Abstract: A pivot mechanism comprising first and second frames linked so as to pivot, in which locking members may co-operate with teeth on one of the frames in order to lock the mechanism, and a central cam which is urged toward a rest position by a single spring, the spring being rolled in an indentation of the second frame.

Abstract: Chair structure (1) for a vehicle comprises a backrest (2), a seat (3) which has a front part (31) and a rear part (32), a support (4) which carries the squab (3), and means (10) to fasten the support to a vehicle floor. The chair structure (1) also includes a means (6) that makes the backrest (2) tilt forwardly relatively to the squab (3) in the event of an accident.

Abstract: A programmable seat back damper assembly for a motor vehicle includes a generally horizontal seat cushion portion and a generally upright back portion operatively connected to the seat cushion portion. The programmable seat back damper assembly includes a recliner for operative connection to the seat back portion and the seat cushion portion. The programmable seat back damper assembly also includes a damper for operative connection to the seat back portion and the seat cushion portion and having a magneto-rheological (MR) fluid therein.

Abstract: A vehicle seat has an adjustable backrest connected to a driving device that can be activated in the event of a rear end collision. The backrest is inclined forwardly during the rear end collision and then performs an opposing rearward movement decelerated by an energy absorber.

Abstract: A structure of seat back frame in a seat back of a hinged vehicle seat, in which a connecting rod is extended therein for actuating a locking mechanism in one of locking and unlocking direction. In the structure, a stopper element is provided vertically of the seat back frame at a point adjacent to a crank-like portion of the connecting rod, with an engagement element disposed between the stopper element and crank-like portion. Upon an external load being applied to a rear side of the seat back, the stopper element is thereby deformed in a direction to the crank-like portion of connecting rod and brought to engagement therewith via the engagement element, so that the connecting rod is prevented against undesired rotation in the unlocking direction.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) includes structure (96, 98) for sensing and responding to vehicle acceleration by providing an electrical actuation signal. The apparatus further includes a blocking device (36) which is responsive to the electrical actuation signal to block at least a portion of a vehicle seat frame (18) from moving under the influence of vehicle crash forces upon the occurrence of the crash-indicating acceleration. The sensing and responding structure (96, 98) is operative so as not to provide the electrical actuation signal if the crash-indicating acceleration is below or within a specified range of intermediate levels that indicate crashes having corresponding intermediate levels of severity. The sensing and responding structure (96, 98) is further operative to provide the electrical actuation signal if the crash-indicating acceleration has a relatively high level above the specified range of intermediate levels.

Abstract: Seat back rapidly deflates on occurrence of a rear end impact to permit upper torso of vehicle occupant to sink into the seat rather than be propelled forward. This permits his head to meet the headrest. Particulate material in headrest absorbs energy.