Motor Actuated Patents (Class 297/330)
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Publication number: 20090278388Abstract: According to the present invention there is provided a module for use with a chair having a seat portion supported by a support portion, for triggering movement of a person sitting thereon. The module is adapted for attachment to the chair between the seat portion and the support portion, and comprises a driving motor, a base platform adapted for fixed attachment to the seat portion, and an angled axis system (AAS). The AAS has a main rotary element having a main axis, and an auxiliary rotary element having an auxiliary axis and coupled with the first rotary element so that the auxiliary axis is oriented at an angle to the main axis. The module is designed such that when the main rotary element rotates about its main axis, the auxiliary rotary element also rotates about the main axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2007Publication date: November 12, 2009Applicant: Active Chair, Ltd.Inventors: Meir Reingewirtz, Ron Cohen
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Patent number: 7600815Abstract: A raiser seat for assisting a person from a sitting to a standing position is described. The seat comprises: a seat frame (4); a seat (10) supported for movement relative to the seat frame between a lowered position and a raised position; and a movement mechanism for moving the seat between the lowered and the raised positions. The movement mechanism comprises at least one cam (104) and the seat rests on the at least one cam such that rotation of the at least one cam results in movement of the seat relative to the seat frame.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2004Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Corcost LimitedInventor: Steven Phillip Corcoran
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Patent number: 7600801Abstract: An electric vehicle seat storage structure for moving a seat between a seating position and a storage position is provided. The seat storage structure includes a frame having an axle positioned along a rear portion of the cushion and having a seat gear mounted to the axle. An actuator is provided for moving the seat between a seating position and a storage position. The actuator has an output gear positioned about an output shaft that is defined along the longitudinal axis of the actuator. The actuator is mounted within a portion of the frame, such that the output gear and the seat gear are meshed thereto, and such that the axis of the actuator is substantially parallel to the axle of the seat storage frame. Wherein when the seat is moved between the seating position and the storage position, the actuator is moved therewith.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2006Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Globe Motors, Inc.Inventors: Douglas Jan Lehy, Richard Lee Schneider
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Patent number: 7575279Abstract: One aspect of the invention concerns a lift-recliner chair comprising a base portion (12), a seat portion (14) pivotally connected to the base portion, a back portion (16) pivotally connected to the seat portion and a first actuator (62) for moving the seat portion with respect to the base portion and a second actuator (64) for moving the back portion with respect to the seat portion so as to alter the configuration of the chair. The actuators are substantially enclosed within the base portion of the chair between a pair of opposed structural base portion side panels (18) in all configurations of the chair. The seat portion is pivotally connected to the side panels (18) and is movable between a retracted and nested position within the base portion to an raised position in which it is telescopically extended from the base. The nested configuration can reduce the risk of entrapment between moving parts of the chair.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2004Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Assignee: Robco Designs Ltd.Inventor: Dale Robertson
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Patent number: 7556234Abstract: A seat slide device for a vehicle seat includes a lower rail fixed to a vehicle floor, a support bracket for supporting the vehicle seat, an upper rail fixed to the support bracket and slidably supported on the lower rail relative to the lower rail, a nut member fixed to the lower rail, a screw shaft engageable with the nut member and rotatably supported on the upper rail and a gear device supported on one end of the upper rail through a holdong bracket to transmit a rotational force from a power source to the screw shaft. The upper rail is movable relative to the lower rail in a front and backward direction relative to the seat by the engagement of the screw shaft with the nut member. The holding bracket is fixed to the upper rail and the support bracket for supporting a gear case of the gear device over a circumferential area of the gear case on front, rear, upper and lower surfaces in cooperation with the first support bracket.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2006Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Sadao Ito, Makoto Sakai, Eiichiro Tsuji
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Patent number: 7543885Abstract: A combination lift chair and reclining chair having additional seating and reclining positions is provided with two separate motors and linkages enabling the chair back to be independently placed in various positions and the seat separately movable with the footrest and elevated once the footrest has reached full deployment using the same motor.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2005Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Golden Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Warren Edward Pollard, James Olcheski
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Publication number: 20090121532Abstract: A positioning and control system to selectively position and to monitor and record the position of the seat frame, back rest frame and leg rest supports of a powered wheelchair wherein the positioning and control system comprises a seat positioning mechanism including a seat tilt positioning assembly and a back rest recline positioning assembly to position the tilt of the seat frame and the recline of the back rest frame respectively, and a leg rest positioning mechanism including leg rest positioning assemblies to position the leg rest supports, and a system control including an operator input control and a microprocessor to control, monitor and record the position of the seat frame, back rest frame and the leg rest supports.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2008Publication date: May 14, 2009Inventors: Thomas Kruse, Timothy Philipp
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Publication number: 20090072602Abstract: A motor-driven actuator for a vehicle, in particular for a vehicle seat, is for being situated between two components of the vehicle or vehicle seat that can be displaced in relation to one another. The motor-driven actuator comprises a motor, at least one first gear stage that is located on the output side of the motor, a second gear stage that acts as a load-bearing gear and is located on the output side of the first gear stage, and at least one sealing element. The motor, gear stages and sealing element are integrated into the motor-driven actuator. The sealing element is adapted for being in a predetermined sealing configuration for protecting the motor and/or its electrical contact and/or at least one of the gear stages during manufacturing. The sealing element is adapted for not being in the predetermined sealing configuration when the motor-driven actuator is installed and ready to operate.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2008Publication date: March 19, 2009Applicant: KEIPER GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Rolf Schuler
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Patent number: 7494184Abstract: An electric vehicle seat storage structure for moving a seat between a seating position and a storage position is provided. The seat storage structure includes a frame having an axle positioned along a rear portion of the cushion and having a seat gear mounted to the axle. An actuator is provided for moving the seat between a seating position and a storage position. The actuator has an output gear positioned about an output shaft that is defined along the longitudinal axis of the actuator. The actuator is mounted within a portion of the frame, such that the output gear and the seat gear are meshed thereto, and such that the axis of the actuator is substantially parallel to the axle of the seat storage frame. Wherein when the seat is moved between the seating position and the storage position, the actuator is moved therewith.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2007Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: Globe Motors, Inc.Inventors: Douglas Jan Lehr, Richard Lee Sxhneider
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Patent number: 7484587Abstract: In order to enhance an operator's ability to control a work machine, an operator control station includes a seat assembly that is moveably mounted to a body of the work machine. The operator can control, at least in part, primary operator controllable aspects of the work machine by manipulating work machine operating controls attached to move with the seat assembly. The operator can monitor a work machine operating condition, at least in part, via a work machine operating condition display panel also attached to move with the seat assembly. In addition, the operator control station is interchangeable among a plurality of work machines of different types and sizes.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2006Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: James I. Portscheller, Sukhwinder S. Guron, Wayne J. Wulfert
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Patent number: 7482544Abstract: An actuator usable in a support frame for use in a lift chair.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2006Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Assignee: I-Trust Better Life Corp.Inventors: Jiaxiong Gong, Ming Yin, Xiaojun Gong, Quan Liu, Xiaoxiang Zhang, Yongyong Mao
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Publication number: 20080315652Abstract: The actuator for a motor vehicle has an electric motor having an output shaft. A gear comprising a spindle nut and a gear case is connected to the output shaft. A spindle engages the spindle nut. A bracket forms an at least partial surrounding grip abut the gear case. A pivot bearing is provided between the gear case and the bracket. Further, an abutment lying substantially opposite the pivot bearing is formed between the gear case and the bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2008Publication date: December 25, 2008Inventors: Burckhard Becker, Wilfried Beneker
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Patent number: 7461897Abstract: A positioning and control system to selectively position and to monitor and record the position of the seat frame, back rest frame and leg rest supports of a powered wheelchair wherein the positioning and control system comprises a seat positioning mechanism including a seat tilt positioning assembly and a back rest recline positioning assembly to position the tilt of the seat frame and the recline of the back rest frame respectively, and a leg rest positioning mechanism including leg rest positioning assemblies to position the leg rest supports, and a system control including an operator input control and a microprocessor to control, monitor and record the position of the seat frame, back rest frame and the leg rest supports.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2007Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: Hoveround CorporationInventors: Thomas Kruse, Timothy Philipp
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Patent number: 7461896Abstract: A system includes a lift chair having sensors embedded therein to determine various factors such as the amount of pressure exerted in various portions of the chair, the activity level of the chair user, whether the chair is occupied and which user is currently occupying the chair, and how much assistance the chair provides the user. The information detected by the sensors can be transmitted via the Internet, for example, to a third party device, such as a doctor's personal computer, which is also hooked up to the internet and is capable of receiving periodic updates to monitor use of the chair or modify the rules that govern the use of the chair. The user can override the pre-set rules for use of the chair by using an override button on a user control device.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Devon M. Welles, Brooke E. Foucault
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Patent number: 7455360Abstract: An article of seating furniture is provided with a lift mechanism. The article can be a chair with a base and a seat that is pivotally connected to the base. A back is coupled to the seat and may be either fixed to the seat or rotatably coupled to the seat. An actuator is mounted to the base extending towards the rear of the chair. The actuator is pivotally coupled to the base on one end and is pivotally coupled to the seat on the other end. The actuator moves the seat between a generally horizontal position and a raised position. With the back rotatably mounted to the seat, a linkage bar can be added that extends from base front to a bracket that mounts the back to the seat. The linkage bar reclines the back as the seat is raised from horizontal position to the raised position.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: L & P Property ManagementInventors: Nikki White, Shelby Ladner, Bill Tacker, Kenneth Graham
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Patent number: 7452032Abstract: A resting device assembly for supporting a person during a procedure includes a resting device and an armrest. The resting device supports the person during the treatment and includes a device frame. The armrest includes an arm support, a frame bracket, a frame pivot, and a support arm pivot. The arm support supports an arm of the person. The frame pivot connects the frame bracket to the device frame, and allows the frame bracket and the arm support to concurrently pivot relative to the device frame. The support arm pivot connects the arm support to the frame bracket and allows the arm support to pivot relative to the frame bracket. In certain embodiments, the two pivots of the armrest assembly allows for improved adjustability of the armrest. As a result thereof, the person is more comfortable during the manicure or other procedure.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2006Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Earthlite Massage Tables, Inc.Inventors: Jon W. Roleder, William W. Chow, Oscar Mendez
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Patent number: 7448680Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2008Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Inventor: Mark L. DiRe
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Patent number: 7434881Abstract: A dynamic chair providing automatic motion in a seat. The chair has bottom, a support means disposed between the base and the seat bottom, a drive motor. A first drive wheel driven by the drive motor has a first mounting point offset from a first distance from the center of the first drive wheel; a second drive wheel driven by the first drive wheel, the second drive wheel having a different diameter from the diameter of the first drive wheel; and a crankshaft having a first crankshaft end and a second crankshaft end, the first crankshaft end connected to the second drive wheel and rotatably driven by the second drive wheel, the second crankshaft end having an eccentric providing a second offset mounting point offset from a second distance from the center of the second crankshaft end.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2007Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Inventor: William E. Wegener
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Publication number: 20080231100Abstract: The present invention relates to a chassis for a reclining chair comprising at least two contiguous deformable quadrilateral segments, pivot points and at least two force-developing elements. Each quadrilateral segment has four rigid side members and four vertices. Each quadrilateral segment shares one of its side members with at least one other contiguous quadrilateral segment. The pivot points are located at each vertex of each quadrilateral segment. All pivot points have their pivot axis parallel to the pivot axis of the other pivot points. Each force-developing element independently provides a force to a corresponding one of the at least two quadrilateral segments. The invention also relates to a frame for a reclining chair made of two parallel chassis. A reclining chair made of this chassis and a kit for such a reclining chair are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2007Publication date: September 25, 2008Applicant: PBRD INNOVATIONSInventor: Pierre Bellefleur
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Patent number: 7422186Abstract: A vehicle seat and a power seat adjuster assembly for a vehicle seat. The power seat adjuster assembly includes a track assembly having a lead screw and a lead screw constraint.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2006Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Scott Kropfreiter, Thomas Rorabacher, John R. Sims, Ryan Kadlec, Vien Le
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Patent number: 7419216Abstract: The seat back unit has a seat back frame which can be tilted around the tilting axis (11) of the support (21). Movable on the seat back frame (13) is the seat back (25). A linear motor (33) serves to incline the seat back frame (13) together with the seat back (25). With a linear motor (33) the distance between the support (21) and the connecting section (17) of the back frame (13) can be reduced or increased, respectively. A tape (43) extends from a stationary part (45) of the linear motor (33) via the connecting section (17) to the seat back carrier (44). Accordingly, if the seat back frame (13) is tilted towards the rear, the seat back (25) is moved downward together with the arm rests (29) attached to the seat back carrier (44). A stabilizing mechanism (51) keeps the arm rest (29) in a practically horizontal position. Accordingly, on reclining the arms of the user remain always in a practically horizontal position and are finally lowered to a position practically parallel to the body.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Degonda Rehab SAInventor: Kurt Hunziker
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Publication number: 20080197683Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle with rear seats (3), the seat bench (5) and backrests (6) of which may be placed in a first position in which passengers sit in the direction of travel and into a second position in which the load area of the luggage compartment (4) is increased. The seat bench (5) and the backrests (6) may each be pivoted about a horizontal pivot axis (7, 7?) for adjustment from the first to the second position, whereby locking devices (10) are provided on at least the backrests (6), which fix the backrests (6) to the position when locked. According to the invention, a controller (13) is provided which forcibly couples the locking devices (10) for the backrests (6) to the position of the seat bench (5), such that the backrests (6) can only be adjusted from the first position to the second position thereof, when the seat bench (5) is in the second position thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2006Publication date: August 21, 2008Applicant: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Ulrich Ebbeskotte, Armin Kienzle
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Patent number: 7404603Abstract: Drive for furniture configured for adjusting a first furniture part in relation to a second furniture part the drive includes a pivot shaft, which is pivotally mounted on the first part and with which a pivot drive is operatively associated. The drive includes at least one supporting element which cooperates with the pivot shaft and supports it on a supporting surface provided on the second furniture part, and in such a way that the inclination of the first furniture part can be adjusted in relation to the second part and/or the distance of the first part from the second furniture part can be adjusted. The drive for furniture has a simple construction, is cost-effective to produce, saves a significant amount of space and is particularly suited for adjusting the seat part of a seat, for example.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2006Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: Deon AGInventor: Eckhart Dewert
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Patent number: 7398989Abstract: A stand-up type wheelchair for handicapped and sick people comprises a chassis (2) supporting an articulated structure (12) which includes a seat, a foot-rest, a chair-back, and two symmetrical lateral articulated systems. Each system includes a first deformable polygon contributing to the support of the seat, a second deformable polygon, contributing to the support of the foot-rest, a chair-back quadrilateral (four-bar linkage) (35) articulated on the first quadrilateral, and a manoeuvring assembly (40), which includes a first lever (41), a second lever (43), and a manoeuvring handle (49). The manoeuvring handle (49) is articulated firstly on the second lever (43) and/or the first lever (41), and secondly on the first quadrilateral by means of a connecting-rod (55) whose first extremity is connected by a pivot to the first quadrilateral and whose second extremity is connected by a pivot (58) to the manoeuvring handle (49).Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: Lifestand International SAInventor: François Xavier Laffin
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Patent number: 7393053Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2007Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.Inventors: Andrew J. Kurrasch, Robert L. Beck, Daniel Robert Kuiper, Arturo J. Bonomie
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Patent number: 7374245Abstract: A vehicular seat has a seat cushion supported on a floor portion of a vehicle body panel, a seat back divided into a seat back upper and a seat back lower and controlled to be reclined, a seat back upper frame supporting the seat back upper and fixed to a rear portion of the vehicle body panel, a seat back lower frame supporting the seat back lower and rotatably connected to the seat back upper frame, a seat cushion frame supporting the seat cushion and a driving unit fixed to the floor portion and connected to the seat cushion frame so as to activate the seat cushion frame to tilt upwards and forwards. The seat cushion frame and the seat back lower frame are rotatably connected to each other so that the seat back lower is displaced forwards as the seat cushion frame is activated to tilt.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2005Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yukio Tanaka, Kazuhito Kashima, Ritsuro Okano
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Patent number: 7367624Abstract: A mechanism for a vehicle seat is includes a seat bottom supported by the vehicle and a seatback coupled to the seat bottom. The mechanism includes a first adjustment mechanism connected to the vehicle seat and operable between a locked position and an unlocked position and a first powered remote activation device coupled to the first adjustment mechanism. The first powered remote actuation device includes a motor and a transmission element operable to toggle the first adjustment mechanism into the unlocked position.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2006Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: Fisher Dynamics CorporationInventor: Nathan L Garland
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Patent number: 7347492Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2003Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Inventor: Mark L. DiRe
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Patent number: 7331557Abstract: A furniture drive which is embodied as a double drive and used to move parts of a piece of furniture in relation to each other. The furniture drive comprises two drive units, each one having a linearly movable drive element for pivoting a pivot lever which co-operates with a part to be moved of the piece of furniture when the furniture drive is in the assembly position. The linearly movable drive element or an actuating element connected thereto comprises a recess into which the pivot lever projects in the radial direction thereof when the furniture drive is in the assembled position. An inner wall of the recess forms a bearing surface for the pivot lever. The furniture drive has a low overall height and a simple design, and can thus be produced economically.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2001Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Linak A/SInventor: Eckhardt Dewert
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Patent number: 7328939Abstract: A seat assembly for a vehicle includes a seatback, a seat cushion, a link mechanism for supporting the seat cushion, and a drive unit for driving the link mechanism and moving the seat cushion between a seating position and a stowed position. When the seat cushion is moved between the seating position and the stowed position, the seat cushion and the seatback keep a constant posture by an operation of the link mechanism and the drive unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Genta Moriyama, Naoaki Hoshihara
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Publication number: 20080007103Abstract: A system includes a lift chair having sensors embedded therein to determine various factors such as the amount of pressure exerted in various portions of the chair, the activity level of the chair user, whether the chair is occupied and which user is currently occupying the chair, and how much assistance the chair provides the user. The information detected by the sensors can be transmitted via the Internet, for example, to a third party device, such as a doctor's personal computer, which is also hooked up to the internet and is capable of receiving periodic updates to monitor use of the chair or modify the rules that govern the use of the chair. The user can override the pre-set rules for use of the chair by using an override button on a user control device.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Devon M. Welles, Brooke E. Foucault
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Publication number: 20080001565Abstract: A vehicle-side device receives a response signal transmitted from an electronic key carried by a user and executes a matching process to check whether the key is an authorized one. When the matching is confirmed and the operation of a sensor/switch disposed on a door is detected, a given door is unlocked. The device determines a door which is to be opened by the user, and the seat state is controlled on the basis the door to be opened. If the door to be opened is for rearmost seats, the rearmost seats are automatically controlled to a seating state or a loading state based on detection of absence or presence of an object on the rearmost seats.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2007Publication date: January 3, 2008Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Kazuhiro Nakashima, Kentarou Teshima, Kenichi Ogino
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Patent number: 7306285Abstract: In the case of an adjuster (3) for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, with a drivable geared fitting, the driven geared fitting moving a component of the adjuster (3) and/or of the vehicle seat (1), a gear stage (21) with a fluctuating transmission ratio is connected upstream of the geared fitting.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2006Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: Keiper GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Rolf Schüler, Ulrich Lehmann
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Publication number: 20070273187Abstract: A massage chair of the invention includes an electric reclining mechanism for moving a backrest into different sloping positions, a holding mechanism for holding at least one forearm of a user to fix to the base side, and a controller that controls operations of these mechanisms. The controller controls to allow the holding mechanism to hold the at least one forearm and allow the electric reclining mechanism to move the backrest into at least one sloping position before moving the backrest into an end position. An inclination of the at least one sloping position from a sloping position of the different sloping positions when the at least one forearm is held by the holding mechanism is smaller than an inclination of the end position from a sloping position of the different sloping positions when the at least one forearm is held by the holding mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2007Publication date: November 29, 2007Applicant: MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC WORKS, LTD.Inventors: Takayoshi Tanizawa, Satoshi Kajiyama, Masamichi Miyaguchi, Daisuke Tsukada, Fumihiro Nishio, Takeo Iijima, Yuichi Nishibori
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Patent number: 7293834Abstract: An articulating table including a back rest section, a seat section, and an articulation mechanism that adjusts the position of at least the back rest section and the seat section to configure the table between the substantially flat table configuration and the chair configuration. The articulating table preferably includes a foot rest section, and at least one hinge that pivotally connects the foot rest section to the seat section so that the foot rest section is pivotable about the hinge.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2005Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Oakworks, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey M. Riach, James E. Hollingshead, Dave J. Wilston, Bryan K. Anderson
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Patent number: 7281749Abstract: A vehicle seat device includes a right side link mechanism and a left side link mechanism adapted to be provided between a vehicle floor and a seat for supporting the seat to move upward and downward relative to the vehicle floor, a first actuator operatively engaged with the right side link mechanism for operating the right side link mechanism, a second actuator operatively engaged with the left side link mechanism for operating the left side link mechanism, and a controller for controlling the first actuator and the second actuator separately.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2004Date of Patent: October 16, 2007Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yukifumi Yamada, Sadao Ito, Hideo Nihonmatsu
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Patent number: 7273257Abstract: Mechanism for simultaneously turning up and stretching out an extension part (12,112) relative to a reference part (1,101),with a telescopic sliding profile element (10,110) connected to the reference part and to the extension part, The essentially fixed sliding profile element may be connected to said reference part via a pantograph framework The invention also relates to recliner chair constructions involving such mechanism for turning up and simultaneously stretching out a footrest.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: TOMOH GmbHInventor: Koen De Vroe
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Patent number: 7273255Abstract: A patient chair is provided that includes a chassis with a frame, a seating device intended for a patient and connected to the chassis, and a driving device for moving the seating device relative to the frame in the vertical direction between a lower position and an upper position, wherein in the upper position the seating device and, thus, a patient sitting in it are inclined backwards relative to the lower position. In one implementation, a stand belonging to the chassis extends upwards from the frame, and an element connected to the stand is continuously arched. Means cooperating with each other and positioned on the stand and the seating device are arranged for guiding the seating device along the element in the movement of the seating device between the lower and upper positions, so that the seating device is continuously gradually tilted in the course of its curved movement in the vertical direction.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Arjo Hospital Equipment ABInventors: Pär Nylander, Per Ekelin, Bo Persson
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Patent number: 7255397Abstract: The present invention provides an adjustable furnishing such as a lift chair including a support member with a surface for supporting a user. A mechanism is connected to the support member for adjusting a position of the support member. One or more infrared radiation sensors are positioned beneath the surface of the support member to generate a signal when a heated body is detected in proximity to the mechanism. A controller is provided for receiving the signal from the infrared radiation sensors and inhibiting travel of the mechanism and the support member in a direction of the detected heated body.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2004Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Assignee: Golden Technologies, Inc.Inventor: James Olcheski
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Patent number: 7246856Abstract: A positioning and control system to selectively position and to monitor and record the position of the seat frame, back rest frame and leg rest supports of a powered wheelchair wherein the positioning and control system comprises a seat positioning mechanism including a seat tilt positioning assembly and a back rest recline positioning assembly to position the tilt of the seat frame and the recline of the back rest frame respectively, and a leg rest positioning mechanism including leg rest positioning assemblies to position the leg rest supports, and a system control including an operator input control and a microprocessor to control, monitor and record the position of the seat frame, back rest frame and the leg rest supports.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2003Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: Hoveround CorporationInventors: Thomas Kruse, Timothy Philipp
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Patent number: 7243996Abstract: A power folding seat for installation within a vehicle includes a seat cushion mountable to the vehicle, a seat back pivotally coupled to the seat cushion, and a power actuator disposed within the seat back for automatically rotating the seat back between an upright position and a folded position. The power actuator includes a power seat recliner, a latch assembly, a power head restraint adjuster, and a control system coupled to the power seat recliner, the latch assembly, and the power head restraint adjuster. The control system includes a signal receiver which is configured to receive commands from a remote transmitter, and a data processor coupled to the signal receiver. The data processor controls the power seat recliner, the power latch actuator and the power head restraint adjuster, and is configured to move the seat back between the upright position and the folded position in accordance with the received remote commands.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2006Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Intier Automotive Inc.Inventor: Andrew R. Daniels
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Patent number: 7234776Abstract: The body support chair for physically challenged and disabled persons comprises a frame supporting an articulated structure comprising a seat, a foot rest, a back and two symmetrical lateral systems. Each articulated system comprises a first deformable quadrilateral (17), a second deformable polygon, a back assembly and a maneuvering assembly. The chair comprises, in addition, means (60) for automatic modification of the inclination (?) of the back of the chair with respect to the vertical direction in the sagittal plane between the lowered and verticalized positions. Figure to be published: FIG.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2004Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Lifestand International SAInventor: Francois Xavier Laffin
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Patent number: 7219960Abstract: A lifting chair, having a seat which is pivoted upward, being hinged along its front edge to help lift an individual who has trouble rising from an ordinary chair, also has arms which move upward during this pivoting process. Similarly, the seat and arms are moved downward to help the individual sit down. The linkage preferably is a parallelogram type preventing rotation of the arms as they are moved upward and downward along arcuate paths.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Inventor: Mohammed A. Hajianpour
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Patent number: 7216935Abstract: The present invention provides a dynamic chair having a deterministic motion path that allows a variety to different paths to be selected depending of needs of user. By changing the ratio between drive wheels that control the pitch and roll of the seat, motion paths can be selected to help a person assume and/or avoid certain postures while seated. Embodiments of the present invention move the seat of the dynamic chair through a deterministic path to dictate how often and when the seat is in a level position with respect to pitch and roll.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2006Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: William E. Wegener
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Patent number: 7198243Abstract: The invention relates to a longitudinal seat adjustment device comprising an upper rail (40) and a lower rail (10). The upper rail (40) sits in the lower rail (10). Between the two rails (10, 40) a spindle (14) is fixedly connected to the lower rail (10). Drivable on said spindle (14) is a transmission (30), which can be retained in a specific manner by means of slotted bridges in the case of a crash.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: IMS Gear GmbHInventors: Wolfram-Heinrich Hofschulte, Michael Wöhrle, Frank Probst, Fred Krimmel
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Patent number: 7192087Abstract: An adjustable seat cushion thigh support system 10 for the use of a seat and method for providing same. The seat has a cushion pan 12 that is fixed in relation to a vehicle. A pair of side rails 14 and a rear cross member 16 form the fixed cushion pan 12. The thigh support system 10 has fixed anchor brackets 18 that extend inwardly from side rails 14. Slider brackets 20 are adapted to move forwardly and rearwardly in relation to the anchor brackets 18. A cushion ramp 22 is supported by the slider brackets 20 so as to permit forward and rearward motion of the cushion ramp 22 when the slider brackets 20 move in relation to the cushion pan 12. The cushion ramp 22 underlies the seat cushion thigh support.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Vincent Adragna, Paul Wier, Mohammad Saberan, Eric Beaulieu
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Patent number: 7163263Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2003Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.Inventors: Andrew J. Kurrasch, Robert L. Beck, Daniel Robert Kuiper, Arturo J. Bonomie
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Patent number: 7152922Abstract: A mechanism for a vehicle seat is includes a seat bottom supported by the vehicle and a seatback coupled to the seat bottom. The mechanism includes a first adjustment mechanism connected to the vehicle seat and operable between a locked position and an unlocked position and a first powered remote activation device coupled to the first adjustment mechanism. The first powered remote actuation device includes a motor and a transmission element operable to toggle the first adjustment mechanism into the unlocked position.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Fisher Dynamics CorporationInventor: Nathan L. Garland
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Patent number: 7140682Abstract: A vehicle seating system for adjusting, without rails, the vertical and longitudinal position and the inclination of a vehicle seat relative to a vehicle floor has, in one embodiment, first and second pivot levers, spaced apart from one another in an adjustment direction. The pivot levers are articulated respectively on the vehicle seat and on the vehicle floor by way of pivot pins extending parallel to one another. The pivot pins arranged on the vehicle seat and on the vehicle floor of at least one of the pivot levers are lockable independently of one another.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2001Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology CompanyInventors: David Jaeger, Nick Xiromeritis, Tamas Karacsonyi, Marc Clark
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Patent number: 7109677Abstract: A method for controlling a motorized barrier operator after detecting an obstruction includes the steps of providing a motorized barrier operator that moves a barrier between limit positions and providing at least one control switch that upon actuation moves the barrier in a direction toward one of the limit positions. Actuation of the at least one control switch during movement of the barriers at least causes the barrier to stop. If an obstruction is detected by the motorized barrier operator during movement of the barrier, the operator allows only uni-directional movement of the barrier, regardless of actuation of the at least one control switch, after the detecting step.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2004Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.Inventors: Richard E Gagnon, James S Murray