DE102011086650A1 - Structural components for vehicle seats and method for their production - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a first structural component for a vehicle seat, which has at least one laser-hardened region. According to the invention, the laser-hardened region is arranged in a section of the structural component which is heavily loaded in at least one predetermined load case of the structural component, runs through this section or extends adjacent to the section in the structural component in order to reinforce the section against undesired deformation in the predetermined load case. Furthermore, the invention relates to a second structural component for a vehicle seat, which is provided with at least one weakened region, in which the structural component is specifically provided with a local weakening by the action of laser radiation. In this case, the weakened region is arranged adjacent to a section of the structural component which is heavily loaded in at least one predetermined load case of the structural component. Furthermore, the invention relates to methods for producing a structural component for a vehicle seat.

Description

The present invention relates to structural components for vehicle seats and to methods for manufacturing such structural components for vehicle seats.

Although the invention may be useful in any structural components used on or in a vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle such as an automobile, the invention and the problems underlying it will become more apparent below with reference to a structural component of a seat for a motor vehicle described in more detail.

Motor vehicle seats have load-bearing structural components, for example in the region of the seat back or in the region of the connection of the seat to a motor vehicle substructure, which are often designed as sheet metal components and are brought into the desired shape in particular by deep-drawing or stamping or bending operations or combinations thereof.

To reduce the weight of the structural component or, for example, to provide mounting options, holes and recesses are often introduced into the structural component. Such holes and recesses can often also represent functional openings, in or through which further elements can be inserted or introduced.

The structural components should in this case be dimensioned in such a way that their material in predetermined load cases shows no inadmissible behavior at any point, in particular undergoes no impermissible plastic deformation and does not tear.

In order to achieve this with relatively thin-walled sheet-metal components such as the structural components mentioned, beads and / or edge changes are often provided on the component today. By such measures, the resistance of a given portion of the structural member against bending, buckling and / or buckling can be influenced. Also can be achieved by such measures, for example in the region of openings better resistance to tearing of the material at the boundary.

However, the above-mentioned, conventional measures usually entail an increased consumption of material and thus also an increased weight of the structural component and, moreover, can lead to the fact that adhering to desired component tolerances in the region of the beadings or edge changes or in the vicinity thereof requires considerable effort. Also require such beads and / or edge changes a corresponding space.

This is a condition to be improved.

Against this background, the present invention has the object to provide a structural component for a vehicle seat, in the production of less material is consumed and the compliance of given component tolerances is easier possible. The structural component should also have a lower weight and a smaller footprint than conventional structural components for vehicle seats. It is another object of the present invention to provide a corresponding manufacturing method.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a structural component having the features of patent claim 1 and / or by a structural component having the features of patent claim 10 and / or by a method for producing a structural component having the features of patent claim 15 and / or by a method having the features of claim 17.

Accordingly, a first structural member for a vehicle seat is provided, which has at least one laser-hardened region. The laser-cured region is disposed in a portion of the structural member which is highly loaded in at least one predetermined load case of the structural member. Alternatively, the laser cured region passes through or extends to this highly stressed portion adjacent to the structural member. By means of the laser-hardened region, the heavily loaded portion is reinforced against undesirable deformation in the predetermined load case.

Furthermore, a first method for producing a structural component for a vehicle seat is proposed according to the invention. The first method comprises a method step of applying laser radiation to at least a first region of the structural component. The first region is disposed in, or extends through, or extends adjacent to, that portion in the structural member in a portion of the structural member that is highly loaded in at least one predetermined loading case of the structural member. By applying the laser radiation, in the first method, laser hardening of the first region is effected to reinforce the portion against undesirable deformation in the predetermined load case.

Furthermore, according to the invention, a second structural component for a vehicle seat is proposed which has at least one weakened region, in which the structural component is specifically provided with a local weakening by the action of laser radiation. In this case, the weakened region is arranged adjacent to a section of the structural component which is heavily loaded in at least one predetermined load case of the structural component.

A second method according to the invention for producing a structural component for a vehicle seat comprises a method step of applying laser radiation to at least a first region of the structural component, which is arranged adjacent to a section of the structural component which is heavily loaded in at least one predetermined load case of the structural component. By applying the laser radiation to the first region, a local weakening of the structural component in the first region is intentionally generated in the second method.

The invention is thus based on the idea of locally and selectively processing the structural component by means of the action of a laser beam in a predetermined region or a plurality of predetermined regions. This machining can be done in accordance with the present invention by laser-hardening the structural member in the region or regions to reinforce the highly stressed portion. Alternatively, according to the invention, in one or more regions of the structural component by means of the laser radiation, a local, targeted weakening in the vicinity of the heavily loaded section can be introduced into the structural component and thereby the material load can be distributed more uniformly within the structural component. In particular, it can thereby be achieved that a structural component according to the invention deforms in the predetermined load case compared to a structural component without a weakened region and / or without a laser-hardened region at another, more advantageous location and / or to a different extent. In other words, the targeted weakening achieved relief of highly stressed sections of the structural component by targeted deformation of other areas.

By means of the invention, on the one hand, a reinforcement of the component, on the other hand, an improved, more even distribution of mechanical stresses in the structural component can be achieved. With the invention, for example, the relevant stress, on the basis of which the material thickness of, for example, a semifinished product is to be selected for the production of the structural component, advantageously reduce, and the structural component can then be made for example of a material of reduced thickness. Especially in vehicles where lightweight construction is desired, a weight reduction by reduced material thicknesses can be of great advantage.

For a clear and concise description of the invention, reference is made above and below to regions, regions, zones and regions of the structural component. The terms zone, region and region are to be understood as meaning the meaning of a region of the structural component, whereby the different designation serves to clearly distinguish different regions.

In the context of the present application, the term laser hardening is to be understood as meaning a process in which a laser beam impinges on the surface of a workpiece to be machined and causes there a heating of the material of this workpiece. The laser beam is moved over the workpiece surface. After heating, the heat conduction within the material leads to a cooling of the heated areas. With sufficient heating of the material, in the case of a steel, for example, on its Austenitisierungstemperatur, can be achieved by rapid temperature drop in the areas heated by the laser, the formation of a harder microstructure. Depending on the cooling rate, for example, a martensite structure or an interstage structure may form. Within the surface area swept by the laser beam, a track (a so-called hardness track) is produced in this way, within which the material has higher hardness and also higher tensile strength than the surrounding base material.

Advantageous embodiments, developments and improvements of the invention will become apparent from the other dependent claims and from the description with reference to the figures of the drawing.

In one embodiment of the first structural component according to the invention, the first structural component further comprises at least one weakened region, which is arranged adjacent to the section and in which the structural component is specifically provided with a local weakening by the action of laser radiation. In a development of the first method according to the invention, the first method further comprises a method step of applying laser radiation to at least one second region of the structural component, which is arranged adjacent to the highly loaded section. By means of the application of the laser radiation to the second region, a local weakening of the structural component in the second region is intentionally generated in the second method.

In one configuration of the second structural component according to the invention, the second structural component has at least one laser-hardened region, which is arranged in the highly loaded section of the structural component, extends through the section or extends adjacent to the section in the structural component, around the section against undesired deformation reinforce in the predetermined load case. In a development of the second method according to the invention, the second method further comprises a method step of applying laser radiation to at least one second region of the structural component, which is arranged in the highly loaded section of the structural component, passes through the section or adjoins the section in the structural component extends, up. By applying the laser radiation to the second region, laser hardening of the second region occurs to reinforce the portion against undesirable deformation in the predetermined load case.

The following refinements and further developments of the invention relate in each case both to the first structural component according to the invention and the first method according to the invention and to the second structural component according to the invention and the second method according to the invention.

In one embodiment, the section is formed as an edge region of a recess or as an edge region of a hole in the structural component. Mechanical stresses in the structural component can be significantly increased in such edge regions in many load cases. A reinforcement of such edge regions against unwanted deformation can thus prove to be advantageous. It may also be advantageous to make an increase of mechanical stresses in the edge regions advantageously less abrupt by the targeted weakening.

According to a development it is provided that the laser-hardened region at least partially surrounds the recess or the hole. Additionally or alternatively, in this development, the laser-hardened region extends parallel to at least one segment of an edge of the recess or hole and adjacent to it. In this way, the edge region of the hole or the recess can be effectively reinforced and buckling, buckling and / or tearing of the edge region without the need for additional material can be avoided.

According to a further embodiment, the laser-hardened region completely surrounds the recess or the hole along a circumference of the recess or the hole. The reinforcement of the edge area succeeds even better.

According to a further development, the laser-hardened region extends substantially U-shaped or V-shaped along part of a circumference of the recess or hole around the recess or hole. If the heavily loaded portion includes not only the edge portion of the recess or the hole but also another portion of the structural member remote from the recess or hole, legs of the U-shape and V-shape, respectively, may advantageously enter this wider area are extended and also reinforce this against unwanted deformation.

In one embodiment, the portion is formed as a planar portion of the structural component and reinforced by means of the laser-hardened region in the predetermined load case against deformation by bending and / or buckling and / or buckling. As a result, bending and / or buckling and / or buckling of the structural component in such a flat section can be avoided without additional material being required. The number of required beads can be reduced or waived beads completely.

In one embodiment, the section is arranged at least partially in an area of the structural component in which a geometric shape and / or a material thickness of the structural component changes / changes abruptly, or extends directly adjacent to the abrupt change. Such sudden changes in geometry and / or material thickness often also lead to sudden changes in the rigidity of the structural component in the area or to an abruptly changing course of the resistance torque. In such areas, highly stressed sections can thus directly adjoin less heavily loaded sections of the structural component. In these areas, special attention is given to possible deformation of the structural component in the predetermined load case. The reinforcement by means of the laser-hardened region and / or the introduction of a targeted, local weakening of the structural component can contribute to making the resistance-torque profile in such a region less abrupt.

In one embodiment, the weakened region is arranged in a zone of the structural component in which the structural component is made stiffer in comparison to other zones of the structural component, in particular in comparison to the heavily loaded section, and / or has a greater material thickness.

According to a further development, the laser-hardened region is one with a straight, circular or otherwise curved path extending track of increased hardness or formed with a plurality of such tracks. In this way, a precise adaptation of the shape and extent of the laser-hardened region to an expected load case and thus an effective and efficient reinforcement of the section succeed.

According to a development, the track of increased hardness along the track is formed meandering. In this way, a hardness track of comparatively large length can be created in a limited space. It is thus possible to provide a relatively large proportion of material with higher hardness and higher tensile strength in a small space.

In a development, the plurality of tracks of increased hardness are applied to the structural component according to a predetermined pattern. In particular, in this way in a flat portion of the structural component traces of higher hardness and strength can be introduced evenly distributed in a suitable manner and also large surface areas can be effectively reinforced.

According to a development, the plurality of tracks of increased hardness run along segments of an interrupted circular path and / or along concentric circular paths or along fishbone-like juxtaposed tracks or along scale-like tracks. Depending on the type of deformation expected in the heavily loaded portion in the absence of the laser hardened region for the predetermined load case, for example, depending on the location of a bend line, a suitable pattern may be selected and applied to the structural member in proper alignment. While herringbone or scale-like patterns may be useful for covering planar portions, discontinuous and / or concentric circular orbits are particularly suitable for reinforcing marginal areas of round recesses or holes.

In one embodiment, the local weakening is formed as an incision in the structural component or as a perforation of the structural component. Such an incision or such a perforation can be produced in a comparatively simple manner, for example, with suitable adjustment of the laser power by means of a laser also used for laser welding, even at locations of the structural component where such incisions or perforations can not or only with difficulty be made by punching ,

In one embodiment, before the application of the laser radiation to form at least the portion of the structural component, a blank is formed from a semi-finished product. In particular, the blank is cold-formed in this case. Cold forming can be done, for example, by bending or deep drawing. In a corresponding embodiment of the structural component, the structural component is formed, at least in the area of the section, with a material that has been formed, in particular cold-formed, before the laser hardening and / or before the introduction of the local weakening. Preferably, the deformed region also includes the laser-hardened region after forming and / or the region weakened by the laser radiation after deformation. In this way, a hard structure produced by laser hardening and / or a precise weakening is not adversely affected by a subsequent forming process.

In one embodiment, the structural component is formed with a metal sheet at least in the region of the section and the laser-hardened region, at least in the region of the section and the weakened region or at least in the region of the section and the laser-hardened region and the weakened region. In this way, the structural component can be designed as a relatively thin-walled yet durable lightweight construction whose deformation properties can then be adjusted very precisely with the aid of the applied laser radiation.

In one embodiment, the structural component is formed at least in the region of the section and the laser-hardened region with a curable metal, preferably a metal-hardenable metal, particularly preferably a steel. Such a formed structural member is well suited for laser hardening in the region, which may be disposed in the portion through which the portion may extend or may extend adjacent to the portion.

In one embodiment, the structural component is formed at least in the region of the section and the laser-hardened region, at least in the region of the section and the weakened region or at least in the region of the section and the laser-hardened region and the weakened region with a weldable metal, preferably a weldable steel ,

In one embodiment, the structural component has at least two parts which are welded together by means of a laser welding process. A complex shaped structural component can thus be composed of two or more simple shaped parts. In this case, both parts are preferably formed with a weldable metal, preferably a weldable steel. In one embodiment of the method, the respective method additionally comprises a step of welding at least two parts of the structural component by means of a laser welding method.

According to one embodiment, the method steps of applying laser radiation for laser hardening and / or applying laser radiation for generating the local weakening and / or the welding can be carried out by means of a laser welding method by means of the same laser processing apparatus. In particular, it can be provided in this case that the structural component remains unchanged in order to carry out these method steps. As a result, a homogeneous, time-saving and cost-saving production process for the structural component is achieved, as can be dispensed with time-consuming change of the processing device and advantageously on consuming re-clamping of the structural component.

In one embodiment, the structural component is designed as a component of a backrest of the vehicle seat.

In another embodiment, the structural component is designed as a rail for fastening a vehicle seat to a vehicle substructure.

The above refinements, developments and improvements can be combined with each other, if appropriate. Further possible refinements, developments and implementations of the invention also include combinations, not explicitly mentioned, of features of the invention described above or below with reference to the exemplary embodiments. In particular, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the invention.

The present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments indicated in the schematic figures of the drawings. It show here:

1 a designed as a backrest component of a vehicle seat structural component, in perspective view, according to a first embodiment of the invention;

2 a schematic partial view of a side part of a backrest member for a vehicle seat, to illustrate the first embodiment;

3 a schematic, partial perspective view of a side part of a backrest member for a vehicle seat, to illustrate a further variant of the first embodiment;

3A a sectional view AA to illustrate the spatial shape of the side part of the 3 ;

4 a partial view of a backrest component for a vehicle seat to illustrate a further variant of the first embodiment;

5 a further partial view of a backrest component for a vehicle seat to illustrate a still further variant of the first embodiment;

6 a side view of a backrest member for a vehicle seat with a holding part, which is configured according to a still different variant of the first embodiment;

7 a perspective, schematic sketch to illustrate the embodiment of the 6 ;

8th a partial view of a lower portion of a side part of a backrest member for a vehicle seat, according to a still further variant of the first embodiment;

nine a partial view of a lower portion of a side part of a backrest member for a vehicle seat, according to a still different variant of the first embodiment;

10 a backrest component of a vehicle seat according to a second embodiment of the invention, in a schematic, perspective view;

11 a side part of a backrest part for a vehicle seat according to a variant of the second embodiment;

11A a sectional view BB illustrating a spatial shape of the side part of the 11 ;

12 a middle part of a backrest component for a vehicle seat, which here not shown side parts of the backrest component connects, according to a further variant of the second embodiment, in a schematic, perspective view;

12A a sectional view CC for explaining a first embodiment of the central part according to the variant of 12 ;

12B the sectional view CC of 12A for explaining another embodiment of the middle part according to the variant of 12 ;

12C the sectional view CC of 12A for explaining a still different embodiment of the middle part according to the variant of 12 ;

13 a detail of a backrest component for a vehicle seat for explaining a further variant of the second embodiment;

13A another detail of a backrest member for a vehicle seat for explaining a third embodiment of the invention;

14 a designed as a backrest component of a vehicle seat structural component, in perspective view, according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

15 a bottom rail and an upper rail coupled thereto with a rail arrangement for a displaceable attachment of a structure of a vehicle seat to a vehicle substructure, according to a fifth embodiment of the invention, in an end view;

16 a lower rail and coupled thereto upper rail of a rail assembly according to a variant of the fifth embodiment, in a sectional view;

17 a bottom rail according to a further variant of the fifth embodiment, in a perspective view;

18 a lower rail and an upper rail coupled thereto with a rail arrangement according to yet another variant of the fifth embodiment, in a sectional view;

19 a lower rail and coupled thereto upper rail of a rail assembly according to yet another variant of the fifth embodiment, in a perspective view;

20 a bottom rail for a rail assembly according to a sixth embodiment of the invention, in a perspective view; and

21 the lower rail of the 20 in a bottom view.

The accompanying drawings are intended to provide further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the stated advantages will become apparent with reference to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale to each other.

In the figures of the drawing are the same, functionally identical and same-acting elements, features and components - unless otherwise indicated - each provided with the same reference numerals.

1 shows a structural component 1 , which is designed as a component of a backrest of a vehicle seat, not shown in its entirety, in particular a seat for installation in a motor vehicle such as an automobile, according to a first embodiment. The structural component 1 of the 1 is thus part of a supporting structure of the vehicle seat and has two side panels 2 on, by an upper and a lower middle part 3 connected to each other. The side parts 2 and the middle parts 3 can be integrally formed with each other. Alternatively, the side panels 2 and the middle parts 3 manufactured as individual parts and subsequently be joined in particular by laser welding. Also, any of the side panels 2 and / or the middle parts 3 in turn, in one piece or even from several individual parts, which are also laser welded, for example, be composed.

The structural component 1 also has two holding parts 5 on, each with one of the side panels 2 connected and each on a side panel nine a schematically sketched underframe 8th the vehicle seat are attached.

How out 1 can also be seen, is the structural component 1 formed as a sheet metal component. Preferably, the structural component 1 made of several individual parts, which in turn are each made by deep drawing and / or bending and / or punching from a metal sheet, in particular a steel sheet, and then welded by means of a laser welding process.

For example, in the side panels 2 of the structural component 1 are holes 13 provided, which can serve as function openings, for example, to other components that are in 1 also not shown, on the side panel 2 to be able to fasten. Also in the middle parts 3 can have openings 14 be provided, for example, serve the weight savings, as in 1 by way of example at the upper middle part 3 shown.

Under the loads, the structural component 1 learns in one or more predetermined load cases, the structural component 1 avoid deformations that are unlikely to occur anywhere, in particular they should not be plastically deformed or locally torn by bending, buckling or buckling.

2 shows a section of a side part 2 in a variant of the first embodiment. In 2 is a border area 15 one of the holes 13 dotted for clarity. The border areas 15 the holes 13 in the side part 2 can in a predetermined load case as highly loaded sections 7 of the structural component 1 to be seen. Around the edge areas 15 For example, to strengthen against bumps, the structural component has 1 laser-hardened regions 21 on each of which is one around one of the holes 13 completely around in the respective edge area 15 extends. The laser-hardened regions 21 be by applying laser radiation to the structural component 1 generated. As a result, the formation of a trace of increased hardness and increased tensile strength compared to a base material of the structural component 1 causes which the respective hole 13 surrounds and the border area 15 strengthened. The track may run along an oval, circular, or even otherwise suitably curved path, depending on the shape of the hole 13 , Depending on the expected load, a distance X of the laser-hardened region 21 from the hole 13 be constant or along a perimeter of the hole 13 vary.

3 shows a further detail view of a side part 2 for explaining a variant of the first embodiment. In case of 3 is the side part 2 around a rectangular hole 13 formed in sections spatially curved, as well as the section of the 3A make clear. Advantageously, a laser-hardened region 21 with each other and to one edge 16 of the hole 13 essentially parallel tracks of increased hardness the hole 13 surrounded and also in vaulted areas 4 extend into it. In this way, the variant of the 3 a flat edge area 15 of the hole 13 which in turn is a heavily loaded section 7 of the structural component 1 can represent, by means of the laser-hardened region 21 for example, made more resistant to tearing and buckling in one or more predetermined load cases. The border area 15 is in 3 partially dotted. On average, the 3A is the laser-hardened region 21 indicated by dashed lines.

The 4 and 5 show a further variant of the first embodiment. A substantially circular hole 13 in a part of the structural component 1 can in the shown variant in the area of an edge 16 be claimed in a predetermined load case to pressure. A tearing out of the hole 13 under compressive stress of the edge 16 should be avoided, however. For this purpose, the hole 13 by means of a laser-hardened region 21 U-shaped bordered. As in 5 indicated in dotted line, the region can 21 also be V-shaped. The border area is reinforced 15 of the hole 13 in the variants of 4 and 5 especially along a segment 17 of the edge 16 , This is particularly useful when in the predetermined load case within the segment 17 the highest compressive stress of the edge 16 is expected.

6 shows a holding part 5 a structural component 1 , which the the 1 similar, in magnification. The holding part 5 is formed as a sheet metal component and has holes 13 on, the one attachment to the side panel nine of the undercarriage 8th serve. Also a ripping out of these holes 13 should be prevented in a particular load case. As in 6 in this variant of the first exemplary embodiment, laser-hardened regions are again shown 21 provided, of which in each case one of the holes 13 partially U-shaped surrounds.

7 makes it clear that thighs 22 the U-shape, which the hardness traces of the laser-hardened regions 21 was given, can be extended in such a way that the thighs 22 over a expected for the predetermined load case bending line 34 extend. A heavily loaded, by means of the laser-hardened regions 21 reinforced section 7 of the structural component 1 is in the variant of 7 through border areas 15 the holes 13 and flat sections 18 educated. An example is one of the border areas 15 and one of the two-dimensional sections 18 in 7 shown dotted. As 7 also makes clear, can be applied along one side of the U-shape, if required for reinforcement, substantially parallel another hardness trace.

The 8th and nine show further variants of the first embodiment. Again 8th it can be seen, several holes 13 together from a flower-like the holes 13 enveloping, laser-hardened region 21 be enclosed. The border area 15 a hole 13 but also, as in nine represented, be strengthened by the fact that hardened by laser hardening traces along an interrupted circular path 23 around the essentially circular hole 13 are arranged and laser-hardened regions 21 form. To increase the proportion of material of higher hardness and strength per surface unit in the edge region 15 The traces of hardness meander along the broken circular path 23 , The hole 13 Instead, it could also be surrounded by traces of hardness that run along concentric circular orbits around the hole 13 extend around.

In the second embodiment according to 10 are side parts 2 a structural component formed as a component of a backrest structure of a vehicle seat 1 each provided with a pattern of parallel Härtespuren, which is a laser-hardened region 21 form the resistance of flat, in a predetermined load case highly loaded sections 18 the side parts 2 especially against bending, buckling and / or buckling increase. Preferably, the traces of greater hardness extend to the laser-cured region 21 form, approximately perpendicular to one in the flat section 18 expected bending line 34 through the flat section 18 therethrough.

In the variant of 11 are the hardness traces that the laser-hardened region 21 form over a wavy curved portion of the side part 2 led away, wherein the Härtespuren substantially parallel to each other and also preferably as perpendicular as possible to the expected bending line. The hardness traces are arranged here offset with overlap against each other. In detail the 11A becomes a spatial form of the side part 2 clear. The wavy shaped part of the side part 2 also forms a flat section 18 by means of the laser-hardened region 21 is reinforced.

12 shows a middle part 3 a structural component 1 similar to the one in 1 shown, wherein the middle part 3 in 12 only sketched schematically and to the middle part 3 subsequent side parts 2 are omitted. Also the middle part 3 is with an example here centrally arranged opening 14 Mistake. In areas 19 of the middle section 3 changes its geometric shape and thus its rigidity. This change can be done relatively smoothly, but also rather erratic, see the 12A . 12B and 12C , The exemplary embodiments of the middle part 3 show on average CC. Around the middle part 3 in the area 19 to reinforce, there are beads 12 intended. Parallel to the beads 12 are arranged several tracks of increased hardness, by the action of laser radiation on a surface of the central part 3 were generated. The traces of increased hardness each extend through one of the areas 19 and make up for each of the domains 19 laser-hardened regions 21 ,

12A makes it clear that the tracks of increased hardness are formed with the length L1 and the beads 12 overlap by a length L2. In a substantially central part of the bead 12 is each of the beads 12 , in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the bead 12 considered, on a length L3 not by a trace of increased hardness of the laser-hardened region 21 covered. In this way leads the laser-hardened region 21 in the area 19 where the beads are 12 are provided, not to an excessive increase in strength, but improves the resistance of the middle part 3 in end areas of the beads 12 , In particular, in cases where a geometric course similar to that in 12C sketched and an abrupt change in the rigidity of the middle part 3 in the area 19 causes the laser hardened region 21 in the area 19 advantageously smoothing the course of the resistance moment of the middle part 3 impact. Highly loaded, flat sections 7 of the structural component 1 are in the left half of the case for this case 12 cross hatched as an example.

13 shows a further variant of the second embodiment. Shown is a detail of a structural component 1 for a vehicle seat with an area 19 in which a sheet metal material with which the structural component 1 is formed, in turn, provided with a wave-like course. In a predetermined load case, a section 7 of the structural component 1 within the area 19 be heavily loaded. To a buckling, buckling and / or bending in the area 19 to prevent are according to 13 S-shaped tracks of increased hardness by means of laser radiation in the area 19 introduced, which is a laser-hardened region 21 form.

In the case of the third embodiment of 13A are the beneficial effects of laser-cured regions 21 formed with traces of increased hardness in a peripheral area 15 a hole 13 and at the same time in flat sections 18 of the structural component 1 combined. In 13A is the border area 15 again partially dotted, during one of the two-dimensional sections 18 is provided with a crosswise hatching. From the flat section 18 stands a molded, pillar-like sheet metal structure 20 from. The solidification of the material by introducing the laser-hardened region 21 whose trace of increased hardness, as in 13A outlined, in the border area 13 for example, can branch, advantageously causes a higher resistance of the edge region 15 against bumps, prevents tearing of a rim 16 of the hole 13 at least segmentally, and makes the flat section 18 also more resistant to bumps and kinks. The flat section 18 is beyond an area 19 of the structural component 1 adjacent, in which its geometric shape at the transition to the pillar-like sheet metal structure 20 changes abruptly.

A structural component designed as a component of a backrest of a vehicle seat 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention is in 14 shown. The structural component 1 of the 14 is fundamentally like that of the 1 constructed and has trained as sheet metal parts holding parts 5 and on the inside of side panels 2 provided reinforcing sheets 6 on.

The reinforcing sheets 6 For example, are formed comparatively thick-walled and in the finished structural component 1 with a thin-walled executed side part 2 connected. This results in an abrupt change in the moment of resistance and the rigidity of the structural component 1 at the transition from the reinforcement plate 6 in the thinner-walled side part 2 , A section 7 in the region of this transition can be highly loaded in a predetermined load case. To make this resistance moment jump more equal and less abrupt, the reinforcing plate has 6 a weakened region 55 on, in which the reinforcing sheet 6 by means of a laser in the material of the reinforcing sheet 6 incorporated, in the example shown substantially parallel perforations is provided with a local weakening. The perforations are in one zone 56 arranged, which is formed in this example stiffer and with greater material thickness than, for example, the adjacent, highly loaded portion 7 ,

Also the holding part 5 is at the transition from a freely projecting portion of the holding part 5 to one on a side panel nine a subframe 8th for example, by screwing fastened area of the holding part 5 with a weakened region 55 provided with arcuate, generated by the action of laser radiation incisions in the holding part 5 is formed. This can also be the leap in the resistance of the holding part 5 against bending at this junction are made less abrupt.

The structural component 1 can here be composed of individual, separately formed sheet metal components, wherein the individual sheet metal components are subsequently welded together by means of a laser welding process. This shows another advantage of the invention. The laser welding of individual parts of the structural component 1 , the introduction of laser-hardened regions 21 and / or the introduction of weakened regions 55 by means of laser radiation can all, preferably in unaltered clamping of the structural component 1 , with the help of the same laser processing system after forming and punching operations are completed. It is thereby a time and cost saving, homogeneous manufacturing process for such structural components 1 achieved for vehicle seats. It goes without saying that welding can also be dispensed with if this is not necessary. Furthermore, the introduction of laser-hardened regions 21 (as in the 1 to 13 ) and creating weakened regions 55 by perforating by means of laser radiation (as in 14 ) in the same structural component 1 be combined.

The structural component 1 the embodiments of the 1 to 14 is preferably formed of a martensuredärtbaren steel. Here, the individual parts, in particular the side and middle parts 2 . 3 , the holding parts 5 and the reinforcing sheets 6 be made of a suitable steel sheet by cold forming by deep drawing and / or bending. Openings and holes can be introduced by punching. Preferably, the cold forming and stamping takes place before the machining of the structural component 1 by means of laser radiation.

The 15 to 21 show embodiments of the invention, based on rail assemblies 89 for fixing a structure of a vehicle seat, not shown, to a vehicle substructure.

In the fifth embodiment of the 15 to 19 are two structural components 90 and 91 provided, of which the structural component 90 as a bottom rail and the structural component 91 is formed as an upper rail coupled to the lower rail.

In a predetermined load case, the hooked in the lower rail seat-side upper rail in the direction of arrow 88 be pulled up. Here, it should be avoided that the structural component 91 by peeling out of the structural component 90 dissolves. A section 92 of the structural component 90 and a section 93 of the structural component 91 are highly loaded at this predetermined load case.

To the resistance of the heavily loaded sections 92 and 93 to increase against bending are laser hardened regions 21 that are in 15 and 16 over the sections 92 and 93 extend. However, the laser-hardened regions must 21 not necessary the sections 92 . 93 completely cover, but can partially through the sections 92 . 93 pass through, these may be arranged overlapping or even only the sections 92 . 93 adjacent in the respective structural component 90 . 91 be arranged. In 15 and 16 are the laser-hardened regions 21 again indicated by dashed lines.

In the 17 . 18 and 19 Further variants of the fifth embodiment are shown. 17 shows that the laser-hardened region 21 on the structural part formed as a lower rail 90 can be executed with two tracks of increased hardness, along a longitudinal direction L of the structural component 90 on its inside 94 extend.

In the examples of 17 . 18 and 19 It may be useful if the laser-hardened region 21 not along the entire longitudinal extent of the structural component 90 is formed on this, but for example, as in the 17 . 18 and 19 shown only in one, for example, particularly high loads exposed, end 95 of the structural component 90 , The laser-hardened region 21 may extend along the longitudinal direction L over a length L4, see 17 , Nevertheless, both the structural component 90 as well as the structural component 91 if necessary also along its entire length the laser-hardened region 21 exhibit.

As 18 makes clear, the traces of increased hardness that the laser-hardened region 21 form, also on an outside 96 of the structural component 90 be arranged. Similar to in 17 can also be found in the example of 18 the laser-hardened region 21 only over a length L4 that is shorter than a total length of the structural component 90 is, extend.

19 shows that the laser-hardened region 21 may also be formed with traces of increased hardness, along a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction L of the structural component 90 through the heavily loaded section 92 extend through.

In the sixth embodiment of the 20 and 21 is a structural member formed as a bottom rail 144 provided, which may also be used in a rail assembly for the adjustable attachment of a vehicle seat to a vehicle substructure application. The structural component 144 is with holes 13 provided, which are arranged in the example shown at equal intervals and serve as Verrastungsöffnungen. border areas 15 the holes 13 can in heavily loaded sections heavily loaded sections 145 of the structural component 144 be, in particular, for example, by pressure load due to the engagement of locking elements in the holes 13 , Around the edge areas 15 to reinforce, for example, a buckling of the edge areas 15 and a ripping of edges 16 the holes 13 to prevent are in the border areas 15 laser-hardened regions 21 intended. As the 21 shows, the laser-hardened regions 21 be formed with meandering traces of hardness, extending in webs between the holes 13 extend. Alternatively, the holes may instead each be surrounded by a track of increased hardness all around.

The structural components 90 . 91 and 144 are made, for example, as stamped and bent parts from a martensuredärtbaren steel, but they can also be run as a rolled profiles.

Although the present invention has been fully described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto, but may be modified in a variety of ways.

For example, a method for producing a structural component could additionally comprise further processing steps by means of a laser. It is conceivable, for example, to also produce cutouts and openings in the structural component by laser processing.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

structural component

2

Side part (structural component)

3

Middle part (structural component)

4

arched area

5

holding part

6

Support panel

7

heavily loaded section

8th

undercarriage

9

Side panel (base frame)

12

Beading

13

Hole (side part)

14

Opening (middle section)

15

Edge area (hole)

16

Edge (hole)

17

Segment (edge (hole))

18

flat section

19

area

20

pier-like sheet metal structure

21

laser-hardened region

22

leg

23

orbit

34

elastic line

55

weakened region

56

Zone

88

direction

89

rail arrangement

90

structural component

91

structural component

92

heavily loaded section

93

heavily loaded section

94

inside

95

end

96

outside

144

structural component

145

heavily loaded section

L

Longitudinal direction (structural component)

L1

length

L2

length

L3

length

L4

length

X

distance

Claims (20)

Structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) for a vehicle seat, comprising: at least one laser-hardened region ( 21 ), which in one in at least one predetermined load case of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) heavily loaded Section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ), through the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) or to the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) adjacent in the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) extends to the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) to reinforce an undesirable deformation in the predetermined load case. Structural component according to claim 1, characterized in that the section ( 7 ; 145 ) as an edge region of a recess or as an edge region ( 15 ) of a hole ( 13 ) in the structural component ( 1 ; 144 ) is trained. Structural component according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) as a planar section ( 18 ) of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) and by means of the laser-hardened region ( 21 ) is reinforced in the predetermined load case against deformation by bending and / or buckling and / or buckling. Structural component according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) at least partially in one area ( 19 ) of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ), in which a geometric shape and / or a material thickness of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) changes abruptly, is arranged, or extends immediately adjacent to the abrupt change. Structural component according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the laser-hardened region ( 21 ) along a straight, circular or otherwise curved path ( 23 ) extending track of increased hardness or is formed with a plurality of such tracks. Structural component according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) at least in the area of the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) and the laser-hardened region ( 21 ) is formed with a formed before the laser hardening, in particular cold-formed material. Structural component according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) at least in the area of the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) and the laser-hardened region ( 21 ) is formed with a metal sheet. Structural component according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) at least in the area of the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) and the laser-hardened region ( 21 ) is formed with a curable metal, preferably a martens hardenable metal, more preferably a steel. Structural component according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structural component ( 1 ) at least one weakened region ( 55 ), which corresponds to the section ( 7 ) is arranged adjacent and in which the structural component ( 1 ) is specifically provided by the action of laser radiation with a local weakening. Structural component ( 1 ) for a vehicle seat, comprising: at least one weakened region ( 55 ), in which the structural component ( 1 ) is specifically provided with a local weakening by the action of laser radiation, whereby the weakened region ( 55 ) one in at least one predetermined load case of the structural component ( 1 ) heavily loaded section ( 7 ) of the structural component ( 1 ) is arranged adjacent. Structural component according to claim 10, characterized in that the section ( 7 ) at least partially in one area ( 19 ) of the structural component ( 1 ), in which a geometric shape and / or a material thickness of the structural component ( 1 ) changes abruptly, is arranged, or extends immediately adjacent to the abrupt change. Structural component according to one of Claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the weakened region ( 55 ) in a zone ( 56 ) of the structural component ( 1 ) is arranged, in which the structural component ( 1 ) compared to other zones of the structural component ( 1 ), in particular compared to the section ( 7 ), is stiffer and / or has a greater material thickness. Structural component according to one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the local weakening as an incision in the structural component ( 1 ) or a perforation of the structural component ( 1 ) is trained. Structural component according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) has at least two parts which are welded together by means of a laser welding process. Method for producing a structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) for a vehicle seat, comprising the following method step: applying laser radiation to at least one first region ( 21 ) of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ), which in one in at least one predetermined load case of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) heavily loaded section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ), through the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) or to the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) adjacent in the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) and laser hardening the first region ( 21 ) by applying the laser radiation to the section ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) to reinforce an undesirable deformation in the predetermined load case. A method according to claim 15, characterized in that the method further comprises a method step of applying laser radiation to at least one second region ( 55 ) of the structural component ( 1 ), which correspond to the section ( 7 ) and a targeted generation of a local weakening of the structural component ( 1 ) in the second region ( 55 ) by means of the application of the laser radiation. Method for producing a structural component ( 1 ) for a vehicle seat, comprising the following method step: applying laser radiation to at least one first region ( 55 ) of the structural component ( 1 ), which in at least one predetermined load case of the structural component ( 1 ) heavily loaded section ( 7 ) of the structural component ( 1 ) and selectively generating a local weakening of the structural component ( 1 ) in the first region ( 55 ) by applying the laser radiation. Method according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that prior to the application of the laser radiation to form at least the portion ( 7 ; 92 . 93 ; 145 ) of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) reshaped a blank from a semi-finished, in particular cold-formed, is. Method according to one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that the method further comprises a method step of welding at least two parts of the structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) by means of a laser welding process. Method according to one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that the method steps of applying laser radiation for laser hardening and / or the application of laser radiation for generating the local weakening and / or welding by means of a laser welding process by means of the same laser processing device and in particular in unchanged clamping of Structural component ( 1 ; 90 . 91 ; 144 ) be performed.

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