Abstract: A body-supporting component may have a main body. A 3D lattice structure of the main body may have deflection properties portions of the main body. The main body may be formed by a flexible material according to the 3D lattice structure combined with the deflection properties portions.

Abstract: A lounge having a matrix mat and a plurality of modules capable of being inserted into the matrix mat. The lounge may include a frame configured as a rigid frame, a modular frame, and combinations thereof. The modular frame may further include a tri-cable suspension. The tri-cable suspension may be attached to a dilator retractor mechanism. The modules may be a mushroom cap module, a spider spring module, a web module, a lighting module, an electronics module, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: According to the present invention a back for a seating unit is provided. The back comprises a plurality of flexible finger elements. Each of the plurality of flexible finger elements has a distal end. The back further comprises a retainer connecting at least two of the flexible finger elements proximate their distal ends. When a load is applied to a flexible finger element, the retainer distributes at least a portion of the load to at least one adjacent flexible finger element.

Abstract: A fixing mount for fixing an elastic strip includes a body and multiple assembling seats. The body has a front face, a back face located opposite to the front face, an inner surface connected with the front face and the back face, an outer surface located opposite to the inner surface, a mounting space surrounded by the front face, the back face and the inner surface, and at least one through hole formed through the inner surface and communicating with the mounting space. The assembling seats are formed on the outer surface and are located in the mounting space. The fixing mount can be mounted on a chair frame without exposing screws, and dirt will not fall in and accumulate in the through holes easily.

Abstract: A backrest for a wheelchair includes an adjustable cushion support, a backrest frame, and attachment members. The adjustable cushion support supports a backrest cushion, and substantially defines plane P1. The backrest frame holds the cushion support and has two substantially parallel side posts substantially defining a plane P2. The attachment members attach the cushion support to the backrest frame. The cushion support comprises two side bars and a plurality of transversally extending and vertically spaced apart flexible straps. Each strap is length adjustable. The cushion support comprises at least two connecting plates. Each plate being integral with one of the side bars and being provided with at least two parallel adjustment slots. The slots define an angle ?, with said plane P1 of the adjustable support cushion. The attachment members are slidably mounted on the slots, enabling depth, width and angular adjustment of the cushion support on the backrest frame.

Abstract: A backrest includes first and second side wings and connectors configured to connect the first and second side wings to the wheelchair frame. The first side wing comprises a plurality of transverse profiles extending towards the second side wing and the second side wing comprises a plurality of second transverse profiles extending towards the first side wing. At least one first transverse profile of the first side wing and at least one associated second transverse profile of the second side wing are at least partially mutually embraced in a slidable manner. The at least one first transverse profile and the at least one second transverse profile are dimensioned and configured so that the mutual slidably embracement of the at least one first transverse profile and the at least one second transverse profile is made on a range of distances enabling the width adjustment of the backrest.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a suspension mat 1, the suspension mat 1 comprising at least one wire 10 for mounting the suspension mat 1 to a seat frame 100; the method comprising the steps of (a) pushing a plastic tube 20 in a first direction 52 onto an initially straight end portion 12 of the wire 10, while setting free an uncoated outer end 14 of said straight end portion 12; (b) bending said uncoated outer end 14 of said straight end portion 12 to form an uncovered hook 16; and (c) shifting said plastic tube 20 in a second, reverse direction 54 onto said bent hook 16, such that said plastic tube 20 surrounds said bent hook 16 and forms a plastic covered hook 18. The present invention also relates to a suspension mat 1 produced in accordance with said method and an apparatus 70 for manufacturing a suspension mat 1.

Abstract: A frame member includes a frame body and a sheet member. The frame body has a front surface, a back surface, an opening penetrating in a front and back direction of the frame body, and a protruding portion. One of the front surface and the back surface has an attachment groove. The sheet member constituted by a mesh-like member is stretched over the opening. The protruding portion is configured such that, after the sheet member is arranged in an area where the protruding portion is to be formed, a material for the frame body in an unsolidified state is filled and is solidified, to thereby form the protruding portion together with the frame body and fix the sheet member in a stretched state over the opening. The sheet member has reached one of the front surface and the back surface along an inner circumferential surface of the frame body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a backrest for a vehicle seat, wherein the backrest includes a plurality of backrest modules. The backrest modules comprise a central portion, and at least one backrest module is mechanically linked to one or two further backrest modules of similar type at the central portion.

Abstract: According to the present invention a back for a seating unit is provided. The back comprises a plurality of flexible finger elements. Each of the plurality of flexible finger elements has a distal end. The back further comprises a retainer connecting at least two of the flexible finger elements proximate their distal ends. When a load is applied to a flexible finger element, the retainer distributes at least a portion of the load to at least one adjacent flexible finger element.

Abstract: A strap-tightening structure for a furniture item having a frame that supports an elongate strap. The elongate strap includes a rearward section that overlies the back rest of the furniture and a forward section that overlies the seat section. A rearward end of the elongate strap overlies a transversely disposed rearward end of the frame and is secured against longitudinal displacement when the forward end of the elongate strap is pulled taut at the forward end of the furniture. A pair of tensioning belts are secured to a forward end of the elongate strap. Each of the tensioning belts is disposed in overlying relation to a transversely disposed forward end of the frame. A pair of releasable buckles is secured to a bottom side of the elongate strap and adjustably engages the tensioning belts so that the elongate strap can be pulled taut whenever it develops a sag.

Abstract: Apparatus for a perineal wash system, including a seat with a pair of pads and/or a conduit that redirects fluid from a hand-held spray nozzle to the perineal area of a person on the seat. The pads are separated and have front and rear access areas dimensioned to allow a caregiver to access the perineal area of a seated person. In one embodiment one pad is movable sideways. The frame supporting the seat is spaced a sufficient distance from the gap between the pads to not impede access to the perineum. In one embodiment a perineal washer is supported adjacent the seat. The washer receives a nozzle of a hose sprayer and redirects the fluid spray through a movable elongated conduit to direct a spray of liquid upward to the perineum. In one embodiment a commode pot below the seat has a gap sufficient to avoid pinching dangling body parts.

Abstract: A strap-tightening structure for a furniture item having a frame that supports an elongate strap. The elongate strap includes a rearward section that overlies the back rest of the furniture and a forward section that overlies the seat section. A rearward end of the elongate strap overlies a transversely disposed rearward end of the frame and is secured against longitudinal displacement when the forward end of the elongate strap is pulled taut at the forward end of the furniture. A pair of tensioning belts are secured to a forward end of the elongate strap. Each of the tensioning belts is disposed in overlying relation to a transversely disposed forward end of the frame. A pair of releasable buckles is secured to a bottom side of the elongate strap and adjustably engages the tensioning belts so that the elongate strap can be pulled taut whenever it develops a sag.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide web-strapping for upholstery of furniture, methods of providing web-strapping for upholstery of furniture, web-strapped furniture, and methods of web-strapping furniture. One exemplary embodiment of the present invention would provide an exemplary strap assembly of material for furniture upholstery comprising at least one fastener fastened into each end of the strap such that a tail end of each fastener is secured from extraction from the strap. In one exemplary strap assembly embodiment, fasteners would be fastened in each corner of each end of a strap so that a tail end of each fastener would be secured from extraction from the strap. Other exemplary embodiments would provide an exemplary article of furniture and methods of making an exemplary article of furniture, comprising said strap assemblies installed to span a space between opposing chair rails.

Abstract: Several variations of a tool-less, reversible joint having two tension fingers and at least one shear finger are described. Applications of the joint include items of flat-pack-style furniture such as chairs, tables and bookshelves. The joints can be formed in a sheet material such as plywood or medium-density fiberboard (“MDF”).

Abstract: A seating structure includes a central spine and an upper back structure having a pair of arms extending upwardly and outwardly from the central spine. The upper back structure is pivotally connected to the central spine about a first horizontal axis. A back support structure is pivotally connected to the spine about a second horizontal axis and is pivotally connected to the ends of each of the arms about a third horizontal axis.

Abstract: A flexible bamboo chair includes outer and inner bamboo strips of two different sizes in an inverted U-shape respectively arranged in parallel at outer and inner sides, a buffer space defined between the outer bamboo strips and the inner bamboo strips, and first and second reinforcing bars bilaterally fixedly mounted in between the outer and inner bamboo strips in the buffer space at different elevations.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide web-strapping for upholstery of furniture, methods of providing web-strapping for upholstery of furniture, web-strapped furniture, and methods of web-strapping furniture. One exemplary embodiment of the present invention would provide an exemplary strap assembly of material for furniture upholstery comprising at least one fastener fastened into each end of the strap such that a tail end of each fastener is secured from extraction from the strap. In one exemplary strap assembly embodiment, fasteners would be fastened in each corner of each end of a strap so that a tail end of each fastener would be secured from extraction from the strap. Other exemplary embodiments would provide an exemplary article of furniture and methods of making an exemplary article of furniture, comprising said strap assemblies installed to span a space between opposing chair rails.

Abstract: An Adirondack chair having a lumbar support is disclosed. The chair includes a seat and a back attached to the seat. A lumbar support is provided on the back. The lumbar support defines a longitudinally convex front surface and at least one laterally concave front surface. Preferably, the seat, back and lumbar support are integrally molded as a unitary structure. The back may also be molded to include a headrest.

Abstract: A collapsible and foldable composite chair with back slats and seat slats held together by a fabric material. A fold line hinge into the fabric material which normally wears out over time is reinforced to prevent such early wear outs with a cell foam material, preferably a closed cell polyolefin strip. As a result the slats do not wear though the slat pockets in the material and the fold line hinge endures.

Abstract: A bamboo chair includes L-shaped first bamboo strips arranged in parallel, L-shaped third bamboo strips arranged in parallel, first reinforcing members fixedly connected between the straight horizontal sides of the L-shaped third bamboo strips and the straight horizontal sides of the L-shaped first bamboo strips in a parallel manner, a second reinforcing member fixedly connected between the arched vertical sides of the L-shaped first bamboo strips and the arched vertical sides of the L-shaped first bamboo strips at the bottom side, L-shaped second bamboo strips arranged in parallel and supported between the arched vertical sides of the L-shaped first bamboo strips and the arched vertical sides of the L-shaped third bamboo strips, and third reinforcing members respectively fixedly connected between the arched vertical sides of the L-shaped third bamboo strips and the straight horizontal sides of the L-shaped second bamboo strips and between the arched vertical sides of the L-shaped second bamboo strips and the

Abstract: Building materials formed from synthetic polymer materials have an appearance which simulates natural woods. The building materials may be used in the construction of fences, sheds, decking materials, indoor/outdoor furniture, railings and numerous other products. The faux wood material is constructed to include reinforcing fibers and voids for weight reduction. The aesthetic appearance of the finished product can be enhanced by applying a color wash which includes a polymer component and a color component adhering to the surface of the material.

Abstract: An elastomeric load bearing surface includes an integral attachment mechanism, wherein portions of the load bearing surface attach to each other to secure the load bearing surface to a support structure. In one embodiment, a molded elastomeric strip includes a tab that wraps around a support structure frame member, and a receptacle that receives and retains the first portion. The load bearing surface may be formed from a plurality of molded elastomeric strips, each having a tab extending around the frame member and an opening receiving the tab. The strips may be oriented to reduce creep by aligning the crystalline structure of the elastomer in one direction.

Abstract: In one aspect, a seat includes a perimeter frame and a weight bearing surface. The perimeter frame includes a front frame member, two contoured lateral frame members, and a contoured rear frame member. Each lateral frame member has a front portion, a second portion proximate the user's thighs, a concave curve portion proximate the user's pelvis, and a rear portion, the bottom of the concave curve portion being lower than the second portion and lower than the rear portion. The rear frame member has a central dip portion. The weight bearing surface on which the user sits includes a plurality of straps attached to the perimeter frame. Other aspects relate a method for making a seat and a method for fitting a seat to a user.

Abstract: A seating assembly with a base, a seat and a back which have interlocking features, and a strap latch removeably securing the back to the base with a portion of the seat sandwiched therebetween. The strap latch comprises a strap affixed to one component, with a latch attached to its free end, and a catch member affixed to another component. The seat may also be configured to appear horizontal but to have a rearward incline when occupied, by affixing the seat webbing to a fixed forward member and a floating rear member, and attaching the floating member to a fixed rear member via straps, wherein the straps and the seat webbing have sufficient elasticity to allow the floating member to be depressed when a downward force is applied to the seat.

Abstract: The objective of the present invention is to provide a bamboo chair having a good load-carrying capacity and smooth shape and to provide a method of manufacturing the bamboo chair. The bamboo chair is sturdy, symmetrical and fashionable, has a center, a front, a rear and two sides and comprises multiple bamboo slats, a backrest, a seat, two legs and a base. The method of manufacturing a bamboo chair comprises steps of (A) preparing rough bamboo strips, (B) drying, (C) flattening, (D) finishing, (E) forming slat segments, (G) initial assembly, (I) interim assembly and (K) final assembly.

Abstract: A suspension seating structure having a body support assembly which includes a membrane formed from at least one strap spanning across an opening. Each strap is coupled to a frame member through a retaining structure. The retaining structure is coupled with or forms part of each frame member and provides a structurally secure body support assembly. A cushion material encapsulates the membrane, where the cushion material contains relief channels to permit the membrane to respond more freely in response to a load.

Abstract: A seat assembly is revealed. A connection slot is formed around a circumference of a rear side of a support and an assembly block is projectingly arranged at a center of the connection slot. At least one channel penetrating from one side to the other side of the assembly block is formed on the assembly block. A cloth surface is covered from a front side to a rear side of the support and a circumference thereof is mounted into the connection slot. A frame formed by injection molding is to cover the circumference of the rear side of the support and fill into the connection slot and the channel so as to connect and secure the cloth surface with the frame as well as the support by multiple bends of the cloth surface and infiltration of frame material into pores of the cloth surface.

Abstract: A portable seating system includes a foldable seating frame and a flexible seating material that is coupled to the seating frame. The foldable seating frame includes a back assembly having at least one semirigid back slat, and a seat assembly that includes at least one semirigid seat slat. The back assembly is coupled to the seat assembly by a locking hinge assembly, and an adjustable grip assembly is coupled to the seat assembly. The locking hinge assembly allows the seating system to fold into a compact unit so that a user can easily carry the seating system.

Abstract: A backrest assembly includes an annular front frame having a front surface on which inner and outer annular flanges are formed, defining a first annular groove therebetween. A plurality of pegs is formed in the annular groove. A net is mounted in front of the front frame in a tightened state and includes a plurality of peg holes. A periphery of the net covers the outer annular flange of the front frame and is received in the first annular groove. Each peg of the front frame extends through one of the peg holes. Inner and annular wall are formed on a front face of an annular rear frame and define a second annular groove therebetween. A plurality of stubs is formed in the second annular groove. Each stub includes a receptacle receiving one of the pegs. Fasteners are extended through engaging holes in the front and rear frames.

Abstract: A improved lawn chair that is designed to allow an individual to more easily lie on one's stomach while resting on the lawn chair, and furthermore, provide components to enable one to store sunbathing accessories. The lawn chair is fabricated from an aluminum framework and vinyl strapping and includes an oval-shaped head cutout, which allows an individual to rest on their stomach, with their head placed facedown over the head cutout area. The lawn chair also includes a reading rack and an attached multi-compartment pouch.

Abstract: A seating construction includes a perimeter frame defining an open area, and a one-piece molded seating component supported on the frame. The seating component includes a plurality of integrally-formed flexible slats defining a support surface over the open area. Resilient wires are coupled to the slats to resiliently support the slats when flexed. The component can be handled as a unit for assembly, and is retained by connecting rods that extend along the side section of the frame, with the slats each rotatably engaging mating bearing structure on the frame. A flex-limiting member in a center of the frame limits the resilient supports to a maximum deflected condition. Tabs on the molded component interconnect the slats and permit one-piece molding, but are either flexible or breakable to permit independent flexing of the slats. Methods related to the above are also disclosed.

Abstract: A bench includes at least two feet and two seat plates. Each foot has a sustaining surface in a top thereof and a support frame in a bottom thereof. The seat plate is a rectangular plate. A plurality of protruding blocks is formed to a bottom surface of the seat plate, and a bolt block is embedded in each protruding block. By fastening the feet to the corresponding bolt blocks through holes with bolts, the feet are fixed to the seat plate so as to form a strong and fine bench.

Abstract: In one aspect, a seat includes a perimeter frame and a weight bearing surface. The perimeter frame includes a front frame member, two contoured lateral frame members, and a contoured rear frame member. Each lateral frame member has a front portion, a second portion proximate the user's thighs, a concave curve portion proximate the user's pelvis, and a rear portion, the bottom of the concave curve portion being lower than the second portion and lower than the rear portion. The rear frame member has a central dip portion. The weight bearing surface on which the user sits includes a plurality of straps attached to the perimeter frame. Other aspects relate a method for making a seat and a method for fitting a seat to a user.

Abstract: An occupational support chair system and method that provides frontal support to a user. The support chair system includes a lower support frame composed of a dual section hydraulic frame and an upper support frame. The upper support frame can be configured as a spinal column associated with a number of individual locking segments. The upper support frame further includes a breast support and a removable chin support in order to provide frontal support to the user. An adjustable swivel seat can be attached to the upper support frame to relieve stress and fatigue stemming from prolonged periods of standing. The support chair system further includes a stabilizing base segment, which comprises retractable wheels and a housing for batteries, electrical and computer components.

Abstract: Disclosed is a lining framework for fastening seats in an aircraft. The lining framework preferably comprises three seat rails, which are arranged in a spaced apart manner parallel to each other along both side walls of the fuselage cell. Sitting surfaces of a plurality of seats are suspended on the seat rails by textile straps consisting of high-strength, woven plastic material. At least two straps are arranged between the upper seat rail and two frames of the fuselage cell of the aircraft. In this case, a strap length is measured so that forces from the fuselage cell cannot be transmitted into the lining framework. By the same token, however, forces from the lining framework can be introduced into the fuselage cell by means of the straps so that the lining framework can be designed statically lighter. This leads to a weight reduction of the lining framework.

Abstract: A connector for stretch straps of a chair is mounted on the chair to hold and stretch a stretch strap with an opposite connector mounted on the chair and has a receiving recess formed inside the connector and a connecting slot formed through the top of the connector and communicating with the receiving recess. One end of the stretch strap extends through the connecting slot to be held by a binder in the receiving recesses. A bottom of the stretch strap is propped out by a top edge of the connecting slot so that a top of the stretch strap is protrudent relative to the top of the connector and a sharp edge formed between the top and the front end of the connector. Thus, a user's body is prevented from contacting with the rigid top and the sharp edge of the connector to comfortably sit on the chair.

Abstract: A seat includes a tray, a net mounted on the tray and a supporting device provided between the tray and the net. Thus, when a user sits on the seat, the net takes a proportion of the user's weight while the supporting device takes another proportion of the user's weight.

Abstract: A chair uses multiple elastic bands to form the seating surfaces. The elastic bands are held in place with a mounting bracket which facilitates easy assembly of the chair and reduces the likelihood of breakage or improper assembly of the elastic bands. The elastic bands are positioned nearly level with the chair side rails and mounting bracket, and the elastic bands cover the mounting screws to provide a chair which is more comfortable and more aesthetically pleasing.

Abstract: A seating construction includes a perimeter frame defining an open area, and a one-piece molded seating component supported on the frame. The seating component includes a plurality of integrally-formed flexible slats defining a support surface over the open area. Resilient wires are coupled to the slats to resiliently support the slats when flexed. The component can be handled as a unit for assembly, and is retained by connecting rods that extend along the side section of the frame, with the slats each rotatably engaging mating bearing structure on the frame. A flex-limiting member in a center of the frame limits the resilient supports to a maximum deflected condition. Tabs on the molded component interconnect the slats and permit one-piece molding, but are either flexible or breakable to permit independent flexing of the slats. Methods related to the above are also disclosed.

Abstract: An auditorium chair comprised essentially of four parts that interconnect creating a frame with a three point stability system. The auditorium chair structure has the following components: fastening with screws, snap tight buttons, or other fasteners, dimensioning in accordance with use in current auditorium chair sizes, and fabrication design enabling efficient shipment while maintaining stability and stacking capability.

Abstract: The invention relates to a support element (11) for the human body, in particular to a backrest, of a chair or armchair. The support element (11) has a support face (21) that forms a front side of the support element. The support element is equipped with a self-adapting longitudinal structure (13), which includes at least one front, first longitudinal element (15), and at least one rear, second longitudinal element (17), extending parallel to the first longitudinal element (15), as well as a plurality of spacers (19), which are each pivotably connected to the first longitudinal element (15) and to the second longitudinal element (17). The second longitudinal element (17) is connected at a rigid angle to the first longitudinal element (15) at at least one connection point (27) and is borne at a support point (29) spaced apart from the connection point (27).

Abstract: An apparatus having a fabric and method of forming thereof. The fabric's load bearing surface for supporting a load, comprising: at least one layer(s) (Ln) wherein n=0, ?1, ?2, . . . ?i, wherein n=0 represents the at least one layer(s) (Ln) of the load bearing surface that contacts the load. An n=?1, ?2, . . . ?i, represents successive underlying at least one layer(s) (Ln) of the load bearing surface. An n=?i, represents a bottom underlying at least one layer(s) (Ln). The fabric consists essentially of a polyurethane fiber and a fiber that is chemically different from the polyurethane fiber, and wherein the fabric has been stretched to the point just before encountering the Young's Modulus. The method comprising: cutting the fabric to a predetermined pattern; and stretching the fabric to the point just before encountering the Young's Modulus.

Abstract: A suspension seating structure having a body support assembly which includes a membrane formed from at least one strap spanning across an opening. Each strap is coupled to a frame member through a retaining structure. The retaining structure is coupled with or forms part of each frame member and provides a structurally secure body support assembly. A cushion material encapsulates the membrane, where the cushion material contains relief channels to permit the membrane to respond more freely in response to a load.

Abstract: Aircrafts troop seating is lightweight and minimizes protruding features on which gear might snag. High strength webbing straps are added to a light weight seat fabric to add strength where strength is required, thus reducing the overall weight. The webbing is of a type used for seatbelts and meets fire regardant requirements. Seat belt style tension adjusters allow adjustment of the seating stretch to improve comfort and crash protection. Internal hardware attachment points are provided to reduce protruding features.

Abstract: An elastic support assembly for a chair includes two opposite mounting members each attached to the chair, a flat elastic strip mounted between the mounting members, and a circular elastic cord mounted between the mounting members. Thus, the flat elastic strip and the circular elastic cord are mounted between the mounting members to reinforce the strength of the elastic support assembly so that the elastic support assembly has a greater strength to withstand a larger load. In addition, the flat elastic strip co-operates with the circular elastic cord to support the mounting members so that the elastic support assembly is not deformed or distorted easily during a long-term utilization or due to a heavier load, thereby greatly enhancing the lifetime of the elastic support assembly.

Abstract: A chair includes at least one support frame having two opposite side rails, a plurality of connectors mounted in each of the side rails of the support frame, and a plurality of elastic cords each mounted between the side rails of the support frame and each having two opposite ends each attached to one of the connectors. Each of the side rails of the support frame has a hollow inside provided with a slideway and has a side provided with a guide slot. Thus, each of the connectors is fully hidden in the slideway and the guide slot of each of the two rails of the support frame so that each of the connectors will not be exposed outwardly from the support frame to enhance the outer appearance and safety of the chair.

Abstract: A body support structure includes a backrest having a frame and a plurality of laterally spaced strips. Each of the strips extends in a longitudinal direction, with an upper end portion of each of the strips formed in an inverted J-shape. In another aspect, a body support structure includes a frame and a seat segment having a front portion and a rear portion. A back support segment is joined to the seat segment and has an upper portion formed in an inverted J-shape. A front portion of the seat segment and the upper portion of the back support segment are the only portions directly joined to the frame. In another aspect, a body support structure includes a plurality of longitudinally extending and laterally spaced strips and at least one laterally extending elastomeric member connecting each of said plurality of strips.

Abstract: A foldable chair with pull rods comprises a front supporter, a back supporter; wherein a width of the front supporter is smaller than that of the back supporter; the back supporter being installed to the front supporter by using two pull rods; a seat pivotally installed to the back supporter and the front supporter; and a back cushion assembled to upper ends of the front supporter. The back supporter has two legs, an upper side of each leg of the back supporter is installed with a first engaging unit, and a second engaging unit, and each engaging unit has a hole for receiving a respective one of the two pull rods. The first engaging unit has a first hook. The second engaging unit has a second hook engageable to the first hook. Each pull rod has a head; and an upper side of the head is a convex cambered area.

Abstract: A safety seat for land vehicles, aircraft or vessels, comprising a harness for suspension from fixed points of a vehicle and for supporting a vehicle occupant. Belt retractors are disposed at the fixed vehicle points, and fabric supporting belts extend from the harness to the retractors, which pretension the belts in a direction of retraction. A manually operable switching device allows the belt retractors to be switched into a free running state, a blocking state, or a positioning state. The free running state permits free withdrawal of the belts in a direction opposite to the pretension. The blocking state effects a complete blocking of the belts in both the withdrawal and the retraction directions. The positioning state effects blocking of the belts in only the withdrawal direction.