JP2004522549A - Manual horizontal foldable seat hinge assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A back adjustment mechanism for the seat assembly, which can selectively position the backrest at various front folding positions relative to the seat and lock it to at least one front position, interfaces with the locking member. The arm includes a cordant for supporting the cam plate, and an arm for rotatably supporting the cordant is prevented. The arm rotatably supports a sector plate defining a first fixed shoulder and defining a second fixed shoulder having a fixed recess. A locking member selectively engages at least one of the first and second fixed shoulders, preferably for selectively engaging the locking member to lock the backrest in a selected pre-folded position. Includes a series of claw teeth. Alternatively, the arm includes a corner for securing the backrest in one front folded position. A gear assembly is preferably provided for driving the cam plate and is supported for operation by the cordrant.

Description

【Technical field】
[0001]
The present invention relates generally to a backrest adjustment mechanism, and more particularly to a backrest adjustment mechanism that can secure the backrest in a plurality of forward fold-down positions.
[Background Art]
[0002]
The automotive market, such as small vans and sports utility vehicles, is extremely competitive and is therefore where improvement by automakers is concentrated. In particular, car manufacturers strive to increase the overall versatility and comfort of cars in such markets in an attempt to attract and retain customers. One important feature is the flexible car interior. Flexibility in this sense refers to interior features that provide seating arrangements that can be changed to suit particular customer needs. For example, a customer may want to get rid of a backseat to provide expanded cargo space while maintaining one or more intermediate seats for additional passengers. In addition, a passenger may wish to provide a working space on the move by allowing the back of the front or middle seat to be folded. Thus, the occupant could place the laptop computer on the folded back, or use the folded back as a small desk for reading and writing.
[0003]
The vehicle seat must also be flexible, but also have features for maintaining occupant comfort, such as the ability to recline the backrest to any one of several desired positions. Various backrest reclining devices and pre-folding adjustment mechanisms are generally known in the art. However, the conventional front folding adjustment mechanism merely releases the backrest so that the backrest can be folded forward to a position substantially parallel to the seat. Furthermore, the conventional adjustment mechanism only provides one back folding position on the backrest and is not fixed in that position. If such a back, including a conventional reclining device or a front fold adjustment mechanism, were placed in a front folded position and used as a work surface by the occupant while traveling, problems would occur each time the vehicle stopped. With a flat, pre-folded backrest, when the vehicle is braking and accelerating, items on the work surface, such as a laptop computer or a book, may slide and fall off the backrest.
[0004]
Further, in the conventional front folding adjusting mechanism, in order to release the backrest and fold forward, it is necessary to apply a considerable force to the releasing mechanism. If the release mechanism is suddenly released with this required force, the operator will often impact when the force applied by the operator overcomes the force that restrains the release mechanism.
[0005]
In addition, the conventional backrest adjusting mechanism has a specific disadvantage that the reclining position of the backrest before the backrest is folded forward defines the front folding position of the backrest with respect to the horizontal plane. For example, if the backrest is in a fully reclined position before folding forward, the backrest will be substantially angled with respect to the horizontal in the front folded position. This is not desirable especially when the backrest is used as a work space.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
[0006]
Accordingly, it is desirable in the art to provide a front folding adjustment mechanism for use with a backrest that allows an operator to secure the backrest in a desired front position. This would allow the backrest to fold forward and provide a sufficient angle to prevent an object such as a laptop computer or book from sliding forward during braking. Furthermore, to provide a front folding adjustment mechanism for use on a backrest that allows an operator to fold the backrest into a generally horizontal position, i.e., a horizontally folded position, regardless of the initial reclining position of the backrest relative to the seat. Is desirable in the industry. Moreover, it is desirable in the art to provide an improved back release reclining device and an improved release mechanism for a front fold adjustment mechanism that does not have the shock associated with previous mechanisms and is easier for the operator to drive the back.
[Means for Solving the Problems]
[0007]
The present invention provides an adjustment mechanism that can secure the backrest to a plurality of front fold positions relative to the seat. Thus, the back of the backrest can be positioned parallel to the seat or fixed at various acute angles to the seat.
[0008]
In accordance with the principles of the present invention, the adjustment mechanism includes an inner plate and an outer plate rotatably supported by an arm. The arm is slidably supported between the inner plate and the outer plate for selectively engaging a locking member for fixing the inner plate and the outer plate at a plurality of pivot positions with respect to the arm. A first portion having a plurality of claw teeth. A cam plate is rotatably supported between the inner plate and the outer plate, and is biased by the biasing member to engage with the locking member. The cam plate is operable to release the locking member and can pivot the backrest forward with respect to the arm. Once pivoted to the desired position, the adjustment mechanism of the present invention can lock the backrest in that position.
[0009]
According to one variant of the invention, an adjustment mechanism for a motor vehicle seat is provided with a quadrant, an arm rotatably supporting the cordrant, and an arm slidably supported by the cordrant. A locking member that selectively engages the arm to lock the plurality of locking members in a plurality of pre-folded positions with respect to the arm; and a rotatable cord cord to selectively bias the locking member into engagement with the arm. And a gear assembly rotatably supported by a cord run for driving the cam plate. The gear assembly, when in the locked position, provides gear reduction to reduce the operator's throwing force required to disconnect the cam from the locking member. The gear assembly meshes with the first gear plate rotatably supported by the cordant and engages with the first gear plate to selectively impart rotation of the cam plate, and operates with the cam plate. It is preferable to have a second gear plate to be connected.
[0010]
According to another variant of the invention, the seat adjustment mechanism has an arm defining a first fixed shoulder pivotally and a sector pivotally supported by the arm and defining a second fixed shoulder having a fixed recess. A plate, a locking member for selectively engaging at least one of the first and second fixed shoulders, and a cordant rotatably supported by the arm; A cordland slidably supporting a locking member for securing to one of the second positions; and selectively engaging a locking member for securing the cordant to one of the first and second positions. And a cam plate rotatably supported by a cordant. In the first position, the locking member is biased against the first fixed shoulder, and in the second position, the locking member is biased into the locking recess. To drive the cam plate, a gear assembly is preferably provided and supported for operation by the cordrant. The gear assembly meshes with the first gear plate rotatably supported by the cordant and engages with the first gear plate to selectively impart rotation of the cam plate, and operates with the cam plate. It is preferable to include a second gear plate to be connected.
[0011]
Additional advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0012]
With particular reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, an adjustment mechanism 10 for use in a seat assembly is shown. The adjustment mechanism 10 generally includes an arm 12, which is disposed between and pivotally attached to the cordrant 14, which includes inner and outer plates 18, 20, and is further secured by a locking member 22. Is selectively fixed against The cam plate 24 is selectively engaged with the locking member 22.
[0013]
The first end of the arm 12 includes a portion 16 having a plurality of claw teeth 26. The second end of the arm 12 includes a hole 28 for connecting to a reclining mechanism of the linear reciprocating type, and a hole 29 is included for providing a pivot (see FIGS. 6 a to 7) for the adjustment mechanism 10. ing. The first end of the arm 12 further includes a shoulder 30 having a first side 32, a top side 34, and a second side 36. The first side surface 32 forms a corner 38 of the arm 12 at a boundary with the top surface 39.
[0014]
The arm 12 is disposed on the first pivot 40 between the inner plate and the outer plates 18 and 20 and rotatably supports them. This first pivot 40 is received through a hole 42 in the arm 12. First pivot 40 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 44, 46, which are receivable and supported in first and second holes 48, 50, respectively. The first pivot 40 further includes a support bearing 52 extending radially and located between the first and second cylindrical extensions 44,46. The support bearing 52 includes a support surface 54 received in a hole 42 for rotatably supporting the cordrant 14 with respect to the arm 12.
[0015]
The cam plate 24 is similarly disposed between the inner plate and the outer plates 18 and 20 and is rotatably supported by a second pivot 56 received through a central hole 58 of the cam plate 24. The second pivot 56 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 60, 62 which are received in and supported by first and second holes 64, 66, respectively. The second pivot 56 also extends radially and has a support bearing 68 disposed between the first and second cylindrical extensions 60,62. The support bearing 68 includes a support surface 70 received in a hole 58 for rotatably supporting the cam plate 24.
[0016]
One end of the cam plate 24 includes a cam surface 72. The opposite end of the cam plate 24 includes a hole 74 for locking a first end of a spring 76, and the inner plate 18 includes a hole 75 for locking a second end of the spring 76. The spring 76 pivotally biases the cam plate 24 in a first rotational direction, thereby biasing the cam surface 72 toward the locking member 22, which in turn is directed toward the corner 38 of the arm 12. The arm is in contact with the first side surface 32 of the arm. In this position, the cordrant 14 is held in the first upright position with respect to the arm 12. The cross member 78 includes cylindrical extensions 80, 82 received in holes 84, 86 in the inner and outer plates 18, 20, respectively. The cross member 78 contacts a surface 79 of the arm 12 to prevent the cordant 14 from rotating backward with respect to the arm 12.
[0017]
The locking member 22 is a wedge-shaped member having an arc surface 88 at the wide end for engaging with the cam surface 72 of the cam plate 24 and a notch 90 disposed at the narrow end. The notch 90 is adapted to engage with the pawl 26 of the arm 12 to secure the cordrant 14 to the arm 12. Ribs 92, 94 extend vertically from surfaces 96, 98 of locking member 22. The ribs 92, 94 are slidably supported within respective slots 100, 102 of the inner and outer plates 18, 20 to allow the locking member 22 to slide between the inner and outer plates. . Locking member 22 slides in slots 100, 102 as it interfaces between arm 12 and cam plate 24. The cam plate 24 acts on the arc surface 88 to bias the locking member 22 against the arm 12.
[0018]
With particular reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, the operation of the adjustment mechanism 10 will be described in detail. In a first preferred embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 10 can pivot the cordrant 14 forward with respect to the arm 12 and lock it in a plurality of forward tilt positions. To fold the cordrant 14 forward, the cam plate 24 pivots against the biasing force of the spring 76 to push and slide the cam surface 72 along the arcuate surface 88 of the locking member 22, and then Move away from the arc surface. Accordingly, when the locking member 22 moves from the retracted position adjacent to the first side surface 32 to the protruding position on the top surface 34 of the shoulder 30, the ribs 92 and 94 of the locking member 22 cause the inner casing plate 18 and the outer casing plate 18 to move. , 20 in the slots 100, 102. In particular, when the cam plate 24 rotates against the bias of the spring 76, the locking member 22 is sandwiched between the first side surface 32 of the arm 12 and the slots 100,102. When the cam surface 72 is disengaged from the blocking engagement with the locking member 22, the locking member 22 is free to move upward. As the cordrant 14 pivots, the walls defining the slots 100, 102 of the housing inner and outer plates 18, 20 lock in the slots 100, 102 until the locking member 22 slides onto the top surface 34. The stop member 22 is pushed up. Continuing to pivot the cordrant 14 forward causes the locking member 22 to slide along the top surface 34, as best seen in FIG. Once the locking member 22 reaches the top surface 34, the cam plate 24 is released and the spring 76 can again bias the cam plate 24 to the first pivot position. The cam surface 72 again biases the locking member 22 inside the slots 100, 102 to push the locking member 22 against the top surface 34 again.
[0019]
Once the cordrant 14 has pivoted sufficiently forward, the locking member 22 disengages from the top surface 34 and slides onto the pawl portion 16. Due to the bias of the cam plate 24, the locking member 22 immediately meshes with the first pawl teeth 26 to hold the cordrant 14 in the first forward tilt position with respect to the arm 12.
[0020]
A plurality of other front fixed positions can be realized by operating the cam plate 24 again to separate the locking member 22 from the arc surface 88. Once disconnected, the locking member 22 is movable across the pawl portion 16 until the desired position is obtained. When the desired position is obtained, the cam plate 24 is released, and the locking member 22 is again biased to engage with the specific tooth 26 of the pawl portion 16.
[0021]
To return the cordrant 14 to the upright position with respect to the arm 12, the cam plate 24 is again rotated against the biasing force of the spring 76 to separate the cam plate 24 from the locking member 22. As the cordrant 14 rotates backward, the locking member 22 moves from a retracted position adjacent the second side surface 36 to a protruding position on the top surface 34 of the shoulder 30. In particular, the locking member 22 is sandwiched between the second side 36 of the arm 12 and the slots 100, 102 until the locking member 22 slides on the top surface 34 of the arm 12. Once the locking member 22 has reached the top surface 34, the cam plate 24 is released and the spring 76 can again bias the cam plate 24 in the first rotational direction. Accordingly, the cam surface 72 biases the locking member 22 in the slots 100, 102 to press the locking member 22 against the top surface 34. When the cordrant 14 is pivoted sufficiently rearwardly, the bias of the cam plate 24 causes the locking member 22 to slide within the slots 100, 102 toward the corner 38 and abut against the first side 32, thereby causing the cord to rotate. Secure the runt 14 in the upright position.
[0022]
Referring to FIG. 5, a second preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown as an adjustment mechanism 110. The adjustment mechanism 110 generally includes an arm 112 that is disposed between and pivotally attached to a cordrant 114 that includes inner and outer plates 116,118. The cordrant 114 is selectively fixed to the arm 112 by a locking member 120 with which the cam plate 122 selectively engages.
[0023]
The first end of the arm 112 includes a first corner 124, a second corner 126, a first side surface 128, a first top surface 130, a second top surface 132, an arc surface 134, a second side surface 136, and a third top surface. 138. The first corner 124 is formed at the intersection between the first side surface 128 and the third top surface 138. The second corner 126 is formed where the second top surface 132 and the second side surface 136 cross each other. The second end of the arm 112 includes a first hole 140 for providing a pivot and a second hole 142 for coupling with a reclining linear reclining mechanism (see FIGS. 6a to 7). The arm 112 rotatably supports the inner plate and the outer plates 116 and 118 on the first pivot 144.
[0024]
The first pivot 144 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 146, 148 that are received in and through holes 150, 152 in the housing inner and outer skins 116, 118. Supported. The first pivot 144 also includes a radially extending support bearing 154 with a bearing surface 156. The first pivot 144 is received through a hole 158 in the arm 112 so that the first pivot 144 pivotally supports the cordrant 114 relative to the arm 112.
[0025]
The cam plate 122 is likewise disposed between the housing inner plate and the housing outer plates 116, 118, and is rotatably supported between them by a second pivot 160 received through the central hole 162 of the cam plate 122. ing. The second pivot 160 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 164, 166, which are received in and supported by respective holes 168, 170 in the inner and outer plates 116, 118. Have been. The second pivot 160 also includes a radially extending support bearing 172 with a bearing surface 174. The second pivot 160 is received through a hole 162 in the arm 112 so that the second pivot 160 pivotally supports the cordrant 114 about a bearing surface 174.
[0026]
One end of the cam plate 122 includes a cam surface 176, and the opposite end of the cam plate 122 includes a hole 178 for locking the first end of the spring 180. The spring 180 is connected between the cam plate 122 and a hole 181 formed through the tab 182. Tab 182 is formed along the top surface of inner plate 116. The spring 180 biases the cam plate 122 so as to be rotatable in a first direction, biases the locking member 120 against the cam surface 176 toward the first corner 124 of the arm 112, and engages the first side surface 128 of the arm. Contact When the locking member is in this position, the inner and outer plates 116, 118 are held in a first upright position relative to the arm 112.
[0027]
Locking member 120 includes an arcuate surface 188 that interfaces between arm 112 and cam plate 122 and engages cam surface 176 of cam plate 122. The cam plate 122 acts on the arc surface 188 to bias the locking member 120 against the arm 112. Ribs 186, 188 extend vertically from respective surfaces 190, 192 of locking member 120. The ribs 186, 188 are slidably supported in slots 184, 196 in the inner and outer plates 116, 118 to allow the locking member 120 to slide between the inner and outer plates.
[0028]
As described above, the cordrant 114 can be folded forward with respect to the arm 112 and fixed in one forward tilt position. In order to fold the cordrant 114 forward, the cam plate 122 is turned in the second direction against the biasing direction of the spring 180. As the cam plate 122 pivots in the second direction, the cam surface 176 slides along the arc surface 188 of the locking member 120 and then moves away from the arc surface. Thus, as the cam surface moves from the retracted position adjacent to the first side 128 of the arm 112 to an outward position on the top surface 130 of the arm 112, the inner and outer plates 116, 118 have slots 194, 196 in the slots. To slide the locking member 120 freely. In particular, when the cam plate 122 pivots against the bias of the spring 180, the locking member 120 is sandwiched between the first side 128 of the arm 112 and the slots 194,196. When the cam surface 176 moves and does not block the locking member 120, the upward movement of the locking member 120 is free. The walls defining the slots 194, 196 of the inner and outer plates 116, 118 allow the locking member 120 to slide within the slots 194, 196 until the locking member 120 slides over the first top surface 130 of the arm 112. Push up. Once the locking member 120 has reached the first top surface 130, the cam plate 122 is released and the spring 180 can again bias the cam plate 122 in the first direction, causing the locking member 120 to move to the first top surface. It is further biased with respect to surface 130.
[0029]
When the cordant 114 is rotated sufficiently forward, the locking member 120 slides off the first top surface 130 and reaches the second corner 126. The locking member 120 is biased by the cam plate 122 to engage with the second corner 126. When the locking member 120 and the second corner 126 are engaged, the cord lands 114 are held at the front position with respect to the arms 112.
[0030]
The cordant 114 can rotate further forward by rotating the cam plate 122 again against the bias of the spring 180, and releases the engagement between the cam plate 122 and the locking member 120. The cordrant 114 pivots forward to sandwich the locking member 120 between the slots 194, 196 and the second top surface 132. Again, the walls defining the slots 194, 196 push the locking member 120 up inside the slots 194, 196 until the locking member 120 slides onto the arcuate surface 134. Once the locking member 120 contacts the arcuate surface 134, the cam plate 122 is released again, and the spring 180 can bias the cam plate 122. Thus, the cam surface 176 pushes down the locking member 120 again in the slots 194, 196, biasing the locking member 120 against the arcuate surface 134. By pivoting the cordant 114 backward enough, the locking member 120 can be positioned inside the second corner 126 again, and the cordant 114 is fixed at the first front position.
[0031]
By operating the cam plate 122 again against the bias of the spring 180, and thus disconnecting the cam plate 122 from the locking member 120, the cordrant 114 can be pivoted backward to the initial upright position. When the cordrant 114 is pivoted backward, the locking member 120 is sandwiched between the slots 194, 196 and the second top surface 136, pushing the locking member 120 up in the slots 194, 196, and causing the first top surface 130 to rotate. Put it on top. When the cordant 114 is rotated sufficiently backward, the locking member 120 is pushed down by the cam plate 122 to engage with the first corner 124. Therefore, the cordrant 114 is fixed in the first upright position.
[0032]
Referring to FIGS. 6 a, 6 b, 6 c and 7, the adjustment mechanism 10 is shown implemented in the seat assembly 200. The seat assembly 200 includes a backrest 202, a seat 204, an adjustment mechanism 10, and a reclining mechanism 206 of a linear reciprocating type. The rectilinear reclining mechanism 206 includes a handle 208 and is of a type generally known in the art. The linear reciprocating reclining mechanism 206 is operable to pivot the backrest 202 relative to the seat 204 and to lock the backrest 202 in a plurality of reclining positions. The backrest 202 is shown in FIGS. 6a, 6b and 6c, respectively, in an upright position, a first reclined position, and a second reclined position. When the backrest 202 is reclined backward, the adjustment mechanism 10 rotates about the pivot 210. The backrest 202 is attached to the seat 204 via the arm 12 by the cordant 14 of the adjustment mechanism 10. The adjusting mechanism 10 can operate the backrest 202 to an arbitrary reclining position by the handle 212 in order to fold the backrest 202 forward with respect to the seat 204. FIG. 7 illustrates a position where the backrest 202 is folded forward from the first reclining position shown in FIG. 6B. However, it should be noted that although the above description has used the adjustment mechanism 10, the adjustment mechanism 110 can be substituted in accordance with the present invention.
[0033]
Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a third preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown as an adjustment mechanism 310. The adjustment mechanism 310 generally includes an arm 312, which is disposed between and pivotally attached to the cordrant 314, including the inner and outer plates 318,320. The cordant 314 is selectively fixed to the arm 312 by a locking member 323 with which the cam plate 324 selectively engages. The cam plate 324 operates via the gear assembly 323.
[0034]
The first end of the arm 312 includes a portion 316 having a plurality of pawl teeth 326. The second end of the arm 312 includes a hole 328 for coupling to a rectilinear reclining mechanism, and a hole 329 is provided for providing a pivot for the adjustment mechanism 310 (see FIGS. 8 and 9). The first end of the arm 312 further includes a shoulder 330 having a first side 332, a top side 334, and a second side 336. The first side surface 332 forms a corner 338 of the arm 312 at a boundary with the top surface 339.
[0035]
The arm 312 is disposed between the inner plate and the outer plates 318 and 320 on the first pivot 340 and rotatably supports them. This first pivot 340 is received through a hole 342 in the arm 312. The first pivot 340 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 344, 346, which are receivable in and supported by respective first and second holes 348, 350. The first pivot 340 further extends radially and further includes a support bearing 352 disposed between the first and second cylindrical extensions 344,346. The support bearing 352 includes a support surface 354 received in a hole 342 for rotatably supporting the cordant 314 with respect to the arm 312.
[0036]
The gear assembly includes a cam plate 324 rotatably supported between the inner plate and the outer plates 318, 320, and a first and a rotatable supporter rotatably supported between the inner plate and the outer plates 318, 320, respectively. Second gear plates 325 and 327 are included. The cam plate 324 is rotatably supported by a second pivot 356 received through a central hole 358 of the cam plate 324. The second pivot 356 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 360, 362, which are receivable in and supported by respective first and second holes 364, 366. The second pivot 356 also includes a radially extending support bearing 368 disposed between the first and second cylindrical extensions 360,362. The support bearing 368 includes a support surface 370 received in a hole 358 for rotatably supporting the cam plate 324.
[0037]
The first gear plate 325 includes a central hole 331, a drive arm 333, and a cable release hole 374 for interconnecting with a cable (not shown). The first gear plate 325 includes a central hole 331 and a cable release hole 374 for interconnecting with a cable (not shown). The first gear plate 325 further includes a series of teeth 335 extending radially from a central portion 331 for mating engagement with the second gear plate 327, as described further below. The central portion 331 further includes a cylindrical pillar 337 formed in the central portion for rotatably attaching to the inner plate 320 of the cordant 314. The cylindrical column 337 has a support surface and is received through a hole 341 formed in the inner plate 318. Although the present invention includes a cylindrical column 337 formed inside the first gear plate 325, the cylindrical column 337 may be a separate member attached to the first gear 325 by appropriate means. And it should be considered as within the scope of the present invention.
[0038]
The second gear plate 327 includes a central portion 343 and a reaction arm 345 having an engagement surface 371. The central portion 343 includes a series of teeth 347 extending radially from the central portion for mating engagement with the first gear plate 325, as discussed further below. The central portion 343 further includes first and second cylindrical columns 349, 351 formed in the central portion for pivotal attachment to the inner and outer plates 318, 320 of the cordant 314. A first end of the coil spring 376 adheres to the second cylindrical column 351, and a hole 375 in the outer plate 320 is for locking the second end of the spring 376. The spring 376 biases the second gear plate 327 so as to be rotatable in the first rotation direction and biases the cam surface 372 toward the locking member 322. It is pushed toward and contacts the first side surface 332 of the arm 312. In this position, the cordrant 314 is held in a first upright position with respect to the arm 312. The first and second cylindrical posts 349, 351 include support surfaces and are received through holes 353, 355 formed in the inner and outer plates 318, 320. The present invention includes cylindrical pillars 349, 351 formed inside the second gear plate 327, and the cylindrical pillars 349, 351 are separately attached to the second gear plate 327 by appropriate means. It is envisaged that this may be within the scope of the present invention. The reaction arm 345 includes an engagement surface 357 for interacting with the cam plate 324 when the adjustment mechanism 310 is driven.
[0039]
The cam plate 324 has a mounting hole 358 formed therethrough, a first arm 361 having a cam surface 327, and an engagement surface 365 for interacting with the second gear plate 327 when the adjustment mechanism 310 is driven. And a second arm 363. A cross member 378 includes cylindrical extensions 380, 382 received in respective holes 384, 386 in the inner and outer plates 318, 320, respectively. The cross member 378 contacts the surface 339 of the arm 312 to prevent the cordant 314 from rotating backward with respect to the arm 312.
[0040]
The locking member 322 is a wedge-shaped member having an arc surface 388 at the wide end for engaging with the cam surface 372 of the cam plate 324 and a notch 390 disposed at the narrow end. The notch 390 is adapted to engage with the pawl 326 of the arm 312 to secure the cordrant 314 to the arm 312. Ribs 392,394 extend vertically from surfaces 396,398 of locking member 322. These ribs 392, 394 are slidably supported within respective slots 3100, 3102 of the inner and outer plates 318, 320 and allow the locking member 322 to slide between the inner and outer plates. Locking member 322 slides through slots 3100, 3102 as it interfaces between arm 312 and cam plate 324. Cam plate 324 acts on arcuate surface 388 to bias locking member 322 against arm 312.
[0041]
8 and 9, the operation of the adjustment mechanism 310 will be described in detail. In a first preferred embodiment, an adjustment mechanism 310 may allow the cordrant 314 to pivot forward with respect to the arm 312 and lock in a plurality of forward leaning positions. In order to fold the cordrant 314 forward, a force is applied to the drive arm 333 of the first gear plate 325. This applied force causes the first gear plate 325 to pivot, which in turn causes the second gear plate 327 to pivot against the bias of the spring 376. When the second gear plate 327 rotates, the engagement surface 371 of the reaction arm 345 is released from the first arm 361 of the cam plate 324. When the second gear plate 327 further rotates, the reaction arm 345 acts on the second arm 363 of the cam plate 324. When the second gear plate 327 and the second arm 363 of the cam plate 324 are engaged with each other, the cam plate 324 is rotated, and the cam surface 372 is pushed to slide along the arc surface 388 of the locking member 322. Disconnect from Accordingly, the ribs 392 and 394 of the locking member 322 allow the locking member 322 to move from the retracted position adjacent to the first side surface 332 to the protruding position on the top surface 334 of the shoulder 330 when the locking member 322 moves from the retracted position adjacent to the first side surface 332. Glide freely through slots 3100, 3102 of 318, 320. More specifically, when the cam plate 324 rotates, the locking member 322 is sandwiched between the first side surface 332 of the arm 312 and the slots 3100, 3102. As the cam surface 372 moves out of blocking engagement with the locking member 322, the upward movement of the locking member 322 is free. As the cordrant 314 is pivoted, the walls defining the slots 3100, 3102 of the housing inner and outer housings 318, 320 are raised until the locking member 322 slides over the top surface 334. The lock member 322 is pushed up with. Continuing to pivot the cordrant 314 forward causes the locking member 322 to slide along the top surface 334, as best seen in FIG. Once the locking member 322 reaches the top surface 334, the first gear plate 325 is released, and the spring 376 biases the second gear plate 327 in the first rotation direction again to rotate the first gear plate 325. The cam plate 324 can be released to move and engage the locking member 322. The cam surface 372 again biases the locking member 322 inside the slots 3100, 3102 to press the locking member 322 against the top surface 334.
[0042]
Once the cordrant 314 has pivoted sufficiently forward, the locking member 322 slides away from the top surface 334 and onto the pawl portion 316. Due to the force from the cam plate 324, the locking member 322 immediately engages the first pawl 326 and holds the cordant 314 in the first forward tilt position with respect to the arm 312.
[0043]
A plurality of other front fixed positions can be obtained by operating the first gear plate 325 again to separate it from the arcuate surface 388 of the locking member 322. Once disengaged, the locking member 322 is movable across the pawl 316 until the desired position is obtained. When the desired position is obtained, the first gear plate 325 is released, and the locking member 322 is again biased to mesh with the specific tooth 326 of the pawl portion 316.
[0044]
In order to return the cordrant 314 to the upright position with respect to the arm 312, the first gear plate 325 is rotated again, thereby rotating the second gear plate 327 against the biasing force of the spring 376, and the cam plate is rotated. The cam plate 324 is rotated so that the 324 is separated from the locking member 322. As the cordant 314 pivots backward, the locking member 322 moves from a retracted position adjacent the second side 336 to a protruding position on the top surface 334 of the shoulder 330. In particular, locking member 322 is sandwiched between second side 336 of arm 312 and slots 3100, 3102 until locking member 322 slides onto top surface 334 of arm 312. Once the locking member 322 reaches the top surface 334, the first gear plate 325 is released, and the spring 376 biases the second gear plate 327 in the first rotation direction again, so that the first gear plate 325 is moved. The cam plate 324 can be released while being rotatable. Accordingly, the cam surface 372 biases the locking member 322 inside the slots 3100, 3102 to press the locking member 322 against the top surface 334. When the cordrant 314 is pivoted sufficiently rearward, the bias of the cam plate 324 causes the locking member 322 to slide within the slots 3100, 3102 toward the corner 338 to abut the first side 332, thereby causing the cord 314 to rotate. Hold the runt 314 in the upright position.
[0045]
The gear assembly 323 improves the operation of the adjustment mechanism 310 and effectively reduces the force required to disconnect the cam plate 124 from the locking member 322. Further, the gear assembly 323 drives the cam 324 through the movement of the first and second gear plates 325 and 327 without directly applying a force to the cam 324 itself, thereby allowing the locking member 322 to move the arm 312. When disconnected from the first side 332, any sudden movement or impact is prevented.
[0046]
Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown as an adjustment mechanism 410. The adjustment mechanism 410 generally includes an arm assembly 413, which is disposed between and pivotally attached to the cordrant 414, including the inner and outer plates 418,420. The cordant 414 is selectively secured to the arm assembly by a locking member 422 with which the cam plate 424 selectively engages.
[0047]
The arm assembly 413 includes an arm 412, a link 415, and a sector plate 417. The first end of the arm 412 includes a first corner 419, a second corner 411, a third corner 421, a first side 423, a second side 425, a third side 427, a top surface 429, and an arc surface 431. First side 423, second side 425, and top surface 429 form a fixed shoulder. The first corner 419 is formed at the base of the first side surface 423 facing the top surface 429. The second corner 411 is formed where the second side surface 425 and the arc surface 431 cross each other. The arc surface 431 is formed between the second corner 411 and the third corner 421. The third corner 423 is formed where the third side surface 427 and the arc surface 431 intersect each other. The second end of the arm 412 includes a first hole 497 for providing a pivot and a second hole 428 for connecting to a rectilinear reclining mechanism.
[0048]
The arm 412 is disposed between the inner plate and the outer plate 418, 420 on the first pivot 440, and rotatably supports them. The first pivot 440 is received through a hole 442 in the arm 412. First pivot 440 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 444, 446, which are received in and supported by first and second holes 448, 450, respectively. The first pivot 440 further extends radially and further includes a support bearing 452 disposed between the first and second cylindrical extensions 444,446. The support bearing 452 includes a support surface 454 received in a hole 442 for rotatably supporting the cordant 414 with respect to the arm 412. The sector plate 417 is also rotatably supported by the first pivot 440 and is disposed between the arm 412 and the inner plate 418.
[0049]
The sector plate 417 includes a hole 433, a locking member recess 435, a first corner 437, a second corner 439, a first side 441, a second side 443, a third side 445, an arc surface 447, and a top surface 449. The first corner 437 is formed where the arc surface 447 and the first side surface 441 cross each other. The second corner 439 is formed by intersecting the second side surface 443 and the third side surface 445 at the base of the locking member recess 435. First side 441, second side 443, and top surface 449 form a fixed shoulder. The first pivot 440 is received through a hole 433 for rotatably supporting the sector plate 417. A hole for attaching a link 415 to the end of the sector plate 417 opposite to the locking member concave portion 435 is formed. Link 415 includes first and second ends, and has holes 451, 453 formed therethrough. A first end of the link 415 is rotatably mounted on the sector plate 417, and a second end of the link 415 is rotatably mounted on a fixed external structure (not shown).
[0050]
The cam plate 422 is disposed between the housing inner plate and the housing outer plates 418, 420, and is rotatably supported therebetween by a second pivot 460 received through the central hole 462 of the cam plate 422. I have. The second pivot 460 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 464, 466 that are received in and supported by respective holes 468, 470 in the inner and outer plates 418, 420. ing. The second pivot 460 also includes a radially extending support bearing 472 with a support surface 477. The second pivot 460 is received through a hole 462 in the arm 412 so that the second pivot 460 rotatably supports the cordrant 414 about the support surface 477.
[0051]
One end of the cam plate 424 includes a cam surface 472. The second end of the cam plate 424 includes a hole 474 for locking the first end of the spring 476, and the inner plate 418 includes a hole 475 for locking the second end of the spring 476. The spring 476 biases the cam plate 424 to be pivotable in a first pivoting direction, thereby biasing the cam surface 472 toward the locking member 422, which in turn locks the arm 412 to the corner. To abut the first side of the arm. In this position, the cordant 414 is held in a first upright position relative to the arm 412. A cross member 478 includes cylindrical extensions 480,482 received in holes 484,486 in the inner and outer plates 418,420, respectively. The cross member 478 contacts the surface of the arm 412 to prevent the cordant 414 from rotating backward with respect to the arm 412.
[0052]
The locking member 422 is a wedge-shaped member having an arc surface 488 at the wide end for engaging with the cam surface 472 of the cam plate 424 and a projection 490 disposed at the narrow end. The protruding end 490 is adapted to engage with a locking member recess of a sector plate in order to fix the cordant 414 to the arm 412. Ribs 492, 494 extend vertically from surfaces 496, 498 of locking member 422. These ribs 492, 494 slidably support within respective slots 4100, 4102 of the inner and outer plates 418, 420, and allow the locking member 422 to slide between the inner and outer plates. Locking member 422 slides in slots 4100, 4102 as it abuts between the arm assembly and cam plate 424. The cam plate 424 acts on the arc surface 488 to bias the locking member 422 relative to the arm 412.
[0053]
With further reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, the operation of the adjustment mechanism 410 will be described in detail. In a fourth preferred embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 410 allows the cordrant 414 to pivot forward with respect to the arm 412 and be secured in a horizontal or flattened position. In order to fold the cordant 414 forward, the cam plate 424 is rotated against the biasing force of the spring 476 and pushes the cam surface 472 to slide along the arc surface 488 of the locking member 422, which is Disconnect from Thus, the ribs 492, 494 of the locking member 422 allow the locking member 422 to move from the retracted position adjacent to the first side surface 423 of the arm 412 to the protrusion on the top surface 429 of the arm when the locking member 422 moves from the retracted position. It slides freely in the slots 4100, 4102 of the housing skins 418, 420. In particular, when the cam plate 424 pivots against the bias of the spring 476, the locking member 422 is sandwiched between the first side 423 of the arm 412 and the slots 4100, 4102. When the cam surface 472 moves out of the blocking engagement with the locking member 422, the locking member 422 is free to move upward. As the cordrant 414 pivots, the walls defining the slots 4100, 4102 of the housing inner and outer skins 418, 420 extend until the locking member 422 slides over the top surface 429 of the arm 412. , The locking member 422 is pushed up inside 4102. As the cordant 414 continues to rotate forward, the locking member 422 slides along the top surface 429 of the arm 412, and finally moves from the top surface 429 of the arm 412 to the top surface 449 of the sector plate 417. Once the locking member 422 reaches the top surface 429, 449 of the arm 412 or the sector plate 417, the cam plate 424 is released, and the spring 476 can again bias the cam plate 424 in the first rotation direction. . The cam surface 472 again biases the locking member 422 inside the slots 4100, 4102, and depending on the forward position of the cord runt 414 at the time of release of the cam plate 424, one or both of the arm 412 and the sector plate 417. The locking member 422 is pressed against the top surfaces 429 and 449.
[0054]
Once the cordant 414 has pivoted sufficiently forward, the locking member 422 slides away from the top surface 449 of the sector plate 417 and into the locking member recess 435. Due to the bias of the cam plate 424, the locking member 422 immediately engages with the locking member recess 435, and the back surface 485 of the cordrant 414 is held in a relatively horizontal or flat folded position.
[0055]
The point on the sector plate where the locking member 422 moves from the top surface 429 of the arm 412 to the top surface 449 of the sector plate 417 is determined by the initial relative relationship between the arm 412 and the cordrant 414. As best seen in FIG. 12, the relative angle X of the arm with respect to the horizontal plane determines the angle Y between the arm 412 and the cordrant 414, and then the locking member 422 moves the sector before reaching the locking member recess 435. The distance that must be moved on the plate 417 is determined. In particular, when the arm 412 is pivoted (for reclining), the link 415 can maintain the orientation of the locking member 422 relative to the horizontal plane to keep the back surface 485 of the cordrant 414 horizontal. The sector plate 417 is rotated as described above. However, when the arm 412 rotates, the relative position of the link 415 with respect to the arm 412 changes, and the relative position of the sector plate 417 with respect to both the arm 412 and the cordrant 414 also changes. For example, as the initial angle Y between the arm 412 and the bottom 495 of the cordrant 414 increases, the distance between the second side 423 of the arm 412 and the second side 443 of the sector plate 417, shown as Q in FIGS. The distance decreases. Therefore, the larger the initial angle Y (or the smaller the angle X) between the arm 412 and the bottom surface 495 of the cordant 414, the more the locking member 422 reaches the locking member recess 435 so that the sector plate 417 is moved. The distance that must be moved over the top surface 449 is shorter. When the sector plate 417 and the arm 412 are relatively rotated through the connection portion of the link 415, the codeland 414 of the sector plate 417 is correspondingly maintained in order to maintain the rear surface 485 of the codeland 414 in a relatively horizontal position. Change the relative position with respect to.
[0056]
In order to return the cordant 414 to the upright position with respect to the arm 412, the cam plate 424 is again rotated against the biasing force of the spring 476, and the cam plate 424 is separated from the locking member 422. When the cordant 414 rotates backward, the locking member 422 moves from the retracted position in the locking member recess 435 to a protruding position on the top surface 449 of the sector plate 417. In particular, locking member 422 is engaged with locking member recess 435 in slots 4100, 4102 until locking member 422 slides onto top surface 449 of sector plate 417. Once the locking member 422 has reached the top surface 449, 429 of the sector plate 417 or arm 412, the cam plate 424 is released and the spring 476 again biases the cam plate 424 in the first rotational direction. it can. Accordingly, the cam surface 472 biases the locking member 422 inside the slots 4100, 4102 to press the locking member 422 against the top surface 449, 429 of the sector plate 417 or the arm 412. When the cordant 414 rotates sufficiently backward, the locking member 422 moves from the top surface 449 of the sector plate 417 to the top surface 429 of the arm 412. The relative distance Q that the locking member 422 must travel before moving from the top surface 449 of the sector plate 417 to the top surface 429 of the arm 412 depends on the distance between the arm 412 and the cordrant 414, as discussed above. Depends on the initial angle Y. When the cordant 414 rotates sufficiently rearward, the bias of the cam plate 424 causes the locking member 422 to slide within the slots 4100, 4102 toward the first corner 419 of the arm 412 and engage the first side 423. Abuts, thereby securing cordland 414 in an upright position.
[0057]
With particular reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown as an adjustment mechanism 510. The adjustment mechanism 510 generally includes an arm assembly 513, which is disposed between and pivotally attached to the cordrant 514, which includes inner and outer plates 518,520. The cordant 514 is selectively fixed to the arm assembly 513 by a locking member 522 that selectively engages a cam plate 522 driven via a gear assembly 523.
[0058]
The gear assembly 523 includes a cam plate 524 rotatably supported between the inner plate and the outer plates 518, 520, and a cam plate 524 rotatably supported between the inner plate and the outer plates 518, 520. The first and second gear plates 525 and 527 are included. The cam plate 524 is rotatably supported by a second pivot 556 received through a center hole 558 of the cam plate 524. The second pivot 556 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 560,562, which are received in and supported by the first and second holes 564,566, respectively. The second pivot 556 also includes a support bearing 568 that extends radially and is located between the first and second cylindrical extensions 560,562. The support bearing 568 includes a support surface 570 received in a hole 558 for rotatably supporting the cam plate 524.
[0059]
First gear plate 525 includes a central portion 531, a drive arm 533, and a cable release hole 574 for interconnecting with a cable (not shown). First gear plate 525 further includes a series of teeth 535 that extend radially from central portion 531 for mating engagement with second gear plate 527, as discussed further below. The central portion 531 further includes a cylindrical column portion 537 formed in the central portion for rotatably attaching to the inner plate 520 of the cordant 514. The cylindrical post 537 includes a support surface and is received through a hole 541 formed in the inner plate 318. The present invention includes a cylindrical post 537 formed inside the first gear plate 525, which may be a separate member attached to the first gear plate 525 by appropriate means. Good things are assumed and should be considered within the scope of the present invention.
[0060]
Second gear plate 527 includes a central portion 543 and a reaction arm 545 having an engagement surface 571. The central portion 543 includes a series of teeth 547 extending radially from the central portion for mating engagement with the first gear plate 525, as discussed further below. The central portion 543 further includes first and second cylindrical columns 549, 551 formed therein for pivotal attachment to the inner and outer plates 518, 520 of the cordant 514. A first end of the coil spring 576 is attached to the second cylindrical column 551, and the outer plate 520 includes a hole 575 for locking the second end of the spring 576. The spring 576 biases the second gear plate 527 to pivot in the first pivot direction, which in turn pivots the first gear plate 525 in the second pivot direction, thereby causing the cam surface 572 to move. Biasing toward locking member 522, which is then urged toward corner 538 of arm 512 to abut first side 532 of the arm. In this position, the cordrant 514 is held in the first upright position with respect to the arm 512. The first and second cylindrical posts 549, 551 include support surfaces and are received through holes 553, 555 formed in the inner and outer plates 518, 520. The present invention includes cylindrical pillars 549, 551 formed inside the second gear plate 527, which can be attached to the second gear plate 527 by appropriate means. It is envisioned that it may be a body member, which should be considered within the scope of the present invention. The reaction arm 545 includes an engagement surface 557 for interacting with the cam plate 524 when the adjustment mechanism 510 is driven.
[0061]
The cam plate 524 has a mounting hole 558 formed therethrough, a first arm 561 having a cam surface 572, and an engagement surface 565 for interacting with the second gear plate 527 when the adjustment mechanism 510 is driven. And a second arm 563. A cross member 578 includes cylindrical extensions 580, 582 received in holes 584, 586 in the inner and outer plates 518, 520, respectively. The cross member 578 contacts the surface 579 of the arm 512 to prevent the cordant 514 from rotating backward with respect to the arm 512.
[0062]
The locking member 522 is a wedge-shaped member having an arc surface 588 at the wide end for engaging with the cam surface 572 of the cam plate 524, and a projection 590 disposed at the narrow end. The protruding end 590 is adapted to engage with a locking member concave portion for fixing the cordant 514 to the arm 512. Ribs 592, 594 extend vertically from surfaces 596, 598 of locking member 522. These ribs 592, 594 are slidably supported within respective slots 5100, 5102 of the inner and outer plates 518, 520 and allow the locking member 522 to slide between the inner and outer plates. Locking member 522 slides in slots 5100, 5102 as it interfaces between arm 512 and cam plate 524. The cam plate 524 acts on the arc surface 588 to bias the locking member 522 against the arm 512 and the sector plate 517.
[0063]
The arm assembly 513 includes an arm 512, a link 515, and a sector plate 517. The first end of the arm includes a first corner 519, a second corner 511, a third corner 521, a first side 523, a second side 525, a third side 527, a top surface 529, and an arc surface 531. First side 523, second side 525, and top side 529 form a fixed shoulder. The first corner 519 is formed at the base of the first side surface 523 facing the top surface 529. The second corner 511 is formed where the second side surface 525 and the arc surface 531 cross each other. The arc surface 531 is formed between the second corner 511 and the third corner 521. The third corner 521 is formed where the third side surface 527 and the arc surface 531 cross each other. The second end of the arm 512 includes a first hole 597 for providing a pivot and a second hole 528 for connecting to a linear reciprocating reclining mechanism.
[0064]
The arm 512 is disposed between the inner plate and the outer plate 518, 520 on the first pivot 540, and rotatably supports them. First pivot 540 is received through hole 542 in arm 512. First pivot 540 includes first and second cylindrical extensions 544, 546, which are received in and supported by first and second holes 548, 550, respectively. The first pivot 540 further includes a support bearing 552 that extends radially and is located between the first and second cylindrical extensions 544,546. The support bearing 552 includes a support surface 554 received in a hole 542 for rotatably supporting the cordant 514 with respect to the arm 512. Similarly, the sector plate is rotatably supported by the first pivot 540, and is disposed between the arm 512 and the inner plate 518.
[0065]
The sector plate 517 includes a hole 533, a locking member recess 535, a first corner 537, a second corner 539, a first side 541, a second side 543, a third side 545, an arc surface 547, and a top surface 549. First side 541, second side 543, and top surface 549 form a fixed shoulder. The first corner 537 is formed at the intersection of the arc surface 547 and the first side surface 541. The second corner 539 is formed by intersecting the second side surface 543 and the third side surface 545 at the base of the locking member recess 535. The first pivot 540 is received through a hole 533 for rotatably supporting the sector plate 517. A hole for attaching a link 515 to the end of the sector plate 517 opposite to the locking member recess 535 is formed. Link 515 includes first and second ends, and has holes 551, 553 formed therethrough. A first end of the link 515 is rotatably mounted on the sector plate 517, and a second end of the link 517 is rotatably mounted on a fixed external structure (not shown).
[0066]
With particular reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, the operation of the adjustment mechanism 510 will be described in detail. In a fifth preferred embodiment, an adjustment mechanism 510 can allow the cordrant 514 to pivot forward with respect to the arm 512 and lock it in a horizontal, or flattened, position. In order to fold the cordant 514 forward, a force is applied to the drive arm 533 of the first gear plate 525. This applied force causes the first gear plate 525 to pivot, which in turn causes the second gear plate 527 to pivot against the bias of the spring 576. When the second gear 527 rotates, the engagement surface 571 of the reaction arm 545 is released from the first arm 561 of the cam plate 524. When the second gear plate 527 further rotates, the reaction arm 545 acts on the second arm 563 of the cam plate 524. When the second gear plate 527 and the second arm 563 of the cam plate 524 are engaged, the cam plate 524 is rotated to push the cam surface 572 and separate from the arc surface 588 of the locking member 522. Therefore, the ribs 592 and 594 of the locking member 522 allow the locking member 522 to move from the retracted position adjacent to the first side surface 523 to the protruding position on the top surface 529 of the arm 512 when the locking member 522 moves from the retracted position to the protruding position on the top surface 529. Glide freely in slots 5100, 5102 of 518, 520.
[0067]
In particular, when the cam plate 524 rotates against the bias of the spring 576, the locking member 522 is sandwiched between the first side surface 523 of the arm 512 and the slots 5100, 5102. When the cam surface 572 moves out of blocking engagement with the locking member 522, the upward movement of the locking member 522 is free. As the cordrant 514 is pivoted, the walls defining the slots 5100, 5102 of the housing inner and outer skins 518, 520 cause the walls defining the slots 5100, 5102 to slide until the locking member 522 slides onto the top surface 529 of the arm 512. , The lock member 522 is pushed up inside. When the cordant 514 continues to rotate forward, the locking member 522 is slid along the top surface 529 of the arm 512, and finally is moved from the top surface 529 of the arm 512 to the top surface 549 of the sector plate 517. The arm and part of the sector plate overlap. Once the locking member 522 reaches the top surface 529,549 of the arm 512 or the sector plate 517, the first gear plate 525 is released, and the spring 576 again biases the second gear plate 527 in the first rotation direction. Then, the first gear plate 525 can be rotated and the cam plate 524 can be released. The cam surface 572 again biases the locking member 522 inside the slot 5100, 5102, and moves the locking member 522 to the arm 512 or the sector plate according to the forward movement of the cordant 514 at the time of releasing the first gear plate 525. 517 against one or both top surfaces 529,549.
[0068]
Once the cordant 514 has pivoted sufficiently forward, the locking member 522 slides away from the top surface 549 of the sector plate 517 and into the locking member recess 535. Due to the force of the cam plate 524, the locking member 522 immediately engages the locking member recess 535, and the back surface 585 of the cordant 514 is held in a relatively horizontal or flat folded position.
[0069]
The point on the sector plate 517 where the locking member 522 moves from the top surface 529 of the arm 512 to the top surface 549 of the sector plate 517 is determined by the initial relative relationship between the arm 512 and the cordrant 514. The angle X (see FIGS. 12 and 13) of the arm 512 relative to the horizontal plane (see FIGS. 12 and 13) determines the angle Y (see FIGS. 12 and 13) between the arm 512 and the cordant 514, and then the locking member 522 causes the locking member recess 535 to move. The distance Q (see FIGS. 12 and 13) that must be moved on the sector plate 517 before the distance is reached is determined. When the arm 512 pivots, the link 515 pivots the sector plate 517 such that the orientation of the locking member 522 relative to the horizontal plane remains constant and the back surface 585 of the cordrant 514 can be kept horizontal. I do. However, when the arm 512 rotates, the relative position of the link 515 with respect to the arm 512 changes, and accordingly, the relative position of the sector plate 517 with respect to the arm 512 also changes. For example, when the initial angle Y between the arm 512 and the bottom surface 595 of the cordrant 514 increases, the distance between the second side 525 of the arm 512 and the second side 543 of the sector plate 517 decreases. Accordingly, the greater the initial angle Y between the arm 512 and the bottom surface 595 of the cordrant 514, the more the locking member 522 must move on the top surface 549 of the sector plate 517 to reach the locking member recess 535. The distance will be shorter. When the sector plate 517 and the arm 512 are relatively rotated through the connection portion of the link 515, the codeland 514 of the sector plate 517 is correspondingly maintained in order to maintain the rear surface 585 of the codeland 514 relatively horizontal. Change the relative position with respect to.
[0070]
In order to return the cordrant 514 to the upright position with respect to the arm 512, the first gear plate 525 is again rotated, thereby rotating the second gear plate 527 against the biasing force of the spring 576, and The cam plate 524 is rotated so that the 524 is separated from the locking member 522. When the cordant 514 rotates backward, the locking member 522 moves from the retracted position in the locking member recess 535 to a protruding position on the top surface 549 of the sector plate 517. In particular, locking member 522 is engaged between locking member recess 535 and slots 5100, 5102 until locking member 522 slides onto top surface 549 of sector plate 517. Once the locking member 522 has reached the top surface 549, 529 of the sector plate 549 or arm 512, the first gear plate 525 is released and the spring 576 again biases the second gear plate 527 in the first rotational direction. Thus, the first gear plate 525 becomes rotatable and the cam plate 524 can be released. Accordingly, the cam surface 572 again biases the locking member 522 inside the slot 5100, 5102 to press the locking member 522 against the sector plate 517 or the top surface 549, 529 of the arm 512.
[0071]
When the cordant 514 rotates sufficiently backward, the locking member 522 moves from the top surface 549 of the sector plate 517 to the top surface 529 of the arm 512. The relative distance that the locking member 522 must move before moving from the top surface 549 of the sector plate 517 to the top surface 549 of the arm 512 depends on the distance between the arm 512 and the cordrant 514 as described above. Depends on the initial angle Y. When the cordant 514 is pivoted sufficiently rearward, the bias of the cam plate 524 causes the locking member 522 inside the slots 5100, 5102 to slide toward the first corner 519 of the arm 512 to make contact with the first side surface 523. And thereby fix the cordrant 514 in the upright position.
[0072]
The third, fourth, and fifth embodiments of the present adjustment mechanisms 310, 410, 510 are for use in a seat assembly similar to that described with respect to the seat assembly 200 of FIGS. 6a, 6b, 6c, and 7. It can be seen that this can be adapted to Accordingly, a detailed description has been given above. Generally speaking, the reclining mechanism 310 allows the operator to more easily release the locking member 322 by gear reduction through the first and second gear plates 325, 327 and move the backrest 202 to the seat 204. In contrast, it can be folded into one of several pre-folded positions. By the reclining mechanism 410, the backrest 202 can be maintained at a constant front folding horizontal position regardless of the reclining position of the reclining mechanism 410 with respect to the seat 204. The reclining mechanism 510 is characterized in that the locking member 522 can be more easily released, and the reclining mechanisms 310 and 410 for maintaining the reclined mechanism 510 at a constant front folding horizontal position regardless of the reclining position of the reclining mechanism 510 with respect to the seat 204. Combine
[0073]
While the invention has been described herein with reference to preferred embodiments and illustrated in the drawings, various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that equivalents can be substituted for the elements. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments illustrated by the drawings and described herein as the best mode presently contemplated for carrying out the invention, but rather the invention is not limited to the appended patents. It is intended to cover any embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
[Brief description of the drawings]
[0074]
FIG. 1 is a side view showing an adjustment mechanism according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the adjusting mechanism.
FIG. 3 is a side view showing the adjustment mechanism of FIGS. 1 and 2 in a first position.
FIG. 4 is a side view showing the adjustment mechanism of FIGS. 1 and 2 in a second position.
FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a second embodiment of the adjusting mechanism of the present invention.
FIG. 6a is a schematic side view showing a seat assembly including the adjustment mechanism of the present invention, illustrating the backrest in various positions relative to the seat.
FIG. 6b is a schematic side view showing a seat assembly including the adjustment mechanism of the present invention, illustrating the backrest in various positions relative to the seat.
FIG. 6c is a schematic side view showing a seat assembly including the adjustment mechanism of the present invention, illustrating the backrest in various positions relative to the seat.
FIG. 7 is a side view showing a seat assembly according to the present invention with the backrest in a front folded position with respect to the seat.
FIG. 8 is a side view showing a third embodiment of the adjusting mechanism of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is an exploded view showing a third embodiment of the adjusting mechanism of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a side view showing a fourth embodiment of the adjusting mechanism of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is an exploded view showing a fourth embodiment of the adjusting mechanism of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a side view showing a third embodiment of the adjustment mechanism of the present invention in a first position.
FIG. 13 is a side view showing a third embodiment of the adjustment mechanism of the present invention in a second position.
FIG. 14 is a side view showing a fifth embodiment of the adjusting mechanism of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is an exploded view showing a fifth embodiment of the adjusting mechanism of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
[0075]
10 Adjustment mechanism
12 arms
14 Codeland
16 Tooth teeth
18 inner plate
20 Skin
22 Locking member
24 cam plate
26 nail teeth
28, 29 holes
30 shoulders
32 1st side
34, 39 Top
36 Second side
38 corner
40 1st Axis
42 holes
44 1st cylindrical extension
46 Second cylindrical extension
48 1st hole
50 2nd hole
52 Support bearing
54 Support surface
56 Second Axis
58 Central Hole
60 First cylindrical extension
62 Second cylindrical extension
64 1st hole
66 2nd hole
68 Support shaft
70 Support surface
72 Cam surface
74, 75 holes
76 spring
78 Horizontal member
80, 82 cylindrical extension
84, 86 holes
88 arc surface
90 notch
92, 94 rib
96, 98 faces
100, 102 slots
110 adjustment mechanism
112 arms
114 Codeland
116 inner plate
118 skin
120 Locking member
122 cam plate
124 First Corner
126 Second Corner
128 First side
130 1st top
132 2nd top
134 arc surface
136 2nd side
138 Third Top
140 1st hole
142 2nd hole
144 First Axis
146 first cylindrical extension
148 Second cylindrical extension
150, 152 holes
154 Support bearing
158 holes
160 Second Axis
162 center hole
164 first cylindrical extension
166 Second cylindrical extension
168 Hole in inner plate
170 Outer Plate Hole
172 Support bearing
174 Bearing surface
176 cam surface
178 holes
180 spring
182 tab
184,196 slots
186 rib
188 arc surface
200 seat assembly
202 backrest
204 seat
206 Reclining mechanism
208 handle
210 Axis
212 handle
310 Adjustment mechanism, reclining mechanism
312 arms
314 Codeland
318 inner plate
316 nail part
320 skin
322 Locking member
323 gear assembly
324 cam plate
325 First gear plate
326 First nail
327 Second gear plate
328, 329 holes
330 shoulder
331 center hole
332 First side
333 drive arm
334 top
336 Second side
337 cylindrical pillar
338 corner
339 Top
340 First Axis
341 holes
342 holes
343 center
344 First cylindrical extension
345 Recoil arm
346 Second cylindrical extension
347 teeth
348 1st hole
349 First cylindrical pillar
350 2nd hole
351 Second cylindrical column
352 Support bearing hole
354 support surface
356 Second Axis
357 engagement surface
358 mounting hole
360 first cylindrical extension
361 1st arm
362 Second cylindrical extension
363 Second arm
364 1st hole
365 engagement surface
366 Second Hole
368 Support bearing
370 Support surface
371 engagement surface
372 cam surface
374 cable release hole
375 holes
376 spring
378 horizontal member
380, 382 cylindrical extension
384 hole in inner plate
386 Hole in outer plate
388 arc surface
390 notch
392,394 rib
396, 398 faces
3100, 3102 slots
410 Adjustment mechanism
411 The second corner
412 arms
413 arm assembly
414 Codeland
415 links
417 sector board
418 inner plate
419 First Corner
420 case outer plate
421 Third Corner
422 Locking member, cam plate
423 First side
424 cam plate
425 2nd side
427 3rd side
428 second hole
429 Top
431 arc surface
433 holes
435 Locking member recess
437 First Corner
439 The second corner
440 First Axis
441 First side
443 Second side
445 Third side
447 arc surface
449 Top
442 holes
444 First cylindrical extension
446 Second cylindrical extension
448 1st hole
449 Top
450 2nd hole
451, 453 holes
452 Support bearing
454 support surface
460 Second Axis
462 center hole
464 First cylindrical extension
466 Second cylindrical extension
468 Inner Plate Hole
470 Hole in outer plate
472 cam surface
474 holes
476 spring
477 Support surface
480, 482 cylindrical extension
484 inner plate hole
485 back
486 Outer Plate Hole
488 arc surface
490 tip
492, 494 rib
495 bottom
497 Hole 1
496, 498 faces
4100, 4102 slots
510 Adjustment mechanism, reclining mechanism
511 The second corner
512 arms
513 arm assembly
514 Code Land
515 links
517 sector board
518 inner plate
519 First Corner
520 Case outer plate
521 Third Corner
522 Locking member
523 Gear Assembly, First Side
524 cam plate
525 first gear plate, second side surface
527 Second gear plate, third side surface
528 2nd hole
529 Top
531 Central part, arc surface
533 drive arm, hole
535 teeth, locking member recess
537 Cylindrical pillar, first corner
538 corner
539 Second corner
540 1st Axis
541 hole, first side
542 hole
543 center, second side
544 First cylindrical extension
545 Recoil arm
546 Second cylindrical extension
545 recoil arm, third side
547 teeth, arc surface
549 First cylindrical column, top surface
551 2nd cylindrical pillar, hole
552 Support bearing
553 holes
553, 555 holes
554 Support surface
556 Second Axis
557 engagement surface
558 center hole
560 First cylindrical extension
561 1st arm
562 Second cylindrical extension
563 2nd arm
564 1st hole
565 engagement surface
566 2nd hole
568 Support bearing
570 Support surface
571 engagement surface
572 cam surface
574 release hole
575 holes
576 Coil spring
578 horizontal member
579 faces
580,582 Cylindrical extension
584 Inner plate hole
585 back
586 Hole in skin
588 arc surface
590 tip
592,594 rib
595 bottom
596,598 faces
597 Hole 1
5100, 5102 slots

Claims (39)

Codeland and
An arm that rotatably supports the cordant;
A locking member slidably supported by the cordrant for engaging the arm, thereby selectively securing the cordrant to one of a plurality of angular positions relative to the arm;
A cam plate rotatably supported by the cordant for positioning the locking member with respect to the arm. A biasing member for biasing the cam plate toward the arm, wherein the locking member is attached to the arm to secure the cordland at the one of a plurality of angular positions relative to the arm. The adjustment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism is biased against the adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the cam plate includes a cam surface that interfaces with the locking member to slidably bias the locking member. The arm includes a plurality of pawls for selectively engaging the locking member to selectively secure the cordland to the one of a plurality of angular positions relative to the arm; The adjustment mechanism according to claim 1. 5. The adjustment mechanism according to claim 4, wherein the arm includes a corner for blocking the locking member, thereby positioning the cordrant substantially parallel to the arm. The adjustment mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the cordant includes an inner plate and an outer plate that rotatably support the cam plate and slidably support the locking member. The wedge-shaped body according to claim 1, wherein the locking member is a wedge-shaped body including an arc surface at a wide end for engaging the cam plate and a notch at a narrow end for engaging the arm. Adjustment mechanism. With a seat,
A backrest pivotally interconnected with the seat via a reclining mechanism;
A front folding mechanism coupled to the backrest to adjustably position the backrest with respect to the seat in one of a plurality of front folding positions. The pre-folding mechanism,
A cordland supporting the backrest,
An arm interconnected to the seat and rotatably supporting the cordland;
A cam plate rotatably supported by the cordant,
9. The adjustable according to claim 8, including a locking member slidably supported by the cordrant to secure the backrest to one of the plurality of front folded positions relative to the seat. Seat assembly. A biasing member for biasing the cam plate toward the arm to press the locking member against the arm, thereby causing the backrest to be in one of the plurality of front folded positions relative to the seat. 10. The adjustable seat assembly of claim 9, wherein the seat assembly is fixed. The adjustable seat assembly according to claim 9, wherein the cam plate includes a cam surface that interfaces with the locking member to slidably bias the locking member toward the arm. The arm includes a plurality of pawls for selectively engaging the locking member to selectively secure the backrest to the seat in one of the plurality of pre-folded positions. The adjustable seat assembly of claim 9. 13. The adjustable seat assembly of claim 12, wherein the arm further comprises a corner for blocking the locking member, thereby positioning the backrest substantially perpendicular to the seat. . Codeland and
An arm for rotatably supporting the cordant;
A locking member slidably supported by the cordrant and selectively engaged with the arm to secure the cordrant in a plurality of pre-folded positions relative to the arm;
A cam plate rotatably supported by the cordant to selectively bias the locking member into engagement with the arm;
A gear assembly rotatably supported by the cordant to drive the cam plate. A biasing member for biasing the cam plate toward the arm, whereby the locking member for securing the cordrant to the arm is biased into engagement with the arm. Item 15. The adjusting mechanism according to Item 14. 15. The adjustment mechanism of claim 14, wherein the cam plate includes a cam surface that selectively engages the locking member to slidably bias the locking member. The gear assembly meshes with the first gear plate rotatably supported by the cordant and the first gear plate for selectively imparting rotation to the cam plate; 15. The adjustment mechanism according to claim 14, including a second gear plate operatively connected to the cam plate. An adjustable seat assembly comprising: a seat; and a reclining mechanism pivotally supporting a backrest relative to the seat.
The reclining mechanism,
A cordland supporting the backrest,
An arm operatively connected to the backrest and rotatably supporting the cordrant;
A locking member slidably supported by the cordant and selectively engaged with the arm to secure the backrest in a plurality of front folded positions relative to the seat;
A cam plate rotatably supported by the cordant to selectively bias the locking member into engagement with the arm;
A gear assembly rotatably supported by the cordland to drive the cam plate. A biasing member for biasing the cam plate into engagement with the locking member for further engagement with the arm, thereby securing the backrest in the front folded position relative to the seat. 19. The adjustable seat assembly of claim 18, wherein 20. The adjustable seating set of claim 18, wherein the cam plate includes a cam surface selectively engaging the locking member to slidably bias the locking member toward the arm. Three-dimensional. The gear assembly meshes with the first gear plate for selectively imparting rotation to the first gear plate rotatably supported by the cordant and the cam plate; and 19. The adjustable seat assembly of claim 18, including a second gear plate operatively connected to the cam plate. An arm defining a first fixed shoulder;
A sector plate rotatably supported by the arm and defining a second fixed shoulder having a fixed recess;
A locking member selectively engaging at least one of the first and second fixed shoulders;
A cordant rotatably supported by the arm and slidably supporting the locking member for fixing the cordant to one of the first and second positions with respect to the arm. When,
A cam plate rotatably supported by the cordant for selectively engaging the locking member for fixing the cordant at one of the first and second positions;
A seat adjustment mechanism for biasing the locking member relative to the first fixed shoulder in the first position and biasing the locking member into the fixed recess in the second position. 23. The seat adjustment mechanism of claim 22, wherein the locking member engages both the first and second fixed shoulders during rotation of the cordrant between the first and second positions. . 23. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising a biasing member for biasing the cam plate toward engagement with the locking member to selectively secure the cordrant in the horizontal position relative to the arm. The seat adjustment mechanism as described. 23. The cam plate includes a cam surface selectively engaging the locking member to slidably bias the locking member into engagement with one of the arm and the sector plate. The seat adjustment mechanism according to 1. 23. The seat adjustment mechanism according to claim 22, further comprising a link operatively interconnecting the arm and the sector plate to allow a constant relative position between the sector plate and the codeland. 23. The seat adjustment mechanism according to claim 22, wherein the cordant includes a housing inner plate and a housing outer plate that rotatably support the cam plate and slidably support the locking member. 23. The seat adjustment mechanism according to claim 22, further comprising a gear assembly rotatably supported by the cordant to drive the cam plate. The gear assembly meshes with the first gear plate to selectively impart rotation of the cam plate with the first gear plate rotatably supported by the cordant; and 29. The seat adjustment mechanism of claim 28, including a second gear plate operatively connected to the cam plate. 29. The seat adjustment mechanism of claim 28, further comprising a link operatively interconnecting the arm and the sector plate to allow a constant relative position between the sector plate and the codeland. 29. The apparatus of claim 28, further comprising a biasing member for biasing the cam plate toward engagement with the locking member to selectively secure the cordland in the horizontal position relative to the arm. The seat adjustment mechanism as described. 29. The cam plate includes a cam surface selectively engaged with the locking member to slidably bias the locking member into engagement with one of the arm and the sector plate. The seat adjustment mechanism according to 1. An adjustable seat assembly comprising: a seat; and a reclining mechanism pivotally supporting a backrest relative to the seat.
The reclining mechanism,
An arm defining a first fixed shoulder;
A sector plate rotatably supported by the arm and defining a second fixed shoulder having a fixed recess;
A locking member selectively engaging at least one of the first and second fixed shoulders;
A cordant rotatably supported by the arm and slidably supporting the locking member for fixing the cordant to one of the first and second positions with respect to the arm. When,
A cam plate pivotally supported by the cordant for selectively engaging the locking member for securing the cordant in one of the first and second positions;
An adjustable seat assembly biasing the locking member relative to the first fixed shoulder in the first position and biasing the locking member into the locking recess in the second position. 34. The adjustable of claim 33, wherein the locking member engages both the first and second fixed shoulders during pivoting of the cordrant between the first and second positions. Seat assembly. 34. The adjustable seat assembly of claim 33, wherein the reclining mechanism further comprises a gear assembly rotatably supported by the cordrant to drive the cam plate. The gear assembly meshes with the first gear plate to selectively impart rotation of the cam plate with the first gear plate rotatably supported by the cordant; and The adjustable seat assembly according to claim 35, comprising a second gear plate operatively connected to the cam plate. 34. The adjustable seat assembly of claim 33, further comprising a link operatively interconnecting the arm and the sector plate to allow a constant relative position between the sector plate and the cordrant. . 34. The adjustment of claim 33, further comprising a biasing member for biasing the cam plate to engage the locking member to selectively secure the cordrant in a horizontal position relative to the arm. Possible seat assembly. 34. The cam plate includes a cam surface selectively engaging the locking member to slidably bias the locking member into engagement with one of the arm and the sector plate. An adjustable seat assembly according to claim 1.