Covering and vehicle seat
A multi-layered cover system for vehicle seats allows easy customization of comfort and support features, addressing the limitations of existing covers by providing adjustable ergonomic support and additional functionalities without altering the seat's basic structure.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/DE2025/100634
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-08-14
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-19
AI Technical Summary
Existing vehicle seat covers and mats do not allow for easy interchangeability of comfort features without altering the basic structure of the seat, limiting adaptability to different ergonomic needs.
A multi-layered cover system for vehicle seats, comprising an outer skin and multiple foam layers with varying properties, such as spacer fabric and air channels, that can be easily attached and detached to provide customizable comfort and support, including electronic components like heating elements.
Enables quick and flexible adjustment of seat ergonomics and comfort features without modifying the underlying seat structure, enhancing pressure distribution, ventilation, and incorporating additional functionalities like heating and massage.
Smart Images

Figure DE2025100634_19022026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] 24-1235 PIF
[0002] Cover and vehicle seat
[0003] The invention relates to a cover for a component of a motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle seat.
[0004] Prior art discloses vehicle seats comprising a backrest and a base element with respective cushions, each containing layers of foam, for example, a spacer fabric and a comfort layer with air channels or air holes. A cover with an outer skin, for example made of leather, is attached to these cushions, and the cover may, for example, also include a layer of foam.
[0005] These covers are fitted over the cushions and attached to the cushions or other components of the vehicle seat using fasteners.
[0006] Furthermore, mats are also known from the state of the art that are placed on the vehicle seats and are designed accordingly with respective layers.
[0007] Such a mat is disclosed in US Patent 6,511,125 B1, which has multiple layers of foam and includes an upper outer skin that is at least partially breathable. This mat, however, is designed to be placed over the vehicle seat and secured to provide greater comfort for the occupant. Because this mat is placed on top, it is not a cover and therefore cannot be placed over a cushion.
[0008] The object of the invention is to provide a cover for components and a vehicle seat which increases the comfort for the occupant and allows the shape and structure of the area facing the occupant to be easily interchangeable without having to change the basic structure of the component and / or the vehicle seat and its foam layers.
[0009] This problem is solved by reference to the features of claim 1 and by means of a vehicle seat according to the invention. Advantageous 24-1235 PIF
[0010] 2
[0011] Further details and developments can be derived from the dependent requirements and the character description.
[0012] One aspect of the invention relates to a cover for a component, in particular for a vehicle seat cushion for a motor vehicle, especially a passenger car, comprising an outer skin and a first layer arranged thereon, which is designed to cover the component or the cushion and includes fastening means for attaching it to the component or the cushion. Such a component or vehicle seat can, for example, consist of a base element and a cushion placed thereon, which comprises several layers of foam, including, for example, a spacer fabric and a comfort layer with air channels or air holes. A cover with an outer skin, for example made of leather, is arranged over this cushion, which additionally contains a foam layer for increased comfort.The cover is then attached to the cushion or other components of the vehicle seat using fasteners to provide stability and comfort for the occupant. Such a cushion can be located on a seat cushion, a backrest, an armrest, a headrest, and / or other areas of the vehicle seat or vehicle.
[0013] To achieve the objective of the invention, it is provided according to the invention that, in addition to the first layer, at least one further second layer, different from the first layer, is arranged. This additional layer contributes to increasing the comfort for the occupant by, for example, providing an ergonomic shape that supports the occupant's body (in particular the buttocks and / or back). This design ergonomically adapts the shape and structure of the area of the seat facing the occupant, thereby enabling, in particular, better pressure distribution and support of, for example, the spine. It is therefore also possible to use this cover for armrests, headrests, or calf cushions. Furthermore, external vehicle seat components with cushions, such as armrests on side doors or steering wheels, can also have such a cover.At the same time, this cover allows for easy replacement of the ergonomic shape and structure of the seating area without altering the basic structure of the vehicle seat and its foam layers, thus enabling flexible adaptation to different comfort needs and ergonomic requirements. The cover can also be designed for all other possible components; for example, such a cover can be used over steering wheels, dashboards, side panels, and roof panels (24-1235 PIF).
[0014] 3 or ceiling surfaces, rear area of backrests, etc. can be arranged, making upholstery possible.
[0015] In the case of a vehicle seat, replacing the ergonomic cover can be done in just a few simple steps. First, the existing cover is removed by loosening the fasteners, thus providing access to the underlying cushion. A second cover, with a different ergonomic shape and a softer feel, can then be inserted, better suited to specific comfort and support requirements. Finally, the second cover is securely attached to the vehicle seat using the fasteners, quickly and easily adapting the seat to the new ergonomic needs.
[0016] This allows, for example, side cushions on the vehicle seat or lumbar support in the backrest to be enlarged or reduced in size. This enables individual adjustment of the seat to the needs of the occupant without altering the basic structure of the vehicle seat.
[0017] In particular, it is possible to at least partially conceal the second layer beneath it and its structure by means of one layer, namely the layer attached to the outer skin. For example, the thickness of the upper layer allows air holes or ventilation openings in the lower layer, which might be visible if attached directly to the outer skin, to be made essentially invisible and imperceptible to an occupant.
[0018] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one of the layers is designed as a foam layer. Thus, both the first and second layers are made of foam or other foam material with different structures. By using different foam layers, various properties can be achieved that can further improve the comfort and ergonomic adaptation of the vehicle seat. The outer skin is not a layer in the true sense, but rather serves as a cover that is at least partially air-permeable, while the foam layers perform specific functions such as pressure distribution and support. Furthermore, various air permeability options are also provided in the foam layers. Such a foam layer can also be designed as a reticulated layer. 24-1235 PIF
[0019] 4
[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one of the layers is designed as a spacer fabric. Such a spacer fabric, or nonwoven, acts as an air distribution layer, enabling improved ventilation and moisture regulation.
[0021] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one of the layers is designed as a foam layer with at least one air channel. This foam layer is particularly intended as a comfort layer with holes or air channels and can, for example, also be made of cut foam. This structure also improves ventilation and increases seating comfort for the occupant.
[0022] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, an outer third layer is provided in addition to the first and second layers. This third outer layer is called charmeuse and has a structure that is not strongly adhesive and simplifies putting the cover on. If, for example, the second layer or comfort layer were to remain without the third layer or charmeuse as the outermost layer, it would adhere strongly to the pillow or the pillow's foam. This would make putting the cover on more difficult and could even damage the layers; this is thus prevented.
[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the layers are joined together inseparably by means of a binding agent.
[0024] Such a binding agent could be, for example, an adhesive to provide a permanent bond. However, it would also be possible for the binding agent to be dissolved again using a solvent, in order to break the bond and separate the layers if necessary.
[0025] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the layers are joined together by means of seams. This embodiment makes it possible to firmly bond certain areas of the cover, while other areas of the cover remain flexible and adaptable, thereby further improving the comfort and functionality of the vehicle seat. 24-1235 PIF
[0026] 5
[0027] It would also be possible to bring the layers together both by means of a binding agent such as adhesive, and in some areas by means of seams.
[0028] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the layers are arranged only in certain areas of the cover. It is therefore possible for only specific parts of the cushion to be covered with the cover and its layers, while in other areas of the cushion, for example, only the outer skin could be provided. This allows for targeted adaptation of the seating surface to specific comfort and functional requirements without having to cover the entire cushion surface.
[0029] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the cover includes at least one sensor device and / or an electronic component and / or an electronic interface for it. This allows, for example, various electronic elements such as heating elements, tactile elements for massage, or other sensors to be integrated into the cover. These components make it possible to extend the cover with the components of the vehicle seat. Heating elements can be used for a heated seat surface. The electronic interface also enables the easy control and adjustment of these functions to maximize the comfort and well-being of the occupant. Furthermore, control elements for operating electronic components can also be arranged.
[0030] Another aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle seat for a motor vehicle, comprising a base element, a cushion with various arranged foam layers, and a cover with an outer skin and a first layer arranged thereon, which is designed to cover the cushion, wherein the cover can be attached to the cushion or to other components of the vehicle seat by means of fastening means. It is provided that, in addition to the first layer, the cover has at least one further second layer that differs from the first layer. Furthermore, such a cover can be used not only in the backrest and the seat cushion, but also in armrests, headrests, calf supports, even in the steering wheel or other surfaces of the motor vehicle.
[0031] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as those mentioned below in the description of figures 24-1235 PIF
[0032] 6 and / or the features and combinations of features shown in the figures alone are not only usable in the combination specified, but also in other combinations or on their own.
[0033] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a preferred embodiment and the drawings. The drawings show:
[0034] Fig. 1 A cross-section of an area of a reference and an area of a vehicle seat;
[0035] Fig. 1 shows a cross-section of a section of a cover 10 for a vehicle seat 20 for a motor vehicle, as well as a cross-section of a section of the vehicle seat 20. The vehicle seat 20 comprises a base element 22, a cushion 24 with foam layers 26a and 26b arranged within it, and a cover 10. The cover 10 can be attached to the cushion 24 or to other components of the vehicle seat 20 by means of fasteners.
[0036] In the cover 10, the outer skin 12 forms the outermost layer and is made of a durable material, which, depending on the requirements, can be leather, imitation leather, or a special textile fabric and can, in particular, be at least partially breathable. A first layer 14 is arranged directly beneath the outer skin 12. This first layer 14 can preferably be made of a spacer fabric, which is arranged as a nonwoven for air passage. A different second layer 16 is arranged behind the first layer 14. This second layer 16 can also be made of foam or reticulated foam; in particular, it is designed as a comfort layer with air-permeable air channels 17 or holes to improve ventilation.The second layer 16 can also have an ergonomic shape to at least partially change the shape of the cushion 24 over which the cover 10 is pulled and to provide additional comfort and support properties.
[0037] A third layer 18 made of charmeuse is arranged as an outer layer between the cushion 24 and the cover 10, designed to allow the cover 10 to be easily pulled over the cushion 24. This third layer 18 prevents the cover 10 from sticking to the cushion surface and thus facilitates putting the cover 10 on. The various layers 14, 16, 18 are bonded together by means of a binding agent, such as adhesive, in a particularly permanent manner. They can also be detachably bonded. 24-1235 PIF
[0038] 7. The layers should be joined together. Alternatively, the layers can also be connected in some areas by means of seams to provide additional stability.
[0039] The cover 10 can also contain electronic components, such as heating elements or massage devices, which further enhance the comfort of the occupant. The cover 10 can also be equipped with fasteners that allow it to be securely attached to the cushion 24 or to other components of the vehicle seat 20. These fasteners can be, for example, hooks, loops, Velcro, or special clips.
[0040] The components described are arranged in such a way that the cover 10 can be easily pulled over the cushion 24 and securely fastened, while at the same time allowing comfort, ventilation and additional functions.
[0041] Finally, it is possible for a multitude of layers to be arranged in various combinations to meet specific comfort and functional requirements. These layers can have different materials and properties, such as different types of foam, spacer fabrics, or other upholstery materials. The third layer 18 and the outer skin 12 form the outermost boundaries of the layered structure. The outer skin 12 primarily protects and enhances the aesthetic appearance of the cover 10, while the third layer 18 serves as a particularly smooth layer, facilitating the fitting of the cover 10 and preventing snagging on the cushion 24.
[0042] In summary, the invention proposes a combination of climate and seating comfort in vehicle seats 20.
[0043] -1235 PIF
[0044] 8
[0045] Reference symbol list
[0046] Relation
[0047] outer skin
[0048] layer
[0049] layer
[0050] air ducts
[0051] layer
[0052] vehicle seat
[0053] basic element
[0054] Pillow a, 26b foam layers
Claims
24-1235 PIF Patent claims 1. Cover (10) for a motor vehicle, comprising an outer skin (12) and a first layer (14) arranged thereon, which is designed to cover a component of the motor vehicle and includes fastening means for attaching it to the component, characterized in that, in addition to the first layer (14), which is designed as a venting layer and / or lamination layer, at least one further second layer (16), which is designed as a comfort layer and is different from the first layer (14), is arranged.
2. Reference (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the layers (14, 16) is designed as a foam layer.
3. Cover (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one of the layers (14, 16) is designed as a spacer fabric.
4. Reference (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the layers (14, 16) is designed as a foam layer with at least one air channel.
5. Reference (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in addition to the first layer (14) and the second layer (16), an outer third layer (18) is arranged.
6. Reference (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the layers (14, 16) are inseparably joined together by means of a binder. 24-1235 PIF 10 7. Reference (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the layers (14, 16) are brought together by means of seams.
8. Reference (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the layers (14, 16) are arranged only in certain areas (10a) of the reference (10).
9. Reference (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has at least one sensor device and / or an electronic component and / or an electronic interface therefor.
10. Vehicle seat (20) for a motor vehicle, comprising a base element (22), a cushion (24) with respective arranged foam layers (26a, 26b), and a cover (10) with an outer skin (12) and a first layer (14) arranged thereon, which is designed to cover the cushion (24), wherein the cover (10) can be attached to the cushions (24) or to other components of the vehicle seat (20) by means of fastening means, characterized in that the cover (10) has at least one further second layer (16) arranged in addition to the first layer (14), which is different from the first layer (14).
Citation Information
Patent Citations
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