Mechanical Operator Tilts Back Fore And Aft Patents (Class 297/361.1)
  • Patent number: 11001275
    Abstract: A chair for chairlifts includes a pivotal installation that can pivot into a closed position and an open position, a locking element of the installation, and a blocking element for the locking element. The blocking element is movable into a blocking position and into a releasing position. A control element allows the blocking element to be moved from the blocking position and the installation to be opened. A chairlift and a method for activating a pivotable installation are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: Innova Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Sutterluety, Rene Passler
  • Patent number: 10194745
    Abstract: A seat back angle and depth adjustment assembly includes an angle adjustment member that includes a first aperture and a second aperture, a first fastener is received by the first aperture and is configured to engage an angle adjustment locking member, and a second fastener is received by the second aperture and is configured to engage a depth adjustment locking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: THE COMFORT COMPANIES, LLC
    Inventor: Steven DuFresne
  • Patent number: 10179523
    Abstract: A structure in which two worm wheels are disposed across a worm provides an increase in locking reliability while maintaining stable operation during rotation. At the time of rotation, respective rotating fulcrums set at both end portions in an axial direction of a worm are supported by bearing parts. At the time of locking, a locking fulcrum set at an eccentric position on one end portion in the axial direction of the worm is supported by one bearing part, while on the other end portion in the axial direction, the rotating fulcrum is supported by the other bearing part as is. As a result, the angle of lead of the worm supported by the pair of bearing parts is changed between the time of rotation and the time of locking and becomes smaller at the time of locking than at the time of rotation, whereby an increase in locking reliability can be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Assignee: Delta Tooling Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kiyonori Umezaki, Katsuhiro Inoue
  • Patent number: 10144313
    Abstract: A deceleration device comprising first and second gears that have different numbers of teeth. A cam mechanism is disposed on the same axis as the first gear, engages the first gear with the second gear in a state of eccentricity. A connecting shaft is disposed on the same axis as the first gear and is connected to the cam mechanism. A rotating body is disposed on the same axis as the second gear and is connected to the connecting shaft. When the connecting shaft is inserted into a long hole of the rotating body, the rotating body is connected to the connecting shaft in an eccentric position. The major axis of the long hole is set so as to allow the rotating body and the connecting shaft to move relative to one another along the longitudinal direction of the long hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Sadao Ito
  • Patent number: 10137804
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle seat (1) comprising a seat part (2) and a backrest (3), wherein the backrest (3) is provided in such a way that it is pivotable relative to the seat part (2) by means of a recliner (4). The present invention further relates to an adjusting mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: JOHNSON CONTROLS GMBH
    Inventors: Jörg Linnenbrink, Ingo Kienke, Gerhard Rothstein
  • Patent number: 9764666
    Abstract: An adjusting device (1) for a motor vehicle interior component includes a housing (3) in which a rotational element (2) is provided in a rotatable manner about a rotation axis (100). A first locking element (21) is rotationally fixed to the rotational element (2), and a second locking element (22) is provided on the housing (3). The locking elements are reversibly movable relative to each other from a locked situation, in which the locking elements (21, 22) interact with each other in a positively and/or non-positively engaged manner, into an adjustment situation, in which said positive and/or non-positive engagement is released. The adjusting device has an adapter plate (23) which is provided in a rotatable manner relative to the rotational element (2) and the housing (3) and at least temporarily drives a locking element (21, 22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: JOHNSON CONTROLS GMBH
    Inventors: Jürgen Stemmer, Dmitrij Gerdt, Tatjana Samojlova
  • Patent number: 9656396
    Abstract: On an inner peripheral surface of an outer peripheral member 10, a recess 11 is formed to which a pipe spring 30 is fitted. On an outer peripheral surface of an inner peripheral member 20 arranged concentrically with and rotatable relatively to the outer peripheral member 10 on an inner peripheral side of the outer peripheral member 10, a cam surface 21 is formed which abuts against the pipe spring 30. The cam surface 21 protrudes in the radial direction as it is farther away in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral member 10 from the point of contact with the pipe spring 30 in the state where no load is applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Susumu Miyazaki
  • Patent number: 9610865
    Abstract: A reclining device for a vehicle seat of the present disclosure includes a base plate provided with an assembling depression, a gear plate inserted into the assembling depression, a mobile flange transferring a torque to a seatback, and a power transmission module installed in a central portion of the gear plate to eccentrically rotate the mobile flange and to inhibit power transfer in an opposite direction. In particular, the reclining device further includes a stopper having a stop protrusion on the mobile flange and the stop protrusion is inserted into an arcuate stop hole formed on the base plate so as to efficiently realizes the stopper's function to limit the forward and backward rotation angle of the seatback to a predetermined range using fewer parts, thus reducing the weight and production cost of a reclining device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: HYUNDAI DYMOS INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Seung Hun Chang
  • Patent number: 9499071
    Abstract: An adjusting device for a hinge mount of a motor vehicle seat has a housing part, a drive unit, a gear unit which is mounted downstream of the drive unit, is driven by the drive unit, has at least one self-locking gear and drives an output shaft, an element which can be adjusted about an axis of the hinge mount, is rotationally connected to the output shaft and can be adjusted in an angle range ?360°, preferably ?90° about the axis of the hinge mount, and at least one stop mechanism which delimits the swivel range of the arm in at least one swivel direction. The stop mechanism is mounted between a) the self-locking gear and the drive unit, b) the self-locking gear and the housing part and/or c) the drive unit and the housing part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: C. Rob. Hammerstein GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Ulrich Karthaus
  • Patent number: 9462887
    Abstract: A seatback member cam adjustment system includes a seat link having a first bore and a seatback link rotatably connected to the seat link. The seatback link includes an arm portion and a leg portion connected to the arm portion. The leg portion is angularly oriented to the arm portion, and includes a second bore smaller than the first bore. A cam member cam body is positioned in the first bore. A cam body obround cam surface has oppositely facing first and second cam contact points both in direct contact with a first bore inner wall. A cam mount shaft is rotatably supported in the cam member including and extends through the second bore rotatably supporting the cam mount shaft in the second bore. Cam member rotation displaces the cam contact points along the first bore inner wall changing an arm portion orientation angle and a seatback member orientation angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: La-Z-Boy Incorporated
    Inventors: Eric B. Harwood, Larry P. Lapointe, Richard D. Hartford
  • Patent number: 9415747
    Abstract: The invention is a belt tightening drive for tightening a seat belt that can be wound about a winding shaft, comprising a spindle shaft driven by a drive unit and a worm drive with a worm supported in a torque-proof fashion on the spindle shaft and a driven wheel, engaged therewith and supported in a torque-proof fashion on the winding shaft. According to the invention it is provided that the worm comprises a first toothed section with a first toothed geometry, wherein the first position of the worm the first toothed section engages the driven wheel, the worm comprises at least a first toothed section and following a second toothed section with a second toothed geometry, with the first and second toothed geometries being embodied differently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: IMS Gear GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Lucht, Matthias Koop, Patrick Suellau
  • Patent number: 9022477
    Abstract: An adjustment system for repeated adjustment of a vehicle seat having a seat part and a support element are provided. The adjustment system includes a seat actuation unit for adjusting a seat position of the seat part and a support actuation unit for adjusting a support position of the support element. The seat actuation unit and the support actuation unit are arranged in a common reach area and are positioned next to each other. A vehicle seat using the adjustment system, a vehicle having the vehicle seat, and a method for making multiple adjustments to a vehicle seat via the adjustment system also are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Andrzej Pleskot
  • Patent number: 9004600
    Abstract: A seat reclining apparatus for a vehicle includes an inner gear plate, an outer gear plate, a first wedge member and a second wedge member positioned within a clearance formed between a peripheral of a center opening of the outer gear plate and a center cylindrical portion of the inner gear plate while outer teeth and inner teeth are meshed with one another, a third wedge member and a fourth wedge member positioned within respective spaces formed between the first wedge member and the center cylindrical portion of the inner gear plate, and the second wedge member and the center cylindrical portion of the inner gear plate, respectively, a first biasing member locking a relative rotation of the inner gear plate and the outer gear plate, and an operating portion allowing the relative rotation of the outer gear plate and the inner gear plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Sadao Ito
  • Patent number: 8998320
    Abstract: A power seat adjustment assembly comprising an active material actuator, adapted for use when a resting load is present within the seat, and configured to reduce actuator demand, and therefore actuator size and/or rating, by modifying the load to augment performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Nilesh D. Mankame, Jennifer P. Lawall, Richard J. Skurkis
  • Patent number: 8973998
    Abstract: A vehicle seat, in particular motor vehicle seat, comprises at least one fitting which has two fitting parts rotatable relative to one another, and which defines an axis. At least one structural part has at least one first opening having a first diameter for partially accommodating the fitting, and at least one fastening region surrounding the first opening for fastening the fitting. The fastening region is reinforced relative to the other regions of the structural part by an additional part which has a second opening having a second diameter. The additional part is fixedly connected to the structural part, and the fitting is fixedly connected to the additional part and is at least partially inserted into the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Keiper GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Georg Fischer, Günter Franzmann, Werner Liborius, Lars Kramm, Harald Wolsiefer, Elfriede Monika Schaefer
  • Patent number: 8919797
    Abstract: A seat assembly for a conveyance, such as a wheelchair, that allows the user to set the recline angle of the seat back at a seating position, fold the seat back down to a folded position and back up to the seating position, such that the seat back is returned to the seating position at the user selected recline angle R unless the recline angle is adjusted by the user. The user selected recline angle R is not disturbed by folding the seat back from the seating position, to the folded position 106, and back to the seating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Invacare Corp.
    Inventors: Howard Lowenthal, Traian Mohan, Robert Bekoscke, Damon Jurkiewicz, Daniel James Yee
  • Patent number: 8915548
    Abstract: A fitting for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, includes a first fitting part, on which a ring gear is formed, a second fitting part, on which a gear is formed. The gear meshes with the ring gear, whereby the two fitting parts are in transmission connection with each other. It also includes a rotatably supported eccentric for driving a relative rolling motion of the gear and the ring gear, wherein the eccentric rotates in the circumferential direction and is driven by a carrier. An installation space is provided between the first fitting part and the second fitting part, wherein a separating ring is arranged in the installation space. The separating ring divides the installation space into an outer installation space, and an inner installation space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Keiper GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Martin Stilleke, Eric Blass, Arkadius Rock
  • Patent number: 8833858
    Abstract: Disclosed is a reclining mechanism comprising: a first plate fixed to a seat back; a second plate fixed to a seat cushion; a plurality of planetary gears in meshing engagement with internal gears of the first and second plates; a sun gear in meshing engagement with the planetary gears; and a holding member rotatably holding the planetary gears. An inclined wall portion of the holding member, and an inner peripheral wall of a concave portion of the second plate, define therebetween a wedge-shaped space in which a restriction member is displaceably disposed. The inclined wall portion of the holding member is formed such that a width of the wedge-shaped space is gradually narrowed toward a counter direction opposite to a specific direction along which the first plate is urged to be rotated according to a force applied to the seat back in a rearward tilting direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Delta Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasukazu Oki
  • Publication number: 20140239693
    Abstract: A vehicle seat and seat back adjustment mechanism are disclosed that provide for adjusting the angle of inclination of a seat back relative to a seat base and also permit easy entry to the area behind the seat by allowing the seat back to be released to move between an adjusted angle of inclination and a position in which the seat back is folded over the seat base. The adjustment mechanism includes at least one comfort tilt recliner mechanism and one easy entry recliner mechanism that are joined via a first interface and a second interface face each, respectively, located on the outer surfaces of the facing plates of the two mechanisms by a radial laser welding process, such that the mechanisms may be coaxially attached to the vehicle seat to permit the seat back to pivot about a single axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventors: Eckhard Nock, Johannes Barzen, Norbert Hertling
  • Patent number: 8783774
    Abstract: A drive unit (5) for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, has a motor (51), a gear unit which is provided on the drive output side of the motor (51) which has at least a drive output wheel which is rotatably supported about a core axis (K). The drive output wheel is provided with a core (59) which is rotatable about the core axis (K). The core (59) has a shaft receptacle (60) for a drive shaft (7) with a shaft axis (W) as central axis. The core axis (K) and the shaft axis (W) are offset in parallel by an eccentricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Components GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Berres, Frank Groβbudde, Jürgen Stemmer, Martin Stilleke, Andreas Rabbach
  • Patent number: 8752861
    Abstract: A fixing structure of a rear side airbag device for a vehicle may assure a margin of time for the side airbag to be deployed. In a vehicle rear side airbag device fixing structure, an airbag module is fixed by fastening to a child seat fixing member conforming to ISOFix standards, via a metal plate. The child seat fixing member is fixed to the rear floor of a vehicle body at the downward side of a rear seatback. Therefore, in comparison with a structure in which an airbag module is fixed to a rear wheel housing via a bracket, the airbag module may be disposed to the vehicle width direction inner side. Moreover, the child seat fixing member exhibits a high rigidness with respect to a side collision of the vehicle. Therefore, fixing portions of the airbag module are resistant to being deformed during a side collision of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Osamu Fukawatase, Takehisa Shamoto
  • Publication number: 20140159457
    Abstract: A seat recliner system includes a seat back having a back support member configured to support the back of a passenger. A connecting member extends generally orthogonally from a lower end of the back support member. The connecting member includes a front portion and a rear portion. A seat base includes a forward link operably coupled to the front portion of the connecting member. A rearward link is operably coupled to the rear portion of the connecting member such that the seat back is rotatable about a virtual hip-point of a passenger that is above the seat base and forward of the seat back.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: John W. Jaranson, Grant A. Compton, Johnathan Andrew Line, Kendrick Alden Harper
  • Patent number: 8746797
    Abstract: The invention relates to improvements in the object of patent P200603269 for “Automatic rotation system for tilting seats of chairs or armchairs”, comprising rotation supports formed by two parts (1 and 2) which are rotating in relation to one another, between which there is incorporated a rotating draw-spring (4), one of the parts (2) of each rotating support determining an annular channel (5), in which there is housed a ring (6) together with a high-viscosity silicone filler, such that said ring (6) is linked by pulling with the other part (1) of the rotating support, a braking action occurring on the rotation movement between the two parts (1 and 2) due to the friction of that ring (6) with the silicone in the channel (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Figueras International Seating, S.L.
    Inventor: Jose Figueras Mitjans
  • Patent number: 8684463
    Abstract: An apparatus for selectively moving a seat back of a motor vehicle seat relative to a seat bottom includes an armrest movably mounted to the vehicle seat, a seat back actuator and mechanical linkage engaged with and between the armrest and the seat back actuator. The armrest has a first position that supports an arm of an occupant of the motor vehicle seat, and is movable from the first position to a second position. The seat back actuator is responsive to actuation to allow the seat back of the vehicle seat to be moved relative to the seat bottom, and is responsive to release thereof to block movement of the seat back relative to the seat bottom. The mechanical linkage is responsive to movement of the armrest from the first position to the second position to actuate the seat back actuator and to otherwise release the seat back actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Indiana Mills & Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas C. Rumler
  • Patent number: 8672408
    Abstract: Hinge mechanism comprising first and second frames rotatably mounted relative to one another, the first frame comprising a collet, a control member rotatably mounted in the collet of the first frame and controlling a relative rotation between the two frames, and a brake unit comprising an operating member connected to the control member with angular play. The brake unit is housed in the collet of the first frame and fitted with a braking member adapted to brake the control member when the operating member is not activated and to allow the operating member to rotationally drive the control member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: FAURECIA Sièges d'Automobile
    Inventors: Cédric Legras, Julien Talagas, Benoît Hanriot
  • Patent number: 8616646
    Abstract: An adjuster for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, includes a drive, a gear stage (8) driven by the drive. The gear stage (8) includes a drive wheel (81) rotatable about a first rotational axis (A1) and drive teeth (81a) and a driven wheel (82) rotatable about a second rotational axis (A2) and including driven teeth (82a). Driven wheel (82) meshes with the drive wheel (81) with a fluctuating gear ratio and at least one load bearing gear driven by the gear stage, in particular a geared fitting. The fitting parts thereof performing a relative rotation with a superimposed wobble motion. At least two drive teeth (81a) and/or at least two driven teeth (82a) in the circumferential direction of the associated rotational axis (A1, A2) have different dimensions and/or different spacings from the adjacent teeth, and/or in the axial direction of the associated rotational axis (A1, A2), different dimensions and/or different axial positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Keiper GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Elmar Deegener, Heinz Voss, Rolf Schüler, Bernd Bossmanns
  • Publication number: 20130341986
    Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly includes a seat portion disposed in a relatively horizontal alignment, wherein the seat portion is moveable. Also included is a seat back rotatable about a first axis proximate a rear portion of the seat portion. Further included is a memory seat module (MSM) configured to monitor and control movement of the seat portion and the seat back, and comprises a sensor configured to activate upon movement of the seat portion and/or the seat back to a predetermined position, wherein the MSM automatically restricts movement of the seat portion and/or the seat back upon detection of activation of the sensor. The MSM further engages other required movements to return the vehicle seat assembly to earlier stored locations with the process being repeated a maximum number of times to transition the seat portion and seat back to their required positions that have been predetermined by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Mark R. Willey
  • Patent number: 8579377
    Abstract: A drive device for a motor vehicle seat (1) has a mount (22), a drive (24) which is mounted to the mount (22), so as to be pivoted about a first axis (A), an output (25) which is mounted to the mount (22), so as to be rotated about a second axis (B), and a transmission. The transmission transmits a driving pivot movement of the drive (24), which moves the drive (24) from an initial position into a deflected position, to the output (25) and causes a rotating movement of the output (25). At least one rolling body (26) is provided as the transmission. The rolling body (26), in the initial position and during the driving pivot movement of the drive (24), is in friction contact both with the drive (24) and simultaneously with the output (25) and rolls along same, and releases during the pivot movement back into the initial position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: KEIPER GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Rolf Schüler
  • Publication number: 20130221721
    Abstract: A vehicle seat has a backrest part which is provided on a seat part such that the former can be rotated by a backrest adjuster. The backrest adjuster has a shaft which preferably transmits a torque to the backrest adjuster. And axial securing mechanism is provided on the shaft at both ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Jörg Seibt
  • Patent number: 8485599
    Abstract: An arrangement for a vehicle seat includes an inner element (11c, 11d), an outer element (9, 16a), which has an opening (16b) having an edge (9c, 16c) and receives the inner element (11c, 11d), and a weld seam (20) which connects the outer element (9, 16a) to the inner element (11c, 11d). The edge (16c) of the opening of the outer element (9, 16a) is interspaced from the inner element (11c, 11d) over the largest part of its circumference and defines a radial gap (G) having a defined maximum width, the weld seam (20) being introduced into the gap (G).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Keiper GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Peter Thiel
  • Publication number: 20130113260
    Abstract: A locking mechanism of a seat for a vehicle, the seat including a seat back and a seat base, the locking mechanism including a recliner that reclines the seat back and locks the seat back in a position, the recliner and a memory ring being located on the axis, and when the memory ring is held relative to the recliner the seat back returns to an original position when the seat back travels in a forward direction from the original position past an upright position and then moves in a rearward direction back to the original position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Yasuhiro KOJIMA
  • Patent number: 8376463
    Abstract: Angle adjustable backrest made of a lightweight, durable, adjustable, backrest for ultralight manual wheelchairs. Light-weight material can include composites for a rigid backrest for promotion of healthier and functional interface. Angle adjustment can be any desired range such as a range from ?5 degree to 55 degrees (i.e. 85 degrees to 145 degree with respect to horizontal with the seat). No tools are necessary for any of the angle adjustments. The backrest has a horizontal adjustment (fore-aft) that can be any desired range such as 1 inch. The height selection depends on the length of the wheelchair frame tubes. The present invention improves the ease and simplicity of adjusting the backrest by or for the user, as well as enhances the aesthetic appearance and adds features necessary for achieving commercial readiness. The present invention can be retro fit onto a wide range for ultralight wheelchairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh—of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Rory Alan Cooper, Jonathan Lee Pearlman, Todd Hargroder, Eun-Kyoung Hong, Hsin-Yi Llu, Hongwu Wang, Benjamin Arthur Salatin
  • Publication number: 20130001998
    Abstract: A fitting system for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, with an axially extending shaft, which is rotatable in the circumferential direction, with at least one fitting which is provided with a rotatably supported driver which is axially secured by a securing element, for driving or for unlocking the fitting, wherein the shaft cooperates with the driver in the circumferential direction in a rotationally secure manner or mechanically connected, in order to rotate the driver, and with at least one quick fastener which is seated on the shaft in an axially non-displaceable manner, in order to secure the cooperation of shaft and driver axially in at least one direction, has the quick fastener connected with the driver and/or with its securing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas Mayer
  • Patent number: 8336962
    Abstract: A wobble joint fitting for a vehicle seat has a first joint arm, which carries an internal gear and forms a first bearing surface, which are central to a main axis, and a second joint arm to which an eccentric gear is allocated, which comprises an externally toothed pinion and a second bearing surface. The pinion and the second bearing surface are central to an eccentric axis. An eccentric driving part is disposed in the area between the first bearing surface and the second bearing surface. Clamping parts, in a clamping state, displace the eccentric axis relative to the main axis. The eccentric driving part defines the eccentric. The rotary drive of the eccentric driving part causes a rotation of the pinion relative to the internal gear even without the clamping parts being present, wherein only play compensation is not obtained without the presence of the clamping parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: C. Rob. Hammerstein GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Thomas Thiel, Reinhard Vogel, Burckhard Becker, Wilfried Beneker
  • Patent number: 8292369
    Abstract: An adjusting device for a vehicle seat includes a brake housing that is centered about an actuating rotational axis. The brake housing is formed in a radial direction of the actuating rotational axis and includes a housing element that is generally circular and has a outer side wall, and upper wall and an inner side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Johnson Controls GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Haida, Andreas Dannheisig, Bernd Engels
  • Publication number: 20120256461
    Abstract: A backrest adjustment device is provided for a vehicle seat or a vehicle bench seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat or a motor vehicle bench seat, in which a backrest part is connected to a seat part via an adjustment and fixing device, which has a fixing, which is disengaged for the inclination adjustment of the backrest part, the fixing of the adjustment and fixing device being disengaged by an electromechanical actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Reimer VOELZ, Juergen MAIER, Kirsten HUBER
  • Publication number: 20120205956
    Abstract: A vehicle seat and reclining mechanism are disclosed that provide for adjusting the angle of inclination of a seat back relative to a seat base and also permits easy entry to the area behind the seat by allowing the seat back to be released to move between an adjusted angle of inclination and a position in which the seat back is folded over the seat base. The reclining mechanism may include three or four release mechanisms that are all coaxially attached to the vehicle seat to permit the seat back to pivot about a single axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: LEAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Eckhard Nock, Johannes Barzen
  • Publication number: 20120175932
    Abstract: A vehicle seat device includes a first arm connected to a first frame forming a framework of a seat cushion, a second arm fixed to a second frame forming a framework of the seatback, a recliner sandwiched therebetween, a drive source providing a rotation in opposing directions therebetween, the first arm rotationally connected to the first frame, a locking mechanism equipped on the first arm and the first frame restricting rotation therebetween when the first arm is rotated to a first rotational end with respect to the first frame, and a control unit driving and controlling the drive source to adjust the inclination angle of the seatback relative to the seat cushion to a predetermined angle range when the locking mechanism is disengaged and the first arm is rotated to a second rotational end with respect to the first frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Genta MORIYAMA, Tsutomu Oya, Hideki Fujisawa
  • Patent number: 8205946
    Abstract: The present application relates to an actuating device (1) having a drive part (2) moving an output part (5) from an initial position into a final position, wherein the output part (5), or the drive part (2), has a first region (9) and a second region (10), and the drive part (2), or the output part (5), interacts with the two regions (9, 10) such that the position of the output part (5) is changed during an interaction with the first region (9), and an interaction with the second region (10) prevents a return movement of the output part (5) into the initial position. The present invention further relates to a vehicle seat comprising the actuating device (1) according to the application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Johnson Controls GmbH
    Inventors: Ludger Mühlenbrock, Jörg Seibt
  • Patent number: 8146994
    Abstract: A tube recliner mechanism for a vehicle seat having a reclining seat back includes an inner tube extending in a lateral cross vehicle direction and having inboard and outboard ends, an outer tube positioned around the inner tube, and a cylindrical spacer positioned between the inner tube and the outer tube. The relative rotational position of the inner and outer tubes is configured to change via rotation of one of the inner and outer tubes. The spacer, inner tube, and outer tube are all concentrically positioned to thereby reduce friction between the inner and outer tubes during relative movement between the tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Kyle M. Doxey, Kurt A. Seibold, Richard Tann, Michael J. Thomas
  • Patent number: 8016357
    Abstract: Disclosed is an automatic rotation system for tilting seats of chairs or armchairs, comprising a seat fastener having at least one holder formed by first and second parts rotatably coupled together; first and second conformations respectively attached to the first and second rotatably coupled seat fastener parts; and a spring incorporated between the first and second rotatably coupled seat fastener parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Figueras International Seating, S.A.
    Inventor: Jose Figueras Mitjans
  • Patent number: 7967384
    Abstract: A fitting (5) for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, includes a first fitting part (11), a second fitting part (12) which is rotatable about an axis (A) relative to the first fitting part (11), and with a ring (13) which keeps the two fitting parts (11, 12) together in the axial direction. The fitting (5) forms a disc-shaped unit, wherein an adaptor (21) is provided. The adaptor (21) bears against the first fitting part (11), in particular in an abutting manner, and, with the bearing contact, defines a connecting surface (F). The adapter (21) IS connected to the first fitting part (11) and/or the ring (13) by a weld seam (23). The weld seam (23) is produced from a direction (S) which runs within the connecting surface (F) or at a shallow angle (f) to the connecting surface (F).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: KEIPER GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Gunther Hille, Uwe Assmann
  • Patent number: 7959229
    Abstract: A seat may be obtained with good operability of plural operating members for operating plural adjustable units. A vehicle seat is provided with: a seat lifter, provided to a seat body for sitting on and adjustable by operation force transmitted from a first operating system; a reclining mechanism, provided to the seat body and adjustable by operation force transmitted from a second operating system; and an operation force imparting unit that is provided at a position where it is able to be operated by a seat occupant at a predetermined position on the seat body. The operation force imparting unit is able to independently take up a first state in which a lifter knob is operated and the seat lifter adjusted, and a second state in which the reclining lever is operated and the reclining mechanism adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takahiro Ishijima, Katsuya Ueda
  • Patent number: 7938490
    Abstract: A seat may be obtained with improved operability of plural adjustable units. A vehicle seat 10 is provided with: a seat lifter 22 provided to a seat body for sitting on, adjustable by transmitted operation force; a reclining mechanism 20 provided to the seat body, adjustable by transmitted operation force; and an operation lever 30, to which operation force from operation by a seat occupant is input; and a switching mechanism 50 that is able to selectively switch between a first state in which operation force of the operation lever 30 is able to be transmitted to the seat lifter 22, and a second state in which operation force of the operation lever 30 is able to be transmitted to the reclining mechanism 20.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takahiro Ishijima, Satoshi Akiba, Hiroshi Mizobata
  • Publication number: 20110080026
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle seat comprising a sitting part and a back-rest, the inclination of which is adjustable relative to the sitting part and which can be converted from a working position into a stowage position, and vice versa. The present invention particularly relates to the center seat of a row of seats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Applicant: Johnson Controls GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Szegeny, Stefan Flucht, Guido Haladuda
  • Publication number: 20110074199
    Abstract: An adjustable seat for a vehicle includes a seat part that is moveable between a first seat position and a second seat position. The first seat position is spaced a first predetermined distance from a floor of the vehicle and the second seat position is spaced a second predetermined distance from the floor of the vehicle. A backrest pivotally connected to the seat part about a pivot axis. An adjusting device is operatively connected to the seat part for moving the seat part between the first seat position and the second seat position. The adjusting device includes an energy storage mechanism that exerts a variable first force on the seat part by pivoting the backrest from a folded over position to an upright position to move the seat part from the second seat position to the first seat position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Johnson Controls GmbH
    Inventors: Erik Sprenger, Stefan Heuel, Salih Yilmaz
  • Patent number: 7901006
    Abstract: A reclining actuator for moving a seat back relative to a seat bottom includes a mounting plate and a crank supported on the mounting plate for movement relative thereto. A rod is provided having a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the crank and the second end is adapted to engage a seat back. A driver is provided for moving the crank relative to the mounting plate. A seat assembly includes a seat having a seat back and a seat bottom. The seat back is moveable relative to the seat bottom. A crank is connected to a driver for movement. A rod is connected between the crank and the seat back such that movement of the rod causes movement of the seat back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Philippe Pigeon
  • Patent number: 7857391
    Abstract: The invention relates to an adjustment fitting for a vehicle seat. The adjustment fitting includes a first fitting part and a second fitting part connected by a wobble mechanism. The wobble mechanism includes a central wheel that is rotatable about a central axis and is connected to the first fitting part. A revolving wheel is arranged in the interior of the central wheel eccentrically with respect to the central axis and is connected to the second fitting part. The central wheel and the revolving wheel form, with respect to each other, an eccentric receiving space in which a first eccentric and a second eccentric are arranged rotatably in relation to each other. The revolving wheel engages in a play-free manner in the central wheel and with a transmission element that is rotatable about the central axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Brose Fahzeugteile GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Horst Brehm, Georg Scheck, Heiko Löhnert, Andreas Theil
  • Patent number: 7837266
    Abstract: In the case of a transmission device (5) for a vehicle seat (1), in particular a motor vehicle seat, with at least one hub (7, 27, 27?, 27?) and a shaft (10) which interact in a form-fitting manner in order to transmit a torque, wherein the shaft (10) has a profile with m teeth (12) and the hub (7, 27, 27?, 27?) has a profile with a central opening with n receptacles (15, 15?), and wherein each receptacle (15, 15?) is designed for interaction with a tooth (12), the hub (7, 27, 27?, 27?) has n=2m receptacles (15, 15?) or n=2m?1 receptacles (15, 15?).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: KEIPER GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Ulrich Lehmann
  • Publication number: 20100244530
    Abstract: A seat reclining apparatus includes a support frame tiltable about a support axis relative to a first frame, an angle adjustment unit causing a second frame to tiltably move forward or rearward relative to the support frame by a driving force of an actuator, the second frame being displaced in a direction to approach and separate from the support axis, a lock mechanism selectively operated to an unlocked state and a locked state, and a front stopper provided at the first frame to specify a forward tilt limit of the seat back by making contact with a forward tilt contact portion provided at the second frame in a state where the lock mechanism is in the unlocked state, the front stopper including a linearly-shaped contact surface that makes contact with the forward tilt contact portion and that matches or approximates a virtual straight line passing through the support axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takashi Kitano, Mitsutoshi Watariguchi, Hiroki Morimoto