WO2024020013A1 - Ensemble fond de siège déployable - Google Patents

Ensemble fond de siège déployable Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024020013A1
WO2024020013A1 PCT/US2023/028001 US2023028001W WO2024020013A1 WO 2024020013 A1 WO2024020013 A1 WO 2024020013A1 US 2023028001 W US2023028001 W US 2023028001W WO 2024020013 A1 WO2024020013 A1 WO 2024020013A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
seat
pan plate
bottom assembly
assembly
stowed
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2023/028001
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Johnny A. Satterfield
Original Assignee
Satterfield Johnny A
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US17/869,681 external-priority patent/US20220348332A1/en
Application filed by Satterfield Johnny A filed Critical Satterfield Johnny A
Publication of WO2024020013A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024020013A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
    • B64D11/00—Passenger or crew accommodation; Flight-deck installations not otherwise provided for
    • B64D11/06—Arrangements of seats, or adaptations or details specially adapted for aircraft seats
    • B64D11/0639—Arrangements of seats, or adaptations or details specially adapted for aircraft seats with features for adjustment or converting of seats
    • B64D11/064—Adjustable inclination or position of seats
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/04—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable
    • B60N2/16—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable height-adjustable
    • B60N2/18—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable height-adjustable the front or the rear portion of the seat being adjustable, e.g. independently of each other
    • B60N2/1807—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable height-adjustable the front or the rear portion of the seat being adjustable, e.g. independently of each other characterised by the cinematic
    • B60N2/181—Rods
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/04—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable
    • B60N2/16—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable height-adjustable
    • B60N2/18—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable height-adjustable the front or the rear portion of the seat being adjustable, e.g. independently of each other
    • B60N2/1807—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable height-adjustable the front or the rear portion of the seat being adjustable, e.g. independently of each other characterised by the cinematic
    • B60N2/1835—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable height-adjustable the front or the rear portion of the seat being adjustable, e.g. independently of each other characterised by the cinematic pivoting about an axis located in the front
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
    • B64D11/00—Passenger or crew accommodation; Flight-deck installations not otherwise provided for
    • B64D11/06—Arrangements of seats, or adaptations or details specially adapted for aircraft seats
    • B64D11/0639—Arrangements of seats, or adaptations or details specially adapted for aircraft seats with features for adjustment or converting of seats
    • B64D11/0643—Adjustable foot or leg rests
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
    • B64D11/00—Passenger or crew accommodation; Flight-deck installations not otherwise provided for
    • B64D11/06—Arrangements of seats, or adaptations or details specially adapted for aircraft seats
    • B64D11/0647—Seats characterised by special upholstery or cushioning features

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to seats. More particularly, the present invention relates to a deployable seat bottom for an aircraft seat.
  • Seating pitch in economy classes generally range from about 28 inches to about 34 inches, depending on airline preferences.
  • Seating pitch refers to the measurement of space between one point on an aircraft passenger seat to the same point on the seat in front of it (e.g., the distance from the headrest on one passenger seat to the headrest on the passenger seat in front of it). The higher the seating pitch, the more legroom and space a passenger has between their seat and the one in front of them.
  • seat cushions With ever decreasing seating pitch, seat cushions will either need to be smaller, or the front side of the seat cushion will get closer to the seatback in front of the seat cushion, making passenger egress more difficult.
  • economy class seats can augment passenger comfort is by increasing seating pitch, maximizing recline of the seatback, adding seat pan translation and headrest adjustability to individual passenger seats.
  • that passenger may still have discomfort after just a few hours because of their inability to fully extend the legs if their knees are prevented from extending and locking due to the height and angle of the seat pan.
  • the extending and locking of the knees is crucial to stretching their legs and allowing proper circulation and comfort.
  • a seat bottom assembly that provides an option that can be used as needed to stretch legs.
  • a seat bottom assembly that works with economy class seats.
  • a seat bottom assembly that promotes "Healthy Flying”.
  • a seat bottom assembly that has minimal weight impact.
  • a seat bottom assembly that is adaptable to translating seat pans.
  • a seat bottom assembly that can be used with new seats and retrofitted existing seats.
  • a seat bottom assembly that is easier to manufacture, assemble, adjust, and maintain.
  • a seat cushion accommodating a passenger being seated when the passenger’s legs are extended when the seat bottom assembly is in the deployed position. The present invention satisfies these needs and provides other related advantages.
  • the present invention provides an improved seat bottom assembly during a flight aboard an aircraft.
  • the present invention provides an improved seat bottom assembly movable between stowed and deployed positions.
  • the present invention provides an improved modular seat bottom assembly.
  • the present invention provides passenger leg extension.
  • the present invention maximizes use of a limited space.
  • the present invention provides promotes blood circulation in a passenger's legs.
  • the present invention helps prevent DVT.
  • the present invention increases space for egress.
  • the present invention provides an option that can be used as needed to stretch legs.
  • the present invention works with economy class seats.
  • the present invention promotes "Healthy Flying".
  • the present invention provides minimal weight impact.
  • the present invention is adaptable to translating seat pans.
  • the present invention can be used with new seats and retro-fitted existing seats.
  • the present invention is easier to manufacture, assemble, adjust, and maintain.
  • the present invention provides a seat cushion accommodating a passenger being seated when the passenger’s legs are extended when the seat bottom assembly is in the deployed position.
  • the present invention satisfies these needs and provides other related advantages.
  • a deployable seat bottom assembly is a self-contained, standalone unit or module that is attachable to existing support beams of any economy class seat. Manual or automatic deployment activates the lift and tilt functions of the deploy able seat bottom assembly to simultaneously push a seat pan of the assembly up and aft, providing additional space for egress as well additional legroom. Seat manufacturers may install their own, unique seat pans for a turnkey solution.
  • a seat bottom assembly movable between stowed and deployed configurations includes a seat pan plate having a front side, a rear side, a left side, a right side, a top surface, and a bottom surface.
  • the seat pan plate is configured to move between stowed and deployed positions.
  • the seat bottom assembly also includes a pair of beam braces configured to engage a seat frame of a seat; a pair of front links operationally connecting the beam braces and the seat pan plate; and a pair of rear links operationally connecting the beam braces and the seat pan plate.
  • Each of the front links is disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate from the other front link; and each of the rear links is disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate from the other rear link.
  • each beam brace includes a beam brace retainer on each end of the beam brace, wherein each beam brace retainer is configured to engage a portion of the seat frame of the seat.
  • each beam brace retainer comprises an adjustable clamp configured to engage the seat frame.
  • At least one of the rear links includes a stop configured to prevent movement of the link in one direction.
  • one of the beam braces is disposed laterally adjacent to a left side of the seat pan plate, and the other one of the beam braces is disposed laterally adjacent to a right side of the seat pan plate.
  • the seat pan plate is generally angled at about -5 degrees to about 5 degrees in the stowed position, and the seat pan plate is generally pitched at about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees in the deployed position.
  • the seat bottom assembly further includes a front pull tab operationally connected to the rear links, and configured to pull the seat pan plate towards the stowed position when acted upon by a user.
  • the seat bottom assembly further includes a rear pull tab operationally connected to the rear side of the seat pan plate, and configured to pull the seat pan plate towards the deployed position when acted upon by a user.
  • the seat bottom assembly further includes a biasing mechanism configured to automatically bias the seat pan plate from the stowed position to the deployed position
  • the seat bottom assembly further includes a pair of stabilizer links operationally connecting the beam braces and the seat pan plate; wherein each of the stabilizer links is disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate from the other stabilizer link.
  • each rear link includes an upper link rotatably connected to a side of the seat pan plate, and a lower link rotatably connected to a side of the beam brace, wherein the upper and lower links are rotatably connected to each other at distal ends from where the upper and lower links respectively engage the seat plan plate and the beam brace, and wherein the seat bottom assembly further includes a cross bar connected the rear links and disposed therebetween.
  • the distal end of at least one of the rear links includes a stop configured to prevent movement of that rear link in one direction.
  • each rear link includes a rail rotatably connected to a side of the seat pan plate, and a rail guide rotatably connected to a side of the beam brace, wherein the rail slidingly engages the rail guide.
  • each rear link includes a first end rotatably connected to a side of the seat pan plate, and a second end configured to slidingly engage a slot in the beam brace.
  • At least one of the rear links is configured to automatically bias the seat pan plate from the stowed position to the deployed position.
  • the seat bottom assembly further includes a gas spring having first and second ends, wherein the gas spring is operationally connected to the rear links at or near the first end of the gas spring, and operationally connected to the beam braces at or near the second end of the gas spring, and wherein the gas spring is configured to automatically bias the seat pan plate from the stowed position to the deployed position.
  • a seat assembly includes a seat; and a seat bottom assembly movable between stowed and deployed configurations where the seat bottom assembly includes a seat pan plate having a front side, a rear side, a left side, a right side, a top surface, and a bottom surface.
  • the seat pan plate is configured to move between stowed and deployed positions.
  • the seat bottom assembly also includes a pair of beam braces configured to engage a seat frame of a seat; a pair of front links operationally connecting the beam braces and the seat pan plate; and a pair of rear links operationally connecting the beam braces and the seat pan plate.
  • Each of the front links is disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate from the other front link; and each of the rear links is disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate from the other rear link.
  • a seat bottom assembly movable between stowed and deployed configurations, includes a seat pan plate having a front side, a rear side, a left side, a right side, a top surface, and a bottom surface.
  • the seat pan plate is configured to move between stowed and deployed positions.
  • a pair of beam braces are configured to engage a seat frame of a seat.
  • a pair of front links operationally connect the beam braces and the seat pan plate.
  • a pair of rear links operationally connecting the beam braces and the seat pan plate.
  • Each of the front links is disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate from the other front link, and each of the rear links is disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate from the other rear link.
  • the assembly also includes a seat cushion having a first top portion, a second top portion, and a bottom portion.
  • the bottom portion of the seat cushion is generally disposed on the top surface of the seat pan plate.
  • the bottom portion of the seat cushion and the seat pan plate are equally inclined when the seat pan plate is in the stowed and deployed positions.
  • the second top portion is generally horizontal when the seat bottom assembly is in the deployed configuration, and negatively inclined relative to horizontal when the seat bottom assembly is in the stowed configuration.
  • a seat assembly in yet another embodiment, includes a seat, a seat cushion, and a seat bottom assembly movable between stowed and deployed configurations.
  • the seat bottom assembly includes a seat pan plate having a top surface; and a pair of beam braces configured to engage a seat frame of the seat. The beam braces and the seat pan plate are operationally connected whereby the seat pan plate is configured to move between stowed and deployed positions.
  • the seat cushion has a first top portion, a second top portion, and a bottom portion.
  • the bottom portion of the seat cushion is generally disposed on the top surface of the seat pan plate.
  • the bottom portion of the seat cushion and the seat pan plate are equally inclined when the seat pan plate is in the stowed and deployed positions.
  • the second top portion is generally horizontal when the seat bottom assembly is in the deployed configuration, and negatively inclined relative to horizontal when the seat bottom assembly is in the stowed configuration.
  • a seat cushion is configured for use with a seat bottom assembly.
  • the seat bottom assembly is movable between stowed and deployed configurations.
  • the seat cushion includes a first top portion, a second top portion, and a bottom portion.
  • the bottom portion of the seat cushion is generally disposed on a top surface of the seat bottom assembly.
  • the bottom portion of the seat cushion and a top portion of the seat bottom assembly are equally inclined when the seat bottom assembly is in the stowed and deployed positions.
  • the second top portion is generally horizontal when the seat bottom assembly is in the deployed configuration, and negatively inclined relative to horizontal when the seat bottom assembly is in the stowed configuration.
  • FIGURE 1 illustrates a left side view of three conventional passenger seats, where each passenger seat includes a seatback capable of being reclined, with the seatback of the left passenger seat shown in upright and reclined (shown in broken lines) positions, the center seat occupied by a passenger (shown in broken lines) with the seatback in an upright position, and the right passenger seat occupied by a passenger (shown in broken lines) with the seatback in a reclined position;
  • FIGURE 2 illustrates a left side view of two passenger seats (seen in broken lines) with each passenger seat incorporating a deployable seat bottom assembly in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention (with each deploy able seat bottom assembly in a stowed configuration), with the left and right passenger seats occupied by passengers (shown in broken lines) with each seatback in an upright position, and showing the difference (D I) in height of the passengers' hips and knees (as represented by the circles) when the deployable seat bottom assembly is in the stowed configuration;
  • FIGURE 3 illustrates a left side view of two passenger seats (seen in broken lines) incorporating the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 2, with the left passenger seat occupied by a passenger (shown in broken lines) with their seatback in an upright position (with the deployable seat bottom assembly of the left passenger seat in a stowed configuration), and with the right passenger seat occupied by a passenger (shown in broken lines) with their seatback in a reclined position showing the difference (D2) in height of the right passenger's hips and knees (as represented by the circles) (with the deployable seat bottom assembly of the right passenger seat in a deployed configuration);
  • D2 difference in height of the right passenger's hips and knees
  • FIGURE 4 illustrates a front left perspective view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 2 with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully deployed configuration, and engaging structure of a passenger seat (seen in broken lines);
  • FIGURE 5 illustrates a left elevation side elevation view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 2 with the deploy able seat bottom assembly in a fully stowed configuration;
  • FIGURE 6 illustrates a left elevation side elevation view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 2 with the deploy able seat bottom assembly in a partially deployed configuration
  • FIGURE 7 illustrates a left elevation side elevation view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 2 with the deploy able seat bottom assembly in a fully deployed configuration
  • FIGURE 8 illustrates an exploded partial perspective view of a rear left portion of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 2 with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully deployed configuration
  • FIGURE 9 illustrates a rear left perspective view of a deployable seat bottom assembly in accordance with another illustrative embodiment of the present invention, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully stowed configuration;
  • FIGURE 10 illustrates a left elevation side view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 9, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully stowed configuration
  • FIGURE 11 illustrates a left elevation side view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 9, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully deployed configuration
  • FIGURE 12 illustrates a rear left perspective view of a deployable seat bottom assembly in accordance with still another illustrative embodiment of the present invention, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully stowed configuration;
  • FIGURE 13 illustrates a left elevation side view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 12, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully stowed configuration
  • FIGURE 14 illustrates a left elevation side view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 12, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully deployed configuration
  • FIGURE 15 illustrates a left elevation side view of a deployable seat bottom assembly in accordance with a further illustrative embodiment of the present invention, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully deployed configuration
  • FIGURE 16 illustrates a front left perspective view of a deployable seat bottom assembly in accordance with a still further illustrative embodiment of the present invention, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully deployed configuration;
  • FIGURE 17 illustrates a left elevation side view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 16, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully deployed configuration
  • FIGURE 18 illustrates a left elevation side view of a deployable seat bottom assembly in accordance with a yet further illustrative embodiment of the present invention, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully stowed configuration;
  • FIGURE 19 illustrates a left elevation side view of the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 18, with the deployable seat bottom assembly in a fully deployed configuration
  • FIGURE 20 illustrates a top, front perspective view of a passenger seat (seen in broken lines) incorporating a deployable seat bottom assembly (not shown), and a seat cushion in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGURE 21 illustrates a left side view of two passenger seats (seen in broken lines) with each passenger seat incorporating the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 2, and the seat cushion of FIGURE 20 (with each deployable seat bottom assembly in a stowed configuration), with the left and right passenger seats occupied by passengers (shown in broken lines) with each seatback in an upright position, and showing the difference (DI) in height of the passengers' hips and knees (as represented by the circles) when the deployable seat bottom assembly is in the stowed configuration; and
  • FIGURE 22 illustrates a left side view of two passenger seats (seen in broken lines) incorporating the deployable seat bottom assembly of FIGURE 2 and the seat cushion of FIGURE 20, with the left passenger seat occupied by a passenger (shown in broken lines) with their seatback in an upright position (with the deployable seat bottom assembly of the left passenger seat in a stowed configuration), and with the right passenger seat occupied by a passenger (shown in broken lines) with their seatback in a reclined position showing the difference (D2) in height of the right passenger's hips and knees (as represented by the circles) (with the deployable seat bottom assembly of the right passenger seat in a deployed configuration).
  • D2 difference
  • each passenger seat includes a seatback capable of being reclined.
  • the seatback of the left passenger seat 20 is shown in an upright position (the reclined position shown in broken lines).
  • the center seat 20 occupied by a passenger 22 (shown in broken lines) with the seatback in an upright position.
  • the right passenger seat 20 is also occupied by a passenger 22 (shown in broken lines) but the seatback is in a reclined position.
  • the position of the knees, thighs and feet of the passenger in the right seat 20 should be noted.
  • an embodiment of the present invention resides in a seat bottom assembly 50 for an aircraft passenger seat 200.
  • the seat bottom assembly 50 is movable between stowed and deployed configurations.
  • the assembly 50 includes a seat pan plate 52, a pair of beam braces 54, a pair of aft or rear scissor levers or links 56, a pair of front levers or links 58, and a pair of stabilizer levers or links 60.
  • the seat pan plate 52, beam braces 54, links 56, links 58, and links 60 are each configured to move between respective stowed and deployed positions.
  • Each beam brace 54 includes a bream brace retainer 62 on each end of the beam brace 54.
  • Each beam brace retainer 62 is configured to engage a portion of existing structure 202 (e.g., cross-beams) of the seat frame of the seat 200.
  • the beam brace retainers 62 engage the existing tubular-shaped structures 202 of the seat frame of the seat 200.
  • Various components of the seat bottom assembly 50 including, but not limited to, the seat pan plate 52, beam braces 54, links 56, links 58, and links 60 can be made from various materials including, but not limited to, aluminum or composite materials.
  • Mechanical fasteners 78 of various sizes and styles e.g., bolts, screws, nuts, washers, etc.
  • FIGURE 2 illustrates two (2) passenger seats 200 (seen in broken lines) with each passenger seat 200 incorporating a deployable seat bottom assembly 50 (in a stowed configuration).
  • the left and right passenger seats 200 are occupied by passengers 22 (shown in broken lines) with each seatback 206 in an upright position.
  • the difference (D I) in height of the hips and knees (as represented by the circles) of the passenger in the right passenger seat 200 is shown when the deployable seat bottom assembly 50 is in the stowed configuration.
  • FIGURE 3 illustrates those same two (2) passenger seats 200 (seen in broken lines) but the passenger 22 (shown in broken lines) in the right passenger seat 200 has moved the deployable seat bottom assembly 50 to a deployed configuration with their seatback 206 in a reclined position.
  • the difference (D2) in height of the hips and knees (as represented by the circles) of the passenger in the right passenger seat 200 is shown when the deployable seat bottom assembly 50 is in the deployed configuration.
  • the passenger 22 is able to extend their legs and lock their knees; providing great relief and allow proper circulation in addition to reducing the amount of stiffness typically seen on long flights.
  • the size and shape of the seat pan plate 52 varies as needed by a manufacturer of the seat 200, and can include a flat elongated shape (as shown) or can be customized for any size and shape desired.
  • the seat pan plate 52 is generally angled at about five (5) degrees negative to horizontal (i.e., about -5 degrees) to about five (5) degrees positive to horizontal in the stowed position (preferably generally horizontal), and the seat pan plate 52 is generally pitched generally angled at about forty (40) degrees positive to horizontal to about fifty (50) degrees positive to horizontal in the deployed position (preferably at about forty five (45) degrees positive to horizontal).
  • a seat cushion is disposed on a top surface of the seat pan plate 52 and secured thereto when the deployable seat bottom assembly 50 is integrated into the passenger seat 200 for use.
  • the beam braces 54 fit any economy class seat and the size, length, and shape of the beam braces 54 adjusted.
  • the spacing between the beam braces 54 can be adjusted so as to provide a variable spread between the beam braces 54 (e.g., the beam braces 54 can be custom-fitted to any passenger seat).
  • One of the beam braces 54 is generally disposed laterally adjacent to a left side of the seat pan plate 52, and the other one of the beam braces 54 is generally disposed laterally adjacent to a right side of the seat pan plate 52.
  • Each beam brace retainer 62 includes an adjustable clamp 63 configured to engage the structure 202 of the seat frame.
  • the adjustable clamp 63 includes an upper clamp portion or bracket support portion 64 and a lower clamp portion 66.
  • the upper clamp or upper bracket support portions 64 is structurally part of the beam brace 54 with the lower clamp portion 66 secured to the upper clamp or bracket support 64 by fasteners.
  • the fasteners may be threaded and pass through aligned bores 65 of the upper clamp or bracket support 64 and the lower clamp 66.
  • the clamping space can be sized and shaped to match or approximate the existing structure 202 of a seat frame of a passenger seat 200 and can be customized for each seat type.
  • the clamping space can be adjustable (e g., by loosening or tightening fasteners to increase or decrease the clamping space).
  • the upper clamp or bracket support portion may be a separate component and attached to the beam brace 54.
  • the upper bracket supports 64 and the lower clamp 66 of the beam brace retainers 62 are secured around the tubular-shaped structures 202 of the seat 200 with portions of the upper bracket supports 64 and the lower clamps 66 sized and shaped to generally match the size and shape of the tubular-shaped structures 202.
  • the lower facing surfaces of the upper bracket supports 64 and the upper facing surfaces of the lower clamp 66 of the beam brace retainers 62 are curved and configured to generally match the shape of the structures 202 (e.g., the existing structure seen in FIGURE 4 has a tubular-shape matched by the shape of the inner surfaces of the adjustable clamps 63) of the seat 200.
  • the rear scissor levers or links 56 operationally connect the beam braces 54 and the seat pan plate 52.
  • Each rear scissor lever or link 56 is in the form of a linkage that include an upper link 68 rotatably connected to a side of the seat pan plate 52, and a lower link 70 rotatably connected to an inner side of the beam brace 54 at or near the rear beam brace retainer 62 on the same side of the seat bottom assembly 50 the upper link 68 is connected to.
  • the links 68, 70 are rotatably connected to each other at distal ends of the links 68, 70 from where the links 68, 70 respectively engage the seat plan plate 52 and the beam brace 54.
  • Each of the rear scissor levers or links 56 is disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate 52 from the other rear scissor lever or link 56.
  • a cross bar 72 extends between the pairs of rear scissor levers or links 56, and is connected to each scissor lever or link 56 where the distal ends of the links 68, 70 are rotatably connected.
  • Mechanical fasteners 78 of various sizes and styles (e.g., bolts, screws, nuts, washers, etc.) can be used to secure the cross bar 72 to the upper and lower links 68, 70 with the cross bar 72 moving with the links 68, 70 as the links 68, 70 rotate about the axis of rotation 300.
  • the fastener 78 can be in the form of a shoulder screw and the shoulder tightens against the cross bar 72 creating a captive pivot for the links 68, 70 to rotate.
  • the front levers or links 58 operationally connect the beam braces 54 and the seat pan plate 52.
  • Each front lever or link 58 includes an upper end rotatably connected to a side of the seat pan plate 52, and a lower end rotatably connected to the an inner side of the beam brace 54 at or near the front beam brace retainer 62 on the same side of the seat bottom assembly 50 the upper end of the link 58 is connected to.
  • Each of the front levers or links 58 is disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate 52 from the other front lever or link 58.
  • the pair of stabilizer links 60 operationally connect the beam braces 54 and the seat pan plate 52.
  • Each of the stabilizer links 60 is generally disposed on an opposite side of the seat pan plate 52 from the other stabilizer link 60.
  • Each stabilizer lever or link 60 includes an upper end rotatably connected to a side of the seat pan plate 52, and a lower end rotatably connected to the beam brace 54 on the same side of the seat plan plate 52 the upper end of the stabilizer link 60 is connected to.
  • the upper end of the stabilizer link 60 is disposed on the side of the seat pan plate 52 about halfway along the length of the side of the seat pan plate 52, and the lower end of the stabilizer link 60 is connected on an outer side of the beam brace 54 at or near the rear beam brace retainer 62.
  • the rotatable engagement of the links 56, 58, 60 with the seat pan plate 52 and beam braces 54 enables the seat bottom assembly 50 to move between stowed and deployed configurations.
  • the assembly 50 further includes a biasing mechanism 74 configured to automatically bias the seat pan plate 52 from its stowed position to its deployed position.
  • a biasing mechanism 74 configured to automatically bias the seat pan plate 52 from its stowed position to its deployed position.
  • the biasing mechanism 74 can come in various forms including, without limitation, a torsion spring 74 disposed between each upper link 68 of the scissor lever 56 and the side of the seat pan plate 52 where that upper link 68 is rotatably connected to the seat pan plate 52.
  • the torsion spring 74 may be partially disposed within the upper link 68.
  • the biasing mechanism 74 can be in the form of magnets, compression springs, leaf springs, or the like. An end of the torsion spring 74 is connected to the upper link 68 and another end of the torsion spring 74 is connected to the seat pan plate 52.
  • each torsion spring ranges from one (1) inch pound to three (3) inch pounds to move the assembly 50 from the stowed configuration to the deployed configuration, and bias rotation of the distal ends of the upper and lower links 68, 70 towards the rear of the seat bottom assembly 50 (in the direction indicated by Arrow A as seen in FIGURES 6 & 7, which appears to be a counterclockwise direction when viewed from the side of the assembly 50 seen in FIGURES 6 & 7, and would appear to be a clockwise direction if viewed from the opposite side of the assembly 50).
  • At least one of the rear scissor levers or links 56 include an outwardly extending stop 76 configured to prevent movement of the links 56 in one direction (e.g., the direction indicated by Arrow A as seen in FIGURES 6 & 7).
  • the outwardly extending stop 76 is disposed on the distal end of at least one, if not both, of the upper links 68.
  • the seat pan plate 52 will remain upright. If the links 68, 70 are biased in the forward direction, the seat pan plate 52 will move to the stowed position. If the links 68, 70 are biased aft, they will move towards the stops 76 and the seat pan plate 52 will remain in the deployed position resting against the stops 76.
  • the seat bottom assembly 50 also includes a front pull tab 80 and a rear pull tab 82.
  • the front pull tab 80 is operationally connected to the front links 58, and configured to pull the seat pan plate 52 towards the stowed position of the seat pan plate 52 (and the stowed configuration of the assembly 50) when acted upon by a user.
  • the rear pull tab 82 is operationally connected to the rear side of the seat pan plate 52, and configured to pull the seat pan plate 52 towards the deployed position of the seat pan plate 52 (and the deployed configuration of the assembly 50) when acted upon by a user pulling the rear pull tab 82 upwards (in the direction of Arrow B), even at an angle off-center from vertical.
  • the rear pull tab 82 is generally in the form of an elongated strap having a looped portion on one end with a distal end of the strap directly connected to a rear side of the seat pan plate 52 at generally a mid-point of the rear side of the seat pan plate 52.
  • the front pull tab 80 is generally in the form of an elongated strap having a looped portion on one end with a distal end directly connected to the cross bar 72 at generally a mid-point of the cross bar 72.
  • the pull tabs 80, 82 can be made from various materials including, but not limited to, leather, plastic, metal (e.g., aluminum), etc.
  • the front pull tab 80 is operationally connected to the cross bar 72, and configured to pull the cross bar 72 towards the front of the assembly 50 (and towards the stowed configuration of the assembly 50) when acted upon by a user pulling the front pull tab 80 away from the assembly 50 (in the direction of Arrow C) which, in turn, causes the rear scissor levers or links 56 to start rotating towards the stowed positions of the rear scissor levers or links 56.
  • the length of the rear pull tab 82 is shorter than the length of the front pull tab 80 as, in operation, the length of the front pull tab 80 extends from connection to the cross bar 72 (which is generally disposed towards a rear of the seat bottom assembly 50) with a length of the strap extending under the seat pan plate 52 with the looped portion of the front pull tab 80 being generally disposed forward of a front of the seat bottom assembly 50.
  • the length of the strap of the rear pull tab 82 extends only a short distance beyond the looped portion of the rear pull tab 82 to engage the seat pan plate 52.
  • the looped portions of the front and rear tabs 80, 82 are looped in order to facilitate a user being able to pull on the front and rear tabs 80, 82 in order to initiate moving the seat bottom assembly 50 between stowed and deployed configurations.
  • a deployable seat bottom assembly 350 is illustrated in FIGURES 9-11.
  • the assembly 350 has many similar, if not identical, features as described above in reference to the assembly 50, except that the assembly 350 describes an embodiment where, for example, a rail guide assembly 356 is used instead of the rear scissor levers or links 56.
  • the rail guide assembly 356 includes a rail 357 rotatably connected to a side of the seat pan plate 52, and a rail guide 359 rotatably connected to a side of the beam brace 54. The rail 357 slidingly engages the rail guide 359 as the rail guide assembly 356 moves between stowed and deployed positions.
  • FIGURES 12-14 a deployable seat bottom assembly 450 is illustrated in FIGURES 12-14.
  • the assembly 450 has many similar, if not identical, features as described above in reference to the assemblies 50, 350, except that the assembly 450 describes an embodiment where, for example, rear levers or links 456 are used instead of the rear scissor levers or links 56.
  • Each rear lever or link 456 is rotatably connected to a side of the seat pan plate 52 at or near one end of the rear lever or link 456.
  • Each rear lever or link 456 includes a pin 457 extending outwardly from the rear lever or link 456 at or near the other end of the rear lever or link 456 (i.e., the end of the rear lever or link 456 opposite from the end engaging the seat pan plate 52) such that the rear levers or links 456 are configured to slidingly engage the beam braces 54.
  • Each beam brace 54 includes a slot 454 extending through the beam brace 54 along a length of the beam brace 54 between the beam brace retainers 62. The pin 457 of each rear lever or link 456 slidingly engages a respective slot 454 in one of the beam braces 54 as the rear levers or links 456 move between stowed and deployed positions.
  • a deployable seat bottom assembly 550 is illustrated in FIGURE 15.
  • the assembly 550 has many similar, if not identical, features as described above in reference to the assemblies 50, 350, 450, except that the assembly 550 describes an embodiment where, for example, a gas locking spring 574 is configured to automatically bias the seat pan plate 52 from the stowed position to the deployed position.
  • Rear levers or links 556 are used instead of the rear scissor levers or links 56.
  • Each rear lever or link 556 is rotatably connected to an outer side of the seat pan plate 52 at or near one end of the rear lever or link 556, and rotatably connected to an inner side of the beam brace 54 at or near the other end of the rear lever or link 556.
  • the assembly gas locking spring 574 has first and second ends, with the gas locking spring 574 operationally connected to the rear links 556 at or near the first end of the gas locking spring 574, and operationally connected to the beam braces 54 at or near the second end of the gas locking spring 574.
  • the gas locking spring 574 provides about 10-20 pounds of force to move the assembly 50 from the stowed to deployed configurations.
  • the gas locking spring 574 can be similar to a hydraulic seat recline device manufactured by Crane Co.
  • the assembly 550 When the assembly 550 is integrated into a passenger seat 200, the assembly 550 can be moved system can be operated with a standard recline button (i.e., the button used to move the seatback between upright and reclined positions) allowing the passenger to deploy the seat pan plate 52 with a push of a button (the passenger must not be seated) and stowage can take place with the passenger seated.
  • a standard recline button i.e., the button used to move the seatback between upright and reclined positions
  • the passenger to deploy the seat pan plate 52 with a push of a button (the passenger must not be seated) and stowage can take place with the passenger seated.
  • the seat bottom e.g., the cushion disposed over the seat pan plate 52 and secured thereto
  • the assembly 550 could start in the up and aft position.
  • a deployable seat bottom assembly 650 is illustrated in FIGURES 16-17.
  • the assembly 650 has many similar, if not identical, features as described above in reference to the assemblies 50, 350, 450, 550, except that the assembly 650 does not include beam braces 54, and provides an embodiment where the assembly 650 is attachable to a seat frame 202 as a single assembly with four (4) separate adjustable clamps 63 providing independent mountings to the seat frame 202. That is, each adjustable clamp 63 is configured to engage the structure 202 of the seat frame.
  • the adjustable clamp 63 includes an upper clamp portion or bracket support portion 64 and a lower clamp portion 66.
  • Each rear scissor lever or link 56 and each front lever or link 58 is directly connected to an adjustable clamp 63.
  • Each stabilizer lever or link 60 is rotatably connected to the seat pan plate 52 on one end and rotatably connected to an adjustable clamp 63 on the other end.
  • a deployable seat bottom assembly 750 is illustrated in FIGURES 18-19.
  • the assembly 750 has many similar, if not identical, features as described above in reference to the assemblies 50, 350, 450, 550, 650 except that the assembly 750 only pivots in the front and does not move backwards as the assembly 750 describes an embodiment where, for example, rear levers or links 756 are used instead of the rear scissor levers or links 56.
  • Each rear lever or link 756 is rotatably connected to a side of the seat pan plate 52 at or near one end of the rear lever or link 756.
  • Each rear lever or link 756 includes a pin 757 extending outwardly from the rear lever or link 756 at or near the other end of the rear lever or link 756 (i.e., the end of the rear lever or link 756 opposite from the end engaging the seat pan plate 52) such that the rear levers or links 756 are configured to slidingly engage the beam braces 54.
  • Each beam brace 54 includes a slot 754 extending through the beam brace 54 along a length of the beam brace 54 between the beam brace retainers 62.
  • the pin 757 of each rear lever or link 756 slidingly engages a respective slot 754 in one of the beam braces 54 as the rear levers or links 756 move between stowed and deployed positions.
  • the front of the seat pan plate 52 is rotatably connected at the front of the assembly 750 to each of the beam braces 54.
  • the deployment stages required to bring the seat bottom assembly e.g., seat bottom assembly 50
  • the deployable seat bottom assembly 50 engages the seat frame 202 of the passenger seat 200.
  • the seat bottom assembly 50 is generally out of sight of passengers 22 as a seat cushion 204 of the passenger seat 200 is generally disposed on top of the seat pan plate 52 and secured thereto.
  • the only portions of the seat bottom assembly 50 generally visible to passengers are the front and rear pull tabs 80, 82.
  • the rear pull tab 82 will extend upwardly from a space between a back side of the seat cushion 204 and a side of a cushion of the seatback 206 against which the passenger's back rests.
  • the front pull tab 80 appears to extend forward of the seat cushion 204 from under the passenger seat 200.
  • the passenger 22 lifts themselves off (at least in part) from the seat cushion 204 (i.e., the passengers takes at least the bulk of their weight off the seat cushion 204 and underlying seat pan plate 52) and pulls the rear pull tab 82 upwards which starts the assembly 50 moving from the stowed configuration towards the deployed configuration.
  • the passenger's seatback 206 can be in either the upright or reclined position.
  • the biasing mechanism 74 applies force (in the direction of Arrow A) to the rear scissor levers or links 56 moving the rear scissor levers or links 56 from their stowed position towards their deployed position, with the seat plate pan 52 also moving from its stowed position towards its deployed position.
  • the passenger 22 may still be pulling on the rear pull tab 82 as the torsion springs 74 continue to apply force to the rear scissor levers or links 56 moving the rear scissor levers or links 56 from their stowed position towards their deployed position, with the seat pan plate 52 continuing to move from its stowed position towards its deployed position.
  • the torsion springs 74 assist in taking the seat pan plate 52 to the fully deployed position and help keep the seat pan plate 52 in the fully deployed position.
  • the assembly 50 reaches the deployed configuration when the torsion spring 74 has biased the lower link 70 towards the stop 76 such that engagement of the stop 76 and a side of the lower link 70 prevents further rotation of the links 68, 70 about the axis of rotation 300. Because the stop 76 goes past center when the seat bottom assembly 50 is in the deployed configuration, when a load (e.g., a portion of the passenger's body) is placed on top of the seat pan plate 52 (e.g., a passenger 22 sitting on a seat bottom cushion 204 disposed above the seat pan plate 52 and secured thereto), the seat bottom assembly 50 does not collapse back to the stowed configuration.
  • a load e.g., a portion of the passenger's body
  • a seated passenger 22 has the ability to fully extend their legs.
  • the seat pan pate 52 In its deployed position, the seat pan pate 52 has not only pivoted upward, but has also simultaneously slid back, and made room for the passenger's knees. Giving the passenger 22 the option to temporarily place and lock the seat pan plate 52 in the deployed position will allow the passenger 22 to get much needed relief without having to exit the passenger seat 200. With this configuration, passengers 22 can vary their seating position and thereby promote proper circulation and comfort (even in an economy class seat).
  • the passenger 22 pulls the front pull tab 80 forward (i.e., in the direction of Arrow C (e.g., in the direction of the seatback 206 of the passenger seat 200 in front of the passenger's seat 200)).
  • Arrow C e.g., in the direction of the seatback 206 of the passenger seat 200 in front of the passenger's seat 200
  • the front pull tab 80 pulls the cross bar 72 in a forward direction.
  • the cross bar 72 is connected to the scissor levers or links 56, movement of the cross bar 72 in a forward direction (e.g., in the direction of Arrow C) causes the scissor levers or links 56 to start pivoting away from engagement with the stops 76 and towards the stowed positions of the scissor levers or links 56.
  • the passenger 22 needs to pull the front pull tab 80 with enough force to overcome the torsional force provided by the torsion springs 74.
  • the user need not press down on the rear portion of the seat cushion 204 over the seat pan plate 52 in order to collapse the assembly 50 towards its stowed configuration as pulling the front pull tab 80 forward is enough to bring the assembly to its stowed configuration.
  • the passenger 22 may continue to sit in their seat while pulling the front pull tab 80 forward of their seat 200.
  • the torsional force of the torsion springs 74 is insufficient to move the assembly 50 back towards its deployed configuration.
  • Various methods can be used to dampen movement of the assembly 50 towards the stowed configuration.
  • one-way bearings can be used to keep the assembly 50 from moving too quickly towards the stowed configuration. The one-way bearings would allow free movement in the direction of deployment but would create friction to slow down stowage.
  • the assemblies 50, 350, 450, 550 can be configured for use with a translating seat pan.
  • the assemblies 50, 350, 450, 550 can be integrated into a passenger seat 200 such that the assemblies 50, 350, 450, 550 can be operated to move between deployed and stowed configurations using a standard recline button (i.e., the button used to move the seatback between upright and reclined positions) that allows the passenger to deploy the assemblies 50, 350, 450, 550 with a push of a button.
  • a standard recline button i.e., the button used to move the seatback between upright and reclined positions
  • a seat cushion 804 having a modified wedge-shape may be used with a deployable seat bottom assembly (e.g., assemblies 50, 350, 450, 550 750).
  • a shaped seat cushion 804 is shown for purposes of illustration which accommodates a passenger being seated when the passenger’s legs are extended when the seat bottom assembly is in the deployed position.
  • the seat cushion 804 has a bottom portion 806, a front portion 808, a first top portion 810, and a second top portion 812.
  • the modified wedge-shape of the seat cushion 804 helps to distribute a user’s body weight evenly along the back of the user’s thighs resting on the generally horizontal, first top portion 810 when the deployable seat bottom assembly (e.g., deployable seat bottom assembly 50 is shown in FIGURES 21-22 for illustration purposes only) is in the stowed configuration.
  • the seat bottom assembly 50 is generally out of sight of passengers 22 as the seat cushion 804 of the passenger seat 200 is generally disposed on top of the seat pan plate 52 and secured thereto (with the bottom portion 806 generally parallel with a top portion of the seat pan plate 52, and in general contact therewith).
  • the first top portion 810 When the assembly 50 is in the stowed configuration, the first top portion 810 is generally parallel with the seat pan plate 52 or has a negative incline in relation thereto (approximately five (5) to ten (10) degrees). Likewise, the first top portion 810 may be generally parallel with the floor of the aircraft or have a negative incline in relation thereto (approximately five (5) to ten (10) degrees) when the assembly 50 is in the stowed configuration. As set forth above, the only portions of the seat bottom assembly 50 generally visible to passengers are the front and rear pull tabs 80, 82 when the assembly 50 is in the stowed configuration.
  • the rear pull tab 82 will extend upwardly from a space between a back side of the seat cushion 804 and a side of a cushion of the seatback 206 against which the passenger's back rests.
  • the front pull tab 80 appears to extend forward of the seat cushion 804 from under the passenger seat 200.
  • the passenger 22 lifts themselves off (at least in part) from the seat cushion 804 (i.e., the passengers takes at least the bulk of their weight off the seat cushion 804 and underlying seat pan plate 52) and pulls the rear pull tab 82 upwards which starts the assembly 50 moving from the stowed configuration towards the deployed configuration.
  • the passenger's seatback 206 can be in either the upright or reclined position.
  • the biasing mechanism 74 applies force (in the direction of Arrow A) to the rear scissor levers or links 56 moving the rear scissor levers or links 56 from their stowed position towards their deployed position, with the seat plate pan 52 also moving from its stowed position towards its deployed position.
  • the passenger 22 may still be pulling on the rear pull tab 82 as the torsion springs 74 continue to apply force to the rear scissor levers or links 56 moving the rear scissor levers or links 56 from their stowed position towards their deployed position, with the seat pan plate 52 continuing to move from its stowed position towards its deployed position.
  • the torsion springs 74 assist in taking the seat pan plate 52 to the fully deployed position and help keep the seat pan plate 52 in the fully deployed position.
  • the modified wedge-shape helps keep the user from sliding forward while seated with the back of the user’s thighs resting on/against the now-inclined first top portion 810, and the user’s posterior generally resting on/against the second top portion 812. That is, the second top portion 812 acts as a “ledge” upon which the passenger can “sit” when the assembly 50 is in the deployed configuration.
  • the second top portion 812 may be generally horizontal to the floor of the aircraft or at a slight negative incline relative thereto (that is, less than five (5) degrees).
  • the seat pan plate 52 is generally angled at about five (5) degrees negative to horizontal (i.e., about -5 degrees) to about five (5) degrees positive to horizontal in the stowed position (preferably generally horizontal), and the seat pan plate 52 is generally pitched generally angled at about forty (40) degrees positive to horizontal to about fifty (50) degrees positive to horizontal in the deployed position (preferably at about forty five (45) degrees positive to horizontal).
  • the seat cushion 804 is disposed on a top surface of the seat pan plate 52 and secured thereto when the deployable seat bottom assembly 50 is integrated into the passenger seat 200 for use, the bottom portion 806 of the seat cushion 804 will generally match the angle of the seat pan plate 52 when the assembly 50 is in the stowed and deployed configurations.
  • the seat cushion 804 may include an exterior shell or housing made from materials matching those of the passenger seat 200.
  • the seat cushion 804 may include includes one or more cushion layers contained within the housing When there are at least two cushion layers, the cushion layers are generally stacked on top of each other.
  • the cushion layers may be shaped and sized so as to contribute to the desired shape of the seat cushion 804.
  • a cushion layer of the seat cushion 804 can be made from various types of foam or foam-like material including, without limitation, memory foam (ranging from low to high density, low to high firmness) (also referred to as “viscoelastic" polyurethane foam, or low-resilience polyurethane foam), rubber, rubber latex, polyurethane, polychloroprene (e.g., neoprene), foam latex, poly foam, or the like.
  • gel memory foam also referred to as gel visco may also be used.
  • Embodiments of the present invention can be incorporated into new passenger seats or retro-fitted into existing passenger seats (e.g., passenger seats already installed in passenger aircraft).
  • existing passenger seats e.g., passenger seats already installed in passenger aircraft.
  • the present invention has been discussed above in connection with use on a passenger aircraft, the present invention is not limited to that environment and may also be used on passenger trains, cars, buses and other vehicles including, but not limited to, carts, carriages, and means of transportation mounted on rails.
  • the present invention is not limited to use with airline seats, and may be used with a wide variety of other seating associated with various types of vehicles (e.g., trucks, buses, trains, etc.).
  • the present invention is also not to be limited to use in vehicles and may be used in non-vehicle or stationary environments where there is seating, and it is desirable to stow and deploy seating, such as entertainment venues (e.g., theaters, sports/concert arenas, etc.), auditoriums, restrooms, sports stadiums, film sets, schools, hospitals, factories, garages, offices, shipyards, construction sites and the like.
  • the present invention is also not to be limited to use in connection with seating, and may be used in any environment where the apparatus may be stowed within and deployed in the manner as described above.
  • the claimed invention is not limited in size and may be constructed in various sizes in which the same or similar principles of operation as described above would apply.
  • the figures (and various components shown therein) of the specification are not to be construed as drawn to scale.
  • top becomes a bottom side if the structure is flipped 180 degrees, becomes a left side or a right side if the structure is pivoted 90°, and the like.
  • spatially relative terms such as “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” “beneath”, “below”, “lower”, “above”, “upper”, “horizontal”, “vertical”, “lateral”, “longitudinal” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures.
  • Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features.
  • the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below.
  • the device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
  • a structure, limitation, or element that is "configured to” perform a task or operation is particularly structurally formed, constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task or operation.
  • an object that is merely capable of being modified to perform the task or operation is not “configured to” perform the task or operation as used herein.
  • A, B, and C means "at least one of A and/or at least one of B and/or at least one of C.”
  • the phrase “and/or”, as used in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the "and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.
  • a reference to "A and/or B", when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.
  • the phrase "at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements.
  • This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.
  • At least one of A and B can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Seats For Vehicles (AREA)

Abstract

Ensemble fond de siège (50), mobile entre des configurations rangée et déployée, comprenant une plaque de plateau de siège (52) comportant un côté avant, un côté arrière, un côté gauche, un côté droit, une surface supérieure et une surface inférieure. La plaque de plateau de siège est conçue pour se déplacer entre les positions rangée et déployée. L'ensemble comprend également une paire de renforts de potence conçus pour venir en prise avec une structure de siège d'un siège ; une paire de liaisons avant reliant fonctionnellement les renforts de potence et la plaque de plateau de siège ; et une paire de liaisons arrière reliant fonctionnellement les renforts de potence et la plaque de plateau de siège. Chacune des liaisons avant est disposée sur un côté de la plaque de plateau de siège à l'opposé de l'autre liaison avant ; et chacune des liaisons arrière est disposée sur un côté de la plaque de plateau de siège à l'opposé de l'autre liaison arrière. L'ensemble comprend également un coussin de siège comportant une première partie supérieure, une seconde partie supérieure et une partie inférieure. La partie inférieure du coussin de siège est généralement disposée sur la surface supérieure de la plaque de plateau de siège. La partie inférieure du coussin de siège et la plaque de plateau de siège sont pareillement inclinées lorsque la plaque de plateau de siège est dans les positions rangée et déployée. La seconde partie supérieure est généralement horizontale lorsque l'ensemble fond de siège est dans la configuration déployée et est inclinée vers le bas par rapport à l'horizontale lorsque l'ensemble fond de siège est dans la configuration rangée.
PCT/US2023/028001 2022-07-20 2023-07-18 Ensemble fond de siège déployable WO2024020013A1 (fr)

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US17/869,681 US20220348332A1 (en) 2021-02-03 2022-07-20 Deployable seat bottom assembly
US17/869,681 2022-07-20

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WO2024020013A1 true WO2024020013A1 (fr) 2024-01-25

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU574121B2 (en) * 1984-12-17 1988-06-30 Tachikawa Spring Co. Ltd. Tiltable seat
US5593209A (en) * 1992-11-14 1997-01-14 Firma C. Rob. Hammerstein Gmbh Locking device for a longitudinal-adjustment device of a vehicle seat with a seat support to which an activation lever of the locking device is laterally hinged
US20100102587A1 (en) * 2008-10-28 2010-04-29 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft Adjustable vehicle seat
EP2729365B1 (fr) * 2011-07-06 2016-11-30 Zodiac Seats US LLC Ensemble plateau de siège

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU574121B2 (en) * 1984-12-17 1988-06-30 Tachikawa Spring Co. Ltd. Tiltable seat
US5593209A (en) * 1992-11-14 1997-01-14 Firma C. Rob. Hammerstein Gmbh Locking device for a longitudinal-adjustment device of a vehicle seat with a seat support to which an activation lever of the locking device is laterally hinged
US20100102587A1 (en) * 2008-10-28 2010-04-29 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft Adjustable vehicle seat
EP2729365B1 (fr) * 2011-07-06 2016-11-30 Zodiac Seats US LLC Ensemble plateau de siège

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