Vehicle seat device

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a "vehicle seat device". A vehicle seat device includes a first seat and a first seat back. A side wing seat extends from the first seat. A surface of the side wing seat is vertically displaced from a surface of the first seat.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to vehicles. More specifically, this disclosure relates to vehicle seating arrangements. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle seating systems typically comprise multiple vehicle seat components. These systems sometimes incorporate comfort or convenience features such as storage solutions, armrests, and cushioning. However, there is a need for new solutions tailored to consumer needs, offering a more holistic and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle seating arrangement includes a first seat and a first seat back. Side wing seats extend from the first seat. The surface of the side wing seats is vertically displaced from the surface of the first seat.

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

[0005] The vehicle seat assembly further includes a side wing seat back extending from the first seat back, wherein the surface of the side wing seat back is longitudinally displaced from the first seat back, wherein the first seat and the first seat back define a first seat assembly, and wherein the side wing seat and the side wing seat back cooperate to provide a second seat assembly.

[0006] • The surface of the side wing seat is vertically displaced to be above the surface of the first seat;

[0007] • The side wing seat backrest is moved longitudinally backward from the first seat backrest;

[0008] • The first seat assembly and the second seat assembly are slidably mounted on the floor of the vehicle such that the floor area directly below the first seat of the first seat assembly does not engage with any components of the vehicle seat assembly;

[0009] • The side wing seats are provided with at least one storage area;

[0010] The vehicle seating assembly also includes armrests connected to the backrest of the side wing seat;

[0011] • The armrest can be extended from the side wing seat back;

[0012] • The armrest can be unfolded from the side wing seat back by extending the armrest from the upper part of the side wing seat back and then rotating the armrest in a downward direction;

[0013] • The armrest can be extended from the side wing seat back by an upward rotational movement away from the side wing seat back;

[0014] • The vehicle seat assembly also includes an deployable hip cushion;

[0015] • The buttock cushion can be unfolded from the first seat back;

[0016] The vehicle seat assembly also includes an armrest that can be deployed from the back of the first seat;

[0017] The armrest extends by a first movement in a lateral direction outward from the first seat back and a second movement in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction; and

[0018] The vehicle seating assembly further includes a third seat assembly positioned adjacent to the second seat assembly, wherein the side wing seat back of the second seat assembly is at least partially supported on the third seat assembly.

[0019] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle seating arrangement includes a first seat and a first seat back. Side wing seats and side wing seat backs extend from the first seat and the first seat back, respectively. The surface of the side wing seats is vertically displaced from the surface of the first seat. The side wing seat backs are longitudinally displaced from the seat back. Armrests can be deployed from the side wing seat backs.

[0020] Embodiments of the second aspect of this disclosure may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0021] The armrest extends by a first movement in a lateral direction outward from the first seat back and a second movement in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction; and

[0022] The vehicle seat assembly also includes a hip cushion that can be deployed from the first seat back.

[0023] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle seating arrangement includes a first seat and a first seat back. Side wing seats and side wing seat backs extend from the first seat and the first seat back, respectively. The surface of the side wing seat is vertically displaced from the surface of the first seat. The side wing seat includes one or more storage areas. The side wing seat back is longitudinally displaced from the first seat back.

[0024] Embodiments of the third aspect of this disclosure may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0025] The vehicle seat assembly also includes a ventilation opening located inside the first seat and pointing towards the rear of the side wing seat.

[0026] Upon studying the following specification, claims, and drawings, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate these and other aspects, objectives, and features of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0027] In the attached diagram:

[0028] Figure 1 This is a side perspective view of the vehicle, showing the first and second row seats;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a front perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the side wings;

[0030] Figure 3 This is a rear perspective view of the first row of seats according to one embodiment, showing a vehicle seat assembly connected to a guide rail;

[0031] Figure 4 This is a front perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to another embodiment, showing the vehicle seat assembly connected to a guide rail;

[0032] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of a side wing seat according to one embodiment, showing the seat frame, side wing support tube, seat bracket, and seat cushion material;

[0033] Figure 6 According to one embodiment, along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI shows the armrests and storage area;

[0034] Figure 7A This is a top perspective view of the first row of seats according to one embodiment, showing the vehicle seating arrangement and center console;

[0035] Figure 7B This is a top perspective view of the first row of seats according to another embodiment, showing the vehicle seating arrangement and center console;

[0036] Figure 7C This is a top perspective view of the first row of seats according to one embodiment, showing the vehicle seating arrangement and center console;

[0037] Figure 8 This is a front perspective view of the vehicle seating arrangement, showing the occupant using the armrests and the access door to the storage area in the open position;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a front perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the storage area;

[0039] Figure 10A This is a front perspective view of a vehicle seating arrangement according to one embodiment, showing a passageway door;

[0040] Figure 10B This is a front perspective view of a vehicle seating arrangement according to another embodiment, showing a passageway door;

[0041] Figure 11A This is a rear perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment;

[0042] Figure 11B According to one embodiment, along Figure 11A The unfolded diagram taken from the XIB-XIB line shows the vehicle seat assembly;

[0043] Figure 12A This is a top perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the armrest in the retracted position;

[0044] Figure 12B This is a top perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the armrest in an upwardly extended position;

[0045] Figure 12C This is a top perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the armrest in the unfolded position;

[0046] Figure 13A This is a side perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the armrest in the stowed position and the buttock cushion in the retracted position.

[0047] Figure 13B This is a side perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the armrest in the retracted position and the buttock cushion in the extended position;

[0048] Figure 14A This is a side perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the armrest in the folded position;

[0049] Figure 14B This is a side perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing the armrest in the unfolded position;

[0050] Figure 15A This is a side perspective view of the first row of seats according to one embodiment, showing the side wing;

[0051] Figure 15B This is a side perspective view of the first row of seats according to one embodiment, showing the side wings with armrests in the deployed position;

[0052] Figure 15C This is a front perspective view of the first row of seats according to one embodiment, showing the side wing with armrests and storage area;

[0053] Figure 16 This is a side view of a vehicle seating arrangement according to one embodiment, showing the central console;

[0054] Figure 17 According to one embodiment, along Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the vehicle's seating arrangement and center console taken along the XVII-XVII line;

[0055] Figure 18 According to another embodiment, along Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the vehicle's seating arrangement and center console taken along the XVII-XVII line;

[0056] Figure 19A According to one embodiment, along Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the vehicle's seating arrangement and center console taken along the XVII-XVII line;

[0057] Figure 19B According to another embodiment along Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the vehicle's seating arrangement and center console taken along the XVII-XVII line;

[0058] Figure 20 This is a front perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to one embodiment, showing a third seat assembly; and

[0059] Figure 21 This is a side perspective view of a vehicle according to one embodiment, showing the first row of seats and the second row of seats. Detailed Implementation

[0060] For the purposes of this description, the terms “up,” “down,” “right,” “left,” “back,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and their derivatives should be used interchangeably with those used in this document. Figure 1 The concept of orientation is relevant. However, it should be understood that the concept can take on various alternative orientations unless expressly stated otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific apparatus and processes shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept defined in the appended claims. Therefore, unless expressly stated otherwise in the claims, the specific dimensions and other physical characteristics associated with the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

[0061] The embodiments shown here primarily concern combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to vehicle seating arrangements. Therefore, apparatus components and method steps have been indicated where appropriate by conventional symbols in the accompanying drawings, with only those specific details relevant to understanding embodiments of this disclosure shown so as not to obscure the disclosure by details that would be obvious to those skilled in the art benefiting from the description herein. Furthermore, the same reference numerals in the specification and drawings denote the same elements.

[0062] As used herein, the term “and / or” in a list of two or more items means that any one 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, 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.

[0063] In this document, relevant terms (such as first and second, top and bottom, etc.) are used only to distinguish one entity or action from another, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprising,” “including,” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus. An element preceded by “comprising…” does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus that includes that element, unless further constraints are imposed.

[0064] refer to Figure 1 The vehicle is typically indicated by reference numeral 30. Vehicle 30 includes an instrument panel assembly 34, first-row seats 38, and second-row seats 42. The instrument panel assembly 34 includes a steering wheel 46, an instrument panel 50, and an entertainment interface 54. The first-row seats 38 are equipped with vehicle seating units 58. Vehicle seating units 58 may be equipped with armrests 62 and one or more cup holders 66.

[0065] Now for reference Figure 2 and Figure 3The vehicle seating assembly 58 includes a first seat assembly 70. The first seat assembly 70 is equipped with a seat 74 and a seat back 78. Alternatively, the seat 74 and seat back 78 of the first seat assembly 70 may be referred to as a first seat and a first seat back, respectively. A side wing 82 extends from the seat 74 and seat back 78 of the first seat assembly 70 to provide a second seat assembly 86. The side wing 82 includes a side wing seat 90 and a side wing seat back 94. In the depicted example, the surface of the side wing seat 90 is vertically displaced from the surface of the seat 74. For example, the surface of the side wing seat 90 may be vertically displaced to be above the surface of the seat 74. Alternatively, the surface of the side wing seat 90 may be vertically displaced to be below the surface of the seat 74. The side wing seat back 94 may be longitudinally displaced from the seat back 78. For example, the side wing seat back 94 may be longitudinally displaced behind the seat back 78. Alternatively, the side wing seatback 94 may be longitudinally displaced in front of the seat back 78. In the example where the surface of the side wing seat 90 is vertically displaced above the surface of the seat 74 and the side wing seatback 94 is longitudinally displaced in front of the seat back 78, the integral connection between the first seat assembly 70 and the second seat assembly 86 may provide the first seat assembly 70 with a seat cushion 98 and a seat back cushion 102. The first seat assembly 70 and the second seat assembly 86 may be slidably mounted to the floor 106 of the vehicle 30 such that the area 110 of the floor 106 directly beneath the seat 74 of the first seat assembly 70 does not engage with components of the vehicle seating assembly 58. The third seat assembly 114 may be positioned adjacent to the second seat assembly 86. The third seat assembly 114 may operate independently of the first seat assembly 70 and the second seat assembly 86. The third seat assembly 114 may be coupled to the floor 106 in a manner similar to that of the first seat assembly 70 and the second seat assembly 86, which are part of the vehicle seating assembly 58. The wing 82 essentially closes the gap between the second seat assembly 86 and the third seat assembly 114, thereby reducing the likelihood of an occupant losing personal belongings between them. The integral connection of the first seat assembly 70 and the second seat assembly 86 completely eliminates the possibility of an occupant losing personal belongings between them. Furthermore, the integral connection reduces the difficulty for an occupant to slide through the first seat assembly 70 to occupy the second seat assembly 86, and further reduces the difficulty experienced by an occupant of the first seat assembly 70 attempting to clear cargo from the second seat assembly 86 and / or the center console.

[0066] Refer again Figure 2 and Figure 3The slidable connection between the first seat assembly 70 and the second seat assembly 86 and the floor 106 can be achieved via a plurality of guide rails 118. The plurality of guide rails 118 may include a lower guide rail 122 directly connected to the floor 106 and an upper guide rail 126 directly connected to the vehicle seat assembly 58. One of the plurality of guide rails 118 may engage with the vehicle seat assembly 58 on the outer side of the first seat assembly 70. Another of the plurality of guide rails 118 may engage with a central platform 130 in the floor 106 located below the side wing seats 90. Therefore, the first seat assembly 70 can be completely suspended above the floor 106 between the outer side of the first seat assembly 70 and the central platform 130. In the depicted embodiment, the plurality of guide rails 118 includes two rails; however, it is contemplated that more or fewer guide rails 118 may be used without departing from the concept of this disclosure.

[0067] refer to Figure 4 The vehicle seat assembly 58 can be connected to the floor 106 via a plurality of rails 118. In the depicted embodiment, the plurality of rails 118 includes three rails that can be used to slidably connect the vehicle seat assembly 58 to the floor 106. Two of the rails 118 are connected to the underside of the seat 74 of the first seat assembly 70. The third of the rails 118 operatively connects a side wing 82 to a central platform 130 in the floor 106 such that the side wing 82 is supported by at least one of the rails 118. For example, the side wing 82 may be supported by a rail 118 positioned on the central platform 130 and may also be at least partially supported by a rail 118 connected to the seat 74 on the inner side of the first seat assembly 70. In the depicted example, the side wing 82 includes a side wing seat 90 but may not include a side wing seat back 94. Since the side wing seat back 94 is not included, the armrest 62 may be operatively connected to the seat back 78 of the first seat assembly 70. The armrest 62 is pivotally connected to the seat back 78 and can operate between a stowed position and an extended position. The stowed position of the armrest 62 can be generally vertical and parallel to the seat back 78, while the extended position of the armrest 62 can be a generally horizontal position, generally parallel to the seat 74. The extension of the armrest 62 from the stowed position can be achieved by rotational movement about a pivot axis of the armrest 62 in the forward or rearward direction of the vehicle. When the armrest 62 pivots in the rearward direction of the vehicle, the armrest 62 can be used by passengers seated behind the first-row seats 38 as a surface for placing items or for purposes generally desired by the passengers.

[0068] Now for reference Figure 5The seat frame 134 for the first seat assembly 70 may include a hole 136 configured to allow optional mounting of a side wing support tube 138. Therefore, the seat frame 134 for the first seat assembly 70 can be used in vehicle seat assemblies that include or omit side wings 82. The side wing support tube 138 can be operatively coupled to the hole 136 in the seat frame 134 via one or more fasteners 142. A seat bracket 146 can be coupled to the upper side of the seat frame 134 and the side wing support tube 138. The seat bracket 146 may define the intended profile of the vehicle seat assembly 58. Additionally or alternatively, the seat bracket 146 may include a profile that allows additional functions to be selectively coupled to the vehicle seat assembly 58, as will be described in further detail below. The shape of the side wing support tube 138 may complement and / or generally allow additional functions to be coupled to the vehicle seat assembly 58. The seat cushion material 150 can be attached to the upper side of the seat bracket 146 to provide cushioning, support, and comfort for the occupants of the vehicle seat assembly 58. The seat back 78 and the side wing seat back 94 can be configured similarly to the seat 74 and the side wing seat 90, as described above.

[0069] refer to Figure 6 Vehicle 30 and vehicle seating unit 58 are along Figure 2The image is shown in a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI. In the depicted example, the armrest 62 is separate from the side wing seat back 94. The armrest 62 is integrally formed with the seat back 78 and extends in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to the side wing seat 90. In some examples, the armrest 62 may extend rearward beyond the rear surface of the seat back 78. The front surface 158 of the armrest 62 may serve as at least a portion of the side wing seat back 94, while also serving as an element separate from the side wing seat back 94. In other words, depending on the occupancy status of the second seat assembly 86, the armrest 62 can be used for more than one purpose. For example, when the second seat assembly 86 is not occupied, the occupant of the first seat assembly 70 may use the armrest 62 as an armrest. When the second seat assembly 86 is occupied, the armrest 62 may support the occupant's back in the middle or upper region of the occupant's back, while the side wing seat back 94 supports the lower part of the occupant's back or lumbar region. It is anticipated that, in some examples, the armrest 62 can be used simultaneously by the occupants of the first seat assembly 70 and the second seat assembly 86. The side wing seat 90 may be provided with at least one storage area. For example, the storage area provided in the side wing seat 90 may include, but is not limited to, a storage box 162, one or more cup holders 66, a media storage area 166, and combinations thereof. In some examples, the storage box 162 and the media storage area 166 may be interconnected around the cup holders 66, such that a larger storage area is provided with various storage locations of different sizes. Further anticipated, instead of the media storage area 166, the storage area may alternatively be one of the cup holders 66, which are provided with different sizes or diameters to accommodate beverage containers of various sizes. The storage area located within the side wing seat 90 may be covered by a passageway door 170. The passageway door 170 may be flexible, rigid, or a combination of both. In one example, the passageway door 170 may be a fabric-covered drum-shaped door. In various examples, the passageway door 170 may be retractably connected to the side wing seat 90. Alternatively, the passageway door 170 may be hingedly connected to the side wing seat 90.

[0070] See Figures 7A to 7C The wing 82 can travel on the center console 174, instead of being equipped with wing seats 90 and wing seat backs 94. Figure 2 In some examples, the flank 82 may be omitted, allowing the first seat assembly 70 to travel independently of the second seat assembly 86 and / or the third seat assembly 114, such as... Figure 7BThe example is depicted in the illustration. Regardless of whether the side wings 82 are used, the first seat assembly 70 may be equipped with armrests 62. When the first seat assembly 70 is actuated in the longitudinal direction, the armrests 62 extend outward from the first seat assembly 70 and generally travel on the center console 174. The side wings 82 and / or the center console 174 may be equipped with a gear shift knob 178, a quick access bay 182, one or more cup holders 66, a media storage area 166, and / or combinations thereof. The center console 174 may include a storage compartment 162, which may be covered by an access door 170. The access door 170 may include a height perforation 186 that allows the access door 170 to be in a closed position while holding tall items, such as beverage bottles 190. In some examples, the storage compartment 162 may be provided with conditioned air (e.g., heated or cooled) or generally with a temperature-controlled environment, such that items stored within the storage compartment 162 can be kept warm or cool.

[0071] Now for reference Figures 8 to 10B Various examples illustrate a channel door 170 and the storage area covered by the channel door 170. The channel door 170 may be rigid. Figure 8 ), flexible, or a combination of rigid and flexible ( Figure 9 The passageway door 170 can close over a storage area in the side wing seat 90 in various ways. For example, the passageway door can be hinged to the inside of the second seat assembly 86 and is typically supported by a support structure 194. In some examples, the support structure 194 supporting the passageway door 170 when it is in the closed position can be a seat bracket 146. The passageway door 170 may be provided with one or more movable hinges 198. The movable hinges 198 may be separated by a rigid panel 202. The passageway door 170 may be a flexible material hinged to the inside of the second seat assembly 86. The hinged connection of the passageway door 170 can be implemented in a variety of ways, including but not limited to stitching the passageway door 170 to the side wing seat 90; providing a movable hinge at the junction of the passageway door 170 and the side wing seat 90; providing a conventional hinge at the junction of the passageway door 170 and the side wing seat 90; or any other suitable hinged connection.

[0072] Refer again Figures 8 to 10BIn some examples, the passageway door 170 can be sealably coupled to the side wing seat 90 at a position removed from the inside, where the passageway door 170 is hingedly coupled to the side wing seat 90. The sealable coupling can be accomplished using magnets, push-push mechanisms, and / or one or more zipper assemblies 206. In examples utilizing more than one zipper assembly 206, tall items, such as beverage bottles 190, can be held by partially closing the zipper assembly 206 around the beverage bottle 190. Therefore, the tall item hole 186 can be formed by selective actuation of the zipper assembly 206. In embodiments using a single zipper assembly 206, the tall item hole 186 can still be formed by selective actuation of the zipper assembly 206. However, having a single zipper assembly 206 limits the possible location of the tall item hole 186 to the area near the fully closed position of the zipper assembly 206. Figure 10A Example of using more than one zipper component 206 (). Figure 10B The user can position the high item opening 186 in a desired location. The storage area covered by the passageway door 170 may include one or more cup holders 66, storage compartments 162, media storage areas 166, and / or combinations thereof. The passageway door 170 may be provided with sufficient support from the support structure 194 so that the passageway door 170 can support the weight of the occupant seated in the second seat assembly 86. In an example where the passageway door 170 is flexible, the passageway door 170 may be padded to provide comfort for the occupant of the second seat assembly 86 and prevent the occupant of the second seat assembly 86 from feeling the contours or structures of the storage area housed within the side wing seat 90. The armrest 62 may be integrally and permanently formed in the side wing seat backrest 94, making the armrest 62 a rigid component. Figure 8 In the example depicted, the armrest 62 extends the side wing seat back 94 in the forward direction of the vehicle to at least partially extend beyond the side wing seat 90, such that the armrest 62 is generally parallel to the side wing seat 90. In such examples, the front surface 158 of the armrest 62 can serve as a back support for the occupant of the second seat assembly 86. The vertical positioning of the armrest 62 takes into account the comfort level of the occupant 210 of the first seat assembly 70, while also considering the comfort and safety of the occupant of the second seat assembly 86.

[0073] Now for reference Figure 11A and Figure 11BThe vehicle seating assembly 58 includes a side wing seat 90 and an armrest 62. In the depicted example, the side wing seat backrest 94 is omitted. Therefore, the depicted example may also omit the second seat assembly 86. Alternatively, the armrest 62 may be configured for a dual purpose, serving as both the armrest 62 and the side wing seat backrest 94. The side wing seat 98 may include an accessory carrying portion 214 positioned such that the side wing seat 90 is located between the seat 74 of the first seat assembly 70 and the accessory carrying portion 214. The accessory carrying portion 214 may be equipped with one or more cup holders 66. The one or more cup holders 66 may be covered by a retractable cover, which may resemble a passageway door 170, allowing the cup holders 66 to be selectively exposed by the user.

[0074] refer to Figures 12A to 12C The vehicle seat assembly 58 is equipped with a first seat assembly 70 and a second seat assembly 86. The side wing 82 includes a side wing seat 90 and a side wing seat back 94, which extend from the seat 74 and seat back 78, respectively. An armrest 62 can be deployed from the side wing seat back 94. In the depicted embodiment, the armrest 62 can be extended vertically from the upper portion 218 of the side wing seat back 94. Figure 12B Then, the armrest 62 is rotated downwards and upwards to unfold from the side wing seat back 94, so that the armrest 62 is in a roughly horizontal position, which is substantially parallel to the side wing seat 90. Figure 12C ).

[0075] refer to Figures 13A to 14B The vehicle seat assembly 58 includes a seat 74 and a seat back 78. The depicted vehicle seat assembly 58 may be a first seat assembly 70 and / or a third seat assembly 114. The vehicle seat assembly 58 may include a deployable hip cushion 222. The deployable hip cushion 222 may be positioned on the outer side of the vehicle seat assembly 58 such that the hip cushion 222 can be in a retracted position (…). Figure 13A ) and the position of the extension ( Figure 13BThe hip cushion 222 is actuated between a retracted position and an extended position. By providing the ability to actuate the hip cushion 222 between a retracted position and an extended position, the difficulty experienced by the user during entry into and / or exit from the vehicle seat assembly 58 can be significantly reduced by placing the hip cushion 222 in the retracted position when the user enters or exits the vehicle 30. During operation of the vehicle 30 and / or during vehicle maneuvering, the hip cushion 222 can be selectively or automatically actuated to an extended position to provide increased lateral support to the occupants of the first seat assembly 70 and / or the third seat assembly 114. The hip cushion 222 can be operatively coupled to one or more of the seat 74 and the seat back 78. Therefore, the hip cushion 222 can be deployed from either the seat 74 or the seat back 78. It is contemplated that in some examples, the hip cushion 222 can be deployed from both the seat 74 and the seat back 78. The armrest 62 in the depicted example can be deployed from the seat back 78. The armrest 62 extends from the seat back 78 by a first movement 226 in the lateral direction outward from the seat back 78 and a second movement 230 in the longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction. When the armrest 62 is actuated laterally and longitudinally from the seat back 78, the armrest can be presented to the occupant of the first seat assembly 70 for use, and the armrest 62 can be substantially parallel to the seat 74.

[0076] Now for reference Figures 15A to 15C The vehicle seating assembly 58 is shown as a component of the first row of seats 38 in vehicle 30. The first row of seats 38 includes a first seat assembly 70, a second seat assembly 86, and a third seat assembly 114. The second seat assembly 86 includes side-bolt seats 90 and side-bolt seat backs 94. Figure 15A and Figure 15B In the example depicted, the side wing seat back 94 can transform into an armrest 62 when rotated actuated in an upward direction away from the rest of the side wing seat back 94. In other words, the armrest 62 can unfold from the side wing seat back 94 by rotational movement away from the upward direction. The seat cushion material 150 of the side wing seat 90 can be configured for retractable actuation of the side wing seat 90 away from the front end 234 of the second seat assembly 86. Actuation of the side wing seat 90 in a rearward direction away from the front end 234 can expose one or more storage areas located beneath the side wing seat 90. The one or more storage areas located beneath the side wing seat 90 may include, but are not limited to, one or more cup holders 66 and storage compartments 162. Thus, the side wing seat 90 can serve a dual purpose, as a passageway 170 leading to the storage areas located beneath the side wing seat 90 and a seat portion of the second seat assembly 86. Figure 15CIn the example depicted, the side wing seatback 94 can rotate upwards to function as an armrest 62, thereby forming front and rear openings 238 that enable a passageway between the first-row seats 38 and the rear seats (e.g., the second-row seats 42). The front and rear openings 238 can allow passengers to pass items between themselves, or can allow large or long items to be inserted through the openings 238 to store large items longitudinally along the travel axis of the vehicle 30. The front and rear openings 238 can also correspond to rear cargo access points (such as similar openings in the second-row seats 42), and / or generally align with the cargo area of ​​the vehicle 30.

[0077] Now for reference Figures 16 to 18 The image shows a vehicle seating assembly 58, wherein side wing seats 90 and side wing seat backs 94 extend from seat 74 and seat backs 78, respectively. Armrests 62 are connected to the seat backs 78 of the first seat assembly 70. Figure 17 ) or side wing seat back 94 ( Figure 18 Regardless of where the armrest is attached to the first seat assembly 70 and / or the second seat assembly 86, the armrest 62 can be pivotally attached, allowing it to rotate about a pivot axis 242. The armrest 62 can pivot in a downward direction from a folded position to an extended position (shown in dashed lines), as... Figure 17 As shown. Alternatively, the armrest 62 can pivot in the upward direction, from a retracted position to an extended position away from the side wing seat back 94, as shown. Figure 18 As shown. When the armrest 62 is in the retracted position, the armrest 62 can be used by the occupant of the second seat assembly 86 as at least part of the side wing seat back 94. Therefore, the armrest 62 can be used as a support in the retracted or extended position. The side wing seat 90 can be equipped with various storage areas. For example, the storage areas can include, but are not limited to, one or more cup holders 66, storage boxes 162, media storage areas 166 and / or combinations thereof. The storage areas can be covered by various closures (such as the passageway door 170). As in the examples described earlier herein, the passageway door 170 can be rigid, flexible, or a combination of rigid and flexible. In various examples, the passageway door 170 can be retractably connected to the side wing seat 90 ( Figure 18 Alternatively, the storage area can always be opened for occupant use. Figure 17 In such examples, the cover 246 may be attached to the upper surface of the side wing seat 90 and shaped as a storage area. It is contemplated that the cover 246 may extend at least partially over some of the storage areas (e.g., see...). Figure 17 Storage box 162 in the middle.

[0078] Refer again Figures 16 to 18Side wing 82 is connected to the first seat assembly 70 such that translational movement of the first seat assembly 70 causes a corresponding translational movement of the side wing 82. Side wing 82 may be positioned above the center console 174 and not in contact with it. The center console 174 may include a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) duct 250 that directs conditioned air 254 from the rear of the vehicle 30 to one or more HVAC outlets 258. The HVAC duct 250 may be a prefabricated duct. Alternatively, the HVAC duct 250 may be at least partially defined by the floor 106 of the vehicle 30 and the superstructure 262 of the center console 174. The HVAC outlets 258 may point towards the seat backs of the rear seat assemblies. Thus, when the HVAC duct 250 approaches the second-row seats 42 ( Figure 1 When the HVAC duct 250 is tilted upwards, it may include a lower structure 264 that is coupled to the floor 106 and defines the lower portion of the HVAC duct 250 as it begins to tilt upwards. Occupants may utilize the top surface 266 of the upper structure 262 to store one or more items 270 thereon. In some examples, the center console 174 may include a rear access area 274. The rear access area 274 may be located at the rear end of the center console 174 and may be accessed by passengers seated behind the center console 174. The rear access area 274 may also be at least partially accessible by occupants in the first row of seats 38. For example, occupants of the first row of seats 38 may access the rear access area 274 when the front end 234 of the vehicle seat assembly 58 is positioned at the rear of the front wall of the rear access area 274.

[0079] refer to Figure 19A and Figure 19BThe armrest 62 of the vehicle seat assembly 58 can define the side wing seat backrest 94, such that actuation of the armrest 62 to the unfolded position can form the front and rear openings 238 described above. The armrest 62 can pivot about the pivot axis 242 to a forward-folded and / or rearward-folded position, as shown by the dashed lines. The side wing seat 90 can be equipped with one or more cup holders 66, media storage boxes 166, additional storage solutions, and / or combinations thereof. The side wing seat 90 can be provided with a passageway door 170 to provide selective access to the storage area housed within the side wing seat 90. As described above, the passageway door 170 can be rigid, flexible, or a combination of rigid and flexible. The passageway door 170 can also be retractably connected to the side wing seat 90. The center console 174 can be equipped with a storage box 162, HVAC ducts 250, and / or a rear access area 274. The storage box 162 can be provided with a cover 278. The cover 278 can be actuated between an open position and a closed position to selectively allow access to the storage compartment 162. Regulated air 254 is exhausted from the HVAC outlet 258. In some examples, the HVAC outlet 258 or vent may be positioned on the inside 282 of the first seat assembly 70 and pointing towards the rear of the second seat assembly 86.

[0080] Now for reference Figure 20 and Figure 21The vehicle seat assembly 58 is equipped with side wings 82. The vehicle seat assembly 58 is positioned in the first row of seats 38 of the vehicle 30. The first row of seats 38 includes a first seat assembly 70, a second seat assembly 86, and a third seat assembly 114. Side wing seats 90 and side wing seat backs 94 are integrally formed with and extend from the seat 74 and seat back 78 of the first seat assembly 70, respectively. The side wing seat back 94 of the second seat assembly 86 may be at least partially supported on the third seat assembly 114. In other words, at least a portion of the side wing seat back 94 may extend from the seat back 78 of the third seat assembly 114. In some examples, the side wing seat back 94 may extend partially from the seat back 78 of each of the first seat assembly 70 and the third seat assembly 114. It is contemplated that the partition of the side wing seat back 94 may be configured to allow the second seat assembly 86 to be occupied, regardless of whether the seat back 78 of the third seat assembly 114 is in a used position or a reclined position. The seat back 78 of the third seat assembly 114 may have a recessed area 286 on its rear side, such that when the seat back 78 of the third seat assembly 114 is placed in a forward-tilted position, the recessed area 286 can be used as an open storage area. When the seat back 78 of the third seat assembly 114 is in the forward-tilted position, at least a portion of the seat back 78 can be held in a generally upright position. The portion of the seat back 78 held in a generally upright position can prevent items stored on the third seat assembly 114 from falling off the third seat assembly 114 in a rearward direction. The portion of the seat back 78 held in a generally upright position may be referred to as the lumbar region 288 of the seat back 78. The recessed area 286 may include a retaining wall 290, which may be configured to help retain items stored in the recessed area 286. The retaining wall 290 may be padded or cushioned. It can be anticipated that when the seat back 78 is in the forward-tilted position, the seat 74 of the third seat assembly 114 can be used to store items, and the retaining wall 290 can help hold the items stored on the seat 74. It can be further anticipated that the seat 74, the lumbar region 288, and the retaining wall 290 can be used as a convenient and comfortable area for the pet to rest.

[0081] Refer again Figure 20 and Figure 21The second-row seats 42 are positioned behind the first-row seats 38 of the vehicle. The second-row seats 42 include seats 74 and seatbacks 78 at each of a plurality of seating positions. The seats 74 of the second-row seats 42 are pivotable about an axis of rotation in the forward direction of the vehicle, such that the seats 74 are positioned generally upright and close to the rear surface of the first-row seats 38. By actuating the second-row seats 42 in this way, a generally flat and / or smooth surface (e.g., floor 106) can be presented to the user, which can be used to store large cargo, provide a resting area for pets in a relatively safe manner, or allow the user to comfortably rest in a substantially horizontal position along the generally flat and / or smooth surface. In an example where the rear side of the seatback 78 of the third seat assembly 114 is generally flat or has at least a generally flat area, the rear side of the seatback 78 can be used as a work surface. Figure 21 ).

[0082] The arrangement of storage solutions and various functions provided in vehicle 30 typically takes into account the occupant's or user's access area. Therefore, limitations may exist when designing new and improved user experiences. Consequently, the vehicle seating arrangement 58 of this disclosure provides various examples of improved user experiences while maintaining storage solutions and various functions within easily accessible areas. Easily accessible areas can be defined by areas accessible to passengers where occupants do not require significant lumbar flexion. For example, the storage solutions and various functions disclosed and provided on the side wing 82 fall well within the easily accessible areas of the occupants of the first seat assembly 70 and / or the second seat assembly 86, regardless of the longitudinal position of the vehicle seating arrangement 58 along the guide rail 118.

[0083] Modifications to this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, as well as to those who make or use the concepts disclosed herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings and described above are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, which is defined by the appended claims as interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law (including the doctrine of equivalents).

[0084] Those skilled in the art will understand that the described concepts and other components are not limited to any particular material. Unless otherwise stated herein, other exemplary embodiments of the concepts disclosed herein may be formed from a variety of materials.

[0085] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "connection" (in all its forms, link, coupling, coupling, etc.) generally means the direct or indirect engagement of two components (electrical or mechanical). Such engagement may be fixed in nature or movable in nature. This engagement may be achieved using two components (electrical or mechanical), and any additional intermediate member may be integrally formed with or integrally connected to the two components. Unless otherwise stated, such engagement may be permanent in nature, or removable or detachable in nature.

[0086] Equally important, it should be noted that the construction and arrangement of the elements of this disclosure as illustrated in the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments of the invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions, parameter values, mounting arrangements, materials used, orientations, etc.) of the various elements without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter. For example, an element shown as integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed; the operation of the interface may be reversed or otherwise varied; the length or width of the structure and / or components or connectors or other elements of the system may be changed; and the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be changed. It should be noted that the elements and / or components of the system may be composed of any of a variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability in any of a variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made in the design, operation, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of this invention.

[0087] It should be understood that any described process or step within a described process may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form a structure within the scope of this disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as restrictive.

[0088] It should also be understood that variations and modifications may be made to the foregoing structures and methods without departing from the concepts of this disclosure, and that such concepts are intended to be covered by the appended claims unless those claims are otherwise expressly stated in their language.

[0089] According to the present invention, a vehicle seat assembly is provided; the vehicle seat assembly has: a first seat; a first seat back; and a side wing seat extending from the first seat, wherein the surface of the side wing seat is vertically displaced from the surface of the first seat.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by: a side wing seat back extending from the first seat back, wherein the surface of the side wing seat back is longitudinally displaced from the first seat back, wherein the first seat and the first seat back define a first seat assembly, and wherein the side wing seat and the side wing seat back cooperate to provide a second seat assembly.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the surface of the side wing seat is vertically displaced above the surface of the first seat.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the side wing seat backrest is longitudinally shifted rearward from the first seat backrest.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the first seat assembly and the second seat assembly are slidably mounted to the floor of the vehicle such that the area of ​​the floor directly beneath the first seat of the first seat assembly does not engage with any components of the vehicle seat assembly.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the side wing seat is provided with at least one storage area.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by an armrest connected to the backrest of the side wing seat.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the armrest can be deployed from the side wing seat back.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the armrest can be extended from the upper part of the side wing seat back and then rotated downwards to unfold from the side wing seat back.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the armrest can be extended from the side wing seat back by a rotational movement in an upward direction away from the side wing seat back.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by an expandable hip cushion.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the hip cushion can be deployed from the first seat back.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by an armrest that can be unfolded from the first seat back.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the armrest is deployed by a first movement in a lateral direction outward from the first seat back and a second movement in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a third seat assembly positioned adjacent to the second seat assembly, wherein the side wing seat back of the second seat assembly is at least partially supported on the third seat assembly.

[0104] According to the present invention, a vehicle seat assembly is provided, the vehicle seat assembly having: a first seat; a first seat back; a side wing seat and a side wing seat back extending from the first seat and the first seat back, respectively, wherein the surface of the side wing seat is vertically displaced from the surface of the first seat, and wherein the side wing seat back is longitudinally displaced from the seat back; and an armrest that can be unfolded from the side wing seat back.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the armrest is deployed by a first movement in a lateral direction outward from the first seat back and a second movement in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a hip cushion that can be unfolded from the first seat back.

[0107] According to the present invention, a vehicle seat assembly is provided; the vehicle seat assembly has: a first seat; a first seat back; and a side wing seat and a side wing seat back extending from the first seat and the first seat back, respectively, wherein the surface of the side wing seat is vertically displaced from the surface of the first seat, and wherein the side wing seat includes one or more storage areas, and wherein the side wing seat back is longitudinally displaced from the first seat back.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a vent located on the inside of the first seat and pointing towards the rear of the side wing seat.

Claims

1. A vehicle seat assembly, comprising: A first seat assembly, the first seat assembly including a seat and a seat back; Side wings, extending from the seat and the seat back, to provide a second seat assembly; Side wing seats, the side wing seats having a surface that is vertically displaced from the surface of the seat; and Side wing seat backrest, the side wing seat backrest being longitudinally displaced from the seat backrest; It also includes: An armrest connected to the side wing seat backrest, wherein the armrest is deployable from the side wing seat backrest by extending the armrest from the upper part of the side wing seat backrest and then rotating the armrest downward.

2. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the surface of the side wing seat is vertically displaced above the surface of the seat.

3. The vehicle seat assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the side wing seat backrest is longitudinally displaced rearward from the seat backrest.

4. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the first seat assembly and the second seat assembly are slidably mounted to the floor of the vehicle such that the area of ​​the floor directly beneath the seat of the first seat assembly does not engage with any component of the vehicle seat assembly.

5. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the side wing seat is provided with at least one storage area.

6. The vehicle seat assembly as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: Expandable hip cushioning pad.

7. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 6, wherein the hip cushion is deployable from the seat back.

8. The vehicle seat assembly as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: Armrests that can be extended from the seat back.

9. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 8, wherein the armrest is deployed by a first movement in a lateral direction outward from the seat back and a second movement in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction.

10. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1, further comprising: A third seat assembly is positioned adjacent to the second seat assembly, wherein the side wing seat back of the second seat assembly is at least partially supported on the third seat assembly.

11. A vehicle having a vehicle seating arrangement as described in any one of the preceding claims.

Images