WO2007094012A2 - Slider locking system - Google Patents

Slider locking system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2007094012A2
WO2007094012A2 PCT/IN2007/000054 IN2007000054W WO2007094012A2 WO 2007094012 A2 WO2007094012 A2 WO 2007094012A2 IN 2007000054 W IN2007000054 W IN 2007000054W WO 2007094012 A2 WO2007094012 A2 WO 2007094012A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
locking
lock pin
lock
slider
upper rail
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IN2007/000054
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2007094012A3 (en
Inventor
Bijon Nag
Chandan Kumar Joardar
Gopalakrishnan Swaminathan
Original Assignee
Ifb Automotive Private Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ifb Automotive Private Ltd filed Critical Ifb Automotive Private Ltd
Publication of WO2007094012A2 publication Critical patent/WO2007094012A2/en
Publication of WO2007094012A3 publication Critical patent/WO2007094012A3/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/04—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable
    • B60N2/06—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable
    • B60N2/08—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable characterised by the locking device
    • B60N2/0806—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable characterised by the locking device with pin alignment systems, e.g. with at least one of a plurality of locking pins always aligned w.r.t. at least one of a plurality of pin-receiving elements
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/04—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable
    • B60N2/06—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable
    • B60N2/07—Slide construction
    • B60N2/0702—Slide construction characterised by its cross-section
    • B60N2/0705—Slide construction characterised by its cross-section omega-shaped
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/04—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable
    • B60N2/06—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable
    • B60N2/08—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable characterised by the locking device
    • B60N2/0831—Movement of the latch
    • B60N2/0862—Movement of the latch sliding
    • B60N2/0875—Movement of the latch sliding in a vertical direction

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a slider locking system.
  • the invention also relates to an automotive seat locking system to lock a slider assembly in a desired position and preventing movement of slider assembly.
  • the present invention particularly relates to a bi-directional locking system of the slider assembly.
  • Automotives generally require slider assemblies or sliders that provide not only a back and forth movement of the seat but also a locking of the seat, at a desired position by means of a locking system.
  • the slider assembly also acts as a safety critical component, in the event of collision, by withstanding the impact forces that act on the seat, without resulting in any major deformation or breakage.
  • a typical locking system of the slider assembly comprises upper and lower rails, said lower rails provided with a series of openings/slots, mounted on the floor of an automotive.
  • the seat cushion of an occupant of an automotive mounted on the upper rail of the slider assembly and the occupant adjusts the seat position by sliding after unlocking it with the help of a towel bar/handle and on reaching the desired position the handle is released to provide a locking of the slider assembly.
  • the locking in a typical pin-type mechanism is effected by a series of lock pins that are provided on the upper rail, which are permitted to slide over the bottom rail during unlock position and these pins are further arranged to enter the openings/slots of the lower rail, to lock the slider assembly at a desired position.
  • two lock pins are engaged with the lower rail simultaneously to make one complete locking. In other words, one lock pin prevents the sliding of the slider assembly in forward direction and the other lock pin prevents sliding in rearward direction.
  • Typical seat sliders are complicated and expansive due to having more number of parts and thus making assembly difficult to manufacture and load bearing capacity remains limited.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide a robust, flexible, high-strength and fine-pitch slider assembly with reduced number of simple components that are easy to assemble, reliable and cost effective.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a robust, flexible, high- strength and fine-pitch slider assembly, for automotive seats, with reduced number of simple components that are easy to assemble, reliable and cost effective.
  • Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a slider assembly with a bi-directional, differential and multiple-pin locking system for an effective locking.
  • Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a slider assembly with a single or multiple locking at a locked position.
  • Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a slider assembly to augment the strength without enhancing the strength/thickness of rail.
  • Further object of the present invention is to provide a slider assembly for automotive seats to enhance the occupant safety by absorbing more impact energy.
  • Still another object of the present invention is to provide a compact slider assembly to ease problems of space constraints.
  • the present invention provides a slider locking system which includes an upper rail, a locking assembly and a lower rail.
  • the locking assembly includes a U-bracket, one or more lock pin(s) arranged in one or more rows. Either one or more lock pins are engaged in locking and thereby providing single or
  • Each of the lock pin is independently biased with a lock pin spring, a housing bracket, a lifting plate and optionally a lifting plate spring.
  • the locking assembly is mounted on the upper rail.
  • the U bracket is mounted on lower side of the upper rail.
  • the housing bracket is mounted on upper side of the upper rail.
  • the lifting plate is mounted on the housing bracket and is connected to a towel bar. The towel bar enables unlocking and sliding of the slider.
  • the lock pin(s) is/are disposed through openings (holes) on the upper rail, wherein each lock pin also slides through openings (holes) on the U-bracket.
  • the lower rail relatively positioned to the upper rail.
  • the upper rail is movable relative to the lower rail in a longitudinal direction.
  • the lower rail is provided with one row of equally spaced slots along the longitudinal direction. The length (dimension in the direction of adjustment) of the slots is closely fitted with the outer periphery of the lock pin(s).
  • Fig 1 is a perspective view of automotive seat assembly with seat slider assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 2 is a perspective view of a seat slider assembly of automotive seat of Fig 1 with seat removed for clear view of seat slider assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 3 depicts the locking arrangement of the rail assembly along with a towel bar assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 4 is an enlarged view of the locking arrangement of the slider assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 5 is an enlarged bottom view of locking arrangement of the slider assembly of the present invention depicting the locking condition of the pins embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 6 is a side view of slider assembly depicting the unlocked condition of the pins embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 7 is a sectional view of the locking arrangement in locking condition of the slider assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 8 is a side view of the locking system of the slider assembly depicting pins with rectangular/square cross section housed in a bracket embodying the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 is a side view of the locking system of the slider assembly depicting an embodiment of the locking system with an external leaf spring embodying the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic expression depicting a single row locking arrangement of the slider assembly with six pins effecting a double lock mechanism embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 20 is a schematic expression depicting a three-row locking arrangement of the slider assembly with nine pins effecting a triple lock mechanism embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 21 is a schematic expression depicting a locking arrangement of the slider assembly depicting a single pin implementing a single lock embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 22 is a schematic expression depicting a locking arrangement of the slider assembly with a simultaneous engagement of all the pins, especially with double pin effecting a double lock embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 23 is a schematic expression depicting a locking arrangement of the slider assembly with a simultaneous engagement of all the pins, especially with three pins providing a triple lock embodying the present invention.
  • Fig 24 is an exploded view of the slider assembly.
  • the present invention provides a slider locking system assembly.
  • the position of the slider can be horizontal, vertical or inclined.
  • the present invention provides a slider assembly for automotive seats and more particularly to a bidirectional locking system of the slider assembly. Bi-directional locking system prevents the sliding of the slider assembly in both forward and rearward direction.
  • the seat slider assembly of the present invention is provided with a bi-directional, differential and multiple-pin locking system for an effective locking of the seat at a pre-determined location.
  • Figs 1-2 provide a perspective view of an automotive seat with a seat slider assembly embodying the present invention.
  • the seat slider assembly is mounted on the floor 2 of an automotive.
  • the slider assembly comprises a pair of rails 5 (wherein each of rail 5 includes an upper rail 17 and a lower rail 14) running parallel to each other.
  • a towel bar 4 is disposed by connecting the parallel rails 5.
  • a seat cushion 3 mounted on top of the rails 5, said rails provide a lateral support to the seat cushion 3.
  • the lower rail 14, which is stationery, is fitted to the floor 2 of the automotive and the upper rail 17, disposed on the lower rail 14, to travel/slide along the length in forward and rearward directions in relation to the lower rail 14.
  • the locking mechanism which is here in after described in detail, can be unlocked by means of the towel bar 4 to reposition the seat cushion 3 at various desire positions.
  • Fig 3 is an upper view of the slider assembly embodying the present invention with the upper rail 17 is slid along the length of the rails to provide a clear inner view of the lower rail 14.
  • the locking assembly 20 embodying the present invention is mounted on the upper rail 17, through the holes 18.
  • Lifting plate 21 of locking assembly 20 is connected with the towel bar assembly 4 through towel bar hook 9.
  • Towel bar assembly 4 includes towel bar tube 6, towel bar rod 7 and towel bar hook 9.
  • Towel bar mounting bracket 12 is mounted on the top of upper rail 17.
  • Other end 13 (clearly shown in Fig 4) supports the towel bar rod 7 enabling it to rotate about its axis.
  • Towel bar tube 6 is welded with the towel bar rod 7 at the point 8.
  • Towel bar hook 9 is joined at the end 10 (of the towel bar tube 6).
  • Other end 11 (of the towel bar hook 9) is engaged with the lifting plate 21 (of the lock mechanism 20) so that the lifting plate is operated by the means of the towel bar 6.
  • a pair of lock assembly 20 each comprises lock pins 24, a housing bracket 28, a lifting plate 21, a U-bracket 30, a lifting plate spring 33 and a nut and bolt 32.
  • the lifting plate spring 33 may be either a coil spring, linear spring or a leaf spring.
  • the lifting plate spring 33 may be either placed directly on the lifting plate 21 or indirectly through the towel bar 4.
  • each of the lock pin 24 is independently biased with a lock pin spring 34, the housing bracket 28, the lifting plate 21 and optionally a lifting plate spring 33.
  • U-bracket 30 and housing bracket 28 are mounted on the upper rail 17 at the holes 18.
  • Lock pins 24 are mounted on the upper rail 17 at holes 19.
  • the opening in the upper rail 19 may be of circular, square, rectangular cross section or any other cross section known to a person skilled in art.
  • the lifting plate 21 is mounted on the housing bracket 28 with the nut and bolt 32 such that it can rotate about the bolt 32.
  • the spring 33 is mounted on the bolt 32 and it holds the lifting plate 21 in its position.
  • the end 11 (of the towel bar hook 9) passes through the slot 22 of the lifting plate 21.
  • the slot 22 (of the lifting plate 21) is pushed down enabling unlocking of the slider assembly.
  • Other end 23 (of the lifting plate 21) goes below the heads 25 of the lock pins 24.
  • the end 22 (of the lifting plate 21) is pushed down (by the towel bar hook 9)
  • the end 23 moves up and lifts the lock pin 24 to effect unlocking of the slider mechanism.
  • Figure 7 depicts a sectional view of lock mechanism 20 depicting the locking condition of the lock pins 24 during operation.
  • the lock pins 24 are biased with a spring 34, on release of the towel bar, it pushes the lock pins 24 down towards the lower rail 14.
  • the lower rail 14 is provided with a plurality of openings/slots 15 and a plurality of intervening webs/lands 16 at regular interval along its length. Length (dimension in the direction of adjustment) of the slots 15 is closely fitted with the outer periphery of the lock pin(s) 24. Thus by the close fitting with the outer periphery of the lock pin(s) 24 the bi-directional locking is achieved.
  • the pin 24(b) goes through a slot 15 of the lower rail 14 (as it finds a slot 15 in this position) and makes a locking. However, in this position, the lock pin 24(a) does not find any slot 15 on the lower rail 14 and sits on the top of the land/web 16 (of the lower rail 14).
  • a taper angle is provided at the end 26 of the lock pin 24 to enable easy entry of the lock pin 24 into the slot 15 and to reduce/eliminate the play along the length of rail.
  • lock pin 24 is tapered for easy entry of the pin(s) 24 to the slot(s) 15, a U-bracket 30 holds the middle part 27 and guides it for axial sliding, the spring 34 pushes a pin 24 down through the U-bracket 30.
  • the two ends 31 are mounted with the upper rail 17 at the holes 18.
  • the U-bracket 30, the housing bracket 28 and the upper rail 17 are joined together at holes 31, 29 and 18 respectively.
  • a plurality of shapes of the lock pins 24 of the locking system is described.
  • Fig.8 depicts locking pins with rectangular/square cross sections that are adapted to effect the locking of the slider assembly.
  • Lock pins 24 are modified with rectangular/square cross-section at their high load bearing area/region, to enable an enhanced area of contact thereby reducing the level of stress concentration at the contact point with the lands 16 on the lower rail 14.
  • the second moment of inertia of the lock pins 24 (in locking region) get increased and there by increasing the lock break down strength.
  • the lock pins 24 cross section may be any other shape known to a person skilled in art.
  • bracket assembly for housing the locking elements is described in conjunction with Fig 9.
  • the U-bracket 30 is modified by providing a draft angle ⁇ as shown in Fig 9. This arrangement provides an enhanced load bearing capacity to the locking arrangement of the present invention. It is also observed here that the shape of the U-bracket 30 is provided with a draft angle ( ⁇ ) to increase the capacity of the U-bracket 30 to support higher load on the lock pins 24.
  • the locking assembly of the present invention is implemented with an internal leaf spring as depicted in Fig 10.
  • the locking assembly comprising lock pin operating springs that are mounted outside and over the upper rail (Fig 11).
  • the lock pin 24 is provided with biasing compression springs 34, which are externally mounted over the upper rail 17 and pushing from the top of the lock pins 24.
  • the locking assembly is implemented by an external leaf spring 34 as depicted in Fig 12.
  • compression springs are replaced with a set of leaf springs 34.
  • the leaf spring 34 is mounted externally over the upper rail 17 with this upper rail height can be reduced and this can enable using the mechanism where space is constrained.
  • the locking system is implemented by considering the differences between the pitch of openings/slots on the lower rail 'P/ and that of the lock-pins 'Pi', resulting in the following locking arrangements, which have been designated as cases 1 , 2 & 3.
  • the locks are bi-directional in nature since in a locked condition each lock prevents movements both in the forward and rearward direction.
  • the mechanism is flexible to give a wide variety of arrangements virtually resulting in any pitch distance desired from the mechanism.
  • Type A Single Row Locking
  • one lock pin 24(a) gets into a slot 15 and makes a locking where as the other lock pin 24(b) cannot get into any slot and remains seated over the web/land 16 of the lower rail.
  • the mechanism get locked alternatively by the two lock pins 24(a) and 24(b)., Hence the pitch of the mechanism becomes "1 ".
  • the total number pins used for locking is two and the total number of lock pins 24 getting engaged during a locking position is one.
  • the mechanism pitch is one.
  • the total number of lock pins 24 used for locking is three and the total number of lock pins 24 getting engaged during a locking position is one.
  • This implementation also gives the compact arrangement of locking mechanism.
  • the total number of lock pins 24 is four and the total number of lock pins 24 get engaged simultaneously during a locked condition is two.
  • the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains "1 ".
  • the total number of lock pins 24 used for locking is six and the total number of lock pins 24 getting engaged simultaneously during a locked condition is two.
  • the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains "1".
  • Type B Multi Row Locking
  • the locking arrangement of the present invention can also be implemented in a multi-row arrangement as shown in (Fig 18).
  • 15 represents slots/openings on the lower rail 14
  • 24 represents the lock pins mounted on the upper rail 17
  • 16 represents webs/lands between two consecutive slots/opening 15.
  • lock pins 24 of row one Rl gets into a slots 15 and make a locking where as the lock pins 24 of the other row R2 cannot get into any slot and remains seated on top of the webs/lands 16 of the lower rail.
  • the total number of lock pins 24 that are used for locking is four and the number of lock pins 24 get engaged in a locked position is two.
  • the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains “1 ". 2.
  • the total number of lock pins 24 that are used for locking is six and the number of lock pins 24 get engaged in a locked position is three.
  • the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains "1 ".
  • lock pin 24 gets into a slot 15 and makes a locking.
  • the total number of lock pin 24 used is one and the total number of lock pin 24 that are used for a locking engagement is also one.
  • P r the pitch distance of the slots 15 on the lower rail
  • pitch of the slots ⁇ P r ' 1, and the number of lock pins 24 is 2.
  • both the lock pins 24 get into two slots 15 and make two independent locking,
  • a total of 2 lock pins 24 are used and the number of lock pins 24 for a locking engagement is also
  • total number of lock pins 24 used is three and total number of lock pins 24 get engaged is also three.
  • P r the pitch distance of the slots 15 on the lower rail
  • the current invention of bidirectional differential multi locking mechanism has the potential of providing single as well as multiple locking at a locked position i.e. one or more number of pins are simultaneously engaged with the corresponding number of slots in the lower rail and with this arrangement the strength of the mechanism becomes multiple of the number of locks that got engaged and the strength of one individual lock. This is achieved by diverting the total load (a mechanism) equally to the individual locks.
  • This mechanism can offer very high (theoretically unlimited) refinement of the mechanism pitch without compromising the locking strength of the mechanism.
  • the locking mechanism is mounted centrally with respect to both the upper rail and lower rail. Accordingly application of any force on the seating will not bring in any undesired moment of twisting either on the upper rail or on the lower rail.
  • Locking mechanism is placed underneath the upper rail and is sandwiched between its profiles. This enables keeping the height of the mechanism less and making it very compact.
  • Formations of the rails are such that the upper rail slides inside a channel of the lower rail and to ensure smooth sliding the two rails are separated by bearings from both top and bottom.
  • the lower rail is intended to be mounted on the floor of the vehicle and a seating system is to be mounted on top of the upper rail.
  • this mechanism can offer higher locking strength (compared to other contemporary mechanisms).
  • This mechanism can be implemented for both multi locking as well as for single locking. For a single locking implementation, this mechanism offers better utilization of material resources (in terms of number of lock pins, springs, etc.).

Abstract

The present invention relates to a slider locking system. The invention also relates to an automotive seat locking system to lock a slider assembly in a desired position and preventing movement of slider assembly. The present invention particularly relates to a bi-directional locking system of the slider assembly including an upper rail (17), a locking assembly (20) and a lower rail (14). The locking assembly (20) has a U- bracket (30), and one or more lock pin(s) (24) that are arranged in one or more rows. Either one or more lock pins (24) are engaged in locking and thereby providing single or multiple locking. The towel bar (4) enables unlocking and sliding of the slider. The lower rail (14) relatively positioned to the upper rail (17), the upper rail (17) is movable relative to the lower rail (14) in a longitudinal direction. The lower rail (14) is provided with one row of equally spaced slots (15) along the longitudinal direction. The length of the slots (15) is closely fitted with the outer periphery of the lock pin(s) (24).

Description

SLIDER LOCKING SYSTEM
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a slider locking system. The invention also relates to an automotive seat locking system to lock a slider assembly in a desired position and preventing movement of slider assembly. The present invention particularly relates to a bi-directional locking system of the slider assembly.
BACKGROUND
Automotives generally require slider assemblies or sliders that provide not only a back and forth movement of the seat but also a locking of the seat, at a desired position by means of a locking system. The slider assembly also acts as a safety critical component, in the event of collision, by withstanding the impact forces that act on the seat, without resulting in any major deformation or breakage.
A typical locking system of the slider assembly comprises upper and lower rails, said lower rails provided with a series of openings/slots, mounted on the floor of an automotive. The seat cushion of an occupant of an automotive mounted on the upper rail of the slider assembly and the occupant adjusts the seat position by sliding after unlocking it with the help of a towel bar/handle and on reaching the desired position the handle is released to provide a locking of the slider assembly.
The locking in a typical pin-type mechanism is effected by a series of lock pins that are provided on the upper rail, which are permitted to slide over the bottom rail during unlock position and these pins are further arranged to enter the openings/slots of the lower rail, to lock the slider assembly at a desired position. Whenever, a locking of the slider assembly is effected, two lock pins are engaged with the lower rail simultaneously to make one complete locking. In other words, one lock pin prevents the sliding of the slider assembly in forward direction and the other lock pin prevents sliding in rearward direction.
Accordingly, in a locked condition, only one lock pin prevents sliding in the forward direction and the other lock pin prevents sliding in the rearward direction. Thereby, the lock-breakdown strength of the slider assembly is limited by the strength of only one lock/lock pin. Further, the locking system is mounted on top of the upper rail making the height of the whole assembly very large and making it difficult to accommodate in circumstances where space is a constraint.
Typical seat sliders are complicated and expansive due to having more number of parts and thus making assembly difficult to manufacture and load bearing capacity remains limited.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a robust, flexible, high-strength and fine-pitch slider assembly with reduced number of simple components that are easy to assemble, reliable and cost effective.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a robust, flexible, high- strength and fine-pitch slider assembly, for automotive seats, with reduced number of simple components that are easy to assemble, reliable and cost effective.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a slider assembly with a bi-directional, differential and multiple-pin locking system for an effective locking.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a slider assembly with a single or multiple locking at a locked position.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a slider assembly to augment the strength without enhancing the strength/thickness of rail.
Further object of the present invention is to provide a slider assembly for automotive seats to enhance the occupant safety by absorbing more impact energy.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a compact slider assembly to ease problems of space constraints.
Although the present invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments as hereinafter, the invention is not limited to the embodiments. Various other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to a person skilled in the art or follow from routine experimentation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance to the objective, the present invention provides a slider locking system which includes an upper rail, a locking assembly and a lower rail. The locking assembly includes a U-bracket, one or more lock pin(s) arranged in one or more rows. Either one or more lock pins are engaged in locking and thereby providing single or
- ? - multiple locking of the assembly. Each of the lock pin is independently biased with a lock pin spring, a housing bracket, a lifting plate and optionally a lifting plate spring. The locking assembly is mounted on the upper rail. The U bracket is mounted on lower side of the upper rail. The housing bracket is mounted on upper side of the upper rail. The lifting plate is mounted on the housing bracket and is connected to a towel bar. The towel bar enables unlocking and sliding of the slider. The lock pin(s) is/are disposed through openings (holes) on the upper rail, wherein each lock pin also slides through openings (holes) on the U-bracket.
The lower rail relatively positioned to the upper rail. The upper rail is movable relative to the lower rail in a longitudinal direction. The lower rail is provided with one row of equally spaced slots along the longitudinal direction. The length (dimension in the direction of adjustment) of the slots is closely fitted with the outer periphery of the lock pin(s).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
Fig 1 is a perspective view of automotive seat assembly with seat slider assembly embodying the present invention. Fig 2 is a perspective view of a seat slider assembly of automotive seat of Fig 1 with seat removed for clear view of seat slider assembly embodying the present invention. Fig 3 depicts the locking arrangement of the rail assembly along with a towel bar assembly embodying the present invention. Fig 4 is an enlarged view of the locking arrangement of the slider assembly embodying the present invention. Fig 5 is an enlarged bottom view of locking arrangement of the slider assembly of the present invention depicting the locking condition of the pins embodying the present invention. Fig 6 is a side view of slider assembly depicting the unlocked condition of the pins embodying the present invention. Fig 7 is a sectional view of the locking arrangement in locking condition of the slider assembly embodying the present invention. Fig 8 is a side view of the locking system of the slider assembly depicting pins with rectangular/square cross section housed in a bracket embodying the present invention. a side view of the locking system of the slider assembly depicting a U-bracket with variable angle embodying the present invention. is a side view of the locking system of the slider assembly depicting an embodiment of the locking system implemented by a leaf spring embodying the present invention. is a side view of the locking system of the slider assembly depicting an embodiment of the locking system with lock pin operating springs mounted over the upper rail embodying the present invention. is a side view of the locking system of the slider assembly depicting an embodiment of the locking system with an external leaf spring embodying the present invention. is a schematic expression depicting single row locking system of the slider assembly with two pins effecting a single lock mechanism embodying the present invention. is a schematic expression depicting a single row locking system of the slider assembly with three pins effecting a single lock mechanism embodying the present invention. is a schematic expression depicting a single row locking system of the slider assembly with three pins effecting a single lock mechanism embodying the present invention. Although it represents the same concept as that in fig 14, here the relative arrangement of the pins and slots are different. is a schematic expression depicting a single row locking system of the slider assembly with four pins effecting a double lock mechanism embodying the present invention. is a schematic expression depicting a single row locking arrangement of the slider assembly with six pins effecting a double lock mechanism embodying the present invention. is a schematic expression depicting a two-row locking arrangement of the slider assembly with four pins disposed in two rows effecting a double lock mechanism embodying the present invention. is a schematic expression depicting a two-row locking arrangement of the slider assembly with six pins effecting a triple lock mechanism embodying the present invention. Fig 20 is a schematic expression depicting a three-row locking arrangement of the slider assembly with nine pins effecting a triple lock mechanism embodying the present invention. Fig 21 is a schematic expression depicting a locking arrangement of the slider assembly depicting a single pin implementing a single lock embodying the present invention. Fig 22 is a schematic expression depicting a locking arrangement of the slider assembly with a simultaneous engagement of all the pins, especially with double pin effecting a double lock embodying the present invention. Fig 23 is a schematic expression depicting a locking arrangement of the slider assembly with a simultaneous engagement of all the pins, especially with three pins providing a triple lock embodying the present invention. Fig 24 is an exploded view of the slider assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention provides a slider locking system assembly. The position of the slider can be horizontal, vertical or inclined. In one embodiment the present invention provides a slider assembly for automotive seats and more particularly to a bidirectional locking system of the slider assembly. Bi-directional locking system prevents the sliding of the slider assembly in both forward and rearward direction.
In one embodiment the seat slider assembly of the present invention is provided with a bi-directional, differential and multiple-pin locking system for an effective locking of the seat at a pre-determined location.
The embodiments of the present invention are described by referring to the accompanied diagrams. Initially, referring to Figs 1-2, provide a perspective view of an automotive seat with a seat slider assembly embodying the present invention. The seat slider assembly is mounted on the floor 2 of an automotive. Typically, the slider assembly comprises a pair of rails 5 (wherein each of rail 5 includes an upper rail 17 and a lower rail 14) running parallel to each other. A towel bar 4 is disposed by connecting the parallel rails 5. A seat cushion 3 mounted on top of the rails 5, said rails provide a lateral support to the seat cushion 3. The lower rail 14, which is stationery, is fitted to the floor 2 of the automotive and the upper rail 17, disposed on the lower rail 14, to travel/slide along the length in forward and rearward directions in relation to the lower rail 14. The locking mechanism, which is here in after described in detail, can be unlocked by means of the towel bar 4 to reposition the seat cushion 3 at various desire positions.
Now by referring to Fig 3, is an upper view of the slider assembly embodying the present invention with the upper rail 17 is slid along the length of the rails to provide a clear inner view of the lower rail 14. The locking assembly 20 embodying the present invention is mounted on the upper rail 17, through the holes 18. Lifting plate 21 of locking assembly 20 is connected with the towel bar assembly 4 through towel bar hook 9. Towel bar assembly 4 includes towel bar tube 6, towel bar rod 7 and towel bar hook 9. Towel bar mounting bracket 12 is mounted on the top of upper rail 17. Other end 13 (clearly shown in Fig 4) supports the towel bar rod 7 enabling it to rotate about its axis. Towel bar tube 6 is welded with the towel bar rod 7 at the point 8. Towel bar hook 9 is joined at the end 10 (of the towel bar tube 6). Other end 11 (of the towel bar hook 9) is engaged with the lifting plate 21 (of the lock mechanism 20) so that the lifting plate is operated by the means of the towel bar 6.
The implementation of locking system of the present invention is now described by referring to Fig 4, 5 and 6, wherein the lock assembly 20 is mounted on the upper rail 17. Initially, the implementation of locking system is described by using a two-pin single lock mechanism for a sliding assembly.
A pair of lock assembly 20 each comprises lock pins 24, a housing bracket 28, a lifting plate 21, a U-bracket 30, a lifting plate spring 33 and a nut and bolt 32. The lifting plate spring 33 may be either a coil spring, linear spring or a leaf spring. The lifting plate spring 33 may be either placed directly on the lifting plate 21 or indirectly through the towel bar 4. In one embodiment each of the lock pin 24 is independently biased with a lock pin spring 34, the housing bracket 28, the lifting plate 21 and optionally a lifting plate spring 33. U-bracket 30 and housing bracket 28 are mounted on the upper rail 17 at the holes 18. Lock pins 24 are mounted on the upper rail 17 at holes 19. The opening in the upper rail 19 may be of circular, square, rectangular cross section or any other cross section known to a person skilled in art. The lifting plate 21 is mounted on the housing bracket 28 with the nut and bolt 32 such that it can rotate about the bolt 32. The spring 33 is mounted on the bolt 32 and it holds the lifting plate 21 in its position. The end 11 (of the towel bar hook 9) passes through the slot 22 of the lifting plate 21. When the occupant of the vehicle activates the towel bar tube 6, the slot 22 (of the lifting plate 21) is pushed down enabling unlocking of the slider assembly. Other end 23 (of the lifting plate 21) goes below the heads 25 of the lock pins 24. When the end 22 (of the lifting plate 21) is pushed down (by the towel bar hook 9), the end 23 moves up and lifts the lock pin 24 to effect unlocking of the slider mechanism.
Figure 7 depicts a sectional view of lock mechanism 20 depicting the locking condition of the lock pins 24 during operation. The lock pins 24 are biased with a spring 34, on release of the towel bar, it pushes the lock pins 24 down towards the lower rail 14. The lower rail 14 is provided with a plurality of openings/slots 15 and a plurality of intervening webs/lands 16 at regular interval along its length. Length (dimension in the direction of adjustment) of the slots 15 is closely fitted with the outer periphery of the lock pin(s) 24. Thus by the close fitting with the outer periphery of the lock pin(s) 24 the bi-directional locking is achieved.
In this configuration the pin 24(b) goes through a slot 15 of the lower rail 14 (as it finds a slot 15 in this position) and makes a locking. However, in this position, the lock pin 24(a) does not find any slot 15 on the lower rail 14 and sits on the top of the land/web 16 (of the lower rail 14). In one embodiment a taper angle is provided at the end 26 of the lock pin 24 to enable easy entry of the lock pin 24 into the slot 15 and to reduce/eliminate the play along the length of rail. The lower end 26 of lock pin 24 is tapered for easy entry of the pin(s) 24 to the slot(s) 15, a U-bracket 30 holds the middle part 27 and guides it for axial sliding, the spring 34 pushes a pin 24 down through the U-bracket 30. The two ends 31 (of the U-bracket 30) are mounted with the upper rail 17 at the holes 18. As mentioned earlier, the U-bracket 30, the housing bracket 28 and the upper rail 17 are joined together at holes 31, 29 and 18 respectively.
The above description is the detail implementation of one of the embodiments of the present invention showing the locking arrangement with two pins forming a single lock. It is also within the scope of the present invention to implement locking arrangement as described hereinafter by referring to Fig 8- 23.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of shapes of the lock pins 24 of the locking system is described. Fig.8 depicts locking pins with rectangular/square cross sections that are adapted to effect the locking of the slider assembly. Lock pins 24 are modified with rectangular/square cross-section at their high load bearing area/region, to enable an enhanced area of contact thereby reducing the level of stress concentration at the contact point with the lands 16 on the lower rail 14. By adapting the locking arrangement with rectangular/square lock pins 24 as shown in Fig 8, the second moment of inertia of the lock pins 24 (in locking region) get increased and there by increasing the lock break down strength. By the virtue of these two effects, the load bearing capacity of the mechanism gets enhanced. In another embodiment the lock pins 24 cross section may be any other shape known to a person skilled in art.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the construction of bracket assembly for housing the locking elements is described in conjunction with Fig 9. The U-bracket 30 is modified by providing a draft angle ø as shown in Fig 9. This arrangement provides an enhanced load bearing capacity to the locking arrangement of the present invention. It is also observed here that the shape of the U-bracket 30 is provided with a draft angle (ø) to increase the capacity of the U-bracket 30 to support higher load on the lock pins 24.
In further embodiment of the present invention, the locking assembly of the present invention is implemented with an internal leaf spring as depicted in Fig 10.
In this arrangement, the compression biasing springs are replaced with a set of leaf springs 34, resulting in a very compact locking assembly.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the locking assembly comprising lock pin operating springs that are mounted outside and over the upper rail (Fig 11). In this construction, the lock pin 24 is provided with biasing compression springs 34, which are externally mounted over the upper rail 17 and pushing from the top of the lock pins 24.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, the locking assembly is implemented by an external leaf spring 34 as depicted in Fig 12. In this arrangement, compression springs are replaced with a set of leaf springs 34. By implementing this locking arrangement, the leaf spring 34 is mounted externally over the upper rail 17 with this upper rail height can be reduced and this can enable using the mechanism where space is constrained. In the present invention, the locking system is implemented by considering the differences between the pitch of openings/slots on the lower rail 'P/ and that of the lock-pins 'Pi', resulting in the following locking arrangements, which have been designated as cases 1 , 2 & 3.
Case 1; If the pitch distance of the lock pins 'pi' is different than that of the slots/openings on the lower rail 'P1-' then a suitable arrangement of multiple number of pins (two or more) results in a mechanism pitch, which is finer than that of the slots on the lower rail. This case type has been described under the concept types A and B below.
Case 2: If there is only one pin then the mechanism pitch will be the same as that of the openings/slots on the lower rail i.e. 'Pr'. This case type has been described under the concept type C (I ) below.
Case 3: If there are more than one lock pin but the pitch distance between the pins *P|' is same as that of the openings/slots on the lower rail 'Pr' (i.e. P| = Pr) then also the pitch of the mechanism will be that of the lower rail i.e. 'P1.'. However, this condition will result in simultaneous multi-locking resulting in higher strengths. This case type has been described under the concept types C (2) and C (3) below.
The locks are bi-directional in nature since in a locked condition each lock prevents movements both in the forward and rearward direction.
The mechanism is flexible to give a wide variety of arrangements virtually resulting in any pitch distance desired from the mechanism.
It is possible to have simultaneous multi locking resulting in higher strength of the mechanism.
To meet a variety of typical customer needs, a number of concepts have been developed by implementing the above described design principle.
As an exemplary embodiment, a list of these concepts has been briefly illustrated under three types: Type A (Figures 13 through 17), Type B (Figures 18 through 20), Type C (Figures 21 through 23), and Type D (Figure 13 through 17). Type A: Single Row Locking
1 , Two pins, single lock implementation
The locking arrangement of this type is described by referring to Fig 1-7 along with the schematic diagram in Fig 13.
Now, by specifically referring to Fig 13, in this Implementation of the invention the pitch of the slots 'Pr' = 2 and pitch of the lock pins 'Pi' = 3, and number of lock pins are two. In this configuration one lock pin 24(a) gets into a slot 15 and makes a locking where as the other lock pin 24(b) cannot get into any slot and remains seated over the web/land 16 of the lower rail. In this arrangement for every relative movement of "1" between the upper rail 17 and the lower rail 14 (referring fig 7) the mechanism get locked alternatively by the two lock pins 24(a) and 24(b)., Hence the pitch of the mechanism becomes "1 ".
In this locking arrangement of the present invention, the total number pins used for locking is two and the total number of lock pins 24 getting engaged during a locking position is one. The mechanism pitch is one.
2, Three pins, single lock, fine pitch
In this Implementation (Fig 14) of the invention pitch of the slots 'Pr' = 3 and pitch of the lock pins "Pl' = 4, and the number of lock pins is 3. In this configuration one lock pin 24(a) gets into a slot 15 and makes a locking where as the other two lock pins 24(b) and 24(c) cannot get into any slot and remains seated over the Web/land 16 of the lower rail.
In this arrangement for every relative movement of Pr = 3, between the upper rail 17 and the lower rail 14 (ref fig 7), the mechanism gets locked thrice at regular /equal interval (i.e. Pr = 1). Accordingly, if the value of Pr is maintained same as that in concept A (1) i.e. "2", then the mechanism pitch will work out to /3 result ing in a refinement in the mechanism pitch with out compromising strength. Extending the logic/pattern of this arrangement of pins, it is possible to achieve any refinement of mechanism pitch by suitably increasing the number of lock pins and without compromising the strength. In this locking arrangement of the present invention, the total number pins used for locking is three and the total number of lock pins 24 getting engaged during a locking position is one,
3. Three pins, single lock, compact
In this Implementation (Fig 15) of the invention pitch of the slots 'P1.' = 3 and pitch of the lock pins 'Pf = 2, and the number of lock pins is 3, In this configuration one lock pin 24(a) gets into a slot 15(a) and makes a locking where as the other lock pins 24(b) and 24(c) cannot get into any slot and remains seated over the web/land 16 of the lower rail.
In this locking arrangement of the present invention, the total number of lock pins 24 used for locking is three and the total number of lock pins 24 getting engaged during a locking position is one. Similar to concept in A (2) in this arrangement also for every relative movement of Pr between the two rails the mechanism get locked thrice resulting to mechanism pitch = P/3. However for a given value of P) one can have higher value of Pr resulting in increased width of land. This implementation also gives the compact arrangement of locking mechanism.
4. Four pins, double lock
In this Implementation of the invention (Fig 16) pitch of the slots 'Pr' = 2 and pitch of the lock pins 'Pf = 1 , and the number of lock pins is 4. In this configuration two lock pins 24(a) and 24(c) gets into two slots 15(a) and 15(b) respectively and makes two independent locking where as the other two lock pins 24(b) and 24(d) can not get into any slot 15 and remains seated over the webs/lands 16(a) and 16(b) respectively of the lower rail.
In this locking arrangement of the present invention, the total number of lock pins 24 is four and the total number of lock pins 24 get engaged simultaneously during a locked condition is two. In this arrangement, for every relative movement of "1" between the upper rail 17 and lower rail 14 (ref fig 7), the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains "1 ".
By implementing the locking arrangement of this type a compact locking arrangement of the Lock-Pins in a limited space is achieved, where two pins are simultaneously engaged in a lock position and shall have double the strength of one pin locking of same configuration. Further, the optimum size of the lock pins is restricted by the space available and there by limiting the Lock Breakdown force.
5. Six pins, double lock, fine pitch
In this Implementation of the invention (Fig 17) pitch of the slots 'P1-' = 3 and pitch of the lock pins 'Pf = 2, and the number of lock pins is 6. In this configuration two lock pins 24(a) and 24(d) gets into a slots 15(a) and 15(c) and make two locking where as the other lock pins 24(b), 24(c), 24(e), and 24(f) can not get into any slot and remains seated over the webs/lands 16 of the lower rail.
In this locking arrangement of the present invention, the total number of lock pins 24 used for locking is six and the total number of lock pins 24 getting engaged simultaneously during a locked condition is two. In this arrangement, for every relative movement of "1" between the upper rail 17 and lower rail 14 (ref fig 7), the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains "1".
Type B: Multi Row Locking
1. Two rows, four pins, double lock
The locking arrangement of the present invention can also be implemented in a multi-row arrangement as shown in (Fig 18). Here, 15 represents slots/openings on the lower rail 14, 24 represents the lock pins mounted on the upper rail 17 and 16 represents webs/lands between two consecutive slots/opening 15. In this Implementation of the invention pitch of the slots 'P1-' = 2 and pitch of the lock pins 'Pf = 2 in any row of the lock pins, and the number of lock pins 24 is 4. In this configuration, lock pins 24 of row one Rl gets into a slots 15 and make a locking where as the lock pins 24 of the other row R2 cannot get into any slot and remains seated on top of the webs/lands 16 of the lower rail.
In this implementation, the total number of lock pins 24 that are used for locking is four and the number of lock pins 24 get engaged in a locked position is two. In this arrangement, for every relative movement of "1" between the upper rail 17 and lower rail 14 (ref fig 7), the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains "1 ". 2. Two rows, six pins, triple lock
In this Implementation (Fig 19) of the invention pitch of the slots sPr' = 2 and pitch of the lock pins 'Pf = 2 in any row of lock pins 24, and the number of lock pins 24 is 6, In this configuration three lock pins 24 of row one Rl get into three slots 15 and make three independent locking where as the balance three lock pins 24 of the other row R2 can not get into any slot and remains seated on top of the webs/lands 16 of the lower rail.
In this locking arrangement, the total number of lock pins 24 that are used for locking is six and the number of lock pins 24 get engaged in a locked position is three. In this arrangement, for every relative movement of "1 " between the upper rail 17 and lower rail 14 (ref fig 7), the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains "1 ".
3. Three rows, nine pins, triple lock
In this locking arrangement (Fig 20) of the present invention pitch of the slots 'Pr' = 3 and pitch of the lock pins 'Pi' = 2 in any row of lock pins 24, and the number of lock pins 24 is nine. In this configuration three lock pins 24 one from each row get into two slots 15 and make three independent locking where as the balance lock pins 24 can not get into any slot and remains seated on top of the webs/lands 24 lower rail 14.
In this arrangement, for every relative movement of "1 " between the upper rail 17 and lower rail 14 (ref fig 7), the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains "1".
Type C: Simultaneous engagement of all pins
1 . Single pin, single lock (Fig 21)
In this Implementation of the invention pitch of the slots 'Pr' = 1 and the number of lock pin 24 is 1. In this configuration lock pin 24 gets into a slot 15 and makes a locking. In this locking arrangement, the total number of lock pin 24 used is one and the total number of lock pin 24 that are used for a locking engagement is also one. In this arrangement, for every relative movement of Pr (the pitch distance of the slots 15 on the lower rail) between the upper rail 17 and lower rail 14 (ref fig 7), the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains as Pr = 1. 2. Double pins, double lock (Fig 22)
In this Implementation of the invention pitch of the slots ςPr' = 1, and the number of lock pins 24 is 2. In this configuration both the lock pins 24 get into two slots 15 and make two independent locking, In this locking arrangement, a total of 2 lock pins 24 are used and the number of lock pins 24 for a locking engagement is also
2. In this arrangement, for every relative movement of Pr (the pitch distance of the slots 15 on the lower rail) between the upper rail 17 and lower rail 14 (ref fig 7), the mechanism get locked alternatively and thereby the mechanism pitch remains as Pr = 1.
3. Triple pins, triple lock (Fig 23)
In this locking arrangement of the present invention, pitch of the slots 1P/ = 1 , and the number of lock pins 24 is three. In this configuration all the three lock pins 24 get into three slots 15 simultaneously and make three independent locking.
During the implementation of this locking arrangement, total number of lock pins 24 used is three and total number of lock pins 24 get engaged is also three. In this arrangement, for every relative movement of Pr (the pitch distance of the slots 15 on the lower rail) between the upper rail 17 and lower rail 14 (ref fig 7), the mechanism get locked and thereby the mechanism pitch remains as Pr = 1.
It is reiterated that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to a person skilled in the art or follow from routine experimentation,
Advantages of the invention
1 . The current invention of bidirectional differential multi locking mechanism has the potential of providing single as well as multiple locking at a locked position i.e. one or more number of pins are simultaneously engaged with the corresponding number of slots in the lower rail and with this arrangement the strength of the mechanism becomes multiple of the number of locks that got engaged and the strength of one individual lock. This is achieved by diverting the total load (a mechanism) equally to the individual locks.
2. By increasing the number of locking, this mechanism can offer very high (theoretically unlimited) refinement of the mechanism pitch without compromising the locking strength of the mechanism. 3. The locking mechanism is mounted centrally with respect to both the upper rail and lower rail. Accordingly application of any force on the seating will not bring in any undesired moment of twisting either on the upper rail or on the lower rail.
4. Locking mechanism is placed underneath the upper rail and is sandwiched between its profiles. This enables keeping the height of the mechanism less and making it very compact.
5. Formations of the rails are such that the upper rail slides inside a channel of the lower rail and to ensure smooth sliding the two rails are separated by bearings from both top and bottom.
6. The lower rail is intended to be mounted on the floor of the vehicle and a seating system is to be mounted on top of the upper rail.
7. For a particular combination of material property, thickness and cross-section for lower rail, upper rail and lock pin , this mechanism can offer higher locking strength (compared to other contemporary mechanisms).
8. This mechanism can be implemented for both multi locking as well as for single locking. For a single locking implementation, this mechanism offers better utilization of material resources (in terms of number of lock pins, springs, etc.).
9. As the slider mechanism implements a bidirectional differential multi locking mechanism, in the event of application of an excessive load (more than the designed load capacity) there will be excessive deformation leading to a failure in the locking that got engaged before the loading. However after some deformation in the components of the first locking, the second set of locks may (depending on the direction of loading) get engaged. In that process, in the event of failure this system has potential to absorb more impact energy.

Claims

Claims:
1. A slider locking system comprising; an upper rail; a locking assembly comprising a U-bracket, one or more lock pin(s) arranged in one or more rows, wherein either one or more lock pins are engaged in locking and thereby providing single or multiple locking, wherein each of the lock pin is independently biased with a lock pin spring, a housing bracket, a lifting plate, optionally a lifting plate spring, wherein said locking assembly is mounted on the upper rail, said U bracket is mounted on lower side of the upper rail, said housing bracket is mounted on upper side of the upper rail, and said lifting plate is mounted on the housing bracket and is connected to a towel bar, wherein the towel bar enables unlocking and sliding of the slider, said lock pin(s) is/are disposed through openings (holes) on the upper rail; wherein each lock pin also slides through another openings(holes) on the U-bracket; and a lower rail relatively positioned to the upper rail, wherein the upper rail is movable relative to the lower rail in a longitudinal direction; wherein the lower rail is provided with one row of equally spaced slots along the longitudinal direction, wherein the length (dimension in the direction of adjustment) of the slots are closely fitted with the outer periphery of the lock pin(s).
2. The slider system according to claim 1, wherein the lock pin spring is either a compression spring and/or a leaf spring.
3. The slider system according to claim 1, wherein the lock pin spring is mounted either inside or outside of the upper rail.
4. The slider system according to claim 1 , wherein the lock pin is of circular, square, rectangular cross section or any other cross section.
5. The slider system according to claim 1 , wherein the opening in the upper rail is of circular, square, rectangular cross section or any other cross section.
6. The slider system according to claim 1 , wherein the lifting plate spring is either a coil spring, linear spring or a leaf spring.
7. The slider system according to claim 1 , wherein the lifting plate spring is either placed directly on the lifting plate or indirectly through the towel bar.
8. The slider system according to claim 1, wherein the position of the slider can be horizontal, vertical or inclined.
. The slider system according to claim 1 , wherein the pitch of slots in the lower rail is variable or equal to with respect to the pitch of the lock pin(s) to achieve a desired pitch of the slider.
10. The slider system according to claim 1 , wherein one or more lock ρin(s) of the locking assembly arranged in one or more rows, wherein either one or more lock pins are engaged in locking and thereby providing single or multiple locking and the remaining lock pin(s) that is/are not engaged in the locking remains seated on the intervening lands.
1 1. An automotive seat locking system to lock a slider assembly in a desired position and preventing movement of said assembly comprising: a pair of upper rail on which a seating system is mounted; a pair of locking assembly, wherein each locking assembly comprising a U- bracket, one or more lock pin(s) arranged in one or more rows, wherein either one or more lock pins are engaged in locking and thereby providing single or multiple locking, wherein each of the lock pin is independently biased with a lock pin spring, a housing bracket, a lifting plate, optionally a lifting plate spring, wherein said locking assembly is mounted on the upper rail, said U bracket is mounted on lower side of the upper rail, said housing bracket is mounted on upper side of the upper rail, and said lifting plate is mounted on the housing bracket and is connected to a towel bar, wherein the towel bar enables unlocking and sliding of the slider, said lock pin(s) is/are disposed through openings(holes) on the upper rail; wherein each lock pin also slides through another openings(holes) on the U-bracket; and a pair of lower rail relatively positioned to the corresponding upper rail, wherein each of the upper rail is movable relative to each of the lower rail in a longitudinal direction; wherein each of the lower rail is provided with one row of equally spaced slots along the longitudinal direction, wherein the length (dimension in the direction of adjustment) of the slots are closely fitted with the outer periphery of the lock pin(s).
12. An automotive seat locking system according to claim 1 1 , wherein the lock pin spring is either a compression spring and/or a leaf spring.
13. An automotive seat locking system according to claim 1 1 , wherein the lock pin spring is mounted either inside or outside of the upper rail.
14. An automotive seat locking system according to claim 11, wherein the lock pin is of circular, square, rectangular cross section or any other cross section.
15. An automotive seat locking system according to claim 11, wherein the opening in the upper rail is of circular, square, rectangular cross section or any other cross section.
16. An automotive seat locking system according to claim 1 1, wherein the lifting plate spring is either a coil spring, linear spring or a leaf spring.
17. An automotive seat locking system according to claim 1 1 , wherein the lifting plate spring is either placed directly on the lifting plate or indirectly through the towel bar.
18. An automotive seat locking system according to claim 1 1, wherein the position of the slider can be horizontal, vertical or inclined.
19. An automotive seat locking system according to claim 11, wherein the pitch of slots in the lower rail is variable or equal to with respect to the pitch of the lock pin(s) to achieve a desired pitch of the slider.
20. An automotive seat locking system according to claim 11, wherein one or more lock pin(s) of the locking assembly arranged in one or more rows, wherein either one or more lock pins are engaged in locking and thereby providing single or multiple locking and the remaining lock pin(s) that is/are not engaged in the locking remains seated on the intervening lands.
PCT/IN2007/000054 2006-02-13 2007-02-12 Slider locking system WO2007094012A2 (en)

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IN222CH2006 2006-02-13

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CN101607533B (en) * 2009-07-28 2011-08-10 宁波双林汽车部件股份有限公司 Built-in double pin locking device of sliding rail of automobile seat
CN101942941A (en) * 2010-09-04 2011-01-12 宁波双林汽车部件股份有限公司 Built-in five-pin locking device for automobile seat slide rail
CN102785593B (en) * 2011-05-17 2015-08-05 达世株式会社 The blocking device of seat rail for vehicle
CN102785593A (en) * 2011-05-17 2012-11-21 达世株式会社 Locking device of seat rail of vehicle
DE102012003664B4 (en) * 2011-05-17 2016-06-09 Das Co., Ltd. Locking device of a seat rail of a vehicle
CN102673433A (en) * 2012-05-03 2012-09-19 苏州忠明祥和精工有限公司 Sliding rail for automobile seats
KR101382117B1 (en) * 2012-11-28 2014-04-08 현대다이모스(주) Seat rail locking apparatus of vehicle
DE102014201582A1 (en) * 2014-01-29 2015-07-30 Brose Fahrzeugteile Gmbh & Co. Kg, Coburg Longitudinal adjustment for Längsverstellen a vehicle seat
CN109572499A (en) * 2017-09-28 2019-04-05 达世株式会社 The locking device of seat rail for vehicle
DE102018205936B4 (en) 2017-09-28 2023-10-05 Das Co., Ltd Locking device for a seat rail of a vehicle
DE102018205930B4 (en) 2017-10-31 2023-07-13 Das Co., Ltd Locking device for a seat rail
CN107901797A (en) * 2017-12-13 2018-04-13 湖北航嘉麦格纳座椅系统有限公司 A kind of sliding rail of automobile seat and its lockable mechanism
CN107901797B (en) * 2017-12-13 2023-09-22 湖北中航精机科技有限公司 Automobile seat slide rail and locking mechanism thereof
US11110826B2 (en) 2018-05-25 2021-09-07 Martur Italy S.R.L. Sliding device for a vehicle seat
US11571991B2 (en) 2018-05-25 2023-02-07 Martur Italy S.R.L. Sliding device for a vehicle seat

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TW200800675A (en) 2008-01-01

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