Abstract:
A vehicle seat ( 1 ) has a seat segment ( 14 ) including a first seating location ( 11 ) having a first backrest ( 21 ), a second seating location ( 12 ) having a second backrest ( 22 ), and a seat part ( 24 ). The first backrest ( 21 ) and the second backrest ( 22 ) are connected to the seat part ( 24 ) and can be pivoted about a pivot axis (A) in relation to the seat part ( 24 ). A first fitting ( 61 ) has a first fitting part which is connected to the seat part ( 24 ) in a rotationally fixed manner and a second fitting part which is connected to the first backrest ( 21 ) in a rotationally fixed manner. A second fitting ( 62 ) has a first fitting part which is connected to the first backrest ( 21 ) in a rotationally fixed manner and a second fitting part which is connected to the second backrest ( 22 ) in a rotationally fixed manner.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a United States National Phase Application of International Application PCT/EP2015/050098 filed Jan. 6, 2015 and claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 of German Applications 10 2014 200 322.9 filed Jan. 10, 2014 and 10 2014 204 558.4 filed Mar. 12, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The invention relates to a vehicle seat having a seat segment, which comprises a first seating position having a first backrest and a second seating position having a second backrest and a seat member, wherein the first backrest and the second backrest are connected to the seat member and can be pivoted relative to the seat member about a pivot axis, and wherein there is provided a first fitting whose first fitting member is connected to the seat member in a rotationally secure manner and whose second fitting member is connected to the first backrest in a rotationally secure manner. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    DE 10 2007 011 874 A1 discloses a vehicle seat of the generic type. The vehicle seat which is constructed as a rear seat comprises two seat segments, wherein one of the seat segments comprises one seating position and the other seat segment comprises two seating positions. The two seat segments are arranged beside each other and can be displaced independently of each other by means of longitudinal adjusters in the travel direction. A first backrest and a second backrest which can be pivoted about the same pivot axis are fitted beside each other to the seat segment which comprises two seating positions. A pivotable third backrest is fitted to the seat segment which comprises one seating position. Each of the three backrests is pivotably fitted to a seat member of the respective seat segment by means of two fittings. The fittings are constructed as catch fittings. By unlocking the two fittings which are associated in each case with a backrest, the respective backrest can be pivoted about the pivot axis A relative to the seat member. 
         [0004]    There are also known vehicle seats which comprise a curved locking member which is arranged on a first backrest and a locking device which is arranged on a second backrest. When the locking unit is locked to the curved locking member, the two backrests are coupled to each other. 
         [0005]    DE 10 2013 003 790 B3 discloses a generic vehicle seat having a free running action and having a seat segment which comprises a first seating position with a first backrest and a second seating position with a second backrest and a seat member, wherein the first backrest and the second backrest are connected to the seat member and can be pivoted relative to the seat member about a pivot axis, and wherein there is provided a first fitting whose first fitting member is connected to the seat member in a rotationally secure manner, and whose second fitting member is connected to a connection pipe of the first backrest in a rotationally secure manner. The vehicle seat additionally has a second fitting whose first fitting member is connected to the seat member and whose second fitting member is connected to a connection pipe of the second backrest. 
         [0006]    EP 2 067 419 A1 discloses a vehicle seat having a seat segment which comprises a first seating position having a first backrest and a second seating position having a second backrest and a seat member, wherein the first backrest and the second backrest are connected to the seat member and can be pivoted relative to the seat member about a pivot axis, and wherein there is provided a first fitting whose first fitting member is connected to an adapter of the seat member in a rotationally secure manner and whose second fitting member is connected to an adapter of the first backrest in a rotationally secure manner. The vehicle seat further has a second fitting whose first fitting member is connected to an adapter of the seat member and whose second fitting member is connected to an adapter of the second backrest. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0007]    An object of the invention is to improve a vehicle seat of the type mentioned in the introduction, in particular with simplified construction to achieve a connection of the first backrest to the second backrest where necessary. In particular, the first backrest is intended to be connected to the second backrest by means of a mechanism which is arranged in the region of the pivot axis. 
         [0008]    This object is achieved according to the invention by a vehicle seat having a seat segment which comprises a first seating position having a first backrest and a second seating position having a second backrest and a seat member, wherein the first backrest and the second backrest are connected to the seat member and can be pivoted relative to the seat member about a pivot axis, and wherein there is provided a first fitting whose first fitting member is connected to the seat member in a rotationally secure manner and whose second fitting member is connected to the first backrest in a rotationally secure manner, and wherein there is provided a second fitting whose first fitting member is connected to the first backrest in a rotationally secure manner and whose second fitting member is connected to the second backrest in a rotationally secure manner. 
         [0009]    As a result of the fact that there is provided a second fitting whose first fitting member is connected to the first backrest in a rotationally secure manner and whose second fitting member is connected to the second backrest in a rotationally secure manner, no locking device and no curved locking member are required in the upper region between the backrests. When the second backrest is in the non-use position, there is consequently no curved locking member protruding in a visible manner. 
         [0010]    As a result of the construction of the vehicle seat according to the invention without a protruding curved locking member, legal provisions with respect to protruding components can be complied with in a simpler manner. 
         [0011]    By folding the second backrest into the non-use position, transport of long, narrow objects, for example, skis, is possible. As a result of the construction of the vehicle seat according to the invention, damage to the skis by a protruding curved locking member is prevented. 
         [0012]    As a result of the construction of the vehicle seat according to the invention without a locking device, an additional lining of a locking device and openings in which dirt can accumulate are prevented. 
         [0013]    Advantageous embodiments which can be used individually or in combination with each other are set out in the dependent claims. 
         [0014]    Advantageously, the vehicle seat comprises an unlocking unit by means of which the second fitting can be unlocked independently of the first fitting. Consequently, the second backrest can be pivoted about the pivot axis independently of the first backrest. 
         [0015]    The second backrest is preferably additionally connected to the seat member by means of a simple rotary bearing which is lighter and more cost-effective than an additional fitting. Another fitting is not required; forces and torques which occur, in particular crash loads, are absorbed by the second fitting. 
         [0016]    In order to support the first backrest, there is preferably additionally provided an adjustment fitting whose first fitting member is connected to the seat member in a rotationally secure manner and whose second fitting member is connected to the first backrest in a rotationally secure manner. The first backrest is consequently connected to the seat member by means of two fittings. 
         [0017]    In this instance, there is advantageously provided an actuation unit by means of which the adjustment fitting can be unlocked at the same time as the first fitting. By unlocking both fittings, the first backrest can be pivoted about the pivot axis. 
         [0018]    According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, there is, when pivoting the second backrest from a position for use into a non-use position, a free running action with respect to the first backrest. When the second fitting is unlocked and the first fitting is locked, the second backrest can be pivoted into the non-use position whilst the first backrest remains in the position for use. 
         [0019]    According to another advantageous embodiment of the invention, there is, when pivoting the second backrest from a non-use position into a position for use, an entrainment connection with respect to the first backrest. When the second fitting is unlocked and the first fitting is locked, the second backrest cannot be pivoted into the position for use as long as the first backrest remains in the non-use position. When the second fitting is unlocked and the first fitting is unlocked, the second backrest can be pivoted about the pivot axis into the position for use and in this instance carries the first backrest from the non-use position into the position for use. 
         [0020]    Consequently, the second backrest is prevented from assuming a position for use whilst the first backrest remains in the non-use position. This is required in particular when a safety belt which is associated with the second backrest is spatially integrated in the first backrest. 
         [0021]    A compact construction is achieved when the first fitting member of the first fitting is securely connected to a first lower fitting member which is spatially arranged between the first fitting and the second fitting. The first lower fitting member is in this instance connected to the seat member. 
         [0022]    A compact construction is also achieved when the first fitting member of the second fitting is securely connected to a second lower fitting member which is arranged spatially between the first fitting and the second fitting. The second lower fitting member may partially engage around the first lower fitting member radially at the outer side so that a connection between the second lower fitting member and a first upper fitting member is possible in a simple manner. The first upper fitting member is preferably secured to the first backrest. The second fitting member of the first fitting is preferably securely connected to the first upper fitting member which is securely connected to the second lower fitting member. 
         [0023]    The first fitting and the second fitting are preferably an integral component of a fitting unit which can be constructed as a verifiable unit and in a modular manner. The fitting unit is preferably arranged between the first backrest and the second backrest. Preferably, the fitting unit is arranged in a lower region of the backrests close to the pivot axis. The center of gravity of the vehicle seat is thereby displaced downward. 
         [0024]    The first fitting and the second fitting may each form a disc-like unit in a structural regard. The two fitting members of each fitting are each held together by means of a clamping ring. Such fittings require a particularly small amount of structural space in the vehicle seat, in particular in the transverse direction. 
         [0025]    As a result of an advantageous configuration of the fitting unit, both backrests can be adjusted independently of each other into a position for use within a predeterminable comfort region. 
         [0026]    The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached figures. The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its uses, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0027]    In the drawings: 
           [0028]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a vehicle seat without upholstery, wherein all the backrests are located in the position for use; 
           [0029]      FIG. 2  is a detailed view of the first seat segment from  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0030]      FIG. 3  is an exploded view of a fitting unit; 
           [0031]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the vehicle seat from  FIG. 1 , wherein the second backrest is located in the non-use position; and 
           [0032]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the vehicle seat from  FIG. 1 , wherein the first backrest and the second backrest are located in the non-use position. 
       
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0033]    Referring to the drawings, a vehicle seat  1  is constructed as a rear seat installation of a motor vehicle. The vehicle seat  1  comprises a first seat segment  14  having a first seat member  24  and a second seat segment  15  with a second seat member  25  which are connected independently of each other to the vehicle structure of the motor vehicle by means of a longitudinal adjuster so as to be longitudinally adjustable. 
         [0034]    The arrangement of the vehicle seat  1  inside the vehicle and the conventional travel direction thereof define the directional indications used below. In this instance, a direction which is orientated perpendicularly relative to the ground is referred to below as the vertical direction and a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and perpendicular to the travel direction is referred to below as the transverse direction. The vertical direction in this instance also includes angles of up to 30° with respect to the perpendicular and comprises in particular the orientation of a backrest of the vehicle seat  1  in an upright position for use, which backrest is mounted in the vehicle. 
         [0035]    The first seat segment  14  is arranged at the left-hand side in the travel direction and takes up approximately 60% of the entire width of the vehicle seat  1 . The second seat segment  15  is arranged at the right-hand side in the travel direction and takes up approximately 40% of the entire width of the vehicle seat  1 . A first backrest  21  and a second backrest  22  are fitted to the first seat member  24  so as to be able to be pivoted about a pivot axis A, whilst a third backrest  23  is pivotably fitted to the second seat member  25 . 
         [0036]    The first backrest  21  is arranged at the left-hand side in the travel direction and the third backrest  23  is arranged at the right-hand side in the travel direction. The second backrest  22  is arranged in the transverse direction between the first backrest  21  and the third backrest  23 . The pivot axis A extends horizontally in the transverse direction. 
         [0037]    The first backrest  21  forms with a portion of the first seat member  24  a first seating position  11 . The second backrest  22  forms with a portion of the first seat member  24  a second seating position  12 . The third backrest  23  forms with the second seat member  25  a third seating position  13 . The first seating position  11  and the second seating position  12  are associated with the first seat segment  14 , the third seating position  13  is associated with the second seat segment  15 . 
         [0038]    The first seat member  24 , the first backrest  21  and the second backrest  22  are provided with upholstery in a manner known per se. The second seat member  25  and the third backrest  23  are also provided with upholstery in a manner known per se. The first backrest  21  and the third backrest  23  take up approximately 40% of the entire width of the vehicle seat  1 , whilst the second backrest  22  takes up approximately 20% of the entire width of the vehicle seat  1 . 
         [0039]    The first seat member  24  comprises a transverse cross-member  16  which extends in a transverse direction parallel with the pivot axis A and which extends approximately over the complete width of the first seat member  24 . 
         [0040]    The first backrest  21  is connected by means of an adjustment fitting  51 , which is arranged at one side, in this instance at the left-hand side in the travel direction, to the transverse cross-member  16  of the first seat member  24 . 
         [0041]    The adjustment fitting  51  has a first fitting member which is securely connected to the transverse cross-member  16  of the first seat member  24 , that is to say, secured to the seat member, and a second fitting member which is securely connected to the first backrest  21 , that is to say, secured to the backrest, which can be pivoted relative to each other. In this instance, the two fitting members form in a structural sense a disc-like unit which is held together, for example, by means of a clamping ring. 
         [0042]    In this instance, the adjustment fitting  51  is constructed as a catch fitting, that is to say, the two fitting members can be locked to each other by means of movable bars. The bars are moved, for example, by means of a resiliently loaded cam into a locking position. Such a fitting is, for example, disclosed in DE 10 2011 010 699 A1, the content of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0043]    A fitting unit  60  is provided between the first backrest  21  and the second backrest  22 . The fitting unit  60  comprises a first fitting  61  and a second fitting  62 . In this instance, the fittings  61  and  62  are also, in the same manner as the adjustment fitting  51 , constructed as catch fittings and each comprise a first and a second fitting member which can be pivoted relative to each other. The two fitting members of the fittings  61 ,  62  form in a structural sense a disc-like unit which is held together, for example, by means of a clamping ring. 
         [0044]    The first fitting member of the first fitting  61  is securely connected to a first lower fitting member  31 . The first lower fitting member  31  is secured to the transverse cross-member  16  of the first seat member  24 . 
         [0045]    The second fitting member of the first fitting  61  is securely connected to a first upper fitting member  34 . The first upper fitting member  34  is secured to the first backrest  21 . 
         [0046]    The first fitting member of the second fitting  62  is securely connected to a second lower fitting member  32 . The second lower fitting member  32  is secured to the first upper fitting member  34  and consequently also connected to the first backrest  21 . 
         [0047]    The second lower fitting member  32  and the first upper fitting member  34  are in this instance welded to each other. Other types of securing are also conceivable, in particular screwing or soldering. 
         [0048]    The second fitting member of the second fitting  62  is securely connected to a second upper fitting member  35 . The second upper fitting member  35  is secured to the second backrest  22 . 
         [0049]    The second backrest  22  is further connected to the transverse member  16  of the first seat member  24  by means of a rotary bearing  52 , which is arranged at the side facing away from the fitting unit  60 , in this instance at the right-hand side in the travel direction. 
         [0050]    An unlocking unit  65  serves to unlock the second fitting  62 . The unlocking unit  65  comprises an actuation button which is not illustrated and which is arranged in an upper region of the second backrest  22 . 
         [0051]    An actuation unit which is not illustrated and which is constructed in this instance as an unlocking lever serves to simultaneously unlock the adjustment fitting  51  and the first fitting  61 . The actuation unit may, however, also be constructed, for example, as a loop, hand wheel or Bowden cable. 
         [0052]    The unlocking lever is in this instance laterally fitted close to the adjustment fitting  51  to the first backrest  21  and connected by means of a transmission rod which is not illustrated to the adjustment fitting  51  and the first fitting  61 . 
         [0053]    By unlocking the adjustment fitting  51  and the first fitting  61  by means of the unlocking lever, the first backrest  21  can itself, on the one hand, be adjusted in terms of its inclination relative to the first seat member  24  into different positions for use and, on the other hand, be pivoted forward into a non-use position. 
         [0054]    When the second fitting  62  is locked, the second backrest  22  is securely connected to the first backrest  21  and follows such a pivot movement of the first backrest  21 . 
         [0055]    By unlocking the second fitting  62  by means of the unlocking unit  65 , the second backrest  22 , when the first backrest  21  is located in a position for use, can be adjusted independently of the first backrest  21 , on the one hand, in terms of its inclination relative to the first seat member  24  into different positions for use and, on the other hand, can be pivoted forward into a non-use position. 
         [0056]    The fitting unit  60  is constructed in such a manner that the backrests  21 ,  22  are connected for entrainment in a pivot direction and there is a free running action in the other pivot direction. 
         [0057]    If, when both backrests  21 ,  22  are in a position for use, after unlocking the second fitting  62 , the second backrest  22  is pivoted forward and downward into the non-use position, there is a free running action with respect to the first backrest  21 , which may remain in the upright position for use. 
         [0058]    If, when both backrests  21 ,  22  are located in the non-use position, after unlocking the second fitting  62 , the second backrest  22  is pivoted backward and upward into a position for use, there is an entrainment connection with respect to the first backrest  21  which is consequently also pivoted into the upright position for use, as long as the first fitting  61  and the adjustment fitting  51  are also unlocked. The basic principle of such a free running action may be constructed as disclosed in DE 10 2013 003 790 B3. 
         [0059]    The features disclosed in the above description, claims and drawings may be significant both individually and in combination to implement the invention in its various embodiments. 
         [0060]    While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown and described in detail to illustrate the application of the principles of the invention, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise without departing from such principles.