Abstract: A telescoping seating system has a plurality of rows adapted for movement between an extended or use position and a retracted or storage position. Each row is equipped with seating mounted on a frame which, in turn, is mounted to the rear of the deck of a row for pivoting between a raised or use position and a lowered or storage position, where the seating is positioned between the decks of adjacent rows when stored. A latch mechanism for locking the seating frame in the raised position when a row is extended includes a drive rod extending above and along a rear portion of the deck. The drive rod is spring-biased to rotate in one direction toward a locking position in which latch members carried by it engage the seating frame to lock it in place when the frame is raised.

Abstract: Power drive apparatus is adapted for mounting beneath the forward or lower row of a telescopic seating system. The drive apparatus includes a frame which is adapted to be connected to the forward row of the seating system and extend beneath it. A reversible electric motor is mounted centrally of the frame with its axis transverse of the direction of travel of the unit. First and second rollers (as distinguished from wheels or endless track) are mounted to the frame for rotation about respective horizontal forward and rear axes extending transverse of the direction of movement of the rows between the use and storage positions. Each roller has an exterior covering of compressible, resilient material, preferably synthetic rubber. The rollers are preferably located in front of and behind the motor respectively to provide a four-wheel-drive effect. The apparatus fits beneath the deck of the lowest row in the seating system and can easily be retrofitted to an existing system.