Seat position detection device and seat motion control mechanism

Abstract

The objective is to provide a seat position detection device that has a simple structure and can be made lightweight. [Solution] The seat position detection device 1 detects whether a seat 50 moving along a guide rail (lower rail 31) is in a specific position. The seat position detection device 1 includes a pin 2 attached to the seat 50 so as to be movable in the vertical direction, a support member 4 fixed to the seat 50 and supporting the pin 2 so as to be movable in the vertical direction, a pin guide 3 provided on the lower rail 31 that changes the amount of vertical movement of the pin 2, and a detection member 5 that detects when the pin 2 has moved by a predetermined amount. The pin guide 3 is positioned at a position corresponding to a specific position on the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 and has a ridge portion 3a that protrudes upward from the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sheet position detection device for detecting whether a sheet moving along a guide rail is at a specific position, and a sheet operation control mechanism including the sheet position detection device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in vehicle seats and the like, in a structure where the seat is freely guided along a guide rail in the front-rear direction, a specific operation (for example, an operation of tilting the seat back forward or backward or an operation of standing up a folded seat) can be performed on the seat at a specific position. There is a possible structure.

[0003] In such a seat structure, a seat position detection device for detecting the position of a seat moving along a guide rail is variously proposed so that the above-described specific operation can be started only when the seat is at a specific position in the front-rear direction.

[0004] The seat position detection device described in Patent Document 1 includes a switch member attached to the upper surface of a lower rail fixed to the floor surface of the guide rail, and a guide member as an operation member for operating the switch member fixed to the lower surface of the seat or the like. The fixed-side switch member attached to the lower rail has a drive knob that can move in the vertical direction, a coil spring that constantly biases the drive knob upward, and an electrical contact portion that conducts electrically when the drive knob drops by a specific amount. On the other hand, the movable-side guide member that moves together with the seat has an inclined surface that extends in the front-rear direction and descends as it goes forward.

[0005] The drive knob of the switch component is constantly in contact with the inclined surface of the guide component due to the biasing force of the coil spring. As the seat moves backward along the guide rail, the guide component also moves with the seat, and the inclined surface of the guide component pushes down the drive knob of the switch component against the biasing force of the coil spring. When the drive knob has moved down by a specific amount, the electrical contact point becomes electrically conductive, sending an electrical signal to the onboard computer or other device, thereby enabling detection of the seat's position. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2002-59768 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] In the above-described position detection device, a switch component is placed on the guide rail side, and since this switch component has a drive knob, a coil spring, and electrical contacts, the structure of the position detection device becomes complex. Therefore, it is difficult to reduce the number of components that make up the position detection device or to reduce its weight.

[0008] This invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a seat position detection device that has a simple structure and can be made lightweight. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention provides a sheet position detection device for detecting whether a sheet moving along a guide rail fixed to the floor surface of a space for housing a sheet is in a specific position, comprising: a pin mounted to the sheet so as to be movable in the vertical direction and moving together with the sheet in the longitudinal direction of the guide rail; a pin guide provided on the guide rail that changes the amount of vertical movement of the pin when it comes into contact with the pin; and a detection member provided on the sheet that detects when the pin moves by a predetermined amount, wherein the pin guide has a ridge that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the guide rail, and the ridge is positioned on the upper surface of the guide rail at a position corresponding to the specific position.

[0010] With this configuration, when the sheet moves along the guide rail and reaches a specific position, the sheet position detection device can detect whether the sheet is in a specific position by detecting the movement of a predetermined amount of the pin with a detection member, for example, by detecting the amount by which the pin has risen while riding on the ridge of the pin guide.

[0011] Furthermore, since the pin guides provided on the guide rail have a structure with raised sections, their structure is simpler compared to conventional complex position detection devices, and it is possible to reduce the number of parts.

[0012] In the above-described seat position detection device, the peak portion comprises a parallel surface that forms the top of the peak portion, is spaced upward from the upper surface of the guide rail, and extends parallel to the upper surface in the longitudinal direction of the guide rail, and a pair of inclined surfaces arranged on both sides of the parallel surface in the longitudinal direction and connecting the parallel surface and the upper surface, wherein the parallel surface is positioned at a position corresponding to the specific position.

[0013] With this configuration, when the sheet moves along the guide rail and reaches a specific position, the sheet position detection device detects that the pin rises while riding on the peaks of the pin guide and reaches the parallel surface at the top. By detecting the amount the pin rises at that time with a detection member, it is possible to detect a specific position of the sheet in the front-rear direction.

[0014] Furthermore, the pin guides provided on the guide rails have a structure with a parallel surface at the top and a pair of inclined surfaces on either side of it, resulting in a simpler structure compared to conventional complex position detection devices, which allows for a reduction in the number of parts and thus a lighter design.

[0015] Furthermore, the peaks of the pin guide have a so-called convex shape with a parallel surface between a pair of inclined surfaces. The pin on the sheet side moves along the inclined surface, allowing it to easily and smoothly reach the parallel surface at the top of the peak, and then descend from that parallel surface to the upper surface of the guide rail.

[0016] In the above-described seat position detection device, the pin guide further has a side wall portion that extends in the vertical direction and is fixed to the side wall of the guide rail, and it is preferable that the peak portion and the side wall portion are integrally connected to form an L-shape when viewed from the longitudinal direction.

[0017] With this configuration, the side wall portion of the pin guide is fixed to the side wall of the guide rail, making it possible to stably fix the pin guide to the guide rail. Moreover, since the pin guide has a shape in which the peak portion and the side wall portion are integrally connected in an L-shape, the structure is simple and easy to manufacture by sheet metal forming or the like.

[0018] In the above-described seat position detection device, it is preferable that the side wall portion is fixed to the side wall by welding.

[0019] According to such a configuration, since the side wall portion of the pin guide is fixed to the side wall of the guide rail by welding, it is possible to fix the pin guide to the guide rail more firmly and stably.

[0020] In the above-described sheet position detection device, it is preferable that the tip of the pin is rounded into a hemispherical shape or a semi-elliptical shape.

[0021] According to such a configuration, the pin on the sheet side can smoothly get on and off with respect to the ridge portion of the pin guide.

[0022] In the above-described sheet position detection device, it is preferable that the tip of the pin has a conical shape.

[0023] According to such a configuration, the pin on the sheet side can smoothly get on and off with respect to the ridge portion of the pin guide.

[0024] In the above-described sheet position detection device, it is preferable that a roller is attached to the tip of the pin.

[0025] According to such a configuration, the pin on the sheet side can smoothly get on and off with respect to the ridge portion of the pin guide. [[ID=!26]]

[0026] In the above-described sheet position detection device, it is preferable that a cam is attached to the tip of the pin. <!

[0027] According to such a configuration, the pin on the sheet side can smoothly get on and off with respect to the ridge portion of the pin guide.

[0028] The sheet operation control mechanism according to claim 9 of the present invention includes the above-described sheet position detection device and a sheet drive mechanism capable of causing a specific operation on the sheet, and the sheet drive mechanism starts or prohibits a specific operation on the sheet when the sheet position detection device detects that the sheet is in a specific position.

[0029] It should be noted that there seems to be an incorrect tag in the original text which is marked as "!0000095" and "!26" in the translation. Please check and correct the original if necessary.With the seat motion control mechanism configured in this way, when the seat position detection device detects that the seat is in a specific position, the seat drive mechanism either initiates a specific operation on the seat or prohibits that specific operation. This makes it possible to start or prohibit the operation of the seat drive mechanism at a specific position with a simple and accurate configuration.

[0030] In the seat motion control mechanism described above, the specific operation is preferably at least one operation selected from the group that includes a side flip-up operation in which the seat back is tilted forward and folded and then rotated in the vehicle width direction to stand upright, a side slide operation in which the entire seat moves in the vehicle width direction, a recline operation in which the seat back is tilted backward, and a tumble operation in which the entire seat is further rotated forward of the vehicle to stand upright while the seat back is tilted forward and folded.

[0031] With this configuration, it is possible to accurately initiate or inhibit the large seat movement described above by the seat drive mechanism at a specific position using a simple setup. As a result, the safety of the occupant seated in the seat is improved.

[0032] In the seat motion control mechanism described above, the seat drive mechanism includes an operating member that receives an external operating force to initiate the specific operation, and a pin lowering member that lowers the pin when the operating member receives the operating force. When the operating member does not receive an operating force, the tip of the pin is at a height above the peak, and when the operating member receives an operating force, the pin lowers, but either contacts the peak at a position corresponding to the specific position to complete the predetermined amount of movement, or lowers more than the predetermined amount without contacting the peak at a position other than the specific position, and the detection member may detect whether the pin has completed the predetermined amount of movement.

[0033] In this configuration, when the operating member of the seat drive mechanism receives an operating force, the pin lowering member lowers the pin from a position spaced above the peak. At this time, at a position corresponding to a specific location, the pin contacts the peak and completes a predetermined amount of movement. On the other hand, at positions other than the specific location, the pin descends more than a predetermined amount without contacting the peak. In this configuration, the seat position detection device can detect that the seat is in a specific position by detecting that the pin has completed a predetermined amount of movement using a detection member. This makes it possible to start or stop the operation of the seat drive mechanism at a specific position with a simple and accurate configuration.

[0034] The seat motion control mechanism according to claim 12 of the present invention comprises a seat position detection device for detecting whether a seat moving along a guide rail fixed to the floor surface of a space for housing a seat is in a specific position, and a seat drive mechanism capable of causing the seat to perform a specific operation, wherein the seat position detection device comprises a pin attached to the guide rail so as to protrude from the upper surface of the guide rail and be movable in the vertical direction, a pin guide provided on the seat which moves along the longitudinal direction of the guide rail together with the seat and changes the amount of vertical movement of the pin when it comes into contact with the pin, and a detection member provided on the guide rail which detects when the pin has moved by a predetermined amount, the pin guide has a ridge protruding downward from the lower surface of the seat, and the pin is in a position corresponding to the specific position on the upper surface of the guide rail The seat drive mechanism is arranged such that when the seat position detection device detects that the seat is in a specific position, it initiates a specific operation on the seat or prohibits the specific operation. The seat drive mechanism includes an operating member that receives an external operating force to initiate the specific operation, and a pin lifting member that lifts the pin when the operating member receives the operating force. The pin is positioned such that when the operating member is not receiving an operating force, the tip of the pin is at a height below the peak, and when the operating member receives an operating force, it lifts, but when the peak is in a position corresponding to the specific position, it contacts the peak and completes the movement by a predetermined amount, or when the peak is in a position other than the position corresponding to the specific position, it lifts more than the predetermined amount without contacting the peak, and the detection member detects whether the pin has completed the movement by a predetermined amount.

[0035] In this configuration, when the operating member of the seat drive mechanism receives an operating force, the pin lifting member raises the pin from a position separated below the peak. At this time, when the peak of the pin guide is in a position corresponding to a specific position, the pin contacts the peak and completes a predetermined amount of movement. On the other hand, when the peak is in a position other than the position corresponding to the specific position, the pin rises more than the predetermined amount without contacting the peak. In this configuration, the seat position detection device can detect that the seat is in a specific position by detecting that the pin has completed a predetermined amount of movement using a detection member. This makes it possible to start or stop the operation of the seat drive mechanism at a specific position with accuracy using a simple configuration. [Effects of the Invention]

[0036] As described above, the seat position detection device of the present invention can achieve weight reduction with a simple structure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0037] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of a seat capable of lateral flip-up operation, equipped with a seat position detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating the movement of a pin, provided on the seat side, as it moves along the lower rail and moves up and down the raised portion of the pin guide, with a roughly L-shaped pin guide attached to the lower rail. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is an enlarged view of the pin guide and lower rail, seen from slightly above and to the outside in the vehicle width direction, around the pin guide. [Figure 4] This is an enlarged view of the pin guide in Figure 3, seen from slightly above and to the outside in the vehicle width direction. [Figure 5] Figure 4 shows the pin guide as viewed from the front of the vehicle. [Figure 6] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the pin guide as seen from the inside in the vehicle width direction. [Figure 7] Figure 2 shows a magnified view of the pin with a spherical tip and the peak of the pin guide. [Figure 8]This is a modified example of the present invention, showing a pin with a conical tip and an enlarged view of the peak of a pin guide. [Figure 9] This is a modified example of the present invention, a magnified view of the pin and pin guide peaks with a roller attached to the tip. [Figure 10] This is a modified example of the present invention, showing a pin with a cam attached to its tip and a magnified view of the pin guide's ridge. [Figure 11] This is a perspective diagram illustrating a modified version of the present invention, which includes a pin guide without side walls. [Figure 12] This is an enlarged view of the pin guide in Figure 11, seen from slightly above and to the outside in the vehicle width direction. [Figure 13] Figure 11 shows the pin guide as viewed from the front of the vehicle. [Figure 14] This is a side view of a pin guide, which is a modified example of the present invention, inclined surface having a predetermined curvature. [Figure 15] This is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration in which a pin descends when an operating member of a seat drive mechanism, which is another modification of the present invention, is subjected to an operating force. [Figure 16] Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram showing that when the sheet is in a specific position, the pin contacts the peak of the pin guide and completes its descent by a predetermined amount. [Figure 17] Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram illustrating that the pin lowers more than a predetermined amount when the sheet is in a position other than a specific one. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0038] Hereinafter, a seat position detection device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0039] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of a seat 50 capable of lateral flip-up operation, equipped with a seat position detection device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] The seat 50 is installed, for example, inside the interior of a vehicle and has a configuration that supports an occupant in a seated position. The seat 50 comprises a seat cushion 51 that forms the seating surface on which the occupant's buttocks rest, and a seat back 52 that rises from the rear end of the seat cushion 51 to support the occupant's back.

[0041] In the above-described seat 50, the seat is supported by the slide rail 30 so that it can move along the slide rail 30 in the front-rear direction X. Specifically in this embodiment, the slide rail 30 comprises a lower rail 31 (corresponding to the "guide rail" described in claim 1 of this application) fixed to the floor surface (stationary surface) of the vehicle compartment that houses the seat 50, extending in the front-rear direction X of the vehicle, and an upper rail 32 fixed to the underside of the seat 50 and movable along the lower rail 31. In the present invention, it is sufficient to have a fixed lower rail 31 fixed to the floor surface or the like as a guide rail, and the movable side does not necessarily have to be rail-shaped. That is, the lower rail 31 is a so-called long slide rail, and the configuration is also applicable to a configuration in which the seat 50 moves in the front-rear direction X by a runner connected to the seat 50, and the upper rail 32 is not essential.

[0042] In this embodiment, when the seat 50 is in a specific position in the longitudinal direction X of the lower rail 31, a drive mechanism (not shown) can perform a specific operation: flip it up to the side, that is, as shown in Figure 1, fold the seat back 52 forward along arrow S1 and then rotate it in the vehicle width direction Y along arrow S2 while raising it.

[0043] Here, the specific position is a position that acts as a trigger for a seat movement, initiating or prohibiting a specific movement (such as flipping up sideways) of the seat 50 by a seat drive mechanism (not shown).

[0044] The seat position detection device 1 is configured to detect whether or not the seat 50, which is moving along the slide rail 30, is in a specific position.

[0045] Specifically, the seat position detection device 1 is mounted on the seat 50 so as to be movable in the vertical direction and includes a pin 2 that moves together with the seat 50 in the longitudinal direction X of the slide rail 30, a support member 4 and a detection member 5 attached to the seat 50 side, and a pin guide 3 attached to the lower rail 31 side.

[0046] The support member 4 is fixed to a frame (not shown) that supports the seat cushion 51 of the seat 50 from below, and is a bracket that supports the pin 2 so that it can move in the vertical direction. The support member 4 is, for example, fixed to the frame of the seat 50 and has a through hole that penetrates vertically so that the pin 2 can be inserted.

[0047] Pin 2 is mounted to the sheet 50 so as to be movable in the vertical direction, while being supported by the support member 4 as described above.

[0048] Pin 2 is a rod-shaped body that extends in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the tip 2a of the lower end of pin 2 is rounded into a hemispherical or semi-ellipsoidal shape as shown in Figure 7, so that it can move smoothly along the inclined surface 3c of the peak 3a of the pin guide 3 described later, and it is easy to get on and off the peak 3a.

[0049] In this embodiment, the pin 2 is always in contact with the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 when it is not in contact with the peak 3a. However, when the pin 2 is not in contact with the peak 3a, it may not be in contact with the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 and may be stationary at a position spaced upward from the upper surface 31a.

[0050] Note that pin 2 only needs to be able to move vertically; a configuration that constantly biases it downwards using a spring or the like is not necessary.

[0051] The detection member 5 is attached to the frame of the sheet 50 described above and is a member that detects when the pin 2 moves by a predetermined amount. The detection member 5 is configured to function as a switch or trigger that causes the sheet drive mechanism (not shown) to perform or prohibit a specific action, such as flipping the sheet up sideways, when it detects a movement of 5 mm or more, which is the predetermined amount of movement of the pin 2.

[0052] The detection member 5 is, for example, a contact piece or switch attached to the frame of the sheet 50 at a position spaced above the upper end of the pin 2, and is configured to be pushed up by the upper end of the pin 2 when the pin 2 moves by a predetermined amount.

[0053] The pin guide 3 is provided on the lower rail 31 of the slide rail 30 and has a configuration that changes the amount of vertical movement of the pin 2 by making contact with it at a specific position.

[0054] Specifically, as shown in Figures 2-6, the pin guide 3 has a peak 3a and a side wall 3b. The pin guide 3 is manufactured by integrally molding the peak 3a and the side wall 3b from a thin metal sheet or the like.

[0055] The mountain section 3a is positioned on the track of the pin 2, which moves along the lower rail 31 of the slide rail 30, and corresponds to a specific position on the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 of the sheet 50.

[0056] The mountain section 3a only needs to have a configuration that protrudes upward from the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 in order to push the pin 2 upward.

[0057] The peak portion 3a of this embodiment has a parallel surface 3e that forms the top of the peak portion 3a and a pair of inclined surfaces 3c. In this embodiment, the pair of inclined surfaces 3c each have a flange portion 3d at the end opposite to the parallel surface 3e. The flange portion 3d extends parallel to the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 and abuts against the upper surface 31a. Note that the flange portion 3d is not necessarily required and may be omitted.

[0058] The parallel surface 3e forms the apex of the peak 3a, is spaced upward from the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31, and extends parallel to the upper surface 31a in the longitudinal direction X of the lower rail 31.

[0059] The pair of inclined surfaces 3c are positioned on both sides of the parallel surface 3e in the longitudinal direction X, connecting the parallel surface 3e and the upper surface 31a. In this embodiment, the inclined surfaces 3c have flange portions 3d that extend parallel to the parallel surface 3e, so that they smoothly connect from the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 to the parallel surface 3e.

[0060] The mountain portion 3a only needs to be fixed to the upper surface 31a such that the parallel surface 3e is positioned to correspond to the specific position described above.

[0061] The side wall portion 3b extends vertically and is fixed to the side wall 31b of the lower rail 31. Specifically, the side wall portion 3b of the pin guide 3 is fixed to the side wall 31b of the lower rail 31 by welding such as spot welding at the welding area WS (see Figure 3), or by fastening with bolts and nuts.

[0062] Furthermore, the peak portion 3a and the side wall portion 3b of this embodiment are integrally connected to form an L-shape when viewed from the longitudinal direction X. As a result, even if the peak portion 3a is not directly fixed to the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 by welding or adhesive, it is possible to fix it to a position on the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 corresponding to the above-mentioned specific position via the side wall portion 3b and the side wall 31b of the lower rail 31.

[0063] (Features of this embodiment)

[0064] (1) In the seat position detection device 1 of this embodiment, the pin 2 is mounted so as to be movable in the vertical direction relative to the seat 50, and moves together with the seat 50 in the longitudinal direction X of the slide rail 30 (specifically, the lower rail 31 which corresponds to the guide rail of the present invention). The pin guide 3, which changes the amount of vertical movement of the pin 2 by contact with the pin 2, is positioned at a location corresponding to a specific position on the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31, and has a ridge portion 3a that protrudes upward from the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31.

[0065] With this configuration, when the seat 50 shown in Figure 1 is moving along the slide rail 30, the pin 2 on the seat 50 side moves at a height of the lower position P2 while contacting the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31, as shown in Figure 2.

[0066] When the sheet 50 reaches a specific position, the sheet position detection device 1 moves the pin 2, supported by the support member 4, upward while riding on the raised portion 3a of the pin guide 3, to the upper position P1. By detecting the amount of upward movement of the pin 2 with the detection member 5, it is possible to detect whether or not the sheet 50 is in a specific position.

[0067] This unlocks the drive mechanism (not shown) that drives the seat 50 only in specific positions, allowing for specific actions such as flipping it up sideways, sliding it sideways, and returning it to its reclined position, or these actions to be reversed and locked in place.

[0068] Furthermore, since the pin guide 3 provided on the lower rail 31 has a structure with a ridge 3a, its structure is simpler compared to conventional complex position detection devices, and it is possible to reduce the number of parts.

[0069] Furthermore, since the pin guide 3 has a simple structure with a raised portion 3a, the vertical movement of the pin 2 can be easily and smoothly performed. Therefore, the risk of malfunction in position detection can be avoided.

[0070] Furthermore, the mountain portion 3a and the pin guide 3 including it may be integrally formed with the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31.

[0071] Furthermore, the height of the mountain portion 3a should be set to a height that allows for the distinction between the unlocked area and the locked area of ​​the drive mechanism that drives the seat 50.

[0072] (2) In the seat position detection device 1 of this embodiment, the peak portion 3a of the pin guide 3 comprises a parallel surface 3e that forms the top of the peak portion 3a and a pair of inclined surfaces 3c that connect the parallel surface 3e and the upper surface 31a. The peak portion 3a is fixed to the lower rail 31 such that the parallel surface 3e is positioned to correspond to a specific position.

[0073] With this configuration, when the seat 50 moves along the slide rail 30 and reaches a specific position, the pin 2 rises while riding on the peak 3a of the pin guide 3 and reaches the parallel surface 3e at the top. By detecting the amount of rise of the pin 2 at that time with the detection member 5, it is possible to detect a specific position of the seat 50 in the vehicle's longitudinal direction X.

[0074] Furthermore, the pin guide 3 provided on the lower rail 31 has a structure that includes a peak portion 3a with a parallel surface 3e at its top and a pair of inclined surfaces 3c on both sides. Compared to conventional complex position detection devices, the structure is simpler, and it is possible to reduce the number of parts and make it lighter.

[0075] Furthermore, the peak portion 3a of the pin guide 3 has a so-called convex shape with a parallel surface 3e between a pair of inclined surfaces 3c, and the pin 2 on the sheet side can easily and smoothly reach the parallel surface 3e, which is the top of the peak portion 3a, by moving along the inclined surface 3c, and can also descend from the parallel surface 3e to the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31.

[0076] Furthermore, the height of the parallel surface 3e at the top of the mountain portion 3a should be set to a height that allows for the distinction between the unlocked and locked regions of the drive mechanism that drives the seat 50.

[0077] Furthermore, the width W in the front-to-back direction of the parallel surface 3e shown in Figure 3 should be set to a width that allows sufficient time for the seat drive mechanism to be unlocked (or locked) simultaneously while the seat 50 is moving in the front-to-back direction X. If the operations are not performed simultaneously, the width W in the front-to-back direction of the parallel surface 3e should be set to a width that allows the lock / unlock area to be detected.

[0078] (3) In the seat position detection device 1 of this embodiment, the pin guide 3 has, in addition to the peak portion 3a, a side wall portion 3b that extends in the vertical direction and is fixed to the side wall 31b of the lower rail 31. The peak portion 3a and the side wall portion 3b are integrally connected to form an L-shape when viewed from the longitudinal direction X of the slide rail 30.

[0079] With this configuration, the side wall portion 3b of the pin guide 3 is fixed to the side wall 31b of the lower rail 31, making it possible to stably fix the pin guide 3 to the lower rail 31. Moreover, since the pin guide 3 has a shape in which the peak portion 3a and the side wall portion 3b are integrally connected in an L-shape, the structure is simple and easy to manufacture by sheet metal forming or the like.

[0080] (4) In the seat position detection device 1 of this embodiment, the side wall portion 3b of the pin guide 3 is fixed to the side wall 31b of the lower rail 31 by welding (see welding area WS in Figure 3), so that the pin guide 3 can be fixed to the lower rail 31 more firmly and stably.

[0081] (5) In the seat position detection device 1 of this embodiment, the tip of the pin 2 is rounded into a hemispherical or semi-ellipsoidal shape, so that the tip of the pin 2 can move smoothly along the inclined surface 3c of the peak 3a, and the pin 2 on the seat side can smoothly move on and off the peak 3a of the pin guide 3.

[0082] (6) Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is possible to configure a seat motion control mechanism that includes the position detection device 1 shown in Figure 1 and a seat drive mechanism (not shown) capable of causing the seat 50 to perform a specific operation.

[0083] In such a seat motion control mechanism, the seat drive mechanism either initiates a specific operation on the seat 50 or prohibits that specific operation when the seat position detection device 1 detects that the seat 50 is in a specific position.

[0084] In such a seat motion control mechanism, when the seat position detection device 1 detects that the seat 50 is in a specific position, the seat drive mechanism either starts a specific operation on the seat 50 or prohibits that specific operation. Therefore, it is possible to start or prohibit the operation of the seat drive mechanism at a specific position with a simple configuration and with high accuracy.

[0085] (7) Here, the specific action is at least one action selected from the group that includes the actions of "sideways flip-up," where the seat back 52 is folded forward and then rotated in the vehicle width direction to stand upright; "sideways slide," where the entire seat 50 moves in the vehicle width direction; "reclining," where the seat back 52 is tilted backward; and "tumble," where the seat back 52 is folded forward and then the entire seat 50 is rotated forward of the vehicle to stand upright.

[0086] Such a seat motion control mechanism makes it possible to precisely initiate or prohibit the large movement of the seat 50 by the seat drive mechanism at a specific position, using a simple configuration. As a result, the safety of the occupant seated in the seat 50 is improved.

[0087] (modified version)

[0088] (A) In the above embodiment, an example is shown in which the ridge portion 3a of the pin guide 3 on the lower rail 31 side has a parallel surface 3e and a pair of inclined surfaces 3c, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0089] Therefore, the peak 3a may have a shape that lacks either or both of the parallel surface 3e and the pair of inclined surfaces 3c. For example, the peak 3a may have a shape that lacks the parallel surface 3e, resulting in an overall semi-cylindrical shape, or it may have a shape that lacks the inclined surfaces 3c, resulting in an overall flat rectangular parallelepiped.

[0090] (B) In the above embodiment, an example is shown in which the tip of the pin 2 has a rounded shape such as a hemispherical shape. However, the shape of the pin 2 is not limited to any shape that allows it to move on and off the raised portion 3a of the pin guide 3, and various shapes can be used.

[0091] For example, as a modified version of the present invention, the tip 2a of the pin 2 may be conical in shape, as shown in Figure 8. Alternatively, a roller 22 may be rotatably attached to the tip of the main body 21 of the pin 2, as shown in Figure 9. Furthermore, a cam 23 may be swingably attached to the tip of the main body 21 of the pin 2, as shown in Figure 10. In these configurations having the pin 2 shown in Figures 8 to 10, the tip of the pin 2 can move smoothly along the inclined surface 3c of the peak 3a, similar to the pin 2 shown in Figure 7, and the pin 2 on the seat 50 side can smoothly move on and off the peak 3a of the pin guide 3.

[0092] (C) In the above embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 to 6, the pin guide 3 has a side wall portion 3b to which it is fixed to the side wall 31b of the lower rail 31, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0093] Therefore, as a modified example of the present invention, the pin guide 3 may have a ridge portion 3a, as shown in Figures 11 to 13, but the side wall portion 3b may be omitted.

[0094] The pin guide 3, which has only the raised portion 3a shown in Figures 11-13, can be fixed to the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 by adhesive or other means. Alternatively, the raised portion 3a of the pin guide 3 may be integrally molded to the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31. In this configuration as well, when the sheet 50 reaches a specific position, the pin 2 can move up from the lower position P2 to the upper position P1 by riding over the raised portion 3a that protrudes above the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31.

[0095] In the pin guide 3 shown in Figures 11-13, the peak 3a has a parallel surface 3e and a pair of inclined surfaces 3c, similar to the peak 3a in Figures 2-6 above.

[0096] Furthermore, the pin guide 3 may have an engaging projection 3f that engages with the corner 31c between the upper surface 31a and the side wall 31b of the lower rail 31, in order to facilitate positioning at a specific location on the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31. However, the engaging projection 3f is not mandatory and may be omitted.

[0097] (D) In the above embodiment, the pair of inclined surfaces 3c of the peak portion 3a of the pin guide 3 are each composed of flat surfaces, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0098] As a modified example of the present invention, as shown in Figure 14, the pair of inclined surfaces 3c may be composed of curved surfaces with a curvature that allows the pin 2 to move in and out.

[0099] (E) Furthermore, in the sheet position detection device of the above embodiment, the detection member 5 detects whether the pin 2 has risen by a predetermined amount, thereby detecting that the sheet is in a specific position. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the device may also detect whether the pin has fallen by a predetermined amount, as shown in the following modified example.

[0100] In other words, as a modified example of the present invention, in the seat motion control mechanism shown in Figure 15, the seat drive mechanism 21 includes an operating member 22 that receives an external operating force to initiate a specific operation such as flipping the seat sideways, and a pin lowering member 23 that lowers the pin 2 when the operating member 22 receives the operating force. The detection member 5 has a configuration that detects whether the pin 2 has completed a predetermined amount of movement, specifically, a configuration that detects whether the pin 2 has lowered by a predetermined amount H1 (for example, a mechanical link mechanism or electrical sensors).

[0101] As shown in Figure 15, when the operating member 22 is not subjected to an operating force, the tip of the pin 2 is at a height above the peak 3a of the pin guide 3. For example, the tip of the pin 2 is at a height H1 above the top of the peak 3a. In this state, the pin 2 is at the same height not only when it is above the peak 3a (when the sheet 50 is in a specific position) but also when it is away from the peak 3a (when the sheet 50 is not in a specific position).

[0102] On the other hand, when the operating member 22 is subjected to an operating force, it descends, but the amount of descent differs depending on whether the pin 2 is in the position corresponding to the specific position described above. As shown in Figure 16, when the pin 2 is in the position corresponding to the specific position, it contacts the peak 3a and moves by a predetermined amount, i.e., by a predetermined amount of descent H1, and completes its movement. On the other hand, when the pin 2 is in a position other than the position corresponding to the specific position, it descends by an amount of descent H2 which is greater than the predetermined amount of descent H1, without contacting the peak 3a, and reaches a position where it contacts or is close to the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31. In other words, even if it moves by the predetermined amount of descent H1, the movement is not completed.

[0103] In this configuration, the detection member 5 detects when the pin 2 has completed a predetermined amount of movement, allowing the sheet position detection device (a configuration having the pin 2, pin guide 3, and detection member 5) to detect that the sheet 50 is in a specific position. This makes it possible to start or stop the operation of the sheet drive mechanism 21 at a specific position with a simple and accurate configuration.

[0104] (F) In the above modified example (E), the sheet 50 is detected to be in a specific position by detecting that the amount of downward movement of pin 2 is a predetermined amount. However, as a modified example, the sheet 50 may be detected to be in a specific position by detecting that the amount of upward movement of pin 2 is a predetermined amount.

[0105] In other words, the seat motion control mechanism that achieves such operation includes the following seat position detection device and seat drive mechanism.

[0106] The seat position detection device is similar to the position detection device of the above embodiment in that it has a configuration that detects whether or not the seat 50, which moves along a lower rail 31 (corresponding to the guide rail of the present invention) fixed to the floor surface of the space that houses the seat 50, is in a specific position. However, compared to the above embodiment, it has a configuration in which the pin 2 and pin guide 3 are arranged upside down. That is, the pin 2 and detection member 5 are arranged on the lower rail 31, and the pin guide 3 having a peak 3a is provided on the seat 50.

[0107] Specifically, such a seat position detection device includes a pin 2 attached to a lower rail 31, which protrudes from the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31 and is movable in the vertical direction; a pin guide 3 provided on the seat 50, which moves together with the seat 50 in the longitudinal direction of the lower rail 31, and changes the amount of vertical movement of the pin 2 when it comes into contact with the pin 2; and a detection member 5 provided on the lower rail 31, which detects when the pin 2 has moved by a predetermined amount.

[0108] The pin guide 3 has a ridge 3a that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the sheet 50. The pin 2 is positioned at a location corresponding to a specific position on the upper surface 31a of the lower rail 31.

[0109] The seat drive mechanism 21 has a configuration that allows it to perform specific actions on the seat 50, and when the seat position detection device detects that the seat 50 is in a specific position, it either starts a specific action on the seat 50 or prohibits that specific action.

[0110] The seat drive mechanism 21 includes an operating member 22 that receives an external operating force to initiate a specific operation, and a pin lifting member (not shown) that raises the pin 2 when the operating member 22 receives an operating force.

[0111] When the operating member 22 is not subjected to an operating force, the tip of the pin 2 is at a height below the peak 3a. When the operating member 22 is subjected to an operating force, the pin 2 rises, but when the peak 3a is in a position corresponding to a specific position, it contacts the peak 3a and completes a predetermined amount of movement, or when the peak 3a is in a position other than the position corresponding to the specific position, it rises more than a predetermined amount without contacting the peak 3a. The detection member 5 detects whether or not the pin 2 has completed a predetermined amount of movement.

[0112] In the above configuration of the seat motion control mechanism, when the operating member 22 of the seat drive mechanism 21 receives an operating force, the pin lifting member lifts the pin 2 from a position separated below the peak 3a. At this time, when the peak 3a of the pin guide 3 is in a position corresponding to a specific position, the pin 2 contacts the peak 3a and completes a predetermined amount of movement. On the other hand, when the peak 3a is in a position other than the position corresponding to the specific position, the pin 2 rises more than a predetermined amount without contacting the peak 3a. In other words, even if it moves a predetermined amount, the movement is not completed. In this modified configuration (F) as well, the seat position detection device can detect that the seat 50 is in a specific position by detecting that the pin 2 has completed a predetermined amount of movement using the detection member 5. This makes it possible to start or stop the operation of the seat drive mechanism at a specific position with a simple and accurate configuration.

[0113] (G) In the above embodiment, the pin guide 3 is attached to the lower rail 31, and the pin 2 and the support member 4 that supports the pin in the vertical direction are attached to the frame of the seat 50. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the reverse configuration is also possible, namely, the pin 2 and the support member 4 are attached to the lower rail 31, and the pin guide 3 is attached to the frame of the seat 50 or the upper rail 32.

[0114] (H) Furthermore, the seat position detection device 1 described in the above embodiments and modifications can be positioned on either the interior-side guide rail (the rail closer to the center in the vehicle width direction) or the door-side rail of a pair of guide rails extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 1. Seat position detection device 2 pins 2a tip 3 Pin Guide 3a Yamabe 3b Side wall part 3c slope 3e parallel plane 4. Support members 5. Detection Member 30 slide rails 31 Lower Rail 31a Top surface 31b Side wall part 32 Upper Rail 50 sheets 51 Seat Cushion 52 Seatback

Claims

1. A seat position detection device that detects whether a seat moving along a guide rail fixed to the floor surface of a space that houses a seat is in a specific position, A pin is attached to the sheet so as to be movable in the vertical direction and moves together with the sheet in the longitudinal direction of the guide rail, A pin guide is provided on the guide rail, and when the pin comes into contact with it, the amount of vertical movement of the pin is changed. A detection member provided on the sheet for detecting when the pin moves by a predetermined amount, Equipped with, The pin guide has a ridge that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the guide rail, The aforementioned peak is positioned at a location corresponding to the specific position on the upper surface of the guide rail. A seat position detection device characterized by the following features.

2. In the sheet position detection device according to claim 1, The aforementioned Yamabe, The top of the mountain portion is formed by a parallel surface that is spaced upward from the upper surface of the guide rail and extends parallel to the upper surface in the longitudinal direction of the guide rail, The parallel surface comprises a pair of inclined surfaces arranged on both sides of the longitudinal direction of the parallel surface and connecting the parallel surface and the upper surface, The parallel planes are positioned at locations corresponding to the specific positions. A seat position detection device characterized by the following features.

3. In the sheet position detection device according to claim 1 or 2, The pin guide further has a side wall portion that extends in the vertical direction and is fixed to the side wall of the guide rail, The aforementioned mountain portion and the aforementioned side wall portion are integrally connected so as to form an L-shape when viewed from the longitudinal direction. A seat position detection device characterized by the following features.

4. In the sheet position detection device according to claim 3, The aforementioned side wall portion is fixed to the side wall by welding. A seat position detection device characterized by the following features.

5. In the sheet position detection device according to claim 1 or 2, The tip of the aforementioned pin is rounded into a hemispherical or semi-ellipsoidal shape. A seat position detection device characterized by the following features.

6. In the sheet position detection device according to claim 1 or 2, The tip of the aforementioned pin is cone-shaped. A seat position detection device characterized by the following features.

7. In the sheet position detection device according to claim 1 or 2, A roller is attached to the tip of the aforementioned pin. A seat position detection device characterized by the following features.

8. In the sheet position detection device according to claim 1 or 2, A cam is attached to the tip of the aforementioned pin. A seat position detection device characterized by the following features.

9. A sheet position detection device according to claim 1, A seat drive mechanism capable of performing a specific operation on the aforementioned seat, Equipped with, The seat drive mechanism, when the seat position detection device detects that the seat is in a specific position, initiates a specific operation on the seat or prohibits such specific operation. A seat motion control mechanism characterized by the following features.

10. The aforementioned specific operation is, The seatback is folded forward and then rotated in the width of the vehicle while being raised to the side. The entire seat slides laterally, moving in the direction of the vehicle width. The seatback reclines backward, and, The action is at least one selected from a group that includes a tumble action in which the seat back is folded forward and then the entire seat is rotated forward of the vehicle while being raised. A seat motion control mechanism characterized by the following features.

11. In the seat motion control mechanism according to claim 9, The seat drive mechanism includes an operating member that receives an external operating force to initiate the specific operation, and a pin lowering member that lowers the pin when the operating member receives the operating force. When the operating member is not subjected to an operating force, the tip of the pin is at a height above the peak, and when the operating member is subjected to an operating force, the pin descends, but either contacts the peak at a position corresponding to the specific position and completes the predetermined amount of movement, or descends more than the predetermined amount without contacting the peak at a position other than the specific position. The detection member detects whether the pin has completed a predetermined amount of movement. A seat motion control mechanism characterized by the following features.

12. A seat motion control mechanism comprising a seat position detection device that detects whether a seat moving along a guide rail fixed to the floor surface of a space for housing a seat is in a specific position, and a seat drive mechanism capable of causing the seat to perform a specific operation, The aforementioned seat position detection device, A pin is attached to the guide rail, protruding from the upper surface of the guide rail and movable in the vertical direction, A pin guide is provided on the sheet and moves along with the sheet in the longitudinal direction of the guide rail, and changes the amount of vertical movement of the pin when the pin comes into contact with it. A detection member provided on the guide rail for detecting when the pin moves by a predetermined amount, Equipped with, The pin guide has a ridge that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the sheet, The pin is positioned at a location corresponding to the specific position on the upper surface of the guide rail. The seat drive mechanism, when the seat position detection device detects that the seat is in a specific position, initiates a specific operation on the seat or prohibits the specific operation. The seat drive mechanism includes an operating member that receives an external operating force to initiate the specific operation, and a pin lifting member that raises the pin when the operating member receives the operating force. When the operating member is not subjected to an operating force, the tip of the pin is at a height below the peak, and when the operating member is subjected to an operating force, the pin rises, but when the peak is in a position corresponding to the specific position, it contacts the peak and completes the predetermined amount of movement, or when the peak is in a position other than the specific position, it rises more than the predetermined amount without contacting the peak. The detection member detects whether the pin has completed a predetermined amount of movement. A seat motion control mechanism characterized by the following features.

Images