GB2572817A

GB2572817A - Seat track cover

Info

Publication number: GB2572817A
Application number: GB1806074.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Wesolowski Kamil; Foster Stuart; Penton Stephen
Original assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Current assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Priority date: 2018-04-13
Filing date: 2018-04-13
Publication date: 2019-10-16
Anticipated expiration: 2038-04-13
Also published as: GB2572817B; GB201806074D0

Abstract

A seat track cover 3000 for a vehicle seat track assembly 1000. The cover comprises a shield portion 3200, (4200;5200;6200;8200) formed integrally with an elongate cover portion 3100 at least at one end for masking an end view into the cover 3000. The shield portion defines an opening 3300, (4300;5300;8300) for accommodating movement of movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly. The elongate cover portion 3100 shields a side view of an elongate mounting element 1200, and may comprise an inwardly curved lip for attachment to the seat track assembly 1000. Protruding ribs 3400 may align the seat track cover. The rail cover 3000 may be a single piece and snap fitting (figure 15). The track cover may mask the line of sight to bolted connections having unpleasant or undesirable visual impression, concealing unsightly features and improving aesthetic presentation. Alternative seat track cover 9000 comprises an elongate cover portion shielding the movable element 1100 side view, whilst the opening accommodates the mounting element 1200. Both seat track covers can be used together (figure 25b).

Description

The present disclosure relates to a seat track cover and particularly, but not exclusively, to a seat track cover used to conceal the unsightly features of a seat track assembly. Aspects of the invention relate to seat track covers, to a seat track assembly, to a seat assembly and to a vehicle.

BACKGROUND

Most modern vehicles feature seat adjustment systems that allow the adjustment of a seat’s position within the vehicle. Most commonly, a pair of parallel seat track assemblies enable fore and aft movements of the seat with respect to an external structure, such as the floorpan of the vehicle. The passenger may suitably adjust their proximity to objects in front of or behind the seat, for example, to adjust their legroom or to improve their access to the vehicle controls. Suitably configured seat track assemblies may be employed to enable further manipulations of the seat position and/or its form.

The seat adjustment system may feature manual or power operated adjustment systems, but typically each seat track assembly features a fixed seat track or mounting element, which is fixed to the vehicle floor, and a moving seat track or movable element which is secured to the base of the seat frame. The movable element is mechanically coupled to the mounting element and translates along the length of the mounting element to adjust the position of the seat within the vehicle.

The mounting element is commonly a channel section, with first and second sidewalls or flanges either side of a bottom wall or web. The lips of the sidewalls may fold over inwardly, to form a first and second seam and receive a corresponding pair of seams attached to the movable element. The movable element may feature a similar crosssection with first and second sidewalls either side of a top wall. The lips of the movable element sidewalls may fold over outwardly such that, in assembly, the movable element may be slidably received by the mounting element and the lips of the movable element may wrap around the seams of the mounting element to form a lock seam. A lock seam, in the manner described, is able to retain the movable element whilst allowing sliding motion of the movable element relative to the mounting element. Rolling elements may be added in raceways that form between the surfaces of the movable element and the mounting element to provide load support, stability and to improve the ease of motion.

Manually operated seat track assemblies may additionally feature a clutch control bar fitted to the mounting elements of the seat track assemblies. The clutch control bar can selectively engage with holes or teeth in the sidewalls of the movable elements, to secure the movable elements in a range of positions. Similarly, power operated seat track assemblies may feature a motor which drives gearbox elements connected to the movable elements of the seat track assemblies. Each gearbox element may be driven along a lead screw, fixed to the mounting element, in order to produce corresponding fore/aft movements of the movable element.

The fixing of the mounting element, and optionally the lead screw, to the vehicle floor usually features bolted connections which pass through the vehicle floor and a wall of the mounting element to clamp the seat track assembly in place. Substantial fixings and seat track components are typically necessary to satisfy safety requirements and to ensure that, in the event of a collision, the seat remains secured to the vehicle floor.

However, the bolted connections and mechanical configuration of the seat tracks leave an undesirable visual impression. As such, it is common to fit seat track covers which border at least a portion of the mounting element, masking the line of sight to the bolted connections and at least partially concealing the mechanical construction of the seat track assemblies.

Ideally, seat track covers are single piece elements which minimise manufacturing costs and can be fitted to the seat track assemblies during the seat assembly, i.e. supplier fit, as opposed to being fitted during, or subsequently to, installation of the seat within the vehicle assembly, i.e. assembly fit. However, functionally the seat track covers should extend the full length of the mounting element, covering the mechanical construction of the seat track assembly and masking the line of sight to the fixing connections. The seat track cover must simultaneously allow the full range of motion of the movable element, which may extend at least partially outside of the length of the mounting element, and it must accommodate auxiliary features of the seat track assemblies, such as the clutch control bar.

As such, the need to manufacture seat track covers economically, whilst simultaneously accommodating the design requirements outlined above, has meant that seat track covers have traditionally been comprised of two or more separate pieces which may be coupled together. Commonly, a main cover piece is featured, which may be supplier fit, and typically extends the length between the fixing positions of the mounting element; stopping short of the fixing positions to ensure that there is sufficient access for a wrench or similar installation tool. As a result, the main cover piece does not sufficiently mask the fixing components and/or holes at either end of the mounting element and so it is common practice to produce add-on end piece track covers to hide these areas.

However, combining track cover pieces as described leaves split lines between the cover pieces and the end piece track covers may be inadequately fixed in place. The split lines are generally detrimental to the visual impression of the assembly and the insecure installations can cause the end pieces to loosen during use and separate from their fitted position. As such, the multi-piece track covers provide a flawed solution to the problem. Additionally, using multiple track cover pieces adds to the vehicle assembly time and increases the material, manufacture and assembly costs, all of which are undesirable.

More recently, to address the problems identified with this approach, single piece track covers have been developed which extend the full length of the mounting element of the seat track assembly. Single piece track covers have been enabled by technological developments in the manufacturing processes. Previously, it was not preferable to produce single piece track covers because of manufacturing limitations.

However, the existing single piece track covers provide insufficient masking of the fixings and/or holes in the vehicle floor. This is due to their attempts to accommodate the full extension of the movable element of the seat track assembly. Despite the advantages of producing a single piece track cover, the manufacturing processes leave an undesirable parting line which is visible on the surface of the product. In existing single piece track covers, the locations of the parting lines are dictated by the features of the cover piece which align the cover piece with the mounting element of the seat track assembly. As such, in order to remove the part from the tooling, the manufacturing process produces parting lines on highly visible areas of the cover, impacting the aesthetic quality of the component. In addition, the existing single piece track covers inadequately conceal the mechanical components of the seat track assembly, due to the choice of cross-section.

The present invention has been devised to mitigate or overcome at least one of the above-mentioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a seat track cover for a seat track assembly of a vehicle seat, the seat track assembly comprising an elongate mounting element configured for attachment to a vehicle and a movable element which moves along the mounting element together with the vehicle seat, the seat track cover comprising an elongate cover portion arranged to cover at least a portion of the mounting element, in use, to shield a side view of at least the mounting element, and a shield portion formed integrally with the elongate cover portion at least at one end thereof, the shield portion shielding an end view into the seat track cover, the shield portion being shaped to define an opening to accommodate movement of the movable element of the seat track assembly, in use.

The seat track assembly for which the seat track cover of the present invention is provided would not necessarily form part of the seat track cover as manufactured or sold. Instead, the seat track cover of the present invention is designed to accommodate different seat track assemblies which are known in the art and which are used to adjust the position of vehicle seats. The referenced seat track assembly describes one of a left or right seat track assembly which together can form a seat adjustment system.

The invention makes use of an elongate cover portion of the seat track cover to conceal a side view into the seat track assembly and a shield portion of the seat track cover to conceal an end view into the seat track assembly. Advantageously, the shield portion of the seat track cover is formed integrally with the elongate cover portion and enables the seat track cover to function as a single piece. As such, the seat track cover can be implemented without the need for additional cover pieces, improving the aesthetic presentation compared to previous efforts. A single piece seat track cover, as enabled by the present invention, also minimises manufacturing costs and can be supplier fit, as opposed to being assembly fit.

Importantly, the shield portion of the invention defines an opening which accommodates the movement of the movable element of the seat track assembly. Therefore, the invention allows the functional movement of the seat track assembly whilst simultaneously concealing side-on and end views into the seat track assembly. As a result, the invention provides improved masking of the fixings and/or holes in the vehicle floor and a higher quality presentation than previous single piece track covers.

Optionally, the elongate cover portion may extend at least the full length of the elongate mounting element. Advantageously, this enables substantial coverage of the elongate mounting element.

In an embodiment of the invention, the opening defined by the shield portion may allow movement of the movable element of the seat track assembly therethrough.

Additionally, the shield portion and the opening may define an end profile which corresponds to the end profile of the movable element. This maximises the ability of the shield portion to conceal an end view into the seat track cover.

In another embodiment of the invention, the shield portion may be formed integrally with the elongate cover portion at both ends thereof.

The seat track cover may, for example, be configured for attachment to the vehicle floor, in use.

Optionally, the seat track cover may comprise attachment means for attaching the seat track cover to the seat track assembly. In a further embodiment of the invention, the elongate cover portion of the seat track cover may comprise the attachment means.

Additionally, the attachment means may comprise a lip along the elongate cover portion. Using a lipped edge along the elongate cover portion advantageously allows the seat track cover to be hooked over an edge of the mounting element and rollably attached to the seat track assembly in a ‘snap-fit’ process. This allows the seat track cover to be supplier fit.

For example, the lip may be curved inwardly around a sidewall of the mounting element.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the seat track cover may comprise at least one formation which cooperates, in use, with a complementary formation provided on the mounting element to define the attachment means.

Optionally, the shield portion may define a retaining wall for the end of the mounting element. This feature helps to constrain movement of the seat track cover relative to the mounting element.

The elongate cover portion of the seat track cover may, for example, comprise means for aligning the seat track cover with the length of the mounting element of the seat track assembly. Additionally, the means for aligning may comprise a protruding rib element. Optionally, the protruding rib element may be engageable, in use, with the mounting element of the seat track assembly. The protruding rib element facilitates suitable alignment without dictating the location of the parting lines that are formed in the manufacturing process. Proper alignment enhances the masking capability of the seat track cover and improves the finish quality.

In an embodiment of the invention, the elongate cover portion may comprise a first sidewall and a second sidewall.

The seat track cover may, for example, comprise means configured to oppose splaying of the first and second sidewalls of the elongate cover portion. This helps to prevent the seat track cover from being dislodged from its attachment to the mounting element.

Additionally, the means configured to oppose splaying of the first and second sidewalls of the elongate cover portion may comprise a brace element. The brace element may, for example, extend between the first and second sidewalls of the elongate cover portion.

Optionally, the shield portion may comprise an upstand element which extends away from the brace element of the elongate cover portion. An upstand element improves the masking of the fixings and/or holes in the vehicle floor and optimally shields a view into the seat track assembly.

In an embodiment of the invention, one end of the brace element may connect to the first sidewall and another end of the brace element may connect to the second sidewall.

Furthermore, the brace element may comprise at least one formation which cooperates, in use, with the complementary formation provided on the mounting element.

Optionally, the protruding rib element may extend away from the brace element.

The protruding rib element may, for example, extend from the brace element to the first sidewall of the elongate cover portion.

In an embodiment of the invention, the protruding rib element may be formed integrally within the brace element. This may help to reduce the material consumption and production costs of the seat track cover.

Optionally, the shield portion may block the end view towards the first sidewall of the seat track assembly.

The opening defined by the shield portion may, for example, define a recess towards the second sidewall.

Furthermore, the opening defined by the shield portion may comprise a first recess towards the first sidewall and a second recess towards the second sidewall.

In an embodiment of the invention, the shield portion may comprise a vertical edge to define a straight vertical edge of the opening.

The elongate cover portion of the seat track cover may, for example, comprise at least one formation which cooperates, in use, with a complementary formation provided on the seat track assembly. The at least one formation may, for example, accommodate one or more auxiliary devices of the seat track assembly and/or the vehicle.

In an embodiment of the invention, the seat track cover may comprise attachment means for attaching an add-on cover element.

For example, the shield portion of the seat track cover may comprise the attachment means for attaching the add-on cover element. The add-on cover element may enhance the finish quality of the seat track cover and attachment to the shield portion can minimise the visibility of split lines.

Optionally, the add-on cover element may comprise an elongate finger portion. For example, the elongate finger portion may be arranged to cover a top view into the seat track assembly, in use.

In another aspect of the invention there is provided a seat track cover for a seat track assembly of a vehicle seat, the seat track assembly comprises an elongate mounting element configured for attachment to the vehicle floor and a movable element which moves with the vehicle seat, the seat track cover comprises an elongate cover portion arranged to cover the movable element, in use, to shield a side view of at least the movable element, and a shield portion formed integrally with the elongate cover portion at least at one end thereof, the shield portion shielding an end view into the seat track cover, the shield portion being shaped to define an opening to accommodate the mounting element throughout the range of movement of the movable element of the seat track assembly, in use.

In this manner, a seat track cover may be attached to the movable element of the seat track assembly and another seat track cover may be attached to the mounting element of the seat track cover, as described in a previous aspect of the invention. The shield portion of the mounting element’s seat track cover may co-operate with the shield portion of the movable element’s seat track cover, such that, the range of movement of the movable element can be completed without obstructive interactions between the two seat track covers. Such an arrangement would maximise the coverage of the seat track assembly and thereby improve the finish quality.

In another aspect of the invention there is provided a seat track assembly that comprises the seat track cover as described in a previous aspect of the invention.

Optionally, the seat track cover may comprise attachment means for attaching to the seat track assembly and to the vehicle floor. Advantageously, such attachment means minimise the installation costs.

In use, the mounting element of the seat track assembly may be fixable to the vehicle by a fixing element. For example, the attachment means of the seat track cover may comprise the fixing element.

In another aspect of the invention there is provided a seat assembly that comprises a seat connected to the seat track assembly as described in a previous aspect of the invention.

The connection of the seat to the seat track assembly may be direct or indirect, for example, the seat may connect to a suitable intermediate framing structure which further connects to the seat track assembly.

In a further aspect of the invention there is provide a vehicle that comprises the seat assembly as described in a previous aspect of the invention. This enhances the finish quality of the interior of the vehicle.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows an arrangement of a vehicle comprising a seat assembly with which embodiments of the present invention can be used;

Figure 2 shows a known arrangement of a seat and a seat adjustment system;

Figure 3 shows a cross-section of a seat track assembly for use with the seat in Figure 2;

Figures 4(a) to 4(e) illustrate an exploded view of a seat and a seat track assembly, such as that shown in Figure 3;

Figure 5 illustrates a method of operation of the seat track assembly of Figures 1 to 4;

Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a seat and a seat track assembly, such as that shown in Figure 2;

Figures 7(a) and 7(b) illustrate an end view of a seat track assembly mounted to a vehicle floor, as shown in Figure 1, and a plan view of the seat track assembly respectively;

Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a seat track cover in accordance with the invention, illustrated in use with a seat and a seat track assembly of the type shown in the previous Figures;

Figure 9(a) illustrates a cross-section of a seat track assembly, of the type shown in the previous Figures, in combination with a cross-section of a seat track cover in accordance with an embodiment of the invention and Figure 9(b) illustrates a crosssectional view of the seat track assembly and the seat track cover, wherein the crosssectional view features a shield portion of the seat track cover in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 10 illustrates a method of operation of the seat track cover shown in Figures 8 and 9, illustrated in use with a seat and a seat track assembly of the type shown in previous Figures;

Figure 11 illustrates a first perspective view of an embodiment of the seat track cover shown in Figure 10;

Figure 12 illustrates a cross-section of a seat track assembly, of the type shown in the previous Figures, in combination with a cross-section of the seat track cover shown in Figure 11, wherein the cross-section of the seat track cover features a protruding rib element;

Figure 13 illustrates a second perspective view of the seat track cover shown in Figure 11;

Figure 14 illustrates (a) a cross-sectional side view of the seat track cover shown in Figures 11 to 13, (b) a cross-sectional end view of the seat track cover shown in

Figures 11 to 13 and (c) a perspective view of the seat track cover shown in Figures 11 to 13;

Figures 15(a) to 15(d) illustrate a method, in accordance with the present invention, of attaching a seat track cover of the invention to a seat track assembly of a type shown in the previous Figures;

Figure 16 illustrates an underside view of an alternative embodiment of a seat track cover to that shown in Figures 8 to 15;

Figure 17 illustrates an underside view of the seat track cover in Figures 11 to 13, illustrated in use with a seat and a seat track assembly of the type shown in previous Figures;

Figures 18(a) and 18(b) illustrate a method, in accordance with the present invention, of attaching a seat track cover of the invention and a seat track assembly of the type shown in previous Figures to a vehicle floor;

Figure 19 illustrates the seat track cover, shown in Figure 17, and a seat track assembly, of the type shown in previous Figures, when attached to a vehicle floor;

Figure 20 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a seat track cover to that shown in previous Figures;

Figure 21 illustrates an end on perspective view of the seat track cover shown in Figure 20;

Figures 22(a) and 22(b) illustrate different embodiments of the seat track cover of the present invention;

Figure 23 illustrates an add-on cover piece attached to the seat track cover shown in Figures 8 to 15;

Figures 24(a) and 24(b) illustrate a plan view and an end view respectively of an alternative embodiment, to those shown in previous Figures, of a seat track cover attached to a seat track assembly;

Figures 25(a) and 25(b) illustrate alternative embodiments, to those shown in previous Figures, of seat track covers attached to a mounting element and a movable element of a seat track assembly, in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a seat track cover for a seat track assembly of a vehicle, wherein the seat track cover is configured to conceal the mechanical construction of the seat track assembly and mask the line of sight to the fixing elements which secure the seat track assembly to the floorpan of the vehicle.

Figure 1 shows a vehicle 2 equipped with a seat assembly 4. The seat assembly 4 comprises a seat 6 and a seat adjustment system 8, wherein the seat adjustment system 8 is secured to a floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2 and a seat base 602 of the seat 6 is attached to the seat adjustment system 8. The seat adjustment system 8 is configured to enable movement of the seat 6 relative to the floorpan 202. The configuration secures the seat 6 to the vehicle 2 in the event of a collision and enables fore/aft adjustments of the seat’s position within the vehicle 2. The position adjustments provide a passenger with greater legroom and/or greater access to vehicle controls.

Figure 2 illustrates a seat assembly 4, of the type shown in Figure 1, comprising a seat 6 and a seat adjustment system 8. The seat adjustment system 8 is a typical example of a seat adjustment system 8 known in the art, as is the seat 6. The seat adjustment system 8 comprises a first seat track assembly 1000a and a second seat track assembly 1000b. The first and second seat track assemblies 1000a, 1000b are substantially alike and are secured to the floorpan 202 in parallel to each other. Any reference made herein to a ‘seat track assembly 1000’ is equally applicable to either of the first or second seat track assemblies 1000a,1000b alone, or when considered together.

Figure 3 shows a cross-section of the seat track assembly 1000 of the seat adjustment system 8, shown in Figure 2. The seat track assembly 1000 comprises at least a movable element 1100, or inner seat track, and a mounting element 1200, or outer seat track. The movable element 1100 and the mounting element 1200 are elongate elements which form interlocking channel sections in assembly.

The mounting element 1200 comprises a first sidewall 1205 and a second sidewall 1210 connected at either end of a bottom wall 1215. A first lip 1220 of the first sidewall 1205 of the mounting element 1200 and a second lip 1225 of the second sidewall 1210 of the mounting element 1200 fold over inwardly, to form a first seam 1230 and a second seam 1235 of the mounting element 1200 respectively.

The movable element 1100 comprises a complementary cross-section to the mounting element 1200, wherein a first sidewall 1105 and a second sidewall 1110 are connected at either end of a top wall 1115. A first lip 1120 of the first sidewall 1105 of the movable element 1100 and a second lip 1125 of the second sidewall 1110 of the movable element 1100 fold over outwardly to form a first seam 1130 and a second seam 1135 of the movable element 1100 respectively. The first and second seams 1230,1235 of the mounting element 1200 receive the corresponding pair of seams 1130,1135 defined by the movable element 1100. In this manner the movable element 1100 may slide relative to the mounting element 1200 and rolling elements (not shown) are inserted in the spaces or ‘raceways’ that form between the surfaces of the movable element 1100 and the mounting element 1200. The rolling elements provide load support, stability and improve the ease of motion.

Figures 4(a) to 4(e) show an exploded view of a power operated seat adjustment system 8, of the type shown in Figures 1 to 3. The exploded view shows the seat 6 and a seat track assembly 1000, wherein the seat track assembly 1000 comprises a movable element 1100, a mounting element 1200 and an additional linear actuator 2000. The linear actuator 2000 is incorporated to provide power operated movement of the seat 6.

The linear actuator 2000 comprises a gearbox element 2100, a motor 2200, a lead screw 2300 and installation brackets 2400. In use, the gearbox element 2100 is driven along the lead screw 2300 of the linear actuator 2000 by the motor 2200, producing fore/aft movement of the gearbox element 2100 along the lead screw 2300.

In construction, the seat base 602 of the seat 6 attaches to the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000 and the movable element 1100 attaches to the gearbox element 2100 of the linear actuator 2000. Fixing elements 10 are used to secure the installation brackets 2400 of the linear actuator 2000 to the mounting element 1200. In this manner, the fixing elements 10 secure the lead screw 2300 in a fixed position, whilst allowing free translation of the gearbox element 2100. The same fixing elements 10 are able to secure the mounting element 1200 to the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2.

In the assembly in Figure 4(e), the movable element 1100 is slidably received by the mounting element 1200 and the seams 1130,1135 of the movable element 1100 wrap around the seams 1230,1235 of the mounting element 1200 to form a first lock seam 1300a and a second lock seam 1300b. In use, the lock seams 1300a,1300b allow longitudinal movement of the movable element 1100 relative to the mounting element 1200 and retain the movable element 1100 in the transverse directions. In this manner, the seat 6 and the moveable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000 are movable relative to the mounting element 1200 of the seat track assembly 1000 and the floorpan 202. As such, the seat position may be selectively adjusted by controlling the operation of the motor 2200 through a suitable control panel in the vehicle 2. Additionally, the seat track assembly 1000 is sufficiently clamped to the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2 such that in the event of a collision, the seat assembly 4 will remain attached to the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2.

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a part of a seat base 602 and a seat track assembly 1000, as in Figure 4, in use. The motor 2200 is used to drive the gearbox element 2100 of the linear actuator 2000. Consequently, the gearbox element 2100 produces fore/aft movement along the lead screw 2300 of the linear actuator 2000. The gearbox element 2100 is attached to the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000 and hence, the motion of the gearbox element 2100 along the lead screw 2300 causes the movable element 1100 to move with the seat 6 along the length of the mounting element 1200. In Figure 5, the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000 is shown in an extended position, approaching a limit of its travel. As such, the movable element 1100 is shown to pass through an end surface 1240 of the mounting element 1200.

It is worth noting that, the seat 6 is attached to the movable element 1100 and thus blocks a passenger’s view of any elements of the seat track assembly 1000 that are positioned immediately below the seat 6. As such, the movable element 1100 can move outside of the end surface 1240 of the mounting element 1200 without diminishing the aesthetic quality of the seat track assembly 1000. Further, the masking ability of the seat 6 allows the length of the mounting element 1200 to be minimised whilst maximising the range of motion of the movable element 1100. Shorter mounting elements 1200 produce savings in material and manufacturing costs.

Figure 6 shows a perspective of a seat 6 and seat track assembly 1000. The illustrated view replicates a common passenger view during entry to the vehicle 2. The various environmental features of the vehicle 2 are not shown, such as the centre console or the vehicle chassis, but it can be appreciated that the mounting element 1200 of the seat track assembly 1000 would be visible to a passenger against the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2. Additionally, the fixing elements 10 used to secure the seat track assembly 1000 to the floorpan 202 are exposed.

Figure 7(a) shows a plan view of the seat track assembly 1000 and the seat base 602, as shown in Figure 2, wherein, with the seat 6 in a forward position, a passenger in a rear seat of the vehicle 2 is able to view the internal construction of the seat track assembly 1000 as well as the fixing elements 10. As such, with the seat 6 in a forward or aft position, the seat track assembly 1000 produces an undesirable visual impression.

Figure 7(b) shows an end view of the seat track assembly 1000 and seat base 602, as shown in Figure 2, wherein a passenger may view into the seat track assembly 1000 and view the mechanical configuration of the mounting element 1200 and the movable element 1100 as well as the fixing elements 10. From this viewpoint, the same elements remain visible regardless of the position of the seat 6.

Embodiments of the present invention utilise a seat track cover to conceal the unpleasant features of a seat track assembly. As a result, the presently claimed invention improves the visual presentation of a vehicle’s interior and specifically enhances the finish quality of a seat assembly compared to the prior art arrangements described previously.

Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a seat track cover 3000, in accordance with the present invention, attached to a seat track assembly 1000, of the type described in previous Figures. As previously, the seat track assembly 1000 comprises a mounting element 1200 and a movable element 1100. The seat track cover 3000 comprises an elongate cover portion 3100 and a shield portion 3200. The elongate cover portion 3100 extends the length of the mounting element 1200 of the seat track assembly 1000 and conceals a side view of the mechanical configuration of the seat track assembly 1000. The shield portion 3200 of the seat track cover 3000 is arranged at either end of the elongate cover potion 3100 and shields an end view into the seat track assembly 1000, masking the line of sight to the fixing connections 10.

Figure 9(a) shows a cross-sectional view of the seat track cover 3000 shown in Figure 8, wherein the cross sectional view comprises profiles of the elongate cover portion 3100 of the seat track cover 3000, as well as the mounting element 1200 and the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000. The elongate cover portion 3100 is shown attached to the mounting element 1200 of the seat track assembly 1000 and the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000 is shown to be retained by the lock seams 1300a,1300b of the seat track assembly 1000.

The cross-section of the elongate cover portion 3100 may be described as a ‘Csection’ profile, comprising a first sidewall 3105 and a second sidewall 3110 connected at either end of a bottom wall 3115.

The top edges of the first sidewall 3105 and the second sidewall 3110 are bent to form a first lipped edge 3120 and a second lipped edge 3125 respectively. The lipped edges

3120,3125 extend the length of the elongate cover potion 3100. In this manner, the lipped edges 3120,3125 form attachment means for attaching the seat track cover 3000 to the seat track assembly 1000. In Figure 9(a) the lipped edges 3120,3125 are curved and the first lipped edge 3120 curls around the folded edge of the first seam 1230 of the mounting element 1200. Similarly, the second lipped edge 3125 curls around the folded edge of the second seam 1235 of the mounting element 1200 and this configuration secures the seat track cover 3000 to the seat track assembly 1000. The lipped edges 3120,3125 obscure the mechanical components providing an additional aesthetic purpose.

In the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 9(a), the sidewalls 3105,3110 of the seat track cover 3000 have an inward taper. The inward taper provides enhanced masking of the mechanical components and is enabled by the manufacturing process described in greater detail in the following ‘Manufacturing Process’ section. Most commonly, seat track cover sidewalls are arranged vertically, or perpendicular to a bottom wall, for ease of manufacture.

The seat track cover may be formed of an elastically deformable material and the cross-section of the seat track cover 3000 is designed such that the attachment of the seat track cover 3000 to the mounting element 1200 benefits from the material’s properties. For example, in Figure 9(a), the seat track cover 3000 is designed such that the attachment to the mounting element 1200 acts to spread the sidewalls 3105,3110 of the seat track cover 3000 and preload the seat track cover 3000 such that the seat track cover 3000 applies a compressive force to the areas of contact between the mounting element 1200 and the seat track cover 3000, enhancing the security of the attachment.

In this manner, vertical movement of the mounting element 1200 is resisted by compressive force from the lipped edges 3120,3125 and lateral movement of the mounting element 1200 is resisted by lateral forces from one of the first or second sidewalls 3105,3110 of the seat track cover 3000.

Figure 9(b) shows a cross-sectional view through the seat track assembly 1000 and the seat track cover 3000, as shown in Figure 8. The view illustrates the integration of the shield portion 3200 with the seat track cover 3000, wherein the shield portion 3200 is shaped to define an opening 3300, comprising a first recess 3305 and a second recess 3310, that accommodates movement of the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000. As such, in use, the movable element 1100 can pass uninhibited through an end of the seat track cover 3000. Accordingly, the shield portion 3200 in Figure 9(b) is shown to correspond to the end profiles of both the movable element 1100 and the mounting element 1200. Figure 9(b) shows that the shield portion 3200 encloses the end profile of the mounting element 1200, such that the shield portion 3200 defines a retaining wall for the mounting element 1200.

Figure 9(b) also shows that the shield portion 3200 comprises an upstand element 3205 which extends away from a bottom wall 3115 of the seat track cover 3000 and a protruding rib element 3400 may extend between the bottom wall 3115 and the upstand element 3205 3200 to provide greater structural rigidity to the shield portion 3200. The protruding rib elements 3400 are discussed in greater detail in relation to Figures 12 to 14.

Figure 10 illustrates the co-operation of the seat track cover 3000, shown in Figure 8, with the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000, wherein, in use, the movable element 1100 extends outside of the length of the mounting element 1200 and the movable element 1100 passes through the opening 3300 defined by the shield portion 3200 of the seat track cover 3000. In this manner, the shield portion 3200 accommodates the full range of position adjustments of the seat 6 and, by allowing extension outside of the end of the mounting element 1200, the length of the mounting element 1200 is minimised. This saves manufacturing costs and material without being detrimental to the appearance, as was noted in reference to Figure 5.

Figure 11 shows a perspective view of the seat track cover 3000, as shown in Figures 8 to 10, with integrally formed shield portions 3200 at either end of the seat track cover 3000. Along the length of the elongate cover portion 3100, cut-away areas or formations 3500 are shown in the bottom wall 3115 of the seat track cover 3000. The formations 3500 split the bottom wall 3115 into a plurality of brace elements 3115 and the formations 3500 accommodate complimentary formations which protrude from the surfaces of the mounting element 1200. The mounting element 1200 may feature such complimentary formations to engage with the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2 when securing the mounting element 1200 and the seat track cover 3000 to the vehicle 2. These formations 3500 are described in more detail in relation to Figures 15 to 18. In another embodiment, the elongate cover portion 3100 may be formed without a bottom wall 3115 and instead brace elements 3115 may span between the first and second sidewalls 3105,3110 of the seat track cover 3000 to minimise splaying of the sidewalls 3105,3110 and provide greater structural rigidity. As such, herein the phrase ‘bottom wall’ 3115 is intended to refer to a complete wall structure, a ‘brace element’ or a ‘plurality of brace elements’.

In Figure 11, the seat track cover 3000 comprises protruding rib elements 3400 which are shown to extend away from the brace elements 3115 and connect to the first sidewall 3105 of the seat track cover 3000. The designs of the protruding rib element 3400 are discussed in more detail in relation to Figures 12 to 14 and in the following Manufacturing Process section.

Figure 12 shows a cross-section of the seat track cover 3000, shown in Figure 11, attached to the seat track assembly 1000, as illustrated in previous Figures, wherein a protruding rib element 3400 of the seat track cover 3000 is used to align the mounting element 1200 with the seat track cover 3000. The protruding rib 3400 engages with an outer surface of the mounting element’s sidewalls 1205,1210 and acts to restrain lateral movement of the seat track cover 3000 relative to the mounting element 1200.

Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the seat track cover 3000 from an angle that opposes the view of Figure 11. Figure 13 illustrates that protruding rib elements 3400 may additionally extend from the brace elements 3115 to the second sidewall 3110 of the seat track cover 3000 and that the shield portion 3200 may have an inward taper as shown, providing enhanced shielding of the fixing elements 10.

Manufacturing process

Die slide injection moulding methods, which feature sliding tool pieces, are capable of producing hollow components with internal features. Such components may be formed by an injection moulding process in which a first injection forms two halves of a hollow product. One mould cavity is then slidably moved into alignment opposite the other mould cavity, before the mould cavities are brought together again, such that a second injection is able to seal the joint area between the two halves. The process leaves a visible parting line but forms a solidly bonded component and the process is relatively inexpensive for mass production. Previously, it was not possible to injection mould desirably shaped single piece track covers because the parts need to be releasable from the tool.

Figures 14(a) to 14(c) show a cross-sectional side view, a cross-sectional end view and a perspective view of the seat track cover 3000 respectively, wherein the seat track cover 3000 is illustrated as previously in Figure 11. Figures 14(a) and 14(b) illustrate that, in an embodiment of the invention, the protruding rib elements 3400 extend vertically from a bottom wall 3115 or brace element 3115 of the seat track cover 3000 and may connect to a first or second sidewall 3105,3110 of the seat track cover 3000. The protruding rib elements 3400 are designed in this manner such that the seat track cover 3000 can be injection moulded in two halves, as illustrated in Figure 14(c), wherein the two halves are separated at the dashed parting line 3700 of the seat track cover 3000. As such, the first injection moulded half comprises the shield portion 3200 and sidewalls 3105,3110 of the seat track cover 3000, whilst the second half comprises the bottom wall 3115 and the protruding rib elements 3400. The vertically aligned protruding rib elements 3400 of Figures 14(a) and 14(b) allow the product to be releasable from the die used in the manufacturing process. In known seat track covers, the protruding rib elements extend horizontally away from the sidewalls of the seat track cover. Protruding rib elements configured in this previous manner dictated the parting position during the manufacturing process and produced parting lines on visible areas of the seat track cover. Conversely, the invention allows the parting lines 3700 to be selectively formed at the bottom walls 3115 such that, in use, the parting lines 3700 may be buried in the carpet as indicated in the following ‘Method of attachment’ section.

Method of attachment

Figures 15(a) to 15(d) described a method of ‘snap-fit’ attachment of the seat track cover 3000, shown in Figures 8 to 14, to a mounting element 1200 of the seat track assembly 1000. This embodiment of the present invention allows the seat supplier to attach the seat track cover 3000 to the seat track assembly 1000 prior to installation into the vehicle 2. In Figure 15(b), a first lipped edge 3120 of a first side wall 3105 of the seat track cover 3000, is hooked over a folded edge of a seam 1230 of the mounting element 1200. In Figure 15(b), the sidewalls 3105,3110 of the seat track cover 3000 are splayed apart such that the seat track cover 3000 may be reliably attached to the outer surfaces of the mounting element 1200. In Figure 15(c), the first sidewall 3105 of the seat track cover 3000 meets a first sidewall 1205 of the mounting element 1200 and a bottom wall 3115 of the seat track cover 3000 meets a bottom wall 1215 of the mounting element 1200. In Figure 15(d), the second sidewall 3110 of the seat track cover 3000 is released, such that, the second sidewall 3110 meets a second sidewall 1210 of the mounting element 1200 and a lipped edge 3125 of the second sidewall 3110 of the seat track cover 3000 engages with a folded edge of a second seam 1235 of the mounting element 1200. In this manner, the cross-section of the seat track cover 3000 is able to retain the mounting element 1200 in the directions transverse to the length of the seat track cover 3000.

Once the seat track cover 3000 is attached to the seat track assembly 1000, the seat track cover 3000 and the seat track assembly 1000 are secured to the vehicle 2 during the manufacturer’s vehicle assembly process. Figure 16 shows an underside view of the seat track cover 3000, wherein cut-away formations 3500 provide openings for complimentary formations of the mounting element 1200 of the seat track assembly 1000. The complimentary formations may protrude from the surface of the mounting element 1200 and extend through the cut-away formations 3500 to meet the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2.

Figure 17 shows an underside view of the seat track cover 3000, shown in Figures 8 to 15, attached to the seat track assembly 1000, as shown in previous Figures. Figure 17 illustrates the co-operation of the cut-away formations 3500 of the seat track cover 3000 and the complimentary formations 1250 of the seat track assembly 1000. In use, the complimentary formations 1250 of the mounting element 1200 are shown to pass through the cut-away formations 3500 of the seat track cover 3000 to engage with the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2.

In this manner, Figures 18(a) and 18(b) show that a fixing element 10 may pass through a complimentary formation 1250 of the seat track assembly 1000 and a formation 3500 in the seat track cover 3000 to secure both entities to the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2. The seat track cover 3000 provides sufficient access for a suitable installation tool, such as a wrench, to install the fixing element 10 and clamp the mounting element 1200 and seat track cover 3000 in position.

As such, the invention facilitates a cost effective assembly process with efficient installation of the seat track assembly 1000. Pre-existing seat track covers were formed of multiple cover pieces that had to be fitted at least partially during the vehicle assembly process and were often inadequately secured in place, increasing assembly times and reducing the finish quality.

Figures 18(b) and 19 show that the bottom wall 3115 of the seat track cover 3000 may be embedded within the thickness of a carpeting layer 204 of the vehicle floor such that parting lines 3700, produced in the manufacturing process, are not visible. The complimentary formation 1250 of the mounting element 1200 is shown flush against the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2, maximising the strength of the connection. In this manner, the fixing elements 10 are able to secure the seat track cover 3000 to the seat track assembly 1000 and the seat track assembly 1000 and seat track cover 3000 to the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2.

Alternative embodiments

Figure 20 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention, wherein the seat track cover 3000 includes a cut-away area or formation 4900 at a sidewall 3110 of the elongate cover portion 3100. The formation 4900 is used to accommodate the environmental features of the vehicle 2 and/or the auxiliary devices of the seat track assembly 1000. For example, the environmental features may include a centre console of the vehicle 2 or a seat belt arrangement and the auxiliary devices include a clutch control bar.

Figure 21 shows an alternative view of the seat track cover 3000, shown in Figure 20, wherein the protruding rib elements 4400, described previously in relation to Figures to 14, are formed as integrated connecting elements between the brace elements 3115 and the sidewall 3110. This embodiment reduces material consumption and produces an aesthetically pleasing finish.

Figures 22(a) and 22(b) show a couple of different mounting element 1200 and movable element 1100 cross-sections which may be featured in different seat track assemblies 1000. The figures demonstrate suitable changes to the shield portion 4200,5200 of the seat track cover 3000 which a person skilled in the art would make to accommodate the corresponding seat track assemblies 1000. The illustrated shield portions 4200,5200 serve to shield a view into the end of the seat track cover 3000 whilst defining an opening 4300,5300 that accommodates movement of the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000.

In another embodiment, the seat track cover 3000 comprises means for attaching addon cover pieces. Figure 23 illustrates an add-on cover piece 7000 shaped like a finger, which clips onto the shield portion 6200 of the seat track cover 3000 and extends into the length of the seat track cover 3000 such that, in use, it can obscure an aerial view of the fixing elements. By attaching the add-on cover piece 7000 to the shielding portion 6200 of the seat track cover 3000, as shown in Figure 23, the split lines between the cover pieces are less obvious than in previous approaches and as a result the finish quality is improved.

As mentioned previously in relation to Figure 11, some embodiments of the seat track cover 3000 do not feature a bottom wall 3115 across the cross-section of the elongate cover portion 3100. Instead, brace elements 3115 may or may not be present to provide structural rigidity. However, Figures 24(a) and 24(b) illustrate an embodiment of the seat track cover without a bottom wall or brace elements 8115. Instead, fixing elements 11 may pass through the sidewalls 3105,3110 of the seat track cover 3000 and the mounting element 1200 to secure an attachment between them. Alternatively, the seat track cover 3000 may feature means for attachment to the floorpan 202 of the vehicle 2 and the seat track cover 3000 may or may not separately attach to the seat track assembly 1000.

In a further embodiment, a seat track cover 9000 is attachable to the movable element 1100 as in Figure 25(a). Fixing elements pass through a top wall 9115 of the seat track cover 9000 and through a top wall of the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000 and into the seat base. In this manner, the seat track cover 9000 is attachable to the movable element 1100 of the seat track assembly 1000 and the seat base.

In an embodiment of the invention, the seat track cover is attachable to a movable element 1100 of the seat assembly and to a mounting element 1200 of the seat track assembly 1000 as in Figure 25(b). In this manner, a first seat track cover 10000 attaches to the movable element 1100 and a second seat track cover 11000 attaches to the mounting element 1200. A first shield portion 10200 of the first seat track cover 10000 co-operates with a second shield portion 11200 of the second seat track cover 11000 such that the range of movement of the movable element 1100 can be completed without producing obstructive interactions between the first and second shield portions 10200,11200 or any other features of the seat track assembly 1000.

Many modifications may be made to the above examples without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. A seat track cover for a seat track assembly of a vehicle seat, the seat track cover comprising:

an elongate cover portion arranged to cover at least a portion of an elongate mounting element of the seat track assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle and, in use, to shield a side view of at least the mounting element, and a shield portion formed integrally with the elongate cover portion at least at one end thereof, the shield portion shielding an end view into the seat track cover, the shield portion being shaped to define an opening to accommodate, in use, movement of a movable element of the seat track assembly which moves along the mounting element together with the vehicle seat;

wherein the elongate cover portion extends at least the full length of the elongate mounting element.

2. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 1, wherein the opening defined by the shield portion allows movement of the movable element of the seat track assembly therethrough.

3. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 2, wherein the shield portion and the opening define an end profile which corresponds to the end profile of the movable element.

4. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the elongate cover portion of the seat track cover comprises attachment means for attaching the seat track cover to the seat track assembly.

5. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 4, wherein the attachment means comprises a lip curved inwardly around a sidewall of the mounting element.

6. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 4, comprising at least one formation which cooperates, in use, with a complementary formation provided on the mounting element to define the attachment means.

7. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the shield portion defines a retaining wall for the end of the mounting element.

8. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the elongate cover portion of the seat track cover comprises means for aligning the seat track cover with the length of the mounting element of the seat track assembly, wherein the means for aligning comprises a protruding rib element engageable, in use, with the mounting element of the seat track assembly.

9. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the elongate cover portion comprises a first sidewall and a second sidewall and means configured to oppose splaying of the first and second sidewalls of the elongate cover portion .

10. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 9, wherein the means configured to oppose splaying of the first and second sidewalls of the elongate cover portion comprises a brace element which extends between the first and second sidewalls of the elongate cover portion.

11. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 10, wherein the shield portion comprises an upstand element which extends away from the brace element of the elongate cover portion.

12. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein one end of the brace element connects to the first sidewall and another end of the brace element connects to the second sidewall.

13. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 10 to 12 when dependent on claim 6, wherein the brace element comprises at least one formation which cooperates, in use, with the complementary formation provided on the mounting element.

14. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 10 to 13 when dependent on claim 8, wherein the protruding rib element extends away from the brace element.

15. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 14, wherein the protruding rib element extends from the brace element to the first sidewall of the elongate cover portion.

16. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 9 to 15, wherein the opening defined by the shield portion defines a recess towards the second sidewall.

17. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 9 to 16, wherein the opening defined by the shield portion comprises a first recess towards the first sidewall and a second recess towards the second sidewall.

18. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 1 to 17, wherein the elongate cover portion of the seat track cover comprises at least one formation which cooperates, in use, with a complementary formation provided on the seat track assembly to accommodate one or more auxiliary devices of the seat track assembly and/or the vehicle.

19. The seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 1 to 18, comprising attachment means for attaching an add-on cover element.

20. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 19, wherein the shield portion of the seat track cover comprises the attachment means for attaching the add-on cover element.

21. The seat track cover as claimed in claim 19 or 20, wherein the add-on cover element comprises an elongate finger portion arranged to cover a top view into the seat track assembly, in use.

22. A seat track cover for a seat track assembly of a vehicle seat, the seat track assembly comprising an elongate mounting element configured for attachment to the vehicle floor and a movable element which moves with the vehicle seat, the seat track cover comprising an elongate cover portion arranged to cover the movable element, in use, to shield a side view of at least the movable element, and a shield portion formed integrally with the elongate cover portion at least at one end thereof, the shield portion shielding an end view into the seat track cover, the shield portion being shaped to define an

5 opening to accommodate the mounting element throughout the range of movement of the movable element of the seat track assembly , in use.

23. A seat track assembly comprising the seat track cover as claimed in any of claims 1 to 21.

24. A seat assembly comprising a seat in attachment with the seat track assembly as claimed in claim 23.

15

25. A vehicle comprising the seat assembly as claimed in claim 24.