DE102007057016A1 - Vehicle seat arrangement for motor vehicle, has inflatable element that is inflated in response to control signal, effects impulse on vehicle passenger and moves passenger away from collision section of vehicle that collides with object - Google Patents

Abstract

The arrangement has an inflatable element (3) arranged on a vehicle seat and protecting a vehicle passenger (2) found on the seat. An inflating unit is provided for inflating the inflatable element depending on a control signal that signals an impending collision of a motor vehicle with an object. The inflatable element is designed and arranged such that the inflatable element is inflated in response to the control signal, effects an impulse on the vehicle passenger and moves the vehicle passenger away from a collision section of the vehicle that collides with the object. An independent claim is also included for a method for protecting a vehicle passenger.

Description

The The invention relates to a vehicle seat assembly for a motor vehicle and a Protective method a vehicle occupant.

It is known, an airbag module in a vehicle seat of a motor vehicle to integrate, which unfolds a gas bag in a collision of the vehicle, which is intended to dampen an impact of the vehicle occupant on vehicle structures. In particular, in a side impact is the distance of the vehicle occupant however, to the point of impact short, so often no satisfactory protective effect can be achieved.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is a vehicle seat assembly for a vehicle and a method for protecting a vehicle occupant specify with which an improved protection of the vehicle occupant can be achieved in a collision of the vehicle.

This The problem arises from the vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, the vehicle seat assembly according to claim 40 and by the method according to claim 44 solved. Advantageous developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

• – einem Fahrzeugsitz;
• – mindestens einem an dem Fahrzeugsitz angeordnetenaufblasbaren Element;
• – Mitteln zum Aufblasen des aufblasbaren Elementes, die
• – das aufblasbare Element in Abhängigkeit von einem Steuersignal, das eine sich anbahnende Kollision des Kraftfahrzeuges mit einem Objekt signalisiert, aufblasen, wobei
• – das aufblasbare Element derart ausgebildet und angeordnet ist, dass es, während es als Reaktion auf das Steuersignal aufgeblasen wird, auf einen in dem Fahrzeugsitz befindlichen Fahrzeuginsassen einen Impuls ausübt, der den Fahrzeuginsassen von einem Kollisionsabschnitt des Fahrzeuges, der mit dem Objekt kollidieren wird, weg bewegt.

Thereafter, a vehicle seat assembly is provided for a motor vehicle, with

• A vehicle seat;
• At least one inflatable element disposed on the vehicle seat;
• - means for inflating the inflatable element, the
• - Inflate the inflatable element in response to a control signal, which signals an imminent collision of the motor vehicle with an object, wherein
• The inflatable element is designed and arranged such that, while it is inflated in response to the control signal, it exerts a pulse on a vehicle occupant in the vehicle seat, which impulse the vehicle occupant from a collision section of the vehicle which will collide with the object; moved away.

The Invention allows an inflation of the inflatable element and thus a moving away of the Vehicle occupants from the collision point in particular as a reaction on a pre-crash signal, d. H. before the vehicle with the object indeed collided. The vehicle occupant is blown by the inflating inflatable element from its sitting position of the collision section of the vehicle (collision point) moves away, creating an additional Distance generated between the vehicle occupant and the collision point becomes. This additional Distance represents an additional Absorption path, thereby reducing the consequences of the collision for the vehicle occupants be mitigated. This particular, if the additional Distance from a gas bag is used, which is at the actual Occurrence of the collision unfolded into the generated distance and thus an additional one Has effective thickness, which increases the protective effect of the gas bag. In addition, can by moving away the vehicle occupant the relative speed between him and the result of the collision in the vehicle interior be reduced intruding vehicle structure.

It is mentioned, that, of course, too a plurality of inflatable elements may be present in the vehicle seat can. If an accident situation occurs, the most suitable inflatable element becomes or inflated several suitable inflatable elements. A suitable one Inflatable element is an element that is so in relation to the vehicle occupant is arranged so that it is the vehicle occupants as efficiently as possible away from the scene of the accident can move, d. H. preferably fast and far. By the impulse of inflating inflated ble Element is indeed the occupant relative to the vehicle (and relatively moved to sections of the vehicle seat), but not the Vehicle seat itself.

The Determining a suitable element can in particular of a Pre-crash system to be made. However, the inflation needs the inflatable element (or the plurality of inflatable elements) not necessarily as part of a pre-crash action but can also be done after the collision of the Vehicle has already begun, for example, to other protections (eg side airbags) to assist the vehicle.

In In a variant of the invention, it is provided that by the impulse, which is exerted by the inflatable element on the vehicle occupant, essentially just a section of the body of the vehicle occupant is moved, d. H. not his entire body. To the Example is only the upper body the vehicle occupant or only a portion of the upper body (for Example, the thorax region) of the vehicle occupant to be moved. The vehicle occupant For example, it essentially stays on the seat of the Vehicle seat while sitting the upper body or part of the upper body is moved away from the scene of the accident, the upper body to Example a "tilting movement" from the scene of the accident executes away.

To transmit the pulse from the For example, when the inflatable element is inflated, it may change the shape of the vehicle seat, with the impulse being applied to the vehicle occupant by the change in shape of the seat (or portions of the seat).

Especially the inflatable element can be the vehicle occupants to the vehicle center when the collision section of the vehicle (that is, the section of the vehicle that will collide with an object or already collides) the closest to the vehicle seat vehicle longitudinal side includes ("Near-Side-Sideimpact"). Conversely, the inflatable element to the vehicle occupant to the vehicle seat nearest Vehicle longitudinal side to move when the collision section the vehicle longitudinal side includes, which is opposite to the vehicle seat opposite vehicle longitudinal side ( "Far-Side Side Impact").

Generally can the inflatable element or the plurality of inflatable elements the vehicle occupants in a for him cheaper Bring crash position. In this case, the vehicle occupant, for example from an unusual one Sitting position (OOP situation) in a usual seat position for the vehicle seat to be moved; this means the vehicle occupant is returned from an OOP sitting posture to a "normal" seating position and moved away from the collision section of the vehicle.

In a development of the vehicle seat assembly according to the invention has the vehicle seat has a middle part and at least one side cheek, which limits the middle part laterally. The inflatable element is arranged in such a way in the side cheek that by inflating the inflatable element changes the shape of the side cheek, whereby the impulse is exerted on the vehicle occupants. In particular, of course, too several inflatable elements in one or two opposite Side cheeks of the vehicle seat may be present.

The Side cheek or the side cheeks z. B. a middle part of a Limit seat back so that the inflatable element in the area of the upper body the vehicle occupant is arranged. It may, however, additionally or Alternatively be provided that the middle part of the seat of the Vehicle seat is limited by side cheeks and at least one inflatable element also includes the lower body area of the vehicle occupant away from the collision section of the vehicle to be able to move.

The Means for inflating the inflatable element, for example be integrated in the vehicle seat. In particular, the funds designed to inflate and with respect to the inflatable element arranged, the inflatable element in an impending collision inflate so fast that the moving away of the vehicle occupant already before the actual Collision (that is, the touch of the vehicle with the object) begins. For example, moving away can be about 25 ms to 500 ms before the start of the actual collision.

In addition, the Means for inflating trained and provided, the inflatable element also independent to be able to inflate the control signal indicative of a collision Vehicle seat to adapt to the contours of the vehicle occupants, that is, to next the protective function an additional Comfort function to realize.

The Means for inflating the inflatable element can also have at least one pressure reservoir which is designed and provided impulsively release gas into the inflatable element. The pressure reservoir For example, it can be integrated into the vehicle seat or outside be arranged of the vehicle seat and by a pressurized Gas (or, for example, with LPG) filled recording be realized.

In Another embodiment of the invention provides that at least an integrated into the vehicle seat pressure reservoir for inflating the inflatable element (or inflatable elements) and at least a z. Outside the vehicle seat arranged pressure accumulator for filling the Pressure reservoir is present. The outside of the vehicle seat (centrally in the vehicle) arranged accumulator in turn can for Example with a pressure generating device, for example in shape a compressor, be connected and through this with about compressed air filled become. In another variant, a local (ie in the seat integrated) pressure reservoir directly by means of a pressure generating device filled. Furthermore, it is also possible that only a pressure generating device outside the vehicle seat is provided, with which the inflatable element via a connecting line connected, d. H. it is filled directly without a pressure reservoir is interposed in the vehicle seat.

The variant of the invention, according to which a (local or central) pressure reservoir is provided for filling the inflatable element, is particularly suitable for repeatedly filling the inflatable element. As an alternative to a pressure reservoir z. For example, a gas generator based on pyrotechnic generation of gas may be used to inflate the inflatable element. Of course, other types of Gas generators are used, for. B. hybrid or cold gas generators. With a gas generator, however, generally only a single filling of the inflatable element is possible.

Between the pressure reservoir for inflating the inflatable element and The inflatable element is a flow channel with the largest possible cross section provided to trigger a case preferably huge Gas flow to the inflatable element and thus a possible fast filling of the to allow inflatable element. additionally can between the pressure accumulator and the inflatable element be arranged quickly switching valve, in response to the control signal is opened will and the flow channel releases.

Especially can be located between the local pressure reservoir, which is in the vehicle seat is integrated, and the inflatable element, a first flow channel and between the central accumulator located outside the vehicle seat is arranged, and the local Druckre reservoir, a second flow channel consist. The flow cross section of second flow channel is chosen smaller than the flow cross-section in a variant of the invention of the first flow channel. For example, there may be a structure that defines the flow area the second flow channel sections reduced, z. B. an aperture between the central pressure accumulator and the pressure reservoir located locally in the vehicle seat. hereby let yourself especially an overload one for filling Avoid using the accumulator compressor. Instead of a central pressure accumulator, the second flow channel and a pressure generating device (eg compressor) to the local pressure reservoir.

In another embodiment of the invention are adjusting (z. B. in the form of a control valve) provided with the means for Inflate the inflatable element together and interact that one filling speed, with which the inflatable element is inflated, is adjustable. Especially can the adjustment means allow a stepless adjustment. Possible However, it is also that by means of the adjustment means a first and a second filling speed is adjustable, the first filling speed of the amount is bigger as the second filling speed (two-step adjustment). This allows for the choice of the larger filling speed fast filling of the inflatable element in an accident situation and choice the smaller filling speed a filling of the inflatable element for comfort purposes.

Instead of the two-stage adjustment can Naturally generally a multi-level adjustment available. The Setting means have z. B. a control valve whose cross section is adjustable. In another example, there are at least two Valves provided with different cross-section, with Two valves already realized three different filling speeds can be (Filling via a the two valves or over both valves together).

Especially can over the adjusting means an adjustment of the filling speed (and / or the filling pressure) dependent on from the estimated severity of the collision. For example can for one appraisal the expected accident severity data of a pre-crash sensor (z. B. a radar device) are used.

In Another embodiment of the invention is the inflatable element reversibly formed, that is, it resumes its condition after inflation and deflation (its shape and position) before inflation. For this, the Inflatable element may be formed of a material that has a sufficient inherent elasticity has, so that the inflatable element after inflation and Empty his original again Form forms. examples for such material is rubber or siliconized (i.e. Silicone coated) airbag fabric.

The Inflatable element may also have a substantially gas-tight running inflatable chamber exhibit. To produce such a sealed chamber comes to Example, a conventional airbag fabric in question, such. B. woven nylon, which is sealed by siliconizing. At this point will noted that the inflatable element is not just a but may also have multiple inflatable chambers, depending on Need also be inflatable with different pressures (and not all gas-tight have to be). in principle it is also possible to use an inflatable element with a chamber, which are not gas-tight is. For example, a common one Airbag, for Airbag restraint systems used, with leaks being used for example in the area of seams be accepted.

As already explained above, the vehicle seat arrangement can have a plurality of inflatable elements integrated in the vehicle seat. In particular, there may be two (or even more than two) inflatable elements arranged (eg, adjacent to each other) that each may exert a substantially equal (at least rectified) impulse on the vehicle occupant. The pressure exerted by the inflatable elements on the vehicle occupants during inflation Impulses add up approximately. For example, the inflatable elements may each be formed from a sheet blank (eg, two sheets of material joined together along its circumference) and arranged such that one inflatable element substantially completely overlaps the other. The inflatable elements are thus arranged stacked one above the other in this variant.

Furthermore For example, inflation of the inflatable element may be adaptive done, that is on body characteristics of the Be adapted to vehicle occupants. For this purpose, sensors z. Tie Vehicle seat may be integrated, about body weight or width determine the vehicle occupant.

Farther includes the invention in addition to the use of the inflatable element as a protection system - resp. additionally as a comfort element for adjusting the shape of the vehicle seat to the body contours of the vehicle occupant - the Inflating the inflatable element to create a physical Perceptible warning to the vehicle occupants. At a threatening Accident or general danger situation, the inflatable element be inflated so that the vehicle occupant (light) is triggered, to alert him to the danger situation.

In Another variant of the invention is the inflatable element at least partially covered by a cover, wherein the Cover z. B. is formed by a reference of the vehicle seat. The vehicle seat assembly may further include means (eg a spring or an elastic band) for exerting a restoring force on the cover have in the region of the inflatable element, so that the cover the Tendency has after inflating and reloading the inflatable Elementes in their condition before inflating the inflatable element to return. The filling and emptying the inflatable element can thus be reversible, z. For example the case that the inflatable element is activated for comfort purposes or if the inflatable element is inflated due to a pre-crash signal but the accident does not occur.

Especially The cover in the area of the inflatable element can be so elastic be formed so that they inflate the inflatable Element's stretch and has the tendency, after a re-empty return the inflatable element to its original state. For example, the cover is made of an elastic textile Formed tissue that is so stretchable that the cover when Inflation of the inflatable element is not damaged.

In In a further development, the vehicle seat has a seat upholstery, which is at least partially covered by a seat cover and the inflatable element at least in sections between the seat upholstery and the seat cover is arranged, d. H. the seat cover forms with a section of the cover off. For the inflatable element, of course, come too other installation positions in question, eg. B. on an inside (the facing away from the seat cover) of the upholstery. The inflatable element can not be arranged so that when inflated emerges from the seat cover.

In a further embodiment the inflatable element extends at least in sections in a wrapper, at least in the deflated condition of the inflatable element with a section follows the contours of the vehicle seat, z. B. on an outside of the vehicle seat is applied. Removed upon deployment of the inflatable element the section from the vehicle seat.

In a variant has the enclosure Means up, over the one section of the serving so releasable before inflation connected to the vehicle seat is that it unfolds in the inflatable element dissolves. The funds include z. B. structures for a Velcro or snap closure. Furthermore can Means that the serving after unfolding and re-emptying return the inflatable element to its original position, z. B. in the form of an elastic element.

It It should be noted that the control signal is not limited to one Pre-crash sensor technology can be generated, but as a control signal z. B. also a signal of an ESC (Electronic Stability Control) unit ("ESP unit") can. Alternatively, the control signal may also be provided by a crash sensor, the one actually registered accident, generated, so that the inflatable Element not before the accident, but only when the accident occurs is activated.

One Pre-crash control signal is z. 0-1000 ms before the expected Accident generated. In particular, the inflatable element or more inflatable elements together a movement of the vehicle occupant at a rate of 0.1-1.5 m / s. The inflatable element can z. B. inflated with an internal pressure between 5 and 500 kPa become. It is understood that these values are only exemplary and the invention of course also includes other variants, for. B. lower or higher internal pressures of the inflatable Element.

Furthermore, the invention relates in another aspect a vehicle seat assembly with egg An inflatable element and means for damping an impact of a vehicle occupant located in the vehicle seat on the inflatable element in the inflated state. The means thus allow absorption of impact energy to reduce the risk of injury to the vehicle occupant upon impact with the inflatable inflatable element. In particular, such an inflatable element may be present in addition to or as an alternative to a side airbag which is arranged between the vehicle seat and a vehicle longitudinal side.

In In one variant, the means comprise at least one vent opening (venthole) via which gas flows can flow out of the inflatable element. In particular, can the discharge opening in the form a (eg switchable) valve be realized, the z. B. at Achieving a predetermined internal pressure in the inflatable element or time-dependent opens and open can stay or close after a certain time, by maintaining a minimum internal pressure in the inflatable element to obtain.

• – Bereitstellen eines Fahrzeugsitzes mit mindestens einem an dem Fahrzeugsitz angeordneten aufblasbaren Element;
• – Erzeugen eines Steuersignals, das eine sich anbahnende Kollision des Kraftfahrzeuges mit einem Objekt signalisiert;
• – Aufblasen des aufblasbaren Elementes in Abhängigkeit von dem Steuersignal, wobei
• – das aufblasbare Element, während es als Reaktion auf das Steuersignal aufgeblasen wird, auf einen in dem Fahrzeugsitz befindlichen Fahrzeuginsassen einen Impuls ausübt, der den Fahrzeuginsassen von einem Kollisionsabschnitt des Fahrzeuges, der mit dem Objekt kollidieren wird, weg bewegt.

In addition, the invention relates to a method for protecting a vehicle occupant with the steps:

• - Providing a vehicle seat with at least one arranged on the vehicle seat inflatable element;
• - Generating a control signal that signals an impending collision of the motor vehicle with an object;
• - Inflating the inflatable element in response to the control signal, wherein
• The inflatable element, while being inflated in response to the control signal, impulses a vehicle occupant in the vehicle seat which moves the vehicle occupant away from a collision section of the vehicle which will collide with the object.

For example For example, the inflatable element is only partially responsive to the control signal be inflated, what for certain accident situations more favorable can be. The inflatable element is in this variant z. B. not so filled, that it allows the vehicle occupants as possible far away, but in such a way that it takes him (eg from an oop position) into a central position relative to the vehicle seat. This can be particularly advantageous in a spin of the vehicle be, since the collision side is difficult to predict. When Control signal can z. B. a signal from an ESC unit can be used.

• – zu einem ersten Zeitpunkt ein erstes Steuersignal und zu einem zweiten Zeitpunkt ein zweites Steuersignal erzeugt, wobei
• – das aufblasbare Element auf das erste Steuersignal mit einer ersten Befüllgeschwindigkeit befüllt und auf das zweite Steuersignal mit einer zweiten Befüllgeschwindigkeit befüllt wird, die verschieden von der ersten Befüllgeschwindigkeit ist.

In another development of the procedure will

• - Generates a first control signal at a first time and at a second time a second control signal, wherein
• - The inflatable element is filled to the first control signal at a first filling speed and is filled to the second control signal at a second filling speed, which is different from the first filling speed.

Especially is the second filling speed is larger as the first, d. H. the inflatable element is initially with a relatively small speed (or volume flow) be filled and in a later Phase with a higher Speed. This may be useful because the prediction of pre-crash units increases, the closer in time to the expected accident disengaged. Thus, in a relatively early Phase of the detection of a probable accident, z. B. about 300 ms before the accident, the inflatable element is already filled so slowly, that the driver is not irritated. For example, a dangerous situation in well visible terrain (eg by radar) long before a possible accident registered become, leading to a pre-filling the inflatable element can be used.

To a later one Time (eg about 100 ms before the calculated accident time) can the filling speed then increased (eg to a maximum value) when entering accident is likely and / or more accurate Information on the expected severity of accidents is available. The different ones Befüllgeschwindkeiten can, as mentioned above, z. B. over a continuously variable valve or a plurality of valves different cross-section can be realized.

Also can emerge at the second time that the accident even will not occur or with lesser severity, so that the filling stopped or at a slower speed.

In another embodiment of the method, the vehicle seat two opposite ones Inflatable elements, where only the prospective collision point inflated facing inflatable element. Should that be to the collision point farther inflatable element in inflated State, it can be emptied while the other element is inflated becomes. A pushing away of the vehicle occupant is thus not through an inflated element facing away from the collision point Side hindered.

In another variant, the vehicle seat has a plurality in the same direction we kender inflatable elements, wherein inflated on the control signal all of these inflatable elements (protective function). Alternatively, only one or only a few of these inflatable elements are inflated (eg when using the inflatable elements for comfort purposes). The inflatable elements can z. B. arranged so that they extend between a seat upholstery and a vehicle occupant located on the seat on each other.

The Invention will be described below with reference to exemplary embodiments with reference closer to the figures explained. Show it:

1a to 1c a first embodiment of the vehicle seat assembly according to the invention;

2 the vehicle seat assembly of 1a to 1c after inflation of an inflatable element;

3 an arrangement for inflating an inflatable element;

4 schematically a vehicle seat assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention in a view from above;

5 a detail of a vehicle seat assembly according to a third embodiment of the invention;

6 a detail of a vehicle seat assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

7 the arrangement of 6 with inflatable elements in inflated state;

8th schematically a section through a vehicle seat according to the invention.

1a shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a backrest 1 a vehicle seat according to a variant of the vehicle seat assembly according to the invention. 1b and 1c show a front and a side view of the backrest 1 ,

On the vehicle seat (not completely shown) is a vehicle occupant 2 (not shown in the 1b and 1c ), with his back to the backrest 1 inspired. The backrest 1 has a middle part 11 on, the side of sidewalls 12 is limited, in 1a only about half of the backrest 1 and thus only one side cheek is shown. 1b it can be seen that the middle part 11 on both sides by side cheeks 12 is limited. The side cheeks 12 run along one side 21 of the vehicle occupant 2 so that this through the side cheeks 12 is supported laterally.

In the side cheeks 12 each is an inflatable element 3 integrated. The inflatable elements 3 each have an inflatable chamber 31 which can be filled with a gas (eg compressed air). By inflating one of the inflatable elements 3 can be the shape of the sidewall 12 changed and on the vehicle occupants 2 an impulse to be exercised. The inflation of the inflatable elements takes place in response to a control signal z. B. a pre-crash system that signals a threat of collision of the vehicle. The inflatable element 3 is such and related to the vehicle occupant 2 arranged so that its upper body is moved away from the original position by the impulse which the inflatable element exerts on it as it is inflated in response to the control signal.

This is the one of the two inflatable elements 3 inflated, which exerts an impulse on the vehicle occupant, pointing away from a collision section of the vehicle which will collide with an object, ie, moving the vehicle occupant at least partially (with the upper body) away from the collision section. So z. B. in a side accident, the inflatable element of that side wall are activated, which faces the likely affected by the collision vehicle longitudinal side to move the vehicle occupant away from the affected side of the vehicle.

Moving away the vehicle occupant 2 is in 2 shown, after which the vehicle occupant 2 is moved from its original position (dashed line) to a new position (solid line) along a direction C. In this example, the upper body of the vehicle occupant is moved (tilted) away from the scene of the accident, while the vehicle occupant with his lower body substantially retains its original seating position. However, it can also be provided that at least one additional inflatable element is arranged in a seat surface of the vehicle seat in order to shift the vehicle occupant also with its lower area (pelvic area), so that the vehicle occupant is moved overall.

The inflatable element 3 is on an inside 41 a seat upholstery 4 (in turn, towards the vehicle occupant with a seat cover 5 covered) is arranged so that it is also within the side cheek after inflation 12 , d. h extends within the vehicle seat. By inflating the inflatable element 3 will the shape of the Be tenwange 12 (especially the padding 4 ), causing the impulse to the vehicle occupants 2 is exercised.

Moving the vehicle occupant away from the collision point creates an additional absorption path between the collision point and the vehicle occupant, which mitigates the accident effect on the vehicle occupants. In addition, the additionally generated distance can be used by an additionally developing gas bag (eg side airbag) during the collision, so that an additional airbag effective thickness results. As in 1a and 2 shown is in the sidewall 12 next to the inflatable element 3 a side airbag module 6 arranged, which has a gas bag, which is inflated at the onset of the collision and extending between the vehicle occupant and a vehicle longitudinal side. The side airbag module 6 is a conventional gas bag module, which contains a gas generator for inflating the gas bag in addition to the gas bag.

To inflate is the inflatable element 3 with inflation means (not shown) connected to the vehicle seat, ie for example the backrest 1 , can be integrated or can also be located outside the vehicle seat.

The side cheeks 12 moreover each have support structures 7 on top of the inflatable element 3 support. The support structures 7 are each with a section 75 with a frame 8th the seat back 1 connected. In addition, the support structures each form 7 a section 71 out, along a vehicle occupant 2 (or a leaning page 13 the backrest 1 ) facing away 32 of the inflatable element 3 extends. Through the support section 71 it is achieved that the inflatable element 3 while inflating on the vehicle occupants 2 too enlarged and not away from him, so that on the vehicle occupants the greatest possible impulse is exerted and after inflation as large a distance as possible between the vehicle occupant and the collision point exists.

It It should be noted that in a sidewall of course, too several inflatable elements can be arranged. For example, several arranged inflatable elements with different orientations so that the inflatable elements are inflated would extend in different directions, whichever choice of the element to be inflated, moving the vehicle occupant possible in different directions is. The choice of which inflatable elements or which group to be inflated by elements takes place in particular in dependence from the location of the collision point. In addition, elements can be activated. which bring the vehicle occupants from an OOP position towards a "normal" seating position.

Further It should be noted that a vehicle seat of a vehicle seat assembly according to the invention not necessarily be symmetrical, but z. B. only in a side wall an inflatable element or means for Inflation has.

3 schematically shows an apparatus for inflating (inflating) an inflatable element 3 for a vehicle seat assembly according to the invention (not shown). The device has means for inflating the inflatable element 3 auf, which is a local, to be integrated into a vehicle seat of the vehicle seat assembly pressure reservoir 9 include. The pressure reservoir 9 is a substantially gas-tight executed container which can be filled with a gas, in particular with compressed air, or with a liquefied gas and with the inflatable element 3 via a flow channel 10 is in flow communication.

The flow channel 10 has a large cross-section and can by means of a quick switching valve 111 in response to a control signal (eg, a pre-crash sensor) are released suddenly, so that from the pressure reservoir 9 pulsed gas can be discharged into the inflatable element and this can thus be filled suddenly. In particular, the flow channel 10 and the valve 111 designed so that of the pressure reservoir 9 in the inflatable element 3 inflowing gas flow is large enough to inflate the inflatable element before a collision detected by a pre-crash system actually occurs.

For filling the local pressure accumulator 9 is a central, to be arranged outside the vehicle seat pressure accumulator 90 provided, via a further flow channel 100 with the local pressure accumulator 9 is in flow communication. The central accumulator 90 is from a likewise to be arranged outside the vehicle seat compressor 95 (Pressure generating device) fed, which generates compressed air and a flow channel 110 in the central accumulator 90 passes. The central accumulator 90 For example, it may also be designed to provide a plurality of local pressure accumulators, the z. B. can be arranged in different vehicle seats to supply. The division into a local (vehicle seat) and a central area is in 3 indicated by a dashed line.

The schematic representation of 4 shows a vehicle seat from above, a seat 14 and a backrest 1 with a middle part 11 that of two opposite side cheeks 12 is limited.

On each of the side cheeks 12 are each two inflatable elements 3a . 3b arranged, via which an impulse on a seated vehicle occupant (not shown) can be exercised. The inflatable elements 3a . 3b are on one side of the sidewalls 3 arranged, which faces a vehicle occupant on the seat, so that they overlap one another between the side cheek 3 and the vehicle occupant. The inflated elements of the right side cheek are inflated while the inflatable elements of the left side cheek are in the deflated state.

The inflatable elements can also be below a cover 5 be arranged of the vehicle seat, ie they are located between the seat cover 4 and a seat core, z. B. a padding. In particular, the two inflatable elements 3a . 3b be designed and arranged so that they are also in the inflated state below the seat cover 5 extend, ie are covered by this.

5 relates to a further variant of the vehicle seat assembly according to the invention. As in the previous figures has a backrest 1 a middle section 11 on, that of side cheeks 12 of which in 5 only one is shown, is bounded laterally. The backrest 1 also has a material core in the form of a padding 4 on, which consistently has a core of both the middle part 11 as well as the side cheeks 12 forms. Inside the side wall 12 is additionally a carrier element 122 available to stabilize the side cheek. The upholstery is of a seat cover 5 covered.

In the side wall 12 are between the upholstery 4 and the reference 5 two inflatable elements 3a . 3b partially overlapping, the reference 5 in the field of inflatable elements 3a . 3b represents a cover for this. The inflatable elements 3a . 3b each extend with a section in an area 121 the side wall 12 however, facing a vehicle occupant seated on the seat are along the padding 4 staggered to each other.

The inflatable elements 3a . 3b are each with one end 34a . 34b over tapes 33 at a fixing portion in the form of a fulcrum 190 rotatably fixed so that they both unfold around the fulcrum 190 around, ie approximately on a circular path, to move on the vehicle occupants to be protected. Due to the staggered arrangement of the inflatable elements 3a . 3b is the closer to be protected vehicle occupant inflatable element 3b with a portion - viewed in the vehicle forward direction - in front of the inner inflatable element 3a and exerts an impulse, in particular on the thorax region of the vehicle occupant.

The vehicle seat also has means for applying a restoring force to the cover 5 in the form of a in the side wall 12 arranged spring 85 on. The feather 85 is with an end section 51 of the cover 5 connected so that they on the one hand stretching the cover 5 allows if the (or one of) inflatable elements 3a . 3b unfold, so the reference 5 through the deploying inflatable elements 3a . 3b not destroyed. On the other hand, the spring exercises 85 a restoring force on the (by the inflated elements 3a . 3b stretched) reference 5 so that this when emptying the inflatable elements 3a . 3b returns to its original position, that is, then essentially back to the core material 4 is applied.

6 relates to a further variant of the invention, wherein the structure of the seat structure similar to 5 is. Here are the inflatable elements 3a . 3b but in separate, bag-like sheaths 55a . 55b Surrounded with the cover 5 connected or integrally formed with it. An end 551 the serving 55b the outer inflatable element 3b that faces a vehicle occupant (not shown) on the seat is on the side bolster 12 via fastening means in the form of a magnetic connection 57 detachable (and resealable) set. It is understood that other types of fasteners may be used, e.g. B. a Velcro. In another variant, the sheaths 55a . 55b no means for fixing to the vehicle seat, but are designed so that they follow the shape of the vehicle seat, at least in sections, without being connected to it.

As in 5 are the inflatable elements over their ends 34a . 34b and ribbons 33 at a pivot point 190 rotatably mounted. When inflating the inflatable elements 3a . 3b the end dissolves 551 the outer cladding 55b so that the elements 3a . 3b around the fulcrum 190 move around, but in comparison with the variant of 5 can develop more freely. For example, they may take on a larger volume and extend closer to the vehicle occupant to be protected.

The outer cladding 55b is in the example of 6 made up of two sections, the at the end 551 with a seam 552 are connected. It is understood that the sheaths 55a . 55b ever because it can also be formed from one part. In addition, instead of separate wrappings 55a . 55b also provided a common enclosure, both inflatable elements 3a . 3b encloses together.

7 shows the arrangement of 6 after inflating the inflatable elements 3a . 3b , The original on the side wall 12 fixed end 551 the outer cladding 55b has come off, causing the inflatable elements 3a . 3b unfold freely and could move in the direction of the vehicle occupant to be protected (not shown). The servings 55a . 55b They can be designed to restore their original position to them before inflating the inflatable elements 3a . 3b had, ingest, if the inflatable elements 3a . 3b be emptied, leaving the connection 57 (with components 57a . 57b ) closes again.

8th schematically shows a section through a vehicle seat on which a vehicle occupant 2 located. The seat has side cheeks 12 on, on opposite sides to the vehicle occupants 2 adjoin. At the one of the side cheeks, the vehicle's longitudinal side 150 closer are two inflatable elements 3a . 3b arranged, which are shown in the inflated state.

As in the 5 to 7 are the inflatable elements 3a . 3b offset from one another, although they overlap in sections, the closer to the vehicle occupant 2 arranged inflatable element 3b but with a portion in front of the (inner) inflatable element 3a lies.

1

backrest

11

midsection

12

side cheek

121

Area

122

carrier

13

Anlehnseite

14

seat

2

passenger

21

page

3, 3a, 3b

inflatable element

31

chamber

32

page

33

tape

34a, 34b

The End

4

pad

5

seat cover

51

end

55a, 55b

wrapping

551

end

552

seam

57

magnetic connection

6

Side air bag module

7

support structure

71

section

8th

frame

85

feather

9

local pressure reservoir

90

centrally accumulator

95

compressor

10 100, 110

flow channel

111

Valve

150

Vehicle longitudinal side

190

pivot point

Claims (51)

A vehicle seat assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising - a vehicle seat; At least one arranged on the vehicle seat, for the protection of a vehicle occupant located on the vehicle seat ( 2 ) inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ); - means for inflating the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) - the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) in response to a control signal signaling an approaching collision of the motor vehicle with an object, wherein - the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) is arranged and arranged such that, while it is being inflated in response to the control signal, it is applied to the vehicle occupant ( 2 ) impulses the vehicle occupants ( 2 ) is moved away from a collision section of the vehicle that will collide or collide with the object. Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the vehicle occupant ( 2 ) is moved away from the collision section with only a body portion. Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that substantially only the upper body of the vehicle occupant ( 2 ) or only a portion of the upper body of the vehicle occupant ( 2 ) is moved. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) impulses the vehicle occupants ( 2 ) moves toward the center of the motor vehicle when the collision section comprises the longitudinal side of the motor vehicle closest to the vehicle seat. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) impulses the vehicle occupants ( 2 ) to the vehicle seat nearest longitudinal side of the vehicle moved to when the collision section the longitudinal side ( 150 ) of the motor vehicle, which is opposite to the vehicle seat nearest longitudinal side of the motor vehicle. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vehicle occupant ( 2 ) by the impulse coming from the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) is exerted on him, is additionally moved from a seat position unusual for the vehicle seat in the direction of a usual seat position for the vehicle seat. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflation of the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) changes the shape of the vehicle seat and thereby the impulse to the vehicle occupants ( 2 ) is exercised. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vehicle seat a central part and at least one side wall ( 12 ), which laterally delimits the middle part, wherein the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) in the side wall ( 12 ) is arranged, that by inflating the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) the shape of the side wall ( 12 ) and thereby the impulse to the vehicle occupants ( 2 ) is exercised. Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 8, characterized in that the side cheek ( 12 ) a middle part ( 11 ) a seat back ( 1 ) limited. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for inflating the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) are integrated in the vehicle seat. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the means for inflating the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) have a pressure generating device arranged outside the vehicle seat, via which the inflatable elements ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) are fillable. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for inflating the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) are arranged and arranged, the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) inflate so quickly in an impending collision that the moving away of the vehicle occupant ( 2 ) begins before the collision occurs. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for inflating the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) are designed and provided, the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) in addition to be able to inflate independently of the control signal to the vehicle seat to the contours of the vehicle occupant ( 2 ). Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for inflating the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) at least one pressure reservoir ( 9 ), which is designed and provided, pulse-like gas into the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ). Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 14, characterized in that the pressure reservoir ( 9 ) is integrated in the vehicle seat. Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 15, characterized by a pressure generating device ( 95 ) for filling the pressure reservoir ( 9 ). Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 15 or 16, characterized by at least one pressure accumulator arranged outside the vehicle seat ( 90 ) for filling the pressure reservoir ( 9 ). Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 17, characterized by a pressure generating device ( 95 ) for filling the pressure accumulator arranged outside the vehicle seat ( 90 ). Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 14, characterized in that the pressure reservoir ( 9 ) is arranged outside the vehicle seat. Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 17 or 18, characterized by at least one first flow channel ( 10 ) between the pressure reservoir ( 9 ) and the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) and at least one second flow channel ( 110 ) between the accumulator ( 9 ) and the pressure reservoir ( 90 ), wherein the flow cross-section of the second flow channel ( 110 ) is at least partially smaller than the flow cross-section of the first flow channel ( 10 ). Vehicle seat arrangement according to Claim 20, characterized by a structure which has the flow cross-section of the second flow channel ( 110 ) reduced in sections. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of claims 14 to 21, characterized in that the pressure reservoir ( 9 ) is a filled with gas or LPG recording. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by adjustment means provided with the means for inflating the blowable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) and by means of which a filling speed with which the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) is inflated, is adjustable. Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 23, characterized characterized in that the adjusting means a stepless adjustment the filling speed enable. Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 23, characterized in that by means of the adjusting means a first and a second filling speed is adjustable, the first filling speed of the amount is bigger as the second filling speed. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) is designed to assume its state before inflation after inflation and deflation. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least two inflatable elements ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) arranged to exert an impulse on the vehicle occupant in substantially the same direction. Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 27, characterized in that the inflatable elements ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) are arranged in a non-inflated state so that the one inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) the other substantially completely overlaps. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) has at least two inflatable chambers. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) has at least one substantially gas-tight executed inflatable chamber. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 29, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) has at least one non-gas-tight executed inflatable chamber. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least two inflatable elements ( 3a . 3b ), which are offset from each other so that one of the inflatable elements ( 3a . 3b ) in the inflated state - viewed in the vehicle forward direction - at least with a partial area in front of the other. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3a . 3b ) with a section ( 34a . 34b ) so at a mounting portion ( 190 ) of the vehicle seat is secured such that upon deployment, it rotates about the attachment portion (FIG. 190 ) around on the vehicle occupants ( 2 ). Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) is at least partially covered by a cover on a side facing away from the vehicle seat. Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 34, characterized by means ( 85 ) for exerting a restoring force on the cover, so that it has the tendency, after inflation and re-emptying of the inflatable element ( 3a . 3b ) in their condition prior to inflation of the inflatable element ( 3a . 3b ) to return. Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 34 or 35, characterized in that the cover is designed to be elastic in such a way that it inflates when the inflatable element ( 3a . 3b ) and tends to return to its original state after the inflatable element has been relieved. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of claims 35 to 36, characterized in that the vehicle seat a seat padding ( 4 ), which at least partially from a seat cover ( 5 ) is covered, wherein the seat cover ( 5 ) forms the cover and the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) at least in sections between the seat upholstery ( 4 ) and the cover is arranged. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) is integrated in the vehicle seat so that it extends in the inflated state within the vehicle seat. Vehicle seat arrangement according to one of Claims 1 to 37, characterized by a casing which contains the inflatable element ( 3a . 3b ) at least partially surrounds and means ( 57 ), about which a section ( 551 ) of the wrapper prior to inflation is releasably connected to the vehicle seat such that upon deployment of the inflatable element (FIG. 3a . 3b ) releases. Vehicle seat arrangement for a motor vehicle in particular according to one of the preceding claims, comprising - a vehicle seat; At least one arranged on the vehicle seat, for the protection of one on the vehicle seat ( 2 ) vehicle occupant inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ); - means for inflating the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) - the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) inflate in response to a control signal indicative of an impending collision of the motor vehicle with an object, the inflatable element comprising means for impinging the vehicle occupant ( 2 ) on the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) in the inflated state. Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 40, characterized in that the means comprise at least one outflow opening, via the gas from the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) can flow out. Vehicle seat assembly according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the control signal is a signal of a pre-crash sensor or an ESC unit. Vehicle with a vehicle seat assembly according to a of the preceding claims. A method of protecting a vehicle occupant comprising the steps of: - providing a vehicle seat with at least one inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ); - Generating a control signal that signals an impending collision of the motor vehicle with an object; - inflating the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) in response to the control signal, wherein - the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ), while being inflated in response to the control signal, to a vehicle occupant ( 2 ) impulses the vehicle occupants ( 2 ) is moved away from a collision section of the vehicle which is expected to collide with the object. Method according to claim 44, characterized in that the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) is only partially inflated toward the control signal. A method according to claim 44 or 45, characterized in that - at a first time a first control signal and at a second time a second control signal is generated; and - the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) is charged to the first control signal at a first filling speed and to the second control signal at a second filling speed which is different from the first filling speed. Method according to claim 46, characterized in that that the second filling speed is greater as the first. Method according to claim 46 or 47, characterized in that control signals are generated at more than two points in time and, as a function of these control signals, more than two different filling speeds for filling the inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) be used. Method according to one of claims 44 to 48, characterized in that the vehicle seat two opposing inflatable elements ( 3 . 3a . 3b ), wherein only the prospective collision site facing inflatable element ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) is inflated. Method according to one of claims 44 to 49, characterized in that the vehicle seat a plurality of acting in the same direction inflatable elements ( 3 . 3a . 3b ), in response to the control signal all of these inflatable elements ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) are inflated. A method according to claim 50, characterized in that for adapting the vehicle seat to a vehicle occupant ( 2 ) only one or some of these inflatable elements ( 3 . 3a . 3b ) are inflated.