CN117621946A

CN117621946A - Seat assembly

Info

Publication number: CN117621946A
Application number: CN202310938667.5A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 贾斯廷·梅瑞狄斯; 达伦·雷; 詹姆斯·金; 克里斯·爱德华兹
Original assignee: Lear Corp
Current assignee: Lear Corp
Priority date: 2022-08-31
Filing date: 2023-07-27
Publication date: 2024-03-01

Abstract

A seat assembly including a seat adjuster and a seat, the seat comprising: a seat bottom including a first seat bottom portion and a second seat bottom portion pivotally connected to the first seat bottom portion; and a seat back pivotally connected to the first seat bottom portion. The seat back may be adjusted about the first pivot axis to either the first seat back position or the second seat back position by the seat adjuster. The seat back is disposed in the second seat back position and the second seat bottom portion is disposed in the raised position when the seat is in the second seat position. The buttocks points of the user are in substantially the same position relative to the first seat bottom portion when the seat is in the first seat position and when the seat is in the second seat position.

Description

Seat assembly

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 63/402,635 filed on month 8 of 2022, 31, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to seat assemblies, including seat assemblies for vehicles.

Brief Description of Drawings

While the claims are not limited to the particular illustrations, an appreciation of various aspects can be gained through a discussion of various examples. The figures are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated or hidden to better illustrate and explain an innovative aspect of an example. Furthermore, the exemplary illustrations described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or otherwise limiting, and the embodiments are not limited to the precise forms and constructions shown in the drawings or disclosed in the following detailed description. The exemplary illustrations are described in detail below by referring to the drawings:

fig. 1-3 are perspective views generally illustrating an embodiment of a seat assembly including a seat disposed in a second seat position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

Fig. 4-6 are side views generally illustrating an embodiment of a seat assembly including a seat disposed in a second seat position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

Fig. 7-9 are side views generally illustrating an embodiment of a seat assembly including a seat disposed in a first seat position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

Fig. 10 and 11 each depict overlapping side views generally showing an embodiment of a seat assembly with the seat in a first seat position (solid line) and the seat in a second seat position (dashed line).

Fig. 12 depicts an overlapping side view generally showing an embodiment of a seat assembly with the headrest in a first headrest position (solid line) and the headrest in a second headrest position (dashed line).

Fig. 13 and 14 are perspective and side views, respectively, generally illustrating an embodiment of a seat assembly including a seat disposed in a second seat position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

Fig. 15 and 16 are perspective and side views, respectively, generally illustrating an embodiment of a seat assembly including a seat disposed in a first seat position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

Fig. 17 depicts an overlapping side view generally showing an embodiment of a seat assembly with the seat in a first seat position (solid line) and the seat in a second seat position (dashed line).

Fig. 18, 19 and 20 are side views generally illustrating embodiments of a seat assembly including a seat disposed in a first seat position, a seat disposed in a second seat position, and a seat back disposed at a large tilt angle, respectively, in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

Fig. 21 and 22 are side views generally illustrating a seat assembly with a seat back disposed at a small recline angle and a large recline angle, respectively.

Detailed Description

Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments described. It will be apparent, however, to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various embodiments described may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

Referring to fig. 1-20, the seat assembly 20, 20 'is a modular seat assembly that includes a plurality of components that, when assembled, form a vehicle seat 22, 22', for example, for use with a passenger vehicle 10 (e.g., an automobile, van, SUV, truck, bus, train, boat, ship, aircraft). The seat assemblies 20, 20' may be used in any other suitable situation or device, such as a home, office building, theater, stadium, recreational vehicle, commercial vehicle, and/or agricultural equipment, among others.

The seat assembly 20, 20 'includes a seat 22, 22', a track assembly 40, a seat base 50, and a seat adjuster 70. The seat 22, 22 'includes a seat frame 80, a seat bottom 24, 24', a seat back 30, a headrest 32, a calf rest 34 and a calf rest extension (calf rest extension) 36. The seat bottom 24, 24', seat back 30, headrest 32, and calf support 34 include one or more other elements, components, and/or assemblies, such as cushions or pads, trim assemblies, support/suspension cushions, airbags, and/or air distributors (e.g., air conduction layers, ducts, fans). Portions of the seats 22, 22' are configured to move (e.g., adjust, tilt, rotate, fold, collapse) relative to one another and/or along the track assembly 40 by actuating the seat adjuster 70. The seat adjuster 70 is configured to adjust the seats 22, 22' to one or more seat positions, including a first seat position (e.g., a design position) and a second seat position (e.g., a zero gravity position).

In some embodiments, such as generally depicted in fig. 1-12, the seat 22 of the seat assembly 20 includes a seat bottom 24, the seat bottom 24 including a first seat bottom portion 26a supporting the buttocks of the occupant/user 200 and a second seat bottom portion 26b supporting the thighs of the occupant/user 200. Fig. 7-9 depict the seat assembly 20 when the seat 22 is in the first seat position. Fig. 1-6 depict the seat assembly 20 when the seat 22 is in the second seat position. Fig. 10 and 11 depict overlapping images of the seat 22 in a first seat position (solid line) and the seat 22 in a second seat position (broken line).

In other embodiments, such as generally depicted in fig. 13-20, the seat 22 'of the seat assembly 20' includes an adjustment member 150 and a seat bottom 24', the seat bottom 24' including a single seat bottom portion having a first angled section 28a for supporting the buttocks of the occupant/user 200 and a second angled section 28b for supporting the thighs of the occupant/user 200. Fig. 15, 16 and 18 depict the seat assembly 20 'when the seat 22' is in the first seat position. Fig. 13, 14 and 19 depict the seat assembly 20 'when the seat 22' is in the second seat position. Fig. 17 depicts overlapping images of a seat 22 '(solid line) in a first seat position and a seat 22' (broken line) in a second seat position.

Referring to fig. 7-11 and 15-18, the first seat position is a so-called "design position". The design position corresponds to an average size of an occupant/user 200 seated at a predefined occupant position (e.g., at a predefined position having a predefined orientation and posture). The predefined occupant position is generally established when designing the seat assembly 20, 20' and/or the vehicle 10 (e.g., the interior of the vehicle 10, including safety systems such as airbags and seat belts, may be designed based on an average adult male or female occupant 200 seated in the predefined occupant position). Optionally, the seats 22, 22 'are configured to be in a design position when evaluating whether the seat assemblies 20, 20' and/or the vehicle 10 meet one or more rules and/or criteria (e.g., safety criteria).

Referring to fig. 1-6, 10, 11, 13, 14, 17 and 19, the second seat position is in a so-called "zero gravity position". When the seats 22, 22 'are in the zero-gravity position, the average sized occupant/user 200 of the seat assembly 20, 20' is positioned such that the occupant's head 202 and knees 204 are raised slightly above at least a portion of the occupant's heart 218, and the occupant's torso line 210 and thigh line 212 (e.g., at the occupant's buttocks) form an approximately 120 ° angle. The zero gravity position is configured to position the occupant/user 200 in or near a position that is considered a natural body position. The zero gravity position is also configured to reduce and/or minimize stress on the spine and pelvis of the occupant, improve blood flow/circulation, and/or reduce occupant fatigue, which may improve occupant comfort.

Referring to fig. 1-9, 13-16, and 18-20, the track assembly 40 includes one or more tracks (e.g., a first track 42 and a second track 44). Each track 42, 44 includes a fixed track portion 42a, 44a and a movable track portion 42b, 44b. The fixed track portions 42a, 44a are connected (e.g., fixed) to the floor 12 of the vehicle 10. The movable track sections 42b, 44b are slidably connected to the fixed track sections 42a, 44a. The first rail 42, the second rail 44 and/or the fixed rail portions 42a, 44a and the movable rail portions 42b, 44b thereof extend longitudinally in a generally X-direction and are substantially parallel to each other (e.g., the longitudinal direction of the rail assembly 40 extends generally in the X-direction). The first rail 42 and the second rail 44 are disposed substantially spaced apart from each other in the Y direction. The seats 22, 22' (e.g., seat base 50) are removably and/or slidably coupled to the movable track sections 42b, 44b of the track assembly 40. The movable track sections 42b, 44b may be adjusted (e.g., slid) along the fixed track sections 42a, 44a by actuating a motor (e.g., first motor 72 a) of the seat adjuster 70 to adjust the seats 22, 22' along the track assembly 40.

Referring to fig. 1-11 and 13-20, the seat base 50 is coupled to the movable track sections 42b, 44b to couple the seats 22, 22' to the track assembly 40. The seat base 50 may be adjusted (e.g., slid) along the track assembly 40 by actuating a motor (e.g., first motor 72 a) of the seat adjuster 70, and the seat adjuster 70 adjusts (e.g., slides) the movable track portions 42b, 44b relative to the fixed track portions 42a, 44a to adjust the seat base 50 along the track assembly 40. The seat base 50 includes a first seat base portion 52a and a second seat base portion 52b, the first seat base portion 52a and the second seat base portion 52b each including a rear base portion 54a, 54b and a front base portion 56a, 56b. The first seat base portion 52a and/or portions 54a, 56a thereof are connected to the first movable track portion 42b. The second seat base portion 52b and/or portions 54b, 56b thereof are connected to the second movable track portion 44b. The rear base portions 54a, 54b and the front base portions 56a, 56b of one or more of the seat base portions 52a, 52b are connected to one another by corresponding movable track portions 42b, 44b and/or the seat frame 80 (e.g., the seat bottom frame 100, the side members 106a, 106 b).

Referring to fig. 1-20, the seat frame 80 includes a seat back frame 82, a headrest frame 90, a seat bottom frame 100, 100', a calf support frame 120, and an extension frame 128. In some embodiments, the seat bottom frame 100 includes a first seat bottom frame portion 102 and a second seat bottom frame portion 112 (see, e.g., fig. 1-11). In other embodiments, the seat bottom frame 100' includes a single inclined portion that is adjustable about/around the first pivot axis A1 (see, e.g., fig. 13-20). In some embodiments, such as generally depicted in fig. 1-12, the seat frame 80 includes the seat base 50, and/or the seat base 50 at least partially defines a portion of the seat frame 80 (e.g., the seat back frame 82 and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102). In other embodiments, the seat frame 80 is a separate component/element/assembly from the seat base 50 and is connected (e.g., adjustably, pivotably) to the seat base 50 (see, e.g., fig. 13-20). The seat frame 80 and/or portions thereof include a plurality of cross members (e.g., cross members 84a, 84b, 94a, 94b, 104a, 104b, 114a, 114b, 124, 140a, 140 b) and side members (e.g., side members 86a, 86b, 96a, 96b, 106a, 106b, 116a, 116b, 126a, 126b, 142a, 142 b). The cross members and/or side members may include one or more of a variety of configurations, such as members, beams, rods, bars, and/or tubes.

Referring to fig. 1-11 and 13-20, the seat back frame 82 includes a plurality of cross members (e.g., a first cross member 84a and a second cross member 84 b) and a plurality of side members (e.g., a first side member 86a and a second side member 86 b). The first and second cross members 84a, 84b extend between the first and second side members 86a, 86b and connect the first and second side members 86a, 86b. The seat back frame 82 is disposed in the seat back 30 and/or connected to the seat back 30. The seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 (e.g., the two side members 86a, 86 b) are pivotally connected to the rear base portion 54a, 54b, the seat bottom 24, 24 'and/or the seat bottom frame 100, 100' (e.g., the first seat bottom frame portion 102, the first angled portion 144a, 144 b) of the seat base 50 at the first pivot axis A1 or about the first pivot axis A1. The seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 (e.g., the second cross member 84 b) is connected to the head rest 32 and/or the head rest frame 90 at a fourth pivot axis A4 (e.g., the head rest pivot axis) or about the fourth pivot axis A4 by a bracket 92. The first pivot axis A1 and the fourth pivot axis A4 extend generally in the Y-direction (e.g., perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40, and/or parallel to the second pivot axis A2 and/or the third pivot axis A3).

The seat back 30 and the seat back frame 82 may be pivoted about/around the first pivot axis A1 by actuating a motor (e.g., the second motor 72 b) of the seat adjuster 70 to adjust the angle/tilt of the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 relative to the track assembly 40, the seat bottom 24, 24 '(e.g., the first seat bottom portion 26a, the first tilt section 28 a), and/or the seat bottom frame 100, 100' (e.g., the first seat bottom frame portion 102 and/or the first tilt portions 144a, 144 b). The seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 may be adjusted about/around the first pivot axis A1 to a first seat back position (see, e.g., fig. 7-11 and 15-18) and a second seat back position (see, e.g., fig. 1-6, 10, 11, 13, 14, 17 and 19). Adjusting the seat back 30 (e.g., from the first seat back position) to the second seat back position adjusts the user's head 202 downward toward the track assembly 40 (e.g., to a position slightly above the horizontal line of the user's 200 heart 218). The seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 are disposed in a first seat back position when the seat 22, 22 'is in the first seat position (e.g., the design position) and the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 are disposed in a second seat back position when the seat 22, 22' is in the second seat position (e.g., the zero-gravity position).

Referring to fig. 1-20, the headrest frame 90 includes a plurality of cross members (e.g., a first cross member 94a and a second cross member 94 b) and a plurality of side members (e.g., a first side member 96a and a second side member 96 b). The first and second cross members 94a, 94b extend between the first and second side members 96a, 96b and connect the first and second side members 96a, 96b. The headrest frame 90 is disposed in the headrest 32 and/or connected to the headrest 32. The head rest 32 and/or the head rest frame 90 (e.g., side members 96a, 96 b) are pivotally connected to the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 (e.g., second cross member 84 b) opposite the seat base 50, the seat bottom 24, 24 'and/or the seat bottom frames 100, 100' at the fourth pivot axis A4 or about the fourth pivot axis A4 by brackets 92. The head rest 32 and/or the head rest frame 90 may be pivoted about the fourth pivot axis A4 by actuating a motor (e.g., the fifth motor 72 e) of the seat adjuster 70 to adjust the angle/tilt of the head rest 32 and/or the head rest frame 90 relative to the seat back 30, the seat back frame 82, and/or the track assembly 40. The headrest 32 and/or the headrest frame 90 can be adjusted about/around the fourth pivot axis A4 to a first headrest position (see, e.g., fig. 7-12 and 15-18) and a second headrest position (see, e.g., fig. 1-6, 10-14, 17 and 19).

Fig. 12 depicts overlapping images of the headrest 32 in the first headrest position (solid line) and the headrest 32 in the second headrest position (broken line) when the seatback 30 is in the second seatback position. Adjusting the head rest 32, for example, from the first head rest position to the second head rest position, adjusts the user's head 202 to a more forward facing viewing position to reduce the angle defined between the user's line of sight 214 and the X-direction and/or longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40. This, in turn, may position the user's head 202 to more easily view the windshield, screen, and/or another component, which may improve the user's comfort and experience. The headrest 32 and/or the headrest frame 90 are disposed in a first headrest position when the seat 22, 22 'is in a first seat position (e.g., a design position), and the headrest 32 and/or the headrest frame 90 are disposed in a second headrest position when the seat 22, 22' is in a second seat position (e.g., a zero gravity position).

Referring to fig. 1-11, the seat bottom frame 100 includes a first seat bottom frame portion 102 and a second seat bottom frame portion 112. The first seat bottom frame portion 102 and the second seat bottom frame portion 112 each include a plurality of cross members (e.g., first cross members 104a, 114a and second cross members 104b, 114 b) and a plurality of side members (e.g., first side members 106a, 116a and second side members 106b, 116 b).

The first seat bottom frame portion 102 is connected to the rearThe base portions 54a, 54b and/or the front base portions 56a, 56b and/or are at least partially defined by the rear base portions 54a, 54b and/or the front base portions 56a, 56 b. The first cross member 104a of the first seat bottom frame portion 102 extends between the rear base portions 54a, 54b and the side members 106a, 106b and connects the rear base portions 54a, 54b and the side members 106a, 106b to one another. The second cross member 104b of the first seat bottom frame portion 102 extends between the front base portions 56a, 56b and the side members 106a, 106b and connects the front base portions 56a, 56b and the side members 106a, 106b to one another. The first seat bottom frame portion 102 is disposed in the first seat bottom portion 26a and/or is connected to the first seat bottom portion 26a. The first seat bottom portion 26a and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102 is pivotally connected to the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 at the first pivot axis A1 or about the first pivot axis A1. The first seat bottom portion 26a and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102 is pivotally connected to the second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 at or about the second pivot axis A2. Optionally, the first seat bottom 26a and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102 are secured to the seat base 50 (e.g., the rear base portions 54a, 54b and the front base portions 56a, 56 b) and/or the movable track portions 42b, 44b such that, for example, the position and/or orientation of the first seat bottom portion 26a and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102 relative to the seat base 50, the first pivot axis A1, the second pivot axis A2, and the movable track portions 42b, 44b does not change (e.g., the first seat bottom portion 26a and the first seat bottom frame portion 102 are not pivotable about/about the first pivot axis A1 or the second pivot axis A2). Optionally, the first seat bottom portion 26a (e.g., its seating surface) is at an angle α of 20 ° -30 ° (e.g., 24 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 ₂ And (5) setting.

Referring to fig. 1-9, 13-16 and 18-20, the seat base 50, the first seat bottom portion 26a and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102 may be adjusted to a rearward position (see, e.g., fig. 7-9, 15, 16 and 18) and a forward position (see, e.g., fig. 1-6, 13, 14 and 19) along the track assembly 40 generally in a longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 (e.g., generally in the X-direction) by adjusting/moving the seat base 50 and the movable track portions 42b, 44b along the fixed track portions 42a, 44a with the seat adjuster 70 and the first motor 72 a. The seat base 50, the first seat bottom portion 26a, and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102 are disposed in a rearward position when the seat 22, 22 'is in a first seat position (e.g., a design position), and the seat base 50, the first seat bottom portion 26a, and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102 are disposed in a forward position when the seat 22, 22' is in a second seat position (e.g., a zero gravity position). Positioning the seat base 50 and/or the first seat bottom portion 26a in the forward position when the seats 22, 22' are in the second seat position places the seats 22, 22' in a more concentrated position relative to the track assembly 40, which may reduce and/or limit occupant/user intrusion of the seat back 30 into a rear adjacent seat (e.g., a seat in a rear seat of a vehicle) when the seats 22, 22' are in the second seat position.

Referring to fig. 1-11, the first and second cross members 114a, 114b of the second seat bottom frame portion 112 extend between the first and second side members 116a, 116b and connect the first and second side members 116a, 116b. The side members 116a, 116b of the second seat bottom frame portion 112 generally extend obliquely to the side members 106a, 106b of the first seat bottom frame portion 102 and/or extend perpendicularly or obliquely to the cross members 114a, 114b. The second seat bottom frame portion 112 is disposed in the second seat bottom portion 26b and/or is connected to the second seat bottom portion 26b. The second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 (e.g., side members 116a, 116 b) are pivotally connected to the first seat bottom portion 26a, the first seat bottom frame portion 102 and/or the front base portions 56a, 56b at or about the second pivot axis A2. The second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 is pivotally connected to the calf support 34 and/or the calf support frame 120 at or about a third pivot axis A3 (e.g., a calf support pivot axis) by way of brackets 118. The second pivot axis A2 and the third pivot axis A3 extend generally in the Y-direction (e.g., perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40, and/or parallel to the first pivot axis A1 and/or the fourth pivot axis A4).

The second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 may be pivoted about/around the second pivot axis A2 by actuating a motor (e.g., the third motor 72 c) of the seat adjuster 70 to adjust the angle/tilt of the second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 relative to the track assembly 40, the first seat bottom portion 26a and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102. The second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 may be adjusted about/around the second pivot axis A2 to a lowered/default position (see, e.g., fig. 7-11) and a raised/raised position (see, e.g., fig. 1-6, 10, and 11). Adjusting the second seat bottom portion 26b, for example, from the lowered position to the raised position, adjusts the user's knee 204 upward away from the track assembly 40 (e.g., to a position closer to, at, and/or slightly above the horizontal line of at least a portion of the user's 200 heart 218). The second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 are disposed in the lowered position when the seat 22 is in the first seat position (e.g., the design position), and the second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 are disposed in the raised position when the seat 22 is in the second seat position (e.g., the zero gravity position). In some examples, the second seat bottom portion 26b (e.g., a seating surface thereof) is disposed substantially parallel to the first seat bottom portion 26a (e.g., a seating surface thereof) when the second seat bottom portion 26b is in the lowered position.

Referring to fig. 1-11 and 13-20, the calf support frame 120 includes a support plate 122, a cross member 124, and a plurality of side members (e.g., a first side member 126a and a second side member 126 b). The support plate 122 is connected to the side members 126a, 126b and/or the cross member 124 and is supported by the side members 126a, 126b and/or the cross member 124. The cross member 124 extends between the first side member 126a and the second side member 126b and connects the first side member 126a and the second side member 126b. The calf support frame 120 is disposed in the calf support 34 and/or connected to the calf support 34. The calf rest 34 and/or the calf rest frame 120 are pivotably connected to the seat bottom 24, 24 '(e.g., second seat bottom portion 26b, second tilt section 28 b) and/or the seat bottom frame 100, 100' (e.g., second seat bottom frame portion 112, second tilt sections 146a, 146b, and/or cross member 140 b) at or about a third pivot axis A3 (e.g., calf rest pivot axis).

The calf rest 34 and/or calf rest frame 120 can be pivoted about the third pivot axis A3 by actuating a motor (e.g., fourth motor 72 d) of the seat adjuster 70 to adjust the angle/tilt of the calf rest 34 and/or calf rest frame 120 relative to the seat bottom 24, 24 '(e.g., second seat bottom portion 26b, second tilt section 28 b), seat bottom frame 100, 100' (e.g., second seat bottom frame portion 112, second tilt sections 146a, 146 b) and/or track assembly 40. The calf support 34 and/or the calf support frame 120 can be adjusted about/around the third pivot axis A3 to a first calf support position (see, e.g., fig. 7-11 and 15-18) and a second calf support position (see, e.g., fig. 1-6, 10, 11, 13, 14, 17 and 19). The calf rest 34 and/or calf rest frame 120 are disposed in a first calf rest position when the seat 22, 22 'is in a first seating position (e.g., a design position) and the calf rest 34 and/or calf rest frame 120 are disposed in a second calf rest position when the seat 22, 22' is in a second seating position (e.g., a zero gravity position).

Referring to fig. 1-11 and 13-20, an extension frame 128 is disposed in the calf support extension 36 and/or connected to the calf support extension 36. The calf support extension 36 and/or extension frame 128 are slidably connected to the calf support 34 and/or calf support frame 120. The calf support extension 36 and/or extension frame 128 can be adjusted to a retracted position (see, e.g., fig. 7-11 and 15-18) and an extended position (see, e.g., fig. 1-6, 10, 11, 13, 14, 17 and 19) relative to the calf support 34, calf support frame 120 and/or seat bottom 24, 24' by the seat adjuster 70 and/or its motor (e.g., sixth motor 72 f). The calf rest extension 36 and/or extension frame 128 are disposed in the retracted position when the seat 22, 22 'is in a first seating position (e.g., a design position) and the calf rest extension 36 and/or extension frame 128 are disposed in the extended position when the seat 22, 22' is in a second seating position (e.g., a zero gravity position).

Referring to fig. 1-11 and 13-20, a seat adjuster 70 is coupled to the seats 22, 22' and/or the track assembly 40. The seat adjuster 70 includes a controller and/or a plurality of motors (e.g., six motors 72a-72 f) and is configured to actuate the plurality of motors 72a-72f (e.g., individually and/or simultaneously). One or more of the plurality of motors 72a-72f includes an electric motor.

The first motor 72a is operatively connected to the track assembly 40 and, when actuated by the seat adjuster 70, adjusts the position of the movable track sections 42b, 44b and seats 22, 22' connected thereto relative to the fixed track sections 42a, 44a (e.g., to a rearward position and/or a forward position).

The second motor 72b is operatively connected to the seat back frame 82 and at least one of the rear base portions 54a, 54 b. When actuated by the seat adjuster 70, the second motor 72b adjusts the position of the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 relative to the track assembly 40, the seat bottom 24, 24 '(e.g., the first seat bottom portion 26a and/or the first angled section 28 a), and/or the seat bottom frame 100, 100' (e.g., the first seat bottom frame portion 102 and/or the first angled portion 144a, 144 b) to, for example, adjust the seat back 30 to the first seat back position and/or the second seat back position.

The third motor 72c is operatively connected to the second seat bottom frame portion 112 and at least one of the front base portions 56a, 56 b. When actuated by the seat adjuster 70, the third motor 72c adjusts the position (e.g., to a lowered position and/or a raised position) of the second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 relative to the track assembly 40, the first seat bottom portion 26a, and/or the first seat bottom frame portion 102.

The fourth motor 72d is operatively connected to the seat bottom frames 100, 100' and the calf support frame 120. The fourth motor 72d is configured to adjust the position of the calf support 34 and/or the calf support frame 120 relative to the rail assembly 40, the seat bottom 24, 24 '(e.g., the second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second angled section 28 b) and/or the seat bottom frame 100, 100' (e.g., the second seat bottom frame portion 112 and/or the second angled section 146a, 146 b) when actuated by the seat adjuster 70, for example, to adjust the calf support 34 and/or the calf support frame 120 to the first calf support position and/or the second calf support position.

The fifth motor 72e is operatively connected to the seat back frame 82 and the headrest frame 90. The fifth motor 72e, when actuated by the seat adjuster 70, adjusts the position of the headrest 32 and/or the headrest frame 90 relative to the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 (e.g., to the first headrest position and/or the second headrest position).

The sixth motor 72f is operatively connected to the support plate 122 and the extension frame 128 of the calf support frame 120. The sixth motor 72f, when actuated by the seat adjuster 70, adjusts the position of the calf support extension 36 and/or extension frame 128 relative to the third pivot axis A3 and/or one or more other portions of the calf support 34 (e.g., to an extended position and/or a retracted position).

In some embodiments, the seat adjuster 70 adjusts the seat 22 to one or more seat positions, including a first seat position (e.g., a design position) and a second seat position (e.g., a zero gravity position). The seat adjuster 70 when adjusting the seat 22 from the first seat position to the second seat position or from the second seat position to the first seat position: adjusting (e.g., tilting) the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 about/around the first pivot axis A1 by 20 ° -30 ° (e.g., 23 ° -27 °;25 °); adjusting the second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 about the second pivot axis A2 by 10 ° -20 ° (e.g., 13 ° -17 °;15 °); adjusting the calf support 34 and/or calf support frame 120 about the third pivot axis A3 by 20 ° -30 ° (e.g., 23 ° -27 °;25 °); and the headrest 32 and/or the headrest frame 90 are adjusted about the fourth pivot axis A4 by 10 ° -20 ° (e.g., 13 ° -17 °;15 °). Alternatively, the seat adjuster 70 simultaneously: the movable track sections 42b, 44b, the seat base 50, and the first seat bottom section 26a are adjusted in a longitudinal direction along the track assembly 40 (e.g., by actuating the first motor 72 a), the seat back 30 is adjusted about the first pivot axis A1 (e.g., by actuating the second motor 72 b), the second seat bottom section 26b is adjusted about the second pivot axis A2 (e.g., by actuating the third motor 72 c), the calf support 34 is adjusted about the third pivot axis A3 (e.g., by actuating the fourth motor 72 d), and the head rest 32 is adjusted about the fourth pivot axis A4 (e.g., by actuating the fifth motor 72 e) to adjust the seat 22 to the first and/or second seat positions. In some embodiments, seat adjuster 70 adjusts lower leg rest extension 36, along with other portions of seat 22, to both a retracted position and an extended position (e.g., by actuating sixth motor 72 f) to adjust seat 22 to the first and second seat positions, respectively.

Referring to fig. 10 and 11, the seat is configured such that when the seat 22 is in a first seat position (e.g., a design position), when the seat 22 is in a second seat position (e.g., a zero-gravity position), and/or when the seat 22 is in one or more other positions (e.g., a position between the first seat position and the second seat position), the hip point H of the occupant/user 200 is located in substantially the same position relative to the seat base 50, the first seat bottom portion 26a, the first seat bottom frame portion 102, the first pivot axis A1, and/or the second pivot axis A2. Thus, when in the second seat position, the position of the user's hip point H relative to one or more safety devices (e.g., airbags, belt attachment locations, etc.), which are typically optimized for the first seat position, is maintained. This, in turn, may increase the effectiveness of one or more safety devices and/or reduce the risk of injury to the occupant/user 200 in the event of a collision when the seat 22 is in the second seat position.

1-11, one or more portions of the seat assembly 20 are configured as follows when the seat 22 is in a first seat position (e.g., a design position), a second seat position (e.g., a zero-gravity position), and one or more other positions (e.g., a position between the first seat position and the second seat position). In some embodiments, the first pivot axis A1 is set to: at a distance D of 175mm to 225mm (e.g., 200mm to 204mm;202 mm) from the hip point H _1d At a distance D of 115mm to 165mm (e.g., 137mm to 141mm;139 mm) behind the hip point H (e.g., in the X direction) _1x At and below the hip point H (e.g., in the Z direction) a distance D of 120mm to 170mm (e.g., 144mm to 148mm;146 mm) _1z Where it is located. In some embodiments, the second pivot axis A2 is set to: at a distance D of 165mm to 215mm (e.g., 190mm to 194mm;192 mm) from the hip point H _2d At a distance D of 130mm to 180mm (e.g., 152mm to 156mm;154 mm) in front of the hip point H (e.g., in the X direction) _2x At, and a distance D of 90mm to 140mm (e.g., 112mm to 116mm, 114 mm) below the hip point H (e.g., in the Z direction) _2z Where it is located. Thus, the first pivot axis A1 is disposed farther from the hip point H than the second pivot axis A2 when the seat 22 is in the first seat position and when the seat 22 is in the second seat position. In addition, the first pivot axis A1 is disposed farther below the hip point H than the second pivot axis A2 when the seat 22 is in the first seat position and when the seat 22 is in the second seat position.

Referring to fig. 8, portions of the seat assembly 20 are disposed as follows when the seat 22 is in the first seat position (e.g., the design position). The seat base 50 and the first seat bottom portion 26a are disposed in the rearward position, the second seat bottom portion 26b is disposed in the lowered position, the seat back 30 is disposed in the first seat back position, the calf support 34 is disposed in the first calf support position, the headrest 32 is disposed in the first headrest position, and the calf support extension 36 is in the retracted position. The seat back 30 and/or seat back frame 82 may be positioned at 59-63 (e.g., relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40) Angle alpha of 61 deg.) ₁ And (5) setting. The first seat bottom portion 26a (e.g., a seating surface thereof) may be at an angle α of 22 ° -26 ° (e.g., 24 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 ₂ And (5) setting. The second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 may be at an angle α of 11 ° -15 ° (e.g., 13 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 ₃ And (5) setting. The calf rest 34 and/or calf rest frame 120 may be at an angle α of 58 ° -62 ° (e.g., 60 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the rail assembly 40 ₄ And (5) setting. The head rest 32 and/or the head rest frame 90 may be at an angle α of 22 ° -26 ° (e.g., 24 °) relative to the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 ₅ And (5) setting. In some embodiments, the third pivot axis A3 is set to: at a distance D of 360mm to 410mm (e.g., 381mm to 385mm;383 mm) from the hip point H _3d At a distance D of 355mm to 405mm (e.g., 376mm to 380mm, 378 mm) in front of the hip point H (e.g., in the X direction) _3x At, and/or a distance D of 35mm to 85mm (e.g., 58mm to 62mm;60 mm) below the hip point H (e.g., in the Z direction) _3z Where it is located. In some embodiments, the fourth pivot axis A4 is set to: at a distance D of 540mm to 590mm (e.g., 565mm to 569mm;567 mm) from the hip point H _4d At a distance D of 365mm to 415mm (e.g., 389mm to 393mm; 399mm) behind the hip point H (e.g., in the X direction) _4x At, and/or a distance D of 385mm to 435mm (e.g., 408mm to 412mm;410 mm) above the hip point H (e.g., in the Z direction) _4z Where it is located.

As generally shown in fig. 9, the position of the axes A1, A2, A3, A4 may also be represented by their respective distances to the hip point H in a direction defined relative to one or more portions of the occupant/user 200 when the seat 22 is in the first seat position. The first pivot axis A1 is arranged at a distance D from the hip point H in a direction perpendicular to the torso line 210 of the user _1a 180mm to 200mm (e.g., 188mm to 192mm;190 mm), and a distance D from the hip point H in a direction parallel to the user's torso line 210 _1b 57mm to 77mm (e.g., 65mm to 69mm;67 mm). Second pivot shaftLine A2 is disposed a distance D from hip point H in a direction parallel to user's thigh line 212 _2a 116mm to 136mm (e.g., 124mm to 128mm;126 mm), and a distance D from the hip point H in a direction perpendicular to the thigh line 212 of the user _2b 134mm to 154mm (e.g., 142mm to 146mm;144 mm). The third pivot axis A3 is arranged at a distance D from the hip point H in a direction parallel to the thigh line 212 of the user _3a From 346mm to 366mm (e.g., 354mm to 356 mm;356 mm), and a distance D from the hip point H in a direction perpendicular to the thigh line 212 of the user _3b 129mm to 149mm (e.g., 137mm to 141mm;139 mm). The fourth pivot axis A4 is arranged at a distance D from the hip point H in a direction perpendicular to the torso line 210 of the user _4a 153mm to 173mm (e.g., 161mm to 165mm;163 mm), and a distance D from the hip point H in a direction parallel to the user's torso line 210 _4b 533mm to 553mm (e.g., 541mm to 545mm;543 mm).

Referring to fig. 5, portions of the seat assembly 20 are disposed as follows when the seat 22 is in the second seat position (e.g., a zero-gravity position). The seat base 50 and the first seat bottom portion 26a are disposed in the forward position, the second seat bottom portion 26b is disposed in the raised position, the seat back 30 is disposed in the second seat back position, the calf rest 34 is disposed in the second calf rest position, and/or the headrest 32 is disposed in the second headrest position. Optionally, the calf rest extension 36 is in an extended position. In some embodiments, the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 are at an angle α of 36 ° -40 ° (e.g., 38 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 _1’ And (5) setting. In some embodiments, the first seat bottom portion 26a (e.g., a seating surface thereof) is at an angle α of 20 ° -30 ° (e.g., 24 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 ₂ Set (e.g., the same angle as when seat 22 is in the first seat position). In some embodiments, the second seat bottom portion 26b and/or the second seat bottom frame portion 112 are at an angle α of 46 ° -50 ° (e.g., 48 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 _3’ Setting up. In some embodiments, the calf support 34 and/or the calf support frame 120 are at an angle α of 15 ° -19 ° (e.g., 17 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the rail assembly 40 _4’ And (5) setting. In some embodiments, the headrest 32 and/or the headrest frame 90 are at an angle α of 37 ° -41 ° (e.g., 39 °) relative to the seat back 30 _5’ And (5) setting. In some embodiments, the third pivot axis A3 is set to: at a distance D of 300mm to 350mm (e.g., 321mm to 325mm;323 mm) from the hip point H _3d’ At a distance D of 295mm to 345mm (e.g., 318mm to 322mm;320 mm) in front of (e.g., in the X direction) the hip point H _3x’ At, and/or a distance D of 20mm to 70mm (e.g., 44mm to 48mm, 46 mm) above the hip point H (e.g., in the Z direction) _3z’ Where it is located. In some embodiments, the fourth pivot axis A4 is set to: at a distance D of 620mm to 670mm (e.g., 644mm to 640 mm; 640 mm) from the hip point H _4d’ At a distance D of 565mm to 615mm (e.g., 586mm to 560 mm;588 mm) rearward of hip point H (e.g., in the X direction) _4x’ At, and/or a distance D of 240mm to 290mm (e.g., 265mm to 267 mm;267 mm) above the hip point H (e.g., in the Z direction) _4z’ Where it is located.

As generally shown in fig. 6, the position of the axes A1, A2, A3, A4 may also be represented by their respective distances to the hip point H in a direction defined relative to the occupant/user 200 when the seat 22 is in the second seat position. In some embodiments, the first pivot axis A1 is disposed a distance D from the hip point H in a direction parallel to the user's thigh line 212 _1a’ 192mm to 214mm (e.g., 200mm to 204mm;202 mm), and a distance D from the hip point H in a direction perpendicular to the thigh line 212 of the user _1b’ From 3mm to 23mm (e.g., from 11mm to 15mm;13 mm). In some embodiments, the second pivot axis A2 is disposed a distance D from the hip point H in a direction parallel to the user's thigh line 212 _2a’ 65mm to 85mm (e.g., 73mm to 77mm;75 mm), and a distance D from the hip point H in a direction perpendicular to the thigh line 212 of the user _2b’ 166mm to 186mm (e.g., 174mm to 178mm;176 mm). In some casesIn an embodiment, the third pivot axis A3 is disposed a distance D from the hip point H in a direction parallel to the thigh line 212 of the user _3a’ 289mm to 309mm (e.g., 297mm to 301mm;299 mm), and a distance D from the hip point H in a direction perpendicular to the thigh line 212 of the user _3b’ 114mm to 134mm (e.g., 122mm to 126mm;124 mm). In some embodiments, the fourth pivot axis A4 is disposed a distance D from the hip point H in a direction perpendicular to the torso line 210 of the user _4a’ 164mm to 184mm (e.g., 172mm to 176mm;174 mm), and a distance D from the hip point H in a direction parallel to the user's torso line 210 _4b’ 612mm to 632mm (e.g., 620mm to 624mm;622 mm).

Referring to fig. 5, 6, 8 and 9, positioning the seat assembly 20 and/or the seat 22 in accordance with the distance and/or angle previously described when in the first seat position and/or when in the second seat position helps maintain the position of the hip point H relative to the seat base 50, the first seat bottom portion 26a, the first pivot axis A1, etc., and provides an improved comfort level for the occupant/user 200. Positioning the seat assembly 20 and/or the seat 22 according to the distance and/or angle previously described when in the first seat position and/or when in the second seat position also enables the seat assembly 20 to be used by many differently sized occupants/users 200 without significantly reducing the comfort level.

Referring to fig. 13-20, the seat 22' includes a seat bottom 24', a seat bottom frame 100', and an adjustment member 150. The seat bottom 24' includes a first angled section 28a and a second angled section 28b. The seat bottom frame 100' includes a single tilt portion that is adjustable about/around the first pivot axis A1. The seat bottom 24 'and/or the seat bottom frame 100' may be adjusted about/around the first pivot axis A1 to a first seat bottom position (see, e.g., fig. 15-18 and 20) and a second seat bottom position (see, e.g., fig. 13, 14, 17 and 19) to adjust the angle/tilt of the seat bottom 24 'and/or the seat bottom frame 100' relative to the track assembly 40, the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82. The seat bottom 24 'and/or the seat bottom frame 100' are disposed in a first seat bottom position when the seat 22 'is in a first seat position (e.g., a design position), and the seat bottom 24' and/or the seat bottom frame 100 'are disposed in a second seat bottom position when the seat 22' is in a second seat position (e.g., a zero gravity position).

Referring to fig. 13-20, the seat bottom frame 100' includes a plurality of cross members (e.g., a first cross member 140a and a second cross member 140 b) and a plurality of side members (e.g., a first side member 142a and a second side member 142 b). The side members 142a, 142b each include a first angled portion 144a, 144b and a second angled portion 146a, 146b. The first inclined portions 144a, 144b and the second inclined portions 146a, 146b extend obliquely relative to each other and define an angle α between each other of 160 ° -165 ° ₆ . The first cross member 140a extends between the two first inclined portions 144a, 144b and connects the two first inclined portions 144a, 144b to each other. The second cross member 140b extends between the two second inclined portions 146a, 146b and connects the two second inclined portions 146a, 146b to each other. The first angled portions 144a, 144b and the first cross member 140a are disposed in the first angled section 28a of the seat bottom 24' and/or connected to the first angled section 28a. The second angled portions 146a, 146b and the second cross member 140b are disposed in the second angled section 28b of the seat bottom 24' and/or connected to the second angled section 28b.

The first recliner section 28a of the seat bottom 24 'and/or the first recliner portions 144a, 144b of the seat bottom frame 100' are pivotally connected to the rear base portions 54a, 54b, the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 at or about the first pivot axis A1. The second angled section 28b of the seat bottom 24 'and/or the second angled portions 146a, 146b of the seat bottom frame 100' are pivotally connected to the calf support 34 and/or the calf support frame 120 at or about the third pivot axis A3. The second angled section 28b of the seat bottom 24 'and/or the second angled portions 146a, 146b of the seat bottom frame 100' are adjustably connected to the front base portions 56a, 56b by an adjustment member 150.

Referring to fig. 13-15, 17 and 19, the adjustment member 150 adjusts the seat bottom 24 'and/or the seat bottom frame 100' about/around the first pivot axis A1. The adjustment member 150 is pivotally connected to the front base portions 56a, 56b at the second pivot axis A2 or about the second pivot axis A2. The adjustment member 150 is pivotally and slidably connected to the seat bottom frame 100' at or about a fifth pivot axis A5 (e.g., a member bottom pivot axis). The adjustment member 150 includes a cross member 152 and a plurality of side members (e.g., a first side member 154a and a second side member 154 b). Cross member 152 and side members 154a, 154b may comprise one or more of a variety of configurations (e.g., members, beams, bars, rods, tubes, and/or plates). Each of the side members 154a, 154b is pivotally connected to one of the front base portions 56a, 56b at or about the second pivot axis A2. The cross member 152 extends between and connects the ends of the side members 154a, 154b opposite the second pivot axis A2. The cross member 152 is coaxial with the fifth pivot axis A5 and defines the fifth pivot axis A5. The cross member 152 and the fifth pivot axis A5 (e.g., the member bottom pivot axis) extend generally in the Y-direction (e.g., perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40, and/or parallel to the first pivot axis A1, the second pivot axis A2, the third pivot axis A3, and/or the fourth pivot axis A4). The cross member 152 and/or side members 154a, 154b are slidably and pivotally connected to the second angled portions 146a, 146b of the seat bottom frame 100' at or about the fifth pivot axis A5. Referring to fig. 13 and 15, each of the second angled portions 146a, 146b includes an inwardly projecting lip 148a, 148b (e.g., projecting from each of the second angled portions 146a, 146b generally in the Y-direction), the lip 148a, 148b engaging, contacting one of the side members 154a, 154b and/or an end of the cross member 152 and/or resting on one of the side members 154a, 154b and/or an end of the cross member 152.

Referring to fig. 13-19, the adjustment member 150 (e.g., lever, arm, plate, etc.) may be pivoted about/around the second pivot axis A2 by actuating a motor (e.g., third motor 72c ') of the seat adjuster 70 to adjust the angle/tilt of the adjustment member 150, seat bottom 24', and seat bottom frame 100' relative to the track assembly 40, seat back 30, and/or seat back frame 82. The adjustment member 150 can be adjusted about/around the second pivot axis A2 to a first member position (see, e.g., fig. 15-18) and a second member position (see, e.g., fig. 13, 14, 17, and 19). The side members 154a, 154b are disposed substantially parallel to the second angled portions 146a, 146b of the seat bottom frame 100' when the adjustment member 150 is in the first member position. When the adjustment member 150 is in the second member position, the side members 154a, 154b extend obliquely to the second oblique portions 146a, 146b of the seat bottom frame 100' and/or extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40. Adjusting the adjustment member 150, for example, from the first member position to the second member position, rotates the side members 154a, 154b about/around the second pivot axis A2 to adjust the cross member 152 and the fifth pivot axis A5 away from the track assembly 40. This in turn results in: (i) The side members 154a, 154b and the cross member 152 rotate relative to the seat bottom frame 100' about/about the fifth pivot axis A5 (e.g., increase the angle defined between the side members 154a, 154b and the second angled portions 146a, 146 b), and (ii) the side members 154a, 154b, the cross member 152, and the fifth pivot axis A5 move, adjust, slide, etc., along the second angled portions 146a, 146b and/or the lips 148a, 148b of the second angled portions 146a, 146b toward the first angled portions 144a, 144 b. Thus, the adjustment member 150 urges the second angled portions 146a, 146b of the seat bottom frame 100' upward such that the seat bottom frame 100' and the seat bottom 24' rotate about the first pivot axis A1.

In some embodiments, adjusting the seat bottom 24' about the first pivot axis A1 causes the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 to rotate about the first pivot axis A1. Optionally, the orientation of the seat bottom 24' and/or seat bottom frame 100' relative to the seat back 30 and/or seat back frame 82 is maintained during this adjustment (e.g., the angle defined between the seat bottom frame 100' and the seat back frame 82 remains constant). Thus, adjusting the adjustment member 150 about the second pivot axis A2 (e.g., from the first member position to the second member position and/or from the second member position to the first member position) rotates the seat bottom 24', the seat bottom frame 100', the seat back 30, and the seat back frame 82 about the first pivot axis A1 simultaneously. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the seat adjuster 70 may not include the first motor 72a and/or the seat back 30 may not be adjustable independently of the seat bottom 24'.

13-20, the seat adjuster 70, the first motor 72a, the second motor 72b, the fourth motor 72d, the fifth motor 72e, and/or the sixth motor 72f may be configured as described above with respect to the seat assembly 20 depicted in FIGS. 1-12. The seat adjuster 70 includes a third motor 72c' that is operatively connected to the adjustment member 150 and at least one of the front base portions 56a, 56 b. When actuated by the seat adjuster 70, the third motor 72c ' adjusts the position of the adjustment member 150 (e.g., to the first member position and/or the second member position) relative to the track assembly 40, the seat bottom 24' and/or the seat bottom frame 100', and thus adjusts the position of the seat bottom 24' and/or the seat bottom frame 100' relative to the track assembly 40, the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 (e.g., to the first seat bottom position and/or the second seat bottom position).

The seat adjuster 70 adjusts the seat 22' to one or more seat positions, including a first seat position (e.g., a design position) and a second seat position (e.g., a zero gravity position). When adjusting the seat 22' from the first seat position to the second seat position or from the second seat position to the first seat position, the seat adjuster 70: adjusting (e.g., tilting) the seat back 30 and/or the seat back frame 82 about/around the first pivot axis A1 by 10 ° -25 ° (e.g., 16 ° -20 °;18 °); adjusting the seat bottom 24 'and/or the seat bottom frame 100' about the first pivot axis A1 by 10 ° -25 ° (e.g., 16 ° -20 °;18 °); adjusting the adjustment member 150 about the second pivot axis A2 by 80 ° -100 ° (e.g., 88 ° -92 °;90 °); adjusting the calf support 34 and/or the calf support frame 120 about the third pivot axis A3 by 20 ° -30 ° (e.g., 23 ° -27 °;25 °); and/or adjust the headrest 32 and/or the headrest frame 90 by 10 ° -20 ° (e.g., 13 ° -17 °;15 °) about the fourth pivot axis A4. Alternatively, the seat adjuster 70 simultaneously: the movable track sections 42b, 44b and the seat base 50 are adjusted in a longitudinal direction along the track assembly 40 (e.g., by actuating the first motor 72 a), the seat back 30 is adjusted about the first pivot axis A1 (e.g., by actuating the second motor 72b and/or actuating the third motor 72c '), the seat bottom 24' is adjusted about the first pivot axis A1 (e.g., by actuating the third motor 72c '), the adjustment member 150 is adjusted about the second pivot axis A2 (e.g., by actuating the third motor 72c '), the calf support 34 is adjusted about the third pivot axis A3 (e.g., by actuating the fourth motor 72 d), and/or the head rest 32 is adjusted about the fourth pivot axis A4 (e.g., by actuating the fifth motor 72 e) to adjust the seat 22' to the first and/or second seat positions. In some embodiments, seat adjuster 70 adjusts lower leg rest extension 36, along with other portions of seat 22', to both the retracted and extended positions (e.g., by actuating sixth motor 72 f) to adjust seat 22' to the first and second seat positions, respectively.

Referring to fig. 16, portions of the seat assembly 20 are disposed as follows when the seat 22' is in the first seat position (e.g., the design position). The seat base 50 is disposed in the rearward position, the adjustment member 150 is in the first member position, the seat back 30 is disposed in the first seat back position, the seat bottom 24' is in the first seat bottom position, the calf support 34 is disposed in the first calf support position, the head rest 32 is disposed in the first head rest position, and/or the calf support extension 36 is in the retracted position. The seat back 30, the calf rest 34 and the headrest 32 are angled (e.g., α ₁ 、α ₄ 、α ₅ ) The first pivot axis A1, the second pivot axis A2, the third pivot axis A3, and the fourth pivot axis A4 are provided and are provided at the distances (e.g., D _1d 、D _2d 、D _3d 、D _4d ) Where it is located. First recliner sections 28a of the seat bottom 24' and/or first recline of the seat bottom frame 100The beveled portions 144a, 144b may be at an angle α of 0 ° -5 ° (e.g., 0 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 ₇ Disposed (e.g., extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40). The second angled section 28b of the seat bottom 24 'and/or the second angled portions 146a, 146b of the seat bottom frame 100' may be at an angle α of 16 ° -20 ° (e.g., 18 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 ₈ And (5) setting.

Referring to fig. 14, when the seat 22' is in the second seat position (e.g., a zero gravity position), portions of the seat assembly 20 are disposed as follows. The seat base 50 is disposed in the forward position, the adjustment member 150 is in the second member position, the seat back 30 is disposed in the second seat back position, the seat bottom 24' is in the second seat bottom position, the calf rest 34 is disposed in the second calf rest position, and/or the headrest 32 is disposed in the second headrest position. Optionally, the calf rest extension 36 is in an extended position. The calf rest 34 and headrest 32 can be angled (e.g., alpha _4’ 、α _5’ ). The seat back 30 and/or seat back frame 82 may be at an angle α of 41-45 (e.g., 43) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 _1” And (5) setting. The first angled section 28a of the seat bottom 24 'and/or the first angled portions 144a, 144b of the seat bottom frame 100' may be at an angle α of 16 ° -20 ° (e.g., 18 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 _7’ And (5) setting. The second angled section 28b of the seat bottom 24 'and/or the second angled portions 146a, 146b of the seat bottom frame 100' may be at an angle α of 34 ° -38 ° (e.g., 36 °) relative to the longitudinal direction of the track assembly 40 _8’ And (5) setting.

Referring to fig. 14 and 16, positioning the seat assembly 20 'and/or the seat 22' according to the distance and/or angle previously described when in the first seat position and/or when in the second seat position provides an improved comfort level for the occupant/user 200 relative to other designs. Positioning the seat assembly 20' and/or the seat 22' according to the distance and/or angle previously described when in the first seat position and/or when in the second seat position also enables the seat assembly 20' to be used by many differently sized occupants/users 200 without significantly reducing the comfort level.

Referring to fig. 18-20, both the seat bottom 24 'and the seat back 30 of the seat 22' may pivot about the first pivot axis A1. The first pivot axis A1 is disposed below the seat surface of the seat bottom 24 relative to the Z-direction (e.g., the first pivot axis A1 is disposed closer to the vehicle floor 12 than the seat surface) such that a step (step) is prevented from forming between the seat bottom 24' and the seat back 30 when the seat 22' is in the first seat position (see, e.g., fig. 18), the seat 22' is in the second seat position (see, e.g., fig. 19), and the seat back 30 is at a large tilt angle (see, e.g., fig. 20) (e.g., not as is the case with the step formed in the design shown in fig. 22). This in turn improves the comfort of the occupant/user 200 when the seat 22' is in the first seat position, the seat 22' is in the second seat position, and the seat back 30 is at a large recline angle (see, e.g., fig. 18-20, wherein the pose line 216 of the occupant/user 200 does not intersect any portion of the seat 22 ').

In contrast, in some designs, such as the designs generally shown in fig. 21 and 22, the seat 322 of the seat assembly 320 includes a seat back 330 and a seat bottom 340 that are adjustable about different axes 332, 342. The seat back 330 is adjustable about an upper axis 332. The seat bottom 340 is adjustable about a lower axis 342, the lower axis 342 being disposed closer to the vehicle floor than the upper axis 332 (e.g., disposed below the upper axis 332). In these designs, adjusting the seat back 330 from a small tilt angle (see, e.g., fig. 21) to a large tilt angle (see, e.g., fig. 22) results in a step 350 being formed between the seat back 330 and the seat bottom 340. The step 350 may be pressed into the back of the occupant/user, causing discomfort (see, e.g., fig. 22, where the pose line 216 of the occupant/user 200 intersects the step 350).

In an example, the seat adjuster 70 and/or controller may include an electronic controller and/or include an electronic processor, such as a programmable microprocessor and/or microcontroller. In an embodiment, the seat adjuster 70 and/or the controller may include, for example, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). The seat adjuster 70 and/or the controller may include a Central Processing Unit (CPU), memory (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium), and/or an input/output (I/O) interface. The seat adjuster 70 and/or controller may be configured to perform various functions, including those described in greater detail herein, using suitable programming instructions and/or code embodied in software, hardware, and/or other media. In an embodiment, the seat adjuster 70 and/or controller may include a plurality of controllers. In embodiments, the seat adjuster 70 and/or the controller may be connected to a display, such as a touch screen display.

The present disclosure includes the following non-limiting examples:

1. a seat assembly including a seat adjuster and a seat, the seat comprising: a seat bottom including a first seat bottom portion and a second seat bottom portion pivotally connected to the first seat bottom portion; and a seat back pivotally connected to the first seat bottom portion; wherein the seat back is adjustable about the first pivot axis to a first seat back position or a second seat back position by a seat adjuster; the second seat bottom portion may be adjustable about a second pivot axis to a lowered or raised position by a seat adjuster; when the seat is in the first seat position, the seat back is disposed in the first seat back position and the second seat bottom portion is disposed in the lowered position; when the seat is in the second seat position, the seat back is disposed in the second seat back position and the second seat bottom portion is disposed in the raised position; the buttocks points of the user are in substantially the same position relative to the first seat bottom portion when the seat is in the first seat position and when the seat is in the second seat position.

2. The seat assembly of embodiment 1 wherein the buttocks point is in the same position relative to the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis when the seat is in the first seat position and when the seat is in the second seat position.

3. A seat assembly as set forth in any preceding embodiment, wherein the first pivot axis is disposed 175mm to 225mm from the buttock point.

4. A seat assembly as set forth in any preceding embodiment, wherein the first pivot axis is disposed 200mm to 204mm from the buttock point.

5. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the first pivot axis is disposed 115mm to 165mm behind the hip point; and the first pivot axis is disposed 120mm to 170mm below the hip point.

6. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the first pivot axis is disposed 137mm to 141mm behind the hip point; and the first pivot axis is disposed 144mm to 148mm below the hip point.

7. A seat assembly as set forth in any preceding embodiment, wherein the second pivot axis is disposed 165mm to 215mm from the buttock point.

8. A seat assembly as set forth in any preceding embodiment, wherein the second pivot axis is disposed 190mm to 194mm from the buttock point.

9. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the second pivot axis is disposed 130mm to 180mm in front of the hip point; and the second pivot axis is disposed 90mm to 140mm below the hip point.

10. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the second pivot axis is disposed 152mm to 156mm forward of the hip point; and a second pivot axis is disposed 112mm to 116mm below the hip point.

11. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the seat includes a lower leg rest pivotally connected to the second seat bottom portion at an additional pivot axis; and the additional pivot axis is disposed 300mm to 350mm from the buttocks point when the second seat bottom portion is in the raised position.

12. A seat assembly as set forth in any preceding embodiment, wherein the additional pivot axis is disposed 321mm to 325mm from said buttock point when the second seat bottom portion is in the raised position.

13. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the seat includes a lower leg rest pivotally connected to the second seat bottom portion at an additional pivot axis; and when the second seat bottom portion is in the raised position: the additional pivot axis is disposed 295mm to 345mm forward of the hip point; and the additional pivot axis is arranged 20mm to 70mm above the hip point.

14. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein, when the second seat bottom portion is in the raised position: an additional pivot axis is provided at 318mm to 322mm in front of the hip point; and an additional pivot axis is provided at 44mm to 48mm above the hip point.

15. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein:

the seat includes a headrest pivotably connected to the seat back at an additional pivot axis; and the additional pivot axis is disposed 620mm to 670mm from the hip point when the seat back is in the second seat back position.

16. A seat assembly as set forth in any preceding embodiment wherein the additional pivot axis is disposed 644mm to 648mm from said buttock point when the seat back is in the second seat back position.

17. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the seat includes a headrest pivotably connected to the seat back at an additional pivot axis; and when the seat back is in the second seat back position: the additional pivot axis is disposed 565mm to 615mm behind the hip point; and the additional pivot axis is disposed 240mm to 290mm above the hip point.

18. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein, when the seat back is in the second seat back position: an additional pivot axis is provided at 586mm to 590mm behind the hip point; and an additional pivot axis is provided at 265mm to 269mm above the hip point.

19. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the seat comprises a shank rest and a headrest; the calf rest is pivotably connected to the second seat bottom portion at a third pivot axis; the headrest is pivotably connected to the seat back at a fourth pivot axis; and when the seat is in the first seat position: the third pivot axis is disposed 360mm to 410mm from the hip point; and the fourth pivot axis is arranged 540mm to 590mm from the hip point.

20. The seat assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the seat comprises a shank rest and a headrest; the calf rest is pivotably connected to the second seat bottom portion at a third pivot axis; the headrest is pivotably connected to the seat back at a fourth pivot axis; and when the seat is in the first seat position: a third pivot axis is provided at 355mm to 405mm in front of the hip point; a third pivot axis is disposed 35mm to 85mm below the hip point; the fourth pivot axis is disposed 365mm to 415mm behind the hip point; and a fourth pivot axis is disposed 385mm to 435mm above the hip point.

Various examples/embodiments for various devices, systems, and/or methods are described herein. Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the examples/embodiments described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the examples/embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the examples/embodiments described in this description. It will be appreciated by persons of ordinary skill in the art that the examples/embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it is recognized that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.

Reference throughout this specification to "an example," "in an example," "according to an example," "various embodiments," "according to an embodiment," "in an embodiment," or "an embodiment," etc., means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example/embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in an example," "according to an example," "in various embodiments," "according to an embodiment," "in an embodiment," or "an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples/embodiments. Thus, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described or illustrated in connection with one embodiment/example may be combined, in whole or in part, with features, structures, functions, and/or characteristics of one or more other embodiments/examples, without limitation, as long as such combination is not logical or nonfunctional. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the scope thereof.

It should be understood that reference to a single element is not necessarily so limited, but may include one or more of such elements. Any directional references (e.g., positive, negative, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the examples/embodiments.

"one or more" includes a function performed by one element, a function performed by more than one element (e.g., in a distributed fashion), a number of functions performed by one element, a number of functions performed by a number of elements, or any combination of the preceding.

It will be further understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements in some instances, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of the various embodiments described. Both the first element and the second element are elements, but they are not the same element.

The terminology used in the description of the various embodiments described herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the description of the various described embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term "and/or" as used herein relates to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and/or "including," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

References to joining (e.g., attaching, coupling, connecting, etc.) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements, relative movement between elements, direct connection, indirect connection, fixed connection, movable connection, operative connection, indirect contact, and/or direct contact. Thus, reference to joining does not necessarily mean that the two elements are directly connected/coupled and in fixed relation to each other. The connection of electrical components (if any) may include mechanical, electrical, wired, and/or wireless connections, etc. The use of "e.g." and "such as" in this specification is to be construed broadly and is used to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to such examples.

Although processes, systems, and methods may be described herein in connection with one or more steps in a particular sequence, it should be understood that the methods may be practiced with steps in a different order, with certain steps performed concurrently, with additional steps, and/or with the omission of certain described steps.

As used herein, the term "if" is optionally interpreted to mean "when..once" or "when in..once" or "in response to a determination" or "in response to a detection..once", depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase "if determined" or "if detected [ the condition or event ]" is optionally interpreted to mean "upon determination of the term" or "in response to determination of the term" or "upon detection of the [ the condition or event ]" or "in response to detection of the [ the condition or event ]" depending on the context.

It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from this disclosure.

It should be understood that the computer/computing device, controller, seat adjuster, system, and/or processor as described herein may include conventional processing means known in the art that may be capable of executing preprogrammed instructions stored in an associated memory, all according to the functionality described herein. To the extent that the methods described herein are embodied in software, the resulting software can be stored in an associated memory and can also constitute a means for performing such methods. Such a system or processor may also be of the type having ROM, RAM, RAM and ROM, and/or a combination of nonvolatile memory and volatile memory, so that any software may be stored and also allow for the storage and processing of dynamically generated data and/or signals.

It should be further appreciated that an article of manufacture in accordance with the present disclosure may comprise a non-transitory computer readable storage medium having encoded thereon a computer program for implementing the logic and other functions described herein. The computer program may include code for performing one or more methods disclosed herein. Such embodiments may be configured to be executed via one or more processors (e.g., multiple processors) integrated into a single system or distributed across and connected together by a communication network, and the communication network may be wired and/or wireless. Code for implementing one or more of the features described in connection with one or more embodiments may cause a plurality of transistors to change from a first state to a second state when executed by a processor. The particular mode of change (e.g., which transistors change state and which transistors do not change state) may be dictated at least in part by logic and/or code.

Claims

1. A seat assembly, comprising:

a seat adjuster; and

a seat, the seat comprising:

A seat bottom, the seat bottom comprising:

a first seat bottom portion; and

a second seat bottom portion pivotally connected to the first seat bottom portion; and

a seat back pivotally connected to the first seat bottom portion; wherein the seat back is adjustable about a first pivot axis to a first seat back position or a second seat back position by the seat adjuster;

the second seat bottom portion is adjustable about a second pivot axis to a lowered position or a raised position by the seat adjuster;

the seat back is disposed in the first seat back position and the second seat bottom portion is disposed in the lowered position when the seat is in the first seat position;

the seat back is disposed in a second seat back position and the second seat bottom portion is disposed in the raised position when the seat is in the second seat position; and is also provided with

The buttocks points of the user are in substantially the same position relative to the first seat bottom portion when the seat is in the first seat position and when the seat is in the second seat position.

2. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein the hip point is in the same position relative to the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis when the seat is in the first seat position and when the seat is in the second seat position.

3. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein the first pivot axis is disposed 175mm to 225mm from the buttock point.

4. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein the first pivot axis is disposed 200mm to 204mm from the buttock point.

5. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

the first pivot axis is disposed 115mm to 165mm behind the hip point; and is also provided with

The first pivot axis is disposed 120mm to 170mm below the hip point.

6. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

the first pivot axis is disposed 137mm to 141mm behind the hip point; and is also provided with

The first pivot axis is disposed 144mm to 148mm below the hip point.

7. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein said second pivot axis is disposed 165mm to 215mm from said buttocks point.

8. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein said second pivot axis is disposed 190mm to 194mm from said buttock point.

9. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

the second pivot axis is disposed 130mm to 180mm forward of the hip point; and is also provided with

The second pivot axis is disposed 90mm to 140mm below the hip point.

10. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

the second pivot axis is disposed 152mm to 156mm forward of the hip point; and is also provided with

The second pivot axis is disposed 112mm to 116mm below the hip point.

11. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

the seat includes a lower leg rest pivotally connected to the second seat bottom portion at an additional pivot axis; and is also provided with

The additional pivot axis is disposed 300mm to 350mm from the buttocks point when the second seat bottom portion is in the raised position.

12. The seat assembly of claim 11 wherein said additional pivot axis is disposed 321mm to 325mm from said buttock point when said second seat bottom portion is in said raised position.

13. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

When the second seat bottom portion is in the raised position:

the additional pivot axis is disposed 295mm to 345mm forward of the hip point; and is also provided with

The additional pivot axis is disposed 20mm to 70mm above the hip point.

14. The seat assembly of claim 13, wherein when the second seat bottom portion is in the raised position:

the additional pivot axis is disposed 318mm to 322mm forward of the hip point; and is also provided with

The additional pivot axis is disposed 44mm to 48mm above the hip point.

15. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

the seat includes a headrest pivotably connected to the seat back at an additional pivot axis; and is also provided with

The additional pivot axis is disposed 620mm to 670mm from the hip point when the seat back is in the second seat back position.

16. The seat assembly of claim 15 wherein said additional pivot axis is disposed 644 to 648mm from said buttock point when said seat back is in said second seat back position.

17. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

When the seat back is in the second seat back position:

the additional pivot axis is disposed 565mm to 615mm behind the hip point; and is also provided with

The additional pivot axis is disposed 240mm to 290mm above the hip point.

18. The seat assembly of claim 17 wherein when the seat back is in the second seat back position:

the additional pivot axis is disposed 586mm to 590mm behind the hip point; and is also provided with

The additional pivot axis is disposed 265mm to 269mm above the hip point.

19. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

the seat comprises a shank rest and a headrest;

the lower leg rest is pivotably connected to the second seat bottom portion at a third pivot axis;

the headrest is pivotably connected to the seat back at a fourth pivot axis; and is also provided with

When the seat is in the first seat position:

the third pivot axis is disposed 360mm to 410mm from the hip point; and is also provided with

The fourth pivot axis is disposed 540mm to 590mm from the hip point.

20. The seat assembly of claim 1 wherein:

the seat comprises a shank rest and a headrest;

When the seat is in the first seat position:

the third pivot axis is disposed 355mm to 405mm forward of the hip point;

the third pivot axis is disposed 35mm to 85mm below the hip point;

the fourth pivot axis is disposed 365mm to 415mm behind the hip point; and is also provided with

The fourth pivot axis is disposed 385mm to 435mm above the hip point.