U.S. patent application number 14/266473 was filed with the patent office on 2015-11-05 for adjustable arm rest and methods of manufacture and use thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to Honda Motor Co., Ltd.. The applicant listed for this patent is Honda Motor Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Daniel R. Lewis.
Application Number | 20150314712 14/266473 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54252556 |
Filed Date | 2015-11-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150314712 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lewis; Daniel R. |
November 5, 2015 |
ADJUSTABLE ARM REST AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND USE THEREOF
Abstract
Some embodiments are directed to an adjustable arm rest
attachment mechanism that includes an outer bearing non-rotatably
fixed to a seat and defining a first guide groove. An inner bearing
is non-rotatably fixed to an arm rest, and defines a second guide
groove. The inner bearing is rotatable relative to the outer
bearing, and is disposed over the outer bearing. A pin extends
through the second guide groove and into the first guide groove.
The pin and the first and second guide grooves are configured such
that, if the arm rest is rotated downward within an adjustment
zone, then wall surfaces of the first guide groove selectively
engage and disengage the pin, and simultaneously, wall surfaces of
the second guide groove selectively engage and disengage the pin,
thereby creating a varying frictional force capable of impeding
further rotation of the arm rest.
Inventors: |
Lewis; Daniel R.; (Raymond,
OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
54252556 |
Appl. No.: |
14/266473 |
Filed: |
April 30, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
297/411.32 ;
29/428; 297/411.2; 297/411.38; 297/463.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60N 2/753 20180201;
B60N 2/767 20180201 |
International
Class: |
B60N 2/46 20060101
B60N002/46 |
Claims
1. An adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism for use with a seat
and an arm rest that is configured to support an arm of an occupant
of the seat in a position within an adjustment zone, the seat
including a seat frame and the arm rest including an arm rest
support member, the adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism
comprising: an outer bearing that is non-rotatably fixed to the
seat frame and that defines a first guide groove; an inner bearing
that is non-rotatably fixed to the arm rest support member and that
defines a second guide groove, the inner bearing being rotatable
relative to the outer bearing and being disposed over the outer
bearing such that at least a portion of the second guide groove
overlaps at least a portion of the first guide groove; and a pin
that extends through the second guide groove and into the first
guide groove, the pin and the first and second guide grooves being
configured such that, if the arm rest is rotated downward in the
adjustment zone, then wall surfaces of the first guide groove
selectively engage and disengage the pin, and simultaneously, wall
surfaces of the second guide groove selectively engage and
disengage the pin, thereby creating a varying frictional force
capable of impeding further rotation of the arm rest.
2. The adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism according to claim
1, wherein the outer and inner bearings and the pin enable the arm
rest to be manually rotatable relative to the seat occupant between
a full down position within the adjustment zone in which the arm
rest is disposed to support the arm of the seat occupant, and a
stowed position in which the arm rest is not disposed to support
the arm of the occupant.
3. The adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism according to claim
2, wherein the arm rest defines an angle of at least 90.degree.
with the seat frame in at least one arm rest position within the
adjustment zone, and the arm rest is substantially parallel to the
seat frame in the stowed position.
4. The adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism according to claim
1, wherein the arm rest is infinitely variable between certain
positions within the adjustment zone, including an upper position,
a lower position, and a full down position that defines the maximum
angle between the arm rest and the seat frame, the pin cooperating
with the first and second guide grooves to enable the arm rest to
be locked at any position between the upper and lower positions as
the arm rest is rotated toward the full down position, the pin
cooperating with the first and second guide grooves to enable the
arm rest to not be locked at any position between the lower and
full down positions, the arm rest defining a first angle between
the lower position and the full down position and a second angle
between the lower position and the upper position, the first angle
being smaller than the second angle.
5. The adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism according to claim
1, further comprising a shaft defining a polygonal cross-section,
wherein the inner bearing and arm rest support member each define
polygonal shaped recesses that correspond to the polygonal
cross-section of the shaft to non-rotatably connect the shaft to
the inner bearing and the arm rest support member.
6. The adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism according to claim
1, wherein the outer bearing defines a recessed face circumscribed
by an annular rim, the inner bearing being configured to be
disposed over the recessed face and within the annular rim, such
that the inner bearing is rotatable relative to the outer
bearing.
7. The adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism according to claim
1, wherein the inner bearing defines a recess with a continuous
arcuate sidewall surface, the pin including a flange and a
cylindrical projection with a cross-section that is smaller than a
cross-section of the flange, the flange being configured to be
disposed within the recess enabling the cylindrical projection to
extend within the first and second guide grooves.
8. The adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism according to claim
7, wherein the second guide groove is defined within the recess and
constitutes a generally L-shaped opening that extends through the
inner bearing, the L-shaped opening including two separate legs
that define an acute angle therebetween.
9. The adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism according to claim
8, wherein the first guide groove constitutes an elongated groove
defined by sidewalls and having first and second ends, the second
end being wider than the first end and including a projection
spaced from the sidewalls, side surfaces of the projection and the
sidewalls of the first guide groove defining multiple paths through
which the pin may travel.
10. The adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism according to claim
9, wherein the sidewalls of the first guide groove define both
linear and arcuate portions extending between the first and second
ends, such that a distance separating the sidewalls from the outer
perimeter of the outer bearing increases from the mid-point of the
first guide groove toward the first end.
11. A seat for use with a vehicle and a seat occupant, comprising:
a seat frame; an arm rest that is configured to support an arm of
the seat occupant in a position within an adjustment zone, the arm
rest including an arm rest support member; and an adjustable arm
rest attachment mechanism that includes: an outer bearing that is
non-rotatably fixed to the seat frame and that defines a first
guide groove; an inner bearing that is non-rotatably fixed to the
arm rest support member and that defines a second guide groove, the
inner bearing being rotatable relative to the outer bearing and
being disposed over the outer bearing such that at least a portion
of the second groove overlaps at least a portion of the first
groove; and a pin that extends through the second guide groove and
into the first guide groove, the pin and the first and second guide
grooves being configured such that, if the arm rest is rotated
downward in the adjustment zone, then wall surfaces of the first
guide groove selectively engage and disengage the pin, and
simultaneously, wall surfaces of the second guide groove
selectively engage and disengage the pin, thereby creating a
varying frictional force capable of impeding further rotation of
the arm rest.
12. The seat according to claim 11, wherein the outer and inner
bearings and the pin enable the arm rest to be manually rotatable
relative to the seat occupant between a full down position within
the adjustment zone in which the arm rest is disposed to support
the arm of the seat occupant, and a stowed position in which the
arm rest is not disposed to support the arm of the occupant.
13. The seat according to claim 12, wherein the arm rest defines an
angle of at least 90.degree. with the seat frame in at least one
arm rest position within the adjustment zone, and the arm rest is
substantially parallel to the seat frame in the stowed
position.
14. The seat according to claim 11, wherein the arm rest is
infinitely variable between certain positions within the adjustment
zone, including an upper position, a lower position, and a full
down position that defines the maximum angle between the arm rest
and the seat frame, the pin cooperating with the first and second
guide grooves to enable the arm rest to be locked at any position
between the upper and lower positions as the arm rest is rotated
toward the full down position, the pin cooperating with the first
and second guide grooves to enable the arm rest to not be locked at
any position between the lower and full down positions, the arm
rest defining a first angle between the lower position and the full
down position and a second angle between the lower position and the
upper position, the first angle being smaller than the second
angle.
15. The seat according to claim 11, further comprising a shaft
defining a polygonal cross-section, wherein the inner bearing and
arm rest support member each define polygonal shaped recesses that
correspond to the polygonal cross-section of the shaft to
non-rotatably connect the shaft to the inner bearing and the arm
rest support member.
16. The seat according to claim 11, wherein the outer bearing
defines a recessed face circumscribed by an annular rim, the inner
bearing being configured to be disposed over the recessed face and
within the annular rim, such that the inner bearing is rotatable
relative to the outer bearing.
17. The seat according to claim 11, wherein the inner bearing
defines a recess with a continuous arcuate sidewall surface, the
pin including a flange and a cylindrical projection with a
cross-section that is smaller than a cross-section of the flange,
the flange being configured to be disposed within the recess
enabling the cylindrical projection to extend within the first and
second guide grooves.
18. The seat according to claim 17, wherein the second guide groove
is defined within the recess and constitutes a generally L-shaped
opening that extends through the inner bearing, the L-shaped
opening including two separate legs that define an acute angle
therebetween.
19. The seat according to claim 18, wherein the first guide groove
constitutes an elongated groove defined by sidewalls and having
first and second ends, the second end being wider than the first
end and including a projection spaced from the sidewalls, side
surfaces of the projection and the sidewalls of the first guide
groove defining multiple paths through which the pin may travel;
and wherein the sidewalls of the first guide groove define both
linear and arcuate portions extending between the first and second
ends, such that a distance separating the sidewalls from the outer
perimeter of the outer bearing increases from the mid-point of the
first guide groove toward the first end.
20. A method of manufacturing an adjustable arm rest attachment
mechanism for use with a seat and an arm rest that is configured to
support an arm of an occupant of the seat in a position within an
adjustment zone, the seat including a seat frame and the arm rest
including an arm rest support member, the method comprising:
non-rotatably fixing an outer bearing to the seat frame; defining a
first guide groove in the outer bearing; non-rotatably fixing an
inner bearing to the arm rest support member; defining a second
guide groove in the inner bearing; disposing the inner bearing over
the outer bearing such that: the inner bearing is rotatable
relative to the outer bearing, and at least a portion of the second
guide groove overlaps at least a portion of the first guide groove;
extending a pin through the second guide groove and into the first
guide groove; and configuring the pin and the first and second
guide grooves such that, if the arm rest is rotated downward in the
adjustment zone, then wall surfaces of the first guide groove
selectively engage and disengage the pin, and simultaneously, wall
surfaces of the second guide groove selectively engage and
disengage the pin, thereby creating a varying frictional force
capable of impeding further rotation of the arm rest.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] The disclosed subject matter relates to adjustable arm
rests, and methods of manufacture and use thereof, including but
not limited to arm rests for use with seats. More particularly, the
disclosed subject matter relates to arm rests that are adjustable
in terms of orientation relative to an occupant of the seat.
[0002] Some related art seats include arm rests that are movable
between a deployed state that can support a user's arm, and a
stowed position that does not enable support of the user's arm.
Some of these and other related art seats allow a user to manually
adjust a lowest position of the arm rest in the deployed state,
which is referred to herein as the maximum deployment position or
full down position. This adjustment of the maximum deployment
position can be performed by a related art rotatable knob, wherein
rotation of the knob adjusts the maximum deployment position, or
alternatively by a related art tightening coil that provides
one-way locking or ratcheting of the arm rest.
SUMMARY
[0003] However, the related art adjustment mechanisms are subject
to various disadvantages. For example some of the related art
adjustment mechanisms include a relatively large number of separate
parts, are relatively complicated, are relatively large in size,
are difficult to use, are relatively ineffective, and/or are
subject to other disadvantages. Some of the related art adjustment
mechanisms are particularly disadvantageous based on their
inclusion of springs and/or other flexible parts, which may be
expensive to control during manufacturing.
[0004] It may therefore be beneficial to provide an adjustable arm
rest, and methods of manufacture and use thereof, that address at
least one of the above and/or other disadvantages of the related
art. In particular, it may be beneficial to utilize static friction
to impede or prevent reorientation of the arm rest, and to thereby
lock the arm rest at a desired position. For example, it may be
beneficial to perform such locking as the arm rest is being moved
within an adjustment region, which includes positions that enable
support of the user's arm, toward the full down position. It may
also be beneficial to perform this locking by using parts,
including moving parts, that are solid and/or rigid, which enhances
ease of manufacture and control.
[0005] Some embodiments are directed to an adjustable arm rest
attachment mechanism for use with a seat and an arm rest that is
configured to support an arm of an occupant of the seat in a
position within an adjustment zone. The seat can include a seat
frame and the arm rest can include an arm rest support member. The
adjustable arm rest attachment mechanism can include an outer
bearing that is non-rotatably fixed to the seat frame and that
defines a first guide groove. An inner bearing can be non-rotatably
fixed to the arm rest support member, and define a second guide
groove. The inner bearing can be rotatable relative to the outer
bearing, and disposed over the outer bearing, such that at least a
portion of the second guide groove overlaps at least a portion of
the first guide groove. A pin can extend through the second guide
groove and into the first guide groove. The pin and the first and
second guide grooves can be configured such that, if the arm rest
is rotated downward in the adjustment zone, then wall surfaces of
the first guide groove selectively engage and disengage the pin,
and simultaneously wall surfaces of the second guide groove
selectively engage and disengage the pin, thereby creating a
varying frictional force capable of impeding further rotation of
the arm rest.
[0006] Some other embodiments are directed to a seat, for use with
a vehicle and a seat occupant, that includes a seat frame, and an
arm rest that is configured to support an arm of the seat occupant
in a position within an adjustment zone. The arm rest includes an
arm rest support member. The seat can also include an adjustable
arm rest attachment mechanism. The adjustable arm rest attachment
mechanism can include an outer bearing that is non-rotatably fixed
to the seat frame and that defines a first guide groove; an inner
bearing that is non-rotatably fixed to the arm rest support member
and that defines a second guide groove, the inner bearing being
rotatable relative to the outer bearing and being disposed over the
outer bearing such that at least a portion of the second groove
overlaps at least a portion of the first groove; and a pin that
extends through the second guide groove and into the first guide
groove. The pin and the first and second guide grooves can be
configured such that, if the arm rest is rotated downward in the
adjustment zone, then wall surfaces of the first guide groove
selectively engage and disengage the pin, and wall surfaces of the
second guide groove simultaneously and selectively engage and
disengage the pin, thereby creating a varying frictional force
capable of impeding further rotation of the arm rest.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The disclosed subject matter of the present application will
now be described in more detail with reference to exemplary
embodiments of the apparatus and method, given by way of example,
and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary vehicle seat in
accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of internal structures of the
exemplary vehicle seat of FIG. 1.
[0010] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary
adjustable arm rest mechanism in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a side view of an exemplary lock member of the
adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG. 3.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a kinematic representation of a full range of
motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG. 3.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a schematic that shows a force diagram and a table
of forces for the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG. 3.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, including an adjustment zone, an unrestricted zone and a stowed
position.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, including movement within the adjustment zone.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, including further movement within the adjustment zone.
[0017] FIG. 10 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, including movement within the unrestricted zone.
[0018] FIG. 11 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, including movement into a stowed position.
[0019] FIG. 12 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, including movement from the stowed position toward a full down
position.
[0020] FIG. 13 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, including locking in the full down position.
[0021] FIG. 14 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, including movement from the unrestricted zone toward the full
down position, bypassing the stowed position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0022] A few inventive aspects of the disclosed embodiments are
explained in detail below with reference to the various figures.
Exemplary embodiments are described to illustrate the disclosed
subject matter, not to limit its scope, which is defined by the
claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a number
of equivalent variations of the various features provided in the
description that follows.
1. Seat
[0023] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary seat 10 in accordance
with the disclosed subject matter. Many of the disclosed
embodiments are directed to a vehicle seat 10 that can be used in a
vehicle, such as but not limited to a passenger car, truck,
all-terrain vehicle (ATV), aircraft, personal watercraft, boat,
semi-tractor and off-highway vehicle. However, embodiments are
intended to include or otherwise cover any type of seat 10 capable
of supporting an occupant, including seats not associated with
vehicles.
[0024] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle
seat 10 includes a seat back 12, a seat bottom 14, a head rest 16,
and at least one arm rest 18. Each of these elements can include
various sub-elements. For example, the seat back 12 can include a
frame, padding and a cover. The padding and the cover can be
attached the frame to constitute the completed seat back 12 shown
in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0025] However, embodiments are intended to include any type of
seat, and thus some other embodiments are directed to seats that
include only one or any combination of these elements, and/or
alternative elements. In fact, some embodiments only include an arm
rest 18, such as an arm rest connected to a static object and
disposed appropriately to support a user's arm in a deployed state
while the user is in a seated position. Still further, some
embodiments include such an adjustable arm rest that is disposed to
support a user's arm in a deployed state while the user is not in a
seated position, such as in the case of a user standing up, lying
down, etc.
2. Arm Rest & Adjustable Arm Rest Mechanism
[0026] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of internal structures of the
exemplary vehicle seat 10 of FIG. 1, including an adjustable arm
rest attachment mechanism 20 (hereinafter arm rest mechanism) that
attaches the arm rest 18 directly or indirectly to other elements
of the seat 10. Embodiments are intended to include or otherwise
cover many different types of apparatus or methods for attaching
the arm rest 18 to other elements of the seat 10, some of which are
disclosed below. In some embodiments, the arm rest 18 is attached
by the arm rest mechanism 20 to at least one frame member 13 of a
seat back frame of the seat back 12.
[0027] As explained in greater detail below, the adjustable arm
rest mechanism 20 permits a seat occupant to adjust the orientation
of the arm rest 18 relative to certain elements of the seat 10
and/or the seat occupant, and in particular enables adjustment of
the arm rest 18 within an adjustment region of a deployed state. As
used in the present disclosure, the adjustment region constitutes a
region of the deployed state in which the arm rest 18 is able to
support the arm of a seat occupant. The adjustment region includes
a full down position (hereinafter FD), which constitutes the
lowermost position of the arm rest 18. The disclosed arm rest
mechanism 20 enables adjustment of the arm rest 18 between the full
down position FD and at least one other position within the
adjustment region.
[0028] Some of these embodiments utilize static friction to impede
or prevent further reorientation of the arm rest 18, to thereby
lock the arm rest 18, upon being moved within the adjustment region
toward the full down position FD. Still further, some of these
embodiments enable this adjustment via a relatively simple
mechanism and/or by utilizing a relatively small number of separate
parts. In many of the disclosed embodiments, the arm rest mechanism
20 is manually adjustable, such as by the seat occupant; however
other embodiments include or otherwise cover mechanisms that are
partially or completely automated.
[0029] The arm rest 18 can include a support member 19, padding and
a cover. The padding and the cover can be attached to the support
member 19 to provide the completed arm rest 18 shown in the
exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1. The support member 19 can be
pivotally connected to the frame member 13 of the seat back 12 by
the arm rest mechanism 20.
3. Range of Motion of Arm Rest
[0030] In some embodiments, the adjustable arm rest mechanism 20
can permit the arm rest 18 to pivot through a full range of angular
motion extending between the full down position FD within the
adjustment zone and a stowed position (hereinafter S). In the
stowed position S, the arm rest 18 does not enable support of the
user's arm, and instead is disposed relative to other elements of
the seat 10 to generally not impede typical movements of the user's
arm while seated. In some of these embodiments, the direction of
elongation of the arm rest in the stowed position S is
approximately or very generally perpendicular to various positions
of the arm rest within the adjustment zone, and thus extends
generally parallel to a side surface of the seat back 12.
[0031] The arm rest mechanism 20 can be configured to enable the
arm rest 18 to be infinitely variable between various positions
within the adjustment zone. The arm rest 10 can be rotatable, such
that the stowed position S is angularly spaced from the full down
position FD by a range of motion or range angle (hereinafter ROM).
The range angle ROM can be set at any appropriate value in order to
meet the performance desired for the particular arm rest 18.
[0032] Embodiments are intended to include or otherwise cover arm
rests having a range of motion that includes any number of
separately defined zones. In some embodiments, the full range of
motion includes the adjustment zone and an unrestricted zone. The
adjustment zone constitutes multiple arm rest 18 positions in which
a seat occupant's arm can be supported by the arm rest 18, and can
extend from the full down position FD to an upper position
(hereinafter U). As discussed in detail below in the context of
locking the arm rest 18, the adjustment zone also includes a lower
position (hereinafter L) that is between the upper position U and
the full down position FD. The unrestricted zone can extend from
the upper position U to a position at or adjacent the stowed
position S.
[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the adjustable arm rest
mechanism 20 can permit the seat occupant to set the arm rest 18 to
stop or otherwise be locked at the full down position FD, or at any
continuously variable position between and including the upper
position U and the lower position L as the arm rest 18 moves toward
the full down position. In other words, in these embodiments, the
arm rest 18 cannot be stopped or otherwise locked between the lower
position L and the full down position FD as the arm rest 18 moves
toward the full down position FD, and instead this stopping or
locking is only provided between the upper position U and the lower
position L as the arm rest 18 moves toward the full down position
FD. In addition, the arm rest 18 cannot be stopped or otherwise
locked within the unrestricted zone.
[0034] Embodiments are intended to include or otherwise cover arm
rests 18 and arm rest mechanisms 20, wherein the lower position L
is disposed at any location between the upper position U and the
full down position FD. In many embodiments, the lower position L is
closer to the full down position FD than the upper position U,
which is beneficial because it provides the user with a relatively
large number of arm rest positions in which the arm rest can be
locked in place. However, the lower position L can be intermediate
the full down position FD and the upper position U, or even closer
to the upper position U than the full down position FD. The lower
position L can be spaced from the full down position FD by a first
angle A1, and the upper position U can be spaced from the lower
position L by a second angle A2. The first angle A1 and the second
angle A2 can be set at any appropriate value in order to meet the
performance desired for the arm rest 18. In the exemplary
embodiment of FIG. 1, the first angle A1 is less than the second
angle A2 to provide a relatively large number of positions in which
the arm rest can be held in place.
4. Adjustable Arm Rest Mechanism Components
[0035] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary
adjustable arm rest mechanism 20. The adjustable arm rest mechanism
20 of FIG. 3 can include a first coupling structure 22, a second
coupling structure 24, an adjustment structure 26 and a shaft 28.
The first coupling structure 22 can be non-rotatably fixed to the
frame member 13 of the seat 10, and the second coupling structure
24 can be non-rotatably fixed to the support member 19 of the arm
rest 18, such as by the shaft 28.
[0036] The shaft 28 and the second coupling structure 24 can rotate
relative to the first coupling structure 22 if the arm rest 18
pivots between the full down position FD and the stowed position S.
As explained in detail below, movement of the second coupling
structure 24 relative to the first coupling structure 22 can
displace the adjustment structure 26 relative to both of the first
and second coupling structures 22, 24, and this displacement
permits the seat occupant to adjust the stopping position of the
arm rest 18 if the arm rest 18 pivots among certain positions
within the adjustment zone, i.e., between the upper position U and
the lower position L.
[0037] The first coupling structure 22 can be characterized as an
outer bearing that is rotationally constrained relative to an
appropriate internal structure of the seat back 12, e.g., the frame
member 13. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the first
coupling structure 22 can be non-movably fixed to, or otherwise
statically disposed relative to, the frame member 13 of the seat
back 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the first coupling structure 22 can
include a through hole 30, a first guide structure 32, an island
structure 34 and an annular rim 36.
[0038] The shaft 28 is non-rotatably connected to the arm rest,
such as at the support member 19, and can include different
integrally or unitarily formed elements, or alternatively
separately formed elements that are connected together. For
example, the shaft 28 can include a first portion 54 for
disposition proximate the first coupling structure 22, and which
can include a consistent arcuate outer surface along its perimeter
to thereby define a circular cross-section. The shaft 28 can also
include a second portion 56 adjacent the first portion 54 for
disposition proximate the second coupling structure 24, and which
defines an irregular outer surface. In the embodiment of FIG. 3,
the second portion 56 is polygonal in cross-section, and in
particular is hexagonal.
[0039] The through hole 30 can be configured to receive the first
portion 54 of the shaft 28, such that the shaft 28 can rotate
freely within the through hole 30. In some embodiments, the through
hole 30 is configured to rotatably support the first portion 54 of
the shaft 28. In an alternate embodiment, the shaft 28 can be
spaced apart from the inner surface of the through hole 30, such
that the first portion 54 does not contact the inner surface of the
through hole 30, and can be rotatably supported by the frame member
13 or other appropriate internal structure of the seat back 12. In
fact, embodiments are intended to include or otherwise cover any
apparatus and method for attaching the shaft 28 to the seat 10 to
enable rotation thereof.
[0040] The first guide structure 32 can be formed as a groove in a
recessed face 38 of the first coupling structure 22, such that the
first guide structure 32 is spaced inwardly from the annular rim
36. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, a portion of the first guide
structure 32 extends across the recessed face 38, between the
annular rim 36 and the through hole 30. The first guide structure
32 can have a contoured shape of any geometry that can provide the
performance desired for the arm rest 18. In the exemplary
embodiment of FIG. 3, the first guide structure 32 can include a
plurality of arcuate paths and linear paths.
[0041] The second coupling structure 24 can be characterized as an
inner bearing that is rotationally constrained relative to the
appropriate internal structure of the arm rest, e.g., the support
member 19. The second coupling structure 24 can include a through
hole 40, a recessed portion 42, a second guide structure 44, a
recessed side wall 46 and an outer surface 48. The recessed face 38
of the first coupling structure 22 can be configured to receive the
second coupling structure 24 so that the second coupling structure
24 is slideable on or over the recessed face 38. The outer surface
48 of the second coupling structure 24 can be configured to mate,
or otherwise communicate with, the inner wall of the annular rim 36
of the first coupling structure 22, thereby enabling the annular
rim 36 to guide the second coupling structure 24 to slide in a
rotational manner on or over the recessed face 38. In other words,
the recessed face 38 and annular rim 36 define a space that
receives the second coupling structure 24, to enable the second
coupling structure 24 to be rotatable relative to the first
coupling structure 22.
[0042] The shaft 28 can be non-rotatably fixed to each of the
second coupling structure 24 and the support member 19 of the arm
rest 18 in any appropriate manner. As a result, the second coupling
structure 24 and the shaft 28 can rotate about the axis of the
shaft 28 as the arm rest 18 pivots, such as between the full down
position FD and the stowed position S. In an exemplary embodiment,
a through hole in the support member 19, the through hole 40 of the
second coupling structure 24 have a polygonal cross-section that is
complimentary to the polygonal cross-section of the second portion
56 of the shaft 28 to achieve this non-rotatable connection.
[0043] For simplicity and clarity, FIG. 3 only provides a partial
view of the second portion 56 of the shaft 28. However, the second
portion 56 of the shaft 28 can be dimensioned to extend through
both: 1) the entirety of the through hole 40 of the second coupling
structure 24, and 2) the through hole of the support member 19 of
the arm rest 18. In fact, FIG. 2 shows the second portion 56 of the
shaft 28 extending through the through hole of the support member
19 of the arm rest 18. These elements (through hole in the support
member 19, through hole 40 of the second coupling structure 24, and
second portion 56 of the shaft 28) can be formed so as to define
any irregular or polygonal cross-section or shape, such as but not
limited to a hexagon, pentagon, rectangle, triangle, octagon,
parallelogram, and any irregular polygon, that achieves the
non-rotatable connection disclosed above.
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 5, the second guide structure 44
can be a through hole formed in the recess 42 of the second
coupling structure 24. The second guide structure 44 can have a
contoured shape of any geometry that can provide the performance
desired for the arm rest 18. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 3
and 5, the second guide structure 44 can include a first leg, a
second leg, a first end 58, a second end 60 and a common end 62.
The first leg can extend from the first end 58 to the common end
62. The second leg can extend from the common end 62 to the second
end 60.
[0045] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the first and
second legs form a substantially L-shaped groove, where the second
leg is longer than the first leg. In this embodiment, the first and
second legs define an acute angle that is slightly less than
90.degree..
[0046] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the adjustment structure 26 can
be in the form of a pin or cylindrical member that includes a
friction member 50 and a flange 52. Both the friction member 50 and
flange 52 can define circular cross-sections, and the flange 52 can
be configured to be disposed within the recess 42 of the second
coupling structure 24. In fact, the recess 42 can be configured,
such as by a continuous arcuate side wall surface, to guide the
movement of the flange 52 within the recess 42.
[0047] The friction member 50 can be in the form of a cylindrical
projection or pin that extends from the flange 52, such as in a
direction perpendicular to front and/or back surfaces thereof. The
friction member 50 can have a diameter that is smaller than the
diameter of the flange, enabling it to extend through the second
guide structure 44 (of the second coupling structure 24) and into
the first guide structure 32 (of the first coupling structure 22).
The diameter of the friction member 50 can be smaller than the
minimum span of the second guide structure 44, enabling the
friction member to freely move throughout the second guide
structure 44.
[0048] In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4, the friction
member 50 is shown as being a cylindrical pin. However, the
friction member 50 can have a contoured shape of any geometry that
can provide the performance desired for the arm rest 18. In other
words, the friction member 50 can have any configuration that
enables it to extend into the second guide structure 44 (of the
second coupling structure 24) and into the first guide structure 32
(of the first coupling structure 22), to provide the arm rest 18
movement capabilities disclosed herein.
5. Operation
[0049] As explained below with reference to FIGS. 6-14, if the
second coupling structure 24 rotates relative to the first coupling
structure 22, then different portions of the wall surrounding the
first guide structure 32 can selectively engage and disengage
surfaces of the friction member 50. Simultaneously, different
portions of the wall surrounding the second guide structure 44 can
selectively engage and disengage surfaces of the friction member
50. This selective engagement and disengagement of the friction
member 50 can vary the frictional force between the wall of the
first guide structure 32 and the friction member 50. If the
frictional force is of a sufficient value, then this frictional
force can oppose further pivoting of the arm rest 18 toward the
full down position FD, such as between the upper position U and the
lower position L, thereby impeding further rotation and in effect
locking the arm rest 18 in position.
[0050] FIG. 6 is a schematic that shows a force diagram and a table
of forces for the adjustable arm rest mechanism 20, and in
particular exemplary frictional forces that may be applied by the
wall of the first guide structure 32 and the wall of the second
guide structure 44 to the friction member 50. As discussed in more
detail below, this exemplary configuration of the friction member
50 can enhance the versatility of the arm rest adjustment mechanism
20, while utilizing a relatively simple mechanism that includes a
relatively small number of separate parts.
[0051] FIG. 6 also includes a table of values for the various
forces and values for the angle 8 represented in the force diagram
portion of that figure. As indicated in this table, if the angle
between opposing portions of the walls of the first and second
guide structures 32, 44 is in the range of approximately 1.degree.
to 11.degree., then the magnitude of the frictional force
F.sub.friction acting between the friction member 50 and the wall
of the first guide structure 32 can be sufficient to counter the
applied force F.sub.1 of approximately 60 N. As a result, the
adjustable arm rest mechanism 20 can resist further pivoting motion
of the arm rest 18 through the adjustment zone in a direction
toward the full down position FD.
[0052] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the first guide structure 32 can
be configured as a contoured recess formed in the recessed face 38
of the first coupling structure 22. The island structure 34 can
extend from the contoured recess and can be spaced from the
perimeter wall of the contoured recess, wherein the peripheral wall
defines the boundary of the first guide structure.
[0053] The perimeter wall of the island structure 34 can cooperate
with the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32 to define a
first path 68, a second path 70, a third path 72, a fourth path 74,
and a bypass path 76. The first guide structure 32 can include a
first end 64 and a second end 66.
[0054] The first path 68 can extend from the first end 64 to the
second path 70 along an arcuate path. The island structure 34 can
extend along at least a portion of the first path 68. The radius of
curvature of the first path 68 can be constant or variable. In the
exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, the first path 68 has a constant or
substantially constant radius of curvature that is concentric with
the annular rim 36. In an alternate embodiment, the first path 68
can have at least one constant radius portion and at least one
variable radius portion. The friction member 50 can be disposed on
the first path 68 if the arm rest 18 is in the adjustment zone.
[0055] The second path 70 can extend from the first path 68 to the
third path 72. The second path 70 can include a substantially
linear portion and an arcuate portion. The distance between the
second path 70 and the portion of the annular rim 36 nearest the
second path 70 can increase as the second path 70 extends toward
the third path 72. The friction member 50 can be disposed on the
second path 70 if the arm rest 18 is in the unrestricted zone.
[0056] The third path 72 can extend from the second path 70 to the
second end 66 of the first coupling structure 22. The third path 72
can include an arcuate portion configured with a variable radius of
curvature. The friction member 50 can be disposed on the third path
72 if the arm rest 18 is adjacent the stowed position S.
[0057] The fourth path 74 can extend from an intermediate position
of the second path 70 to the first end 64. The fourth path 74 can
be substantially linear. The island structure 34 can extend along
at least a portion of the fourth path 74 adjacent the first end 64
of the first guide structure 32. The friction member 50 can be
disposed on the fourth path 74 if the arm rest 18 is in the
unrestricted zone, or if the arm rest 18 is pivoting from the
stowed position S to the full down position FD.
[0058] The bypass path 76 can extend from a position of the second
path 70 that is adjacent to the first path 68 to an intermediate
position of the fourth path 74. The island structure 34 can extend
along at least a portion of the bypass path 76. The friction member
50 can be disposed on the bypass path 76 if the arm rest 18 is
pivoting in the unrestricted zone toward the full down position
FD.
[0059] FIG. 7 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, and in particular illustrates the second coupling structure 24
at various positions along the full range of motion of the
adjustable arm rest mechanism 20. The adjustment structure 26 and
certain features of the second coupling structure 24 are omitted
from FIG. 7 for clarity.
[0060] The second guide structure 44 is disposed at a bottom-left
position of FIG. 7 if the arm rest 18 is in the adjustment zone.
When the second guide structure 44 is at the bottom-left position
of FIG. 7, the first leg of the second guide structure 44 extends
on the first path 68, and the second leg of the second guide
structure 44 extends on the second path 70.
[0061] The second guide structure 44 is disposed at a middle
position of FIG. 7 if the arm rest 18 is in the unrestricted zone.
When the second guide structure 44 is at a middle position of FIG.
7, the first leg of the second guide structure lies beyond the
first guide structure 32, and the second leg of the second guide
structure 44 extends on the second path 70 and the fourth path
74.
[0062] The second guide structure 44 is disposed at a top-right
position of FIG. 7 if the arm rest 18 is in the stowed position.
When the second guide structure 44 is at the top-right position of
FIG. 7, the first leg of the second guide structure lies beyond the
first guide structure 32, and the second leg of the second guide
structure 44 extends on the third path 72.
[0063] FIG. 7 also illustrates the dimensions of the second guide
structure 44, as well as various angular relationships of the
second guide structure 44 relative to the first guide structure 32.
Each of the first end 58, the second end 60 and the common end 62
of the second guide structure 44 can be arcuate, i.e., defining
circular or semi-circular surfaces.
[0064] The first leg of the second guide structure 44 can include
an axis that extends through the centers of curvature of the first
end 58 and the common end 62. The second leg of the second guide
structure 44 can include an axis that extends through the centers
of curvature of the second end 60 and the common end 62. The first
leg of the second guide structure 44 can include a first length X
measured on the first leg axis from center of curvature to center
of curvature. The second leg of the second guide structure 44 can
include a second length Y measured on the second leg axis from
center of curvature to center of curvature. The first leg axis can
intersect the second leg axis at a third angle B. The lengths X, Y
and the third angle B can be configured to have any value that can
provide the performance desired for the arm rest 18.
[0065] A fourth angle A can be defined between the first leg axis
of the second guide structure 44 and a line parallel to a tangent
line of the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32, where
the friction member 50 engages the perimeter wall of the first
guide structure 32 if the arm rest 18 is in the adjustment zone.
The fourth angle A can have a value that permits the second guide
structure 44 to urge the friction member 50 into engagement with:
1) the perimeter wall of the first leg of the second guide
structure 44, and 2) the portion of the perimeter wall of the first
guide structure 32 that extends along the first path 68. The fourth
angle A can be configured to cause a frictional force, between the
friction member 50 and the perimeter wall of the first guide
structure 32, to resist motion of the arm rest 18 toward the full
down position FD if the arm rest is in the adjustment zone. In an
exemplary embodiment, the fourth angle A can include a value that
is less than approximately 10.degree..
[0066] A fifth angle C can be defined between the second leg axis
of the second guide structure 44 and the perimeter wall of the
first guide structure 32, where the friction member 50 engages the
perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32 if the arm rest 18
moves into the adjustment zone from the unrestricted zone. The
fifth angle C can have a value that permits the friction member 50
to engage: 1) the perimeter wall along the second leg of the second
guide structure 44, and 2) a portion of the perimeter wall of the
first guide structure 32 that extends along the fourth path 74. The
fifth angle C can be configured to not interfere with the pivoting
motion of the arm rest 18. In an exemplary embodiment, the fifth
angle C can have a value that is greater than approximately
45.degree..
[0067] A sixth angle D can be defined between the first leg axis of
the second guide structure 44 and the perimeter wall of the first
guide structure 32, where the friction member 50 disengages the
perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32 if the arm rest 18
moves in the unrestricted zone. The sixth angle D can be configured
to permit the arm rest 18 to pivot within the unrestricted zone
without interference by the adjustable arm rest mechanism 20. In an
exemplary embodiment, the sixth angle D can have a value that is
greater than approximately 40.degree..
[0068] A seventh angle E can be defined between the second leg axis
of the second guide structure 44 and a line parallel to a tangent
line of the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32, where
the friction member 50 engages the perimeter wall of the first
guide structure 32 if the arm rest 18 is in the stowed position.
The seventh angle E can have a value that permits the friction
member 50 to engage: 1) the perimeter wall along the second leg of
the second guide structure 44, and 2) a portion of the perimeter
wall of the first guide structure 32 that lies adjacent the second
end 66 of the first guide structure 32. The seventh angle E can be
configured to cause a frictional force between the friction member
50 and the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32 that can
permit movement of the arm rest 18 out of the stowed position S,
while simultaneously providing light resistance to provide the seat
occupant with a tactile sensation that the arm rest 18 is being
released from the stowed position S. In an exemplary embodiment,
the seventh angle E can have a value that is greater than
approximately 20.degree..
[0069] An eighth angle F can be defined between the second leg axis
of the second guide structure 44 and a line parallel to a tangent
line of the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32, where
the friction member 50 engages the perimeter wall of the first
guide structure 32 if the arm rest 18 is in the stowed position.
The eighth angle F can have a value that permits the friction
member 50 to engage: 1) the perimeter wall along the second leg of
the second guide structure 44, and 2) a portion of the perimeter
wall of the first guide structure 32 that lies adjacent the second
end 66 of the first guide structure 32. The eighth angle F can be
configured to cause a frictional force between the friction member
50 and the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32, which
can secure the arm rest 18 in the stowed position S. In an
exemplary embodiment, the eighth angle F can have a value that is
greater than approximately 20.degree..
[0070] The operation of the arm rest 18 is discussed below in the
context of FIGS. 8-14. Certain features of the second coupling
structure 24 have been omitted from FIGS. 8-14 for clarity.
[0071] FIG. 8 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, and in particular movement of the second coupling structure 24
and the adjustment structure 26 when the arm rest 18 pivots from
the full down position FD toward the upper position U. The
left-most phantom view of the friction member 50 and the
bottom-most phantom view of the second guide structure 44 depict
the positions of the friction member 50 and the second guide
structure 44 on the first path 68 when the arm rest 18 is in the
full down position FD. Here, the first leg perimeter wall of second
guide structure 44 can cause the friction member 50 to frictionally
engage the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32. At this
location, the value of the fourth angle A can provide a frictional
force that can sufficiently resist further motion of the arm rest
18 toward the full down position FD.
[0072] The friction member 50 can be spaced from the first end of
the first guide structure 32 when the arm rest is in the full down
position FD. Also at this location, a portion of the first leg and
a portion of the common end 62 of the second guide structure 44 lie
beyond the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32. The
common end 62 of the second guide structure 44 can provide a hard
stop for the arm rest 18 that can limit further motion of the arm
rest 18.
[0073] As the arm rest 18 pivots from the full down position FD
toward the upper position U, the second coupling structure 24
rotates in the first direction R1. This rotation can cause the
second guide structure 44 to engage the friction member 50 from the
left in the context of FIG. 8. As a result, the second guide
structure 44 can displace the friction member 50 in the second
direction T2 (See FIG. 9) and out of engagement with the perimeter
wall of the first guide structure 32, thereby removing the
frictional force between the friction member 50 and the perimeter
wall of the first guide structure 32. After further rotation in the
first direction R1, the common end 62 of the second guide structure
44 is able to receive the friction member 50.
[0074] FIG. 9 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, and in particular shows movement of the second coupling
structure 24 and the adjustment structure 26 when the arm rest 18
pivots further through the adjustment zone toward the upper
position U. The second coupling structure 24 can rotate in the
third direction R2. This rotation can cause the second guide
structure 44 to displace the friction member 50 along the first
path 68 in the fourth direction T2 until the friction member 50
reaches the first position P2. During rotation in the third
direction R2, the friction member 50 can be located in the common
end 62. Thus, the second guide member 50 can maintain the friction
member 50 in a position spaced from the perimeter wall of the first
guide structure 32. FIG. 9 depicts this movement of the second
guide structure 44 and the friction member 50 in phantom. The first
position P2 can correspond to the upper position U.
[0075] If the arm rest 18 pivots towards the full down position FD
while in the adjustment zone, the second coupling structure 24 can
rotate in the fifth direction R3. This rotation can cause friction
member 50 to exit the common end 62 of the second guide structure
44. Rotation in the fifth direction R3 can cause the first leg of
the second guide structure 44 to engage the friction member 50 at a
second position P3. Once engaged, the first leg of the second guide
structure 44 can displace the friction member in the sixth
direction T3 so that the friction member 50 frictionally engages
the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32, as depicted in
solid lines. As a result, the stop point of the arm rest 18 in the
adjustment zone is set.
[0076] FIG. 10 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, and in particular shows movement of the second coupling
structure 24 and the adjustment structure 26 when the arm rest 18
pivots through the unrestricted zone toward the stowed positions.
The second coupling structure 24 can rotate in the seventh
direction R4. This rotation can cause the second guide structure 44
to displace the friction member 50 along the second path 70 in the
eighth direction T4. This rotation can orient the second guide
structure 44 relative to the perimeter wall of the first guide
structure 32 and the friction member 50, so that the second guide
structure 44 imparts a small or negligible frictional force between
the friction member 50 and the perimeter wall of the first guide
structure 32. This orientation can cause the second guide structure
44 to guide the friction member 50 into the second leg of the
second guide structure 44.
[0077] FIG. 11 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, and in particular shows movement of the second coupling
structure 24 and the adjustment structure 26 when the arm rest 18
pivots into the stowed position S. The second coupling structure 24
can rotate in the ninth direction R5. This rotation can cause the
second guide structure 44 to displace the friction member 50 along
the third path 72 in the tenth direction T5. This rotation can
cause the second guide structure 44 to urge the friction member 50
into engagement with the second end 60 of the second guide
structure 44 and into engagement with the second end 66 of the
first guide structure 32. When the friction member 50 is at the
second end 66 of the first guide structure 32, the arm rest 18 is
in the stowed position S.
[0078] FIG. 12 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, and in particular shows movement of the second coupling
structure 24 and the adjustment structure 26, when the arm rest 18
pivots from the unrestricted zone or the stowed position S toward
the full down position FD. The second coupling structure 24 can
rotate in the eleventh direction R6. This rotation can cause the
second guide structure 44 to displace the friction member 50 along
the fourth path 74 in the twelfth direction T6. This rotation can
cause the second guide structure 44 to guide the friction member 50
along the second leg of the second guide structure 44 toward the
common end 62 and into engagement with the perimeter wall of the
first guide structure 32. This rotation can orient the second guide
structure 44 relative to the perimeter wall of the first guide
structure 32 and the friction member 50, so that the second guide
structure 44 imparts a small or negligible frictional force between
the friction member 50 and the perimeter wall of the first guide
structure 32.
[0079] FIG. 13 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, and in particular shows movement of the second coupling
structure 24 and the adjustment structure 26, when the arm rest 18
pivots from the unrestricted zone or the stowed position S and into
the full down position FD. The second coupling structure 24 can
rotate in the thirteenth direction R7. This rotation can cause the
second guide structure 44 to displace the friction member 50
further along the fourth path 74 in the fourteenth direction T7.
This rotation can cause the second guide structure 44 to guide the
friction member 50 into the first leg of the second guide structure
44 in the sixteenth direction T8, toward the common end 62 and into
engagement with the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32.
This rotation can orient the second guide structure 44 relative to
the perimeter wall of the first guide structure 32 and the friction
member 50, so that second guide structure 44 imparts a friction
force, between the friction member 50 and the perimeter wall of the
first guide structure 32, that is sufficient to resist further
pivoting of the arm rest 18 toward the full down position FD, as
explained above with reference to FIG. 8.
[0080] FIG. 14 is a kinematic representation of a portion of the
full range of motion of the adjustable arm rest mechanism of FIG.
3, and in particular shows movement of the second coupling
structure 24 and the adjustment structure 26, when the arm rest 18
pivots from the unrestricted zone toward the full down position FD
without reaching the stowed position S. The second coupling
structure 24 can rotate in the fifteenth direction R8. This
rotation can cause the second guide structure 44 to displace the
friction member 50 along the bypass path 76 in the seventeenth
direction T9. This rotation can cause the second guide structure 44
to guide the friction member 50 along the second leg of the second
guide structure 44 toward the second end 60 and into engagement
with the perimeter wall of the island structure 34. This rotation
can orient the second guide structure 44 relative to the perimeter
wall of the first guide structure 32 and the friction member 50, so
that second guide structure imparts a small or negligible friction
force between the friction member 50 and the perimeter wall of the
first guide structure 32.
6. Alternative Embodiments
[0081] While certain embodiments of the invention are described
above, and FIGS. 1-14 disclose the best mode for practicing the
various inventive aspects, it should be understood that the
invention can be embodied and configured in many different ways
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0082] For example, embodiments are disclosed above in the context
of the vehicle seat shown in FIG. 1. However, embodiments are
intended to include or otherwise cover any type of seat that can be
used with elements of the adjustable arm rest mechanism 20
disclosed above. For example, the seat back 12 can be pivotally
connected to the seat bottom 14. The head rest 16 can be movably
connected to the seat back 12. In an alternate embodiment, the head
rest 16 can be rigidly fixed to the seat back 12. In another
alternate embodiment, the head rest 16 can be integrally formed
with the seat back 12. However, the above alternative embodiments
are merely provided for exemplary purposes, and as indicated above,
embodiments are intended to cover any type of seat that can be used
with elements of the adjustable arm rest mechanism 20 disclosed
above.
[0083] Exemplary embodiments are intended to include or otherwise
cover any type of arm rest, whether mounted on a seat, at a
structure adjacent the seat, or even at a structure unrelated to a
seat but disposed to support an arm of a user who is not seated,
e.g., standing or lying down. In other words, exemplary embodiments
are intended to cover any application of the adjustable arm rest
mechanism disclosed above.
[0084] Exemplary embodiments are also intended to cover any
appropriate geometry of first and second guide structures 32, 44
that can cause the adjustment structure 26 to impede or prevent the
arm rest 18 from moving from the desired stop position toward the
full down position FD. Exemplary embodiments are further intended
to cover omission of the bypass path 76 of the first guide
structure is 32, such as but not limited to extensions of the
island structure 34 as a replacement. Exemplary embodiments are
further intended to cover any connection that can rotationally lock
the shaft 28 to the support member 19 and to the second coupling
structure 24.
[0085] Embodiments are disclosed above in the context of a manually
adjustable arm rest mechanism. However, embodiments are intended to
cover automatically adjustable arm rest mechanisms, including
mechanisms that use or otherwise include motors, processors,
etc.
[0086] Embodiments are also intended to include or otherwise cover
methods of using and methods of manufacturing the adjustable arm
rest mechanism disclosed above. The methods of manufacturing
include or otherwise cover processors and computer programs
implemented by processors used to design various elements of the
adjustable arm rest mechanism disclosed above. For example,
embodiments are intended to cover processors and computer programs
used to design or determine the appropriate geometries of the first
and second guide structures 32, 44 that can cause the adjustment
structure 26 to impede or prevent the arm rest 18 from moving from
the desired stop position toward the full down position FD.
[0087] For example, exemplary embodiments are intended to cover all
software or computer programs capable of enabling processors to
implement the above designs and determinations. Exemplary
embodiments are also intended to cover any and all currently known,
related art or later developed non-transitory recording or storage
mediums (such as a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, hard drive, RAM, ROM, floppy
disc, magnetic tape cassette, etc.) that record or store such
software or computer programs. Exemplary embodiments are further
intended to cover such software, computer programs, systems and/or
processes provided through any other currently known, related art,
or later developed medium (such as transitory mediums, carrier
waves, etc.), usable for implementing the exemplary operations
disclosed above.
[0088] These computer programs can be executed in many exemplary
ways, such as an application that is resident in the memory of a
device or as a hosted application that is being executed on a
server and communicating with the device application or browser via
a number of standard protocols, such as TCP/IP, HTTP, XML, SOAP,
REST, JSON and other sufficient protocols. The disclosed computer
programs can be written in exemplary programming languages that
execute from memory on the device or from a hosted server, such as
BASIC, COBOL, C, C++, Java, Pascal, or scripting languages such as
JavaScript, Python, Ruby, PHP, Perl or other sufficient programming
languages.
[0089] Some of the disclosed embodiments include or otherwise
involve data transfer over a network, such as communicating various
inputs over the network. The network may include, for example, one
or more of the Internet, Wide Area Networks (WANs), Local Area
Networks (LANs), analog or digital wired and wireless telephone
networks (e.g., a PSTN, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN),
a cellular network, and Digital Subscriber Line (xDSL)), radio,
television, cable, satellite, and/or any other delivery or
tunneling mechanism for carrying data. Network may include multiple
networks or subnetworks, each of which may include, for example, a
wired or wireless data pathway. The network may include a
circuit-switched voice network, a packet-switched data network, or
any other network able to carry electronic communications. For
example, the network may include networks based on the Internet
protocol (IP) or asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), and may support
voice using, for example, VoIP, Voice-over-ATM, or other comparable
protocols used for voice data communications. In one
implementation, the network includes a cellular telephone network
configured to enable exchange of text or SMS messages.
[0090] Examples of a network include, but are not limited to, a
personal area network (PAN), a storage area network (SAN), a home
area network (HAN), a campus area network (CAN), a local area
network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a metropolitan area
network (MAN), a virtual private network (VPN), an enterprise
private network (EPN), Internet, a global area network (GAN), and
so forth.
[0091] While the subject matter has been described in detail with
reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to
one skilled in the art that various changes can be made, and
equivalents employed, without departing from the scope of the
invention. All related art references discussed in the above
Description of the Related Art section are hereby incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
* * * * *