WO2020018986A1 - Power drive mechanism with integrated latch release and manual override - Google Patents

Power drive mechanism with integrated latch release and manual override Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020018986A1
WO2020018986A1 PCT/US2019/042774 US2019042774W WO2020018986A1 WO 2020018986 A1 WO2020018986 A1 WO 2020018986A1 US 2019042774 W US2019042774 W US 2019042774W WO 2020018986 A1 WO2020018986 A1 WO 2020018986A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
sector gear
seat
orientation
latch
hook
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2019/042774
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Louis Vetere
Michael D. NACY
Original Assignee
Magna Seating Inc.
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Magna Seating Inc. filed Critical Magna Seating Inc.
Publication of WO2020018986A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020018986A1/en

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/20—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the back-rest being tiltable, e.g. to permit easy access
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/0224—Non-manual adjustments, e.g. with electrical operation
    • B60N2/02246—Electric motors therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/04—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable
    • B60N2/12—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable and tiltable
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/90—Details or parts not otherwise provided for
    • B60N2/919—Positioning and locking mechanisms
    • B60N2002/924—Positioning and locking mechanisms using electric or hydraulic energy

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a vehicle seat mechanism to move a vehicle seat between an upright in-use position and a pitched forward position. More particularly, the invention relates to a power drive mechanism with an integrated latch release and an optional manual override function for moving a vehicle seat between an upright in-use position and a pitched forward position.
  • Automotive vehicles typically include one or more seat assemblies having a seat cushion and a seat back for supporting a passenger above a vehicle floor. Certain known vehicles have one or more rows of seat assemblies. Typical seat assemblies generally have an upright in-use position and an optional pitched forward position allowing improved access behind the seat assembly. The pitched forward position, also described as an ingress/egress seat position, allows occupant ingress to and egress from rear rows of vehicle seats.
  • a power drive mechanism for providing ingress/egress for a vehicle seat by repositioning the seat into a pitched forward position.
  • a power drive mechanism that automatically repositions the vehicle seat from the pitched forward position to the upright in-use position.
  • an integrated latch release mechanism such that the power drive mechanism automatically unlatches the seat prior to pitching the seat forward and automatically latches the seat when the seat is repositioned in the upright in-use position.
  • an integrated manual override mechanism to decouple the power driver mechanism such that the seat can be manually moved to the egress position by an occupant.
  • a power drive mechanism for an automotive seat is provided to reposition the automotive seat between an upright in-use position and a pitched forward position for ease of occupant ingress/egress.
  • the power drive mechanism includes an integrated latch release function and an optional manual override function.
  • a vehicle seat includes a power drive mechanism configured to automatically reposition at least a portion of the vehicle seat between a first seat position and a second seat position.
  • the vehicle seat comprises a seat structure rotatably coupled to a seat base by a link such that rotating the link repositions at least a portion of the seat structure between the first seat position and the second seat position.
  • the seat structure includes a seat structure latch for latching the seat structure to the seat base and the seat base includes a latch striker.
  • the power drive mechanism is operatively coupled to the link and fixedly coupled to the seat base.
  • the power drive mechanism comprises an electric actuator operatively coupled to a pinion gear wherein the pinion gear is operatively coupled to a sector gear.
  • the sector gear is operatively coupled to the link and operatively coupled to the seat structure latch. Actuating the electric actuator rotates the pinion gear causing the sector gear to rotate. Rotation of the sector gear from a first sector gear orientation to a second sector gear orientation in a first rotational direction automatically repositions the seat structure latch from a latch engaged position to a latch disengaged position with respect to the latch striker while at least a portion of the seat structure is in the first seat position. And, wherein, the first sector gear orientation being different from said second sector gear orientation.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a generally known vehicle seat having an ingress/egress mechanism with the vehicle seat in an upright in-use position [latched position];
  • Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the generally known vehicle seat of Figure 1 in an ingress/egress position [pitched forward position];
  • Figure 3 illustrates a partial perspective view of a power drive mechanism having an integrated latch release function and a manual override function for a vehicle seat according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 4 illustrates a partial side view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 3 in a latched position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 5 illustrates a partial exploded view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 6 illustrates a partial exploded view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 7 illustrates a side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 4 when the power drive mechanism is in a latch release position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of a latch release lever pin and a sector notch of the power drive mechanism of Figure 4 when the power drive mechanism is in the latched position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of the latch release lever pin and the sector notch of Figure 7 when the power drive mechanism is in the latch release position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 10 illustrates a side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 7 in a pitched forward position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 11 illustrates a side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 10 in a power return position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of the latch release lever pin and the sector notch of Figure 10 when the power drive mechanism is in the pitched forward position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of the latch release lever pin and the sector notch of Figure 11 when the power drive mechanism is in the power return position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 14 illustrates a side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 11 in the latched position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 15 illustrates of the latch release lever pin and the sector notch of the power drive mechanism of Figure 14 when the power drive mechanism is in the latched position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 16 illustrates a partial side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 14 showing a manual override hook in an engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 17 illustrates a partial side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 16 showing the manual override hook in the engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 18 illustrates a partial side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 17 showing the manual override hook in a disengaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 19 illustrates a partial side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 18 showing the manual override hook in the engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 20 illustrates a partial exploded view of a power drive mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 21 illustrates a partial perspective view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figures 3-21 illustrate a power drive mechanism with an integrated latch release function, an optional manual override function, and a vehicle seat having a power drive mechanism according to embodiments described herein.
  • Directional references employed or shown in the description, figures or claims, such as top, bottom, upper, lower, upward, downward, lengthwise, widthwise, left, right, and the like, are relative terms employed for ease of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any respect. Further, the Figures are not necessarily shown to scale. Referring to the Figures, like numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views.
  • Figures 1 and 2 illustrate side views of a generally known vehicle seat assembly 10 having a seat back 12 and a seat cushion 14 operatively coupled to a seat base 16 by pitch links 20, 22, front link 24 and a latch 26.
  • the generally known vehicle seat assembly 10 is movable between an upright in-use position 30 ( Figure 1) and a pitched forward position 32 ( Figure 2) by releasing the latch 26 and rotating the pitch links 20, 22, and front link 24 with respect to the seat base 16. Moving the vehicle seat assembly 10 to the pitched forward position 32 allows for an occupant to ingress/egress a rear row of vehicle seats (not shown).
  • the ingress/egress seat motion, between the generally upright in-use position 30 and the pitched forward position 32, can be done via a manual mechanism (as generally shown in Figures 1 and 2) and/or with a power drive mechanism (not shown). If the vehicle (not shown) gets into an accident, power may be cut off from the seat 10.
  • a manual override function is desired to provide a means to move the seat 10 to the pitched forward position 32 if the ingress/egress seat motion is done via a power drive mechanism and electric power is cut off from the seat 10.
  • a power drive mechanism 34 for a vehicle seat 10' to move the seat 10' between an upright in-use position 30' and a pitched forward position 32' is shown in Figures 3-19, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the power drive mechanism 34 includes an integrated latch release function 44 and an optional manual override function 46 (shown in Figure 5).
  • Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the power drive mechanism 34 operatively coupled to the vehicle seat 10'.
  • the power drive mechanism 34 includes an electric motor 50 as shown in Figure 3.
  • a side view of the power drive mechanism 34 is shown in Figure 4.
  • the electric motor 50 is omitted from Figures 4-19 to clearly illustrate the details of the power drive mechanism 34, the integrated latch release function 44, and the optional manual override function 46.
  • the vehicle seat 10' comprises a seat structure 52 having a seat cushion frame 54 and a seat back frame (not shown) coupled to a seat base 60 by seat pitch links 62, 64 and a front link (not shown).
  • a seat structure latch 66 releasably latches the seat structure 52 to the seat base 60 when the seat structure latch 66 is releasably engaged with a latch striker 70 projecting from the seat base 60.
  • the power drive mechanism 34 includes the electric motor 50 operatively coupled to a pinion gear 72.
  • the pinion gear 72 is operatively coupled with a sector gear 74 to drive the seat pitch links 62, 64 between the upright in-use position 30’ ( Figure 3) and the pitched forward position 32' ( Figure 10). While an electric motor 50 is shown in Figure 3, it will be appreciated that other types of generally known actuators may be used.
  • the power drive mechanism 34 also comprises a pitch link drive pin 94 projecting from seat pitch link 62 that projects through an arcuateshaped slot 96 in a first base bracket 100 when assembled with the first base bracket 100.
  • a manual override actuation lever 102 is rotatably coupled at 106A to a second base bracket 104 by way of a mounting pivot 106 fixedly coupled through opening 106B in the second base bracket 104.
  • the manual override actuation lever 102 has a mounting pin 110 projecting near a first end 112 of the actuation lever 102, an attachment feature 114 near a second end 116 of the actuation lever 102, and an engagement portion 120 near the second end 116 of the actuation lever 102,
  • the second base bracket 104 includes an arcuate-shaped slot 121 configured to guide the mounting pin 110 projecting from the manual override actuation lever 102.
  • One end 122 of a manual override cable 123 is rotationally coupled with the mounting pin 110 on the manual override actuation lever 102 when the mounting pin 110 is retained within the arcuate-shaped slot 121 in the second base bracket 104.
  • the sector gear 74 shown in Figures 5 and 6, is a partial arc sector gear 74 with a plurality of gear teeth 124 along a first portion 126 of an outer edge 130 of the sector gear 74.
  • the sector gear 74 includes a generally cylindrical passageway 132 extending through the sector gear 74 and aligned with a rotational axis 134 of the sector gear 74, an open-ended slot 136 extending in a circumferential direction and positioned between the generally cylindrical passageway 132 and a portion 142 of the plurality of gear teeth 124, a sector notch 144 in a second portion 146 of the outer edge 130 of the sector gear 74, and a hook stop 150 projecting from a surface 152 of the sector gear 74.
  • the open-ended slot 136 has opposing side walls 154, 156, an end wall 160, and an opening 162 extending between the opposing side walls 154, 156 and generally opposite the end wall 160,
  • a manual override hook 163, also shown in Figures 5 and 6, comprises an elongated main body 164 having a hook-like feature 166 projecting from the main body 164 near one end 170 of the main body 164 and a stop feature 172 projecting at an angle from the main body 164 near an opposing end 174 of the main body 164.
  • the main body 164 further includes a passageway 176 through the main body 164 aligned with an axis of rotation 180 of the main body 164.
  • a hook pivot pin 182 extends through the passageway 176 in the main body 164 and rotationally couples the manual override hook 163 to the sector gear 74 at location 183, as shown in Figures 5 and 6.
  • the hook pivot pin 182 includes a slot 184 extending through one end 186 of the hook pivot pin 182 and generally orientated perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hook pivot pin 182 as generally shown in Figures 5 and 6.
  • a torsion return spring 190 ( Figures 5 and 6) is assembled with the hook pivot pin 182 such that a longitudinal axis of the torsion return spring 190 is generally aligned with a longitudinal axis of the hook pivot pin 182.
  • the torsion return spring 190 has one end 192 inserted into the slot 184 in the hook pivot pin 182 and a second end 194 frictionally engaged with a notch 193 in the stop feature 172 projecting from the main body 164 of the manual override hook 163.
  • the torsion return spring 190 biases the stop feature 172 of the manual override hook 163 towards the hook stop 150 projecting from the surface 152 of the sector gear 74.
  • the hook-like feature 166 of the manual override hook 163 effectively closes off the opening 162 to the open-ended slot 136.
  • a generally cylindrical sector pivot tube 196 is inserted through the cylindrical passageway 132 of the sector gear 74 such that the sector gear 74 pivots about the sector pivot tube 196.
  • the sector pivot tube 196 is assembled between the first and second base brackets 100, 104 such that an aperture 197, 198 in each of the base brackets 100, 104 supports and retains a respective end 200, 202 of the sector pivot tube 196.
  • the pitch link drive pin 94 projects through the arcuate-shaped slot 96 in the first base bracket 100, through the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74, and is retained within the open-ended slot 136 by the hook-like feature 166 of the manual override hook 163.
  • a latch release lever 204 shown in Figures 5 and 6, has a generally elongated shaped body 206 pivotally coupled with the second base bracket 104 via a latch release pivot pin 210 fixedly connected through aperture 211 in the second base bracket 104,
  • a lever pin 212 projects from a surface 214 of the latch release lever 204 near a first end 216 of the latch release lever 204.
  • the lever pin 212 has a truncated generally cylindrical shaped main body 220 with an engagement surface 222 configured to matingly engage with the sector notch 144 in the sector gear 74.
  • a second end 224 of the latch release lever 204 is coupled with one end 226 of a latch release cable 228.
  • the lever pin 212 is meshingly engaged with the sector notch 144 when the latch release lever 204 and the sector gear 74 are assembled with the second base bracket 104 and the seat structure 52 is in an upright in-use and latched position 30'.
  • a manual override return spring 230 is operationally coupled between the latch release pivot pin 210 and the attachment feature 114 on the manual override actuation lever 102 to bias the second end 116 of the manual override actuation lever 102 towards the latch release pivot pin 210 (Arrow 4A) and away from the stop feature 172 on the manual override hook 163.
  • the power drive mechanism 34 is shown fully assembled (with the electric motor 50 omitted) and with the seat structure 52 in the upright in-use position 30' in Figure 4.
  • the seat structure 52 is in the upright in-use position 30' with a hook feature 232 of the seat structure latch 66 releasably engaged with the latch striker 70 on the seat base 16, locking the seat structure 52 to the seat base 16 in the upright in-use position 30'.
  • the latch release cable 228 has one end 226 coupled to the second end 224 of the latch release lever 204 and a second end 234 coupled with the seat structure latch 66.
  • the lever pin 212 is engaged with the sector notch 144 on the sector gear 74 (see Figure 8), the manual override hook 163 is in the engaged position with the hook-like feature 166 closing off the open-ended slot 136 of the sector gear 74, a portion of the pitch link drive pin 94 is positioned within the open-ended slot 136 and is retained in the open-ended slot 136 by the manual override hook 163, and the engagement portion 120 of the manual override actuation lever 102 is disengaged from the stop feature 172 on the manual override hook 163.
  • the electric motor 50 is operatively coupled with the pinion gear 72.
  • the pinon gear 72 is meshingly engaged with one or more of the gear teeth 124 on the sector gear 74,
  • the torsion return spring 190 biases the manual override hook 163 in a counterclockwise rotation with respect to the axis of rotation of the manual override hook 163.
  • the counterclockwise rotation of the stop feature 172 of the manual override hook 163 is restricted by the hook stop 150 on the sector gear 74.
  • the pitch link drive pin 94 is positioned within the open-ended slot 136 at a loss motion distance 236 away from the end wall 160 of the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74 to provide loss motion 236 when the sector gear 74 is rotated before the end wall 160 of the open-ended slot 136 engages the pitch link drive pin 94.
  • FIG 7 the seat structure 52 and power drive mechanism 34 is shown in a latch release position 238.
  • Figure 7 also illustrates the motion of the sector gear 74, the latch release lever 204, the latch release cable 228, and the seat structure latch 66 as the power drive mechanism 34 moves the seat structure 52 from the upright in-use position 30' (shown in Figure 4) towards the latch release position 238 (shown in Figure 7).
  • the seat structure latch 66 is shown in an engaged position 240 and a disengaged position 242 with respect to the latch striker 70 in Figures 4 and 7, respectively.
  • the latch release lever 204 being operatively coupled to the seat structure latch 66 (through the latch release cable 228) provides the integrated latch release function 44 as part of the power drive mechanism 34.
  • the sector gear 74 has a profile section 250 that maintains the rotational position of the latch release lever 204 and maintains the seat structure latch 66 in the latch release position 238 while the sector gear 74 is rotated further clockwise than the first amount 236.
  • a power return motion 252 repositions the seat structure 52 from the pitched forward position 32' ( Figure 10), to the latch release position 238 (Figure 7), and to the upright in-use position 30' ( Figure 3).
  • clockwise rotation (Arrow 11 A) of the pinion gear 72 rotates the sector gear 74 in a counterclockwise rotational direction (Arrow 11B) .
  • the hook-like feature 166 on the manual override hook 163 frictionally engages with the pitch link drive pin 94 causing the pitch link drive pin 94 to travel with the sector gear 74.
  • the manual override function 46 consists of rotating the manual override hook 163 away from the opening 162 to the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74 and permitting manual movement of the seat structure 52 to the pitched forward position 32', as illustrated in Figures 16-19.
  • the manual override hook 163 is rotationally coupled to the sector gear 74 and movable between an engaged position 254 (shown in Figure 16) and a disengaged position 256 (shown in Figure 18).
  • the power drive mechanism 34 automatically moves the seat structure 52 between the upright in-use position 30' and the pitched forward position 32' when the manual override hook 163 is in the engaged position 254 and the power drive mechanism 34 is actuated.
  • the seat structure 52 can be manually repositioned between the upright in-use position 30' and the pitched forward position 32' without actuating the power drive mechanism 34, as will be further described below with respect to Figures 16-19.
  • the manual override cable 123 is in a disengaged position 260 as shown in Figure 16, the manual override actuation lever 102 is biased by the return spring 230 (Arrow 16A) such that the engagement portion 120 of the manual override actuation lever 102 is disengaged from the stop feature 172 on the manual override hook 163.
  • the torsion return spring 190 rotates the manual override hook 163 (Arrow 16B) towards the hook stop 150 on the sector gear 74 (shown in Figure 6), resulting in the manual override hook 163 creating a bottom edge 262 of the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74 (Arrow 16C).
  • the manual override hook 163 is rotatably coupled to the sector gear 74. The relative position of the manual override hook 163 is maintained as the sector gear 74 rotates.
  • the manual override actuation lever 102 mounting pivot 106 is fixed to the second base bracket 104. Thus, the manual override actuation lever 102 does not change position in response to the sector gear 74 rotating.
  • the seat structure 52 can be manually rotated (Arrow 18A) to the pitched forward position 32'.
  • the pitch link drive pin 94 freely moves within the open-ended slot 136 and can be rotated past the opening 162 to the open-ended slot 136.
  • the seat structure 52 can be manually rotated to the pitched forward position 32' by rotating the pitch links 62, 64 without affecting the power drive mechanism 34 as shown in Figure 18.
  • the seat structure 52 is manually rotated back to the upright in-use position 30' (Arrow 19A) and the manual override cable 123 returned to the disengaged position 260 (Arrow 19B).
  • the manual override cable 123 returns to the disengaged position 260
  • the manual override actuation lever 102 is rotated away from the manual override hook 163 (Arrow 19C) by the return spring 230 such that the engagement portion 120 is spaced apart from the stop feature 172.
  • the power drive mechanism 34 can be activated to again rotate the seat structure 52 to the pitched forward position 32' as described above.
  • the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 can reposition the seat structure 52, or a portion of the vehicle seat structure 52, between two or more seat structure 52 positions 30', 32' as determined by the desired seat pitch link 62, 64 configuration.
  • the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 is configured to rotate one or more seat pitch links 62, 64 as part of the seat structure 52.
  • rotating the one or more seat pitch links 62, 64 may optionally reposition a portion of the seat structure 52, such as the seat cushion 14 and/or the seat back 12, or the entire seat structure 52.
  • the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 can move the seat structure 52 into a fold flat seat position (not shown) by rotating connected links 62, 64 depending on the desired linkage configuration, Further, it will be appreciated that alternate linkage configurations and, optionally, additional interconnected links, may be operatively coupled to the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 such that the vehicle seat structure 52 is movable between two or more desired positions.
  • a second embodiment of a power drive mechanism 34' with an integrated latch release function 44' is shown in Figures 20 and 21.
  • the power drive mechanism 34' shown in a partial exploded view in Figure 20, lacks the optional manual override function 46 of the first embodiment of the power drive mechanism 34 shown in Figures 3-19,
  • the manual override actuation lever 102, the return spring 230, the manual override cable 123, as well as the manual override hook 163, the mounting pivot 106, and the torsion return spring 190 are omitted in power drive mechanism 34' when compared to power drive mechanism 34 shown in Figure 5.
  • the open-ended slot 136 of the sector gear 74 and the manual override hook 163 are replaced by a modified sector gear 74' having an enclosed slot 136' as shown in Figure 20.
  • the enclosed slot 136' includes a first end wall 160', opposing side walls 154', 156', and a second end wall 264.
  • the power drive mechanism 34' shown in Figure 21, includes an electric motor 50' operatively coupled to a pinion gear (not shown).
  • the power drive mechanism 34' includes the modified sector gear 74' rotationally mounted on a sector pivot tube 196' supported between first and second base brackets 100', 104'. Further, a pitch link drive pin 94' projects from one of seat pitch links 62, 64, through an arcuate-shaped slot 96' in the first base bracket 100' and through the enclosed slot 136' in the modified sector gear 74'.
  • the power drive mechanism 34' includes a latch release pivot pin 210' rotationally coupling a latch release lever 204' to the second base bracket 104'.
  • the latch release lever 204' has a lever pin 212' that engages with a sector notch 144' on the modified sector gear 74'.
  • One end 226' of a latch release cable 228' is coupled to one end 112' of the latch release lever 204'.
  • the power drive mechanism 34' includes similar components to the first embodiment of the power drive mechanism 34 with certain components omitted.
  • Figure 21 is a perspective view of the power drive mechanism 34' of the second embodiment and assembled with a seat structure 52'.
  • the power drive mechanism 34' releases a seat structure latch 66', repositions the seat structure 52' into a pitched forward position 32', and power returns the seat structure 52' from the pitched forward position 32' to the latched position 30' as generally described with respect to the first embodiment of the power drive mechanism 34 with respect to Figures 4-15.
  • the second end wall 264 of the enclosed slot 136' retains the pitch link drive pin 94' within the enclosed slot 136' as the modified sector gear 74' rotates in the counterclockwise direction.
  • relative component positions and direction of rotation (i.e., clockwise and counterclockwise) of the disclosed power drive mechanisms 34, 34' herein are exemplary and can be changed as desired for a specific application.
  • the sector gear 74, 74' can be configured to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise when repositioning the seat structure 52, 52' between the upright in-use position 30' and the pitched forward position 32'.
  • the general shape, size, and placement of individual components can be adjusted as desired for a specific application.
  • the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 has many benefits over other known mechanisms for moving the vehicle seat structure 52 between the in-use position 30' and the pitched forward position 32'.
  • One benefit of the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 is the power drive mechanism 34 automatically repositions the vehicle seat structure 52 to the pitched forward position 32', allowing for ingress/egress by an occupant to a rear row of vehicle seats.
  • a second benefit is the power drive mechanism 34 automatically repositions the vehicle seat structure 52 from the pitched forward position 32' and to the upright in-use position 30'.
  • a third benefit is the disclosed integrated latch release function 44 automatically unlatches the seat structure latch 66 prior to the seat structure 52 being pitched forward 32'.
  • a fourth benefit is the disclosed integrated latch release function 44 automatically latches the seat structure latch 66 to the latch striker 70 when the seat structure 52 is returned to the upright in-use position 30'.
  • an additional benefit is including the optional integrated manual override function 46 to decouple the power drive mechanism 34 such that the seat structure 52 can be manually moved to the egress position 32' (pitched forward position) by an occupant.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chairs For Special Purposes, Such As Reclining Chairs (AREA)

Abstract

A power drive mechanism for an automotive seat is configured to reposition the automotive seat (52) between an upright in-use position and a pitched forward position for ease of occupant ingress/ egress. The power drive mechanism (34) includes an integrated latch (66) release function and an optional manual override function.

Description

POWER DRIVE MECHANISM WITH INTEGRATED LATCH RELEASE AND
MANUAL OVERRIDE
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to United States Provisional Application No. 62/701,150, filed on July 20, 2018.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a vehicle seat mechanism to move a vehicle seat between an upright in-use position and a pitched forward position. More particularly, the invention relates to a power drive mechanism with an integrated latch release and an optional manual override function for moving a vehicle seat between an upright in-use position and a pitched forward position.
2. Description of Related Art
[0003] Automotive vehicles typically include one or more seat assemblies having a seat cushion and a seat back for supporting a passenger above a vehicle floor. Certain known vehicles have one or more rows of seat assemblies. Typical seat assemblies generally have an upright in-use position and an optional pitched forward position allowing improved access behind the seat assembly. The pitched forward position, also described as an ingress/egress seat position, allows occupant ingress to and egress from rear rows of vehicle seats.
[0004] There are many generally known seat mechanisms that move a vehicle seat between the upright in-use and pitched forward positions, including manual mechanisms and/or power mechanisms, One known mechanism for repositioning a vehicle seat to the pitched forward position is disclosed in PCT Publication No. WO/2018/129283A1 and describes a seat structure rotationally coupled to a seat base wherein a latch mechanism is manually released allowing the seat structure to be manually rotated towards the pitched forward position. This known mechanism lacks a power drive mechanism to automatically unlatch the seat structure from the seat base and to automatically rotate the seat structure between the upright in-use position and the pitched forward position. [0005] When a seat has a power drive mechanism and the vehicle gets into an accident, power may be cut off from the seat. A manual override is desired if the ingress/egress seat motion is done via a power mechanism to permit occupant egress post-accident.
[0006] It is desirable, therefore, to have a power drive mechanism for providing ingress/egress for a vehicle seat by repositioning the seat into a pitched forward position. In addition, it is desirable to have a power drive mechanism that automatically repositions the vehicle seat from the pitched forward position to the upright in-use position. Furthermore, it is also desirable to have an integrated latch release mechanism such that the power drive mechanism automatically unlatches the seat prior to pitching the seat forward and automatically latches the seat when the seat is repositioned in the upright in-use position. Finally, it is also desirable to have an integrated manual override mechanism to decouple the power driver mechanism such that the seat can be manually moved to the egress position by an occupant.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] A power drive mechanism for an automotive seat is provided to reposition the automotive seat between an upright in-use position and a pitched forward position for ease of occupant ingress/egress. The power drive mechanism includes an integrated latch release function and an optional manual override function.
[0008] A vehicle seat includes a power drive mechanism configured to automatically reposition at least a portion of the vehicle seat between a first seat position and a second seat position. The vehicle seat comprises a seat structure rotatably coupled to a seat base by a link such that rotating the link repositions at least a portion of the seat structure between the first seat position and the second seat position. The seat structure includes a seat structure latch for latching the seat structure to the seat base and the seat base includes a latch striker. The power drive mechanism is operatively coupled to the link and fixedly coupled to the seat base. The power drive mechanism comprises an electric actuator operatively coupled to a pinion gear wherein the pinion gear is operatively coupled to a sector gear. The sector gear is operatively coupled to the link and operatively coupled to the seat structure latch. Actuating the electric actuator rotates the pinion gear causing the sector gear to rotate. Rotation of the sector gear from a first sector gear orientation to a second sector gear orientation in a first rotational direction automatically repositions the seat structure latch from a latch engaged position to a latch disengaged position with respect to the latch striker while at least a portion of the seat structure is in the first seat position. And, wherein, the first sector gear orientation being different from said second sector gear orientation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0010] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a generally known vehicle seat having an ingress/egress mechanism with the vehicle seat in an upright in-use position [latched position];
[0011] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the generally known vehicle seat of Figure 1 in an ingress/egress position [pitched forward position];
[0012] Figure 3 illustrates a partial perspective view of a power drive mechanism having an integrated latch release function and a manual override function for a vehicle seat according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0013] Figure 4 illustrates a partial side view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 3 in a latched position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] Figure 5 illustrates a partial exploded view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] Figure 6 illustrates a partial exploded view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] Figure 7 illustrates a side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 4 when the power drive mechanism is in a latch release position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of a latch release lever pin and a sector notch of the power drive mechanism of Figure 4 when the power drive mechanism is in the latched position according to an embodiment of the present invention; [0018] Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of the latch release lever pin and the sector notch of Figure 7 when the power drive mechanism is in the latch release position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] Figure 10 illustrates a side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 7 in a pitched forward position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] Figure 11 illustrates a side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 10 in a power return position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] Figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of the latch release lever pin and the sector notch of Figure 10 when the power drive mechanism is in the pitched forward position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of the latch release lever pin and the sector notch of Figure 11 when the power drive mechanism is in the power return position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] Figure 14 illustrates a side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 11 in the latched position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0024] Figure 15 illustrates of the latch release lever pin and the sector notch of the power drive mechanism of Figure 14 when the power drive mechanism is in the latched position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0025] Figure 16 illustrates a partial side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 14 showing a manual override hook in an engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0026] Figure 17 illustrates a partial side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 16 showing the manual override hook in the engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] Figure 18 illustrates a partial side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 17 showing the manual override hook in a disengaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention; [0028] Figure 19 illustrates a partial side cutaway view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 18 showing the manual override hook in the engaged position according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] Figure 20 illustrates a partial exploded view of a power drive mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention; and
[0030] Figure 21 illustrates a partial perspective view of the power drive mechanism of Figure 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0031] Figures 3-21 illustrate a power drive mechanism with an integrated latch release function, an optional manual override function, and a vehicle seat having a power drive mechanism according to embodiments described herein. Directional references employed or shown in the description, figures or claims, such as top, bottom, upper, lower, upward, downward, lengthwise, widthwise, left, right, and the like, are relative terms employed for ease of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any respect. Further, the Figures are not necessarily shown to scale. Referring to the Figures, like numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views.
[0032] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate side views of a generally known vehicle seat assembly 10 having a seat back 12 and a seat cushion 14 operatively coupled to a seat base 16 by pitch links 20, 22, front link 24 and a latch 26. The generally known vehicle seat assembly 10 is movable between an upright in-use position 30 (Figure 1) and a pitched forward position 32 (Figure 2) by releasing the latch 26 and rotating the pitch links 20, 22, and front link 24 with respect to the seat base 16. Moving the vehicle seat assembly 10 to the pitched forward position 32 allows for an occupant to ingress/egress a rear row of vehicle seats (not shown).
[0033] The ingress/egress seat motion, between the generally upright in-use position 30 and the pitched forward position 32, can be done via a manual mechanism (as generally shown in Figures 1 and 2) and/or with a power drive mechanism (not shown). If the vehicle (not shown) gets into an accident, power may be cut off from the seat 10. A manual override function is desired to provide a means to move the seat 10 to the pitched forward position 32 if the ingress/egress seat motion is done via a power drive mechanism and electric power is cut off from the seat 10. [0034] A power drive mechanism 34 for a vehicle seat 10' to move the seat 10' between an upright in-use position 30' and a pitched forward position 32' is shown in Figures 3-19, according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the Figures, the power drive mechanism 34 includes an integrated latch release function 44 and an optional manual override function 46 (shown in Figure 5). Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the power drive mechanism 34 operatively coupled to the vehicle seat 10'. The power drive mechanism 34 includes an electric motor 50 as shown in Figure 3. A side view of the power drive mechanism 34 is shown in Figure 4. The electric motor 50 is omitted from Figures 4-19 to clearly illustrate the details of the power drive mechanism 34, the integrated latch release function 44, and the optional manual override function 46.
[0035] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the vehicle seat 10' comprises a seat structure 52 having a seat cushion frame 54 and a seat back frame (not shown) coupled to a seat base 60 by seat pitch links 62, 64 and a front link (not shown). A seat structure latch 66 releasably latches the seat structure 52 to the seat base 60 when the seat structure latch 66 is releasably engaged with a latch striker 70 projecting from the seat base 60. The power drive mechanism 34 includes the electric motor 50 operatively coupled to a pinion gear 72. The pinion gear 72 is operatively coupled with a sector gear 74 to drive the seat pitch links 62, 64 between the upright in-use position 30’ (Figure 3) and the pitched forward position 32' (Figure 10). While an electric motor 50 is shown in Figure 3, it will be appreciated that other types of generally known actuators may be used.
[0036] Partial exploded views of the power drive mechanism 34 (with the electric motor 50 omitted) are shown in Figures 5 and 6. The power drive mechanism 34 also comprises a pitch link drive pin 94 projecting from seat pitch link 62 that projects through an arcuateshaped slot 96 in a first base bracket 100 when assembled with the first base bracket 100.
[0037] A manual override actuation lever 102 is rotatably coupled at 106A to a second base bracket 104 by way of a mounting pivot 106 fixedly coupled through opening 106B in the second base bracket 104. The manual override actuation lever 102 has a mounting pin 110 projecting near a first end 112 of the actuation lever 102, an attachment feature 114 near a second end 116 of the actuation lever 102, and an engagement portion 120 near the second end 116 of the actuation lever 102, The second base bracket 104 includes an arcuate-shaped slot 121 configured to guide the mounting pin 110 projecting from the manual override actuation lever 102. [0038] One end 122 of a manual override cable 123 is rotationally coupled with the mounting pin 110 on the manual override actuation lever 102 when the mounting pin 110 is retained within the arcuate-shaped slot 121 in the second base bracket 104.
[0039] The sector gear 74, shown in Figures 5 and 6, is a partial arc sector gear 74 with a plurality of gear teeth 124 along a first portion 126 of an outer edge 130 of the sector gear 74. The sector gear 74 includes a generally cylindrical passageway 132 extending through the sector gear 74 and aligned with a rotational axis 134 of the sector gear 74, an open-ended slot 136 extending in a circumferential direction and positioned between the generally cylindrical passageway 132 and a portion 142 of the plurality of gear teeth 124, a sector notch 144 in a second portion 146 of the outer edge 130 of the sector gear 74, and a hook stop 150 projecting from a surface 152 of the sector gear 74. The open-ended slot 136 has opposing side walls 154, 156, an end wall 160, and an opening 162 extending between the opposing side walls 154, 156 and generally opposite the end wall 160,
[0040] A manual override hook 163, also shown in Figures 5 and 6, comprises an elongated main body 164 having a hook-like feature 166 projecting from the main body 164 near one end 170 of the main body 164 and a stop feature 172 projecting at an angle from the main body 164 near an opposing end 174 of the main body 164. The main body 164 further includes a passageway 176 through the main body 164 aligned with an axis of rotation 180 of the main body 164.
[0041] A hook pivot pin 182 extends through the passageway 176 in the main body 164 and rotationally couples the manual override hook 163 to the sector gear 74 at location 183, as shown in Figures 5 and 6. The hook pivot pin 182 includes a slot 184 extending through one end 186 of the hook pivot pin 182 and generally orientated perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hook pivot pin 182 as generally shown in Figures 5 and 6.
[0042] A torsion return spring 190 (Figures 5 and 6) is assembled with the hook pivot pin 182 such that a longitudinal axis of the torsion return spring 190 is generally aligned with a longitudinal axis of the hook pivot pin 182. The torsion return spring 190 has one end 192 inserted into the slot 184 in the hook pivot pin 182 and a second end 194 frictionally engaged with a notch 193 in the stop feature 172 projecting from the main body 164 of the manual override hook 163. The torsion return spring 190 biases the stop feature 172 of the manual override hook 163 towards the hook stop 150 projecting from the surface 152 of the sector gear 74. When the stop feature 172 of the manual override hook 163 is near and/or frictionally engaged with the hook stop 150 projecting from the surface 152 of the sector gear 74, the hook-like feature 166 of the manual override hook 163 effectively closes off the opening 162 to the open-ended slot 136.
[0043] Referring to Figure 5, a generally cylindrical sector pivot tube 196 is inserted through the cylindrical passageway 132 of the sector gear 74 such that the sector gear 74 pivots about the sector pivot tube 196. The sector pivot tube 196 is assembled between the first and second base brackets 100, 104 such that an aperture 197, 198 in each of the base brackets 100, 104 supports and retains a respective end 200, 202 of the sector pivot tube 196. As shown in Figure 4, the pitch link drive pin 94 projects through the arcuate-shaped slot 96 in the first base bracket 100, through the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74, and is retained within the open-ended slot 136 by the hook-like feature 166 of the manual override hook 163.
[0044] A latch release lever 204, shown in Figures 5 and 6, has a generally elongated shaped body 206 pivotally coupled with the second base bracket 104 via a latch release pivot pin 210 fixedly connected through aperture 211 in the second base bracket 104, A lever pin 212 projects from a surface 214 of the latch release lever 204 near a first end 216 of the latch release lever 204. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the lever pin 212 has a truncated generally cylindrical shaped main body 220 with an engagement surface 222 configured to matingly engage with the sector notch 144 in the sector gear 74. A second end 224 of the latch release lever 204 is coupled with one end 226 of a latch release cable 228. The lever pin 212 is meshingly engaged with the sector notch 144 when the latch release lever 204 and the sector gear 74 are assembled with the second base bracket 104 and the seat structure 52 is in an upright in-use and latched position 30'.
[0045] As shown in Figures 4-6, a manual override return spring 230 is operationally coupled between the latch release pivot pin 210 and the attachment feature 114 on the manual override actuation lever 102 to bias the second end 116 of the manual override actuation lever 102 towards the latch release pivot pin 210 (Arrow 4A) and away from the stop feature 172 on the manual override hook 163.
[0046] The power drive mechanism 34 is shown fully assembled (with the electric motor 50 omitted) and with the seat structure 52 in the upright in-use position 30' in Figure 4. The seat structure 52 is in the upright in-use position 30' with a hook feature 232 of the seat structure latch 66 releasably engaged with the latch striker 70 on the seat base 16, locking the seat structure 52 to the seat base 16 in the upright in-use position 30'. The latch release cable 228 has one end 226 coupled to the second end 224 of the latch release lever 204 and a second end 234 coupled with the seat structure latch 66.
[0047] In the upright in-use position 30', also described as a latched position 30' and shown in Figure 4, the lever pin 212 is engaged with the sector notch 144 on the sector gear 74 (see Figure 8), the manual override hook 163 is in the engaged position with the hook-like feature 166 closing off the open-ended slot 136 of the sector gear 74, a portion of the pitch link drive pin 94 is positioned within the open-ended slot 136 and is retained in the open-ended slot 136 by the manual override hook 163, and the engagement portion 120 of the manual override actuation lever 102 is disengaged from the stop feature 172 on the manual override hook 163. While not specifically shown in Figure 4, the electric motor 50 is operatively coupled with the pinion gear 72. The pinon gear 72 is meshingly engaged with one or more of the gear teeth 124 on the sector gear 74,
[0048] While not clearly shown in Figure 4, the torsion return spring 190 biases the manual override hook 163 in a counterclockwise rotation with respect to the axis of rotation of the manual override hook 163. The counterclockwise rotation of the stop feature 172 of the manual override hook 163 is restricted by the hook stop 150 on the sector gear 74.
[0049] Further, the pitch link drive pin 94 is positioned within the open-ended slot 136 at a loss motion distance 236 away from the end wall 160 of the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74 to provide loss motion 236 when the sector gear 74 is rotated before the end wall 160 of the open-ended slot 136 engages the pitch link drive pin 94.
[0050] Referring to Figure 7, the seat structure 52 and power drive mechanism 34 is shown in a latch release position 238. Figure 7 also illustrates the motion of the sector gear 74, the latch release lever 204, the latch release cable 228, and the seat structure latch 66 as the power drive mechanism 34 moves the seat structure 52 from the upright in-use position 30' (shown in Figure 4) towards the latch release position 238 (shown in Figure 7).
[0051] To move from the upright in-use position 30' (shown in Figure 4) to the latch release position 238 (shown in Figure 7), the pinion gear 72 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction (Arrow 7A) causing the sector gear 74 to rotate in a clockwise direction (Arrow 7B). Prior to the end wall 160 of the open-ended slot 136 engaging with the pitch link drive pin 94 in the open-ended slot 136 (due to the loss motion 236 shown in Figure 4), the latch release lever pin 212 is slid out of the sector notch 144 (Arrow 7C) by the rotation of the sector gear 74 (Arrow 7B) and repositioned into a latch release position 238', as also shown in Figure 9. The movement of the latch release lever pin 212 out of the sector notch 144 rotates the second end 224 of the latch release lever 204 (Arrow 7D) such that the latch release cable 228 is repositioned to pull the seat structure latch 66 away from the latch striker 70 (Arrow 7E) and unlock the seat structure 52 from the seat base 60.
[0052] The seat structure latch 66 is shown in an engaged position 240 and a disengaged position 242 with respect to the latch striker 70 in Figures 4 and 7, respectively. The latch release lever 204 being operatively coupled to the seat structure latch 66 (through the latch release cable 228) provides the integrated latch release function 44 as part of the power drive mechanism 34.
[0053] As shown in Figure 7, when the sector gear 74 has rotated a first amount 236 in the clockwise direction (Arrow 7B), the end wall 160 of the open-ended slot 136 frictionally engages with the pitch link drive pin 94. Referring to Figure 10, power pitch motion 246 of the seat structure 52 is initiated with further clockwise rotation of the sector gear 74 (Arrow 10A) when the end wall 160 of the open-ended slot 136 picks up the pitch link drive pin 94 and forces the pitch link drive pin 94 to travel with the sector gear 74 a second distance 244, Movement of the pitch link drive pin 94 results in rotation of the seat pitch links 62, 64 (Arrows 10B, 10B') that reposition the seat structure 52 to the pitched forward position 32' as shown in Figure 10. During the power pitch motion 246, the latch release lever pin 212 is disengaged from the sector notch 144 as shown in Figure 12. The sector gear 74 has a profile section 250 that maintains the rotational position of the latch release lever 204 and maintains the seat structure latch 66 in the latch release position 238 while the sector gear 74 is rotated further clockwise than the first amount 236.
[0054] A power return motion 252 repositions the seat structure 52 from the pitched forward position 32' (Figure 10), to the latch release position 238 (Figure 7), and to the upright in-use position 30' (Figure 3). Referring to Figure 11, clockwise rotation (Arrow 11 A) of the pinion gear 72 rotates the sector gear 74 in a counterclockwise rotational direction (Arrow 11B) .When the sector gear 74 rotates in the counterclockwise rotational direction (Arrow 11B), the hook-like feature 166 on the manual override hook 163 frictionally engages with the pitch link drive pin 94 causing the pitch link drive pin 94 to travel with the sector gear 74. The movement of the pitch link drive pin 94 rotates the seat pitch links 62, 64 (Arrows 11C, lie ') in the counterclockwise direction and towards the latch release position 238 shown in Figure 7. The latch release lever pin 212 is disengaged from the sector notch 144 while the seat structure 52 is approaching the latch release position 238, as further shown in Figure 13.
[0055] Once the sector gear 74 rotates to the upright in-use position 30' (Arrow 14A), shown in Figure 14, the latch release lever pin 212 engages with the sector notch 144 (Arrow 14B), as shown in Figures 14 and 15. When the latch release lever pin 212 slides into sector notch 144, the second end 224 of the latch release lever 204 is rotated (Arrow 14C) such that the latch release cable 228 is released allowing the seat structure latch 66 to engage with the latch striker 70 (Arrow 14D), locking the seat structure 52 to the seat base 60.
[0056] The general relative position of the manual override actuation lever 102 and the manual override cable 123 are maintained during the power pitch motion 246 of the seat structure 52 between the upright in-use position 30', the latch release position 238, and the pitched forward position 32', as shown in Figures 4, 7, 10, and 11. Specifically, the engagement portion 120 of the manual override actuation lever 102 is disengaged from the stop feature 172 on the manual override hook 163.
[0057] The manual override function 46 consists of rotating the manual override hook 163 away from the opening 162 to the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74 and permitting manual movement of the seat structure 52 to the pitched forward position 32', as illustrated in Figures 16-19. Referring to Figure 16, the manual override hook 163 is rotationally coupled to the sector gear 74 and movable between an engaged position 254 (shown in Figure 16) and a disengaged position 256 (shown in Figure 18). The power drive mechanism 34 automatically moves the seat structure 52 between the upright in-use position 30' and the pitched forward position 32' when the manual override hook 163 is in the engaged position 254 and the power drive mechanism 34 is actuated. When the manual override hook 163 is moved to the disengaged position 256 by movement of the manual override cable 123, the seat structure 52 can be manually repositioned between the upright in-use position 30' and the pitched forward position 32' without actuating the power drive mechanism 34, as will be further described below with respect to Figures 16-19. [0058] When the manual override cable 123 is in a disengaged position 260 as shown in Figure 16, the manual override actuation lever 102 is biased by the return spring 230 (Arrow 16A) such that the engagement portion 120 of the manual override actuation lever 102 is disengaged from the stop feature 172 on the manual override hook 163. Further, the torsion return spring 190 rotates the manual override hook 163 (Arrow 16B) towards the hook stop 150 on the sector gear 74 (shown in Figure 6), resulting in the manual override hook 163 creating a bottom edge 262 of the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74 (Arrow 16C). The manual override hook 163 is rotatably coupled to the sector gear 74. The relative position of the manual override hook 163 is maintained as the sector gear 74 rotates. The manual override actuation lever 102 mounting pivot 106 is fixed to the second base bracket 104. Thus, the manual override actuation lever 102 does not change position in response to the sector gear 74 rotating.
[0059] When the manual override cable 123 is actuated, as shown in Figure 17, one end 122 of the manual override cable 123 repositions the first end 112 of the manual override actuation lever 102 (Arrow 17A), causing the manual override actuation lever 102 to rotate in a clockwise direction (Arrow 17B) until the engagement portion 120 of the manual override actuation lever 102 contacts the stop feature 172 on the manual override hook 163. Additional rotation of the manual override actuation lever 102 causes the manual override hook 163 to rotate in the clockwise direction (Arrow 17C) and rotating the hook-like feature 166 away from the open-ended slot 136 (Arrow 17D), as shown in Figures 17 and 18. When the manual override hook 163 has been rotated away from the open-ended slot 136, as shown in Figure 18, the seat structure 52 can be manually rotated (Arrow 18A) to the pitched forward position 32'. The pitch link drive pin 94 freely moves within the open-ended slot 136 and can be rotated past the opening 162 to the open-ended slot 136. Thus, the seat structure 52 can be manually rotated to the pitched forward position 32' by rotating the pitch links 62, 64 without affecting the power drive mechanism 34 as shown in Figure 18.
[0060] To engage the power drive mechanism 34 as shown in Figure 19, the seat structure 52 is manually rotated back to the upright in-use position 30' (Arrow 19A) and the manual override cable 123 returned to the disengaged position 260 (Arrow 19B). When the manual override cable 123 returns to the disengaged position 260, the manual override actuation lever 102 is rotated away from the manual override hook 163 (Arrow 19C) by the return spring 230 such that the engagement portion 120 is spaced apart from the stop feature 172. When the manual override actuation lever 102 disengages from the manual override hook 163, the torsion return spring 190 rotates the stop feature 172 of the manual override hook 163 towards the hook stop 150 (Arrow 19D). The rotation of the manual override hook 163 by the torsion return spring 190 rotates the hook-like feature 166 towards the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74 to close off the opening 162 in the open-ended slot 136 in the sector gear 74 (Arrow 19E). Once the manual override function 46 is disengaged (by returning the seat structure 52, manual override cable 123, manual override actuation lever 102, and manual override hook 163 to the positions shown in Figures 16 and 19), the power drive mechanism 34 can be activated to again rotate the seat structure 52 to the pitched forward position 32' as described above.
[0061] It will be appreciated that the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 can reposition the seat structure 52, or a portion of the vehicle seat structure 52, between two or more seat structure 52 positions 30', 32' as determined by the desired seat pitch link 62, 64 configuration. The disclosed power drive mechanism 34 is configured to rotate one or more seat pitch links 62, 64 as part of the seat structure 52. Depending on the selected configuration of seat pitch links 62, 64, rotating the one or more seat pitch links 62, 64 may optionally reposition a portion of the seat structure 52, such as the seat cushion 14 and/or the seat back 12, or the entire seat structure 52. For example, it will be appreciated that the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 can move the seat structure 52 into a fold flat seat position (not shown) by rotating connected links 62, 64 depending on the desired linkage configuration, Further, it will be appreciated that alternate linkage configurations and, optionally, additional interconnected links, may be operatively coupled to the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 such that the vehicle seat structure 52 is movable between two or more desired positions.
[0062] A second embodiment of a power drive mechanism 34' with an integrated latch release function 44' is shown in Figures 20 and 21. The power drive mechanism 34', shown in a partial exploded view in Figure 20, lacks the optional manual override function 46 of the first embodiment of the power drive mechanism 34 shown in Figures 3-19, The manual override actuation lever 102, the return spring 230, the manual override cable 123, as well as the manual override hook 163, the mounting pivot 106, and the torsion return spring 190 are omitted in power drive mechanism 34' when compared to power drive mechanism 34 shown in Figure 5. The open-ended slot 136 of the sector gear 74 and the manual override hook 163 are replaced by a modified sector gear 74' having an enclosed slot 136' as shown in Figure 20. The enclosed slot 136' includes a first end wall 160', opposing side walls 154', 156', and a second end wall 264. As in the first embodiment, the power drive mechanism 34', shown in Figure 21, includes an electric motor 50' operatively coupled to a pinion gear (not shown).
[0063] The power drive mechanism 34' includes the modified sector gear 74' rotationally mounted on a sector pivot tube 196' supported between first and second base brackets 100', 104'. Further, a pitch link drive pin 94' projects from one of seat pitch links 62, 64, through an arcuate-shaped slot 96' in the first base bracket 100' and through the enclosed slot 136' in the modified sector gear 74'. The power drive mechanism 34' includes a latch release pivot pin 210' rotationally coupling a latch release lever 204' to the second base bracket 104'. The latch release lever 204' has a lever pin 212' that engages with a sector notch 144' on the modified sector gear 74'. One end 226' of a latch release cable 228' is coupled to one end 112' of the latch release lever 204'. Thus, the power drive mechanism 34' includes similar components to the first embodiment of the power drive mechanism 34 with certain components omitted.
[0064] Figure 21 is a perspective view of the power drive mechanism 34' of the second embodiment and assembled with a seat structure 52'. The power drive mechanism 34' releases a seat structure latch 66', repositions the seat structure 52' into a pitched forward position 32', and power returns the seat structure 52' from the pitched forward position 32' to the latched position 30' as generally described with respect to the first embodiment of the power drive mechanism 34 with respect to Figures 4-15. However, where the hook-like feature 166 on the manual override hook 163 frictionally engages with the pitch link drive pin 94 to retain the pitch link drive pin 94 within the open-ended sector slot 136 as the sector gear 74 rotates counterclockwise in the first embodiment, the second end wall 264 of the enclosed slot 136' retains the pitch link drive pin 94' within the enclosed slot 136' as the modified sector gear 74' rotates in the counterclockwise direction.
[0065] It will be appreciated that relative component positions and direction of rotation (i.e., clockwise and counterclockwise) of the disclosed power drive mechanisms 34, 34' herein are exemplary and can be changed as desired for a specific application. For example, depending on the placement and specific design of the components of the power drive mechanisms 34, 34', the sector gear 74, 74' can be configured to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise when repositioning the seat structure 52, 52' between the upright in-use position 30' and the pitched forward position 32'. Likewise, the general shape, size, and placement of individual components can be adjusted as desired for a specific application.
[0066] The disclosed power drive mechanism 34, with integrated latch release function 44 and optional manual override function 46, has many benefits over other known mechanisms for moving the vehicle seat structure 52 between the in-use position 30' and the pitched forward position 32'. One benefit of the disclosed power drive mechanism 34 is the power drive mechanism 34 automatically repositions the vehicle seat structure 52 to the pitched forward position 32', allowing for ingress/egress by an occupant to a rear row of vehicle seats. A second benefit is the power drive mechanism 34 automatically repositions the vehicle seat structure 52 from the pitched forward position 32' and to the upright in-use position 30'. A third benefit is the disclosed integrated latch release function 44 automatically unlatches the seat structure latch 66 prior to the seat structure 52 being pitched forward 32'. A fourth benefit is the disclosed integrated latch release function 44 automatically latches the seat structure latch 66 to the latch striker 70 when the seat structure 52 is returned to the upright in-use position 30'. Finally, an additional benefit is including the optional integrated manual override function 46 to decouple the power drive mechanism 34 such that the seat structure 52 can be manually moved to the egress position 32' (pitched forward position) by an occupant.
[0067] The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology, which has been used, is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specifically described.

Claims

What is claimed is:
1. A vehicle seat having a power drive mechanism configured to automatically reposition at least a portion of said vehicle seat between a first seat position and a second seat position; said vehicle seat comprising:
a seat structure rotatably coupled to a seat base by a link such that rotating said link repositions at least a portion of said seat structure between said first seat position and said second seat position, said seat structure including a seat structure latch for latching said seat structure to said seat base;
said seat base including a latch striker; and
said power drive mechanism operatively coupled to said link and fixedly coupled to said seat base, said power drive mechanism comprising an electric actuator operatively coupled to a pinion gear, said pinion gear operatively coupled to a sector gear, said sector gear operatively coupled to said link and operatively coupled to said seat structure latch; wherein actuating said electric actuator rotates said pinion gear causing said sector gear to rotate;
rotation of said sector gear from a first sector gear orientation to a second sector gear orientation in a first rotational direction automatically repositions said seat structure latch from a latch engaged position to a latch disengaged position with respect to said latch striker while said at least a portion of said seat structure is in said first seat position; and
said first sector gear orientation being different from said second sector gear orientation.
2. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
rotation of said sector gear, from said second sector gear orientation to a third sector gear orientation in said first rotational direction, automatically rotates said link between a first link orientation and towards a second link orientation while retaining said seat structure latch in said latch disengaged position;
rotation of said link between said first link orientation and towards said second link orientation repositions said at least a portion of said seat structure between said first seat position and said second seat position; and
said third sector gear orientation being different from said first and second sector gear orientations, said first link orientation being different from said second link orientation, and said first seat position being different from said second seat position.
3. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 2, wherein:
said first seat position is an upright in-use position.
4. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
rotation of said sector gear in a second rotational direction opposite said first rotational direction and from said third sector gear orientation towards said second sector gear orientation automatically rotates said link between said second link orientation towards said first link orientation while retaining said seat structure latch in said latch disengaged position; and
rotation of said link, between said second link orientation towards said first link orientation, repositions at least a portion of said seat structure between said second seat position and towards said first seat position.
5. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 4, wherein:
rotation of said sector gear in said second rotation direction from said second sector gear orientation towards said first sector gear orientation automatically repositions said seat structure latch to said latch engaged position with respect to said latch striker.
6. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 5, wherein:
a pitch link drive pin projects from a surface of said link;
said sector gear includes an arcuate-shaped slot having a first end wall and opposing side walls; and
said pitch link drive pin projects at least partially through a portion of said arcuateshaped slot when said seat structure is in said first seat position and said seat structure latch is matingly engaged with said latch striker.
7. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 6, wherein:
said first end wall frictionally engages with said pitch link drive pin and repositions said pitch link drive pin during rotation of said sector gear, from said second sector gear orientation to said third sector gear orientation in said first rotational direction; and
said pitch link drive pin being repositioned in response to rotational movement of said first end wall rotates said link from said first link orientation towards said second link orientation.
8. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 7, wherein:
said first end wall is spaced apart from said pitch link drive pin during rotation of said sector gear, from said first sector gear orientation to said second sector gear orientation in said first rotational direction.
9. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 8, wherein:
said power drive mechanism includes a latch release lever rotationally coupled to said seat base;
a first end of said latch release lever configured to releasably engage with a sector notch in an edge portion of said sector gear;
a cable end of a latch release cable operatively coupled to a second end of said latch release lever;
a latch end of said latch release cable operatively coupled to said seat structure latch; and
said seat structure latch biased towards said latch engaged position with said latch striker;
wherein when said first end of said latch release lever is matingly engaged with said sector notch in said sector gear, said second end of said latch release lever repositions said cable end of said latch release cable such that said seat structure latch releasably engages said latch striker.
10. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 9, wherein:
rotating said sector gear from said first sector gear orientation towards said second sector gear orientation automatically disengages said first end of said latch release lever from said sector notch; and
disengaging said first end of said latch release lever from said sector notch rotates said second end of said latch release lever, repositions said cable end and said latch end of said latch release cable to a respective latch release position, and disengages said seat structure latch from said latch striker.
1 1. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 10, wherein:
said seat structure latch is disengaged from said latch striker prior to said first end wall of said arcuate-shaped slot frictionally engaging said pitch link drive pin as said sector gear rotates from said second sector gear orientation towards said third sector gear orientation.
12. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 11, wherein:
when said sector gear rotates from said third sector gear orientation towards said second sector gear orientation in said second rotational direction, said pitch link drive pin rotates said link from said second link orientation towards said first link orientation.
13. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 12, wherein:
when said sector gear rotates from said second sector gear orientation towards said first sector gear orientation, said pitch link drive pin retains said link in said first link orientation, and said first end of said latch release lever releasably engages with said sector notch, rotating said second end of said latch release lever to reposition said latch release cable such that said seat structure latch releasably engages with said latch striker.
14. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 13, wherein:
said power drive mechanism includes a manual override hook rotatably coupled to said sector gear and movable between a hook engaged position and a hook disengaged position; and
wherein when said manual override hook is in said hook engaged position, said manual override hook retains said pitch link drive pin within said arcuate-shaped slot as said sector gear rotates between said third sector gear orientation, said second sector gear orientation, and said first sector gear orientation when said sector gear is rotated in said second rotational direction.
15. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 14, wherein:
said arcuate-shaped slot in said sector gear is an open-ended slot having a slot opening configured such that said pitch link drive pin can pass through said slot opening when said manual override hook is in said hook disengaged position; and
said manual override hook includes a hook-like feature configured to block said pitch link drive pin passing through said slot opening when said manual override hook is in said hook engaged position.
16. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 15, wherein:
when said manual override hook is in said hook disengaged position, said seat structure is repositionable between said first seat position and said second seat position without rotating said sector gear.
17. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 16, wherein: when said manual override hook is in said hook disengaged position, said hook-like feature is positioned such that said pitch link drive pin travels along said arcuate-shaped slot when said seat structure is repositioned between said first seat position and said second seat position.
18. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 17, wherein:
when said manual override hook is in said hook disengaged position, said hook-like feature is positioned such that said pitch link drive pin passes through said slot opening when said seat structure is repositioned between said first seat position and said second seat position.
19. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 18, wherein:
said manual override hook being operatively coupled to a manual override cable; and actuating said manual override cable repositions said manual override hook into said hook disengaged position.
20. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 19, wherein:
said power drive mechanism includes a manual override actuation lever rotationally coupled to said seat base;
said manual override actuation lever having a lower end operatively coupled to said manual override cable, an upper end including a hook engagement surface, said upper end of said manual override actuation lever biased towards an override disengaged position;
said manual override hook including a stop feature;
said manual override hook biased towards said hook engaged position with said arcuate-shaped slot; and
actuating said manual override cable repositions said lower end of said manual override actuation lever such that said hook engagement surface frictionally engages with said stop feature on said manual override hook and rotates said manual override hook towards said hook disengaged position.
21. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 20, wherein:
said second seat position is a pitched forward seat position.
22. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 13, wherein: said arcuate-shaped slot in said sector gear includes a second end wall extending between said opposing side walls;
said pitch link drive pin is retained within said arcuate-shaped slot by frictional engagement with said first end wall as said sector gear rotates in said first rotational direction between said second sector gear orientation and said third sector gear orientation;
said pitch link drive pin is retained within said arcuate-shaped slot by frictional engagement with said second end wall as said sector gear rotates in said second rotational direction between said third sector gear orientation and said second sector gear orientation; and
said pitch link drive pin is spaced apart from said first end wall and from said second end wall within said arcuate-shaped slot during said rotation of said sector gear between one of said second sector gear orientation and said first sector gear orientation and the other one of said second sector gear orientation and said first sector gear orientation.
23. The vehicle seat as set forth in claim 22, wherein:
said second seat position is a pitched forward seat position.
PCT/US2019/042774 2018-07-20 2019-07-22 Power drive mechanism with integrated latch release and manual override WO2020018986A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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US201862701150P 2018-07-20 2018-07-20
US62/701,150 2018-07-20

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Cited By (1)

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WO2022174147A1 (en) * 2021-02-12 2022-08-18 Magna Seating Inc. Seat with power pitch easy entry having lower disc actuator

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WO2008083405A1 (en) * 2007-01-03 2008-07-10 Johnson Controls Technology Company Vehicle seat
US20100026073A1 (en) * 2008-08-01 2010-02-04 Bae Industries, Inc. Power seat assembly with motor actuated spring release and rewind of a seatback sector and with the motor removed from an inertial load path such as during an impact event
US20180015850A1 (en) * 2016-07-14 2018-01-18 Bae Industries, Inc. Rear row seat latch assembly with power and manual driven variants
WO2018129283A1 (en) 2017-01-05 2018-07-12 Adient Engineering and IP GmbH Adjustable seat with entry tip slide plus pitch slide

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WO2008083405A1 (en) * 2007-01-03 2008-07-10 Johnson Controls Technology Company Vehicle seat
US20100026073A1 (en) * 2008-08-01 2010-02-04 Bae Industries, Inc. Power seat assembly with motor actuated spring release and rewind of a seatback sector and with the motor removed from an inertial load path such as during an impact event
US20180015850A1 (en) * 2016-07-14 2018-01-18 Bae Industries, Inc. Rear row seat latch assembly with power and manual driven variants
WO2018129283A1 (en) 2017-01-05 2018-07-12 Adient Engineering and IP GmbH Adjustable seat with entry tip slide plus pitch slide

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2022174147A1 (en) * 2021-02-12 2022-08-18 Magna Seating Inc. Seat with power pitch easy entry having lower disc actuator

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