explained the common padding MC can be replaced by several paddings, namely three individual paddings, or even a common padding and an individual padding which can be covered simultaneously by the cover in / B3 / .

[0133] The assembly of the modular cushion of the second bench seat comprises / CIO / Taking one of the lateral supports SI of the set and one of the central supports Sc of the second width, of the set and one of the second lateral supports S12 of the set and: - when the modular seat cushion is in one piece, joining them together, by means of the mechanical connecting members OM, comprising first mechanical connecting members OM1 linking the first lateral support SI and said central support Sc and second mechanical connecting members OM2 linking the central support Sc and the second lateral support S12 or - when the modular cushion is in two parts, mutually secure the first lateral support SI and the central support Sc, by the mechanical linking members OM, connecting the first lateral support SI and said central support Sc, / C20 / Lay down a common padding MC covering the first lateral support SI and the central support Sc, and the second lateral support S12 when said modular cushion is in one piece or lay down a common padding MC covering the lateral support SI and the central support (Sc), and lay down an individual padding MI covering the second lateral support when the modular cushion is in two parts, / C30 / Cover the common padding MC with a common cap and fix the common cap to said lateral support SI, to the central support Sc and to the second lateral support S12, when the modular cushion is in one piece or alternatively cover the common padding with a first common cap, and fix the common cap to said lateral support SI to the central support Sc in order to form a first modular cushion, and cover the individual padding with an individual cap Cf, and fix the cap to the second lateral support S12 in order to form a second modular cushion, independent of the first modular cushion, when the modular cushion is in two parts comprising the first modular cushion and the second modular cushion.

[0134] Possibly, and according to a less preferred option, and as already explained the common padding MC can be replaced by several paddings, namely three individual paddings, or even a common padding and an individual padding, which can be covered simultaneously by the cover in / C3 / .

[0135] Thus, advantageously: - the first SI side support of the first bench seat and the first SI side support of the second bench seat B2 are identical, and - The central support Sc of the first bench seat 1 and the central support Sc of the second bench seat are of different widths in order to compensate for the difference in length between the first bench seat and the second bench seat, and - said at least one mechanical linking element in particular said first mechanical linking element IMO, and the second mechanical linking element are identical, and / or; - the second lateral support S12 of the first bench seat B1 and the second lateral support S12 of the second bench seat B2 are identical, or even, - The first SU lateral support and the second S12 lateral support can, depending on the variant, be identical

[0136] Such a process makes it possible to respond to different bench seat configurations from identical supports, with regard to the side supports, the central supports of different widths used to respond to the different bench seat lengths, and finds a particular application to respond to different bench seat configurations for the same vehicle platform which is typically used to manufacture different motor vehicles. List of reference signs

[0137] - Bl. First bench, - B2. Second bench seat, - SL Lateral support (seat), - Sc. Central support (seat), - S12. Second lateral support (seat), - MI. Individual mattress, - MC. Common Mattress, - Cf. Headdress, - OA. Attachment elements (lateral and central supports for attaching the headgear), - OM, OMI, OM2. Mechanical connecting element, First mechanical connecting element, Second mechanical connecting element, - ALI, AL2 First locking wing and second locking wing, - AL 1U, AL2U. First U-wing and second U-wing, - BG1, BG2. First material bridge and second material bridge, - JP.Jupe - Its projection (of the floor frame), - Tr. Traverse (front support of supports) - AS. Support shaft (rear), - ASv. Support shaft (front) - Sdl. Lateral backrest support, - Sdc. Central backrest support, - Sdl2. Second lateral support.

Claims

Demands

1. Seat support system for a bench seat configured to support a cushion (MT), said system comprising a first support (SI) configured to receive a first occupant, and a second support configured to receive a second occupant, as well as at least one mechanical linking member (OM) joining the first support (SI) and the second support (S2) in extension by means of a fixed connection, by two adjacent lateral edges of the first support (SI) and second support (S2).

2. Seat support system according to said at least one mechanical linking member is at least one first mechanical linking member (OMI), said system comprising a third support (S3), configured to receive a third occupant, extending in continuation of the first support and second support assembly along a longitudinal direction (DL) of the seat, as well as at least one second mechanical linking member (OM2) joining the second support (S2) and the third support (S3) by means of a fixed connection.

3. Seat support system according to claim 1 or 2 wherein said at least one mechanical connecting member is a clip-on member configured to be elastically snap-on onto the first support (SI) and onto the second support (S2), straddling the first support (SI) and the second support (S2) and / or said at least one second mechanical connecting member (OM2) is a clip-on member configured to be snap-on onto the second support (S3) and onto the third support (S3), straddling the second support (S2) and the third support (S3)

4. A seat support system according to claim 3, wherein: - the first support (SI) and the second support (S2) comprise, at the adjacent lateral edges, female interlocking portions, and wherein said mechanical connecting member (OM), in particular said at least one first mechanical connecting member (OMI), comprises a first locking wing (ALI) configured to interlock in a lockable manner into the female interlocking portion of the first support (SI) and a second locking wing (AL2) configured to interlock in a lockable manner into the female interlocking portion of the second

5. support (S2), the first locking wing (ALI) and the second locking wing (AL2) spaced apart, along the longitudinal direction (DL) of the seat, a connecting portion (LI) linking the first locking wing (ALI) and the second locking wing (AL2) by straddling the first support (SI) and the second support (S2) and / or in which - the second support (S2) and the third support (S3) comprise, at the level of the adjacent lateral edges of the female interlocking portions, and in which said at least a second mechanical linking member (OM2) comprises a first locking wing (ALI) configured to interlock in a lockable manner in the female interlocking portion of the second support (S2) and a second locking wing (S2) configured to interlock in a lockable manner in the female interlocking portion of the third support (S3), the first locking wing (ALI) and the second locking wing (AL2) spaced apart, along the longitudinal direction (DL) of the seat, a linking portion (LI) connecting the first locking wing (ALI) and the second locking wing (AL2) by straddling the second support (S2) and the second support (S3). A system according to claim 4, wherein the connecting portion (LI) comprises a central portion interposed between the two lateral edges of the first support (SI) and the second support (S2), or alternatively comprising a portion interposed between the two lateral edges of the second support (S2) and the third support (S3), said central portion comprising a U-shaped section, comprising: - a first wing of the U (ALIU) extending parallel to the first locking wing (ALI), over an upper portion of said first locking wing (ALI), the first wing of the U (AL1U) connected superiorly to the first locking wing, along a first material bridge (BG1), - a second wing of the U (AL2U) extending parallel to the second locking wing (AL2) over an upper portion of the second locking wing (AL2), the second wing of the U (AL2U) connected superiorly to the second locking wing along a second material bridge (BG2) - the first wing of the U (ALIU) and the second wing of the U (AL3) connected in particular by reinforcing ribs (Nv), transverse, internal to the U. and in which a first space between the first locking wing (ALI) and the first wing of the U (ALIU) receives a skirt (JP) from the first support (SI) or a skirt (JP) from the second support (S2) and a second space between the second locking wing (AL2) and the second wing of the U (AL2U) receives a skirt (JP) from the second support (S2) or a skirt (JP) from the third support (S3).

6. Seat support system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first support (SI), the second support (S2), and where applicable the third support (S3) when said system is dependent on claim 2 are plastic supports, and wherein said at least one mechanical connecting member (OM), in particular said at least one first mechanical connecting member (OMI) and said at least one second mechanical connecting member (OM2) is a plastic part.

7. Modular bench seat cushion comprising a seat support system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 comprising the first support (SI) and the second support (S2) linked by means of at least one mechanical linking member (OM), and where applicable when said system is according to claim 2, said third support (S3) linked by means of the second support (S2) and wherein the modular cushion comprises a common safety mattress (MC) covering an upper surface of the first support (SI) and an upper surface of the second support (S2), and where applicable an upper surface of the third support (S2), when said support system is according to claim 2.

8. Modular seat cushion comprising, a cover covering the common padding (MC) and fixed to the support system by attachment members (OA) of the first support (SI) and the second support (S2); and where applicable to the third support (S3) when the common padding covers the third support (S3).

9. A vehicle bench seat comprising a seating structure fixed to a vehicle chassis and a modular seat cushion according to claim 7 or 8, the first support (SI) forming a first lateral support (SI) intended to receive a first occupant of the

10. bench seat and the second support (S2) forming a central support (Sc) intended to receive a second occupant, and where applicable the third support (S3), a second lateral support (S12) intended to receive a third occupant. Method of assembling a first bench seat (B1) according to claim 9; comprising a modular one-piece seat cushion comprising a first lateral support (SI), a central support (Sc) and a second lateral support (S12), linked by said at least one first mechanical connecting member (OMI) and by said at least one second mechanical connecting member (OM2), along the longitudinal direction (DL), said linked supports covered by a common padding, and of a second bench seat (B2) according to claim 9 comprising a first lateral support (SI) and a central support (Sc), mechanically linked by said at least one mechanical connecting member and covered by a common padding (MC), a third support (S3) being not mechanically linked to the central support (Sc), covered by an individual padding (MI) / A / Provide one set of identical lateral supports (SI), one set of identical central supports (Sc), one set of identical secondary lateral supports (S12), and one set of identical mechanical linkage components (OM). and in which the assembly of the modular cushion of the first bench seat (Bl) comprises: - / B 1 / Take one of the lateral supports (SI) of the game and one of the central supports (Sc) of the game and one of the second lateral supports (S12) of the game and secure them together, by the mechanical linking members (OM), comprising first mechanical linking members (OMI) connecting the first lateral support (SI) and said central support (Sc), and second mechanical linking members (OM2) connecting the central support (Sc) and the second lateral support (S12) - / B2 / Lay down a common padding (MC) covering the first lateral support (SI) and the central support (Sc), and the second lateral support (S12) - / B3 / Cover the common padding (MC) with a common cap and fix the common cap to said lateral support (SI), to the central support (Sc) and to the second lateral support (S12), and in which the assembly of the second bench seat (B2) comprises: - / Cl / Take one of the side supports (SI) and one of the central supports (Sc) and one of the second side supports (S12) and mutually secure the first side support (SI) and the central support (Sc), by the mechanical linking members (OM), connecting the first side support (SI) and said central support (Sc), - / C2 / Remove a common padding (MC) covering the side support (SI) and the central support (Sc), and remove an individual padding (MI) covering the second side support.- / C3 / Cover the common padding with a first common cover, and fix the common cover to said lateral support (SI) and to the central support (Sc) in order to form a first modular cushion, and cover the individual padding with an individual cover (Cf), and fix the cover to the second lateral support (S12) in order to form a second modular cushion, independent of the first modular cushion.

11. A method for assembling a first bench seat according to claim 9 and a second bench seat according to claim 9, the first bench seat and the second bench seat being of different lengths and wherein the first bench seat comprises a modular seat cushion, the modular cushion being a single piece comprising a first lateral support (SI), a central support (Sc) and a second lateral support (S12), linked by means of a fixed joint by said at least one first mechanical connecting member (OMI) and by said at least one second mechanical connecting member (OM2), along the longitudinal direction (DL), said connected supports being covered by a common padding, or alternatively the modular cushion being in two parts comprising a first lateral support (SI) and a central support (Sc), mechanically linked by said at least one mechanical connecting member, said connected supports being covered by a common padding (MC),a third support (S3) not mechanically linked to the central support (Sc), covered by an individual padding (MI) and in which the second bench (B2) according to claim 9 comprises a modular one-piece seat cushion comprising a first lateral support (SI), a central support, (Sc) and a second lateral support (S12), fixedly connected by said at least one first mechanical connecting member (OMI) and by said at least one second mechanical connecting member (OM2), along the longitudinal direction (DL) covered by a common padding, or alternatively the modular cushion in two parts comprising a first lateral support (SI) and a central support (Sc), mechanically connected by said at least one mechanical connecting member and covered by a common padding (MC), a third support (S3) being not mechanically connected to the central support (Sc), covered by an individual padding (MI), said method comprising / AO / Provide a set of identical side supports (SI), a set of central supports (Sc) of different widths including central supports of a first width and central supports of a second width, a set of identical second side supports (S12), a set of identical mechanical linking elements (OM), and in which the assembly of the modular cushion of the first bench seat comprises: / B 10 / Take one of the side supports (SI) of the game and one of the central supports (Sc) of said first width, of the game and one of the second side supports (S12) of the game and: - when the modular seat cushion is in one piece, join them together by means of mechanical connecting elements (OM), comprising first mechanical connecting elements (OMI) connecting the first lateral support (SI) and said central support (Sc), and second mechanical connecting elements (OM2) connecting the central support (Sc) and the second lateral support (S12) or - when the modular cushion is in two parts, join the first lateral support (SI) and the central support (Sc) together by means of mechanical connecting elements (OM), connecting the first lateral support (SI) and said central support (Sc), / B20 / Install a common padding (MC) covering the first lateral support (SI) and the central support (Sc), and the second lateral support (S12) when said modular cushion is in one piece or install a common padding (MC) covering the lateral support (SI) and the central support (Sc),and to place an individual padding (MI) covering the second lateral support when the modular cushion is in two parts, / B30 / Cover the common padding (MC) with a common cover and attach the common cover to said lateral support (SI), to the central support (Sc) and to the second lateral support (S12), when the modular cushion is a single piece, or alternatively cover the common padding with a first common cover, and attach the common cover to said lateral support (SI) and to the central support (Sc) to form a first modular cushion, and cover the individual padding with an individual cover (Cf) and attach the cover to the second lateral support (S12) to form a second modular cushion, independent of the first modular cushion, when the modular cushion is in two parts comprising the first modular cushion and the second modular cushion, and in which the assembly of the modular cushion of the second seat comprises: / CIO / Take one of the side supports (SI) of the game and one of the center supports (Sc) of the second width, of the game and one of the second side supports (S12) of the game and: - when the modular seat cushion is in one piece, join them together by means of mechanical connecting elements (OM), comprising first mechanical connecting elements (OMI) connecting the first lateral support (SI) and said central support (Sc), and second mechanical connecting elements (OM2) connecting the central support (Sc) and the second lateral support (S12) or - when the modular cushion is in two parts, join the first lateral support (SI) and the central support (Sc) together by means of mechanical connecting elements (OM), connecting the first lateral support (SI) and said central support (Sc), / C20 / Install a common padding (MC) covering the first lateral support (SI) and the central support (Sc), and the second lateral support (S12) when said modular cushion is in one piece or install a common padding (MC) covering the lateral support (SI) and the central support (Sc),and place an individual padding (MI) covering the second lateral support when the modular cushion is in two parts, / C30 / Cover the common padding (MC) with a common cover and fix the common cover to said lateral support (SI), to the central support (Sc) and to the second lateral support (S12), when the modular cushion is in one piece or alternatively cover the, common padding by a first common cover, and fix the common cover to said lateral support (SI) to the central support (Sc) in order to form a first modular cushion, and cover the individual padding with an individual cover (Cf), and fix the cover to the second lateral support (S12) in order to form a second modular cushion, independent of the first modular cushion, when the modular cushion is in two parts comprising the first modular cushion and the second modular cushion.

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