Seat assembly for motor vehicle

Abstract

A seat assembly (1) for a motor vehicle, the seat assembly comprising: a seat cushion (2); a seat backrest (3); and a linkage mechanism (150), configured to move the seat cushion (2) and the seat backrest (3) such that the seat assembly (1) can be moved between at least two positions. The linkage mechanism (150) comprises a first linkage mechanism (151) for the seat backrest (3) and a second linkage mechanism (152) for the seat cushion (2), the first linkage mechanism (151) and the second linkage mechanism (152) being configured to be driven independently with respect to each other. The first linkage mechanism (151) comprises a constrained end (1512) and a movable end (1513), and the first linkage mechanism (151) is configured to be pivotable around a first pivot portion provided at the constrained end (1512) of the first linkage mechanism (151). The bottom end of the seat backrest (3) close to the seat cushion (2) is pivotally connected to the movable end (1513) of the first linkage mechanism (151), such that the seat backrest (3) is pivotable relative to the first linkage mechanism (151) around a second pivot portion provided at the movable end (1513) of the first linkage mechanism (151). The seat assembly has the performance of more flexible adjustment, thereby improving the comfort thereof and expanding the application scenarios thereof.

Description

Seating components for motor vehicles

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202411537097.X, filed on October 30, 2024, entitled "Seat Assembly for Motor Vehicles", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the technical field of vehicle seats. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a seat assembly for a motor vehicle. Background Technology

[0004] Seating assemblies for motor vehicles typically include a seat cushion and a seat back. It is known in the art to design seating assemblies for motor vehicles to be movable between two or more positions to provide a more comfortable seating experience for occupants. For example, some seating assemblies are designed to move between a folded position, a designed position, and an easy entry (also known as “EZE”) position. In the folded position, the seat back pivots toward the seat cushion and overlaps with it to increase, for example, cargo space in the motor vehicle. In the easy entry position, at least the seat back of the seating assembly can tilt forward to increase access space behind the seating assembly. Some seating assemblies are also designed to include a reclining position, in which the seat back pivots away from the seat cushion to a substantially horizontal position, thus forming a “double bed mode” or “double bed state” so that an occupant can lie down on the seating assembly. Other seating assemblies are designed to include a “zero gravity” position, in which an occupant can sit on the seating assembly in a substantially zero-pressure posture, thus feeling more comfortable.

[0005] However, while existing seat assemblies offer some angle adjustment for functions such as folding, reclining, and easy entry, the bottom of the backrest is typically mounted on the seat cushion (or its frame), or the angle adjustment is usually driven by a single motor. This structure presents several drawbacks. For example, because the bottom of the backrest is attached to the seat cushion, the center of rotation cannot be adjusted independently of the seat cushion. This makes it difficult to achieve the most comfortable seating experience in certain positions. For instance, when the seat is reclined, the seat cushion and / or backrest cannot be adjusted independently of each other, potentially creating a height difference between the seat cushion and the horizontally positioned backrest, thus affecting the occupant's reclining experience. Alternatively, when the seat assembly is in a zero-gravity position, the bottom of the seat back may be pressing against the occupant's lower back, while the top of the seat back may not be in contact with the occupant's shoulders, resulting in problems such as the occupant being pushed against their lower back and lacking shoulder support, thus affecting the occupant's riding experience.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to improve existing seat components. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, a seat assembly for a motor vehicle is provided, comprising: a seat cushion; a seat back; and a linkage mechanism configured to move the seat cushion and the seat back such that the seat assembly is movable between at least two positions; wherein the linkage mechanism includes a first linkage mechanism for the seat back and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion, the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism being configured to be independently driven relative to each other; wherein the first linkage mechanism includes at least one constrained end and at least one movable end, the first linkage mechanism being configured to pivot about a first pivot portion disposed at a corresponding constrained end of the at least one constrained end of the first linkage mechanism; and wherein a bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to a corresponding movable end of the at least one movable end of the first linkage mechanism, such that the seat back is pivotable relative to the first linkage mechanism about a second pivot portion disposed at the corresponding movable end of the first linkage mechanism.

[0008] In the seat assembly according to this disclosure, neither the bottom end of the seat back nor the first linkage mechanism for the seat back is mounted on the seat cushion, and the first linkage mechanism for the seat back and the second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion can be driven independently relative to each other. This configuration enables independent control of the movement of both the seat back and the seat cushion. This independent control, combined with the configuration that the first linkage mechanism can pivot about a first pivot point and the seat back can pivot about a second pivot point relative to the first linkage mechanism, gives the seat assembly according to this disclosure more flexible adjustment capabilities. This more flexible adjustment capability not only improves the comfort of the seat assembly according to this disclosure but also expands the application scenarios of the seat assembly according to this disclosure.

[0009] Non-limiting illustrative examples of embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in the following numbered clauses.

[0010] Clause 1. A seat assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising:

[0011] Seat cushion;

[0012] Seat back; and

[0013] A linkage mechanism configured to move the seat cushion and the seat back so that the seat assembly can move between at least two positions;

[0014] The linkage mechanism includes a first linkage mechanism for the seat back and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion, wherein the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism are configured to be driven independently of each other.

[0015] The first linkage mechanism includes at least one constrained end and at least one movable end, and is configured to pivot about a first pivot portion disposed at a corresponding constrained end of the at least one constrained end of the first linkage mechanism; and

[0016] Wherein, the bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to a corresponding movable end of at least one of the movable ends of the first linkage mechanism, such that the seat back can pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism around a second pivot portion disposed at the corresponding movable end of the first linkage mechanism.

[0017] Clause 2. The seat assembly as described in Clause 1, wherein,

[0018] The constraint end of the first linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly about the vertical direction.

[0019] Clause 3. The seat assembly as described in Clause 1 or Clause 2, wherein,

[0020] The first linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around the first pivot portion under the drive of the first backrest drive device, and the seat back is configured to pivot around the second pivot portion under the drive of the second backrest drive device.

[0021] Clause 4. The seat assembly as described in Clause 3, wherein,

[0022] When the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device are not working, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism around the first pivot and the pivoting of the seat back around the second pivot are locked.

[0023] Clause 5. The seat assembly described in any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein,

[0024] The second linkage mechanism includes at least one constrained end and at least one movable end. The at least one constrained end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component. The corresponding movable end of the at least one movable end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the seat cushion.

[0025] Clause 6. The seat assembly as described in Clause 5, wherein,

[0026] The second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot about a pivot portion located at a corresponding constraint end in the at least one constraint end of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of at least one seat cushion drive device.

[0027] Clause 7. The seat assembly as described in Clause 6, wherein,

[0028] When the corresponding seat drive device in the at least one seat drive device is not working, the pivoting of the second linkage mechanism around the pivot portion at its corresponding constraint end is locked.

[0029] Clause 8. The seat assembly described in any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein,

[0030] The first linkage mechanism is configured as a single-link linkage mechanism on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly. The single-link linkage mechanism includes only a single linkage element, which includes a constrained end and a movable end. The constrained end of the linkage element is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly about a vertical direction. The bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the movable end of the linkage element of the first linkage mechanism.

[0031] Clause 9. The seat assembly as described in Clause 8, wherein,

[0032] The linkage of the first linkage mechanism includes a first component and a second component, which are fixed together to form the linkage.

[0033] Clause 10. The seat assembly as described in Clause 8, wherein,

[0034] The seat assembly includes a first backrest drive device and a second backrest drive device. The first backrest drive device drives the linkage of the single-link linkage mechanism to pivot around the first pivot portion, while the second backrest drive device drives the seat back to pivot around the second pivot portion relative to the linkage of the single-link linkage mechanism.

[0035] Clause 11. The seat assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein,

[0036] The first linkage mechanism is configured as a four-bar linkage mechanism on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly. The four-bar linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member, and a third linkage member. The first linkage member includes a constrained end and a movable end; the second linkage member includes a constrained end and a movable end; and the third linkage member includes a first foot, a second foot, and a third foot.

[0037] The constraint ends of the first and second linkage members are pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to allow the seat assembly to rotate about a vertical direction. The movable ends of the first and second linkage members are pivotally connected to the first and second feet of the third linkage, respectively.

[0038] The bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the third foot of the third linkage member.

[0039] Clause 12. The seat assembly as described in Clause 11, wherein,

[0040] The seat assembly includes a first backrest drive device and a second backrest drive device. The first backrest drive device drives at least one of the first linkage and the second linkage to pivot about a first pivot portion at their respective constrained ends. The second backrest drive device drives the seat back to pivot about a second pivot portion at the movable end of the third linkage.

[0041] Clause 13. The seat assembly as described in any one of Clauses 8 to 12, wherein,

[0042] The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member and a second linkage member. The first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a sliding plate, the sliding plate including a groove extending along its length, and one end of the sliding plate being fixed to the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component.

[0043] The second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The constrained end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component.

[0044] The seat cushion is slidably mounted in the groove of the slide plate at one end near the seat back, while the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

[0045] Clause 14. The seat assembly as described in Clause 13, wherein,

[0046] The second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around the pivot portion located at the constraint end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of the cushion drive device, and when the second linkage member pivots, the end of the seat cushion near the seat back slides in the groove of the slide plate.

[0047] Clause 15. The seat assembly as described in Clause 13 or Clause 14, wherein,

[0048] The seat assembly is configured to move between a designed position, a folded position, a reclining position, and an easy-access position.

[0049] In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion to support the occupant;

[0050] In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly and the seat cushion are substantially overlapped to increase the space of the motor vehicle;

[0051] In the reclining position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and

[0052] In the convenient access position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted at a predetermined angle toward the seat cushion relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly for easy entry and exit of the occupant.

[0053] Clause 16. The seat assembly as described in any one of Clauses 8 to 12, wherein,

[0054] The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member, and a third linkage member. The first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end. The third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end.

[0055] In this configuration, the constraint ends of the first and third linkage components of the second linkage mechanism are pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component, respectively. One end of the seat cushion near the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage component of the second linkage mechanism, while the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage component of the second linkage mechanism. The second movable end of the second linkage component of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the third linkage component of the second linkage mechanism.

[0056] Clause 17. The seat assembly as described in Clause 16, wherein,

[0057] The seat assembly is configured to move between a designed position, a high-profile position, a zero-gravity position, a folded position, a reclining position, and an easy-access position.

[0058] In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion to support the occupant;

[0059] In the high-profile position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position;

[0060] At the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state;

[0061] In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly and the seat cushion are substantially overlapped to increase the space of the motor vehicle;

[0062] In the reclining position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and

[0063] In the convenient access position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted at a predetermined angle toward the seat cushion relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly for easy entry and exit of the occupant.

[0064] Clause 18. The seat assembly as described in Clause 17, wherein,

[0065] One of the second linkage member and the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage member for realizing the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly.

[0066] Clause 19. The seat assembly as described in Clause 18, wherein,

[0067] The seat assembly includes a first seat cushion drive device and a second seat cushion drive device. The first seat cushion drive device is used to drive the zero-gravity linkage to achieve the zero-gravity position, and the second seat cushion drive device is used to drive the first linkage of the second linkage mechanism to achieve other positions of the seat assembly besides the zero-gravity position.

[0068] Clause 20. The seat assembly as described in Clause 19, wherein,

[0069] During the process of moving the seat assembly from the designed position to the zero-gravity position, the second seat cushion drive device locks the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism so that it cannot move; and during the process of moving the seat assembly from the designed position to other positions besides the zero-gravity position, the first seat cushion drive device locks the zero-gravity linkage member of the second linkage mechanism so that it cannot move.

[0070] Clause 21. The seat assembly according to any one of Clauses 8 to 12, wherein,

[0071] The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage component and a second linkage component. The first linkage component of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The second linkage component of the second linkage mechanism also includes a constrained end and a movable end.

[0072] Wherein, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and the constraint end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component. The end of the seat cushion near the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, while the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

[0073] Clause 22. The seat assembly as described in Clause 21, wherein,

[0074] The seat assembly is configured to move between a designed position, a raised position, a folded position, a reclining position, and a convenient access position.

[0075] In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion to support the occupant;

[0076] In the high-profile position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position;

[0077] In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly and the seat cushion are substantially overlapped to increase the space of the motor vehicle;

[0078] In the reclining position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and

[0079] In the convenient access position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted at a predetermined angle toward the seat cushion relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly for easy entry and exit of the occupant.

[0080] Clause 23. The seat assembly as described in Clause 22, wherein,

[0081] The first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around a pivot portion located at the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of the seat cushion drive device.

[0082] Clause 24. The seat assembly as described in any one of Clauses 8 to 12, wherein,

[0083] The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage component and a second linkage component. The first linkage component of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The second linkage component of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end.

[0084] Wherein, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and the end of the seat cushion near the seat back are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component; the other end of the seat cushion away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism; and the second movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

[0085] Clause 25. The seat assembly as described in Clause 24, wherein,

[0086] The seat assembly is configured to move between a designed position and a zero-gravity position.

[0087] In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly forms a predetermined angle with respect to the seat cushion to support the occupant; and

[0088] In the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state.

[0089] Clause 26. The seat assembly as described in Clause 25, wherein,

[0090] The first linkage of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage to achieve the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly.

[0091] It should be noted that aspects of this disclosure described with respect to one embodiment or clause may be included in other different embodiments or clauses, although no specific description is given of said other different embodiments or clauses. In other words, all embodiments or clauses and / or features of any embodiment or clause may be combined in any manner and / or combination, as long as they do not contradict each other. Attached Figure Description

[0092] Many aspects of this disclosure will be better understood after reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0093] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0094] Figure 2a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat is in its designed position and the outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal the internal skeleton.

[0095] Figure 2b is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly shown in Figure 2a, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0096] Figures 3a and 3b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism in the folded position according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Figures 4a and 4b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure in a lying position;

[0098] Figures 5a and 5b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism in the convenient access position according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Figure 6a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its designed position and the outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal the internal skeleton.

[0100] Figure 6b is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly shown in Figure 6a, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0101] Figures 7a and 7b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism in the folded position according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0102] Figures 8a and 8b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure in a reclining position;

[0103] Figures 9a and 9b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism in the convenient access position according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0104] Figure 9c shows a force analysis diagram of a first linkage mechanism for a seat back according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0105] Figure 9d shows a force analysis diagram of the first linkage mechanism for a seat back according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0106] Figure 10a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its designed position and the outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal the internal skeleton.

[0107] Figure 10b is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly shown in Figure 10a, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0108] Figures 11a and 11b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure in a high-profile position.

[0109] Figures 12a and 12b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure in a zero-gravity position (also known as a "zero-pressure state");

[0110] Figures 13a and 13b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism in the folded position according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] Figures 14a and 14b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure in an easy-entry position.

[0112] Figures 15a and 15b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure in a reclining position.

[0113] Figure 16 is an alternative embodiment of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0114] Figure 17a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its designed position and the outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal the internal skeleton.

[0115] Figure 17b is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly shown in Figure 17a, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0116] Figures 18a and 18b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure in a high-profile position.

[0117] Figures 19a and 19b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure in a zero-gravity position.

[0118] Figures 20a and 20b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism in the folded position according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0119] Figures 21a and 21b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure in an easy-entry position.

[0120] Figures 22a and 22b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure in a reclining position.

[0121] Figure 23 is an alternative embodiment of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0122] Figure 24a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its designed position and the outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal the internal skeleton.

[0123] Figure 24b is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly shown in Figure 24a, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0124] Figures 25a and 25b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure in a high-profile position.

[0125] Figures 26a and 26b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism in the folded position according to the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] Figures 27a and 27b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure in an easy-entry position.

[0127] Figures 28a and 28b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure in a reclining position.

[0128] Figure 29a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its designed position and the outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal the internal skeleton.

[0129] Figure 29b is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly shown in Figure 29a, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0130] Figures 30a and 30b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure in a high-profile position.

[0131] Figures 31a and 31b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism in the folded position according to the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] Figures 32a and 32b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure in an easy-entry position;

[0133] Figures 33a and 33b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure in a reclining position.

[0134] Figure 34a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its designed position and the outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal the internal skeleton.

[0135] Figure 34b is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly shown in Figure 34a, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0136] Figures 35a and 35b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the seventh embodiment of the present disclosure in a zero-gravity position.

[0137] Figure 36a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its designed position and the outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal the internal skeleton.

[0138] Figure 36b is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly shown in Figure 36a, wherein the linkage mechanism is in the designed position;

[0139] Figures 37a and 37b are schematic diagrams of the seat assembly and its linkage mechanism according to the eighth embodiment of the present disclosure in a zero-gravity position.

[0140] Figure 38a is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of the prior art seat assembly in a zero-gravity position;

[0141] Figure 38b is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism of a seat assembly in a zero-gravity position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0142] Figure 38c is a comparison diagram of the linkage mechanism of the prior art seat assembly in Figure 38a and the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in Figure 38b, both in a zero-gravity position.

[0143] Figure 39 is a schematic diagram of an occupant sitting on a prior art seat assembly in a zero-gravity position;

[0144] Figure 40 is a schematic diagram of an occupant sitting on a seat assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in a zero-gravity position.

[0145] It should be understood that the same reference numerals denote the same elements in all the accompanying drawings. For clarity, the dimensions of some features may be altered and they may not be drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0146] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure can be presented in many different ways and is not limited to the embodiments described below; in fact, the embodiments described below are intended to make the disclosure more complete and to fully illustrate the scope of protection of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in various ways to provide further additional embodiments.

[0147] It should be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. All terms used in this specification (including technical and scientific terms) have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art unless otherwise defined. For the sake of brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail.

[0148] Unless otherwise specified, the singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in this specification include the plural forms. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “containing” used in this specification indicate the presence of the claimed feature but do not exclude the presence of one or more other features. The term “and / or” used in this specification includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items.

[0149] When a component is described in the specification as being "on", "attached" to, "connected" to, "joined" to, or "in contact" with another component, the component may be directly located on, attached to, connected to, joined to, or in contact with the other component, or there may be an intermediate component present.

[0150] In this specification, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used for ease of explanation only and are not intended to be limiting. Any technical feature represented by "first," "second," "third," etc., is interchangeable.

[0151] In the specification, spatial relation terms such as "above," "below," "front," "back," "top," and "bottom" describe the relationship between one feature and another in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that spatial relation terms include not only the orientation shown in the drawings but also the different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, when the device in the drawings is inverted, a feature previously described as "below" other features can now be described as "above" other features. The device can also be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), in which case the relative spatial relationships will be interpreted accordingly.

[0152] This disclosure relates to a seat assembly for a motor vehicle, which is movable between at least two or more positions to achieve a corresponding function. As shown in FIG1, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure may include a seat cushion 2 and a seat back 3. The seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure may further include a linkage mechanism configured to move the seat cushion 2 and the seat back 3 to achieve movement of the seat assembly 1 between at least two or more positions.

[0153] Unlike existing seat assemblies, the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2. The first linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The constrained end of the first linkage mechanism can be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail capable of sliding relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component capable of rotating relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 about a vertical direction. The first linkage mechanism can pivot about a first pivot portion located at its constrained end under the drive of a first backrest drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster), thereby causing the movable end of the first linkage mechanism to move or swing. The bottom end of the seat back 3 (the end closest to the seat cushion 2) is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage mechanism. On the one hand, this allows the seat backrest 3 to move or swing in response to the movement or swing of the movable end of the first linkage mechanism; on the other hand, it also allows the seat backrest 3 to pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism about a second pivot portion disposed at the movable end of the first linkage mechanism. The pivoting of the seat backrest 3 relative to the first linkage mechanism about the second pivot portion can be driven by a second backrest drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster). Therefore, the seat backrest 3 of the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can be referred to as a "dual-drive" seat backrest. In embodiments according to this disclosure, when the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device are not in operation, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism about the first pivot portion and the pivoting of the seat backrest 3 about the second pivot portion can be locked, preventing the seat backrest 3 from moving.

[0154] The second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2 may include at least one restraining end and at least one movable end. The at least one restraining end of the second linkage mechanism may also be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor (e.g., the vehicle floor panel), or pivotally mounted on a slide rail capable of sliding relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component capable of rotating relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 about a vertical direction. The second linkage mechanism may pivot about a pivot portion located at its respective restraining end under the drive of one or more cushion drive devices (e.g., motors and / or adjusters), thereby causing the movable end of the second linkage mechanism to move or oscillate. The seat cushion 2 is pivotally connected to the at least one movable end of the second linkage mechanism to move or oscillate accordingly following the movement or oscillation of the movable end of the second linkage mechanism. In embodiments according to this disclosure, when a respective cushion drive device among the one or more cushion drive devices is not in operation, the pivoting of the second linkage mechanism about its respective restraining end can be locked, such that the seat cushion 2 can be restricted in its movement or cannot be moved.

[0155] In some embodiments, the constraint end of the first linkage mechanism for the seat backrest 3 and the constraint end of the second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2 can be mounted on the same component, for example, both mounted on the vehicle floor, a slide rail, or a rotating component. In other embodiments, the constraint end of the first linkage mechanism for the seat backrest 3 and the constraint end of the second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2 can be mounted on different components, for example, mounted on two separate components.

[0156] Unlike existing seat assemblies, in the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure, the bottom end of the seat back 3 and the first linkage mechanism for the seat back 3 are not mounted on the seat cushion 2, and the first linkage mechanism for the seat back 3 and the second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2 can be driven independently of each other. This configuration enables independent control of the movement of both the seat back 3 and the seat cushion 2. This independent control, combined with the aforementioned "dual drive" of the seat back, gives the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure more flexible adjustment capabilities. This more flexible adjustment capability not only improves the comfort of the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure but also expands its application scenarios, as will be described in detail below.

[0157] Referring to Figures 2a and 2b, a seat assembly 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 2a shows the seat assembly 1 with the outer covering layer removed to reveal the internal frame 100, which is in its initial design position for supporting the occupant; Figure 2b shows a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism 150 of the seat assembly 1 shown in Figure 2a.

[0158] As shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the linkage mechanism 150 of the seat assembly 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 151 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 152 for the seat cushion 2.

[0159] In this first embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 151 can be configured as a "single-link" linkage mechanism. As shown in FIG2b, the first linkage mechanism 151 may consist only of a linkage member 1511. The linkage member 1511 includes a restraining end 1512 and a movable end 1513. The restraining end 1512 of the linkage member 1511 may be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor at position A shown in FIG2b, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 about a vertical direction. The linkage member 1511 may pivot about a first pivot portion provided at the restraining end 1512 under the drive of a first backrest drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster), thereby causing the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to move or swing. The bottom end of the seat backrest 3 can be pivotally connected to the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151. On the one hand, this allows the seat backrest 3 to move or swing in response to the movement or swing of the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 151 of the first linkage mechanism 151. On the other hand, it allows the seat backrest 3 to pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism 151 (more specifically, its linkage member 1511) around a second pivot portion located at the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 151 of the first linkage mechanism 151. The pivoting of the seat backrest 3 relative to the first linkage mechanism 151 around the second pivot portion can be driven by a second backrest drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster). In addition, as mentioned above, when the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device are not working, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism 151 around the first pivot portion and the pivoting of the seat backrest 3 around the second pivot portion can be locked, preventing the seat backrest 3 from moving.

[0160] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG2a, the linkage 1511 may be formed by two components 1514 and 1515. These two components 1514 and 1515 may be fixed to each other (i.e., cannot pivot relative to each other) to form the linkage 1511. This configuration facilitates the assembly of the seat assembly 1. For example, during assembly, component 1515 can be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component and a corresponding first backrest drive device can be installed, while component 1514 can be pivotally mounted on the seat back 3 and a corresponding second backrest drive device can be installed. Then, components 1514 and 1515 can be fastened together using fasteners. This installation method is easier to operate. In other embodiments, the linkage 1511 may also be formed as a single component.

[0161] In this first embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 152 may include a first linkage member 1521 and a second linkage member 1522. The first linkage member 1521 may be configured as a slide plate, which includes a slide groove 1523 extending along the length direction of the first linkage member 1521, and one end of the slide plate may be fixed to the vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component at position B as shown in FIG. 2b. The second linkage member 1522 includes a restraining end 1524 and a movable end 1525. The restraining end 1524 of the second linkage member 1522 may be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component at position C as shown in FIG. 2b, wherein position C is spaced a predetermined distance from position B in a direction away from the seat back 3. The seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1 has one end 21 near the seat back 3 slidably mounted in the groove 1523 of the first linkage 1521 (slide plate), while the other end 22 away from the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the movable end 1525 of the second linkage 1522. In this embodiment, the second linkage 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can pivot around the pivot portion provided at the restraint end 1524 under the drive of a seat cushion drive device (e.g., a motor and / or adjuster), thereby causing the seat cushion 2 to move or swing.

[0162] In this first embodiment, as shown in FIG2a, the first linkage mechanism 151 may include two linkage members 1511, which are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two linkage members 1511 may be configured to move synchronously under the drive of the same drive device, for example, by means of two adjusters connected to each other, driven synchronously by a single motor. Similarly, the second linkage mechanism 152 may include two first linkage members 1521 and two second linkage members 1522, which are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two second linkage members 1522 may be configured to move synchronously under the drive of the same drive device, for example, by means of two adjusters connected to each other, driven synchronously by a single motor. The two second linkage members 1522 may also be configured to be directly driven by two motors without using adjusters.

[0163] In this first embodiment, by means of the linkage mechanism 150, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can move between the designed position (as shown in FIG2a and FIG2b), the folded position (as shown in FIG3a and FIG3b), the reclining position (as shown in FIG4a and FIG4b), and the easy-access (EZE) position (as shown in FIG5a and FIG5b).

[0164] In the design position, as shown in Figure 2a, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion 2 to support the occupant.

[0165] In the folded position, as shown in Figure 3a, the seat back 3 and seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 are substantially stacked to increase the space of the motor vehicle (e.g., cargo space). Additionally, as shown in Figure 3b, to move the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to the folded position, on one hand, the second linkage 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be pivoted away from the seat back 3 using a seat cushion drive device. During this pivoting process, the end 21 of the seat cushion 2 near the seat back 3 slides away from the seat back 3 within a groove 1523 until it can no longer move within the groove 1523. On the other hand, the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 can be pivoted towards the seat cushion 2 using a first backrest drive device to raise the seat back 3 for easier folding. After pivoting at a predetermined angle, the second backrest drive device can be used to pivot the seat back 3 towards the seat cushion 2 until it is substantially stacked with the seat cushion 2. In this disclosure, the movement of the seat cushion 2 and the seat back 3 can be controlled independently (e.g., controlled independently using a controller with a predetermined control program), making folding more flexible. In other cases, the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 can be driven away from the seat cushion 2 by the first backrest drive device (i.e., in the opposite direction to the pivoting direction of the second linkage 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152). This pivoting method allows the folded seat back 3 to be in a lower position, thereby freeing up more cargo space.

[0166] In the reclining position, as shown in Figure 4a, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 is substantially flush with the seat cushion 2, allowing the occupant to lie down on the seat assembly 1. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4b, to move the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to the reclining position, the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 can be pivoted away from the seat cushion 2 using a first backrest drive device. After pivoting at a predetermined angle, the seat back 3 can be pivoted away from the seat cushion 2 relative to the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 using a second backrest drive device until it is substantially flush with the seat cushion 2. In this disclosure, the final height of the seat back 3 can be adjusted by controlling the pivot angle of the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 away from the seat cushion 2, so that the seat back 3 and the seat cushion 2 are at substantially the same horizontal plane (or substantially the same height). Compared to existing seat assemblies, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure is more comfortable in the reclining position thanks to the independently controlled first linkage mechanism 151.

[0167] In the convenient access position, as shown in Figure 5a, on the one hand, the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 can pivot forward a certain distance relative to the design position; on the other hand, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 can pivot towards the seat cushion 2 at a predetermined angle relative to the design position, thereby providing more space behind the seat assembly 1 to facilitate the entry and exit of the occupant. Additionally, as shown in Figure 5b, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from the design position to the convenient access position, on the one hand, the second linkage member 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be driven away from the seat back 3 by the seat cushion driving device. During this pivoting process, the end 21 of the seat cushion 2 near the seat back 3 slides a predetermined distance away from the seat back 3 within the slide groove 1523 (as shown in Figure 5b, it stops at a certain middle position in the slide groove 1523); on the other hand, the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 can be driven towards the seat cushion 2 by the first backrest driving device, thereby causing the seat back 3 to move forward towards the seat cushion 2. In some cases, after the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 has pivoted towards the seat cushion 2 by a predetermined angle, the seat back 3 can be driven by the second backrest drive device to continue pivoting towards the seat cushion 2 relative to the first linkage 1511 until it has pivoted to the desired position. Compared with prior art seat assemblies, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can free up more convenient entry and exit space by means of the independently controlled first linkage mechanism 151. In addition, if the first linkage mechanism 151 and the second linkage mechanism 152 of the seat assembly 1 are mounted on a slide rail, the entire seat assembly 1 can be driven forward by the seat cushion drive device, thereby further increasing the convenient entry and exit space.

[0168] Referring to Figures 6a and 6b, a seat assembly 1 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 6a shows the seat assembly 1 with the outer covering removed to reveal the internal frame 200 in its initial design position for supporting the occupant; and Figure 6b shows a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism 250 of the seat assembly 1 shown in Figure 6a.

[0169] As shown in Figures 6a and 6b, the linkage mechanism 250 of the seat assembly 1 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 251 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 252 for the seat back 2.

[0170] In the second embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 251 can be configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism. As shown in FIG6b, the first linkage mechanism 251 may include a first linkage member 2511, a second linkage member 2512, and a third linkage member 2513. The first linkage member 2511 may include a restrained end 2511-1 and a movable end 2511-2, and the second linkage member 2512 may include a restrained end 2512-1 and a movable end 2512-2. The third linkage member 2513 may include a first foot 2513-1, a second foot 2513-2, and a third foot 2513-3. For example, the third linkage member 2513 may be configured as a triangle. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the third linkage member 2513 may also be configured as a quadrilateral, a pentagon, or other polygon or shape. The constraint end 2511-1 of the first linkage 2511 and the constraint end 2512-1 of the second linkage 2512 can be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor at positions A and B as shown in FIG. 6a, respectively, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 about the vertical direction. The movable end 2511-2 of the first linkage 2511 and the movable end 2512-2 of the second linkage 2512 can be pivotally connected to the first foot 2513-1 and the second foot 2513-2 of the third linkage 2513, respectively.

[0171] In this second embodiment, the first linkage member 2511, the second linkage member 2512, the third linkage member 2513, and the components (vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component) on which the constraint end 2511-1 of the first linkage member 2511 and the constraint end 2512-1 of the second linkage member 2512 are mounted constitute a so-called "four-bar" linkage mechanism. In the second embodiment, at least one of the first linkage member 2511 and the second linkage member 2512 of the first linkage mechanism 251 can be driven by a first backrest drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an angle adjuster), so that the first linkage member 2511 and the second linkage member 2512 can pivot around the first pivot portion provided at the constraint end 2511-1 of the first linkage member 2511 and the second pivot portion provided at the constraint end 2512-1 of the second linkage member 2512, respectively, thereby driving the movable end 2511-2 of the first linkage member 2511 and the movable end 2512-2 of the second linkage member 2512 to move or swing, which in turn drives the third linkage member 2513 to move or swing.

[0172] In this second embodiment, the bottom end of the seat back 3 can be pivotally connected to the third foot 2513-3 of the third linkage 2513. On the one hand, this allows the seat back 3 to move or swing in response to the movement or swinging of the third foot 2513-3 of the third linkage 2513 of the first linkage mechanism 251. On the other hand, this also allows the seat back 3 to pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism 251 (more specifically, its third linkage 2513) around a third pivot portion located at the third foot 2513-3 of the third linkage 2513. The pivoting of the seat back 3 relative to the first linkage mechanism 251 around the third pivot portion can be driven by a second backrest drive device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster). In addition, as mentioned above, when the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device are not working, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism 251 around the first pivot portion and the second pivot portion and the pivoting of the seat back 3 around the third pivot portion can be locked, so that the seat back 3 cannot move.

[0173] In this second embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 252 may have the same design as the first linkage mechanism 151. For example, the second linkage mechanism 252 may include a first linkage member 2521 and a second linkage member 2522. The first linkage member 2521 may be configured as a slide plate, which includes a slide groove 2523 extending along the length direction of the first linkage member 2521. The first linkage member 2521 may be fixed to the vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component at position C as shown in FIG. 6b. The second linkage member 2522 includes a restraining end 2524 and a movable end 2525. The restraining end 2524 of the second linkage member 2522 may be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component at position D as shown in FIG. 6b, wherein position D is spaced a predetermined distance from position C in a direction away from the seat back 3. The seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1 has one end 21 near the seat back 3 slidably mounted in the groove 2523 of the first linkage 2521, while the other end 22 away from the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the movable end 2525 of the second linkage 2522. In this embodiment, the second linkage 2522 of the second linkage mechanism 252 can pivot around the pivot portion provided at the restraint end 2524 under the drive of a seat cushion drive device (e.g., a motor and / or adjuster), thereby causing the seat cushion 2 to move or swing.

[0174] Similar to the first embodiment, in this second embodiment, as shown in FIG6a, the first linkage mechanism 251 may include two first linkage members 2511, two second linkage members 2512, and two third linkage members 2513, which are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two first linkage members 2511 or the two second linkage members 2512 may be configured to move synchronously under the drive of the same drive device, for example, by means of two adjustable seats connected to each other, driven synchronously by a single motor. Similarly, the second linkage mechanism 252 may include two first linkage members 2521 and two second linkage members 2522, which are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two second linkage members 2522 may be configured to move synchronously under the drive of the same drive device, for example, by means of two adjustable seats connected to each other, driven synchronously by a single motor.

[0175] Similar to the first embodiment, in this second embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can move between a designed position (as shown in Figures 6a and 6b), a folded position (as shown in Figures 7a and 7b), a reclining position (as shown in Figures 8a and 8b), and an easy-entry (EZE) position (as shown in Figures 9a and 9b) by means of the linkage mechanism 250. In this second embodiment, the movement process of the seat assembly 1 from the designed position to other positions is basically the same as that in the first embodiment, and will not be described again here.

[0176] Compared to the first linkage mechanism 151 configured as a "single-link" linkage mechanism in the first embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 251 configured as a "four-link" linkage mechanism in the second embodiment can achieve additional advantages. In particular, the first linkage mechanism 251 in the second embodiment can be used in high-strength application scenarios (e.g., it can be used in seat backs that require high strength and include ABTS (full seat belts to seats)).

[0177] Specifically, as shown in Figures 9c and 9d, in the first embodiment, when force F is applied to the seat back 3, force F is transmitted to the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151. At this point, force F can be decomposed into two orthogonal components, F7 and F8, where F7 is perpendicular to the linkage member 1511. Thus, a torque M2 is generated at the constraint end 1512 of the linkage member 1511, where M2 = F7 * L1. In contrast, in the second embodiment, when force F is applied to the seat back 3, force F is transmitted to the first foot 2513-1 and the second foot 2513-2 of the third linkage member 2513 of the first linkage mechanism 251, and is decomposed into two forces, F1 and F4, where F = F1 + F4. Simultaneously, force F1 comprises two orthogonal components F2 and F3, where F2 is perpendicular to the second linkage 2512; force F4 comprises two orthogonal components F5 and F6, where F5 is perpendicular to the first linkage 2511. Thus, if the second linkage 2512 is the driven component, a torque M1 will be generated at the constraint end 2512-1 of the second linkage 2512, where torque M1 = F2 * L2. Since F2 is less than F and L2 is less than L1, M1 is less than M2. Furthermore, if the first linkage 2511 is the driven component, the situation is similar.

[0178] It is evident that when subjected to the same external force F, the "four-bar" linkage mechanism of the second embodiment experiences a smaller torque than the "single-bar" linkage mechanism of the first embodiment. In other words, compared to the "single-bar" linkage mechanism of the first embodiment, the "four-bar" linkage mechanism of the second embodiment can withstand greater external force or strength. Therefore, the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment, configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism, is more suitable for high-strength applications. In other words, by means of the first linkage mechanism 251 configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly according to the second embodiment of this disclosure also has superior strength performance.

[0179] Referring to Figures 10a and 10b, a seat assembly 1 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 10a shows the seat assembly 1 with the outer covering layer removed to reveal the internal frame 300, which is in the initial design position for supporting the occupant; Figure 10b shows a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism 350 of the seat assembly 1 shown in Figure 10a.

[0180] As shown in Figures 10a and 10b, the linkage mechanism 350 of the seat assembly 1 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 351 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 352 for the seat back 2.

[0181] In this third embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 351 is configured as a "single-link" linkage mechanism, which has essentially the same structure and function as the first linkage mechanism 151 in the first embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 151 in the first embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 351 in the third embodiment. For the purpose of simplification, they will not be repeated here.

[0182] In this third embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 352 is configured as a "five-bar" linkage mechanism. The second linkage mechanism 352 may include a first linkage member 3521, a second linkage member 3522, and a third linkage member 3523. The first linkage member 3521 includes a restraining end 3521-1 and a movable end 3521-2, the second linkage member includes a first movable end 3522-1 and a second movable end 3522-2, and the third linkage member includes a restraining end 3523-1 and a movable end 3523-2. The restraining end 3521-1 of the first linkage member 3521 and the restraining end 3523-1 of the third linkage member 3523 may be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor at positions A and C as shown in FIG. 10b, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 about the vertical direction. The seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1, at one end 21 near the seat back 3, is pivotally connected to the movable end 3521-2 of the first linkage 3521, while the other end 22 away from the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the first movable end 3522-1 of the second linkage 3522. The second movable end 3522-2 of the second linkage 3522 is pivotally connected to the movable end 3523-2 of the third linkage 3523. Thus, in this third embodiment, the first linkage 3521, the second linkage 3522, and the third linkage 3523 of the second linkage mechanism 352, the seat cushion 2, and the components (vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component) on which the constraint ends 3521-1 of the first linkage 3521 and 3523-1 of the third linkage 3523 are mounted constitute a so-called "five-bar" linkage mechanism.

[0183] Similar to the first and second embodiments, in this third embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 352 may include two first linkage members 3521, two second linkage members 3522, and two third linkage members 3523, which are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two first linkage members 3521, the two second linkage members 3522, or the two third linkage members 3523 may be configured to move synchronously under the drive of the same drive device, for example, by means of two angle adjusters connected to each other, driven synchronously by a single motor.

[0184] In this third embodiment, by means of a second linkage mechanism 352 configured as a "five-bar linkage", the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can move between a design position (as shown in Figures 10a and 10b), a high-adjustment position (as shown in Figures 11a and 11b), a zero-gravity position (as shown in Figures 12a and 12b), a folded position (as shown in Figures 13a and 13b), an easy-access (EZE) position (as shown in Figures 14a and 14b), and a reclining position (as shown in Figures 15a and 15b).

[0185] To enable the seat assembly 1 to move between the aforementioned multiple positions (design position, high-adjustment position, zero-gravity position, folded position, easy-access position, and reclined position), the second linkage mechanism 352 can be configured to be driven by at least two cushion drive devices (e.g., motors and / or adjusters). The first cushion drive device of the at least two cushion drive devices is used to drive the seat cushion 2 to achieve the zero-gravity position, while the second cushion drive device is used to drive the seat cushion 2 to achieve the other positions. Additionally, in this third embodiment, the third linkage 3523 can be configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly 1, as shown in Figures 10b and 12b. However, this disclosure is not limited to this; the second linkage 3522 can also be configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly 1, as shown in Figure 16.

[0186] In the design position, as shown in Figure 10a, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion 2 to support the occupant.

[0187] In the high-adjustment position, the seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1 can be raised or lowered by a predetermined height relative to the designed position. As shown in Figure 11b, to move seat assembly 1 from the designed position to the high-adjustment position, the first linkage 3521 of the second linkage mechanism 352 can be pivoted away from the seat back 3 by the second seat cushion drive device, thereby raising the seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1, or the first linkage 3521 of the second linkage mechanism 352 can be pivoted toward the seat back 3, thereby lowering the seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1. During this process, the zero-gravity linkage (e.g., the second linkage 3522 or the third linkage 3523) can be locked by the first seat cushion drive device, so that the zero-gravity linkage cannot move, and only the seat cushion 2 and other linkages other than the zero-gravity linkage can move. In addition, during or after the process of using the second cushion drive device to drive the first linkage member 3521 of the second linkage mechanism 352 to pivot away from the seat back 3, the first backrest drive device can also be used to drive the linkage member 3511 of the first linkage mechanism 351 to pivot toward or away from the seat cushion 2 so that the seat back 3 is raised or lowered accordingly, and / or the second backrest drive device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to pivot relative to the linkage member 3511 of the first linkage mechanism 351 toward or away from the seat cushion 2, so that the seat back 3 and the seat cushion 2 can still be adjusted to a predetermined position and a predetermined angle relative to each other in the high position, so as to increase the comfort of the seat assembly 1.

[0188] In the zero-gravity position, as shown in Figure 12a, the seat assembly 1 is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state (e.g., the seat cushion 2 and seat back 3 are adjusted to a predetermined angle and relative position, the footrest 4 of the seat cushion 2 is extended and in a predetermined position, etc.). As shown in Figure 12b, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from the designed position to the zero-gravity position, the first seat cushion drive device can be used to drive the zero-gravity linkage (the third linkage 3523 in Figure 12b) to pivot toward the seat back 3. During this process, the second cushion drive device can be used to lock the first linkage 3521, preventing it from moving and allowing only the second linkage 3522, the third linkage 3523, and the seat cushion 2 to move. Alternatively, the second cushion drive device can be used to lock the movable end 3521-2 of the first linkage 3521, preventing the seat cushion 2 from pivoting around the movable end 3521-2 of the first linkage 3521, while the first linkage 3521 can still pivot around its pivot end 3521-1. Furthermore, during the process of moving the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to a zero-gravity position, the first backrest drive device can be used to drive the linkage 3511 of the first linkage mechanism 351 to pivot away from the seat cushion 2, and the second backrest drive device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to pivot away from or towards the seat cushion 2 relative to the linkage 3511 of the first linkage mechanism 351, until the seat back 3 is pivoted to the desired position.

[0189] In this third embodiment, since the first linkage mechanism 351 and the seat back 3 can pivot under the drive of the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device respectively (i.e., they can be adjusted independently), the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can overcome the defects of existing seat assemblies such as lack of support for the lumbar and shoulders in a zero-gravity position, thereby providing occupants with a more comfortable "zero-pressure state" experience. This will be explained in conjunction with Figures 38a to 40.

[0190] As shown in Figures 38a and 39, in the prior art seat assembly 1', in a zero-gravity position, the bottom 31' of the seat back 3' cannot move relative to the seat cushion 2' which is also in a zero-gravity position. This causes the seat back 3' to tilt so that its bottom 31' is closer to the seat cushion 2' and its top 32' is further away from the seat cushion 2' (see the comparison in Figure 38c). Consequently, when an occupant sits on the seat assembly 1', the bottom 31' of the seat back 3' presses against the occupant's lower back, while the top 32' does not provide sufficient support for the occupant's shoulders or head. However, the seat back 3 of the third embodiment of this disclosure can be appropriately adjusted under the drive of the first and second backrest drive devices. Therefore, it can be adjusted to a more comfortable position that neither presses against the occupant's lower back nor does it provide support for the occupant's shoulders or head (see Figures 38b, 38c, and 40), thereby improving or enhancing the comfort of the seat assembly.

[0191] Referring back to Figures 13a to 15b, which respectively show the seat assembly 1 in a folded position, an easy-access position, and a reclining position according to the third embodiment. The process of moving the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to these folded, easy-access, and reclining positions is substantially the same as that described in the first embodiment. For the purpose of simplification, it will not be repeated here. It should be noted that in the third embodiment, during the process of moving the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to the folded, easy-access, and reclining positions, the zero-gravity linkage (e.g., the second linkage 3522 or the third linkage 3523) can be locked using the first cushion drive device, so that the zero-gravity linkage cannot move, and only the seat cushion 2 and other linkages other than the zero-gravity linkage can move.

[0192] Next, referring to Figures 17a and 17b, a seat assembly 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 17a shows the seat assembly 1 with the outer covering layer removed to reveal the internal frame 400, which is in the initial design position for supporting the occupant; Figure 17b shows a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism 450 of the seat assembly 1 shown in Figure 17a.

[0193] As shown in Figures 17a and 17b, the linkage mechanism 450 of the seat assembly 1 according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 451 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 452 for the seat back 2.

[0194] The first linkage mechanism 451 is configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism. The first linkage mechanism 451 may have essentially the same structure and function as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 451 of the fourth embodiment. For the purpose of simplification, they will not be repeated here.

[0195] The second linkage mechanism 452 is configured as a "five-bar" linkage mechanism. The second linkage mechanism 452 may have essentially the same structure and function as the second linkage mechanism 352 of the third embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the second linkage mechanism 352 of the third embodiment are applicable to the second linkage mechanism 452 of the fourth embodiment. For the purpose of simplicity, these features will not be repeated here.

[0196] Similar to the third embodiment, in this fourth embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can move between a designed position (as shown in Figures 17a and 17b), a high-adjustment position (as shown in Figures 18a and 18b), a zero-gravity position (as shown in Figures 19a and 19b), a folded position (as shown in Figures 20a and 20b), an easy-access (EZE) position (as shown in Figures 21a and 21b), and a reclined position (as shown in Figures 22a and 22b) by means of a second linkage mechanism 452 configured as a "five-bar" linkage mechanism. Compared with prior art seat assemblies, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure is more comfortable in all positions.

[0197] Furthermore, since the first linkage mechanism 451 of the fourth embodiment adopts the same "four-bar" linkage mechanism as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 451 of the fourth embodiment, configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism, is more suitable for high-intensity application scenarios. In other words, by means of the first linkage mechanism 451 configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure also has superior strength performance.

[0198] Referring to Figures 24a and 24b, a seat assembly 1 according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 24a shows the seat assembly 1 with the outer covering layer removed to reveal the internal frame 500, which is in the initial design position for supporting the occupant; Figure 24b shows a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism 550 of the seat assembly 1 shown in Figure 24a.

[0199] As shown in Figures 24a and 24b, the linkage mechanism 550 of the seat assembly 1 according to the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 551 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 552 for the seat back 2.

[0200] The first linkage mechanism 551 is configured as a "single-link" linkage mechanism. The first linkage mechanism 551 may have substantially the same structure and function as the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 551 of the fifth embodiment. For the purpose of simplification, these features will not be repeated here.

[0201] The second linkage mechanism 552 is configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism. The second linkage mechanism 552 may include a first linkage member 5521 and a second linkage member 5522. The first linkage member 5521 includes a restrained end 5521-1 and a movable end 5521-2. The second linkage member 5522 includes a restrained end 5522-1 and a movable end 5522-2. The restrained end 5521-1 of the first linkage member 5521 and the restrained end 5522-1 of the second linkage member 5522 may be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor at positions A and C as shown in FIG. 24b, respectively, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 about the vertical direction. The seat cushion 2 of seat assembly 1, at one end 21 near the seat back 3, is pivotally connected to the movable end 5521-2 of the first linkage 5521, while the other end 22 away from the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the movable end 5522-1 of the second linkage 5522. Thus, in this fifth embodiment, the first linkage 5521 and the second linkage 5522 of the second linkage mechanism 552, the seat cushion 2, and the components (vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component) on which the constraint ends 5521-1 of the first linkage 5521 and 5522-1 of the second linkage 5522 are mounted constitute a so-called "four-bar" linkage mechanism.

[0202] In this fifth embodiment, at least one seat cushion drive device can be used to drive the first linkage 5521 to pivot, so as to realize the movement of the seat assembly 1 between various positions.

[0203] Similar to the previous embodiments, in this fifth embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 552 may include two first linkage members 5521 and two second linkage members 5522, which are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two first linkage members 5521 may be configured to move synchronously under the drive of the same cushion drive device, for example, by means of two adjustable seats connected to each other, driven synchronously by a single motor.

[0204] In this fifth embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure is movable between a designed position (as shown in Figures 24a and 24b), a raised position (as shown in Figures 25a and 25b), a folded position (as shown in Figures 26a and 26b), an easy-access (EZE) position (as shown in Figures 27a and 27b), and a reclined position (as shown in Figures 28a and 28b). Compared to the fourth embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to the fifth embodiment cannot achieve a zero-gravity position.

[0205] In the fifth embodiment, the movement of the seat assembly 1 from its designed position to other positions (high-profile position, folded position, easy-access position, reclined position) is essentially the same as the process described previously in conjunction with the first to fourth embodiments. For the purpose of simplification, it will not be repeated here.

[0206] Referring to Figures 29a and 29b, a seat assembly 1 according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 29a shows the seat assembly 1 with the outer covering layer removed to reveal the internal frame 600, which is in its initial design position for supporting the occupant; Figure 29b shows a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism 650 of the seat assembly 1 shown in Figure 29a.

[0207] As shown in Figures 29a and 29b, the linkage mechanism 650 of the seat assembly 1 according to the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 651 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 652 for the seat back 2.

[0208] The first linkage mechanism 651 is configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism. The first linkage mechanism 651 may have substantially the same structure and function as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 651 of the sixth embodiment. For the purpose of simplification, these features will not be repeated here.

[0209] The second linkage mechanism 652 is configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism. The second linkage mechanism 652 may have essentially the same structure and function as the second linkage mechanism 552 of the fifth embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the second linkage mechanism 552 of the fifth embodiment are applicable to the second linkage mechanism 652 of the sixth embodiment. For the purpose of simplicity, these features will not be repeated here.

[0210] In this sixth embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure is movable between a designed position (as shown in Figures 29a and 29b), a raised position (as shown in Figures 30a and 30b), a folded position (as shown in Figures 31a and 31b), an easy-access (EZE) position (as shown in Figures 32a and 32b), and a reclined position (as shown in Figures 33a and 33b). Similarly, the seat assembly 1 according to the sixth embodiment cannot achieve a zero-gravity position.

[0211] Furthermore, since the first linkage mechanism 651 of the sixth embodiment adopts the same "four-bar" linkage mechanism as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment, the "four-bar" linkage mechanism of the sixth embodiment is more suitable for high-intensity application scenarios. In other words, by means of the first linkage mechanism 651 configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure also has superior strength performance.

[0212] Referring to Figures 34a and 34b, a seat assembly 1 according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 34a shows the seat assembly 1 with the outer covering layer removed to reveal the internal frame 700, which is in the initial design position for supporting the occupant; Figure 34b shows a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism 750 of the seat assembly 1 shown in Figure 34a.

[0213] As shown in Figures 34a and 34b, the linkage mechanism 750 of the seat assembly 1 according to the seventh embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 751 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 752 for the seat back 2.

[0214] The first linkage mechanism 751 is configured as a "single-link" linkage mechanism. The first linkage mechanism 751 may have substantially the same structure and function as the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 751 of the seventh embodiment. For the purpose of simplification, these features will not be repeated here.

[0215] The second linkage mechanism 752 is configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism. However, unlike the second linkage mechanism 552 of the fifth embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 752 of the seventh embodiment may include a first linkage member 7521 and a second linkage member 7522. The first linkage member 7521 includes a restraining end 7521-1 and a movable end 7521-2, while the second linkage member 7522 includes a first movable end 7522-1 and a second movable end 7522-2. The end 21 of the seat cushion 2 near the seat back 3 (which may be via a support or extension member fixed at the end 21) and the restraining end 7521-1 of the first linkage member 7521 may be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor at positions A and C as shown in FIG. 34b, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating member that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 about the vertical direction. The other end 22 of the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1, away from the seat back 3, is pivotally connected to the first movable end 7522-1 of the second linkage 7522, and the second movable end 7522-2 of the second linkage 7522 is pivotally connected to the movable end 7521-2 of the first linkage 7521. Thus, in this seventh embodiment, the first linkage 7521 and the second linkage 7522 of the second linkage mechanism 752, the seat cushion 2, and the components (vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component) on which the end 21 of the seat cushion 2 near the seat back 3 and the constraint end 7521-1 of the first linkage 7521 are mounted constitute a so-called "four-bar" linkage mechanism.

[0216] In this seventh embodiment, the first linkage 7521 is configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving a zero-gravity position of the seat assembly 1, as shown in Figures 34b and 35b. The first linkage 7521 can be pivoted using at least one cushion drive device to move the seat assembly 1 between the designed position and the zero-gravity position.

[0217] Similar to the previous embodiments, in this seventh embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 752 may include two first linkage members 7521 and two second linkage members 7522, which are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two first linkage members 7521 may be configured to move synchronously under the drive of the same cushion drive device, for example, by means of two adjustable seats connected to each other, driven synchronously by a single motor.

[0218] In this seventh embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to this disclosure can only move between a designed position (as shown in Figures 34a and 34b) and a zero-gravity position (as shown in Figures 35a and 35b). The movement of the seat assembly 1 from the designed position to the zero-gravity position is substantially the same as the process described previously in conjunction with the third and fourth embodiments. For the purpose of simplicity, it will not be described again here.

[0219] Referring to Figures 36a and 36b, a seat assembly 1 according to an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 36a shows the seat assembly 1 with the outer covering layer removed to reveal the internal frame 800, which is in the initial design position for supporting the occupant; Figure 36b shows a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism 850 of the seat assembly 1 shown in Figure 36a.

[0220] As shown in Figures 36a and 36b, the linkage mechanism 850 of the seat assembly 1 according to the eighth embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 851 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 852 for the seat back 2.

[0221] The first linkage mechanism 851 is configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism. The first linkage mechanism 851 may have substantially the same structure and function as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 851 of the eighth embodiment. For the purpose of simplification, these features will not be repeated here.

[0222] The second linkage mechanism 852 is configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism. The second linkage mechanism 852 may have essentially the same structure and function as the second linkage mechanism 752 of the seventh embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the second linkage mechanism 752 of the seventh embodiment are applicable to the second linkage mechanism 852 of the eighth embodiment. For the purpose of simplicity, these features will not be repeated here.

[0223] In this eighth embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can only move between a designed position (as shown in Figures 36a and 36b) and a zero-gravity position (as shown in Figures 37a and 37b).

[0224] Furthermore, since the first linkage mechanism 851 of the eighth embodiment adopts the same "four-bar" linkage mechanism as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment, the "four-bar" linkage mechanism of the eighth embodiment is more suitable for high-intensity application scenarios. In other words, by means of the first linkage mechanism 851 configured as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly according to the eighth embodiment of this disclosure also has superior strength performance.

[0225] Exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. All changes and modifications are included within the scope of protection of this disclosure as defined by the claims. This disclosure is defined by the appended claims, and equivalents of those claims are also included.

Claims

1. A seat assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising: Seat cushion; Seat backrest; and A linkage mechanism configured to move the seat cushion and the seat back so that the seat assembly can move between at least two positions; The linkage mechanism includes a first linkage mechanism for the seat back and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion, wherein the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism are configured to be driven independently of each other. The first linkage mechanism includes at least one constrained end and at least one movable end, and is configured to pivot about a first pivot portion disposed at a corresponding constrained end of the at least one constrained end of the first linkage mechanism; and Wherein, the bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to a corresponding movable end of at least one of the movable ends of the first linkage mechanism, such that the seat back can pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism around a second pivot portion disposed at the corresponding movable end of the first linkage mechanism.

2. The seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The constraint end of the first linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly about the vertical direction.

3. The seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around the first pivot portion under the drive of the first backrest drive device, and the seat back is configured to pivot around the second pivot portion under the drive of the second backrest drive device.

4. The seat assembly according to claim 3, wherein, When the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device are not working, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism around the first pivot and the pivoting of the seat back around the second pivot are locked.

5. The seat assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The second linkage mechanism includes at least one constrained end and at least one movable end. The at least one constrained end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on the slide rail, or pivotally mounted on the rotating component. The corresponding movable end of the at least one movable end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the seat cushion.

6. The seat assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot about a pivot portion located at a corresponding constraint end in the at least one constraint end of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of at least one seat cushion drive device.

7. The seat assembly according to claim 6, wherein, When the corresponding seat drive device in the at least one seat drive device is not working, the pivoting of the second linkage mechanism around the pivot portion at its corresponding constraint end is locked.

8. The seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first linkage mechanism is configured as a single-link linkage mechanism on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly. The single-link linkage mechanism includes only a single linkage element, which includes a constrained end and a movable end. The constrained end of the linkage element is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly about a vertical direction. The bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the movable end of the linkage element of the first linkage mechanism.

9. The seat assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The linkage of the first linkage mechanism includes a first component and a second component, which are fixed together to form the linkage.

10. The seat assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The seat assembly includes a first backrest drive device and a second backrest drive device. The first backrest drive device drives the linkage of the single-link linkage mechanism to pivot around the first pivot portion, while the second backrest drive device drives the seat back to pivot around the second pivot portion relative to the linkage of the single-link linkage mechanism.

11. The seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first linkage mechanism is configured as a four-bar linkage mechanism on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly. The four-bar linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member, and a third linkage member. The first linkage member includes a constrained end and a movable end; the second linkage member includes a constrained end and a movable end; and the third linkage member includes a first foot, a second foot, and a third foot. The constraint ends of the first and second linkage members are pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to allow the seat assembly to rotate about a vertical direction. The movable ends of the first and second linkage members are pivotally connected to the first and second feet of the third linkage, respectively. The bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the third foot of the third linkage member.

12. The seat assembly of claim 11, wherein, The seat assembly includes a first backrest drive device and a second backrest drive device. The first backrest drive device drives at least one of the first linkage and the second linkage to pivot about a first pivot portion at their respective constrained ends. The second backrest drive device drives the seat back to pivot about a second pivot portion at the movable end of the third linkage.

13. The seat assembly according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member and a second linkage member. The first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a sliding plate, the sliding plate including a groove extending along its length, and one end of the sliding plate being fixed to the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component. The second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The constrained end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component. The seat cushion is slidably mounted in the groove of the slide plate at one end near the seat back, while the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

14. The seat assembly of claim 13, wherein, The second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around the pivot portion located at the constraint end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of the cushion drive device, and when the second linkage member pivots, the end of the seat cushion near the seat back slides in the groove of the slide plate.

15. The seat assembly of claim 13, wherein, The seat assembly is configured to move between a designed position, a folded position, a reclining position, and an easy-access position. In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion to support the occupant; In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly and the seat cushion are substantially overlapped to increase the space of the motor vehicle; In the reclining position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion, and In the convenient access position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted at a predetermined angle toward the seat cushion relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly for easy entry and exit of the occupant.

16. The seat assembly according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member, and a third linkage member. The first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end. The third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. In this configuration, the constraint ends of the first and third linkage components of the second linkage mechanism are pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component, respectively. One end of the seat cushion near the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage component of the second linkage mechanism, while the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage component of the second linkage mechanism. The second movable end of the second linkage component of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the third linkage component of the second linkage mechanism.

17. The seat assembly of claim 16, wherein, The seat assembly is configured to move between a designed position, a high-profile position, a zero-gravity position, a folded position, a reclining position, and an easy-access position. In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion to support the occupant; In the high-profile position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position; At the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state; In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly and the seat cushion are substantially overlapped to increase the space of the motor vehicle; In the lying position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and In the convenient access position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted at a predetermined angle toward the seat cushion relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly for easy entry and exit of the occupant.

18. The seat assembly of claim 17, wherein, One of the second linkage member and the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage member for realizing the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly.

19. The seat assembly of claim 18, wherein, The seat assembly includes a first seat cushion drive device and a second seat cushion drive device. The first seat cushion drive device is used to drive the zero-gravity linkage to achieve the zero-gravity position, and the second seat cushion drive device is used to drive the first linkage of the second linkage mechanism to achieve other positions of the seat assembly besides the zero-gravity position.

20. The seat assembly of claim 19, wherein, During the process of moving the seat assembly from the designed position to the zero-gravity position, the second seat cushion drive device locks the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism so that it cannot move. Furthermore, during the process of moving the seat assembly from the designed position to a position other than the zero-gravity position, the first seat cushion drive device locks the zero-gravity linkage of the second linkage mechanism, preventing it from moving.

21. The seat assembly according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage component and a second linkage component. The first linkage component of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The second linkage component of the second linkage mechanism also includes a constrained end and a movable end. Wherein, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and the constraint end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component. The end of the seat cushion near the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, while the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

22. The seat assembly of claim 21, wherein, The seat assembly is configured to move between a designed position, a raised position, a folded position, a reclining position, and a convenient access position. In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion to support the occupant; In the high-profile position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position; In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly and the seat cushion are substantially overlapped to increase the space of the motor vehicle; In the lying position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and In the convenient access position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted at a predetermined angle toward the seat cushion relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly for easy entry and exit of the occupant.

23. The seat assembly of claim 22, wherein, The first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around a pivot portion located at the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of the seat cushion drive device.

24. The seat assembly according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage component and a second linkage component. The first linkage component of the second linkage mechanism includes a constrained end and a movable end. The second linkage component of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end. Wherein, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and the end of the seat cushion near the seat back are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component; the other end of the seat cushion away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism; and the second movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

25. The seat assembly of claim 24, wherein, The seat assembly is configured to move between a designed position and a zero-gravity position. In the designed position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion to support the occupant; and In the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state.

26. The seat assembly of claim 25, wherein, The first linkage of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage to achieve the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly.

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