CN117916125A

CN117916125A - Child car seat

Info

Publication number: CN117916125A
Application number: CN202280047037.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 大卫·A·雷曼; 凯尔·S·梅森; A·J·泰勒; 柯堤斯·M·哈尔斯汀; 安德鲁·J·霍斯特
Original assignee: China Wonderland Nurserygoods Co Ltd
Current assignee: China Wonderland Nurserygoods Co Ltd
Priority date: 2021-04-29
Filing date: 2022-04-28
Publication date: 2024-04-19

Abstract

In one example, a child vehicle seat for a vehicle has a body with a seat back, a seating surface extending forward from the seat back, and a tilt foot. The angled leg has a front end defining an engagement area with the vehicle seat and a rear end disposed rearward of the front end. The rear end is coupled to the body such that the tilt foot pivots relative to the body about the pivot axis to transition the body between at least one rearward tilt position and at least one forward tilt position. The rear end has a rigid portion and the saddle has a deformable body attached to the rigid portion. The deformable body engages the vehicle seat and deforms under a force less than the rigid portion.

Description

Child car seat

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application requires U.S. provisional patent application No.: (i) 63/181,577 submitted on month 29 of 2021; (ii) 63/221,971 submitted on day 7, month 15 of 2021; and (iii) priority of 63/255,895 filed on 10/14 of 2021, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to child vehicle seats (CHILD CAR SEATS), and more particularly to child vehicle seats having a variety of use configurations, tilt configurations, and crash safety features.

Background

Some child car seats currently on the market have a variety of use configurations that allow the seat to continue to be used as the child grows. For example, some child car seats may be selectively used in any one or more of the following configurations: (1) a reclined configuration for an infant, (2) a forward reclined configuration for a toddler, (3) a forward, high back boost configuration for a child weighing between, for example, 40 pounds and 100 pounds, and (4) a forward, no back boost configuration for a child weighing between, for example, 40 pounds and 120 pounds.

Disclosure of Invention

In one example, a child vehicle seat for a vehicle (vehicle) includes a main body and a booster seat. The main body includes a seat back having first and second side walls spaced apart from each other to define a space therebetween for the upper body of the child. The booster seat is configured to be removably attached to the main body. The booster seat includes first and second arms spaced apart from one another, and a seating surface between the first and second arms. The first arm is configured to be removably attached to the first sidewall at an interface between the first arm and the first sidewall. The second arm and the second sidewall may likewise be detachably attached to each other. Various coupling configurations or interfaces may be provided between the side walls and the arms. The coupling interface defined via the side wall of the body can increase the structural rigidity of the child car seat.

In another example, a child seat for a vehicle includes a body and a booster seat. The body includes a seat back and at least one attachment member extending from the seat back. The booster seat includes: a seating surface; a recess below a seating surface configured to receive at least one attachment member; and at least one leg extending downwardly from the seating surface and into the recess at the rear end of the seating surface. The at least one leg is configured to support a rear end of the seating surface when the booster seat is uncoupled from the at least one attachment member. Based on this configuration, the booster seat can be used in a variety of settings that do not require assembly or installation with a child car seat. For example, the booster seat may be used as a separate seat for a child, or may be placed on a seat surface of a chair or a seating room (seating area).

In yet another example, a child seat for a vehicle includes a body and a booster seat. The body includes a seat back and at least one attachment member extending in a forward direction from the seat back. The body defines at least one engagement surface. The booster seat is configured to be removably attached to the main body. The booster seat includes a release latch having an engagement surface and an actuator surface. The engagement surface is configured to releasably engage with the engagement surface of the body to secure the booster seat and the body to one another. The actuator surface may be provided on an outboard or front surface of the booster seat. The actuator surface may be provided as a button or any other type of actuator.

In yet another example, a child seat for a vehicle includes a body, a booster seat, and a seat belt. The body includes a seat back and at least one attachment member extending from the seat back. The booster seat includes a seating surface. The booster seat is configured to be coupled with the at least one attachment member such that the seating surface is disposed above the at least one attachment member. The booster seat defines a pair of lap belt openings (lap belt openings) extending into a rear end of the booster seat. The harness includes a crotch buckle and first and second straps, the first strap having a first waistband portion and the second strap having a second waistband portion, the first and second waistband portions configured to rest over the waist of the child. For each of the first and second belt portions, the seat belt may include a reinforcement attached to the belt portion and extending with the belt portion from below the seat surface through a respective one of the belt openings and then over the seat surface.

In yet another example, a child seat for a vehicle includes a body, a seat surface, and a tilt foot. The body includes a seat back and the seating surface extends forwardly from the seat back. The angled leg has a front end defining an engagement surface configured to engage a vehicle seat and a rear end disposed rearward of the front end. The rear end is coupled to the body such that the tilt foot is configured to pivot about a pivot axis relative to the body to transition the body between at least one rearward tilt position (reclined position ) and at least one forward tilt position (inclined position, forwardly tilted position). The rear end has a rigid portion thereof that is not configured to engage with a vehicle seat (i.e., the rigid portion may be located above the vehicle seat). The tilt foot includes a deformable body secured to a rigid portion of the tilt foot. The deformable body is configured to engage the vehicle seat and deform with less force than is required to deform the rigid portion, which helps to absorb energy in the event of an accident crash.

Various other configurations of child car seats are disclosed herein.

Drawings

The following description of the illustrative embodiments may be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the potential embodiments of the disclosed systems and methods are not limited to what has been described.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a child safety seat according to an example;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the child safety seat of FIG. 1 in an upright position;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the child safety seat of FIG. 1 in an reclined position;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a body of the child safety seat of FIG. 1 with the booster seat removed according to an example;

FIG. 4B is another perspective view of the body of the child safety seat of FIG. 1 with the booster seat removed according to an example;

fig. 4C is an enlarged perspective view of a crotch buckle pocket (pocket) of the body of fig. 4A and 4B;

FIG. 4D is another perspective view of a body according to an example;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a booster seat of the child safety seat of FIG. 1 according to an example;

FIG. 6A is another perspective view of the booster seat of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6B is another perspective view of the booster seat of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a booster seat according to another example;

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a booster seat according to another example;

FIG. 8A is a side view of a child safety seat with a booster seat shown in phantom;

FIG. 8B is a bottom perspective view of the booster seat of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a body of a child safety seat according to another example;

FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of the body of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a booster seat configured for use with the body of FIG. 9 according to another example;

FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the child safety seat of FIG. 1 with the reclining mechanism of the seat in an upright configuration;

FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the child safety seat of FIG. 1 with the reclining mechanism of the seat in a reclined configuration;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of one side of the booster seat taken along the line shown in FIG. 6A, showing release of the latch;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the child safety seat of FIG. 1, showing attachment of a harness to the child safety seat according to an example;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the safety seat of FIG. 1, showing the attachment of the harness according to FIG. 15 to the child safety seat;

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a tilting base of a child safety seat according to an example;

18A-18F are side views of a child safety seat in different use positions;

FIG. 19 is a side view of the position of the child safety seat on the vehicle seat during an accident (such as a front end collision);

FIG. 20 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a first tilt foot of the tilt base of FIG. 17, with an independent energy absorbing body and bracket thereof;

FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the energy absorbing body and bracket of FIG. 20; and

Fig. 22 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a first angled leg of the angled base of fig. 17 with an integral energy absorbing material.

Detailed Description

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, in general, a child safety seat 10 (also referred to as a child car seat) of the present disclosure includes a main body 12 and a booster seat 300 configured to be removably attached to the main body. The main body 12 has a seat back 100 and at least one attachment member 200 (shown in fig. 4A) extending from the seat back 100 and attached to the seat back 100. The attachment member 200 may form a bottom or base of the child safety seat 10.

The booster seat 300 and the attachment member 200 are configured to be detachably coupled to each other. In some examples, the attachment member 200 may define a seat extending forward from the seat back 100. In other examples, the attachment member 200 may define at least one protrusion, such as a rod, bar, or piece of material, that extends forward from the seat back 100 and is configured to be removably attached to the booster seat 300. The child safety seat 10 may include at least one seat cover (not shown) that covers the back surface 104 of the seat back 100 (shown in fig. 4A) and the seating surface of the booster seat 300. As will be described in further detail below, the body 12 and booster seat 300 can include features that engage one another to increase the structural rigidity of the child safety seat 10.

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, in some examples, the child safety seat 10 may include a harness 400 that includes a first strap 402, a second strap 404, and a crotch buckle 406. In such an example, the child safety seat 10 may be configured such that when the booster seat 300 is coupled with the body 12, the crotch buckle 406 is positioned above the seating surface 302 of the booster seat 300 to be detachably secured to the first strap 402 and the second strap 404.

Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the child safety seat 10 may include a tilt base 500. The tilt base 500 may be attached to the attachment member 200 such that the body 12 is configured to move relative to the tilt base 500 between an upright position (at least as shown in fig. 2) and a tilted position (at least as shown in fig. 3).

In some examples, the child safety seat 10 may be a high back booster seat configured to be converted to a no back booster seat by removing the booster seat 300 from the body 12. In other examples, child safety seat 10 may be a convertible seat configured to be mounted on the seat in a rearward direction when in an reclined position and to be mounted on the seat in a forward direction when in an upright position, such as a two-in-one, three-in-one, four-in-one, or one-piece seat.

Features of the child safety seat 10 according to various examples of the present disclosure will now be discussed in further detail. More specifically, referring to fig. 1 and 2, the body 12 may include a front end 14 and a rear end 16 that are offset from one another. The front end 14 and the rear end 16 may be offset along a first direction D ₁ (which may correspond to a forward and rearward direction when the child safety seat 10 is installed in a vehicle). The body 12 may be configured such that when a child is properly seated in the child safety seat 10, the child faces in a direction from the rear end 16 toward the front end 14. The body 12 may include an upper end 18 and a lower end 20 that are offset from one another. The upper end 18 and the lower end 20 may be offset along a second direction D ₂ (which may correspond to a vertical direction when the child safety seat 10 is installed in a vehicle) perpendicular to the first direction D ₁. The body 12 may be configured such that when a child is properly seated in the child safety seat 10, the child's head is closer to the upper end 18 than the lower end 20. The body 12 may include a first side 22 and a second side 24 that are offset from one another. The first side 22 and the second side 24 may be offset along a third direction D ₃ (which may correspond to a lateral direction when the child safety seat 10 is installed in a vehicle) that is perpendicular to the first direction D ₁ and the second direction D ₂. The body 12 may be configured such that when a child is seated in the child safety seat 10, the child's arms are adjacent the first side 22 and the second side 24, respectively.

Referring to fig. 4A and 4B, the seat back 100 has a seat back body 102. The back surface 104 is configured to support the back of a child when the child is seated in the child safety seat 10. The backrest surface 104 may extend generally along the second direction D ₂ and the third direction D ₃. The seat back 100 may include a headrest 150. The headrest 150 may be attached to the seat back body 102 or integral with the seat back body 102. In some examples, the headrest 150 is adjustable relative to the seat back body 102 along the second direction D ₂ between the extended position and the retracted position.

The seat back 100 may include a pair of side walls 106 (1) and 106 (2) that are spaced apart from each other along the third direction D ₃. The backrest surface 104 may be disposed between the sidewalls 106 (1) and 106 (2). Sidewalls 106 (1) and 106 (2) may extend outwardly from back surface 104 along first direction D ₁ to define a space therebetween that is sized to accommodate the upper torso of a child. Each side wall 106 (1), 106 (2) may define a strap guide opening 107 therethrough configured to receive at least a portion of a vehicle restraint to secure the body 12 in a forward position (i.e., facing the front of the vehicle).

The first sidewall 106 (1) may be configured to couple with the first arm 316 (1) of the booster seat 300 at an interface between the first sidewall 106 (1) and the first arm 316 (1) (as shown in fig. 5). In some examples, the coupling between the first sidewall 106 (1) and the first arm 316 (1) may limit or prevent the first sidewall 106 (1) from bending inward or outward along the third direction D ₃. Similarly, in some examples, the second sidewall 106 (2) may be configured to couple with the second arm 316 (2) of the booster seat 300 at an interface between the second sidewall 106 (2) and the second arm 316 (2) (as shown in fig. 5). In an example, the interface between the sidewalls 106 (1), 106 (2) and the arms 316 (1), 316 (2) may be provided by profile matching or complementation of these components. For example, the side walls 106 (1), 106 (2) may each define a curved groove or recess, and the arms 316 (1), 316 (2) may each have a corresponding curved protrusion or extension configured to rest or be received within the curved groove or recess of the side walls 106 (1), 106 (2). In some examples, the coupling between the second sidewall 106 (2) and the second arm 316 (2) may limit or prevent the second sidewall 106 (2) from bending inward or outward along the third direction D ₃. The coupling between the side walls 106 (1), 106 (2) and the arms 316 (1), 316 (2) may generally limit or prevent (i) the arms from flexing inwardly toward a space sized to support a child, or (ii) the arms from flexing outwardly away from a space sized to support a child.

As shown in fig. 4A, each of the sidewalls 106 (1) and 106 (2) may have an upper end 106a and a lower end 106b spaced apart from each other along the second direction D ₂. When the booster seat 300 is coupled with the body 12, each lower end 106b can be disposed adjacent a respective arm 316 (1), 316 (2) of the booster seat 300 (as shown in fig. 5). In some examples, each lower end 106b may define a surface facing the corresponding arm 316 (1), 316 (2). At least one lower end 106b (and preferably each lower end 106 b) is configured to couple with a respective arm 316 (1), 316 (2) of booster seat 300. For example, each lower end 106b may be configured to be directly coupled with a respective arm 316 (1), 316 (2) of booster seat 300 such that lower end 106b contacts arms 316 (1), 316 (2).

At least one lower end 106b (and preferably each lower end 106 b) may include a first coupling 108 configured to couple with a second coupling of a corresponding arm 316 (1), 316 (2) of booster seat 300. Fig. 4A and 4B illustrate an example in which each first link 108 is a protrusion or rib and each second link (320 (1), 320 (2) of fig. 6A is an opening or recess configured to receive a respective one of the first links 108 of the body 12 therein) of the booster seat 300.

Each first link 108 may extend downwardly from a lower end 106b of one of the side walls 106 (1), 106 (2). Additionally or alternatively, each first link 108 may extend forward from a lower end 106b of one of the side walls 106 (1), 106 (2). In some examples, each first link 108 may extend from the lower end 106b of one of the side walls 106 (1), 106 (2) to the attachment member 200 such that the first link 108 is attached to the lower end 106b of one of the side walls 106 (1), 106 (2) and the attachment member 200. Accordingly, the first coupling 108 may be formed as a connection rib or structure between the lower ends 106b of the sidewalls 106 (1), 106 (2) and the attachment member 200. In such examples, each first link 108 may also function as a stiffener that limits or prevents the attachment member 200 from bending relative to the seat back 100 in a plane extending along the first and second directions D ₁ and D ₂. In one configuration, the body 12 includes a male coupling and the booster seat 300 includes a female coupling. It should be appreciated that in alternative examples, the coupling of the body 12 and booster seat 300 can be constructed in other ways. For example, each first coupling member may define an opening and each second coupling member may define a protrusion configured to be received in a respective one of the first coupling members.

The seat back 100 may be attached to an attachment member 200 adjacent the lower end 20. In some examples, the seat back 100 may be fixedly attached to the attachment member 200. For example, the seat back 100 may be positionally fixed to the attachment member 200 such that movement of the seat back 100 in any direction results in corresponding movement of the attachment member 200. The attachment member 200 may be shaped as a tube, bar, block, or other suitable shape. Fig. 4A and 4B show an example in which the attachment member 200 is a single member having a plate-like shape, the width of which along the third direction D ₃ and the depth along the first direction D ₁ are both larger than the thickness of the attachment member 200 along the second direction D ₂. The attachment member 200 may be configured as a seat having a seating surface, or may be configured to not provide a seating surface. As an alternative example (not shown), the body 12 may have a pair of attachment members spaced apart from each other along the third direction D ₃, wherein each attachment member is shaped as a rod or tube extending forward from the back surface 104 and each attachment member is received in a recess of the booster seat 300.

The attachment member 200 may be formed of a suitable rigid material and may be attached to the seat back 100 so as to limit or prevent the attachment member 200 from bending relative to the seat back 100 in a plane extending along the first and second directions D ₁ and D ₂. Accordingly, the attachment member 200 and the seat back 100 may be attached to one another to prevent the seat surface and the back surface 104 of the booster seat 300 from moving toward or away from one another. The attachment member 200 may extend from the seat back body 102 adjacent the lower end 20 and thus may define a protrusion from the seat back body 102. For example, the attachment member 200 may extend from the seat back body 102 in a direction extending from the rear end 16 to the front end 14. The attachment member 200 may be configured to be removably received in a recess 324 of the booster seat 300 (as shown in fig. 6A and 6B). In other words, the attachment member 200 may be configured to slide under the booster seat 300 and within the recess 324.

As shown in fig. 4A and 4B, the attachment member 200 may include a first side 202 and a second side 204 spaced apart from each other along a third direction D ₃. The attachment member 200 may include a front end 206 and a rear end 208 spaced apart from each other along a first direction D ₁. The rear end 208 may be attached to the seat back 100. The attachment member 200 may include an upper end 214. When booster seat 300 is coupled with attachment member 200, upper end 214 may be covered by booster seat 300. In some examples, the upper end 214 may define a seating surface, although in other examples, as shown in fig. 4A and 4B, the upper end 214 may be devoid of a seating surface.

At least one of the first side 202 and the second side 204 may define at least one engagement surface 210 configured to engage with a corresponding engagement surface 326 defined on the booster seat 300 to guide movement of the booster seat 300 toward the attachment member 200 (e.g., to align the booster seat 300 and the attachment member 200 with each other) when the booster seat 300 is coupled with the attachment member 200. In an example, each engagement surface 210 may be angled upward as it extends in a forward direction. The direction of the angle may be varied as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art.

The engagement surfaces 210, 326 may engage (i.e., directly contact) one another such that when the body 12 and booster seat 300 are coupled to one another, the body 12 and booster seat 300 are aligned with one another. Additionally or alternatively, the engagement surfaces 210, 326 may engage one another, thereby preventing relative movement between the body 12 and the booster seat 300 in a direction perpendicular to the engagement surfaces 210, 326. The engagement surfaces 210, 326 may engage one another to prevent relative movement between the body 12 and the booster seat 300 along the first direction D ₁. In an example, as shown, at least one of the first and second sides 202, 204 may define at least one protrusion 212 that includes an engagement surface 210. The at least one protrusion 212 is configured to be received in at least one opening 328 of the booster seat 300, the opening defining at least one engagement surface 326. In this configuration, the protrusion 212 is a male engagement member and the opening 328 is a female engagement member. In an alternative example (not shown), at least one of the first and second sides 202, 204 may define at least one opening (i.e., a female engagement member) that includes the engagement surface 210 and is configured to receive at least one protrusion (i.e., a male engagement member) of the booster seat 300 that defines the at least one engagement surface 326.

In one example, the profiles of the engagement surface 210 and the engagement surface 326 may be complementary to each other. As shown in fig. 4A and 4B, the engagement surface 210 may have an inclined or angled profile. Also, as shown in fig. 6B, the engagement surface 326 may also have a sloped or angled profile that complements the sloped or angled profile of the engagement surface 210. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other contours or mating configurations may be provided between the engagement surfaces 210, 326. In an example, the at least one protrusion 212 may include a pair of protrusions 212 defined on opposite lateral sides of the upper end 214 of the attachment member 200. The pair of protrusions 212 may include sloped bodies that connect with respective ones of the two sides 202, 204 of the attachment member 200. The pair of protrusions 212 may have a relatively low profile and the height of the pair of protrusions may be less than 50% of the total height of the side 204. Based on this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that this value may vary.

The at least one opening 328 may include a pair of openings defined on opposite sides of the booster seat 300. As shown in fig. 6A and 6B, the opening 328 may be continuous with the groove 324.

Referring to fig. 8A, each side surface on the underside of booster seat 300' can include a pair of openings 328A, 328b and a pair of engagement surfaces 326a, 326b. Likewise, the body 12' may include two pairs of corresponding protrusions 212a, 212b and engagement surfaces 210a, 210b. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that each side of booster seat 300 'and body 12' may include the features shown in fig. 8A, although for purposes of illustration, only a seat having only one pair of openings 328A, 328b, protrusions 212a, 212b, and engagement surfaces 210a, 210b, 326a, 326b is shown. Fig. 8B further illustrates the underside of booster seat 300' in an uninstalled state.

The interface provided between the engagement surfaces 210, 326 provides an additional safety feature that prevents the booster seat and the body from separating from one another in the event of a sudden impact or collision. Increasing the number of joints or interfaces, such as by providing a plurality of joint surfaces 210a, 210B, 326a, 326B in fig. 8A and 8B, may further prevent any unintended separation of the booster seat and the body.

As shown at least in fig. 1, the child safety seat 10 may include a harness 400 to secure a child in the child safety seat 10. The harness 400 may include a crotch strap 408. The crotch strap 408 may include a crotch buckle 406 and a webbing 410. The harness 400 may include a first strap 402 and a second strap 404 configured to be selectively secured to a crotch buckle 406. The first strap 402 may include a waistband portion 402a configured to rest on the waist of the child and/or a shoulder strap portion 402b configured to rest on the child's shoulder. The first strap 402 may include a terminal attached to the body 12. For example, the first strap 402 may be attached to the attachment member 200 of the main body 12. Similarly, the second strap 404 may include a waistband portion 404a configured to rest on the child's waist and/or a shoulder strap portion 404b configured to rest on the child's shoulder. The second strap 404 may include an end that is connected to the body 12. For example, the second strap 404 may be attached to the attachment member 200 of the body 12. The shoulder strap portions 402b, 404b may be repositioned for children of different sizes. For example, for a taller child, the upper ends of the shoulder strap portions 402b, 404b may be raised, while for a shorter child, the upper ends of the shoulder strap portions 402b, 404b may be lowered. Thus, the shoulder strap portions 402b, 404b may have a highest position and a lowest position. The attachment member 200 may include a harness release lever 218 (shown in fig. 4A) configured to be engaged by a user to release the harness 400, thereby allowing the harness 400 of the child to be released.

When the booster seat 300 is coupled with the attachment member 200, each lap belt portion 402a, 404a may be coupled with the attachment member 200 at a location below the seating surface 302 of the booster seat 300. Fig. 15 and 16 illustrate this feature of the waistband portion 402a, but those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the same configuration can be provided for another waistband portion 404a. For each lap belt portion 402a, 404a, the seat belt 400 may include a reinforcement 403, the reinforcement 403 being attached to the lap belt portion 402a, 404a when the lap belt portion 402a, 404a extends from below the seat surface 302 through the lap belt opening 334 in the booster seat 300 and extends above the seat surface 302. The stiffener 403 may be any suitable stiffener that reinforces the lower ends of the waistband portions 402a, 404a. For example, the reinforcement 403 may be a webbing sewn or otherwise fastened to the lower ends of the waistband portions 402a, 404a. In some examples, the child safety seat 10 may include an anchor 220, such as a rod or other protrusion, disposed below the seat surface 302. In an example, the anchor 220 may be located inside the attachment member 200. In one configuration, the waistband portions 402a, 404a may be looped around the anchor 220 and sewn to itself as shown in fig. 16 to couple with the anchor 220. In other examples, the stiffener 403 may be a coating applied to the lower ends of the waistband portions 402a, 404a or a sheath around the lower ends of the waistband portions 402a, 404a. When the booster seat 300 is coupled with the attachment member 200, the reinforcement 403 allows the lower ends of the lap belt portions 402a, 404a to stand upright such that the lower ends of the lap belt portions 402a, 404a can be easily received in the lap belt opening 334 of the booster seat 300.

Each stiffener 403 may optionally define a stop 403a configured to interfere with the latch 412 of the seat belt 400, thereby preventing the latch 412 from moving the belt portion 402a, 404a down to the lower end of the belt portion 402a, 404 a. The stopper 403a may be provided at an upper end of the reinforcement 403. In an example, the stop 403a may be defined by one end of the reinforcement 403 (e.g., the loose end of the webbing) just above where the webbing is sewn to the waistband portions 402a, 404 a. A catch 412 may be provided on each strap 402, 404 and may be configured to secure the straps 402, 404 relative to the crotch buckle 406. The latch 412 may be releasably secured or fastened to the crotch buckle 406 to secure the child in the child safety seat 10.

Referring to fig. 4A and 4B, the attachment member 200 may define a recess 216 therein. The recess 216 may be configured to receive and store the crotch buckle 406 therein when the crotch buckle 406 is not being used to buckle a child in the child safety seat 10. For example, when the child safety seat 10 is used as a front booster seat, the crotch buckle 406 may be stowed in the recess 216 without the use of the harness 400. The webbing 410 of the crotch strap 408 may be attached to the attachment member 200 within the recess 216. For example, the webbing 410 may be attached to the inner surface of the recess 216. The inner surface may be, for example, a bottom or side of the recess 216. In some embodiments, the recess 216 may be configured such that when the crotch buckle 406 is received therein, the crotch buckle 406 protrudes above the recess 216. This may make it easier for a user to reach the crotch buckle 406 through the crotch buckle opening 332 in the booster seat 300 (shown in fig. 5) when the booster seat 300 is coupled with the attachment member 200. Alternatively, the recess 216 may include a cover that may be closed to store the crotch buckle 406 when not in use.

Referring to fig. 5, 6A, 6B, the booster seat 300 can have a front end 300a and a rear end 300B that are offset from each other along a first direction D ₁. The booster seat 300 can have an upper end 300c and a lower end 300D that are offset from each other along the second direction D ₂. The booster seat 300 can have a first side 300e and a second side 300f that are offset from one another along a third direction D ₃. Booster seat 300 can include a seating surface 302. The seating surface 302 may extend from the front end 300a to the rear end 300b. The seating surface 302 may at least partially define a receiving space 304, the receiving space 304 configured to receive the lower body of the child. The booster seat 300 can define at least one recess 324 therein configured to receive the attachment member 200 of the body 12. At least one groove 324 may extend into the rear end 300b toward the front end 300 a. In some examples, at least one groove 324 may also extend into the lower end 300d toward the seating surface 302.

The arms 316 (1), 316 (2) of the booster seat 300 can optionally define a lap belt guide (also referred to herein as a "forward lap belt guide") configured to position the lap belt portion of the vehicle restraint when the body 12 is in a forward position (i.e., facing the front of the vehicle). Arms 316 (1) and 316 (2) may be spaced apart from each other along third direction D ₃. Each arm 316 (1) and 316 (2) may extend upward from the seating surface 302.

Each arm 316 (1), 316 (2) may define a recess or opening 316a configured to receive a belt portion of a vehicle restraint (e.g., a seat belt). In one example, as shown, the recess or opening 316a may be open toward the front ends of the arms 316 (1), 316 (2) such that the arms 316 (1), 316 (2) have an inverted "L" shape. Thus, each arm 316 (1), 316 (2) may have a first end 316b attached to the body of booster seat 300 and a second end 316c unattached to the booster seat body. The second end 316c may be spaced apart from the body of the booster seat 300 to define a space therebetween for receiving a vehicle restraint. Arms 316 (1), 316 (2) may be configured to receive a vehicle restraint strap, such as a vehicle seat strap or a separate restraint strap, therethrough to connect child safety seat 10 to the vehicle seat in a forward position. A receiving space 304 for a child may also be defined between the arms 316 (1), 316 (2).

When the booster seat 300 is coupled with the body 12, at least one of the first and second arms 316 (1), 316 (2) may be disposed adjacent the lower end 106b of the respective side wall 106 (1), 106 (2) of the body 12. In some examples, the first and second arms 316 (1), 316 (2) may each define a surface facing the lower end 106b of the respective side wall 106 (1), 106 (2). At least one, and preferably both, of the first and second arms 316 (1), 316 (2) are configured to be attached to the lower end 106b of the respective side wall 106 (1), 106 (2). For example, at least one (and preferably both) of the first and second arms 316 (1) and 316 (2) may be configured to be directly attached to a respective one of the side walls 106 (1), 106 (2) of the body 12.

Referring to fig. 5, 6A and 6B, the booster seat 300 can additionally or alternatively include at least one pair of armrests 318 (1), 318 (2). The armrests 318 (1), 318 (2) may be spaced apart from each other along the third direction D ₃. Each armrest 318 (1), 318 (2) may be spaced apart from a respective one of the arms 316 (1), 316 (2) along the first direction D ₁. The accommodation space 304 may be defined between the armrests 318 (1), 318 (2). In some examples, booster seat 300 can include at least one object support, such as a pair of object supports 330 (1), 330 (2). At least one of the object holders 330 (1), 330 (2) may be a cup holder. In some examples, at least one of the object holders 330 (1), 330 (2) may be an object holder other than a cup holder, such as a treat holder. Each object support 330 (1), 330 (2) may be disposed in front of a respective one of the armrests 318 (1), 318 (2) and/or a respective one of the arms 316 (1), 316 (2). The perimeter of each recess or opening 316a may be defined in part by armrests 318 (1), 318 (2) and arms 316 (1), 316 (2).

At least one, and preferably both, of the first and second arms 316 (1), 316 (2) may include a second coupling 320 (1), 320 (2) configured to couple with the first coupling 108 of the respective side wall 106 (1), 106 (2) of the body 12. Fig. 6A illustrates an example in which each second link 320 (1), 320 (2) defines an opening, and each first link 108 of the body 12 is a protrusion configured to be received in a respective one of the links 320 (1), 320 (2) of the booster seat 300. Each second link 320 (1), 320 (2) may extend into a respective one of the first and second arms 316 (1), 316 (2). For example, each second link 320 (1), 320 (2) may extend into a surface of a respective one of the first and second arms 316 (1), 316 (2) that faces one of the side walls 106 (1), 106 (2). Each second link 320 (1), 320 (2) may extend into a rear end of a respective one of the first and second arms 316 (1), 316 (2) along a first direction D ₁. Additionally or alternatively, each second link 320 (1), 320 (2) may extend into a respective one of the first and second arms 316 (1), 316 (2) along the second direction D ₂. It will be appreciated that in alternative examples, each second coupling 320 (1), 320 (2) may be configured in other ways. For example, each second link 320 (1), 320 (2) of the booster seat 300 can define a protrusion, and each first link 108 of the body 12 can define an opening configured to be received in a respective one of the second links 320 (1), 320 (2).

Fig. 9, 10 and 11 illustrate another exemplary configuration for coupling booster seat 300″ to body 12. In this example, the shape of each first link 108 '(formed as a protrusion in this example) is configured to prevent the first link 108' from being detached from the respective second link 320 (1) ', 320 (2)' along the selected direction D _S extending from the respective one of the arms 316 (1) ', 316 (2)' to the respective one of the side walls 106 (1) ', 106 (2)' and/or along the first direction D ₁. In other words, each first link 108' and the respective second link 320 (1) ', 320 (1) ' may be engaged with each other to prevent a respective one of the arms 316 (1) ', 316 (2) ' from being pulled away from a respective one of the side walls 106 (1) ', 106 (2) ' in the selected direction D _S. For example, each first link 108 'may have a first portion 108a' and a second portion 108b 'disposed outside of the first portion 108a' along the select direction D _S. The second portion 108b 'may have a cross-sectional dimension in a plane perpendicular to the selected direction D _S that is greater than the cross-sectional dimension of the first portion 108 a'. The first portion 108a 'may be considered a neck and the second portion 108b' may be considered a head. The heads may be configured to remain within the respective second couplings 320 (1) ', 320 (2)' to prevent the respective arms 316 (1) ', 316 (2)' and sidewalls 106 (1) ', 106 (2)' from being pulled away from each other. The first coupling 108' may be T-shaped in cross-section, although other shapes are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure.

Each second coupling 320 (1) ', 320 (2)' may have a first portion 320a 'and a second portion spaced inwardly from the first portion 320a' in the select direction D _S. The first portion 320a ' of the opening may be configured to receive the first portion 108a ' of the first coupling 108', and the second portion of the opening may be configured to receive the second portion 108b ' of the first coupling 108 '. The second portion of the opening may have a cross-sectional dimension in a plane perpendicular to the selected direction D _S that is greater than the cross-sectional dimension of the first portion 320a' of the opening. The first portion 320a ' of the opening may have a cross-sectional dimension in a plane perpendicular to the selected direction D _S that is greater than a cross-sectional dimension of the first portion 108a ' (e.g., neck) of the first coupling 108', but less than a cross-sectional dimension of the second portion 108b ' of the coupling 108 '. Each second coupling 320 (1) ', 320 (2)' may be T-shaped in cross-section, although other shapes are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. Each second coupling 320 (1) ', 320 (2) ' may also have a third portion 320b ' that is open to the first and second portions. The third portion 320b 'may have a cross-sectional dimension in a plane perpendicular to the selected direction D _S that is greater than a cross-sectional dimension of the second portion 108b' (e.g., head) of the first coupling 108 'so as to allow the first coupling 108' to be inserted into the first portion 320a 'of the second coupling 320 (1)', 320 (2) 'through the third portion 320b'. The shape or profile of the first and second coupling members 108', 320 (1) ', 320 (2) ' may be complementary to each other.

In some examples, booster seat 300 can define first and second belt guides 322 (1), 322 (2) (also referred to herein as "rearward belt guides") configured to position at least a portion of a vehicle restraint when body 12 is in a rearward position (i.e., facing a rear of the vehicle). The first rearward strap guide 322 (1) may extend through a first side of the booster seat 300 and the second rearward strap guide 322 (2) may extend through a second side of the booster seat 300. Thus, the first and second rearward tape guides 322 (1), 322 (2) may be spaced apart from each other along the third direction D ₃. The first and second rearward strap guides 322 (1), 322 (2) may be configured to receive a vehicle restraint strap (e.g., a vehicle seat belt or a separate restraint strap) therethrough to connect the child safety seat 10 to the vehicle seat in a rearward position. When the booster seat 300 is mounted with the body 12, the first and second rearward strap guides 322 (1), 322 (2) may be positioned closer to the front end 14 of the body 12 than the rear end 16. The first and second rearward tape guides 322 (1), 322 (2) are closer to the front end 14 of the body 12 than the first and second arms 316 (1), 316 (2).

The booster seat 300 can include a first inboard surface 325 (1) and a second inboard surface 325 (2) that are spaced apart from each other along a third direction D ₃ and defined on a bottom side of the booster seat 300. The front surface 325 (3) may extend between the first and second inside surfaces 325 (1), 325 (2) to connect the first and second inside surfaces 325 (1), 325 (2). The first and second interior side surfaces 325 (1), 325 (2), along with the front side surface 325 (3), may partially define at least one groove 324 therebetween. At least one, and preferably both, of the first and second interior side surfaces 325 (1), 325 (2) may define at least one engagement surface 326 configured as a corresponding engagement surface 210 with the body 12. In an example, each engagement surface 326 may be angled upward as it extends in a forward direction. When the main body 12 and booster seat 300 are coupled to one another, the engagement surfaces 210, 326 may engage one another to align the main body 12 and booster seat 300 with one another. Additionally or alternatively, the engagement surfaces 210, 326 may engage one another to prevent relative movement between the body 12 and the booster seat 300 in a direction perpendicular to the engagement surfaces 210 and 326. The engagement surfaces 210, 326 may engage one another to prevent relative movement between the body 12 and the booster seat 300 along the first direction D ₁. In an example, as shown, at least one (and preferably both) of the first and second interior side surfaces 325 (1), 325 (2) may include at least one opening 328 defined by a respective one of the engagement surfaces 326, wherein the at least one opening 328 is configured to receive the at least one protrusion 212 of the body 12. In an alternative example (not shown), at least one, and preferably both, of the first and second interior side surfaces 325 (1), 325 (2) may define at least one protrusion defining a respective one of the engagement surfaces 326, wherein the protrusion is configured to be received in at least one opening of the body 12.

Referring to fig. 5, 6A and 6B, booster seat 300 can define a plurality of openings configured to be coupled to seat belt 400. For example, booster seat 300 can define a crotch buckle opening 332 that extends through seat surface 302. The crotch buckle opening 332 may be open to the recess 324. When the booster seat 300 is attached to the body 12, the crotch buckle opening 332 may be at least partially aligned with the recess 216 of the body 12, allowing the user to pull the crotch buckle 406 out of the recess 216 and through the crotch buckle opening 332 such that the webbing 410 extends through the crotch buckle opening 332 and the crotch buckle 406 is disposed above the seat surface 302.

Additionally or alternatively, the booster seat 300 can define at least one lap belt opening 334, each configured to receive the lap belt portion 402a, 404a of one of the first and second belts 402, 404 therethrough. Each lap belt opening 334 may extend into the rear end of booster seat 300. The lap belt opening 334 may be formed as a slot extending into the seating surface 302. Additionally or alternatively, booster seat 300 can define at least one opening 336 aligned with seat belt release lever 218 to allow a user to access seat belt release lever 218. The at least one opening 336 may be defined as an opening in the seating surface 302 and is preferably defined in the front end 300a of the booster seat 300.

The booster seat 300 can include at least one leg 342 extending downwardly from the seat surface 302 at the rear end of the booster seat 300. The at least one leg 342 may provide structural support for the rear end of the seating surface 302 when the booster seat 300 is used independently of the main body 12. The at least one leg 342 may be configured to engage a chair surface, ground, or other surface, such that the booster seat 300 is stable and free-standing. At least one leg 342 may be formed on the depending portion (CANTILEVERED PORTION, cantilever portion) 302a of the seat surface 302. At least one leg 342 may be disposed between the waistband openings 334. The attachment member 200 may include at least one opening 222 (labeled in fig. 4B) therein, the opening 222 configured to receive at least a portion of the at least one leg 342 when the booster seat 300 is coupled with the attachment member 200. The at least one leg 342 and the at least one opening 222 may engage one another to guide movement of the booster seat 300 toward the attachment member 200 (e.g., to align the booster seat 300 and the attachment member 200 with one another) when the booster seat 300 is coupled with the attachment member 200.

Referring to fig. 7A, booster seat 300 '"can include two legs 342a, 342b formed as fins or spaced apart protrusions defined on the underside of booster seat 300'". Other functions of the two legs 342a, 342b are the same as the at least one leg 342 described herein. Referring to fig. 7B, booster seat 300"" may include additional legs 342c, 342d formed as tabs or spaced apart protrusions defined on the underside of booster seat 300"" toward a different location at the rear end of booster seat 300 "".

Referring to fig. 6A, 6B and 14, the booster seat 300 can include at least one release latch 314 (shown in detail in fig. 14) configured to selectively engage the body 12 to secure the booster seat 300 and the body 12 to one another. The release catch 314 may secure the booster seat 300 and the main body 12 to one another relative to movement in at least one, and even all, of the first, second, and third directions D ₁, D ₂, D ₃. The release catch 314 may be integrated on a portion of the booster seat 300. The booster seat 300 can include an actuator surface 338 for each release catch 314 configured to be engaged by a user to unlock the release catch 314, thereby allowing the booster seat 300 to be removed from the body 12. In an example, the actuator surface 338 may be defined by an actuator button 340. The actuator button 340 may be configured to be pressed into the outer surface of the booster seat 300. For example, the actuator button 340 may be pressed into the outer side surface 301a or the front surface 301b of the body 301 of the booster seat 300. In some examples, booster seat 300 can include a pair of release latches 314, one disposed on either side 300e and 300f of booster seat 300.

As shown in fig. 14, each release catch 314 may include an engagement surface 314a configured to engage with the body 12 to secure the booster seat 300 and the body 12 to one another relative to movement in at least one, and even all, of the first, second, and third directions D ₁, D ₂, and D ₃. FIG. 14 shows an example of releasing the catch 314; however, it should be appreciated that the release catch 314 may be implemented in any other suitable manner.

In an example, the release catch 314 may include a protrusion 314b defining an engagement surface 314a, and the body 12 may define a recess 317 (shown in fig. 4D) that receives the protrusion 314 b. The engagement surface 314a may be biased toward the body 12 by a spring 315 or other known biasing element. The release catch 314 may be configured such that when the actuator surface 338 is engaged by a user, the engagement surface 314a of the release catch 314 is at least partially retracted into the booster seat 300 and disengaged from the body 12.

The release catch 314 may include a first end 314c and a second end 314d. The first end 314c may include an actuator surface 338. The second end 314d may include an engagement surface 314a. The release catch 314 may be pivotably coupled to the body 301 of the booster seat 300 at a pivot axis a between the first and second ends 314c, 314d of the release catch 314. The pivot axis a may extend along, for example, the second direction D ₂ or the third direction D ₃.

Referring to fig. 12 and 13, in some examples, the child safety seat 10 may include a tilt base 500. The tilt base 500 may be configured to transition the child safety seat 10 between at least one upright position (e.g., fig. 2 and 12) and at least one tilted position (e.g., fig. 3 and 13). The tilt base 500 may have any suitable configuration. In some examples, the tilt base 500 may have at least one tilt foot 502, 504. In some such examples, the angled base 500 may have a first angled leg 502 and a second angled leg 504. A description of such a tilting base is provided in U.S. patent publication 2020/0223332, published at 7/16 in 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In an alternative example (not shown), the body 12 may have a curved bottom surface, and the inclined base 500 may include a curved upper surface to conform to the bottom surface of the body 12. The bottom surface of the body 12 may be configured to translate along the upper surface of the tilt base 500 to transition the body 12 between at least one upright position and at least one tilted position.

Referring to fig. 17, the first angled leg 502 may include a front end 502a and a rear end 502b. The front end 502a may include an engagement region 502c that defines a surface configured to engage the vehicle seat 600 or any other support surface or ground surface when the seat is not mounted on the vehicle. The rear end 502b may be disposed rearward of the front end 502a and the engagement region 502 c. The engagement region 502c may be enlarged relative to the rear end 502b. For example, the width of the engagement region 502c along the third direction D ₃ may be greater than the width of the rear end 502b. The engagement region 502c may be elongated along the third direction D ₃. The rear end 502b may be coupled to the body 12 of the child safety seat 10 such that the first tilt foot 502 is configured to pivot about the pivot axis a _P1 relative to the body 12 to transition the body 12 between at least one rearward tilt position and at least one forward tilt position. The first angled leg 502 may be configured to pivot such that the front end 502a moves toward and away from the front end 14 of the body 12 along the second direction D ₂.

The rear end 502b may include at least one coupling 502e configured to pivotally couple the first angled leg 502 with the body 12. The at least one coupling 502e may be any suitable coupling. In an example, the at least one coupling 502e can be a protrusion configured to be received in the at least one opening of the body 12. In another example (not shown), at least one coupling 502e may be an opening configured to receive a protrusion of body 12. The rear end 502b may have at least one rigid portion 502d that extends freely suspended from the engagement region 502 c. For example, the rear end 502b may include a pair of rigid portions 502D that are offset from one another along the third direction D ₃ so as to define a space therebetween. Each rigid portion 502d may define an arm extending rearward from the front end 502 a. Each rigid portion 502d may be configured to not engage with the vehicle seat 600. Each rigid portion 502d may include at least one coupling 502e.

Tilt base 500 may include tilt lock 506 and tilt actuator 508. The tilt lock 506 may be configured to releasably lock the first tilt foot 502 in a plurality of different positions. The tilt actuator 508 may be configured to be engaged by a caregiver to transition the tilt lock 506 between a locked position, in which the position of the first tilt foot 502 is fixed relative to the body 12, and an unlocked position, in which the first tilt foot 502 may pivot relative to the body 12. The tilt actuator 508 may define a button or handle configured to be engaged by a caregiver. The tilt actuator 508 may be any suitable actuator and the tilt lock 506 may be any suitable lock.

In an example, as shown, the tilt lock 506 may include at least one protrusion 506a, and the front end 502a of the first tilt foot 502 may include a surface defining at least one set of openings 502f configured to selectively receive the at least one protrusion 506a. As shown in fig. 17, the openings 502f may be defined in at least two parallel groups. Each set of openings 502f may include a series of openings 502f aligned with each other in the second direction D ₂. Each opening 502f in the set may correspond to a different location of the first angled leg 502. In some examples, tilt lock 506 may include a plurality of protrusions 506a that are offset from one another along third direction D ₃, and first tilt foot 502 may define a plurality of sets of openings 502f, each set of openings being offset from one another along third direction D ₃. Tilt lock 506 may be biased into the locked position by a biasing element (not shown), such as a spring. The tilt lock 506 may be configured to pivot about a pivot axis a _L between a locked position and an unlocked position. The pivot axis a _L may extend along the third direction D ₃. The tilt lock 506 may include a coupling 506b configured to connect to a portion of the first tilt foot 502, a portion of the body 12, or other structure.

The second angled leg 504 may include a first end 504a and a second end 504b. The first end 504a may include an engagement region 504c defining a surface configured to engage the vehicle seat 600 or any other support surface or ground when the seat is not mounted on the vehicle. The second end 504b may be coupled to the first tilt foot 502 or the body 12 of the child safety seat 10 such that the second tilt foot 504 is configured to pivot relative to the body 12 about the pivot axis a _P2. The first angled leg 502 may be configured to pivot to a first maximum angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees) and the second angled leg 504 may be configured to pivot to a second maximum angle (e.g., greater than 90 degrees) that is greater than the first maximum angle. The second angled leg 504 may be configured to pivot such that the first end 504a moves between a rearward oriented position and a forward oriented position. In some examples, the second angled leg 504 may be configured to pivot without causing the first angled leg 502 to pivot.

The second end 504b may include at least one coupling 504d configured to pivotally couple (about the pivot axis a _P2) the second angled leg 504 to the body 12 or the first angled leg 502. The at least one coupling 504d may be any suitable coupling. In an example, the at least one coupling 504d may be a protrusion configured to be received in the at least one opening 502g in the first angled leg 502 or the body 12. For example, each opening 502g may be defined in the rigid portion 502d of the first angled leg 502. In another example (not shown), at least one of the couplings 504d can be an opening configured to receive a protrusion of the first angled leg 502 or the body 12.

18A-18F, the child safety seat 10 may be mounted on the vehicle seat 600 in a rearward orientation (the orientation shown in FIGS. 18A-18C) or a forward orientation (the orientation shown in FIGS. 18D-18F). In each orientation, the child safety seat 10 may be positioned in a number of different reclined positions. For example, in the rearward orientation shown in fig. 18A-18C (rearward relative to the vehicle seat 600), the second tilt foot 504 may be pivoted to the forward orientation (forward relative to the child safety seat 10) and the first tilt foot 502 may be pivoted to one of a plurality of different tilt positions. As shown in the orientation of fig. 18A-18C, the first angled leg 502 may rest on the second angled leg 504 or above the second angled leg 504 such that the first angled leg 502 does not contact the vehicle seat 600. The child safety seat 10 may be reclined away from the body 12 by pivoting the first recliner leg 502 while the second recliner leg 504 remains in the forward oriented position.

In the forward orientation shown in fig. 18D-18F (forward relative to the vehicle seat 600), the second tilt foot 504 can be pivoted to a rearward oriented position (rearward relative to the child safety seat 10) and the first tilt foot 502 can be pivoted to one of a plurality of different tilt positions. As shown in the orientation of fig. 18D-18F, the second angled leg 504 is pivoted such that the first angled leg 502 can rest on the vehicle seat 600 relative to the second angled leg 504. In the forward orientation, the child safety seat 10 may be reclined away from the body 12 by pivoting the first recliner leg 502. In the configuration shown in fig. 18D-18F, both the first angled leg 502 and the second angled leg 504 rest on the vehicle seat 600. In an example, the second tilt foot 504 may be configured to engage the vehicle seat 600 regardless of the configuration or orientation of the child safety seat 10, while the first tilt foot 502 selectively engages the vehicle seat 600 according to the orientation or configuration of the child safety seat 10.

Referring to fig. 19, a side view of the position of the child safety seat 10 on the vehicle seat 600 in the event of a traffic accident (e.g., a front end collision) is shown. As shown, the child safety seat 10 rotates forward and downward upon impact. This causes the child safety seat 10 to compress the cushion 604 of the seat cushion (seat pan) 602 until the front end 608 of the frame 606 of the vehicle seat 600 exerts a force on the at least one rigid portion 502d of the first tilt foot 502. This force may prematurely stop rotation of the child safety seat 10, resulting in an undesirably high head injury standard (HIC) value and/or chest weight value (e.g., as measured under federal motor vehicle safety standard 213 (FMVSS 213)).

To reduce the HIC value and/or the chest weight value, the child safety seat 10 may include at least one deformable body 510 to absorb energy of impact of the child safety seat 10 on the front end 608 of the vehicle seat frame 606. At least one deformable body 510 may be formed at the bottom side of the attachment member 200. For example, each side 202, 204 of the attachment member 200 may define a deformable rib (not shown) that extends into the bottom of the attachment member 200 and is configured to deform in response to an impact from the frame 606 of the vehicle seat 600. However, if the child safety seat 10 does not include a detachable booster seat 300, the bottom of the attachment member 200 is smaller than would otherwise be required. Thus, the height of the deformable ribs extending to the bottom of the attachment member 200 is insufficient to provide adequate energy absorption in the event of a vehicle accident.

Thus, to provide sufficient energy absorption to meet, for example, FMVSS213, the at least one deformable body 510 may be secured to the at least one rigid portion 502d of the first angled leg 502, for example, to the underside of the at least one rigid portion 502d. In some examples, the at least one deformable body 510 may include first and second deformable bodies 510, the first deformable body 510 being secured to the first rigid portion 502d of the first angled leg 502 and the second deformable body 510 being secured to the second rigid portion 502d of the first angled leg 502. In some examples, each of the at least one deformable body 510 can be a separate body coupled with the corresponding rigid portion 502d. For example, as shown in fig. 20 and 21, the deformable body 510 may be formed of a deformable material, such as Expanded Polystyrene (EPS). The deformable body 510 may have a density that is less than the density of the at least one rigid portion 502d. The deformable body 510 may be configured to engage with the vehicle seat 600 (e.g., the front end 608 of the frame 606) and deform under less force than the at least one rigid portion 502d. In other words, the first predetermined force may be configured to deform the deformable body 510, the second predetermined force may be configured to deform the rigid portion 502d, and the first predetermined force may be less than the second predetermined force. In one example, the rigid portion 502d is more rigid than the deformable body 510. The child safety seat 10 may include a bracket 512 for each of the at least one deformable body 510. Each bracket 512 may be formed of a material (e.g., polypropylene) that is more rigid than the material of the at least one deformable body 510. Each bracket 512 may define a cover configured to protect the corresponding deformable body 510 from damaging the deformable body 510 due to accidental impact. Each bracket 512 may define a recess 512a therein configured to receive a corresponding deformable body 510 therein. Each recess 512a may extend into the upper end 512c of the bracket 512 toward the bottom end 512d of the bracket 512.

Each bracket 512 may be movably coupled to the first tilt foot 502. For example, each bracket 512 may be configured to move in an upward direction relative to the first angled leg 502 to allow the corresponding deformable body 510 to deform between the bracket 512 (e.g., the bottom end 512d of the bracket 512) and the corresponding rigid portion 502d. The recess 512a of each bracket 512 may be configured to receive a respective rigid portion 502d therein when the bracket 512 is moved upward relative to the rigid portion 502d (i.e., when energy is absorbed by the deformable body 510).

The child safety seat 10 may include at least one coupling 512b for each bracket 512 configured to movably couple the bracket 512 to the respective rigid portion 502d. Each coupling 512b may be any suitable coupling. In an example, each coupling 512b can be a first one of a protrusion or an opening, and the respective rigid portion 502d can have a coupling 502h defining a second one of the protrusion or the opening, the coupling 502h configured to engage with the first one of the protrusion or the opening. The opening may be a slot elongated along the second direction D ₂, and the protrusion may be configured to translate within the slot along the second direction D ₂ so as to allow the bracket 512 to translate upward relative to the first angled leg 502.

Referring to fig. 22, in another example, at least one deformable body 510' may be integral and complete (monollithic) with a corresponding rigid portion 502d ' of the first angled leg 502 '. In some such examples, the deformable body 510' may define a plurality of deformable walls or ribs as shown, or another suitable deformable structure. The deformable structure may have deformable walls, such as a honeycomb structure (not shown). The deformable structure may be integral and complete with the at least one rigid portion 502 d'. The deformable structure may be configured to deform under a smaller force than the remainder of the at least one rigid portion 502 d'.

A method of mounting a booster seat to a child car seat body is also disclosed. The method may include positioning the booster seat relative to the body such that the first and second arms of the booster seat engage the side walls of the body. The engagement interface both positions the booster seat relative to the main body and ensures a secure connection between the main body and the booster seat in the event of a crash or accident. As described herein, the engagement between the arms of the booster seat and the side walls of the body may be provided in a variety of configurations. The method may further include selectively releasing the booster seat from the body, such as by releasing the latch and the actuator. The actuator may be formed on a portion of the booster seat that is accessible when the booster seat is fully mounted on the body.

The method may further comprise adjusting the main body and/or booster seat, for example by tilting the base or assembly. The method may include adjusting a relative position of at least one angled leg that may be configured to selectively engage a vehicle support surface at various angles and positions. At least a portion of the tilt base may include a deformable body configured to absorb energy and protect an occupant of the child vehicle seat in the event of an accident or collision.

It should be noted that the illustrations and descriptions of the examples and embodiments illustrated in the figures are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure contemplates various embodiments. Furthermore, it should be understood that the concepts described in the examples and embodiments above may be used alone or in combination with any of the other examples and embodiments described above. It should also be understood that the various alternative examples and embodiments described above for one exemplary embodiment may be applied to all examples and embodiments described herein, unless otherwise indicated.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, each numerical value and range should be construed as being approximate, as if the word "about," "approximately," or "substantially" preceded the value or range. Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "about," "approximately," and "substantially" are to be construed to describe ranges within 15% of the particular value.

Conditional language, such as "capable," "may," "might," "will," "for example," etc., as used herein is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include and other embodiments do not include certain features, elements and/or steps unless specifically stated otherwise or understood in the context of use. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that one or more embodiments require features, elements and/or steps in any way or that one or more embodiments must include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included in any particular embodiment or are to be performed. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and the like are synonymous and are used in an open-ended fashion and to include, but not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, etc. Furthermore, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (rather than its exclusive sense) such that the term "or" represents one, some, or all of the elements in a list, for example, when a series of elements are connected.

Although certain examples have been described, these examples are not intended to limit the scope of the invention disclosed herein. Thus, the foregoing description does not imply that any particular feature, characteristic, step, module or block is required or necessary. Indeed, the novel arrangements, methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the arrangements, methods, and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions disclosed herein. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of certain inventions disclosed herein.

It should be understood that the steps of the exemplary methods set forth herein do not necessarily have to be performed in the order described, and that the order of the steps of such methods should be construed as merely illustrative. Also, in methods consistent with various embodiments of the present invention, additional steps may be included in such methods, and certain steps may be omitted or combined.

Although the following claims, if any, gate and label elements in a particular order, such elements are not necessarily intended to be limited to implementation in that particular order unless the claim recitations otherwise imply a particular order for implementing some or all of such elements.

The words "inwardly", "outwardly", "upwardly" and "downwardly" refer to directions toward or away from the geometric center of the seat and/or components thereof.

It should be understood that references herein to "a" or "an" to describe a feature such as a component or step do not exclude additional features or multiple features. For example, reference to a device having, including, comprising, or defining "a" feature does not exclude that the device has, includes, comprises, or defines more than one feature, provided that the device has, includes, comprises, or defines at least one feature. Similarly, reference herein to "a" or "an" of a plurality of features does not exclude that the invention includes two or more features. For example, reference to a device having, including, containing, or defining "one of a protrusion and a recess" does not exclude that the device has a protrusion and a recess.

Claims

1. A child vehicle seat for a vehicle, the child vehicle seat comprising:

a main body including a seat back having a first side wall and a second side wall spaced apart from each other to define a space for the upper half of the child between the first side wall and the second side wall; and

A booster seat configured to be removably attached to the body, the booster seat including first and second arms spaced apart from each other, and a seating surface between the first and second arms,

Wherein the first arm is configured to be detachably attached to the first sidewall at an interface between the first arm and the first sidewall.

2. The child vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein the second arm is configured to be detachably attached to the second side wall at an interface between the second arm and the second side wall.

3. The child vehicle seat according to claim 2, wherein the first arm is configured to be directly attached to the first side wall and the second arm is configured to be directly attached to the second side wall.

4. The child vehicle seat of claim 1, wherein the first sidewall defines a coupling and the first arm defines a coupling configured to engage the coupling of the first sidewall.

5. The child vehicle seat of claim 4, wherein the coupling of the first arm defines a first one of a protrusion or an opening and the coupling of the first sidewall defines a second one of a protrusion or an opening.

6. The child vehicle seat of claim 4, wherein the coupling of the first sidewall defines a protrusion and the coupling of the first arm defines an opening sized to receive the protrusion.

7. The child vehicle seat according to claim 6, wherein the protrusion comprises a head configured to be retained within the opening to prevent the first sidewall and the first arm from separating from one another in at least one direction.

8. The child vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein the first arm is configured to be detachably attached to the first side wall, thereby achieving at least one of: (i) An inward bending of the first arm toward the space is limited, or (ii) an outward bending of the first arm away from the space is limited.

9. The child vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein the body further comprises an attachment member, and

The booster seat also includes a recess below the seat surface and configured to receive the attachment member, and at least one leg extending downwardly from the seat surface and into the recess at a rear end of the seat surface, the at least one leg configured to support the rear end of the seat surface when the booster seat is uncoupled from the attachment member.

10. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 1, wherein the booster seat further includes at least one release latch having an engagement surface configured to releasably engage with the body to secure the booster seat and the body to one another and an actuator surface disposed at an outboard or front surface of the booster seat.

11. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 1, wherein the booster seat defines a pair of lap belt openings extending into a rear end of the booster seat, and further comprising:

a seat belt comprising a crotch buckle and first and second straps, the first strap having a first waistband portion and the second strap having a second waistband portion, the first and second waistband portions being configured to rest on a child's waist, wherein for each waistband portion of the first and second waistband portions, the seat belt further comprises a stiffener attached to a respective one of the first and second waistband portions and extending from below the seat surface with the first and second waistband portions, through a respective one of the pair of waistband openings, and extending above the seat surface.

12. The child vehicle seat according to claim 1, further comprising:

A first angled leg having a front end defining an engagement region configured to engage a vehicle seat and a rear end disposed rearward of the front end, the rear end coupled to the body such that the first angled leg is configured to pivot about a pivot axis relative to the body so that the body transitions between at least one rearward angled position and at least one forward angled position, and

The rear end has at least one rigid portion, wherein the child vehicle seat includes at least one deformable body attached to the at least one rigid portion of the first tilt foot, and the at least one deformable body is configured to engage the vehicle seat and deform at a first predetermined force less than a second predetermined force configured to deform the at least one rigid portion.

13. A child vehicle seat for a vehicle, the child vehicle seat comprising:

A body including a seat back and at least one attachment member extending from the seat back; and

A booster seat, comprising: a seating surface; a recess below the seating surface, the recess configured to receive the at least one attachment member; and at least one leg extending downwardly from the seating surface and into a recess at a rear end of the seating surface, the at least one leg configured to support the rear end of the seating surface when the booster seat is uncoupled from the at least one attachment member.

14. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 13, wherein the at least one attachment member includes at least one opening configured to receive the at least one leg when the booster seat is coupled with the at least one attachment member.

15. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 14, wherein the at least one leg and the at least one opening are configured to engage one another to guide movement of the booster seat toward the at least one attachment member when the booster seat is coupled with the at least one attachment member.

16. The child vehicle seat according to claim 13, wherein:

the booster seat defines a pair of lap belt openings extending into a rear end of the booster seat, each lap belt opening configured to receive a lap belt portion of a seat belt of the child car seat; and

The at least one leg is disposed between the pair of waistband openings.

17. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 13, wherein the groove extends into a rear end of the booster seat toward a front end of the booster seat and into a lower end of the booster seat toward the seat surface.

18. The child vehicle seat according to claim 13, wherein:

the at least one attachment member having opposing outer sides, each outer side defining at least one engagement surface; and

The booster seat includes opposing inboard surfaces, each defining at least one engagement surface configured to engage a respective one of the at least one engagement surfaces of the at least one attachment member to guide movement of the booster seat toward the at least one attachment member when the booster seat is coupled with the at least one attachment member.

19. A child vehicle seat for a vehicle, the child vehicle seat comprising:

A body including a seat back and at least one attachment member extending from the seat back in a forward direction, the body defining at least one engagement surface; and

A booster seat configured to be removably attached to the body, the booster seat comprising at least one release latch having an engagement surface configured to releasably engage with the engagement surface of the body to secure the booster seat and the body to one another and an actuator surface disposed at an outboard or front surface of the booster seat.

20. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 19, wherein the actuator surface is defined by an actuator button configured to be pressed into an outboard surface of the booster seat or a front surface of the booster seat.

21. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 19, wherein the at least one release latch includes a pair of release latches disposed on opposite sides of the booster seat.

22. The child vehicle seat of claim 19, wherein the at least one release catch comprises a protrusion defining the engagement surface and the body defines a recess that receives the protrusion.

23. A child vehicle seat according to claim 19, wherein the engagement surface of the booster seat is biased towards the body.

24. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 20, wherein the at least one release latch is configured such that an engagement surface of the at least one release latch is at least partially retracted into and disengaged from a body of the booster seat when the actuator surface is engaged by a user.

25. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 19, wherein the at least one release latch includes a first end including the actuator surface and a second end including the engagement surface, wherein the at least one release latch is pivotably coupled to the body of the booster seat at a pivot axis between the first and second ends of the at least one release latch.

26. A child vehicle seat for a vehicle, the child vehicle seat comprising:

A body including a seat back and at least one attachment member extending from the seat back;

a booster seat including a seat surface configured to be coupled with at least one attachment member such that the seat surface is disposed above the at least one attachment member, the booster seat defining a pair of lap belt openings extending into a rear end of the booster seat; and

27. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 26, wherein when the booster seat is coupled with the at least one attachment member, the first and second belt portions are each coupled with the at least one attachment member at a location below the seat surface.

28. A child vehicle seat according to claim 26, wherein each reinforcement comprises a webbing attached to a lower end of a respective one of the first and second belt portions.

29. A child vehicle seat according to claim 26, wherein each reinforcement comprises a coating applied to a lower end of a respective one of the first and second belt portions.

30. The juvenile vehicle seat of claim 26, wherein each of the reinforcement members defines a stop configured to interfere with a latch of the seat belt to prevent the latch from moving a respective one of the first and second belt portions downward.

31. A child vehicle seat according to claim 30, wherein each of the reinforcements extends from below the seat surface to a respective one of the stops.

32. The child vehicle seat according to claim 26, wherein each of the stiffeners is configured to strengthen a lower end of a respective one of the first and second belt portions such that the lower end is upstanding and the stiffener is configured to be received in a respective one of the first or second belt openings when the booster seat is coupled with the attachment member.

33. A child vehicle seat for a vehicle, the child vehicle seat comprising:

a main body including a seat back;

a seating surface extending forwardly from the seat back; and

A first tilt foot having a front end defining an engagement area configured to engage a vehicle seat and a rear end disposed rearward of the front end, the rear end coupled with the body such that the first tilt foot is configured to pivot relative to the body about a pivot axis such that the body transitions between at least one reclined position and at least one forwardly tilted position, and the rear end has at least one rigid portion, wherein the child seat includes at least one deformable body attached to the at least one rigid portion of the first tilt foot and the at least one deformable body is configured to engage the vehicle seat and deform at a first predetermined force less than a second predetermined force configured to deform the at least one rigid portion.

34. A child vehicle seat according to claim 33, wherein the width of the engagement area of the first angled leg is greater than the width of the rear end of the first angled leg.

35. A child vehicle seat according to claim 33, wherein the at least one rigid portion comprises a first rigid portion and a second rigid portion, the first and second rigid portions being offset from one another so as to define a space therebetween.

36. A child vehicle seat according to claim 35, wherein the first and second rigid portions each define an arm extending rearwardly from the front end.

37. A child vehicle seat according to claim 33, comprising:

A tilt lock configured to releasably lock the first tilt foot in a plurality of different positions; and

A tilt actuator configured to switch the tilt lock between a locked position in which the position of the first tilt foot is fixed relative to the body, and an unlocked position in which the first tilt foot is pivotable relative to the body.

38. The child vehicle seat of claim 33, further comprising a second tilt foot coupled with the first tilt foot or the body such that the second tilt foot is configured to pivot about a pivot axis relative to the body or the first tilt foot.

39. A child vehicle seat according to claim 38, wherein the first tilt foot is configured to pivot to a first maximum angle and the second tilt foot is configured to pivot to a second maximum angle that is greater than the first maximum angle.

40. A child vehicle seat according to claim 39, wherein the first maximum angle is less than 90 degrees and the second maximum angle is greater than 90 degrees.

41. A child vehicle seat according to claim 38, wherein the second tilt foot is configured to pivot without causing the first tilt foot to pivot.

42. A child vehicle seat according to claim 36, wherein the at least one deformable body comprises a first deformable body attached to a first rigid portion of the first angled leg and a second deformable body attached to a second rigid portion of the first angled leg.

43. A child vehicle seat according to claim 42, wherein the first deformable body and the second deformable body are each separate bodies coupled to a respective one of the first rigid portion and the second rigid portion.

44. A child vehicle seat according to claim 33, wherein the at least one deformable body is formed from Expanded Polystyrene (EPS).

45. A child vehicle seat according to claim 33, wherein the first density of the at least one deformable body is less than the second density of the at least one rigid portion.

46. A child vehicle seat according to claim 33, comprising at least one bracket configured to receive the at least one deformable body.

47. A child vehicle seat according to claim 46, wherein the at least one bracket is formed of a material that is harder than a material of the at least one deformable body.

48. A child vehicle seat according to claim 46, wherein the at least one bracket defines a cover configured to protect the at least one deformable body from damage due to accidental impact.

49. The child vehicle seat of claim 46, wherein the at least one bracket defines a recess configured to receive the at least one deformable body therein.

50. A child vehicle seat according to claim 49, wherein the recess extends towards the bottom end of the at least one bracket to the upper end of the at least one bracket.

51. A child vehicle seat according to claim 46, wherein the at least one bracket is movably coupled to the first angled leg to allow the at least one deformable body to deform between the at least one bracket and the at least one rigid portion.

52. The child vehicle seat according to claim 49, wherein the recess is configured to receive at least a portion of the at least one rigid portion therein when the at least one bracket moves relative to the rigid portion to deform the at least one deformable body.

53. A child vehicle seat according to claim 52, wherein the at least one deformable body is integral and complete with the at least one rigid portion.

54. A child vehicle seat according to claim 33, wherein the at least one deformable body comprises a plurality of deformable walls.