GB2511599A

GB2511599A - Folding vehicle head restraint assembly

Info

Publication number: GB2511599A
Application number: GB1321293.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Arjun V Yetukuri; Ted Smith; Kailas Bade; Manish Garge
Original assignee: Lear Corp
Current assignee: Lear Corp
Priority date: 2012-12-05
Filing date: 2013-12-03
Publication date: 2014-09-10
Also published as: GB201321293D0; CN103847543A; DE102013224965A1

Abstract

A head restraint assembly 10 is provided to be mounted within a vehicle. A head restraint is supported by a cross member 24 in a lateral direction and adapted to rotate about a lateral axis R of the cross member. A fixed locking member 28 is mounted within the head restraint. A latch 30 is mounted to slide on the cross member between a first latch position engaged with the locking member and at a second latch position released from the fixed locking member. A lever 32 may be provided proximate the latch to move the latch between the first latch position and the second latch position. A motor 60 is in communication with the lever such that the motor moves the lever to translate the latch from the first latch position to the second latch position. The head restraint is rotatable about the cross member when the latch is in the second latch position. A biasing member 36, such as a spring, may be provided for moving the head restraint when the latch is in the second position. Non-motorised locking mechanisms are also disclosed.

Description

FOLDING VEHICLE HEAD RESTRAINT ASSEMBLY

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[00011 This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 12/958,967, filed December 2, 2010 which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 12/436,336, filed May 6, 2009, now abandoned, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

[0002J Multiple embodiments relate to folding head restraint assemblies for vehicles.

2. Background Art

100031 Vehicle seats are often provided with moveable head restraints, which can move to accommodate a head of an occupant and/or can move to various stowed positions to decrease the size of the vehicle seats. One example of a vehicle seat having a movable head restraint is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,899,395 B2, which issued on May 31, 2005 to Yetukuri et al.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF TIlE DRAWINGS

[00041 FIGURE 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a head restraint assembly in an upright position [00051 FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of the head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a folded position: [00061 FIQTJRE 3 is an elevation view of an embodiment of an interior of the head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a locked position; [00071 FiGURE 4 is another elevation view of an embodiment of the interior of the head restraint assembly of Figure 3 in a released position: 100081 FiGURE 5 is a schematic iflustratiori of another embodiment of an interior of the head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a locked position; 00091 FIGURE 6 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of an interior of the head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a locked position; [00101 FIGURE 7 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of an interior (if the head restraint assembly ot Figure 1 in a locked position; 1001 U FIGURE 8 s a front perspeclive vew of an embodiment of a vehicPe seat having a folding head restraint assembly in a nse position; [00121 FiGURE 9 is a front perspective view another embodiment of a vehicle seat having a folding head restraint assembly of FigureS; [00131 FIGURE 10 is a side elevation view of the folding head restraint assembly of Figure 8: -z - [00141 FIGURE ii is another side elevation view of the foidiinu head restraint assembly of Figure 10 illustrated in a stowed position: [09151 FIGURE 12 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the folding head restraint assembly of Figure 9 with a portion removed; [00161 FiGURE 13 is a front øerspective view of another embodiment of the folding head restraint assembly of Fignre 9 with a portion removed; 100171 FiGURE 14 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a head restraint assembly in an upright position; 09181 FIGURE 15 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of an interior of he head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a locked position; [0019J FiGURE 16 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of an interior (if the head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a locked position; 10020! FIGIJ RE 17 is a schematic i lusEration of another emoodirnent of an interior of the head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a locked position; [00211 FiGURE 1 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of an interior of the head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a locked position [09221 FIGURE 19 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of an interior of the head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a locked position; [00231 FIGURE 20 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of an interior of the head restraint assembly of Figure 1 in a released position; and [00241 FIGURE 21 is a flow-chart illustration of a method for controlling the head restraint assembly of Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025J As required. detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the diselocced embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for the claims and/or as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

[00261 With rekrenee to Figures 1-2, a folding head restraint assembly is illustrated and generally referenced by numeral 10. The folding head restraint assembly may be mounted on a vehicle seat for use in a vehicle, such as an automobile, a boat or an airplane. The vehicle seat may include a seat bottom secured to a floor of an associated vehicle for seating an occupant upon the seat bottom. A seat back may extend from the seat bottom and be secured relative to the scat bottom for supporting a back of the occupant against the seat back. In at least one embodiment, the seat back spans across a second row of seating of the vehicle to provide support for multiple occupants. In at least one embodiment the seat back pivots relative to a scat bottom to permit access behind the seat back and/or to permit an occupant to select a comfortable riding position while sitting in the vehicle seat.

[00271 The folding head restraint assembly 10 diselosed herein can be implemented on a variety of seat backs to fold out of view of the driver. The folding head restraint assembly 10 can receive multiple inputs while maintaining configuration in order to be utilized in various vehicles. Additionally, the tblding head restraint assembly 10 can be implemented to fold as the scat back is folded and/or to remain folded while the scat back is unfolded. The head restraint assembly 10 can be implemented in a variety of vehicles that may have various head restraint assembly requirements, which provides cost savings.

[00281 It is known that head restraint assemblies are more readily being included in and/or on second rows and third rows of vehicle seats. These hcad restraint asscmblics in second and third rows may obstruct view for a driver. Additionally, head restraint assemblies must often be designed specifically for applications within specific vehicles.

The folding head restraint assembly 10 disclosed herein can be implemented on a variety of scat backs and/or fold out of view of the driver.

[0029J In Figure 1, the head restraint assembly 10 is illustrated in an upright position to support the head of the occupant. hi Figure 2, the head restraint assembly 10 is illustrated in a folded position so that the driver's rear view is not impaired when the head restraint assembly 10 is nor in use by another occupant. As illustrated in Figures 1-2, the head restraint assembly 10 includes a mounting subassembly 12 and a head restraint 14.

The head restraint 14 includes shell sections 16, 18. The mounting subassembly 12 is attached to the head restraint 14 and allows movement from the first folded position to the tqiight position and vice versa 100301 The mounting subassembly 12 includes a first support post 20, a second support post 22, and a cross member 24. The first support post 20 and the second support post 22 are each attached to the cross member 24. In a variation of the present embodiment, the support posts 20, 22 are each cylindrically shaped. In a further refinement, one or both of the support posts 20, 22 is substantially hollow or includes hollow sections. In another reflnemcnt, the support posts 20, 22 arc adapted to be positioned in receptacles in a vehicle seat back. In such refinements, the height of the head restraint 14 is ofien adjustable. Similarly, in another varialion of the present embodiment, the cross member 24 is also cylindrically shaped. In a further refinement, the cross member 24 is substantially hollow or includes hollow sections. In other variations, the st:pport posts 20, 22 and the cross member 24 are substantially solid (i.e., noii-noliow) or include solid sections. hi sti I other varianons, First support post 2(1 and second support post 22 are bent (e.g., dogiegged). In yet another embodiment, the mounting subassembly 12 includes only the cross member 24 that is mounted to a seat back or to the vehicle, as discussed below in reference to Figures 4-9.

[09311 It should he appreciated, that is some variations, the head restraint assemhly 1 0 is designed to fold towards the front of a vehicle, as illustrated in figure 2. In other variations, the head restraint assembly 10 is designed to fold towards the rear of the vehicle, Since thc head restraint assembly 10 can fold toward the front of the vehicle or the rear of the vehicle with minimal modification, the head restraint assembly 10 can be implemented in a variety of vehicles that may have various head restraint assembly requirements.

10032i As illustrated, the head restraint 14 may have a mechanical actuator 26 that extends beyond the first shell 16 and the second shell IS. In at east one embodiment, the mechanical actuator 26 is flush with an outer surface of the head restraint 16, which may he an outer surface of the cushioning and/or trim. The mechanical actuator 26 is actuated to fold the head restraint 14 from the upright position shown in Figure 1 to the folded position shown in Figure 2-, as discussed further below. In at least one embodiment, the mechanical actitator 26 includes a push hutton 26 -to aflow an occupant to press thereon -to fold the head restraint 16, In an alternate embodiment. the mechanical actuator may in include a sliding button to allow an occupant to slide the button in order to fold the head restraint 16. A-js illustrated in Figure 1 -2, the push button may he located along a lateral side oftiie head restraint 14.

[00331 With reference now to Figures 3-4, the head restraint assembly 10 is illustrated with the first shell 16 removed tir illustrative purposes. The head restraint assembly 10 is depicted in the upright positicin From the upright position, the head restraint 14 can pivot ahiut the axis of rotation Kin a first direction indicated by the arrow A1 and in a second din-ction indicated by the arrow A7 to a forward folded position or a rear thided posiflon. One non-lmiit)ng example or th rotation betWeen the uptghi postion md the folded position is illustrated in Figures 1-2. The head restraint 14 can pivot between any suitable use position and folded position.

[00341 As illustrated in Figure 3, a fixed locking member 28 retains a latch 30 to maintain the hea.d restraint 14 in the upright position. In one embodiment, the fixed locking member 28 is a lock plate in another embodiment, the fixed locking member 28 is a reaction surface, as discussed further below, In a thither euLbodirnent, the fixed locking member 28 is a fiat surface on the shell 18. also discussed further below. In tile illustrated embodiment, the locking member 28 is affixed to the head restraint 14 so that the locking member 28 does not pivot relative to the shell iS', The hitch 30 is moveably mounted to the cross member 24 such that the latch 30 can traverse lilierally along the cross member 24 to unlock the latch 30 from engagement with the locking member 28.

When the latch 30 is disengaged from the locking member 28, as illustrated in Figure 4, the head restraint 14 can pivot about the axis of rotation Kin a first direction indicated by the arrow A and in a second direction indicated by the arrow A2. Since the head restraint 14 can pivot in the first direction A1 or the second direction A2, the same head restraint 14 may he employed within various vehicles that may require forward folding head restraints or rear tblding head restraints.

[00351 The head restraint assembly 10 includes an actuator 32 to move the latch 30 from engagement with the locking member 28. As illustrated irk Figure 3, the actuator 32 is in a design position. The actuator 32 can pivot about a fixed point F in a first direction 1)] to the actuated position. illustrated in Figure 4. ln one embodiment, the actuator 32 may be biased relative to the latch 30 to maintain contact therebetween. In another embodiment, the actuator 32 is biased in a direction opposite to D1, so that when the actuator 32 is in the actuated position, the actuator 32 returns to the design posidon. In at least one embodiment, the actuator 32 has a tab portion 34 to abut the latch 30. 1 lie tan portion 34 may he hinged so that the tab portion 34 abuts the latch 30 while the actuator 32 pivots.

[00361 When the actuator 32 pivots about the flxed point F' from the design position illustrated in Figure 3 to the actuated position illustrated hi Figure 4, the actuator 32 engages with the latch 30 to slide the latch 30 laterally in a second direction 2, as illustrated in Figure 4. When the latch 30 has been moved laterally in the second direction D2. the latch 30 is disengaged from the locking member 28. Once the latch 30 is disengaged from the locking member 28, the head restraint. 14 can pivot about tile axis of rotation K in a first direction indeated by the arrow A1 and in a second direction indicated by the arrow A2.

[0037J As illustrated in Figures 3-4, the head restraint assembly 10 has a biasing member 36 mounted on the cross member 24 to pivot the head restraint 14 about the axis of rotation Ft when the latch 30 is released from the locking member 28, The biasing member 36 is adapted I.o he connected to the rear housing 18 of the head restraint 14 at a first distal end and to the cross niernher 24 at a second distal end to bias the head restraint 14 in either the first direction indicated by the arrow A or in the second direction indicated by the arrow A. in one embodiment, the biasing member 36 is a compression spting. in another embodiment, the biasing member 36 is a torsion spring. Of course, any suitable biasing member 36 is contemplated within the scope 01 the disclosed embodiments.

I0038 The head restraint assembly 10 may include one 01' more bushings 38 mounted between the head restraint 14 and the cross member 24, The cross member 24 may have a section provided through tile one or more bushings 38 thereby allowing rotation at one or more bushings 3% about cross member 24. The bushings 3% may be attached to the rear shell 1% and/or the front shell 16. lii some variations, bushings 3% are split bushings. In at least one embodiment, the bushings 38 are oil-imprewtated hushinus.

Of course, any suitable bushings 38 and any suitable amount of bushings 38 may by utilized.

[09391 In at least one embodiment, illustrated in Figures 3-4, the actuator 32 is pivoted from the design position to the actuated position with a cable 40. The cable 40 is displaced n a direction D3 to rotate the actuator 32. In one embodiment, the cable 40 is displaced with a pull strap. A user can pull the pull strap along the direction D. which displaces the cable 40 and rotates the actuator 32. [a another embodiment, the cable 40 is cisplaced by a switch or button provided on the vehicle scat, hi at least one embodiment, the cable 40 is provided within the mounting subassembly 12 through one or more of the first support post 20, the second support post 22 and the cross member 24. Of course, any suitable maimer of displacing the cable 40 is contemplated wthm the scope of the disclosed embodiineits.

[0040J With reference now to Figure 5, another embodiment of the head restraint assembly 10 is illustrated with the first shell 16 removed fir illustrative purposes. The latch 30 may have a release slot 42 formed therein to cooperate with a pin 44 provided on the cross member 24. The release slot 42 may have a generally L-shape so that as the latch 30 moves along the cross member 24, the release slot 42 slides over the pin 44 in the direction indicated by D2 as the latch 30 is moved by the actuator 32 in the direction E).

When the latch 30 is disengaged from the locking nieniber 28, the release slot 42 allows the head restraint 14 to pivot about the axis of rotation R in the first oiree[ion indicated by the arrow as the pin 44 follows iFe generally L.-shape of the release slot 42. In at least one embodiment, a biasing meniher 16 is n,ounted to the head restraint 14 mid the latch. 30 to bias the latch 30 in the direction Al. When the actuator 32 displaces the latch 30 in direction D the release slot 42 passes over the pin 44 in the first direction D:, Since the release slot 42 is generally L-shaped, the release slot 42 then passes over the pin 44 in the second direction A1, while the head resuraint i4 pivots in the second direction A1 about the axis of rotation R. Of course, the directions of travel for the latch 30 and the head restraint 14 relative to the cross member 24 may he reversed or alternated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[00411 A damper mechanism 48 may be mounted within the head restraint 14 to damp the movement of the head restraint 14 when pivoting from the upright position to the folded position thereby allowing such movement to proceed smoothly. As illustrated, the biasing member 46 may be connected to the damper mcchamsm 48. The damping mechanism 48 may include a priori gear, which may be attached to the cross mnemnber24 and a damper, which may he attached to the head restraint 14, Various damper mechanisms 48 may he provided having various dampening characteristics in order to accommodate different head restraint assemblies 14.

[00421 With reference now to Figure 6, yet another embodiment of the head restraint assembly 10 is illustrated with the flrst shell 16 removed for illustrative purposes.

The head restraint assembly 10 is depicted with several mechanisms to initiate movement of the actuator 32 to move the latch 30 from an engaged position to a disengaged position.

In one embodiment, a push rod 50 moves in a direction D4 to cause pivoting of the actuator 32 in the direction D1. which thereby' displaces the latch 30 in the direction [3-,.

As illustrated, the actuator 32 and the push rod 50 may he connected together via an armature 52 so that displacement of the push rod 50 in the direction D4 correspondingly moves the armature 52 to pivot the actuator 32, 100431 In another embodiment, the mechanical actuator 26, illustrated in Figures 1-2 is provided to initiate movement of the actuator 32. The mechanical actuator 26 may he provided on either side of the head restraint assembly 10. In at least one embodiment illustrated in Figure 6, the first mechanical actuator is a push button actuator 26. The push button actuator 26 has a push button 54 that may be orovided externally to the housing i 8.

The çush hutton 54 may be depressed by a user in a direction D:. The push button 54 is connected to a translating member 56 that is provided to translate when moved by the push TuitIon 56. The translating member 56 moves in the direction 1)5 to move the actuatur 32 to pivot the latch 30. In at least one embodiment, the mechanical actuator 26 is employed with the second mechanical actuator 58 so Gist the user could mechanically actuate the folding head restraint assembly 10 with the first mechanical actuator 32 or the second mechanical actuator 58.

[09441 In the depicted embodiment. the actuator 32 can be pivoted wtth a motor 60. When activated, the motor 60 moves an armature 62 in the direction D5 in order to pivot the actuator 32 in the direction D1 thereby moving the latch 30 from engagement with the locking member 28, in one embodiment, a user activates the motor 60 via a control signal carried thereto via wiring 64. In at least one refinement, a wireless receiver is used to generate this control signaL [00451 in at least one embodiment, the wiring 64 is provided within the hollow support 22, which provides a clean exit point without tunis and without pinching and/or rubbing of the wiring and/or caNe againE sharp edges. Any suitable w)rirlg M may be provided within the hollow support 22.

10046M With reference now to Figure 7, vet another embodiment of the head restraint assembly 10 is illustrated with the tirst shell 16 removed for illustrative purposes.

As illustrated, the fixed locking member 28 is a pin. The pin 28 is mounted on the cross member 24 so that the pin 28 does not move relative to the cross member 24. In at least one embodiment, the pin 28 is press-fit into two extruded apertures formed in the cross member 24, Of course, any suitable pin 28 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

100471 As illustrated, the pin 28 maintains contact with the latch 30 to lock the head restraint 14 in the upright position. The latch 30 is moveably mounted on the cross member 24 arid may have a slot 42 formed therein to receive the pin 28. Movement of the latch 30 in the direction D disengages the slot 42 of the latch 30 front the pin 28 so that the head restraint 14 can move about the axis of rotation R in either the first direction indicated by the arrow A1 or' in the second direction indicated by the arrow A: to the folded position. The first direction indicated by the arrow A1 may be towards either the -ii -front of the vehicle or the rear of the vehicle and the second direction would correspondingly be towards the rear of the vehicle or the front of the vehicle. As illustrated, the slot 42 may he ripen-ended to aflow for rotation of the latch 30 \Tbefl the slot 12 is disengaged from the pin 28.

[00481 in the depicted embodiment, the head restraint assembly 10 has a biasing member 36 mounted on the cross member 24 to pivot the head restraint 14 about the axis of rotation R when the latch 30 is moved fronTt contact with the pin 28. The biasing member 36 is adapted to be connected to the rear housing IS of the head restraint 14 at a first distal end and to the pin 28 at a second distal end to bias the head restraint 14 in either the first direction indicated by the arrow A1 or in the second direction indicated by the aiTow A2. in another embodiment, the biasing member 36 is connected to the rear housing 18 at the first distal end and to the cross member 24 at the second distal end. In at east one enibodimncnt, the biasing member 36 is a compression spring. in atiothcr embodiment.

the biasing member 36 is a torsion spring. Of course, any suitable biasing mcnibcr 36 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[00491 In at least one embodiment, the latch 30 is moved by a link 66, which can he connected to a suitable actuator. In one embodiment, the ink 66 is connected to a cable to displace the link 66. Of course, any suitable actuator for the link 66 is contemplated within die scope of the disclosed embodiments, The link 66 engages with the latch 30 to slide [he latch 30 laterally in the direction D2. The link 66 is displaced in a suitable direction to cause movement of latch 30. In at least one embodiment, the link 66 can be dsplaced by the actuator so that a portIon of the ink 66 is rotated in a direction indicated by an arrow pointing in direction D6 so that the arms 68 move in the direction 1)2 and consequently displace the latch 30. When the latch 30 is displaced in the direction D2, the slot 42. of the latch 30 is disengaged from the pin 28 so that the head restraint 14 moves from the upright position illustrated to the folded position.

00501 The latch 30 may have a first member 70 and a second member 72 that collectively form the latch 30. In at least one embodiment, the first member 70 and the

-IL

second member 72 are identical so that the first member 70 and the second member 72 can be cost effectively formed and mounted to the cross member 24. The first member 70 and the second member 72 may be snap-fit onto the cross member 24 in a known manner. Of course, any suitable latch 30 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[00511 Referring to Figures 8-9, a vehicle seat is illustrated and referenced generally by numeral 110 foruse inavehicle. A seat back 112 is secured relative to the seat bottom for supporting a back of the occupant against the seat back 112. In at least one embodiment, the seat back 112 spans across a second row of seating of the vehicle to provide support for multiple occupants. In at least one embodiment, the scat back 112 pivots relative to the seat bottom.

100521 In the depicted embodiments, the vehicle seat 110 includes a folding head restraint assembly 114. The folding head restraint assembly 114 disclosed herein can be implemented on a variety of seat backs 112 and/or tbld out of view of the driver and can fold to alleviate interference between the vehicle head restraint assembly 114 and the convertible root The folding head restraint assembly 114 can receive multiple inputs while maintaining configuration in orderto be utilized in various vehicles.

100531 As illustrated in Figure 8-10, the folding head restraint assembly 114 has a head restraint 116 in a use position. The head restraint 116 may tbld about an axis of rotation R in a first direction indicated by an arrow A1 or in a second direction indicated by an arrow A2. Of course, any suitable axis of rotation is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments. As illustrated in Figure 11, the head restraint 116 is in a folded position. In the folded position, the head restraint 116 has rotated about the axis R in the direction indicated by an-ow Aj so that the head restraint 116 is stowed. The folding head restraint 116 may return to the use position by moving in the direction indicated by arrow A2.

[00541 In one embodiment, illustrated in Figure 9, the axis of rotation R is below an upper surface 117 of the seat back 12. Providing the axis of rotation R below the upper surface 117 creates a compact vehicle seat 110 when the head restraint assembly 114 is folded. Since the head restraint 116 does not extend beyond the upper surface 117 of the scat back 112, view ova the vehicle seat 110 is enhanced compared to the prior art.

[00551 In at least one embodiment, illustrated in Figures 10-11, approximately one hundred-eighty degrees are between the use position and the folded position. In another embodiment, the head restraint 116 pivots at least ninety degrees between the use position and the folded position. In yet another embodiment, the head restraint 116p at least sixty degrees between the use position and the folded position. Of course, the folding head restraint assembly 114 may have any range of motion between the use position and the folded position.

[00561 As illustrated in Figures 8-9, the folding head restraint assembly 114 is supported by the seat back 112. The head restraint assembly 114 can be separately mounted to the seat back 112 or can be integrated with the seat back 112 in any suitable manner while allowing the head restraint assembly 114 to fold between at least the use position and the folded position. In at least one embodiment, the head restraint assembly is mounted to a rear shelf for a second row of seating of the vehicle interior instead of to the seat baek 112. In another embodiment, the head restraint assembly 110 is mounted on a flame of the vehicle instead of to the seat back 112. The head restraint assembly 114 need not be directly mounted to the seat back 112 and may be mounted indirectly to the seat back 112 in any suitable manner, such as via a secondary frame or support. Any suitable folding mounting for the head restraint assembly 110 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0057J In the depicted embodiment, the head restraint 116 is supported by a lateral support rod 11%. The head restraint 116 may have cushioning and/or trim 119 mounted thereon, although for illustrative purposes the head restraint 116 is illustrated with cushioning and/or trim removed. Any suitable cushioning and/or trim 119 may be -14-utilized. In the depicted embodiment, the head restraint 116 is formed out of a first housing 120 and a second housing 122. Although a first housing 120 and a second housing 122 are depicted, any suitable amount of housings 120, 122 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0058J The head restraint 116 is mounted on the lateral support rod 118. The lateral support rod 118 is mounted to the seat back 112. Although the lateral support rod 118, as depicted, is mounted to the seat back 112, any suitable mounting surface for the lateral support rod 118 is contemplated. In one embodiment, the lateral support rod 118 is mounted to a vehicle shelf provided behind the seat back 112. In another embodiment, the lateral support rod 118 is mounted to a vehicle frame. The latcnl support rod 118 maybe constructed from a single metal tube or rod. In at least one embodiment, the lateral support rod 118 is hollow to receive wiring and/or cable therethrough, as discussed further below.

[00591 The lateral support rod 118 has terminal ends 123. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 9, the terminal ends 123 terminate within the seat back 112. As discussed further below, wiring and/or cable may be provided within a hollow lateral support rod 11%, which pennits pivoting of the wiring and/or cable and a clean exit point without turns and without pinching and/or rubbing of the wiring and/or cable against shaq edges. Additionally, the lateral support rod 118 may have any suitable length and need not extend beyond the head restraint 116, as illustrated. Furthermore, the lateral support rod 118 can be attached to support posts to mount the head restraint 116 within the vehicle.

Of course, any suitable lateral support rod 118 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[00601 As depicted in Figures 8-9, the lateral support rod 118 is mounted to the seat back 112 with a pair of bracket members 124 and listeners 126 provided through the bracket members 124. In at least one embodiment, the lateral support rod 118 is orbitally riveted to the bracket members 124 to allow the lateral support rod 118 to pivot about the axis of rotation R. Of course, the lateral support rod 118 can be pivotally mounted to the bracket members 124 in any suitable manner. *The bracket member 124 can be. employed to mount the head restraint assembly 114 within the velnele at any angle. In one embodiment. illustrated in Figure 8, the bracket members 124 are generaily upright to mount the lateral support rod 118 to the seat back 112. in another embodiment, illustrated in Figure 8, the bracket members 124 are approximately ninety degrees from the generally upright position ii lustrated in Figure 8. Of course, any suitable orientation for the bracket members 124 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

00611 As depicted in Figure 8. fasteners 126 are provided through the bracket members 124 to secure the lateral support rod 11$ to the seat back 112. Although a pair of fasteners 126 secures each bracket member l24 to the seat back 112, any suitable ainoimt of flisteners 126 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

Furthermore, fasteners 126 can he entirely eliminated and an adhesive or other type of joining may bc employed.

[00621 The head restraint assembly 114 may include a first mechanical actuator 128 that extends beyond the first housing [20 and the second housing 122, In at least one embodiment, the first mechanical actuator 128 is flush with an outer surface of the head restraint 1 16, which may he an outer surface of the cushioning and/or trim 119. The first mechanical actuator 128 is actuated to fold the head restraint 116 about the axis of rotation R. as discussed thrther below. in at least one embodiment, the first mechanical actuator 128 includes a push button to allow an occupant to press thereon to fold the head restraint 116.

0063! With reference now to Figures 12-13, at least two embodiments of the head restraint assembly 114 are illustrated with the front housing 120 removed for illustrative purposes. The head restraint assembly 114 is depicted in the use position. From the use position, the head restraint 116 can pivot about the axis of rotation R in the first direction indicateubv the arrow A1 and in the second direction indicated by the arrow A to the foided position. One non-limiting example of the rotation between the use position and -16-the folded position is illustrated in Figures 10-11. The head restraint 116 can pivot between any suitable use position and folded position.

[00641 As illustrated in Figures 12-13, pivoting movement of a locking plate 130 along direction D10 is used to engage and disengage a latch 132 from the locking plate 130. When the locking plate 130 has the position illustrated, the locking plate 130 engages within a slot 134 of the latch 132 thereby preventing movement (i.e., pivoting) of the head restraint assembly 114 to the lateral support rod 118. When the locking plate 130 has been rotated along the direction Lh, the locking plate 130 is released because the locking plate does not physically engage within the slot 134 of the latch 132 since the latch 132 would be able to pass by the locking plate 130. When the locking plate 130 and the latch 132 are not physically engaged, the head restraint assembly 114 is pivotable about the axis of rotation R in the first direction indicated by the arrow A1 and in the second direction indicated by the arrow A2 to the folded position.

[0065J In one embodiment a locking plate biasing membcr 136 is provided to move locking plate 130 rctum the locking plate 130 to engagement with the latch 132. In one embodiment, the locking plate biasing member 136 is a spring. The locking plate 130 can automatically return to engagement with the latch 132 when the slot 134 and the locking plate 130 are in alignment.

[00661 In the depicted embodiment, the head restraint assembly 114 has a biasing member 138 mounted on the lateral support rod 118 to pivot the head restraint 116 between the use position and the folded position when the locking plate 130 is released from the latch 132. The biasing member 138 is adapted to be connected to the rear housing 122 of the head restraint 116 at a first distal end and to the latch 132 at a second distal end to bias the head restraint 116 in either the first direction indicated by the arrow A1 or in the second direction indicated by the arrow A2. In one embodiment, the biasing member 138 isa compression spring. In another embodiment, the biasing member 138 is a torsion spring. Of course, any suitable biasing member 138 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[00671 A damping mechanism 140 may be mounted within the head restraint 116.

The damping mechanism 140 may include a pinion gear 142, which may he attached to the lateral support rod 118 and a damper 144, which may he attached to the head restraint 114. The damping mechanism 140 damps the movement of the head restraint assembly 14 when pivoting from the use po.ition to the thided posiflon thereby allowing such movement to proceed smoothly. Various damping mechanisms 140 may be provided havng various damping characteristics in order to accommodate different head restraint assemblies 114.

[09681 In at least one embodiment, the damping mechanism 140 is mounted to the rear housing 122 mid the biasing member i 38 is mounted to the damping mechanism 140 at first distal end of the biasing member 138. The damping mechanism 140 connects the biasing member 138 to the rear housing 122. The damping mechanism 140 may dampen the force provided by the biasing member 138 to the head restraint assembly 114 in order to create asrnooth movement while the head restraint assembly 114 pivots.

[00691 The head restraint assembly 110 may include one or more bushings 146 mounted between the head restraint 116 and the lateral support rod I IS. The lateral support rod 118 may have a section positioned within one or more bushings 146 thereby allowing-rotation of oae or more bushings 146 about lateral support rod 118, The bushings 146 may be attached to the rear housing. 122 as ilhistraled and/or the front housing 120. In some variations, bushings 146 are split bushings. In at least one embodiment, the bushings 146 are oil-impregnated bushings. Ofeourse, any suitable bushings 146 and any suitable amount of bushings 146 may by utilized.

[0070! As depicted. the head restraint assembly i__to may include control members that are referred to as chuck clips 147 that mounted are under colt pression between the lateral support rod 118 and the rear housing 1-2-2, The chuck clips 147 press against the lateral support rod 118 in order to reduce vibration, thereby minimizing buzz, squeak and rattle (BSR). As ilitr,'trated, the chuck clips 147 may he provided proximate the bushings -18- 146 to minimize BSR as the. bushings 146 pivot about the lateral support rod 118. In one embodiment the chuck clips 147 are made out of a spring steel material. Of course, any suitable chuck clips 147 are contemplated within the scope ofthe disclose embodiments.

109711 1110 locking plate 130 may be pivoted in the direction D1o by any number of mcchamsms. As illustrated in Figure 12, Lhe head restraint assembly 114 may he ihided via mechanical actuation. The head restraint assembly 114 includes a cable 14$ attached to the locking plate 130 such that a second mechanica] actuator 150 displaces the cable 148' to rotate the locking plate 130. In one embodiment, the second mechanical actuator is a pull strap A user can pull the pull strap 150 along the direction D0, which displaces the cable 148 and rotates the locking plate 130. in another embodiment, the second mechanical actuator 50 is a switch, Of course, any suitable mechanical actuator is contemolated within the scope of the present invention. [he first mechanical actuator 128, discussed further below, may be utilized in combination with any suitable second mechanical actuator 150.

09721 With reference now to.1:ic 13. the locking plate 130 is illustrated in.

connection with the first mechanical actuator 128. In the i].lustratcd embodiment, the first mechanical actuator is a push button actuator 1 28. The push button actuator 28 has a push button 152 that may be provided externally to the housing 122. The push burton 152 may be depressed by a user in a direction D30. The push button 152 is connected t.o a translating member 154 that is provided to translate when moved by the push button 152.

The transladng. member 1 54 moves in the direction D0 to move a pivoting member 156 to pvot and push on the locking plate 13(1 in a direction D40, which rotates the locking plate in the direction D to disengage the locking plate 130 horn the latch 132 so that the biasing member 138 moves the head restraint assembly 114 about the axis of rotation R. In at least one embodiment, the first iriecharrical actuator 128 is employed with the second mechanical actuator 1.50 so that tile user could mechanically actuate the folding head restraint assembly 114 with the first mechanical actuator 128 or the second mechanical acturtor 150. -19-

[00731 In the depicted embodiment, the locking plate 130 can be pivoted with a motor 158. When activated, the motor 158 moves an armature 160 in a direction D.10 in order to pivot the locking plate 130 in the direction 0o thereby moving the locking plate from engagement with the slot 134 of the latch 132. In one embodiment, a user activates the motor 158 via a control signal carried thereto via wiring 162. In at least one refinement, a wireless receiver is used to generate this control signal.

100741 The wiring 162 is provided within the hollow lateral support rod 118, which provides a clean exit point without turns and without pinching and/or rubbing of the wiring and/or cable against sharp edges. In another embodiment, the wiring 162 is cable connected to the locking plate 130 for mechanical actuation thereof. Of course, any suitable wiring and/or cable 162 may be provided within the hollow lateral support rod 118.

[00751 Referring now to Figure 14, an alternate embodiment of head restraint assembly 200 is illustrated in an upright position to support the head of the occupant. The head restraint assembly 200 may be mounted on a mounting subassembly 212 such that the mounting subassembly 212 allows movement D0 from the folded position to the upright position and vice versa. The head restraint 214 includes a housing 216 which may define an outer surface of the head restraint 214 and include cushioning and trim material.

[00761 In the upright position, the head restraint 214 may support and contact the head of the occupant along a front contact surface 220 which generally faces the front of the vehicle where the occupant is facing forward. It should be appreciated, that the head restraint 214 may be folded towards the front of the vehicle, or in other variations, folded toward the rear of the vehicle. As illustrated, the head restraint 214 may have a mechanical actuator 226 which extends beyond housing 216 and is mounted on the outer surface of the head restraint 214. In at least one embodiment, a mechanical actuator 226 is flush with an outer surface of the head restraint 214 which may be an outer surfitce of the cushioning and/or trim.

-20 - [00771 The mechanical actuator 226 may be a slide button actuator 226. The slide button actuator 226 may he aeniated or slid by an occupant in a direction D60 in order to fold the head restraint 214. The slide hutton 226 may he posrtioned on a rearward surface 222 of the head restraint. By providing the sliding button 226 along the rearward surfhee 222 of the head restraint 214, the rice haniea actuator 226 may he located in the same location cii the head restraint 214 regardless if the head restraint 214 is used on the drivers side or passenger side of the vehicle For examole. when the mechanical actuator 226 is located along the lateral sides of the head restraint, if the actuator is located along the outboard side on the driver side, the actuator will be on the inboard side when the head restraint is positioned on the passenger side of the vehicle. Conversely, if the same location for the actuator 226 is desired, unique headrest designs may he required for the both the drivers side and passenger side head restraints, Irrespective of where the slide hutton 226 is located along the outer surthee of the head restramt 214, the slide button 226 may also he more compact than push button type actuators.

09781 Referring now to Figure 15, the head restraint 214 is illustrated with a portion of the housing 216 removed in order to illustrate the interior of the head restraint 214. The head restraint 214 is depicted in the upright position. From the upright position, the head restraint 214 can pivot about the axis It to a folded position. The support subassembly 212 includes a cross member 224. As such, the axis R may be along the lateral axis of ti-ic cross member 224 so that the head restraint 214 pivots about the cross member 224.

The head restraint 214 may he retained in the upright position by a locking member 228 which retains a latch 230. As illustrated, the latch 230 may he a sliding latch 230 which is mounted to slide along the cross member 224. The locking member 228 may he a pin 228 mounted on the cross member 224 so that the pin 228 does not move relative to the cross member 224. The pin 228 may maintain contact with a slot or protrusion 234 formed in the latch 230. In at least one embodiment, a biasing member 236, shown as a spring, may bias the head restraint into the either the upright or folded position. The

-L

spring 236 may be connected at a first end 238 to the locking member 228 and at a second end 240 to the housing 216.

[09801 The head restraint 214 may include an actuator 232 to move the latch 230 out of engagement with the locking member 228. The actuator nty include a lower actuator arm 242 which engages the latch 230. The lower actuator arm 242 may have a slot or protrusion 244 which may engage a corresponding aperture or protrusion 246 on the latch 230. The actuator 232 may include an upper actuator arm 250 whjch is connected to the sliding button 226. The actuator 232 may pivot about a shaft 248 connected to the housing 216 at a fixed point F, When the slide button 226 is actuated by an occupant, the upper actuator ann may move in a direction D70, thereby moving the lower actuator arm 242 and the latch 230 in the direction 135). When the latch 230 has been moved along the cross member 224 laterally in the direction Dn, the atch 230 is disengaged from the locking member 228, Once tile latch 230 is disengaged from the locking member 228, the head restraint may pivot about the axis R. 09811 The head restraint:2i4 may further include an eiongatcd bar or connceting linkage 252 connecting the actuator 232 and the slide hutton 226. The connecting linkage 252 nmy be fonied on the slide button 226 or the upper actuator arm 250. or may be a separate connecting linkage 252. The head restraint 214 may include a guide slot 254 through which the conneering linkage 252 extends, The guide slot 25 may be formed on the housing 216. As illustrated, the guide slot 254 may he formed as an arcuatc aperture in order for the linkage 252 to accommodate pivotal movement ol the actuator 232 while the sliti!nc hutton 226 which slides in a linear direction D, In a)ternatlve emhodiments the guide slot 2.54 may he formed as a linear shaped aperture or any configuration which corresponds to the movement of the actuator 232 and the slide bullon 226.

[09821 Referring now to Figure 16, Figure 16 illustrates an embodiment where the slide button actuator 226 slides in the horizontal or lateral direction D00. lii this configuration, the guide slot 254 may also be generally horizontal. An additional guide opening 256 may he formed along the upper actuator ann 250. The connecting linkage fin 252 may extend through the guide slot 254 and be connected through the guide opening 256 so that the guide opening 256 accommodates the pivotal movement between the actuator 232 and the inear movement of the shding hutton 22.6. When the slide hutton 226 is actuated by an occupant, the upper actuator arm 250 may move in a direction f)9.9, thereby pivoting the lower actuator ann 242 and the latch 230 in the direction D50. When the latch 230 has been moved along the cross member 224 aterally in the direction Dso, the latch 230 is disengaged from the locking member 228 Once the latch 230 is disengaged from the locking member 228, the head restraint may pivot about the axis R. [00831 Figure 17 illustrates an alternate embodiment wnere the slide button actuator 226 may slide in the upright direction D100. It is also eotitcinplatcd that the slide hutton actuator 226 may also he configured to slide in a genera]ly vertical or inclined direction or at an angle offset from horizontal. As iliustrated in Figure 1 7 the guide slot 254 may also be upright. An additional guide opening, 256 may he formed along the upper acruator ann 250 whcre the guide opening 256 may be formed with an angle or fbrmcd as a horizonta' opening. Alternatively, when the hutton 226 slides in the vertiea direction, the guide slot 254 may be arcuate with a correspondjng; arc-shaped guide opening 256 in the upper actuator ann 250. The connecting linkage 252 may extend through the guide sot 254 and he connected through the guide opening 256 so that the guide opening 256 accommodates the pivotal movement between the aenutor 232 and the linear movement of the sliding button 226. When the slide button 226 is actuated by an occupant, the upper actuator arm may move in a direction D100 thereby moving the lower actuator arm:242 and the latch 230 in the direction Dgu. When the latch 230 has been moved along the cross member 224 laterally in the direction Dsn, the latch 230 is disengaged from the locking member 228. Once the latch 230 is disengaged from the locking member 228, the head restraint may pivol about the axis R. 100841 Figure 18 iiiustrates an alternate embodiment where the slide button actuator 226 may he an upright slider knob 258. As iliustrated, the slider knob 258 may include a knob pottion 258 that that extends in the upright direction, while the slider knob 258 slides in the horizontal or lateral direction D10. In this configuration, the guide slot -I..

254 may be formed in a horizontal recess 260 defined in the housing 216. When the slider knob 258 is actuated by an occupant, the upper actuator arm 250 may move in a direction 0, thereby pivoting the lower actuator arm 242 and the latch 230 in the direction DRO.

When the hitch 230 has been moved along the cross nieniber 224 laterally in the direction D53, the latch 230 is disengaged from the locking member 228. Once the latch 230 is disengaged from the lockng member 228. the head resiraint may pivot about the axis R. h an aftenianve embodiment, the sFider knob 258 may have a knob which extends reanvard where the slider knob 258 slides in a generally vertical direction in a corresponding vertical recess 260 formed in the housing 216. It is also contemplated that the slider knob 258 may slide in any suitabic direction and the housing 216 may be formed with a corresponding recess 260.

100851 With reference now to Figures 19 and 20, another embodiment is iflustrated where a head restraint 314 can he actuated remotely, without buttons or manual actuotors attached to the head restraint 314. The head restraint 314 is illustrated with a portion of the hous!ng 316 removed in order to iflustrate the intenor of the head restraint 314. The head restraim assembly 3 10 is depicted in the upright position. From the upnght position, the head restraint 314 can pivot about the axis of rotation R in a first direction indicated by the arrow A1 and in an opposite direction A2 to a forward fnkled position or a rear fokied position. The head restraint assembly 310 may be mounted on a mounting subassembly 312 such that the mounting subassembly 312 allows niovcmcnt A1 from the folded postion to the upright position and vice versa. The head restraint 3 14 includes a housing 316 which may define an outer surface of the head restraint 314 and inchide cushioning and trim material.

[00861 The support subassembly 312 includes a cross member 324. As such, the axis R may be along the lateral axis of the cross member 324 so that the head restraint 314 pivots about the cross member 324. As ilhtstrated, the axis K may he the central lateral axis of the cross member 324. n

-2. - [00871 The head restraint 314 may be retained in the upright position by a locking member 328 which retains a latch 330. As illustrated, the latch 330 may be a sliding latch 330 which is mounted to slide along the cross member 324. The locking member may be a pin 328 mounted on the cross member 324 so that the pin 328 does not move relative to the cross member 324. The pin 328 may maintain contact with a slot or protrusion 334 formed in the latch 330.

100881 In at least one embodiment, a biasing member 336, shown as a spring, may bias the head restraint into the either the upright or folded position. The spring 336 may be connected at a first end 338 to the locking member 328 and at a second end 340 to the housing 316. In one embodiment, the biasing member 36 is a compression spring. In another embodiment, the biasing member 36 is a torsion spring. Of course, any suitable biasing member 36 is contemplated within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[00891 The head restraint 14 may include a mechanical actuator or lever 332 to move the latch 330 out of engagement with the locking member 328. The lever 332 may include a lower lever arm 342 which engages the latch 330. The lower lever arm 342 may have a slot or protrusion 344 which may engage a coiresponding aperture or protrusion 346 on the latch 330. The lever 332 may also include an upper lever arm 350. The lever 332 may pivot about a shaft 348 connected to the housing 316 at a fixed point F. [00901 As illustrated in Figures 19 and 20, the head restraint includes a motor 360.

The lever 332 can be actuated or pivoted with the motor 360. When activated, the motor 360 moves or pulls an actuator or plunger 362 in the direction Dno in order to pivot the lever 332 in the direction Dim. The plunger 362 may be integrally formed with upper lever arm 350, or may be a scparatc actuating linkage 362. The motor 360 may include an associated gear train that pulls the plunger 362. A return spring may return the plunger 362 to its extended position, leaving the lever 332 in its second position shown in Figure 20.

-25 - [00911 When the plunger 362 is actuated and movee in the direction D120, the upper lever ann 350 may niove in a direction Duo. As the plunger 362 moves in the direction 0120, the ever 350 pivots in direction thereby moving the ower ever arm 342 and the latch 330 in the direction 1)140. When the latch 330 has been moved along the cross member 324 laterally in the direction D140, the latch3 30 is disengaged from the lOCk)ng member 328. Once the latch 330 is disenaagcd from the lock rig member 328, the head restraint 314 may pivot about the axis K. 00921 The upper lever arm 350 may include a guide slot 354 through which the linkage or plunger 362 extends. As illustrated. the guide slot 354 may be tbrmed as a linear shaped aperture in order for the plunger 362 to accommodate pivotal movement of the lever 332 while the plunger 362 which moves in a linear direction in alternative embodiments, the guide slot 354 [nay he fbrmed as an arcuate aperture or any configuration which corresponds to the movement of the lever 332 and the plunger 362, [00931 Figure 21 shows a perspective view of an alternate, embodiment, In this embodiment, the upper lever arm 350 includes a pair of upper arms 370, As shown, each of die upper arms 370 are connected to the shaft 348 and spaced apart along the shaft 348.

A guide slot 374 is defined hekeen the upper arms 370. The linkage or plunger 362 extends through the guide opening 374. The piunger 362 includes transverse tabs 378 at the distal end of the plunger 362, The transverse tabs 378 extend perpendicular to the lateral axis of the plunger 362. The transverse tabs 378 abut a lateral wail 380 of the upper 7fl aliflI, ,Y (I.

0094! As the plunger 362 which moves in a linear direction D150, the transverse tabs 378 can translate or slide along the lateral wall 380 and within the guide opening 374 as the lever arm 332 pivots in the direction D160, The plunger 362 may include any suitable attachment or hook configuration which allows pivotal movement of the lever 332 and linear movement of the plunger 362 while maintaining a connection between the lever 332 and plunger 362. fl I'

-/.0 - [00951 A user can remotely activate the motor 360 and thereby move the head restraint 314 without having to be in physical contact with the head restraint 314. For example, remote actuation controls may be mounted on a console or rear-view mirror.

The actuation controls may include a switch or button or any suitable human-machine interface, for example. By being able to remotely actuate the head restraint to a folded position, the driver can easily position any head restraint in the rear of the vehicle in order to improve rear visibility. Drivers are more likely to enable this feature when they do not have to expend additional effort by getting in the back of the vehicle to manually adjust unused head restraints. This may be especially advantageous in two-door vehicles or vehicles with multiple rows of rear seating where the rear head restraints arc more difficult to physically adjust without crawling in the back of the vehicle.

[00961 mc motor 360 may be connected to and in communication with the remote actuation controls via wiring 364. In at least one embodiment, the wiring 364 can be routed within the support 320. In another embodiment, the motor 360 may wirelessly receive signals from the actuation controls. Wiring 364 may be needed to supply power to the motor 360.

100971 Figure 22 is a flow-chart illustration of a method 400 tbr controlling the head restraint assembly, such as the head restraint assembly illustrated in Figures 19 through 21. Initially, the head restraint is in a locked position and the driver or user provides an input, as represented by block 410. The driver or user provides the input with the remote actuation controls to move the head restraint from an upright position to a folded position. Conversely, the user may also provide an input to mow the head restraint fixm a folded/stored position to an uptight position.

[0098J The motor receives the control signal based on the input, as represented by block 412. The remote actuation controls may provide the signal to the motor through a wired connection, a wireless signal, or any suitable control signal.

-27 - [00991 In response to the control signal, the motor irloves the actuator, as represented by Hock 414 As discussed above, the motor may he connected to an actuating linkage, such as a phmgcr. Alternately, the plunger may he moved linearly by a solenoid. I-Iowever, the motor may move any suitable actuator.

[0100! By moving the actuator a. head restraint lever is pivoted, as represented by block 416. The lever is in mechanical communication with a unlocking latch. By pivoting the ever, the lever operates the latch, as represented by block 41 8 As discussed above, the latch may he a sliding larch mechanism that slides on the axis of the head restraint rotation. In response to operating of the latch. the head restraint is unlocked, as represented by block. 420. When. the head restraint is unlocked, it can he moved based on the input from the upright position to the folded, or vice versa.

[01011 While embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is not intended that these embodiments illustrate and describe a.ll possible forms of the invention, Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may he macic without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. n

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A head restraint assembly comprising: a cross member extending in a lateral direction and adapted to be mounted within a vehicle; a head restrahit trnpportcd by the cross member and adapted to rotate about a lateral axis of the cross member; a fixed locking member mounted within the head restraint; a latch mounted to slide on the cross member between a first latch position engaged with the locking member and at a second latch position released from the fixed locking member; a lever provided proximate the latch to move the latch between the first latch position and the second latch position; and a motor in communication with the lever such that the motor moves the lever to translate the latch from the first latch position to the second latch position, wherein the head restraint is rotatable about the cross member when the latch is in the second latch position.
2. The head restraint assembly of claim 1 wherein the latch is mounted to slide on the cross member such that when the latch slides in a linear direction along the cross member, the latch moves from the first latch position to the second latched position.
3. The head restraint assembly of claim 1 wherein the fixed locking member further comprises a pin mounted on the cross member and wherein the latch has a release slot that allows movement of the latch relative to the pin such that when the latch is in the second latch position, the head restraint pivots about the cross member.
4. The head restraint assembly of claim 3 further comprising a biasing member mounted to the head restraint and the latch to bias the latch to allow the latch to move relative to the pin.-29 -
5. The head restraint assembly of claim 3 wherein the release slot moves relative to the pin in a first direction as the latch moves along the cross member arid the release slot moves relative to the pin in a second direction as the head restraint pivots abtiut the cross membeL 6, *The head restraint assembly of clai in I t'uriher comprising a biasing member to move the head restraint from a first head restraint position to a second head restraint position when the latch is in the second latch position.7. The head restraint assembly of claim 1 further comprising an attachment device connected between the lever and the motor which allows pivotal movenient of the ever and linear mnovemenl of a motor linkaae while maintaining a connection therehetween, 8. The head restraint assembly of claim 7 wherein the motor moves the motor linkage and attachment device nearly in a lateral direction parallel to the movement of the latch, 9. The head restraint assembly of claim 7 wherein the atrchrnent device comprises a ta.b that engages with a guide slot formed on the lever.I 0. A head restraint assembly comprising: a cross member extending in a lateral direction and adapted to be mounted within a vehicle: a head restraint supported by the cross member: a ocking member mounted withi tithe head restraint: a slide latch mounted to slide on the cross member to a first latch position engaged with the locking member and slide linearly in the lateral direction along the cross member to a second latch position released from the locking member; a lever pivotally supported by thc head restraint arid in communication with the latch, wherein pivoting the lever thereby slides the latch between the first latch position and the second latch position; and -30-a motor in communication with the lever such that the motor moves the lever to translate tile latch from the first latch position to the second latch position.wherein the head restraint is pivotable about the cross member when the latch is in the second latch position.ii *The head restraint assembly of cliii iii 10 further comprising an attachment device connected between the lever and the motor which allows pivotal movement of the ever and inear movement of a motor linkage while maintaining a connection thcrcberwecn.12. The head restraint assembly of claim Ii wherein die motor moves the niotor linkage arid attachment device linearly in a lateral direction parallel to the movement of the slide latch.13, Tue bead restraint assembly of claim I iwnerem the attachment device comprises a tab that engages with a guide slot formed on the lever.IA. The head restraint assembly of claim 10 wherein the cross member further comprises at least one terminal end adapted to he mounted within the vehicle.15. The head restraint assembly of claim 10 wherein the locking member includes a pin, and wherein the latch has a release slot that allows movement of the latch relative to the pin such that when the latch is in the second latch position, the head restraint pivots about the cross member.16. A head restraint assembly comprising: a intern! cross member adapted to he mounted within a vehicle; a head restraint pivotally supported by the cross member, such that the head restraint pivots about a lateral axis of tile cross member in order to move the head restramt between an upright position and a stowed position; a locking member mounted within the head restraint; -31 -a latch mounted on the cross member, wherein the latch slides linearly in a lateral direction along the cross member between at least a first latch position where the latch is engaged with the locking member and a second latch position where the latch is released from the locking member; and a motor mounted within the head restraint connected with the latch such that the motor translates the latch from the first latch position to the second latch position, and rehiases the arch from the locking member for permitting movement of the head restraint from the upright position to the stowed position.17. The head restraint assembly of claim 16 wherein the locking member includes a pin, and wherein the latch has a release slot that allows movement of the latch relative to the pm such that when the latch is in the second latch position, the head restraint pivots about the cross member.18, The head restraint assembly of claim 16 further comprising a lever arn pivotally mounted within the head restraint and connecting the motor and the latch.19. The head restraint assembly of claim 18 further comprising an artachment device connected between the lever arm and the irtoter which allows pivotal movement of the lever arm and linear movement a motor linkage while maintaining a connection therehetween.20. The head restraint assembly of claim 19 wherein the motor moves the motor linkage and attachment device linearly in a. lateral direction parallel to the movement of the latch. "1 -fl