Bottom And Back Movable As A Unit Patents (Class 297/344.1)
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Publication number: 20130056951Abstract: A vehicle includes a seating platform featuring a first pair of scat mounting holes, a second pair of seat mounting holes positioned rearward of the first pair of seat mounting holes and a third pair of seat mounting holes positioned rearward of the second pair of seat mounting holes. A seatback is provided with a pair of hooks and a pair of snaps. Each of the snaps includes a catch portion. The hooks and snaps are adapted to engage the first and second pair of seat mounting holes to secure the seatback in a first position. The hooks and snaps are also adapted to engage the second and third pair of seat mounting holes to secure the seatback in a second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2012Publication date: March 7, 2013Inventors: JOSEPH AGATI, Edward Paramadilok
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Publication number: 20130049411Abstract: A furniture member providing powered occupant lift includes a mechanism having a mechanism support base, a support base side movably connected to the mechanism support base, and a mechanism inner portion connected to the support base side. The mechanism inner portion includes a seat back portion; a leg rest portion; and a first drive assembly connected to the mechanism inner portion sequentially operating to extend the leg rest portion from a stowed to a fully extended position followed by seat back portion rotation from an upright to a fully reclined position. A second drive assembly connected between the mechanism support base and the support base side displaces the support base side and the mechanism inner portion with respect to the mechanism support base. A frame structure connected to the support base side is moved to at least a forward fully raised position by operation of the lift/drive mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2011Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: La-Z-Boy IncorporatedInventor: Larry P. LaPointe
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Publication number: 20130043705Abstract: An arrangement in passenger vehicles, that provide a mechanism for reducing the peak inertial loading on the occupant including children during lateral acceleration, and has synergistic comfort, convenience and utility features.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2012Publication date: February 21, 2013Inventor: Arjuna Indraeswaran Rajasingham
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Patent number: 8376460Abstract: The problem to be solved is to provide a seat track assembly which is simple, easy to operate seat track assembly where locking is simplex and intact and which renders a smooth sliding of seat and the problem is solved by providing a seat track assembly with a lower channel, upper channel, latch bracket, latch pin, lever and sliding assemblies wherein sliding assemblies provide a streamlined sliding to the upper channel and at the desirable position latch pin engages with the lower channel to lock the seat track mechanism from moving further forward or rearward.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Hema Engineering Industries LimitedInventors: Prasad Nadgouda, Prasad Ghalsasi, Ashok Ramteke
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Patent number: 8328155Abstract: The invention relates to a rail adjustment system for a motor vehicle seat, wherein the rail adjustment system includes an electromotive spindle drive and a threaded spindle that can be coupled to a flexible drive shaft for the longitudinal adjustment of a rail pair. The rails of said rail pair are connected to one another by means of a retaining element, which includes an integrated guide duct for holding the drive shaft.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2008Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KommanditgesellschaftInventor: Sergej Kostin
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Patent number: 8322677Abstract: There is provided a slide structure of a vehicle seat comprises a stationary outer rail, a movable inner rail, and means for locking said movable inner rail which locks said movable inner rail against said stationary outer rail in the longitudinal direction, said movable inner rail fits with said stationary outer rail in such a way that opening portions formed by the respective C-shaped cross-sections face each other, a retainer extending in the longitudinal direction is provided between said stationary outer rail and said movable inner rail, said retainer includes a retaining portion for retaining a ball rolling between said two rails, said movable side surface, said stationary side surface and said retainer side surface portion are all disposed along the vertical direction of the vehicle, whereby each of said stationary outer rail and said movable inner rail is arranged to form a vertically elongated cross-section.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masaaki Nonomiya
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Patent number: 8322676Abstract: A slide structure of a vehicle seat is capable of maintaining an aesthetic external appearance and a safety of the vehicle seat and has a stationary outer rail which extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and includes a substantially C-shaped cross-section an opening portion of which is oriented inwardly in the widthwise direction of the vehicle and is disposed to exhibit an elongated cross-section in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and a movable inner rail which extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and fits over said stationary outer rail so as to be slidable in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle relative to said stationary outer rail and is fixed on the seat cushion.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masaaki Nonomiya
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Publication number: 20120299352Abstract: A vehicle seat interface assembly having a track including a web having a substantially uniform thickness and one of a key and a key slot. A seat bracket is operably connected with a vehicle seat. The seat bracket includes a support that has the other of the key and the key slot disposed thereon. The key includes first and second side portions. The space defined between the first side portion and the support is greater than the thickness of the web. The space defined between the second side portion and the support is less than the thickness of the web, such that the key may be inserted into the key slot and laterally translated until the web is frictionally secured between the second side portion and the support.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 26, 2011Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventors: Johnathan Andrew Line, Majid Arefi, Michael Medoro, Khaled Ayyash, Daniel Ferretti
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Patent number: 8317263Abstract: A vehicle seat system and method in which a seat belt restraint assembly is secured directly to the seat. The vehicle seat system includes a seat frame and a seat base that supports the seat frame. The system includes a first stop operating at rear portions of the seat base and seat frame to couple the seat base and seat frame and to limit forward pivoting movement of the seat frame upon sudden deceleration. The system may also include a second stop to limit rearward pivoting movement of the seat frame. The coupling of the seat base and seat frame provides the seat system with sufficient strength to satisfy load testing requirements and to provide comfort to the occupant. The vehicle system may include a tilt adjustment mechanism that allows tilting of the seat frame and that may also form part of a cushion slide mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2011Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: CVG Management CorporationInventor: Stephen Patrick Telesco
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Publication number: 20120292969Abstract: In an example embodiment, an instructor seat for the cab of an agricultural vehicle is convertible between a sitting condition when the seat is in a forward position and a non-sitting condition when the seat is in a rearward position. The instructor seat may include a seat base and seat back, a conveyor to move the seat between a forward position and a rearward position, and a latch mechanism to place the seat back in a generally vertical position when the seat is in a forward position and force the seat back into a generally horizontal non-sitting position when the seat is in a rearward position.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2011Publication date: November 22, 2012Applicant: AGCO CORPORATIONInventors: Timothy Allen Murray, Stephen Nuemeyer
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Patent number: 8313146Abstract: A vehicle seat is provided, particularly for a center seat in a row of seats. The seat includes a back part swivel connected to a seat part so that the back part and seat part swivel away from each other in a seating position and swivel toward one another in a first stowage position. The seat back may be altered in its longitudinal extent between the first stowage position and a second stowage position such that the seat back has a seat length and a shorter stowage length. The seat further includes a traveling mechanism which automatically moves the back part longitudinally from the seat length to the shorter stowage length when the back part is folded into the first stowage position.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2010Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Uwe Wagner, Carsten Schauf, Herbert Tiefert, Robert Spahl
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Patent number: 8308241Abstract: An apparatus for sitting, including: a keystone assembly which connects various parts of the apparatus; a back that provides support for at least a person's back or shoulders; a floating lumbar support, which provides support for a person's lower back, attached to the keystone assembly; a seat that can adjust between a forward tilted and reclined position; a plurality of rollers, disposed on the keystone assembly, on which the seat rests; a central column, attached to the keystone assembly, on which the seat can spin; and a lower torsion spring connected to the seat and disposed on the keystone assembly allowing controlled movement of the seat.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2011Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Inventor: Jeffrey B. Jenkins
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Patent number: 8297564Abstract: A fluid control system for use with a patient support apparatus is moveable from a first height to a second height. The system includes a lift arm and a substantially upright cylinder. A first end of the lift arm is pivotably coupled to a base member and a second end of the lift arm is coupled to a chair structure. The cylinder assembly has a base portion and an extendable member configured to contact and support the lift arm. The cylinder assembly includes a bypass valve having a first end in fluid contact with an upper reservoir and a second end in fluid contact with a lower reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: A-dec, Inc.Inventor: Henry Warn Jackson
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Patent number: 8297583Abstract: A seat track mechanism for a vehicle, includes a lower rail mounted to a vehicle floor; an upper rail supported by the lower rail and slidable relative to the lower rail; and spherical rotators held between the lower and upper rails, the spherical rotators rolling via a sliding movement of the upper rail. One of the upper rail and the lower rail includes at least one horizontal flat portion parallel to a widthwise direction of the seat track mechanism and parallel to a direction of the sliding movement of the upper rail, and the other of the upper rail and the lower rail includes at least one rotator supporting recess having a circularly arcuate shape in cross section which is uniform in a lengthwise direction of the seat track mechanism, the spherical rotators being held between the rotator supporting recess and the horizontal flat portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2011Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Shiroki CorporationInventors: Akihiro Kimura, Hidehiko Fujioka, Hiroyuki Suzuki, Kanji Yamaguchi
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Patent number: 8297582Abstract: A vehicle seat sliding apparatus having a lower rail adapted to be fixed to a vehicle floor and an upper rail adapted to be fixed to a seat and connected to the lower rail so as to be movable with respect to the lower rail includes: a lock lever adapted to be connected rotatably to the upper rail and engaged with the lower rail for selectively the movement of the upper rail with respect to the lower rail; an operating lever adapted to be connected rotatably to a supporting bracket adapted to support the seat in the direction of rotation different from the direction of rotation of the lock lever above the lock lever; and a connecting rod adapted to be connected at one end and the other end directly to the lock lever and the operating lever respectively, and adapted to transmit an operating force to release restriction of the movement with respect to the lock lever by a pressing operation in association with the rotation of the operating lever.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yasuhiro Kojima, Hideo Nihonmatsu, Yoshihisa Hori
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Patent number: 8292224Abstract: An improved seating apparatus for an aircraft includes a seat assembly and a quick install track fitting assembly for securing the seat assembly to the aircraft. In a preferred embodiment, the quick install track fitting assembly is made up of a track fitting body for insertion into an aircraft seat track and a manual lever that is pivotably attached to the track fitting body. The manual lever has a lever release position and a lever lock position. A force bearing plunger is movably attached to the manual lever for transferring force to the aircraft seat track. The force bearing plunger has a track release position and a track lock position, wherein both positions correspond to the lever release and lever lock positions of the manual lever. A lock may also be provided for maintaining the plunger in the track lock position when the manual lever is in the lever lock position.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2009Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: TIMCO Aviation Services, Inc.Inventors: Sam J. Ahad, Miguel Angel Alvarez-Torres
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Publication number: 20120248840Abstract: An under-frame apparatus for a motor vehicle seat may include a basic body, a seat frame adjustable with respect to the basic body between an utmost rear and front positions, a pair of front and rear vibration levers joint-connected to the basic body and the seat frame, respectively, an adjustment arm joint-connected one of the front and rear vibration levers and including a saw teeth engagement part on a free end region thereof, an adjustment device rotatably coupled to the seat frame and engaged to the free end region to adjust a position of the seat frame with respect to the basic body, wherein the adjustment device includes a pinion gear engaged to the adjustment arm and driven by an operation unit, and an elastic member attached to the seat frame and applying a restoring force to the seat frame toward a starting position.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2012Publication date: October 4, 2012Applicants: C. Rob. Hammerstein GmbH & Co. KG, Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Burckhard Becker, Wilfried Beneker
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Publication number: 20120223561Abstract: A seat track assembly includes a seat track operable for sliding movement of a seat assembly. A towel bar pivots a drive lever unlocking the seat track and allowing sliding movement of the seat assembly within a range of comfort positions. A stop lever pivots between a lowered position and a raised position. In the lowered position. the stop lever engages a stop bracket secured to the seat track preventing the seat assembly from moving forward of the range of comfort positions. A cam pivots in response to pivotally moving a seat back to a dump position. Pivoting the cam pivots the drive lever unlocking the seat track and pivots the stop lever to the raised position spaced above the stop bracket to allow sliding movement of the seat assembly to an easy-entry position forward of the range of comfort positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2010Publication date: September 6, 2012Applicant: Magna Seating Inc.Inventors: Nelson E. Hurst, III, Prasad D. Jagtap, Jeffrey P. Carroll, Jonathan A. Calhoun, Rabindranath Persad
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Publication number: 20120212020Abstract: A vehicle seat, in particular a passenger seat in a passenger transportation vehicle, which is fastened releasably and adjustably on a supporting structure remote from the floor, is provided. A supporting tube is fastened in a horizontally projecting manner in a wall region of a vehicle. The vehicle seat is fixed to the supporting tube after being pushed onto the supporting tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2011Publication date: August 23, 2012Inventor: Benno Schiefer
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Patent number: 8226063Abstract: An adjustment mechanism is disclosed for moving a movable member relative to a fixed member. A threaded screw is fixedly secured to the fixed member. A gear is rotatably disposed about the threaded screw. A housing includes a bore and an opening in a lower surface. A rotatably driven worm is disposed within the bore and includes a threaded outer surface that protrudes through the opening in the lower surface of the housing and threadably engages the gear. A generally U-shaped retainer strap partially surrounds the gear and is adapted to couple the housing and gear together to align and preload the worm and gear. A generally U-shaped bracket is adapted to be fixedly secured to the movable member, wherein the gear, housing, worm, and retainer strap are disposed within the bracket and the threaded screw passes through a pair of openings in the bracket.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2007Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Intier Automotive IncInventor: James L. Weber
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Publication number: 20120153696Abstract: A set of slides for vehicle seats including two slide locks actuated by a cross-bar assembly pivotally mounted on the two slides by means of bearings. The bearings each include an indentation and the ends of the cross-bar assembly each include a tooth enabling nesting of the cross-bar assembly in the bearing parallel to the pivot axis. The tooth retains the end of the cross-bar assembly in the bearing.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: Faurecia Sieges d'AutomobileInventor: Gérald Garotte
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Publication number: 20120153689Abstract: The invention relates to a seat for a vehicle, in particular for all-terrain vehicles, with at least one seat area extending in the longitudinal direction (X) of the vehicle and in the width-wise direction (Y) of the vehicle for receiving a person, a backrest for supporting the back of the person and a holding device connected in the vertical direction (Z) under the seat area and to the latter for keeping the seat area at a distance from a coupling region for coupling the seat to the vehicle, wherein the holding device has at least one spring device for the movable arrangement at least for a time of at least the seat area with respect to the coupling region in the longitudinal direction (X) of the vehicle and/or in the width-wise direction (Y) of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventors: Erwin HALLER, Jens KOLB
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Publication number: 20120158138Abstract: A convertible chair, for example, a hair transplantation chair that permits movement of the patient during a procedure while the patient's head remains substantially stationary. The chair may include a head support and a plurality of body supports that may be mounted on a base, or on a cradle movably attached to the base. The chair can be configured for a follicular unit harvesting procedure and it could be also converted into a hair implantation configuration for hair implantation procedure. The patient remains in the chair during the procedure with his head substantially stationary, while various parts of his body may be repositioned, for example, by rotation of the cradle. The chair may be automated, or assisted with pneumatics, motors, foot pumps and the like. The chair is particularly useful for assisting robotic hair transplantation procedures.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: Restoration Robotics, Inc.Inventors: Mark D. Brinkerhoff, Robert A. Hines, Gary R. Schultheis, Eric R. Winger
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Publication number: 20120146377Abstract: The invention provides a seating apparatus having a reclining movement with a corresponding seat lift movement. In one embodiment, the invention is directed to a seating apparatus comprising a base, a curved support bar pivotally connected to the base, a plurality of ramps attached to one of the curved support bar and the base, and a plurality of rollers attached to the other of the curved support bar and the base for interacting with the plurality of ramps. As a user reclines, the plurality of rollers operatively engage the plurality of ramps to lift the seat of the apparatus. The combination of the reclining movement with the corresponding seat lift movement is particularly beneficial for providing an increased level of user comfort throughout a range of seating positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2012Publication date: June 14, 2012Inventor: Niels Diffrient
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Patent number: 8196887Abstract: A seat mount with integrated adjustment that includes a seat base with integrally molded slide bearing receiving pockets that each receives an integrally formed slide bearing of one piece and unitary construction that engages apertures formed in a seat mount that preferably is a seat slide plate or seat mounting plate.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2006Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Milsco Manufacturing Company, A Unit Of Jason IncorporatedInventors: Bruce Dahlbacka, Kenneth Braun
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Patent number: 8197004Abstract: An adjustable seat suspension for a vehicle seat that includes a linkage arrangement disposed between a seat frame and seat base whose collapse is opposed by a spring lever arm linkage arrangement supported on a fluid powered spring actuator carried by the base that has a plurality of pivotable spring lever arms that are each coupled to a portion of the frame. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid powered spring actuator is an air spring whose pressure is adjustable and which is powered by an air compressor to tailor suspension characteristics and provide a desired preload. The base includes an upright to which the spring lever arm linkage arrangement is pivotally mounted with its spring lever arms supported by a saddle carried by the air spring at a location disposed between the upright and where the spring lever arms couple with the seat suspension.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2008Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Milsco Manfacturing Company, A Unit Of Jason IncorporatedInventors: Robert J. Wahls, Ronald Uecker
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Patent number: 8172192Abstract: A longitudinal displacement device is provided that has an upper rail that is displaceable in the longitudinal direction, and a stationary lower rail. A linear guide that has a bearing element for longitudinal guidance and support of the upper rail is located in the longitudinal direction between the upper rail and the lower rail. Provided on the upper rail is a carrier that engages in a recess bounded by two stops and located in the center region of the bearing cage as viewed in the longitudinal direction, in order to carry the bearing cage along. A recess bounded by two stops is located in the center region of the bearing element. Provided on the upper rail is a carrier that engages in the recess. During a displacement of the upper rail, the bearing element is carried along by the carrier, so that the upper rail is always supported on the lower rail over its entire length. The motor vehicle seat can thus be displaced in a smooth-running manner with the application of a small force.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2009Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KommanditgesellschaftInventors: Jochen Hofmann, Marco Gleissberg
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Publication number: 20120104819Abstract: A vehicle seat is movable in a rocking or rotating fashion about a center-of-rotation located above a seat bottom. The seat bottom has forward and rear edges and a mounting structure for securing the seat bottom to a vehicle interior engaging the seat bottom to permit movement of the forward edge along a first arcuate path and movement of the rear edge along a second arcuate path. The two arcuate paths having a common center-of-curvature located above the seat bottom, the center-of-curvature defining the center-of-rotation of the seat. A seat back attached to the seat bottom is independently adjustable in recline angle relative to the seat bottom. The arcuate paths may be defined by forward and rear guide tracks formed in one or more seat mounting brackets. A rack-and-pinion drive mechanism is provided to allow manual or powered adjustment of the seat along the guide tracks.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Johnathan Andrew Line, John W. Jaranson
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Patent number: 8136784Abstract: A vehicle seat slide device is provided, wherein a manipulation handle has a grip portion, acting end portions for operating lock/unlock mechanisms, shaft support portions which are between the acting end portions and the grip portion and which are formed to a flat shape to become parallel to vertical walls, and pivot support shafts protruding from the shaft support portions in a direction of the pivot center of the manipulation handle. The vertical walls have opened holding holes which open at front parts and into which the pivot support shafts are inserted from opened portions to be supported at inner parts, and holding members holding the pivot support shafts in the opened holding holds.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2009Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yukifumi Yamada, Naoki Goto, Shinya Isobe
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Patent number: 8128051Abstract: A seat sliding apparatus for a vehicle includes lower rails, upper rails, screw mechanisms provided between the upper rails and the lower rails, the screw mechanism including a screw shaft and a nut which is engaged with the screw shaft, one of the screw shaft and the nut being mounted to the upper rail so as to rotate, the other of the screw shaft and the nut being fixedly mounted to the lower rail, and a slide driving mechanism including a driving motor, a transmission mechanism for transmitting a rotational force outputted from the driving motor to one of the screw shaft and the nut so as to rotate, a bracket having the driving motor and the transmission mechanism mounted thereon and connecting the upper rails, and a protection cover attached to the bracket for covering at least lower and bottom sides of the driving motor and the transmission mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2009Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yoshitaka Koga, Jueru Shimizu
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Publication number: 20120043798Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle suspension device for a vehicle seat (4, 4a, 4b) or a vehicle cab (3) comprising a lower part (20) and an upper part (4a, 4b) spring-mounted relative to the lower part (20) by means of at least one spring device, wherein the upper part (4a, 4b) is mounted relative to the lower part (20) in such a way that it is pivotable (17) about an imaginary or real axis (15) extending in the vehicle width direction or vehicle length direction (8) when vibrations occur between the upper part (4a, 4b) and the lower part (20).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2011Publication date: February 23, 2012Applicant: GRAMMER AGInventors: Erwin HALLER, Jens KOLB
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Publication number: 20120025576Abstract: A dual-hinged spring assembly. One assembly comprises two elastomeric arcs including an upper arc having downward ends, and a lower arc having upward ends, the upward ends of the lower arc being movably connected to the downward ends of the upper arc, thereby forming an ovoid spring. Further, when the lower arc is secured against a supporting surface, pressure against the upper arc causes the dual-hinge spring to compress.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2010Publication date: February 2, 2012Applicant: BABYROO LTD.Inventors: Hezi Stern, Uri Weinstein
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Patent number: 8100476Abstract: An apparatus for sitting, including: a keystone assembly which connects various parts of the apparatus; a back that provides support for at least a person's back or shoulders; a floating lumbar support, which provides support for a person's lower back, attached to the keystone assembly; a seat that can adjust between a forward tilted and reclined position; a plurality of rollers, disposed on the keystone assembly, on which the seat rests; a central column, attached to the keystone assembly, on which the seat can spin; and a lower torsion spring connected to the seat and disposed on the keystone assembly allowing controlled movement of the seat.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2009Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Inventor: Jeffrey B. Jenkins
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Patent number: 8100457Abstract: A seat system for the interior of a motor vehicle, such as a driver's cab of a truck, has a vehicle seat that is movable from a home position, set on a seat support on the vehicle, into at least one further position. The vehicle seat is separable from the seat support and has a roller element device by which the vehicle seat can be moved into a position separated from the seat support. The seat support can include at least one coupling element for a connection line, with the coupling element being connectable to a coupling element on the vehicle seat.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2009Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: Daimler AGInventors: Ryan Dickman, Mark Hurayt, Holger Schleife, Kai Sieber, Justin Yee
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Patent number: 8087612Abstract: A support structure for an aircraft seat includes load bearing spaced side members, each having elements for securing a seat for continuous movement between first and second positions, and a ground engaging portion. The structure further includes a stiffening web extending between the side members. The side members and the stiffening web substantially define a hollow box section of at least four sides to stiffen the side members, at least in the regions beneath the element securing the seat. The support structure allows other material than the conventional steel or aluminum constructions to be used for the support frame. For example, substantially all off the structural strength of the support may be provided by fiber reinforced composite materials.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: James Park Associates LimitedInventor: James William Park
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Publication number: 20110316317Abstract: An adjustable seat for a vehicle includes a seat part having a first seat position and a second seat position relative to a floor of the vehicle. The seat also includes a quick unlocking device that unlocks the adjusting device to adjust the seat. An adjusting device moves the seat part between the first seat position and the second position. The vehicle seat also includes a backrest part pivotably connected to the seat part. The backrest part is operatively connected to the quick unlocking adjusting device such that pivoting of the backrest part between an upright position and a folded over position unlocks the adjusting device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: December 29, 2011Applicant: Johnson Controls GmbHInventors: Erik Sprenger, Stefan Heuel, Salih Yilmaz, Jorg Seibt
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Patent number: 8078364Abstract: A vehicle seat apparatus includes: a vehicle seat; a swiveling drive unit that swivels the vehicle seat between the frontward-oriented position in which the vehicle seat faces the front of a vehicle and at least one of the outward-oriented position in which the vehicle seat is oriented in the outward direction of the vehicle and the inward-oriented position in which the vehicle seat is oriented in the inward direction of the vehicle; a traveling route information obtainment unit that obtains information on a traveling route along which the vehicle travels; and a control unit that controls the operation of the swiveling drive unit based on the information obtained by the traveling route information obtainment unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, The University of TokyoInventors: Teiji Mabuchi, Osamu Fujimoto, Kei Matsui, Yoshihiro Suda, Yoshihiko Tabuchi, Shoichiro Takehara, Daisuke Yamaguchi, Takaaki Koga
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Publication number: 20110298265Abstract: A seat assembly for an automotive vehicle is provided with a seat cushion and a seat back pivotally connected to the seat cushion for pivotal movement between an upright seating position and a forwardly folded dump position. A seat track assembly is fixedly secured to the seat cushion for providing a selective fore and aft sliding adjustment of the seat assembly along a first linear path between a full forward position and a full rearward position. A tip slide mechanism is operatively coupled to the seat track assembly and adapted for mounting the seat assembly to a vehicle floor. The tip slide mechanism provides fore and aft movement of the seat assembly along a second curved path transverse to the first linear path between a seating position and an easy entry position to provide access behind the seat assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2010Publication date: December 8, 2011Applicant: Magna Seating Inc.Inventor: Christopher Ngiau
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Publication number: 20110278892Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle seat and to a method for producing said vehicle seat, in particular for motor vehicles, comprising a plurality of structural or retaining parts which are joined together or to a further part in at least one joining region, the join being produced by friction welding in at least one of the joining regions.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2009Publication date: November 17, 2011Applicant: BROSE FAHRZEUGTEILE GMBH & CO. KG, COBURGInventors: Gregor Kroener, Sandra Kieser
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Patent number: 8056979Abstract: An assembly for supporting a user in multiple positions relative to a surface, the assembly including a frame positioned on the surface, a support being movably coupled to the frame, a first connector extending from beneath the support and being movable with the support as the support moves relative to the frame, and a second connector positioned beneath the support. The first connector is movable relative to the second connector as the support moves relative to the frame, and the first connector is selectively secured to the second connector in different positions, each of the different positions corresponding to a different position of the support relative to the frame.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2006Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Stamina Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert McBride, Newton W Lin, Robert McDonial, James Lucas
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Patent number: 8056976Abstract: A chair apparatus is provided with multiple pivot axis for improving core strength, posture, and circulation of the user. The chair apparatus includes a seat portion that is capable of pivotal movement about multiple pivot axes and along a surface. The chair apparatus further includes a frame coupled to the seat portion, wherein the frame limits the pivotal movement of the seat portion only when the chair apparatus is placed in a supported orientation.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Inventor: Louis F. Polk
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Publication number: 20110266850Abstract: A vehicle seat includes a seat cushion, and a sliding apparatus provided underneath the seat cushion. The sliding apparatus has a lower rail, and an upper rail that slidably attaches to the lower rail. The seat cushion has a frame body that includes a pipe member. The pipe member has a main body portion that extends along an end edge of the seat cushion, a leg portion that extends downward toward the upper rail from an end portion of the main body portion, and a mounting portion that extends from a lower end portion of the leg portion and is flattened such that a hollow portion of the pipe member is small, all integrated together. The mounting portion has a flat surface that abuts against the upper rail, and is mounted to the upper rail.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2011Publication date: November 3, 2011Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Kousuke SEI, Yukinori SUGIURA, Ikuko OTA, Tatsuya ONO, Takashi OKADA
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Patent number: 8038210Abstract: A vehicle seat system and method in which a seat belt restraint assembly is secured directly to the seat. The vehicle seat system includes a seat frame and a seat base that supports the seat frame. The system includes a first stop operating at rear portions of the seat base and seat frame to couple the seat base and seat frame and to limit forward pivoting movement of the seat frame upon sudden deceleration. The system may also include a second stop to limit rearward pivoting movement of the seat frame. The coupling of the seat base and seat frame provides the seat system with sufficient strength to satisfy load testing requirements and to provide comfort to the occupant. The vehicle system may include a tilt adjustment mechanism that allows tilting of the seat frame and that may also form part of a cushion slide mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2008Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: CVG Management CorporationInventor: Stephen Patrick Telesco
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Patent number: 8033520Abstract: An upper rail constituting a slide mechanism has engagement surface portions and engagement surface portions each having a projected surface portion. The engagement surface portions are positioned at front and rear two portions of the upper rail. A lower rail has detent surface portions formed between the engagement surface portions and the engagement surface portions. The detent surface portions are covered with the upper rail. When the engagement surface portions or the engagement surface portions contact the detent surface portions due to sliding of the upper rail, a vehicle seat can be prevented from sliding.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2008Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignees: Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki Kaisha, Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masahiro Fujieda, Yasuhiro Kojima
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Patent number: 8029063Abstract: A track assembly for a vehicle seat includes a first track member and a reinforcing member. The first track member has a first portion defining a first set of apertures configured to receive a locking device. The reinforcing member, which may be in the form of a plate, is coupled to the first portion and defines a second set of apertures corresponding to the first set of apertures. The second set of apertures are also configured to receive the locking device. The reinforcing member is configured to reinforce the first track member in an area around and between the first set of apertures.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2007Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology CompanyInventors: David A. Kazyak, Michael J. Leighton, William S. Brewer, Simon Moore, Todd M. Tommelein
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Patent number: 8029062Abstract: A seating system has a tiltable seat coupled to a base, which can be coupled to a motor vehicle or other device. The seat includes a seat bracket coupled to the base by a seat tilt pivot. The seat is configured to maintain a user's body in a fixed position during tilting throughout the seat's range of tilt angles. A seat adjustment mechanism allows angular adjustment of the seat and locks the seat at a fixed tilt angle relative to the base. The seat tilt pivot axis is located approximately vertically below the center of gravity of a loaded seat, thus reducing the force needed to tilt a loaded seat. By fixing or maintaining the seat tilt pivot vertically beneath the load being pivoted, the amount of force needed to control seat tilting can be limited to forces that a typical user can exert with one or two hands.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2008Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc.Inventors: Roger L. E. Appelqvist, Stefan H-E. Eriksson
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Patent number: 8028641Abstract: A convertible bench seat/platform that is pivotally connected to the deck of a pontoon boat and is movable between an inboard position adjacent to the boat side rail for use as a bench seat and an outboard position for use as a platform for fishing, sitting, diving and swimming or for search and rescue operations.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2009Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Inventor: Paul Sly
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Patent number: 8016354Abstract: A seat assembly has a seat cushion that is pivotally mountable to a vehicle floor. The seat cushion is selectively movable between an operative condition and a standup condition. A seat back is pivotally mounted to the seat cushion and is selectively movably angularly relative to the seat cushion. A pair of hinges pivotally receives the seat back and is linked to the seat cushion, whereby movement of the seat cushion from the operative condition to the standup condition rotates the pair of hinges, generally aligning the seat cushion and the seat back when the seat cushion is tumbled forward.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2006Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Intier Automotive IncInventors: Selvakumaresan Veluswamy, Xiao Jun Wei, John Scholl, William John Gregory, Omar D. Tame
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Patent number: 8006949Abstract: A seat slide device includes a handle rotatably supported in holding holes provided respectively at a pair of upper rails to rotate a radial projection portion for releasing a lock mechanism, and a bearing member having an outer edge portion disposed between the upper rail and the radial projection portion formed at the handle, a holding portion disposed between the upper rail and the outer periphery of the handle, and a cushioning portion allowing the handle to move in an axial direction. The bearing member is disposed to fit into the holding hole for supporting the handle.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2007Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yasuhiro Kojima, Masatoshi Hayakawa
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Patent number: 7997653Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly includes a seat back that is moveable between a first vertical position and a second vertical position forward and upward of the first vertical position. The vehicle seat assembly has a track assembly providing fore and aft adjustment. The vehicle seat assembly further includes at least one pivot assembly operatively coupled to the track assembly and pivotally mounted to a floor of a motor vehicle. The pivot assembly pivots the vehicle seat assembly between the seating position and a stand-up position. A stand-up link slidingly couples the pivot assembly and the seat back. A link lock locks to present a solid link between the pivot assembly and the seat back. The solid link guides the seat back between the first vertical position and the second vertical position as the vehicle seat assembly moves between the seating position and the stand-up position.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2007Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Intier Automotive Inc.Inventors: Robert J. Szybisty, Xiao Jun Wei, Ephraim Mark DeDios Lapingcao, Jeffrey P. Carroll, Selvakumaresan Veluswamy