Drive cables for seat assemblies

Abstract

A vehicle includes a seat assembly coupled to a track system defining a track. A drive cable is configured to selectively engage the seat assembly so that the seat assembly translates along the track system. A cable drive motor is configured to transmit motion to the drive cable. One or more pulleys are positioned along the track.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to seat assemblies and more particularly to drive cables for seat assemblies. Background Art

[0002] Vehicles are often provided with seat assemblies that can be adjusted for the comfort of the occupants. Some seat assemblies in vehicles are capable of translation in the fore-aft or side-to-side directions. However, there is a need in vehicles for reconfigurable seat assemblies that can be translated to different positions within the vehicle cabin. Additionally, there is a need for a translation system that can achieve the movement of such seat assemblies. Summary of the invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle includes a seat assembly coupled to a track system defining a track. A drive cable is configured to selectively engage the seat assembly so that the seat assembly translates along the track system. A cable drive motor is configured to transmit motion to the drive cable.

[0004] Embodiments of the first aspect of the present disclosure may include any one or combination of the following features:

[0005] The guide rail system includes an inner guide rail and an outer guide rail;

[0006] The guide rail system includes a loading and unloading rail;

[0007] The seat assembly is initially coupled to the drive cable when the seat assembly is transferred from the loading and unloading track of the track system to the inner track and the outer track;

[0008] The drive cable is generally associated with the outer rail of the rail system;

[0009] The vehicle further comprises one or more pulleys positioned along the track at direction change points; and

[0010] The vehicle further comprises a drive cable guide positioned proximate the one or more pulleys to guide the drive cable from the track to the pulleys and from the pulleys back to the track.

[0011] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a seat assembly includes an anchor having a post surrounding a locking pin. A first spring is positioned proximate an upper head of the post and is configured to assist in actuating the locking pin. A second spring is positioned between a lower head of the post and a shoulder of the locking pin. A drive cable is positioned radially outward of the second spring and between the lower head and the shoulder.

[0012] Embodiments of the second aspect of the present disclosure may include any one or combination of the following features:

[0013] The anchor is coupled to a rail system defining a track;

[0014] The drive cable is configured to selectively engage the seat assembly to cause the seat assembly to translate along the track system;

[0015] The drive cable engages the seat assembly when the shoulder of the locking pin compresses the second spring and clamps the drive cable between the lower head of the column and the shoulder of the locking pin;

[0016] The guide rail system includes a cable drive motor configured to impart motion to the drive cable and one or more pulleys positioned along the track;

[0017] The guide rail system includes an inner guide rail and an outer guide rail; and

[0018] • The drive cable is generally associated with the outer rail of the rail system.

[0019] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a seat assembly includes an anchor having a post surrounding a locking pin. The anchor engages a track system. A first spring is positioned proximate an upper head of the post and is configured to assist in actuating the locking pin. A second spring is positioned between a lower head of the post and a shoulder of the locking pin. A drive cable is positioned radially outward of the second spring. The second spring is compressed by the raising of the locking pin, and the drive cable is clamped between the lower head and the shoulder, causing the seat assembly to translate along the track system.

[0020] Embodiments of the third aspect of the present disclosure may include any one or combination of the following features:

[0021] The rail system defines a track;

[0022] The guide rail system includes a cable drive motor configured to impart motion to the drive cable and one or more pulleys positioned along the track;

[0023] The one or more pulleys are positioned along the track at a direction change point;

[0024] The seat assembly further includes a drive cable guide positioned proximate the one or more pulleys to guide the drive cable from the track to the pulleys and from the pulleys back to the track; and

[0025] • The drive cable is generally associated with an outer rail of the rail system.

[0026] These and other aspects, objects and features of the present disclosure will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art after studying the following specification, claims and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] In the attached picture:

[0028] Figure 1 is a top view of a vehicle cabin according to one embodiment, showing a track system and a seat assembly;

[0029] Figure 2 is a top view of a vehicle cabin according to another embodiment, showing a track system and a seat assembly;

[0030] Figure 3 is a top view of a track system according to one embodiment, illustrating movement of a seat assembly along the track system;

[0031] Figure 4 is a top view of a track system according to another embodiment, illustrating movement of a seat assembly along the track system;

[0032] Figure 5 is a top view of a portion of a track system according to one embodiment, showing one of the seat assemblies traversing the track system through a corner;

[0033] Figure 6 is a top perspective view of a corner of a rail system according to one embodiment with an anchor coupled to the rail system;

[0034] Figure 7 is a top view of an anchor engaged with a rail system according to one embodiment, showing a curved side of the anchor;

[0035] Figure 8 is a schematic top view of a rounded corner of a rail system according to one embodiment, showing a trapezoidal seat base;

[0036] Fig. 9 According to one embodiment, Figure 8 A side view of an anchor member coupled to a rail system, taken along line IX-IX in FIG.

[0037] Fig.10 is a side view of a wheel of a seat assembly according to one embodiment;

[0038] Fig.11 is a side perspective view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment showing a partial cross-sectional view of an anchorage;

[0039] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 an enlarged view of the anchor shown in;

[0040] Fig.13 According to one embodiment, Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the guide rail system and the anchoring member taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG.

[0041] Fig.14 According to another embodiment, Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the guide rail system and the anchoring member taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG.

[0042] Fig.15 According to yet another embodiment Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the guide rail system and the anchoring member taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG.

[0043] Fig.16 According to one embodiment, Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the guide rail system and the anchorage member taken along line XVI-XVI in FIG.

[0044] Fig.17 is along Fig. 9 A sectional view of the guide rail system taken along line XVI-XVI in FIG. 1 , showing the bridge of the floor covering in a lowered position;

[0045] Fig.18 According to one embodiment, Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the guide rail system and anchorage member taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG. 1 , showing the locking pin and drive cable in the lowered position;

[0046] Fig.19 According to another embodiment, Fig. 9 a cross-sectional view of the guide rail system and anchorage member taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG. 1 , showing the locking pin and drive cable in a raised position; and

[0047] Fig. 20 According to one embodiment, Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the guide rail system and anchoring member taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG. 1 , showing the data line. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] For the purpose of description, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives shall be used as such. Figure 1The concepts are associated with the embodiments as oriented in the drawings. However, the concepts may adopt various alternative orientations unless expressly stated to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes shown in the drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined by the appended claims. Therefore, unless the claims expressly state otherwise, the specific dimensions and other physical characteristics associated with the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

[0049] The embodiments of the present illustrations reside primarily in a combination of method steps and apparatus components associated with a seat assembly. Therefore, apparatus components and method steps have been indicated by conventional symbols in the drawings where appropriate, and only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure are shown to avoid obscuring the present disclosure by those details that would be obvious to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein. In addition, the same reference numerals in the specification and drawings represent the same elements.

[0050] As used herein, the term "and / or" when used to list two or more items means that any of the listed items may be used alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items may be used. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and / or C, the composition may contain: only A; only B; only C; a combination of A and B; a combination of A and C; a combination of B and C; or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0051] In this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, etc. are used only to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual such relationship or order between these entities or actions. The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only these elements, but may also include elements that are not explicitly listed or other elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises ... one" does not, without further constraints, exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0052] refer to Figures 1 to 20 , the vehicle 30 has a passenger cabin 34 including a track system 38 coupled to a floor pan 42 and a floor covering 46 including a bridge 50. The vehicle 30 also includes one or more anchors 54 that couple a seat assembly 58 to the track system 38 and are configured to displace the bridge 50 as the anchors traverse the track system 38.

[0053] Reference again Figure 1 and Figure 2, the vehicle 30 may be a wheeled motor vehicle provided with a plurality of wheel and tire assemblies 62 and one or more access doors 66. For example, there may be four wheel and tire assemblies 62, with one wheel and tire assembly 62 positioned substantially at each corner of the vehicle 30. The access doors 66 may be positioned on one or more sides 70 of the vehicle 30. The access doors 66 may additionally or alternatively be positioned on the front 74 of the vehicle 30 and / or the rear 78 of the vehicle 30. According to some embodiments, the vehicle 30 may be an autonomous vehicle ( Figure 1 In an alternative embodiment, the vehicle 30 may be driven by an operator or driver ( Figure 2 ) control. The track system 38 can define a track within the passenger cabin 34 of the vehicle 30. The track system 38 can include an inner track 82 and an outer track 86. In some embodiments, the track system 38 can also include a loading and unloading track 90. ​​The loading and unloading track 90 can extend between the sides 70 of the vehicle 30 and / or between the front 74 and the rear 78 of the vehicle 30. The loading and unloading track 90 can include an open end 94 that facilitates coupling the seat assembly 58 to the track system 38. In embodiments that do not include the loading and unloading track 90, the seat assembly 58 can be directly coupled to at least one of the inner track 82 and the outer track 86 without utilizing the open end 94 of the track system 38.

[0054] Further references Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the seat assembly 58 includes a comfort structure 98 and a seat base 102. The seat base 102 operably couples the seat assembly 58 to the track system 38. The seat base 102 may be operably coupled to the comfort structure 98 via a pivot mechanism 106. The seat assembly 58 may include an armrest 110. With the assistance of the pivot mechanism 106, an occupant 114 of the seat assembly 58 may pivot the seat assembly 58 about a vertical axis so that the occupant 114 and their feet 118 can face any direction they desire within the passenger cabin 34 of the vehicle 30. Regardless of the translational position of the seat assembly 58 on the track system 38, the pivot mechanism 106 enables the seat assembly 58 to be placed in a rotational position desired by the occupant 114. The track system 38 may additionally accept furniture and / or items that may be useful or that may be desired by the occupant 114 of the passenger cabin 34. For example, a table 122 may be operably coupled to the track system 38 in a manner similar to the coupling of the seat assembly 58. The table 122 may traverse various locations and / or positions along the rail system 38. The table may rotate about a vertical axis, move laterally, move longitudinally, and / or assume various pitch angles relative to the floor pan 42 of the vehicle 30. In some embodiments, the table 122 may be provided by the rear surface of the seat assembly 58 when the seat assembly 58 is in the folded position. The passenger cabin 34 of the vehicle 30 may be provided with a privacy wall 124 that separates the driver or operator from the passenger area of ​​the vehicle 30.

[0055] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the rail system 38 includes an inner rail 82 and an outer rail 86. In some embodiments, the rail system 38 also includes a loading and unloading rail 90 and an open end 94. The loading and unloading rail 90 can extend from one side of the rail system 38, as shown herein. Alternatively, when the loading and unloading rail 90 crosses the vehicle 30 from one side to the other side, the loading and unloading rail 90 can extend from one side of the rail system 38 to the opposite side of the vehicle 30 ( Figure 1 ), or the rail system 38 may intersect the loading and unloading track 90. ​​The rail system 38 may be equipped with a drive cable 126. In some embodiments, the drive cable 126 is generally associated with the outer track 86 of the rail system 38. The drive cable 126 may engage with one or more pulleys 130, which are positioned at various locations around the rail system 38. In some embodiments, the pulleys 130 may be positioned at direction change points along the rail system 38. For example, the pulleys 130 may be positioned at a corner of the rail system 38, at the intersection of the loading and unloading track 90 and the rail system 38, and / or may be associated with a location on the rail system 38 where the seat assembly 58 changes direction when the seat assembly 58 traverses the track of the rail system 38.

[0056] Reference again Figure 3 and Figure 4, the drive cable 126 can be operably coupled to the motor 134 and the control module 138. The drive cable 126 can be routed around a tensioner, such as a clockwise tensioner or a counterclockwise tensioner that facilitates engagement between the drive cable 126 and the pulley 130. The drive cable 126 can additionally be routed through one or more routing guides 140 that facilitate guiding the drive cable 126 onto and out of the rail system 38 so that the drive cable 126 can engage the pulley 130. The routing guides 140 can help prevent the drive cable 126 from disengaging from the rail system 38. The routing guides 140 can provide a height change to the drive cable 126, which can be beneficial, for example, at the intersection of the loading and unloading track 90 with the rest of the rail system 38. The drive cable 126 can be a continuous loop of material. The drive cable 126 can be routed in a manner that avoids passing the drive cable 126 through the center of the loading and unloading track 90. By avoiding allowing the drive cable 126 to pass through the center of the loading and unloading track 90, the seat assembly 58 can avoid premature engagement with the drive cable 126 when the seat assembly 58 is loaded onto the guide rail system 38. For example, when the seat assembly 58 is loaded onto the guide rail system 38 (e.g., the loading and unloading track 90), the drive cable 126 can move to one side of the loading and unloading track 90, thereby allowing the seat assembly 58 to be loaded onto the guide rail system 38 and pass over the drive cable 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide rail system 38 is generally rectangular, includes four corners, and is equipped with the loading and unloading track 90. ​​Each of the four corners of the guide rail system 38 is equipped with a pulley 130 positioned outside the outer track 86. Additionally, the pulley 130 is positioned at the intersection between the outer track 86 and the loading and unloading track 90. The track system 38 may also be equipped with additional pulleys 130 positioned on the inner track 82 and generally corresponding to the pulleys 130 positioned at the intersection of the outer track 86 and the loading and unloading track 90. ​​By positioning the pulleys 130 in this manner, the seat assembly 58 may smoothly traverse the track system 38 by selectively engaging the drive cables 126 while the control module 138 engages the motor 134 to be activated.

[0057] Further references Figure 3 and Figure 4, the seat assembly 58 may be equipped with one or more anchors 54. The anchors 54 may be positioned to generally correspond to each of the four corners of the seat assembly 58. Generally, it may be beneficial to equip the seat assembly 58 with at least one anchor 54 that is operably coupled to each of the inner track 82 and the outer track 86. The seat assembly 58 may preferably be equipped with a plurality of anchors 54 that engage with each of the inner track 82 and the outer track 86 (e.g., the inner track 82 and the outer track 86 are each equipped with two anchors 54, so that the seat assembly 58 is equipped with four anchors 54). According to one embodiment, the various shading of the anchors 54 indicates the engagement or disengagement of the anchors 54 with the drive cables 126. The anchors 54 shown have different degrees of shading that communicate whether the anchors 54 are engaged or disengaged with the rail system 38 and the drive cables 126. Anchors 54 that are not shaded represent anchors 54 that are engaged with the rail system 38, locked in place (e.g., by a locking pin), and disengaged from the drive cable 126. Fully shaded anchors 54 represent anchors 54 that are engaged with the rail system 38, unlocked from the rail system 38, and engaged to the drive cable 126.

[0058] Reference now Figure 5 , the seat assembly 58 is shown as being operably coupled to the track system 38 via the anchor 54. More specifically, the seat assembly 58 is shown in positions A to G and depicts an example of how the seat assembly 58 traverses the track system 38 by selectively engaging the anchor 54 with the drive cable 126. The anchors 54 are shown with varying degrees of shading, which communicate whether the anchor 54 is engaged or disengaged with the track system 38 and the drive cable 126. Anchors 54 without shading, such as the anchors 54 in positions A and G, represent anchors 54 engaged with the track system 38, locked in place (e.g., by a locking pin), and disengaged from the drive cable 126. Anchors 54 partially shaded with vertical lines represent anchors 54 engaged with the track system 38, unlocked from the track system 38 (e.g., by raising a locking pin), and disengaged from the drive cable 126. A fully shaded anchor 54, such as the anchor 54 located at the upper right of the seat assembly 58 in position B, represents an anchor 54 engaged with the track system 38, unlocked from the track system 38, and engaged to the drive cable 126. Figure 5 The pulley 130 is omitted, but the pulley 130 is similar to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The approaches discussed in the above are applied in the depicted embodiments. Figure 5 Movement of the seat assembly 58 along the track system 38 and a right angle transition of the seat assembly 58 from a first portion of the track system 38 to a second portion of the track system 38 through selective engagement of the anchor 54 with the track system 38 and the drive cable 126 are depicted.

[0059] Reference again Figure 5 , position A of the seat assembly 58 presents a fixed position of the seat assembly 58, in which the seat assembly 58 is secured to the track system 38 by a locking pin so that the seat assembly 58 does not accidentally or unintentionally cross the track system 38 (e.g., during vehicle maneuvers, crash events, etc.). The seat assembly 58 in position A is generally ready to receive an occupant. The seat assembly 58 in position D has unlocked each anchor 54 from the track system 38 and engaged one anchor 54 to the drive cable 126 so that the seat assembly 58 can begin to cross the track system 38. Although the seat assembly 58 can cross the track system 38 when occupied or unoccupied, it may be beneficial to limit the crossing of the seat assembly 58 on the track system 38 when the seat assembly 58 is unoccupied to reduce the risk of injury to the occupant. In the illustrated embodiment, position B engages the anchor 54 located at the upper right corner of the seat assembly 58 to the drive cable 126 and begins to cross the track system 38. By engaging the anchorage 54 as shown in position B, the possibility of motion injuries to the seat assembly 58 can be reduced. For example, if position B engages the anchorage 54 located at the upper left side of the seat assembly 58 to the drive cable 126, a situation may arise where, as the seat assembly 58 approaches a pulley 130 located at a corner of the track system 38, a sticking or movement injury may occur because the anchorage 54 engaged by the drive cable attempts to follow the path of the drive cable 126 around the pulley 130 and encounters forces from the track system 38, the travel guide 140 ( Figure 4 ) and / or the structural resistance of pulley 130.

[0060] Further references Figure 5, when the seat assembly 58 reaches the corner 142 of the track system 38, the engagement configuration of the anchorage 54 is converted to the engagement configuration shown in position C. The seat assembly 58 in position C provides the anchorages 54 unlocked from the track system 38, with one of the anchorages 54 engaged with the drive cable 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat assembly 58 reaches the corner 142 of the track system 38 and stops at least temporarily. Once the seat assembly 58 reaches the corner 142, if it is desired that the seat assembly 58 move along the second portion of the track system 38, the engagement configuration of the anchorage 54 can be adjusted. At position D, the seat assembly 58 is converted from the locked configuration of the anchorage 54 to the motion configuration. For example, the occupant may have been seated in the seat assembly 58 and desires to sit at the corner of the track system 38; however, a new configuration of the passenger compartment 34 of the vehicle 30 is desired. When the seat assembly 58 is transitioning from the first portion to the second portion of the track system 38 , the anchor 54 can be in a locked position relative to the track system 38 while being disengaged from the drive cable 126 to prevent accidental or unintentional free movement of the seat assembly 58 along the track system 38 (e.g., while the vehicle is in motion).

[0061] Further references Figure 5 , at position E, the seat assembly 58 is ready to leave the corner 142 of the track system 38 by having three anchorages 54 unlocked and separated from the track system 38 and the drive cable 126, while the remaining one anchorage 54 is separated from the track system 38 and engaged with the drive cable 126. Once the anchorage 54 is engaged with the drive cable 126 at position E, the seat assembly 58 begins to traverse the second portion of the track system 38, as shown in position F. Position G may be the final desired position of the occupant, and accordingly, the anchorages 54 are all placed in a locked position relative to the track system 38 and separated from the drive cable 126. Although positions A to G have been described as occurring in a stepwise manner, it is contemplated that these positions may be traversed in a continuous manner. Those skilled in the art will recognize that variations of the above sequence may be achieved without departing from the concepts disclosed herein. The described and depicted position A to position G sequence illustrates one embodiment of how the seat assembly 58 may traverse the corner 142 of the track system 38. Alternative embodiments of the track system 38 , anchorage 54 , and / or seat assembly 58 are possible without departing from the concepts disclosed herein.

[0062] refer to Figure 6 , illustrates an intersection of the rail system 38, such as a corner 142, where the anchor 54 is operably coupled to the rail system 38. A connection plate 146 may be positioned below the rail system 38. The connection plate 146 may define a floor coupling hole 150 that is used to couple the connection plate 146 to the floor pan 42 ( Fig. 9) or another support structure. The connecting plate 146 can be operably coupled to the guide rail system 38, or can be integrally formed with the guide rail system 38. In some embodiments, the guide rail system 38 can be integrally formed with the floor chassis 42. The guide rail system 38 is equipped with a plurality of locking pin holes 154, which are configured to receive the locking pins 158 of the anchoring member 54. The locking pins 158 can pass through the legs 162 of the anchoring member 54 to engage with the locking pin holes 154. The guide rail system 38 can define a channel 166. The channel 166 can be configured to resemble an inverted T-shape. The legs 162 of the anchoring member 54 can generally correspond to or be associated with the cross members of the inverted T-shaped channel 166, and the locking pins 158 can generally correspond to the vertical portion of the inverted T-shaped channel 166.

[0063] Reference now Figure 7 , the anchor 54 may include one or more curved sides 170. The curved sides 170 may be beneficial in embodiments of the rail system 38 that do not employ an orthogonal or generally square track arrangement. For example, in some embodiments, the rail system 38 may transition from a first portion of the rail system 38 to a second portion through a generally arcuate turn, such as shown below. Figure 8 The curved sides 170 provide additional clearance between the walls 174 of the rail system 38, particularly when the anchor 54 navigates turns or corners in the rail system 38. The length 178 of the anchor 54 can generally correspond to the cross member of the inverted T-shaped channel 166. The width 182 of the anchor 54 can generally correspond to the distance between the walls 174 of the rail system 38. More specifically, the width 182 of the anchor 54 measured from the widest point of the anchor 54 can generally correspond to the distance between the walls 174 of the rail system 38.

[0064] refer to Figure 8 , a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the track system 38 is shown having rounded corners. The seat assembly 58 is shown transitioning from a first portion to a second portion of the track system 38 via rounded corners. The rounded corners of the track system 38 have an inner radius 186 associated with the inner track 82 and an outer radius 190 associated with the outer track 86. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat base 102 of the seat assembly 58 may generally resemble a trapezoidal geometry. The distance between the anchors 54 associated with the inner track 82 may be less than the distance between the anchors 54 associated with the outer track 86 of the track system 38. The anchors 54 are configured to engage with the track system 38 so as to prevent the anchors 54 from sticking or adhering within the track system 38 as the seat assembly 58 traverses the tracks. The feet 162 ( Figure 6 ) can be generally rectangular and dimensioned to avoid sticking or adhesion within the rail system 38. Alternatively, the legs 162 of the anchor 54 can have a geometry including rounded edges and / or sides, such as Figure 7 170, or the legs 162 may have a generally circular or oval cross-section. In general, it may be beneficial to avoid sharp edges on the legs 162 of the anchor 54 so that transitions between the first portion, the second portion, and other portions of the rail system 38 may be accomplished with reduced likelihood of sticking, adhesion, and / or general misalignment of the anchor 54.

[0065] Reference now Fig. 9 , one side of a seat assembly 58 is shown according to one embodiment. The track system 38 is present in the illustrated embodiment; however, Fig. 9 38 is omitted to show more details of the anchorage 54. The anchorage 54 is operably coupled to the seat base 102 of the seat assembly 58 and extends downwardly from the seat base 102. The anchorage 58 may include wheels 194 configured to interact with the floor covering 46 and help the seat assembly 58 move smoothly as the seat assembly 58 traverses various locations along the track system 38. The legs 162 of the anchorage 54 are positioned proximate the lower end of the anchorage 54. The locking pin 158 extends through the anchorage 54 along a vertical axis. The locking pin 158 extends below the anchorage 54 and engages with the locking pin hole 154 of the track system 38. The track system 38 and / or the floor pan 42 may include a locking pin plate 198. According to one embodiment, the locking pin plate 198 may be made of folded steel.

[0066] refer to Fig.10 , the wheels 194 of the anchorage 54 can be operably coupled to the load frame 202 via wheel support arms 206. In some embodiments, the wheel support arms 206 can be pivotally coupled to the load frame 202 at a suspension pivot 210. The load frame 202 can be operably coupled to the seat base 102 ( Fig. 9 ) or integrally formed with the seat base 102. The downward force 214 is generally applied to the wheel support arm 206, for example, by the seat assembly 58 and / or the occupant 114 ( Figure 1 ) in some embodiments, the downward force 214 may result in a situation where the wheel 194 may begin to dig into the floor covering 46, making it more difficult for the seat assembly 58 to move around the passenger cabin 34 along the track system 38. A resilient member 218 may be disposed between the load frame 202 and the anchorage 54 or the wheel 194. The resilient member 218 may provide a degree of suspension to the wheel 194 to resist the downward force 214. Because the wheel support arm 206 is pivotally coupled to the load frame 202 at the suspension pivot 210, the downward force 214 may additionally generate a compression force 222 that compresses the resilient member 218. Thus, the resilient member 218 provides a force opposing the compression force 222, which may help maintain the suspension of the wheel 194.

[0067] Reference again Fig.10 According to some embodiments, the wheels 194 can carry the entire weight of the seat assembly 58 so that the weight is transferred to the floor covering 46. The resilient members 218 can generate a lateral force against the sides of the anchorage 54, which is transferred to the load frame 202 in an opposite and equal manner. In response to the lateral force, a downward force 214 can be applied and cause the load frame 202 and / or the anchorage 54 to lift in a vertical direction. The resilient members 218 can be configured with a strength or spring constant that is sufficient to lift the weight of the seat assembly 58 so that the entire weight of the seat assembly 58 is supported on the wheels 194. The resilient members 218 can be configured to lift the weight of the seat assembly 58 only when the seat assembly 58 is not occupied.

[0068] Further references Fig.10 , the seat assembly 58 may also include an electrical conductor 226 configured to engage with the conductor 230 so that power is provided to the seat assembly 58. The conductor 230 may be positioned between the track system 38 and the floor covering 46. When the seat assembly 58 traverses the track system 38, the electrical conductor 226 may extend from at least one of the anchors 54 to engage with the conductor 230. In some embodiments, the electrical conductor 226 extends from the anchor 54 and trails behind the wheel 194 to avoid damaging the electrical conductor 226 and / or the conductor 230. The electrical conductor 226 may trail behind the anchor 54 and be separated from where the wheel 194 and the floor covering 46 contact by a distance 234 of at least about 5 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 20 mm, less than about 25 mm, less than about 30 mm, less than about 35 mm, less than about 40 mm, and / or combinations and ranges thereof including intermediate values.

[0069] Reference now Fig.11 and Fig.12 Due to the coupling of the pivot mechanism 106 to the comfort structure 98, the seat assembly 58 can rotate about a vertical axis. The comfort structure 98 can include a seat back 238 pivotally coupled to the seat 242. The pivot mechanism 106 can be positioned between the seat 242 and the seat base 102. The seat base 102 of the seat assembly 58 can include a trim portion 246 positioned to generally correspond to a width 250 of the track system 38, such as Fig.14 The decorative portion 246 preferably encloses the anchorage 54, thereby presenting a smooth and aesthetically pleasing seat assembly 58 to the user. In addition, by enclosing the anchorage 54 with the decorative portion 246, the anchorage 54 and the track system 38 can be protected from debris. In embodiments utilizing wheels 194, such as Fig. 9 , Fig.10In the embodiments shown in FIG. 1 and discussed below, the decorative portion 246 may additionally enclose the wheels 194 of the anchorage 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the wheels 194 are not used. A plow may be positioned below the floor covering 46 and above the track system 38, which is operably coupled to the leading edge of the anchorage 54, causing the floor covering 46 and / or bridge 50 to rise. The decorative portion 246 may extend around the perimeter of the seat base 102 and ensure that the floor covering 46 and / or bridge 50 do not rise prematurely, while also ensuring that the floor covering 46 and / or bridge 50 are closed once the anchorage 54 has passed. Additionally or alternatively, the bridge 50 may be made of a hard and resilient material so that once the anchorage 54 has passed, the restoring force stored in the structure of the bridge 50 forces the bridge 50 to drop onto the track system 38. The bridge 50 is shown in a raised position. The bridge 50 of the floor covering 46 can be operably coupled to the rail system 38. The bridge 50 generally corresponds to the channel 166 defined by the vertical portion of the inverted T-shaped channel 166 in the rail system 38. The bridge 50 includes a rigid arm 258 that extends over the channel 166 in the rail system 38 so that when the bridge 50 is in the lowered position ( Fig.17 ) to prevent floor covering 46 from entering channel 166. Bridge 50 may be operably coupled to first side 262 of rail system 38 via bridge coupling protrusions 266. Conductor 230 may be positioned between rail system 38 and floor covering 46 on second side 270 of rail system 38. First side 262 and second side 270 of rail system 38 may be separated by channel 166 such that bridge 50 and conductor 230 are positioned on either side of channel 166.

[0070] Reference again Fig.11 and Fig.12, the conductor 230 may also include a housing 274 equipped with a living hinge 278. The electrical conductor 226 may separate the housing 274 so that the housing 274 opens about the living hinge 278 to allow electrical connection between the conductor 230 and the electrical conductor 226 to provide power to the seat assembly 58. The housing 274 may be a dust-proof elastomeric extrusion and include a rail coupling lug 282 that engages with the rail system 38. The anchor 54 may include a post 286 surrounded by the body 290. In some embodiments, the post 286 extends above and below the body 290 and terminates in an upper head 294 and a lower head 298. The lower head 298 may alternatively be referred to as the foot 162 of the anchor 54. The post 286 surrounds the locking pin 158. The locking pin 158 may be actuated within the post 286 so that the locking pin 158 can selectively engage and disengage with the locking pin hole 154 of the rail system 38. The locking pin hole 154 may alternatively be referred to as a locating hole. The anchor 54 may be equipped with a first spring 302 positioned between the upper head 294 and the body 290. In some embodiments, the weight of the seat assembly 58 is transferred to the column 286 and / or is cushioned by the interaction of the first spring 302 and the upper head 294. Thus, the weight of the seat assembly 58 may be substantially supported by the column 286 interacting with the low friction portion 318. Additionally, the first spring 302 may act upwardly on the underside of the upper head 294 such that the body 290 of the anchor 54 is lifted to suspend the lower head 298 within the track system 38. The described embodiments are relatively simple to implement with wheels 194 (e.g., Fig.10 ) can be that the body 290 can be immediately switched to travel in a different direction at the intersection of the rail system 38, whereas the wheel 194 may have to be deployed to a different direction before changing direction. The second spring 306 can be positioned in a lower region of the locking pin 158. The second spring 306 can be configured to bias the locking pin 158 in a downward direction, for example, to engage with one of the locking pin holes 154. The second spring 306 can be positioned within the lower head 298 of the post 286. The locking pin 158 can also include a shoulder 310 that engages with the lower side of the second spring 306. The upper side of the second spring 306 can engage with the lower head 298 of the post 286. The lower head 298 can define a recessed area in its lower side that is configured to receive the second spring 306 and the shoulder 310. At least a portion of the locking pin 158 extends below the lower head 298 so that the locking pin 158 engages with the locking pin hole 154. The first spring 302 and the second spring 306 can act in opposite directions relative to each other. In other words, the restoring force of the first spring 302 can resist the restoring force of the second spring 306.

[0071] Further references Fig.11 and Fig.12In some embodiments, the first spring 302 provides cushioning or vibration reduction for sudden movements that may be caused by obstacles in the vehicle's travel path. For example, the upper head 294 of the post 286 can be operably coupled to the seat base 102 or formed integrally with the seat base 102 to provide additional cushioning to the seat assembly 58. In such an embodiment, the locking pin 158 can be actuated by a manual lever or by a power mechanism operably coupled to the locking pin 158. The anchor 54 can be configured in a generally cylindrical form so that the anchor 54 can rotate within the track system 38. In some embodiments, the electrical conductor 226 operably coupled to the anchor 54 is generally disc-shaped and extends radially outward from the circumference of the anchor 54 in a continuous manner so that the electrical connector 226 can engage the conductor 230 regardless of the rotational position of the anchor 54. The track system 38 can be operably coupled to the floor chassis 42 by one or more fasteners 314. The track system 38 may include a low friction portion 318 that extends from the top surface of the track system 38 into the inverted T-shaped channel 166 so that the upper surface of the lower head 298, the outer surface of the post 286, and the underside of the body 290 may contact the low friction portion 318, thereby reducing the work or effort required to move the seat assembly 58 along the track system 38. The floor pan 42 and the floor covering 46 may be separated by a filler layer 322. The thickness 326 of the filler layer 322 may generally correspond to the height of the track system 38. The height of the track system 38 may include the bridge 50 and the housing 274 of the conductor 230. The bridge 50 and the housing 274 of the conductor 230 may have similar or equal thicknesses.

[0072] refer to Fig.13 , the anchoring member 54 can utilize the first spring 302 and omit the second spring 306 ( Fig.12 ). Similar to Fig.1215. In the previous embodiment of the present invention, the first spring 302 can assist in actuating the locking pin 158, or can provide additional cushioning for the seat assembly 58. The anchor 54 is configured to displace the bridge 50 as the anchor 54 traverses the track system 38. The bridge 50 can be displaced by the anchor 54 so that the bridge 50 pivots upward about the flexible portion 330 to a raised position. When pivoting upward, the bridge 50 can contact the inner surface of the trim portion 246 and / or the outer surface of the body 290 of the anchor 54. The first spring 302 can be positioned between the upper head 294 of the post 286 and the upper surface of the body 290. The body 290 of the anchor 54 rests on the low friction portion 318 of the track system 38. In addition, the configuration of the anchor 54 can cause the lower head 298 of the post 286 to be vertically offset from the lower surface of the channel 166. Thus, a majority of the weight of the seat assembly 58 can be supported by the body 290, such that movement of the seat assembly 58 along the track system 38 can be much less strenuous than if the lower head 298 supported a majority of the weight of the seat assembly 58 and the lower head 298 contacted the bottom surface of the channel 166. In other words, a majority of the weight of the seat assembly 58 is supported by a component that experiences relatively low friction or resistance to movement (e.g., rolling friction compared to sliding friction, low friction material interactions, etc.).

[0073] Reference again Fig.13 , the locking pin 158 can be manually or by using a power mechanism to be actuated in the column 286 and / or the lower head 298 so that the locking pin 158 selectively engages with the locking pin hole 154 when the seat assembly 58 traverses various positions along the track system 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the conductor 230 is positioned on the track system 38, radially inward of the decorative portion 246. The decorative portion 246 can be positioned above the housing 274 of the conductor 230 so that when the seat assembly 58 traverses the track system 38, an increased positive contact is maintained between the conductor 230 and the electrical conductor 226. The filler layer 322 is positioned between the floor covering 46 and the floor chassis 42. The floor chassis 42 can be constructed of a hard and rigid material, such as steel. The track system 38 can be operably coupled to the floor chassis 42 by fasteners 314. The fasteners 314 can be, but are not limited to, weld nuts, bolts, rivets, or the track system 38 can be integrally formed with the floor chassis 42. The rail system 38 can be constructed of a variety of materials. For example, in one embodiment, the rail system 38 can be constructed of a steel rail 334 that defines at least a portion of the channel 166 and can be positioned within an aluminum rail 338 that constitutes the majority of the remainder of the rail system 38.

[0074] Reference now Fig.14 and Fig.15, the wheels 194 are operably coupled to the trim portion 246 so that one of the wheels 194 is generally positioned on the conductor 230, thereby providing a compressive force that can improve the electrical contact between the electrical conductor 226 and the conductor 230. The depicted embodiment omits the first spring 302 and the second spring 306. The locking pin 158 is positioned within the column 286 and can be actuated between a raised position and a lowered position. The electrical conductor 226 extends from the outer surface of the column 286. When the electrical conductor 226 passes through the conductor 230, the housing 274 of the conductor 230 is separated and opened about the living hinge 278, thereby establishing an electrical connection between the electrical conductor 226 and the conductor 230. In the illustrated embodiment, the wheels 194 can support most of the weight of the seat assembly 58 while suspending the lower head 298 of the column 286 above the lower surface of the channel 166. Thus, the seat assembly 58 can be moved about the track system 38 with less effort than if the lower head 298 rested on the lower surface of the channel 166. When the anchor 54 is positioned over the locking pin hole 154 and the locking pin 158 is aligned with the locking pin hole 154, the locking pin 158 can be placed in the lowered position. Fig.10 In the embodiment of the structure shown and described in FIG, the weight of the seat assembly 58 can be transferred to the wheel 194 and ultimately to the floor covering 46 to prevent the lower head 298 from contacting the rail 334. In such an embodiment, the anchor 54 is prevented from sticking in the track system 38 because the surfaces of the lower head 298 and the rail 334 may not be provided with the low friction portion 318.

[0075] refer to Fig.16 , the rail system 38 is shown as being operably coupled to the floor chassis 42 and having an anchor 54. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the locking pin 158 can be actuated within the column 286 of the anchor 54. For example, the locking pin 158 can be actuated manually or by a power mechanism in a vertical direction. The depicted embodiment shows an example of how the locking pin 158 can be actuated and can be adapted for manual and / or power operation of the depicted mechanism. The control rod 342 can engage with the underside of the platform 346 so that actuation of the control rod 342 can lift the locking pin 158 out of the locking pin hole 154. For example, the control rod 342 can have a generally sinusoidal shape so that downward actuation of the control rod 342 at the first end 350 causes upward movement of the control rod 342 at the second end 354, which is converted into vertical movement of the locking pin 158. The control rod 342 can have a pivot point 358 located between the first end 350 and the second end 354. For example, the pivot point 358 may be located generally at the center of the length of the control rod 342 .

[0076] Reference now Fig.17, the rail system 38 is shown without the anchors 54, and the bridge 50 of the floor covering 46 is depicted in a lowered or resting position. The rigid arms 258 of the bridge 50 span the opening defined by the vertical portion of the channel 166 and contact the first side 262 and the second side 270 of the rail system 38. By thus covering the channel 166, the bridge 50 and the floor covering 46 prevent debris, obstructions, and other items that should not be located in the channel 166 from entering the channel 166. In addition, a substantially horizontal and substantially continuous surface of the floor covering 46 is presented to the user, thereby eliminating trip hazards and presenting the user with an aesthetically pleasing cabin 34. Furthermore, the positioning and composition of the rigid arms 258 is such that when pressure is applied to the floor covering 46 directly above the channel 166, the bridge 50 is supported by the rail system 38 and prevented from entering the channel 166. The bridge 50 is prevented from entering the passage 166 due to the reaction force to the applied pressure provided at the contact point 362 between the rail system 38 and the bridge 50 .

[0077] refer to Fig.18 and Fig.19 , the locking pin 158 is shown in the lowered position ( Fig.18 ) and raised position ( Fig.19). The locking pin 158 can also be placed in an intermediate position, in which the locking pin 158 is separated from the locking pin hole 154 but has not yet engaged with the drive cable 126. The depicted embodiment employs the drive cable 126. The drive cable 126 can be positioned between the lower head 298 of the post 286 and the shoulder 310 of the locking pin 158. The drive cable 126 can be positioned radially outward of the second spring 306. The second spring 306 is positioned between the lower head 298 and the shoulder 310, and the locking pin 158 passes through the center of the second spring 306. When the locking pin 158 is in the lowered position, the seat assembly 58 is separated from the drive cable 126 and is locked to the guide rail system 38. Therefore, when the locking pin 158 is in the lowered position, the seat assembly 58 is stationary on the guide rail system 38. When the locking pin 158 is actuated upward, the drive cable 126 becomes sandwiched between the lower head 298 and the shoulder 310. More specifically, the drive cable 126 engages the seat assembly 58 when the shoulder 310 of the locking pin 158 compresses the second spring 306 and ultimately clamps the drive cable 126 between the lower head 298 and the shoulder 310. When the seat assembly 58 is engaged to the drive cable 126 via the anchor 54, the seat assembly 58 can begin to traverse the track system 38 because the action of engaging the drive cable 126 simultaneously disengages the locking pin 158 from the locking pin hole 154. The depicted embodiments may share some or all of the features described herein for alternative embodiments of the various components depicted. For example, the electrical conductor 226 extends radially outward from the outer surface of the body 290 of the anchor 54, the body 290 surrounds the post 286, the fastener 314 couples the track system 38 to the floor pan 42, a low friction portion 318 is employed, a filler layer 322 fills the space between the floor covering 46 and the floor pan 42, and the like.

[0078] Reference now Fig. 20 , the seat assembly 58 may also include a recess 366 in at least one side of the lower head 298 of the anchor 54. The recess 366 may receive a data line 370 configured to send and receive data related to the positioning of the seat assembly 58. The recess 366 may include one or more data readers 374 that are operably coupled to a data path 378 of the seat assembly 58. The data path 378 may be routed through the anchor 54 to the seat base 102 ( Fig.11 ), where the data path 378 can then branch to various sensors and controllers. Data related to the configuration of the seat assembly 58 can be sent to and received from the data line 370 by the data reader 374. The data received by the seat assembly 58 from the data line 370 may include, but is not limited to, commands related to the pitch angle of the seat back 238 relative to the seat 242, the rotational position of the pivot mechanism 106 ( Fig.11), heating or ventilation information for providing the seat assembly 58 with a heated or cooled surface, a command to prepare the seat assembly 58 for translation along the track system 38, a command to execute translation of the seat assembly 58 along the track system 38, etc. The data transmitted from the seat assembly 58 to the data line 370 may include, but is not limited to, the occupancy status of the seat assembly 58, the current pitch angle of the seat back 238 relative to the seat 242, the position of the seat assembly 58 on the track system 38, the temperature of the surface of the seat assembly 58, the current rotational position of the pivot mechanism 106, general information about the configuration of various components on the seat assembly 58, etc. Data can be transmitted to and from the data line 370 via near-field data transmission. By using near-field data transmission, contact conduction noise, wear of the data line 370, and wear of the data reader 374 can be reduced or completely avoided. The data line 370 can be configured to send and receive data from more than one seat assembly 58 at a time, thereby eliminating the use of multiple data lines 370 that may be required in a design that uses one data line for each seat assembly. Thus, crossover and tangling issues that may occur in multiple data line arrangements are avoided, particularly when negotiating corners of the track system 38. Additionally, for systems using one data line 370 per seat assembly 58, vehicles with large seating capacities may present packaging difficulties, an issue not encountered with the present disclosure.

[0079] The vehicle 30 is typically provided with a seat assembly that can be adjusted according to the comfort of the occupant 114. Some seat assemblies in the vehicle 30 are capable of translating in the fore-aft or left-right directions. However, conventional seat assemblies are typically not translatable to various positions within the passenger cabin 34 of the vehicle 30. The components of the passenger cabin 34 of the vehicle 30 disclosed herein, such as the track system 38, the seat assembly 58, the drive cables 126, and the data cables 370, provide a user with a reconfigurable passenger cabin 34. The seat assembly 58 and other components coupled to the track system 38 can be repositioned, reorganized, or reordered to present various configurations suitable for the user's desired purpose.

[0080] Those skilled in the art and those who make or use the concepts disclosed herein will appreciate modifications of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, which is defined by the following claims interpreted in accordance with patent law principles (including the doctrine of equivalents).

[0081] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the described concepts and other components of construction are not limited to any particular material. Unless otherwise specified herein, other exemplary embodiments of the concepts disclosed herein may be formed from a variety of materials.

[0082] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms, coupling, coupled, coupled, etc.) generally refers to the connection of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such connection may be fixed in nature or movable in nature. Such connection may be achieved by the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate components that may be integrally formed as a single entity with each other or with the two components. Unless otherwise specified, such connection may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature.

[0083] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the present disclosure shown in the exemplary embodiments are only illustrative. Although only a few embodiments of the present invention are described in detail in the present disclosure, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art who read the present disclosure that many modifications are possible (e.g., changes in the specifications, sizes, structures, shapes and proportions of various elements, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, changes in orientation, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter. For example, an element shown as being integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts, or an element shown as being multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interface may be reversed or otherwise changed, the length or width of the structure and / or member or connector or other element of the system may be changed, and the nature or quantity of the adjustment position set between the elements may be changed. It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system may be composed of any of a variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, presenting any of a variety of colors, textures and combinations. Accordingly, all of these modifications should be included within the scope of the present invention. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangements of desired and other exemplary embodiments.

[0084] It should be understood that any described process or step in a described process can be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting.

[0085] It will also be understood that changes and modifications may be made to the foregoing structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure, and that these concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless the language of the claims expressly dictates otherwise.

[0086] According to the present invention, a vehicle is provided having: a seat assembly coupled to a track system defining a track; a drive cable configured to selectively engage the seat assembly so that the seat assembly translates along the track system; and a cable drive motor configured to transmit motion to the drive cable.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the guide rail system comprises: an inner guide rail; and an outer guide rail.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the guide rail system comprises: a loading and unloading rail.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the seat assembly is initially coupled to the drive cable when the seat assembly is transitioned from the loading track to the inner track and the outer track of the track system.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the drive cable is generally associated with the outer rail of the rail system.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by one or more pulleys positioned at direction change points along the track.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a drive cable guide positioned proximate the one or more pulleys to guide the drive cable from the track to the pulleys and from the pulleys back to the track.

[0093] According to the present invention, a seat assembly is provided having: an anchor having a post surrounding a locking pin; a first spring positioned proximate an upper head of the post and configured to assist in actuating the locking pin; a second spring positioned between a lower head of the post and a shoulder of the locking pin; and an actuation cable positioned radially outward of the second spring and between the lower head and the shoulder.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the anchorage is coupled to a rail system defining a track.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the drive cable is configured to selectively engage the seat assembly to cause the seat assembly to translate along the track system.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the drive cable engages the seat assembly when the shoulder of the locking pin compresses the second spring and clamps the drive cable between the lower head of the post and the shoulder of the locking pin.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized in that the guide rail system includes: a cable drive motor configured to impart motion to the drive cable; and one or more pulleys positioned along the track.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the guide rail system comprises: an inner guide rail; and an outer guide rail.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the drive cable is generally associated with the outer rail of the rail system.

[0100] According to the present invention, a seat assembly is provided, which has: an anchor having a post surrounding a locking pin, wherein the anchor engages with a guide rail system; a first spring, which is positioned adjacent to an upper head of the post and is configured to assist in actuating the locking pin; a second spring, which is positioned between a lower head of the post and a shoulder of the locking pin; and a drive cable, which is positioned radially outward of the second spring, wherein the second spring is compressed by the lifting of the locking pin and the drive cable is clamped between the lower head and the shoulder, so that the seat assembly translates along the guide rail system.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the rail system defines a track.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the guide rail system includes: a cable drive motor configured to impart motion to the drive cable; and one or more pulleys positioned along the track.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the one or more pulleys are positioned along the track at direction change points.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a drive cable guide positioned proximate the one or more pulleys to guide the drive cable from the track to the pulleys and from the pulleys back to the track.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the drive cable is generally associated with an outer rail of the rail system.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: a seat assembly coupled to a rail system defining a track, the rail system comprising: inner and outer rails and a loading and unloading rail; a drive cable configured to selectively engage the seat assembly to cause the seat assembly to translate along the track system, wherein the seat assembly is initially coupled to the drive cable when the seat assembly transitions from the loading track to the inner and outer tracks of the track system; and A cable drive motor is configured to impart motion to the drive cable.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The drive cable is generally associated with the outer rail of the rail system.

3. The vehicle of claim 2, further comprising: One or more pulleys are positioned along the track at direction change points.

4. The vehicle of claim 3, further comprising: A drive cable guide is positioned proximate the one or more pulleys to guide the drive cable from the track to the pulleys and from the pulleys back to the track.

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