High strength low mass seat mounting system for row seating

Abstract

A seat mounting system for row seating is a means to support a plurality of adjacent backrest and seat assemblies, fixedly arranged in rows in a seating facility. Rows of seats may be arranged in a straight line or curved line. The mounting system consists of support columns or brackets affixed to a floor or riser surface, with cross members linking the supports. The support columns or brackets may include devices for mounting armrests, backrests, and seats. The seat portion of the assembly is commonly mounted on an axle or pivot rod cross member to allow the seat to be rotated from a horizontal to a vertical position when not in use. Strength is critical to safety of the occupant, while reduced mass is critical to conservation of materials and energy.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application asserts priority from provisional application 61 / 503,166 filed on Jun. 30, 2011 which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to fixed seats arranged in rows as commonly used in theaters, auditoriums, stadiums, houses of worship, and similar spectator seating.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Theater, auditorium, stadium, worship and other spectator seating is typically arranged in rows facing a common area for viewing an event. Rows may be arranged in straight lines or curved lines as dictated by the design of the structure. Floor surfaces or risers may be constructed as level or plumb, or at angles from level or plumb depending on design requirements, and construction variations. Support columns are affixed to the floor or riser. Spectator seating typically consists of a seat assembly with a back rest and seat. The seat assemblies are arranged in a plurality of rows, ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a seat mounting system that is strong, low in mass, and easier to install. It achieves this by using a single piece of sheet metal that is cut and folded into a tapered tubular column with a projecting wing for mounting the back rest at a plurality of angles. There is also a single welded or otherwise bonded seam that increases the strength of the support column in critical areas while reducing the amount of metal required. Additionally, the invention includes mounting foot brackets that may be attached to the base of the support column at a variety of angles, while maintaining a constant spacing between the front and rear mounting holes and maximizing resistance to side forces. The system also includes a spacer for keeping the pivot rod level when affixed to the mounting point. Overall, the invention simplifies the construction and installation process for theater, auditorium, stadium, and worship seats.

Problems solved by technology

When a row of seats is filled with spectators, movement of the spectators, especially coordinated movement in response to activities viewed, creates large forces of stress and strain.

The forces may cause excessive lateral movement of the seat structures, which can fatigue the support system, and ultimately cause failure of the support system.

This arrangement creates a potential weak point at the weld to the pivot rod, and also a flex point relative to the column which reduces resistance to lateral movement.

Typically, the seat support cross member is attached to the support column with two or more fasteners at each end of the cross member, adding to installation labor and mass of the structure.

The armrests so attached have a tendency to work loose in use.

During installation, affixing the armrests with the fasteners can require much installation time.

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