Tray table device for a seat of a vehicle and vehicle seat

Abstract

The present disclosure refers to a tray table device for a vehicle seat that may have at least a table element and a table support structure connected to the table element. Further, the present disclosure refers to a vehicle seat that may have such a tray table device.

Claims

1. A tray table device for a vehicle seat, comprising at least: a table element and a table support structure connected to the table element, wherein the table support structure comprises a carrier structure and a table support linkage, said carrier structure being connected to said table support linkage via a single pivot connection, wherein the table element is continuously movable about the single pivot connection between a vertical stowed position and at least one horizontal use position, wherein the table element is pivotable coupled to the table support linkage, wherein the table support linkage comprises at least a clock spring mechanism.

2. The tray table device according to claim 1, wherein the table element is coupled to one end of the table support linkage and the other end of the table support linkage is coupled to the carrier structure.

3. The tray table device according to claim 1, wherein the carrier structure is a stationary part and the table support linkage is a movable part which is rotatable relative to the carrier structure.

4. The tray table device according to claim 1, wherein in the horizontal use position an upper usage surface of the table element substantially faces in a direction towards a ceiling of a vehicle.

5. The tray table device according to claim 4, wherein in the vertical stowed position the upper usage surface substantially faces in a direction away from a lateral seat side of the vehicle seat.

6. The tray table device according to claim 5, wherein the table support linkage is moved about the pivot axis in a substantially arc-shaped or arched manner between the vertical stowed position and the horizontal use position.

7. The tray table device according to claim 1, wherein the table support structure provides a pivot axis positioned tilted relative to a vertical axis at an angle of about 20° to 60°.

8. The tray table device according to claim 1, wherein the table support linkage is moved manually or automatically between the vertical stowed position and the horizontal use position.

9. The tray table device according to claim 1, wherein the table support structure comprises a drive unit for powered adjustment of the table element between the vertical stowed position and the horizontal use position.

10. The tray table device according to claim 1, wherein the table element is pivotable between at least two horizontal use positions.

11. The tray table device according to claim 1, wherein the table element is pivotable about a horizontal axis and configured to be positioned in a tipped position at least towards an occupant.

12. The tray table device of claim 1, wherein said tray table device is part of a vehicle seat comprising at least a seat pan and a backrest.

13. The tray table device according to claim 12, wherein the table support structure is arranged next to the backrest and/or the seat pan, wherein the table element is arranged substantially laterally next to the backrest and/or the seat pan when the table element is positioned in the vertical stowed position.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The present disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus, are not limitative of the present disclosure, wherein:

(2) FIG. 1 shows a front view of an embodiment of a tray table device,

(3) FIG. 2 shows a front view of an embodiment of a vehicle seat comprising a tray table device,

(4) FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray table device for a vehicle seat,

(5) FIG. 4 shows a front view of an embodiment of a tray table device for a vehicle seat,

(6) FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a movement of a tray table element of a tray table device,

(7) FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray table element of a tray table device,

(8) FIG. 7 shows a sectional view of an embodiment of a tray table element of a tray table device,

(9) FIG. 8 shows a sectional top view of an embodiment of an uncovered table support structure of the tray table device comprising a drive unit,

(10) FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray table device,

(11) FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray table device,

(12) FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray table device for a vehicle seat,

(13) FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a vehicle comprising a seat arrangement having a plurality of seat assemblies, and

(14) FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a vehicle interior having at least two rows of a plurality of seat assemblies facing each other.

(15) Corresponding parts are marked with the same reference symbols in all figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

(16) FIG. 1 shows a front view of an embodiment of a tray table device 1.1 for a vehicle seat 1.2.

(17) The tray table device 1.1 comprises a tray table element 1.3 and a table support structure 1.4 connected to the tray table element 1.3. The table support structure 1.4 comprises a carrier structure 1.5 and a table support linkage 1.6, wherein the carrier structure 1.5 and the table support linkage 1.6 are connected to each other via a single pivot connection PC. The tray table 1.3 is continuously movable about the single pivot connection PC between a vertical stowed position P1 and at least one horizontal use position P2. The table support structure 1.4 is tilted at a 45° axis relative to a vertical axis z. In particular, the single pivot connection PC is configured as a pivot mechanism. The single pivot connection PC is tilted with respect to the vertical axis z. The single pivot connection PC provides a pivot axis PA1 about which the table element 1.3 is rotatable. The pivot axis PA1 is angled at an angle α of about 45° with respect to the vertical axis z. According to a further embodiment, the table support structure 1.4 provides a tilted pivot axis PA1. For example, the table support structure 1.4 provides a pivot axis PA1 positioned tilted relative to a vertical axis z at an angle α of about 20° to 60°, for example 30° to 50°, in particular 45°. The vertical axis z refers to a parallel axis with respect to a vertical axis z of the vehicle 2. In particular, the tilted pivot axis PA1 is provided through the carrier structure 1.5.

(18) For a better understanding of subsequent descriptions a coordinate system is shown in the figures. The coordinate system comprises a longitudinal axis x, a transverse axis y and a vertical axis z in relation to the vehicle 2. In particular, the longitudinal axis x defines a longitudinal extending direction and length of the vehicle 2, the transverse axis y defines a transverse extension direction and width of the vehicle 2 and the vertical axis z defines a vertical extension direction and height of the vehicle 2.

(19) The table element 1.3 is coupled to one end 1.6.1 of the table support linkage 1.6. The other end 1.6.2 of the table support linkage 1.6 is coupled to the carrier structure 1.5. The table support linkage 1.6 comprises a connecting arm 1.6.3 which couples both ends 1.6.1 and 1.6.2. The ends 1.6.1 and 1.6.2 are shaped bulbous to house pivot mechanism components. The end 1.6.1 is disc or a plate shaped and mounted to the table element 1.3. The table element 1.3 may be pivotable mounted on the end 1.6.1. The end 1.6.2 is disc or plate shaped and rotatable mounted to the carrier structure 1.5. In particular, both ends 1.6.1, 1.6.2 are substantially circular shaped. The carrier structure 1.5 may be mounted to an armrest structure 1.2.9, for instance shown in FIG. 2 or such as the occupant support component 1.2.1 or to a backrest structure or the like. The carrier structure 1.5 comprises a mounting area 1.5.1 and a table connection area 1.5.2. The table connection area 1.5.2 is coupled to the one end 1.6.2 of the table support linkage 1.6. In particular, the table connection area 1.5.2 provides the tilted pivot axis PA1. For example, the table connection area 1.5.2 is positioned tilted at an angle α of about 20° to 60°, for example 30° to 50°, in particular 45° relative to the vertical axis z. The table connection area 1.5.2 comprises a circular recess for movable mounting the circular shaped end 1.6.2 of the table support linkage 1.6.

(20) The carrier structure 1.5 is a stationary structure. The table support linkage 1.6 is a movable structure mounted to the stationary structure. In particular, the table support linkage 1.6 is rotatable relative to the carrier structure 1.5. The table element 1.3 and the table support linkage 1.6 may be configured as one-piece or separate parts. Nevertheless, it is understood that moving of the table support linkage 1.6 leads to moving of the table element 1.3 relative to the carrier structure 1.5. The table support linkage 1.6 may be formed as an extension arm of the table element 1.3. For example, the table element 1.3 is moved together with the table support linkage 1.6 about the single pivot connection PC between the vertical stowed position P1 and the horizontal use position P2. The movement of the table support linkage 1.6 is a simple sweeping movement or motion. In particular, the single pivot connection PC allows a substantially arc-shaped or curved pivot motion PM1 or movement path about the tilted pivot axis PA1.

(21) For example, the table support linkage 1.6 and so as the table element 1.3 are moved about the tilted pivot axis PA1 in a substantially arc-shaped or arched manner between the vertical stowed position P1 and the horizontal use position P2. The sweeping movement or motion follows an arc-shaped or arched movement path away from an occupant when the table element 1.3 is stowed and substantially towards the occupant when the table element 1.3 is deployed.

(22) The table element 1.3 is moved manually or automatically between the vertical stowed position P1 and the horizontal use position P2. In particular, the movement of the tray table 1.3 can be powered or manually carried out.

(23) According to the shown embodiment, the table support structure 1.4 comprises a drive unit 1.7 for powered adjustment of the table element 1.3, in particular of the table support linkage 1.6. For example, the drive unit 1.7 is arranged within the carrier structure 1.5. The drive unit 1.7 is coupled to the table support linkage 1.6 in the table connection area 1.5.2. For instance, the drive unit 1.7 comprises a drivable spine or the like coupled to a corresponding drivable part fixedly mounted on the end 1.6.2 of the table support linkage 1.6. Due to operating or non-operating the drive unit 1.7, the table element 1.3, in particular the table support linkage 1.6, may be positioned in any position along the movement path of the table element 1.3, in particular about the predefined pivot axis PA1. The occupant may actuate the drive unit 1.7 via a button or a touch display. The button or the like or the touch display may be arranged in an armrest area or any other area next to the seat 1.2. After actuation the drive unit 1.7 automatically drives the table element 1.3 from the horizontal use position P2 to the vertical stowed position P1 or vice versa.

(24) Moreover, the table element 1.3 is pivotable coupled to the table support linkage 1.6, wherein the table element 1.3 is pivotable between at least two horizontal use positions P2, P3 as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. Thereby, an occupant may adjust the horizontal use position P2, P3 as required. Further, an egress and ingress may be provided to the occupant even when the table element 1.3 is not fully stowed. For instance, the table element 1.3 is pivotable about a vertical pivot axis PA2 provided through a pivot P arranged on or in the table support linkage 1.6. Therefore, the occupant may move the table element 1.3 from the horizontal use position P2 to the use position P3 or vice versa. For example, the pivot P is provided by a simple pivot mechanism or bearing mechanism. The pivot P allows a pivot motion PM2 of the table element 1.3 relative to the end 1.6.1 of the table support linkage 1.6 on a horizontal plane.

(25) For example, the table support linkage 1.6 comprises at least a clock spring mechanism 1.8. For example, the clock spring mechanism 1.8 is integrated in the end 1.6.1 of the table support linkage 1.6 which is coupled to the table element 1.3. The clock spring mechanism 1.8 and the pivot P are configured to allow the table element 1.3 to swing away if required and returning back to its original position. For example, the table element 1.3 can be easily rotated out of the way for a seated occupant in emergency situations, so the occupant can easily exit the seat 1.2. For example, the end 1.6.1 is configured to house pivot mechanism components, such as the clock spring mechanism 1.8, providing the pivot P for the table element 1.3. An occupant or passenger may push or pull the table element 1.3 about the pivot axis PA2 provided through the pivot P. For instance, the clock spring mechanism 1.8 and pivot P may be actuated by a motor in emergency cases.

(26) Furthermore, the table element 1.3 may be pivotable coupled to the table support linkage 1.6 such that the table element 1.3 is pivotable about a horizontal pivot axis PA3. Optionally or additionally, the table support linkage 1.6 may be divided such that the end 1.6.1 coupled to table element 1.3 is rotatable relative to the end 1.6.2 coupled to the carrier structure 1.5. For example, the table element comprises a display 1.3.1 for entertainment or controlling seat features, wherein the table element 1.3 can be positioned tipped or inclined at least towards the occupant by pivoting the table element 1.3 about the horizontal pivot axis PA3. For example, the table element 1.3 comprises an integrated display 1.3.1 arranged on an upper usage surface 1.3.2 of the table element 1.3. Optionally or additionally, the table element 1.3 can be positioned tipped or inclined at least towards the occupant by pivoting the end 1.6.1 mounted to the table element 1.3 relative to the end 1.6.2 mounted to the carrier structure 1.5.

(27) FIG. 2 shows a front view of an embodiment of a vehicle seat 1.2 comprising at least a seat pan 1.2.8, a backrest 1.2.6 and a tray table device 1.1.

(28) The tray table device 1.1 is mounted to the vehicle seat 1.2, for instance, at one side of the vehicle seat 1.2. In particular, in the vertical stowed position P1 of the table element 1.3, the table element 1.3 is positioned vertically at the side of the seat 1.2. The table support structure 1.4 is arranged in an area of the backrest 1.2.6. The table support structure 1.4 is mounted to a lateral side 1.2.6.1 of the backrest 1.2.6. As exemplary shown, the table support structure 1.4 is mounted to an armrest structure 1.2.9 arranged adjacent the backrest 1.2.6.

(29) In the vertical stowed position P1 of the table element 1.3 and so as the table support linkage 1.6, the table element 1.3 and the table support linkage 1.6 are arranged next to the lateral side 1.2.6.1 of the backrest 1.2.6. In particular, the end 1.6.1 of the table support linkage 1.6 and the connecting arm 1.6.3 are arranged adjacent the lateral side 1.2.6.1. In the shown embodiment, the table element 1.3 and the table support linkage 1.6 are stowed on a lateral side 1.2.8.1 of the seat pan 1.2.8. In the horizontal use position P2, P3, the table element 1.3 and the table support linkage 1.6 are arranged above the seat pan 1.2.8, wherein the table element 1.3 is positioned substantially parallel to the seat pan 1.2.8. In particular, the end 1.6.1 of the table support linkage 1.6 and the connecting arm 1.6.3 are arranged above the seat pan 1.2.8. For example, the table support linkage 1.6 is substantially L-shaped.

(30) FIG. 3 shows a perspective view and FIG. 4 shows a front view of the tray table device 1.1 arranged on one side of the vehicle seat 1.2.

(31) FIG. 5 shows a continuous movement of the tray table element 1.3. The tray table element 1.3 is movable in an arc-shaped or arched manner about the pivot axis PA1 (shown in FIG. 1) by the pivot connection PC.

(32) Moreover, the tray table element 1.3 is translated from the vertical stowed position P1 to the horizontal use position P2 in one single movement. The movement of the tray table element 1.3 can be powered or manually carried out. The tray table element 1.3 provides a work surface for eating and working for the occupant while in travel. The movement of the tray table element 1.3 is a simple sweeping movement or motion. The tray table device 1.1 is mounted to the vehicle seat 1.2, for instance, at one side of the vehicle seat 1.2. In particular, in the stowed position P1 of the tray table element 1.3, the tray table element 1.3 is positioned substantially vertically adjacent the seat 1.2. That means that the table element 1.3 is substantially arranged on a vertical plane next to the vehicle seat 1.2.

(33) FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray table element 1.3 of the tray table device 1.1.

(34) FIG. 7 shows a sectional view of an embodiment of the tray table element 1.3 of a tray table device 1.1 comprising a clock spring mechanism 1.8.

(35) FIG. 8 shows a sectional top view of an embodiment of an uncovered table support structure 1.4 of the tray table device 1.1 comprising a drive unit 1.7 for powered adjustment of the table support linkage 1.6 about the pivot axis PA1. The table support linkage 1.6 operatively connects the table element 1.3 and the table support structure 1.4 allowing the table element 1.3 to move about the pivot axis PA1 by the single pivot connection PC.

(36) The table support linkage 1.6 comprises a first linkage member 1.6.4 located at or toward the carrier structure 1.5. The first linkage member 1.6.4 is e.g. part of a gear unit of the drive unit 1.7 located at the carrier structure 1.5.

(37) The table support linkage 1.6 further comprises a second linkage member 1.6.5 located at or toward the table element 1.3. The second linkage member 1.6.5 is e.g. part of a gear unit of the connecting arm 1.6.3 located at the table element 1.3.

(38) In particular, to change from the vertical stowed position P1 to e.g. the horizontal use position P2 the table element 1.3 in the vertical stowed position P1 is pivoted, via the first linkage element 1.6.4 and the second linkage element 1.6.5, partially upward and away from the seat pan 1.2.8.

(39) The pivoting movement of the table element 1.3 may be supported by the drive unit 1.7. Alternatively or additionally, the table element 1.3 may be manually pivoted between the vertical stowed position P1 and the horizontal use position P2.

(40) FIGS. 9 and 10 show perspective views of an embodiment of the tray table device 1.1, wherein FIG. 9 shows the tray table element 1.3 in the horizontal use position P2 and FIG. 10 shows the tray table element 1.3 in a rotated, swung away use position P3 of the tray table element 1.3 for more comfort for larger occupants and also serving as a safety position in emergency situations.

(41) FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a tray table device 1.1 for a vehicle seat 1.2.

(42) The tray table device 1.1 comprises a tray table element 1.3 and a table support structure 1.4 connected to the tray table element 1.3. A table support structure 1.4 comprises a carrier structure 1.5 and a table support linkage 1.6 (not visible), wherein the carrier structure 1.5 and the table support linkage 1.6 are connected to each other via a single pivot connection PC (not visible). The tray table element 1.3 is continuously movable about the single pivot connection PC between a vertical stowed position P1 and at least one horizontal use position P2.

(43) The vehicle seat 1.2 comprises an occupant support component 1.2.1 with at least a support element 1.2.2 comprising at least an L-shaped upper portion 1.2.3 and a U-shaped side portion 1.2.4. The L-shaped upper portion 1.2.3 is configured to be arranged on an upper surface 1.2.5 of a backrest 1.2.6 and the U-shaped side portion 1.2.4 is configured to be used as an armrest and which comprises a number of controllable devices 1.2.7. The controllable devices 1.2.7 are, for instance, a so-called HMI device for controlling the moving of the tray table element 1.3, for seat control, venting ducts or heating devices and ambient/information LED-lighting devices. The controllable devices 1.2.7 are positioned in an ideal location of an occupant of all sizes to access within reach.

(44) FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a vehicle 2 comprising a seat arrangement 3 having a plurality of seat assemblies 3.1 to 3.n arranged in a row R1, e.g. a rear row. The vehicle 2 is for example an autonomous driving vehicle configured to autonomously pick up and transport occupants. A vehicle interior 4 can be designed as a passenger compartment in more economy way, comfortable way or luxury way for the occupants or as a loading or storage compartment vehicle.

(45) FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a vehicle interior 4 having at least two rows R1, R2, e.g. a rear row and a front row, of a plurality of seat assemblies 3.1 to 3.6 of seats 1.2 to 1.2″″′. Each of the rows R1 and R2 comprises three seat assemblies 3.1 to 3.3 and 3.4 to 3.6 wherein the seat assemblies 3.1 to 3.3 and 3.4 to 3.6 of the rows R1 and R2 are facing each other.

LIST OF REFERENCES

(46) 1.1 tray table device 1.2 to 1.2″″′ seat 1.2.1 occupant support component 1.2.2 support element 1.2.3 portion, in particular L-shaped 1.2.4 portion, in particular U-shaped 1.2.5 upper surface 1.2.6 backrest 1.2.6.1 lateral side 1.2.7 controllable device 1.2.8 seat pan 1.2.8.1 lateral side 1.2.8.2 front side 1.2.9 armrest structure 1.3 table element 1.3.1 display 1.3.2 upper usage surface 1.4 table support structure 1.5 carrier structure 1.5.1 mounting area 1.5.2 table connection area 1.6 table support linkage 1.6.1, 1.6.2 end 1.6.3 connecting arm 1.6.4 first linkage member 1.6.5 second linkage member 1.7 drive unit 1.8 clock spring mechanism 2 vehicle 3 seat arrangement 3.1 to 3.n seat assemblies 4 interior P pivot PA1 to PA3 pivot axis PC pivot connection PM1, PM2 pivot motion P1 stowed position P2, P3 use position R1, R2 row α angle x longitudinal axis y transverse axis z vertical axis