Arrangement and method for filling an air cushion of an adjustment device of a vehicle seat, and vehicle seat

Abstract

An arrangement for filling an air cushion of an adjustment device of a vehicle seat comprises a compressed air source, a storage element which is connectable to the compressed air source via a first valve (V1), wherein the compressed air source is connectable to the air cushion (A1, A2) via a second valve (V2), and the storage element is connectable to the air cushion via a third valve (SV3), wherein the first, second and third valves are different from one another, and supply lines (L1, L2, L3) respectively leading to the valves are also different from one another.

Description

[0001] 202405047

[0002] 1

[0003] Description

[0004] Arrangement and method for filling an air cushion of an adjustment device of a vehicle seat and vehicle seat

[0005] The invention relates to an arrangement for filling an air cushion of an adjustment device of a vehicle seat.

[0006] This is a pneumatic adjustment device for adjusting, for example, the seat cushion or seat back (collectively referred to as the seat surface) of a vehicle seat. The adjustment device typically has one or more air cushions (also called fluid chambers or fluid bladders) in a specific area of ​​the seat surface, which can be filled with a fluid, in this case, in particular, compressed air. Filling each air cushion with compressed air increases its volume, thereby altering the properties of the seat surface and allowing its contour to be adjusted. To fill the air cushions, the compressed air is first generated by a compressed air source such as a compressor and then fed to the air cushion via one or more pneumatic valves. The air cushions allow for individual adjustment of the seats to the occupant's body shape.An additional function can provide dynamic support for the occupant in the area of ​​the seat back and / or seat cushion depending on the driving situation, such as when cornering or experiencing lateral acceleration, as described in DE 3505088 C1. Functions to increase the well-being of vehicle occupants may require highly dynamic contour adjustments.

[0007] The elastic air cushions are controlled based on driving situation-dependent signals such as steering angle, vehicle speed, lateral acceleration, yaw rate, or a combination of these signals. According to predetermined criteria, it is checked whether lateral support of the occupant is required, and if the check is successful, the system is activated at 202405047.

[0008] 2

[0009] An air cushion with a volume of between 0.2 and 1 l is inflated on the outer side of the seat or backrest by connecting an associated control element to a pressure supply or pressure storage device with the air cushion.

[0010] For the support to be effective, a very short adjustment time of only 1-2 seconds is required. The compressor must then provide more than 20 liters per minute at operating pressure, which is associated with a large installation space requirement, noise emissions, and increased costs.

[0011] Alternatively, a less powerful pressure supply can be provided if an additional storage volume of approximately 0.2-1 l is provided in a storage body in the vehicle or seat.

[0012] DE 102005016 184 A1 discloses a seat-integrated storage volume arranged directly between the pressure supply and the valves. A disadvantage of this design is that the pressure supply must always work against the pressure in the storage body, and also that this acts as a parasitic volume during normal filling. This reduces the flow rate and / or the efficiency of the pressure supply.

[0013] DE 102012218685 A1 discloses a separate storage body which can be connected to the pressure supply line via a switching valve.

[0014] The disadvantage of this is that when filling the air cushions from the storage volume, the air has to flow through two valves.

[0015] The purpose of the invention is to provide for the optionally rapid filling of an air cushion without the need for the construction of excessively large units.

[0016] The problem is solved by an arrangement for filling an air cushion of an adjustment device of a vehicle seat with the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are found in the dependent claims. The problem is also solved by a method for filling an air cushion 202405047

[0017] 3

[0018] an adjustment device for a vehicle seat with the features according to claim 9 and a vehicle seat according to claim 10.

[0019] According to the invention, a compressed air source and a storage body for compressed air provided by the compressed air source are provided, wherein the storage body can be connected to the compressed air source via a first supply line to a first valve in order to convey compressed air from the compressed air source into the storage body.Furthermore, there is a second compressed air supply line to the air cushion, which leads to a second valve through which the compressed air source can be connected to the air cushion, and a third compressed air supply line to the air cushion, which is different from the first and second supply lines, and which leads to a third valve, which is different from the first and second valves, and through which the storage body can be connected to the air cushion, wherein the compressed air source and the storage body are fluidically separated or separable from each other during the filling of the air cushion (i.e., they are not or need not be in fluid contact).

[0020] The invention proposes a third supply line, which, unlike in the case of DE 102012218685 A1, is different from the first supply line. Furthermore, a third valve is provided, so that, unlike the arrangement in DE 102012218685 A1, the compressed air drawn from the storage body does not have to be routed through the first and second valves, as this cumbersome process increases the adjustment time. A key insight underlying the invention is that while the additional supply line and the additional (namely, the third) valve could, in principle, lead to greater structural complexity, the increased speed of the compressed air flow from the storage body into the air cushion allows for overall smaller structural units than in the prior art.

[0021] In a first embodiment, the third valve between the storage body and the air cushion allows a higher flow rate of compressed air than the second valve between the compressed air source and the air cushion. In this embodiment (202405047)

[0022] 4

[0023] In principle, this embodiment allows the air cushion to be filled directly from the compressed air source, even if the process is slow, without having to empty the storage chamber. This allows the second valve to be more compact, and the compressed air source also needs to be less complex than is often the case in the prior art.

[0024] According to a second preferred embodiment, the third valve is designed as a servo valve, the working air of which is drawn from the storage body. Flow control can be achieved very advantageously here, particularly to optimally accommodate necessary timing sequences and time limits without requiring excessive structural effort.

[0025] According to a further embodiment of the invention, preferably with regard to the embodiment of the third valve as a servo valve, a main valve of the third valve (preferably a servo valve) can be supplied with working air from two sides, wherein a first side is directly connected to the third supply line and a second side is also connected to the third supply line via an auxiliary channel and a throttle. The auxiliary channel is connected to an auxiliary valve, which is also part of the third valve (preferably a servo valve).The main valve includes a spring which, when the auxiliary valve is not activated, is able to hold the main valve in its closed position. Because the third valve can be pressurized with working air from two sides, a suitable design allows the actuating forces to cancel each other out, enabling the spring to exert its force to hold the main valve closed. However, when the auxiliary valve is activated, it connects the auxiliary channel to the environment (i.e., the atmosphere), so that one side of the main valve is suddenly pressurized with atmospheric pressure. In this embodiment, the compressed air from the reservoir, acting as working air, is then able to move the main valve into its open position against the force of the spring. 202405047.

[0026] 5

[0027] The idea of ​​connecting the auxiliary channel to the environment is provided here when the auxiliary valve is activated. However, in an alternative embodiment, an auxiliary channel is connected to the environment precisely when the auxiliary valve is not activated.

[0028] In this case, a main valve of the third valve and an inlet side of an auxiliary valve of the third valve (where this third valve is still preferably considered a servo valve) are each connected to the third supply line, with the main valve being held in its closed position by the restoring force of a spring. The auxiliary valve is connected at its outlet side to an auxiliary channel leading to the main valve. When the auxiliary valve is not activated, the auxiliary channel is connected to the environment, so that the spring acts against the ambient pressure (i.e., atmospheric pressure). When activated, the auxiliary valve connects the auxiliary channel to the third supply line, so that the working air is able to act against the spring and move the main valve to its open position.

[0029] In both of the aforementioned alternative embodiments, the auxiliary valve can be actuated by means of a shape memory element that can be actuated via an electrical power supply. Such shape memory elements are also referred to as "SMA" components, where "SMA" stands for "Shape Memory Alloy," and are often also called "memory metals." The shape memory element is particularly preferably designed as an SMA wire (shape memory wire), which shortens in length when current flows and the resulting heating occurs, thus enabling it to act as an actuator.

[0030] Another embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention relates to a specific configuration of the second valve. The development originating from the company of the present applicant, which is described in DE 102018216874 B4, can be usefully used to provide the second valve. The pneumatic valve described therein comprises:

[0031] a first valve chamber that can be connected to the compressed air source, 202405047

[0032] 6

[0033] a second valve chamber separate from the first valve chamber, which can be connected to the air cushion,

[0034] a third valve chamber separate from the first and second valve chambers, which can be connected to the environment of the pneumatic valve (here, the second valve),

[0035] a fourth valve chamber separate from the first valve chamber, the second valve chamber and the third valve chamber, which is fluidly connected to the first valve chamber via a first fluid passage, to the second valve chamber via a second fluid passage and to the third valve chamber via a third fluid passage, and an actuator unit comprising a shut-off element arranged in the fourth valve chamber and an actuator element arranged in the third valve chamber, wherein the actuator element is coupled to the shut-off element and is configured to move the shut-off element between a first position in which the first fluid passage is open and the third fluid passage is closed, and a second position in which the first fluid passage is closed and the third fluid passage is open.

[0036] The invention is not limited to cases where only a single air cushion is provided in the vehicle seat. Naturally, several air cushions can be filled simultaneously or separately. In this context, it is preferably provided that each air cushion has its own second valve for filling from the compressed air source and / or its own third valve for filling from the reservoir. Sections of the second and third supply lines can be used jointly, so that for additional air cushions, only supply line sections need to be added after the first air cushion (with the respective second valve and / or with the respective third valve).

[0037] The inventive method for filling an air cushion of an adjustment device of a vehicle seat comprises that compressed air from a compressed air source is guided via a first valve into a storage body and 202405047

[0038] 7

[0039] The storage body is then fluidically separated from the compressed air source (in particular by closing the first valve). The air cushion is filled either a) via a second valve directly from the compressed air source, or b) via a third valve from the storage body, or preferably as a third alternative c) according to a) and b) simultaneously or successively.

[0040] Option a) is chosen when slow inflation is sufficient to prevent the storage unit from being unnecessarily emptied. Option b) is chosen when rapid inflation of the air cushion is necessary, and option c) is used when particularly rapid inflation of the air cushion is required.

[0041] The arrangement according to all previously mentioned embodiments can be supplemented by a control unit that can effect the execution of the method as just described. This control unit preferably receives signals from the vehicle, for example, regarding the steering angle, vehicle speed, lateral acceleration, yaw rate, and the like. The control unit can then detect whether, when, and how quickly the air cushion needs to be inflated.

[0042] The control unit can be arranged as part of the overall assembly, particularly either outside or inside the vehicle seat. The latter is preferred here to keep any necessary wiring short. Alternatively, a control unit in a single vehicle seat can also control the air cushions (and thus the respective arrangements of the type according to the invention) in other vehicle seats.

[0043] To perform the described steps, a processor circuit can be provided which includes programming or software comprising program instructions that, upon execution of the program instructions, cause the processor circuit to perform an embodiment of the method. The processor circuit can, for this purpose, include at least one 202405047

[0044] 8

[0045] The device may contain a microprocessor and / or microcontroller. The program instructions may be stored in a data memory of the processor circuit.

[0046] The invention also includes further developments of the method according to the invention, which have features already described in connection with the further developments of the motor vehicle according to the invention. For this reason, the corresponding further developments of the method according to the invention are not described again here.

[0047] For use cases or application situations that may arise during the procedure and are not explicitly described here, it may be provided that, according to the procedure, an error message and / or a request for user feedback is issued and / or a default setting and / or a predetermined initial state is set.

[0048] The invention also includes combinations of the features of the described embodiments.

[0049] An embodiment of the invention is described below. The following is shown:

[0050] Fig. 1a shows a schematic representation of an arrangement for filling an air cushion according to a first embodiment and

[0051] Fig. 1b shows a schematic representation of an arrangement for filling an air cushion according to a second embodiment;

[0052] Fig. 2a shows the more detailed design of the second valves in the second embodiment and

[0053] Fig. 2b shows a sectional view of the second valve from Fig. 2a according to a first embodiment thereof; 202405047

[0054] 9

[0055] Fig. 3a shows a basic embodiment of a third valve designed as a servo valve in the embodiment according to Fig. 1a or 1b,

[0056] Fig. 3b shows the servo valve from Fig. 3a in detail in a cross-sectional view;

[0057] Fig. 4 shows an alternative embodiment of the servo valve in the design according to Fig. 1a or 1b; and

[0058] Fig. 5 shows a flowchart illustrating the steps of an embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0059] The embodiment described below is a preferred embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the described components each represent individual features of the invention that can be considered independently of one another. Each of these features further develops the invention independently and can therefore be considered part of the invention individually or in a combination other than that shown. Furthermore, the described embodiment can also be supplemented by other features of the invention already described.

[0060] In the figures, functionally identical elements are each provided with the same reference symbols.

[0061] An arrangement shown in Fig. 1a for filling an air cushion of an adjustment device of a vehicle seat comprises a compressed air source designated P and a storage body designated S, which provides a storage volume for compressed air. The compressed air source P and the storage body S are connected to each other via a first supply line L1, wherein a first valve V1, shown here as a control valve, is provided in the supply line. In the embodiment according to Fig. 1b, the alternative of a check valve RV is shown. Otherwise, the arrangements according to Figs. 1a and 1b are identical, as explained below: 202405047

[0062] 10

[0063] In this case, several air cushions A1 and A2 need to be inflated. First, the procedure for inflating air cushion A1 is described:

[0064] A second supply line L2 leads from the compressed air source to a second valve, through which the compressed air source P can be connected to the air cushion. The connection is made via a branch L2b to the second supply line and a feeder L4 to the air cushion A1.

[0065] In accordance with this supply, the storage body S can also be fluidly connected to the air cushion A1 via a third supply line L3, wherein the supply line L3 leads to a third valve SV3, and wherein the supply of compressed air to the air cushion then leads via a subsequent branch L3b to the third supply line and the supply branch L4.

[0066] Normal inflation of the air cushion A1 occurs via the second supply line L2 and the second valve V2, independently of the pressure in the storage body S. Deflation of the air cushion A1 occurs via the second valve, which leads to a corresponding outlet connected to the environment (in this case, the atmosphere).

[0067] If the air cushion is to be filled quickly, the compressed air source P must first pre-fill the storage chamber S via valve V1 or RV – for example, when unlocking the vehicle, activating the driving dynamics function, or after each emptying of the storage chamber S. The rapid filling of the air cushion A1 then occurs by opening the third valve SV3, which allows a high flow rate from the storage chamber S into the air cushion A1. In particular, the flow rate via valve SV3 is preferably significantly higher, by a factor of approximately 1.5 to 15, preferably between 2 and 10, than the flow rate via the second valve V2.

[0068] In order to supply the second air cushion A2 in the same way, the second supply line L2 runs in the direction of compressed air flow before valve V2 202405047

[0069] 11

[0070] A branch L2' leads to valve V2', through which the compressed air source can be connected to the second air cushion A2. A downstream supply line branch L2'b connects to the supply branch L4' leading to the second air cushion A2. Similarly, a branch L3' branches off from the third supply line, upstream of the third valve SV3, and connects to the air cushion via another third valve SV3'. A subsequent branch L3'b connects to this third valve, so that the compressed air then flows to air cushion A2 via this branch and the supply branch L4'. Further branches can then branch off from branches L2' and L3', or from L2 and / or L3.

[0071] The second valves V2 and V2' as well as the third valves SV3 and SV3' are designed to be switchable independently of each other. This allows the air cushions A1 and A2 to be filled individually or from different sources, namely one from the compressed air source P and the other from the storage body S.

[0072] The embodiment according to Fig. 1b with the check valve RV differs from the embodiment with the valve V1 only in that, when the storage volume is empty or not completely filled, normal filling of the air cushions A1 and A2 does begin, but the pressure build-up slows down somewhat because the storage body S is simultaneously filled to the respective pressure of the air cushions A1 and A2 via the check valve RV.

[0073] Fig. 2a shows an embodiment of the respective second valves V2 and V2' from Figures 1a and 1b: Here, the second valve is provided via a pneumatic connection of two 3 / 2-valves V21 and V22 or V21' and V22'. In particular, the pneumatic valve from DE 102018216874 B4 is preferably used in this context, which is advantageous here because of the use of an SMA wire (generally an SMA actuator).

[0074] Fig. 2b shows a schematic view of this pneumatic valve V2, which is depicted as part of an adjusting device W for adjusting a contour K of a seat mounting surface SAF of a vehicle seat FZS. The 202405047

[0075] 12

[0076] Adjustment device W comprises an air cushion (here abbreviated FB for "fluid bladder"), in particular an elastic air cushion, which can be filled with compressed air from the compressed air source P. Filling the air cushion FB increases its volume, thereby changing the contour Kt of the seat surface SAF. Deflating the air cushion FB reduces its volume, so that the air cushion FB returns to its original shape.

[0077] The pneumatic valve PV has a first valve chamber K1, which is connected to the compressed air source P. The pneumatic valve PV has a second valve chamber K2, separate from the first valve chamber K1, which is connected to the air cushion FB. In the specific example shown in Fig. 2b, the first valve chamber K1 and the second valve chamber K2 are formed by a base element BE and a bottom element ZE connected to the base element BE. As can be clearly seen in Fig. 2b, the base element BE and the bottom element ZE form two fluidically separate valve chambers, one of which represents the first valve chamber K1 and the other the second valve chamber K2. The first valve chamber K1 has a first fluid connection FA1, which serves for the fluid connection to the compressed air source P. The second valve chamber K2 has a second fluid connection FA2, which serves for the fluid connection to the air cushion FB.Of course, other components can also be connected to the fluid connections FA1 and FA2.

[0078] The pneumatic valve PV further comprises a third valve chamber K3, separate from the first valve chamber K1 and the second valve chamber K2. In the specific example shown in Fig. 2b, the third valve chamber K3 is formed by the base element ZE and a cover element DE connected to the base element ZE. The third valve chamber K3 is connected to the environment of the pneumatic valve PV, so that the pressure inside the third valve chamber K3 is essentially ambient pressure.

[0079] The pneumatic valve PV further has a fourth chamber separate from the first valve chamber K1, the second valve chamber K2 and the third valve chamber K3. 202405047

[0080] 13

[0081] Valve chamber K4. The fourth valve chamber K4 essentially consists of two components.

[0082] The first component is the base element ZE, which, in the area of ​​the fourth valve chamber K4, has a pot-shaped form with two upward-extending ribs Sg. These ribs Sg enclose an area B that is open at the top. The second component of the fourth valve chamber K4 is a cover element AE, which is placed on top of the ribs Sg and defines the upper boundary of area B. In other words, the fourth valve chamber K4 is formed by a two-part housing, the first component of which, in the specific example shown in Fig. 2b, is the base element ZE, and the second component of which is the cover element AE.

[0083] As can further be seen in Fig. 2b, the fourth valve chamber K4 is fluidically connected to the first valve chamber K1 via a first fluid passage FD1, and the fourth valve chamber K4 is fluidly connected to the second valve chamber K2 via a second fluid passage FD2. In the specific example of Fig.

[0084] 2b the first fluid passage FD1 and the second fluid passage FD2 are designed as openings in the bottom element ZE, wherein the second fluid passage FD2 has a predetermined distance to the first fluid passage FD1.

[0085] As can be further seen in Fig. 2b, the fourth valve chamber K4 is fluidically connected to the third valve chamber K3 via a third fluid passage FD3. In the specific example of Fig. 2b, the third fluid passage FD3 is formed as an opening in the cover element AE. In other words, the first fluid passage FD1 and the second fluid passage FD2 are formed on a first side of the fourth valve chamber K4, namely on the side of the bottom element ZE, and the third fluid passage FD3 is formed on a second side of the fourth valve chamber K4 opposite the first side, namely on the side of the cover element AE. 202405047

[0086] 14

[0087] As can further be seen in Fig. 2b, the first fluid passage FD1 extends along a first axis AX1 and the third fluid passage FD3 extends along a second axis AX2, wherein the second axis AX2 and the first axis AX1 are coaxial to each other or form a common axis.

[0088] The pneumatic valve PV further comprises an actuator unit A. The actuator unit A includes an actuator element E arranged in the third valve chamber K3 and a shut-off element ASP arranged in the fourth valve chamber K4, which is mechanically coupled to the actuator element E and, when electrical energy is applied, can actuate the shut-off element ASP, so that the shut-off element ASP can be moved essentially between a first position and a second position. The actuator element E can be any type of actuator element, for example, a piezoelectric or magnetic actuator element.

[0089] In the specific example shown in Fig. 2b, the actuator element E is a shape memory alloy element SMA, for example in the form of a wire. Shape memory alloy elements undergo a change in shape when subjected to electrical energy, which can be used to actuate the shut-off element ASP. For this purpose, the shape memory alloy element SMA is electrically connected to a printed circuit board LP, which is also located in the third valve chamber K3.

[0090] The actuator unit A comprises, in addition to the actuator element E and the shut-off element ASP, a coupling element KE. The coupling element KE extends through the third fluid passage FD3 and couples the actuator element E to the shut-off element ASP, so that by applying electrical energy to the actuator element E, the actuator element E can actuate the shut-off element ASP and move it between the first position and the second position.

[0091] The actuator unit A further comprises a lever element H, which is connected to the actuator element E and the coupling element KE. The lever element 202405047

[0092] 15

[0093] H is connected to the cover element DE at a connection area AB and can rotate around the connection area AB.

[0094] The actuator element E is connected to the lever element H at a first mounting section BA1 of the lever element H, and the coupling element KE is connected to the lever element H at a second mounting section BA2 of the lever element H. The first mounting section BA1 is selected with respect to the connection area AB such that a first lever arm HA1 is formed between the first mounting section BA1 and the connection area AB. The second mounting section BA2 is selected with respect to the connection area AB such that a second lever arm HA2 is formed between the second mounting section BA2 and the connection area AB, which is larger than the first lever arm HA1. This design allows the stroke of the actuator element E to be converted into an increased stroke of the coupling element KE and thus into an increased stroke of the shut-off element ASP.

[0095] The following section will discuss in more detail the two positions of the ASP shut-off element mentioned above.

[0096] Reference is first made to Fig. 2b, which shows the ASP shut-off element in the first position.

[0097] As already mentioned, in the specific example of Fig. 2b, the actuator element E is designed as a shape memory alloy element SMA. A first end E1 of the shape memory alloy element SMA is electrically connected to the printed circuit board LP. A second end E2 of the shape memory alloy element SMA, opposite the first end E1, is connected to the lever element H at the first mounting section BA1.

[0098] The connection area AB is designed in such a way that it can be mechanically connected to a wall of the third valve chamber K3 or to a housing 202405047

[0099] 16

[0100] the pneumatic valve PV is connected, as well as being electrically connected to the circuit board LP.

[0101] When the shape memory alloy element SMA is subjected to electrical energy, it heats up. This causes the shape memory alloy element SMA to shorten, so that the lever element H rotates around the connection area AB. The rotation of the lever element H also rotates both the first and second mounting sections BA1 and BA2 around the connection area AB. Since the second lever arm HA2 is larger than the first lever arm HA1, the second mounting section BA2 rotates a greater distance than the first mounting section BA1.The coupling element KE, which in turn is connected to the lever element H at the second fastening section BA2 and couples the shut-off element ASP with the shape memory alloy element SMA, therefore moves towards the cover element AE when the shape memory alloy element SMA is subjected to electrical energy, until the shut-off element ASP finally touches the cover element AE and closes the third fluid passage FD3.

[0102] The first fluid passage FD1 (or its first axis AX1), the third fluid passage FD3 (or its second axis AX2), the cover element AE, and the base element ZE are designed such that the shut-off element ASP, in its first position, both opens the first fluid passage FD1 and closes the third fluid passage FD3. Simultaneously, the second fluid passage FD2 remains open. In the first position of the shut-off element ASP, a fluid connection is thus established between the first valve chamber K1 and the fourth valve chamber K4 (via the first fluid passage FD1) and between the fourth valve chamber K4 and the second valve chamber K2 (via the second fluid passage FD2), without a fluid connection between the first valve chamber K1 and the third valve chamber K3. The pressurized fluid can therefore only flow from the compressed air source P into the first valve chamber K1 and from there, via the second valve chamber K2, into the air cushion FB.202405047.

[0103] 17

[0104] However, since the third fluid passage FD3 is closed in the first position of the shut-off element ASP, the pressurized fluid cannot flow into the third valve chamber K3. Because the actuator element E, or the shape memory alloy element SMA, and its circuit board LP are located in the third valve chamber K3, it is not necessary to mount the actuator element E or its circuit board LP in a fluid-tight manner within the third valve chamber K3. This reduces the design complexity of the pneumatic valve PV and saves costs for the electrical connection of the shape memory alloy element SMA.

[0105] When the energy is no longer applied to the actuator element E or the shape memory alloy element SMA, the shape memory alloy element SMA returns to its original shape or length. The reset element RS then moves the lever element H towards the base element ZE, so that the lever element H moves the shut-off element ASP (via the coupling element KE) to the base element ZE until the shut-off element ASP touches the base element ZE.

[0106] In this position, the shut-off element ASP now opens the third fluid passage FD3 and simultaneously closes the first fluid passage FD1, while the second fluid passage FD2 remains open. The shut-off element ASP is designed as a double-sided elastic sealing element, so that one upper side of the shut-off element ASP reliably closes the third fluid passage FD3 and one lower side of the shut-off element ASP reliably closes the first fluid passage FD1. Furthermore, a meandering leaf spring BF is arranged around the shut-off element ASP, which presses the shut-off element ASP towards the cover element AE, so that the coupling element KE only has to exert a compressive force, but no tensile force, on the shut-off element ASP.

[0107] The third valves SV3 and SV3' can also use state-of-the-art SMA actuators. These actuators specifically relate to an auxiliary valve in 202405047.

[0108] 18

[0109] the third valves SV3 and SV3' designed as servo valves SV, whereby the working air is taken from the filled storage body S.

[0110] Fig. 3a illustrates a first embodiment SV3a for the third valve in the form of a servo valve.

[0111] Here, the main valve V is supplied with working air from two sides. One side is directly connected to the third supply line L3 and thus to the reservoir S. The second side is also connected to supply line L3 via a throttle Dro and an auxiliary channel HK, with the auxiliary channel HK also being connected to the auxiliary valve HV. In the inactive state of the auxiliary valve HV, both sides of the main valve have the same pressure, so the resulting actuation forces essentially cancel each other out. The main valve's spring F1 holds it in the closed position. When the auxiliary valve HV is activated, which in the case of an SMA actuator occurs via energizing and thus heating the SMA actuator (SMA wire), the auxiliary valve HV connects the auxiliary channel HK to the ambient environment R.This causes the pressure of the working air on the second side of the main valve V to drop sharply, almost to atmospheric pressure, while the pressure prevailing in the reservoir S remains on the first side. This allows the working air on the first side to act against the restoring force of the spring F1 and move the valve into its open position.

[0112] Fig. 3b illustrates an embodiment of the servo valve SV3a according to Fig.

[0113] Figure 3a shows a cross-sectional view. The valve is a pneumatic valve with a housing 10, which has a first housing part 11 that, in the illustrated embodiment, is designed as a base plate. The housing 10 also has a second housing part 12, which is designed as a cover, and finally a third cup-shaped housing part 13, which is designed as an insert between the first and second housing parts 11, 12 and to which a fluid supply port P and a fluid outlet port A are integrally formed. A fluid drain opening R is formed in the second housing part 12, which leads to an actuator chamber 15 located between the second housing part 12 and the 202405047

[0114] 19

[0115] third housing part 13, in which an actuator 16 is arranged, connects with the environment, so that openings for electrical connections of the actuator 16 do not need to be sealed.

[0116] A valve chamber 14 is formed on the third housing part 13 by having a pot- or cup-shaped recess 18 into which a cover element K is inserted as the cover of the valve chamber 14. The valve chamber 14 has a fluid supply opening FZ, a fluid outlet opening VH functioning as the main valve, and a trigger opening VT. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid supply opening FZ and the fluid outlet opening VH are formed in the third housing part 13, and the trigger opening VT is formed in the cover element K that closes off the valve chamber 2.

[0117] Compressed air can therefore be supplied via the fluid supply opening FZ, for example from a compressor, into the housing 10, whereby the compressed air can enter the valve chamber 14 via the fluid supply opening FZ and from there via the fluid outlet opening VH and the fluid outlet connection A into a consumer that can be connected to it, for example an air cushion.

[0118] An elastic membrane M divides the valve chamber 14 into a first and a second section. The valve chamber 14 is essentially formed by a cup-shaped element, created by a cup-shaped molding, and the cover element K. The first section is connected to the fluid supply opening FZ and thus to the supply port P leading to the compressed air source P. The second section is closed off from the actuator chamber 15 and thus from the environment by a cover element K.

[0119] The diaphragm M is connected to a plunger St. The plunger St has a sealing surface on its underside to close the nozzle seat of the fluid outlet opening VH in its lower end position. The plunger St can be manufactured integrally with the diaphragm M from an elastic material or it can be a component assembled with the plunger St. An elastic element F, e.g., a spring, is located between the cover element K and the plunger St. 202405047

[0120] 20

[0121] When attached, it generates a restoring force to close the fluid outlet opening VH by means of the plunger St. The elastic element F can optionally also be formed with the membrane M, which pulls the plunger St into the lower end position, closing the fluid outlet opening VH, by means of its own tension.

[0122] In one embodiment, a channel is formed as a through-opening D in both the cup-shaped element and the cover element K, allowing a limited airflow (operating air) from the first to the second area of ​​the valve chamber 14. The channel can be realized either by means of bores or by means of recesses, which, for example, can already be provided as corresponding pins in the tools for manufacturing the cup-shaped element G and the cover element K.

[0123] In the "Hold" state, the trigger opening VT is closed. The lower and upper sections of the valve chamber 14 are connected via the through-opening D, thus ensuring pressure equalization. Therefore, no pneumatic force acts on the diaphragm M, even under high or variable pressure from the compressed air source P. The spring element F presses the plunger St, which is connected to the diaphragm M, against the nozzle seat of the fluid outlet opening VH, sealing it. The force of the spring element F is designed to withstand pressure and sealing forces even in the worst-case scenario (e.g., maximum consumer pressure and minimum pressure).

[0124] can apply supply pressure.

[0125] At the beginning of the "Filling" state, the trigger opening VT is open.

[0126] Preferably, the cross-section of the trigger opening VT is as small as possible, but still significantly larger than the cross-section of the through-opening D.

[0127] In another embodiment, the through-opening is formed as a recess or groove in the cup-shaped element and cover element K, with the grooves being oriented to each other in such a way that they form a continuous through-opening. 202405047

[0128] 21

[0129] Alternatively, the cup-shaped element and the cover element K can each have a protrusion or ridge that presses in the edge of the membrane M or a ridge formed on it, thereby forming the through-opening D when assembled.

[0130] Alternatively, a depression or groove can be provided at the edge of the membrane M or on a bead formed thereon.

[0131] Alternatively, a raised area or ridge may be formed on the edge of the membrane or on a bead formed thereon, which is pressed into the membrane when assembled.

[0132] A second preferred embodiment SV3b of the third valve designed as a servo valve is shown in Fig. 4:

[0133] Here, the compressed air from the storage tank S flows directly to the auxiliary valve HV via the third supply line L3. In the inactive state, its outlet, the auxiliary channel HK, is connected to the environment R and is therefore unpressurized. This allows the main valve V to be held in its closed position by the restoring force of a spring F1. In the activated state, the auxiliary valve HV connects the auxiliary channel HK to the supply line L3 and the storage tank S. The pressure of the working air then acts against the restoring force of the spring F1, and the main valve V is moved to its open position. The main valve then connects the supply line L3 to the air cushion Ai.

[0134] Finally, the method according to the invention is described again using the example in Fig.

[0135] The following is described in the 5 depicted flow diagrams:

[0136] In step S10, the storage body S is first filled with compressed air from the compressed air source via the first valve V1 or the check valve RV. In step S12, it is then checked whether at least one air cushion A1, A2 needs to be filled with compressed air. This check can be carried out by a control device that actuates all valves, preferably the SMA actuators as shown in Fig. 2a with 2b 202405047

[0137] 22

[0138] and shown in Fig. 3a with 3b and Fig. 4, respectively. It may be that the filling process does not need to be particularly fast. In this case, the compressed air source P can be used, for which the second valve V2 to air cushion A1 or V2' to air cushion A2 is opened in step S14, and the third valves remain closed. However, it may also be determined in step S12 that air cushion A1 and / or A2 should be filled particularly quickly. Then the compressed air from the storage body S is used, and the respective third valves SV3 and SV3' are opened according to step S16. Optionally, as variant c), it can also be provided that in step S18 both the second and third valves are opened so that the air cushion is filled extremely quickly from both the compressed air source and the storage body S.

[0139] If step S12 determines that the air cushion cannot be inflated at all ("N" for "NO"), a time delay is introduced in step S20, after which the process returns to step S12. After steps S14, S16, and S18, the air cushions must eventually be deflated. After step S14, the state prior to step S12 can be restored. After steps S16 and S18, the process returns to step S10 and refills the storage unit S, even if it still contains residual compressed air.

[0140] Overall, this example demonstrates how a method for filling an elastic air cushion using a storage device can be implemented. 202405047

[0141] 23

[0142] Reference symbol list

[0143] 2 valve chambers

[0144] 10 cases

[0145] 11 first housing part

[0146] 12 second housing part

[0147] 13 third housing part

[0148] 14 Valve chamber

[0149] 15 Actuator room

[0150] 16 Actuator

[0151] 18 pot- or cup-shaped molds

[0152] A actuator unit

[0153] A1 Air cushion

[0154] A2 air cushions

[0155] AI air cushions

[0156] AB connection area

[0157] AE cover element

[0158] ASP shut-off element

[0159] AX1 first axis

[0160] AX2 second axis

[0161] BA1 first fastening section

[0162] BA2 second fastening section

[0163] BE basic element

[0164] BF leaf spring

[0165] D Through opening

[0166] DE Lid element

[0167] Dro Drossel

[0168] E actuator element

[0169] E1 first end 202405047

[0170] 24

[0171] E2 second end

[0172] F Spring element

[0173] F1 spring

[0174] F2 spring

[0175] FA1 first fluid connection

[0176] FA2 second fluid connection

[0177] FB Air Cushion

[0178] FD1 first fluid pass

[0179] FD2 second fluid pass

[0180] FD3 third fluid pass

[0181] FZ Fluid Supply Opening

[0182] FZS vehicle seat

[0183] H lever element

[0184] HA1 first lever arm

[0185] HA2 second lever arm

[0186] HK Auxiliary Channel

[0187] HV auxiliary valve

[0188] K contour

[0189] K1 first valve chamber

[0190] K2 second valve chamber

[0191] K3 third valve chamber

[0192] K4 fourth valve chamber

[0193] KE coupling element

[0194] L1 first supply line

[0195] L2 second supply line

[0196] L2' branch

[0197] L2b Sub-branch

[0198] L2'b subordinate supply line branch L3 third supply line 202405047

[0199] 25

[0200] L3' branch

[0201] L3b Sub-branch

[0202] L3'b downstream supply line branch L4 supply branch

[0203] L4' Supply branch

[0204] LP circuit board

[0205] M Membran

[0206] P Compressed air source

[0207] PV pneumatic valve

[0208] R Fluid drain opening

[0209] RS reset element

[0210] RV check valve

[0211] S Storage body

[0212] SAF seating area

[0213] Sg Stege

[0214] SMA shape memory alloy element

[0215] St. Pestle

[0216] SV servo valve (third valve)

[0217] SV3 servo valve (third valve)

[0218] SV3' Servo valve (third valve)

[0219] SV3a Servo valve (third valve)

[0220] SV3b servo valve (third valve)

[0221] V Main valve

[0222] VI first valve

[0223] V2 second valve

[0224] V2' second valve

[0225] V21 second valve

[0226] V22 second valve 202405047

[0227] 26

[0228] V2T second valve

[0229] V22' second valve

[0230] VH Fluid outlet opening

[0231] VT trigger opening

[0232] W Adjustment device

[0233] ZE floor element

[0234] S10, S12, S14, S16, S18 Steps of an embodiment of the method according to the invention

Claims

202405047 27 Patent claims 1. Arrangement for filling an air cushion (A1, A2, Ai; FB) of an adjustment device (VV) of a vehicle seat (FZS) with: - a compressed air source (P); - a storage body (S) for compressed air supplied by the compressed air source (P), wherein the storage body (S) can be connected to the compressed air source (P) via a first supply line (L1) with a first valve (V1) to convey compressed air from the compressed air source (P) into the storage body (S), - a second supply line (L2) for compressed air to the air cushion (A1, A2; FB), which leads to a second valve (V2, V2', V21, V22; V21', V22') via which the compressed air source (P) can be connected to the air cushion (A1, A2; FB); and - a third supply line (L3) for compressed air to the air cushion (A1 , A2; FB), which is different from the first (L1) and the second supply line (L2), and which leads to a third valve (SV3, SV3', SV3a, SV3b), which is different from the first (V1) and the second valve (V2, V2', V21, V22; V21 ', V22'), and via which the storage body (S) can be connected to the air cushion (A1 , A2; FB), wherein the compressed air source (P) and the storage body (S) are fluidically separated or separable from each other during the filling of the air cushion (A1 , A2; FB).

2. Arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the third valve (SV3, SV3', SV3a, SV3b) between the storage body (S) and the air cushion (A1 , A2; FB) allows a higher flow of compressed air than the second valve (V2, V2', V21 , V22; V21 ', V22') between the compressed air source (P) and the air cushion (A1 , A2; FB).

3. Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the third valve is designed as a servo valve (SV3, SV3', SV3a, SV3b) whose working air is discharged from the storage body (S).

4. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a main valve (V) of the third valve (SV3a) can be supplied with working air from two sides, a first side being directly connected to the third supply line (L3) 202405047 28 is connected and a second side is also connected to the third supply line (L3) via an auxiliary channel (HK) and a throttle, wherein the auxiliary channel (HK) is connected to an auxiliary valve (HV), wherein when the auxiliary valve (HV) is not activated a spring (F1) of the main valve (V) is able to hold it in a closed position, and wherein when the auxiliary valve (HV) is activated the auxiliary channel (HK) connects the environment and thus the working air is able to move the main valve (V) against the force of the spring (F1) into its open position.

5. Arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a main valve (V) of the third valve (SV3b) and an inlet side of an auxiliary valve (HV) of the third valve (SV3b) are each connected to the third supply line (L3), wherein the main valve (V) is held in its closed position by the restoring force of a spring (F1) of the main valve (V), wherein the auxiliary valve (HV) is connected at its outlet side to an auxiliary channel (HK) leading to the main valve (V), wherein when the auxiliary valve (HV) is not activated the auxiliary channel (HK) is connected to the environment so that the spring (F1) acts against the ambient pressure, wherein when the auxiliary valve (HV) is activated the auxiliary channel (HK) connects the auxiliary channel (HK) to the third supply line (L3) and thus the working air is able to act against the spring (F1) and move the main valve (V) into its open position.

6. Arrangement according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the auxiliary valve (HV) can be actuated by means of a shape memory element.

7. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second valve is designed as a valve comprising: - a first valve chamber that can be connected to the compressed air source (P), - a second valve chamber separate from the first valve chamber, which can be connected to the air cushion, - a third valve chamber separate from the first and second valve chambers, which can be connected to the environment of the pneumatic valve (here, the second valve), 202405047 29 - a fourth valve chamber separate from the first valve chamber, the second valve chamber and the third valve chamber, which is fluidly connected to the first valve chamber via a first fluid passage, to the second valve chamber via a second fluid passage and to the third valve chamber via a third fluid passage, and - an actuator unit comprising a shut-off element arranged in the fourth valve chamber and an actuator element arranged in the third valve chamber, wherein the actuator element is coupled to the shut-off element and is configured to move the shut-off element between a first position in which the first fluid passage is open and the third fluid passage is closed, and a second position in which the first fluid passage is closed and the third fluid passage is open.

8. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims for filling several air cushions (A1, A2), wherein for each air cushion (A1 , A2) a separate second valve (V2, V2', V21, V22; V21 ', V22') is provided for filling from the compressed air source (P) and / or a separate third valve (SV3, SV3', SV3a, SV3b) is provided for filling from the storage body (S).

9. Method for filling an air cushion (A1, A2; FB) of an adjustment device (W) of a vehicle seat (FZS), wherein compressed air from a compressed air source (P) is fed via a first valve (V1) into a storage body (S) and the storage body (S) is then fluidically separated from the compressed air source (P), and wherein the air cushion (A1 , A2; FB) is optionally: a) is filled directly from the compressed air source (P) via a second valve (V2, V2', V21, V22; V21', V22') or b) is filled from the storage body (S) via a third valve (SV3, SV3', SV3a, SV3b) or optionally c) is filled according to a) and b) simultaneously or consecutively.

10. Vehicle seat with the arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 8 and a control device for effecting the execution of the method according to claim 9.

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