Vehicle seats
Reinforcing the vehicle seat back frame with strategically positioned members and cross members improves its strength and load-bearing capacity, addressing the issue of inadequate structural integrity in conventional designs.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TS TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-12-22
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-07
AI Technical Summary
The strength of conventional vehicle seat back frames is inadequate, necessitating improvements to enhance their structural integrity.
The vehicle seat back frame is reinforced with a main frame comprising first and second frame portions connected by third and fourth frame portions, a pan frame, and reinforcing members positioned to align with through-holes and extend in different directions, further supported by cross members and linear members fixed by welding.
The reinforcement significantly enhances the strength and load-bearing capacity of the seat back frame, making it more robust and compact while maintaining a compact design.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle seat including a seat cushion and a seat back.
Background Art
[0002] Conventionally, a seat back frame in a vehicle seat is known to be configured using a panel material made of a substantially rectangular metal plate and a frame material formed in a frame shape and joined to the panel material (for example, Patent Document
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] By the way, further improvement in strength may be required for the seat back frame.
[0005] Therefore, an object is to provide a vehicle seat capable of improving the strength of the seat back frame.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0006] A vehicle seat is a vehicle seat comprising a seat cushion and a seat back, wherein the seat back comprises a seat back frame that constitutes the frame, and the seat back frame may be configured to include a main frame having a first frame portion, a second frame portion arranged opposite to the first frame portion at a distance from it, a third frame portion connecting one end of the first frame portion and the second frame portion, and a fourth frame portion connecting the other ends of the first frame portion and the second frame portion, the fourth frame portion arranged opposite to the third frame portion at a distance from it, a pan frame fixed to the main frame and arranged to cover the main frame from the front or rear, and a reinforcing member fixed to the first frame portion.
[0007] By incorporating reinforcing members into the seat back frame, the strength of the seat back frame can be improved.
[0008] Furthermore, the pan frame may have a long through-hole in the direction in which the first frame portion and the second frame portion face each other, and the reinforcing member may be configured such that its position in the direction in which the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion face each other coincides with the through-hole.
[0009] By aligning the position of the reinforcing member with the through-hole in the direction in which the third and fourth frame sections face each other, the reinforcing member can reinforce the parts of the main frame where the reinforcing effect of the pan frame is small. This improves the strength of the seat back frame.
[0010] Furthermore, the reinforcing member may be made of a plate-shaped member and have a first portion and a second portion extending from the end of the first portion in a direction different from that of the first portion, and the first frame portion may be arranged so as to fit into a recess formed by the first portion and the second portion.
[0011] The strength of a reinforcing member made of a plate-like material can be improved by having a first portion and a second portion extending in a different direction from the first portion. This allows for a further improvement in the strength of the seat back frame.
[0012] Furthermore, the second portion may be configured to extend substantially parallel to a direction perpendicular to both the direction in which the first frame portion and the second frame portion face each other, and the direction in which the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion face each other.
[0013] The second section extends substantially parallel to the direction perpendicular to both the direction in which the first and second frame sections face each other, and the direction in which the third and fourth frame sections face each other, thereby increasing the load-bearing capacity of the reinforcing member. This further improves the strength of the seat back frame.
[0014] Furthermore, the second portion may be configured to be in contact with the first frame portion.
[0015] The contact between the second part and the first frame further enhances the strength of the seat back frame.
[0016] Furthermore, the seat back frame may further include a first cross member connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion at a position between the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion, and a second cross member connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion at a position between the first cross member and the fourth frame portion, wherein the reinforcing member may extend at least from the first cross member to the second cross member in the direction in which the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion face each other.
[0017] Since the reinforcing member extends at least from the first cross member to the second cross member, the strength of the portion of the first frame between the first cross member and the second cross member can be improved by the reinforcing member. This further improves the strength of the seat back frame.
[0018] Furthermore, the vehicle seat may also be configured to further include a linear member made of wire material, the linear member having a first fixed end at one end which is fixed to the reinforcing member by welding.
[0019] By fixing the first fixed end of the linear member to the reinforcing member by welding, the strength of the reinforcing member can be improved. This further enhances the strength of the seat back frame.
[0020] Furthermore, the first fixed end may be configured to extend inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the reinforcing member.
[0021] Because the first fixed end extends at an angle to the longitudinal direction of the reinforcing member, the length of the first fixed end can be increased, thereby increasing the welding area. This further improves the strength of the reinforcing member, and thus further enhances the strength of the seat back frame.
[0022] Furthermore, the linear member may have a second fixed end at its other end that is fixed to the reinforcing member by welding, and the second fixed end may be configured such that the distance from the first fixed end increases towards the tip.
[0023] Because the distance between the second fixed end and the first fixed end increases as the second fixed end approaches the tip, the length of the second fixed end can be increased, thereby increasing the welding area. This further improves the strength of the reinforcing member, and thus further enhances the strength of the seat back frame.
[0024] Furthermore, the first frame portion may be made of pipes.
[0025] Further, the seat cushion may include a seat cushion frame forming a skeleton, a seat cushion pad covering the seat cushion frame, and a seat cushion skin covering the seat cushion frame and the seat cushion pad. The seat back may include a seat back pad covering the seat back frame, and a seat back skin covering the seat back frame and the seat back pad.
Advantages of the Invention
[0026] By providing the seat back frame with a reinforcing member, the strength of the seat back frame can be improved.
[0027] In addition, since the position of the reinforcing member in the direction where the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion face each other overlaps with the through hole, a portion of the main frame where the reinforcing effect of the pan frame is small can be reinforced by the reinforcing member. Thereby, the strength of the seat back frame can be improved.
[0028] In addition, since the reinforcing member made of a plate-like member has a first portion and a second portion extending in a direction different from the first portion, the strength of the reinforcing member can be improved. Thereby, the strength of the seat back frame can be further improved.
[0029] In addition, since the second portion extends substantially parallel to the direction orthogonal to both the direction in which the first frame portion and the second frame portion face each other and the direction in which the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion face each other, the load-bearing capacity of the reinforcing member can be enhanced. Thereby, the strength of the seat back frame can be further improved.
[0030] In addition, since the second portion is in contact with the first frame portion, the strength of the seat back frame can be further improved.
[0031] Furthermore, since the reinforcing member extends at least from the first cross member to the second cross member, the strength of the portion of the first frame between the first cross member and the second cross member can be improved by the reinforcing member. This further improves the strength of the seat back frame.
[0032] Furthermore, by fixing the first fixed end of the linear member to the reinforcing member by welding, the strength of the reinforcing member can be improved. This further enhances the strength of the seat back frame.
[0033] Furthermore, because the first fixed end extends at an angle to the longitudinal direction of the reinforcing member, the length of the first fixed end can be increased, thereby increasing the welding area. This further improves the strength of the reinforcing member, and thus further enhances the strength of the seat back frame.
[0034] Furthermore, because the distance between the second fixed end and the first fixed end increases as the second fixed end approaches the tip, the length of the second fixed end can be increased, thereby increasing the welding area. This further improves the strength of the reinforcing member, and thus further enhances the strength of the seat back frame. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0035] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a vehicle seat according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of the seat cushion frame and seat back frame. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the seat back frame. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view (a) showing a magnified view of the area around the upper reinforcing member of the seat back frame, and a perspective view (b) of the striker. [Figure 5] This is a VV cross-sectional view in Figure 4(a). [Figure 6] This is a front view of the seat back frame. [Figure 7]This is a front view showing a close-up of the area around the upper reinforcing member of the seat back frame. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in Figure 7. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of the upper reinforcing member. [Figure 10] This is a magnified perspective view showing the area around the lower reinforcing member of the seat back frame. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in Figure 10. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0036] Next, an embodiment of a vehicle seat will be described. In this specification, front-to-back, left-to-right, and up-and-down correspond to the front-to-back, left-to-right, and up-and-down directions as viewed from the perspective of a person sitting in the seat (seated person). As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle seat according to this embodiment is configured as a vehicle seat S installed in a vehicle, specifically an automobile, as an example of a vehicle. The vehicle seat S is a rear seat of an automobile and comprises a seat cushion S1, a seat back S2, and a headrest S3.
[0037] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the seat cushion S1 comprises a seat cushion frame F1 that forms the skeleton, a seat cushion pad P1 that covers the seat cushion frame F1, and a seat cushion surface C1 that covers the seat cushion frame F1 and the seat cushion pad P1. The seat cushion S1 is constructed by covering the seat cushion frame F1 with the seat cushion pad P1 and the seat cushion surface C1.
[0038] The seat cushion frame F1 is made of, for example, a metal pipe. The seat cushion frame F1 has left and right seat cushion side frames 11, 12 that are spaced apart and facing each other, a front frame 13 that connects the front ends of the left and right seat cushion side frames 11, 12, and a rear frame 14 that connects the rear ends of the left and right seat cushion side frames 11, 12. The seat cushion pad P1 is made of urethane foam or the like, and the seat cushion surface C1 is made of fabric or leather or the like.
[0039] The seat back S2 comprises a seat back frame F2 that forms the frame, a seat back pad P2 that covers the seat back frame F2, and a seat back surface C2 that covers the seat back frame F2 and the seat back pad P2. The seat back S2 is constructed by covering the seat back frame F2 with the seat back pad P2 and the seat back surface C2.
[0040] The seat back frame F2 comprises a main frame 20, a first cross member 31, a second cross member 32, a pan frame 40, and a reinforcing member 50. The seat back pad P2 is made of urethane foam or the like, and the seat back surface C2 is made of fabric or leather or the like.
[0041] As shown in Figure 3, the main frame 20 is formed in a roughly rectangular frame shape. The main frame 20 has an upper frame portion 21, a lower frame portion 22, a left frame portion 23, and a right frame portion 24.
[0042] The upper frame portion 21 and the lower frame portion 22 extend to the left and right. The lower frame portion 22 is positioned below the upper frame portion 21 and opposite it with a gap between them. In other words, the upper frame portion 21 is positioned above the lower frame portion 22 and opposite it with a gap between them.
[0043] The left frame section 23 extends roughly vertically, connecting the left ends of the upper frame section 21 and the lower frame section 22, while the right frame section 24 extends roughly vertically, connecting the right ends of the upper frame section 21 and the lower frame section 22. The right frame section 24 is positioned to the right of the left frame section 23, with a gap between them and the left frame section 23.
[0044] In this embodiment, the left frame portion 23 corresponds to the "third frame portion that connects one end of the first frame portion and the second frame portion," and the right frame portion 24 corresponds to the "fourth frame portion that connects the other end of the first frame portion and the second frame portion." Also, in this embodiment, the left-right direction corresponds to the "direction in which the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion face each other."
[0045] In this embodiment, the main frame 20 consists of a first pipe member P10 and a second pipe member P20. The first pipe member P10 is a component of the upper frame 21 and is made of a metal pipe. In other words, the upper frame 21 is made of pipes.
[0046] The second pipe member P20 is a component of the lower frame section 22, the left frame section 23, and the right frame section 24, and is made of a metal pipe. That is, the lower frame section 22, the left frame section 23, and the right frame section 24 are made of pipes. The second pipe member P20 is formed by bending a pipe into a roughly U-shape and has a horizontal pipe section P22 and left and right vertical pipe sections P23 and P24.
[0047] The horizontal pipe section P22 is part of the lower frame section 22 and extends to the left and right. The left vertical pipe section P23 is part of the left frame section 23 and extends upward from the left end of the horizontal pipe section P22. The right vertical pipe section P24 is part of the right frame section 24 and extends upward from the right end of the horizontal pipe section P22.
[0048] The first pipe member P10 and the second pipe member P20 are joined by welding at the left end of the first pipe member P10 and the upper end of the vertical pipe section P23 of the second pipe member P20, and by welding at the right end of the first pipe member P10 and the upper end of the vertical pipe section P24 of the second pipe member P20, thereby forming the main frame 20.
[0049] The first cross member 31 and the second cross member 32 extend approximately vertically, connecting the upper frame section 21 and the lower frame section 22. More specifically, the first cross member 31 connects the upper frame section 21 and the lower frame section 22 at a position between the left frame section 23 and the right frame section 24 in the left-right direction. The second cross member 32 also connects the upper frame section 21 and the lower frame section 22 at a position between the first cross member 31 and the right frame section 24 in the left-right direction.
[0050] The first cross member 31 and the second cross member 32 are each made of a metal pipe. The upper ends of the first cross member 31 and the second cross member 32 are welded to the upper frame portion 21, and the lower ends are welded to the lower frame portion 22. In this embodiment, the left-right distance between the first cross member 31 and the left frame portion 23 and the left-right distance between the second cross member 32 and the right frame portion 24 are approximately equal.
[0051] Two pairs of left and right holders 25L and 25R, which hold the headrest guides, are fixed to the upper frame section 21. The left pair of holders 25L are fixed to the front surface of the upper frame section 21 by welding at a position between the first cross member 31 and the left frame section 23 in the left-right direction. The right pair of holders 25R are fixed to the front surface of the upper frame section 21 by welding at a position between the second cross member 32 and the right frame section 24 in the left-right direction.
[0052] The pan frame 40 is formed by sheet metal processing of a metal plate and is positioned to cover the main frame 20 from behind. The pan frame 40 is fixed to the main frame 20 by welding or the like. The pan frame 40 is also fixed to the first cross member 31 and the second cross member 32 by welding or the like.
[0053] The pan frame 40 comprises a pan frame body 41 and flanges 42 rising from the edges of the pan frame body 41. In this embodiment, the flanges 42 extend forward from the top, bottom, left, and right edges of the pan frame body 41. The flanges 42 include an upper flange 42A (see Figure 5) extending forward from the upper edge of the pan frame body 41 and a lower flange 42B (see Figure 11) extending forward from the lower edge of the pan frame body 41.
[0054] The pan frame body 41 has a through hole 43 in the center in the left-right direction. The through hole 43 is a hole that enables the so-called trunk pass-through function, which connects the trunk and cabin of the automobile. The through hole 43 is an elongated hole in the direction in which the upper frame portion 21 and the lower frame portion 22 face each other. Hereafter, the direction in which the upper frame portion 21 and the lower frame portion 22 face each other will be referred to as the "first opposing direction".
[0055] The through-hole 43 is located between the upper frame portion 21 and the lower frame portion 22. Furthermore, the majority of the through-hole 43 is located between the first cross member 31 and the second cross member 32. The majority of the through-hole 43 is located in the first region 41A of the pan frame body 41, which is enclosed by the upper frame portion 21, the lower frame portion 22, the first cross member 31, and the second cross member 32. The lower part of the through-hole 43 has a wider width than the upper part, and the left and right edges of the lower part of the through-hole 43 overlap with the first cross member 31 and the second cross member 32 in the left-right direction.
[0056] The pan frame body 41 has a plurality of beads 44 and a plurality of through holes 45 in the second region 41B and third region 41C located to the left and right of the first region 41A. The second region 41B is the region enclosed by the upper frame portion 21, the lower frame portion 22, the left frame portion 23 and the first cross member 31, and the third region 41C is the region enclosed by the upper frame portion 21, the lower frame portion 22, the right frame portion 24 and the second cross member 32.
[0057] The bead 44 protrudes forward and, in this embodiment, has a geometric shape resembling a combination of trapezoids. Having such a bead 44 improves the strength of the pan frame 40. The through-hole 45 is a substantially circular hole and is located at the bottom of the trapezoidal recess 46 formed by the bead 44. By having such a through-hole 45, the strength of the pan frame 40 can be improved by the bead 44 while reducing the weight of the pan frame 40.
[0058] The reinforcing member 50 includes an upper reinforcing member 50A fixed to the upper frame portion 21 and a lower reinforcing member 50B fixed to the lower frame portion 22. In this embodiment, with respect to the upper reinforcing member 50A, the upper frame portion 21 corresponds to the "first frame portion" and the lower frame portion 22 corresponds to the "second frame portion". Also, with respect to the lower reinforcing member 50B, the lower frame portion 22 corresponds to the "first frame portion" and the upper frame portion 21 corresponds to the "second frame portion".
[0059] As shown in Figures 4(a) and 5, the upper reinforcing member 50A is made of a metal plate-shaped member. The upper reinforcing member 50A is formed by bending a metal plate into a substantially U-shape and has a first portion 51A, a second portion 52A, and a third portion 53A. The first part 51A extends substantially parallel to the first opposing direction.
[0060] The second part 52A extends from one end of the first part 51A in a different direction from the first part 51A. Specifically, the second part 52A extends from the upper end of the first part 51A, which is substantially parallel to the first opposing direction, in a direction that intersects the first opposing direction, diagonally downward and backward. The second part 52A extends substantially parallel to the orthogonal direction which is perpendicular to both the first opposing direction and the left-right direction. The second part 52A extends substantially perpendicular to the pan frame body 41 of the pan frame 40.
[0061] The third part 53A extends from the other end of the first part 51A in a different direction from the first part 51A. Specifically, the third part 53A extends from the lower end of the first part 51A, which is substantially parallel to the first opposing direction, in a direction that intersects the first opposing direction, diagonally downward and backward. The third part 53A extends substantially parallel to the orthogonal direction. The third part 53A extends substantially perpendicular to the pan frame body 41 of the pan frame 40. The second part 52A and the third part 53A face each other in the first opposing direction.
[0062] The upper reinforcing member 50A is positioned such that the upper frame portion 21 fits into a recess formed by the first portion 51A and the second portion 52A. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the upper reinforcing member 50A is positioned such that the upper frame portion 21 fits into a recess formed by the first portion 51A, the second portion 52A, and the third portion 53A. The second portion 52A is in contact with the upper frame portion 21. Specifically, the tip of the second portion 52A is in contact with the upper surface of the upper frame portion 21.
[0063] As shown in Figure 6, the upper reinforcing member 50A is positioned to cover the central part of the upper frame portion 21 in the left-right direction from the front. The upper reinforcing member 50A is positioned above the through-hole 43 of the pan frame 40, adjacent to the through-hole 43. The upper reinforcing member 50A's position in the left-right direction coincides with that of the through-hole 43.
[0064] Furthermore, the upper reinforcing member 50A extends from the first cross member 31 to the second cross member 32 in the left-right direction. Specifically, the left end of the upper reinforcing member 50A coincides with the first cross member 31 in the left-right direction, and the right end of the upper reinforcing member 50A coincides with the second cross member 32 in the left-right direction.
[0065] As shown in Figures 4(a) and 7, the upper reinforcing member 50A is fixed to the upper frame portion 21 by welding. In this embodiment, the tip of the second portion 52A of the upper reinforcing member 50A is fixed to the upper surface of the upper frame portion 21 by four welds W11 to W14. In addition, the tip of the third portion 53A of the upper reinforcing member 50A is fixed to the lower surface of the upper frame portion 21 by six welds W21 to W26.
[0066] The upper reinforcing member 50A has approximately circular through holes 54A at both the left and right ends of the first portion 51A. The two through holes 54A are for inserting jigs to support the upper reinforcing member 50A when welding it to the upper frame portion 21.
[0067] As shown in Figure 5, in this embodiment, the upper reinforcing member 50A is positioned on the front side of the upper frame portion 21, and the pan frame 40 is positioned on the rear side of the upper frame portion 21. This makes the seat back frame F2 more compact in the front-rear direction while avoiding interference between the upper reinforcing member 50A and the pan frame 40. Alternatively, the upper reinforcing member 50A is positioned on one side in the orthogonal direction of the upper frame portion 21, and the pan frame 40 is positioned on the other side in the orthogonal direction of the upper frame portion 21. This makes the seat back frame F2 more compact in the orthogonal direction while avoiding interference between the upper reinforcing member 50A and the pan frame 40.
[0068] Furthermore, the upper reinforcing member 50A is positioned below the upper end of the pan frame 40 (the tip of the upper flange 42A). This makes the seat back frame F2 more compact in the vertical direction. Also, in the first opposing direction, the upper reinforcing member 50A is positioned closer to the lower frame portion 22 (see Figure 6) than the upper flange 42A of the pan frame 40. This makes the seat back frame F2 more compact in the first opposing direction.
[0069] As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), the seat back S2 further comprises a striker 60 as an example of a linear member. The seat back S2 is designed to be tilted forward from the seated position (see Figure 1), and the striker 60 engages with a locking device (not shown) provided in the vehicle when the seat back S2 is in the seated position.
[0070] The striker 60 is made of a metal wire. The striker 60 is formed by bending a rod-shaped member. The striker 60 has a first fixed end 61 at one end and a second fixed end 62 at the other end. Specifically, the striker 60 has the first fixed end 61, the second fixed end 62, a ring-shaped portion 63 that engages with the locking device, a first extension portion 64 extending forward from one end of the ring-shaped portion 63, and a second extension portion 65 extending forward from the other end of the ring-shaped portion 63.
[0071] The first extension portion 64 and the second extension portion 65 are arranged side by side. In this embodiment, the second extension portion 65 is located to the right of the first extension portion 64. The first fixed end portion 61 extends upward from the front end of the first extension portion 64, and the second fixed end portion 62 extends upward from the front end of the second extension portion 65.
[0072] As shown in Figure 7, the first fixed end 61 and the second fixed end 62 are fixed to the front surface of the first portion 51A of the upper reinforcing member 50A by welding (see welded sections W31 to W34). The first fixed end 61 and the second fixed end 62 each extend inclined with respect to the left-right direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the upper reinforcing member 50A.
[0073] More specifically, the first fixed end 61 extends diagonally upward and to the left from the front end of the first extension 64, and the second fixed end 62 extends diagonally upward and to the right from the front end of the second extension 65. As a result, the lateral distance between the second fixed end 62 and the first fixed end 61 increases as it approaches the upper end, which is the tip. When viewed from the front, the first fixed end 61 and the second fixed end 62 form a roughly V-shape.
[0074] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the upper reinforcing member 50A has a notch 55 to avoid interference with the striker 60. The notch 55 is provided in the third portion 53A. The notch 55 has a shape that recesses forward from the rear end of the third portion 53A. By having such a notch 55, the upper reinforcing member 50A and the striker 60 can be compactly arranged while avoiding interference between the upper reinforcing member 50A and the first extension portion 64 and the second extension portion 65 of the striker 60.
[0075] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the lower reinforcing member 50B is made of a metal plate-like member, similar to the upper reinforcing member 50A. The lower reinforcing member 50B is formed by bending a metal plate into a substantially U-shape and has a first portion 51B, a second portion 52B, and a third portion 53B. The first part 51B extends substantially parallel to the first opposing direction.
[0076] The second part 52B extends from one end of the first part 51B in a different direction from the first part 51B. Specifically, the second part 52B extends from the upper end of the first part 51B, which is substantially parallel to the first opposing direction, in a direction that intersects the first opposing direction, diagonally downward and backward. The second part 52B extends substantially parallel to the orthogonal direction which is perpendicular to both the first opposing direction and the left-right direction. The second part 52B extends substantially perpendicular to the pan frame body 41 of the pan frame 40.
[0077] The third part 53B extends from the other end of the first part 51B in a different direction from the first part 51B. Specifically, the third part 53B extends from the lower end of the first part 51B, which is substantially parallel to the first opposing direction, in a direction that intersects the first opposing direction, diagonally downward and backward. The third part 53B extends substantially parallel to the orthogonal direction. The third part 53B extends substantially perpendicular to the pan frame body 41 of the pan frame 40. The second part 52B and the third part 53B face each other in the first opposing direction.
[0078] The lower reinforcing member 50B is positioned such that the lower frame portion 22 fits into a recess formed by the first portion 51B and the second portion 52B. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lower reinforcing member 50B is positioned such that the lower frame portion 22 fits into a recess formed by the first portion 51B, the second portion 52B, and the third portion 53B. The second portion 52B is in contact with the lower frame portion 22. Specifically, the tip of the second portion 52B is in contact with the upper surface of the lower frame portion 22.
[0079] As shown in Figure 6, the lower reinforcing member 50B is positioned to cover substantially the entire lower frame portion 22 from the front. The lower reinforcing member 50B is positioned below the through-hole 43 of the pan frame 40, adjacent to the through-hole 43. The position of the lower reinforcing member 50B in the left-right direction coincides with that of the through-hole 43.
[0080] Furthermore, the lower reinforcing member 50B extends from the first cross member 31 to the second cross member 32 in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the left-right length of the lower reinforcing member 50B is longer than the left-right length of the upper reinforcing member 50A. The left end of the lower reinforcing member 50B extends beyond the first cross member 31 to the left of the first cross member 31. Also, the right end of the lower reinforcing member 50B extends beyond the second cross member 32 to the right of the second cross member 32.
[0081] The left end of the lower reinforcing member 50B is located between the left pair of holders 25L in the left-right direction. The right end of the lower reinforcing member 50B is located between the right pair of holders 25R in the left-right direction.
[0082] As shown in Figure 10, the lower reinforcing member 50B is fixed to the lower frame portion 22 by welding. In this embodiment, the tip of the second portion 52B of the lower reinforcing member 50B is fixed to the upper surface of the lower frame portion 22 by nine welds W41 to W49. In addition, the tip of the third portion 53B of the lower reinforcing member 50B is fixed by nine welds W51 to W59 (see Figure 6) located in the left-right direction, corresponding to the welds W41 to W49. under Frame 22 It is fixed to the underside.
[0083] The lower reinforcing member 50B has two substantially circular through holes 54B in the first portion 51B. The two through holes 54B are holes into which a jig for supporting the lower reinforcing member 50B is inserted when welding the lower reinforcing member 50B to the lower frame portion 22. In this embodiment, the position of one through hole 54B in the left-right direction coincides with that of the first cross member 31, and the position of the other through hole 54B in the left-right direction coincides with that of the second cross member 32.
[0084] As shown in Figure 11, in this embodiment, the lower reinforcing member 50B is positioned on the front side of the lower frame portion 22, and the pan frame 40 is positioned on the rear side of the lower frame portion 22. This makes the seat back frame F2 more compact in the front-rear direction while avoiding interference between the lower reinforcing member 50B and the pan frame 40. Alternatively, the lower reinforcing member 50B is positioned on one side in the orthogonal direction of the lower frame portion 22, and the pan frame 40 is positioned on the other side in the orthogonal direction of the lower frame portion 22. This makes the seat back frame F2 more compact in the orthogonal direction while avoiding interference between the lower reinforcing member 50B and the pan frame 40.
[0085] Furthermore, the lower reinforcing member 50B is positioned above the lower end of the pan frame 40. Also, the lower reinforcing member 50B is positioned above the tip (upper end) of the lower flange 42B of the pan frame 40. This makes the seat back frame F2 more compact in the vertical direction. In addition, in the first opposing direction, the lower reinforcing member 50B is positioned closer to the upper frame portion 21 (see Figure 6) than the lower flange 42B. This makes the seat back frame F2 more compact in the first opposing direction.
[0086] According to the vehicle seat S of this embodiment, the seat back frame F2 can be made stronger by providing reinforcing members 50 (upper reinforcing member 50A, lower reinforcing member 50B) to the seat back frame F2.
[0087] Furthermore, because the position of the reinforcing member 50 in the left-right direction coincides with the through hole 43, the central part of the main frame 20 in the left-right direction, where the reinforcing effect of the pan frame 40 is small, can be reinforced by the reinforcing member 50. This improves the strength of the seat back frame F2.
[0088] Furthermore, the strength of the reinforcing member 50 itself can be improved by having a plate-shaped reinforcing member 50 having first portions 51A, 51B and second portions 52A, 52B extending in a different direction from the first portions 51A, 51B. In addition, in this embodiment, the strength of the reinforcing member 50 itself can be further improved by having a substantially U-shape having first portions 51A, 51B, second portions 52A, 52B and third portions 53A, 53B. This further improves the strength of the seat back frame F2.
[0089] Furthermore, since the second parts 52A and 52B extend substantially parallel to the orthogonal direction, the load-bearing capacity of the reinforcing member 50 can be increased. In addition, in this embodiment, since the third parts 53A and 53B also extend substantially parallel to the orthogonal direction, the load-bearing capacity of the reinforcing member 50 can be further increased. As a result, the strength of the seat back frame F2 can be further improved.
[0090] Furthermore, the contact between the second portion 52A of the upper reinforcing member 50A and the upper frame portion 21 further improves the strength of the seat back frame F2. Additionally, the contact between the second portion 52B of the lower reinforcing member 50B and the lower frame portion 22 further improves the strength of the seat back frame F2.
[0091] Furthermore, since the upper reinforcing member 50A extends from the first cross member 31 to the second cross member 32, the upper reinforcing member 50A can improve the strength of the portion of the upper frame 21 between the first cross member 31 and the second cross member 32. Similarly, since the lower reinforcing member 50B extends from the first cross member 31 to the second cross member 32, the lower reinforcing member 50B can improve the strength of the portion of the lower frame 22 between the first cross member 31 and the second cross member 32. This further improves the strength of the seat back frame F2.
[0092] Furthermore, the strength of the upper reinforcing member 50A can be improved by welding the first fixed end 61 of the striker 60 to the upper reinforcing member 50A. Also, the strength of the upper reinforcing member 50A can be improved by welding the second fixed end 62 of the striker 60 to the upper reinforcing member 50A. As a result, the strength of the seat back frame F2 can be further improved.
[0093] Furthermore, since the first fixed end 61 extends at an angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the upper reinforcing member 50A, the length of the first fixed end 61 can be increased compared to, for example, the case where the first fixed end extends in the first opposing direction, thus increasing the welding area. Similarly, since the second fixed end 62 extends at an angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the upper reinforcing member 50A, the length of the second fixed end 62 can be increased compared to, for example, the case where the second fixed end extends in the first opposing direction, thus increasing the welding area. As a result, the strength of the upper reinforcing member 50A can be further improved, and the strength of the seat back frame F2 can be further enhanced.
[0094] Furthermore, because the distance between the second fixed end 62 and the first fixed end 61 increases as the second fixed end 62 approaches the tip, the length of the second fixed end 62 can be increased compared to, for example, the case where both the first and second fixed ends extend in the first opposing direction, thus increasing the welding area. This further improves the strength of the upper reinforcing member 50A, and thus further improves the strength of the seat back frame F2.
[0095] The embodiments have been described above, but the vehicle seat can be modified as appropriate as shown in the following examples.
[0096] In the above embodiment, the first fixed end 61 and the second fixed end 62 extended in a substantially V-shape, but for example, the first fixed end and the second fixed end may extend substantially parallel to each other. Also, in the above embodiment, the first fixed end 61 extended at an inclination with respect to the longitudinal direction of the upper reinforcing member 50A, but for example, the first fixed end may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the reinforcing member, or substantially parallel to the first opposing direction. The same applies to the second fixed end.
[0097] In the above embodiment, a striker 60 was exemplified as a linear member, but the linear member may be any member other than a striker, as long as it is made of wire and has a fixed end fixed to the reinforcing member by welding. Furthermore, the linear member may have a configuration having only a first fixed end, that is, a configuration in which only one end is fixed to the reinforcing member by welding and the other end is not fixed to the reinforcing member. In addition, the vehicle seat may have a configuration without a linear member.
[0098] In the above embodiment, the reinforcing member 50 was configured to extend at least from the first cross member 31 to the second cross member 32. However, for example, the reinforcing member may be positioned between the first cross member and the second cross member. Alternatively, the reinforcing member may be configured such that its position in the direction in which the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion face each other overlaps with only one of the first cross member and the second cross member.
[0099] In the above embodiment, the seat back frame F2 was configured to have two cross members 31 and 32. However, for example, the seat back frame may be configured to have only one cross member, or to have three or more cross members. Furthermore, the seat back frame may be configured not to have any cross members.
[0100] In the above embodiment, the second portion 52A of the upper reinforcing member 50A was in contact with the upper frame portion 21, and the second portion 52B of the lower reinforcing member 50B was in contact with the lower frame portion 22. However, for example, a configuration in which the second portion is not in contact with the first frame portion is also possible.
[0101] In the above embodiment, the second parts 52A and 52B extended substantially parallel to the orthogonal direction, but for example, the second part may extend at an inclination with respect to the orthogonal direction. The same applies to the third part.
[0102] In the above embodiment, the upper reinforcing member 50A had a substantially U-shape having a first portion 51A, a second portion 52A, and a third portion 53A. However, for example, the upper reinforcing member may have a substantially L-shape having a first portion and a second portion, but no third portion. Alternatively, the upper reinforcing member may be a flat plate without a second portion. The same applies to the lower reinforcing member.
[0103] In the above embodiment, the reinforcing member 50 was made of a plate-shaped member, but for example, the reinforcing member may be made of a pipe or a rod.
[0104] In the above embodiment, the pan frame 40 was configured to have through holes 43 that are long in the first opposing direction, but for example, the pan frame may be configured not to have through holes that are long in the first opposing direction.
[0105] In the above embodiment, the seat back frame F2 was configured such that the pan frame 40 covered the main frame 20 from the rear. However, for example, the seat back frame may be configured such that the pan frame covers the main frame from the front. In this case, the reinforcing member may be arranged to cover the first frame portion from the rear.
[0106] In the above embodiment, the structure included two reinforcing members, an upper reinforcing member 50A and a lower reinforcing member 50B. However, for example, there may be only one reinforcing member. Also, in the above embodiment, one upper reinforcing member 50A was fixed to the upper frame portion 21 and one lower reinforcing member 50B was fixed to the lower frame portion 22. In other words, one reinforcing member was fixed to the first frame portion. However, for example, there may be a configuration in which multiple reinforcing members are fixed to the first frame portion.
[0107] In the above embodiment, the first and second frame sections were the upper and lower frame sections 21 and 22 of the main frame 20, and the third and fourth frame sections were the left and right frame sections 23 and 24 of the main frame 20. However, for example, the first and second frame sections may be the left and right frame sections of the main frame, and the third and fourth frame sections may be the upper and lower frame sections of the main frame. In other words, in the above embodiment, the reinforcing member 50 was fixed to the upper and lower frame sections 21 and 22 of the main frame 20. However, for example, the reinforcing member may be fixed to the left and right frame sections of the main frame.
[0108] In the above embodiment, the first frame portion to which the reinforcing member is fixed was made of pipes, but for example, the first frame portion may be made of a plate-shaped member or the like.
[0109] In the above embodiment, a vehicle seat S installed in an automobile was given as an example of a vehicle seat, but for example, the vehicle seat may be a seat installed in a railway car or the like. Also, the vehicle seat may be a seat installed in a vehicle other than a car, such as an airplane or a ship.
[0110] The elements described in the above embodiments and modifications may be implemented in any combination. [Explanation of symbols]
[0111] 20 Mainframes 21 Upper frame section 22 Lower frame section 23 Left frame section 24 Right frame section 31. First Crossmember 32. Second Crossmember 40 Pan Frame 43 Through hole 50 Reinforcement members 50A Upper reinforcing member 50B Lower reinforcing member 51A,51B 1st part 52A,52B 2nd part 60 Striker 61 1st fixed end 62 Second fixed end C1 Seat cushion surface C2 Seatback Upholstery F1 Seat Cushion Frame F2 Seat Back Frame P1 Seat Cushion Pad P2 Seat Back Pad S Vehicle Seat S1 Seat Cushion S2 Seatback
Claims
1. A vehicle seat comprising a seat cushion and a seat back, The aforementioned seat back includes a seat back frame that constitutes the skeleton, The aforementioned seat back frame is A main frame having a first frame portion, a second frame portion positioned opposite to the first frame portion at a distance from it, a third frame portion connecting one end of the first frame portion and the second frame portion, and a fourth frame portion connecting the other ends of the first frame portion and the second frame portion, the fourth frame portion positioned opposite to the third frame portion at a distance from it, A pan frame fixed to the main frame, the pan frame being positioned to cover the main frame from the front or rear, A first cross member connects the first frame portion and the second frame portion at a position between the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion, A second cross member connects the first frame portion and the second frame portion at a position between the first cross member and the fourth frame portion, The first frame portion is fixed to a reinforcing member, The pan frame has a through hole that is elongated in the direction in which the first frame portion and the second frame portion face each other, and is located at a position that overlaps with the portion between the first cross member and the second cross member. The reinforcing member is characterized in that it extends at least from the first cross member to the second cross member in the opposing direction in which the third frame portion and the fourth frame portion face each other.
2. The seat back frame further comprises a second reinforcing member fixed to the second frame portion, The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that the second reinforcing member extends at least from the first cross member to the second cross member in the opposing direction.
3. One end of the reinforcing member in the opposing direction overlaps with the end of the first cross member that is closer to the first frame portion, The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that the other end of the reinforcing member in the opposing direction overlaps with the end of the second cross member that is closer to the first frame portion.
4. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, characterized in that the second reinforcing member is closer to the through hole than the reinforcing member.
5. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, characterized in that the length of the second reinforcing member in the opposing direction is longer than the length of the reinforcing member in the opposing direction.
6. A pair of first holders arranged in opposing directions for holding a first headrest, the pair of first holders fixed to the first frame portion at a position between the first cross member and the third frame portion in the opposing direction, A pair of second holders, arranged in the opposing direction, for holding the second headrest, further comprising a pair of second holders fixed to the first frame at a position between the second cross member and the fourth frame in the opposing direction, One end of the second reinforcing member in the opposing direction is located between the pair of first holders in the opposing direction. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, characterized in that the other end of the second reinforcing member in the opposing direction is located between the pair of second holders in the opposing direction.
7. The second frame portion has a straight portion extending in the opposing direction and an end portion that bends and extends from the end of the straight portion in the opposing direction. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, characterized in that the second reinforcing member is fixed to the straight portion.
8. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that the reinforcing member has a pair of through holes provided at intervals in the opposing direction.
9. A linear member made of wire, further comprising a linear member having a first fixed end fixed to the reinforcing member by welding at one end and a second fixed end fixed to the reinforcing member by welding at the other end, The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that the first fixed end and the second fixed end form a V-shape when viewed from the front.
10. The reinforcing member is It consists of plate-shaped members, It has a first part and a second part extending from the end of the first part in a direction different from that of the first part, The first frame portion is positioned so as to fit into the recess formed by the first portion and the second portion. The vehicle seat according to claim 9, characterized in that the second portion has a notch to avoid interference with the linear member.
11. The aforementioned seat cushion comprises a seat cushion frame that constitutes the skeleton, a seat cushion pad that covers the seat cushion frame, and a seat cushion surface that covers the seat cushion frame and the seat cushion pad. The seat for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the seat back comprises a seat back pad covering the seat back frame and a seat back surface covering the seat back frame and the seat back pad.
Citation Information
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