U.S. patent application number 15/871580 was filed with the patent office on 2019-07-18 for vehicle seat adjustment assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ford Global Technologies, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Ford Global Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to Fernando Paisano Rodriguez, Alejandro Rosas Vazquez, Diego Santillan Gutierrez.
Application Number | 20190217750 15/871580 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 67068478 |
Filed Date | 2019-07-18 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190217750 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Santillan Gutierrez; Diego ;
et al. |
July 18, 2019 |
VEHICLE SEAT ADJUSTMENT ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A vehicle seat is provided herein. The vehicle seat includes a
seatback pivotally coupled to a seat bottom. An adjustment assembly
is operably coupled with the seat and includes a linear actuator.
The linear actuator is configured to release a recliner mechanism
when moved in a first direction and is configured to release a
track assembly when moved in a second direction.
Inventors: |
Santillan Gutierrez; Diego;
(Tizayuca, MX) ; Rosas Vazquez; Alejandro;
(Gustavo A. Madero, MX) ; Paisano Rodriguez;
Fernando; (San Andres Cholula, MX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ford Global Technologies, LLC |
Dearborn |
MI |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Ford Global Technologies,
LLC
|
Family ID: |
67068478 |
Appl. No.: |
15/871580 |
Filed: |
January 15, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60N 2/0818 20130101;
B60N 2/0881 20130101; B60N 2002/0236 20130101; B60N 2/12 20130101;
B60N 2/22 20130101; B60N 2/0875 20130101; B60N 2/23 20130101; B60N
2/0228 20130101; B60N 2/067 20130101; B60N 2002/924 20180201 |
International
Class: |
B60N 2/23 20060101
B60N002/23; B60N 2/02 20060101 B60N002/02; B60N 2/12 20060101
B60N002/12; B60N 2/06 20060101 B60N002/06 |
Claims
1. A vehicle seat comprising: a seatback pivotally coupled to a
seat bottom; and an adjustment assembly operably coupled with the
seat and including a linear actuator, the linear actuator
configured to release a recliner mechanism when moved in a first
direction and configured to release a track assembly when moved in
a second direction.
2. The vehicle seat of claim 1, wherein the linear actuator is
configured as a rack and a pinion, the pinion driven by a
motor.
3. The vehicle seat of claim 1, wherein the recliner mechanism
includes a shaft extending between a pair of recliner hearts.
4. The vehicle seat of claim 1, wherein the adjustment assembly is
operably coupled with the recliner mechanism via a wire, the linear
actuator configured to pull the recliner arm generating a force on
the wire to rotate a first portion of the recliner mechanism
relative a second portion of the recliner mechanism to release the
seatback.
5. The vehicle seat of claim 1, further comprising: a first switch
electrically coupled to the adjustment assembly for moving the
linear actuator in a first direction; and a second switch
electrically coupled to the adjustment assembly for moving the
linear actuator in a second direction.
6. The vehicle seat of claim 5, further comprising: a third switch
coupled to the adjustment assembly configured to move the linear
actuator in a first direction to release the recliner mechanism and
then move the linear actuator in a second direction to release the
track assembly.
7. The vehicle seat of claim 2, wherein the rack defines a pinion
cavity, first and second channels, and first and second guides, the
first channel and first guide disposed on an opposing side of the
pinion cavity from the second channel and second guide.
8. The vehicle seat of claim 7, wherein a recliner arm is disposed
within the first channel and a first pin is operably coupled with
the recliner arm, the first pin extending into the first guide.
9. The vehicle seat of claim 8, wherein a track assembly arm is
disposed within the second channel and a second pin is operably
coupled with a track assembly arm, the second pin extending into
the second guide.
10. The vehicle seat of claim 8, wherein the rack is configured to
linearly move in a first direction causing the first pin to contact
an end portion of the first guide thereby pulling the recliner arm
in the first direction.
11. The vehicle seat of claim 10, wherein the rack is configured to
linearly move in a second direction causing a second pin to contact
an end portion of the second guide thereby pulling the track
assembly arm in the second direction.
12. The vehicle seat of claim 1, further comprising: a pivot
assembly including a first portion coupled with a recliner arm
second portion having a coupling portion for removably fixing a
wire thereto, wherein the wire is operably coupled with the
recliner mechanism.
13. A vehicle seat comprising: a seatback pivotally coupled to a
seat bottom; an adjustment assembly operably coupled with the seat
and configured to pull a recliner arm when moved in a first
direction and a track assembly arm when moved in a second
direction; a wire operably coupled with the recliner arm and a
recliner mechanism to release the seatback relative the seat
bottom; and a disengagement rod operably coupled with the track
assembly arm.
14. The vehicle seat of claim 13, wherein the seatback is locked
relative the seat bottom and the track assembly is locked relative
a vehicle floor in a neutral position.
15. The vehicle seat of claim 13, wherein the adjustment assembly
includes a rack that defines a pinion cavity, first and second
channels, and first and second guides, the first channel and first
guide disposed on an opposing side of the pinion cavity from the
second channel and second guide.
16. The vehicle seat of claim 15, wherein the rack is configured to
linearly move in a first direction causing a first pin to contact
an end portion of the first guide thereby pulling the recliner arm
in the first direction and to linearly move in a second direction
causing a second pin to contact an end portion of the second guide
thereby pulling the track assembly arm in the second direction.
17. A vehicle seat comprising: a seatback pivotally coupled to a
seat bottom; and an adjustment assembly including a rack and a
pinion configured to release a first feature and a second feature
when the rack is moved in first and second directions, wherein the
rack defines a pinion cavity and first and second guides, the first
guide disposed on an opposing side of the pinion cavity from the
second guide.
18. The vehicle seat of claim 17, wherein a recliner arm is
disposed within a first channel and a first pin is operably coupled
with a recliner arm, the first pin extending into the first
guide.
19. The vehicle seat of claim 18, wherein a track assembly arm is
disposed within a second channel and a second pin is operably
coupled with a track assembly arm, the second pin extending into
the second guide.
20. The vehicle seat of claim 19, wherein the rack is configured to
linearly move in the first direction causing the first pin to
contact an end portion of the first guide thereby pulling the
recliner arm in the first direction and in a second direction
causing the second pin to contact an end portion of the second
guide thereby pulling the track assembly arm in the second
direction.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a vehicle seat,
and more specifically, a vehicle seat having an adjustment assembly
for adjusting the seatback and/or seat bottom.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Vehicle seats generally include a recliner mechanism for
selective adjustment of the angular position of a seatback relative
to a seat bottom, allowing a user to recline or incline the
seatback. Manually operated recliner mechanisms generally have a
locked position, in which the seatback cannot pivot, and an
unlocked position, in which the seatback can be pivoted. A user
manually releases the recliner mechanism to unlock it, allowing
adjustment of the seatback position. Releasing the lever relocks
the recliner mechanism, thus retaining the seatback in the adjusted
position. The vehicle seat may also be movably coupled to a vehicle
floor for adjusting the seat in a fore/aft position.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle
seat is provided herein. The vehicle seat includes a seatback
pivotally coupled to a seat bottom. An adjustment assembly is
operably coupled with the seat and includes a linear actuator. The
linear actuator is configured to release a recliner mechanism when
moved in a first direction and configured to release a track
assembly when moved in a second direction.
[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
vehicle seat is provided herein. The vehicle seat includes a
seatback pivotally coupled to a seat bottom. An adjustment assembly
is operably coupled with the seat and is configured to pull a
recliner arm when moved in a first direction and a track assembly
arm when moved in a second direction. A wire is operably coupled
with the recliner arm and a recliner mechanism to release the
seatback relative the seat bottom. A disengagement rod operably
coupled with the track assembly arm.
[0005] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a
vehicle seat is provided herein. The vehicle seat includes a
seatback pivotally coupled to a seat bottom. An adjustment assembly
includes a rack and a pinion configured to release a first feature
and a second feature when the rack is moved in first and second
directions. The rack defines a pinion cavity and first and second
guides. The first guide is disposed on an opposing side of the
pinion cavity from the second guide.
[0006] These and other aspects, objects, and features of the
present invention will be understood and appreciated by those
skilled in the art upon studying the following specification,
claims, and appended drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] In the drawings:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a seat for a vehicle
incorporating an adjustment assembly, according to some
examples;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the seat of FIG. 1;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a partial side plan view of a seat frame of the
seat, according to some examples;
[0011] FIG. 4 is an enhanced front perspective view of a recliner
mechanism incorporated into the seat, according to some
examples;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method of adjusting the
inclination of the seat back, according to some examples;
[0013] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the reclining seat,
illustrating adjusting the inclination of a seat back of the
reclining seat, according to some examples;
[0014] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the reclining seat,
illustrating the adjusted position, according to some examples;
[0015] FIG. 8 is a partial side plan view of a seat frame of the
seat employing the adjustment assembly with a rack disposed in a
first position to actuate the recliner mechanism, according to some
examples;
[0016] FIG. 9 is a partial side plan view of a seat frame of the
seat employing the adjustment assembly with a rack disposed in a
second position to actuate a track assembly, according to some
examples;
[0017] FIG. 10 is a front enhanced perspective view of the
adjustment assembly and the track assembly, according to some
examples;
[0018] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of adjusting
the seat along the track assembly, according to some examples;
[0019] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the adjustment assembly,
according to some examples;
[0020] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the adjustment assembly
with a housing removed, according to some examples;
[0021] FIG. 14 is a side plan view of the adjustment assembly
disposed in a neutral position with the motor assembly removed,
according to some examples;
[0022] FIG. 15 is a side plan view of the adjustment assembly
disposed in a first adjustment position, according to some
examples; and
[0023] FIG. 16 is a side plan view of the adjustment assembly
disposed in a second adjustment position, according to some
examples.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EXAMPLES
[0024] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper,"
"lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical,"
"horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention
as oriented in FIG. 1. However, it is to be understood that the
invention may assume various alternative orientations, except where
expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood
that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached
drawings, and described in the following specification are simply
exemplary examples of the inventive concepts defined in the
appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical
characteristics relating to the examples disclosed herein are not
to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state
otherwise.
[0025] As required, detailed examples of the present invention are
disclosed herein. However, it is to be understood that the
disclosed examples are merely exemplary of the invention that may
be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not
necessarily to a detailed design and some schematics may be
exaggerated or minimized to show function overview. Therefore,
specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not
to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis
for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present
invention.
[0026] In this document, relational terms, such as first and
second, top and bottom, and the like, are used solely to
distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action,
without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such
relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms
"comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are
intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process,
method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements
does not include only those elements but may include other elements
not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article,
or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises . . . a" does not,
without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional
identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus
that comprises the element.
[0027] As used herein, the term "and/or," when used in a list of
two or more items, means that any one of the listed items can be
employed by itself, or any combination of two or more of the listed
items can be employed. For example, if a composition is described
as containing components A, B, and/or C, the composition can
contain A alone; B alone; C alone; A and B in combination; A and C
in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B, and C in
combination.
[0028] The following disclosure describes a vehicle seat employing
an adjustment assembly. The vehicle seat includes a seatback
pivotably coupled to a seat bottom. The seat may be operably
coupled with a track assembly. The adjustment assembly is operably
coupled with one or more switches for controlling the adjustment
assembly. In some examples, the adjustment assembly may include a
rack and pinion assembly. When the pinion is rotated in a first
direction, a recliner mechanism may be released and the seatback
can be adjusted relative to the seat bottom. When the pinion is
rotated in a second, opposing direction, the seat may be released
from the track assembly and slid therelaong. Accordingly, in some
examples, a single motor may be capable of controlling multiple
features of the seat.
[0029] Referring to FIGS. 1-16, the reference numeral 10 generally
designates a seat for a vehicle 12. The seat 10 includes a seat
bottom 14 and a seatback 16 pivotally coupled to the seat bottom
14. The seat 10 also includes an adjustment assembly 18 for
adjusting the inclination of the seatback 16 relative to the seat
bottom 14. The adjustment assembly 18 is operably coupled with a
lockable recliner mechanism 20. The adjustment assembly 18 includes
a motor 22 for selectively unlocking the recliner mechanism 20 and
permitting manual adjustment of the inclination of the seatback 16
when the motor 22 is rotated in a first direction. The seat bottom
14 may be configured to be mounted on a support surface, such as a
floor 24 of the vehicle 12. A track assembly 26 may be coupled to
the seat bottom 14 to facilitate fore and aft positioning of the
seat 10. The motor 22 may be rotated in a second opposing direction
to release the seat 10 from the track assembly 26 for manual
movement in the fore/aft positions. It will be appreciated,
however, that the adjustment assembly 18 may be configured to
release any first feature (e.g., seatback) when the motor 22 is
rotated in a first direction and/or a second feature (e.g., seat
bottom 14) when the motor 22 is rotated in a second direction. The
adjustment assembly 18 further includes one or more switches 28
electrically coupled to the motor 22 for selectively energizing the
motor 22.
[0030] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the seat 10 is generally
configured for use in a variety of vehicles 12 in either a front
driver seat, a front passenger seat, or a rear seat of the vehicle
12 and generally includes the seatback 16 and the seat bottom 14,
each having a cushion 30, 32, respectively. A headrest 34 is also
mounted to the top of the seatback 16. The seat 10 is generally
designed for the comfort of a passenger, as well as to accommodate
and protect a passenger during a collision event.
[0031] Referring still to FIGS. 1 and 2, the seatback 16 includes
first and second vehicle seatback support members 36, 38 disposed
on opposite lateral sides of the seat 10 and of substantially
mirror image construction relative to one another. The first and
second vehicle seatback support members 36, 38 form a portion of
the frame of the seatback 16 and are generally designed to provide
support to the occupant's back and to help protect an occupant
during a collision event. Each of the first and second vehicle
seatback support members 36, 38 includes a recliner mechanism
aperture 40 disposed near the bottom thereof and adapted to receive
recliner mechanisms 20, which are commonly referred to in the art
as "recliner hearts." The recliner mechanisms 20 are affixed to the
first and second vehicle seatback support members 36, 38 via laser
welding, or other suitable affixing means. The recliner mechanisms
20 provide an interface between the first and second vehicle
seatback support members 36, 38 and the seat bottom 14.
[0032] With further reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, according to some
examples, the switch 28 is illustrated in the form of an electronic
push button, though it should be understood that any suitable input
device, such as a toggle switch, rocker switch, or microswitch
could also be utilized. The switch 28 is electrically connected to
the motor 22 for selectively energizing the motor 22. In some
examples, the switch 28 may additionally, and/or alternatively, be
configured as a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor provides a
sense activation field that encompasses an area proximate the
switch 28 and can detect capacitive changes resulting from a
conductor, such as a finger of an occupant, being within the sense
activation field of the capacitive sensor. It should be
appreciated, however, that additional or alternative types of
proximity sensors can be used for detecting various other signal
changes, such as, but not limited to, inductive sensors, optical
sensors, temperature sensors, resistive sensors, the like, or a
combination thereof.
[0033] The switch 28 is shown mounted to a side shield 42 disposed
on the lateral side of the seat bottom 14. The side shield 42 may
be a decorative trim component, though it may include a variety of
apertures and connecting points for securing various mechanical
devices thereto, as well as for securing the side shield 42 to the
seat 10. The switch 28 may be mounted sub-flush to a surface of the
side shield 42, thereby eliminating, or at least reducing, the
possibility of inadvertently actuating the switch 28.
Alternatively, the switch 28 could be located in other interior
locations, for example, in a vehicle door, an instrument panel 44,
a steering wheel 46, a center console 48, and/or any other suitably
reachable location. It is contemplated that the switch 28 is an
on/off type switch, which an occupant actuates for "ON," and
releases "OFF." Further, the switch 28 may be provided in a variety
of colors and textures, may include a chrome ring or accents,
and/or may be illuminated.
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 2-4, the seatback 16 rotates about a
seatback recliner shaft 50 in response to an occupant's actions.
The shaft 50 may extend between the seatback support members 36, 38
of the seat 10 and operably connects the recliner mechanisms 20. In
some examples, the adjustment assembly 18 is operably coupled with
the recliner mechanisms 20 via a wire 52. When a first switch 28 is
actuated, the motor 22 may pull a recliner arm 54, which in turn
creates a pulling force on the wire 52. By pulling the wire 52, a
first portion 56 of the recliner mechanism 20 is rotated relative a
second portion 58, which momentarily releases the seatback 16 and
is manually rotated. The seatback 16 may be biased in either a
forward or a rearward direction by a spring 60. Once the switch 28
is deactuated, the adjustment assembly 18 returns the seatback
recliner mechanism 20 to its original or resting, i.e., locked,
position thereby locking the seatback 16 in a desired position.
[0035] With further reference to FIG. 3, the adjustment assembly 18
may include a track assembly arm 62 extending from opposing side of
a housing 64 from the recliner arm 54. The motor 22 is disposed
between the recliner arm 54 and the track assembly arm 62. The
recliner arm 54 is further coupled with an extension assembly 66
that, when rotated, pulls the wire 52. When the wire 52 is pulled,
the first portion 56 of the recliner mechanism 20 is rotated
relative the second portion 58 thereby placing the seatback 16 in
an unlocked position. Similarly, the track assembly arm 62 is
operably coupled with a track release assembly 68 that, when
rotated, allows the seat 10 to slide along the track assembly 26 in
a fore or aft direction. In some examples, the extension assembly
66 may be activated by the first switch 28 and the rotation
assembly may be activated by a second switch 28. When the first
switch 28 is activated, the motor 22 may rotate in a first
direction. When the second switch 28 is activated, the motor 22 may
rotate in a second, opposed direction. Due to the opposed movement
of the motor 22, in some instances, the seatback 16 may be placed
in a locked position while the seat 10 is free to slide along the
track assembly 26. Similarly, the seat 10 may be locked to the
track assembly 26 while the seatback 16 is freely rotatable.
[0036] With reference to FIG. 4, the spring 60 may be wound about
the recliner shaft 50 and biased to return the recliner mechanism
20 to a locked position. Accordingly, upon the deactivation of the
switch 28, the spring 60 may assist in returning the first portion
56 of the recliner mechanism 20 to the locked position. In some
examples, the recliner shaft 50 may have a plurality of teeth
therearound and the end portions thereof. The teeth may be
engageable to gears disposed within the first portion 56 of the
recliner mechanism 20 for assistance in moving the seatback 16
between various positions.
[0037] Referring to FIGS. 5-8, in operation, an occupant may wish
to adjust the inclination of the seatback 16 relative to the seat
bottom 14. According to an example illustrated in FIG. 5, a method
70 for adjusting the inclination of the seatback 16 begins at step
72. In this initial seatback position illustrated in FIG. 2, the
recliner mechanisms 20 are locked and the seatback 16 is not free
to move. To adjust the seatback 16, the occupant may depress the
switch 28 as in step 72, thereby energizing the motor 22, and
rotating the motor 22 in a first direction at step 74 and as shown
in FIG. 5. In step 76, rotating the motor 22 moves the recliner arm
54 (FIG. 8), which is operably coupled with the wire 52 on a first
end portion 78. The second end portion 80 of the wire 52 is
operably coupled to one or both of the recliner mechanisms 20 and
moves the first portion 56 of the recliner mechanism 20 from a
first position to a second position effectively unlocking the
recliner mechanisms 20. The recliner mechanisms 20 remain unlocked
while the switch 28 is actuated. At step 82, with the first switch
28 actuated and the recliner mechanisms 20 unlocked, the occupant
may manually adjust the seatback 16 to the desired inclination,
whether it be more or less reclined. The recliner mechanisms 20,
and therefore the seatback 16, are biased toward the upright
position, so the occupant may manually push the seatback 16
rearward to recline the seatback 16 further. Once the desired
inclination is achieved, the switch 28 may be released, as in step
84 and illustrated in FIG. 6, thereby locking the seatback 16 in
the adjusted position. Releasing the switch 28 causes the motor 22
to rotate in an opposite, second direction in step 86. The motor 22
rotates back to a neutral position, relocking the recliner
mechanisms 20 and seatback 16 relative to the seat bottom 14, as in
step 88. In step 90, if further adjustment is desired, the method
70 may be repeated by cycling back to step 72, actuating the switch
28.
[0038] Referring to FIGS. 8-10, the track assembly arm 62 includes
a connector arm 92 that is coupled to a disengagement rod 94. The
disengagement rod 94 may be a rigid member, which is further
coupled to a spring member 96. The spring member 96 is coupled to
the disengagement rod 94 to bias the disengagement rod 94 in a
locked position. In use, when the second switch 28 is actuated, the
motor 22 rotates in the second direction. In response, the track
assembly arm 62 rotates the connector arm 92. The connector arm 92
is operably coupled with the disengagement rod 94, which pivots
with the connector arm 92 in a rearward direction causing a track
release lever 98 to move from a locked position to a released
position. While in the locked position, the track release lever 98
locks the seat 10 in its current position on the assembly. In the
released position, the track release lever 98 allows the seat 10 to
move freely along the track assembly 26 in fore and aft directions,
i.e., vehicle forward and vehicle rearward.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 11, in operation, an occupant may wish to
adjust the fore/aft position of the seat 10 (FIG. 1) relative to
the vehicle floor 24 (FIG. 1). According to an example illustrated
in FIG. 11, a method 100 for adjusting the fore/aft position of the
seat 10 relative to the vehicle floor 24 begins at step 102. In an
initial seat position, the seat 10 is locked to the vehicle floor
24 through the track assembly 26 and the seat 10 is not free to
move. To adjust the seat 10, the occupant may depress the second
switch 28 as in step 102, thereby energizing the motor 22, and
rotating the motor 22 in the second direction at step 104. In step
106, rotating the motor 22 moves the track assembly arm 62, which
is operably coupled to the connector arm 92. The connector arm 92
moves the disengagement rod 94 from a first position to a second
position effectively unlocking the track assembly 26. The
disengagement rod 94 remains unlocked while the switch 28 is
depressed. At step 108, with the switch 28 depressed and the
disengagement rod 94 unlocked, the occupant may manually adjust the
seat 10 to the fore/aft position, whether it be more vehicle
forward or vehicle rearward of its original position. The seat 10
may be biased toward a fore (or vehicle forward) position, so the
occupant may manually push the seat 10 rearward to move the seat 10
further from the steering wheel 46. Once the desired position is
achieved, the switch 28 may be deactuated, as in step 110, thereby
locking the seat 10 in the adjusted position. Releasing the switch
28 causes the motor 22 to rotate in the first direction in step
112. The motor 22 rotates back to a neutral position, relocking the
disengagement rod 94 and seat 10 relative to the vehicle floor 24,
as in step 114. In step 116, if further adjustment is desired, the
method 100 may be repeated by cycling back to step 102, actuating
the switch 28.
[0040] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the housing 64 of the
adjustment assembly 18 may be operably coupled with a pinion cover
115. The pinion cover 115, and/or any other portion of the
adjustment assembly 18, may be operably coupled with a plate 117,
or bracket, that is further coupled to a portion of the seat 10
and/or the vehicle 12 for removably anchoring the adjustment
assembly 18 in a fixed location. Accordingly, the adjustment
assembly 18 may move with the seat 10 and/or the seat 10 may move
independently of the adjustment assembly 18 without departing from
the scope of the present disclosure.
[0041] A rack 118 and pinion 120 (FIG. 14) may be disposed between
the gear cover and the housing 64. A connection shaft 122 extends
from the motor 22 and is coupled with the pinion 120. The motor 22
may be a servomotor or a stepper motor, though any suitable type of
motor 22 may be utilized without departing from the scope of the
present disclosure. The motor 22 is able to control the angular
position of the connection shaft 122. As an example, the motor 22
may be an integrated stepper motor capable of a high micro stepping
resolution with all the controls and electronics mounted within the
motor 22 itself.
[0042] The pinion cover 115 may include a first surface 124 that
extends parallel to the pinion 120 and a bottom, second surface 126
extending from the first surface 124 and/or transverse to the
pinion 120, and a third surface 128 that may be parallel to the
first surface 124. The first surface 124 may define one or more
apertures through which fasteners may be inserted for coupling the
pinion cover 115 to the plate 117. The motor 22 may be operably
coupled to the third surface 128 through one or more fasteners 130
and include a motor housing 132 that surrounds at least a portion
of the motor 22.
[0043] The rack 118 defines a pinion cavity 134. The rack 118 may
move in a linear direction as the pinion 120 engages teeth 136
(FIG. 14) on the rack 118. The rotational motion applied to the
pinion 120 causes the rack 118 to move relative to the pinion 120,
thereby translating the rotational motion of the pinion 120 into
linear motion of the rack 118 within the pinion cavity 134.
[0044] A first channel 138 is defined by the rack 118 between a
first end portion 140 of the rack 118 and the pinion cavity 134. A
first guide 142 is also defined by the rack 118 between the first
end portion 140 of the rack 118 and the pinion cavity 134. A first
end section 144 of the recliner arm 54 is disposed within the
channel. A first pin 146 extends transversely from the first
section of the recliner arm 54 and into the first guide 142. In
some examples, an axis of the first channel 138 is parallel to the
direction of movement of the rack 118 along the pinion 120. A pivot
assembly 148 is pivotably coupled with a second end section 150 of
the recliner arm 54. The pivot assembly 148 is further pivotably
coupled to a rotation axis 152, which may be below the recliner arm
54. The pivot assembly 148 may include a first portion 154 and a
second portion 156. The second portion 156 may have a coupling
portion 158 for removably fixing the wire 52 thereto. A groove 160
may be disposed within the second portion. As the recliner arm 54
moves causing the pivot assembly 148 to rotate, the wire 52 may be
disposed within the groove 160.
[0045] A support bracket 162 is disposed outwardly of the pivot
assembly 148. The support bracket 162 may be operably coupled to
the pinion cover 115 and/or be integrally formed therewith. The
housing 64 may also include an extension 164 that extends between
the first and second portions of the pivot assembly 148 when the
housing 64 is coupled to the pinion cover 115. The extension 164
may abut and/or be disposed in close proximity to the support
bracket 162. Furthermore, the support bracket 162 may define a
channel 165 having a tapered upper section and a rounded bottom
section. The rounded bottom section may have a width that is less
than a stop 166 on the wire 52. Accordingly, the stop 166 may be
substantially inhibited from pulling through the channel 165 and/or
inhibit any portion of the wire 52 from pulling through the channel
165.
[0046] With further reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, a spring 168 may
be operably coupled with the pivot assembly 148. The spring 168 may
be configured as an extension spring; however, any type of assembly
may be used in conjunction with the spring 168 and/or in lieu of
the spring 168 without departing the scope of the present
disclosure. The spring 168 may be operably coupled to an attachment
feature 170 on the second portion of the pivot assembly 148 on a
first side and operably coupled with a housing attachment feature
172 on an opposing, second side. The extension spring may be used
to bias the pivot assembly 148 is a desired position, such as a
contracted position for the wire 52, which in turn, biases the
recliner mechanism 20 to a locked position.
[0047] Referring still to FIGS. 12 and 13, the rack 118 may also
define a second channel 174 and a second guide 176 that are
disposed on a second end portion 178 of the rack 118. A first end
portion 180 of the track assembly arm 62 is disposed within the
second channel 174. A second pin 182 is coupled to the first end
portion 180 of the track assembly arm 62 and is disposed within the
second guide 176. A second end portion 184 of the track assembly
arm 62 is pivotably coupled to the connector arm 92. The connector
arm 92 is further coupled to the disengagement rod 94. In some
examples, the connector arm 92 and/or disengagement rod 94 may be
biased in a locked position, which may correspond to the connector
arm 92 being oriented in a vertical position.
[0048] Referring to FIGS. 14-16, the adjustment assembly 18, as
provided herein, may be a linear actuator that may be configured as
a rack 118 and pinion 120. However, any type of linear actuator may
be utilized without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure. Accordingly, the rack 118 may be driven in two opposing
directions by the pinion 120 based on a rotational direction of the
pinion 120. As illustrated, the pinion 120 includes a periphery
having pinion teeth 186 thereon. The teeth 186 of the pinion 120
are configured to engage/correspond to the teeth 136 of the rack
118. In some examples, as the pinion 120 is rotated, the pinion
teeth 186 engage with the teeth 136 of the rack 118 to linearly
move the rack 118. It should be noted that the rack 118 might
include a toothed or untoothed engaging surface, depending on the
particular application. Likewise, the pinion 120 may be either a
toothed gear or a friction wheel.
[0049] In operation, the adjustment assembly 18 may be disposed in
a neutral position, as illustrated FIG. 14. In the neutral
position, the recliner mechanism 20 and the track assembly 26 are
both disposed in a locked position. In the neutral position, the
pinion 120 may be disposed in an intermediate position within the
pinion cavity 134. To adjust the seatback position, the pinion 120
is rotated in a first direction, such as a clockwise direction, as
indicated by arrow 188. As the pinion 120 is rotated, the rack 118
moves in a first linear direction, as indicated by arrow 190. As
the rack 118 moves along arrow 190, the first pin 146 within the
first channel 138 contacts an end portion 196 of the first channel
138. The first pin 146, when in contact with the first channel 138,
pulls the recliner arm 54 thereby rotating the pivot assembly 148,
which may be in a direction opposite to the direction of the pinion
120. As the pivot assembly 148 is rotated, the wire 52 is pulled
thereby releasing the recliner mechanism 20 such that the seatback
16 may be adjusted. As provided herein, the seatback 16 may be
manually adjusted while the switch 28 is activated and the first
pin 146 is pulling the recliner arm 54. Once a desired position is
obtained, the switch 28 is deactivated. When the switch 28 is
deactivated, the pinion 120 returns to the neutral position, such
as the position exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 14, and the
seatback 16 is returned to a locked position.
[0050] To adjust the seat 10 along the track assembly 26, the
pinion 120 rotates in a second direction, such as a
counterclockwise direction, as indicated by arrow 192. As the
pinion 120 is rotated, the rack 118 moves in a second linear
direction, as indicated by arrow 194. As the rack 118 moves along
arrow 194, the second pin 182 within the second channel 174
contacts an end portion 198 of the second channel 174. The second
pin 182, when in contact with the second channel 174, pulls the
track assembly arm 62 thereby rotating the connector arm 92 and/or
the disengagement rod 94, which each may rotate in a direction
opposite to the direction of the pinion 120 rotation. As the
disengagement rod 94 is rotated, the track assembly 26 is placed in
an unlocked position such that the seat 10 may be adjusted along
the track assembly 26. As provided herein, the seat 10 may be
manually adjusted while the second switch 28 is compressed and the
rack 118 is pulling the track assembly arm 62. Once a desired
position is obtained, the second switch 28 is deactivated. When the
switch 28 is deactivated, the pinion 120 returns to the neutral
position, such as the position exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 14,
and the seat 10 is returned to a locked position.
[0051] In some examples, a third switch 28 may be actuated to
control each feature after one another. For example, to assist an
occupant in entering the vehicle 12, the occupant may actuate the
third switch 28, which in turn, releases the recliner mechanism 20.
As provided herein, the recliner mechanism 20 may be biased in a
forward direction. Thus, the seatback 16 may be rotated vehicle
forward. Upon completion of rotating the seatback 16 vehicle
forwardly, the adjustment assembly 18 may release the track
assembly 26. As provided herein, the track assembly 26 may be
biased in a vehicle forward direction. Accordingly, with the
seatback 16 in a forwardly orientated position, the seat 10 may
also move vehicle forwardly thereby provided additional room for an
occupant to enter the vehicle rearwardly of the seat 10. It will be
appreciated that the seatback 16 and/or seat 10 may move in any
order and be biased in any direction without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure. It will be appreciated that the
recliner mechanism 20 may be released prior to the track assembly
26, and/or vice versa. Moreover, the vehicle seat 10 may be
programmed to move to a predefined position as an occupant
approaches and/or exits the vehicle 12.
[0052] A variety of advantages may be derived from the use of the
present disclosure. For example, use of the disclosed seat
adjustment assembly can provide for various movements of a vehicle
seat to accommodate a wide range of passengers. The seat adjustment
assembly can save costs, resources, and materials and is generally
more efficient than standard, conventional seat assemblies that
include movement assemblies that are independent of one
another.
[0053] According to various examples, a vehicle seat is provided
herein. The vehicle seat includes a seatback pivotally coupled to a
seat bottom. An adjustment assembly is operably coupled with the
seat and includes a linear actuator. The linear actuator is
configured to release a recliner mechanism when moved in a first
direction and configured to release a track assembly when moved in
a second direction. Examples of the vehicle seat can include any
one or a combination of the following features: [0054] the linear
actuator is configured as a rack and a pinion, the pinion driven by
a motor; [0055] the recliner mechanism includes a shaft extending
between a pair of recliner hearts; [0056] the adjustment assembly
is operably coupled with the recliner mechanism via a wire, the
linear actuator configured to pull the recliner arm generating a
force on the wire to rotate a first portion of the recliner
mechanism relative a second portion of the recliner mechanism to
release the seatback; [0057] a first switch electrically coupled to
the adjustment assembly for moving the linear actuator in a first
direction; and a second switch electrically coupled to the
adjustment assembly for moving the linear actuator in a second
direction; [0058] a third switch coupled to the adjustment assembly
configured to move the linear actuator in a first direction to
release the recliner mechanism and then move the linear actuator in
a second direction to release the track assembly; [0059] the rack
defines a pinion cavity, first and second channels, and first and
second guides, the first channel and first guide disposed on an
opposing side of the pinion cavity from the second channel and
second guide; [0060] a recliner arm is disposed within the first
channel and a first pin is operably coupled with the recliner arm,
the first pin extending into the first guide; [0061] a track
assembly arm is disposed within the second channel and a second pin
is operably coupled with a track assembly arm, the second pin
extending into the second guide; [0062] the rack is configured to
linearly move in a first direction causing the first pin to contact
an end portion of the first guide thereby pulling the recliner arm
in the first direction; [0063] the rack is configured to linearly
move in a second direction causing a second pin to contact an end
portion of the second guide thereby pulling the track assembly arm
in the second direction; and/or [0064] a pivot assembly including a
first portion coupled with a recliner arm second portion having a
coupling portion for removably fixing a wire thereto, wherein the
wire is operably coupled with the recliner mechanism.
[0065] Moreover, a method of manufacturing a vehicle seat is
provided herein. The method includes pivotally coupling a seatback
to a seat bottom. An adjustment assembly is operably coupled with
the seat and includes a linear actuator. The linear actuator is
configured to release a recliner mechanism when moved in a first
direction and configured to release a track assembly when moved in
a second direction.
[0066] According to some examples, a vehicle seat is provided
herein. The vehicle seat includes a seatback pivotally coupled to a
seat bottom. An adjustment assembly is operably coupled with the
seat and is configured to pull a recliner arm when moved in a first
direction and a track assembly arm when moved in a second
direction. A wire is operably coupled with the recliner arm and a
recliner mechanism to release the seatback relative the seat
bottom. A disengagement rod operably coupled with the track
assembly arm. Examples of the vehicle seat can include any one or a
combination of the following features: [0067] the seatback is
locked relative the seat bottom and the track assembly is locked
relative a vehicle floor in a neutral position; [0068] the
adjustment assembly includes a rack that defines a pinion cavity,
first and second channels, and first and second guides, the first
channel and first guide disposed on an opposing side of the pinion
cavity from the second channel and second guide; and/or [0069] the
rack is configured to linearly move in a first direction causing a
first pin to contact an end portion of the first guide thereby
pulling the recliner arm in the first direction and to linearly
move in a second direction causing a second pin to contact an end
portion of the second guide thereby pulling the track assembly arm
in the second direction.
[0070] According to other examples, a vehicle seat is provided
herein. The vehicle seat includes a seatback pivotally coupled to a
seat bottom. An adjustment assembly includes a rack and a pinion
configured to release a first feature and a second feature when the
rack is moved in first and second directions. The rack defines a
pinion cavity and first and second guides. The first guide is
disposed on an opposing side of the pinion cavity from the second
guide. Examples of the vehicle seat can include any one or a
combination of the following features: [0071] a recliner arm is
disposed within a first channel and a first pin is operably coupled
with a recliner arm, the first pin extending into the first guide;
[0072] a track assembly arm is disposed within a second channel and
a second pin is operably coupled with a track assembly arm, the
second pin extending into the second guide; and/or [0073] the rack
is configured to linearly move in the first direction causing the
first pin to contact an end portion of the first guide thereby
pulling the recliner arm in the first direction and in a second
direction causing the second pin to contact an end portion of the
second guide thereby pulling the track assembly arm in the second
direction.
[0074] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the
art that construction of the described invention and other
components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary
examples of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a
wide variety of materials unless described otherwise herein.
[0075] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all
of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the
joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or
indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature
or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two
components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional
intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary
body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may
be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature
unless otherwise stated.
[0076] Furthermore, any arrangement of components to achieve the
same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the
desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein
combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as
"associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is
achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components.
Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as
being "operably connected" or "operably coupled" to each other to
achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable
of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably
couplable" to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Some
examples of operably couplable include, but are not limited to,
physically mateable and/or physically interacting components and/or
wirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting components
and/or logically interacting and/or logically interactable
components. Furthermore, it will be understood that a component
preceding the term "of the" may be disposed at any practicable
location (e.g., on, within, and/or externally disposed from the
vehicle) such that the component may function in any manner
described herein.
[0077] It is also important to note that the construction and
arrangement of the elements of the invention as shown in the
exemplary examples is illustrative only. Although only a few
examples of the present innovations have been described in detail
in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this
disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are
possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes
and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters,
mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations,
etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and
advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements
shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or
elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the
operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied,
the length or width of the structures and/or members or connectors
or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number
of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be
varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of
the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of
materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of
a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly,
all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope
of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications,
changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating
conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary
examples without departing from the spirit of the present
innovations.
[0078] It will be understood that any described processes or steps
within described processes may be combined with other disclosed
processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the
present invention. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed
herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as
limiting.
[0079] It is also to be understood that variations and
modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and
methods without departing from the concepts of the present
invention, and further it is to be understood that such concepts
are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these
claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
* * * * *