Active material actuated seat base extender

Abstract

A seat base extension system adapted for use with a seat defining a support length, and including an active-material based actuator configured to cause or enable the support length to be extended and retracted.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to seat bases and, in particular, to seat cushions or base extensions having active material actuators drivenly coupled to the distal edge of the base and operable to cause The distal edge of the base is extended or retracted. Background technique [0002] A traditional seat base or cushion is used to support the passenger's buttocks. Worryingly, however, these bases are often of a constant length regardless of the occupant's size or preferences. That is, while the seat as a whole is generally operable, the support length of the seat is generally fixed. Especially given the set-up of the car, the base of the passenger seat in the rear is usually fixedly positioned, which creates an obstacle for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle. As a result, powered and unpowered cushion stretching devices have been developed in the art, however, these embodiments have found limited application or use due to the complex...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Especially given the car's setup, the rear passenger seat base is usually fixed in position, which creates a barrier for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle

As a result, powered and unpowered mat extension devices have been developed in the art, however, these embodiments have found limited application or use due to the complexity of electromechanical actuation and locking.

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