EP3400841B1 - Element with adjustable stiffness for sleeping or seating furniture - Google Patents

Element with adjustable stiffness for sleeping or seating furniture Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3400841B1
EP3400841B1 EP18171876.8A EP18171876A EP3400841B1 EP 3400841 B1 EP3400841 B1 EP 3400841B1 EP 18171876 A EP18171876 A EP 18171876A EP 3400841 B1 EP3400841 B1 EP 3400841B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
compression
axis
flexible element
flexible
compression spring
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Application number
EP18171876.8A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3400841A1 (en
Inventor
Géraud Cailley
Pascal Lobry
Jacques Lobry
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Tournadre Standard Gum SA
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Tournadre Standard Gum SA
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Tournadre Standard Gum SA filed Critical Tournadre Standard Gum SA
Priority to PL18171876T priority Critical patent/PL3400841T3/en
Publication of EP3400841A1 publication Critical patent/EP3400841A1/en
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Publication of EP3400841B1 publication Critical patent/EP3400841B1/en
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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C23/00—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases
    • A47C23/002—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases with separate resilient support elements, e.g. elastomeric springs arranged in a two-dimensional matrix pattern
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C23/00—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases
    • A47C23/04—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases using springs in compression, e.g. coiled
    • A47C23/043—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases using springs in compression, e.g. coiled using wound springs
    • A47C23/0435—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases using springs in compression, e.g. coiled using wound springs of adjustable resilience
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C23/00—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases
    • A47C23/04—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases using springs in compression, e.g. coiled
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C23/00—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases
    • A47C23/04—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases using springs in compression, e.g. coiled
    • A47C23/043—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases using springs in compression, e.g. coiled using wound springs
    • A47C23/0438—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases using springs in compression, e.g. coiled using wound springs of special shape
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C23/00—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases
    • A47C23/06—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases using wooden springs, e.g. of slat type ; Slatted bed bases
    • A47C23/062—Slat supports
    • A47C23/067—Slat supports adjustable, e.g. in height or elasticity
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
    • A47C27/04—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas with spring inlays
    • A47C27/06—Spring inlays
    • A47C27/065—Spring inlays of special shape
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C23/00—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases
    • A47C23/04—Spring mattresses with rigid frame or forming part of the bedstead, e.g. box springs; Divan bases; Slatted bed bases using springs in compression, e.g. coiled
    • A47C23/05—Frames therefor; Connecting the springs to the frame ; Interconnection of springs, e.g. in spring units

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to the field of furniture and more particularly a flexible element with adjustable stiffness for sleeping or seating furniture, an assembly comprising a plurality of such flexible elements with adjustable stiffness and a method for adjusting the stiffness of a flexible element for bed or seat furniture.
  • assemblies such as mattresses or box springs, with flexible elements with adjustable stiffness have been previously disclosed, by example in EP 1 386 564 A1 , EP 1,155,643 A2 , WO 2008/015235 , WO 96/27312 , US 4,667,357 , EP2526835 A1 , EP2803297 A1 or DE 10 2008 050 108 A1 .
  • the stiffness of the elements is adjusted there with restrictions on their mechanical deformation. For this, however, the proposed mechanisms have significant complexity and / or bulk.
  • the present disclosure aims to remedy these drawbacks by proposing a flexible element with adjustable stiffness along a compression axis, for seating or sleeping furniture, with a simple structure and a limited size.
  • the flexible element comprising a compression spring
  • the flexible element also comprises a mechanism coupled to the compression spring to be actuated, for a movement in a direction different from that of the compression axis, by compression of the compression spring along the compression axis.
  • the mechanism can in particular comprise an elastic articulation connected in overhang, in direction orthogonal to the compression axis, to the compression spring, with a torsion axis orthogonal to the compression axis, and an adjustment device for selectively restrict and release a rotation of the elastic joint around the axis of torsion.
  • Such a mechanism can be easily integrated into the flexible element without large additional space around the spring.
  • the mechanism may also comprise a rod integral with the elastic articulation in rotation about the axis of torsion and in which the adjustment device comprises a stop movable between a first position restricting rotation of the rod around the axis of torsion and a second position releasing the rotation of the rod around the axis of torsion.
  • the adjustment device can thus be implemented in a particularly simple manner.
  • the adjustment device may comprise a rotary part integral with the stop, the rotary part being able to rotate, between the first position and the second position, around the compression axis.
  • the rod can be elastically flexible. Thus, it can stiffen rather than block the elastic joint when the rotation of the rod is restricted in the first position of the stop of the adjustment device. Furthermore, the rod can be curved. Configured in this way, it can in particular at least partially bypass the compression spring, to be arranged therein compactly, without enlarging the imprint of the flexible element in a plane perpendicular to the compression axis and without interfering with compression. of the compression spring.
  • the compression spring can in particular be helical.
  • such a helical compression spring can be configured as a rod wound in a helix around the axis of compression. The compression along the compression axis can then translate into a torsional stress of this helical rod around the propeller.
  • this torsional stress can in particular contribute to the rotation of the elastic joint and of the rod integral with the latter around the axis of torsion.
  • the flexible element may in particular comprise a plurality of coaxial compression springs.
  • this plurality of coaxial compression springs can comprise several identical coaxial compression springs with a regular angular offset between them. It is thus possible to increase the lateral stability of the flexible element and reduce the risk of buckling under compression.
  • the flexible element may comprise a plurality of mechanisms, each of which is coupled to a respective compression spring among the plurality of compression springs to be actuated, for movement in a direction different from that of the compression axis, by compression, along the compression axis, of the respective compression spring, the adjustment device being capable of selectively restricting and releasing the movement of the plurality of mechanisms simultaneously.
  • each mechanism can comprise an elastic articulation, connected in overhang, in direction orthogonal to the compression axis, to the respective compression spring, with a respective torsion axis orthogonal to the compression axis.
  • the adjustment device can then be able to selectively restrict and release a rotation of each elastic articulation of the plurality of mechanisms relative to the respective axis of torsion.
  • each mechanism of the plurality of mechanisms may comprise a rod integral, in rotation about a respective axis of torsion, with the respective elastic joint.
  • the adjustment device can then include a plurality of stops movable between a first position restricting rotation of the rods of the plurality of mechanisms around the respective torsion axes and a second position releasing rotation of the rods around the respective torsion axes.
  • the adjustment device can act simultaneously on the stiffness of several compression springs.
  • two rods of the plurality of mechanisms can be connected by a joint.
  • This articulation can in particular comprise a flexible sleeve receiving respective ends of the two rods.
  • the flexible sleeve can in particular be split in order to facilitate its bending.
  • the plurality of compression springs may in particular comprise compression springs arranged mechanically in parallel and / or in series. It can also be molded at least partially by injection. Injection molding can in particular make it possible to facilitate the production of flexible elements at least partially made of organic polymer material, in particular thermoplastic. However, other materials, for example metallic, as well as other production methods, such as for example additive manufacturing, can be used alternatively or in addition to organic polymer materials and molding or extrusion, respectively.
  • Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a seat, back or sleeping arrangement comprising a plurality of such flexible elements.
  • This set can in particular be a box spring or a mattress.
  • the adjacent flexible element adjustment devices among the plurality of flexible elements can be mechanically coupled for common actuation.
  • the assembly may include pivots mechanically coupling the adjuster devices of adjacent flexible elements among the plurality of flexible elements for common actuation.
  • Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of adjusting stiffness, along a compression axis, of a flexible element.
  • This flexible element comprises a compression spring aligned with the compression axis and a mechanism coupled to the compression spring to be actuated, for a movement in a direction different from that of the compression axis, by compression of the compression spring. compression along the compression axis.
  • the stiffness adjustment method comprises a step in which an adjustment device selectively restricts or releases the movement of the mechanism.
  • a flexible element 10, intended for seat or bed furniture, and whose stiffness along a compression axis Z is adjustable is illustrated on the Figures 1A to 1D .
  • this flexible element 10 can comprise several elastic parts arranged in series along the compression axis Z.
  • it can comprise a first elastic part 20 and a second elastic part 30 mechanically arranged in series along the compression axis Z and connected to each other by a connection 40 which can be located, as in the example illustrated, in the center of the flexible element 10.
  • Each of the two elastic parts 20, 30 can comprise at least two compression springs 50 mechanically arranged in parallel as in the example illustrated.
  • these compression springs 50 can be, as in the example illustrated on the figure 1A , helical springs formed by rods wound in a helix H around the compression axis Z.
  • the angular offset around the compression axis Z between the helices of the springs 50 helical and coaxial compression can be regular.
  • the angular offset between the compression springs 50 of each elastic piece 20, 30 can be 360 ° / x, where x is the number of compression springs 50 in parallel in each elastic piece 20, 30.
  • the angular offset can be 180 °.
  • each elastic piece 20, 30 may further comprise a connector 60, 70 complementary, respectively, to the connector 70, 60 of the other elastic piece 30, 20 to form the connection 40, as well as a support platform 80, 90.
  • the connectors 60, 70 and the support platforms 80, 90 can be arranged on opposite ends of the respective elastic parts 20, 30.
  • this flexible element 10 can extend from one to the other of the support platforms 80, 90, along the compression axis Z.
  • each compression spring 50 can be connected directly to the respective connector 60, 70, while the other end can be connected to the support platform 80, 90 to through an elastic joint 100.
  • Each of these elastic joints 100 may in particular have a torsion axis Y substantially orthogonal to the compression axis Z and be connected to the respective compression spring 50 by a more rigid arm 110, oriented in a radial direction substantially orthogonal to the compression axis Z and to the respective axis of torsion Y, so that the elastic joint 100 is cantilevered with the compression spring 50 in the direction orthogonal to the axis of compression Z.
  • each elastic articulation 100 can take the form of a torsion rod connecting the arm 110 to the support platform 80, 90.
  • other forms are also conceivable.
  • each elastic piece 20, 30 of the illustrated example may also include other rods 120 secured to the arms 110. More specifically, each rod 120 may extend from a first end 121 secured to a respective arm 110 at a second end 122. Each second end 122 can be offset with respect to the axis of torsion Y of the elastic joint 100 corresponding to the respective arm 110 in a plane orthogonal to this axis of torsion Y, so as to rotate around the torsion axis Y with the respective arm 110.
  • each rod 120 can be curved, and in particular follow a helix wider than those of the compression springs 50, so as to bypass them so that the first and second ends 121, 122 of each rod 120 are located on diametrically opposite sides of the springs 50, while also being mutually offset in a direction parallel to the compression axis Z.
  • the rods 120 are also elastically flexible.
  • each elastic articulation 100 forms, with the corresponding arm 110 and rod 120, a mechanism 150 configured so that the compression of the respective compression spring 50 in the compression axis Z actuates a movement of the second end of the rod 120 in radial direction with respect to the compression axis Z, as illustrated on the figure 2B .
  • each rod 120 of one of the elastic parts 20, 30 can be connected by an articulation to the second end 122 of a rod 120 opposite to the other of the elastic parts 30 , 20. More specifically, the corresponding second ends 122 of each pair of opposite rods 120 can be received in opposite ends 131, 132 of a flexible sleeve 130 which can thus form such a joint.
  • the flexible sleeves 130 can in particular be split perpendicular to their main axis, so as to increase their flexibility.
  • the flexible element 10 can also comprise a device for adjusting the stiffness of the flexible element 10 in the compression axis Z.
  • This adjustment device can in particular be configured as a rotary part 140, as illustrated on Figures 1A to 1C .
  • This rotary part 140 can be retained by the connectors 60, 70 so as to be rotatable around the compression axis Z.
  • the rotary part 140 may comprise several openings 141 traversed by the flexible sleeves 130 in the direction parallel to the compression axis Z. Each opening 141 may extend over a respective arc around the compression axis Z.
  • each opening 141 may include a first section 142 and a second section 143, the first section 142 possibly being narrower than the second section 143 in the radial direction relative to the compression axis Z. More specifically, the outer edge of each opening 141 may be closer to the compression axis Z in the first section 142 than in the second section 143, and thus form a radial stop 145 to restrict radial movement of the flexible sleeve 130 respectively, and therefore also second ends 122 of rods 120 fitted into this flexible sleeve 130, relative to the compression axis Z.
  • the rotary part 140 can thus t rotate between a first position, in which the flexible sleeves 130 are received in the first sections 142 of the openings 141 and the stops 145 restrict the radial spacing of the flexible sleeves 130, and therefore of the second ends 122 of the rods 120 relative to the compression axis Z, as illustrated on Figures 1A to 1C , and a second position in which the flexible sleeves 130 will be received in the second, wider sections 143, of the openings 141, thus freeing the flexible sleeves 130 is the second ends 122 of the rods 120, as illustrated in the figure 1D , to allow them greater spacing radial with respect to the compression axis Z, such as that illustrated on the figure 2B .
  • the elastic parts 20, 30, the rotary part 140 and the flexible sleeves 130 can be made of organic polymer material, in particular thermoplastic such as, for example a polyamide, a polyoxymethylene, or a copolyester. However, other materials, for example metallic, can be used alternatively or in combination with such polymeric materials.
  • the elastic parts 20, 30 and the rotary part 140 can in particular be molded, in particular by injection.
  • the flexible sleeves 130 can in particular be cut from an extruded part.
  • other production methods such as, for example, additive manufacturing, can be used alternatively or in addition to molding or extrusion.
  • the operation of the flexible element 10 of the illustrated example can also be described with reference to Figures 1A to 2B .
  • the rotary part 140 forming a stiffness adjustment device is in its second position, with the flexible sleeves 130 received in the second, larger sections 143, of the openings 141, and the flexible element 10 is subjected to a force of compression F along the compression axis Z, between the support platforms 80, 90, the compression springs 50 will be compressed and the arms 110 connecting them to the elastic joints 100 rotate around the torsion axis Y, with the rods 120.
  • the second ends 122 of the rods 120 can deviate radially from the compression axis Z, without opposition to the width of the second sections 143 of the openings 141 of the rotating part 140, as illustrated in the figure 2B .
  • the flexible element 10 thus remains relatively flexible in compression.
  • the stops 145 can restrict the radial spacing, relative to the compression axis Z, of the flexible sleeves 130 and therefore of the second ends 122 of the rods 120, thus restricting the rotation of the rods 120 around the axes of torsion Y of the respective elastic joints 100 when the flexible element 10 is subjected to compression F along the compression axis Z.
  • the flexible elements 10 can have a stiffness in the compression axis Z which is substantially greater when the rotary part 140 is in its first position than when the rotary part 140 is in its second position.
  • FIGS. 3A, 3B , 4A, 4B , 5A and 5B illustrate the core of a mattress 200 on a bed 300.
  • the core of this mattress 200 may comprise a plurality of flexible elements 10, arranged as in the example illustrated in several rows and columns in a plane perpendicular to the axes of compression Z.
  • the support platforms 80, 90 of adjacent flexible elements 10 can be connected by flexible connections 210.
  • each of the rotary parts 140 may for example comprise at least one flexible blade 220, arranged on the periphery of the rotary part 140, oriented in a plane perpendicular to the compression axis Z, and bent radially outward relative to the compression axis Z.
  • Flexible blades 220 of rotating parts 140 of adjacent flexible elements 10 can be connected by pivots 230 with axes of pivoting parallel to the compression axes Z of the flexible elements 10.
  • the distance between each pivot 230 and the compression axes Z of each of the two adjacent flexible elements 10 of which this pivot 230 connects the rotating parts 140 may be greater than half the distance between the compression axes Z of the two adjacent flexible elements 10, so that, when the rotating parts 140 of the adjacent flexible elements 10 are in their respective first positions, as illustrated in the figure 3C , the pivot 230 is on one side of a flat plane P connecting the compression axes Z of the two adjacent flexible elements 10, when the rotary parts 140 of the adjacent flexible elements 10 are in their respective second positions, as illustrated in the figure 4C , the pivot 230 is on the other side of the plane P and that, to move the rotating parts 140 of the flexible elements 10 adjacent from their first positions to their respective second positions, the pivot 230 must pass through an intermediate position, in the plane P , in which the flexible blades 220 are elastically constrained
  • the elasticity of the flexible blades 220 makes it possible to provide return forces towards, respectively, the first and second positions of the rotating parts 140 of the flexible elements 10 adjacent to each side of the intermediate position, to maintain these first and second positions of stably and avoid the involuntary passage from one to the other, and therefore an involuntary change in the stiffness of the flexible elements 10.
  • the user can make a conscious effort, against the elasticity of the flexible blades 220, to pass through the intermediate position in order to moving the rotating parts 140 between their first and second positions.
  • FIG. 6A to 6C An alternative embodiment is illustrated on the Figures 6A to 6C .
  • the flexible elements 10 are similar to those of the first example, and similar components are therefore given the same reference numbers in the drawings.
  • the rotating parts 140 in this second example can be simpler than those in the first example, and simply comprise radial arms 146 carrying the radial stops 145 at their respective ends but, as in the first example, each rotary part 140 can rotate between a first position in which these radial stops 145 restrict the radial spacing of the flexible sleeves 130, and therefore also of the second ends 122 rods 120 fitted into these flexible sleeves 130, relative to the compression axis Z, and a second position in which the rotary part 140 no longer restricts this movement of radial spacing.
  • the pivots 230 may not connect the rotating parts 140 directly to adjacent rotating parts 140, but rather to control members 300, which can be arranged between the rows of flexible elements 10 and moved in a straight line between the first and second position.
  • the flexible blades 220 can moreover, in this alternative example, be integrated into the control members 300, such that these control members 300 pass through an intermediate position, between the first and second position, in which the flexible blades 220 are constrained elastically, against their respective camber.
  • the flexible elements 10 can have a bending elasticity perpendicular to their compression axes Z, so as to allow an elastic lateral movement of the rotating parts 140 in their intermediate positions between the first and second positions.
  • the elasticity of the flexible elements 10 perpendicular to their compression axes Z could provide the return forces towards the first and second positions on each side of the intermediate position.
  • FIGS 7A to 9C illustrate yet another example of flexible element 10, intended for box springs rather than mattresses.
  • the flexible element 10 is similar to those of the first two examples, and the similar components are therefore given the same reference numbers in the drawings.
  • This alternative flexible element 10 can comprise a single elastic part 20 and a rotary part 140.
  • the elastic part 20 can comprise at least two compression springs 50 mechanically arranged in parallel as in the example illustrated.
  • these compression springs 50 may be partially helical springs formed by rods wound in part following a helix H around the compression axis Z.
  • the compression springs 50 may comprise bent segments 51 diverging from the helix H so as to minimize their bulk while limiting the risk of interference with other parts of the flexible element 10.
  • the rotary part 140 can be similar to those of the second example and include radial arms 146 carrying receptacles 147 at their respective ends. These receptacles 147 can be configured to receive, in the first position of the rotary part 140, the second ends 122 of the rods 120, restricting their radial spacing relative to the compression axis Z when the compression springs 50 are compressed along the compression axis Z, as illustrated on Figures 9A to 9C . As in the previous examples, the rotary part 140 can however rotate between this first position and a second position in which the rotary part 140 no longer restricts this radial spacing movement.

Landscapes

  • Mattresses And Other Support Structures For Chairs And Beds (AREA)

Description

La présente divulgation concerne le domaine de l'ameublement et plus particulièrement un élément souple à raideur réglable pour meuble de couchage ou d'assise, un ensemble comprenant une pluralité de tels éléments souple à raideur réglable et un procédé de réglage de raideur d'un élément souple pour meuble de lit ou d'assise.The present disclosure relates to the field of furniture and more particularly a flexible element with adjustable stiffness for sleeping or seating furniture, an assembly comprising a plurality of such flexible elements with adjustable stiffness and a method for adjusting the stiffness of a flexible element for bed or seat furniture.

Afin de rendre une surface d'assise, de dossier ou de couchage adaptable aux préférences et à l'anatomie de différents utilisateurs, des ensembles, tels que des matelas ou des sommiers, avec des éléments souples à raideur réglable ont été précédemment divulgués, par exemple dans EP 1 386 564 A1 , EP 1 155 643 A2 , WO 2008/015235 , WO 96/27312 , US 4,667,357 , EP2526835 A1 , EP2803297 A1 ou DE 10 2008 050 108 A1 . Typiquement, la raideur des éléments y est réglée avec des restrictions à leur déformation mécanique. Pour cela, toutefois, les mécanismes proposés présentent une importante complexité et/ou encombrement.In order to make a seat, back or sleeping surface adaptable to the preferences and anatomy of different users, assemblies, such as mattresses or box springs, with flexible elements with adjustable stiffness have been previously disclosed, by example in EP 1 386 564 A1 , EP 1,155,643 A2 , WO 2008/015235 , WO 96/27312 , US 4,667,357 , EP2526835 A1 , EP2803297 A1 or DE 10 2008 050 108 A1 . Typically, the stiffness of the elements is adjusted there with restrictions on their mechanical deformation. For this, however, the proposed mechanisms have significant complexity and / or bulk.

Objet et résumé de l'inventionSubject and summary of the invention

La présente divulgation vise à remédier à ces inconvénients, en proposant un élément souple à raideur réglable suivant un axe de compression, pour meuble d'assise ou de couchage, avec une structure simple et un encombrement limité.The present disclosure aims to remedy these drawbacks by proposing a flexible element with adjustable stiffness along a compression axis, for seating or sleeping furniture, with a simple structure and a limited size.

Suivant un aspect de cette divulgation, ce but peut être atteint grâce au fait que l'élément souple, comprenant un ressort de compression, comprend aussi un mécanisme couplé au ressort de compression pour être actionné, pour un mouvement suivant une direction différente à celle de l'axe de compression, par compression du ressort de compression suivant l'axe de compression.According to one aspect of this disclosure, this object can be achieved thanks to the fact that the flexible element, comprising a compression spring, also comprises a mechanism coupled to the compression spring to be actuated, for a movement in a direction different from that of the compression axis, by compression of the compression spring along the compression axis.

Grâce à ces dispositions, on peut obtenir un élément souple à raideur facilement réglable en restreignant ou libérant le mouvement du mécanisme. En effet, quand le mouvement du mécanisme est restreint par le dispositif de réglage, celui-ci raidit le ressort de compression, tandis que quand ce mouvement n'est plus restreint, le mécanisme ne s'oppose plus à la compression du ressort de compression.Thanks to these arrangements, it is possible to obtain a flexible element with stiffness that is easily adjustable by restricting or releasing the movement of the mechanism. Indeed, when the movement of the mechanism is restricted by the adjustment device, this stiffens the compression spring, while when this movement is no longer restricted, the mechanism no longer opposes the compression of the compression spring.

Le mécanisme peut notamment comprendre une articulation élastique reliée en porte-à-faux, en direction orthogonale à l'axe de compression, au ressort de compression, avec un axe de torsion orthogonal à l'axe de compression, et un dispositif de réglage pour sélectivement restreindre et libérer une rotation de l'articulation élastique autour de l'axe de torsion. Un tel mécanisme peut être facilement intégré dans l'élément souple sans grand encombrement supplémentaire autour du ressort.The mechanism can in particular comprise an elastic articulation connected in overhang, in direction orthogonal to the compression axis, to the compression spring, with a torsion axis orthogonal to the compression axis, and an adjustment device for selectively restrict and release a rotation of the elastic joint around the axis of torsion. Such a mechanism can be easily integrated into the flexible element without large additional space around the spring.

Le mécanisme peut aussi comprendre une tige solidaire de l'articulation élastique en rotation autour de l'axe de torsion et dans lequel le dispositif de réglage comprend une butée déplaçable entre une première position restreignant une rotation de la tige autour de l'axe de torsion et une deuxième position libérant la rotation de la tige autour de l'axe de torsion. Le dispositif de réglage peut ainsi mis en œuvre de manière particulièrement simple.The mechanism may also comprise a rod integral with the elastic articulation in rotation about the axis of torsion and in which the adjustment device comprises a stop movable between a first position restricting rotation of the rod around the axis of torsion and a second position releasing the rotation of the rod around the axis of torsion. The adjustment device can thus be implemented in a particularly simple manner.

Le dispositif de réglage peut comprendre une pièce rotative solidaire de la butée, la pièce rotative étant apte à tourner, entre la première position et la deuxième position, autour de l'axe de compression.The adjustment device may comprise a rotary part integral with the stop, the rotary part being able to rotate, between the first position and the second position, around the compression axis.

La tige peut être élastiquement flexible. Ainsi, elle peut raidir plutôt que bloquer l'articulation élastique quand la rotation de la tige est restreinte dans la première position de la butée du dispositif de réglage. Par ailleurs la tige peut être incurvée. Configurée ainsi, elle peut notamment contourner au moins en partie le ressort de compression, pour y être arrangée de manière compacte, sans élargir l'empreinte de l'élément souple dans un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe de compression et sans interférer avec la compression du ressort de compression.The rod can be elastically flexible. Thus, it can stiffen rather than block the elastic joint when the rotation of the rod is restricted in the first position of the stop of the adjustment device. Furthermore, the rod can be curved. Configured in this way, it can in particular at least partially bypass the compression spring, to be arranged therein compactly, without enlarging the imprint of the flexible element in a plane perpendicular to the compression axis and without interfering with compression. of the compression spring.

Le ressort de compression peut notamment être hélicoïdal. En particulier, un tel ressort de compression hélicoïdal peut être configuré comme une tige enroulée suivant une hélice autour de l'axe de compression. La compression suivant l'axe de compression peut alors se traduire en une contrainte en torsion de cette tige hélicoïdale autour de l'hélice. Ainsi, cette contrainte en torsion peut notamment contribuer à la rotation de l'articulation élastique et de la tige solidaire à celle-ci autour de l'axe de torsion.The compression spring can in particular be helical. In particular, such a helical compression spring can be configured as a rod wound in a helix around the axis of compression. The compression along the compression axis can then translate into a torsional stress of this helical rod around the propeller. Thus, this torsional stress can in particular contribute to the rotation of the elastic joint and of the rod integral with the latter around the axis of torsion.

L'élément souple peut notamment comprendre une pluralité de ressorts de compression coaxiaux. En particulier, cette pluralité de ressorts de compression coaxiaux peut comprendre plusieurs ressorts de compression coaxiaux identiques avec un décalage angulaire régulier entre eux. Il est ainsi possible d'accroître la stabilité latérale de l'élément souple et réduire le risque de flambage sous compression. Par ailleurs, l'élément souple peut comprendre une pluralité de mécanismes dont chacun soit couplé à un ressort de compression respectif parmi la pluralité de ressorts de compression pour être actionné, pour un mouvement suivant une direction différente à celle de l'axe de compression, par compression, suivant l'axe de compression, du ressort de compression respectif, le dispositif de réglage étant apte à sélectivement restreindre et libérer le déplacement de la pluralité de mécanismes simultanément. En particulier, chaque mécanisme peut comprendre une articulation élastique, reliée en porte-à-faux, en direction orthogonale à l'axe de compression, au ressort de compression respectif, avec un axe de torsion respectif orthogonal à l'axe de compression. Dans cet élément souple le dispositif de réglage peut alors être apte à sélectivement restreindre et libérer une rotation de chaque articulation élastique de la pluralité de mécanismes par rapport à l'axe de torsion respectif.The flexible element may in particular comprise a plurality of coaxial compression springs. In particular, this plurality of coaxial compression springs can comprise several identical coaxial compression springs with a regular angular offset between them. It is thus possible to increase the lateral stability of the flexible element and reduce the risk of buckling under compression. Furthermore, the flexible element may comprise a plurality of mechanisms, each of which is coupled to a respective compression spring among the plurality of compression springs to be actuated, for movement in a direction different from that of the compression axis, by compression, along the compression axis, of the respective compression spring, the adjustment device being capable of selectively restricting and releasing the movement of the plurality of mechanisms simultaneously. In particular, each mechanism can comprise an elastic articulation, connected in overhang, in direction orthogonal to the compression axis, to the respective compression spring, with a respective torsion axis orthogonal to the compression axis. In this flexible element, the adjustment device can then be able to selectively restrict and release a rotation of each elastic articulation of the plurality of mechanisms relative to the respective axis of torsion.

En outre, chaque mécanisme de la pluralité de mécanismes peut comprendre une tige solidaire, en rotation autour d'un axe de torsion respectif, de l'articulation élastique respective. Le dispositif de réglage peut alors comprendre une pluralité de butées déplaçables entre une première position restreignant une rotation des tiges de la pluralité de mécanismes autour des axes de torsion respectifs et une deuxième position libérant la rotation des tiges autour des axes de torsion respectifs. Ainsi, le dispositif de réglage peut agir simultanément sur la raideur de plusieurs ressorts de compression.In addition, each mechanism of the plurality of mechanisms may comprise a rod integral, in rotation about a respective axis of torsion, with the respective elastic joint. The adjustment device can then include a plurality of stops movable between a first position restricting rotation of the rods of the plurality of mechanisms around the respective torsion axes and a second position releasing rotation of the rods around the respective torsion axes. Thus, the adjustment device can act simultaneously on the stiffness of several compression springs.

Afin d'éviter le risque de collision ou interférence entre les tiges de la pluralité de mécanismes et les ressorts de la pluralité de ressorts, deux tiges de la pluralité de mécanismes peuvent être reliés par une articulation. Cette articulation peut notamment comprendre un manchon flexible recevant des extrémités respectives des deux tiges. Le manchon flexible peut notamment être fendu afin de faciliter sa flexion.In order to avoid the risk of collision or interference between the rods of the plurality of mechanisms and the springs of the plurality of springs, two rods of the plurality of mechanisms can be connected by a joint. This articulation can in particular comprise a flexible sleeve receiving respective ends of the two rods. The flexible sleeve can in particular be split in order to facilitate its bending.

La pluralité de ressorts de compression peut notamment comprendre des ressorts de compression arrangés mécaniquement en parallèle et/ou en série. Il peut en outre être moulé au moins partiellement par injection. Le moulage par injection peut notamment permettre de faciliter la production d'éléments souples au moins partiellement en matériau polymère organique, en particulier thermoplastique. Toutefois, d'autres matériaux, par exemple métalliques, ainsi que d'autres procédés de production, comme par exemple la fabrication additive, peuvent être utilisés alternativement ou en complément aux matériaux polymères organiques et au moulage ou extrusion, respectivement.The plurality of compression springs may in particular comprise compression springs arranged mechanically in parallel and / or in series. It can also be molded at least partially by injection. Injection molding can in particular make it possible to facilitate the production of flexible elements at least partially made of organic polymer material, in particular thermoplastic. However, other materials, for example metallic, as well as other production methods, such as for example additive manufacturing, can be used alternatively or in addition to organic polymer materials and molding or extrusion, respectively.

Un autre aspect de la présente divulgation concerne un ensemble d'assise, dossier ou couchage comprenant une pluralité de tels éléments souples. Cet ensemble peut notamment être un sommier ou un matelas.Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a seat, back or sleeping arrangement comprising a plurality of such flexible elements. This set can in particular be a box spring or a mattress.

Dans un tel ensemble, les dispositifs de réglage d'éléments souples adjacents parmi la pluralité d'éléments souples peuvent être mécaniquement couplés pour un actionnement commun. En particulier, l'ensemble peut comprendre des pivots couplant mécaniquement les dispositifs de réglage d'éléments souples adjacents parmi la pluralité d'éléments souples pour un actionnement commun.In such an assembly, the adjacent flexible element adjustment devices among the plurality of flexible elements can be mechanically coupled for common actuation. In particular, the assembly may include pivots mechanically coupling the adjuster devices of adjacent flexible elements among the plurality of flexible elements for common actuation.

Encore un autre aspect de la présente divulgation concerne un procédé de réglage de raideur, suivant un axe de compression, d'un élément souple. Cet élément souple comprend un ressort de compression aligné avec l'axe de compression et un mécanisme couplé au ressort de compression pour être actionné, pour un mouvement suivant une direction différente à celle de l'axe de compression, par compression du ressort de compression suivant l'axe de compression. Le procédé de réglage de raideur comprend une étape dans laquelle un dispositif de réglage restreint ou libère sélectivement le mouvement du mécanisme.Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of adjusting stiffness, along a compression axis, of a flexible element. This flexible element comprises a compression spring aligned with the compression axis and a mechanism coupled to the compression spring to be actuated, for a movement in a direction different from that of the compression axis, by compression of the compression spring. compression along the compression axis. The stiffness adjustment method comprises a step in which an adjustment device selectively restricts or releases the movement of the mechanism.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

L'invention sera bien comprise et ses avantages apparaîtront mieux, à la lecture de la description détaillée qui suit, de modes de réalisation représenté à titre d'exemples non limitatifs. La description se réfère aux dessins annexés sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1A est une vue en perspective d'un élément souple à raideur réglable, détendu, avec son dispositif de réglage en position de plus grande raideur ;
  • la figure 1B est une vue de côté de l'élément souple de la figure 1A ;
  • la figure 1C est une vue en coupe de l'élément souple de la figure 1B suivant le plan IC-IC ;
  • la figure 1D est une vue en coupe de l'élément souple de la figure 1C suivant le même plan, mais avec son dispositif de réglage en position de moindre raideur ;
  • la figure 2A est une vue de côté de l'élément souple de la figure 1A, détendu, sans son dispositif de réglage ;
  • la figure 2B est une vue de côté de l'élément souple de la figure 1A, comprimé, sans son dispositif de réglage ;
  • la figure 3A est une vue en perspective d'un ensemble comprenant une pluralité d'éléments souples analogues à celui de la figure 1A, en position de plus grande raideur ;
  • la figure 3B est une vue en coupe de l'ensemble de la figure 3A suivant le plan IIIB-IIIB ;
  • la figure 3C est un détail de la figure 3B ;
  • la figure 4A est une vue en perspective de la ensemble de la figure 3A, en position de moindre raideur ;
  • la figure 4B est une vue en coupe de la ensemble de la figure 4A suivant le plan IVB-IVB ;
  • la figure 4C est un détail de la figure 4B ;
  • la figure 5A est une vue en perspective de l'ensemble de la figure 3A, en position intermédiaire ;
  • la figure 5B est une vue en coupe de l'ensemble de la figure 5A suivant le plan VB-VB ;
  • la figure 5C est un détail de la figure 5B ;
  • la figure 6A est une vue en perspective d'un ensemble alternative comprenant aussi une pluralité d'éléments souples à raideur réglable, en position de plus grande raideur ;
  • la figure 6B est une vue en perspective de l'ensemble de la figure 6A, écorchée dans le plan VIB-VIB ;
  • la figure 6C est une vue en perspective d'un ensemble de la figure 6A, écorchée dans le plan VIB-VIB, en position de moindre raideur ;
  • les figures 7A, 7B et 7C sont, respectivement, une vue en perspective, une vue de côté et une vue du haut d'un élément souple alternatif à raideur réglable, détendu, avec son dispositif de réglage en position de plus grande raideur ;
  • les figures 8A, 8B et 8C sont, respectivement, une vue en perspective, une vue de côté et une vue du haut d'un élément souple alternatif à raideur réglable, comprimé, avec son dispositif de réglage en position de moindre raideur ; et
  • la figure 9A, 9B et 9C illustrent l'élément souple alternatif des figures 8A à 8C, comprimé, avec son dispositif de réglage en position de plus grande raideur.
The invention will be clearly understood and its advantages will appear better on reading the detailed description which follows of embodiments shown by way of nonlimiting examples. The description refers to the accompanying drawings in which:
  • the figure 1A is a perspective view of a flexible element with adjustable stiffness, relaxed, with its adjustment device in the position of greatest stiffness;
  • the figure 1B is a side view of the flexible element of the figure 1A ;
  • the figure 1C is a sectional view of the flexible element of the figure 1B according to the IC-IC plan;
  • the figure 1D is a sectional view of the flexible element of the figure 1C along the same plane, but with its adjustment device in the position of least stiffness;
  • the figure 2A is a side view of the flexible element of the figure 1A , relaxed, without its adjusting device;
  • the figure 2B is a side view of the flexible element of the figure 1A , compressed, without its adjusting device;
  • the figure 3A is a perspective view of an assembly comprising a plurality of flexible elements similar to that of the figure 1A , in the position of greatest stiffness;
  • the figure 3B is a sectional view of the entire figure 3A according to the IIIB-IIIB plan;
  • the figure 3C is a detail of the figure 3B ;
  • the figure 4A is a perspective view of the entire figure 3A , in the position of least stiffness;
  • the figure 4B is a sectional view of the entire figure 4A according to the IVB-IVB plan;
  • the figure 4C is a detail of the figure 4B ;
  • the figure 5A is a perspective view of the entire figure 3A , in the intermediate position;
  • the figure 5B is a sectional view of the entire figure 5A according to the VB-VB plan;
  • the figure 5C is a detail of the figure 5B ;
  • the figure 6A is a perspective view of an alternative assembly also comprising a plurality of flexible elements with adjustable stiffness, in the position of greatest stiffness;
  • the figure 6B is a perspective view of the entire figure 6A , flayed in the VIB-VIB plan;
  • the figure 6C is a perspective view of a set of the figure 6A , skinned in the VIB-VIB plane, in the position of least stiffness;
  • the Figures 7A, 7B and 7C are, respectively, a perspective view, a side view and a top view of an alternative flexible element with adjustable stiffness, relaxed, with its adjustment device in the position of greatest stiffness;
  • the Figures 8A, 8B and 8C are, respectively, a perspective view, a side view and a top view of an alternative flexible element with adjustable stiffness, compressed, with its adjustment device in the position of least stiffness; and
  • the figure 9A, 9B and 9C illustrate the alternative flexible element of Figures 8A to 8C , compressed, with its adjustment device in the position of greatest stiffness.

Description détaillée de l'inventionDetailed description of the invention

Un élément souple 10, destiné aux meubles d'assise ou de lit, et dont la raideur suivant un axe de compression Z est réglable est illustré sur les figures 1A à 1D. Comme illustré plus clairement sur la figure 2A, cet élément souple 10 peut comprendre plusieurs pièces élastiques arrangées en série suivant l'axe de compression Z. En particulier, il peut comprendre une première pièce élastique 20 et une deuxième pièce élastique 30 arrangées mécaniquement en série suivant l'axe de compression Z et connectées l'une à l'autre par une connexion 40 qui peut être situé, comme dans l'exemple illustré, au centre de l'élément souple 10.A flexible element 10, intended for seat or bed furniture, and whose stiffness along a compression axis Z is adjustable is illustrated on the Figures 1A to 1D . As illustrated more clearly on the figure 2A , this flexible element 10 can comprise several elastic parts arranged in series along the compression axis Z. In particular, it can comprise a first elastic part 20 and a second elastic part 30 mechanically arranged in series along the compression axis Z and connected to each other by a connection 40 which can be located, as in the example illustrated, in the center of the flexible element 10.

Chacune des deux pièces élastiques 20, 30 peut comprendre au moins deux ressorts de compression 50 arrangés mécaniquement en parallèle comme dans l'exemple illustré. En particulier, ces ressorts de compression 50 peuvent être, comme dans l'exemple illustré sur la figure 1A, des ressorts hélicoïdaux formés par des tiges enroulées suivant une hélice H autour de l'axe de compression Z. Par ailleurs, dans chacune des pièces élastiques 20, 30, le décalage angulaire autour de l'axe de compression Z entre les hélices des ressorts de compression 50 hélicoïdaux et coaxiaux peut être régulier. Ainsi, dans l'exemple illustré, le décalage angulaire entre les ressorts de compression 50 de chaque pièce élastique 20, 30 peut être de 360°/x, où x est le nombre de ressorts de compression 50 en parallèle dans chaque pièce élastique 20, 30. Ainsi, pour un nombre x de ressorts de compression 50 de, par exemple, deux, le décalage angulaire peut être de 180°.Each of the two elastic parts 20, 30 can comprise at least two compression springs 50 mechanically arranged in parallel as in the example illustrated. In particular, these compression springs 50 can be, as in the example illustrated on the figure 1A , helical springs formed by rods wound in a helix H around the compression axis Z. Furthermore, in each of the elastic parts 20, 30, the angular offset around the compression axis Z between the helices of the springs 50 helical and coaxial compression can be regular. Thus, in the example illustrated, the angular offset between the compression springs 50 of each elastic piece 20, 30 can be 360 ° / x, where x is the number of compression springs 50 in parallel in each elastic piece 20, 30. Thus, for a number x of compression springs 50 of, for example, two, the angular offset can be 180 °.

Dans l'exemple illustré, chaque pièce élastique 20, 30 peut comprendre, en outre, un connecteur 60, 70 complémentaire, respectivement, du connecteur 70, 60 de l'autre pièce élastique 30, 20 pour former la connexion 40, ainsi qu'une plateforme de support 80, 90. Les connecteurs 60, 70 et les plateformes de support 80, 90 peuvent être disposés sur des extrémités opposées des pièces élastiques 20, 30 respectives. Ainsi, quand les pièces élastiques 20, 30 sont assemblées en série, en reliant leurs connecteurs 60, 70 respectifs, pour former l'élément souple 10, comme dans l'exemple illustré, cet élément souple 10 peut s'étendre de l'une à l'autre des plateformes de support 80, 90, suivant l'axe de compression Z.In the example illustrated, each elastic piece 20, 30 may further comprise a connector 60, 70 complementary, respectively, to the connector 70, 60 of the other elastic piece 30, 20 to form the connection 40, as well as a support platform 80, 90. The connectors 60, 70 and the support platforms 80, 90 can be arranged on opposite ends of the respective elastic parts 20, 30. Thus, when the elastic parts 20, 30 are assembled in series, by connecting their respective connectors 60, 70, to form the flexible element 10, as in the example illustrated, this flexible element 10 can extend from one to the other of the support platforms 80, 90, along the compression axis Z.

Dans chaque pièce élastique 20, 30 de l'exemple illustré, une extrémité de chaque ressort de compression 50 peut être reliée directement au connecteur 60, 70 respectif, tandis que l'autre extrémité peut être reliée à la plateforme de support 80, 90 à travers une articulation élastique 100. Chacune de ces articulations élastiques 100 peut notamment présenter un axe de torsion Y sensiblement orthogonal à l'axe de compression Z et être reliée au ressort de compression 50 respectif par un bras 110 plus rigide, orienté suivant une direction radiale sensiblement orthogonale à l'axe de compression Z et à l'axe de torsion Y respectif, de manière à ce que l'articulation élastique 100 soit reliée en porte-à-faux au ressort de compression 50 en direction orthogonale à l'axe de compression Z. Comme dans l'exemple illustré, chaque articulation élastique 100 peut prendre la forme d'une tige de torsion reliant le bras 110 à la plateforme de support 80, 90. Toutefois, d'autres formes sont également envisageables.In each elastic piece 20, 30 of the example illustrated, one end of each compression spring 50 can be connected directly to the respective connector 60, 70, while the other end can be connected to the support platform 80, 90 to through an elastic joint 100. Each of these elastic joints 100 may in particular have a torsion axis Y substantially orthogonal to the compression axis Z and be connected to the respective compression spring 50 by a more rigid arm 110, oriented in a radial direction substantially orthogonal to the compression axis Z and to the respective axis of torsion Y, so that the elastic joint 100 is cantilevered with the compression spring 50 in the direction orthogonal to the axis of compression Z. As in the example illustrated, each elastic articulation 100 can take the form of a torsion rod connecting the arm 110 to the support platform 80, 90. However, other forms are also conceivable.

En outre, chaque pièce élastique 20, 30 de l'exemple illustré peut aussi comprendre d'autres tiges 120 solidaires des bras 110. Plus spécifiquement, chaque tige 120 peut s'étendre d'une première extrémité 121 solidaire d'un bras 110 respectif à une seconde extrémité 122. Chaque seconde extrémité 122 peut être décalée par rapport à l'axe de torsion Y de l'articulation élastique 100 correspondant au bras 110 respectif dans un plan orthogonal à cet axe de torsion Y, de manière à tourner autour de l'axe de torsion Y avec le bras 110 respectif. En particulier, entre ces premières et secondes extrémités 121, 122, chaque tige 120 peut être incurvée, et notamment suivre une hélice plus large que celles des ressorts de compression 50, de manière à les contourner pour que la première et la seconde extrémité 121, 122 de chaque tige 120 soient situés de côtés diamétralement opposés des ressorts 50, tout en étant aussi mutuellement décalés en direction parallèle à l'axe de compression Z. Les tiges 120 sont par ailleurs élastiquement flexibles.In addition, each elastic piece 20, 30 of the illustrated example may also include other rods 120 secured to the arms 110. More specifically, each rod 120 may extend from a first end 121 secured to a respective arm 110 at a second end 122. Each second end 122 can be offset with respect to the axis of torsion Y of the elastic joint 100 corresponding to the respective arm 110 in a plane orthogonal to this axis of torsion Y, so as to rotate around the torsion axis Y with the respective arm 110. In particular, between these first and second ends 121, 122, each rod 120 can be curved, and in particular follow a helix wider than those of the compression springs 50, so as to bypass them so that the first and second ends 121, 122 of each rod 120 are located on diametrically opposite sides of the springs 50, while also being mutually offset in a direction parallel to the compression axis Z. The rods 120 are also elastically flexible.

Ainsi, chaque articulation élastique 100 forme, avec le bras 110 et tige 120 correspondants, un mécanisme 150 configuré pour que la compression du ressort de compression 50 respectif dans l'axe de compression Z actionne un mouvement de la seconde extrémité de la tige 120 en direction radiale par rapport à l'axe de compression Z, comme illustré sur la figure 2B.Thus, each elastic articulation 100 forms, with the corresponding arm 110 and rod 120, a mechanism 150 configured so that the compression of the respective compression spring 50 in the compression axis Z actuates a movement of the second end of the rod 120 in radial direction with respect to the compression axis Z, as illustrated on the figure 2B .

Comme dans l'exemple illustré, la seconde extrémité 122 de chaque tige 120 de l'une des pièces élastiques 20, 30 peut être reliée par une articulation à la seconde extrémité 122 d'une tige 120 opposée sur l'autre des pièces élastiques 30, 20. Plus spécifiquement, les secondes extrémités 122 correspondantes de chaque paire de tiges 120 opposées peuvent être reçues dans des embouts opposés 131,132 d'un manchon flexible 130 qui peut former ainsi une telle articulation. Les manchons flexibles 130 peuvent notamment être fendus perpendiculairement à leur axe principal, de manière à augmenter leur flexibilité.As in the example illustrated, the second end 122 of each rod 120 of one of the elastic parts 20, 30 can be connected by an articulation to the second end 122 of a rod 120 opposite to the other of the elastic parts 30 , 20. More specifically, the corresponding second ends 122 of each pair of opposite rods 120 can be received in opposite ends 131, 132 of a flexible sleeve 130 which can thus form such a joint. The flexible sleeves 130 can in particular be split perpendicular to their main axis, so as to increase their flexibility.

A part les pièces élastiques 20, 30, l'élément souple 10 peut aussi comprendre un dispositif de réglage de la raideur de l'élément souple 10 dans l'axe de compression Z. Ce dispositif de réglage peut notamment être configuré comme une pièce rotative 140, comme illustré sur les figures 1A à 1C. Cette pièce rotative 140 peut être retenue par les connecteurs 60, 70 de manière à être rotative autour de l'axe de compression Z. Comme on peut notamment voir sur la figure 1C, la pièce rotative 140 peut comprendre plusieurs ouvertures 141 traversées par les manchons flexibles 130 en direction parallèle à l'axe de compression Z. Chaque ouverture 141 peut s'étendre sur un arc de cercle respectif autour de l'axe de compression Z. Plus particulièrement, le long de cet arc de cercle respectif, chaque ouverture 141 peut comprendre une première section 142 et une seconde section 143, la première section 142 pouvant être plus étroite que la deuxième section 143 en direction radiale par rapport à l'axe de compression Z. Plus spécifiquement, le bord extérieur de chaque ouverture 141 peut être plus proche de l'axe de compression Z dans la première section 142 que dans la seconde section 143, et former ainsi une butée 145 radiale pour restreindre un déplacement radial du manchon flexible 130 respectif, et donc aussi des secondes extrémités 122 de tiges 120 emmanchées dans ce manchon flexible 130, par rapport à l'axe de compression Z. La pièce rotative 140 peut ainsi tourner entre une première position, dans laquelle les manchons flexibles 130 sont reçus dans les premières sections 142 des ouvertures 141 et les butées 145 restreignent l'écartement radial des manchons flexibles 130, et donc des secondes extrémités 122 des tiges 120 par rapport à l'axe de compression Z, comme illustré sur les figures 1A à 1C, et une seconde position dans laquelle les manchons flexibles 130 seront reçus dans les secondes sections 143, plus larges, des ouvertures 141, libérant ainsi les manchons flexibles 130 est les secondes extrémités 122 des tiges 120, comme illustré sur la figure 1D, pour leur permettre un plus grand écartement radial par rapport à l'axe de compression Z, tel que celui illustré sur la figure 2B.Apart from the elastic parts 20, 30, the flexible element 10 can also comprise a device for adjusting the stiffness of the flexible element 10 in the compression axis Z. This adjustment device can in particular be configured as a rotary part 140, as illustrated on Figures 1A to 1C . This rotary part 140 can be retained by the connectors 60, 70 so as to be rotatable around the compression axis Z. As can be seen in particular on the figure 1C , the rotary part 140 may comprise several openings 141 traversed by the flexible sleeves 130 in the direction parallel to the compression axis Z. Each opening 141 may extend over a respective arc around the compression axis Z. More in particular, along this respective arc, each opening 141 may include a first section 142 and a second section 143, the first section 142 possibly being narrower than the second section 143 in the radial direction relative to the compression axis Z. More specifically, the outer edge of each opening 141 may be closer to the compression axis Z in the first section 142 than in the second section 143, and thus form a radial stop 145 to restrict radial movement of the flexible sleeve 130 respectively, and therefore also second ends 122 of rods 120 fitted into this flexible sleeve 130, relative to the compression axis Z. The rotary part 140 can thus t rotate between a first position, in which the flexible sleeves 130 are received in the first sections 142 of the openings 141 and the stops 145 restrict the radial spacing of the flexible sleeves 130, and therefore of the second ends 122 of the rods 120 relative to the compression axis Z, as illustrated on Figures 1A to 1C , and a second position in which the flexible sleeves 130 will be received in the second, wider sections 143, of the openings 141, thus freeing the flexible sleeves 130 is the second ends 122 of the rods 120, as illustrated in the figure 1D , to allow them greater spacing radial with respect to the compression axis Z, such as that illustrated on the figure 2B .

Les pièces élastiques 20, 30, la pièce rotative 140 et les manchons flexibles 130 peuvent être en matériau polymère organique, notamment thermoplastique tel que, par exemple une polyamide, un polyoxyméthylène, ou un copolyester. Toutefois, d'autres matériaux, par exemple métalliques, peuvent être utilisés alternativement ou en combinaison avec de tels matériaux polymères. Les pièces élastiques 20, 30 et la pièce rotative 140 peuvent notamment être moulées, en particulier par injection. Les manchons flexibles 130 peuvent notamment être coupés à partir d'une pièce extrudée. Toutefois, d'autres procédés de production, comme par exemple la fabrication additive, peuvent être utilisés alternativement ou en complément au moulage ou à l'extrusion.The elastic parts 20, 30, the rotary part 140 and the flexible sleeves 130 can be made of organic polymer material, in particular thermoplastic such as, for example a polyamide, a polyoxymethylene, or a copolyester. However, other materials, for example metallic, can be used alternatively or in combination with such polymeric materials. The elastic parts 20, 30 and the rotary part 140 can in particular be molded, in particular by injection. The flexible sleeves 130 can in particular be cut from an extruded part. However, other production methods, such as, for example, additive manufacturing, can be used alternatively or in addition to molding or extrusion.

Le fonctionnement de l'élément souple 10 de l'exemple illustré peut aussi être décrit en se référant aux figures 1A à 2B. Quand la pièce rotative 140 formant un dispositif de réglage de raideur est dans sa seconde position, avec les manchons flexibles 130 reçus dans les secondes sections 143, plus larges, des ouvertures 141, et que l'élément souple 10 est soumis à un effort de compression F suivant l'axe de compression Z, entre les plateformes de support 80, 90, les ressorts de compression 50 vont être comprimés et les bras 110 les reliant aux articulations élastiques 100 tourner autour de l'axe de torsion Y, avec les tiges 120. Par cette rotation des tiges 120 autour de l'axe de torsion Y, les secondes extrémités 122 des tiges 120 peuvent s'écarter radialement de l'axe de compression Z, sans opposition sur la largeur des secondes sections 143 des ouvertures 141 de la pièce rotative 140, comme illustré sur la figure 2B. L'élément souple 10 reste ainsi relativement souple en compression.The operation of the flexible element 10 of the illustrated example can also be described with reference to Figures 1A to 2B . When the rotary part 140 forming a stiffness adjustment device is in its second position, with the flexible sleeves 130 received in the second, larger sections 143, of the openings 141, and the flexible element 10 is subjected to a force of compression F along the compression axis Z, between the support platforms 80, 90, the compression springs 50 will be compressed and the arms 110 connecting them to the elastic joints 100 rotate around the torsion axis Y, with the rods 120. By this rotation of the rods 120 around the axis of torsion Y, the second ends 122 of the rods 120 can deviate radially from the compression axis Z, without opposition to the width of the second sections 143 of the openings 141 of the rotating part 140, as illustrated in the figure 2B . The flexible element 10 thus remains relatively flexible in compression.

Si la pièce rotative 140 est toutefois tournée, autour de l'axe de compression Z, vers sa première position, de telle manière que les manchons flexibles 130 soient reçus dans les premières sections 142, plus étroites, des ouvertures 141, les butées 145 peuvent restreindre l'écartement radial, par rapport à l'axe de compression Z, des manchons flexibles 130 et donc des secondes extrémités 122 des tiges 120, restreignant ainsi la rotation des tiges 120 autour des axes de torsion Y des articulations élastiques 100 respectives quand l'élément souple 10 est soumis à une compression F suivant l'axe de compression Z. Même si les tiges 120 peuvent être élastiquement flexibles, afin de permettre leur retour vers la position détendue de départ lorsque la compression F cesse, leur restreinte par les butées 145 va indirectement restreindre aussi la rotation des bras 110 autour de l'axe de torsion Y, raidissant ainsi les articulations élastiques 100, voire même les ressorts 50, puisque la torsion autour de leurs hélices respectives peut aussi être indirectement restreinte ainsi. De cette manière, les éléments souples 10 peuvent avoir une raideur dans l'axe de compression Z sensiblement supérieure quand la pièce rotative 140 est dans sa première position que quand la pièce rotative 140 est dans sa seconde position.If the rotary part 140 is however turned, around the compression axis Z, towards its first position, so that the flexible sleeves 130 are received in the first, narrower sections 142, of the openings 141, the stops 145 can restrict the radial spacing, relative to the compression axis Z, of the flexible sleeves 130 and therefore of the second ends 122 of the rods 120, thus restricting the rotation of the rods 120 around the axes of torsion Y of the respective elastic joints 100 when the flexible element 10 is subjected to compression F along the compression axis Z. Even if the rods 120 can be elastically flexible, in order to allow their return to the relaxed starting position when the compression F ceases, their restriction by the stops 145 will indirectly also restrict the rotation of the arms 110 around the axis of torsion Y, thus stiffening the elastic joints 100, or even the springs 50, since the twist around their respective helices can also be indirectly restricted as well. In this way, the flexible elements 10 can have a stiffness in the compression axis Z which is substantially greater when the rotary part 140 is in its first position than when the rotary part 140 is in its second position.

Pour former un ensemble de literie telle qu'un matelas ou un sommier, il est possible de grouper plusieurs éléments souples tels que ceux ci-décrits. Ainsi, les figures 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A et 5B illustrent l'âme d'un matelas 200 sur un lit 300. L'âme de ce matelas 200 peut comprendre une pluralité d'éléments souples 10, arrangés comme dans l'exemple illustré en plusieurs files et colonnes dans un plan perpendiculaire aux axes de compression Z. Les plateformes de support 80, 90 d'éléments souples 10 adjacents peuvent être reliés par des liaisons flexibles 210.To form a set of bedding such as a mattress or a box spring, it is possible to group several flexible elements such as those described above. So the Figures 3A, 3B , 4A, 4B , 5A and 5B illustrate the core of a mattress 200 on a bed 300. The core of this mattress 200 may comprise a plurality of flexible elements 10, arranged as in the example illustrated in several rows and columns in a plane perpendicular to the axes of compression Z. The support platforms 80, 90 of adjacent flexible elements 10 can be connected by flexible connections 210.

Afin de permettre l'actionnement simultané des pièces rotatives 140 de l'ensemble d'éléments souples pour les faire tourner simultanément entre leurs premières et secondes positions, elles peuvent être couplées mécaniquement les unes aux autres. Plus spécifiquement, comme illustré en détail sur les figures 3C, 4C et 5C, chacune des pièces rotatives 140 peut par exemple comprendre au moins une lame flexible 220, arrangée en périphérie de la pièce rotative 140, orientée dans un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe de compression Z, et cambrée radialement vers l'extérieur par rapport à l'axe de compression Z.To allow simultaneous actuation of the rotating parts 140 of the set of flexible elements to rotate them simultaneously between their first and second positions, they can be mechanically coupled to each other. More specifically, as illustrated in detail on the figures 3C, 4C and 5C , each of the rotary parts 140 may for example comprise at least one flexible blade 220, arranged on the periphery of the rotary part 140, oriented in a plane perpendicular to the compression axis Z, and bent radially outward relative to the compression axis Z.

Des lames flexibles 220 de pièces rotatives 140 d'éléments souples 10 adjacents peuvent être reliées par des pivots 230 avec des axes de pivotement parallèles aux axes de compression Z des éléments souples 10. La distance entre chaque pivot 230 et les axes de compression Z de chacun des deux éléments souples 10 adjacents dont ce pivot 230 relie les pièces rotatives 140 peut être supérieure à la moitié de la distance entre les axes de compression Z des deux éléments souples 10 adjacents, de telle manière que, quand les pièces rotatives 140 des éléments souples 10 adjacents soient dans leurs premières positions respectives, comme illustré sur la figure 3C, le pivot 230 soit d'un côté d'un plan P plat reliant les axes de compression Z des deux éléments souples 10 adjacents, quand les pièces rotatives 140 des éléments souples 10 adjacents soient dans leurs secondes positions respectives, comme illustré sur la figure 4C, le pivot 230 soit de l'autre côté du plan P et que, pour déplacer les pièces rotatives 140 des éléments souples 10 adjacents de leurs premières positions à leurs secondes positions respectives, le pivot 230 doive traverser une position intermédiaire, dans le plan P, dans laquelle les lames flexibles 220 soient contraintes élastiquement, contre leurs cambrures respectives, vers les axes de compression Z de leurs éléments souples 10 respectifs, comme illustré sur la figure 5C.Flexible blades 220 of rotating parts 140 of adjacent flexible elements 10 can be connected by pivots 230 with axes of pivoting parallel to the compression axes Z of the flexible elements 10. The distance between each pivot 230 and the compression axes Z of each of the two adjacent flexible elements 10 of which this pivot 230 connects the rotating parts 140 may be greater than half the distance between the compression axes Z of the two adjacent flexible elements 10, so that, when the rotating parts 140 of the adjacent flexible elements 10 are in their respective first positions, as illustrated in the figure 3C , the pivot 230 is on one side of a flat plane P connecting the compression axes Z of the two adjacent flexible elements 10, when the rotary parts 140 of the adjacent flexible elements 10 are in their respective second positions, as illustrated in the figure 4C , the pivot 230 is on the other side of the plane P and that, to move the rotating parts 140 of the flexible elements 10 adjacent from their first positions to their respective second positions, the pivot 230 must pass through an intermediate position, in the plane P , in which the flexible blades 220 are elastically constrained, against their respective camber, towards the compression axes Z of their respective flexible elements 10, as illustrated in the figure 5C .

Ainsi, l'élasticité des lames flexibles 220 permet de fournir des forces de retour vers, respectivement, les premières et secondes positions des pièces rotatives 140 des éléments souples 10 adjacents de chaque côté de la position intermédiaire, pour maintenir ces premières et secondes positions de manière stable et éviter le passage involontaire des unes aux autres, et donc un changement involontaire de la raideur des éléments souples 10. L'utilisateur pourra faire un effort conscient, contre l'élasticité des lames flexibles 220, pour traverser la position intermédiaire afin de déplacer les pièces rotatives 140 entre leurs premières et secondes positions.Thus, the elasticity of the flexible blades 220 makes it possible to provide return forces towards, respectively, the first and second positions of the rotating parts 140 of the flexible elements 10 adjacent to each side of the intermediate position, to maintain these first and second positions of stably and avoid the involuntary passage from one to the other, and therefore an involuntary change in the stiffness of the flexible elements 10. The user can make a conscious effort, against the elasticity of the flexible blades 220, to pass through the intermediate position in order to moving the rotating parts 140 between their first and second positions.

Un exemple de réalisation alternatif est illustré sur les figures 6A à 6C. Dans cet exemple alternatif, les éléments souples 10 sont similaires à ceux du premier exemple, et les composants analogues reçoivent en conséquence les mêmes chiffres de référence sur les dessins. Les pièces rotatives 140 dans ce deuxième exemple peuvent être plus simples que celles du premier exemple, et comporter simplement des bras radiaux 146 portant les butées radiales 145 à leurs extrémités respectives mais, comme dans le premier exemple, chaque pièce rotative 140 peut tourner entre une première position dans laquelle ces butées radiales 145 restreignent l'écartement radial des manchons flexibles 130, et donc aussi des secondes extrémités 122 des tiges 120 emmanchées dans ces manchons flexibles 130, par rapport à l'axe de compression Z, et une deuxième position dans laquelle la pièce rotative 140 ne restreint plus ce mouvement d'écartement radial.An alternative embodiment is illustrated on the Figures 6A to 6C . In this alternative example, the flexible elements 10 are similar to those of the first example, and similar components are therefore given the same reference numbers in the drawings. The rotating parts 140 in this second example can be simpler than those in the first example, and simply comprise radial arms 146 carrying the radial stops 145 at their respective ends but, as in the first example, each rotary part 140 can rotate between a first position in which these radial stops 145 restrict the radial spacing of the flexible sleeves 130, and therefore also of the second ends 122 rods 120 fitted into these flexible sleeves 130, relative to the compression axis Z, and a second position in which the rotary part 140 no longer restricts this movement of radial spacing.

En outre, dans cet exemple de réalisation alternatif, les pivots 230 peuvent ne pas relier les pièces rotatives 140 directement à des pièces rotatives 140 adjacentes, mais plutôt à des organes de commande 300, pouvant être disposés entre les rangées d'éléments souples 10 et déplacés en ligne droite entre la première et la deuxième position. Les lames flexibles 220 peuvent par ailleurs, dans cet exemple alternatif, être intégrées aux organes de commande 300, de telle manière que ces organes de commande 300 traversent une position intermédiaire, entre la première et deuxième position, dans laquelle les lames flexibles 220 soient contraintes élastiquement, contre leurs cambrures respectives.Furthermore, in this alternative embodiment, the pivots 230 may not connect the rotating parts 140 directly to adjacent rotating parts 140, but rather to control members 300, which can be arranged between the rows of flexible elements 10 and moved in a straight line between the first and second position. The flexible blades 220 can moreover, in this alternative example, be integrated into the control members 300, such that these control members 300 pass through an intermediate position, between the first and second position, in which the flexible blades 220 are constrained elastically, against their respective camber.

Toutefois, le principe de la contrainte élastique dans la position intermédiaire pour assurer le retour vers l'une ou l'autre des première et deuxième positions peut même être appliqué sans des telles lames flexibles cambrées. En effet, les éléments souples 10 peuvent présenter une élasticité en flexion perpendiculairement à leurs axes de compression Z, de manière à permettre un déplacement élastique latéral des pièces rotatives 140 dans leurs positions intermédiaires entre les premières et secondes positions. Dans ce cas, l'élasticité des éléments souples 10 perpendiculairement à leurs axes de compression Z pourrait fournir les forces de retour vers les premières et secondes positions de chaque côté de la position intermédiaire.However, the principle of elastic stress in the intermediate position to ensure the return to one or the other of the first and second positions can even be applied without such flexible curved blades. In fact, the flexible elements 10 can have a bending elasticity perpendicular to their compression axes Z, so as to allow an elastic lateral movement of the rotating parts 140 in their intermediate positions between the first and second positions. In this case, the elasticity of the flexible elements 10 perpendicular to their compression axes Z could provide the return forces towards the first and second positions on each side of the intermediate position.

Quoique la présente invention ait été décrite en se référant à des exemples spécifiques, il est évident que des différentes modifications et changements peuvent être effectués sur ces exemples sans sortir de la portée générale de l'invention telle que définie par les revendications.Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it is obvious that various modifications and changes can be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Ainsi, les figures 7A à 9C illustrent encore un autre exemple d'élément souple 10, destiné aux sommiers plutôt qu'aux matelas. Dans cet exemple, l'élément souple 10 est similaire à ceux des deux premiers exemples, et les composants analogues reçoivent en conséquence les mêmes chiffres de référence sur les dessins. Cet élément souple 10 alternatif peut comprendre une seule pièce élastique 20 et une pièce rotative 140. La pièce élastique 20 peut comprendre au moins deux ressorts de compression 50 arrangés mécaniquement en parallèle comme dans l'exemple illustré. En particulier, ces ressorts de compression 50 peuvent être des ressorts partiellement hélicoïdaux formés par des tiges enroulées suivant en partie une hélice H autour de l'axe de compression Z. Comme illustré sur les figures, les ressorts de compression 50 peuvent comprendre des segments infléchis 51 divergeant de l'hélice H de manière à minimiser leur encombrement tout en limitant le risque d'interférence avec d'autres parties de l'élément souple 10. La pièce rotative 140 peut être similaire à celles du deuxième exemple et comporter des bras radiaux 146 portant des réceptacles 147 à leurs extrémités respectives. Ces réceptacles 147 peuvent être configurés pour recevoir, dans la première position de la pièce rotative 140, les secondes extrémités 122 des tiges 120, restreignant leur écartement radial par rapport à l'axe de compression Z quand les ressorts de compression 50 sont comprimés suivant l'axe de compression Z, comme illustré sur les figures 9A à 9C. Comme dans les exemples précédents, la pièce rotative 140 peut toutefois tourner entre cette première position et une deuxième position dans laquelle la pièce rotative 140 ne restreint plus ce mouvement d'écartement radial.So the Figures 7A to 9C illustrate yet another example of flexible element 10, intended for box springs rather than mattresses. In this example, the flexible element 10 is similar to those of the first two examples, and the similar components are therefore given the same reference numbers in the drawings. This alternative flexible element 10 can comprise a single elastic part 20 and a rotary part 140. The elastic part 20 can comprise at least two compression springs 50 mechanically arranged in parallel as in the example illustrated. In particular, these compression springs 50 may be partially helical springs formed by rods wound in part following a helix H around the compression axis Z. As illustrated in the figures, the compression springs 50 may comprise bent segments 51 diverging from the helix H so as to minimize their bulk while limiting the risk of interference with other parts of the flexible element 10. The rotary part 140 can be similar to those of the second example and include radial arms 146 carrying receptacles 147 at their respective ends. These receptacles 147 can be configured to receive, in the first position of the rotary part 140, the second ends 122 of the rods 120, restricting their radial spacing relative to the compression axis Z when the compression springs 50 are compressed along the compression axis Z, as illustrated on Figures 9A to 9C . As in the previous examples, the rotary part 140 can however rotate between this first position and a second position in which the rotary part 140 no longer restricts this radial spacing movement.

En outre, des caractéristiques individuelles des différents exemples et modes de réalisation évoqués peuvent être combinées dans des modes de réalisation additionnels, tout en restant dans la portée de l'invention telle que revendiquée dans les revendications attenantes. Par conséquent, la description et les dessins doivent être considérés dans un sens illustratif plutôt que restrictif.In addition, individual features of the various examples and embodiments discussed can be combined in additional embodiments, while remaining within the scope of the invention as claimed in the appended claims. Therefore, the description and the drawings should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

Claims (19)

  1. A flexible element (10) for a piece of furniture for lying or sitting on, the element having stiffness that is adjustable along a compression axis (Z) and comprising:
    a compression spring (50);
    a mechanism (150) coupled to the compression spring (50) so as to be actuated by compression of the compression spring (50) along the compression axis (Z) in order to move along a direction other than the direction of the compression axis (Z); and
    an adjustment device for selectively restricting and releasing the movement of the mechanism (150).
  2. A flexible element (10) according to claim 1, wherein the mechanism (150) comprises a resilient hinge (100) cantilevered out from the compression spring (50) in a direction orthogonal to the compression axis (Z), with a twist axis (Y) orthogonal to the compression axis (Z), and the adjustment device (140) is configured for selectively restricting and releasing turning of the resilient hinge (100) relative to the twist axis (Y).
  3. A flexible element (10) according to claim 2, wherein the mechanism (150) further comprises a rod (120) constrained to turn with the resilient hinge (100) about the twist axis (Y), and wherein the adjustment device comprises an abutment (145) that is movable between a first position restricting turning movement of the rod (120) about the twist axis (Y) and a second position releasing turning movement of the rod (120) about the twist axis (Y).
  4. A flexible element (10) according to claim 3, wherein the adjustment device comprises a rotary part (140) secured to the abutment (145), the rotary part (140) being suitable for turning about the compression axis (Z) between the first position and the second position.
  5. A flexible element (10) according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the rod (120) is resiliently flexible.
  6. A flexible element (10) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the rod (120) is curved.
  7. A flexible element (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the compression spring (50) is helical.
  8. A flexible element (10) according to any preceding claim, having a plurality of coaxial compression springs (50) .
  9. A flexible element (10) according to claim 8, having a plurality of mechanisms (150), each of which is coupled to a corresponding compression spring (50) from the plurality of coaxial compression springs (50) so as to be actuated by compression of the corresponding compression spring (50) along the compression axis (Z) in order to move in a direction other than the direction of the compression axis (Z), the adjustment device being suitable for selectively restricting and releasing movement of the plurality of mechanisms (150) simultaneously.
  10. A flexible element (10) according to claim 9, wherein each mechanism (150) of the plurality of mechanisms (150) comprises a resilient hinge (100) cantilevered out to the corresponding compression spring (50) in a direction orthogonal to the compression axis (Z), with a corresponding twist axis (Y) orthogonal to the compression axis (Z), and wherein the adjustment device is suitable for selectively restricting or releasing turning movement of each resilient hinge (100) of the plurality of mechanisms (150) relative to the corresponding twist axis (Y).
  11. A flexible element (10) according to claim 10, wherein each mechanism (150) of the plurality of mechanisms (150) further comprises a rod (120) that is constrained to turn about the corresponding twist axis (Y) with the corresponding resilient hinge (100), and wherein the adjustment device comprises a plurality of abutments (145) movable between a first position restricting turning movement of the rods (120) of the plurality of mechanisms (150) about the corresponding twist axes (Y) and a second position releasing turning movement of the rods (120) of the plurality of mechanisms (150) about the corresponding twist axes (Y).
  12. A flexible element (10) according to claim 11, wherein two rods (120) of the plurality of mechanisms (150) are connected together by a hinge.
  13. A flexible element (10) according to claim 12, wherein the hinge comprises a flexible sleeve (130) receiving the respective ends of the two rods (120).
  14. A flexible element (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the plurality of compression springs (50) comprises compression springs (50) arranged mechanically in parallel and/or in series.
  15. A flexible element (10) according to any preceding claim, made at least in part by injection molding.
  16. A seat, back, or bed unit (200) comprising a plurality of flexible elements (10) according to any preceding claim.
  17. A unit (200) according to claim 16, wherein the adjustment devices of flexible elements (10) that are adjacent in the plurality of flexible elements (10) are mechanically coupled together for actuation in common.
  18. A unit (200) according to claim 17, further including pivots (230) mechanically coupling together adjustment devices of flexible elements (10) that are adjacent among the plurality of flexible elements (10) for actuation in common.
  19. A method of adjusting the stiffness along a compression axis (Z) of a flexible element (10) for a piece of furniture for lying or sitting on, the element comprising a compression spring (50) and a mechanism (150) coupled to the compression spring (50) so as to be actuated by compression of the compression spring (50) along the compression axis (Z) in order to move in a direction other than the direction of the compression axis (Z), the method comprising a step of:
    an adjustment device selectively restricting or releasing the movement of the mechanism (150).
EP18171876.8A 2017-05-12 2018-05-11 Element with adjustable stiffness for sleeping or seating furniture Active EP3400841B1 (en)

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FR1754172A FR3066087B1 (en) 2017-05-12 2017-05-12 ADJUSTABLE STIFFENER ELEMENT FOR SLEEP OR SEAT FURNITURE

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FR3066088B1 (en) * 2017-05-12 2019-07-05 Tournadre Sa Standard Gum STIFF ADJUSTER DEVICE
FR3066087B1 (en) 2017-05-12 2019-07-05 Tournadre Sa Standard Gum ADJUSTABLE STIFFENER ELEMENT FOR SLEEP OR SEAT FURNITURE
FR3075908B1 (en) * 2017-12-27 2020-09-25 Airbus Operations Sas DAMPING SYSTEM INCLUDING A PRIMARY DAMPER AND A SECONDARY DAMPER DEVICE FOR DIFFERENT STIFFNESS, ASSOCIATED STRUCTURE AND AIRCRAFT
FR3090307B1 (en) 2018-12-21 2021-03-12 Tournadre Sa Standard Gum Flexible element with adjustable stiffness for sleeping and / or seat furniture
FR3090305B1 (en) * 2018-12-21 2021-03-12 Tournadre Sa Standard Gum Flexible element with adjustable height
FR3090306B1 (en) 2018-12-21 2021-03-12 Tournadre Sa Standard Gum Flexible element with adjustable stiffness for sleeping and / or seat furniture
CN112674542B (en) * 2019-10-17 2024-06-14 厦门新技术集成有限公司 Elastic module and elastic pad for furniture

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR3066087B1 (en) 2019-07-05
US10722042B2 (en) 2020-07-28
US20180325273A1 (en) 2018-11-15
FR3066087A1 (en) 2018-11-16
EP3400841A1 (en) 2018-11-14
PL3400841T3 (en) 2021-01-25
ES2812348T3 (en) 2021-03-16

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