EP2526835A1 - Suspension device for a bed base with adjustable stiffness - Google Patents

Abstract

The device (10) has a lower section connected to an upper section by suspension units that are in the form of arched walls. An elastically deformable part (32) is movable between rigid and flexible positions in which an elastic body of the deformable part is respectively adapted and not adapted to realize an elastic coupling between the sections with a stiffness, when a pressure is applied on the device, for modifying the stiffness of the device. The deformable part traverses an opening formed in a plate (14) of the upper section such that the mobile part is actuated by an operator.

Description

The present invention relates to the field of elastic suspension sommiers and seats for sofas or armchairs. It concerns in particular but not exclusively the elastic suspension slats of a bed base slats.

• une section supérieure munie d'un plateau apte à soutenir un matelas ;
• une section inférieure comprenant des moyens permettant la fixation du dispositif de suspension au sommier ou à l'assise, ladite section inférieure étant reliée à la section supérieure par des moyens de suspension ;
• des moyens pour modifier la raideur du dispositif de suspension.

It relates more particularly to a suspension device for a bed base or a seat, comprising:

• an upper section provided with a tray capable of supporting a mattress;
• a lower section comprising means for fixing the suspension device to the bed base or the seat, said lower section being connected to the upper section by suspension means;
• means for modifying the stiffness of the suspension device.

Such a suspension device is described in particular in the document FR 2 945 195 . In this document, the means for modifying the stiffness of the suspension device comprise a rigid stiffening member which is housed between one or other of the lower and upper sections and a spring member of the suspension device. The coupling thus produced leads to increase the stiffness of the spring member, and therefore that of the suspension device.

A disadvantage of this suspension device lies in the fact that the presence of the stiffening member substantially reduces the deformation amplitude of the suspension device. A major effort is therefore necessary to deform the suspension device, which is likely to affect the impression of comfort given by the suspension device.

Object and summary of the invention

An object of the present invention is to provide a springboard suspension device with adjustable stiffness which has an improved comfort curve.

• une section supérieure munie d'un plateau apte à soutenir un matelas ;
• une section inférieure comprenant des moyens permettant la fixation du dispositif de suspension au sommier, ladite section inférieure étant reliée à la section supérieure par des moyens de suspension ;
• des moyens pour modifier la raideur du dispositif de suspension comportant un organe mobile.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the suspension device is a suspension device for a bed base or a seat, comprising:

• an upper section provided with a tray capable of supporting a mattress;
• a lower section comprising means for fixing the suspension device to the bed base, said lower section being connected to the upper section by suspension means;
• means for modifying the stiffness of the suspension device comprising a movable member.

• une première position dans laquelle le premier corps élastique présente une première raideur lorsqu'une pression est appliquée sur le dispositif de suspension, de manière à réaliser un couplage élastique entre les sections supérieure et inférieure avec ladite première raideur, et
• une deuxième position, distincte de la première position, dans laquelle le premier corps élastique n'est pas apte à réaliser ledit couplage élastique entre les sections supérieure et inférieure avec ladite première raideur, lorsqu'une pression est appliquée sur le dispositif de suspension.

The movable member is provided with at least one first elastic body, the movable member having:

• a first position in which the first elastic body has a first stiffness when pressure is applied to the suspension device, so as to provide an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said first stiffness, and
• a second position, distinct from the first position, wherein the first elastic body is not adapted to perform said elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said first stiffness, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device.

Thus, the movable member is elastically deformable so as to actively participate in modulating the stiffness of the suspension device.

In the first position, when a pressure is applied on the suspension device, the first elastic body can adopt a first configuration able to deform elastically to exert a restoring force with a first stiffness R1 and to achieve an elastic coupling between the sections upper and lower with said first stiffness R1.

In the second position, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the first elastic body is not able to exert said restoring force with said first stiffness R1 and is not adapted to perform said elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said first stiffness R1.

In some embodiments, the suspension means may have a so-called "suspension" stiffness Rs when pressure is applied to the suspension device, and the suspension means and the movable member may be configured so that said stiffness of Rs suspension does not vary, when the movable member is brought from one position to another (especially when the movable member is moved between the first position and the second position).

In particular, the value of the suspension stiffness Rs may be independent of the position occupied by the movable member relative to the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the suspension means may be able to deform elastically with a displacement capacity (a magnitude of displacement or deformation) that does not vary when the movable member is moved from one position to another ( in particular when the movable member is moved between the first position and the second position).

Thus, the suspension means can adopt a configuration called "suspension" which, to exert a restoring force with the suspension stiffness Rs above, is able to deform elastically with a predetermined displacement capacity, when a pressure is applied on the suspension device; and the suspension means and the movable member may be configured so that said suspension configuration remains unchanged when the movable member is moved from one position to another.

In particular, said displacement capacity may be independent of the position occupied by the movable member relative to the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the device may be such that, when pressure is applied to the suspension device while the movable member adopts its first position, the upper section and the lower section move relative to each other. the other on a predetermined displacement stroke, and the suspension means and the first elastic body are compressed and deform elastically simultaneously on at least a portion of said displacement stroke.

Thus, the suspension means and the first elastic body of the movable member in its first position can be coupled in parallel on at least this portion of said displacement stroke, when pressure is applied to the suspension device. The suspension stiffness Rs and the first stiffness R1 can then be coupled in parallel over at least this portion of said displacement stroke.

In particular, these stiffnesses Rs and R1 can add mutually on at least this portion of said displacement stroke, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device while the movable member occupies its first position.

In some embodiments, the suspension means may exhibit the suspension stiffness Rs when pressure is applied to the suspension device, so as to achieve a main elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said stiffness Rs, while the first elastic body may have the first stiffness R1 when this pressure is applied to the suspension device while the movable member occupies its first position, so as to achieve a secondary elastic coupling (auxiliary) between the upper and lower sections with said first stiffness R1.

In particular, these main and secondary elastic couplings can be made distinctly from one another and add to each other over at least a part of the aforementioned displacement path, when pressure is applied to the suspension device while the movable member occupies its first position.

In some embodiments, the first elastic body of the movable member in its first position can compress and deform elastically after a slight displacement of the upper section and the lower section relative to each other. when pressure is applied to the suspension device. In particular, the elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with the first stiffness, which results from the compression and elastic deformation of the first elastic body when pressure is applied to the suspension device while the movable member adopts its first position, can only be realized after this slight displacement of the upper section and the lower section relative to each other.

In some embodiments, the suspension device may be such that, in the second position, the first elastic body has a second stiffness, different from the first stiffness, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, so as to performing an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said second stiffness.

Thus, in this second position, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the first elastic body can adopt a second configuration, distinct from the first configuration, able to deform elastically to exert a restoring force with a second stiffness R2, different from the first stiffness R1, and perform an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said second stiffness R2.

Therefore, when the movable member is brought into its second position from its first position, the first elastic body is no longer able to exert a restoring force with the first stiffness R1 and is no longer able to realize elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said first stiffness R1. On the contrary, the first elastic body then becomes able to exert a restoring force with the second stiffness R2 and able to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said second stiffness R2.

In particular, it is advantageous to obtain two different stiffnesses R1 and R2 with a single first elastic body, simply by arranging differently this first elastic body relative to the suspension device, by the play of the displacement of the movable member between its first position and its second position.

In some embodiments, the movable member may comprise a base body movably mounted on the suspension device; and an elastic tongue, as a first elastic body, which has a first end through which this tongue is bonded to said base body, and a second end which is free to move away from and move towards the base body by bending the first end (which then serves as a bending point for the tongue) and which is configured to cooperate with the suspension device so that the tongue produces an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections, when pressure is applied to the suspension device. In these modes, when the movable member is moved between its first position and its second position, the position of the first end of the tongue is moved so as to vary the bending capacity of the tongue relative to the base body and to vary, between its values R1 and R2, the stiffness of the restoring force of the tongue relative to the relative displacement of the upper section relative to the lower section, when pressure is applied to the suspension.

In some embodiments, the movable member may comprise a flexible blade, as first elastic body, able to be arranged between the lower and upper sections, respectively in a first bending configuration, when the movable member takes its first place. position, and in a second bending configuration (different from the first), when the movable member occupies its second position, so as to vary the resistance that opposes the flexible blade to its flexion and, therefore, to vary, between its values R1 and R2, the stiffness of the restoring force that this blade opposes the relative displacement of the upper section relative to the lower section, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the suspension device may be such that the movable member has a third position, distinct from the first position and the second position, wherein the first body has a third stiffness, different from the first stiffness and the second stiffness, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device, so as to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said third stiffness.

Thus, in this third position, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the first elastic body may adopt a third configuration, distinct from the first configuration, able to deform elastically to exert a restoring force with a third stiffness R3, different from the first stiffness R1 and the second stiffness R2, and provide an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said third stiffness R3.

In particular, it is advantageous to obtain three different stiffness R1, R2 and R3 with a single first elastic body, simply by arranging differently this first elastic body relative to the suspension device, by the play of the displacement of the movable member between its different positions. Therefore, the movable member can modulate the stiffness of the suspension device in three positions, rigid, flexible, and semi-flexible.

In addition, this third stiffness R3 can advantageously be obtained by extension and by analogy with the means used in the embodiments described above to obtain the second stiffness R2.

In some embodiments, the suspension device may be such that, in the second position, the first elastic body does not perform elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

• une section supérieure munie d'un plateau apte à soutenir un matelas ;
• une section inférieure comprenant des moyens permettant la fixation du dispositif de suspension au sommier, ladite section inférieure étant reliée à la section supérieure par des moyens de suspension;
• des moyens pour modifier la raideur du dispositif de suspension comportant un organe mobile,

It is understood that, in these embodiments, the device may comprise:

• an upper section provided with a tray capable of supporting a mattress;
• a lower section comprising means for fixing the suspension device to the bed base, said lower section being connected to the upper section by suspension means;
• means for modifying the stiffness of the suspension device comprising a movable member,

• une première position dans laquelle le premier corps élastique réalise un couplage élastique entre les sections supérieure et inférieure lorsqu'une pression est appliquée sur le dispositif de suspension, et
• une deuxième position, distincte de la première position, dans laquelle le premier corps élastique ne réalise pas de couplage élastique entre les sections supérieure et inférieure lorsqu'une pression est appliquée sur le dispositif de suspension.

which the movable member may be provided with at least one first elastic body (for example, a first elastic body of the type previously described), and have:

• a first position in which the first elastic body provides elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device, and
• a second position, distinct from the first position, in which the first elastic body does not perform elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

In particular, the suspension device may be such that, in the second position, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the first elastic body is not stressed.

Thus, in this second position, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the first elastic body can be in a state of rest in which it does not deform elastically, so that it is not able to exert a restoring force and perform an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections. In other words, in the second position, the first elastic body opposes a second stiffness R2 zero displacement of the upper and lower sections relative to each other, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device.

Furthermore, the suspension device may then be such that, in this second position, the suspension means and the first elastic body are not able to be coupled in parallel, when pressure is applied to the suspension device. Therefore, only the suspension stiffness Rs can oppose the movement of the upper and lower sections relative to each other, when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the movable member may have a third position, distinct from the first position and the second position, in which the first elastic body has a second stiffness, different from the first stiffness, when a pressure is applied. on the suspension device, so as to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said second stiffness.

Thus, the movable member can modulate the stiffness of the suspension device in three positions, rigid, flexible, and semi-flexible. In addition, this third position can advantageously be obtained by implementing features similar to those previously described for the embodiments in which the second position of the movable member allows the first elastic body to deform elastically to exhibit a non-zero stiffness, when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the movable member may further comprise a second elastic body, and the suspension device may be such that, in the second position, the second elastic body has, when pressure is applied to the suspension, a second stiffness different from the first stiffness that has the first elastic body in the first position, so as to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said second stiffness.

In some embodiments, this second elastic body can be dissociated and secured in displacement with the first elastic body.

In some embodiments, the second elastic body may have a stiffness different from that of the first elastic body, and in the second position, the second elastic body may elastically couple between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied. on the suspension device.

Thus, in the second position, the elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections can be achieved by the second elastic body and not by the first elastic body. Therefore, in the second position, the suspension means may advantageously be coupled in parallel with the second elastic body on at least a portion of the displacement stroke of the upper section relative to the lower section, when a pressure is applied on the suspension device.

Preferably, the stiffness of the second elastic body is greater (or less) than that of the first elastic body. To do this, it may for example be provided that the second elastic body has a thickness greater (or less) than that of the first elastic body. In an alternative, we can choose materials with different stiffness.

Therefore, it is understood that in the second position, the suspension device has a stiffness greater (or less) than it has when the movable member is in the first position.

In some embodiments, the movable member may further comprise a third elastic body, and further have a third position in which the third elastic body has, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device, a third stiffness different first and second stiffnesses that present the first and second elastic bodies respectively in the first and second positions, so as to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said third stiffness.

In some embodiments, the movable member may further comprise a third elastic body having a stiffness different from those of the first and second elastic bodies, and the movable member may furthermore have a third position in which the third elastic body carries out elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

Thus, in this third position, the suspension means may advantageously be coupled in parallel with the third elastic body over at least a portion of the displacement stroke of the upper section relative to the lower section, when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

Preferably, but not exclusively, the third elastic body has a stiffness greater than that of the first and second elastic bodies. As a result, in the third position, the suspension device has a greater stiffness than it has when the movable member is in the first or the second position.

Thus, the movable member can be used to modulate the stiffness of the suspension device in three positions, rigid, flexible, and semi-flexible.

In some embodiments, the suspension device may be such that, in the second position, the movable member does not perform elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device. It can be a "disengaged" position. The stiffness of the suspension device is not modified by the movable member. In other words, in this second position, the suspension means are decoupled from the movable member.

In some embodiments, the movable member may further comprise a second elastic body, and further have a third position in which the second elastic body presents, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device, a second stiffness different from the first stiffness that has the first elastic body in the first position, so as to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with the second stiffness.

In some embodiments, the movable member may further comprise a second elastic body having a stiffness different from that of the first elastic body, and the movable member may further have a third position in which the second elastic body performs a elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

Again, the stiffness of the second elastic body may be greater or less than that of the first elastic body so as to modulate the stiffness of the suspension device. The different stiffnesses can be obtained by choosing different materials or different thicknesses of the same material.

Thus, in these embodiments, one can have a disengaged position and one or two positions for which the stiffness of the suspension device is increased.

In some embodiments, the first elastic body may have at least one contact portion which, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device while the movable member adopts its first position, is adapted to cooperate with said device. suspension for causing elastic deformation of the first elastic body with the first stiffness, and when the movable member is brought from one position to another, said contact portion can be moved in at least one direction parallel to the plate.

Thus, the displacement of this contact portion comprises at least one displacement component according to said at least one direction parallel to the plate (in particular, a horizontal direction, when the suspension device is fixed to the bed base, under normal conditions of use ).

In some embodiments, the suspension device comprises a support on which said contact portion is able to bear when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

In some embodiments, this support may be attached to (for example, integrally formed with), optionally, the lower section or the upper section of the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the support may be rigid or flexible. In particular, the support may have the shape of an arch extending in a longitudinal direction of the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the support may extend between the means for attaching the suspension device to the bed base, and may, for example, be arranged so that the top of the arch is directed towards the upper section.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the support may protrude under the upper section so that the top of the arch is directed toward the lower section.

In some embodiments, the device may comprise secondary suspension means (preferably distinct from the previously described suspension means which then serve as main suspension means) arranged between the support (in particular formed in the extension of the top of the arch) and the upper section or the lower section, depending on the embodiments implemented, so as to deform elastically when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

In some embodiments, these secondary suspension means have at least one fold line which is parallel, optionally, to the transverse direction or the longitudinal direction of the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the movable member may be rotatably mounted relative to the suspension device, such that said movable member is moved from one position to the other by a rotational movement of the movable member.

Such an assembly makes it possible to obtain a compact suspension device and which also makes it possible to avoid mislaying the movable member.

In some embodiments, the movable member may be able to pivot about an axis parallel to the plate, for example an axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the suspension device (in particular, a direction orthogonal to a plane of symmetry of the suspension device, when the latter has such a plane of symmetry).

In some embodiments, the movable member may have the general shape of a wheel rotatably attached to the upper section. However, the wheel could be rotatably attached to the lower section without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Advantageously, the wheel is rotatably mounted about an axis parallel to the plate. Preferably, the axis extends in the longitudinal direction of the suspension device. For example, the axis of the wheel may be orthogonal to a plane of symmetry of the suspension device, when the latter comprises such a plane of symmetry.

It is therefore understood that the wheel is rotated to change the position of the movable member.

In some embodiments, the wheel comprises a rim, and the elastic body or bodies consist of one or more rim portions, and said rim portions are able to bear on a support fixed to the lower section when a pressure is applied to the suspension device, for example a support of the type previously described. It is therefore understood that the rim portion or portions have a radial elasticity in order to achieve the elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections.

In some embodiments, the wheel may comprise a first rim portion and a second rim portion, the first rim portion having a greater radial thickness than the second rim portion, whereby the first rim portion has a stiffness greater than that of the second rim portion.

In some embodiments, the rim may further have an angular recess.

In a first position of the movable member, the first rim portion may be positioned between the support and the tray, so that the first rim portion provides an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device. In this first position, the suspension device may have a high stiffness, when the suspension means and the first rim portion are coupled.

In the second position of the movable member, the recess can be positioned between the support and the tray, so that there is no elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device. The obviously makes it possible to realize the "disengaged" position. It is therefore the position in which the suspension device has the greatest flexibility.

In the third position of the movable member, the second rim portion can be positioned between the support and the plate, so that the second rim portion provides an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device. When the second rim portion has a stiffness lower than that of the first rim portion, it is understood that in this third position, the suspension device has a lower stiffness than in the first position.

To improve the stability of the suspension device, the latter may further comprise two suspension elements disposed on either side of the wheel, said suspension elements resiliently connecting the support to the upper section.

In some embodiments, each rim portion may include an axial groove in which the support is housed when pressure is applied to the suspension device, which makes it possible to lock the movable member in the chosen position.

In some embodiments, the wheel may comprise at least one stop cooperating with the plate and / or the support so as to limit the amplitude of rotation of the movable member.

In some embodiments, the wheel may have visible markings that are diametrically opposed to the rim portions forming the elastic bodies.

In some embodiments, at least one of the rim portions may comprise a rib extending along the circumference of the wheel on either side of the axial grooves so as to prevent rotation of the movable member while pressure is applied to the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the movable member may be pivotable about an axis perpendicular to the tray.

In some embodiments, the movable member may be rotatably mounted about an axis perpendicular to the tray, and the one or more resilient bodies may be constituted by a plurality of leaf springs which extend in a direction perpendicular to the plate, said leaf springs being able to bear on the support fixed to the lower section when pressure is applied to the device. suspension.

The rotation of the wheel thus makes it possible to modify the stiffness of the suspension device by changing the position of the movable member. The leaf springs may have different stiffness. As a result, the stiffness of the suspension device may depend on the stiffness of leaf springs that bear on the support. Preferably, the leaf springs have different thicknesses so as to have different stiffnesses.

Advantageously, the first elastic body consists of two leaf springs, preferably undulating, which extend from the periphery of a disk fixed to a lower end of the movable member, the two leaf springs being diametrically opposed.

Preferably, the second elastic body is also constituted by two diametrically opposed leaf springs, the thickness of which is different from that of the leaf springs of the first elastic body, which also extend from the periphery of the disk.

In some embodiments, the movable member is slidably mounted in a transverse direction of the suspension device, so that the movable member is moved from one position to the other by a translation movement.

Advantageously, the elastic body or bodies consist of one or more resilient blades adapted to bear on a support, preferably in the form of an arch, fixed to the lower section. The elastic blades have different stiffness. To do this, they have different thicknesses.

In some embodiments, the tray may advantageously include an opening extending in an orthogonal direction of the tray, and a portion of the movable member may pass through said opening so as to be operable by an operator. In some embodiments, the wheel may protrude slightly through the opening so that the operator can see the markings and easily operate the movable member.

In some embodiments, the movable member may be mounted either on the lower section or on the upper section of the suspension device.

In some embodiments, the suspension means may consist of two arcuate walls extending between the lower section and the upper section, each of the arcuate walls having one end attached to the lower section and another end attached to the upper section. . The movable member is preferably disposed between the two arcuate walls.

It is added that the suspension device according to the invention is preferably, but not exclusively, a mouthpiece of bed base slats, generally intended to be fixed to a long bed base. To do this, the tray is provided with at least two slats housing. Preferably, the movable member is disposed between the two slats housing.

According to a variant, the plate is devoid of slats housing and has only a role of mattress support.

Brief description of the drawings

• la figure 1 est une vue de face d'un premier mode de réalisation du dispositif de suspension selon l'invention dans lequel l'organe mobile est une roue montée rotative autour d'un axe parallèle au plateau, et dans lequel le plateau comporte deux logements pour lattes;
• la figure 2 est une vue de dessus du dispositif de suspension de la figure 1, l'organe mobile étant placé dans sa troisième position ;
• les figures 3A à 3C représentent, en vue de côté en coupe, le dispositif de suspension de la figure 1 dans ses trois positions, la figure 3D montrant la déformation du dispositif lorsque une pression est appliquée ;
• la figure 4 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de suspension de la figure 1 ;
• la figure 5 est une vue en perspective de l'organe mobile du dispositif de suspension de la figure 1 ;
• la figure 6 est une vue de face d'une première variante au dispositif de suspension de la figure 1, dans laquelle le plateau est dépourvu de logements pour lattes ;
• la figure 7 est une vue de face d'un deuxième mode de réalisation du dispositif de suspension selon l'invention dans lequel l'organe mobile est monté rotatif autour d'un axe orthogonal au plateau ;
• la figure 8 est une vue de côté en coupe du dispositif de suspension de la figure 7 ;
• la figure 9 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de suspension de la figure 7 ;
• la figure 10 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de suspension de la figure 7 montrant le disque de l'organe mobile portant les lames-ressarts ;
• la figure 11 est une vue en perspective de l'organe mobile du dispositif de suspension de la figure 7 ayant deux corps élastiques constitués de deux paires de lames-ressorts ;
• la figure 12 est une variante de l'organe mobile de la figure 11, où l'organe mobile possède trois corps élastiques constitués de trois paires de lames-ressarts ;
• la figure 13 est une vue de face d'un troisième mode de réalisation du dispositif de suspension selon l'invention dans lequel l'organe mobile est un tiroir coulissant selon la direction transversale du dispositif de suspension ;
• la figure 14 est une vue de côté en coupe du dispositif de suspension de la figure 13 ;
• la figure 15 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de suspension de la figure 13 montrant la surface supérieure du plateau et le curseur de l'organe mobile ;
• la figure 16 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de suspension de la figure 13 montrant les premier, deuxième et troisième corps élastiques de l'organe mobile ; et
• les figures 17A et 17B sont des vues en perspective de l'organe mobile du dispositif de suspension de la figure 13 ;
• la figure 18 est une vue de face d'une deuxième variante au dispositif de suspension de la figure 1 ;
• la figure 19 est une vue de côté en coupe du dispositif de suspension de la figure 18 ;
• la figure 20 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de suspension de la figure 18 ;
• la figure 21 est une vue en perspective d'une troisième variante au dispositif de suspension de la figure 1 ;
• la figure 22 est une vue sensiblement de côté en coupe du dispositif de suspension de la figure 21 ;
• la figure 23 est une vue en perspective d'une quatrième variante au dispositif de suspension de la figure 1 ;
• la figure 24 est une vue de face du dispositif de suspension de la figure 23 ;
• les figures 25A, 25B et 25C sont des vues de côté en coupe du dispositif de suspension de la figure 23, montrant l'organe mobile respectivement dans trois positions différentes ;
• la figure 26 est une vue en perspective d'une cinquième variante au dispositif de suspension de la figure 1 ;
• la figure 27 est une vue de face du dispositif de suspension de la figure 26 ;
• les figures 28A, 28B et 28C sont des vues de côté en coupe du dispositif de suspension de la figure 26, montrant l'organe mobile respectivement dans trois positions différentes ;
• les figures 29 et 30 sont des vues en perspective d'un quatrième mode de réalisation d'un dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention ;
• la figure 31 est une vue de face du dispositif de suspension de la figure 29 ;
• la figure 32 est une vue d'un premier côté en coupe du dispositif de suspension de la figure 29 ;
• les figures 33A, 33B et 33C sont des vues du côté opposé audit premier côté du dispositif de suspension de la figure 29, montrant l'organe mobile respectivement dans trois positions différentes ;
• la figure 34 est une vue en perspective d'une variante au dispositif de suspension de la figure 29 ;
• la figure 35 est une vue de face du dispositif de suspension de la figure 34 ;
• les figures 36A et 36B sont des vues de côté en coupe du dispositif de suspension de la figure 34, montrant l'organe mobile respectivement dans deux positions différentes.

The invention will be better understood and its advantages will appear better on reading the following description of embodiments given by way of non-limiting examples. The description refers to the accompanying drawings in which:

• the figure 1 is a front view of a first embodiment of the suspension device according to the invention wherein the movable member is a wheel rotatably mounted about an axis parallel to the plate, and wherein the plate has two slots for slats ;
• the figure 2 is a top view of the suspension device of the figure 1 the movable member being placed in its third position;
• the FIGS. 3A to 3C represent, in sectional side view, the suspension device of the figure 1 in its three positions, the 3D figure showing the deformation of the device when pressure is applied;
• the figure 4 is a perspective view of the suspension device of the figure 1 ;
• the figure 5 is a perspective view of the movable member of the suspension device of the figure 1 ;
• the figure 6 is a front view of a first variant of the suspension device of the figure 1 , in which the tray is devoid of slots for slats;
• the figure 7 is a front view of a second embodiment of the suspension device according to the invention wherein the movable member is rotatably mounted about an orthogonal axis to the plate;
• the figure 8 is a sectional side view of the suspension device of the figure 7 ;
• the figure 9 is a perspective view of the suspension device of the figure 7 ;
• the figure 10 is a perspective view of the suspension device of the figure 7 showing the disk of the movable organ carrying the slats;
• the figure 11 is a perspective view of the movable member of the suspension device of the figure 7 having two elastic bodies consisting of two pairs of leaf springs;
• the figure 12 is a variant of the mobile organ of the figure 11 where the movable member has three elastic bodies consisting of three pairs of pliers;
• the figure 13 is a front view of a third embodiment of the suspension device according to the invention wherein the movable member is a sliding drawer in the transverse direction of the suspension device;
• the figure 14 is a sectional side view of the suspension device of the figure 13 ;
• the figure 15 is a perspective view of the suspension device of the figure 13 showing the top surface of the tray and the slider of the movable member;
• the figure 16 is a perspective view of the suspension device of the figure 13 showing the first, second and third elastic bodies of the movable member; and
• the Figures 17A and 17B are perspective views of the movable member of the suspension device of the figure 13 ;
• the figure 18 is a front view of a second variant to the suspension device of the figure 1 ;
• the figure 19 is a sectional side view of the suspension device of the figure 18 ;
• the figure 20 is a perspective view of the suspension device of the figure 18 ;
• the figure 21 is a perspective view of a third variant to the suspension device of the figure 1 ;
• the figure 22 is a substantially sectional side view of the suspension device of the figure 21 ;
• the figure 23 is a perspective view of a fourth variant to the suspension device of the figure 1 ;
• the figure 24 is a front view of the suspension device of the figure 23 ;
• the Figures 25A, 25B and 25C are sectional side views of the suspension device of the figure 23 , showing the movable member respectively in three different positions;
• the figure 26 is a perspective view of a fifth variant to the suspension device of the figure 1 ;
• the figure 27 is a front view of the suspension device of the figure 26 ;
• the Figures 28A, 28B and 28C are sectional side views of the suspension device of the figure 26 , showing the movable member respectively in three different positions;
• the Figures 29 and 30 are perspective views of a fourth embodiment of a suspension device according to the present invention;
• the figure 31 is a front view of the suspension device of the figure 29 ;
• the figure 32 is a view of a first sectional side of the suspension device of the figure 29 ;
• the Figures 33A, 33B and 33C are views from the opposite side to said first side of the suspension device of the figure 29 , showing the movable member respectively in three different positions;
• the figure 34 is a perspective view of a variant of the suspension device of the figure 29 ;
• the figure 35 is a front view of the suspension device of the figure 34 ;
• the Figures 36A and 36B are sectional side views of the suspension device of the figure 34 , showing the movable member respectively in two different positions.

Detailed description of the invention

Several embodiments of the adjustable stiffness suspension device according to the invention will now be described. As mentioned above, the suspension device may be a slat mouthpiece or a suspension system supporting a mattress. Without departing from the scope of the present invention, the suspension device could also be mounted in a couch or chair seat.

With the help of Figures 1 to 5 a first embodiment of the suspension device according to the invention will be described.

The figure 1 shows a suspension device 10 which is preferably made of a flexible plastic material of elastomer type.

This suspension device 10 has an upper section 12 provided with a plate 14 which has two housings 16, 18 to accommodate the end of two slats (not shown here) in an insertion direction referenced D. These two slats are parallel and extend in a plane, called sleeping plane.

The plate 14 is intended to receive a lateral portion of a mattress, it being understood that the central portion of the mattress is supported by the slats.

In the following, we will call "longitudinal direction" of the suspension device, the direction DL which is orthogonal to the plane of symmetry P of the suspension device, it being specified that this plane of symmetry is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the slats and orthogonal to the plateau 14.

In addition, it will be called "transverse direction" of the suspension device direction DT which is orthogonal to the direction DL above and parallel to the insertion direction D slats. The thickness of the suspension device is considered in this transverse direction.

For its attachment to the bed base, the suspension device 10 comprises, in its lower section 20, anchoring means 22 in the form of a sleeve which are intended to cooperate with tenons fixed in a long section of the bed.

It is also noted that the suspension device 10 of this example comprises, in its lower section 20, an additional housing 24 for receiving a lower batten.

The upper 12 and lower 20 sections are interconnected by an intermediate section 26 which comprises suspension means 28. In this example, the suspension means 28 consist of two flexible arcuate walls C-shaped opening inwardly of the suspension device and which can bend along folding lines 30a parallel to the transverse direction of the suspension device 10.

Each of these arcuate walls 30 has a first end 30 'connected to the anchoring means 22 and a second end 30', opposite the first end 30 ', connected to the upper section 30 ".

It is therefore understood that when pressure is applied to the suspension device, especially when pressure is applied to the slats, perpendicular to the coating plane, the arcuate walls 30 fold along their folding lines 30a, having an effect spring. The upper section 12 thus approaches the lower section 20 when pressure is applied to the plate of the suspension device 10.

According to the invention, the suspension device 10 further comprises means 32 for modifying the stiffness of said device, said means comprising a movable member 34. In this first embodiment, the movable member has the general shape of a wheel which is rotatably attached to the upper section 12. More specifically, the wheel 34 is rotatably mounted about an axis 36 parallel to the plate. To do this, the wheel 34 is advantageously clipped to the axis 36.

As can be seen on the figure 1 the axis 36 extends in the longitudinal direction DL of the suspension device 10. Moreover, this axis 36 is disposed below the plate 14, between the two housings 16.18. The wheel thus has a plane of symmetry which substantially coincides with the plane of symmetry P of the suspension device 10.

The wheel 34 is advantageously made of a flexible material, for example an elastomer.

Referring again to the figure 1 it can be seen that the suspension device 10 further comprises an arch-shaped support 38 comprising a bearing portion 40 which is connected to the anchoring means 22 of the lower section 20 by means of flexible arms 42. preferably, this support 38 is flexible.

In addition, the suspension device 10 comprises two suspension elements 44 (as secondary suspension means) disposed on either side of the wheel 34. These suspension elements, which are in the form of arcuate walls in form of "C", connect the support 38 to the upper section 12. These suspension elements that improve the stability of the suspension device, however, are optional. In addition, in this example, these "C" shaped arcuate walls open towards the inside of the suspension device and can bend along fold lines parallel to the transverse direction.

Using the figure 3 Wheel 34 will now be described in more detail. As mentioned above, the wheel 34 is made of a flexible material. The wheel 34 has a hub 46 clipped to the axis 36, and a rim 48 connected to the hub 46 by spokes 50.

The rim 48 is composed of several rim portions, namely a first rim portion 52 constituting a first elastic body having a first stiffness, and a second rim portion 54 constituting a second elastic body having a second stiffness lower than the first stiffness . Each of the two rim portions is deformable and has a radial elasticity.

The second rim portion 54 extends angularly between the arms 50a and 50b, while the first rim portion 52 extends angularly between the arms 50b and 50c. The angular difference between the arms 50a and 50b of the second rim portion 54 is greater than that existing between the arms 50b and 50c of the first rim portion 52, whereby the first stiffness of the first rim portion is greater than at the second stiffness of the second rim portion. We understands that these stiffnesses are considered in a radial direction. It is also possible to increase the radial thickness of the first rim portion to further increase its first stiffness.

The first and second rim portions further include an axial groove 52a and 54a, the function of which will be explained below.

The rim 34 further comprises a third rim portion 58 which extends angularly about 180 °, as well as an angular recess 56 defined between the first rim portion 52 and the third rim portion 58.

As we see on the figures 2 and 4 , the plate 14 has an opening 60 which preferably extends in a direction orthogonal to the plate. This opening 60 extends between the two batten housings 16, 18 and opens on either side of the upper section 12. Part of the wheel 34 passes through the opening 60 so that an operator can easily operate the wheel, that is to say, rotate around the axis 36, from the upper face of the plate.

Several markings are etched in the third rim portion 58, namely a "1" diametrically opposed to the angular recess, a "3" diametrically opposite the first rim portion 52, and a "2" diametrically opposite the second portion of rim 54. Two arrows are also etched in the third rim portion so as to indicate to the operator in which direction he must turn the wheel 34.

These markings are visible by the operator and allow him to easily adjust the stiffness of the suspension device by actuating the wheel 34.

In addition, preferably, the rim portions 52, 54 comprise a rib 55 extending along the circumference of the wheel on either side of the axial grooves so as to prevent rotation of the movable member while pressure is applied to the suspension device.

We will now explain in more detail how the adjustment of the stiffness of the suspension device 10.

In a first position, represented on the figure 3A the first elastic body constituted by the first rim portion 52 is disposed facing the bearing portion 40 so that the first elastic body provides an elastic coupling between the upper 12 and lower 20 sections when a pressure is applied on the device suspension. The bearing portion 40 of the support 38 is housed in the groove 52a formed in the first rim portion 52 when pressure is applied to the suspension device 10, whereby the first elastic body 52 presses on the portion It follows that the first elastic body 52 deforms elastically while pressing on the flexible support 38 which is deformed in turn. As a result, the first elastic body acts in series with the flexible support 38, the latter acting in parallel with the suspension means 30. It is also understood that the cooperation between the support portion 40 and the groove 52a makes it possible to prevent the movable member 34 does not change position inadvertently.

Preferably, but not necessarily, in the rest position (without pressure applied to the suspension device), there is a clearance J of about one millimeter between the bearing portion 40 and the first rim portion 52, in order to to facilitate the manipulation of the movable member.

Thus, in this first position, corresponding to the marking "3", the suspension device 10 has a high stiffness.

In a second position, represented on the figure 3B , the angular recess 56 is arranged facing the bearing portion 40. As a result, when pressure is applied to the suspension device 10, the rim of the wheel 34 never comes into contact with the portion of support 40. It follows that, in this position, corresponding to the marking "1", the movable member does not perform an elastic coupling between the upper section 12 and lower 20. This is a disengaged position where the mobile member does not alter the intrinsic stiffness of the suspension device.

In a third position, represented on the figure 3C , the second elastic body 54 constituted by the second rim portion is disposed facing the bearing portion 40 so that the second elastic body 54 provides an elastic coupling between the upper 12 and lower 20 sections when a pressure is applied to the suspension device. The bearing portion 40 of the support 38 is housed in the groove 54a formed in the second rim portion 54 when pressure is applied to the suspension device 10, whereby the second elastic body 54 presses on the portion support of the flexible support 38. It follows that the second elastic body 52 deforms elastically and acts in series on the flexible support 38 which is deformed in turn, as shown in FIG. 3D figure . It is also understood that the second elastic body 42 and the flexible support 38 act in parallel with the suspension means 30. Moreover, the cooperation between the support portion 40 and the groove 54a makes it possible to prevent the movable member 34 does not change position unintentionally.

Preferably, in the rest position (without pressure applied to the suspension device), there is again preferably, but not necessarily, a clearance J of about one millimeter between the bearing portion 40 and the second portion of rim 54, and this to facilitate the handling of the movable member.

Thus, in this first position, corresponding to the marking "2", the suspension device 10 has a medium stiffness.

The movable member 34 can thus take three different positions corresponding to stiffnesses different from the suspension device 10.

The overall firmness of the suspension device 10 therefore depends on the local deformation capacity of the movable member 34.

Referring to Figures 3A to 3D and 5 it is found that the wheel 34 further comprises a first stop 62 disposed at one end of the first rim portion 52, and a second stop 64 disposed at one end of the third rim portion 58 which faces the first portion of the rim. Rim 52. The first and second stops 62, 64 make it possible to restrict the amplitude of rotation of the wheel 34 so that the third rim portion 58 can not be positioned facing the bearing portion 40. To do this , the first stop is arranged to abut with the support portion as shown on the figure 3A , while the second stop 64 is arranged to abut with the plate 14, as seen on the figure 3B .

Using the figure 6 a first variant of the first embodiment described above will now be described.

On this figure 6 , there is shown a suspension device 10 'which comprises a wheel 34' similar to the wheel 34 described above. The suspension device 10 'differs from the previous one in that the plate 14' of the upper section 12 'does not include slats housing. In addition, the lower section 20 'comprises means for enabling the fixing the device to a bed base, these means comprising a mounting platform.

With the help of Figures 18 to 20 a second variant of the first embodiment described above will now be described.

In this second variant, the suspension device 10B differs from the suspension device 10 previously described in that the support 38B in the form of an arch comprises a bearing portion 40B which is connected to the upper section 12B by means of flexible arms . Preferably, this support 38B is flexible. In this variant, the top of the arch is directed towards the lower section 20B.

In addition, the suspension device 10B comprises two suspension elements 44B (as secondary suspension means) disposed on either side of the wheel 34B. These suspension elements, which are in the form of "C" shaped arched walls, allow the support 38B to come to bear on the lower section 20B, when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

In particular, the secondary suspension means comprise a contact portion 46B (which, in this example interconnects the two suspension elements 44B) adapted to bear on the lower section 20B, when a pressure is applied on the device suspension.

In this example, this contact portion 46B is able to extend above the additional housing 24B so as to be able to bear on the additional lower batten, when such a batten is housed in this housing 24B.

When no lower batten is accommodated in the housing 24B, a wedge 80B, dissociated from the suspension device, can advantageously be mounted in the housing 24B (for example by clipping) to allow the contact portion 46B to take support on hold 80B in the absence of the thickness of this lower batten.

To reduce the noise when the contact portion 46B comes into contact with the wedge 80B, the latter can advantageously be made of a shock-absorbing material, such as a rubbery or elastomeric material, for example SBS.

On the other hand, in this example, the "C" shaped arcuate walls open towards the inside of the suspension device and can bend along folding lines parallel to the transverse direction.

With the help of Figures 21 and 22 a third variant of the first embodiment described above will now be described.

In this third variant, the suspension device 10C differs from the suspension device 10 previously described in that the secondary suspension means have at least one fold line parallel to the longitudinal direction (and therefore perpendicular to the transverse direction DT).

In particular, the suspension device 10C comprises a support 38C comprising a bearing portion 40C which is connected to the lower section 20C through arms adapted to bend along fold lines parallel to the longitudinal direction.

In addition, the suspension device 10C comprises two suspension elements 44C (as secondary suspension means) arranged on either side of the wheel. These suspension elements, which are in the form of "C" -shaped arch walls, connect the support 38C to the upper section 12C. In addition, in this example, these "C" shaped arcuate walls open in the transverse direction and can bend along fold lines parallel to the transverse direction.

With the help of Figures 23 to 25C a fourth variant of the first embodiment described above will now be described.

In this fourth variant, the suspension device 310 differs from the suspension device 10 previously described in that the movable member 332 is structured differently.

In particular, according to this variant, the movable member 332 comprises a base body 334 movably mounted on the suspension device.

In this example, this base body 334 is in the form of a wheel portion, in particular a wheel substantially similar to that previously described for the suspension device 10.

This base body 334 is pivotally mounted about an axis 336 parallel to the plate, as previously described for the suspension device 10.

Furthermore, in this example, the movable member 332 further comprises an elastic tongue 338, as the first elastic body, which has a first end 338A through which this tongue 338 is connected to said base body 334, and a second end 338B which is free to move away from and approach the base body 334 by bending the first end 338A and which is configured to cooperate with the hanger so that the tongue 338 provides elastic coupling between the sections. upper 312 and lower 320, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device.

More particularly, in this example, when the movable member 332 is moved between two particular positions, the position of the first end 338A of the tongue 338 is moved to vary the tongue flexing capability with respect to the base body. 334 and thereby vary the stiffness of the restoring force that opposes the tab to the approximation of the upper section 312 relative to the lower section 320, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device.

In particular, in this example, the second end 338B of the tongue 338 is able to bear on a bearing portion 340 of the suspension device. For example, this support portion 340 may be connected to the lower section 320 by means of flexible arms, in particular in a manner similar to that described for the third variant described above.

More particularly, in this example, the second end 338B is adapted to cooperate with the suspension device (in particular with the support portion 340) in two places distinct from one another, depending on the position that occupies the movable member 332. As a result, the elastic tongue displacement capacity 338 varies when the movable member 332 is displaced, for example between the two positions illustrated in FIGS. Figures 25B and 25C .

In particular, the displacement capacity of the tongue 338, in a direction of approach (in particular the direction DV illustrated on the Figures 25A to 25C ) of the upper section 312 with respect to the lower section 320, may depend on the relative positions, in this direction of approximation, of the point of flexion of the tongue 338 (ie its first end 338A) and its free end (ie its second end). end 338B). Thus, depending on the position occupied by the movable member 332, these relative positions may be further spaced (by a distance H1 on the figure 25B ) to allow a greater capacity of displacement and oppose a lower stiffness, or on the contrary closer (of a distance H2 on the figure 25C , which is smaller than H1) to reduce the displacement capacity and oppose a greater stiffness.

Moreover, as illustrated in figure 25A , the movable member is also adapted to occupy another position in which the elastic tongue 338 does not perform elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device. In particular, the second end 338B is not adapted to cooperate with the suspension device 310 so that an elastic deformation of the tongue 338 is not requested, when a pressure is applied on the latter.

With the help of Figures 26 to 28C a fifth variant of the first embodiment described above will now be described.

In this fifth variant, the suspension device 410 differs from the suspension device 10 previously described in that the movable member 432 is structured differently.

In particular, according to this variant, the movable member 432 is able to pivot on the suspension device 410 not via an axis or pivot but on the contrary through guide members 420A and 420B, more discrete, having peripheral surfaces at least partially circular and configured to guide in rotation the movable member 432.

In this example, the movable member 432 is pivotable about an imaginary geometric axis which is parallel to the longitudinal direction and which is preferably mounted on the upper section 412, with a result similar to that obtained with the suspension device 10 described above.

Furthermore, in this example, the movable member 432 may have different arcuate portions 442, 440 having different thicknesses so as to materialize first and second elastic bodies within the meaning of the present invention which respectively have first and second distinct stiffnesses, when pressure is applied to the suspension device 410 (see in particular the Figures 28B and 28C ).

Moreover, as illustrated in figure 28A , the movable member 432 is able to occupy a position in which the latter does not perform any elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device (see in particular the figure 28A ).

In addition, to make reliable the attachment of the movable member 432 on the suspension device 410, on the one hand, and to facilitate the passage of a position of said member 432 to another, on the other hand, the latter comprises furthermore, a flexible blade 450 capable of cooperating with at least a portion of a guiding member 420A and comprising a plurality of eyelets or indexes capable of cooperating with corresponding indexes or eyelets of this guiding member 420A.

With the help of Figures 7 to 12 a second embodiment of the suspension device according to the invention will now be described.

In this second embodiment, the suspension device 110 differs from the suspension device 10 previously described in that the movable member is rotatably mounted about an axis perpendicular to the plate 114. The movable member 134 is in the form of a slider having a head 170 to be actuated by an operator, a rod 172 connected to the head and passing through an opening 160 formed in the tray and carrying a disk 174. The upper face 174a of the disk, which is substantially parallel to the plane of the plate 114, has an annular bead 176 which cooperates with guide portions 178 located on the lower surface 114a of the plate 114 to allow the rotational guidance of the slider 134 relative to the upper section 112.

The disc 174 carries two pairs of leaf springs, namely a first pair comprising two leaf springs 180 diametrically opposed, and a second pair comprising two leaf springs 182 diametrically opposed. The thickness c1 of the spring blades 180 of the first pair is greater than the thickness c2 of the leaf springs 182 of the second pair so that the leaf springs 180 of the first pair have a stiffness greater than that of the blades. springs of the second pair. It is specified here that the leaf springs are corrugated and that they extend from the periphery of the disk 174, in a direction perpendicular to the plate 114, towards the lower section 120.

The leaf springs 180 of the first pair constitute a first elastic body, while the leaf springs 182 of the second pair form a second elastic body. Given the differences in thickness, the stiffness of the first elastic body 180 is greater than that of the second elastic body 182.

Referring to Figures 7 and 8 it is understood that the leaf springs 180, 182 are able to come into contact with the arch support 138, at the very least when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

Referring now to the figure 11 , which is a perspective view of the movable member 134, it is understood that the latter has three positions.

In a first position of the movable member 134, the first elastic body 180 (constituted by the two leaf springs 180 of the first pair disposed facing each other) is arranged facing the flexible support 138 in the shape of an arch , so that when pressure is applied to the suspension device 110, the two leaf springs 180 bear on the flexible support 138 so as to provide an elastic coupling between the upper 112 and lower 120 sections. position, the suspension device 110 has a high stiffness. This is the "firm" position.

In a second position of the movable member 134, the leaf springs of the two pairs 180,182, considered in the transverse direction DT of the suspension device 10, are positioned on either side of the flexible support 138 so that when a pressure is applied to the suspension device 110, none of the leaf springs only bears against the flexible support 138, the latter passing next to the support. The diametral spacing between the leaf springs 180, 182 and the transverse width of the flexible support 138 will be chosen so as to obtain this effect.

Therefore, in this second position, the movable member 134 does not perform elastic coupling between the upper section 112 and lower 120 when a pressure is applied to the suspension device 110. This is the position "disengaged" .

By rotating the movable member, in this case the rotary slider 134, the operator can change the position of the movable member and can thus adjust the stiffness of the suspension device 110.

In a third position of the movable member 134, the second elastic body 182 (constituted by the two leaf springs 182 of the second pair disposed facing each other) is arranged facing the flexible support 138 in the form of an arch , so that when pressure is applied to the suspension device 110, the two leaf springs 182 bear against the flexible support 138 so as to provide an elastic coupling between the upper 112 and lower 120 sections. position, the suspension device 110 has a high stiffness. This is the "half-hop" position.

On the figure 12 there is shown a variant of the rotary cursor 134 ', which is distinguished from the cursor of the figure 11 in that it further comprises a third pair of leaf springs 184 '. These leaf springs 184 'extend from the periphery of the disc 174', while being diametrically opposed, and are located between the leaf springs 180 'and 182'. It is therefore clear that the rotary slider 134 'does not have a disengaged position, unlike the rotary slider 134 previously described. In this example, the thickness of the leaf springs 184 'of the third pair is lower than that of the leaf springs 180', 182 'of the first and second pairs. However, it could be expected that the thickness of the leaf springs 184 'of the third pair is greater than the other thicknesses.

In this variant, the movable member 134 'therefore has a third position in which the leaf springs 184' of the third pair, which constitute a third elastic body, are arranged facing the flexible support 138 in the form of an arch, such that when pressure is applied to the suspension device 110, the two leaf springs 184 'press on the flexible support 138 so as to provide an elastic coupling between the upper section 112 and the lower section 120. In this third position , the stiffness of the suspension device is lower than that of the first and second positions. It is therefore a "flexible" position.

With the help of Figures 13 to 17 a third embodiment of the invention will now be described. The suspension device 210 shown in these figures comprises, like the suspension devices described above, an upper section 212 and a lower section 220 connected to the upper section 212 by suspension means 230 having the shape of arcuate walls 230. In this example, the upper section 212 comprises a plate 214 and slats housing 216, 218, while the lower section 220 includes anchoring means 222 surrounding a housing 224 for an additional slat.

The suspension device 210 further comprises a support 238 which has the shape of an arch. This support 238 extends in this example in the longitudinal direction DL of the suspension device between the anchoring means 222, the top of the arch being directed towards the upper section 212. In this example, the support 238 is flexible and has an elasticity in a direction perpendicular to the plate 214.

In this third embodiment, the movable member 234 is slidably mounted in the transverse direction DT of the suspension device 210. As a result, the movable member 234 is moved from one position to the other by a translational movement. In this example, the movable member 234 thus has the shape of a sliding drawer which is held and guided by two guide ramps 270 fixed to the lower surface 214a of the plate 214, at the end 230 "of the arcuate walls 230 As we see on the figure 15 , the guide ramps 270 extend in the transverse direction DT of the suspension device 210, and the movable member 234 has lateral wings 272 which are engaged between the guide ramps 270 and the lower surface 214a of the plate 214.

With the help of Figures 17A and 17B the movable member 234 will be described in more detail. As can be seen in these figures, the movable member 234 consists of a plate 274 whose lateral edges form the wings 272. One of the faces 274a of the plate carries a control finger 276 allowing the operator to translate the movable member 234 in translation in the transverse direction of the suspension device. As we see on the figures 14 and 15 the control finger 276 extends through an opening 260 formed in the tray 214 so that it can be manipulated by an operator.

The other face 274b of the plate 274 carries three arch-shaped elastic blades, namely first, second and third elastic blades referenced 280, 282 and 284. Referring to FIG. figure 14 it can be seen that the elastic blades are distinguished by their thicknesses, the thickness being considered here in a direction perpendicular to the direction transverse to the plate 214. In this example, the thickness e1 of the first elastic blade 280 is greater than thickness e2 of the second resilient blade 282, which is itself greater than the thickness e3 of the third elastic blade 284. In the sense of the invention, the first, second and third resilient blades 280, 282, 284 constitute first, second and third elastic bodies which, in this example, have a spring effect in a direction orthogonal to the plate 214. Given the differences in thicknesses of the three elastic blades, it is understood that the first elastic body has a stiffness greater than that of the second elastic body, the latter having a stiffness greater than that of the third elastic body.

• une première position dans laquelle le premier corps élastique 280 est disposé en regard du support 238, de telle sorte que le premier corps élastique 280 réalise un couplage élastique entre les sections supérieure 212 et inférieure 220 lorsqu'une pression est appliquée sur le dispositif de suspension 210. Il s'agit de la position « rigide » ou « ferme »
• une deuxième position dans laquelle le deuxième corps élastique 282 est disposé en regard du support 238, de telle sorte que le deuxième corps élastique 282 réalise un couplage élastique entre les sections supérieure 212 et inférieure 220 lorsqu'une pression est appliquée sur le dispositif de suspension 210. Il s'agit de la position « mi-souple » ;
• une troisième position dans laquelle le troisième corps élastique 284 est disposé en regard du support 238, de telle sorte que le troisième corps élastique 284 réalise un couplage élastique entre les sections supérieure 212 et inférieure 220 lorsqu'une pression est appliquée sur le dispositif de suspension 210. Il s'agit de la position « souple » qui est précisément celle représentée sur la figure 14.

As can be understood by using the figure 14 , the movable member 234 can have three positions:

• a first position in which the first elastic body 280 is disposed opposite the support 238, so that the first elastic body 280 provides an elastic coupling between the upper 212 and lower 220 sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device 210. This is the "rigid" or "firm" position
• a second position in which the second elastic body 282 is disposed facing the support 238, so that the second elastic body 282 provides an elastic coupling between the upper 212 and lower 220 sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device 210. This is the "soft"position;
• a third position in which the third elastic body 284 is disposed facing the support 238, so that the third elastic body 284 performs a elastic coupling between the upper 212 and lower 220 sections when a pressure is applied to the suspension device 210. This is the "flexible" position which is precisely that represented on the figure 14 .

In these three positions, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the corresponding elastic body (the elastic blade) exerts a pressure on the support 238 while deforming elastically. Under the effect of this pressure, the support 238 elastically deforms in turn. As a result, it is understood that elastic coupling is achieved between the upper and lower sections.

In a variant (not shown here), the movable member comprises only two resilient blades so as to have a disengaged position where the movable member does not perform elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

With the help of Figures 29 to 33C a fourth embodiment of the suspension device according to the invention will now be described.

In this fourth embodiment, the suspension device 510 differs from the suspension device 10 previously described in that the movable member is structured differently.

In particular, in this embodiment, the movable member comprises a flexible blade 540, as the first elastic body, able to be arranged between the lower section 520 and upper section 512, respectively in a first bending configuration, when the movable member occupies a first position (better visible on the figure 33A ), in a second bending configuration (different from the first), when the movable member occupies a second position (better visible on the figure 33B ), and in a third bending configuration (different from the first and different from the second), when the movable member occupies a third position (better visible on the figure 33C ).

In particular, the flexible blade 540 is disposed between the lower sections 520 and upper 512 so as to have one or more bending points (in particular three bending points 542, 544 and 546).

The flexible blade has a first end which is fixed relative to the suspension device, in particular a first section of the lower section and the upper section (for example the lower section in this example); and a second end which is movably mounted on the suspension device so that the movable member can be moved between its three aforementioned positions.

In particular, this second end is able to be moved in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the plate of the suspension device, in particular in the transverse direction of the latter. This end is terminated by maneuvering means 530 able to be operated to move the movable member and adapted to cooperate with a rack 516 arranged in the upper section 512 to lock the movable member in any one of the three aforementioned positions.

When the movable member adopts its first position, the flexible blade takes a first bending configuration in which it has an easily flexible portion between two of its bending points 542 and 554, in particular because the distance L1, in the transverse direction DT (which is perpendicular to the direction of approach of the upper section relative to the lower section), which separates these two points is important. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the flexible blade opposes resistance to elastic deformation with respect to this first bending configuration which is weak. As a result, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the flexible blade has a first stiffness R1 which is relatively low and provides an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said first stiffness R1.

When mobile adopts its second position, the flexible blade takes a second bending configuration in which it has a less easily flexible portion between its flexure points 542 and 554 than in the first position of the movable member, in particular because the distance L2 separating these two points is less important in the second configuration than in the first. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the flexible blade opposes resistance to elastic deformation with respect to this second bending configuration which is more important. It results when a pressure is applied to the suspension device, the flexible blade has a second stiffness R2, which is greater than the first stiffness R1, and provides an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said second stiffness R2.

When mobile adopts its third position, the flexible blade takes a third bending configuration in which it has an even less easily flexible portion between its flexure points 542 and 554 than in the second position of the movable member, in particular because the distance L3 separating these two points is less important in the third configuration than in the second (in this example, this portion of the flexible blade becomes substantially parallel to the direction of movement of the upper section relative to the lower section, so it becomes almost rigid). Therefore, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the flexible blade opposes resistance to elastic deformation with respect to this third bending configuration which is even more important. As a result, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, the flexible blade has a third stiffness R3, which is greater than the second stiffness R2, and provides an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said third stiffness R3.

With the help of Figures 34 to 36C a variant of the fourth embodiment described above will now be described.

In this variant, the suspension device 510 'differs from the suspension device 510 previously described in that the movable member 540' is structured differently.

In particular, in this variant, the flexible blade 540 'that of the movable member 540 is able to be arranged between the lower sections 520' and upper, respectively in only a first bending configuration, when the movable member occupies a first position (better visible on the figure 36A ), and in a second bending configuration (different from the first), when the movable member occupies a second position (better visible on the figure 36B ). Thus, the movable member is only able to occupy two positions in this variant.

Furthermore, in this variant, when the movable member moves from its first position to its second position, the flexible blade 540 'flames up reversing the curvature of one of its bending points 544 ', which makes this blade less easily flexible and increases the stiffness it opposes the displacement of the upper section relative to the lower section, when pressure is applied to the suspension device.

Moreover, in order to make the blade 540 'even less flexible, when the movable member adopts its second position, it is advantageous for the blade buckling 540' to induce an abutment of a portion 546 'of the latter with a stop 548 'fixed with respect to the suspension device (see figure 36B for more details).

The modes or examples of embodiment described in the present description are given for illustrative and not limiting, a person skilled in the art can easily, in view of this presentation, modify these modes or embodiments, or consider others, while remaining within the scope of the invention.

In addition, the various features of these modes or embodiments can be used alone or be combined with each other. When combined, these features may be as described above or differently, the invention not being limited to the specific combinations described herein. In particular, unless otherwise specified, a characteristic described in connection with a mode or example of embodiment may be applied in a similar manner to another embodiment or embodiment.

Claims (15)

Suspension device (10, 10 ', 10B, 10C, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 510') for a bed base or a seat, comprising: • an upper section (12,12B, 12C, 112,212, 312, 412, 512) provided with a plate (14,14 ', 114,214) adapted to support a mattress; A lower section (20,20 ', 20B, 20C, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520) comprising means for fixing the suspension device to the bed base, said lower section being connected to the upper section by suspension means ( 30, 130, 230); Means for modifying the stiffness of the suspension device comprising a movable member (32, 32 ', 32B, 32C, 132, 132', 232, 332, 432, 540, 540 '); characterized in that the movable member is provided with at least one first elastic body, the movable member having: a first position in which the first elastic body has a first stiffness when pressure is applied to the suspension device, so as to provide an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said first stiffness, and a second position, distinct from the first position, wherein the first elastic body is not adapted to perform said elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said first stiffness, when a pressure is applied to the suspension device. Suspension device (10, 10 ', 10 B, 10 C, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 510') according to claim 1, characterized in that the suspension means (30, 130, 230) have a so-called suspension stiffness when a pressure is applied to the suspension device, and in that the suspension means and the movable member are configured so that said suspension stiffness does not vary when the movable member is moved from one position to another. Suspension device (10, 10 ', 10B, 10C, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 510') according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that when pressure is applied to the suspension device while the movable member adopts its first position, the upper section and the lower section move relative to each other on a predetermined displacement stroke, and the suspension means and the first elastic body are elastically compressed and deformed simultaneously on at least a portion of said displacement stroke. Suspension device (510, 510 ') according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that , in the second position, the first elastic body has a second stiffness, different from the first stiffness, when a pressure is applied on the suspension device, so as to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said second stiffness. Suspension device (510) according to claim 4, wherein the movable member has a third position, distinct from the first position and the second position, wherein the first body has a third stiffness, different from the first stiffness and the second stiffness, when a pressure is applied on the suspension device, so as to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said third stiffness. Suspension device (10, 10 ', 10B, 10C, 110, 210, 310, 410) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that in the second position, the first elastic body does not perform any coupling elastic between the upper and lower sections when pressure is applied to the suspension device. Suspension device (310) according to claim 6, wherein the movable member has a third position, distinct from the first position and the second position, wherein the first elastic body has a second stiffness, different from the first stiffness, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, so as to provide an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said second stiffness. Suspension device (110, 210) according to claim 6, characterized in that the movable member further comprises a second elastic body, and in that , in the second position, the second elastic body presents, when a pressure is applied on the suspension device, a second stiffness different from the first stiffness that presents the first elastic body in the first position, so as to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said second stiffness. Suspension device (110, 210) according to claim 8, characterized in that the movable member further comprises a third elastic body, and in that the movable member furthermore has a third position in which the third elastic body presents, when a pressure is applied on the suspension device, a third stiffness different from the first and second stiffness of the first and second elastic bodies respectively in the first and second positions, so as to achieve an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with said third stiffness. Suspension device (10, 10 ', 10B, 10C, 310, 410) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that , in the second position, the movable member does not perform any elastic coupling between the sections upper and lower when pressure is applied to the suspension device. Suspension device (10, 10 ', 10B, 10C, 410) according to claim 10, characterized in that the movable member further comprises a second elastic body, and in that the movable member further has a third position wherein the second elastic body has, when pressure is applied to the suspension device, a second stiffness different from the first stiffness of the first elastic body in the first position, so as to realize an elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections with the second stiffness. Suspension device (10, 10 ', 10B, 10C, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 510') according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: the first elastic body has at least one contact portion which, when pressure is applied to the suspension device while the movable member adopts its first position, is adapted to cooperate with said suspension device to cause elastic deformation of the first elastic body with the first stiffness, and when the movable member is brought from one position to another, said contact portion is moved in at least one direction parallel to the plate. Suspension device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the movable member is rotatably mounted relative to the suspension device, so that said movable member is moved from one position to the other by a rotational movement of the movable member. Suspension device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the movable member is slidably mounted in a transverse direction of the suspension device, so that the movable member is moved from a position to the other by a translational movement. Suspension device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the plate has an opening extending in a direction orthogonal to the plate, and in that a portion of the movable member passes through said opening It can be operated by an operator.

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