WO2023242497A1

WO2023242497A1 - System for locking a continuously adjustable slide

Info

Publication number: WO2023242497A1
Application number: PCT/FR2023/050807
Authority: WO
Inventors: Vincent Nardin; Olivier Kircher; Michel Timon; Fabrice Petit
Original assignee: Faurecia Sièges d'Automobile
Priority date: 2022-06-16
Filing date: 2023-06-07
Publication date: 2023-12-21
Also published as: FR3136713A1

Abstract

System (1) for locking a continuously adjustable slide for a vehicle seat, comprising: - the slide comprising a first, lower slide element (20) configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle, and a second, upper slide element (21) configured to slide along the first slide element, - a system for locking by bracing comprising: -- a rail (3) extending lengthwise along the slide and fixed with respect to the first slide element, said rail having a first, upper friction surface and, opposite this, a second, lower friction surface, -- a first blocking member (4) and a second blocking member (5), which are mounted integrally with the second slide element (21), in offset positions along a longitudinal axis of the rail (3), constrained on locking by a first and a second cam (C1, C2).

Description

Title: locking system for a continuously adjustable slide

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system for locking a slide for a continuously adjustable vehicle seat, as well as to a vehicle seat comprising such a locking system.

Technical area

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of systems for adjusting and locking a slide for a motor vehicle. It concerns more particularly the adjustment systems whose slides connect a seat base to the floor of the vehicle.

In the present disclosure, and in known manner, a vehicle seat may typically comprise:

- a seat, which extends in a direction

- a backrest which extends in height from the rear edge of the seat, in a direction Z, vertical, or typically inclined towards the rear, from a lower edge to an upper edge of the backrest, and extends transversely along a direction Y, from a first side edge, to a second side edge.

[0003] The backrest can be tilted relative to the seat, typically by a pivot axis between the backrest frame and the seat frame, extending in the transverse direction Y.

[0004] The position of the seat in the vehicle can typically be adjusted, in direction X, via an adjustment and locking system according to the present disclosure, or preferably two adjustment and locking systems, with two slides connecting the seat to the vehicle floor in parallel. [0005] Thus, the or each of the two slides comprises two slide elements with a first slide element secured to the floor, typically a lower profile, and a second slide element secured to the seat base, typically an upper profile, the two slide elements being configured to slide relative to each other in the direction X.

[0006] The adjustment and locking system also comprises a lock system, including a control member which is actuated, typically manually or motorized, to unlock the slide in order to allow the occupant of the seat to adjust the position of the seat by movement of the first slide element, movable, relative to said second slide element.

[0007] Once the position of the seat has been adjusted, the control member is released to ensure that the seat is locked in adjustment positions corresponding to adjustment steps of the slide.

[0008] For this purpose, the state of the art knows locking systems with discontinuous adjustment which have a lock system comprising a support, secured to the second slide element, and locking members, movable relative to the support, configured to penetrate adjustment openings secured to the first slide element in a locking state of the lock system, under the action of elastic means such as springs. The control member, when actuated, allows the blocking members to be constrained against the force of the springs and thus to extract the blocking members from the adjustment openings, freeing the sliding of the slide.

[0009] A first family of lock systems is thus known, usually designated by those skilled in the art by the English name "step lock" for which the blocking members, typically integral with each other, do not ensure the blocking the slide only if the relative position between the two slide elements, first slide element, and second slide element corresponds to an adjustment step of the slide

[0010] A second family of lock systems is also known, with improved security compared to the first family, usually designated by those skilled in the art. profession under the English name "instant lock" which always ensures blocking of the two elements of the slide, and even if the position between the two slide elements, first slide element and second slide element is in any intermediate position between two consecutive adjustment positions.

[0011] For this purpose, the blocking members are independent of each other configured so that at least one of the members penetrates and locks in one of the adjustment openings, typically oblong, and even if the slide is in this arbitrary intermediate position, between two adjustment steps, namely two consecutive adjustment positions of the slide.

[0012] The slide can then only slide over a stroke corresponding to the adjustment step of the slide. Slight sliding of the first slide element relative to the second slide element allows the other non-penetrating locking members to come face to face and lock in the adjustment openings when the slide is moved into one (or the other). ) of the two consecutive adjustment positions, in order to obtain locking of the slide. In both cases, whether it is a “step lock” type lock system or an “instant lock” type lock system, the number of adjustment positions is limited to the number of locking positions allowed by the adjustment step of the system.

[0013] The present disclosure, however, focuses on the continuously adjustable locking slide system, namely ensuring an unlimited number of adjustment positions along the length of the slide, and in contrast to the adjustment and locking system previously described, at discontinuous adjustment.

Prior art

[0014] It is known from the state of the art, in particular from documents US 2003/0227207, DE 2 301 042 or even US 2,292,718, of continuously adjustable locking systems for motor vehicle seats.

[0015] Such systems comprise a rail, secured to a first fixed part of the slide, secured to a floor of the vehicle and a pair of blocking members, including a first blocking member and a second blocking member. blocking secured to a second movable part of the slide secured to the seat frame of the seat.

[0016] In a first relative position between the first blocking member and the second blocking member, corresponding to the unlocking of the system, the first and second blocking member are configured to move freely along the rail, without blocking, allowing free movement. sliding of the slide.

[0017] In a second relative position between the first blocking member and the second blocking member come to rest on the rail under the following bracing conditions with generation:

- a first force generated by a first support of the second slide part on the first blocking member ensuring bracing of said first blocking member on the rail ensuring locking of the second slide element relative to the first slide element slide in a first sliding direction, by two reactions of said rail on said first blocking member, with on the one hand, a first reaction between a first upper friction surface of the rail and a first wall of said first friction member and, d 'on the other hand, a second reaction between a second lower friction surface of the rail and a second wall of said first blocking member,

- a second force generated by a second support on the second blocking member ensuring bracing of said second blocking member on the rail ensuring locking of the second slide element relative to the first slide element in a second direction of sliding, by two reactions of said rail on said second blocking member, with on the one hand, a third reaction between the first upper friction surface of the rail and the third wall of said second friction member and, on the other hand, a fourth reaction between the second lower friction surface of the rail and the fourth wall of said second blocking member.

[0018] For these devices of the state of the art, there may be problems of micro-displacements of the slide, caused during stresses on the seat, and therefore on the movable part of the slide, in particular stresses of sense alternating, which can typically appear due to successive accelerations and decelerations of the vehicle.

[0019] According to the findings of the inventors, in particular during a unidirectional stress applied to the second movable part of the slide, a very small movement is generated between the second movable part and the first fixed part of the slide, which has resulting in a reinforcement of the effort of one of the supports, namely the first support or respectively the second support depending on the direction of movement, and causing the loss of the other support, namely the second support (or respectively the first support), by breaking the bracing conditions for the blocking member having lost support, namely first blocking member or second blocking member.

[0020] The static equilibrium of the blocking member having lost support is then no longer guaranteed and this blocking member translates by a few hundredths of a millimeter until it finds an uncertain static equilibrium position. According to the findings of the inventors, such a phenomenon can lead to micro-displacements, as longitudinal stresses in alternating directions occur, and such as they can be encountered in a vehicle during successive accelerations and decelerations of the vehicle.

[0021] Furthermore, in such a state of the art, the slide is unlocked by tilting the two locking members from the second position to the first position, with loss of support, namely first and second support. As the slide is locked and then unlocked, the first support and the second support are successively lost with each unlocking, then found again with each locking, which can lead to loss of references between the locking members. , on the one hand, and the second slide/rail element, on the other, and over time under unsatisfactory bracing conditions due to dispersions.

Summary

[0022] This disclosure improves at least all or part of the situation. [0023] A locking system for a continuously adjustable slide for a vehicle seat is proposed, comprising:

- the slide comprising a first, lower slide element, configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle, and a second, upper slide element, configured to slide along the first slide element

- a bracing locking system comprising:

-- a rail, extending in length along the slide, fixed relative to the first slide element, said rail having a first, upper friction surface and a second, lower, opposite friction surface

-- a first blocking member and a second blocking member, mounted integrally with the second slide element, in positions offset along a longitudinal axis of the rail, the first blocking member comprising a first wall and a second wall, facing each other, configured to rub respectively on the first surface and the second friction surface of the rail, the second blocking member comprising a third wall and a fourth wall, facing each other, configured to rub respectively on the first surface and the second friction surface of the rail,

- a first cam, integral with the second slide element, and first elastic means configured to move the first cam to ensure contact with said first blocking member by generating a first force between the first blocking member and said first cam ensuring a bracing of said first locking member on the rail ensuring locking of the second slide element relative to the first slide element in a first sliding direction, by two reactions of said rail on said first locking member, with on the one hand , a first reaction between the first upper friction surface of the rail and the first wall of said first blocking member and, on the other hand, a second reaction between the second lower friction surface of the rail and the second wall of said first blocking member ,

- a second cam, integral with the second slide element, and second elastic means configured to move the second cam to ensure contact with said first blocking member by generating a second force between the second blocking member and said second cam ensuring a buttressing of said second locking member on the rail ensuring locking of the second slide element relative to the first slide element in a second sliding direction, by two reactions of said rail on said second locking member, with on the one hand, a third reaction between the first upper friction surface of the rail and the third wall of said second blocking member and, on the other hand, a fourth reaction between the second lower friction surface of the rail and the fourth wall of said second blocking member, - a unlocking mechanism which is configured to cause the movement of the first cam and the movement of the second cam from their positions constrained by the first and second elastic means ensuring the bracing of the first blocking member and the second blocking member on the rail and thus locking the slide and up to a retracted position of the first cam and a retracted position of the second cam removing the buttresses of the first blocking member and the second member on the rail, freeing the sliding of the slide.

The characteristics set out in the following paragraphs can optionally be implemented. They can be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other:

[0025] According to one embodiment, the first cam and the second cam are configured so that, during a longitudinal stress on the second slide element generating a microdisplacement between the second slide element and the first slide element, always guarantee the first effort and the second effort ensuring the bracing of the first blocking member and the second blocking member, by authorizing compensation by moving one of the two cams, or even the two cams, first cam and/or respectively second cam, by changing the point of contact between said cam and the blocking member constituted by the first blocking member or respectively the second blocking member, while the other cam second cam or respectively first cam can remain immobile while retaining the point of contact between the cam and said blocking member constituted by the first blocking member or respectively the second blocking member. [0026] According to one embodiment, the system comprises first spring means between said second slide element and said first blocking member so that the first blocking member is always in contact with the first cam even in the retracted position of the first cam releasing the sliding of the slide, and second spring means between said second slide element and said second blocking member so that the second blocking member is always in contact with the second cam even in the retracted position of the second cam releasing the sliding of the slide.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the first cam and the second cam are articulated on a support secured to the second slide element and are configured to pivot independently on the support under the action of the first and second elastic means, and in which :

- the first cam comprises a first cam surface, eccentric, configured to come into contact with the first blocking element, of increasing radius between a pivot center of the first cam, and the point of contact with the first blocking element, during pivoting according to the direction of rotation imposed by the first elastic means,

- the second cam comprises a second cam surface, eccentric, configured to come into contact with the second blocking element, of increasing radius between a pivot center of the second cam, and the point of contact with the second blocking element during pivoting according to the direction of rotation imposed by the second elastic means.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the first cam and the second cam are interposed between said first blocking member and the second blocking member, constrained by the first elastic means and the second elastic means to separate the first blocking member and the second blocking member by ensuring their bracing on the rail.

According to one embodiment, the first cam and the second cam are articulated to the support, sharing the same pivot axis. According to one embodiment, the first elastic means and the second elastic means comprise the same spring member connecting the first cam and the second cam together.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the first cam comprises a cylindrical body and a first cam surface, eccentric, projecting radially from the cylindrical body, intended to come into contact with the first blocking member, thus a first lug centered on the the axis of rotation of the first cam and on the axis of the cylindrical body, as well as a second lug, coaxial with the first lug at the opposite end of the cylindrical body, the first lug and the second lug configured to cooperate with a bearing of the support integral with the second movable slide element, and in which the second cam comprises a second cam surface intended to come into contact with the second blocking member, and an opposite, concave surface, with a radius of curvature corresponding to the radius of the body cylindrical surface of the first cam, the opposite concave surface configured to slide on a cylindrical surface of the body to allow pivoting of the second cam relative to the first cam.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the first cam and the second cam are constrained in their constrained position ensuring the locking of the slide by bracing the first and second locking member on the rail by the spring which is a torsion spring , with turns, comprising a first end linked in rotation with the first cam and a second end linked in rotation with the second cam, the cylindrical body of the first cam comprising an annular housing configured to house the turns of the torsion spring, as well as 'a first rectilinear cavity extending radially from the annular housing for the first end of the torsion spring ensuring the rotational connection of the first end to the first cam, the body of the second cam comprising a second rectilinear cavity for the second end of the torsion spring ensuring the rotational connection of the second end to the first cam.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the first cam is articulated on the support around a first pivot axis and the second cam is articulated on the support around a second pivot axis, parallel and independent of the first pivot axis. pivot. [0034] According to one embodiment, said unlocking mechanism comprises a control member movable over a limited stroke, in particular in a vertical direction Z, configured to move from a first rest position to a second position constraining the first cam and the second cam in their retracted position, against the first elastic means and the second elastic means.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the first slide element is a lower profile and the second slide element is an upper profile, mounted sliding along the lower profile, the first blocking member and the second blocking member are extending internally in the inter-space between the upper profile and the lower profile, said rail secured to the lower profile, received in said inter-space.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the first blocking member and the second blocking member protrude from the upper profile through at least one opening in the upper profile, and in which in particular the first cam and the second cam are arranged at least partly outside said inter-space, above the upper profile.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the lower profile forming the first slide portion comprises a base and at least one rising wing extending from the base, and in which the rail is secured to said at least one rising wing of the profile lower in said interspace, by tongues projecting into said interspace coming from openings in the wall of the rising wing, the tongues typically obtained by stamping.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the first cam and the second cam are arranged integrally with the second slide element above the rail, and where appropriate at least partially outside the interspace, and in which a mobile crew is embarked on said second slide element, in particular received in interspace when the system, said crew comprising:

- a first stop, located on the side of the rail opposite the first cam, the first stop configured to ensure a positioning reference for the first blocking member following the direction of the slide, under the action of a first elastic portion of the movable assembly on the side of the rail opposite the first cam,

- a second stop, located on the side of the rail opposite the second cam, the second stop configured to ensure a positioning reference for the second blocking member in the direction of the slide under the action of a first elastic portion of the movable assembly on the side of the rail opposite the second cam.

According to a second embodiment, the lower profile forming the first slide part comprises a base and the upper profile comprising a main wall carrying said at least opening crossed by the first blocking element and the second blocking element, and in which the first cam and the second cam are arranged outside said inter-space, above the upper profile, the first cam and the second cam configured to pivot along pivot axes, distinct or possibly combined, sharing the same axis of pivot, the pivot axes oriented in a vertical direction orthogonal to the base of the lower profile or orthogonal to the main wall of the upper profile.

[0040] According to such a second embodiment, said unlocking mechanism may comprise a transmission member movable in translation along a limited stroke, in a transverse direction Y, above and parallel to the main wall configured to pass from one first rest position up to a second position constraining the first cam and the second cam in their retracted position, against the first elastic means and the second elastic means.

[0041] According to such a second embodiment, the system may comprise a control member pivotally articulated on the upper profile, laterally to the upper profile along an axis of rotation oriented in a direction X of sliding of the slide, said control member configured to control the translation of the transmission member from the first rest position to a second position when pressing a lever.

[0042] Such a second embodiment may have an overall dimension in the vertical direction extending above the upper profile comprising in particular the unlocking mechanism, the first cam and the second cam said overall dimension in the vertical direction above the upper profile being less than 25 mm, in particular less than 20 mm such as 17 mm.

[0043] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle seat, in particular an automobile seat, comprising a seat and a backrest as well as a continuously adjustable locking system according to the present disclosure, the first slide element of which is anchored to a floor of the vehicle and the second slide element is integral with a seat frame.

Brief description of the drawings

[0044] Other characteristics, details and advantages will appear on reading the detailed description below, and on analyzing the appended drawings, in which:

Fig. 1a

[0045] [Fig. 1 a] shows an embodiment of a locking system of a continuously adjustable slide for a vehicle seat according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 1b

[0046] [Fig. 1 b] is a sectional view along a plane YZ perpendicular to the axis of the slide, illustrating the upper profile of the movable slide intended to be fixed to a seat, the lower profile of the slide, fixed, intended to be fixed to the floor of the vehicle, as well as the rail received in the space between the upper profile and the lower profile, hereinafter referred to as inter-space, the rail fixed to the lower profile by tongues coming from opening in the wall of a wing rising of the rail, the protruding tongues in said inter-space typically obtained by stamping.

Fig. 2a

[0047] [Fig. 2a] is a view of the system when the upper profile and the lower profile are hidden, illustrating the rail, the support fixed to the upper profile on which the first cam and the second cam are articulated, above the rail, interposed between the first blocking member and the second blocking member, the two blocking members offset along the axis of the rail, as well as a crew, integral with the upper profile, forming a first stop for the first blocking member and a second stop for the second blocking member, below the rail, respectively ensuring positioning references for the first blocking member and the second blocking member according to the sliding axis of the slide held against the two stops by elastic portions of the assembly.

Fig. 2b

[0048] [Fig. 2b] is a view of the system of Figure 2a, the profiles still hidden, seen from the side opposite to Figure 2a.

Fig. 3

[0049] [Fig. 3] is a sectional view of the slide of Figure 1 a along a plane XZ, illustrating the first cam and the second cam, projecting from an upper opening of the upper profile, mainly outside the inter-space between the upper and lower profiles of the slide, a first leaf spring forming first spring means constraining the first blocking member against the first cam even when the sliding of the slide is released by retraction of the first cam, a second leaf spring forming second spring means constraining the second locking member against the second cam even the sliding of the slide is released by retraction of the second cam.

Fig. 4a

[0050] [Fig. 4a] is a view of the system and in particular of a control member of an unlocking mechanism.

Fig. 4b

[0051] [Fig. 4b] is a sectional view of Figure 4a in the rest position of the control member, in its high rest position, pressing on the control member causing its movement downwards, with abutment d 'a first stud of the first cam and a second stud of the second cam, causing the cams to rotate in opposite directions, against the first elastic means and the second elastic means, authorizing the bringing together the first and second blocking members up to the retracted positions of the cams freeing the sliding of the slide

Fig. 5a

[0052] [Fig. 5a] shows in an exploded view, an embodiment of the first cam and the second cam which share the same axis of rotation, the first cam comprising a cylindrical body and a convex, eccentric cam surface, projecting radially from the cylindrical body , intended to come into contact with the first blocking member, as well as a first lug (visible) and a second lug (not visible) centered on the axis of rotation and on the axis of the cylindrical body, configured to cooperate with a surface of the support integral with the second movable slide element, the second cam comprising an eccentrically convex cam surface intended to come into contact with the second blocking member, and an opposite, concave surface with a radius of curvature corresponding to the body cylindrical shape of the first cam, configured to slide on a cylindrical surface of the body to allow the pivoting of the second cam, the first cam and the second cam being constrained in their constrained positions ensuring the locking of the slide by bracing of the first and second member of blocking on the rail by a spiral torsion spring, comprising a first end linked in rotation with the first cam and a second end linked in rotation with the second cam.

Fig. 5b

[0053] [Fig. 5b] is a view of Figure 4a, seen from a side opposite to that of Figure 5a, the cylindrical body of the first cam comprising an annular housing for the turns of the torsion spring, as well as a first rectilinear cavity extending radially from the annular housing, and forming a housing for the first end of the torsion spring, the body of the second cam comprising a second rectilinear cavity forming a housing for the second end of the torsion spring.

Fig. 6a [0054] [Fig. 6a] illustrates an embodiment which is not part of the claimed disclosure, according to a sectional plane when the slide is not subjected to a longitudinal force and in relative position between a first blocking member and the second blocking member come come to rest on the rail under the following conditions, under the action of a spring element bringing together the first blocking member and the second blocking member, with generation:

- a first force generated by a first support of the second slide part on the first blocking member ensuring bracing of said first blocking member on the rail ensuring locking of the second slide element, superior in relation to the first slide element, lower in a first sliding direction, by two reactions of said rail on said first blocking member, with on the one hand, a first reaction between a first upper friction surface of the rail and a first wall of said first blocking member friction and, on the other hand, a second reaction between a second lower friction surface of the rail and a second wall of said first blocking member,

- a second force generated by the second support on the second blocking member ensuring bracing of said second blocking member on the rail ensuring locking of the second slide element relative to the first slide element in a second direction of sliding, by two reactions of said rail on said second blocking member, with on the one hand, a third reaction between the first upper friction surface of the rail and the third wall of said second blocking member and, on the other hand, a fourth reaction between the second lower friction surface of the rail and the fourth wall of said second friction member.

Fig. 6b

[0055] [Fig. 6b] is a consecutive view when the second slide element is subjected to a unidirectional stress applied to the second movable part of the slide, this stress generating a very small movement between the second movable part and the first fixed part of the slide which has resulting in a reinforcement of the effort of one of the supports, namely the first support and causing the loss of the other support, namely the second support by breaking the bracing conditions for the blocking member having lost support, the second blocking member, generating micro-displacement problems depending on the longitudinal stresses on the slide, in particular stresses in alternating directions

Fig.7a

[0056] [Fig. 7a] is seen illustrating the bracing conditions ensuring the locking of the slide according to the present claimed disclosure comprising:

- a first cam, integral with the second slide element, and first elastic means configured to move the first cam to generate a first force between the first blocking member and said first cam ensuring bracing of said first blocking member on the rail ensuring locking of the second slide element relative to the first slide element in a first sliding direction, by two reactions of said rail on said first blocking member, with on the one hand, a first reaction between the first upper surface of friction of the rail and the first wall of said first friction member and, on the other hand, a second reaction between the second lower friction surface of the rail and the second wall of said first friction member,

- a second cam, integral with the second slide element, and second elastic means configured to generate a second force between the second blocking member and said first cam ensuring bracing of said second blocking member on the rail ensuring locking of the second slide element relative to the first slide element in a second sliding direction, by two reactions of said rail on said second blocking member, with on the one hand, a third reaction between the first upper friction surface of the rail and the third wall of said second friction member and, on the other hand, a fourth reaction between the second lower friction surface of the rail and the fourth wall of said second friction member.

Fig.7b [0057] [Fig. 7b] is a consecutive view of Figure 7a, when the second slide element is subjected to a longitudinal stress generating a small displacement between the second slide element and the first slide element, the first force between the first cam and the first blocking member amplifying by reinforcing the bracing of the first blocking member on the rail, by authorizing compensation, by movement of the second cam under the action of the second elastic means, by changing the point of contact between said second cam and the second member so as to always guarantee a second effort between the second cam and the second blocking member guaranteeing the bracing of the second blocking member on the rail, responding to the problem of instability and micro- displacements for the slide in Figure 6b.

Fig.7c

[0058] [Fig. 7c] is a consecutive view illustrating the unlocking of the slide by retracting the first and second cams against the return forces of the first and second elastic means, notably with first spring means between the second slide element and the first blocking member constraining said first blocking member always resting on the cam surface of the first cam, and second spring means between the second slide element and the second blocking member constraining said second blocking member always resting on the cam surface of the second cam.

Fig.8

[0059] [Fig. 8] is a perspective view of a locking system for a continuously adjustable slide, according to a second embodiment, of improved compactness along the vertical compared to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 a.

Fig.9

[0060] [Fig. 9] is a sectional view along a horizontal plane of the system according to Figure 8, illustrating the unlocking mechanism, the first cam and the second cam sharing the same vertical pivot axis, constrained in their constrained position by the first and second elastic means, the first elastic means formed by a first torsion spring engaging with the first cam, and the second elastic means formed by a second spring of twist engaging with the second cam.

Fig.10

[0061] [Fig. 10] is a view of the system of Figure 8, once a cover of the unlocking mechanism has been removed, illustrating on the left a view of the unlocking mechanism in its first rest position, ensuring locking of the sliding of the slide, and on the right , a view of the mechanism in the second position constraining the first cam and the second cam in their retracted position, against the first elastic means and the second elastic means, releasing the sliding of the slide, the pivoting of the two cams, obtained by pressing on a lever of a pivoting control member, in a pivot direction substantially oriented in the direction of sliding, the pivoting of the control member sliding a transmission member, mounted sliding in a transverse direction, said transmission member carrying a first stop cooperating with the first cam and a second stop cooperating with the second cam to force the cams into their retracted position.

Fig.11

[0062] [Fig. 1 1 ] is a comparative view illustrating, on the right, the improved vertical compactness of the second embodiment according to Figures 8 to 10, with a vertical pivot axis for the first and second cams, with an overall dimension above the upper profile along a dimension L2, typically equal to 17 mm, and compared to the first embodiment for which the cams, first cam and second cam have a pivot axis oriented in a transverse horizontal direction, the overall dimension above the upper profile according to a dimension L1, typically equal to 30 mm. Description of embodiments

[0063] The drawings and the description below contain, for the most part, elements of a certain nature. They can therefore not only be used to better understand this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

We start with Figure 6a which illustrates a locking system which is not part of the claimed disclosure, nor part of the state of the art, but which shares its defects with regard to the problem of micro-displacements, the system comprising a first fixed slide element 20 and a second slide element 21, as well as a rail 3 secured to the first fixed slide element, as well as two locking members which can tilt from a first relative position (spaced apart ) allowing the slide to slide freely to a second position (brought closer under the action of a spring) ensuring the slide is locked.

[0065] When the slide is not subjected to longitudinal stress, as illustrated in Figure 6a, and in a second relative position between a first blocking member 4 and the second blocking member 5, the first and second member 4, 5 come to rest on the rail 3, under the action of a spring element Ru generating a force Fresi on the first blocking member 4, and generating a force Fres2 on the second blocking member 4 tending to bring the first member closer together blocking member 4 and the second blocking member 5 in bracing conditions on the rail, with generation:

- a first force Fsensi generated by a first support of the second slide part 21 on the first blocking member 4 ensuring bracing of said first blocking member 4 on the rail 3 with locking of the second slide element 21, superior relative to the first slide element 20, lower, in a first sliding direction, by two reactions of said rail on said first blocking member, with on the one hand, a first reaction RAI between a first upper friction surface of the rail and a first wall of said first friction member and, on the other hand, a second RBI reaction between a second lower friction surface of the rail and a second wall of said first member blocking,

- a second force Fsens2 generated by the second support on the second blocking member 5 ensuring bracing of said second blocking member 5 on the rail 3 with locking of the second slide element relative to the first slide element in a second direction of sliding, by two reactions of said rail on said second blocking member, with on the one hand, a third reaction RA2 between the first upper friction surface of the rail and the third wall of said second friction member and, on the other hand on the other hand, a fourth reaction between the second lower friction surface of the rail and the fourth wall of said second blocking member.

[0066] A longitudinal stress on the second slide element 21, for example of the order of 50N to 200N, for example in the direction S1, generates a reinforcement of the first force Fsensi, but can result in a loss of the second support, and therefore annihilating the second Fsens2 effort.

[0067] According to the findings of the inventors, the static balance of the second blocking element 5 having lost support is then no longer guaranteed and the second blocking member 5 translates by a few hundredths of a millimeter until it finds a position of uncertain static equilibrium. According to the findings of the inventors, such operation can therefore result in micro-displacements, as longitudinal stresses in alternating directions occur.

[0068] The slide is unlocked by tilting the two locking members 4, 5, moving them apart, from the second position to the first position, with loss of supports, namely first and second supports. As the slide locking and unlocking operations progress, the first support and the second support are successively lost with each unlocking, then found again with each locking, which can lead to a loss of references, and over time to unsatisfactory bracing conditions due to dispersions and the fact that the bracing conditions are different over time.

[0069] Reference is now made to Figure 1a which illustrates the present claimed disclosure. [0070] Also the present disclosure relates to a system 1 for locking a continuously adjustable slide for a vehicle seat, comprising;

- the slide 2 comprising a first slide element 20, lower, configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle, and a second slide element 21, upper, configured to slide along the first slide element

- a bracing locking system.

[0071] The bracing locking system makes it possible to lock the slide continuously in an unlimited number of locking positions over the useful travel of the slide, and as opposed to a discontinuous adjustment system comprising a number of positions of limited lock

The bracing locking system is self-sufficient in the sense that it does not complement a locking system of the discontinuous adjustment type, and comprising notches ensuring such discontinuous adjustment.

[0073] In the figures, the orthogonal marker XYZ is oriented so that the axis and the Z axis according to the vertical.

[0074] The first slide element 20 may comprise a lower profile PINF, having a section with a base 200 extending substantially along a plane parallel to the plane XY, extended by one or even two rising wings 201, 202. The second element of slide 21 may comprise an upper profile PSUP, having a section, with a main wing 210 extending substantially along a plane parallel to the plane XY, extended by two descending wings 21 1, 212. The end portions of the rising wings 201, 202 and the end portions of the descending wings 21 1, 212 are intertwined and form rolling tracks for rolling members such as balls or the like.

[0075] Figure 1 a illustrates a slide with an asymmetrical profile, namely that the vertical dimension of the two descending (resp. rising) wings are unequal. Generally speaking, this disclosure applies whether the profiles are asymmetrical as illustrated or symmetrical (not illustrated). The bracing locking system comprises a rail 3 which extends lengthwise along the slide, fixed relative to the first slide element 20. The rail 3 is fixed to the first slide element 20. A for this purpose the lower PINF profile forming the first slide portion 20 may comprise the base 200 and at least one rising wing 201, 202 extending from the base.

[0077] The rail 3 can be secured to said at least one rising wing 201 of the lower profile PINF in said inter-space between the upper profile and the lower profile, in particular by tongues 2010 projecting into said inter-space coming from openings in the wall of the rising wing 201. The tongues 2010 can typically be obtained by stamping, and can be distributed over the length of the rail 3 to ensure fixing of the rail. The position of the tabs relative to the blocking members allows the blocking members, first and/or second blocking member, in the unlocked state of the slide to slide relative to the first slide element 21, moving successively along the tabs, and without the tabs hindering the movement of the locking members, as can be understood from Figure 1 b. This makes it possible to firmly fix the rail on its length, including on the sliding stroke of the blocking members, and not only at these ends, outside of this stroke.

The rail 3 comprises a first upper friction surface 30 and a second, lower, opposite friction surface 31. According to one embodiment, the first friction surface 30 and the second, lower, opposite friction surface 31 can be planar, the rail having a substantially rectangular section. The rail may, however, have another section such as a circular section, the first surface 30 and the second surface 31 then being non-planar.

The bracing locking system comprises a first blocking member 4 and a second blocking member 5, positions offset along a longitudinal axis of the rail 3 which extends in the longitudinal direction blocking member 4 and the second blocking member 5, are mounted integral with the second slide element 21, namely movable with it, in positions offset along a longitudinal axis of the rail 3. The first blocking member blocking 4 and the second blocking member 5 extend respectively in length in a vertical direction, in the direction Z, or slightly inclined relative to this direction by a few degrees, with an inclination less than 25°, for example less than 10 °

The first blocking member 4 comprises a first wall 40 and a second wall 41, facing each other, configured to rub respectively on the first surface 30 and the second friction surface 31 of the rail. The first wall 40 and the second wall 41 can be formed by two opposite side walls of a groove in the first blocking member, and as illustrated in the figures.

The second blocking member 5 comprises a third wall 50 and a fourth wall 51, facing each other, configured to rub respectively on the first surface 30 and the second friction surface 31 of the rail 3. The third wall 40 and the fourth wall 41 can be formed by two opposite side walls of a groove in the second blocking member 4, and as illustrated in the figures.

[0082] When the first slide element 20 is a lower profile PINF and the second slide element 21 is an upper profile PSUP, mounted sliding along the lower profile PINF, the first locking member 4 and the second locking member 5 can advantageously extend (at least partly) internally in the interspace between the upper profile PSUP and the lower profile PINF, said rail secured to the lower profile PINF, received in said interspace.

[0083] The bracing locking system comprises a first cam C1, constrained by first elastic means EL1, typically a spring which ensures bracing of the first blocking member 4 on the rail 3, to ensure locking of the slide during a stress in the direction S1 on the second slide element 21. The bracing locking system comprises a second cam C2, constrained by second elastic means EL2, typically a spring which ensures bracing of the second blocking member 5 on the rail 3, to ensure locking of the slide when of a stress in direction S2 on the second slide element 21. The first elastic means EL1 can generate a torque on the first cam c1 of between 0.1 NM and 0.5 NM. The second elastic means EL2 can generate a torque on the second cam C2 of between 0.1 NM and 0.5 NM.

[0084] As illustrated in Figure 7a, in the slide locking condition, the first cam C1, secured to the second slide element 21, and the first elastic means EL1 are configured to move the first cam C1 to ensure contact with said first blocking member 4 by generating a first force FC1 between the first blocking member 4 and said first cam C1, namely the first force FC1 generated by the first cam C1 on the first blocking member 4.

[0085] This first force FC1 ensures bracing of said first locking member 4 on the rail 3 which causes the second slide element 21 to be locked relative to the first slide element 20 in the first sliding direction S1, by two reactions of said rail on said first blocking member, with on the one hand, a first reaction RAI between the first upper friction surface 30 of the rail and the first wall 40 of said first blocking member 4 and, on the other hand, a second RBI reaction between the second lower friction surface 31 of the rail and the second wall 41 of said first blocking member 4.

[0086] As illustrated in Figure 7a, in the slide locking condition, the second cam C2, secured to the second slide element, and the second elastic means EL2 are configured to move the second cam C2 to ensure contact with said second blocking member by generating a second force FC2 between the second blocking member 5 and said second cam C2, namely the second force FC2 generated by the second cam C2 on the second blocking member 5.

[0087] This second force FC2 ensures bracing of said second blocking member 5 on the rail 3 which causes the second slide element 21 to be locked relative to the first slide element 20 in a second sliding direction S2, by two reactions of said rail on said second member of blocking, with on the one hand, a third reaction RA2 between the first upper friction surface 30 of the rail and the third wall 50 of said second friction member and, on the other hand, a fourth reaction RB2 between the second friction surface 31 lower part of the rail and the fourth wall 51 of said second blocking member 5.

[0088] Advantageously, the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 are configured so that, during a longitudinal stress on the second slide element 21, generating a small displacement (hereinafter referred to as micro displacement) between the second slide element 20 and the first slide element 20, to always guarantee the first effort FC1 and the second effort FC2 ensuring the buttresses of the first blocking member 4 and the second blocking member 5, by authorizing compensation by displacement of one, or even two cams, first cam C1 and/or respectively second cam C2, by changing the point of contact between said cam and the blocking member constituted by the first blocking member 4 or respectively the second blocking member 5, and while the other cam second cam C2 (or respectively first cam C1) can remain stationary while maintaining the point of contact between the cam and said blocking member constituted by the first blocking member or respectively the second blocking member.

[0089] In other words, the first cams and second cam operate, independently of each other, respectively a first compensation on the first blocking member and/or a second compensation on the second blocking member as a function of the longitudinal stresses and in particular their meaning.

[0090] For example, as illustrated in Figure 7b, a longitudinal stress of 50N to 200N on the second slide element 21 in the direction S1 ensures a very slight movement of the second slide element 21 relative to the first slide element 20 which results in an increase in the first force FC1 of the first cam C1 on the first blocking member and compared to the state of Figure 7a, without longitudinal stress, very often without change in the point of contact between the first cam C1 and the first blocking member 4, the first cam C1 remaining stationary, while allowing compensation for the clearance created by the movement between the second cam C2 and the second blocking member 5, by the action of the second elastic means EL2 which pivots the cam C2 so as to always fill the gap clearance, and so as to always guarantee the first effort FC1 and the second effort FC2 ensuring the bracing of the first blocking member 4 and the second blocking member 5, and thus the bracing conditions ensuring the locking of the slide in the first direction S1 and the second direction S2.

[0091] The problem of bracing breakage in the event of longitudinal loading is advantageously addressed, and as illustrated in Figure 6b, and more generally in the state of the art known to the present Applicant.

[0092] Generally, the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 can be articulated on a support 7 secured to the second element the movable slide 21, the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 configured to pivot independently, on the support under the action of the first and second elastic means EL1, EL2.

[0093] When the first slide element 20 is a lower profile PINF and the second slide element 21 is an upper profile PSUP, mounted sliding along the lower profile PINF, the first locking member 4 and the second blocking member 5 received internally to the PINF, PSUP profiles can protrude from the upper profile through at least one opening OV of the upper PSUP profile, in particular of the main wing 210. In such an embodiment in particular the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 can be arranged at least partly, or even mainly, outside said inter-space, above the upper profile PSUP.

The first cam C1 may comprise a first cam surface SC1, eccentric, configured to come into contact with the first blocking element 4, of increasing radius between the pivot center of the first cam C1, and the point of contact with the first blocking element 4, during pivoting according to the direction of rotation imposed by the first elastic means EL1. The second cam C2 may comprise a second cam surface SC2, eccentric, configured to come into contact with the second blocking element 4, of increasing radius between the pivot center of the second cam C2, and the contact point with the second blocking element 5, during pivoting according to the direction of rotation imposed by the second elastic means EL2.

[0096] According to the present disclosure, the slide system comprises an unlocking mechanism 6 which is configured to cause the movement of the first cam C1 and the movement of the second cam C2 from their constrained positions PC1, PC2 by the first and second elastic means EL1, EL2 ensuring the bracing of the first blocking member 4 and the second blocking member 5 on the rail 3, and thus the locking of the slide and up to a retracted position of the first cam C1 and a position retracted from the second cam C2 removing the buttresses of the first blocking member and the second member on the rail, freeing the sliding of the slide.

[0097] The unlocking mechanism 6 may comprise a control member 60 movable over a limited stroke, in particular in a vertical direction Z, configured to move from a first rest position PR1 to a second position constraining the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 in their retracted position, against the first elastic means EL1 and the second elastic means EL2.

[0098] Such an embodiment is illustrated by way of example in Figures 4a and 4b. In the upper rest position of the control member 60, and as illustrated in Figures 4a and 4b, pressing on the control member 60 causes it to move downwards, with abutment of a first stud PL1 of the first cam C1 and a second pad PL2 of the second cam C2, causing in particular the rotations of the cams in directions opposite to the directions imposed by the first and second elastic means EL1, EL2.

[0099] In Figure 4b, and generally speaking, the pads PL1 and PL2 belonging respectively to the first cam C1 and to the second cam C2 can pass through two oblong holes in the support, curved, in the shape of a bean. [0100] Generally speaking, and according to a first illustrated embodiment, the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 are interposed between said first blocking member 4 and the second blocking member 5, constrained by the first elastic means EL1 and the second elastic means EL2 for separating the first blocking member 4 and the second blocking member 5 by ensuring their bracing on the rail. In such a case, a request on the control member causes the first and second blocking members 4 and 5 to move closer together to the retracted positions of cams C1, C2 freeing the sliding of the slide.

[0101] According to a second embodiment, not illustrated, the first cam and the second cam can be provided, not arranged between the two blocking elements 4 and 5, but on either side of them.

[0102] In general, whether according to the first embodiment or the second embodiment, the first cam can be articulated on the support around a first pivot axis and the second cam can be articulated on the support around a second pivot axis, parallel and independent of the first pivot axis.

[0103] When the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 are interposed between the first blocking member 4 and the second blocking member 5, the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 can be articulated to the support, sharing the same axis of pivot AC1 C2. Such an embodiment is advantageous in terms of compactness (in the longitudinal direction X). The first elastic means EL1 and the second elastic means EL2 can also comprise the same spring member RC1 C2 connecting the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 together. Such an embodiment is illustrated for information purposes in Figures 5a and 5b.

[0104] The first cam C1 may comprise a cylindrical body C10 and an eccentric cam surface SC1, projecting radially from the cylindrical body, intended to come into contact with the first blocking member 4, thus a first lug ER1 centered on the axis of rotation and on the axis of the cylindrical body C10, configured to cooperate with a surface of the support integral with the second movable slide element as well as a second lug ER2, coaxial on the opposite end of the cylindrical body configured to cooperate with a surface of the support secured to the second movable slide element. The first pin ER1 and the second pin ER2 ensure the rotation of the first cam relative to the support.

[0105] The second cam C2 comprises a cam surface SC2 intended to come into contact with the second blocking member 5, and an opposite, concave surface, with a radius of curvature corresponding to the radius of the cylindrical body C10 of the first cam C1. The concave opposing surface is configured to slide over a cylindrical surface of the body to permit pivoting of the second cam relative to the first cam. The first cam C1 and the second cam C2 are constrained in their constrained position ensuring the locking of the slide by bracing of the first and second blocking members 4 and 5 on the rail 3 by a spring RC1 C2, of torsion with turns comprising a first end linked in rotation with the first cam C1 and a second end linked in rotation with the second cam C2.

[0106] In general and as illustrated in Figure 5b, the cylindrical body of the first cam C1 can comprise an annular housing AL configured to house the turns of the torsion spring, as well as a first rectilinear cavity CAV1 extending radially of the annular housing for housing the first end E1 of the torsion spring ensuring the rotational connection of the first end to the first cam C1, the body of the second cam comprising a second rectilinear cavity CAV2 for housing the second end E2 of the torsion spring ensuring the rotational connection of the second end to the first cam C2.

[0107] According to an advantageous embodiment, the system can also include:

- first spring means MR1 between said second slide element 21 and said first blocking member 4 so that the first blocking member 4 is always in contact with the first cam 4 even in the retracted position of the first cam C1 releasing the sliding of the slide, and,

- second spring means MR2 between said second slide element 21 and said second blocking member 5 so that the second blocking member blocking 5 is always in contact with the second cam C2 even in the retracted position of the second cam C2 freeing the sliding of the slide.

[0108] Consequently, the contacts between, on the one hand, the first cam C1 and the first blocking element 4, and on the other hand, between the second cam C2 and the second blocking 5 are never lost, at least progressively, the slide locks/unlocks.

[0109] Repeatability and reliability of the buttresses over time are advantageously ensured, advantageously without loss of reference, and unlike the systems of the state of the art known to the applicant.

[0110] The first spring means MR1, and the second spring means MR2 may comprise leaf springs. As can be understood from Figures 3 and 4a, and in general, these spring blades can be formed on a cover. This cover covers the first cam and the second cam, as well as the portions of the blocking members protruding from the opening Ov. Such a cover is typically plastic, injection molded.

[0111] Generally speaking, the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 are arranged integrally with the second slide element 21 above the rail, and if necessary at least partially outside the interspace. At least according to one advantageous embodiment, the system can include a mobile element 8 which is embarked on said second slide element 21, and in particular received in the inter-space between the upper profile and the lower profile.

[0112] Such a crew 8 includes:

- a first stop 81, located on the side of the rail 3 opposite the first cam C1, the first stop 81 configured to ensure a positioning reference for the first blocking member 4 in the direction of the slide, under the action of a first elastic portion 810 of the movable assembly, the first stop 81 and the elastic portion located on the side of the rail opposite to the first cam C1,

- a second stop 82, located on the side of the rail opposite the second cam, the second stop configured to ensure a positioning reference for the second blocking member 5 following the direction of the slide under the action of a first elastic portion 820 of the movable assembly, the second stop 82 and the elastic portion 820 located on the side of the rail opposite to the second cam C2.

[0113] Such a mobile assembly makes it possible to always keep the first and second blocking members 4, 5 in positions referenced by the stops, namely the first and second stops 81 82, even when the slide is slid by movement of the locking members. blocking along the rail 3. Such a mobile assembly with stops 81, 82 helps to advantageously ensure repeatability and reliability of the buttresses over time without loss of reference, and unlike the systems of the state of the art.

[0114] The first embodiment of Figures 1 a to 5b and 7a, 7b illustrated in the figures shows cams - first cam C1 and second cam C2 - which are articulated along a pivot axis ACIC2 oriented in a transverse direction Y, substantially horizontal.

[0115] Such an embodiment, with cams positioned above the upper profile PSUP generates an overall dimension of the locking mechanism and of the cams, above the main wall 210, in the vertical direction Z, the dimension marked L1 in Figure 1 1, and for the system shown on the left in Figure 11, which can typically be greater than or equal to 30mm.

[0116] A second embodiment illustrated on the right of Figure 11 makes it possible to gain significantly in compactness and to reduce the overall dimension to a dimension marked L2, less than 25mm, or even less than 20mm, such as 17mm.

[0117] This second embodiment of improved vertical compactness is illustrated by way of example in Figures 8 to 10.

[0118] According to such a second embodiment, the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 are arranged outside said inter-space, above the upper profile PSUP, the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 configured to pivot along pivot axes, distinct or possibly combined, sharing the same pivot axis AC1 C2. [0119] Noticeably, the pivot axes are oriented in a vertical direction Z, typically orthogonal to the base 200 of the lower profile PINF and/or orthogonal to the main wall 210 of the upper profile PSUP.

[0120] Such an orientation of the cams C1 C2, with vertical pivot axes, is advantageous, in that it makes it possible to limit the size of the cams C1, C2 in the vertical direction Z, and in comparison to an articulation of the cams following substantially horizontal pivots.

[0121] According to such a second embodiment, said unlocking mechanism 6 may comprise a transmission member 62, mounted movable in translation along a limited stroke, in a direction transverse Y to the sliding direction of the slide.

[0122] Said transmission member 62 is mounted movable in translation, above and parallel to the main wall 210 configured to pass from a first rest position PR, in particular illustrated on the left in Figure 10, to a second position P2 constraining the first cam C1 and the second cam C2 in their retracted position, against the first elastic means EL1 and the second elastic means EL2, and as illustrated on the right in Figure 10. For this purpose, we note that said transmission member 62 comprises a first stop 621 configured to engage with the first cam C1, and a second stop 622 configured to engage with the second cam C2, in said second position P2.

[0123] Note that said transmission member 62 preferably extends in height substantially overlapping the two cams, in the vertical direction Z, and therefore without increasing the vertical bulk compared to that of the cams.

[0124] The system may comprise a pivoting control member 61 pivotally articulated on the upper profile PSUP, preferably laterally to the upper profile PSUP, in particular on a descending wall, extending the main wall 210. Said pivoting control member 61 is preferably articulated along an axis of rotation oriented in a direction X of sliding of the slide. [0125] Said control member 61 is configured to control the translation of the transmission member 62 from the first rest position PR1 to a second position P2 when pressing a lever LV of said control member 61.

[0126] Note that said control member 61 preferably extends in height along the vertical direction Z substantially possibly, covering the two cams, see below the latter, laterally to the upper profile SUP, and therefore without increasing the vertical size compared to that of the cams.

[0127] Thus and advantageously, the system can have an overall dimension L2 in the vertical direction Z extending above the upper profile SUP comprising in particular the unlocking mechanism 6, the first cam C1 and the second cam C2, projecting above the upper profile, the dimension L2 being for example, less than 25 mm, or even less than 20 mm, such as 17mm.

[0128] Such a second embodiment with limited vertical dimensions is advantageous in that it allows integration into more constrained environments.

[0129] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a vehicle seat, in particular an automobile seat, comprising a seat and a backrest as well as a continuously adjustable locking system 1 according to the present disclosure, the first slide element 20 of which is anchored to a floor of the vehicle and the second slide element 21 is integral with a seat frame.

List of reference signs

[0130] - 1: Locking system for a slide for a continuously adjustable vehicle,

- 2. Slide

- 20. First slide element,

- 200. Basis,

- 201, 202. Rising wings,

- 2010. Tabs - PIN F. Lower profile,

- 21. Second slide element,

- 210. Main wing,

- 211,212. Descending wings

- PSUP. Upper profile

- 3. Rail,

- 30. First friction surface,

- 31. Second friction surface,

- 4. First blocking member,

- 40.41. Respectively first wall and second wall (configured to butt on the rail),

- 5. Second blocking member,

- 50.51. Respectively third wall and fourth wall (configured to butt on the rail),

- EL1, EL2. First and second elastic means,

- C1. First cam,

- C2. Second cam,

- SC1. Cam surface, eccentric (first cam),

- SC2. Cam surface, eccentric (second cam),

- ER1, ER2. First and second lug (rotation of the first cam),

- FC1. First force between the first cam and the first blocking member 4 generated by the first elastic means EL1

- FC2. Second effort between the second cam and the second blocking member

5 generated by the second elastic means EL2

- S1, S2. Respectively first direction and second direction for the movement of the second slide element, movable relative to the first slide element

- 6. Means of unlocking,

- 60. Unlocking control unit,

- 61. Pivoting unlocking control member (figures 8 to 11)

- 62 Transmission organ,

- 621, 622 First stop and second stop (said transmission member cooperating respectively with the first cam and the second cam) - PL1, PL2. First and second stud (belonging to the first cam and the second cam and cooperating with the control member 60),

- RC1 C2. Spring (notably coiled torsion spring),

- E1, E2. First and second end (coil spring)

- THERE. Annular housing (turns),

- CAV1, CAV2. Rectilinear cavities (ends E1 and E2)

- 7 Support,

- 8. Crew

- 81, 82 First stop and second stop,

- 810, 820 First and second elastic portions,

- 42, 52. First guide wall and second guide wall (belonging respectively to the first blocking member and to the second blocking member,

-Ov. Opening (of the upper profile for the locking members),

- MR1, MR2. First means springs and second means springs,

- PC1, PC2. Constrained positions of the cams (first and second) by the first and second elastic means ensuring the bracing conditions on the rail, and therefore the locking of the slide,

- RA1, RB1. First and second reactions (bracing of the first blocking member 4),

- RA2, RB2. Third and fourth reactions (bracing of the first blocking member 4),

- Fresl, Fres2. Forces generated by the spring (Ru figure 6a or MR1 and MR2 figure 7c) on the first blocking member and the second blocking member.

Claims

[Claim 1] System (1) for locking a continuously adjustable slide for a vehicle seat, comprising;

- the slide (2) comprising a first slide element (20), lower, configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle, and a second slide element (21), upper, configured to slide along the first slide element

- a bracing locking system comprising:

- a rail (3), extending in length along the slide, fixed relative to the first slide element, said rail having a first upper friction surface (30) and a second lower friction surface (31 ), opposite

-- a first blocking member (4) and a second blocking member (5), mounted integrally with the second slide element (21), in positions offset along a longitudinal axis of the rail (3), the first blocking member ( 4) comprising a first wall (40) and a second wall (41), facing each other, configured to rub respectively on the first surface (30) and the second friction surface (31) of the rail, the second blocking member (5 ) comprising a third wall (50) and a fourth wall (51), facing each other, configured to rub respectively on the first surface (30) and the second friction surface (31) of the rail (3),

- a first cam (C1), integral with the second slide element, and first elastic means (EL1) configured to move the first cam (C1) to ensure contact with said first blocking member by generating a first force (FC1) between the first blocking member (4) and said first cam (C1) ensuring bracing of said first blocking member (4) on the rail (3) ensuring locking of the second slide element relative to the first slide element in a first direction (S1) of sliding, by two reactions of said rail on said first blocking member, with on the one hand, a first reaction (RAI) between the first upper friction surface (30) of the rail and the first wall (40) of said first blocking member (4) and, on the other hand, a second reaction (RBI) between the second lower friction surface (31) of the rail and the second wall (41) of said first blocking member (4 ), - a second cam (C2), integral with the second slide element, and second elastic means (EL2) configured to move the second cam (C2) to ensure contact with said first blocking member by generating a second force (FC2) between the second blocking member (5) and said second cam (C2) ensuring bracing of said second blocking member (5) on the rail (3) ensuring locking of the second slide element (21) relative to the first slide element (20) in a second sliding direction (S2), by two reactions of said rail on said second blocking member, with on the one hand, a third reaction (RA2) between the first upper friction surface (30) of the rail and the third wall (50) of said second blocking member and, on the other hand, a fourth reaction (RB2) between the second lower friction surface (31) of the rail and the fourth wall (51) of said second blocking member. blocking (5),

- an unlocking mechanism (6) which is configured to cause the movement of the first cam (C1) and the movement of the second cam (C2) from their constrained positions (PC1, PC2) by the first and second elastic means ensuring the bracing of the first blocking member and the second blocking member on the rail and thus the locking of the slide and up to a retracted position of the first cam and a retracted position of the second cam removing the bracing of the first blocking member and the second member on the rail, freeing the sliding of the slide.

[Claim 2] System according to claim 1, in which the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) are configured for, during a longitudinal stress on the second slide element (21) generating a micro displacement between the second slide element (20) and the first slide element (20), always guarantee the first force (FC1) and the second force (FC2) ensuring the bracing of the first blocking member (4) and the second member blocking (5), by authorizing compensation by moving one of the two cams, or even both cams, first cam (C1) and/or respectively second cam (C2), by changing the point of contact between said cam and the the blocking member constituted by the first blocking member (4) or respectively the second blocking member (5), while the other cam second cam (C2) or respectively first cam (C1) can remain immobile while retaining the point of contact between the cam and said blocking member constituted by the first blocking member or respectively the second blocking member.

[Claim 3] System according to one of claims 1 to 2, comprising first spring means (MR1) between said second slide element (21) and said first blocking member (4) so that the first blocking member ( 4) is always in contact with the first cam (4) even in the retracted position of the first cam (C1) releasing the sliding of the slide, and second spring means (MR2) between said second slide element (21) and said second blocking member (5) so that the second blocking member (5) is always in contact with the second cam (C2) even in the retracted position of the second cam (C2) freeing the sliding of the slide.

[Claim 4] System according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) are articulated on a support (7) secured to the second slide element and are configured to pivot from independently on the support under the action of the first and second elastic means (EL1, EL2), and in which:

- the first cam (01) comprises a first cam surface (SC1), eccentric, configured to come into contact with the first blocking element

(4), of increasing radius between a pivot center of the first cam (C1), and the point of contact with the first blocking element (4), during pivoting according to the direction of rotation imposed by the first elastic means ( EL1 ),

- the second cam (C2) comprises a second cam surface (SC2), eccentric, configured to come into contact with the second blocking element

(5), of increasing radius between a pivot center of the second cam (C2), and the point of contact with the second blocking element (5) during pivoting according to the direction of rotation imposed by the second elastic means (EL2 ).

[Claim 5] System according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) are interposed between said first blocking member (4) and the second blocking member (5) , constrained by the first elastic means (EL1) and the second elastic means (EL2) for move the first blocking member (4) and the second blocking member (5) apart, ensuring their bracing on the rail.

[Claim 6] System according to claim 5, in which the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) are articulated to the support, sharing the same pivot axis (ACIC2).

[Claim 7] System according to claim 5 or 6, in which the first elastic means (EL1) and the second elastic means (EL2) comprising the same spring member (RC1 C2) connecting together the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2).

[Claim 8] System according to claim 6 or 7, in which the first cam (C1) comprises a cylindrical body (C10) and a first cam surface (SC1), eccentric, projecting radially from the cylindrical body, intended to come into contact with the first locking member (4), thus a first lug (ER1) centered on the axis of rotation of the first cam (C1) and on the axis of the cylindrical body (C10), as well as a second lug ( ER2), coaxial with the first lug (ER1) at the opposite end of the cylindrical body, the first lug and the second lug configured to cooperate with a surface of the support secured to the second movable slide element, and in which the second cam (C2 ) comprises a second cam surface (SC2) intended to come into contact with the second blocking member (5), and an opposite, concave surface, with a radius of curvature corresponding to the radius of the cylindrical body (C10) of the first cam ( C1), the opposite concave surface configured to slide on a cylindrical surface of the body to allow pivoting of the second cam relative to the first cam.

[Claim 9] System according to claims 7 and 8, in which the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) are constrained in their constrained position ensuring the locking of the slide by bracing of the first and second blocking member ( 4, 5) on the rail (3) by the spring (RC1 C2) which is a spiral torsion spring comprising a first end (E1) linked in rotation with the first cam (C1) and a second end (E2) linked in rotation with the second cam (C2), the cylindrical body of the first cam (C1) comprising an annular housing (AL) configured to house the turns of the torsion spring, as well that a first rectilinear cavity (CAV1) extending radially from the annular housing for the first end (E1) of the torsion spring ensuring the rotational connection of the first end to the first cam (C1), the body of the second cam comprising a second rectilinear cavity (CAV2) for the second end (E2) of the torsion spring ensuring the rotational connection of the second end to the first cam (C2).

[Claim 10] System according to claim 4 or 5, in which the first cam is articulated on the support around a first pivot axis and the second cam is articulated on the support around a second pivot axis, parallel and independent of the first pivot axis.

[Claim 11] System according to one of claims 1 to 10, in which said unlocking mechanism (6) comprises a control member (60) movable in a limited stroke, in particular in a vertical direction Z, configured to pass from 'a first rest position (PR1) to a second position constraining the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) in their retracted position, against the first elastic means (EL1) and the second elastic means (EL2).

[Claim 12] System according to one of claims 1 to 1 1, in which the first slide element (20) is a lower profile (PINF) and the second slide element (21) is an upper profile (PSUP), mounted sliding along the lower profile (PINF), the first blocking member (4) and the second blocking member (5) extending internally in the interspace between the upper profile (PSUP) and the lower profile ( PINF), said rail secured to the lower profile (PINF), received in said inter-space.

[Claim 13] Locking system (1) according to claim 12, in which the first blocking member (4) and the second blocking member (5) protrude from the upper profile through at least one opening (OV) of the upper profile (PSUP), and in which in particular the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) are arranged at least partly outside said inter-space, above the upper profile (PSUP).

[Claim 14] Locking system (1) according to claim 12 or 13, in which the lower profile (PINF) forming the first slide portion (20) comprises a base (200) and at least one rising wing (201, 202 ) extending from the base, and in which the rail (3) is secured to said at least one rising wing (201) of the lower profile (PINF) in said inter-space, by tongues (2010) projecting in said inter-space coming from openings in the wall of the rising wing (201), the tabs (2010) typically obtained by stamping.

[Claim 15] System according to one of claims 1 to 14, in which the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) are arranged integrally with the second slide element (21) above the rail, and the case appropriate at least partially outside the inter-space when the system is according to claim 9, and in which a mobile assembly (8) is embarked on said second slide element (21), received in the inter-space when the system is according to claim 9, said crew (8) comprising:

- a first stop (81), located on the side of the rail (3) opposite the first cam (C1), the first stop (81) configured to ensure a positioning reference for the first blocking member (4) in the direction of the slide, under the action of a first elastic portion (810) of the movable assembly on the side of the rail opposite the first cam,

- a second stop (82), located on the side of the rail opposite the second cam, the second stop configured to ensure a positioning reference for the second blocking member (5) in the direction of the slide under the action of a first elastic portion (820) of the movable assembly on the side of the rail opposite the second cam.

[Claim 16] System according to claim 13 in which the lower profile (PINF) forming the first slide part (20) comprises a base (200) and the upper profile (PSUP) comprising a main wall (210) carrying said at least openings (OV) crossed by the first blocking element (4) and the second blocking element (5), and in which the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) are arranged outside said inter-space, above the upper profile (PSUP), the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) configured to pivot along pivot axes, distinct or possibly combined, sharing the same pivot axis (ACIC2), the pivot axes oriented along a vertical direction (Z) orthogonal to the base (200) of the lower profile (PINF)) or orthogonal to the main wall (210) of the upper profile (PSUP)

[Claim 17] System according to claim 16, in which said unlocking mechanism (6) comprises a transmission member (62) movable in translation according to a limited stroke, in a transverse direction Y, above and parallel to the main wall (210) configured to move from a first rest position (PR1) to a second position (P2) constraining the first cam (C1) and the second cam (C2) in their retracted position, against the first elastic means (EL1) and second elastic means (EL2).

[Claim 18] System according to claim 16 or 17, comprising a control member (61) pivotally articulated on the upper profile (PSUP), laterally to the upper profile (PSUP) along an axis of rotation oriented in a sliding direction of the slide, said control member (61) configured to control the translation of the transmission member (62) from the first rest position (PR1) to a second position (P2) when pressing on a lever (LV).

[Claim 19] System according to one of claims 16 to 18, having an overall dimension (L2) in the vertical direction (Z) extending above the upper profile (SUP) and including in particular the unlocking mechanism (6), the first cam (01) and the second cam (C2) and in which said overall dimension (L2) is less than 25 mm.

[Claim 20] Vehicle seat comprising a seat and a backrest as well as a continuously adjustable locking system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 19, the first slide element (20) of which is anchored to a floor of the vehicle and the second slide element (21) is integral with a seat frame.