Passenger seating arrangement

Abstract

The present invention relates to a passenger seating arrangement, comprising two seat structural elements (26a-26h, 28a-28h), each arranged on one side of a seating area (30a), and two bearing elements (44a-44h, 46a-46h), each bearing element (44a-44h, 46a-46h) being fixedly connected to one of the seat structural elements (26a-26h, 28a-28h). a backrest (34a-34h) having at least one pivotable backrest element (36a-36h) pivotally attached to at least one of the backrest modules (34a-34h), at least one reset module (66a-66h) having at least one spring element (68a-68h) for providing a restoring force for returning the pivotable backrest element (36a-36h) from the comfort position to an upright seating position; and a locking device (70a-70h) intended to lock the pivotable backrest element (36a-36h) in at least the upright seating position. The invention proposes that the locking device (70a-70h) comprises at least one locking module (72a-72h, 74a-74h) arranged between the first seat structural element (26a-26h) and the support element (42a-42h) of the pivotable backrest element (36a-36h).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a passenger seat arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1 . [Background technology]

[0002] It has already been proposed a passenger seating arrangement comprising a mounting unit for mounting on a mounting plane, two seat structural elements, each arranged on either side of the seating area, two bearing elements, each bearing element fixedly connected to one of the seat structural elements, a seat back comprising at least one pivotable back element pivotally supported on the seat structural elements via the bearing elements, at least one reset module comprising at least one spring element for providing a reset force for returning the back element from a comfort position to an upright seating position, and a locking device configured to lock the pivotable back element in at least the upright seating position. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide a universal device with improved properties, in particular with regard to the space requirements for construction. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of patent claim 1, advantageous implementations and further developments of the invention can be gleaned from the subclaims.

[0004] The present invention is based on a passenger seating arrangement comprising a mounting unit for mounting on a mounting plane, two seat structural elements, each arranged on either side of the seating area, two bearing elements, each bearing element fixedly connected to one of the seat structural elements, a seat back comprising at least one pivotable back element pivotally supported on the seat structural elements via the bearing elements, at least one reset module comprising at least one spring element for providing a reset force for returning the back element from a comfort position to an upright seating position, and a locking device configured to lock the pivotable back element in at least the upright seating position.

[0005] It is proposed that the locking device comprises at least one locking module arranged between the first seat structural element and the load-bearing element of the pivotable seat back element. "Configured" particularly means specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. An object configured for a specific function is understood to mean, in particular, that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application state and / or operating state. A "passenger seating arrangement" preferably refers to an arrangement forming at least a portion of a passenger seat and / or the entire passenger seat. The passenger seating arrangement is preferably realized as an aircraft seating arrangement. Preferably, a "passenger seat" refers, in particular, to a seat configured to form a seating area for a passenger and arranged in a means of transport for this purpose. The passenger seat is preferably realized as an aircraft seat. In principle, it is also conceivable for the passenger seat to be realized as a train seat. In principle, it is also conceivable for the passenger seat to be realized as a seat for a different means of transport. The passenger seat is preferably realized as part of a seat row of several passenger seats arranged side by side. The passenger seat preferably comprises at least one seat bottom forming a seating area for the passenger and a backrest providing a back support surface against which a seated passenger can support themselves. Here, the term "seat bottom" particularly refers to a part of the passenger seat providing the seating area on which the passenger can sit, and the seat bottom preferably comprises at least a base body and a cushion element arranged on the base body. Furthermore, the passenger seat has a mounting unit via which the passenger seat is mounted to a floor, particularly a passenger compartment floor, and to which further components of the passenger seat, such as the seat bottom and backrest, are attached. Preferably, the term "mounting unit" refers to a basic structure of the passenger seat that forms the load-bearing structure of the passenger seat. The passenger seat is connected to a mounting plane, i.e., particularly a passenger compartment floor, via the mounting unit. The mounting unit preferably comprises at least two seat bases and at least one transverse element coupled to the seat bases. The transverse element forms a support tube.Preferably, the mounting unit has two transverse elements, a front transverse element and a rear transverse element. The mounting unit is preferably connected to the floor, preferably to corresponding fastening rails of the floor, via several attachments. The mounting unit forms a load-bearing frame for the passenger seats, preferably for the entire passenger seat row.

[0006] The term "seat structural element" preferably refers to a part of the load-bearing structure of a passenger seat, to which further components of the passenger seat, such as a backrest, a backrest element, or an armrest, can be fastened. The seat structural element is preferably realized as a seat divider. A seat structural element realized as a seat divider is preferably rigidly connected to at least one transverse element of the mounting unit, preferably to two transverse elements. A seat structural element realized as a seat divider preferably extends substantially horizontally from the front transverse element to the area behind the rear transverse element. In the area behind the rear transverse element, the seat structural element realized as a seat divider extends substantially vertically away from the mounting plane, preferably up to the height of the armrest. In principle, it is also conceivable for the seat structural element to be realized integrally with part of the seat shell, for example, with the lower backrest element. In such a case, the integrally realized seat structural element can also be realized, for example, as a lateral area of ​​the seat shell.

[0007] A "pivotable backrest element" is to be understood as a backrest element that preferably forms at least a part, preferably most, of the back surface of the backrest and is pivotally supported relative to the mounting unit to achieve a comfort position and an upright seating position. The pivotable backrest element is pivotally supported relative to the mounting unit to achieve a comfort position and an upright seating position. The pivotable backrest element comprises a load-bearing element and forms the back surface in its inner region. The load-bearing element of the pivotable backrest element is realized as a backrest frame. The pivotable backrest element comprises a cover connected to the backrest frame or a shell element forming the back surface. In principle, it is also conceivable for the pivotable backrest element to be realized as a shell component that together forms the backrest frame and the back surface. In such a case, it is conceivable for the pivotable backrest element not to comprise a backrest frame. The load-bearing element of the pivotable backrest element would in such a case be realized as a sandwich-like component itself. In principle, it would also be conceivable for the pivotable backrest element to be realized as a sandwich-like component. The pivotable backrest element is preferably pivotally connected to a mounting unit of the passenger seat. The pivotable backrest element is connected to a seat structural element of the passenger seat via a bearing element.

[0008] "Upright seating position" means a maximum upright seating position of the passenger seat, in which the passenger seat has a maximally upright seating position. If the passenger seat is realized as an aircraft seat, the upright seating position is preferably realized as a seating position that must be assumed for safety reasons, in particular during the take-off phase, landing phase, and in turbulence. Here, the upright seating position is realized as a so-called TTL position (taxi, take-off, landing). In the upright seating position, the backrest, in particular the movably supported backrest element, and the seat bottom of the passenger seat are arranged substantially perpendicular to each other, preferably at an angle of 95° to 115°. "Comfort position" means in particular a backward-tilting seating position of the passenger seat, in which at least the backrest, in particular the pivotable backrest element, is tilted backwards against the seating direction of the passenger seat, which allows a comfortable backward-tilting seating position for the passenger seated in the passenger seat. In principle, it is also conceivable that in the comfort position, in addition to the pivotable back element, the seat bottom also be inclined compared to the upright seating position of the passenger seat. In the comfort position, the backrest, in particular the pivotable backrest element and the seat bottom, can have a different, particularly advantageously larger, angle relative to one another than in the upright seating position (TTL position). In the comfort position, the backrest, in particular the pivotable backrest element, is pivoted backwards by at least 3 degrees, preferably by at least 5 degrees, particularly preferably by more than 8 degrees from the maximum upright seating position.

[0009] "Reset module" preferably means a module configured to apply a reset force to return the backrest, in particular a movably supported backrest element, in order to move it from a position, in particular a comfort position, to an upright seating position. For this purpose, the reset module preferably comprises a spring element that provides a force for adjusting the backrest, in particular a pivotable backrest element. The spring element for providing the reset force may be realized, for example, as a leaf spring element. In principle, it is also conceivable that the spring element is realized as a different spring element, for example as a gas compression spring, as a coil spring, or as a different compression or tension spring element.

[0010] The term "locking device" preferably refers to a device configured to lock two components relative to each other in at least one predetermined locked position. The locking device is configured to fix the pivotable backrest element in two positions relative to the mounting unit, namely, on the one hand, an upright seating position and, on the other hand, a comfort position. Preferably, the locking device is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element only in two positions, namely, the upright seating position and the comfort position. In principle, it is also conceivable that the locking device is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element in one or two predetermined intermediate positions. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the locking device is not configured to infinitely stop the pivotable backrest element. The locking device can only lock the upright seating position and the comfort position. The locking device cannot lock the adjustable backrest element in any desired intermediate position between the upright seating position and the comfort position. Preferably, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the locking device can be configured to infinitely stop the pivotable backrest element.

[0011] The locking module being "arranged between the first seat structural element and the load-bearing element of the pivotable backrest element" means that the locking module is functionally arranged between the first seat structural element and the load-bearing element, i.e., in terms of the force flow between them. The locking module does not necessarily have to be spatially arranged between the seat structural element and the load-bearing element. The locking module can preferably be directly or indirectly connected to the seat structural element. Particularly preferably, the locking module is connected to the support element. The implementation according to the present invention allows for a particularly advantageously simple and space-saving realization of a locking device for locking the backrest. The bearing element is rigidly and rotationally fixedly connected to the seat structural element. Preferably, the bearing element is rotationally fixedly connected to the respective seat structural element via a connecting flange and several connecting screws. In principle, it is also conceivable that the bearing element can be rotationally fixedly connected to the respective seat structural element in different ways considered convenient by those skilled in the art, via which the support force can be transmitted from the bearing element to the seat structural element. For example, it is conceivable that the bearing element comprises, on its end facing the seat structural element, at least one form-fitting element, which may be realized, for example, as an outer contour of the bearing element, via which the bearing element can be form-fittingly connected in a receiving portion of the seat structural element. For connection to the seat structural element, the bearing element is thus, for example, received in a form-fitting manner in a receiving portion of the seat structural element and can be secured against axial displacement by a safety element, for example a screw. The implementation according to the invention makes it possible to realize the blocking of the pivotable backrest element particularly simply and separately from the spring element.

[0012] It is further proposed that the locking device be arranged to a large extent above the bearing element. By "arranged to a large extent above the bearing element," it is preferably meant that a substantial portion of the locking device, preferably more than 75% of it as viewed from the passenger compartment floor, is arranged above a lower region of the bearing element. The lower region here is realized as the portion of the bearing element that is the smallest distance from the mounting plane. This allows for a particularly advantageous, space-saving integration of the locking device into the passenger seat and particularly advantageously allows for a large knee area.

[0013] It is further proposed that the locking device be realized separately from the spring element. "The locking device is realized separately from the spring element" means that the locking device is not realized as part of the spring element. The locking device functions without the spring element, which means that the locking device is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element at least in an upright seat position. The locking device and the spring element are not realized together. The locking device does not constitute an integral component of the spring element. The locking device is realized separately from a locking unit integrated into the gas compression spring. However, in principle, it is conceivable that, despite the separate implementation of the locking device and the spring element, at least a portion of the locking device and the spring element are arranged in the same area of ​​the passenger seat. In principle, it is even conceivable that the spring element contacts a portion of the locking device and that the spring element can be supported by a portion of the locking device. As a result, both the spring element and the locking device can be coupled to the passenger seat in a particularly space-saving and simple manner.

[0014] It is further proposed that the locking module is arranged outside the load-bearing element of the backrest element, as a result of which the first locking module can be arranged in a particularly space-saving manner.

[0015] It is further proposed that the locking module comprises a first locking unit and a second locking unit, which are movably supported relative to one another and configured to lock together in a form-fit and / or pressure-fit manner in the upright seating position and the comfort position. The term "locking unit" preferably refers to a subunit of the locking module connected to one of the two components locked together by the locking module. The term "locking together in a form-fit and / or pressure-fit manner" preferably means that the locking is achieved by form-fitting engagement of the two elements with one another and / or by a pressure fit, e.g., a friction fit, between the two elements. Preferably, the locking is implemented by at least one form-fit connection of the two elements. In principle, it is conceivable that the locking is achieved solely by a pressure fit or by a combination of a form fit and a pressure fit. This allows the locking module to be particularly simple to implement.

[0016] It is further proposed that the first locking unit comprises a base body and a blocking element, which is supported on the base body in a spring-loaded, adjustable manner between a locked position and an unlocked position, and is configured to be form-fittingly coupled to the second locking unit for locking. As a result, the locking module can be particularly easily form-fitted locked and advantageously easily unlocked.

[0017] It is also proposed that the first locking unit comprises a linear guide supporting a blocking element, the blocking element being supported in a spring-loaded, adjustably linear manner along a displacement path. The displacement path along which the adjustably supported locking element is displaceable is preferably realized as a linear displacement axis along which the locking element is adjustable in a linear path. In principle, it is also conceivable that the displacement path be realized as a curved one. In such a case, the blocking element is displaceable along the curved displacement path. As a result, the locking element can be movably supported particularly simply.

[0018] The displaceably supported blocking element is preferably realized as an element that is height-adjustable and connected to the pivotable backrest element. In principle, it is also conceivable for the adjustably supported blocking element to be realized as a pin that is supported so as to be horizontally displaceable and connected to a locking unit fastened to the bearing element. In this case, the horizontally supported blocking element would be supported so as to be transversely displaceable. In the locked state, the blocking element would be supported so as to be horizontally displaceable on the locking unit fastened to the bearing element and would be configured to engage with a form-fitting element of the backrest frame.

[0019] It is further proposed that the second locking unit comprises a form-fitting element configured to fix the blocking element of the first locking unit in a form-fit and / or pressure-fit manner in order to lock the back element in the upright seat position, which allows a particularly simple locking of the blocking element in order to lock the locking module.

[0020] It is further proposed that the first locking unit is attached to the pivotable back element in the mounted state and the second locking unit is non-removably mounted on the bearing element, which allows a particularly simple integration of the locking units into the passenger seat to realize the locking module.

[0021] It is further proposed that the second locking unit comprises a mounting element which is rotationally fixedly connected to the bearing element in normal operating conditions and an overload unit which is configured to allow relative movement between the connecting element and the bearing element in the event of an overload, which makes it possible to particularly advantageously connect pivotable seat back elements in the event of a collision.

[0022] It is further proposed that the overload unit is configured to allow rotation of the backrest by a defined angle in the event of an overload. The overload unit is configured to allow forward rotation of the backrest in the direction opposite to the comfort position in the event of an overload. This advantageously makes it possible to reduce the risk of injury to passengers in the event of a collision.

[0023] It is further proposed that the second locking unit comprises a second form-fitting element forming an end abutment for the backrest element in the comfort position, and that the first locking unit comprises a second blocking element configured to lock the pivotable backrest element in the comfort position by form-fitting connection to the second form-fitting element of the second locking unit. A "second blocking element" is understood to mean a further blocking element that is realized separately from the first blocking element and can be realized, for example, as a blocking bolt. The second form-fitting element can advantageously be realized in a space-saving manner below the first form-fitting element of the second locking unit. This allows the locking module to be realized in a particularly compact manner, advantageously with a small installation space.

[0024] In principle, it is also conceivable that the second blocking element is realized integrally with the first blocking element. To do this, it would be necessary to enlarge the second locking unit toward the rear in the area of ​​the first form-fitting element and provide a further form-fitting element there. As a result, the locking module is simpler to realize, but requires more installation space toward the rear.

[0025] It is further proposed that the second locking unit comprises an eccentric adjustment unit, by means of which the position of the form-fitting element can be adjusted relative to the first locking unit. An "eccentric adjustment unit" is preferably understood to mean a unit comprising at least one connecting element eccentrically supported by a connecting element, which adjusts the elements connected to each other by rotation about the connecting element. In principle, it is also conceivable that the adjustment of the backrest angle is provided by a different adjustment unit instead of the eccentric adjustment unit. Here, the adjustment unit can be realized, for example, by adjustment using a grub screw and a corresponding adjustment mechanism. This allows for particularly simple adjustment of the angle of the pivotable backrest element in the comfort position and the upright seat position during installation of the passenger seat to advantageously compensate for installation tolerances. Particularly advantageously, passenger seats of the same design can be easily adjusted to different seat angles in the upright seating position and different reclining angles, i.e., angles of the pivotable backrest elements, in the comfort position, for example to suit different customer or cabin conditions.

[0026] It is further proposed that the second locking unit has an abutment surface against which the blocking element of the first connecting unit abuts in the comfort position of the backrest element, the abutment surface forming an inclined surface via which the blocking element can be pushed from its locked position to the released position. This advantageously makes it possible to press the pivotable backrest element from the comfort position to the upright seating position by applying an overpressure to the backrest element. This advantageously makes it possible, for example, for the adjustment of the backrest to the upright seating position by a flight attendant without the need to activate an actuating element to unlock the locking device.

[0027] It is further proposed that the locking module comprises a release unit configured to release the coupling between the first locking unit and the second locking unit in the release position to allow forward pivoting of the backrest element beyond the upright seat position to a non-use position. The "non-use position" preferably refers to a position in which the pivotable backrest element is not intended to form a backrest surface for a seated passenger in the passenger seat. In the non-use position, the pivotable backrest element preferably rests with its backrest surface on the seat bottom of the passenger seat. This allows for a particularly simple realization of the locking module and allows for the pivotable backrest element to be placed in a forward-folded non-use position. This advantageously allows for a passenger seat configuration in which the backrest element can be folded forward to place a stretcher across two passenger seats.

[0028] It is further proposed that the locking device comprises a second locking module, which is arranged on the side of the backrest element opposite the first locking module and is implemented substantially identically to the first locking module. The second locking module is preferably implemented almost identically to the first locking module. The second locking module is a mirror image of the first locking module. In principle, it is conceivable that the two locking modules are not only mirror images of each other, but also differ by different connections of actuating elements or force transmission elements, such as Bowden cables. This allows the locking device to be implemented in a particularly advantageous way for locking the pivotable backrest element, in particular, allowing the locking device to provide a tight lock with little play of the pivotable backrest element in the locked position.

[0029] It is further proposed that the second locking module be operable together with the first locking module via a Bowden cable, the second locking module being connected in series with the first locking module. The term "series-connected with the first locking module" means that activation of the first locking module triggers activation of the second locking module. A transmission element, particularly a Bowden cable, is connected to the movably supported blocking element of the first locking module, transmitting the movement of the movably supported blocking element of the first locking module to the movably supported blocking element of the second locking module. Preferably, the transmission element is not directly connected to the movably supported blocking element, but rather to a movably supported bearing slide of the linear bearing of the first locking module, to which the movably supported blocking element of the first locking module is connected. As a result, it is particularly advantageously possible to operate two locking modules of a locking device together.

[0030] The locking device, in particular the two locking modules of the locking device, are inaccessible from the outside in the installed state, in particular for passengers. The passenger seat arrangement preferably comprises a cover which covers the locking modules towards the outside. The cover may preferably be part of the backrest lining. In principle, it is also conceivable that either cover could be realized as a separate module and be removable separately from the backrest lining. Preferably, the cover is realized in such a way that access to the release unit is accessible to the crew.

[0031] It is further proposed that the locking device is configured to infinitely stop the pivotable backrest element between the comfort position and the upright seating position. The locking device is configured to infinitely secure the pivotable backrest element. The locking device is configured to fix the pivotable backrest element in a pressure-fit manner, i.e., by a frictional connection, at any position between the upright seating position and the comfort position. In normal operation, forces acting on the pivotable backrest element, in particular seating or holding forces, are transmitted to the mounting unit exclusively via the frictional connection in intermediate positions of the locking device. The locking of the pivotable backrest element in the intermediate positions is achieved by the locking device purely via the frictional connection. The forces acting on the backrest are supported via the frictional connection in the locking device. In the upright seating position and the comfort position, at least forces in the direction of movement of the pivotable backrest element where the pivotable backrest element is not fixed in a form-fit manner are supported via the frictional connection. As a result, comfort can be advantageously increased.

[0032] It is also proposed that at least one locking module comprises a friction unit configured to provide a holding force for infinitely stopping the pivotable back element. By "friction unit" is meant a unit preferably comprising at least two friction elements configured to frictionally couple to one another and arranged to be movable relative to one another. In at least one state, particularly an inactive state, the friction elements are configured to frictionally couple to one another. In at least one further state, particularly an active state of the friction unit, the friction elements are at least partially, preferably completely, spaced apart from one another and are no longer in frictional contact with one another. The friction elements preferably each comprise a friction surface configured to frictionally couple with the friction surface of another friction element. The friction surfaces of the friction elements may preferably be realized as flat surfaces. In principle, it is also conceivable for the friction surfaces of the friction elements to be realized as contoured surfaces, for example conical surfaces. Preferably, the friction elements may be realized as the side surfaces of a shaft. Preferably, it is also conceivable for the friction elements to be realized as spring elements, particularly the inner surfaces of helical springs. By "holding force" is preferably understood the force required to move the friction elements relative to one another while they are in frictional contact with one another. The holding force is realized as an adhesive friction force between the two friction elements of the friction unit. This makes it particularly easy to realize a locking module for infinitely locking the pivotable back element.

[0033] It is further proposed that one of the locking units of the locking module comprises a rotatably supported shaft configured to rotate upon pivoting of the pivotable back element, and a friction unit for locking the pivotable back element, the friction unit configured to fix the rotatably supported shaft against rotation in a pressure-fit manner, which allows a particularly simple integration of the friction unit into the locking module and allows forces from the pivotable back element to be supported by the friction unit.

[0034] It is further proposed that one of the locking units of the locking module comprises a base body, and the locking module comprises a coupling gear via which the base body is coupled to a rotatably supported shaft of the other locking unit, the coupling gear being configured to transmit the pivotal movement of the pivotable back element to the rotatably supported shaft. The term "coupling gear" preferably refers to a gear via which two elements movably supported relative to one another can be coupled to one another and via which movement, in particular rotational or pivotal movement and forces, can be transmitted between the coupled elements. The coupling gear is preferably realized as a cogwheel. The cogwheel preferably comprises at least two intermeshing toothed elements. The coupling gear has a transmission ratio. The coupling gear preferably has a transmission ratio of 1:5 to 1:20, preferably 1:7 to 1:15. Particularly preferably, the coupling gear has a transmission ratio of 1:9 to 1:12. The coupling gear has a transmission ratio for transmitting force, particularly momentum, between two elements coupled to each other via the coupling gear. The coupling gear transmits force between one locking unit and the other locking unit of the locking module. This transmission ratio advantageously allows the friction unit to support large forces acting on the backrest. This makes it possible to particularly advantageously integrate the friction unit into the locking module and to particularly advantageously support large forces by the friction unit.

[0035] It is further proposed that the coupling gear comprises a toothed element rigidly connected to the rotatably supported shaft and a toothed element rigidly connected to the base body and meshingly engaged with the toothed element connected to the shaft. "Toothed element" preferably means an element having several teeth configured to mesh with the teeth of a further toothed element. The toothed element may preferably be realized as a gear or a partial gear. The toothed element may preferably be realized as a toothed bar. In this way, the friction unit can be particularly advantageously coupled to the other locking unit via the rotatably supported shaft.

[0036] It is further proposed that at least one locking module comprises a friction unit that provides a holding force and that comprises a first fixed friction element, a second friction element coupled to a rotatably supported shaft of the locking module, and at least one spring element, which presses the two friction elements against each other in the inactive state, thereby making the friction unit particularly simple to realize.

[0037] It is further proposed that the two friction elements are realized as conical friction elements corresponding to each other, and that the friction unit comprises a spacer element configured to vary the friction force and / or distance between the two friction elements by rotating. A "conical friction element" preferably means a friction element whose friction surface has a conical shape, in particular conical ridges or conical depressions. A "spacer element" preferably means an element that varies the distance between two other elements, in particular the distance between the base body of the friction unit and the mounting element, by moving, preferably rotating. This makes it particularly advantageous to realize a friction unit with a small operating path.

[0038] It is further proposed that one of the friction elements is realized as an axially movable conical friction element, preferably integral with the rotatably supported shaft of the locking module. "Integral" particularly means connected by a material bond, for example by a welding process and / or an adhesive bonding process, and particularly preferably formed by casting and / or by a single-component or multi-component injection molding process. This allows for a particularly advantageous implementation of a friction element.

[0039] It is further proposed that the friction unit has a base body and that the spring element is arranged between the base body and the spacer element, which allows a particularly advantageous integration of the spring element into the friction unit.

[0040] It is further proposed that the first friction element of the friction unit be realized as an inner surface of a spring element of the friction unit realized as a spiral spring, and the second friction element of the friction unit be realized as a lateral shell surface of a subregion of the rotatably supported shaft of the locking module. The spring element realized as a spiral spring is preferably realized as a wrap-around spring whose inner side presses against the lateral surface of the shaft in the inactive state. The spring element realized as a spiral spring presses against the lateral surface of the shaft due to its internal spring tension, resulting in a frictional connection between the inner side of the spring element and the shaft. In the active state, the spring element realized as a spiral spring is preferably elastically deformed so as to be released from the lateral surface of the shaft. This allows for a particularly simple implementation of the friction unit.

[0041] The passenger seating arrangement according to the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned applications and implementations, and in particular, to achieve the functions described herein, the passenger seating arrangement according to the present invention may comprise a number of individual elements, components and units different from the number given herein.

[0042] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings, in which eight exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown. These drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous feature combinations. Those skilled in the art will also intentionally consider these features individually and will find further advantageous combinations.

[0043] The drawings are as follows: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic view of a passenger seat row having a passenger seat arrangement in a first exemplary embodiment with a backrest with a pivotable backrest element and a locking device; [Figure 2] 1 shows a schematic view of a back frame of a pivotable backrest having a locking device with two locking modules. [Figure 3] 1 shows a schematic exploded view of one of the lock modules having two lock units. [Figure 4] 1 shows a further schematic exploded view of one of the lock modules, with two lock units, from another perspective; [Figure 5] FIG. 10 shows a schematic view of one of the locking modules in a locked position in an upright seating position of the pivotable back element, with the eccentricity adjustment unit shown in a partially exploded view. [Figure 6] 1 shows a schematic cross-section through one of the locking modules in a locked position in an upright seating position of the pivotable backrest element; [Figure 7] 1 shows a schematic view of one of the locking modules in a locked position in a comfort position of the pivotable back element. [Figure 8] 1 shows a schematic cross-section through one of the locking modules in a locked position in the comfort position of the pivotable back element; [Figure 9]FIG. 10 shows a schematic view of a part of a locking device in a second exemplary embodiment, where only one of the two locking modules is shown. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of a part of a locking device in a third exemplary embodiment, in which only one of the two locking modules is shown, together with an alternative reset module. [Figure 11] 10 shows a schematic diagram of a passenger seat row having a passenger seating arrangement with a seat back having an upper seat back pivot point and a reset module in a fourth exemplary embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 shows a schematic rear view of a passenger seat in a fourth exemplary embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 shows a schematic side view of a passenger seat in a fourth exemplary embodiment. [Figure 14] 1 shows a schematic view of an upper backrest element with a reset module comprising two spring elements realized as spiral springs. [Figure 15] 5 shows a schematic view of an upper backrest element of a passenger seat arrangement with a reset module comprising two spring elements realized as torsion bars in a fifth exemplary embodiment; FIG. [Figure 16] 13 shows a highly schematic view of a lower back element of a passenger seating arrangement in a sixth exemplary embodiment; [Figure 17] FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of a passenger seat row having a passenger seat device in a seventh exemplary embodiment, the passenger seat device having a backrest with a pivotable backrest element and a locking device configured to lock the pivotable backrest element in an infinitely variable manner. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of a back frame of a pivotable backrest shown with a locking device comprising two locking modules. [Figure 19] 1 shows a schematic exploded view of one of the locking modules having two locking units and a friction unit with two conical friction elements. [Figure 20]1 shows a further schematic exploded view of one of the locking modules, with two locking units and a friction unit, from another perspective. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of one of the locking modules taken through the rotatably mounted shaft and friction unit. [Figure 22] 1 shows a schematic view of a pivotable back element in a comfort position. [Figure 23] 13 shows a schematic view of a passenger seating arrangement having a backrest with a pivotable backrest element in a comfort position and a locking device in an eighth exemplary embodiment. [Figure 24] 1 shows a schematic exploded view of one of the locking modules, which has two locking units and a friction unit with a friction element realized as a spring element. [Figure 25] 1 shows a further schematic exploded view of one of the locking modules, with two locking units and a friction unit, from another perspective. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of one of the locking modules taken through the rotatably mounted shaft and friction unit.

[0045] Description of exemplary embodiments 1 to 8 show a passenger seating arrangement in a first exemplary embodiment. Here, the passenger seating arrangement is part of a passenger seat 10a. The passenger seat 10a is embodied as an aircraft seat. In an installed state, the passenger seat 10a is mounted in a cabin of an aircraft. In an installed state, the passenger seat 10a is configured to be fixedly mounted to a cabin floor 22a of the aircraft cabin. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a mounting unit 12a. The passenger seat 10a can be mounted to the cabin floor 22a of the aircraft cabin by means of the mounting unit 12a. The cabin floor 22a forms a mounting plane. The passenger seat 10a is embodied as part of a passenger seat row 14a. The passenger seat 10a is preferably embodied as part of a passenger seat row 14a comprising one or more passenger seats 10a. By way of example, the figures show a passenger seat row 14a having two passenger seats 10a, 16a. The passenger seat row 14a shown as an example includes a second passenger seat 16a. The additional passenger seat 16a is arranged adjacent to the first passenger seat 10a. The second passenger seat 16a is preferably realized identically to the first passenger seat 10a. Therefore, only one passenger seat 10a will be described in detail below. In principle, it is also conceivable for the passenger seat row 14a to include three or more passenger seats 10a, 16a. Here, the mounting unit 12a is realized as a common mounting unit 12a for the passenger seats 10a, 16a of the passenger seat row 14a. The mounting unit 12a includes two seat bases 18a, 20a. Both seat bases 18a, 20a are connected to fastening rails fixedly connected to the passenger cabin floor 22a via mounting fixtures (not shown in detail). The mounting fixtures can be fixedly fastened within the fastening rails.

[0046] The mounting unit 12d comprises two cross beams 24d. The cross beams 24a are realized as support tubes. The front cross beam 24a is arranged in the front region of the passenger seat 10a. The rear cross beam 24a is arranged in the rear region of the passenger seat 10a. The cross beams 24a extend in the transverse direction of the passenger seat 10a. The cross beams 24a extend over at least substantially the entire transverse extent of all passenger seats 10a of the passenger seat row 14a.

[0047] The passenger seating arrangement includes two seat structural elements 26a, 28a. The two seat structural elements 26a, 28a are arranged on either side of the seating area 30a of the passenger seating arrangement. The two seat structural elements 26a, 28a are arranged laterally with respect to the seating area 30a formed by the passenger seat 10a. The seat structural elements 26a, 28a are realized as seat dividers. The seat structural elements 26a, 28a are arranged on the cross beam 24a. The seat structural elements 26a, 28a are fastened to the cross beam 24a at a distance from each other in the transverse direction. The seat structural element 28a is connected to the cross beam 24a in a positionally fixed manner. The seat structural elements 28a are both connected at their front ends to the front cross beam 24a. Here, the seat structural elements 26a, 28a are preferably connected to the front cross beam 24a in a pressure-fit and / or form-fit manner. The seat structural elements 26a, 28a are substantially L-shaped. Each of the seat structural elements 26a, 28a has a first sub-region that is oriented substantially horizontally in the mounted state. Each of the seat structural elements 26a, 28a has a second sub-region that is oriented substantially vertically in the mounted state. The second sub-region of the seat structural elements 26a, 28a is arranged in the rear region of the passenger seat 10a. The second sub-region of the seat structural elements 26a, 28a extends to the rear end of the seat structural elements 26a, 28a. The second sub-region of the seat structural elements 26a, 28a forms the rear region of the seat structural elements 26a, 28a. Thus, in their rear region, the seat structural elements 26a, 28a extend upwards, away from the mounting unit 12a, in particular away from the mounting plane. The seat structural elements 26a, 28a extend upwards in their rear region substantially to the armrest height X. The seat structural elements 26a, 28a extend to the armrest height X of the passenger seat 10a. The armrest height X is 650 mm. In principle, it is conceivable that the armrest height X is preferably in the range of 500 mm to 700 mm.

[0048] The seat structural elements 26a, 28a, which are realized as seat dividers, are configured so that different components of the corresponding passenger seats 10a, 16a can be fastened to said seat structural elements 26a, 28a, as will be explained at least partially in detail below. In principle, it is also conceivable that the mounting unit 12a does not comprise seat structural elements 26a, 28a or comprises seat structural elements 26a, 28a realized differently, so that the respective components of the passenger seats 10a, 16a are connected to the mounting unit 12a in different ways. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a seat bottom. The seat bottom forms a seating area 30a. The seat bottom forms the seating surface of the passenger seat 10a. The seat bottom is connected to the mounting unit 12a.

[0049] The passenger seating arrangement includes a backrest 34a. The backrest 34a is configured so that a person seated in the passenger seat 10a of which the passenger seating arrangement is a part can rest their back against the backrest 34a. The backrest 34a preferably includes a cushion, not shown in detail. The backrest 34a forms a back support surface. The backrest 34a is arranged at the rear end of the seat bottom. The backrest 34a is pivotally arranged relative to the mounting unit 12a. The backrest 34a is connected to the seat structural elements 26a, 28a. Here, the passenger seat 10a achieves a seating direction. The seating direction is defined as the direction in which a passenger sits on the passenger seat 10a. The seating direction extends perpendicular to the back surface of the backrest 34a and parallel to the mounting plane in the direction of the front end of the seat bottom.

[0050] The backrest 34a is designed to be pivotable. The backrest 34a is configured to be pivoted between an upright seating position and a comfort position. The backrest 34a is configured to be pivoted relative to the mounting unit 12a. The backrest 34a is pivotable relative to the seat structural elements 26a, 28a. The backrest 34a comprises a pivotable backrest element 36a. The pivotable backrest element 36a is pivotally supported on the mounting unit 12a. The pivotable backrest element 36a is pivotally connected to the seat structural elements 26a, 28a.

[0051] The pivotable back element 36a comprises a back frame 38a. The back frame 38a forms the load-bearing structure of the pivotable back element 36a. The back frame 38a is realized as a perimeter frame. The back frame 38a is preferably realized substantially U-shaped. The back frame 38a has two lateral frame elements and an upper frame element connecting the two lateral frame elements at the upper end of the back frame 38a. The back frame 38a preferably has an open lower end. The lower end of the back frame 38a forms the lower end of the pivotable back element 36a. The pivotable back element 36a comprises a shell element 40a. The shell element 40a is realized as a plate-shaped element. The shell element 40a is made of fiber-reinforced plastic. The shell element 40a is made of, for example, GFRP or CFRP. The shell element 40a is configured to form a back support surface of the pivotable back element 36a. The shell element 40a is arranged in an inner region of the pivotable back element 36a, which is defined by the back frame 38a. The shell element 40a is fixedly connected to the back frame 38a of the pivotable back element 36a. The shell element 40a is fixedly connected, at least in areas, to lateral frame elements of the back frame 38a. The shell element 40a preferably forms a back contour of the pivotable back element 36a. The shell element 40a is configured to have cushion elements of the back 34a attached to the shell element 40a. In principle, it would also be conceivable for the pivotable back element 36a to be provided with a cover forming the back support surface instead of the shell element 40a.

[0052] The back frame 38a implements the load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable back element 36a. The load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable back element 36a is configured to transmit operating forces, in particular support forces, acting on the pivotable back element 36a to the mounting unit 12a, in particular via the seat structure elements 26a, 28a. The load-bearing element is preferably embodied rigidly and is configured to transmit torsional and bending forces. In principle, it is also conceivable that the pivotable back element 36a does not have a back frame 38a. In this case, it is conceivable that the entire back element 36a is implemented as a shell element that integrally forms the back support surface and the load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable back element 36a.

[0053] The passenger seating arrangement comprises two bearing elements 44a, 46a for supporting the pivotable backrest element 36a. The pivotable backrest element 36a is connected to the mounting unit 12a via the bearing elements 44a, 46a. The bearing elements 44a, 46a are fixedly connected to the seat structural elements 26a, 28a. In the mounted state, the bearing elements 44a, 46a extend from the respective seat structural elements 26a, 28a towards each other in the direction of the pivotable backrest element 36a. The bearing elements 44a, 46a are rigidly connected to the respective seat structural elements 26a, 28a. The bearing element 44a is rigidly mounted to the left seat structural element 26a. The bearing element 46a is rigidly mounted to the right seat structural element 28a. The bearing elements 44a, 46a are realized as fixed bearing shafts. The bearing elements 44a, 46a, which are realized as bearing shafts, each have a connecting flange 48a and are connected to the respective seat structural elements 26a, 28a via this connecting flange 48a. By means of their connecting flanges 48a, the bearing elements 44a, 46a are fixedly and rotationally fixedly attached to the seat structural elements 26a, 28a via a screw connection. As a result of the connection of the bearing elements 44a, 46a via the respective connecting flanges 48a and the screw connection, an advantageous force flow from the bearing elements 44a, 46a to the seat structural elements 26a, 28a and thus to the mounting unit 12a can be achieved. In principle, it is also conceivable that the bearing elements 44a, 46a could be rotationally fixedly connected to the seat structural elements 26a, 28a in a different way, for example by form-fitting elements embodied by the bearing elements 44a, 46a and engaging in receiving portions of the respective seat structural elements 26a, 28a. The bearing elements 44a, 46a are arranged at the height of a rotation axis 50a of the backrest 34a. The rotation axis 50a is the axis around which the pivotable backrest element 36a is pivotally supported. The rotation axis 50a is defined by the bearing elements 44a, 46a, which are realized as bearing shafts. The rotation axis 50a is oriented coaxially with the median axis of the bearing elements 44a, 46a, which are realized as bearing shafts.

[0054] The bearing elements 44a, 46a form plain bearing regions 52a at their ends opposite the connecting flange 48a. The pivotable backrest element 36a is supported so as to slide on the bearing elements 44a, 46a via the plain bearing regions 52a of the bearing elements 44a, 46a. The backrest frame 38a, which mounts the load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable backrest element 36a, is supported so as to be pivotable on the support elements 44a, 46a via the plain bearing regions 52a. The plain bearing regions 52a are realized as axial extensions 54a of the bearing elements 44a, 46a. The axial extensions 54a of the bearing elements 44a, 46a form the end regions of the bearing elements 44a, 46a facing away from the connecting flange 48a. The shaft extension 54a has a smaller diameter, at least in the region of the plain bearing region 52a, than the bearing elements 44a, 46a in the remaining regions, in particular in the region facing the connecting flange 48a. The shaft extension 54a is realized so as to be separable from the remaining parts of the respective bearing elements 44a, 46a. The shaft extension 54a is rotationally fixedly connected to the remaining parts of the respective bearing elements 44a, 46a via spur gear teeth 56a. The shaft extension 54a is fixed to the remaining bearing elements 44a, 46a via screws 58a.

[0055] The shaft extension 54a forms a table abutment element 60a on the opposite side from the spur gear teeth 56a. In the mounted state, the table abutment element 60a is disposed inside each of the side frame elements of the seat back frame 38a. In the mounted state, the table abutment element 60a extends radially outward away from the rotation axis 50a inside each of the side frame elements of the seat back frame 38a. The table abutment element 60a is configured such that, in the unfolded position of the folding table, a bearing arm for supporting the folding table attached to the passenger seat 10a can abut against the table abutment element 60a when the table is unfolded, thereby allowing forces acting on the folding table to be transmitted to the mounting unit 12a via the bearing elements 44a, 46a.

[0056] The lateral frame elements of the back frame 38a each have a bearing receptacle 62a in their lower end region, via which the back frame 38a is pivotally supported so as to slide on the plain bearing areas 52a of the bearing elements 44a, 46a. Each pivotable back element 36a has a bearing bush 64a arranged in the respective bearing receptacle 62a of the back frame 38a. In the mounted state, each bearing element 44a, 46a has its plain bearing area 52a extending through the bearing bush 64a arranged in the bearing receptacle 62a. For mounting, the shaft extensions 54a forming the plain bearing regions 52a of the bearing elements 44a, 46a are guided from the inside of the lateral frame elements of the backrest frame 38a through bearing bushes 64a in the bearing receptacles 62a and are connected to the remainder of the respective bearing elements 44a, 46a in a rotationally fixed and non-detachable manner via threads 58a and spur gear teeth 56a.

[0057] The backrest 34a is designed as a backrest with a high backrest pivot point. The backrest pivot point is implemented by a rotation axis 50a. The backrest pivot point, i.e., the rotation axis 50a, is located above the knee area of ​​the passenger seat 10a. The knee area of ​​the passenger seat 10a starts from the passenger cabin floor 22a and extends to a height of 650 mm. The knee area is located as an area where a passenger sitting behind the passenger seat 10a can place their knees. To achieve the high backrest pivot point, bearing elements 44a, 46a are connected to the upper end regions of the seat structural elements 26a, 28a. The bearing elements 44a, 46a are connected to the seat structural elements 26a, 28a above the knee area. The bearing elements 44a, 46a are located at armrest height X. The rotation axis 50a is located above the knee area of ​​the passenger seat 10a.

[0058] The backrest 34a comprises a lower backrest element 32a. The lower backrest element 32a is embodied rigidly. Preferably, the lower backrest element 32a is embodied immovably. The lower backrest element 32a forms the lower region of the backrest 34a. The lower backrest element 32a forms a backrest support surface in the lower region of the backrest 34a. The lower backrest element 32a is fixedly fastened to the seat structural elements 26a, 28a. The lower backrest element 32a extends substantially between the height of the cross beam 24a of the mounting unit 12a and the lower end of the pivotable backrest element 36a. The lower backrest element 32a preferably extends to just below the armrest height X.

[0059] The passenger seating apparatus includes a reset module 66a. The reset module 66a is configured to reset the seat back 34a from a comfort position to an upright seating position. The reset module 66a is configured to reset the seat back 34a from its pivoted seating position to the upright seating position. The reset module 66a is configured to reset the pivotable back element 36a. To reset the pivotable back element 36a, the reset module 66a is configured to provide a reset force. To reset, the reset module 66a is configured to apply a reset force to the pivotable back element 36a. The reset module 66a is positioned at least mostly above the knee region of the backrest 34a. As a result of this positioning of the reset module 66a, the knee region of the backrest 34a can preferably remain substantially free of components of the reset module 66a. In particular, the large components of the reset module 66a may be advantageously located above armrest height X, and thus outside the knee area of ​​the backrest 34a.

[0060] To provide the reset force, the reset module 66a includes a spring element 68a. In principle, it is also conceivable for the reset module 66a to include several spring elements 68a to provide the reset force. The spring element 68a is configured to apply a spring force to the pivotable backrest element 36a to pivot the pivotable backrest element 36a toward its upright seat position. The spring force of the spring element 68a realizes the reset force of the reset module 66a. The spring element 68a is functionally arranged between the pivotable backrest element 36a and the mounting unit 12a. The spring element 68a is configured to be supported on a first side by the mounting unit 12a. The spring element 68a is configured to be supported on a second side by the pivotable backrest element 36a. The spring element 68a is realized as a leaf spring element. The spring element 68a embodied as a leaf spring element is realized as an elongated component. The spring element 68a, embodied as a leaf spring element, is functionally arranged between the lower back element 32a and the pivotable back element 36a. The spring element 68a, embodied as a leaf spring element, is connected at its first lower end to the lower back element 32a. The spring element 68a, embodied as a leaf spring element, is connected at its second upper end to the pivotable back element 36a, in particular to the back frame 38a. The spring element 68a, embodied as a leaf spring element, preferably extends within the central region of the pivotable back element 36a. In principle, it is also conceivable that the spring element 68a be realized as a different spring element, for example as a gas compression spring, a spiral spring, or as a different tension or compression spring deemed advantageous by a person skilled in the art.

[0061] The passenger seating arrangement comprises a locking device 70a. The locking device 70a is configured to lock the backrest 34a in its upright seating position. The locking unit 70a is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36a in the upright seating position. The locking device 70a is configured to lock the backrest 34a in a comfort position. The locking device 70a is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36a in a comfort position. The locking device 70a can lock the pivotable backrest element 36a in the comfort position and the upright seating position. The locking device 70a has a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state of the locking device 70a, the backrest 34a, in particular the pivotable backrest element 36a, is locked in a current position, i.e., either the upright seating position or the comfort position. In the locked position of the locking device 70a, the pivotable backrest element 36a is fixed in a form-fitting manner in a certain position, i.e., an upright seating position or a comfort position. In the locked position of the locking device 70a, the pivotable backrest element 36a is fixed in position relative to the mounting unit 12a. In the locked position of the locking device 70a, the pivotable backrest element 36a cannot pivot about the rotation axis 50a of the bearing elements 44a, 46a. In the unlocked state of the locking device 70a, the backrest 34a, and in particular the pivotable backrest element 36a, can be adjusted between its positions, i.e., the comfort position and the upright seating position. In the unlocked position, the locking device 70a allows the pivotable backrest element 36a to pivot between the upright seating position and the comfort position.

[0062] Preferably, the locking device 70a is configured only to lock the backrest 34a, i.e., the pivotable backrest element 36a, in the upright seating position and the comfort position. Preferably, the locking device 70a is not configured to stop the pivotable backrest element 36a in an infinitely variable manner between the upright seating position and the comfort position. It is not possible for the pivotable backrest element 36a to be infinitely locked by the locking device 70a, i.e., to be fixedly positioned in an intermediate position between the upright seating position and the comfort position. In principle, it would be considered that the locking device 70a is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36a in a form-fitting manner in one or two defined intermediate positions, which would also mean that it would not stop the pivotable backrest element 36a in an infinitely variable manner.

[0063] Preferably, the locking device 70a is mostly arranged above the bearing elements 44a, 46a. Here, "above the bearing elements 44a, 46a" means the side of the bearing elements 44a, 46a facing away from the passenger compartment floor 22a. The locking device 70a is arranged between the seat structure elements 26a, 28a and the pivotable backrest element 36a. The locking device 70a is arranged between the bearing elements 44a, 46a and the pivotable backrest element 36a. The locking device 70a is arranged on the bearing elements 44a, 46a and on the backrest frame 38a that forms the load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable backrest element 36a. Part of the locking device 70a may be arranged below the bearing elements 44a, 46a, particularly in the area connected to the bearing elements 44a, 46a. More than 75% of the locking device 70a is arranged above the bearing elements 44a, 46a. The locking device 70a is implemented separately from the spring element 68a of the reset module 66a. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the locking device 70a is implemented so as to be spatially separated from the spring element 68a of the reset module 66a. In particular, the locking device 70a is not an integral component of the reset module 66a or the spring element 68a. The locking device 70a is not integrated into the spring element 68a.

[0064] The locking device 70a includes a first locking module 72a. The first locking module 72a of the locking device 70a is disposed on the left side of the pivotable backrest element 36a. The first locking module 72a is disposed between the first left seat structural element 26a and the load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable backrest element 36a, which is formed by the backrest frame 38a. The first locking module 72a is functionally disposed between the left bearing element 44a and the left lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38a. The first locking module 72a is fixedly coupled at a first mounting region to the left bearing element 44a. The first locking module 72a is fixedly coupled at a second mounting region to the lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38a. The first locking module 72a is disposed on an outer side 76a of the load-bearing element 42a. The first locking module 72a is therefore arranged on the outer side 76a of the side frame element of the seat back frame 38a. The first locking module 72a is arranged on the outer side 76a of the seat back frame 38a facing the left seat structural element 26a.

[0065] The locking device 70a includes a second locking module 74a. The second locking module 74a of the locking device 70a is disposed on the right side of the pivotable backrest element 36a. The second locking module 74a is disposed between the second right seat structural element 28a and the load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable backrest element 36a, which is formed by the backrest frame 38a. The second locking module 74a is functionally disposed between the right bearing element 46a and the right lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38a. The second locking module 74a has a first mounting area fixedly coupled to the right bearing element 46a. The second locking module 74a has a second mounting area fixedly coupled to the lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38a. The second locking module 74a is disposed on an outer side 78a of the load-bearing element 42a. Therefore, the second locking module 74a is disposed on the outer side 78a of the side frame element of the seat back frame 38a. The second locking module 74a is disposed on the outer side 78a of the seat back frame 38a facing the right seat structural element 28a.

[0066] The two locking modules 72a, 74a are both configured to lock the backrest 34a, in particular the pivotable backrest element 36a. The two locking modules 72a, 74a of the locking device 70a are substantially identical. The locking modules 72a, 74a are substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to each other. Preferably, the locking modules 72a and 74a differ only in the actuation connections or elements for transmitting actuation forces. The locking modules 72a, 74a have substantially identical structures that are mirror-symmetrical with respect to each other. The second locking module 74a is essentially a mirror image of the first locking module 72a. Therefore, only the first locking module 72a will be described in detail below. The following description of the first locking module 72a can be used to describe the second locking module 74a. Differences between the second locking module 74a and the first locking module 72a will be explicitly described.

[0067] The passenger seating arrangement includes at least one respective cover element for each locking module 72a, 74a. The cover elements are not shown in detail. The cover elements are configured to cover the locking modules 72a, 74a of the locking device 70a outward. The cover elements are configured to make the locking modules 72a, 74a of the locking device 70a inaccessible to passengers. The cover elements are preferably realized as part of the backrest cover. Preferably, the cover elements are realized to be separately detachable, thus allowing flight attendants to easily access the locking modules 72a, 74a located underneath the cover elements, if necessary. Preferably, the cover elements are realized as dimensionally stable elements made of a lining material. In principle, it is also conceivable that the cover elements are made of a textile. In principle, it would be considered that the cover elements are realized as part of the cover of the backrest 34a. The cover of the backrest 34a is preferably realized as a cover stretched over the cushion of the backrest 34a. The cover element, realized as part of the cover, is preferably stretched over the locking modules 72a, 74a of the locking device 70a in the installed state. Preferably, in the area where the cover forms the cover element, the cover has a closable opening through which the locking modules 72a, 74a are accessible. The closable opening in the cover element is preferably closable by suitable means, such as, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener, a zipper, or a push button.

[0068] The lock module 72a includes a first lock unit 80a. The first lock unit 80a is configured to be fastened to the pivotable back element 36a. The first lock unit 80a forms a part of the lock module 72a facing the pivotable back element 36a. In the installed state, the first lock unit 80a is fixedly connected to the pivotable back element 36a. The first lock unit 80a is connected to the load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable back element 36a. The first lock unit 80a is non-detachably attached to a lateral frame element of the back frame 38a.

[0069] The lock module 72a comprises a second locking unit 82a. The second locking unit 82a is configured to be securely attached to the bearing element 44a. The second locking unit 82a forms the part of the locking module 72a facing the mounting unit 12a. In the attached state, the second locking unit 82a is fixedly connected to the bearing element 44a, which is realized as a bearing shaft. The second locking unit 82a is attached to the bearing element 44a. The bearing element 44a comprises a connecting flange 84a for connecting the second locking unit 82a. The connecting flange 84a is arranged in an end region of the bearing element 44a that is located opposite the connecting flange 48a. The second locking unit 82a is fixedly attached to the connecting flange 84a of the bearing element 44a via several screw connections. In principle, it is also conceivable that the first locking unit 80a of the locking module 72a is fixedly connected to the bearing element 44a and the second locking unit 82a is fixedly connected to the load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable backrest element 36a.

[0070] The first locking unit 80a and the second locking unit 82a of the locking module 72a are supported for movement relative to each other. The first locking unit 80a and the second locking unit 82a are supported for movement relative to each other by coupling the pivotable backrest element 36a, i.e., the pivotable backrest element 36a, to the respective bearing element 44a, which supports the pivotable backrest element 36a about the rotation axis 50a. The first locking unit 80a and the second locking unit 82a are configured to lock to each other in a form-fit and / or pressure-fit manner in the upright seating position and the comfort position. As a result of the form-fit and / or pressure-fit connection between the first locking unit 80a and the second locking unit 82a, the first locking module 72a is in the locked position. When the two locking modules 72a, 74a are in the locked position, the locking device 70a is in the locked position, locking the pivotable backrest element 36a. In the unlocked position, the two locking units 80a, 82a are not connected to each other in a force-fit and / or form-fit manner. In the unlocked position of the locking module 72a, the two locking units 80a, 82a are movable relative to each other. When the two locking modules 72a, 74a are in the unlocked position, the locking device 70a is in the unlocked position.

[0071] The first locking unit 80a has a base body 86a. The base body 86a of the first locking unit 80a is attached to the load-bearing element 42a of the pivotable backrest element 36a. The base body 86a is fixedly attached to a lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38a. The base body 86a is preferably screwed to the pivotable backrest element 36a. The base body 86a forms a U-shaped receiving area, whereby the base body 86a at least partially surrounds the backrest frame 38a. The first locking unit 80a includes a block element 88a that is spring-loaded and adjustable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The block element 88a is configured for form-fit connection to the second locking unit 82a. The block element 88a extends away from the backrest frame 38a.

[0072] The first locking unit 80a includes a linear guide 94a, via which the block element 88a is supported so as to be linearly displaceable. The linear guide 94a includes a linear bearing rail 96a. The linear bearing rail 96a is realized by the base body 86a. The linear bearing rail 96a forms a movement path for the linear guide 94a. In the mounted state, the displacement path of the linear guide 94a preferably extends parallel to the lateral frame elements of the backrest frame 38a. The linear guide 94a includes a bearing slide 98a. The bearing slide 98a is supported on the linear bearing rail 96a so as to be displaceable along the displacement path. The bearing slide 98a is connected to the linear bearing rail 96a in a form-fitting manner. The linear guide 94a is spring-loaded. The locking unit 80a includes a spring element 100a configured to apply a spring force to the bearing slide 98a of the linear guide 94a, the spring force being directed toward a first position of the bearing slide 98a. The first position is realized as a locked position. The spring element 100a is realized as a compression spring. The spring element 100a is realized as a spiral spring. The spring element 100a is mounted between the base body 86a and the bearing slide 98a. The bearing slide 98a is displaceable from its first position to a second position along the linear bearing rail 96a against the spring force of the spring element 100a. The second position of the bearing slide 98a is realized as a released position.

[0073] The block element 88a is realized as a rotatably supported block roller. The block element 88a realized as a block roller is rotatably connected to a bearing slide 98a. The bearing slide 98a has a bearing pin 90a, on which the block element 88a realized as a block roller is slidably and rotatably supported. The bearing pin 90a is preferably realized integrally with the bearing slide 98a. The block element 88a realized as a block roller is secured to the bearing slide 98a by a screw 92a on the bearing pin 90a. To secure the block element 88a, the screw 92a is screwed into the bearing slide 98a and rests with its head against the axial side of the block element 88a, thus securing the block element 88a on the bearing pin 90a in a form-fitting manner. The block element 88a is arranged laterally of the bearing slide 98a. The block element 88a is supported so as to be displaceable between a locked position and a released position as a result of displacement of the bearing slide 98a between its first position and its second position. In the inactivated state, the block element 88a is urged into its locked position by the spring element 100a. In the activated state, the block element 88a is adjusted from its locked position to its released position against the spring force of the spring element 100a.

[0074] The blocking element 88a is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36a in an upright seating position. The blocking element 88a locks the pivotable backrest element 36a in an upright seating position in a form-fit manner. In the upright seating position of the pivotable backrest element 36a, the blocking element 88a is configured to be form-fit coupled to the second locking unit 82a.

[0075] The first locking unit 80a includes a second block element 102a. The second block element 102a is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36a in a comfort position. The second block element 102a is formed as a locking bolt. The second block element 102a is fixedly arranged on the base body 86a of the first locking unit 80a. The second block element 102a is arranged on a side of the base body 86a. The second block element 102a is arranged on the same side as the first block element 88a. The second block element 102a is preferably arranged below the first block element 88a. The second block element 102a is configured to lock the locking module 72a in the comfort position of the pivotable backrest element 36a. The second block element 102a is configured to rest against an end abutment of the second locking unit 82a in a form-fitting manner in the comfort position. The second blocking element 102a locks the pivotable back element 36a in a comfort position against further rearward adjustment.

[0076] The second locking unit 82a includes a first form-fitting element 104a. The first form-fitting element 104a is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36a in an upright seating position. The first form-fitting element 104a is configured to couple to the movably supported first block element 88a of the first locking unit 80a. To lock the pivotable backrest element 36a in the upright seating position, the first form-fitting element 104a of the second locking unit 82a is configured to secure the block element 88a of the first locking unit 80a in a form-fit and / or pressure-fit manner. The first form-fitting element 104a is realized as a recess into which the first block element 88a can engage in a form-fit manner in its locked position.

[0077] The second locking unit 82a includes a second form-fitting element 106a. The second form-fitting element 106a is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36a in the comfort position. The second form-fitting element 106a is configured to couple to the immovably supported second block element 102a of the first locking unit 80a. To lock the backrest element 36a in the comfort position, the second form-fitting element 106a of the second locking unit 82a is configured to secure the block element 88a of the first locking unit 80a in a form-fitting manner. The second form-fitting element 106a forms an end abutment for the pivotable backrest element 36a. The second form-fitting element 106a is realized as an end of a groove 108a. In the installed state, the second block element 102a is located in the groove 108a in the comfort position and the upright seat position.

[0078] The second locking unit 82a has a base body 110a. The base body 110a is realized as a flat, elongated body. The base body 110a is preferably made of a light metal. In principle, it is also conceivable for the base body 110a to be made of another material, such as plastic. The base body 110a forms a first form-fitting element 104a of the second locking unit 82a. The first form-fitting element 104a is realized as a recess 112a in a groove 114a of the base body 110a. The groove 114a is realized as a through groove extending from the front end of the base body 110a to the rear end of the base body 110a. The groove 114a is introduced into an inner side 116a of the base body 110a. In the installed state, the inner side 116a faces the backrest frame 38a. The recess 112a for mounting the first form-fitting element 104a is introduced into the side wall of the groove 114a. The base body 110a forms the second form-fitting element 106a of the second locking unit 82a. The groove 108a for forming the second form-fitting element 106a is introduced into the inner side 116a of the base body 110a. The groove 108a has a curved path. The groove 108a opens toward the front of the base body 110a. The end of the groove 108a facing away from the opening located on the front side forms the form-fitting element 106a against which the second block element 102a abuts in the comfort position.

[0079] The second lock unit 82a includes a mounting element 118a. In normal operation, the mounting element 118a is rotationally fixedly connected to the bearing element 44a. The base body 110a of the second lock unit 82a is connected to the mounting element 118a via its form-fitting elements 104a and 106a. In an installed state, the base body 110a of the second lock unit 82a is securely attached to the mounting element 118a. In an installed state, the base body 110a preferably has its outer side abutting against the inner side of the mounting element 118a. The mounting element 118a is rigidly connected to the bearing element 44a by several screws 120a. The mounting element 118a is rotationally fixedly connected to the connecting flange 84a of the bearing element 44a via the screws 120a. The mounting element 118a has through holes 122a through which the screws 120a are guided. Preferably, the connecting flange 84a has several threaded holes 124a into which the screws 120a can be screwed. In principle, connection by means of nuts is also conceivable. For connection, the screws 120a are guided from the opposite side of the bearing element 44a through the through-holes 122a in the mounting element 118a. In the installed state, the heads of the screws 120a are located on the side of the mounting element 118a facing the base body 110a. The base body 110a of the second locking unit 82a has an annular groove 126a on its outside, into which the heads of the screws 120a are located in the installed state. The annular groove 126a opens toward the front end of the base body 110a.

[0080] The second lock unit 82a includes an eccentric adjustment unit 128a. The eccentric adjustment unit 128a allows the positions of the form-fitting elements 104a, 106a to be adjusted relative to the first lock unit 80a. The eccentric adjustment unit 128a is configured to change the position of the mounting element 118a relative to the base body 110a. The base body 110a of the second lock unit 82a is connected to the mounting element 118a via the eccentric adjustment unit 128a. The angle of the base body 110a relative to the mounting element 118a can be changed via the eccentric adjustment unit 128a. The eccentric adjustment unit 128a includes a connecting screw 130a, through which the base body 110a is connected to the mounting element 118a. The base body 110a includes an elongated through-hole 132a. The through-hole 132a extends from the inside to the outside of the base body 110a. The through-hole 132a has a width somewhat larger than the diameter of the threaded shank of the connecting screw 130a. The through-hole 132a is realized as an elongated hole. The length of the through-hole 132a is preferably at least 5% larger than the diameter of the threaded shank of the connecting screw 130a. The through-hole 132a has a counterbore 134a that is larger than the head of the connecting screw 130a. In the mounted state, the head of the connecting screw 130a is completely located within the counterbore 134a of the through-hole 132a. The eccentric adjusting unit 128a comprises an eccentric element 136a. The eccentric adjusting unit 128a is connected to the mounting element 118a. The mounting element 118a has a circular receiving portion in which the eccentric element 136a is arranged in a rotatable manner without falling out. The eccentric element 136a has an off-center through-hole 138a. In the mounted state, the connecting screw 130a is guided through the off-center through-hole 138a. The eccentric adjustment unit 128a includes a nut 146a, which couples the connecting screw 130a to the eccentric element 136a. When the base body 110a is mounted to the mounting element 118a, the position of the off-center through-hole 138a relative to the base body 110a can be changed by rotating the eccentric element 136a in the receiving portion of the mounting element 118a.This makes it possible to adapt the angle of the first base body 110a relative to the mounting element 118a, i.e. also relative to the bearing element 44a, during installation, and as a result, it is possible to adjust, in particular, the locking position of the pivotable back element 36a in a comfortable position during installation.

[0081] The second locking unit 82a includes an abutment surface 140a. The abutment surface 140a is configured so that the first block element 88a of the first locking unit 80a rests against the abutment surface 140a in the comfort position of the pivotable backrest element 36a. The abutment surface 140a implements an abutment for the block element 88a in the direction of the upright seating position. In the comfort position of the pivotable backrest element 36a, the abutment surface 140a comes into form-fitting contact with the block element 88a in the locked position of the first block element 88a, preventing the pivotable backrest element 36a from rotating toward the upright seating position. The abutment surface 140a is realized as an inclined surface via which the block element 88a can be pushed from its locked position to its unlocked position. In the comfort position, when a force is applied to the pivotable backrest element 36a towards the upright seating position, the blocking element 88a is pushed into its release position and the pivotable backrest element 36a can be pushed into its upright seating position and locked there.

[0082] The first lock module 72a includes a release unit 142a. The release unit 142a is configured to release the coupling between the first lock unit 80a and the second lock unit 82a in the release position to allow the pivotable back element 36a to be pivoted forward beyond the upright seat position to a non-use position. The release unit 142a includes a lock element 144a. In the locked position, the lock element 144a is configured to lock the groove 114a forming the second form-fitting element 106a at its open front end. The lock element 144a is embodied as a lock bolt. In the installed state, the lock element 144a closes the groove 114a toward the front. The second block element 102a placed in the groove 114a cannot be guided out of the groove 114a. The release unit 142a has a receiving hole into which the lock element 144a can be placed. In the installed state, i.e., locked position, the locking element 144a is positioned within the receiving hole. Here, the locking element 144a extends into and blocks the groove 114a. The receiving hole in which the locking element 144a is positioned is positioned to extend transversely to the groove 114a. In the unlocked position of the release unit 142a, the locking element 144a is guided out of the groove 114a, clearing the path for the block element 102a to exit the groove 114a. As a result, even when the first block element 88a is in its unlocked position, the pivotable backrest element 36a can be folded forward from the upright seat position. Here, the pivotable backrest element 36a can be folded onto the seat bottom to a non-use position.

[0083] The passenger seating arrangement comprises an actuating element for the locking device 70a. The actuating element is not shown in detail. The actuating element is configured to apply an actuating force to the locking device 70a in order to move the locking device 70a from its locked position to its unlocked position. The actuating element is preferably realized as a push button. An actuating element realized as a push button can be arranged, for example, in the armrest of the passenger seat 10a. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a Bowden cable 150a. The Bowden cable 150a is a transmission element configured to transmit the actuating force and actuating movement from the actuating element to the locking device 70a. In principle, it is also conceivable for the passenger seating arrangement to comprise a further force transmission element for transmitting the actuating force. The Bowden cable 150a is connected to a spring-loaded bearing slide 98a of the linear guide 94a. When actuated by the actuation element, the Bowden cable 150a is configured to pull the bearing slide 98a from its locked position to its unlocked position against the spring force of the spring element 100a. As a result, the first locking module 72a of the locking device 70a can be switched from the locked position to the unlocked position. The second locking module 74a is preferably operable together with the first locking module 72a via the Bowden cable 150a. The first locking module 72a includes a force transmission unit 152a that transmits the actuation force applied to the first locking module 72a by the Bowden cable 150a. The passenger seating arrangement includes a second Bowden cable 154a. The second Bowden cable 154a is configured to transmit the actuation force from the first locking module 72a to the second locking module 74a. The second locking module 74a is connected in series with the first locking module 72a via a second Bowden cable 154a. The actuation movement of the bearing slide 98a is transmitted to the second Bowden cable 154a by a force transmission unit 152a. The force transmission unit 152a can preferably directly convert the linear movement of the bearing slide 98a into actuation of the second Bowden cable 154a.In principle, it would also be conceivable that the force transmission to the second Bowden cable 154a comprises at least one lever.

[0084] Seven further exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown in Figures 9 to 26. The following description and drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the exemplary embodiments, and for components having the same names, in particular the same reference numbers, reference may in principle also be made to the drawings and / or descriptions of other exemplary embodiments, in particular Figures 1 to 8. To distinguish between the exemplary embodiments, the letter a has been added to the reference numbers of the exemplary embodiments of Figures 1 to 8. In the exemplary embodiments of Figures 9 to 26, the letter a has been replaced by letters b to h.

[0085] 9 shows a second exemplary embodiment of a portion of a passenger seating arrangement according to the present invention. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a backrest 34b. The backrest 34b is designed to be pivotable. The backrest 34b is configured to be pivoted between an upright seating position and a comfort position. The backrest 34b comprises a pivotable backrest element 36b. The pivotable backrest element 36b is pivotally supported on a mounting unit. The pivotable backrest element 36b comprises a backrest frame 38b. The backrest frame 38b provides a load-bearing structure for the pivotable backrest element 36b. The backrest frame 38b provides a load-bearing structure for the pivotable backrest element 36b. The passenger seating arrangement is realized substantially identically to the first exemplary embodiment.

[0086] The passenger seating arrangement comprises a locking device 70b configured to lock the seat back 34b in its upright seating position and in a comfort position. The locking device 70b has a locked state and an unlocked state. The locking device 70b comprises a first locking module 72b and a second locking module. The two locking modules 72b are together configured to lock the seat back 34b, in particular the pivotable back element 36b. The first locking module 72b is fixedly connected to the left bearing element 44b via a first connection region.

[0087] The locking module 72b comprises a first locking unit 80b, which is configured to be fastened to the pivotable back element 36b, and which is realized in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0088] The lock module 72b includes a second lock unit 82b. The second lock unit 82b is configured to be securely mounted on the bearing element 44b. The second lock unit 82b constitutes the part of the lock module 72b that faces the mounting unit 12b of the passenger seat. In the mounted state, the second lock unit 82b is fixedly connected to the bearing element 44b, which is embodied as a bearing shaft. The second lock unit 82b is mounted on the bearing element 44b. The bearing element 44b includes a connecting flange 84b for connecting the second lock unit 82b. The connecting flange 84b is arranged in an end region of the bearing element 44b opposite the connecting flange 48b. The second lock unit has a base body 110b. The base body 110b is embodied as a flat, elongated body. The second lock unit 82b includes an attachment element 118b. The base body 110b of the second locking unit 82b is connected by its form-fitting elements 104b, 106b to a mounting element 118b, which is rotationally fixedly connected to the bearing element 44b under normal operating conditions.

[0089] Furthermore, in contrast to the first exemplary embodiment, each of the lock modules 72b and 74b includes an overload unit 156b. The second lock unit 82b of the lock module 72b includes an overload unit 156b. The overload unit 156b is configured to allow relative movement between the mounting element 118b of the second lock unit 82b and the bearing element 44b in the event of an overload. The overload unit 156b is arranged at the connection between the mounting element 118b of the second lock unit 82b and the bearing element 44b, in particular the connecting flange 84b. The mounting element 118b is connected to the bearing element 44b by several screws 120b. Under normal operating conditions, the mounting element 118b is rotationally fixedly connected to the connecting flange 84b of the bearing element 44b via the screws 120b. In contrast to the first exemplary embodiment, the through-hole 122b of the mounting element 118b is realized as a curved elongated hole. The through-holes 122b have curved paths with their center points located on the rotation axis of the pivotable backrest element 36b. Overload units 156b are integrated into the through-holes 122b. The overload units 156b include one deformation element 158b per through-hole. The deformation elements 158b are realized as tapered sections of the through-holes 122b. In normal operating conditions, the deformation elements 158b realized as tapered sections hold the screws 120b in defined positions on the edges of the through-holes 122b. In normal operating conditions, the screws 120b are fixedly arranged in the through-holes 122b realized as elongated holes. As a result, in normal operating conditions, the mounting element 118b and the connecting flange 84b of the bearing element 44b are rotationally fixedly connected to each other. In the event of an overload, for example a collision in which a forward force acts on the pivotable backrest element 36b, the deformation element 158b is deformed by the screw 120b, which can be displaced in the through-hole 122b, which is realized as a curved slot. Displacement of the screw 120b in the through-hole 122b results in rotation of the mounting element 118b relative to the connecting flange 84b of the bearing element 44b. As a result, the overload unit 156b allows the pivotable backrest element 36b to rotate by a defined angle in the event of an overload.Here, the defined angle is given by the extent of the through hole 122b, which is realized as a curved slot through which the screw 120b extends.

[0090] 10 shows a third exemplary embodiment of a portion of a passenger seating arrangement according to the present invention. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a backrest 34c. The backrest 34c is designed to be pivotable. The backrest 34c is configured to be pivoted between an upright seating position and a comfort position. The backrest 34c comprises a pivotable backrest element 36c. The pivotable backrest element 36c is pivotally supported on a mounting unit. The pivotable backrest element 36c comprises a backrest frame 38c. The backrest frame 38c forms a load-bearing structure for the pivotable backrest element 36c. The backrest frame 38c forms a load-bearing structure 42c for the pivotable backrest element 36c. The passenger seating arrangement is realized substantially identically to the first exemplary embodiment.

[0091] The passenger seating arrangement comprises a locking device 70c configured to lock the seat back 34c in its upright seating position and in a comfort position. The locking device 70c has a locked state and an unlocked state. The locking device 70c comprises a first locking module 72c and a second locking module. The two locking modules 72c are configured together to lock the seat back 34c, in particular the pivotable seat back element 36c. The first locking module 72c is fixedly connected at a first mounting region to the left bearing element 44c.

[0092] The locking module 72c comprises a first locking unit 80c, which is configured to be fastened to the pivotable back element 36c, and which is realized in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0093] The lock module 72c includes a second lock unit 82c. The second lock unit 82c is configured to be securely attached to the bearing element 44c. The second lock unit 82c constitutes the part of the lock module 72c that faces the mounting unit 12c of the passenger seat. In the attached state, the second lock unit 82c is fixedly connected to the bearing element 44c, which is embodied as a bearing shaft. The second lock unit 82c is attached to the bearing element 44c. The bearing element 44c includes a connecting flange 84c for connecting the second lock unit 82c. The connecting flange 84c is arranged in an end region of the bearing element 44c opposite the connecting flange 48c. The second locking part 82c includes a base body 110c. The base body 110c is embodied as a flat, elongated body. The second lock unit 82c includes an attachment element 118c. The base body 110c of the second locking unit 82c is coupled to a mounting element 118c via its form-fitting elements 104c, 106c. Under normal operating conditions, the mounting element 118c is rotationally fixedly coupled to the bearing element 44c.

[0094] The passenger seating apparatus includes a reset module 66c. The reset module 66c is configured to return the backrest 34c from the comfort position to an upright seating position. The reset module 66c is configured to return the pivotable backrest element 36c. The reset module 66c is configured to provide a reset force to return the pivotable backrest element 36c. The reset module 66c is positioned above the knee region 50e of the backrest 34c. As a result of this positioning of the reset module 66c, the knee region of the backrest 34c can preferably remain substantially free of components of the reset module 66c.

[0095] The reset module 66c includes a spring element 68c for providing a reset force. The spring element 68c is configured to apply a spring force to the pivotable backrest element 36c to pivot the pivotable backrest element 36c toward its upright seat position. The spring element 68c is functionally disposed between the pivotable backrest element 36c and the mounting unit 12c. In contrast to the first exemplary embodiment, the spring element 68c is functionally disposed between the pivotable backrest element 36c and the second lock unit 82c of the lock module 72c. The spring element 68c is configured such that its second side is supported by the pivotable backrest element 36a. The spring element 68c is realized as a leaf spring element. The spring element 68c embodied as a leaf spring element is realized as an elongated element. The spring element 68c embodied as a leaf spring element is realized as a narrow element. The spring element 68c embodied as a leaf spring element has a width smaller than the width of the backrest frame 38c of the pivotable backrest element 36c and substantially corresponds to the width of the base body 110c of the second locking unit 82c.

[0096] The spring element 68c, embodied as a leaf spring element, has a first lower end connected to the base body 110c of the second lock unit 82c. The spring element 68c has a lower end supported by the base body 110c of the second lock unit 82c. Preferably, the spring element 68c has a lower end coupled to the base body 110c. The base body 110c of the second lock unit 82c includes a receiving portion 160c configured to receive the spring element 68c. In the mounted state, the spring element 68c is supported in the receiving portion 160c of the base body 110c. The receptacle 160c is embodied as a form-fitting element. The spring element 68c, embodied as a leaf spring element, has a first lower end disposed in a form-fitting manner within the receiving portion 160c, embodied as a form-fitting element. The receiving portion 160c forms an undercut. The base body 110c has a raised portion 162c on its upper surface. The raised portion 162c is arranged at the rear end of the base body 110c. The raised portion 162c forms a receptacle 160c. In principle, it is also conceivable that a receiving portion 160c for a spring element 68c embodied as a leaf spring element is introduced into the base body 110c in its upper region. The spring element 68c is advantageously fixedly connected to the base body 110c of the second locking unit 82c by the receiving portion 160c. Nevertheless, the spring element 68c is realized here as a separate element, separate from the locking device 70c. In principle, it is also conceivable that the spring element 68c is supported only on the upper side or on the front surface of the base body 110c. The spring element 68c, embodied as a leaf spring element, has its second upper end connected to the pivotable backrest element 36c, particularly the backrest frame 38c. The spring element 68c, embodied as a leaf spring element, preferably extends within a central region of the pivotable backrest element 36c. The spring element 68c, embodied as a leaf spring element, forms a mounting region at its second upper end. The spring element 68c is preferably directly connected to the backrest frame 38c via the mounting region. For example, the spring element 68c can be directly and fixedly connected to the backrest frame 38c at the mounting region via a screw connection.Preferably, the reset module 66c includes a second spring element embodied as a leaf spring element, which is disposed on the opposite side of the back frame 38c from the first spring element 68c. The second spring element, not shown in detail, is disposed between the back frame 38c and the second lock module 74c. The functions of the reset module 66c and the lock device 70c are identical to those of the previously described exemplary embodiment and therefore will not be described in detail again here.

[0097] The first lock module 72c includes a release unit 142c configured to release the coupling between the first lock unit 80c and the second lock unit 82c in the release position to allow the pivotable back element 36c to be pivoted forward beyond the upright seat position to a non-use position. The release unit 142c includes a lock element 144c configured to lock the groove forming the second form-fit element 106c at its open front end in the locked position. The release unit 142c is implemented substantially identically to the first embodiment.

[0098] The release unit 142c includes a safety device 164c configured to secure the locking element 144c in the lock module 72c. The safety device 164c is configured to prevent the locking element 144c from falling out of the first lock module 72c, particularly the second lock unit 82c, even when the locking element 144c is in its released position after moving out of its receiving hole. The safety device 164c includes a safety element 166c. The safety element 166c is connected to the base body 110c and the locking element 144c of the second lock unit 82c. The safety element 166c is realized as a protective wire. In principle, it is also conceivable that the safety element 166c is realized as a protective cord. The safety element 166c has a first end connected to the base body 110c and a second end connected to the locking element 144c. When the locking element 144c is released from the receiving hole, it is secured to the base body 110c via the safety element 166c. The locking element 144c is suspended from the second locking unit 82c via the safety element 166c. Therefore, the locking element 144c advantageously cannot be lost when not in use.

[0099] 11 to 14 show a fourth exemplary embodiment of a passenger seating arrangement according to the present invention. Here, the passenger seating arrangement is part of a passenger seat 10d. In an installed state, the passenger seat 10d is installed in the cabin of an aircraft. The passenger seating arrangement includes a mounting unit 12d, and the passenger seat 10d can be installed on the cabin floor of the aircraft cabin by the mounting unit 12d. The passenger seat 10d is preferably realized as part of a passenger seat row 14d including one or more passenger seats 10d. As an example, the figures show a passenger seat row 14d including three passenger seats 10d, 16d, and 168d. The passenger seat row 14d shown as an example includes a second passenger seat 16d and a third passenger seat 168d. The second passenger seat 16d is realized as the center seat of the passenger seat row 14d and is located between the other two passenger seats 16d and 168d. The further passenger seats 16d, 168d of the passenger seat row 14d are preferably implemented substantially identically to the first passenger seat 10d, and therefore only one passenger seat 10d will be described in detail below.

[0100] The mounting unit 12d includes two cross beams 24d. The cross beams 24d are realized as support tubes. The cross beams 24d extend over at least substantially the entire transverse extent of all passenger seats 10d, 16d, 168d of the passenger seat row 14d. The passenger seating arrangement includes two seat structural elements 26d, 28d. The two seat structural elements 26d, 28d are arranged on either side of a seating area 30d of the passenger seating arrangement. The two seat structural elements 26d, 28d are arranged laterally with respect to the seating area 30d formed by the passenger seats 10d. The seat structural elements 26d, 28d are realized as seat dividers. The seat structural elements 26d, 28d realized as seat dividers are configured so that various components of the respective passenger seats 10d, 16d, 168d are fastened to the seat structural elements 26d, 28d. Thus, in their rear regions, the seat structural elements 26d, 28d extend upwardly away from the mounting unit 12d, in particular away from the mounting plane. In their rear regions, the seat structural elements 26d, 28d extend upwardly substantially to the armrest height X. The seat structural elements 26d, 28d extend to the armrest height X of the passenger seat 10d.

[0101] The passenger seating arrangement includes a backrest 34d. The backrest 34d is configured to allow a person seated in a passenger seat 10d of which the passenger seating arrangement forms a part to rest their back against the backrest 34d. The backrest 34d is pivotally arranged relative to the mounting unit 12d. The backrest 34d is connected to the seat structural elements 26d, 28d. The backrest 34d is configured to be pivoted between an upright seating position and a comfort position. The backrest 34d includes a pivotable backrest element 36d. The pivotable backrest element 36d is pivotally supported on the mounting unit 12d. The pivotable backrest element 36d is pivotally connected to the seat structural elements 26d, 28d.

[0102] The passenger seating arrangement includes two bearing elements 44d, 46d for supporting a pivotable backrest element 36d. The pivotable backrest element 36d is connected to the mounting unit 12d via the bearing elements 44d, 46d. The bearing elements 44d, 46d are fixedly connected to the seat structural elements 26d, 28d. In the mounted state, the bearing elements 44d, 46d extend from the respective seat structural elements 26d, 28d toward each other, toward the pivotable backrest element 36d. The bearing elements 44d, 46d are rigidly connected to the respective seat structural elements 26d, 28d. The pivotable backrest element 36d can pivot about a rotation axis 50d by the bearing elements 44d, 46d. Both the bearing elements 44d, 46d are connected to the seat structural elements 26d, 28d.

[0103] The pivotable back element 36d comprises a back frame 38d. The back frame 38d mounts a load-bearing element 42d of the pivotable back element 36d. The load-bearing element 42d of the pivotable back element 36d is configured to transmit operating forces, in particular support forces, acting on the pivotable back element 36d to the mounting unit 12d, in particular via the seat structure elements 26d, 28d. The back frame 38d is realized as a perimeter frame. The back frame 38d comprises two lateral frame elements and an upper frame element connecting the two lateral frame elements at the upper end of the back frame 38d. The lower end of the back frame 38d forms the lower end of the pivotable back element 36d. Each bearing element 44d, 46d is connected to the back frame 38d of the pivotable back element 36d at the lower end of the back frame 38d at the lateral frame element facing the respective bearing element 44d, 46d. The backrest 34d is designed as a backrest with a high back pivot point. The back pivot point, i.e., the axis of rotation 50d, is located above the knee area of ​​the passenger seat 10d. To achieve the high back pivot point, the bearing elements 44d, 46d are connected to the seat structural elements 26d, 28d in high areas to support the backrest 34d. The bearing elements 44d, 46d are connected to the seat structural elements 26d, 28d above the knee area. The bearing elements 44d, 46d are located at armrest height X.

[0104] The pivotable backrest element 36d comprises a shell element 40d. The shell element 40d is realized as a plate-like element. The shell element 40d is made of fiber-reinforced plastic. The shell element 40d is made of, for example, GFRP or CFRP. The shell element 40d is configured to form a back support surface of the pivotable backrest element 36d. The shell element 40d is arranged in an inner region of the pivotable backrest element 36d, which is delimited by the backrest frame 38d. The shell element 40d is fixedly connected to the backrest frame 38d of the pivotable backrest element 36d. The shell element 40d is configured to have a cushion element of the backrest 34d attached to the shell element 40d.

[0105] The pivotable backrest element 36d has elastic ribs 172d, 174d in its lower region, each of which extends laterally outward from the middle region 170d. By way of example, the exemplary embodiment shows three elastic ribs 172d, 174d on each side. Each of the elastic ribs 172d, 174d is elastically deformable independently of one another. The elastic ribs 172d, 174d are preferably realized integrally with the shell element 40d, particularly with the middle region 170d. The shell element 40d forms the elastic ribs 172d, 174d in its lower region. The lower region is preferably realized by approximately the lower third of the shell element 40d. The shell element 40d has a plurality of slots 176d, 178d in its lower region for realizing the ribs 172d, 174d. Each slot 176d, 178d extends from the lateral outer edge of shell element 40d to just short of intermediate region 170d. Slots 176d, 178d separate the upper and lower resilient ribs 172d, 174d from each other.

[0106] The backrest 34d comprises a lower backrest element 32d. The lower backrest element 32d is embodied rigidly. Preferably, the lower backrest element 32d is embodied immovably. The lower backrest element 32d forms the lower region of the backrest 34d. The lower backrest element 32d forms a backrest support surface in the lower region of the backrest 34d. The lower backrest element 32d is fixedly fastened to the seat structural elements 26d, 28d. The lower backrest element 32d extends substantially between the height of the cross beam 24d of the mounting unit 12d and the lower end of the pivotable backrest element 36d. The lower backrest element 32d is embodied as a shell element. The lower backrest element 32d is embodied as a shell made of fiber-reinforced plastic. For example, it is conceivable that the lower backrest element 32d is realized as a GFRP or CFRP shell. In principle, it is also conceivable that the lower backrest element 32d is made of different materials, for example, metal sheets or foils, or that it is realized as a multi-layer structure with a honeycomb structure. The lower backrest element 32d has an upper region 180d. The upper region 180d realizes approximately the upper quarter of the lower backrest element 32d. The top 5 to 10 cm of the lower backrest element 32d forms the upper region 180d. The backrest element 32d has a lip 182d at its upper end. The lip 182d forms the upper end region of the lower backrest element 32d. The lip 182d is realized within the upper region 180d of the lower backrest element 32d. The lip 182d forms the upper end of the upper region 180d of the lower backrest element 32d. The lip 182d is realized integrally with the remainder of the lower back element 32d. The lip 182d is located transversely centrally at the upper end of the lower back element 32d.

[0107] The lower backrest element 32d is realized to be flexible in its upper region 180d. The lower backrest element 32d is realized to be more flexible in its upper region 180d than its main region 184d, which is arranged below the upper region 180d. The lower backrest element 32d is realized to be elastically flexible in its upper region 180d. To achieve flexibility in the upper region 180d, the lower backrest element 32d has a recess pattern 186d in the upper region 180d. The recess pattern 186d is realized by at least one recess 188d introduced into the lower backrest element 32d. The recess pattern 186d is arranged only in the upper region 180d. In principle, it is also conceivable that the recess pattern 186d is arranged only in the region of the lip 182d. In the present exemplary embodiment, the recess pattern 186d is implemented as a plurality of recesses 188d spaced apart from one another and realized as slots. The recesses 188d realized as slots extend from the upper edge of the lower back element 32d to below the lip 182d. In principle, it is also conceivable for the recesses 188d to extend only to the lower edge of the lip 182d. The recesses 188d realized as slots have a width of 10 mm. In principle, it is also conceivable for the recesses 188d realized as slots to have a width lying in the range of 5 mm to 30 mm. In the exemplary embodiment, four recesses 188d realized as slots are shown as an example. In principle, it is also conceivable for the recess pattern 186d to have a different number of recesses 188d realized as slots. In principle, it is also conceivable for the recesses 188d realized as slots to be narrower.

[0108] However, in principle, it is also conceivable that the lower back element 32d be made of a combination of different materials. For example, it is conceivable that the upper region 180d or the lip 182d of the lower back element 32d be made of a material different from that of the main region 184d. For example, it is conceivable that the main region 184d is made of a flexurally rigid fiber composite material or a metal sheet, and the upper region is made of a flexible plastic or fiber composite material fixedly attached to the main region 184d. If the lower back element 32d is made of a fiber composite material, the upper flexible region 180d is preferably made of fewer fiber composite layers than the main region 184d. This allows the upper region 180d to be made more flexible than the main region 184d in a particularly simple manner, and allows the lower back element 32d to be made in an advantageous one-piece implementation.

[0109] The passenger seating apparatus includes a reset module 66d. The reset module 66d is configured to return the backrest 34d from a comfort position to an upright seating position. The reset module 66d is configured to return the backrest 34d from its pivoted seating position to an upright seating position. The reset module 66d is configured to return the pivotable backrest element 36d. The reset module 66d is configured to provide a reset force to return the backrest 34d, particularly to return the pivotable backrest element 36d. The reset module 66d is at least substantially disposed in an area above the bearing elements 44d, 46d. The reset module 66d is at least substantially disposed above the armrest height X, i.e., on the side of the armrest height X facing away from the mounting plane. The reset module 66d is at least mostly disposed above the knee region of the backrest 34d.

[0110] The reset module 66d includes a locking device 70d. The locking device 70d is configured to lock and unlock the reset module 66d, respectively. The locking device 70d is configured to lock the backrest 34d, i.e., the pivotable backrest element 36d, in at least an upright seating position and a comfort position. The locking device 70d is configured to lock the backrest 34d in its upright seating position. The locking unit 70d is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36d in the upright seating position. The locking device 70d can lock the pivotable backrest element 36d in the comfort position and the upright seating position. The locking device 70d has a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state of the locking device 70d, the backrest 34d, in particular the pivotable backrest element 36d, is locked in its current position, i.e., either the upright seating position or the comfort position. In the locked position of the locking device 70d, the pivotable backrest element 36d is fixed in a form-fitting manner in a certain position, i.e., in the upright seating position or the comfort position. In the locked position of the locking device 70d, the pivotable backrest element 36d is fixed in a positional manner relative to the mounting unit 12d. Preferably, the locking device 70d is configured only to lock the backrest 34d, i.e., the pivotable backrest element 36d, in the upright seating position and the comfort position. Preferably, the locking device 70d is arranged mostly above the bearing elements 44d, 46d. The locking device 70d is arranged between the seat structure element 26d, 28d and the pivotable backrest element 36d.

[0111] The locking device 70d includes a first locking module 72d. The first locking module 72d of the locking device 70d is arranged on the left side of the pivotable backrest element 36d. The first locking module 72d is arranged between the first left seat structural element 26d and the backrest frame 38d. The first locking module 72d is functionally arranged between the left bearing element 44d and the left lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38d. The locking device 70d includes a second locking module 74d. The second locking module 74d of the locking device 70d is arranged on the right side of the pivotable backrest element 36d. The second locking module 74d is arranged between the second right seat structural element 28d and the backrest frame 38d. The second locking module 74d is functionally arranged between the right bearing element 46d and the right lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38d. The two locking modules 72d, 74d are both configured to lock the backrest 34d, in particular the pivotable backrest element 36d. The two locking modules 72d, 74d of the locking device 70d are realized substantially identically. The locking modules 72d, 74d are realized substantially as mirror images of each other. Preferably, the locking modules 72d and 74d only differ in the actuating connections or elements for transmitting the actuating force. The locking modules 72d, 74d have substantially identical structures that are mirror images of each other.

[0112] The lock module 72d comprises a first lock unit 80d. The first lock unit 80d is configured to be fastened to the pivotable back element 36d. The first lock unit 80d forms a part of the lock module 72d facing the pivotable back element 36d. The lock module 72d comprises a second lock unit 82d. The second lock unit 82d is configured to be non-removably mounted to the bearing element 46d. The second lock unit 82d forms a part of the lock module 72d facing the mounting unit 12d. The first lock unit 80d and the second lock unit 82d of the lock module 72d are supported movably relative to each other. The first locking unit 80d and the second locking unit 82d are connected to the pivotable backrest element 36d, i.e., the bearing elements 44d and 46d, respectively, so that the pivotable backrest element 36d is supported about the axis of rotation 50d, thereby allowing the first locking unit 80d to move relative to one another. The first locking unit 80d includes a blocking element that is spring-loaded and adjustable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The blocking element is configured for form-fit connection with the second locking unit 82d.

[0113] To provide the reset force, the reset module 66d includes a first spring element 68d. To provide the reset force, the reset module 66d includes a second spring element 190d. In contrast to the previously described exemplary embodiment, the reset module 66d includes two spring elements 68d, 190d. Each of the spring elements 68d, 190d is disposed on either side of the back frame 38d. Each of the spring elements 68d, 190d is connected to a lateral frame element of the back frame 38d. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, each of the spring elements 68d, 190d is connected to the outer sides of the lateral frame element of the back frame 38d. The spring elements 68d, 190d are realized as flexible springs. The spring elements 68d, 190d are preferably realized as flexible metallic springs. The spring elements 68d, 190d are configured to provide a spring force.

[0114] The spring force of the spring elements 68d, 190d implements the reset force of the reset module 66d. The spring elements 68d, 190d are functionally arranged between the pivotable seat back element 36d and the mounting unit 12d. The spring elements 68d, 190d are configured to support a first side on the mounting unit 12d. Both spring elements 68d, 190d are configured to support a second side on the pivotable seat back element 36d. Each spring element 68d, 190d is operatively arranged between one of the seat structure elements 26d, 28d and a lateral frame element of the seat back frame 38d. Both spring elements 68d, 190d are implemented identically and connected to the seat back frame 38d in an equivalent manner. Therefore, only one spring element 68d and its connection will be described below, and this description can be used to describe the second spring element 190d. The spring element 68d is realized as a spiral spring. The spring element 68d has a spiral-shaped intermediate region 192d and two spring legs 194d, 196d protruding from the intermediate region 192d. The reset module 66d includes a bearing element 198d, through which the spring element 68d is connected to the back frame 38d. The bearing element 198d is realized as a bearing cylinder. The bearing element 198d has a cylinder shell surface on which the spiral-shaped intermediate region 192d of the spring element 68d rests. The spiral-shaped intermediate region 192d of the spring element 68d surrounds the bearing element 198d. The bearing element 198d is fixedly connected to the outer side of the lateral frame element of the back frame 38d, preferably by screwing the bearing element 198d in a fixed position to the outer side of the lateral frame element of the back frame 38d by means of a threaded connection.

[0115] The first spring leg 194d is configured to be supported by the bearing element 44d. The first spring leg 194d is configured to be supported by the first lock unit 80d. To support the first spring leg 194d, the reset module 66d includes a first support element 200d. The first spring leg 194d is supported by the support element 200d formed by the first lock unit 80d. The support element 200d is preferably mounted by the base body 86d of the lock unit 80d. The second spring leg 196d is configured to be supported by the backrest element 36d. The second spring leg 196d is configured to be supported by a side frame element of the backrest frame 38d. The reset module 66d includes a second support element 202d to support the second spring leg 196d. The second support element 202d is configured to support the second spring leg 196d on the back frame 38d. The support element 202d is embodied as a support bolt fixedly connected to a side of a lateral frame element of the back frame 38d. Preferably, the support element 202d is attached by a threaded connection. For support, the spring element 68d rests with its spring leg 196d abutting against the support element 202d.

[0116] The two separate spring elements 68d, 190d, each arranged on one side of the back frame 38d, advantageously enable the reset force provided by the reset module to act uniformly on both sides of the pivotable back element 36d. As a result, it is particularly advantageous to dispense with further reinforcement of the back frame 38d between the two lateral frame elements in the intermediate region. This allows for an advantageously lightweight realization of the pivotable back element 36d.

[0117] In principle, it would also be conceivable for the spring elements 68d, 190d and / or the locking modules 72d, 74d of the locking device 70d to be connected to the inside of the respective lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38d. By connecting the spring elements 68d, 190d and / or the locking modules 72d, 74d of the locking device 70d within the backrest frame 38d, a pivotable backrest element 36d can be realized in a particularly advantageous way.

[0118] The passenger seating arrangement includes a lower cover module 204d. The lower cover module 204d is configured to at least partially cover a lower region of the backrest 34d toward the rear. The lower cover module 204d is preferably configured to cover at least a sub-region of the lower backrest element 32d. The lower cover module 204d covers the lower backrest element 32d in the rear sub-region. The lower cover module 204d includes a cover element 206d. The cover element 206d is arranged in an upper region of the lower backrest element 32d. The cover element 206d is arranged in the center of the rear side of the lower backrest element 32d. The cover element 206d covers at least the lip 182d and the upper region 180d of the lower backrest element 32d. The cover element 206d is configured to cover the flexible upper region 180d of the lower backrest element 32d toward the rear. The cover element 206d is connected to the lower back element 32d. Preferably, the cover element is removably connected to the lower back element 32d via a form-fitting element, preferably in particular via a screw connection. The cover element 206d may preferably form a literature pouch 210d or other additional unit.

[0119] The cover element 206d does not cover the lower region of the lower back element 32d. The lower back element 32d forms a visible surface 208d in its lower region, the rear of which is not covered. The visible surface 208d of the lower back element 32d is not covered by any of the cover elements 206d of the cover module 204d. The visible surface 208d of the lower back element 32d may be covered with a coating or foil. In principle, it is also conceivable that the back element 32d does not have a cover on its visible surface 208d. Together with its visible surface 208d, the lower back element 32d forms the kick panel of the backrest 34d.

[0120] The passenger seating arrangement includes an upper cover module 212d. The upper cover module 212d is configured to cover the upper region of the backrest 34d, particularly the pivotable backrest element 36d, from the rear. The upper cover module 212d includes a cover element 214d. The cover element 214d preferably extends over the entire rear side of the upper pivotable backrest element 36d. The upper cover module 212d preferably covers the lock modules 72d, 74d arranged laterally of the locking device 70d. Preferably, the upper cover module 212d includes cover elements in the region of the lock modules 72d, 74d, which are separately detachable and can be separated from the backrest element 36d for easy access to the lock modules 72d, 74d. The cover element 214d forms a literature pouch 216d in its upper region. The literature pouch 216d is located in the head region of the seat back 34d. The passenger seating arrangement further comprises a pivotable table 218d. The pivotable table 218d is foldable into the cover element 214d of the upper cover module 212d.

[0121] 15 shows a sixth exemplary embodiment of a passenger seating arrangement according to the present invention. The passenger seating arrangement is realized substantially identically to the passenger seating arrangement of the fifth exemplary embodiment. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a backrest 34e. The backrest 34e is configured so that a person seated in a passenger seat 10e of which the passenger seating arrangement is a part can rest their back against the backrest 34e. The backrest 34e comprises a pivotable backrest element 36e. The pivotable backrest element 36e is pivotally supported on a mounting unit 12e. The pivotable backrest element 36e comprises a backrest frame 38e. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a reset module 66e. The reset module 66e is configured to return the backrest 34e from a comfort position to an upright seating position. The reset module 66e comprises a locking device 70e. The locking device 70e is configured to lock and unlock, respectively, the reset module 66e. The locking device 70e is configured to lock the backrest 34e, i.e. the pivotable backrest element 36e, in at least the upright seating position and the comfort position.

[0122] To provide the reset force, the reset module 66e includes a first spring element 68e and a second spring element 190e. In contrast to the previously described exemplary embodiment, the spring elements 68e, 190e are realized as rod spring elements. The rod spring elements 68e, 190e are respectively arranged between a support element 202e attached to the backrest frame 38e and a support element 200e connected to the locking unit 82e. The spring elements 68e realized as rod spring elements are supported at their end regions on the same first side by the respective support elements 200e, 202e. The reset module 66e includes a biasing element 220e, on which the spring element 68e realized as a rod spring element can be supported at its opposite second side. The biasing element 220e is arranged between the two support elements 200e, 202e. The biasing element 220e is arranged substantially centrally between the two support elements 200e, 202e. The biasing element 220e is realized as a support bolt connected to the back frame. The biasing element 220e is screwed to the outside of a lateral frame element of the back frame 38e.

[0123] FIG. 16 shows an alternative implementation of the lower backrest element in a further exemplary embodiment. The basic implementation of the passenger seating arrangement is substantially identical to that of the fourth exemplary embodiment. The lower backrest element 32f is realized to be flexible in its upper region 180f. The lower backrest element 32f is realized to be more flexible in its upper region 180f than its main region 184f, which is located below the upper region 180f. The lower backrest element 32f is realized to be elastically flexible in its upper region 180f. To achieve flexibility in the upper region 180f, the lower backrest element has a recess pattern 186f in the upper region 180f. The recess pattern 186f is realized by at least one recess 188f introduced into the lower backrest element. The recess pattern 186f is located only in the upper region 180f. In this embodiment, the recesses 188f are realized as wavy recesses 188f. The wavy recesses 188f extend in the transverse direction. Several wavy recesses 188f are preferably arranged in a row in the transverse direction and spaced apart from one another. In principle, it is also conceivable that the recesses 188f have different shapes or realize various different shapes.

[0124] 17 to 22 show a passenger seating arrangement according to a seventh exemplary embodiment. Here, the passenger seating arrangement is part of a passenger seat 10g. The passenger seat 10g is realized as an aircraft seat. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a mounting unit 12g. The passenger seat 10g can be mounted to a cabin floor 22g of an aircraft cabin by means of the mounting unit 12g. The passenger seat 10g is realized as part of a passenger seat row 14g. The passenger seat row 14d shown as an example comprises a second passenger seat 16g. The further passenger seat 16g is arranged adjacent to the first passenger seat 10g. The mounting unit 12b comprises two seat bases 18g, 20g. Both seat bases 18g, 20g are coupled to fastening rails fixedly connected to the cabin floor 22g via mounting fixtures (not shown in detail). The mounting fixtures can be fixedly fastened within the fastening rails. The mounting unit 12g comprises two cross beams 24g, which are realized as support tubes.

[0125] The passenger seating arrangement comprises two seat structural elements 26g, 28g. The two seat structural elements 26g, 28g are arranged on either side of a seating area 30g of the passenger seating arrangement. The two seat structural elements 26g, 28g are arranged laterally with respect to the seating area 30g formed by the passenger seat 10g. The seat structural elements 26g, 28g are realized as seat dividers. The seat structural elements 26g, 28g are arranged on a cross beam 24g. The seat structural elements 26a, 28a are fastened to the cross beam 24g so as to be spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction. The seat structural elements 26g, 28g are fixedly connected to the cross beam 24g. The seat structural elements 26g, 28g are realized substantially L-shaped. Each of the seat structural elements 26g, 28g has a first sub-area that is oriented substantially horizontally in the installed state. Each of the seat structural elements 26g, 28g has a second sub-region that is oriented substantially vertically in the mounted state. The second sub-regions of the seat structural elements 26g, 28g are located in the rear region of the passenger seat 10g. The second sub-regions of the seat structural elements 26g, 28g extend to the rear ends of the seat structural elements 26g, 28g. The second sub-regions of the seat structural elements 26g, 28g form the rear regions of the seat structural elements 26a, 28a. Thus, in their rear regions, the seat structural elements 26g, 28g extend upward, away from the mounting unit 12g, particularly away from the mounting plane. In their rear regions, the seat structural elements 26g, 28g extend upward substantially to the armrest height X. The seat structural elements 26g, 28g extend to the armrest height X of the passenger seat 10g. The armrest height X is 650 mm. In principle, it is conceivable that the armrest height X is preferably within the range of 500 mm to 700 mm.

[0126] The seat structural elements 26g, 28g, which are realized as seat dividers, are configured so that different components of the respective passenger seats 10g, 16g are fastened to said seat structural elements 26g, 28g, as will be explained at least partially in more detail below. In principle, it is also conceivable that the mounting unit 12g does not comprise seat structural elements 26g, 28g or comprises seat structural elements realized differently, and that the respective components of the passenger seats 10g, 16g are connected to the mounting unit 12g in a different way. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a seat bottom, which is not shown in detail. The seat bottom forms a seating area 30g. The seat bottom forms the seating surface of the passenger seat 10g. The seat bottom is connected to the mounting unit 12g.

[0127] The passenger seating arrangement includes a backrest 34g. The backrest 34g is configured so that a person seated in a passenger seat 10g of which the passenger seating arrangement is a part can rest their back against the backrest 34g. The backrest 34g preferably includes a cushion, not shown in detail. The backrest 34g forms a back support surface. The backrest 34g is arranged at the rear end of the seat bottom. The backrest 34g is pivotally arranged relative to the mounting unit 12g. The backrest 34g is connected to the seat structural elements 26g, 28g. Here, the passenger seat 10g achieves a seating direction. The seating direction is defined as the direction in which a passenger sits on the passenger seat 10g. The seating direction extends perpendicular to the back surface of the backrest 34g and parallel to the mounting plane in the direction of the front end of the seat bottom.

[0128] The backrest 34g is designed to be pivotable. The backrest 34g is configured to be pivoted between an upright seat position and a comfort position. The backrest 34g is configured to be pivoted relative to the mounting unit 12g. The backrest 34g is pivotable relative to the seat structural elements 26g, 28g. The backrest 34g comprises a pivotable backrest element 36g. The pivotable backrest element 36g is pivotally supported on the mounting unit 12g. The pivotable backrest element 36g is pivotally connected to the seat structural elements 26g, 28g. The backrest 34g comprises a lower backrest element 32g. The lower backrest element 32g is embodied rigidly. The lower backrest element 32g is preferably embodied immovably. The lower back element 32g forms a lower region of the backrest 34g. The lower back element 32g forms a back support surface in the lower region of the backrest 34g.

[0129] The pivotable back element 36g comprises a back frame 38g. The back frame 38g implements the load-bearing structure of the pivotable back element 36g. The back frame 38g is realized as a perimeter frame. The back frame 38g is preferably realized substantially U-shaped. The back frame 38g comprises two lateral frame elements and an upper frame element connecting the two lateral frame elements at the upper end of the back frame 38g. The back frame 38g preferably has an open lower end. The lower end of the back frame 38g forms the lower end of the pivotable back element 36g. The pivotable back element 36g comprises a shell element 40g. The shell element 40g is realized as a plate-shaped element. The shell element 40g is made of fiber-reinforced plastic. The shell element 40g is arranged in the inner region of the pivotable back element 36g, which is delimited by the back frame 38g.

[0130] The back frame 38g realizes the load-bearing structure 42g of the pivotable back element 36g. The load-bearing element 42g of the pivotable back element 36g is configured to transmit operating forces, in particular support forces, acting on the pivotable back element 36g to the mounting unit 12g, in particular via the seat structural elements 26g, 28g. The load-bearing element 42g is preferably embodied rigidly and is configured to transmit torsional and bending forces. In principle, it is also conceivable that the pivotable back element 36g does not comprise a back frame 38g. In such a case, it is conceivable that the entire back element 36g is realized as a shell element that integrally forms the back support surface and the load-bearing element 42g of the pivotable back element 36g.

[0131] To support the pivotable backrest element 36g, the passenger seating arrangement includes two bearing elements 44g, 46g. The pivotable backrest element 36g is connected to the mounting unit 12g via the bearing elements 44g, 46g. The bearing elements 44g, 46g are fixedly connected to the seat structural elements 26g, 28g. In the mounted state, the bearing elements 44g, 46g extend from the respective seat structural elements 26g, 28g towards each other in the direction of the pivotable backrest element 36g. The bearing elements 44g, 46g are rigidly connected to the respective seat structural elements 26g, 28g. The bearing element 44g is rigidly attached to the left seat structural element 26g. The bearing element 46g is rigidly attached to the right seat structural element 28g. The bearing elements 44g, 46g are realized as fixed bearing shafts. The bearing elements 44g, 46g are arranged at the height of a rotation axis 50g of the backrest 34g. The rotation axis 50g is the axis around which the pivotable backrest element 36g is pivotally supported. The rotation axis 50g is defined by the bearing elements 44g, 46g, which are realized as bearing shafts. The rotation axis 50g is oriented coaxially with the intermediate axis of the bearing elements 44g, 46g, which are realized as bearing shafts. The bearing elements 44g, 46g form plain bearing regions at their ends opposite the connecting flanges for connection to the seat structural elements 26g, 28g. The pivotable backrest element 36g is supported to slide on the bearing elements 44g, 46g via plain bearing regions 52g of the bearing elements 44g, 46g. The back frame 38g, which mounts the load-bearing element 42g of the pivotable back element 36g, is pivotally supported on the support elements 44g, 46g via plain bearing areas. The plain bearing areas are realized as axial extensions of the bearing elements 44g, 46g. The lateral frame elements of the back frame 38g each have bearing receptacles 62g in their lower end areas, via which the back frame 38g is pivotally supported so as to slide on the plain bearing areas of the bearing elements 44g, 46g. Each pivotable back element 36g has a bearing bush 64g arranged in the respective bearing receptacle 62g of the back frame 38g.In the mounted state, each of the bearing elements 44g, 46g has its plain bearing area extending through a bearing bush 64g arranged in the bearing receptacle 62g.

[0132] The backrest 34g is designed as a backrest with a high backrest pivot point. The backrest pivot point is implemented by a rotation axis 50g. The backrest pivot point, i.e., the rotation axis 50g, is located above the knee area of ​​the passenger seat 10g. The knee area of ​​the passenger seat 10g starts from the passenger cabin floor 22g and extends to a height of 650 mm. The knee area is located as an area where a passenger seated behind the passenger seat 10g can place their knees. To achieve the high backrest pivot point, bearing elements 44g and 46g are connected to the upper end regions of the seat structural elements 26g and 28g. The bearing elements 44g and 46g are connected to the seat structural elements 26g and 28g above the knee area. The bearing elements 44g and 46g are located at armrest height X. The rotation axis 50g is located above the knee area of ​​the passenger seat 10g.

[0133] The passenger seating apparatus includes a reset module 66g. The reset module 66g is configured to return the backrest 34g from a comfort position to an upright seating position. The reset module 66g is configured to return the backrest 34g from its pivoted seating position to an upright seating position. The reset module 66g is configured to return the pivotable backrest element 36g. The reset module 66g is configured to provide a reset force to return the backrest 34g, particularly the pivotable backrest element 36g. The reset module 66g is arranged at least substantially in an area above the bearing elements 44g, 46g. The reset module 66g is arranged at least substantially above the armrest height X, i.e., on the side of the armrest height X facing away from the mounting plane. The reset module 66g is arranged at least mostly above the knee region of the backrest 34g.

[0134] To provide the reset force, the reset module 66g includes a first spring element 68g. To provide the reset force, the reset module 66g includes a second spring element 190g. The spring elements 68g, 190g are both arranged on either side of the back frame 38g. The spring elements 68g, 190g are each connected to a lateral frame element of the back frame 38g. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the spring elements 68g, 190g are each connected to the outer sides of the lateral frame elements of the back frame 38g. The spring elements 68g, 190g are realized as flexible springs. The spring elements 68g, 190g are preferably realized as flexible metallic springs. The spring elements 68g, 190g are configured to provide a spring force. The spring forces of the spring elements 68g, 190g realize the reset force of the reset module 66g. The spring elements 68g, 190g are functionally arranged between the pivotable backrest element 36g and the mounting unit 12g. The spring elements 68g, 190g are configured to support a first side on the mounting unit 12g. Each of the spring elements 68g, 190g is configured to support a second side on the pivotable backrest element 36g. Each of the spring elements 68g, 190g is operatively arranged between one of the seat structural elements 26g, 28g and a lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g. The spring elements 68g, 190g are realized as spiral springs. In principle, it is also conceivable that the spring elements 68g, 190g are realized as different spring elements. For example, it is conceivable that the spring elements are realized as torsion springs. In principle, it is also conceivable that the reset module includes only one spring element 68g.

[0135] The passenger seating arrangement comprises a locking device 70g. The locking device 70g is configured to lock the backrest 34g in its upright seating position. The locking unit 70g is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36g in the upright seating position. The locking device 70g is configured to lock the backrest 34g in a comfort position. The locking device 70g is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36g in a comfort position. The locking device 70g is capable of locking the pivotable backrest element 36g in both the comfort position and the upright seating position. The locking device 70g is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36g in a form-fitting manner in the upright seating position. The locking device 70g is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36g in a form-fitting manner in the comfort position. By means of the locking device 70g, the pivotable backrest element 36g can be form-fit locked in both the upright seating position and the comfort position.

[0136] The locking device 70g is configured to stop the pivotable backrest element 36g in an infinitely variable manner between the comfort position and the upright seating position. The locking device 70g is configured to fix and secure the pivotable backrest element 36g at any desired position between the comfort position and the upright seating position. The locking device 70g is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36g at any desired intermediate position between the comfort position and the upright seating position so that forces, particularly seating and holding forces, can be transmitted. In the intermediate position, the pivotable backrest element 36g is locked by the locking device 70g so that a passenger seated in the passenger seat 10g can support himself or herself on the pivotable backrest element 36g. The locking device 70g is preferably configured to fix the pivotable backrest element 36g in a pressure-fit manner at any desired intermediate position between the upright seating position and the comfort position. The locking device 70g is configured to secure the pivotable back element 36g in any desired intermediate position by a friction fit.

[0137] The locking device 70g is realized separately from the spring elements 68g, 190g of the reset module 66g. The locking device 70g is realized separately from the two spring elements 68g, 190g of the reset module 66g. The function of the locking device 70g is independent of the spring elements 68g, 190g of the reset module 66g.

[0138] The locking device 70g includes a first locking module 72g. The first locking module 72g of the locking device 70g is arranged on the left side of the pivotable backrest element 36g. The first locking module 72g is arranged between the first left seat structure element 26g and the load-bearing element 42g of the pivotable backrest element 36g, which is formed by the backrest frame 38g. The first locking module 72g is functionally arranged between the left bearing element 44g and the left lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g. The first locking module 72g has a first mounting region fixedly connected to the left bearing element 44g. The first locking module 72g has a second mounting region fixedly connected to the lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g. The first locking module 72g is arranged on the outer side 76g of the load-bearing element 42g. The first locking module 72g is therefore arranged on the outer side 76g of the lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g. The first locking module 72g is arranged on the outer side 76g of the backrest frame 38g facing the left seat structural element 26g.

[0139] The locking device 70g includes a second locking module 74g. The second locking module 74g of the locking device 70g is arranged on the right side of the pivotable backrest element 36g. The second locking module 74g is arranged between the second right seat structure element 28g and the load-bearing element 42g of the pivotable backrest element 36g formed by the backrest frame 38g. The second locking module 74g is functionally arranged between the right bearing element 46g and the right lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g. The second locking module 74g is fixedly connected to the right bearing element 46g at a first mounting region. The second locking module 74g is fixedly connected to the lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g at a second mounting region. The first locking module 72g is arranged on the outer side 78g of the load-bearing element 42g. The second locking module 74g is therefore arranged on the outer side 78g of the lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g. The second locking module 74g is arranged on the outer side 78g of the backrest frame 38g facing the right seat structural element 28g.

[0140] The two locking modules 72g, 74g are both configured to lock the backrest 34g, in particular the pivotable backrest element 36g. The two locking modules 72g, 74g of the locking device 70g are substantially identical. The locking modules 72g, 74g are substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to each other. Preferably, the locking modules 72g and 74g differ only in the actuation connections or elements for transmitting actuation forces. The locking modules 72g, 74g have substantially identical structures that are mirror-symmetrical with respect to each other. The second locking module 74g is essentially a mirror image of the first locking module 72g. Therefore, only the first locking module 72g will be described in detail below. The following description of the first locking module 72g may be used to describe the second locking module 74g. Differences between the second locking module 74g and the first locking module 72g will be explicitly described.

[0141] The lock module 72g includes a first lock unit 80g. The first lock unit 80g is configured to be fastened to the pivotable back element 36g. The first lock unit 80g is realized as a part of the lock module 72g facing the pivotable back element 36g. In the installed state, the first lock unit 80g is fixedly connected to the pivotable back element 36g. The first lock unit 80g is connected to the load-bearing element 42g of the pivotable back element 36g. The first lock unit 80g is securely attached to a lateral frame element of the back frame 38g.

[0142] The lock module 72g comprises a second locking unit 82g. The second locking unit 82g is configured to be securely attached to the bearing element 44g. The second locking unit 82g forms the part of the locking module 72g facing the mounting unit 12g. In the attached state, the second locking unit 82g is fixedly coupled to the bearing element 44g, which is realized as a bearing shaft. The second locking unit 82g is attached to the bearing element 44g. The bearing element 44g comprises a coupling flange for coupling the second locking unit 82g. The second locking unit 82g is fixedly attached to the coupling flange of the bearing element 44g via several threaded connections. In principle, it is also conceivable that the first locking unit 80g of the locking module 72g is fixedly coupled to the bearing element 44g and the second locking unit 82g is fixedly coupled to the load-bearing element 42g of the pivotable backrest element 36g.

[0143] The first locking unit 80g and the second locking unit 82g of the locking module 72g are supported to be movable relative to each other. The first locking unit 80g and the second locking unit 82g are each connected to the pivotable backrest element 36g, i.e., the bearing element 44g, such that the pivotable backrest element 36g is supported about the rotation axis 50g, thereby being movably supported relative to each other. The first locking unit 80g and the second locking unit 82g are configured to be form-fit and / or pressure-fit locked to each other in the upright seating position and the comfort position. The first locking unit 80g and the second locking unit 82g are configured to be form-fit contacted with each other in at least one direction of movement in the upright seating position and the comfort position to secure the pivotable backrest element 36g. The first locking unit 80g and the second locking unit 82g are configured to abut each other in a form-fit manner in the upright seating position to prevent forward adjustment of the pivotable backrest element 36g. The first locking unit 80g and the second locking unit 82g are configured to abut each other in a form-fit manner in the comfort position to prevent rearward adjustment of the pivotable backrest element 36g. The first locking unit 80g and the second locking unit 82g are configured to be additionally secured in a pressure-fit, i.e., friction-fit manner in the upright seating position and the comfort position. The first locking unit 80g and the second locking unit 82g are configured to be secured in a friction-fit manner in any desired intermediate position between the upright seating position and the comfort position. In any desired intermediate position, the first locking unit 80g and the second locking unit 82g are secured to each other only in a pressure-fit manner.

[0144] The locking module 72g includes a friction unit 300g. The friction unit 300g is configured to provide a holding force for infinitely stopping the pivotable back element 36g. The friction unit 300g is configured to fix the pivotable back element 36g in a certain position in a pressure-fit manner. The friction unit 300g is configured to fix the pivotable back element 36g in an upright seat position, a comfort position, and any desired intermediate position in a pressure-fit manner via a frictional connection. The friction unit 300g has an inactive state and an active state. The inactive state is realized as a closed state of the friction unit 300g. In the inactive state, the friction unit 300g is closed, and the locking module 72g stops the pivotable back element 36g in its current position. The active state is realized as an open state of the friction unit 300g. In the activated state, the friction unit 300g is opened and the locking module 72g releases the pivotable backrest element 36g, which can be pivoted between an upright seat position and a comfort position.

[0145] The friction unit 300g is preferably disposed in the first lock unit 80g of the lock module 72g. The friction unit 300g is a part of the first lock unit 80g. The friction unit 300g is connected to the back frame 38g.

[0146] The first locking unit 80g has a rotatably supported shaft 302g. The rotatably supported shaft 302g is arranged in the pivotable backrest element 36g. The rotatably supported shaft 302g is rotatably supported in the backrest frame 38g. The rotatably supported shaft 302g is oriented transversely to the backrest frame 38g. In the mounted state, the rotatably supported shaft 302g extends from the outer side 76g of the backrest frame 38g to the inner side of the backrest frame 38g. The rotatably supported shaft 302g extends through the backrest frame 38g. The backrest frame 38g includes a bearing receptacle 304g. The bearing receptacle 304g is realized as a through-hole that penetrates the backrest frame 38g. Preferably, a bearing bushing 306g, in which the rotatably supported shaft 302g is supported so as to slide, is arranged in the bearing receiving portion 304g, which is realized as a through hole. The rotatably supported shaft 302g is configured to connect the friction unit 300g to the other locking unit 82g. The rotatably supported shaft 302g is configured to rotate during pivoting of the pivotable backrest element 36g. The rotatably supported shaft 302g is coupled to the friction unit 300g. To pressure-fit lock the pivotable backrest element 36g, the friction unit 300g is configured to fix the rotatably supported shaft 302g against rotation in a pressure-fit manner. The friction unit 300g is arranged at a first inner end of the rotatably supported shaft 302g. The friction unit 300g is arranged inside the backrest frame 38g. The friction unit 300g is connected to a shaft 300g that is rotatably supported inside the back frame 38g.

[0147] The friction unit 300g comprises a mounting element 308g. The mounting element 308g is configured to be directly connected to the inside of the backrest frame 38g. The mounting element 308g is realized as a flat element. The mounting element 308g is preferably realized as a milled part. The mounting element 308g preferably comprises two fastening holes 310g, via which the mounting element 308g can be connected to the backrest frame 38g, preferably by means of a screw connection. The fastening holes 310g are preferably formed as threaded holes. In principle, it is also conceivable for the fastening holes 310g to be realized simply as through-holes. The mounting element 308g has a central receiving area 312g. The receiving area 312g is preferably configured to support a portion of the rotatably supported shaft 302g. The mounting element 308g has a central through-hole through which the rotatably supported shaft 302g is guided. The mounting element 308g forms a mounting area for the friction unit 300g, which is connected to the back frame 38g via the mounting element 308g.

[0148] The friction unit 300g includes a base body 314g. The base body 314g is realized as a counter holder. The base body 314g is configured to be connected to a mounting element 308g. The base body 314g is rotationally fixedly coupled to the mounting element 308g. The base body 314g is supported so as to be displaceable against a spring force in the axial direction of the rotatably supported shaft 302g relative to the mounting element 308g and the shaft 302g. The base body 314g is configured to support the rotation shaft 302g. The base body 314g includes a bearing housing 328g. The bearing housing 328g is realized as a through hole. The rotatably supported shaft 302g is supported so that a first end thereof slides within the bearing housing 328g of the base body 314g. The rotatably supported shaft 302g has a bearing region at a first end thereof, by which the shaft 302g is slidably supported in the base body 314g, and the base body 314g is displaceable in the axial direction of the shaft 302g along the bearing region of the rotatably supported shaft 302g.

[0149] The base body 314g has two fastening holes 338g for connecting to the mounting element 308g. The fastening holes 338g are realized as simple through holes. The fastening holes 338g of the base body 314g are realized to correspond to the fastening holes 310g of the mounting element 308g. The friction unit 300g includes a connecting element 340g via which the friction unit 300g can be attached. The friction unit 300g can be connected to the backrest frame 38g by the connecting element 340g. The connecting element 340g connects the base body 314g to the mounting element 308g. The connecting element 340g connects the base body 314g and the mounting element 308g to the backrest frame 38g. The base body 314g is connected to the mounting element 308g such that the base body 314g is axially displaceable via the connecting element 340g. The connecting element 340g is embodied as a screw element. A connecting element 340g embodied as a screw element preferably has an external thread only in the front end region facing away from the screw head. The base body 314g is slidably supported relative to the connecting element 340g via its fastening holes 338g. To connect the base body 314g to the mounting element 308g, the connecting element 340g is guided through both the fastening holes 338g of the base body 314g and the fastening holes 310g of the mounting element 308g. If the fastening holes 310g of the mounting element 308g are embodied as threaded holes, the connecting element 340g is fixedly screwed into the fastening holes 310g. To connect the friction unit 300g to the backrest frame 38g, the backrest frame 38g is provided with a threaded bushing 348g. The threaded bushing 348g is introduced into the outer side 76g of the backrest frame 38g. To fasten the friction unit 300g, the base body 314g together with the mounting element 308g is screwed in a threaded bush 348g of the back frame 38g by means of a connecting element 340g.

[0150] The friction unit 300g includes a spacer element 316g. The spacer element 316g is disposed between the mounting element 308g and the base body 314g. The spacer element 316g is annular. The spacer element 316g lies flat with a first side abutting the mounting element 308g. On the second side, the spacer element 316g has a groove forming an inclined surface. The groove 318g and the inclined surface are configured to contact an engagement element 320g of the base body 314g. The engagement element 320g is realized as a protrusion on the inner side of the base body 314g. The spacer element 316g is supported so as to be rotatable relative to the base body 314g and the mounting element 308g. The spacer element 316g is configured to change the distance between the base body 314g and the mounting element 308g upon rotation. In the neutral position of the spacer element 316g, the distance between the base body 314g and the mounting element 308g is minimized. In the neutral position, the engagement element 320g of the base body 314g is disposed in the groove 318g. In the neutral position of the spacer element 316g, the friction unit 300g is in an inactive state. When the spacer element 316g rotates out of its neutral position, the inclined surface contacts the engagement element 320g of the base body 314g, thus pressing the base body 314g away from the mounting element 308g. In the activated position, when the spacer element 316g rotates out of its neutral position, the spacer element 316g presses the base body 314g away from the mounting element 308g to the unlocked position.

[0151] The friction unit 300g includes at least one spring element 322g configured to apply a spring force directed toward the mounting element 308g to the base body 314g. The friction unit 300g includes a second spring element 350g configured to apply a spring force directed toward the mounting element 308g to the base body 314g. The spring elements 322g, 350g are preferably implemented identically. The spring elements 322g, 350g are implemented as compression springs. The spring elements 322g, 350g are implemented as metal compression springs. Preferably, the spring elements 322g, 350g are made of wound spring steel. In principle, it is also conceivable that the spring elements 322g, 350g are made of elastically deformable plastic. The spring elements 322g and 350g are configured to press the base body 314g against the mounting element 308g. The spring elements 322g and 350g are similarly configured to urge the spacer element 316g toward its neutral position. The spring elements 322g and 350g are configured to apply a spring force to the spacer element 316g, thereby moving the spacer element 316g toward its neutral position. The spring elements 322g and 350g are disposed between the connecting element 340g of the friction unit 300g and the base body 314g. The spring elements 322g and 350g are functionally coupled between the base body 314g and the connecting element 340g. Each of the spring elements 322g and 350g is disposed between the screw head of one of the connecting elements 340g and the base body 314g, particularly the exterior of the base body 314g. The spring elements 322g, 350g are clamped between the screw heads of the respective connecting elements 340g of the friction unit 300g and the outside of the base body 314g. The spring elements 322g, 350g are supported by the screw heads of the connecting elements 340g, which are fixedly connected to the back frame 38g, and are configured to apply a force to the base body 314g acting towards the mounting element 308g.

[0152] The friction unit 300g comprises a first friction element 324g. The friction element 324g forms a friction surface. The friction element 324g is realized so that its friction surface is in frictional contact with a correspondingly realized friction surface. The first friction element 324g is realized as a rotationally fixed friction element. The first friction element 324g is realized so that it is rotationally fixed relative to the back frame 38g. The first friction element 324g is fixedly connected to the base body 314g. The first friction element 324g is arranged inside the base body 314g. The first friction element 324g is preferably realized inside the base body 314g. The first friction element 324g is realized as a conical friction element. The first friction element 324g is realized as a conical recess. The first friction element 324g forms a conical friction surface.

[0153] The friction unit 300g comprises a further first friction element 352g. The friction element 352g forms a friction surface. The further first friction element 352g is realized as a rotationally fixed friction element. The further first friction element 352g is realized so as to be rotationally fixed relative to the back frame 38g. The further first friction element 352g is fixedly connected to the mounting element 308g. The further first friction element 352g is arranged inside the mounting element 308g. The further first friction element 352g is preferably realized as an inside of the mounting element 308g. The further first friction element 352g is realized as a receiving area 312g of the mounting element 308g. The further first friction element 352g is also realized as a conical friction element. The further first friction element 352g is also realized as a conical recess. A further first friction element 352g forms a conical friction surface.

[0154] The friction unit 300g includes a second friction element 326g. The second friction element 326g is realized fixedly to the rotatably supported shaft 302g. The second friction element 326g is realized rotationally fixedly to the rotatably supported shaft 302g. The second friction element 326g is realized as a conical friction element. The second friction element 326g forms a conical friction surface. The second friction element 326g faces the base body 314g. The second friction element 326g faces the first friction element 324g formed by the base body 314g. The second friction element 326g is realized as a friction disk having a conical friction surface. The second friction element 326g is realized corresponding to the first friction element 324g. The second friction element 326g is configured to be in frictional contact with the first friction element 324g. The second friction element 326g is preferably realized integrally with the rotatable shaft 302g, although in principle it is also conceivable for the second friction element 326g to be rotationally fixedly connected to the shaft 302g via connecting means.

[0155] The friction unit 300g includes a further second friction element 354g. The further second friction element 354g is realized fixedly to the rotatably supported shaft 302g. The further second friction element 354g is realized rotationally fixedly to the rotatably supported shaft 302g. The further second friction element 354g is realized as a conical friction element. The further second friction element 354g forms a conical friction surface. The further second friction element 354g faces the mounting element 308g. The further second friction element 354g faces the further first friction element 352g formed by the mounting element 308g. The further second friction element 354g is realized as a friction disk having a conical friction surface. The further second friction element 354g is realized corresponding to the further first friction element 352g. The further second friction element 354g is configured to be in frictional contact with the further first friction element 352g. The further second friction element 354g is preferably realized integrally with the rotatable shaft 302g. In principle, it is also conceivable that the further second friction element 354g is rotationally fixedly connected to the shaft 302g via a connecting means. The two second friction elements 326g, 354g are preferably both realized integrally with the shaft 302g.

[0156] In principle, it is also conceivable for the friction unit 300g to have only one first friction element 324g and one correspondingly realized second friction element 326g. By implementing the friction unit 300g with two first friction elements 324g, 352g and two second friction elements 326g, 354g, it is possible to advantageously provide a larger, in particular twice as large, friction surface. This advantageously allows for an increase in the force that can be supported by the friction unit 300g. The two friction elements 324g, 326g and the two friction elements 352g, 354g of the friction unit 300g are configured to be coupled to each other in a friction-fit manner. In the inactive state of the friction unit 300g, the corresponding friction elements 324g, 326g, 352g, 354g of the friction unit 300g are coupled to each other in a pressure-fit manner. As a result of the spring forces of the spring elements 322g and 350g of the friction unit 300g, the corresponding friction elements 324g, 326g, 352g, and 354g of the friction unit 300g are pressed against each other. In the inactive state, the friction element 324g realized by the base body 314g is pressed against the friction element 326g realized by the rotatably supported shaft 302g by the spring elements 322g and 350g of the friction unit 300g. As a result of the spring forces of the spring elements 322g and 350g, the additional second friction element 354g realized by the shaft 302g is pressed against the additional first friction element 352g realized by the mounting element 308g by the base body 314g. In the inactivated state of the friction unit 300g, the second friction elements 326g, 354g rigidly coupled to the rotatably supported shaft 302g are pressed against the corresponding first friction elements 324g, 352g by the spring elements 322g, 350g, such that the friction elements 324g, 326g and the friction elements 352g, 354g are coupled to each other in a friction-fit manner, and thus the rotatably supported shaft 302g is coupled in a pressure-fit manner to the base body 314g, which is rotationally fixedly coupled to the back frame 38g, and to the mounting element 308g. As a result, in the inactivated state, the rotatably supported shaft 302g is fixed against rotation in a pressure-fit manner and rigidly coupled to the back frame 38g.In the inactive state of the friction unit 300g, the rotatably supported shaft 302g is arranged to be rotationally fixed relative to the pivotable back element 36g, in particular the back frame 38g.

[0157] The rotation of the spacer element 316g out of its neutral position presses the base body 314g away from the mounting element 308g. As a result of the rotation of the spacer element 316g and the resulting axial displacement of the base body 314g, the friction element 324g realized by the base body 314g is lifted from the second friction element 326g rigidly coupled to the shaft 302g. As a result of the rotation of the spacer element 316g out of its neutral position, the frictional force between the friction elements 324g, 326g and the friction elements 352g, 354g is reduced. Advantageously, the rotation of the spacer element 316g to the unlocked position releases the frictional connection between the two friction elements 324g, 326g and the friction elements 352g, 354g of the friction unit 300g. When the spacer element 316g is rotated out of the neutral position and the frictional connection between the friction elements 324g, 326g and the friction elements 352g, 354g of the friction unit 300g is reduced or released, the rotatably supported shaft 302g is released and can rotate about its axis of rotation.

[0158] To activate the friction unit 300g, the locking device comprises a Bowden cable 150g as an actuating means. The Bowden cable 150g is a transmission element configured to transmit an actuating force and actuating movement from an actuating element to the locking device 70g. In principle, it is also conceivable that the passenger seating arrangement comprises a different force transmission element for transmitting the actuating force. The Bowden cable 150g is configured to adjust the locking module 72g from a locked position to an unlocked position. The Bowden cable 150g is configured to adjust the friction unit 300g from a non-activated position to an activated position. The Bowden cable 150g is configured to rotate the spacer element 316g. The Bowden cable 150g is connected to the spacer element 316g. The spacer element 316g has around its periphery a form-fitting element 330g configured to connect the Bowden cable 150g. The actuating wire of the Bowden cable 150g is connected to the form-fitting element 330g in a form-fitting manner. Preferably, the base body 314g comprises a retaining element 332g to which a Bowden cable sheath is connected. A first end of the Bowden cable 150g is connected to the locking module 80g, i.e., to the spacer element 316g of the friction unit 300g. A second end of the Bowden cable 150g is preferably connected to an actuating element (not shown in detail), which is preferably realized as an actuating button or actuating lever. Via the actuating element, an actuating force can be transmitted to the Bowden cable 150g, which is then transmitted to the friction unit 300g of the locking module 80g to activate the friction unit 300g.

[0159] The second locking unit 82g includes a base body 110g. The base body 110g is embodied as a flat, elongated body. The base body 110g is preferably made of light metal. In principle, it is also conceivable for the base body 110g to be formed from steel. In principle, it is also conceivable for the base body 110g to be made from a different material, for example, a synthetic material. In the installed state, the base body 110g preferably extends from the bearing receptacle 62g to a height directly below the first locking unit 80g. In the installed state, the base body 110g is configured to be rigidly coupled to the bearing element 44g. The base body 110g of the second locking unit 82g is configured to be coupled to the rotatable shaft 302g of the first locking unit 80g.

[0160] The lock module 72g includes a coupling gear 332g. The coupling gear 332g is configured to movably couple the first lock unit 80g to the second lock unit 82g. The coupling gear 332g is configured to convert relative movement of the movable back frame 38g with respect to the mounting unit 12g, particularly the bearing element 44g, into rotational movement of the rotatable shaft 302g when the friction unit 300g is in an activated state. The coupling gear 332g is configured to non-movably couple the fixed, rotatably supported shaft 302g of the first lock unit 80g to the base body 110g of the second lock unit 82g when the friction unit 300g is in an inactivated state. The coupling gear 332g couples the rotatably supported shaft 302g of the first lock unit 80g to the base body 110g of the second lock unit 82g. The coupling gear 332g comprises a first toothed element 334g coupled to the shaft 302g. The toothed element 334g is embodied as a gear. The toothed element 334g embodied as a gear is rotationally fixedly coupled to the shaft 302g. The toothed element 334g embodied as a gear is coupled to a second end of the shaft 302g on the outside of the back frame 38g. In principle, it is also conceivable for the toothed element 334g to be embodied simply as a gear part. The coupling gear 332g comprises a second toothed element 336g. The second toothed element 336g of the coupling gear is rigidly coupled to the second locking unit 82g. The second toothed element 336g of the coupling gear is rigidly coupled to the base body 110g of the second locking unit 82g. The second toothed element 336g forms the upper region of the base body 110g of the second locking unit 82g. The second toothed element 336g is preferably embodied integrally with the base body 110g. The second toothed element 336g is embodied as a gear part having several teeth. The second toothed element 336g is embodied by the upper end of the base body 110g. The second toothed element 336g preferably extends over a wide area, preferably over the entire upper side of the base body 110g.The second toothed element 336g has teeth that mesh with the teeth of a first toothed element 334g, which is realized as a gear and is rigidly connected to the shaft 302g.

[0161] In an inoperative state of the friction unit 300g, in which the shaft 302g is fixed by the friction unit 300g, the first toothed element 334g, realized as a gear, cannot move on the second toothed element 336g, which is rigidly arranged on the base body 110g. The support force of the pivotable backrest element 36g is transmitted via the friction unit 300g to the rotatably supported shaft 302g, via the coupling gear 332g, to the base body 110g of the second locking unit 82g, and from there via the bearing element 44g to the mounting unit 12g. In an operative state of the friction unit 300g, in which the shaft 302g can rotate, the first toothed element 334g, realized as a gear, can move on the second toothed element 336g, which is rigidly arranged on the base body 110g, and the pivotable backrest element 36g can be pivoted relative to the mounting unit 12g.

[0162] The first toothed element 334g, realized as a gear wheel, can be fixed in different positions on the second toothed element 336g by fixing the rotatably supported shaft 302g via the friction unit 300g, As a result, the pivotable backrest element 36g can be fixed in various different intermediate positions relative to the mounting unit 12g.

[0163] In principle, it would also be conceivable for the friction unit 300g to be arranged in the first locking unit 80g and thus connected to the bearing element 44g, in which case the rotatably supported shaft 302g would also be realized by the first locking unit 80g and would be rotatably supported in the bearing element 44g.

[0164] The second lock unit 82g includes a mounting element 118g. In normal operation, the mounting element 118g is rotationally fixedly connected to the bearing element 44g. A base body 110g of the second lock unit 82g is connected to the mounting element 118g. In an installed state, the base body 110g of the second lock unit 82g is attached to the mounting element 118g so as not to fall off. In an installed state, the base body 110g preferably has its outer side abutting and supported against the inner side of the mounting element 118g. The mounting element 118g is rigidly connected to the bearing element 44g by several screws. The mounting element 118g is rotationally fixedly connected to a connecting flange of the bearing element 44g via the screws.

[0165] The second lock unit 82g includes an eccentric adjustment unit 128g. The position of the second lock unit 82g relative to the first lock unit 80g is adjustable by the eccentric adjustment unit 128g. The position of the toothed element 336g of the base body 110g of the second lock unit 82g relative to the shaft 302g and the toothed element 334g of the first lock unit 80g connected thereto is adjustable by the eccentric adjustment unit 128g. The eccentric adjustment unit 128g is configured to change the position of the mounting element 118g relative to the base body 110g. The base body 110g of the second lock unit 82g is connected to the mounting element 118g via the eccentric adjustment unit 128g. The angle of the base body 110g relative to the mounting element 118g can be changed via the eccentric adjustment unit 128g. The eccentricity adjustment unit 128g includes a connecting screw 130g, via which the base body 110g is connected to the mounting element 118g. The base body 110g has an elongated through-hole 132g. The through-hole 132g extends from the inside to the outside of the base body 110g. The through-hole 132g has a width somewhat larger than the diameter of the threaded shank of the connecting screw 130g. The through-hole 132g is realized as an oblong hole. The length of the through-hole 132g is preferably at least 5% larger than the diameter of the threaded shank of the connecting screw 130g. The through-hole 132g has a counterbore 134g that is larger than the head of the connecting screw 130g. In the installed state, the head of the connecting screw 130g is completely located within the counterbore 134g of the through-hole 132g. The eccentric adjusting unit 128g comprises an eccentric element 136g. The eccentric adjusting unit 128g is connected to the mounting element 118g. The mounting element 118g has a circular receiving portion in which the eccentric element 136g is arranged in a rotatable manner and cannot fall out. The eccentric element 136g has an off-center through-hole 138g. In the mounted state, the connecting screw 130g is guided through the off-center through-hole 138g. The eccentric adjusting unit 128g comprises a nut 146g, by means of which the connecting screw 130g is connected to the eccentric element 136g.When the base body 110g is attached to the mounting element 118g, the position of the off-center through-hole 138g relative to the base body 110g can be changed by rotating the eccentric element 136g in the receiving portion of the mounting element 118g, which makes it possible to adapt the angle of the first base body 110g relative to the mounting element 118g, and thus also relative to the bearing element 44g, during attachment.

[0166] The first locking unit 80g includes a blocking element 102g. The blocking element 102g is arranged to be positionally fixed relative to the first locking unit 82g. The blocking element 102g is realized by the backrest frame 38g and is respectively connected to the backrest frame 38g. The blocking element 102g is configured to form-fit lock the pivotable backrest element 36g in a comfort position. The blocking element 102g is configured to form-fit lock the pivotable backrest element 36g in an upright seating position. The blocking element 102g is realized as a blocking bolt. The blocking element 102g is arranged on the outer side 76g of the backrest frame 38g. The blocking element 102g is configured to form-fitly stop the pivotable backrest element 36g in an upright seating position so that further forward movement is impossible. The blocking element 102g is configured to stop the pivotable back element 36g in a form-fitting manner in a comfort position so that further rearward movement is not possible.

[0167] The second locking unit 82g includes a form-fitting element 106g. The form-fitting element 106g is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36g in a comfort position. The form-fitting element 106g is configured to couple to the immovably supported blocking element 102g of the first locking unit 80g. To lock the backrest element 36g in a comfort position, the form-fitting element 106g of the second locking unit 82g is configured to secure the blocking element 102g of the first locking unit 80g in a form-fitting manner. The form-fitting element 106g forms an end abutment for the pivotable backrest element 36g. The form-fitting element 106g is realized as an end of a groove 108g. In the installed state, the blocking element 102g is located in the comfort position and in an upright seating position, disposed within the groove 108g. The base body 110g forms a form-fitting element 106g of the second locking unit 82g. A groove 108g forming the form-fitting element 106g is introduced into the inside of the base body 110g. The groove 108g has a curved path. The groove 108g opens toward the front side of the base body 110g. The end of the groove 108g facing away from the opening located on the front side forms the form-fitting element 106g against which the blocking element 102g abuts in the comfort position.

[0168] The second locking unit 82g comprises a further form-fitting element 104g. The form-fitting element 104g is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36g in the upright seating position. The first form-fitting element 104g is configured to form-fit to the locking element 102g of the first locking unit 80g. To form-fit lock the pivotable backrest element 36g in the upright seating position, the form-fitting element 104g of the second locking unit 82g is configured to unidirectionally secure the blocking element 102g of the first locking unit 80g in a form-fit manner. The form-fitting element 104g provides an abutment element for the locking element 102g. The form-fitting element 104g is configured as a locking element 144g. The locking element 144g is configured to lock the groove 108g forming the second form-fitting element 106g at its open front end. The locking element 144g is embodied as a locking bolt. In the installed state, the locking element 144g closes the groove 108g forward. The blocking element 102g disposed in the groove 108g cannot be guided out of the groove 108g. The base body 110g has a receiving hole in which the locking element 144g can be disposed. In the installed state, the locking element 144g is disposed in the receiving hole. Here, the locking element 144g extends into and blocks the groove 108g. The receiving hole in which the locking element 144g is disposed is disposed to extend transversely to the groove 108g. When the locking element 144g is guided out of the groove 108g, an open path is created for the blocking element 102g to exit the groove 108g. As a result, the pivotable backrest element 36g can be folded forward from the upright seat position. Here, the pivotable back element 36g can be folded down onto the seat bottom into a non-use position.

[0169] Both spring elements 68g and 190g are realized identically and connected to the backrest frame 38g in the same way. Therefore, only one spring element 68g and its connection will be described below, and this description may also be used to describe the second spring element 190g. The spring element 68g is realized as a spiral spring. The spring element 68g has a spiral-shaped intermediate region 192g and two spring legs 194g and 196g protruding from the intermediate region 192g. The reset module 66g includes a bearing element 198g, through which the spring element 68g is connected to the backrest frame 38g. The bearing element 198g is realized as a bearing cylinder. The bearing element 198g has a cylindrical shell surface on which the spiral-shaped intermediate region 192g of the spring element 68g rests. The spring element 68g has a spiral-shaped intermediate region 192g surrounding a bearing element 198g. The bearing element 198g is fixedly connected to the outer side of the lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g. Preferably, the bearing element 198g is fixedly screwed to the outer side of the lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g by a screw connection. The first spring leg 194g is configured to be supported by the bearing element 44g. The first spring leg 194g is configured to be supported by the second locking unit 82g. To support the first spring leg 194g, the reset module 66g includes a first support element 200g. The first spring leg 194g is supported by a support element 200g mounted by the second locking unit 82g. The support element 200g is preferably mounted by the base body 86g of the locking unit 82g. The second spring leg 196g is configured to be supported on the backrest element 36g. The second spring leg 196g is configured to be supported on a lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g. The reset module 66g includes a second support element 202g for supporting the second spring leg 196g. The second support element 202g is configured to support the second spring leg 196g on the backrest frame 38g. The support element 202g is realized as a support bolt fixedly connected to a side of the lateral frame element of the backrest frame 38g.Preferably, the support element 202g is attached by a threaded connection. For support, the spring element 68g rests with its spring legs 196g against the support element 202g.

[0170] The first locking module 72g includes a force transmission unit 152g that transfers the actuation force applied to the first locking module 72g by the Bowden cable 150g. The passenger seating arrangement includes a second Bowden cable 154g that is configured to transmit the actuation force from the first locking module 72g to the second locking module 74g. The second locking module 72g is connected in series with the first locking module 72g via the second Bowden cable 154g.

[0171] 22 to 26 show an eighth exemplary embodiment of a portion of a passenger seating arrangement according to the present invention. The passenger seating arrangement comprises a backrest 34h. The backrest 34h is designed to be pivotable. The backrest 34h is configured to be pivoted between an upright seating position and a comfort position. The backrest 34h comprises a pivotable backrest element 36h. The pivotable backrest element 36h is pivotally supported on a mounting unit. The pivotable backrest element 36h is pivotable between the upright seating position and the comfort position. The pivotable backrest element 36h comprises a backrest frame 38h. The backrest frame 38h forms a load-bearing structure for the pivotable backrest element 36h. The backrest frame 38h forms a load-bearing element for the pivotable backrest element 36h. The passenger seating arrangement is realized substantially identically to the first exemplary embodiment.

[0172] The passenger seating arrangement comprises a reset module 66h, not shown in detail in the figures. The reset module 66h is configured to return the backrest 34h from a comfort position to an upright seating position. The reset module 66h is configured to return the backrest 34h from its pivoted seating position to an upright seating position. To return the backrest 34h, in particular the pivotable backrest element 36g, the reset module 66h is configured to provide a reset force. To provide the reset force, the reset module 66h comprises a first spring element 68h. To provide the reset force, the reset module 66h comprises a second spring element 190h. Both spring elements 68h, 190h are arranged on either side of the backrest frame 38h. The spring elements are realized identically to those in the first exemplary embodiment and are therefore not shown in detail here.

[0173] The passenger seating arrangement comprises a locking device 70h configured to lock the backrest 34h in its upright seating position and in its comfort position. The locking device 70h is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36h in a form-fit manner in the upright seating position. The locking device 70h is configured to lock the pivotable backrest element 36h in a form-fit manner in the comfort position.

[0174] The locking device 70h is configured to infinitely stop the pivotable backrest element 36h between the comfort position and the upright seating position. The locking device 70h is configured to fix and secure the pivotable backrest element 36h at any desired position between the comfort position and the upright seating position. The locking device 70h is configured to fix the pivotable backrest element 36h in a friction fit manner at any desired intermediate position. The locking device 70h is realized separately from the spring elements 68h, 190h of the reset module 66h.

[0175] The locking device 70h comprises a first locking module 72h. The first locking module 72h of the locking device 70h is arranged on the left side of the pivotable backrest element 36h. The locking device 70h comprises a second locking module 74h. The second locking module 74h of the locking device 70h is arranged on the right side of the pivotable backrest element 36h. The two locking modules 72h, 74h are both configured to lock the backrest 34h, in particular the pivotable backrest element 36h. The two locking modules 72h, 74h of the locking device 70h are realized substantially identically.

[0176] The locking module 72h includes a first locking unit 80h configured to be fastened to the pivotable backrest element 36h. The locking module 72h includes a second locking unit 82h configured to be securely attached to a bearing element 44h, not shown in detail.

[0177] The locking module 72h includes a friction unit 300h configured to provide a holding force for infinitely stopping the pivotable back element 36h. The friction unit 300h is configured to secure the pivotable back element 36h in a pressure-fit manner in a certain position. The friction unit 300h is configured to secure the pivotable back element 36h in a pressure-fit manner by a friction connection in an upright seating position, a comfort position, and any desired intermediate position.

[0178] The first locking unit 80h has a rotatably supported shaft 302h. The rotatably supported shaft 302h is arranged in the pivotable backrest element 36h. The rotatably supported shaft 302h is rotatably supported in the backrest frame 38h. The rotatably supported shaft 302h is oriented transversely to the backrest frame 38h. In the installed state, the rotatably supported shaft 302h extends from the outer side 76h of the backrest frame 38h to the inner side of the backrest frame 38h. The rotatably supported shaft 302h extends through the backrest frame 38h. The backrest frame 38h includes a bearing receptacle 304h. The bearing receptacle 304h is realized as a through-hole that penetrates the backrest frame 38h. To pressure-fit lock the pivotable back element 36h, the friction unit 300h is configured to secure the rotatably supported shaft 302h against rotation in a pressure-fit manner.

[0179] The friction unit 300h comprises a mounting element 308h, which is configured to be directly connected to the inside of the back frame 38h. The mounting element preferably comprises two fastening holes, via which the mounting element 308h can be connected to the back frame 38h, preferably by means of a screw connection or by means of a riveting connection. The mounting element 38h has a central receiving area 312h and a through-hole, through which the rotatably supported shaft 302h is guided. In contrast to the first exemplary embodiment, the receiving area 312h is realized as a spring receiving part.

[0180] The friction unit 300h comprises a base body 314h. The base body 314h is embodied as a counter holder. The base body 314h is configured to be connected to a mounting element 308h. In contrast to the first exemplary embodiment, the base body 314h is rigidly and immovably coupled to the mounting element 308h. The base body 314h is configured to support the shaft 302h. The base body 314h comprises a bearing receptacle 328h. The bearing receptacle 328h is embodied as a through hole.

[0181] The friction unit 300h comprises a first friction element 324h. The first friction element 324h is rigidly connected to the mounting element 308h. The friction unit 300h comprises a spring element 342h. The spring element 342h is realized differently from the spring element of the friction unit of the first exemplary embodiment. The spring element 342h is realized as a spiral spring. The spring element 342h is realized as a helical spring. The spring element 342h realized as a helical spring forms the first friction element 324h. The inside of the spring element 342h realized as a spiral spring forms the first friction element 324h of the friction unit 300h. The friction unit 300h comprises a further friction element 356h, which is rigidly connected to the mounting element 308h. The further friction element 356h is realized by the mounting element 308h. The further friction element 356h is realized as a receiving area 312h of the mounting element 308h, which is realized as a spring receiving area. The receiving area 312h is realized as a lateral shell surface of the cylindrical spring receiving area. The friction element 324h, which is realized as a helical spring, is configured to be in friction-fit contact with the further friction element 356h, which is realized by the receiving area 312h.

[0182] The friction unit 300h comprises a second friction element 326h. The second friction element 326h is fixed to a rotatably supported shaft 302h. The second friction element 326h is rotationally fixed to the rotatably supported shaft 302h. The second friction element 326h is integral with the shaft 302h. The shaft 302h comprises a subregion 344h, in which the shaft 302h has a larger diameter than the remaining region. The subregion 344h of the shaft 302h forms the second friction element 326h of the friction unit 300h. The first friction element 324h realized by the spring element 342h is configured to be coupled in a friction-fit manner to the further friction element 356h realized by the mounting element 308h and to the second friction element 326h realized by the sub-region 344h of the shaft 302h. In the inactive state of the friction unit 300h, the first friction element 324h realized by the spring element 342h is coupled in a pressure-fit manner to the further friction element 356h of the friction unit 300h realized by the mounting element 308h and to the second friction element 326h of the friction unit 300h realized by the sub-region 344h of the shaft 302h. In the inactivated state, the spring element 342h, with its inner side forming the first friction element 342h of the friction unit 300h, presses against the lateral side of the sub-region 344h of the shaft 302h forming the second friction element 326h, so that the two friction elements 324h, 326h are connected to each other in a friction-fit manner. In the inactivated state, the spring element 342h, with its inner side forming the first friction element 342h of the friction unit 300h, presses against the lateral side of the mounting region 312h forming the further friction element 356h, so that the two friction elements 324h, 356h are connected to each other in a friction-fit manner. In the inactivated state, the rotatably supported shaft 302h and the mounting element 308h are directly coupled to each other in a rotationally fixed manner via the spring element 342h via the frictional connection.The spring element 342h forming the first friction element 324h is rotationally fixedly connected to the shaft 302h via the second friction element 326h and rotationally fixedly connected in a friction-fit manner to the mounting element 308h via the further friction element 356h. In an activated state, the spring element 342h is rotated, so that its inner side is pulled away from the lateral surface of the shaft 302h, thereby reducing the frictional forces between the first friction element 324h and the second friction element 326h and between the first friction element 324h and the further friction element 356h and releasing the frictional connection.

[0183] The spring element 342h, realized as a spiral spring, is rotationally fixedly connected to the mounting element 308h. A first end of the spring element 342h is fixedly connected to the mounting element. The friction unit 300h includes an actuating element 346h. The actuating element 346h is configured to be rotated to actuate the spring element 342h. The actuating element 346h is supported rotatably with the base body 314h. A second end of the spring element 342h is fixedly connected to the actuating element 346h. By rotating the actuating element 346h, the spring element 342h can be adjusted from its inactivated state to its activated state. As a result of the actuating element 346h rotating out of its neutral position, the friction force between the friction elements 234h, 236h is reduced. Advantageously, when the actuating element 346h is rotated into the unlocked position, the frictional connection between the two friction elements 324h, 326h of the friction unit 300h is released. When the actuating element 346h is rotated out of the neutral position, thereby reducing or releasing the frictional connection between the friction elements 324h, 326h of the friction unit 300h, the rotatably supported shaft 302h is free to rotate about its axis of rotation.

[0184] To activate the friction unit 300h, the locking device comprises a Bowden cable 150h as an actuation means. The Bowden cable 150h is a transmission element configured to transmit an actuation force and actuation movement from the actuation element to the locking device 70h. The Bowden cable 150h is configured to adjust the locking module 80h from a locked position to an unlocked position. The Bowden cable 150h is configured to rotate the actuation element 346h. The Bowden cable 150h is connected to the actuation element 346h. The actuation element 346h comprises around its periphery a form-fitting element 330h configured to connect the Bowden cable 150h.

[0185] The second locking unit 82h includes a base body 110h. The base body 110h is realized as a flat, elongated body. The locking module 72h includes a coupling gear 332h. The coupling gear 332h is configured to movably couple the first locking unit 80h to the second locking unit 82h. The coupling gear 332h is configured to convert, in an operative state of the friction unit 300h, a relative movement of the mounting unit 12h, particularly the movable back frame 38h, with respect to the bearing element 44h, into a rotational movement of the rotatable shaft 302h. The coupling gear 332h includes a first toothed element 334h coupled to the shaft 302h. The toothed element 334h is realized as a gear. The coupling gear 332h includes a second toothed element 336h. The second toothed element 336h of the coupling gear 332h is rigidly connected to the second locking unit 82h. The second toothed element 336h of the coupling gear 332h is rigidly connected to the base body 110h of the second locking unit 82h. The second toothed element 336h is realized as a gear portion having several teeth. The second toothed element 336h is realized by the upper end of the base body 110h. The second locking unit 82h, the coupling gear 332h, and the eccentric adjustment unit 128h are realized substantially identically to the first exemplary embodiment and therefore will not be described in detail again here. [Explanation of symbols]

[0186] 10 passenger seats 12 Mounting Unit 14 passenger seat rows 16 passenger seats 18-seater Cibase 20-seater Civic 22 guest room floors 24 Crossbeam 26 Seat structural elements 28 Seat structural elements 30 Seating Area 32 Lower back element 34 Backrest 36 Pivotable backrest element 38 Backrest frame 40 shell elements 42 Load-bearing elements 44 bearing elements 46 Bearing elements 48 Connecting flange 50 Rotation axis 52 Plain bearing area 54 Axial extension 56 spur gear teeth 58 Screw 60 Table contact element 62 Bearing housing 64 Bearing bush 66 Reset Module 68 Spring Elements 70 Locking device 72 Lock Module 74 Lock Module 76 Outside 78 Outside 80 Lock Unit 82 Lock Unit 84 Connecting flange 86 base body 88 Block Elements 90 bearing pin 92 screws 94 Straight guide section 96 Linear bearing rail 98 Bearing Slide 100 spring elements 102 Block Elements 104 Shape-fitting elements 106 Shape-fitting elements 108 Groove 110 Base body 112 recess 114 Groove 116 Inside 118 Wearing Elements 120 screws 122 Through hole 124 screw hole 126 Annular groove 128 Eccentricity adjustment unit 130 Connecting screw 132 Through hole 134 Counterbore 136 Eccentric element 138 Through Hole 140 Contact surface 142 Release Unit 144 Locking Elements 146 Nut 150 Bowden cable 152 Force transmission unit 154 Bowden Cable 156 Overload Unit 158 Deformation Elements 160 Storage unit 162 Ridge 164 Safety protection device 166 Safeguarding elements 168 passenger seats 170 Intermediate area 172 Ribs 174 Ribs 176 slots 178 Slots 180 Upper area 182 Lip 184 Main area 186 recess pattern 188 recess 190 Spring Elements 192 Intermediate area 194 Spring leg 196 Spring leg 198 Bearing Elements 200 Support Elements 202 Supporting Elements 204 Cover Module 206 Cover Elements 208 Visible surface 210 Literature Pouch 212 Cover Module 214 Cover Elements 216 Literature Pouch 218 Table 220 Deflection Element 300 friction units 302 Shaft 304 Bearing housing 306 Bearing bush 308 Wearing Elements 310 Fastening hole 312 Reception Area 314 Base body 316 Spacer Element 318 Groove 320 Engagement element 322 Spring Elements 324 Friction element 326 Friction element 328 Bearing housing 330 Shape-fitting elements 332 Coupling gear 334 Toothed Elements 336 Toothed Elements 338 Fastening hole 340 Connected Elements 342 Spring Elements 344 sub-areas 346 Actuating Elements 348 Threaded Bush 350 spring elements 352 Friction element 354 Friction element 356 Friction element

Claims

1. 1. A passenger seating apparatus comprising: Mounting units (12a to 12h) for mounting on a mounting plane; two seating structure elements (26a-26h, 28a-28h), each of which is arranged on either side of the seating area (30a); two bearing elements (44a-44h, 46a-46h), each one of which is fixedly connected to one of the seat structure elements (26a-26h, 28a-28h); a backrest (34a-34h) comprising at least one pivotable backrest element (36a-36h) pivotally supported on the seat structure element (26a-26h, 28a-28h) via the bearing element (44a-44h, 46a-46h); at least one reset module (66a-66h) comprising at least one spring element (68a-68h) for providing a reset force to return said pivotable back element (36a-36h) from a comfort position to an upright seating position; a locking device (70a-70h) configured to lock the pivotable back element (36a-36h) in at least the upright seating position; Equipped with 1. A passenger seating arrangement, characterized in that the locking device (70a-70h) comprises at least one locking module (72a-72h, 74a-74h) arranged between a first of the seat structural elements (26a-26h) and a load-bearing element (42a-42h) of the pivotable backrest element (36a-36h).

2. 2. A passenger seat arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking devices (70a-70h) are arranged mostly above the bearing elements (44a-44h, 46a-46h).

3. Passenger seating arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the locking devices (70a-70h) are realised separately from the spring elements (68a-68h).

4. 4. A passenger seating arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the locking modules (72a-72h, 74a-74h) are arranged outside the load-bearing elements (42a-42h) of the pivotable backrest elements (36a-36h).

5. 5. A passenger seating arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the locking modules (72a-72h, 74a-74h) comprise a first locking unit (80a-80h) and a second locking unit (82a-82h), the first locking unit and the second locking unit being supported movably relative to each other and configured to be form-fit and / or pressure-fit locked to each other in the upright seating position and the comfort position.

6. 6. The passenger seating arrangement according to claim 5, wherein the first locking unit (80a-80e) comprises a base body (86a-86e) and a blocking element (88a-88e), the blocking element (88a-88e) being supported on the base body (86a-86e) in a spring-biased, adjustable manner between a locked position and an unlocked position, and configured to be coupled to the second locking unit (82a-82e) in a form-fitting manner for locking.

7. 6. The passenger seat arrangement according to claim 5, wherein the first locking unit (80a-80e) comprises a linear guide (94a-94e) supporting the blocking element (88a-88e), the blocking element being supported linearly along a displacement path in a spring-loaded, adjustable manner.

8. 7. A passenger seating arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that the second locking units (82a-82e) comprise form-fitting elements (104a-104e) configured to secure the blocking elements (88a-88e) of the first locking units (80a-80e) in a form-fit and / or pressure-fit manner to lock the pivotable backrest elements (36a-36e) in the upright seating position.

9. 6. A passenger seating arrangement according to claim 5, characterized in that the first locking units (80a-80e) are attached to the pivotable seat back elements (36a-36e) in the attached state, and the second locking units (82a-82e) are non-detachably attached to the bearing elements (44a-44e, 46a-46e).

10. The second lock unit (82a to 82e) mounting elements (118a-118e) rotationally fixedly connected to the bearing elements (44a-44e, 46a-46e) under normal operating conditions; an overload unit (156b) configured to allow relative movement between the mounting elements (118a-118e) and the bearing elements (44a-44e, 46a-46e) in the event of an overload; 8. The passenger seating arrangement of claim 7, comprising:

11. the second locking units (82a-82e) comprise second form-fitting elements (106a-106e) forming end abutments for the comfort positions of the pivotable backrest elements (36a-36e); 6. A passenger seating arrangement according to claim 5, characterized in that the first locking unit (80a-80e) comprises a second blocking element (102a-102b) configured to lock the pivotable back element (36a-36e) in the comfort position by form-fitting connection to the second form-fitting element (106a-106e) of the second locking unit (82a-82e).

12. 9. The passenger seat arrangement according to claim 8, wherein the second locking unit (82a-82e) comprises an eccentric adjustment unit (128a-128e), by means of which the position of the form-fitting element (104a-104e, 106a-106e) is adjustable relative to the first locking unit (80a-80e).

13. 7. The passenger seat arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that the second locking unit (82a-82e) comprises an abutment surface (140a-140e) against which the blocking element (88a-88e) of the first locking unit (80a-80e) abuts in the comfort position of the pivotable backrest element (36a-36e), the abutment surface (140a-140e) forming an inclined surface via which the blocking element (88a-88e) can be pushed from its locked position to its released position.

14. 14. A passenger seating arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the reset module (72a-72e, 74a-74e) comprises a release unit (142a-142e) configured to release the coupling between the first locking unit (80a-80e) and the second locking unit (82a-82e) in a release position to allow forward pivoting of the pivotable seat back element (36a-36e) beyond the upright seating position to a non-use position.

15. 15. A passenger seat arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the locking device (70a-70e) comprises a second locking module (74a-74e) arranged on a side of the pivotable back element (36a-36e) opposite to the first locking module (72a-72e) and realized substantially identically to the first locking module (72a-72e).

16. 14. The passenger seat arrangement according to claim 13, characterized in that the second locking modules (74a-74h) are operable together with the first locking modules (72a-72h) via Bowden cables (150a-150h), and the second locking modules (74a-74h) are connected in series with the first locking modules (72a-72h).

17. 17. A passenger seating arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the locking device (70g; 70h) is configured to stop the pivotable back element (36g; 36h) infinitely between the comfort position and the upright seating position.

18. 18. A passenger seating arrangement according to claim 17, characterized in that the at least one locking module (72g, 74g; 72h, 74h) comprises a friction unit (300g; 300h) configured to provide a holding force for infinitely stopping the pivotable back element (36g; 36h).

19. one of the locking units (82g; 82h) of the locking module (72g, 74g; 72h; 74h) a rotatably supported shaft (302g; 302h) configured to rotate upon pivoting of the pivotable back element (36g; 36h); a friction unit (300g; 300h) for locking the pivotable back element (36g; 36h), the friction unit (300g; 300h) being configured to fix the rotatably supported shaft (302g; 302h) against rotation in a pressure-fit manner; 19. A passenger seat arrangement according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that it comprises:

20. one of the locking units (80g; 80h) of the locking module (72g, 74g; 72h; 74h) comprises a base body (110g; 110h); 18. The passenger seating arrangement according to claim 17, characterized in that the locking module (72g, 74g; 72h; 74h) comprises a coupling gear via which the base body (110g; 110h) is connected to the rotatably supported shaft (302g; 302h) of the other locking unit (82g; 82h), the coupling gear being configured to transmit the pivotal movement of the pivotable backrest element (36g; 36h) to the rotatably supported shaft (302g; 302h).

21. the at least one locking module (72g, 74g; 72h; 74h) comprises a friction unit (300g; 300h), the friction unit (300g; 300h) comprising a first friction element (324g; 324h), a second friction element (326g; 326h) coupled to a rotatably supported shaft (302g; 302h) of the locking module (72g, 74g; 72h; 74h) for providing a holding force, and at least one spring element (322g; 342h); 21. A passenger seat arrangement according to any one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that the at least one spring element (322g; 342h) presses the two friction elements (324g, 326g; 324h, 326h) against each other in the inactivated state.

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