Chair Hardware Or Attachment (e.g., Bracket, Operating Lever, Leg Extension, Etc.) Patents (Class 297/463.1)
  • Publication number: 20100181816
    Abstract: A component for a vehicle seat includes a plurality of plate-like elements generally parallel to one another, with pairs of the elements being connected, such as by welding. At least one element of each pair has a bend that creates a gap spacing with respect to the other element of the pair. Each element is connected to a next element to form a further pair in the region of the spacing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: Johnson Control Technology Company
    Inventors: Ingo Kienke, Jurgen Otto, Mario Budweg, Kirubaharan Rreginold Albert
  • Patent number: 7758129
    Abstract: A pair of seat backs are arranged in a vehicle width direction. A pair of floor brackets attach outer end portions of the seat backs in the vehicle width direction to a floor of the vehicle. A pair of center hinge brackets attach inner end portions of the seat backs in the vehicle width direction to the floor. A pair of connecting portions are provided in the center hinge brackets which are adjacent to each other in the vehicle width direction. The seat backs are independently pivotably attached to the floor. The connecting portions are connected with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Suzuki Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Yuuki Maruno, Masashi Wada
  • Publication number: 20100176648
    Abstract: A method of producing a support pin component for attachment to a reclining part of a vehicle seat and for insertion into a support receiver of a seat frame. The support pin component has an attachment region for attachment to the reclining part of the vehicle seat, and a pin for the pivotable insertion into a support receiver of the seat frame. The support pin component is produced as a shaped part of sheet steel, for example in a progressive composite process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: Faurecia Autositze GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Häntsch, Heiner Kempf
  • Publication number: 20100171357
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a wheelchair's footrests when not in use. The apparatus comprises a first member having a substantially flat center portion and an arcuate portion formed on each side thereof. A second member having a substantially identical shape to such first member and engageable with the first member at the flat center portion. Such arcuate portions form a clamp on a first end of the substantially flat center portion and form a clip member on an opposite end of the flat portion, such clip member having arcuate portions formed on an outer edge thereof for engagement with a footrest of such wheelchair when such footrests are not in use. There is a bolt and nut arrangement for securing such first member to such second member and a nut and bolt arrangement for securing the apparatus to the rear upright post of such wheelchair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventors: RUSSELL BONJOUR, Karen Fadri-Atil
  • Publication number: 20100156156
    Abstract: A clamping joint for a chair includes a joint coupling a front leg and a rear leg to the seat at an overlap with an inner clamp coupled to the seat and an outer clamp coupled to the inner clamp with the front leg and the rear leg clamped between the inner and outer clamps at the overlap. A finger on one of the inner or outer clamps extends towards the other and disposed between the front and rear legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Richard D. Smith
  • Publication number: 20100156165
    Abstract: This invention relates to mechanisms and systems for securing a child safety seat to a vehicle seat. Some embodiments include one or more movable anchoring structures. The anchoring structures can be connected to a rotatable member that is capable of exposing and retracting the movable anchoring structures. The rotatable member can also be connected to one or more lever members disposed at one or both ends of the rotatable member and capable of hand operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Philip Vais
  • Publication number: 20100148563
    Abstract: A catching device for use with a piece of upholstered furniture having a base portion, at least one wall portion extending upwardly from the base portion, and a crevice between the base portion and the at least one wall portion. The catching device includes an elongated receptacle sized and shaped for insertion into the crevice. The receptacle has a length selected to extend along at least a portion of the crevice, an upper sidewall shaped to extend along a wall side of the crevice, a lower sidewall shaped to extend along a base side of the crevice, and an end portion shaped for flexibly coupling the lower sidewall to the upper sidewall so as to form a closed end of the receptacle. The upper sidewall and lower sidewall are biased apart from each other such that when the receptacle is inserted into the crevice, the upper sidewall sealingly engages the wall portion and the lower sidewall sealingly engages the base portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: Katchall4U Inc.
    Inventor: Nancy Jayne Fera
  • Patent number: 7735913
    Abstract: A vehicle seat is provided with a seat back having a seating surface for supporting a back of an occupant. The seat back is adapted to be mounted to a vehicle and at least a portion of the seat back has a pivotal connection for movement from an upright position to a deployed position. A handle is mounted to the seating surface of the pivotal portion of the seat back. A cover is mounted to the seat back seating surface and extends over the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mary Rose Crombez, Dale Scott Crombez
  • Patent number: 7731296
    Abstract: A buckle holding structure for holding a buckle unit on a seat cushion, the buckle unit having: a belt of which one end is fixed to a vehicle body; and a buckle fixed to the other end of the belt, the buckle holding structure including: a band that has elasticity, has a predetermined width, and is folded in a U shape to form a folded portion, wherein both ends of the band are fixed to a rear end of the seat cushion so as to be disposed on the same plane in a width direction of the band; the belt of the buckle unit is inserted into a gap formed between both ends of the band, which is fixed to the rear end of the seat cushion, and the folded portion; and the buckle is caught by the folded portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshihiko Tsuda, Takahiro Ito
  • Publication number: 20100133882
    Abstract: A support pin component for attachment to a reclining part of a vehicle seat and for insertion into a support receiver of a support frame, and a vehicle seat having a support pin component. The support pin component comprises an attachment region configured for attachment to a reclining part of a vehicle seat, and a pin, preferably having an internal thread, configured for pivotable insertion into a support receiver of a seat frame. The support pin component is a shaped part of sheet steel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: Faurecia Autositze GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Häntsch, Heiner Kempf
  • Publication number: 20100127552
    Abstract: A seat apparatus for a vehicle, includes a seat-side fixing member, a slide rail, a load detecting device disposed between the seat-side fixing member and the slide rail and arranged at an end portion of the slide rail on a rear side of the vehicle, and a bracket arranged at an end portion of the slide rail on a front side of the vehicle, the bracket supporting the seat-side fixing member. The bracket includes a lower attachment portion attached to the slide rail, a supporting portion extending from the lower attachment portion toward an upper side of the vehicle, and an upper attachment portion connected to the supporting portion so as to extend from the supporting portion toward the rear side of the vehicle, thereby being cantilever-supported by the supporting portion, and attached to the seat-side fixing member at a free-end side of the upper attachment portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kenji MAETA, Koji Ito, Muneto Inayoshi, Kan Ichihara, Hiroyuki Fujii, Yoshimasa Asano, Naoka Kawajiri, Takeshi Kuwabara
  • Publication number: 20100122408
    Abstract: A padded seat is described that includes a top surface, a bottom surface, a compartment disposed between the top surface and the bottom surface, a closeable opening to fill the compartment with a fluid, a plurality of through holes which pass through the top surface, compartment, and bottom surface, and a non-slip element disposed on the top surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Mehri Mafi, Maryam Mafi
  • Publication number: 20100109407
    Abstract: Dental devices with cylinders, trunnions, and limit switches, and a method are provided. The dental devices include a cylinder and a trunnion having a cavity and an outer surface. A portion of the cylinder is slidably mounted within the cavity of the trunnion, and a portion of the cylinder protrudes out of the trunnion. The limit switch is coupled to the outer surface of the trunnion, with the limit switch is operable to contact the cylinder. Separation of the limit switch and the cylinder causes actuation of the limit switch, and the actuation of the limit switch inhibits a downward movement of the device. Alternatively, the limit switch may be coupled to the portion of the cylinder that protrudes out of the trunnion, with the limit switch operable to contact the trunnion. As such, separation of the limit switch and the trunnion causes actuation of the limit switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: MIDMARK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jacob Edward Broering, David Charles Edelmann
  • Publication number: 20100109388
    Abstract: A support for a support material that is to be embroidered, comprising a strip-shaped support that in a conveying direction thereof and/or transversely to the conveying direction is provided with a plurality of window-like openings for passage of an embroidery needle, wherein the window-like openings are adapted to be covered by the support material. A conveying device is provided and has a drive mechanism for displacing the strip-shaped support. An embroidery machine or sewing machine incorporating the conveying device is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventors: Klaus-Dieter Habedank, Mareike Krahn-Lau
  • Publication number: 20100096900
    Abstract: A lever and wheel attachment device (1) for a chair with a pair of front legs (X, Y) comprising: a) a pair of lever arms (10,20) each having first and second ends (10A, 10B: 20A, 20B), said second ends (10B, 20B) of each lever being joined together, b) a foot pedal (40) at the second ends of each lever, c) a chair leg engaging member (14, 24) at each first end of each lever, d) a ground engaging wheel (15, 25) between the first and the second ends of each lever, each wheel (15, 25) providing a pivot point about its axis for each lever, in use the device (1) engages the pair of front legs of the chair and raises them off the ground, the chair is movable forward with the rear legs of the chair remaining on the ground, and the weight of the chair and any person on the chair is taken at least in part on said wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventor: Henry Keith Clayton
  • Publication number: 20100096901
    Abstract: A mount (22) for an armrest (14, 14a, 14b) in the interior of a motor vehicle is distinguished by the fact that the mount (22) is designed to react differently to forces that act on the mount (22) from different directions (18, 20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: DR. ING. H.C.F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Olaf Benkler, Benno Gayer, Wilfried Radon
  • Publication number: 20100090515
    Abstract: In an operating lever structure for a vehicle seat in which an opening through which a seat belt extends is provided adjacent to a seat cushion lifting and lowering mechanism and a fixed end portion of the seat belt is connected to a seat cushion frame, a lifter lever includes a plate-like extending portion that is coupled to the lifting and lowering mechanism and a protrusion portion. The plate-like extending portion extends toward a front of the seat. The protrusion portion extends from the front end of the plate-like extending portion toward the outside in the seat width direction. The protrusion portion protrudes from an outer shield through a first exposing port of the outer shield, installed to a side portion of the seat cushion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Akira YAMAZAKI, Yoshitaka TOMONARI
  • Publication number: 20100084895
    Abstract: This invention is related to an ottoman convertible to a seating unit comprising a back-support assembly, a seat-support assembly, a base frame, and a pair of opposed armrests. Additionally, the ottoman includes a linkage system comprising a plurality of pivotably interconnected linkages, where the linkage system is configured to rotatably couple the seat-support assembly to the back-support assembly, and translatably couple the seat-support assembly and the base frame. In operation, this furniture piece is moveable between a closed position, resembling an ottoman, and an open position, wherein the back-support assembly forms the backrest of a seating unit accessible to a seated occupant. Specifically, the pivotably interconnected linkages operate such that rearward rotational movement of the back-support assembly induces forward translation of the seat-support assembly in relation to the base frame. This movement coincidentally induces the pair of opposed armrests to raise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: L & P PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY
    Inventors: Glenn N. Wiecek, Gary Masters
  • Publication number: 20100078984
    Abstract: A vehicle head restraint includes a head restraint frame having at least one post for attaching the head restraint to a seat back. The head restraint is pivotable relative to post. The head restraint also includes a spring clip attached to the head restraint frame and a stop rigidly held relative to the post, such that the stop contacts the spring clip when the head restraint in positioned in an upright position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: SAI PRASAD JAMMALAMADAKA, Paul Castellani, Gerald S. Locke
  • Publication number: 20100078981
    Abstract: An improved chair is provided having an apparatus for assisting an occupant in exiting the chair. The chair is comprised of a body movably mounted on a base between normal and tilted forward positions. The occupant is able to more easily exit the chair in the tilted forward position. The apparatus is comprised of an elongated member, pivoting assembly, and wheel assembly at one end of the elongated member for contacting a surface. One end of the elongated member is pulled to cause the chair to move from the normal position to the tilted forward position. The elongated member urges a wheel in the wheel assembly against the surface. The wheel imparts a force into the elongated member which urges a rear side of the chair upward causing the chair to move to the tilted forward position. When the elongated member is released, the chair returns to the normal position by gravity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventor: DENNIS L. COOK
  • Publication number: 20100075568
    Abstract: A child seat attachment that can be releasably attached to a child seat handle side bar having a narrow portion and a wider portion using one hand, and removed with one hand. The child seat attachment provides visual, audible, and/or tactile stimulation for the child. The child seat attachment includes a bracket portion and a child amusement device coupled to the bracket portion. The coupling between the bracket portion and the child amusement device may be releasable, extendable, and/or articulatible. The bracket portion includes a panel coupled to a pair of opposed, spaced apart wings that may include multiple webs, including arcuate webs. The wings are spaced apart a distance greater than the width of the narrow portion of the child seat handle side bar and less than the width of the wider portion of the child seat handle side bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: Rachel Ivey, Rebecca Thompson
  • Publication number: 20100072794
    Abstract: A towel securing apparatus is disclosed. The towel securing apparatus comprises a strip of material that is formed into a loop, and has a label attached to the loop. It is contemplated that the label may be used for advertising and various other types of promotional purposes (e.g. sports teams, etc. . . . ). It is also contemplated that the apparatus may be installed on a chair such that the label is oriented on the back side of the chair. Additional embodiments provide for various ways to attach an item to the apparatus. This serves to keep common items handy (e.g. sunglasses, camera, etc. . . . ) while at an outdoor venue, such as the beach, pool, on a boat, or at a concert, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Frank E. Karovic
  • Publication number: 20100066149
    Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly includes a seat body that is configured for attachment to a floor surface of a vehicle. The seat body includes a seat back that is connected to a seat bottom. The seat back has a seat back frame and the seat bottom has a seat bottom frame. An electric component is mounted to the seat body. A first mounting member attaches the electric component to one of the seat back frame and the seat bottom frame. In this vehicle seat assembly, the first mounting member is configured to flex such that the electric component can move in a direction that is generally perpendicular to a plane of the one of the seat back frame and the seat bottom frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Christer Andersson, Odd Jaegtnes, Torbjoern Andersson
  • Publication number: 20100060070
    Abstract: A locking device (1), particularly for a vehicle seat, for the detachable locking of two components (5, 8) that can be displaced relative to each other, includes a first locking element (11) that is supported on the first component (5) in a displaceable, particularly a pivoting manner about a first bearing pin (13) and a second locking element (12) that is associated with the second component (8) and that interacts with the first locking element (11) in a locked state of the locking device (1). A first safety element (15), that can be displaced relative to the first locking element (11), secures the locked state of the locking device in the normal case by acting on the first locking element (11). A second safety element (17) is provided that can be displaced relative to the first locking element (11). The safety element supports the first locking element (11) at least in the case of a crash.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Andreas Vedder
  • Publication number: 20100037426
    Abstract: A stop system for a mobile chair having wheels is provided including a plurality of shroud members configured for covering each radial chair leg of the mobile chair. Each shroud member is movable in a first direction to enable a mobile state of the chair and in a second direction to enable a stationary state of the chair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Robert Mongelluzzo, Ron Mongelluzzo
  • Patent number: 7635166
    Abstract: A controller for a seat locking device which locks a seatback, provided with: a holder having an opening at a top end thereof; an operation knob which is rotatably provided in the opening of the holder, and transmits an operating power to the seat locking device when a rotating operation is applied thereto; and a compensator which prevents gapping between a back face of a protrusion of the operation knob, facing a side of the opening of the holder, and a side wall of the holder facing the back face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tetsuya Ishikawa
  • Publication number: 20090302666
    Abstract: A method of laser welding chair components together is provided. The method includes selecting at least one first chair component comprised of a first polymeric material that is at least substantially translucent to a laser and selecting at least one second chair component comprised of a second polymeric material that is opaque to the laser such that the one or more second chair components will absorb at least a portion of the heat or energy provided by the laser. The one or more first chair components are laser welded to the one or more second chair components. A chair is also provided that includes a first component composed of polymeric material laser welded to a second component composed of polymeric material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Allison, Khalid Masoud, Adam Deskevich
  • Publication number: 20090302665
    Abstract: An anti-rattle track fastener assembly for attaching a fixture to a vehicle that has a track formed therein. The track includes upper walls that form a longitudinally-extending slot. Spaced-apart segments extend from the upper walls into the slot to provide undercut areas in the slot positioned under the segments. Spaced-apart openings are positioned between the segments. The fastener assembly includes a stud that extends from the fixture and is dimensioned to be received within the slot for engaging the spaced-apart segments. The fastener also includes an eccentrically-mounted cam movable between a first position and a second position. When the cam is in the first position, the stud can engage the spaced-apart segments with clearance, and when the cam is in the second position, the stud can tightly engage the spaced-apart segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Mark Brian Dowty
  • Publication number: 20090302663
    Abstract: A method of assembling a chair includes providing a first chair component composed of a first polymeric material and a second chair component composed of a second polymeric material. An adhesive is positioned on or in the first chair component. The adhesive is composed of a third polymeric material and at least one ferromagnetic susceptor. The second chair component is positioned in engagement with the adhesive and adjacent to the first chair component. A magnetic field or electromagnetic waves are applied to the adhesive to activate the adhesive. A force is also applied to at least one of the first chair component and the second chair component to press the first chair component and the second chair component. A chair is also provided that includes the first and second chair components and the adhesive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Allison, Khalid Masoud, Adam Deskevich, Jason Ferguson
  • Patent number: 7625042
    Abstract: The invention relates to a remote mechanism and systems including a remote mechanism for securing a chair to a game machine and for effecting release of the chair from the game machine. The present mechanisms and systems are adapted to be used in conjunction with conventional and novel quick release bracket apparatus and provide remote locking and unlocking mechanisms therefor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Top Line Seating Inc.
    Inventor: Norman Friedrich
  • Publication number: 20090284060
    Abstract: A chair comprises at least a seat assembly, an armrest, a backrest, and a spring linkage. The backrest frame ends are connected to the upstanding back-leg frame ends of the seat assembly by the spring linkages to make a chair with a flexible spring backrest. Each spring linkage is of a U-shaped configuration having two ends spaced vertically apart; the upper end attached to the backrest frame and the lower end attached to the back-legs of the seat assembly. The tip of the spring linkage serves as a pivotal axis, allowing the backrest to be flexible and bend backwards in response to an applied force while returning to its normal position when the force is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Chokchai Charoenapornwatana
  • Publication number: 20090284057
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a stackable chair that can be used to stack up to ten of the stackable chairs in a generally vertical direction. The stackable chair can include a chair frame that has a seat support section with a front leg and a back leg extending in a downward direction therefrom. A cushion can be attached to the seat support section, the cushion having a rigid perimeter layer and a cushion layer extending across the rigid perimeter layer. The rigid perimeter layer can also have a central aperture and a support structure that extends across the aperture. The rigid perimeter layer provides a suitable structure such that a plurality of chairs can be stacked on top of each other in a generally vertical direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: Michigan Tube Swagers & Fabricators, Inc.
    Inventor: Barton S. Kulish
  • Publication number: 20090272613
    Abstract: Provided is a seat where pumping operation of a lever of the seat not only rotates an output member by inching but also, when a load in the operation direction of the lever is applied to the output side member, rotates it at one stroke in that direction. A seat adjustment device of the seat has a clutch unit (X) provided between the lever and a rotation member of a movement mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Masahiro Kawai, Hiroyuki Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7600304
    Abstract: A method for the production of a fixing piece (12, 36) serves for fixing of covering material to cushion pieces for vehicle seats. A profile body (12) is connected to a separately produced sewn tag (36) which at least partly engages in a housing opening (34) in the profile body (12). The profile body (12) and the sewn tag (36), at least in the common jointing positions thereof, are predominantly made of plastic materials. According to the present invention, the known welding and glued connecting applications can be further improved such that the production method can be rapidly carried out with low production costs and without additional materials. A strong connection can be achieved, conforming to more stringent environmental aspects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Gottlieb Binder GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Klaus Nagele, Axel Schulte
  • Patent number: 7591507
    Abstract: A conduit for a climate controlled seat assembly. A first port is at a first end of the body and is in communication with the fluid passage. A second port is at a second end of the body and is in communication with the fluid passage, An attachment device comprising a base that is coupled to the body and a strap that is configured to be wrapped around a wire bundle and be secured to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Amerigon Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven C. Giffin, Scott R. Wolas
  • Publication number: 20090230752
    Abstract: A pivot joint assembly includes a bar generally defining an outer cylindrical surface. The bar has first and second beads extending outwardly from the outer cylindrical surface. The first and second beads are spaced apart from one another along the length of the bar. At least one of the first and second beads is an integrally formed portion extended outwardly from the outer cylindrical surface. The assembly further includes a mounting member having opposed first and second sides. The mounting member has a hole formed therein. The bar is disposed in the hole such that the mounting member is disposed between the first and second beads such that bar rotates relative to the mounting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: Vincent Adragna, David J. Abdella, Kevin Fudala
  • Publication number: 20090230753
    Abstract: A seat adjustment device for a vehicle seat includes a driving motor that is in engagement with a driving part of a self-locking free wheel. An output part of the free wheel is connected to a gearing. To obtain a compact structure, the driving motor, the free wheel and the gearing are located in a common housing, which preferably has a housing base part and at least one housing covering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: JOHNSON CONTROLS GMBH
    Inventors: Uwe Breitfeld, Frank Triebeneck
  • Patent number: 7585025
    Abstract: A head restraint assembly of this embodiment includes a bun and a post. The post is adapted to attach the head restraint assembly to a vehicle seat. The head restraint bun includes a head restraint core and a trim cover. The trim cover surrounds at least a portion of the head restraint core. The trim cover includes a close-out section at which the trim cover is closed after the head restraint core is placed within the trim cover. A retainer clip is attached to the head restraint core at an attachment region. The head restraint assembly also includes a close-out retainer bracket which is attached to a close-out section of the trim cover. When the trim cover is in a closed position, the close-out retainer bracket is secured to the retainer clip. A method of assembly head restraints is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Welch, William Parusziewicz, Larry Hulme
  • Publication number: 20090218866
    Abstract: A furniture member component drive mechanism includes a force multiplying gear assembly. A wire member can slide within a flexible sheath in opposed first and second directions. The wire member is connected to the gear assembly for axial displacement. A lever arm connected to the gear assembly defines a lever arm first axis of rotation. Rotating the lever arm in a first direction about the first axis of rotation axially incrementally displaces the wire member in the first displacement direction. The lever arm is rotatably connected to a pivot base defining a second axis of rotation of the lever arm transverse to the first axis of rotation. Rotating the lever arm about the second axis of rotation displaces the wire member in the second displacement direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Larry P. LaPointe
  • Patent number: 7581793
    Abstract: A vehicle seat for coupling to the floor of a vehicle comprising a seat back, a seat cushion, a first bracket, and a second bracket. The seat back is pivotable between at least a first position and a design position. The seat cushion is configured to be coupled to the vehicle floor. The first bracket is configured to be coupled to the vehicle floor and includes one of a keyed passage and a keyed pin configured to be received within the keyed passage. The second bracket is coupled to the seat back and includes the other one of the keyed passage and the keyed pin configured to be received within the keyed passage. The keyed passage is configured to receive the keyed pin only when the seat back is in a position the seat back will be prevented from assuming after the vehicle seat has been installed in the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Michael P. Hartmann, Timothy Butt, Steven Boye, Metodija Milevski, Chih-cheng Liao, Christopher James Cowan, Richard Hong
  • Publication number: 20090212190
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Bruce Dahlbacka, Kenneth Braun
  • Patent number: 7578560
    Abstract: A coupling member for connecting a conventional handle to a lock release actuating shaft of an vehicle tilt seat mechanism. The coupling member comprises a relatively short shaft having contiguous first and second portions that are of different outer dimensions transverse to the length of the shaft. The larger one of the first and second portions has a recess extending a selected distance inwardly from a free outer end of such portion in a direction toward the smaller one of the two contiguous portions. Means are provided within the recess for detachably mounting and securely anchoring the coupling member on and to the lock release actuating the shaft for rotating same. The smaller one of the contiguous portions is adapted to project into a socket in the handle for the tilt mechanism, and has means thereon cooperating with means in the socket of the handle for preventing relative movement of the handle and coupling member when the handle is moved in a direction to rotate the lock release actuating shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Ernest Spence, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090206642
    Abstract: A rocking device with a seat unit such as a chair, crib or cot, or attachment means for same with a motion generator comprising a profiled track defining a closed undulating path and a track follower, to interact with the track whilst one or other is rotated, thereby creating relative displacement between the seat unit and a base unit to simulate the motion of a vehicle. The device has means to decouple the relative displacement between the seat and base from any rotational movement of the chair. The device is particularly effective at inducing sleep and restfulness in children. The invention also includes profiled tracks, and methods for producing them from recording motion experienced by passengers in moving vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventors: Alison Ruth Raphael, Sophie Miriam King
  • Publication number: 20090200852
    Abstract: A linkage for mounting the elements of an in-line pipeline inspection vehicle. The embodiment allows measurements to be taken while constraining the vehicle to travel within an axial plane of the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventors: Philip M. Hoyt, Arthur K. Fox
  • Publication number: 20090195025
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a frame, and a cab structure and a seat each pivotably connected to the frame. A mechanical interconnection is provided between the cab structure and a seat. In response to the cab structure pivoting away from the frame by a predetermined amount, the seat is urged to pivot away from the frame by the mechanical interconnection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: James Shurts, Michael David Case, Kyle Brenner, Joshua John Pasa
  • Publication number: 20090189429
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for actuating a folding vehicle seat. The apparatus includes a handle remotely and functionally connected to the vehicle seat for moving the seatback from a folded position to an upright or design position. The handle is pivotally mounted on a support bracket and attached to an actuator member interconnecting the handle and the seatback. The actuator member transfers the motion of the handle to a generally “L-shaped” arm which is pivotally mounted to the vehicle seat below the seatback. The L-shaped arm rotates toward the back of the seat as the handle is lifted. As the L-shaped arm moves, it catches a stop or extension member located on the seatback and moves the seatback toward the upright position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: Frederick Wilkinson, John Taylor, Ajay Sonar
  • Publication number: 20090178508
    Abstract: A structure for supporting a generally U-shaped unlocking lever in seat slide device, wherein a main support portion of a generally channel cross-section is provided at each of a pair of the seat slide devices so as to support each of the two lateral portions of the unlocking lever. Formed respectively in the upper and lower walls of that main support portion are downwardly and upwardly curved protrudent portions, so that the two lateral portions of the unlocking lever each extends between those downwardly and upwardly curved protrudent portions. This arrangement gives a play to the two lateral portions of unlocking lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: TACHI-S CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kenji KANDA
  • Publication number: 20090179479
    Abstract: A locking support assembly for a casino chair uses a support plate with a chair mount having a fixed pin protruding upwards from the support plate opposite to the mount. The pin may serve as a sole or primary guide member in the support plate to guide the support plate into horizontal alignment with a latch mounted inside a beam. The beam holds the support plate in close but unlocked engagement by a lower groove, to resist loads imposed by an attached chair. A releasable latch inside the beam receives the pin to provide locked engagement between the support plate and the beam. The beam may be fastened to a vertical surface of a gaming machine or other object. The support plate and attached chair can be released from the beam by inserting a tool through a keyhole in the beam to release the latch, while pulling the support plate outwards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Wendell R. Davis, Jr., Dale Robert Lundeen, Kay Daniel Vetter
  • Publication number: 20090167073
    Abstract: A vehicle seat can include a base frame, a slide rail assembly having a slide member, and a seatbelt anchor bracket. The base frame has a bottom wall portion that is connected to the slide member via a fastener. The seatbelt anchor bracket is fastened between the base frame bottom wall portion and the slide member via the fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Masahiro FUJIEDA
  • Publication number: 20090146486
    Abstract: A locking device for an adjustment unit of a motor vehicle seat having a toothed bar, a locking part cooperating with the toothed bar, a spring that abuts the locking part and a base part. The locking part comprises at least one tooth for engaging the toothed bar. A mass body is associated with the locking part and is hinged to the base part for pivotal movement about an axis. The mass body has a control contour which comprises a) a flat bight portion with a base, b) at least one enabling inclined portion adjoining the bight portion, c) a transition region adjoining the enabling inclined portion and d) one retaining inclined portion adjoining the transition region. The spring fits at one abutment end against the base of the control contour in the normal position of the locking part; the abutment end is capable of moving along the control contour.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventors: WILFRIED BENEKER, Burckhard Becker