EP4634057A1

EP4634057A1 - Seat leg assembly

Info

Publication number: EP4634057A1
Application number: EP23707561.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Reza MANSOURI
Original assignee: Safran Seats USA LLC
Current assignee: Safran Seats USA LLC
Priority date: 2023-01-30
Filing date: 2023-01-30
Publication date: 2025-10-22
Also published as: WO2024162947A1

Abstract

Various embodiments of seat leg assemblies that are configured to support one or more passenger seats are described. The seat leg assemblies comprise a first or forward fitting assembly and a second or aft fitting assembly. The first fitting assembly comprises a first fitting and first shear plunger. Preferably, the first shear plunger is integrated with the first fitting to form a single component. The second fitting assembly comprises a second fitting and second shear plunger. Preferably, the second shear plunger is integrated with the second fitting to form a single component. Advantageously, both the first and second shear plungers can be rotated using the same tool.

Description

SEAT LEG ASSEMBLY

Field of the Invention

[0001] The field of the invention is passenger seats, and in particular, seat leg assemblies for passenger seats in aircraft or other vehicles.

Background

[0002] The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] In general, passenger aircraft and other vehicles design to transport passengers comprise rows of seats, each of which is mounted to a floor of the aircraft or other vehicle. The seats are generally formed of a metal seat leg assembly that utilizes a front fitting and an aft fitting that help couple the seats to structures with tracks mounted to the vehicle’s floor. Typically, both the front and aft fittings comprise shear plungers and other components which are used to couple the seat to the tracks. Specialized tools may be used to install the front and aft fittings and secure the seat in place to the tracks. The same tools may be used to remove the front and aft fittings and thereby remove the seat from the tracks.

[0004] The use of specialized tools can be problematic as it requires a specific tool to remove the seats which must be kept on hand along with many other tools. In addition, typical seat fittings are formed of multiple components thereby increasing their overall complexity.

[0005] All publications identified herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0006] Thus, there is still a need for fittings for a seat structure that are integrated and able to be tightened or loosened using a standard tool. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems, and methods for a seat leg assembly for a passenger seat comprising a seat frame that comprises a first leg and a second leg. It is contemplated that the seat leg assembly may be used with aircraft, cars, trucks, vans, busses, trains, ferries and other boats, as well as buildings such as classrooms, movie theatres, concert halls and so forth.

[0008] It is contemplated that the first leg may be a forward or front leg and the second leg may be an aft or back leg. Collectively, the seat frame, first leg and second leg preferably comprise a single integrated piece.

[0009] The seat frame is configured to couple with other frames such as by using a tube or other structure. The seat frame preferably couples to and supports one or more passenger seats.

[0010] The first leg comprises a first fitting disposed at a lower end of the first leg. A first shear plunger is preferably integrated with the first fitting such that they form a single component. The first shear plunger is configured to move along an axis of the first fitting by rotating the first shear plunger with respect to the first fitting. The axis is preferably a central axis of the first fitting.

[0011] The second leg comprises a second fitting disposed at a lower end of the second leg. A second shear plunger is preferably integrated with the second fitting such that they form a single component. The second shear plunger is configured to move along a second axis of the second fitting by rotating the second shear plunger with respect to the second fitting. The second axis is preferably a central axis of the second fitting.

[0012] The first and second legs are configured to attach to a track structure that is preferably mounted to a floor of a vehicle, such that that seat frame is secured in place within the vehicle. The track structure may comprise an elongated channel or slot along a length of the track structure into which the first and second fittings may be inserted. It is contemplated that certain portions of the track may have circular openings to permits insertion of the first and/or second fittings. Alternatively, the fittings may be inserted at one or both ends of the track structure. [0013] When the first shear plunger is rotated in a first direction, the first shear plunger travels toward a distal end of the first fitting to thereby engage the first shear plunger with the track structure. Similarly, when the second shear plunger is rotated in a first direction, the second shear plunger travels toward a distal end of the second fitting to thereby engage the second shear plunger with the track structure.

[0014] It is contemplated that both the first and second shear plungers can be rotated using the same tool, which eliminates the need for multiple tools to secure or remove seats from the track structure of the vehicle. Preferably, a standard tool such as a wrench may be used to install and remove the seat frame to or from the track structure. This advantageously allows the same tool to not only be used to secure or loosen the first and second fittings but also utilize the same tool for different purposes for the vehicle.

[0015] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

Brief Description of The Drawings

[0016] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a seat frame of the prior art.

[0017] Figure 2 illustrates an enlarged view of a front fitting of the prior art having a plurality of disparate components.

[0018] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a seat leg assembly.

[0019] Figure 4 illustrates an enlarged view of the first fitting of the seat leg assembly of Figure 3.

[0020] Figure 5 illustrates an enlarged view of the second fitting of the seat leg assembly of Figure 3 and Figure 1.

[0021] Figure 6 illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a track structure.

[0022] Figure 7 illustrates another embodiment of a front or first fitting assembly for a seat leg assembly. [0023] Figure 8 illustrates another embodiment of a front or first fitting assembly for a seat leg assembly.

[0024] Figure 9 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of a seat leg assembly.

[0025] Figure 10 illustrates an enlarged view of the first fitting of the seat leg assembly of Figure 9.

[0026] Figures 11-13 illustrate various views of the first fitting shown in Figure 10.

[0027] Figures 14-15 illustrate an enlarged view of the second fitting of the seat leg assembly of Figure 9.

Detailed Description

[0028] The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0029] Figure 1 illustrates a seat frame 100 having a forward leg 102 and an aft leg 104. The forward leg 102 comprises a forward fitting assembly 106 and the aft leg 104 comprises an aft fitting assembly 108, each of which requires non-standard tools to install and remove the fittings from a track structure.

[0030] Figure 2 illustrates an enlarged view of a seat frame 200 comprising a front fitting 206 coupled with a forward leg 202. As can be seen, the shear plunger 210 is a separate component from the front fitting 206.

[0031] Figures 3-5 illustrate one embodiment of a seat leg assembly 300 for a passenger seat. The assembly 300 comprises a seat frame 301 having a first leg 302 and a second leg 304. As shown, the first leg 302 may comprise the forward leg, and the second leg 304 may comprise the aft leg. It is preferred that the seat frame 301, first leg 302, and second leg 304 comprise a single integral piece.

[0032] The first leg 302 comprises a first fitting assembly 306 and the second leg 304 comprises a second fitting assembly 308. As shown, the first fitting assembly 306 may comprise a forward assembly, and the second fitting assembly 308 may comprise an aft assembly. As discussed above, the seat frame 301 can be configured to couple with other frames such as by using tubes or other structure that may be inserted into apertures 320, 322. The seat frame 301 preferably couples to and supports one or more passenger seats. An exemplary construction showing how multiple frames may be coupled together to form a support for passenger seats is described in U.S. Patent No. 10988259, entitled “Noncircular Base Frame Tube Cross-Sections”. This and all other referenced extrinsic materials are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Where a definition or use of a term in a reference that is incorporated by reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein is deemed to be controlling.

[0033] The first fitting assembly 306 is attached to or coupled with a lower end of the first leg 302. In some embodiments, the first fitting assembly is configured to be attached to or coupled with the first leg of an existing seat structure of the vehicle. In other words, the fitting assemblies described herein can be substituted for existing fitting assemblies on existing seat frames to thereby retrofit those seat frames to a more advantageous solution. In this manner, the existing seat structure does not need to modified or replaced to achieve the benefits of the inventive subject matter discussed herein.

[0034] The first fitting assembly 306 preferably comprises a first fitting 310 and a first shear plunger 312 coupled with the first fitting 310. It is especially preferred that the first shear plunger 312 is integrated with the first fitting 310, such that the first fitting 310 and the first shear plunger 312 form a single component. The first shear plunger 312 is configured to move along a central axis 332 of the first fitting 310 by rotating the first shear plunger 312 about the first fitting 310 using a standard tool.

[0035] In some embodiments, the first fitting 310 may comprise a cylindrical guide pin 340 having a wider disc-like shape at a distal end 311 that extends laterally from the guide pin 340. The distal end 311 can be used to contact a lower surface of the track structure, and in combination with the first shear plunger 312, clamp the shear plunger 312 and the fitting 310 to the track structure.

[0036] The first shear plunger 312 may comprise a non-cylindrical shape having three or more sides such as a triangle, square, pentagon or so forth such that a wrench or other tool can grip two of the sides to thereby rotate the first shear plunger about the first fitting 310. A lower portion 342 of the first shear plunger 312 preferably has a cylindrical shape to enable to the lower portion 342 to be pressed against a portion of the track structure.

[0037] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the first fitting 310 may have a diameter between 5/32 inch (3.96875 mm) to 5/8 inch (15.875 mm). However, the specific diameter of the front fitting will depend on the material forming the first fitting 310 as well as other factors.

[0038] The second fitting assembly 308 is attached to or coupled with a lower end of the second 304, and preferably comprises a second fitting 314 and a second shear plunger 316 coupled with the second fitting 314. It is especially preferred that the second shear plunger 316 is integrated with the second fitting 314 such that the second fitting 314 and the second shear plunger 316 form a single component. The second shear plunger 316 is configured to move along its central axis 350 by rotating a head of the second shear plunger 316 about the axis 350 using the same standard tool as used to rotate the first shear plunger 312.

[0039] The second fitting 314 preferably has one or more projections 352 that extend outwardly from the body of the second fitting 314. The projections 352 are sized and dimensioned to vertically pass through circular openings of a track structure, and then slide horizontally along the track structure until the projections are underneath the track structure. The second shear plunger 316 may comprise a hex or square bolt head to facilitate its tightening or loosening by using a standard tool such as a wrench. In this manner, both the first and second shear plungers 312, 316 are sized and dimensioned to be rotated using the same tool. Thus, the first and second shear plungers 312, 316 can be tightened using the same tool by rotating the first shear plunger 312 about axis 332 and rotating the second shear plunger 316 about axis 350. [0040] Each of the first leg 302 and the second leg 304 are configured to attach to a structure mounted to a vehicle, such that that frame 301 is secured in place to the structure within the vehicle using the first and second assemblies 306, 308. An exemplary embodiment of a track structure is shown in Figure 6.

[0041] As shown in Figure 6, structure 400 comprises a track 402 forming an elongated channel or slot 404. It is contemplated that the track 402 may extend along a length of the structure 400. The structure is preferably mounted to a floor or other surface of the vehicle. It is contemplated that the track 402 may have a plurality of circular openings 406 disposed along the track 402, through which the fittings can be inserted such that the fittings are disposed within the channel or slot 404. It is contemplated that the number of openings 406 and their size and shape will depend on the specific application. Alternatively, the fittings may be inserted at one or both ends of the track 402.

[0042] After each of the first and second fittings 310, 314 are inserted within the channel or slot of the structure, each of the first and second fitting assemblies 306, 308 can be tightened against the track structure. The first shear plunger 312 can be rotated in a first direction using the tool, such that the first shear plunger 312 travels toward a distal end 311 of the first fitting 310 to thereby reduce a gap between the first shear plunger 312 and the distal end 311 of the first fitting 310. As the gap is reduced, the first shear plunger 312 and the distal end 311 of the first fitting 310 abut and press against the structure and the first shear plunger 312 engages with the structure. Tightening the first fitting assembly 306 thereby creates a friction fit with the structure and secures the first leg 302 to the structure.

[0043] Similarly, the head of the second shear plunger 316 can be rotated in a first direction using the tool, such that a lower portion of the second shear plunger 316 travels away from the head of the second shear plunger 316 to thereby reduce a vertical gap between the second shear plunger 316 and the projections 352. As the vertical gap is reduced, the second shear plunger 316 and the projections 352abut and press against the structure and the second shear plunger 316 engages with the structure. Tightening the second fitting assembly 308 thereby creates a friction fit with the structure and secures the second leg 304 to the structure. [0044] A connecting guide 330 can be disposed between the first fitting assembly 306 and the second fitting assembly 308. It is contemplated that the connecting guide 330 can be sized and dimensioned such that a lower portion of the connecting guide 330 can be inserted into the track structure.

[0045] It is contemplated that both the first fitting assembly 306 and the second fitting assembly 308 can be tightened or loosened using a standard tool such as a wrench. In some embodiments, the wrench may comprise a 0.25 inch (6.35 mm) wrench to a 0.625 inch (15.875 mm) wrench. Of course, the specific size of the tool will depend on the fitting assemblies.

[0046] The above-described seat assemblies offer many advantages over those of the prior art. The first and second fitting assemblies 306, 308 described above utilize components that have a reduced number of parts, as well as reduced weight and cost. In addition, the assemblies 306, 308 utilize a single, standard hardware to install and remove both the front and aft tracks. The use of a standard tool simplifies installation and reduces assembly time.

[0047] Figure 7 illustrates another embodiment of a fitting assembly 506 configured to attached to or coupled with a lower end of a leg 502. In some embodiments, the leg 502 may comprise a forward leg and the fitting assembly 506 may comprise a forward assembly. In some embodiments, the fitting assembly 506 is configured to be attached to or coupled with the leg of an existing seat structure of the vehicle. In other words, the fitting assembly can be substituted for existing fitting assemblies on existing seat frames to thereby retrofit those seat frames to a more advantageous solution. In this manner, the existing seat structure does not need to modified or replaced to achieve the benefits of the inventive subject matter discussed herein.

[0048] The fitting assembly 506 preferably comprises a first fitting 510 and a first shear plunger 512 coupled with the first fitting 510. It is especially preferred that the first shear plunger 512 is integrated with the first fitting 510, such that the first fitting 510 and the first shear plunger 512 form a single component. The first shear plunger 512 is configured to move along a central axis 532 of the first fitting 510 by rotating the first shear plunger 512 about the first fitting 510 using a standard tool. [0049] In some embodiments, the first fitting 510 may comprise a cylindrical guide pin 540 having a wider disc-like shape at a distal end 511 that extends laterally from the guide pin 540. The distal end 511 can be used to contact a lower surface of the track structure, and in combination with the first shear plunger 512, clamp the shear plunger 512 and the fitting 510 to the track structure.

[0050] The first shear plunger 512 may comprise a non-cylindrical shape having three or more sides such as a triangle, square, pentagon or so forth such that a wrench or other tool can grip two of the sides to thereby rotate the first shear plunger about the first fitting 510. A lower portion 542 of the first shear plunger 512 preferably has a cylindrical shape to enable to the lower portion 542 to be pressed against a portion of the track structure.

[0051] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the first fitting 510 may have a diameter between 5/32 inch (3.96875 mm) to 5/8 inch (15.875 mm). However, the specific diameter of the front fitting will depend on the material forming the first fitting 510 as well as other factors.

[0052] The first fitting 510 can be inserted within a channel or slot of a track structure, and then tightened against the track structure using the first shear plunger 512. By rotating the first shear plunger 512 in a first direction using the tool, the first shear plunger 512 travels toward the distal end 511 of the first fitting 510 to thereby reduce a gap between the first shear plunger 512 and the distal end 511 of the first fitting 510. As the gap is reduced, the first shear plunger 512 and the distal end 511 of the first fitting 510 abut and press against the structure and the first shear plunger 512 engages with the structure. Tightening the first fitting assembly 506 thereby creates a friction fit with the structure and secures the first leg 502 to the structure.

[0053] It is contemplated that the first fitting assembly 506 can be tightened or loosened using a standard tool such as a wrench. In some embodiments, the wrench may comprise a 0.25 inch (6.35 mm) wrench to a 0.625 inch (15.875 mm) wrench. Of course, the specific size of the tool will depend on the fitting assemblies.

[0054] Figure 8 illustrates another embodiment of a fitting assembly 606 configured to attached to or coupled with a lower end of a leg 602. In some embodiments, the leg 602 may comprise a forward leg and the fitting assembly 606 may comprise a forward assembly. In some embodiments, the fitting assembly 606 is configured to be attached to or coupled with the leg of an existing seat structure of the vehicle. In other words, the fitting assembly can be substituted for existing fitting assemblies on existing seat frames to thereby retrofit those seat frames to a more advantageous solution. In this manner, the existing seat structure does not need to modified or replaced to achieve the benefits of the inventive subject matter discussed herein.

[0055] The fitting assembly 606 preferably comprises a first fitting 610 and a first shear plunger 612 coupled with the first fitting 610. It is especially preferred that the first shear plunger 612 is integrated with the first fitting 610, such that the first fitting 610 and the first shear plunger 612 form a single component. The first shear plunger 612 is configured to move along a central axis 632 of the first fitting 610 by rotating the first shear plunger 612 about the first fitting 610 using a standard tool.

[0056] In some embodiments, the first fitting 610 may comprise a cylindrical guide pin 640 having a wider disc-like shape at a distal end 611 that extends laterally from the guide pin 640. The distal end 611 can be used to contact a lower surface of the track structure, and in combination with the first shear plunger 612, clamp the shear plunger 612 and the fitting 610 to the track structure.

[0057] The first shear plunger 612 may comprise a non-cylindrical shape having three or more sides such as a triangle, square, pentagon or so forth such that a wrench or other tool can grip two of the sides to thereby rotate the first shear plunger about the first fitting 610. A lower portion 642 of the first shear plunger 612 preferably has a cylindrical shape to enable to the lower portion 642 to be pressed against a portion of the track structure.

[0058] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the first fitting 610 may have a diameter between 5/32 inch (3.96875 mm) to 5/8 inch (15.875 mm). However, the specific diameter of the front fitting will depend on the material forming the first fitting 610 as well as other factors.

[0059] The first fitting 610 can be inserted within a channel or slot of a track structure, and then tightened against the track structure using the first shear plunger 612. By rotating the first shear plunger 612 in a first direction using the tool, the first shear plunger 612 travels toward the distal end 611 of the first fitting 610 to thereby reduce a gap between the first shear plunger 612 and the distal end 611 of the first fitting 610. As the gap is reduced, the first shear plunger 612 and the distal end 611 of the first fitting 610 abut and press against the structure and the first shear plunger 612 engages with the structure. Tightening the first fitting assembly 606 thereby creates a friction fit with the structure and secures the first leg 602 to the structure.

[0060] A connecting guide 630 can be disposed between the first fitting assembly 606 and a second fitting assembly. It is contemplated that the connecting guide 630 can be sized and dimensioned such that a lower portion of the connecting guide 630 can be inserted into the track structure.

[0061] It is contemplated that the first fitting assembly 606 can be tightened or loosened using a standard tool such as a wrench. In some embodiments, the wrench may comprise a 0.25 inch (6.35 mm) wrench to a 0.625 inch (15.875 mm) wrench. Of course, the specific size of the tool will depend on the fitting assemblies.

[0062] Figures 9-15 illustrate one embodiment of a seat leg assembly 700 for a passenger seat. The assembly 700 comprises a seat frame 701 having a first leg 702 and a second leg 704. As shown, the first leg 702 may comprise the forward leg, and the second leg 704 may comprise the aft leg. It is preferred that the seat frame 701, first leg 702, and second leg 704 comprise a single integral piece.

[0063] The first leg 702 comprises a first fitting assembly 706 and the second leg 704 comprises a second fitting assembly 708. As shown, the first fitting assembly 706 may comprise a forward assembly, and the second fitting assembly 708 may comprise an aft assembly. As discussed above, the seat frame 701 can be configured to couple with other frames such as by using tubes or other structure that may be inserted into apertures 720, 722. The seat frame 701 preferably couples to and supports one or more passenger seats. An exemplary construction showing how multiple frames may be coupled together to form a support for passenger seats such as described above.

[0064] The first fitting assembly 706 is attached to or coupled with a lower end of the first leg 702. In some embodiments, the first fitting assembly is configured to be attached to or coupled with the first leg of an existing seat structure of the vehicle. In other words, the fitting assemblies described herein can be substituted for existing fitting assemblies on existing seat frames to thereby retrofit those seat frames to a more advantageous solution. In this manner, the existing seat structure does not need to modified or replaced to achieve the benefits of the inventive subject matter discussed herein.

[0065] The first fitting assembly 706 preferably comprises a first fitting 710 and a first shear plunger 712 coupled with the first fitting 710. It is especially preferred that the first shear plunger 712 is integrated with the first fitting 710, such that the first fitting 710 and the first shear plunger 712 form a single component. The first shear plunger 712 is configured to move along a central axis 732 of the first fitting 710 by rotating the first shear plunger 712 about the first fitting 710 using a standard tool.

[0066] In some embodiments, the first fitting 710 may comprise a cylindrical guide pin 740 having a wider disc-like shape at a distal end 711 that extends laterally from the guide pin 740. The distal end 711 can be used to contact a lower surface of the track structure, and in combination with the first shear plunger 712, clamp the shear plunger 712 and the fitting 710 to the track structure.

[0067] The first shear plunger 712 may comprise a non-cylindrical shape having three or more sides such as a triangle, square, pentagon or so forth such that a wrench or other tool can grip two of the sides to thereby rotate the first shear plunger about the first fitting 710. As shown in Figures 10-13, the first shear plunger 712 may have a gear-like shape with a plurality of teeth extending from the center of the plunger 712.

[0068] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the first fitting 710 may have a diameter between 5/32 inch (3.96875 mm) to 5/8 inch (15.875 mm). However, the specific diameter of the front fitting will depend on the material forming the first fitting 710 as well as other factors.

[0069] The second fitting assembly 708 is attached to or coupled with a lower end of the second 704, and preferably comprises a second fitting 714 and a second shear plunger 716 coupled with the second fitting 714. It is especially preferred that the second shear plunger 716 is integrated with the second fitting 714 such that the second fitting 714 and the second shear plunger 716 form a single component. The second shear plunger 716 is configured to move along its central axis 750 by rotating a head of the second shear plunger 716 using the same standard tool as used to rotate the first shear plunger 712.

[0070] The second fitting 714 preferably has one or more projections 752 that extend outwardly from the body of the second fitting 714. The projections 752 are sized and dimensioned to vertically pass through circular openings of a track structure, and then slide horizontally along the track structure until the projections are underneath the track structure. The second shear plunger 716 may comprise a hex or square bolt head to facilitate its tightening or loosening by using a standard tool such as a wrench. In this manner, both the first and second shear plungers 712, 716 are sized and dimensioned to be rotated using the same tool.

[0071] Each of the first leg 702 and the second leg 704 are configured to attach to a structure mounted to a vehicle, such that that frame 701 is secured in place to the structure within the vehicle using the first and second assemblies 706, 708. An exemplary embodiment of a track structure is shown in Figure 6.

[0072] After each of the first and second fittings 710, 714 are inserted within the channel or slot of the structure, each of the first and second fitting assemblies 706, 708 can be tightened against the track structure. The first shear plunger 712 can be rotated in a first direction using the tool, such that the first shear plunger 712 travels toward a distal end 711 of the first fitting 710 to thereby reduce a gap between the first shear plunger 712 and the distal end 711 of the first fitting 710. As the gap is reduced, the first shear plunger 712 and the distal end 711 of the first fitting 710 abut and press against the structure and the first shear plunger 712 engages with the structure. Tightening the first fitting assembly 706 thereby creates a friction fit with the structure and secures the first leg 702 to the structure.

[0073] Similarly, the head of the second shear plunger 716 can be rotated in a first direction using the tool, such that a wider disc-like portion 754 of the second shear plunger 716 travels away from the head of the second shear plunger 716 to thereby reduce a vertical gap between the disc-like portion 754 and the projections 752. As the vertical gap is reduced, the wider disc-like portion 754 of the second shear plunger 716 and the projections 752 abut and press against the structure and the second shear plunger 716 engages with the structure. Tightening the second fitting assembly 708 thereby creates a friction fit with the structure and secures the second leg 704 to the structure.

[0074] A connecting guide 730 can be disposed between the first fitting assembly 706 and the second fitting assembly 708. It is contemplated that the connecting guide 730 can be sized and dimensioned such that a lower portion of the connecting guide 730 can be inserted into the track structure.

[0075] It is contemplated that both the first fitting assembly 706 and the second fitting assembly 308 can be tightened or loosened using a standard tool such as a wrench. In some embodiments, the wrench may comprise a 0.25 inch (6.35 mm) wrench to a 0.625 inch (15.875 mm) wrench. Of course, the specific size of the tool will depend on the fitting assemblies.

[0076] The above-described seat assemblies offer many advantages over those of the prior art. The first and second fitting assemblies 706, 708 described above utilize components that have a reduced number of parts, as well as reduced weight and cost. In addition, the assemblies 706, 708 utilize a single, standard hardware to install and remove both the front and aft tracks. The use of a standard tool simplifies installation and reduces assembly time.

[0077] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term “coupled to” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms “coupled to” and “coupled with” are used synonymously.

[0078] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing dimensions or quantities of properties used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0079] Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary.

[0080] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0081] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value with a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0082] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims. [0083] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C .... and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A seat leg assembly for a passenger seat, comprising: a frame comprising a first leg and a second leg, wherein the frame is configured to couple with a passenger seat; a first fitting coupled to the first leg and a first shear plunger coupled with the first fitting, wherein the first shear plunger is configured to move along an axis of the first fitting by rotating the first shear plunger with respect to the first fitting using a tool; a second fitting coupled to the second leg and a second shear plunger coupled with the second fitting, wherein the second shear plunger is configured to move along a second axis by rotating a head of the second shear plunger with respect to the second fitting using the tool; wherein the first and second legs are configured to attach to a structure mounted to a vehicle, such that that frame is secured in place within the vehicle; and wherein the first shear plunger can travel toward a distal end of the first fitting using the tool to thereby engage the first shear plunger with the structure; and wherein a lower portion of the second shear plunger can travel away from the head of the second shear plunger using the tool to thereby engage the second shear plunger with the structure.

2. The seat leg assembly of claim 1, wherein the first shear plunger is integrated with the front fitting.

3. The seat leg assembly of claim 1, wherein the tool comprises a wrench.

4. The seat leg assembly of claim 3, wherein the wrench comprises a 0.25 inch (6.35 mm) wrench to a 0.625 inch (15.875 mm) wrench.

5. The seat leg assembly of claim 1, wherein the structure mounted to the floor comprises a track, and wherein the first fitting and the second fitting are configured to be inserted within the track.

6. The seat leg assembly of claim 1, wherein the first fitting comprises a diameter of between 5/32 inch (3.96875 mm) to 5/8 inch (15.875 mm).

7. The seat leg assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame, first leg and second leg comprise a single integral piece.

8. The seat leg assembly of claim 1, wherein the structure is mounted to a floor of the vehicle.

9. The seat leg assembly of claim 1, wherein the first fitting is configured to be coupled with the first leg of an existing seat structure of the vehicle.

10. The seat leg assembly of claim 1, wherein the second fitting comprise a plurality of projections configured to abut a portion of the structure.

11. A seat leg assembly for a passenger seat that can be disposed within a vehicle, comprising: a seat frame comprising a forward leg and an aft leg, wherein the seat frame is configured to couple with a passenger seat, wherein the seat frame, forward leg and aft leg comprise a single integral piece; a forward assembly coupled to the forward leg and comprising a first fitting and a first shear plunger coupled with the first fitting, wherein the first shear plunger is integrated with the first fitting, and wherein the first shear plunger moves along a first axis of the first fitting when the first shear plunger is rotated with respect to the first fitting; an aft assembly coupled to the aft leg and comprising a second fitting and a second shear plunger coupled with the second fitting, wherein the second shear plunger is integrated with the second fitting, and wherein the second shear plunger moves along a second axis when a head of the second shear plunger is rotated with respect to the second fitting; wherein the forward and aft legs are configured to attach to a track structure mounted to a floor of a vehicle, such that that seat frame is secured in place to the track structure using the forward and aft assemblies; and wherein the first shear plunger can travel toward a distal end of the first fitting using the tool to thereby engage the first shear plunger with the track structure; and wherein the second shear plunger can travel toward a distal end of the second fitting using the tool to thereby engage the second shear plunger with the track structure.

12. The seat leg assembly of claim 11, wherein the first and second shear plunger are sized and dimensioned to be rotated using the same tool.

13. The seat leg assembly of claim 12, wherein the tool comprises a wrench.

14. The seat leg assembly of claim 13, wherein the wrench comprises a 0.25 inch (6.35 mm) wrench to a 0.625 inch (15.875 mm) wrench.

15. The seat leg assembly of claim 11, wherein the track structure mounted to the floor comprises an elongated track, and wherein the first fitting and the second fitting are configured to be inserted within the elongated track.

16. The seat leg assembly of claim 15, wherein the first shear plunger secures the first assembly to the track when the first fitting is inserted within the elongated track by rotating the first shear plunger about the first axis to cause the first shear plunger to travel toward the distal end of the first fitting.

17. The seat leg assembly of claim 16, wherein the second fitting comprises a plurality of projections, and wherein the second shear plunger secures the second assembly to the track when the projections of the second fitting are inserted within the elongated track and the head of the second shear plunger is rotated about the second axis to cause a lower portion of the second shear plunger to travel away from the head of the second shear plunger.

18. The seat leg assembly of claim 11, wherein the front fitting comprises a diameter of between 5/32 inch (3.96875 mm) to 5/8 inch (15.875 mm).

19. The seat leg assembly of claim 11, wherein the first assembly is configured to be coupled with a forward leg of an existing seat structure of the vehicle.

20. The seat leg assembly of claim 11, wherein the second fitting comprise a plurality of projections configured to abut a portion of the track structure.