FR3132247A1 - Equipment for adjusting the inclination of a backrest in relation to a seat cushion - Google Patents

Abstract

Equipment for adjusting the inclination of a backrest relative to a seat cushion (1) comprising several continuous articulation mechanisms (4), each comprising:- a first flange (400) and a second flange (401 ) configured to be secured respectively to the seat and the backrest; - an input member (402), rotatably mounted, configured to be moved and cause the movement of the second flange (401) relative to the first flange (400), and wherein said input members (402) of the mechanisms of articulation are driven by a control rod (5), coupled to the input members (402) of the articulation mechanisms, the control rod (5) pivotally mounted about its axis, - a control and locking device (6), external to the articulation mechanisms (4), configured to ensure the irreversibility of the articulation mechanisms by blocking the control rod (5) in rotation when the control and locking device (6) is not actuated. Abstract Figure: Figure 3

Description

Equipment for adjusting the inclination of a backrest in relation to a seat base

The present disclosure relates to equipment for adjusting the inclination of a backrest relative to a seat base comprising one or more continuous articulation mechanisms, as well as a locking control device, external to the ( x) articulation mechanism(s), configured to ensure control of the articulation mechanism(s), as well as its irreversibility.

The present disclosure relates to the field of devices for adjusting the inclination of a vehicle seat back, relative to the seat, and for blocking, and more particularly such devices comprising a continuous articulation mechanism.

It is known, for example from documents US 5,874,747 A, FR 2,902,375 B1, US 8,985,887 B2, or even DE102011051837, devices for adjusting the inclination of the backrest relative to a seat, based in particular on a continuous articulation mechanism.

A continuous articulation mechanism ensures continuous adjustment of the inclination of the backrest relative to the seat and typically comprises, as taught by the aforementioned documents, two flanges intended to be fixed respectively to the seat and to the backrest, typically articulated to one another by a hypocycloidal gear train.

Such a hypocycloidal gear comprises a first external toothed ring, centered on a first axis and formed on one of the two flanges, engaged with a second internal toothed ring, centered on a second axis, coaxial with a control shaft (ci -after designated control rod), the second crown formed on the other of the two flanges. The second axis is parallel to the first axis and offset from the first axis by an eccentric gear mechanism.

The eccentric mechanism cooperates with an input member, coupled to the control rod (consisting of a shaft of square section, the input member mounted pivoting through the two flanges, internal to the articulation mechanism, the mechanism eccentric comprising for example a cam forming a core and corner segments, reducing the play of the cam, and such as for example disclosed by FR 2.902375 B1.

Document FR 2.902375 B1 addresses the problem of the reversibility of this type of continuous articulation mechanism in that it can be noted that repeated stresses applied to the backrest manage to cause a modification of the behavior of the mechanism over time, and in in particular an undesired rotation of the eccentric mechanism, and thus a relative rotation between the two flanges of the joint, resulting in an undesired change in the inclination of the backrest. This is particularly noted when the backrest is heavily loaded, or/or when there is a significant inclination with the seat.

In order to resolve this problem, document FR 2.902375 B1 teaches a blocking element, internal to the articulation mechanism, which prevents the rotation of the eccentric mechanism, by jamming. In the case of a stress on the backrest, the cooperation of a ramp of the eccentric mechanism (caused to pivot in an undesired manner under the stress of the backrest) and the ramp of the blocking element generates a radial force pressing the blocking element against one of the flanges to block it by friction, which in turn blocks the eccentric cam and thus the hypocycloidal gear.

When the user wishes to adjust the inclination of the backrest in relation to the seat base, he acts on an operating handle (not shown) which causes the rotation of the control rod, and of the linked input member rotating to the control rod. The input member has control fingers, with a finger which first pushes a corner segment bringing it closer to the other corner segment, in order to leave a slight play to the cam of the mechanism. eccentric, then a finger comes against a shoulder of the cam to cause its rotation, which tends to separate the ramp of the cam and the ramp of the blocking element by releasing the jamming, to then allow simultaneous rotations of the cam and the blocking element, driven by the input member.

Such a solution responds to the problem of the reversibility of the articulation mechanism by blocking the eccentric mechanism against one of the flanges: it is a blocking solution, internal to the articulation mechanism which must therefore be integrated into each articulation mechanism when the seat comprises several articulation mechanisms, controlled by the same control rod in connection with all of the input members of the different articulation mechanisms. Such an internal blocking solution must be integrated into all continuous articulation mechanisms, which increases the cost of equipment comprising several articulation mechanisms. Failing to provide such an internal blocking solution in all the articulation mechanisms, a stress on the backrest may result in the unwanted rotation of the eccentric mechanism of the mechanism lacking a blocking member, which will result in its undesired rotation of the input member and jointly of the control rod. The unwanted rotation of the control rod has the effect of unlocking in turn the internal locking systems of the other articulation mechanisms, even if they are provided with a perfectly operational internal locking solution.

Another defect of such a blocking solution, internal to the articulation mechanism, is its reliability, in particular when several articulation mechanisms are linked by the same control rod. Equipment for adjusting the inclination of a backrest relative to a seat typically comprises at least two articulation mechanisms per seat, with a first articulation mechanism, right, and a second articulation mechanism, left, a first left input member of the first articulation mechanism and a second right input member of the articulation mechanism coupled in rotation by the same control bar extending transversely. Indeed, a malfunction of the internal locking solution, of only one of the articulation mechanisms, can be the cause of an unwanted change in the inclination of the backrest, typically a strongly sagging backrest. loaded, or strongly inclined, in that an unwanted rotation of the control rod caused by the defective mechanism can trigger the unlocking of the internal blocking solutions of all the other articulation mechanisms linked to the same control rod , even if they are not defective.

Summary

This disclosure improves the situation.

Equipment is proposed for adjusting the inclination of a backrest relative to a seat base comprising one or more continuous articulation mechanisms, the or each articulation mechanism comprising:
- a first flange and a second flange configured to be secured respectively to the seat and the backrest according to a first possibility, or conversely the first flange and the second flange respectively secured to the backrest and the seat according to a second possibility;
- an input member, rotatably mounted, configured to be moved in a first direction of rotation, and in a second direction of rotation, and cause the second flange to move relative to the first flange, and in which said input member of the articulation mechanism, or said input members of the articulation mechanisms are driven by a control rod, coupled in rotation with the input member of the articulation mechanism, or the input members of the mechanisms d articulation, the control rod pivotally mounted around a longitudinal axis of the rod.

According to the present disclosure, said equipment comprises a control and locking device, external to the articulation mechanism, or external to the articulation mechanisms, configured to ensure the control of the articulation mechanism(s) during the change in inclination of the backrest relative to the seat, and the irreversibility of the articulation mechanism(s) by blocking the rotation of the control rod when the control and locking device is not actuated.

According to the present disclosure, the irreversibility of the articulation mechanism, or of all the articulation mechanisms when said equipment comprises several articulation mechanisms controlled by the control rod, is advantageously ensured by blocking the control rod

Consequently, the external control and locking device makes it possible to advantageously ensure the irreversibilities of the different articulation mechanisms controlled by the control rod, and in particular even if these articulation mechanisms are not provided with control solutions. blocking, internal to the mechanisms.

According to the present disclosure, the control and locking device comprises:
- a first member, follower, integral in rotation with the control rod, and a second member, driver, mounted to pivot with a limited angular stroke relative to the first member around the control rod,
and in which said first member and the second member comprise first stop means configured to ensure the rotational drive of the first member, follower, by the second member, driver, in the first direction of rotation, at a first end of stroke of rotation of the second control member relative to the first member, and second stop means configured to ensure the rotational drive of the first member, follower, by the second member, driver, in the second direction of rotation, in a second end of travel of the second control member relative to the first control member
- elastic means constraining the second member in rotation relative to the first member in a rest position, intermediate between the first end of stroke and the second end of stroke
- a blocking element integral in rotation with the first member, around the axis of the control rod, movable relative to the first member in a direction radial to the axis of the control rod following guide means between said blocking element and the first member, said blocking element being configured to lock on a fixed support, fixed relative to the first flange according to the first possibility or else said fixed support, fixed relative to the second flange according to the second possibility, in a position of blocking of the blocking element, under the action of a restoring force of spring means in order to ensure the immobilization in rotation of the control rod in the rest position of the second member relative to the first member,
- cam means carried by the second member, configured to move said blocking element, radially against the return force of the spring means, from the blocking position to at least one retracted position for which said blocking element is moved away from the support fixed, at least partially, releasing the rotation of the control rod at least in the direction of rotation imposed by the second member, driver, said blocking element being retracted radially, by a first cam when the second member and the first member are in the first end position, when driven in the first direction of rotation, and by a second cam when the second member and the first member are in the second end position, when driven, in the second direction of rotation.

According to one embodiment, the second member can be a rotary button, manually operated by an operator, around the axis of the control rod.

According to one embodiment, the fixed support comprises an opening, centered around the longitudinal axis of the control rod, said opening provided on an internal diameter with a plurality of teeth against which the blocking member locks according to different discontinuous angular locking positions defined by the teeth, around the axis of the control rod, in said locking position.

Blocking the blocking element against the teeth ensures clear locking of the blocking element in the discontinuous locking positions, and as opposed to blocking which would be ensured only by friction between two smooth surfaces of the blocking element and the support fixed.

In particular, said blocking element may comprise two blocking projections, distributed on either side of the radial direction imposed by the guide means, both located on a first side relative to a plane, perpendicular to the direction radial passing through the axis of the control rod, the radial projections configured to lock against the teeth of the opening, in the discontinuous angular locking positions, in the blocking position of the blocking element.

If the user ever changes the inclination of the backrest by rotating the control rod, up to a position of the articulation mechanism for which said blocking element finds itself oriented between two discontinuous angular locking positions, reversibility tiny can occur, typically imperceptible to the user, until the locking element is moved and the spring means again force the locking element into the locking position, in one of the discontinuous angular locking positions, according to an angular travel less than the distance between two consecutive teeth of the support,.

According to one embodiment, the fixed support may comprise a first thin element extending along a first planar element, at the level of the opening, said blocking element being a second thin element extending along a second planar element, received in the opening, the first planar element and the second planar element, substantially coplanar, perpendicular to the axis of the control rod, the first planar element and the second planar element interposed between the first member and the second member of the control device and locking.

The production of the blocking element and the fixed support, in the form of thin elements, interposed between the first member and the second member, makes it possible to bring the flanges (hereinafter referred to as the third and fourth flanges) as close as possible to the first member. and of the second member, following the direction of the control rod, the flanges of the first member and the second member, separated by a distance corresponding substantially to the thickness of the thin elements, except for operating clearance. Such an arrangement advantageously ensures great compactness of the external control and locking device, following the direction of the control rod.

According to one embodiment, said blocking element comprises said two radial projections configured to block against two teeth of the opening; the two projections located on a first side with respect to a third plane passing through the axis of the control rod and perpendicular to the radial direction and in which said blocking element has on the second side with respect to the third plane, an elastic portion elastically compressed against an edge of the opening of the fixed support constituting said elastic means and said spring means.

The elastic means constraining in rotation (around the axis of the control rod) the second member relative to the first member in its rest position, on the one hand, and the spring means constraining the blocking element in the imposed radial direction by the guiding means from its retracted position to its blocking position, on the other hand, can advantageously be produced by the same elastic portion of the blocking element.

According to one embodiment, the cam means may comprise:
- the first cam configured to abut with a first shoulder of the blocking element on one side of the plane passing through the radial direction and the axis of the control rod when the second member and the first member are in the first end position,
- the second cam configured to abut with a second shoulder of the blocking element on the other side of the plane passing through the radial direction and the axis of the control rod when the second member and the first member are in the second end position.

According to one embodiment, the first cam and the second cam are formed respectively projecting towards the first member, in the direction of the control rod.

According to one embodiment, the first stop means and the second stop means may comprise:
- a first opening in a body of the first member, receiving the first projecting cam,
- a second opening in a body of the second member, receiving the second projecting cam. The first cam/first opening couple and/or the second cam/second opening couple are configured to limit the angular displacement of the second element relative to the first element by defining the first end of travel and the second end of travel.

According to one embodiment, the guide means may comprise two lugs projecting from one face of the first member projecting towards the second member and two notches of the blocking element cooperating respectively with the two lugs. The lugs define the radial direction of movement of the blocking element relative to the first member. According to one embodiment, the distal ends of the lugs are received in two blind holes of the second member.

According to one embodiment, the equipment may comprise centering means between the first member and the fixed support, centered around the axis of the control rod, for example in the form of guides of the fixed support 603, distributed around the axis of the control rod and cooperating in guiding with a circular peripheral edge of the first member.

According to one embodiment, the articulation mechanism can be a continuous articulation mechanism comprising a hypocycloidal gear connecting the first flange to the second flange, said hypocycloidal gear comprising:
- a first toothed ring, external, centered on a first axis and formed on the first flange;
- a second toothed ring, internal, centered on a second axis, coaxial with the control rod, the second axis parallel to the first axis and offset relative to the first axis by an eccentric cam, said second toothed ring being formed on the second flange and having an internal diameter greater than the external diameter of the first toothed crown,
- said eccentric cam rotatably mounted around the second axis cooperating with the input member which is pivotally mounted around the second axis, the input member configured to drive the eccentric cam in rotation around the second axis, in the first direction or in the second direction, thus ensuring the movement of the second flange relative to the first flange according to a hypocycloidal movement imposed by the gear.

In particular, and according to one embodiment:
- the first flange comprises a first cylindrical housing centered on the first axis,
- the second flange comprises a second annular housing centered on the second axis, delimited on the one hand by the second toothed ring and, on the other hand, by a collar,
and in which the second housing receives the first crown of the first flange,
and in which said eccentric cam comprises an external diameter, configured to slide on an internal sliding wall of the first cylindrical housing of the first flange, and an internal diameter configured to slide on an external sliding wall of the collar.

According to one embodiment, said eccentric cam can be backlash comprising:
- a core, comprising an internal wall configured to pivot on an external sliding wall of the collar, and an external wall
- two sliding elements, with wedge function, arranged between, on the one hand, the internal sliding wall of the first housing and the core, configured to slide, internally, on the external wall of the core and externally on the internal wall of sliding of the first housing,
- a spring placed between the two sliding elements and urging the sliding elements to mutual spacing,
and in which a first of the sliding elements is configured to block rotation of the eccentric cam relative to the first flange, in the first direction of rotation, by wedge effect between the sliding element, on the one hand, between the external wall of the core and the internal sliding wall of the first flange,
and in which a second of the sliding elements is configured to block rotation of the eccentric cam relative to the first flange, in the second direction of rotation, by wedge effect between the sliding element, on the one hand, between the external sliding wall of the core and the internal sliding wall of the first flange,
and in which the input member is configured to abut against the first sliding element by bringing it closer to the second sliding element releasing the rotation and causing the rotation of the eccentric cam in the first direction of rotation, when the member d the input is driven by the control rod following the first direction of rotation,
and in which the input member is configured to abut against the second sliding element by bringing it closer to the first sliding element, releasing the rotation and causing the rotation of the eccentric cam in the second direction of rotation, when the member input is driven by the control rod following the second direction of rotation.

The primary function of the backlash eccentric cam is to eliminate the backlash of the cam, when the two sliding elements are pushed apart by the spring, and with the aim of eliminating the vibrations and noise of the continuous articulation mechanism. When the two sliding elements with wedge function are pushed apart by the spring, this has the effect of blocking the rotation of the eccentric cam.

Such blocking is, however, not sufficient to respond in itself to the identified problem of unwanted change in the inclination of the backrest, particularly when the backrest is heavily loaded, and/or when the backrest has a significant inclination with the seat. , after repeated requests on the file. The control and locking device according to the present disclosure which comprises said radially moving blocking element addresses this problem by blocking the control rod.

The present disclosure also relates to a motor vehicle seat comprising a seat and a backrest, as well as equipment according to the present disclosure, comprising one or more articulation mechanisms, the first flange secured to the seat and the second flange secured of the backrest according to the first possibility, or conversely the first flange secured to the backrest, and the second flange secured to the seat according to the second possibility.

Other characteristics, details and advantages will appear on reading the detailed description below, and on analyzing the attached drawings, in which:

Fig. 1

is a schematic view of a motor vehicle seat comprising equipment according to the present disclosure, of which the first flange and the second flange of two articulation mechanisms are secured respectively to the backrest and to the seat base, on both sides of the seat, controlled by the same control rod, to ensure adjustment of the inclination of the backrest relative to the seat, a control and locking device allowing adjustment of the inclination when manually actuated by the operator, as well as the angular blocking of the articulation mechanisms by blocking the control rod

Fig. 2

is a sectional view, along a plane passing through the control rod, of equipment according to the present disclosure, comprising, on the one hand, on the left, the articulation mechanism with the first flange and the second flange, as well as that the eccentric cam controlled by the input member secured in rotation to the control rod, and on the right, the control and locking device comprising the first member which is secured in rotation to the control rod, and the second movable member in rotation, according to a limited stroke around the axis of the control rod relative to the first member, the control and locking device comprising a blocking element, interposed between the first member and the second member, integral in rotation of the first movable member, movable in a radial direction, from a blocking position for which said blocking element locks on a fixed support to ensure the blocking of the control rod, and thus ensure the irreversibility of the mechanism(s) articulation, when the second driving member is in an intermediate rest position relative to the first member between two end positions, and up to a retracted position of the blocking element when the second driving member is in one of the two positions of end of stroke relative to the first member, releasing and causing the rotation of the control rod when the second member is manually actuated.

Fig. 3

is a perspective view of the operating and locking device (the hinge mechanism not shown).

Fig. 4

is an exploded view of the , illustrating from left to right, the first member, the fixed support, said blocking element, and the second member.

Fig. 5

is a rear view of the control and locking device, illustrating the first member, with a first opening and a second opening, respectively receiving a first stud and a second stud secured to the second member, the first opening/first stud couple and the second opening/second stud couple, limiting the angular travel of the second member relative to the first member by forming the first and second stop means.

Fig. 6

is a sectional view of the control and locking device, along a plane perpendicular to the axis of the control rod, illustrating said blocking element in the blocking position for which a first projection and a second projection are engaged with teeth an opening of the fixed support

Fig. 7

is a view, on the one hand, to the left of an internal face of the first member, illustrating two lugs of the guide means, the two lugs configured to slide in two notches of the blocking element in the radial direction, as well as the first opening and the second opening, and on the other hand, on the right, an internal face of the second member, comprising the first and second studs, as well as the first and second blind holes,.

Fig. 8

is a sectional view of the control and locking device, on the left, in the blocking position of the blocking element ensuring rotational locking of the control rod, and thus the irreversibility of the mechanism(s) articulation controlled by the control rod, and to the right, in the retracted position of the blocking member, allowing rotation of the control rod

Fig. 9

is a view of an example of the articulation mechanism comprising the first flange carrying the first toothed ring, the second flange carrying the second toothed ring, as well as the eccentric cam cooperating with the input member secured in rotation to the rod control

Fig. 10

shown is a detailed view of the eccentric cam which comprises, the core, the first sliding element and the second sliding element with wedge function, and the spring mutually separating the two sliding elements.

The drawings and description below contain, for the most part, elements of a certain nature. They can therefore not only be used to better understand this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

Also the present disclosure relates to equipment configured to modify the inclination of a backrest 3 relative to a seat 2 of a seat 1, in particular of a motor vehicle.

Such equipment comprises one or more continuous articulation mechanisms 4, the (or each) articulation mechanism 4 comprising:
- a first flange 400 and a second flange 401 configured to be typically secured respectively to the seat 2 and the backrest 3 according to a first possibility, or vice versa, namely that the first flange is secured to the seat and the second flange secured to the file according to a second possibility;
- an input member 402, rotatably mounted, configured to be moved in a first direction of rotation, and in a second direction of rotation, and cause the second flange 401 to move relative to the first flange 400 in order to change the inclination of the backrest relative to the seat, and in which said input member 402 of the articulation mechanism, or said input members 402 of the articulation mechanisms are driven by a control rod 5, coupled in rotation with said input member, or coupled simultaneously with the input members 402, the control rod 5 pivotally mounted around a longitudinal axis of the rod.

The articulation mechanism 4 can be a continuous articulation mechanism comprising a typically hypocycloidal gear connecting the first flange 600 to the second flange 601, said hypocycloidal gear comprising:
- a first toothed ring CR1, external, centered on a first axis Y1 and formed on the first flange 400;
- a second toothed ring CR2, internal, centered on a second axis Y2; coaxial with the control rod 5, said second toothed ring CR2 being formed on the second flange 401 and having an internal diameter greater than the external diameter of the first toothed ring CR1; the second axis Y2 is parallel to the first axis and offset relative to the first axis Y1 by an eccentric cam Ex
- said eccentric cam Ex rotatably mounted around the second axis Y2 cooperating with the input member 402 pivotally mounted around the second axis Y2 configured to drive the eccentric cam in rotation around the second axis Y2, in the first direction or in the second direction, thus ensuring the movement of the second flange 401 relative to the first flange 400 according to a hypocycloidal movement imposed by the gear.

Thus the rotation of the eccentric cam makes it possible to change the point of contact between the first toothed ring CR1 and the second toothed ring CR2 engaged by their teeth and thus cause the movement of the second flange relative to the first flange according to the trajectory imposed by the hypocycloidal gear.

In particular, and according to one embodiment:
- the first flange 401 may comprise a first cylindrical housing centered on the first axis Y1
- the second flange 402 may comprise a second annular housing, centered on the second axis Y2, delimited on the one hand, externally, by the second inner toothed ring CR2, and, on the other hand, internally by a collar CLT2. The second housing receives the first crown CR1 of the first flange 400.

The eccentric cam Ex comprises an external diameter, configured to slide on an internal sliding wall Pint of the first cylindrical housing of the first flange, preferably via an external BP bearing ring, recessed or even welded, and an internal diameter configured to slide on an external Pext sliding wall of the CLT2 collar, in particular via an internal bearing.

In particular, said eccentric cam can be play-take-up and for example include:
- a Noy core, comprising a cylindrical internal wall configured to pivot on the external sliding wall of the cylindrical collar CL2, and an external wall
- two sliding elements CO1, CO2, with wedge function, arranged between, on the one hand, the internal sliding wall of the first housing, and, on the other hand, the core, configured to slide, internally, on the wall externally of the Noy core and externally on the internal sliding wall of the first housing,
- a Rext spring placed between the two sliding elements CO1, CO2 and urging the sliding elements to mutual spacing.

A first of the sliding elements CO1, CO2 is configured to block rotation of the eccentric cam relative to the first flange 400, in the first direction of rotation, by wedge effect between the sliding element, on the one hand, between the external wall of the Noy core and the internal Pint sliding wall of the first 400 flange.

A second of the sliding elements CO1, CO2 is configured to block rotation of the eccentric cam Ex relative to the first flange 400, in the second direction of rotation, by wedge effect between the sliding element on the one hand between the external sliding wall of the Noy core and the internal sliding wall Pint of the first flange.

The input member 402 is configured to abut against the first sliding element CO1, in particular by bringing it closer to the second sliding element CO2, releasing the rotation and causing the rotation of the eccentric cam Ex in the first direction of rotation, when the input member is driven by the control rod 5, following the first direction of rotation.

The input member 402 is configured to abut against the second sliding element CO2 by bringing it closer to the first sliding element CO1, releasing the rotation and causing the rotation of the eccentric cam Ex in the second direction of rotation, when the input member is driven by the control rod 5 in the second direction of rotation.

The primary function of the eccentric cam with play take-up is to eliminate the play of the eccentric cam, when the two sliding elements CO1, CO2 are separated by the spring, and with the aim of eliminating the vibrations and noise of the mechanism. articulation, in the rest position of the second member relative to the first member of the control device. When the two wedge-function sliding elements are pushed apart by the spring, this has the effect of blocking the rotation of the eccentric cam.

Such blocking is however not sufficient to address in itself the identified problem of unwanted change in the inclination of the backrest, particularly when the backrest is heavily loaded, or/or when the backrest has a significant inclination with the seat, after repeated requests to the file. In such a case, unwanted sliding may be observed between the eccentric cam and the internal sliding wall of the first flange, even when the sliding elements are moved apart and eliminate the play.

In general, the input member 402, typically in the form of a plastic element, for example molded, can generally comprise two stops, configured respectively to come into contact, respectively with the first sliding element CO1 when driven by the control rod 5 following the first direction of rotation, and with the second sliding element CO2 when driven by the control rod following the second direction of rotation, and as visible by way of example in the .

In general, the input member can take the form of a disc, centered on the second axis Y2 with two projections, offset angularly relative to each other around the second axis Y2, respectively forming the two stops, as well as a centering pot, cylindrical mounted pivotally inside the CTL2 collar of the second flange. The centering stud comprises a tubular recess, of non-circular section, such as for example of square section, receiving the control rod 5. The non-circular section of the tubular recess is complementary to the section of the control rod 5, in order to prohibit relative rotation between the input member and the control rod 5, around the axis of the control rod.

Notably, and according to the present disclosure, said equipment comprises a control and locking device 6, external to the articulation mechanism(s), configured to ensure the control of the articulation mechanism(s) 4 during a change inclination of the backrest relative to the seat, as well as the irreversibility of the articulation mechanism, or of the articulation mechanisms by blocking the rotation of the control rod 5 when the control and locking device is not actuated.

When the equipment includes several articulation mechanisms actuated by the control rod 5, the control and locking device 6 advantageously ensures the irreversibility of all the articulation mechanisms 4 actuated by the control rod 5.

The control and locking device 6 comprises a first member 600, follower, integral in rotation with the control rod 5, and a second member 601, driver, pivotally mounted with a limited angular stroke relative to the second member, around the axis of the control rod 5.

The second member 601 can be a rotary button or handle, manually operated by an operator.

The first member 600 and the second member 601 may be in the form of flanges, namely that the first member 600 may be a third flange, and the second member 601 may be a fourth flange, substantially parallel to the third flange. These third flange and fourth flange extend parallel to the first flange 400 and to the second flange 401 of the articulation mechanism(s) 4. The planes of the flanges (first, second, even third and fourth) are substantially perpendicular to the rod order 5.

The rotational connection of the first member 600 and the control rod 5 can be obtained by a tubular recess 6000 (visible at the bottom). ), of non-circular section, for example of square section, of shape complementary to the section of the control rod 4, which can generally be of non-circular section, for example of square section, as illustrated for example in there .

Guidance in rotation of the second member 601 relative to the first member 600 can be obtained by a cylindrical centering stud 6001, centered on the second axis Y2, projecting from the third flange formed by the first member, around which the second member 600 pivots , via a cylindrical recess 6010. The centering stud 6002 is tubular, comprising the non-circular recess 6000 receiving the control rod 5

Said first organ 600 and the second organ 601 comprise:
- first stop means B1 configured to ensure the rotational drive of the first member 600, follower (in rotation around the axis of the control rod), by the second member 601, driver, in the first direction of rotation , at a first end of rotation stroke of the second control member 601 relative to the first member 600,
- second stop means B2 configured to ensure rotational drive of the first member 600, follower (in rotation around the axis of the control rod), by the second member 601, driver, in the second direction of rotation , at a second end of travel of the second control member relative to the first control member.

The control and locking device 6 may comprise elastic means ME constraining, in rotation around the control rod 5, the second member 601 relative to the first member 600 in a rest position PR, intermediate between the first end of stroke and the second end of the race.

Notably, again, the control and locking device 6 comprises a blocking element 602 integral in rotation with the first member 600, around the axis of the control rod 5, movable relative to the first member 601 in a radial direction DR to the axis of the control rod along guide means G1, G2 between said blocking element 602 and the first member 600.

Said blocking element 602 is advantageously configured to lock on a fixed support 603, in a blocking position PB of the blocking element 602, under the action of a restoring force of spring means MR in order to ensure the immobilization in rotation of the control rod 5 in the rest position PR of the second member 601 relative to the first member 600.

The fixed support 603 is fixed relative to the first flange 400, according to the first possibility, namely when the first flange 400 is secured to the seat, said second flange 401 then secured to the backrest 3. In the case of the second possibility not illustrated, namely the first flange is secured to the backrest and the second flange secured to the seat, the fixed support is secured to the second flange.

The fixing of the fixed support 603 is typically carried out by an elbow part, illustrated in particular in , spotted 6030 at the , This bent part can typically be fixed to a fixed gusset of the seat, this fixed gusset being fixed to the first flange (typically by welding) according to the first possibility, or else fixed to the second flange (for example by welding) according to the second possibility, and while the movable gusset secured to the backrest is typically fixed by welding to the second flange according to the first possibility, or even (for example by welding) to the first flange according to the second possibility.

Such a blocking position PB of the blocking element 602 is illustrated in , or to the left at the . Preferably, the fixed support 603 may comprise an opening Ov, centered around the longitudinal axis of the control rod 5. Said opening OV may be provided on an internal diameter with a plurality of teeth d, in particular at the level d an edge of the opening Ov, against which the blocking member 602 locks in different discontinuous angular locking positions defined by the teeth, around the axis of the control rod 5, in said blocking position PB.

If ever, the user changes the inclination of the backrest by rotating the control rod 5, up to a position of the articulation mechanism for which said blocking element finds itself oriented between two discontinuous angular locking positions, a tiny reversibility can occur, typically imperceptible for the user, according to an angular travel less than the distance between two consecutive teeth of the fixed support 603, until the spring means MR again constrain the blocking element 602 in the locking position PB, in a discontinuous angular locking position.

The first stop means B1 can, according to an embodiment illustrated in particular in the figures, comprise mutually engaging parts distributed on the second member 601 and the first member 600, which are configured to engage directly against each other. , in the first end of the race. By directly engaging is meant the fact that the torque transmitted from the second member 601 to the first member 600 is transmitted directly from the second member 601 to the first member 600 without passing through the blocking element 602. Alternatively, and according to an embodiment not illustrated, the mutually engaging parts cooperate indirectly at the first end of stroke, namely that the torque is transmitted via the blocking element 602.

The second stop means B2 can, according to an embodiment illustrated in particular in the figures, comprise mutually engaging parts distributed on the second member 601 and the first member 600, which are configured to directly engage one against the other , in the second end of the race. By directly engaging is meant the fact that the torque transmitted from the second member 601 to the first member 600 is transmitted directly from the second member 601 to the first member 600 without passing through the blocking element 602. Alternatively, and according to an embodiment not illustrated, the mutually engaging parts cooperate indirectly at the second end of stroke, namely that the torque is transmitted via the blocking element 602.

The equipment may include centering means between the first member 600 and the fixed support 603, centered around the axis of the control rod 5, for example in the form of guide(s) 6031 of the fixed support 603, distributed ( s) around the axis of the control rod 5 and cooperating in guiding with a circular peripheral edge of the first member 600.

For example, in Figures 3 and 4 we note that the fixed support comprises three guides 6031, distributed at 120° around the axis of the control rod 5. These discontinuous guides 6031 can be equal to three or more in number, or replaced by a continuous guide on the periphery of the fixed support 3. The continuous guide or the discontinuous guides extend projecting from the plane of the opening Ov, substantially in the direction of the control rod 5. The function of the continuous guide (or the discontinuous guides) is to ensure centering of the fixed support 603 relative to the first member 600 along the axis of the control rod 5. Such guidance prohibits any relative movement of the fixed support 603 relative to the first member 600 in a radial direction the control rod 5, in particular in the blocking position PB of the blocking element 602, in that such a relative movement is likely to promote untimely unlocking of the blocking element 602.

The control and locking device 6 may comprise cam means C1, C2 carried by the second member 601, comprising a first cam C1 and a second cam C2, configured to move said blocking element 602, radially against the restoring force of the spring means MR, from the blocking position PB to at least one retracted position PE for which said blocking element 602 is moved away from the fixed support 603, at least partially, releasing the rotation of the control rod 5 at least in the direction rotation imposed by the second organ 601, trainer.

Said blocking element 602 can be retracted radially:
- by the first cam C1 when the second member 601 and the first member 600 are in the first end position, when driven in the first direction of rotation, and,
- by the second cam C2 when the second member 601 and the first member 600 are in the second end position, when driven, in the second direction of rotation.

Said blocking element 602 may comprise, in the blocking position PB, two blocking projections S1, S2, distributed on either side of the radial direction DR imposed by the guide means G1, G2. The two radial projections S1 S2 are, both located on a first side relative to a plane, perpendicular to the radial direction DR passing through the axis of the control rod 5, the radial projections S1, S2 configured to lock against the teeth d of the opening Ov in the discontinuous angular locking positions, when the blocking element is in the blocking position PB.

Said blocking element 602 may have on the second side relative to the third plane, an elastic portion 6020 elastically compressed against an edge of the opening of the fixed support 603 simultaneously constituting the elastic means ME and/or the spring means MR.

The fixed support 603 can be a first thin element extending along a first planar element, at the level of the opening Ov, perpendicular to the axis of the control rod 5. The first planar element and the second planar element can be interposed between the first member 600 and the second member 601 of the control and locking device 6.

Said blocking element 602 can be a second thin element extending along a second planar element, received in the opening. The first planar element and the second planar element can be substantially coplanar, perpendicular to the axis of the control rod.

The production of the blocking element and the fixed support, in the form of thin elements, interposed between the first member and the second member, makes it possible to bring the flanges (namely the third and fourth flanges) as close as possible to the first member. and of the second member, following the direction of the control rod, the flanges of the first member and the second member, separated by a distance corresponding substantially to the thickness of the thin elements, except for operating clearance. Such an arrangement advantageously ensures great compactness of the external control and locking device, following the direction of the control rod.

The thickness of the element can be between 0.4 mm and 1.2 mm, such as for example between 0.5 mm and 0.8 mm. The fixed support is of thickness at least equal to the thickness of the blocking element, or even of thickness greater than the thickness of the blocking element, for example greater than 0.2mm to 0.6mm. The respective internal walls of the third flange and the fourth flange can be separated by a distance corresponding to the thickness of the fixed support 603, to the nearest operating clearance. The fixed support 603, in particular the part comprising said opening Ov, is thus blocked in the axial direction to the control rod, held between the first member 600 and the second member 601

The overall size of the control and locking device 6 along the axis of the control rod 5 (comprising the first member 600, the second member 601, the fixed support 603 and said blocking element 602), can be reduced , namely that the distance l (see ) may be less than 24 mm, in particular less than 20 mm, such as less than 16 mm.

The blocking element 602 and the part of the fixed support 603 carrying the opening Ov, are substantially coplanar and are inserted between the third flange of the first member 600; and the fourth flange of the second member 601, following the direction of the control rod 5.

Generally, we note that the blocking element 602 comprises a central opening 6021, crossed, on the one hand, by the control rod 5 and, on the other hand, by the centering stud 6002 of the first member 600.

As understandable, during the assembly of the control and locking device 6, the centering stud 6002 is inserted in the opening OV of the fixed support, and in the central opening 6021 of the blocking element 602.

We then insert the centering stud 6002 of the first member 600 into the cylindrical recess 6010 of the second member so that the centering stud 6002 protrudes, externally, from the fourth flange formed, The blocking element and the coplanar part of the fixed support , are blocked in the axial direction of the control rod 5, on one side by the internal wall of the third flange of the first member 600, and on the other side by the internal wall of the fourth flange of the second member 600.

A retaining means secured to the protruding end of the centering stud 6002 makes it possible to maintain the second member 601 on the centering stud 6002, preventing its separation from the first member 600. This retaining means may be elastic teeth 6001, provided on the periphery at the distal end of the centering stud, as visible on the coming to hook the exterior wall of the fourth flange during insertion. These elastic teeth 6001 deform radially inwards when inserted into the cylindrical recess 6010, before returning elastically to retain the external wall of the third flange. The retaining means can also be constituted by a retaining ring 6003 such as a circlip, abutting against the fourth flange external wall, as visible in the .

The cam means C1, C2 may include:
- the first cam C1 configured to abut with a first shoulder Ep1 of the blocking element 602 on one side of the plane passing through the radial direction DR and the axis of the control rod 5 when the second member 601 and the first member 600 are in the first end position,
- the second cam C2 configured to abut with a second shoulder Ep2 of the blocking element 602 on the other side of the plane passing through the radial direction DR and the axis of the control rod 5 when the second member 601 and the first member 600 are in the second end position.

Note that the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 can be formed projecting from one face of the second member 601, projecting towards the first member 600, and for example constituting a first stud and a second stud.

According to one embodiment, the first stop means B1 and the second stop means B2 may comprise a first opening OV1 in a body of the first member 600, receiving the first projecting cam C1, and a second opening OV2 in a body of the second member 601, receiving the second projecting cam C2.

The first cam C1/first opening OV1 couple and/or the second cam C2/second opening OV2 couple can be advantageously configured to limit the angular displacement of the second element relative to the second element by defining the first end of stroke and the second end of race. Thus, at the in particular, we note that the first opening OV1 (respectively the second opening OV2) is of superabundant dimension compared to the section of the first cam C1 (respectively of the second cam C2) so as to authorize limited angular travel between the first member and the second organ.

Generally speaking, the limited angular travel can be between 5°° and 60°, or preferably between 5° and 30°°.

The guide means may comprise two lugs G1, G2 projecting from one face of the first member 600 projecting towards the second member 601 and two notches of the blocking element 602 cooperating respectively with the two lugs G1, G2. The two lugs are aligned, radially to the axis of the control rod in the radial direction DR. The distal ends of the lugs G1, G2 can be received in two holes T1, T2, in particular blind holes of the second element 601.

Thus, at the in particular, we note that the first hole T1 (respectively the second opening T2 is of excessive size compared to the section of the first lug G1 (respectively the second lug G2) so as to authorize limited angular travel between the first member 600 and the second organ 601.

Generally speaking, the first member and the second member can be made of plastic, manufactured in particular by molding typically by injection.

The blocking element 602, as well as the thin fixed support, can be obtained from mechanical sheet cutting operations.

Cutting the sheet makes it possible to obtain a blocking element 602 in one piece, including in particular the radial projections S1, S2, the first and second shoulders Ep1, EP2, the central opening 6021, and the elastic portion 6020.

Cutting the metal sheet makes it possible to obtain the portion of the fixed support 603 carrying the opening Ov, including any teeth d against which the blocking element locks. A fixing end 6030 of the fixed support is bent for example at 90°, or even less such as 30° or 15° relative to the plane of the fixed support carrying the opening Ov. This fixing end ensures the securing of the support typically by a fixing member, passing through a bore in the fixing end.

The present disclosure also relates to a motor vehicle seat comprising a seat and a backrest, as well as equipment according to the present disclosure, comprising one or more articulation mechanisms, the first flange 400 secured to the seat 2 and the second flange 401 secured to the backrest 3, according to the first possibility, or conversely the first flange 400 secured to the backrest 3, and the second flange 401 secured to the seat 2 according to the second possibility.

Claims (16)

Equipment for adjusting the inclination of a backrest (3) relative to a seat (2) of a seat (1) comprising one or more continuous articulation mechanisms (4), said or each articulation mechanism ( 4) including:
- a first flange (400) and a second flange (401) configured to be secured respectively to the seat (2) and the backrest (3) and according to a first possibility, or conversely secured respectively to the backrest (3) and the backrest (3) the seat (2) according to a second possibility;
- an input member (402), rotatably mounted, configured to be moved in a first direction of rotation, and in a second direction of rotation, and cause the movement of the second flange (401) relative to the first flange (400) , and in which said input member (402) of the articulation mechanism, or said input members (402) of the articulation mechanisms are driven by a control rod (5), coupled in rotation with the member input of the articulation mechanism, or said input members (402) of the articulation mechanisms, the control rod (5) pivotally mounted around a longitudinal axis of the rod,
and in which said equipment comprises a control and locking device (6), external to the articulation mechanism(s) (4), configured to ensure the control of the articulation mechanism(s) (4) during the change in inclination of the backrest relative to the seat, and the irreversibility of the articulation mechanism(s) by blocking in rotation the control rod (5) when the control and locking device (6) is not actuated, the control and locking device comprising:
- a first member (600), follower, integral in rotation with the control rod (5), and a second member (601), driver, pivotally mounted with a limited angular stroke relative to the first member around the control rod (5),
and in which said first member (600) and the second member (601) comprise first stop means (B1) configured to ensure the rotational drive of the first member (600), follower, by the second member (601), trainer, according to the first direction of rotation, in a first end of rotation stroke of the second control member (601) relative to the first member (600), and second stop means (B2) configured to ensure the drive in rotation of the first follower member by the second driver member, in the second direction of rotation, at a second end of stroke of the second control member relative to the first control member
- elastic means (ME) constraining the second member (601) in rotation relative to the first member (600) in a rest position (PR), intermediate between the first end of stroke and the second end of stroke
- a blocking element (602) integral in rotation with the first member (600), around the axis of the control rod, movable relative to the first member (601) in a radial direction (DR) to the axis of the control rod (5) following guide means (G1, G2) between said blocking element (602) and the first member (600), said blocking element (602) being configured to lock on a fixed support (603) , fixed relative to the first flange (400) according to the first possibility, or on a fixed support (603), fixed relative to the second flange (401) according to the second possibility, in a blocking position of the blocking element (602 ), under the action of a restoring force of spring means (MR) in order to ensure the immobilization in rotation of the control rod (5) in the rest position (PR) of the second member (601) by relation to the first organ (600),
- cam means (C1, C2) carried by the second member (601), configured to move said blocking element (602), radially against the return force of the spring means (MR), from the blocking position (PB) up to at least one retracted position (PE) for which said blocking element (602) is moved away from the fixed support (603), at least partially, freeing the rotation of the control rod (5) at least in the direction of rotation imposed by the second member (601), driver, said blocking element (602) being retracted radially, by a first cam (C1) when the second member (601) and the first member (600) are in the first end position of stroke, when driven in the first direction of rotation, and by a second cam (C2) when the second member (601) and the first member (600) are in the second end position, when driven, in the second direction of rotation. Equipment according to claim 1, in which the fixed support (603) comprises an opening (Ov), centered around the longitudinal axis of the control rod (5), said opening (OV) provided on an internal diameter of a plurality of teeth (d) against which the locking member (602) locks in different discontinuous angular locking positions defined by the teeth, around the axis of the control rod (5), in said locking position ( PB). Equipment according to claim 2, in which said blocking element (602) comprises two blocking projections (S1, S2), distributed on either side of the radial direction (DR) imposed by the guide means (G1, G2), both located on a first side relative to a plane, perpendicular to the radial direction passing through the axis of the control rod (5), the radial projections (S1, S2) configured to lock against the teeth (d) of the opening (Ov) in the discontinuous angular locking positions, in the blocking position (PB) of the blocking element. Equipment according to claim 2 or 3, in which the fixed support (603) comprises a first thin element extending along a first planar element, at the level of the opening, said blocking element (602) is a second thin element extending along a second planar element, received in the opening (Ov), the first planar element and the second planar element, substantially coplanar, perpendicular to the axis of the control rod (5), the first planar element and the second planar element interposed between the first member (600) and the second member (601) of the control and locking device (6). Equipment according to claims 3 and 4, in which said blocking element (602) comprises the two radial projections (S1, S2) configured to block against two teeth (d) of the opening, the two projections located on a first side relative to a third plane passing through the axis of the control rod (5) and perpendicular to the radial direction (DR) and in which said blocking element (602) has on the second side relative to the third plane, a portion elastic (6020) elastically compressed against an edge of the opening of the fixed support (603) constituting the elastic means (ME) and the spring means (MR), Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the cam means (C1, C2) comprise:
- the first cam (C1) configured to abut with a first shoulder (Ep1) of the blocking element (602), on one side of the plane passing through the radial direction (DR) and the axis of the rod control (5), when the second member (601) and the first member (600) are in the first end position,
- the second cam (C2) configured to abut with a second shoulder (Ep2) of the blocking element (602), on the other side of the plane passing through the radial direction (DR) and the axis of the rod control (5), when the second member (601) and the first member (600) are in the second end position. Equipment according to claim 6, in which the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) are formed projecting from one face of the second member (601), projecting towards the first member (600), in the direction of the control rod. Equipment according to claim 7, in which the first stop means (B1) and the second stop means (B2) comprise:
- a first opening (OV1) in a body of the first member (600), receiving the first projecting cam (C1),
- a second opening (OV2) in a body of the second member (601), receiving the second projecting cam (C2),
and in which the first cam (C1)/first opening (OV1) couple and/or the second cam (C2)/second opening (OV2) couple are configured to limit the angular displacement of the second element (601) relative to the first element (600) by defining the first end of travel and the second end of travel. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 8 in which the guide means comprise two lugs (G1, G2) projecting from one face of the first member (600) projecting towards the second member (601) and two notches of the element blocker (602) cooperating respectively with the two lugs (G1, G2). Equipment according to claim 9, in which the distal ends of the lugs (G1, G2) are received in two blind holes (T1, T2) of the second member (601) Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 10 in which the articulation mechanism (4) is a continuous articulation mechanism comprising a hypocycloidal gear connecting the first flange (600) to the second flange (601), said hypocycloidal gear comprising:
- a first toothed ring (CR1), external, centered on a first axis (Y1) and formed on the first flange (400);
- a second toothed ring (CR2), internal, centered on a second axis (Y2), coaxial with the control rod (5), the second axis (Y2) parallel to the first axis and offset relative to the first axis (Y1) by an eccentric cam (Ex), said second toothed ring (CR2)) being formed on the second flange (401) and having an internal diameter greater than the external diameter of the first toothed ring (CR1),
- said eccentric cam (Ex) rotatably mounted around the second axis (Y2) cooperating with the input member (402) which is pivotally mounted around the second axis (Y2), the input member configured to drive the eccentric cam rotating around the second axis (Y2), in the first direction or in the second direction, thus ensuring the movement of the first flange (400) relative to the second flange (401) according to a hypocycloidal movement imposed by the gear. Equipment according to claim 11, in which:
- the first flange (400) comprises a first cylindrical housing centered on the first axis (Y1)
- the second flange (402) comprises a second annular housing centered on the second axis (Y2), delimited on the one hand, by the second toothed ring (CR2) and, on the other hand, by a collar (CLT2),
and in which the second housing receives the first crown (CR1) of the first flange (400)
and in which said eccentric cam (Ex) comprises an external diameter, configured to slide on an internal sliding wall (Pint) of the first cylindrical housing of the first flange (400), and an internal diameter configured to slide on an external sliding wall (Pext) of the collar (CLT2). Equipment according to claim 12, in which said eccentric cam is play-take-up comprising:
- a core (Noy), comprising an internal wall configured to pivot on an external wall for external sliding of the collar (CL2), and an external wall
- two sliding elements (CO1, CO2), with wedge function, arranged between, on the one hand, the internal sliding wall of the first housing and the core, configured to slide, internally, on the external wall of the core (Noy ) and externally on the internal sliding wall (Pint) of the first housing,
- a spring (Rext) placed between the two sliding elements (CO1, CO2) and urging the sliding elements to mutual spacing,
and in which a first of the sliding elements (CO1, CO2) is configured to block rotation of the eccentric cam relative to the first flange (400), in the first direction of rotation, by wedge effect between the sliding element , on the one hand between the external wall of the core (Noy) and the internal sliding wall (Pint) of the first flange (400),
and in which a second of the sliding elements (CO1, CO2) is configured to block rotation of the eccentric cam (Ex) relative to the first flange (400), in the second direction of rotation, by wedge effect between the sliding element on the one hand between the external sliding wall of the core (Noy) and the internal sliding wall (Pint) of the first flange,
and in which the input member (402) is configured to abut against the first sliding element (CO1) by bringing it closer to the second sliding element (CO2), releasing the rotation and causing the rotation of the eccentric cam (Ex ) in the first direction of rotation, when the input member is driven by the control rod (5) in the first direction of rotation,
and in which the input member (402) is configured to abut against the second sliding element (CO2) by bringing it closer to the first sliding element (CO1), releasing the rotation and causing the rotation of the eccentric cam (Ex ) in the second direction of rotation, when the input member is driven by the control rod (5) in the second direction of rotation. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 13, in which the second member (601) is a rotary button, manually operated by an operator, around the axis of the control rod (5). Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 14 comprising centering means between the first member (600) and the fixed support (603), centered around the axis of the control rod (5), for example in the form of guide(s) (6031) of the fixed support (603), distributed around the axis of the control rod (5) and cooperating in guiding with a circular peripheral edge of the first member (600). Motor vehicle seat comprising a seat and a backrest, as well as equipment according to one of claims 1 to 15, comprising one or more articulation mechanisms, the first flange (400) secured to the seat (2) and the second flange secured to the backrest (3) according to the first possibility, or conversely the first flange (400) secured to the backrest, and the second flange (401) secured to the seat, according to the second possibility.

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