Vehicle seat assembly with anchored airbag tether

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a "Vehicle Seat Assembly with Anchored Airbag Tether". A vehicle seat assembly is provided herein. The vehicle seat assembly includes a seat back coupled to a seat base. An airbag assembly is coupled to the seat back and configured to deploy from the seat back. A tether is coupled to the airbag assembly and at least one of the seat back and the seat base. An anchoring feature is coupled to at least one of the seat back and the seat base and configured to limit upward movement of the tether relative to the seat assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to vehicles, and more specifically to vehicle seat assemblies. Background Technology

[0002] Autonomous vehicles generate new expectations for occupants to move freely within the vehicle. This may challenge conventional wisdom regarding fixed airbag placement and design. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle seat assembly includes a seat back attached to a seat base. An airbag assembly is attached to the seat back and configured to deploy from the seat back. A tether is attached to the airbag assembly and at least one of the seat back and the seat base. A cable is attached to the tether. A retractor is attached to the seat base and configured to retract the cable.

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

[0005] ●The airbag assembly includes: a side airbag configured to deploy from the side of the seat back;

[0006] ●The airbag assembly includes: a roof-mounted airbag configured to deploy laterally inward of the side airbag relative to the seat assembly;

[0007] ●The retractor is configured to retract the cable when the airbag is in the deployed position; and

[0008] ● When the airbag is in the pre-deployment position, the cable is partially disposed within at least one of the seat base and the seat back.

[0009] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a seat assembly includes a seat back attached to a seat base. An airbag assembly is attached to the seat back and configured to deploy from the seat back. A tether is attached to the airbag assembly and at least one of the seat back and the seat base. An anchoring feature is attached to at least one of the seat back and the seat base and configured to restrict upward movement of the tether relative to the seat assembly.

[0010] Embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0011] ●The airbag assembly includes: a side airbag configured to deploy from the side of the seat back;

[0012] ●The airbag assembly includes: a roof-mounted airbag configured to deploy laterally inward of the side airbag relative to the seat assembly;

[0013] ●The anchoring feature includes a cable and a retractor configured to retract the cable;

[0014] ●The anchoring feature includes an auxiliary hook that is attached to the seat base;

[0015] ●The auxiliary hook can operate between a retracted position and a used position; and

[0016] ●The anchoring feature includes a handrail.

[0017] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method of operating a vehicle seat assembly includes the following steps: deploying an airbag assembly from a seat back of the vehicle seat assembly, the vehicle seat assembly including a seat base coupled to the seat back; restricting forward movement of the airbag assembly relative to the seat assembly using a tether coupled to the airbag assembly; and restricting upward movement of the tether coupled to the seat base relative to the seat assembly using an anchoring feature coupled to the seat base.

[0018] These and other aspects, objectives, and features of this disclosure will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0019] In the attached diagram:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the interior of a vehicle equipped with a seat assembly according to one embodiment, the seat assembly having an airbag assembly in a pre-deployment position.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a side front view of a seat assembly with armrests according to one embodiment;

[0022] Figure 3A This is a front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the support member of the armrest in a lowered position;

[0023] Figure 3B This is a front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the support member of the armrest in a raised position;

[0024] Figure 4A This is a front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the pad of the armrest in an outward position;

[0025] Figure 4BThis is a front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the pad of the armrest in a position between an outward and an inward position;

[0026] Figure 4C This is a front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the pad of the armrest in an inward position;

[0027] Figure 5A This is a side front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the pad of the armrest in a rearward position;

[0028] Figure 5B This is a side view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the armrest pad in a forward position;

[0029] Figure 6A This is a front view of two seating assemblies according to one embodiment, showing seating assemblies configured as a sofa;

[0030] Figure 6B This is a front view of two seat assemblies according to one embodiment, showing seat assemblies configured as two seats;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing propulsion features and a propulsion system connected to the seat assembly;

[0032] Figure 7A It is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIIA-VIIA, which shows the propulsion features and propulsion system coupled to the seat assembly according to one embodiment;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a side front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the airbag assembly in the deployed position;

[0034] Figure 9A This is a side front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, wherein the airbag assembly is in the pre-deployment position, showing a fastener disposed within the seat back of the seat assembly.

[0035] Figure 9B This is a side front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, in which the airbag assembly is in the deployed position, showing an armrest that also serves as an anchoring feature.

[0036] Figure 10A This is a side front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, wherein the airbag assembly is in the pre-deployed position, and an auxiliary hook is shown in the retracted position.

[0037] Figure 10BThis is a side front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, wherein the airbag assembly is in the deployed position, showing the auxiliary hook in the use position;

[0038] Figure 11A This is a side front view of a seat assembly according to one embodiment, wherein the airbag assembly is in the pre-deployment position, showing a retractor attached to the seat assembly.

[0039] Figure 11B This is a side front view of a seat assembly in the deployed position according to one embodiment, showing a cable extending from the retractor and connected to the tether.

[0040] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of the seat assembly and airbag assembly controls, showing controllers for controlling the airbag assembly and anchorage components; and

[0041] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of a method for operating a seat assembly according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Further features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the following detailed description, and those skilled in the art will understand them from the description, or will recognize them by practicing the invention as described in the following specification, claims and drawings.

[0043] As used herein, when used to list two or more items, the term "and / or" means that any one of the listed items may be used alone, or any combination of two or more listed items may be used. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and / or C, then the composition may contain: A only; B only; C only; 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.

[0044] In this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom are used only to distinguish one entity or action from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

[0045] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms: couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the direct or indirect combination of two (electrical or mechanical) components with each other. Such a combination can be essentially static or essentially movable. Such a combination can be achieved by the two (electrical or mechanical) components and any additional intermediate member forming a single whole with each other or integrally with the two components. Such a combination can be essentially permanent, or it can be essentially movable or releasable, unless otherwise stated.

[0046] As used herein, the term “about” means that quantities, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be precise, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller as required, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, and other factors known to those skilled in the art. When the term “about” is used to describe an endpoint of a value or range, the disclosure is to be understood to include either the specific value or the endpoint mentioned. Whether or not an endpoint of a numerical value or range is expressed as “about” in this specification, the endpoint of the numerical value or range is intended to include two embodiments: one modified by “about” and one not modified by “about”. It should also be understood that each endpoint of a range is important both with respect to and independently of the other endpoint.

[0047] As used herein, the term "substantial" and its variations are intended to indicate that a described feature is equal to or approximately equal to a certain value or description. For example, a "substantively planar" surface is intended to indicate a planar or approximately planar surface. Furthermore, "substantively" is intended to indicate that two values ​​are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, "substantively" may indicate values ​​within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0048] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the terms “described,” “an,” or “a” as used herein mean “at least one / a” and should not be limited to “only one / a.” Therefore, unless the context otherwise clearly indicates, references to “component,” for example, may include embodiments having two or more such components.

[0049] refer to Figures 1 to 13The vehicle 10 has a vehicle interior 12. The vehicle interior 12 includes a seat assembly 14. The seat assembly 14 includes a seat base 18 and a seat back 22 coupled to the seat base 18. An airbag assembly 38 is coupled to the seat back 22 and configured to deploy from the seat back 22. A tether 46 is coupled to the airbag assembly 38 and at least one of the seat back 22 and the seat base 18, wherein the tether 46 is configured to bias the airbag assembly 38 downward relative to the seat assembly when the airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position.

[0050] Now for reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 Vehicle 10 includes a seat assembly 14. The seat assembly 14 may include a seat base 18 and a seat back 22 coupled to the seat base 18. In some embodiments, the seat back 22 is pivotally coupled to the seat base 18. The seat base 18 may be movably coupled to vehicle 10. For example, in some embodiments, the seat base 18 may be movable along a track system coupled to vehicle 10. The seat assembly 14 is movable in the vehicle's fore-and-aft direction, a typical feature of vehicle seat assemblies. In some embodiments, the seat assembly 14 may be movable in various directions within vehicle 10 and / or rotated or rotated relative to vehicle 10, such that the seat assembly 14 may face various vehicle directions. It is conceivable that vehicle 10 may include multiple movable seat assemblies 14, and strategic movement of the seat assemblies 14 may provide different seat assembly configurations for occupants, such as modular sofas and / or double seats.

[0051] The seat backrest 22 may include a headrest 26. In some embodiments, the headrest 26 may be an extension of the seat backrest 22. In other words, at least a portion of the headrest 26 may be integrally coupled to at least a portion of the seat backrest 22. In some embodiments, the headrest 26 may be movable relative to the remainder of the seat backrest 22. For example, the headrest 26 may be adjustable to accommodate seat assembly occupants of different heights. The seat backrest 22 may include a lateral side 24. In some embodiments, the lateral side 24 may generally face a direction that is generally perpendicular to the forward direction relative to the seat assembly and / or the rearward direction relative to the seat assembly. In other words, the lateral side 24 may face the left side or the right side relative to the seat assembly. It is conceivable that the lateral side 24 may include multiple lateral sides 24. For example, the seat backrest 22 may include a right lateral side 24 and a left lateral side 24.

[0052] Further reference Figure 1 and 2The armrest 30 may be coupled to the seat assembly 14. The armrest 30 may be coupled to the seat back 22 and / or the seat base 18. The armrest 30 may be operable between various positions. For example, in some embodiments, the armrest 30 may move forward, backward, upward, downward, inward, outward and / or in combinations thereof relative to the seat assembly 14, pivot, slide and / or articulate.

[0053] In some embodiments, the armrest 30 may include multiple components. These components may be operable between various positions. For example, such as Figures 2 to 3B As shown, the armrest 30 may include a support member 32 and a pad 34. The support member 32 may be coupled to the seat base 18. In some embodiments, the support member 32 may be operable to move upward relative to the seat assembly and downward relative to the seat assembly. Thus, the support member 32 may be operable to move upward relative to the seat assembly and downward relative to the seat assembly, respectively. Figure 3A and Figure 3B The operation is shown between the lowered and raised positions. It is conceivable that in some embodiments, the support member 32 may additionally be movable relative to the seat base 18 in other directions relative to the seat assembly.

[0054] In various embodiments, the pad 34 may be connected to the support member 32. For example... Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the pad 34 is movable upward and downward relative to the seat assembly together with the support member 32. In some embodiments, the pad 34 may project beyond the support member 32 in a forward direction relative to the seat assembly. In some embodiments, the pad 34 may be movably coupled to the support member 32. For example, as Figures 4A to 4C As shown, the pad 34 is capable of articulating relative to the support member 32, such that the pad 34 can articulate inward relative to the seat assembly and outward relative to the seat assembly. Therefore, the pad 34 can be articulated as shown by... Figure 4C and 4A The operation is shown between the inward and outward positions. The pad 34 can also be operated to a position between the inward and outward positions, such as... Figure 4B As depicted. In some embodiments, the pad 34 may be operable to move in a forward direction relative to the seat assembly and a rearward direction relative to the seat assembly. Thus, as Figures 5A to 5B As shown, the pad 34 can be operated between a forward position and a rearward position. It is conceivable that the seat assembly 14 may have multiple armrests 30.

[0055] The mobility of the armrest 30 and / or its components allows for various seat assembly configurations. For example, such as Figure 4AAs shown, the armrest 30 can be positioned such that the seat assembly 14 resembles a general's chair. In some embodiments, when the seat assembly 14 is configured as a general's chair, the support member 32 of the armrest 30 is in a raised position and the pad 34 is in an outward position. Figure 6A As shown, the armrests 30 of the plurality of side-by-side seat assemblies 14 can be configured such that the seat assembly 14 resembles a sofa. For example, in one embodiment, when the seat assembly is configured as a sofa, the support members 32 of the armrests 30 are in a lowered position and the pads 34 of the armrests 30 are in an outward position. Figure 6B As shown, the armrests 30 of the plurality of side-by-side seat assemblies 14 can be configured such that the seat assembly 14 resembles a double seat. For example, in one embodiment, when two seat assemblies 14 are configured as a double seat, the support member 32 of the inner armrest 30A of each of the two side-by-side seat assemblies 14 is in a lowered position, the support member 32 of the outer armrest 30B of each of the two side-by-side seat assemblies 14 is in an elevated position, and the pad 34 of the armrest 30 is in an outward position.

[0056] refer to Figures 7 to 7A The propulsion feature 44, configured as a movable armrest 30, may be coupled to the seat assembly 14, the seat base 18, and / or the armrest 30. In some embodiments, the propulsion feature 44 may include an electric motor. In some embodiments, the propulsion feature 44 may include a pyrotechnic mechanism. It is contemplated that the propulsion feature 44 may be at least one of a variety of other devices configured as a movable armrest 30.

[0057] Further reference Figures 7 to 7A A propulsion system 48, configured to engage with propulsion feature 44, may be coupled to armrest 30. In some embodiments, propulsion system 48 may be coupled to and engage with armrest 30, support member 32, and / or pad 34 of armrest 30. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, propulsion system 48 may include at least one of a variety of devices (e.g., solenoid, piston assembly, etc.) for engaging with propulsion feature 44. In some embodiments, propulsion system 48 may include a recirculating ball seat nut 60. Recirculating ball seat nut 60 may be coupled to seat assembly 14, seat base 18, and / or armrest 30. Furthermore, recirculating ball seat nut 60 may be operatively coupled to propulsion feature 44. Recirculating ball seat nut 60 may engage with threaded drive screw 62. Threaded drive screw 62 may have mechanically reversible threads. Threaded drive screw 62 may be coupled to armrest 30, pad 34, and / or support member 32.

[0058] In operation, the propulsion feature 44 can be configured to rotate the recirculating ball bearing nut 60; the recirculating ball bearing nut 60 then drives a threaded drive screw 62, which subsequently moves the armrest 30, the support member 32, and / or the pad 34. In an example where the threaded drive screw 62 has a mechanically reversible thread, the armrest 30, the support member 32, and / or the pad 34 can move back and forth according to the direction of rotation of the recirculating ball bearing nut 60. For example, the pad 34 can move from an inward position to an outward position and from an outward position to an inward position. It is contemplated that the propulsion system 48 may include multiple propulsion systems 48 corresponding to one or more propulsion features 44. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the support member 32 and the pad 34 may engage with and be moved by a single propulsion system 48, or the support member 32 and the pad 34 may engage with and be moved by a separate propulsion system 48.

[0059] In some embodiments, the propulsion feature 44 may be controlled by an occupant. For example, an occupant may operate a switch configured to control the propulsion feature 44. In this example, the occupant may engage the switch, which subsequently causes the propulsion feature 44 to powerably move the armrest 30, support member 32, and / or pad 34. In some embodiments, the armrest 30, support member 32, and / or pad 34 may be moved manually by an occupant. In this way, the armrest 30, support member 32, and / or pad 34 may be moved by an occupant without engaging the propulsion feature 44.

[0060] Further reference Figures 7 to 7A The locking feature 68 may be coupled to the armrest 30, support member 32, and / or pad 34. The locking feature 68 may be configured to substantially prevent movement of the armrest 30, support member 32, and / or pad 34 relative to the seat base 18, seat back 22, and / or support member 32. The locking feature 68 may include at least one of a plurality of mechanisms configured to prevent movement (e.g., pins, stops, pawls, ratchet pawls, bases, etc.). In some embodiments, the locking feature 68 may include a propulsion feature 44 (e.g., an electric motor). For example, an electric motor configured to move the armrest 30, support member 32, and / or pad 34 may also lock the armrest 30, support member 32, and / or pad 34 in place by continuous activation. In some embodiments, the locking feature 68 may be manually engaged and / or disengaged by an occupant. For example, the locking feature 68 may be engaged and / or disengaged by operating a switch. In some embodiments, the locking feature 68 is engaged by default, and the armrest 30, support member 32, and / or pad 34 can move when the locking feature 68 is disengaged. In some embodiments, the locking feature 68 can be engaged and / or disengaged by a controller 70, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0061] refer to Figure 8In various embodiments, seat assembly 14 may include airbag assembly 38. Airbag assembly 38 may be coupled to seat back 22 and configured to deploy from said seat back 22. In some embodiments, airbag assembly 38 may be coupled to headrest 26 and configured to deploy from said headrest 26. It is contemplated that airbag assembly 38 may be coupled to and / or disposed within features (e.g., external airbag compartments) coupled to headrest 26 and / or seat back 22 and configured to deploy from said features. Airbag assembly 38 may be configured to deploy from a side side 24 of seat back 22. Airbag assembly 38 may be operable between a pre-deployment position, in which airbag assembly 38 has not yet deployed from seat back 22 and / or headrest 26, and in the deployment position, airbag assembly 38 has deployed and / or is in the process of deployment. In some embodiments, airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position when it is in the fully inflated position. In various embodiments, when in the pre-deployment position, the airbag assembly 38 may be disposed within the seat back 22, headrest 26, and / or features (e.g., external airbag compartments) connected to the headrest 26 and / or seat back 22.

[0062] In some embodiments, the airbag assembly 38 may include one or more airbags. For example, such as Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the airbag assembly 38 may include a roof airbag 40 and / or a side airbag 42. In various embodiments, the side airbag 42 may be disposed within the seat back 22 when the airbag assembly 38 is in the pre-deployment position. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the side airbag 42 may additionally be disposed within the headrest 26 when the airbag assembly 38 is in the pre-deployment position. In various embodiments, the side airbag 42 may be configured to deploy from a lateral side 24 of the seat back 22. It is contemplated that the side airbag 42 may be a plurality of side airbags 42. For example, the side airbag 42 may include a plurality of side airbags 42, each of which is configured to deploy from a lateral side 24 of the seat back 22. In another example, the side airbag 42 may include a plurality of side airbags 42, which are configured to deploy from a plurality of lateral sides 24 of the seat back 22.

[0063] In various embodiments, when the airbag assembly 38 is in the pre-deployment position, the overhead airbag 40 may be disposed within the headrest 26, the seat back 22, and / or features (e.g., external airbag compartments) connected to the headrest 26 and / or the seat back 22. The overhead airbag 40 may be configured to deploy from the headrest 26 and / or the seat back 22. In some embodiments, the overhead airbag 40 may be configured to deploy laterally inward of the side airbags 42 relative to the seat assembly. In some embodiments, the overhead airbag 40 may be configured to deploy above the side airbags 42 relative to the seat assembly. It is contemplated that the overhead airbag 40 may include multiple overhead airbags 40. It is further contemplated that the multiple overhead airbags 40 may be coupled to each other and / or coupled to one or more of a plurality of side airbags 42, which may also be coupled to each other.

[0064] Now for reference Figures 8 to 9A The fastener 46 can be attached to at least one of the seat back 22 and / or the seat base 18. In various embodiments, the fastener 46 can be attached to at least one of the seat back 22 and the seat base 18 at multiple joints. For example, the fastener 46 can be attached to the left side 24 of the seat back 22. Figure 8 (as shown in the image) and the right side of the seat back 22 to the side 24 ( Figure 8 (Not shown in the image). For example... Figure 8 As shown, a portion of the tether 46 may be substantially fixedly connected to at least one of the seat back 22 and the seat base 18, such that the tether 46 is configured to remain connected in both the pre-deployment and deployed positions of the airbag assembly 38. In various embodiments, when the airbag assembly 38 is in the pre-deployment position, the tether 46 may be at least partially disposed within the seat back 22. In other words, when the airbag assembly 38 is in the pre-deployment position, the tether 46 may be partially, primarily, substantially, and / or completely disposed within the seat back 22. In some embodiments, when in the pre-deployment position, the tether 46 may be at least partially disposed within the headrest 26. In some embodiments, when at least one of the overhead airbag 40 and the side airbag 42 is in the pre-deployment position, the tether 46 may be at least partially disposed within the seat back 22.

[0065] In various embodiments, the tether 46 may be attached to the airbag assembly 38. In some embodiments, the tether 46 may be attached to the overhead airbag 40 and / or the side airbag 42. It is contemplated that the tether 46 may be attached to the airbag assembly 38 by various connection means (e.g., sewing, gluing, using buckles, etc.). It is further contemplated that in some embodiments, the tether 46 may attach the side airbag 42 to the overhead airbag 40.

[0066] In some embodiments, when the airbag assembly 38 deploys, the tether 46 is movable from within the seat back 22 to a position at least partially extending out of the seat back 22. In other words, the tether 46 is movable to a position where the tether 46 partially, primarily, substantially, and / or completely extends out of the seat back 22. In some embodiments, the tether 46 is movable out of the seat back 22 through a lateral side 24. In various embodiments, the tether 46 may be configured to directionally bias the airbag assembly 38 when it is in the deployed position. In other words, the tether 46 may restrict and / or guide movement of the airbag assembly 38 during and / or after deployment. In some embodiments, the tether 46 may be configured to bias the airbag assembly 38 in a downward direction relative to the seat assembly when it is in the deployed position. In some embodiments, the tether 46 may be configured to restrict upward movement of the airbag assembly 38 relative to the seat assembly when it is in the deployed position. In some embodiments, the tether 46 may be configured to restrict forward movement of the airbag assembly 38 relative to the seat assembly when the airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position. In some embodiments, the tether 46 may be configured to laterally bias the airbag assembly 38 laterally inward relative to the seat assembly and / or restrict laterally outward movement of the airbag assembly 38 relative to the seat assembly when the airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position.

[0067] like Figure 8 As depicted, in some embodiments, the tethering element 46 may include multiple tethering elements 46. In the illustrated embodiment, two tethering elements 46 are included on each side of the seat assembly 14. In operation, one or more tethering elements 46 having attachment to each side of the seat assembly 14 may guide the movement of the airbag assembly 38 during deployment, and / or may provide directional support to the airbag assembly 38 in the event of a crash to cushion and protect the seat occupant. In some embodiments, multiple tethering elements 46 may be fixedly attached to the seat assembly 14 at substantially the same area of ​​the seat assembly 14, such as... Figure 8 As shown. In some embodiments, a plurality of tethering members 46 may be securely attached to the seat assembly 14 at substantially different regions of the seat assembly 14. In various embodiments, a plurality of tethering members 46 may be attached to different portions of the airbag assembly 38. Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of tethering elements 46 may be configured to hook onto the handrail 30 when the airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position.

[0068] Now for reference Figures 9A to 11BAnchoring feature 50 is coupled to at least one of seat back 22 and seat base 18. In various embodiments, anchoring feature 50 may be configured to restrict movement of tether 46 when airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position. In some embodiments, anchoring feature 50 may be configured to restrict upward movement of tether 46 relative to the seat assembly when airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position.

[0069] Referring now to 9B, in some embodiments, the anchoring feature 50 may include a handrail 30. The handrail 30 may be positioned and / or shaped such that the fastener 46 can be hooked and / or secured below the handrail 30. Figure 9B As depicted, in some embodiments, the pad 34 of the armrest 30 may project forward from the support member 32 of the armrest 30 relative to the seat assembly and form a hook-shaped surface, under which the tether 46 may be secured when the airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position. It is conceivable that the armrest 30 may restrict movement of the tether 46 when the airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position in various ways.

[0070] Now for reference Figure 10B In some embodiments, the anchoring feature 50 may include an auxiliary hook 52. The auxiliary hook 52 may be positioned and / or shaped such that the tether 46 can be hooked and / or secured by the auxiliary hook 52. Figure 10B As depicted, in some embodiments, the auxiliary hook 52 may be attached to the seat base 18 and form a surface under which the tether 46 may be secured when the airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position.

[0071] Now for reference Figure 11A and Figure 11B In some embodiments, anchoring feature 50 may include a cable 54 coupled to tether 46. In various embodiments, cable 54 may be coupled to tether 46 when airbag assembly 38 is in a pre-deployment position and a deployed position. In some embodiments, when airbag assembly 38 is in the pre-deployment position, cable 54 may be at least partially disposed within seat base 18 and / or seat back 22. In some embodiments, cable 54 may be coupled to seat base 18. In some embodiments, cable 54 may be operatively coupled to retractor 56, which is coupled to seat base 18. Retractor 56 may be configured to retract cable 54. In some embodiments, retractor 56 may be configured to retract cable 54 when airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position. It is contemplated that retractor 56 may be prompted to retract cable 54 by at least one of the following: sudden stop of vehicle 10, receipt of a signal from controller 70, deployment of airbag assembly 38, and / or combinations thereof. The retractor 56 can be any suitable mechanism (e.g., a winch) for winding up the cable 54.

[0072] In operation, such as Figure 11A As shown in the canonical diagram, when the airbag assembly 38 is in the pre-deployment position, the cable 54 may initially be located within the seat base 18 and / or seat back 22. When the airbag assembly 38 moves from the pre-deployment position to the deployment position, the cable 54 may be removed from the seat base 18 and / or seat back 22 as the airbag assembly 38 deploys and the fastener 46 moves out of the seat back 22. This may cause the cable 54 to slack, such as... Figure 11B The cable 54 is depicted as a phantom image. Then, the retractor 56 can wind up the cable 54 and tighten the slack portion (see [reference]). Figure 11B (The non-phasing cable 54 in the image). In some embodiments, the retractor 56 may be configured to retract the cable 54 until a certain length of the cable 54 has been retracted. In various embodiments, the cable 54 may be configured to limit and / or bias the upward movement of the tether 46 and / or the airbag assembly 38 relative to the seat assembly.

[0073] Now for reference Figures 9A to 10B The anchoring feature 50 can operate in various positions. In some embodiments, when the airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position, movement of the anchoring feature 50 can allow the tether 46 to be hooked and / or secured by the anchoring feature 50.

[0074] In some embodiments where the anchoring feature 50 includes an armrest 30, the armrest 30 may be operable between a first position and a second position. In some embodiments, movement from the first position to the second position may include moving the armrest 30 upward or downward relative to the seat assembly. For example, according to one example, the support member 32 of the armrest 30 is depicted moving between a lowered position and a raised position. Figures 9A to 9B The movement of the handrail 30 from a first position to a second position can be demonstrated. It is conceivable that the movement of the handrail 30 between the first and second positions may include at least one of a variety of movements of the handrail 30, the support member 32, and / or the pad 34. For example, the movement of the handrail 30 between the first and second positions may include, but is not limited to: movement of the handrail 30, the support member 32, and / or the pad 34 between a raised position and a lowered position, between an inward position and an outward position, between a forward position and a backward position, and / or combinations thereof.

[0075] In some embodiments where the anchoring feature 50 includes an auxiliary hook 52, the auxiliary hook 52 may be operable between a retracted position and a used position. In some embodiments, the auxiliary hook 52 may be moved upward relative to the seat assembly from the retracted position to the used position, the retracted position and the used position respectively as shown in the figures below. Figure 10A and Figure 10BAs shown. In some embodiments, the auxiliary hook 52 can be moved between a retracted position and a used position by moving forward, backward, upward, downward, inward, outward, and / or in combinations thereof, pivoting, sliding, and / or articulating. It is conceivable that, similar to the armrest 30, the auxiliary hook 52 can be moved between the retracted and used positions by a variety of means (e.g., an electric motor, a threaded drive screw, a recirculating ball bearing nut, a solenoid, etc.). In some embodiments, when the auxiliary hook 52 is in the retracted position, the auxiliary hook 52 can be substantially hidden out of the view of the occupants of the vehicle 10.

[0076] Now for reference Figure 12 As mentioned above, the seat assembly 14 may include a controller 70, which may be configured to receive various inputs 78 and control various outputs. According to various embodiments, the controller 70 may be a shared or dedicated controller, as shown, including a microprocessor 72 and a memory 74. It should be understood that the controller 70 may include control circuitry, such as analog and / or digital control circuitry. Logic 76, stored in the memory 74 and executed by the microprocessor 72, is used to process the various inputs 78 and control the various outputs described herein. Inputs 78 to the controller 70 may include an occupant presence signal 80, which may be obtained from another controller via a vehicle data communication line or a shared bus and may indicate the presence of an occupant in the seat assembly 14. The presence of an occupant in the seat assembly 14 may be determined by various methods and / or by various features (e.g., weight sensors, proximity sensors, etc.). Additionally, the controller 70 may receive an anchoring feature position signal 82 as input 78. The anchoring feature position signal 82 may be obtained from another controller and may indicate the position of the anchoring feature 50. For example, in an embodiment where the anchoring feature 50 includes an auxiliary hook 52, the anchoring feature position signal 82 may indicate that the auxiliary hook 52 is in a retracted position, an active position, or a position between the retracted and active positions.

[0077] Additionally, the controller 70 may receive a threat prediction signal 84 as input 78. The threat prediction signal 84 may indicate various conditions. In some embodiments, the threat prediction signal 84 may indicate the likelihood of a collision. In other words, the threat prediction signal 84 may indicate the likelihood of the vehicle 10 colliding with an object outside the vehicle 10. The likelihood of a collision can be determined by considering at least one of a series of factors, including but not limited to: the speed of the vehicle 10, the rate of deceleration of the vehicle 10, the proximity of the vehicle 10 to the object, the size and / or shape of the object, the direction of movement of the vehicle 10 relative to the object, the direction of movement of the object relative to the vehicle 10, and / or the speed of movement of the object. Collision likelihood factors may be determined by a variety of devices, including but not limited to cameras, proximity sensors, and / or radar sensors. It is conceivable that a variety of other features may be employed to determine the factors contributing to the likelihood of a collision.

[0078] Further reference Figure 12 The controller 70 can classify the threat prediction signal 84 into at least one of a plurality of threat levels 88. In some embodiments, the threat prediction signal 84 can be classified into at least one of a first threat level 90, a second threat level 92, and a third threat level 94. In an example where the threat prediction signal 84 indicates a collision probability, the first threat level 90 can indicate a lower collision probability than the second threat level 92 and the third threat level 94. The second threat level 92 can indicate a higher collision probability than the first threat level 90 and a lower collision probability than the third threat level 94. The third threat level 94 can indicate a higher collision probability than the first threat level 90 and the second threat level 92.

[0079] In some embodiments, input 78 to controller 70 may include various other signals, such as signals from other controllers within vehicle 10 and / or signals sent to controller 70 via occupant activation switches. Controller 70 may also connect to, interact with, and / or control various other components of vehicle 10 (e.g., seat assembly 14, propulsion feature 44, anchoring feature 50, airbag assembly 38, locking feature 68, retractor 56, etc.) directly and / or through communication with another controller, control these components and their functions (e.g., movement, movement speed, activation, engagement, deployment, etc.). For example, controller 70 may facilitate movement of anchoring feature 50 between multiple positions and deployment of airbag assembly 38. In some examples, controller 70 may facilitate such action by receiving input 78 (e.g., threat prediction signal 84) and utilizing microprocessor 72 to execute logic 76 stored in memory 74.

[0080] refer to Figure 13 A method for operating a vehicle seat assembly 110 is disclosed. The method may include step 112: receiving at least one input 78. As discussed above, a controller 70 may receive the input 78 from various sources. In various embodiments, the input 78 may include an occupant presence signal 80, an anchoring feature location signal 82, a threat prediction signal 84, and / or various other signals. In some embodiments, upon receiving a threat prediction signal 84, the controller 70 may classify the threat prediction signal 84 into at least one of a plurality of threat levels 88 (e.g., a first threat level 90, a second threat level 92, and a third threat level 94). The controller 70 may determine changes in the threat level 88. In some embodiments, the controller 70 may determine changes in the threat level 88 by utilizing logic 76 within a memory 74 and / or a microprocessor 72.

[0081] Next, the method of operating the vehicle seat assembly 110 may include step 114: positioning the anchoring feature 50. As discussed above, in embodiments where the anchoring feature 50 includes an armrest 30, positioning the anchoring feature 50 may include moving the armrest 30 from a first position to a second position. In embodiments where the anchoring feature 50 includes an auxiliary hook 52, positioning the anchoring feature 50 may include moving the auxiliary hook 52 from a retracted position to a used position.

[0082] In various embodiments, the anchoring feature 50 may be positioned in response to the controller 70 receiving at least one input 78. In some embodiments, the anchoring feature 50 may move between multiple positions in response to an occupant presence signal 80. In some embodiments, the anchoring feature 50 may move between multiple positions in response to a threat prediction signal 84, a classification of the threat prediction signal 84 to a threat level 88, and / or a determination of a change in threat level 88. For example, in response to the controller 70 determining that the threat prediction signal 84 has been reclassified from a first threat level 90 to a second threat level 92, the armrest 30 may move from a first position to a second position. In some examples, the auxiliary hook 52 may move from a retracted position to a used position in response to a change in threat level 88.

[0083] Next, the method of operating the vehicle seat assembly 110 may include step 116: deploying the airbag assembly 38. As discussed above, the airbag assembly 38 may deploy from the seat back 22, headrest 26, and / or features connected to the seat back 22 and / or headrest 26 (e.g., external airbag compartment). In some embodiments, the airbag assembly 38 may deploy from within the seat back 22, headrest 26, and / or features connected to the seat back 22 and / or headrest 26 (e.g., external airbag compartment).

[0084] In various embodiments, the airbag assembly 38 may be configured to deploy in response to the controller 70 receiving at least one input 78. In some embodiments, the airbag assembly 38 may be configured to deploy in response to a threat prediction signal 84, a classification of the threat prediction signal 84 to at least one of threat level 88, and / or a determination of a change in threat level 88. For example, the airbag assembly 38 may deploy in response to the controller 70 determining that the threat prediction signal 84 has been reclassified from a second threat level 94 to a third threat level 94.

[0085] Next, the method of operating the vehicle seat assembly 110 may include step 118: restricting movement of the airbag assembly 38 using a tether 46 coupled to the airbag assembly 38. In some embodiments, the tether 46 may restrict forward movement of the airbag assembly 38 relative to the seat assembly. In some embodiments, the tether 46 may restrict upward movement of the airbag assembly 38 relative to the seat assembly. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the tether 46 may restrict movement of the airbag assembly 38 in multiple directions relative to the seat assembly, and / or bias the airbag assembly 38 in multiple directions relative to the seat assembly.

[0086] Next, the method of operating the vehicle seat assembly 110 may include step 120: limiting the movement of the tether 46 connected to the airbag assembly 38 using an anchoring feature 50 coupled to at least one of the seat back 22 and the seat base 18. In some embodiments, the anchoring feature 50 may limit upward movement of the tether 46 relative to the seat assembly. In some embodiments, the anchoring feature 50 may limit inward movement of the tether 46 relative to the seat assembly. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the anchoring feature 50 may limit movement of the tether 46 in multiple directions relative to the seat assembly, and / or bias the tether 46 in multiple directions relative to the seat assembly. As discussed above, the anchoring feature 50 may include at least one of the armrest 30, the auxiliary hook 52, and the cable 54. In some embodiments, step 120 of limiting the movement of the tether 46 with the anchoring feature 50 may include securing and / or hooking the tether 46 below the anchoring feature 50.

[0087] Next, the method of operating the vehicle seat assembly 110 may include step 122: winding the cable 54 into the retractor 56. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the retractor 56 may be configured to wind the cable 54 until a certain length of the cable 54 has been wound up or a certain length of the cable 54 remains unwound. In some embodiments, the cable 54 may be wound up in response to slack in the cable 54 and / or deployment of the airbag assembly 38.

[0088] In some embodiments, cable 54 may be wound up by reel 56 in response to controller 70 receiving at least one input 78. In some embodiments, cable 54 may be wound up in response to occupant presence signal 80. In some embodiments, cable 54 may be wound up in response to threat prediction signal 84, a classification of threat prediction signal 84 to threat level 88, and / or a determination of a change in threat level 88. For example, cable 54 may be wound up in response to controller 70 determining that threat prediction signal 84 has been reclassified from a first threat level 90 to a second threat level 92.

[0089] It should be understood that, unless otherwise specifically stated in the claims, the steps of the method of operating the vehicle seat assembly 110 do not need to be performed in the order listed above.

[0090] Using this disclosure provides several advantages. First, the airbag assembly 38 can be coupled to and move with the seat assembly 14, thus providing protection for the occupant regardless of the seat assembly 14's position within the vehicle 10. Second, when the airbag assembly 38 is in the deployed position, the tether 46 restricts the movement of the airbag assembly 38, which increases the safety of the seat occupant in the event of a crash. Third, the anchoring feature 50 restricts the upward movement of the tether 46 relative to the seat assembly, which in turn restricts the upward movement of the airbag assembly 38 relative to the seat assembly, thereby increasing the safety of the seat occupant in the event of a rollover of the vehicle 10 by holding the airbag assembly 38 in its correct deployed position.

[0091] It should be understood that changes and modifications can be made to the above structure without departing from the concept of the invention, and it should also be understood that these concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless expressly stated otherwise in their language.

[0092] According to the present invention, a vehicle seat assembly is provided, comprising: a seat back connected to a seat base; an airbag assembly connected to the seat back and configured to deploy from the seat back; a tether connected to the airbag assembly and at least one of the seat back and the seat base; a cable connected to the tether; and a retractor connected to the seat base and configured to retract the cable.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the airbag assembly includes a side airbag configured to deploy from the side of the seat back.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the airbag assembly further includes an overhead airbag configured to deploy laterally inward of the side airbag relative to the seat assembly.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the retractor is further configured to retract the cable when the airbag is in the deployed position.

[0096] According to one embodiment, when the airbag assembly is in the pre-deployment position, the cable is partially disposed within at least one of the seat base and the seat back.

[0097] According to the present invention, a vehicle seat assembly is provided, comprising: a seat back connected to a seat base; an airbag assembly connected to the seat back and configured to deploy from the seat back; a fastener connected to the airbag assembly and at least one of the seat back and the seat base; and an anchoring feature configured to restrict upward movement of the fastener relative to the seat assembly and connected to at least one of the seat back and the seat base.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the airbag assembly includes a side airbag configured to deploy from the side of the seat back.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the airbag assembly further includes an overhead airbag configured to deploy laterally inward of the side airbag relative to the seat assembly.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the anchoring feature includes: a cable; and a retractor configured to retract the cable.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the anchoring feature includes an auxiliary hook that is connected to the seat base.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the auxiliary hook is operable between a retracted position and a used position.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the anchoring feature includes: a handrail.

[0104] According to the present invention, a method of operating a vehicle seat assembly includes: deploying an airbag assembly from a seat back of the vehicle seat assembly, the vehicle seat assembly including a seat base coupled to the seat back; restricting forward movement of the airbag assembly relative to the seat assembly using a fastener coupled to the airbag assembly; and restricting upward movement of the fastener relative to the seat assembly using an anchoring feature coupled to the seat base.

[0105] According to one embodiment, a further feature of the above invention is the step of: locating the anchoring feature.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the anchoring feature is an auxiliary hook.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the step of positioning the anchoring feature includes the step of moving the auxiliary hook from a retracted position to a used position.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the anchoring feature is a handrail.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the step of locating the anchoring feature includes the step of moving the handrail from a first position to a second position.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the anchoring feature is a cable connected to the tether.

[0111] According to one embodiment, a further feature of the above invention is the step of winding the cable into a retractor, the retractor being connected to the seat base.

Claims

1. A vehicle seat assembly comprising: A seat backrest, which is connected to a seat base; An airbag assembly, the airbag assembly being attached to the seat back and configured to deploy from the seat back; A fastening element, the fastening element being connected to at least one of the airbag assembly and the seat back and the seat base; as well as An anchoring feature, the anchoring feature being configured to restrict upward movement of the tether relative to the seat assembly and to be coupled to at least one of the seat back and the seat base; The anchoring feature includes an auxiliary hook that is attached to the seat base and is operable between a stowed position and a used position.

2. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the airbag assembly comprises: Side airbags, which are configured to deploy from the side of the seat back.

3. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 2, wherein the airbag assembly further comprises: A roof-mounted airbag is configured to deploy laterally inward of the side airbag relative to the seat assembly.

4. The vehicle seat assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, wherein the anchoring feature comprises: Cables; as well as A retractor configured to wind up the cable.

5. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the anchoring feature comprises: armrest.

6. A method of operating a vehicle seat assembly, comprising: The airbag assembly deploys from the seat back of the vehicle seat assembly, the vehicle seat assembly including a seat base connected to the seat back. The forward movement of the airbag assembly relative to the seat assembly is limited by a fastener attached to the airbag assembly. as well as The anchoring feature attached to the seat base is used to limit the upward movement of the fastener relative to the seat assembly; The anchoring feature is an auxiliary hook, and the steps for positioning the anchoring feature include the following steps: Move the auxiliary hook from the retracted position to the usable position.

7. The method of operating a vehicle seat assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein the anchoring feature is an armrest.

8. The method of operating a vehicle seat assembly as claimed in claim 7, wherein the step of locating the anchoring feature includes the steps of: Move the handrail from the first position to the second position.

9. The method of operating a vehicle seat assembly as claimed in any one of claims 6-8, wherein the anchoring feature is a cable connected to the tether.

10. The method of operating a vehicle seat assembly as claimed in claim 9, further comprising the step of: The cable is wound into a retractor, which is connected to the seat base.

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