U.S. patent application number 12/040167 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-04 for seat assembly for a vehicle and a method of manufacturing the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to M2K, LLC.. Invention is credited to Patrick M. Glance, Ronald C. Lamparter.
Application Number | 20080211275 12/040167 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39731971 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080211275 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lamparter; Ronald C. ; et
al. |
September 4, 2008 |
SEAT ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE
SAME
Abstract
A seat assembly for a vehicle includes a support structure and a
seat bottom mounted to the support structure. A seatback is coupled
to the support structure and is rotatable about a longitudinal axis
between a first collision position when applying a first force to
the seatback and a second collision position when applying a second
force to the seatback. A first energy absorbing member is mounted
to the seat bottom for absorbing energy when the seatback rotates
to the first collision position. A second energy absorbing member
includes a first end coupled to the first energy absorbing member
and a second end coupled to the seatback for absorbing energy when
the seatback rotates to the second collision position after the
first energy absorbing member absorbs energy in the first collision
position.
Inventors: |
Lamparter; Ronald C.;
(Grosse Pointe Shores, MI) ; Glance; Patrick M.;
(Plymouth, MI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HOWARD & HOWARD ATTORNEYS, P.C.
THE PINEHURST OFFICE CENTER, SUITE #101, 39400 WOODWARD AVENUE
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
MI
48304-5151
US
|
Assignee: |
M2K, LLC.
Sterling Heights
MI
|
Family ID: |
39731971 |
Appl. No.: |
12/040167 |
Filed: |
February 29, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60892543 |
Mar 2, 2007 |
|
|
|
60966403 |
Aug 28, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
297/216.13 ;
297/468 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60R 22/023 20130101;
B60R 22/20 20130101; B60R 22/26 20130101; B60N 2/686 20130101; B60R
2021/0067 20130101; B60R 22/024 20130101; B60R 2022/021
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/216.13 ;
297/468 |
International
Class: |
B60N 2/42 20060101
B60N002/42 |
Claims
1. A seat assembly for a vehicle, said seat assembly comprising: a
support structure defining a longitudinal axis; a seat bottom
mounted to said support structure and extending outwardly away from
said support structure; a seatback coupled to said support
structure and rotatable about said longitudinal axis between a
first collision position when applying a first force to said
seatback and a second collision position when applying a second
force to said seatback; a first energy absorbing member mounted to
one of said seat bottom and said seatback for absorbing energy when
said seatback rotates to said first collision position during
application of said first force; and a second energy absorbing
member having a first end coupled to said first energy absorbing
member at said one of said seat bottom and said seatback and a
second end coupled to the other of said seat bottom and said
seatback for absorbing energy when said seatback rotates to said
second collision position during application of said second force
after said first energy absorbing member absorbs energy in said
first collision position.
2. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 1 wherein said first end
of said second energy absorbing member moves relative to said one
of said seat bottom and said support platform as said seatback
rotates about said longitudinal axis.
3. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 2 wherein said first
energy absorbing member is elastically compressible as said first
end of said second energy absorbing member moves in response to
rotation of said seatback from an upright position to said first
collision position.
4. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 3 wherein said first
energy absorbing member is frangible as said first end of said
second energy absorbing member moves in response to rotation of
said seatback from said first collision position to said second
collision position.
5. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 2 wherein said one of
said seat bottom and said seatback defines a slot extending
transverse to said longitudinal axis from a first end portion to a
second end portion with said first energy absorbing member mounted
in said slot between said first and second end portions.
6. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 5 wherein said first
energy absorbing member is compressed between said first end of
said second energy absorbing member and said one of said first and
second end portions of said slot when said seatback rotates
relative to said seat bottom.
7. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 5 wherein said first
energy absorbing member defines an aperture and wherein said second
energy absorbing member includes a pin extending from said first
end of said first energy absorbing member and into said
aperture.
8. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 7 wherein said pin
elastically compresses said first energy absorbing member between
said pin and said one of said first and second end portions of said
slot when said seatback rotates to said first collision position
and wherein said pin breaks said first energy absorbing member and
contacts said one of said first and second end portions when said
seatback rotates to said second collision position.
9. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 7 wherein said pin is
spaced from said first and second end portions when said seatback
is in an upright position and wherein said pin is moveable toward
said one of said first and second end portions when said seatback
rotates in a first direction from said upright position to said
first collision position and wherein said pin is moveable toward
the other of said first and second end portions when said seatback
rotates in a second direction opposite of said first direction from
said upright position to a reclined position.
10. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 2 wherein said second
energy absorbing member is rigid between said first energy
absorbing member and the other of said seat bottom and said
seatback when said seatback is in an upright position
11. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 10 wherein said second
energy absorbing member is rigid as said seatback rotates from said
upright position to said first collision position and is
plastically deformable as said seatback rotates from said first
collision position to said second collision position.
12. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 11 wherein said one of
said seat bottom and said seatback defines a slot extending
transverse to said longitudinal axis from a first end portion to a
second end portion with said first energy absorbing member mounted
in said slot between said first and second end portions.
13. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 12 wherein said second
energy absorbing member includes a pin extending into said slot
with said pin spaced from said first and second end portions when
said seatback is in said upright position and with said pin
contacting one of said first and second end portions when said
seatback is in said second collision position.
14. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 11 wherein said second
energy absorbing member defines a bend between said first and
second ends with said second energy absorbing member being rigid at
said bend as said seatback rotates from said upright position to
said first collision position and with said second energy absorbing
member plastically deforming at said bend as said seatback rotates
from said first collision position to said second collision
position.
15. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 14 wherein said second
energy absorbing member is straight after said bend is plastically
deformed in said second collision position to prevent further
rotation of said seatback in said first direction beyond said
second collision position.
16. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 10 wherein said
seatback includes at least one tower coupled to said support
structure presenting an extension extending downwardly from said
support structure with said second end of said second energy
absorbing member coupled to said extension.
17. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 2 wherein said one of
said seat bottom and said seatback defines a slot extending
transverse to said longitudinal axis from a first end portion to a
second end portion with said first energy absorbing member mounted
in said slot between said first and second end portions and wherein
said second energy absorbing member compresses said first energy
absorbing member between said second energy absorbing member and
one of said first and second end portions when said seatback
rotates from an upright position to said first collision position
and wherein said second energy absorbing member breaks said first
energy absorbing member, contacts said one of said first and second
end portions, and plastically deforms when said seatback rotates
from said first collision position to said second collision
position.
18. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 1 wherein said first
energy absorbing member is formed of an elastomeric material.
19. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 1 wherein said first
energy absorbing member is mounted to said seat bottom and said
second end of said second energy absorbing member is attached to
said seatback with said second energy absorbing member moveable
with said seatback when said seatback rotates about said
longitudinal axis.
20. The seat assembly as set forth in 1 wherein said seat bottom
includes a ramp extending upwardly for urging passengers toward
said seatback.
21. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 1 further including a
seatbelt coupled to said seatback for restraining a passenger
against said seat bottom and said seatback as said seatback rotates
from said first and second collision positions.
22. A seat assembly for a vehicle, said seat assembly comprising: a
support structure defining a longitudinal axis; a seat bottom
mounted to said support structure and extending outwardly away from
said support structure; a seatback coupled to said support
structure and being rotatable in a first direction about said
longitudinal axis from an upright position to a first collision
position when applying a first force to said seatback, said
seatback being rotatable in said first direction from said first
collision position to a second collision position when applying a
second force to said seatback, and said seatback being rotatable in
a second direction opposite said first direction from said upright
position to an inclined position when applying a third force to
said seatback; a slot defined in one of said seat bottom and said
seatback and extending transverse to said longitudinal axis from a
first end portion to a second end portion spaced from each other
with a middle portion disposed between said first and second end
portions; a first energy absorbing member mounted in said slot; and
a pin disposed through said slot and coupled to the other of said
seat bottom and said seatback with said pin abutting said first
energy absorbing member and disposed in said middle portion of said
slot when said seatback is in said upright position, said pin being
movable in said slot from said middle portion toward said first end
portion of said slot during application of said first force to said
seatback, said pin being moveable in said slot from said middle
portion to said first end portion of said slot and engaging said
first end portion during application of said second force to said
seatback, and said pin being moveable in said slot from said middle
portion toward said second end portion of said slot during
application of said third force to said seatback.
23. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 22 wherein said seat
bottom defines said slot with said pin coupled to said seatback
such that said pin moves with said seatback as said seatback
rotates about said longitudinal axis.
24. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 22 wherein said first
energy absorbing member abuts and extends between said first and
second end portions.
25. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 22 wherein said first
energy absorbing member defines an aperture through said middle
portion of said slot with said pin extending through said
aperture.
26. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 22 wherein said first
energy absorbing member is formed of an elastomeric material.
27. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 22 further including a
linkage mounted to the other of said seat bottom and said seatback
and extending to said pin and mounted to said pin such that
rotation of said seatback about said longitudinal axis moves said
linkage relative to said seatback and moves said pin in said
slot.
28. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 27 wherein said slot is
defined in said seat bottom and said linkage is mounted to said
seatback.
29. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 27 wherein said linkage
is further defined as a second energy absorbing member for
absorbing energy as said seatback rotates about said longitudinal
axis.
30. The seat assembly as set forth in claim 22 wherein said pin
elastically compresses said first energy absorbing member between
said pin and said first end portion of said slot as said seatback
rotates from said upright position to said inclined position and
wherein said pin elastically compresses said first energy absorbing
member between said pin and said second end portion of said slot as
said seatback rotates from said upright position to said first
collision position and wherein said pin breaks said first energy
absorbing member as said seatback rotates from said upright
position to said second collision position.
31. A method of manufacturing a seat assembly having a support
structure defining a longitudinal axis, a seat bottom coupled to
the support structure, a seatback coupled to the support structure
and rotatable relative to the seat bottom about the longitudinal
axis, a first energy absorbing member with one of the seat bottom
and seatback defining a slot which houses the first energy
absorbing member, and a second energy absorbing member having a
first end connected to the first energy absorbing member and a
second end connected to the other of the seat bottom and the
seatback, said method comprising: coupling the seat bottom to the
support structure; rotatably coupling the seatback to the support
structure in a flat position with the seatback and the seat bottom
extending in a common plane; mounting the first energy absorbing
member in the slot of the one of the seat bottom and the seatback;
and connecting the first end of the second energy absorbing member
to the first energy absorbing member with the second end of the
energy absorbing member free from the other of the seat bottom and
seatback.
32. The method as set forth in claim 31 further including rotating
the seatback relative to the seat bottom about the longitudinal
axis to an upright position with the seatback extending transverse
to the seat bottom.
33. The method as set forth in claim 32 further including
connecting the second end of the second energy absorbing member to
the other of the seat bottom and the seatback.
34. The method as set forth in claim 33 wherein the seat bottom
defines the slot and the second end of the second energy absorbing
member is connected to the seatback and wherein mounting the first
energy absorbing member is further defined as mounting the first
energy absorbing member in the slot of the seat bottom and wherein
connecting the second end of the second energy absorbing member is
further defined as connecting the second end to the seatback.
35. The method as set forth in claim 31 wherein mounting the first
energy absorbing member is further defined as press-fitting the
first energy absorbing member into the slot.
36. The method as set forth in claim 31 wherein the first energy
absorbing member defines an aperture and the second energy
absorbing member includes a pin at the first end of the second
energy absorbing member and wherein connecting the first end is
further defined as inserting the pin through the aperture.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/892,543 filed Mar. 2, 2007, and U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/966,403 filed Aug. 28, 2007, both of which are
incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The subject invention generally relates to a seat assembly
for a vehicle and a method of manufacturing the same.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] School buses include a seat assembly for transporting
passengers and more specifically, school buses incorporate several
seat assemblies into the school bus in rows. The seat assembly
includes a seat bottom extending generally horizontally and a
seatback coupled to the seat bottom and extending generally
vertically relative to the seat bottom. Typically, the passengers
are free to move about the school bus without being restrained in
the seat assembly. In other words, the passengers are not buckled
into seatbelts to restrain movement of the passengers. In seat
assemblies that do not include seatbelts, federal regulatory
standards require that the seatback controllably collapse forward
when the passenger seated behind pitches forward and strikes the
seatback such that the seatback absorbs energy from the
uncontrollably moving passenger. Such an arrangement is referred to
in industry as compartmentalized seating. In such a configuration,
the forward rotation of the seatback is unlimited.
[0006] Recently a longstanding debate as to whether school buses
should be equipped with seatbelts has intensified, with those
favoring seatbelt usage on the school buses now prevailing. As a
result, more and more school buses are now being equipped with
seatbelt assemblies. Public pressure is building to require all
school buses be equipped with seatbelt assemblies. A strong
consensus has already developed requiring the seatbelt assemblies
include a lap/shoulder belt combination similar to designs now
installed in most modern automobiles.
[0007] In such a configuration, the seatbelt assembly is mounted to
the seatback and the seatback remains stationary relative to the
school bus in order for the seatbelt to properly lock and restrain
the passenger. However, in such a configuration, the benefits of
the compartmentalized seating are lost, i.e., the seatback does not
controllably collapse to absorb energy when a passenger pitches
forward and strikes the seatback. Because school buses are often
used to transport children, it is foreseeable that in a school bus
equipped with seatbelt assemblies that some children will buckle
their seatbelts while some other children will forget or refuse to
buckle their seatbelts.
[0008] Accordingly, it would be advantageous to develop a seat
assembly that absorbs energy when unbuckled passengers
uncontrollably move forward and strike a seatback while also
providing adequate support for the seatbelt assembly such that the
seatbelt assembly properly functions when the passenger is buckled
into the seatbelt.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AND ADVANTAGES
[0009] The subject invention includes a seat assembly for a
vehicle. The seat assembly comprises a support structure defining a
longitudinal axis and a seat bottom mounted to the support
structure and extending outwardly away from the support structure.
The seat assembly further includes a seatback coupled to the
support structure and rotatable about the longitudinal axis between
a first collision position when applying a first force to the
seatback and a second collision position when applying a second
force to the seatback. A first energy absorbing member is mounted
to one of the seat bottom and the seatback for absorbing energy
when the seatback rotates to the first collision position during
application of the first force. A second energy absorbing member
has a first end coupled to the first energy absorbing member at one
of the seat bottom and the seatback and a second end coupled to the
other of the seat bottom and the seatback for absorbing energy when
the seatback rotates to the second collision position during
application of the second force after the first energy absorbing
member absorbs energy in the first collision position.
[0010] The present invention also includes a seat assembly for a
vehicle with the seat assembly comprising a support structure
defining a longitudinal axis and a seat bottom mounted to the
support structure and extending outwardly away from the support
structure. The seat assembly further includes a seatback coupled to
the support structure and being rotatable in a first direction
about the longitudinal axis from an upright position to a first
collision position when applying a first force to the seatback. The
seatback is also rotatable in the first direction from the first
collision position to a second collision position when applying a
second force to the seatback. The seatback is also rotatable in a
second direction opposite the first direction from the upright
position to an inclined position when applying a third force to the
seatback. The seatback assembly further includes a slot defined in
one of the seat bottom and the seatback and extending transverse to
the longitudinal axis from a first end portion to a second end
portion spaced from each other with a middle portion disposed
between the first and second end portions. A first energy absorbing
member is mounted in the slot. A pin is disposed through the slot
and is coupled to the other of the seat bottom and the seatback
with the pin abutting the first energy absorbing member and
disposed in the middle portion of the slot when the seatback is in
the upright position. The pin is movable in the slot from the
middle portion toward the first end portion of the slot during
application of the first force to the seatback. The pin is also
moveable in the slot from the middle portion to the first end
portion of the slot and engages the first end portion during
application of the second force to the seatback. The pin is
moveable in the slot from the middle portion toward the second end
portion of the slot during application of the third force to the
seatback.
[0011] The subject invention also includes a method of
manufacturing a seat assembly having a support structure defining a
longitudinal axis, a seat bottom coupled to the support structure,
a seatback coupled to the support structure and rotatable relative
to the seat bottom about the longitudinal axis, a first energy
absorbing member with one of the seat bottom and seatback defining
a slot which houses the first energy absorbing member, and a second
energy absorbing member having a first end connected to the first
energy absorbing member and a second end connected to the other of
the seat bottom and seatback. The method comprises coupling the
seat bottom to the support structure. The method further includes
rotatably coupling the seatback to the support structure in a flat
position with the seatback and the seat bottom extending in a
common plane. The method further includes mounting the first energy
absorbing member in the slot of the one of the seat bottom and the
seatback. The method further includes connecting the first end of
the second energy absorbing member to the first energy absorbing
member with the second end of the energy absorbing member free from
the other of the seat bottom and seatback.
[0012] Therefore, the subject invention provides for a seat
assembly having a first energy absorbing member and a second energy
absorbing member for absorbing energy when a passenger
uncontrollably moves forward and strikes a seatback. Thus, when the
passengers are unrestrained in the seat assembly the first and
second energy absorbing members absorb energy for reducing injury
to the passengers. Further, the first energy absorbing member is
designed to compress when applying a first force and a third force
and uncompress when the first and third forces are not being
applied, such that the first energy absorbing member returns to its
original configuration. In other words, the first energy absorbing
member is reusable in such situations.
[0013] In addition, when the passenger is fastened into the seat
assembly with a seatbelt assembly, the seatback on which the
passenger rests against must provide adequate support such that the
seatbelt assembly locks and prevents the passenger from flying
forward. However, some passengers may forget or refuse to be
fastened into the seat assembly with the seatbelt assembly and can
pitch forward when the vehicle is abruptly stopped. Thus, the first
and second energy absorbing members are designed to absorb energy
when the passenger uncontrollably strikes the seatback in front of
the passenger while also providing a hard stop to allow the
seatbelt assembly to function properly and maintain the seatback in
the generally upright position.
[0014] The first and second energy absorbing members provide for
varying energy absorption when a passenger uncontrollably moves
forward and strikes a seatback in front of the passenger in
response to an abrupt stop by the vehicle, e.g., during a
collision. The varying energy absorption depend upon the magnitude
of the force applied to the seatback by the uncontrollably moving
passenger. In other words, if the passenger imparts the first force
on the seatback, the seatback rotates to the first collision
position. If the passenger imparts the second force on the
seatback, the seatback rotates to the second collision
position.
[0015] Further, because the second energy absorbing member is
coupled to the first energy absorbing member, the first and second
energy absorbing members act together to absorb different forces.
In other words, the first energy absorbing device absorbs energy
when the seatback rotates to the first collision position during
application of the first force. The coupling of the second energy
absorbing device to the first energy absorbing device allows the
second energy absorbing device to absorb energy during application
of the second force after the first energy absorbing device absorbs
energy in the first collision position.
[0016] In addition, method allows for the seatbacks of several seat
assemblies to be disposed in the flat position such that the
several seat assemblies can be stacked upon each other. Such a
configuration reduces the space required during shipping, thereby
reducing costs associated with shipping. In addition, a stack of
the seat assemblies is easily moved from one location to another,
for example, with a fork truck, i.e., several seat assemblies can
be easily transported as one unit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] Other advantages of the present invention will be readily
appreciated, as the same becomes better understood by reference to
the following detailed description when considered in connection
with the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of several seat assemblies
mounted in rows to a floor of a vehicle;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the seat assembly including
a seat bottom and a seatback;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the seat
assembly to show a seat bottom frame and a seatback frame;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view along line 3-3 of FIG. 3
when the seatback in an upright position;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the seat assembly with the
seatback rotated to a flat position generally parallel to a seat
bottom;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of the seatback to
show a back cover of the seatback and a bottom cover of the seat
bottom;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a front view of a seatback frame with a plurality
of seatbelt assemblies to the seatback frame;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a front view of the seat assembly configured in a
two passenger configuration;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a front view of the seat assembly configured in a
three passenger configuration;
[0027] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view along line 3-3 of FIG. 3
when the seatback in a first collision position;
[0028] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view along line 3-3 of FIG. 3
when the seatback in a second collision position;
[0029] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view along line 3-3 of FIG. 3
when the seatback in an inclined position;
[0030] FIG. 13 is a partially exploded perspective view of a
portion of the seat assembly including a partial-cutaway view of
the seatback frame; and
[0031] FIG. 14 is a side view of several seat assemblies disposed
in the flat position and stacked upon each other.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0032] Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate
like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, a seat
assembly for a vehicle (not numbered) is generally shown at 20.
Referring to FIG. 1, the seat assembly 20 can be disposed in a
school bus for supporting one or more passengers. In such a
configuration, several seat assemblies 20 are incorporated into the
school bus in rows. It should be appreciated that the seat assembly
20 may be used in any type of vehicle including, for example, an
automobile, an airplane, a train, and a boat.
[0033] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the seat assembly 20 includes a
support structure 22 defining a longitudinal axis L. Preferably,
the support structure 22 defines a cylindrical configuration
extending along the longitudinal axis L. In other words, the
support structure 22 has a round cross-section about the
longitudinal axis L.
[0034] A seat bottom 24 is mounted to the support structure 22 and
extends outwardly away from the support structure 22. In other
words, the seat bottom 24 extends generally horizontally. The seat
bottom 24 includes a seat bottom frame 26 mounted to the support
structure 22. The seat bottom frame 26 is typically formed of
metal, such as, for example, steel or aluminum. However it is to be
appreciated that the seat bottom frame 26 may be formed of any
other suitable material capable of providing the necessary support
and strength.
[0035] The seat bottom frame 26 includes a first column 28, a
second column 30, and a third column 32 spaced from each other with
each of the columns 28, 30, 32 mounted to the support structure 22.
Each of the columns 28, 30, 32 extends outwardly away from the
support structure 22, and more specifically, each of the columns
28, 30, 32 extends generally horizontally. A plurality of mounting
pedestals 34 are mounted to the support platform 22 and extend
downwardly and transverse to the longitudinal axis L for mounting
the seat assembly 20 to a floor of the vehicle.
[0036] Referring to FIG. 6, the seat bottom 24 includes a bottom
cover 36 disposed on the seat bottom frame 26. The bottom cover 36
may be formed of a single sheet of thermoformed plastic material.
However it is to be appreciated that the bottom cover 36 may be
formed of any other suitable material and may be formed by any
suitable method. The seat bottom frame 26 can include a ramp 38
extending outwardly away from the support structure 22 for urging
the passengers of the seat assembly 20 toward the support structure
22. The ramp 38 reduces the likelihood that the passengers
uncontrollably move forward and strike the seat assembly 20 in
front of the respective passenger when the vehicle stops abruptly,
i.e., also referred to in industry as submarining. The ramp 38
increases in height as the ramp 38 extends in a direction away from
the support structure 22.
[0037] A seatback 40 is coupled to the support structure 22 and is
rotatable about the longitudinal axis L relative to the seat bottom
24, as will be discussed below. The seatback 40 may include a
plurality of foam pillows (not shown) positioned to absorb energy
in case the passenger uncontrollably move forward and strikes the
seatback 40 in front of the respective passenger when the vehicle
stops abruptly.
[0038] As best shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, the seatback 40 includes a
seatback frame 42 coupled to the support structure 22 and rotatable
about the longitudinal axis L. The seatback frame 42 is typically
formed of metal, such as steel or aluminum. However it is to be
appreciated that the seatback frame 42 may be formed of any other
suitable material capable of providing the necessary support and
strength.
[0039] The seatback frame 42 includes a first tower 44, a second
tower 46, and a third tower 48 spaced from each other and coupled
to the support structure 22. More specifically, the towers 44, 46,
48 are spaced at a predetermined distance from each other along the
longitudinal axis L. For example, the first and second towers 44,
46 are spaced farther away from each other than the second and
third towers 46, 48. However, it is appreciated that the towers 44,
46, 48 can be spaced at any interval relative to each other without
departing from the nature of the present invention. The first
column 28 of the seat bottom frame 26 is mounted to the support
structure 22 adjacent the first tower 44, the second column 30 of
the seat bottom frame 26 is mounted to the support structure 22
adjacent the second tower 46, and the third column 32 of the seat
bottom frame 26 is mounted to the support structure 22 adjacent the
third tower 48. In other words, each of the columns 28, 30, 32
aligns with one of the respective towers 44, 46, 48.
[0040] Each of the towers 44, 46, 48 defines a hole 50
complementary in configuration to the round cross-section of the
support structure 22 for coupling each of the towers 44, 46, 48 to
the support structure 22. Such a configuration allows for rotation
of the towers 44, 46, 48 about the longitudinal axis L. In other
words, the support structure 22 and the hole 50 of each of the
towers 44, 46, 48 are sized such that the towers 44, 46, 48 are
rotatable about the support structure 22. It is to be appreciated
that the configuration of the support structure 22 and the hole 50
may be any suitable configuration for allowing each of the towers
44, 46, 48 to rotate about the support structure 22.
[0041] Each tower 44, 46, 48 has at least one extension extending
outwardly away from the seatback. The at least one extension is
further defined as a first extension 52 and a second extension 54
spaced from the first extension 52. It is also appreciated that the
seatback frame 42 may have any configuration in the alternative to
the towers 44, 46, 48 described herein without departing from the
nature of the present invention.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 6, the seatback 40 further includes a back
cover 56 disposed over the seatback frame 42. The back cover 56 is
typically hollow and receives each of the towers 44, 46, 48 such
that the towers 44, 46, 48 rotate simultaneously about the
longitudinal axis L. The back cover 56 structurally reinforces the
seatback frame 42. Specifically, the back cover 56 ties the towers
44, 46, 48 together for reinforcing the seatback 40. The back cover
56 is typically formed by injection molding and is typically formed
of a plastic material. However it is to be appreciated that the
back cover 56 may be formed of any suitable material and formed by
any suitable method.
[0043] As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the seat assembly 20 may
include upholstery attached to the seatback 40 and/or the seat
bottom 24. For example, the upholstery includes fabric and J-clips
attached to the fabric. In such a configuration, the J-clips attach
to the back cover 56 of the seatback 40 and/or attach to the bottom
cover 36 of the seat bottom 24. As such, the upholstery is
removeable from the seat assembly 20 by disconnecting the J-clips
from the back cover 56 and/or the bottom cover 36.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 7, the seat assembly 20 further includes a
plurality of seatbelt assemblies 58 coupled to the seatback 40. The
seatbelt assemblies 58 and the seatback 40 are configurable for use
by either two larger passengers in a two passenger configuration or
three smaller passengers in a three passenger configuration. The
two passenger configuration is shown in FIG. 8 and the three
passenger configuration is shown in FIG. 9. The hardware of each of
the seatbelt assemblies 58, for example, may include such
components as a retractor 60, a belt 62 extendable from the
retractor 60, a shoulder retainer (not numbered) receiving the belt
62, a belt height adjuster (not numbered) coupled to the shoulder
retainer, and a clip 64 coupled to the belt 62. The belt height
adjuster is also referred to in industry as an adjustable turning
loop. As will be apparent from the description below and the
figures, the seatbelt assemblies 58 are those which are commonly
referred to "three-point seatbelt assemblies," i.e., when
restraining a passenger, the belt 62 extends from the passenger's
shoulder, across the passenger's torso to one side of the
passenger's lap, and across the passenger's lap to the other side
of the passenger's lap. In such a configuration, the seatbelt
assembly 58 is fixed at three points: the passenger's shoulder, one
side of the passenger's lap, and the other side of the passenger's
lap.
[0045] The seatbelt assemblies 58 also include a plurality of
buckles 66 coupled to the support structure 22 for receiving the
clips 64. The clips 64 and the buckles 66 can be coded and/or keyed
to assist the passengers in properly pairing the clips 64 and the
buckles 66 for the two passenger configuration or the three
passenger configuration. The clips 64 and buckles 66 may be
visually coded, such as color coding, printed text, indicia or any
other suitable coding.
[0046] Each of the towers further defines a channel 68 extending
transverse to the longitudinal axis L. Specifically, each of the
towers 44, 46, 48 has a generally U-shaped cross-section. One
retractor 60 is disposed in the channel 68 of each of the towers
44, 46, 48. As such, the belt 62 extends upwardly from the
retractor 60 to the shoulder retainer within the channel 68. Such a
configuration reduces or eliminates lateral forces exerted on the
respective towers 44, 46, 48 when the seatbelt assemblies 58 lock
and retain the passenger during an abrupt or hard stop by the
vehicle. Because the lateral forces are reduced or eliminated, the
size of the towers 44, 46, 48 may be reduced which is advantageous
with respect to cost to manufacture and packaging.
[0047] As best shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 10-13, at least one of the
seat bottom 24 and the seatback 40 defines a slot 70 extending
transverse to the longitudinal axis L. In the configuration shown
in the figures, the seat bottom 24 defines the slot 70. The slot 70
includes a first end portion 72 and a second end portion 74 facing
each other in a spaced relationship. The slot 70 includes a middle
portion 76 disposed between the first and second end portions 72,
74. The middle portion 76 is defined by an upper surface 78 and a
lower surface 80 facing each other in a spaced relationship. The
upper and lower surfaces 78, 80 extend from the first end portion
72 to the second end portion 74. Preferably the slot 70 has an oval
configuration. However it is to be appreciated that the slot 70 may
be of a circular configuration, a rectangular configuration, a
square configuration or any other suitable configuration. As best
shown in FIG. 13, the slot 70 is further defined as a plurality of
slots 70 with each of the columns 28, 30, 32 of the seat bottom
frame 26 defining one of the slots 70.
[0048] As best shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 10-13, the seat assembly 20
includes an energy absorbing device. As described below, the energy
absorbing device selectively allows the seatback 40 to rotate
relative to the seat bottom 24.
[0049] The seatback 40 on which the passenger rests against must
provide adequate support such that the seatbelt assembly 58 locks
and restrains the passenger against the seat bottom 24 and the
seatback 40. In other words, when the vehicle abruptly stops, the
passenger's momentum urges the passenger forward and the passenger
must move forward relative to the seatback 40 in order for the
seatbelt assembly 58 to lock and prevent the belt 62 from extending
from the retractor 60. The energy absorbing device limits the
rotation of the seatback 40 about the longitudinal axis L, i.e.,
provides a hard stop, in order for the seatbelt assembly 58 to
properly function and stop the passenger from uncontrollably moving
forward. However, some passengers may refuse or forget to buckle
their seatbelt assembly 58, i.e., engage the clip 64 in the buckle
66 with the belt 62 extending across the passenger. In such a
situation, when the vehicle is abruptly stopped, the passenger may
uncontrollably move forward and strike the seatback 40 in front of
the passenger. The energy absorbing device allows the limited
rotation of the seatback 40 about the longitudinal axis L to absorb
energy from such passengers. Thus, the energy absorbing device
absorbs energy when the passenger uncontrollably strikes the
seatback in front of the passenger while also providing a hard stop
to allow the seatbelt assembly 58 to function properly.
[0050] The seatback 40 is shown in the upright position in FIG. 4.
As shown in FIG. 10, the seatback 40 is rotatable in a first
direction about the longitudinal axis L from the upright position
to a first collision position when applying a first force F1 to the
seatback 40. The first force F1 is represented by an arrow in FIG.
10. The first force F1 can be, for example, a result of a passenger
uncontrollably moving forward and striking the seatback 40 in front
of the passenger. As shown in FIG. 11, the seatback 40 is also
rotatable in the first direction about the longitudinal axis L to a
second collision position when applying a second force F2 to the
seatback 40. The second force F2 is represented by an arrow in FIG.
11. The second force F2 can be, for example, a result of a
passenger uncontrollably moving forward and striking the seatback
40 in front of the passenger. As described further below, it is
appreciated that the term "first force" and the term "second force"
are used to delineate between forces of different magnitude. The
second force F2 is greater than the first force F1. As shown in
FIGS. 10 and 11, both the first force F1 and the second force F2
act in the same direction on the seatback 40. It should be
appreciated that FIGS. 4 and 10-12 are illustrative of varying
positions of the seatback 40 and all of the details of the seat
assembly 20 are not shown, e.g., the back cover 56, the bottom
cover, and the seatbelt assembly 58.
[0051] It is to be appreciated that the seatback 40 extends
generally vertically relative to the seat bottom 24 when in the
upright position. The seatback 40 includes a front surface 82 and a
back surface 84 opposing each other. The seatback 40 is rotatable
to the first and second collision positions when applying the first
and second forces F1, F2, respectively, to the back surface 84.
[0052] In addition, the seatback 40 is rotatable to an inclined
position in response to a third force F3, as shown in FIG. 12.
Specifically, the seatback 40 is rotatable in a second direction
opposite the first direction when applying the third force F3 to
the seatback. The third force F3 is represented by an arrow in FIG.
12. The third force F3 can be, for example, a result of a passenger
leaning back against the seatback 40 during a rear-end collision of
the vehicle. It is to be appreciated that the first and second
forces F1, F2 may be applied anywhere along the back surface 84 and
the third force F3 may be applied anywhere along the front surface
82.
[0053] The energy absorbing device includes a first energy
absorbing member 86 mounted to one of the seat bottom 24 and the
seatback 40 for absorbing energy when the seatback 40 rotates to
the first collision position during application of the first force
F1. Specifically, the first energy absorbing member 86 is mounted
in the slot 70 of one of the seat bottom 24 and the seatback 40 for
absorbing energy. As shown in the figures, the first energy
absorbing member 86 is mounted in the slot 70 of the seat bottom
24. The first energy absorbing member 86 is typically press fit
into the slot 70 and abuts the first and second end portions 72, 74
and the upper and lower surfaces 78, 80 of the slot 70. However it
is to be appreciated that the first energy absorbing member 86 may
be mounted to the slot 70 in any suitable manner. As best shown in
FIG. 3, the first energy absorbing member 86 is further defined as
a plurality of first energy absorbing members 86 with one of each
of the first energy absorbing members 86 mounted to each of the
columns 28, 30, 32 of the seat bottom frame 26.
[0054] The first energy absorbing member 86 is typically formed of
an elastomeric material. For example, the first energy absorbing
member 86 is formed of a thermoplastic elastomeric material, such
as a thermoplastic polyester elastomeric material, e.g., that
available under the trade name Hytrel.RTM. which is commercially
available from E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. As discussed
below, the elastomeric material allows the first energy absorbing
member 86 to elastically compress when applying the first and third
forces F1, F3 to the seatback 40 and to uncompress when the first
and third forces F1, F3 are released, i.e., the first energy
absorbing member 86 returns to its original configuration. The
first energy absorbing member 86 is reusable in such situations.
The first energy absorbing member 86 may also be referred to as a
bushing.
[0055] The energy absorbing device also includes a second energy
absorbing member 88 having a first end 90 connected to the first
energy absorbing member 86 and a second end 92 coupled to one of
the seat bottom 24 and the seatback 40. In the configuration shown
in the figures, the second end 92 of the second energy absorbing
member 88 is connected to the seatback 40. The second energy
absorbing member 88 is moveable with the seatback 40 when the
seatback 40 rotates to the first and second collision positions and
the inclined position. As discussed below, because the first end 90
of the second energy absorbing member 88 is connected to the first
energy absorbing member 86, movement of the second energy absorbing
member 88 in response to rotation of the seatback 40 results in
compression of the first energy absorbing member 86. The second
energy absorbing member 88 is further defined as a plurality of
second energy absorbing members 88 with one of each of the second
energy absorbing members 88 attached to each of the towers 44, 46,
48 and coupled to each of the first energy absorbing members
86.
[0056] In the configuration shown in the figures, the second energy
absorbing member 88 is an elongated strap. The second energy
absorbing member 88 acts as a linkage that maintains the seatback
40 in the upright position when no external force is being applied
to the seatback 40. It should be appreciated that the linkage may
be defined as a bar, a shaft or any suitable connector for coupling
the first energy absorbing member 86 to the seatback 40 such that
the first energy absorbing member 86 absorbs energy when the
seatback 40 rotates about the longitudinal axis.
[0057] The first energy absorbing member 86 defines an aperture 94
through the middle portion 76 of the slot 70 when the seatback 40
is in the upright position. The energy absorbing device further
includes a pin 96 disposed in the slot 70. Specifically, the pin 96
is connected to the first end 90 of the second energy absorbing
member 88 and extends into the aperture 94 of the first energy
absorbing member 86. The pin 96 abuts the first energy absorbing
member 86. The pin 96 is further defined as a plurality of pins 96
with one of the pins 96 disposed through each of the first energy
absorbing members 86 and attached to the second end 92 of each of
the second energy absorbing members 88.
[0058] The pin 96 is movable in the slot 70 toward the first end
portion 72 of the slot 70 during application of the first and
second forces F1, F2 to the back surface 84 of the seatback 40. The
pin 96 is also moveable in the slot 70 toward the second end
portion 74 when applying the third force F3 to the front surface
82. The first energy absorbing 86 member elastically compresses to
absorb energy when the pin 96 moves toward the first and second end
portions 72, 74 of the slot 70 as the seatback 40 rotates to the
first collision position and the inclined position,
respectively.
[0059] The second energy absorbing member 88 is typically formed of
metal such as, for example, steel. In such a configuration, the
steel is, for example, 3/8 inches thick. However it is to be
appreciated that the second energy absorbing member 88 may have
various thicknesses and widths as known to those of ordinary skill
in the art. For example, as the thickness of the second energy
absorbing member 88 increases, the width of the second energy
absorbing member 88 may decrease. As another example, as the width
of the second energy absorbing member 88 increases, the thickness
of the second energy absorbing member 88 may decrease.
[0060] The second energy absorbing member 88 defines at least one
bend 98 disposed between the first and second ends 90, 92 with the
bend 98 maintaining a predetermined configuration when the seatback
40 rotates to the first collision position. As discussed below, the
bend 98 deforms when the seatback 40 rotates to the second
collision position for absorbing energy. In other words, the bend
98 maintains the predetermined configuration when the seatback 40
rotates in the first direction to the first collision position.
Once the bend 98 deforms when in the second collision position, a
hard stop is created for preventing additional rotation of the
seatback 40 about the longitudinal axis L which allows the seatbelt
assembly 58 to lock, i.e. function properly. Specifically, the bend
98 deforms such that the second energy absorbing member 88 is
straight to prevent further rotation of the seatback 40. It is to
be appreciated that the bend 98 may be in any configuration for
absorbing energy, such as a kink, a plurality of bends, etc. It is
to be further appreciated that the second energy absorbing member
88 may be any suitable energy absorbing member without departing
from the nature of the subject invention.
[0061] The first energy absorbing member 86 has a rigidity and the
second energy absorbing member 88 has a rigidity greater than the
rigidity of the first energy absorbing member 86. As such, the
first energy absorbing member 86 absorbs energy when the seatback
40 moves to the first collision position and the second energy
absorbing member 88 absorbs energy when the seatback 40 moves to
the second collision position.
[0062] The pin 96 is typically rigidly attached to the first end 90
of the second energy absorbing member 88. In such a configuration,
movement of the second energy absorbing member 88 in response to
rotation of the seatback 40 causes the pin 96 to rotate within the
slot 70. It is to be appreciated that the second energy absorbing
member 88 may be mounted to the pin 96 such that the pin 96 does
not rotate within the slot 70 during movement of the second energy
absorbing member 88.
[0063] A rod 97 extends between the first and second extensions 52,
54 of each respective tower 44, 46, 48. The second energy absorbing
member 88 is attached to the first and second extensions 52, 54 of
each of the towers 44, 46, 48. The rod 97 is disposed through the
second end 92 of the second energy absorbing member 88 with the rod
97 attached to the first and second extensions 52, 54. It should be
appreciated that the second energy absorbing member 88 may be
connected to the extension 52, 54, for example, by bolting or
pinning the second end to the extension 52, 54.
[0064] For illustrative purposes, a discussion of the seatback 40
moving from the upright position to the first and second collision
positions and the inclined position with the corresponding movement
of the first and second energy absorbing members 86, 88 is set
forth below. Only one set of the first and second energy absorbing
members 86, 88 are shown in FIGS. 4 and 10-12, however it is to be
appreciated that this discussion applies to each of the first and
second energy absorbing members 86, 88 coupled to each of the
towers 44, 46, 48. Referring to FIG. 4, when no forces are applied
to the seatback 40, the seatback 40 is disposed in the upright
position and the pin 96 is at rest and disposed along the middle
portion 76 of the respective slot 70.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 10, the first force F1 is applied to the
back surface 84 of the seatback 40, which rotates the seatback 40
about the longitudinal axis L toward the seat bottom 24 to the
first collision position. The first and second extensions 52, 54 of
the tower 44, 46, 48 rotate away from the seat bottom 24 which
causes the first energy absorbing member 88 to move with the towers
44, 46, 48. The pin 96 moves in the respective slot 70 toward the
first end portion 72 to compress the first energy absorbing member
86 between the pin 96 and the first end portion 72 of the slot 70.
It is to be appreciated that the pin 96 may move downwardly toward
the lower surface 80 of the slot 70 as the pin 96 moves toward the
first end portion 72 due to the first energy absorbing member 88
angling away from the seat bottom 24. It is to be further
appreciated that the pin 96 may move upwardly toward the upper
surface of the slot 70 as the pin 96 moves toward the first end
portion 72 in a configuration where the first energy absorbing
member 88 angles upwardly toward the seat bottom 24. The pin 96
compresses the respective first energy absorbing member 86 for
absorbing energy without the second energy absorbing member 88
absorbing energy, i.e., the first energy absorbing member 86 is
compressed and the second energy absorbing member 88 does not
deform. When the first force F1 is released, the first energy
absorbing member 86 uncompresses and moves the pin 96 back to the
middle portion 76 while the seatback 40 returns to the upright
position.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 11, the second force F2 is applied to the
back surface 84 of the seatback 40 which rotates the seatback 40
about the longitudinal axis L toward the seat bottom 24 to the
second collision position. The second force F2 rotates the seatback
40 closer to the seat bottom 24 than when the first force F1 is
applied. In other words, the seatback 40 moves through the first
collision position to the second collision position. The first and
second extensions 52, 54 of the respective tower 44, 46, 48 rotate
away from the seat bottom 24 which causes the second energy
absorbing member 88 to move with the tower 44, 46, 48. The pin 96
moves in the respective slot 70 toward the first end portion 72 of
the slot 70 to the first position. The pin 96 compresses the
respective first energy absorbing member 86 between the pin 96 and
the first end portion 72 of the slot 70 for absorbing energy. As
the pin 96 continues to move, the first energy absorbing member 86
is frangible and the pin 96 breaks through the first energy
absorbing member 86 such that the pin 96 abuts or engages the first
end portion 72 when in the second position. It is to be appreciated
that the first energy absorbing member 86 absorbs energy as the pin
96 breaks through the first energy absorbing member 86. However,
once the pin 96 engages the first end portion 72, the first energy
absorbing member 86 does not absorb more energy. When the pin 96
engages the first end portion 72 in the second collision position,
the bend 98 in the second energy absorbing member 88 deforms or
straightens out for absorbing additional energy. Once the bend 98
deforms, a hard stop is created for preventing additional rotation
of the seatback 40 about the longitudinal axis L which allows the
seatbelt assembly 58 to lock, i.e. function properly. When the
second force F2 is eliminated, the first and second energy
absorbing members 86, 88 are typically replaced with new first and
second energy absorbing members 86, 88. It is to be appreciated
that the seat assembly may be replaced with a new seat assembly 20
when the second force F2 is applied.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 12, the third force F3 is applied to the
front surface 82 of the seatback 40 which rotates the seatback 40
about the longitudinal axis away from the seat bottom 24 to the
inclined position. As discussed above, the seatback 40 rotates in
the first direction when moving from the upright position to the
first and second collision positions and the seatback 40 rotates in
the second direction opposite the first direction when moving from
the upright position to the inclined position. The first and second
extensions 52, 54 of the respective tower 44, 46, 48 rotate toward
the seat bottom 24 which causes the second energy absorbing member
88 to move with the respective tower 44, 46, 48. The pin 96 moves
in the respective slot 70 toward the second end portion 74 of the
slot 70 to compress the first energy absorbing member 86 between
the pin 96 and the second end portion 74. The pin 96 compresses the
respective first energy absorbing member 86 for absorbing energy
without the second energy absorbing member 88 absorbing energy,
i.e., the first energy absorbing member 86 is compressed and the
second energy absorbing member 88 does not deform. When the third
force F3 is released, the first energy absorbing member 86
uncompresses and moves the pin 96 back to the middle portion while
the seatback 40 returns to the upright position.
[0068] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 14, the seatback 40 is capable of
being disposed in a flat position for shipping prior to mounting
into the vehicle. In the flat position, the seatback 40 and the
seat bottom 24 extend in a common plane and several seat assemblies
20 can be stacked upon each other. In such a configuration, during
shipping, the second energy absorbing member 88 is coupled to the
first energy absorbing member 86 with the second end 92 of the
second energy absorbing member 88 is free from the seatback 40,
i.e., not connected to the extensions 52, 54 of seatback 40 with
the rod 97. Specifically, the first end 90 of each of the second
energy absorbing members 88 are attached to respective pins with
each of the pins 96 disposed through the respective aperture 94 of
the first energy absorbing members 86 without attaching the second
end 92 of the second energy absorbing members 88 to the extensions
52, 54 of the respective tower 44, 46, 48. When the seat assembly
20 is prepared to be installed in the vehicle, the seatback 40 is
rotated to the upright position and the second end 92 of the second
energy absorbing member 88 is connected to the extensions 52,
54.
[0069] The subject invention also provides a method of
manufacturing the seat assembly 20. The method includes coupling
the seat bottom 24 to the support structure 22. The method further
includes rotatably coupling the seatback 40 to the support
structure 22 in the flat position with the seatback 40 and the seat
bottom 24 extending in the common plane. It is appreciated that the
seatback 40 may be moved in any position relative to the seat
bottom 24 during the coupling of the seatback 40 to the seat bottom
24 and when the coupling is complete, the seatback 40 is in the
flat position.
[0070] The method further includes mounting the first energy
absorbing member 86 in the slot 70 of the one of the seat bottom 24
and the seatback 40. As discussed above, the first energy absorbing
member 86 is shown in the figures as being mounted to the seat
bottom 24. As discussed above, the first energy absorbing member 86
may be press-fit into the slot 70. In such a configuration, the
method further includes press-fitting the first energy absorbing
member 86 into the slot 70.
[0071] The method further includes connecting the first end 90 of
the second energy absorbing member 88 to the first energy absorbing
member 86 with the second end 92 of the energy absorbing member
free from the other of the seat bottom 24 and seatback 40, i.e.,
that which the first energy absorbing member 86 is not mounted to.
Specifically, in the configuration shown in the figures where the
first energy absorbing member 86 is mounted to the seat bottom 24,
the first end 90 of the second energy absorbing member 88 is
connected to seatback 40. The second end 92 of the second energy
absorbing member 88 is "free" in the sense that the second energy
absorbing member 88 is not connected to the extension of the
respective tower 44, 46, 48 with the rod 97. It is appreciated that
when the second end 92 of the second energy absorbing member 88 is
"free," the second energy absorbing member 88 can still be
restrained to prevent rotation of the second energy absorbing
member 88 relative to the seat bottom 24 or the seatback 40. For
example, the second energy absorbing member 88 can be tied to one
of the seat bottom 24 and the seatback 40 to prevent rotation in
such a configuration.
[0072] The method, more specifically, includes the step of
disposing the pin 96 through the slot 70 with the first end of the
second energy absorbing member 88 attached to the pin 96.
Specifically, the step of disposing the pin 96 through the slot 70
is further defined as disposing the pin 96 through the aperture 94
of the first energy absorbing member 86.
[0073] The seatback 40 is rotated to the upright position and the
second end of the second energy absorbing member 88 is attached to
the seatback 40 to support the seatback 40 in the upright position.
Specifically, the method includes attaching the second end 92 of
the second energy absorbing member 88 to the extension 52, 54 of
the seatback 40 to support the seatback 40 in the upright position.
More specifically, the rod 97 is extended through the second end of
the second energy absorbing strap and through the extensions 52, 54
of the respective tower 44, 46, 48. It should be appreciated that
in the configuration where the seat assembly 20 includes a
plurality of first and second energy absorbing member 86, 88, when
the seatback 40 is rotated to the upright position the steps set
forth above are performed for each of the first and second energy
absorbing member 86, 88.
[0074] The method of the present invention is advantageous in that
several seat assemblies 20 can be stacked upon each other as shown
in FIG. 14. Such a configuration reduces the space required during
shipping, commonly referred to as "air space," thereby reducing
costs associated with shipping. In addition, a stack of the seat
assemblies 20 is easily moved from one location to another, for
example, with a fork truck, i.e., several seat assemblies 20 can be
easily transported as one unit. Further, the method allows for the
seatback 40 to be assembled from the flat position to the upright
position in a quick and easy manner.
[0075] Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present
invention are possible in light of the above teachings. The
foregoing invention has been described in accordance with the
relevant legal standards; thus, the description is exemplary rather
than limiting in nature. Variations and modifications to the
disclosed embodiment may become apparent to those skilled in the
art and do come within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the
scope of legal protection afforded this invention can only be
determined by studying the following claims.
* * * * *