Abstract: A child seat anchor apparatus includes at least one sensor for measuring tension exerted on a system including a pair of anchor brackets disposed between the bottom and back cushions of a vehicle seat. In a first mechanization, the anchor brackets are directly coupled to individual sensors mounted on an anchor frame that is bolted to the seat frame. In a second mechanization, the anchor brackets are fastened to an anchor frame that is pivotably mounted on the seat frame, and the anchor frame is additionally coupled to the seat frame through a single sensor responsive to the tension exerted on the anchor frame by the anchor brackets.

Abstract: A low profile sensor assembly for use in a vehicle occupant sensing system that comprises a base, an upper slide member, and at least one intermediate guide member. Also disclosed is a low profile sensor assembly for use in a vehicle occupant sensing system that comprises a base with an outer step and a receptacle, and the low profile sensor assembly also comprises an upper slide member with a lower flange and a retainer. The outer step is adapted to accept the lower flange, and the receptacle is adapted to accept the retainer. The intermediate guide member, the outer step, and the receptacle each allow the respective upper slide member to move further toward the base. Thus, when the low profile sensor assembly is incorporated into a vehicle seat assembly, the low profile sensor assembly is less likely to detrimentally affect the comfort level of the vehicle seat assembly.

Abstract: A seat frame for a vehicle includes a first seat frame member (34) and a second seat frame member (24). The second seat frame member (24) includes a body portion (32) and a first flexible member (70) extending from the body portion (32). The flexible member (70) is welded to the first seat frame member (34) at a first location (66) to couple the second seat frame member (26) to the first seat frame member (34).

Abstract: Device and method for recording vibrations transmitted from a vehicle to a person. The person is using a cushioned and preferably sprung vehicle seat of a vehicle by way of at least one detector unit for detecting vibration values, whereby the detector unit is arranged on the vehicle seat frame or an associated component and an analysis unit for analysing the vibration values detected calculates vibration results for the vibration acting on the person using a preset transmission function.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, a mobile entertainment system includes a housing configured to be attached to the mounting plate of a headrest. The housing can include a base wall and a plurality of sidewalls configured to define a cavity within the headrest when the housing is coupled to the headrest. The housing can further include a first hinge element. In some embodiments, the system includes a screen structure that includes a metal frame. The screen structure can further include a second hinge element secured to the metal frame and coupled with the first hinge element so as to be able to pivotally attach the screen structure to the headrest. The screen structure can be configured to rotate relative to the housing independent of movement of the headrest. In some embodiments, the system further includes a headrest, which can include a mounting plate. The mounting plate can be coupled with at least one post.

Abstract: An ergonomic device for an automobile seat includes a pressure surface oriented proximate to a seat cushion so that the pressure surface may deploy to support a seat occupant. A mount fixes it to a frame of the automobile seat. A linkage between the pressure surface and said mount allows the pressure surface to be selectively positionable between a first position disposed to extend for support of a seat occupant and a second position that is retracted. A power actuator is in operative communication with the linkage such that the power actuator mediates travel of the pressure surface between the first and second positions. The power actuator is in electric communication with a use anticipation indicator such that the actuator is engaged to place the pressure surface in the second, retracted position upon a signal from the use anticipation indicator.

Abstract: A method of controlling a vehicle seat includes determining a trajectory between a first position of the seat and the second position of the seat, determining a torque to move the seat along the trajectory with velocity profile along the trajectory, and applying the torque to the seat to move the seat between the first position and a second position along the trajectory.

Abstract: In an assembly of a seat foam and a sensor mat, the seat foam has at least one incision and the sensor mat has at least one anchor tab adapted to be inserted into the at least one incision, thereby securely holding the sensor mat on a surface of the seat foam, where the seat foam includes at least one retaining element at the incision for retaining the anchor tab in the incision.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, an entertainment system includes a housing configured to be mounted to a headrest. The housing can define a first hinge portion, a base wall, and one or more sidewalls. The housing can include a lock portion. In some embodiments, the system includes a screen assembly including a viewing screen. The screen assembly can define a second hinge portion that cooperates with the first hinge portion to pivotally couple the screen assembly with the housing. The screen assembly can further define an arm movable relative to the viewing screen. The arm can be configured to interact with the lock portion to retain the screen assembly in a stowed configuration in which the screen assembly is substantially prevented from moving away from the base wall of the housing. The arm further can be configured to be actuated to permit rotation of the screen assembly away from the base wall of the housing. In some embodiments, the system includes a headrest configured to be installed in a vehicle.

Abstract: A device for adjusting seat components as a function of a signal from a video sensor system. Furthermore, a safety belt is adjusted as well as a function of the signal. This adjustment is carried out as a function of the occupant class, the occupant volume, the occupant pose, and the head position.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, a mobile entertainment system includes a housing configured to be coupled with a mounting plate of a headrest. The housing can define a first hinge portion. In some embodiments, the system further includes a screen assembly. The screen assembly can define a second hinge portion that cooperates with the first hinge portion to pivotally couple the screen assembly with the housing such that the screen assembly can rotate relative to the housing. In some embodiments, the system further includes a retaining harness fixedly attached to the mounting plate at a first end and fixedly attached to the screen assembly at a second end. The retaining harness can be configured to limit rotation of the screen assembly relative to the housing. Optionally, in some embodiments, the system includes a headrest configured to be installed in a vehicle. The headrest can include a mounting plate.

Abstract: A child restraint system is provided for detecting and indicating whether a vehicle seat belt is sufficiently tensioned to secure a child seat onto a seat of a vehicle and whether a child seat harness is sufficiently tensioned to restrain a child within the child seat. The child restraint system includes a vehicle seat belt tension sensor and status indicator and a child seat harness tension sensor and status indicator. The child restraint system further includes an occupant sensor for determining whether a child is seated within the child seat. If the occupant sensor determines that a child is seated within the child seat, the vehicle seat belt status indicator is disabled, thereby preventing the weight of the child from interfering with the proper installation of the child seat onto the seat of the vehicle by applying a downward force to the vehicle seat belt tension sensor.

Abstract: A heater system for an aircraft seat includes a first heater pad secured to the bottom seat cushion and a second heater pad secured to the back seat cushion, with both pads being under an upholstery cover. The first and second heater pads each has a body of an open cell foam material that is self flame extinguishing, and an electric resistance wire embedded in a winding pattern within the body. A control module applies a variable electric current to the electric resistance wire in each of the first and second heater pads. Preferably only the second heater pad for the back seat cushion can be activated or both the first and second heater pads can be activated. A pushbutton switch module allows the seat occupant step the control module through a sequence of different heating levels.

Abstract: A vehicle seat, includes: a seat cushion which can be fixed to a seat main body and in which an occupant can be seated; a releasing member, operable to release the fixing of the seat cushion to the seat main body; a detector, operable to detect the release of the fixing; and a disabling member, operable to disable an air bag for protecting the occupant when the detector detects the release of the fixing.

Abstract: An occupant-detecting apparatus includes a plurality of load sensors (3a to 3d) configured to detect a load imparted on a vehicle seat (4), and an occupant-sitting determination device (2) configured to determine whether or not an occupant is seated on the vehicle seat (4), based on detected result of the load sensors (3a to 3d). The load sensors (3a to 3d) are configured to detect loads at different positions on the vehicle seat (4), and the occupant-sitting determination device (2) is configured not to perform occupant-sitting determination if an absolute value (? W) of a variable amount in a sum of detected result of the load sensors (3a to 3d) is lesser than a predetermined threshold value (TH/L).

Abstract: A vehicle seat has seating components, such as a seat piece (20), a backrest (22) and a leg-rest (24), which are adjustable as to their positions, particularly in their relative inclination, by at least one operating device (26, 44). A monitoring device monitors all the boundary geometries (50, 52) of the moving seat components which may cause collisions and which have given spatial constraints (54). The monitoring device controls the operating devices (26, 44) at all points to guarantee a collision-free movement of all seat components within the spatial constraints. The vehicle seat considered as a total system can undergo adjustment processes without a damaging collision occurring.

Abstract: A warning device is provided that includes a safety seat, a baby stroller frame and an electronic device. The safety seat has a seat body, a handle and a pair of connecting elements; the baby stroller frame has a connecting base provided with a pair of receptacles adapted for engaging with the connecting elements; and the electronic device has at least a signal generating element, a battery, electronic circuit and at least a first touching switch received in either one of the receptacles or the connecting elements for generating a safety signal when the connecting elements is fully inserted into the receptacles.

Abstract: A juvenile vehicle seat includes a seat base adapted to set on a vehicle seat and a foldable backrest associated with the seat base. The juvenile vehicle seat also includes a backrest lock coupled to the foldable backrest.

Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle that permits adjustment of rider supports to ergonomically accommodate both a single rider and multiple riders.

Abstract: A vehicle seating system can be used within a variety of vehicles to reduce positional fatigue and other effects of long distance traveling. Such a system includes a typical vehicle seat mountable in a vehicle, at least two powered seat adjustment actuators, and an electrical controller. The actuators are moveable to alter the seating position formed by the seat, thereby reducing fatigue experienced by a vehicle traveler.

Abstract: A child restraint system and a method for monitoring installation of the child restraint system are provided. The child restraint system includes a child seat configured to receive a child occupant. The child seat has at least a first seat belt guide member configured to engage a vehicle seat belt webbing for securing the child seat to a vehicle seat. The child restraint system further includes a first sensor coupled to the first seat belt guide member. The first sensor is configured to output a first signal indicative of an amount of tension being applied to the vehicle seat belt webbing. The child restraint system further includes a controller coupled to the child seat configured to receive the first signal and to compute a first tension value based on the first signal. The controller further is configured to induce a first device disposed on the child seat to indicate when the first tension value is less than a predetermined tension value.

Abstract: Office components are described that include a base, a seat supported by the base. a microprocessor, and a load sensor electrically coupled with the microprocessor and mechanically coupled with the seat and, based on movement thereof, operative to detect occupancy of the seat and provide a signal to the microprocessor indicative thereof. The load sensor may be a strain gauge, a piezo device or combination thereof.

Abstract: A system includes a chair having an electrical connection to electrically connect the chair to a gaming device and a speaker package incorporated into the chair and coupled to the electrical connection. The speaker package includes a speaker mounted to a central member between a first shell defining a front cavity and a second shell defining a back cavity.

Abstract: A vehicle seat, especially an aircraft passenger seat, has seat components such as the seat part, backrest and at least one console (10) which laterally borders the seat part, which forms an armrest, and which has a holder (12). In the holder (12), at least one display screen (14, 16) can be lowered in to its rest position. The screen can be moved by an adjustment part (18) out of the rest position into the position of use and vice versa. In the position of use for a seat occupant, data displayed on the display screen can be viewed. The functional possibilities are expanded to the extent that the console holder is used to store the display screen, by which a seat occupant can access information, whether in the form of a television program or movie, or in the form of computer displays.

Abstract: The present invention can include a monitor unit for a vehicle seat including a base portion positioned at a top of a seat back; and a monitor portion including a monitor with a display surface for displaying images. The monitor portion is pivotally connected to the base portion via a hinge and rotatable in a front and rear direction between a use position at which the monitor portion is erect on the base portion and the display surface is positioned in a rear direction, and a retracted position at which the monitor portion is positioned in a front direction around the hinge. The hinge is positioned between the base portion and the monitor portion and at a front end of the base portion, and the monitor portion can be rotated by at least 90 degrees from the use position.

Abstract: Disclosed is a vehicle seat (1), particularly a motor vehicle seat, comprising a seat part (3), at least one fitting (5) which is provided with a first fitting part (7) and a second fitting part (8) that can be swiveled relative to the first fitting part (7) about an axis (A), and a backrest (4) which is mounted on the seat part (3) by way of the fitting (5) and can be swiveled relative to the seat part (3) about the axis (A). A sensor (15) is provided on the first fitting part (7) while a signaler (14) is provided on the second fitting part (8). The sensor (15) transmits a signal by cooperating with the signaler (14) when the second fitting part (8) swivels relative to the first fitting part (7), the signal making it possible to determine the relative angular position of the fitting parts (7, 8).

Abstract: The seat which is provided with at least two elements which can be moved relative to each other and an actuator for manoeuvring a movable element, a unit for controlling the actuator for the movement of the movable element comprises: means for measuring a force (Cu) applied manually to the movable element by a user, the control unit comprises: means for calculating the theoretical force (Cth) which must be applied by the actuator to the movable element in the direction of the force (Cu) applied manually to the movable element by the user; and means for controlling the actuator for the movement of the movable element in accordance with the theoretical force (Cth).

Abstract: A seat for heavy construction equipment is provided, which requires no change of a shape of outer side surfaces of console boxes for heavy equipment in the case where a retractable type seat belt is mounted on a side surface of a seat part having the console boxes mounted on left and right sides thereof, and which can prevent mutual interference between a main body part of the seat belt and the console box when the seat belt is unfastened. The seat for heavy construction equipment having a console box mounted on at least either of left and right sides thereof includes a seat part 11 having a cut part 15 formed on one rear side thereof that is opposite to the console box 10, a buckle receptor 13 mounted on the other rear side of the seat part 11 that is opposite to the cut part 15, and a main body part 17, mounted on the cut part 15, for accommodating a retractable type seat belt that is unlocked from the buckle receptor 13 and is wound into the main body part when the seat belt is unfastened.

Abstract: An acoustic structure of seat back includes a suspension board element provided therein. The suspension board element, which has a speaker unit provided to a backward surface thereof, is resiliently provided in a seat back frame of the seat back. A sound-conductive cushion element of a flat plate configuration is juxtaposed on a forward surface of the suspension board element. Those seat back frame and sound-conductive cushion element are covered with a foam padding and a trim cover assembly to thereby form such an acoustic seat back structure wherein all the suspension board element, speaker unit and sound-conductive cushion element are resiliently supported within the seat back, as an acoustic and vibration generator unit effective for imparting sound and vibration directly to a back portion of seat occupant.

Abstract: A method for fitting a sensor onto a seat cushion is disclosed, which is specifically suitable for the assembly of a seat sensor onto a seat cushion, wherein the seat cushion comprises a seating surface having a central region, said central region of said seating surface being at least partially delimited by a groove extending from said seating surface into said seat cushion, and wherein said sensor comprises a first sensor portion to be arranged at least partially at a periphery of said central region. The method comprises the steps of providing a mould (10) for foaming said seat cushion, said mould comprising at least one ridge (14) designed for forming said groove into said seating surface of said seat cushion; arranging said first sensor portion (18) in said mould on said at least one ridge (14), and foaming said seat cushion, thereby integrating at least part of said first sensor (18) portion into said seat cushion.

Abstract: A vehicle seat has a seat cushion having a seating region. A first seating sensor is disposed at a central portion of the seating region and can detect a first seating position of an occupant. A second seating sensor is disposed at a peripheral portion of the seating region and can detect a second seating position of the occupant.

Abstract: An articulating massaging chair is provided that includes a support frame; a seat pivotally connected to the support frame by a seat pivot; and a backrest pivotally connected to the support frame by a backrest pivot.

Abstract: A child seat anchor apparatus includes at least one sensor for measuring tension exerted on a system including a pair of anchor brackets disposed between the bottom and back cushions of a vehicle seat. In a first mechanization, the anchor brackets are directly coupled to individual sensors mounted on an anchor frame that is bolted to the seat frame. In a second mechanization, the anchor brackets are fastened to an anchor frame that is pivotably mounted on the seat frame, and the anchor frame is additionally coupled to the seat frame through a single sensor responsive to the tension exerted on the anchor frame by the anchor brackets.

Abstract: A child restraint system that is adapted to be mounted within a vehicle is provided. The child restraint system includes a child seat configured to receive a child occupant. The child seat has a frame, at least first and second docking stations, and a child seat monitoring device. The first and second docking stations are disposed at first and second locations on the frame. Both of the first and second docking stations are configured to receive and hold the child seat monitoring device therein.

Abstract: A headrest includes a cushioning pad for attaching to a vehicle and having a chamber for receiving a displaying device, and a pivotal coupling device for pivotally coupling the displaying device to the cushioning pad and for allowing the displaying device to be pivoted and adjusted relative to the cushioning pad to selected or suitable angular positions. The displaying device may be received in the cushioning pad without occupying any space of the passenger vehicle and without affecting the seating or the movement of the passengers in the passenger vehicle.

Abstract: A multimedia chair (200) includes an electronic module having an electronic processor and at least one electronic controller operatively connected to the electronic processor. A visual display (120) is connected to the electronic module and operatively communicates with the electronic processor. A base (202) structure connected to the electronic module is connected to a chair (200).

Abstract: A device 10 for transporting a physically impaired person includes a support frame member 11 having electric motors 16 secured thereto for operating rear drive wheels 12; a stabilizing plate 28 for maintaining the position of the support frame member 11 when lifting a physically impaired person, the stabilizing plate being positioned via an electric motor 34 operating a linear actuator 32; and opposite lifting arms 42 and 44 rotationally extended from the support frame member 11 via electric motors 51 operating linear actuators 47 and 49, the lifting arms 42 and 44 ultimately placing a physically impaired person upon or removing the impaired person from an inclinable seat member 62 secured to the support frame member 11.

Abstract: A seating and lying arrangement for the passenger region of aircraft. The arrangement can be brought into a seating state and a lying state. In the seating state, the arrangement has a seating surface and a backrest. In the lying state, the arrangement provides a lying surface. The arrangement comprises a seating device and a lying device which is separate therefrom. In the seating state, the lying device is arranged next to the seating device. In the lying state, the lying device is arranged above the seating device. A change can be made between the seating state and the lying state of the arrangement.

Abstract: A seat back video display assembly adapted to be positioned in the back of a vehicle seat having an outer skin cover. In one aspect, the assembly may comprise a receptacle member having sidewalls and a back wall so as to define an opening wherein the receptacle member is adapted to be positioned in the back of the vehicle seat. In addition, the assembly may further comprise a carrier member having sidewalls and a back wall so as to define an opening, wherein the carrier member includes at least one fastener that extends from the back wall of the carrier member and engages with the back wall of the receptacle member to secure the carrier member into the receptacle member. Moreover, the assembly may still further comprise a video display unit that is sized so as to be positioned secured within the opening in the carrier member, wherein the video display unit provides video signals.

Abstract: A seat of an apparatus in one example comprises a front subportion and a rear subportion that is adjustable in height and/or angle relative to the front subportion. A backrest of the apparatus in one example is adjustable in shape. Based on a user contact pressure against one or more portions of the seat and/or one or more portions of the backrest, the rear subportion of the seat and the backrest are adjustable between: a first height and/or angle of the rear subportion of the seat and a first shape of the backrest; and a second height and/or angle of the rear subportion of the seat and a second shape of the backrest.

Abstract: A vehicle video display device is installed on the armrest of a vehicle. Two arm members have one of their ends pivotally attached to two opposite surfaces of the armrest so that the two arm members extend outward from the armrest in parallel. A beam member has its two ends rotatably joined to the other ends of the two arm members respectively so that the beam member is supported across the armrest. A screen member is positioned rotatably on the beam member by an axle.

Abstract: This invention is a time-out chair that allows a child's caregiver to leave the room where the child is taking the time-out, and yet still ensure that the child is staying in the time-out. The chair contains a sensor, such as an infrared sensor or force sensor, which detects when the child has left. The sensor communicates to a microcomputer, which emits an audio and/or visual signal to the child. The audio signal can be selected from several built in signals, recorded or inputted by the caregiver. The microcomputer also may transmit a signal to a remote unit that the caregiver can carry out of the room so that the caregiver is advised that the child has left the time-out. The microcomputer also keeps track of the time remaining in the time-out, and advises the child and/or the caregiver when the time-out is over.

Abstract: A vehicle headrest assembly includes a portable media device and a frame assembly, including an inner frame, attached to a vehicle headrest. The system includes a locking mechanism configured to secure the portable media device within the inner frame and further configured to release the portable media device from the inner frame.

Abstract: Office components are described that include an electrical conduit electrically coupled to a fuel cell, and an electrically powered device coupled to the electrical conduit and configured to receive electricity generated by the fuel cell. The electrically powered device includes at least one of an automatic adjustment mechanism, a control system, a sound masking system, and an office accessory. Chairs, methods of using chairs, and systems of chairs are also described.

Abstract: A passenger seat has autonomous electric power generated by a fuel cell system and humidification provided by the fuel cell system. The fuel cell system may include replaceable fuel cartridges and may power electronics such as in flight entertainment, lighting, comfort features, seat adjustments, communications and other features autonomously or under control of the seat occupant.

Abstract: A juvenile product includes a seat having a seating area supported by a part of the juvenile product, a canopy positionable over at least a portion of the seating area and having an underside that faces the seating area, and a projection system carried on the juvenile product. The projection system has a projector configured to project visible stimuli either above the seating area or onto at least part of the underside of the canopy. These and other aspects of the disclosure are directed to providing a soothing and entertaining environment that may also be adjustable or customizable to address the changing interests and developmental levels of a child occupant.

Abstract: A chair-side patient communication system for use with a chair having at least one armrest, the system including a display screen and light mounted in association with the chair, a computer system coupled to the display screen; a controller mounted in the armrest of the chair for controlling the computer system to provide access to the information to be displayed on the display screen; and at least one speaker mounted in the headrest of the chair. The system enables a user in the chair to remain stationary while controlling the display of the information via the controller on the armrest of the chair.

Abstract: The invention relates to a remote mechanism and systems including a remote mechanism for securing a chair to a game machine and for effecting release of the chair from the game machine. The present mechanisms and systems are adapted to be used in conjunction with conventional and novel quick release bracket apparatus and provide remote locking and unlocking mechanisms therefor.

Abstract: A personalised reading light (11) for aircraft passenger seats (3) is disclosed. The reading light forms part of a personalised visual display monitor assembly (5) that is mounted to aback (7) of a passenger seat. The reading light is mounted to direct light rearwardly into a space immediately in front of a passenger facing the seat back. In one embodiment the assembly is adjustable in relation to the seat back and the reading light is adjustable in relation to other components of the assembly. Consequently, the direction of the light can be varied considerably.

Abstract: A seat assembly includes a frame, a cushion and a sensor assembly. The cushion is positioned on the frame and includes a top surface and a bottom surface. The sensor assembly includes a capacitive sensing element and is positioned on one but not both of the top surface and bottom surface of the cushion.