Seat fittings, related systems and methods for attaching a seat to a seat track in a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a seat fitting for attaching a seat to a seat track in a vehicle, and related systems and methods. An exemplary seat fitting includes a body having a bottom surface facing the seat track, a locking post, and a solenoid disposed in the body. The solenoid is operable to move the locking post between a retracted position, in which the locking post is disposed within the body, and an extended position, in which the locking post extends outwardly from the bottom surface of the body and into the seat track.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to seat accessories, and more particularly, to seat accessories for attaching a seat to a seat track in a vehicle, as well as related systems and methods. Background Art

[0002] Modern vehicles (such as airplanes, buses, trains, subways, etc.) typically include rows of seats or benches. The seats or benches are connected to tracks disposed in the floor of the vehicle. The seats or benches can be disconnected from the seat tracks and rearranged according to the desired spacing and / or configuration. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Disclosed herein is a seat accessory for attaching a seat to a seat track in a vehicle. An exemplary seat accessory includes a body having a bottom surface facing the seat track, a locking post, and a solenoid disposed in the body. The solenoid is operable to move the locking post between a retracted position, in which the locking post is disposed in the body, and an extended position, in which the locking post extends outwardly from the bottom surface of the body and into the seat track.

[0004] An exemplary method disclosed herein includes: energizing a solenoid in a seat accessory coupled to a seat to release the seat accessory from a seat track in a vehicle; moving the seat from a first position to a second position while the solenoid is energized; and de-energizing the solenoid to attach the seat accessory to the seat track when the seat is in the second position.

[0005] An exemplary seat attachment system disclosed herein includes a seat accessory to be coupled to a seat. The seat accessory includes a body having a top surface and a bottom surface. A channel is defined between a recess formed in the bottom surface and the top surface. The seat accessory further includes a locking post disposed in the recess. The locking post is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The seat accessory further includes a plunger disposed in the channel and coupled to the locking post. The plunger has an opening. The seat accessory further includes a pin that can be inserted into the opening of the plunger to hold the locking post in the extended position. The seat attachment system further includes a tool for removing the pin from the opening. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006] Figure 1 An exemplary airplane is shown in which examples disclosed herein can be implemented.

[0007] Figure 2 An exemplary seat and an exemplary seat attachment system are shown, the exemplary seat attachment system including an exemplary seat track and an exemplary seat accessory that can be used to attach the seat to the Figure 1 floor in an aircraft cabin.

[0008] Figure 3Shows Figure 2 A section of an exemplary seat track of an exemplary seat attachment system of

[0009] Figure 4 Is Figure 2 A top perspective view of an exemplary seat fitting of an exemplary seat attachment system of

[0010] Figure 5 Is Figure 4 A bottom perspective view of an exemplary seat fitting of

[0011] Figure 6A , Figure 6B And Figure 6C Show the exemplary sequence of moving the exemplary locking posts of the exemplary seat fittings of Figure 4 And Figure 5 From the retracted position to the extended position.

[0012] Figure 7 Show an exemplary seat and an exemplary seat attachment system that includes an exemplary seat track and an exemplary seat fitting that can be used to attach the seat to the Figure 1 Floor plate in the aircraft cabin of

[0013] Figure 8 Shows Figure 7 A section of an exemplary seat track of an exemplary seat attachment system of

[0014] Figure 9 Is Figure 7 A bottom perspective view of an exemplary seat fitting of an exemplary seat attachment system of

[0015] Figure 10A , Figure 10B And Figure 10C Show the exemplary sequence of moving the exemplary locking posts of the exemplary seat fittings of Figure 9 From the retracted position to the extended position to attach the exemplary seat fitting to the Figure 8 Exemplary seat track of

[0016] Figure 11 Show an exemplary seat and an exemplary seat attachment system that includes an exemplary seat track and an exemplary seat fitting that can be used to attach the seat to the Figure 1 Floor plate in the aircraft cabin of

[0017] Figure 12 Show an exemplary seat and an exemplary seat attachment system that includes an exemplary seat track and an exemplary seat fitting that can be used to attach the seat to the Figure 1 Floor plate in the aircraft cabin of

[0018] Figure 13 represents a flowchart of an exemplary method for adjusting the position of a seat in a vehicle that can be performed by any exemplary seat attachment system via Figure 7 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 .

[0019] The figures are not drawn to scale. Instead, the thickness of layers or regions may be exaggerated in the figures. Generally, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the (multiple) figures and the accompanying written description to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0020] When identifying multiple elements or components that can be separately referenced, the descriptors "first", "second", "third", etc. are used herein. Unless otherwise specified or understood based on their context of use, such descriptors are not intended to imply any meaning of precedence, physical order or arrangement in a list, or chronological order, but are merely used as labels to separately refer to multiple elements or components for ease of understanding the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor "first" may be used to refer to an element in a particular embodiment, while a different descriptor such as "second" or "third" may be used in the claims to refer to the same element. In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptors are used only for ease of referring to multiple elements or components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Exemplary seat fittings for attaching a seat to a floorboard in a vehicle are disclosed herein. The exemplary seat fittings disclosed herein are easily and quickly used to attach a seat to and detach a seat from the floorboard. Thus, the examples disclosed herein reduce the amount of time required to rearrange or reconfigure one or more seats in a vehicle.

[0022] Known vehicles (such as airplanes, buses, trains, etc.) generally include one or more rows of seats for passengers to sit in the cabin of the vehicle. Each seat is removably coupled to a pair of seat tracks in the cabin floorboard. The seat tracks extend longitudinally through the cabin of the vehicle. The seats can be detached from the seat tracks and then rearranged or reconfigured. For example, the seats can be moved further apart or closer together. Additionally, one or more seats can be completely removed from the vehicle and / or one or more new seats can be added to the vehicle. It is often desirable to rearrange the seats. For example, between flights on an airplane, it may be desirable to rearrange the seats to increase or decrease the spacing between rows of seats.

[0023] In known seat attachment systems, each seat is coupled to a seat track via a seat fitting. The seat fitting is coupled to the legs of the seat. Each seat fitting includes a movable locking post and a plurality of fixed posts. To attach the seat to the seat track, a person (e.g., a vehicle crew member) places the seat fitting on the seat track such that the fixed posts are inserted into recesses formed in the seat track. Then, for each seat fitting, the person screws a threaded shaft (e.g., a bolt) into the body of the seat fitting to deploy the locking post, thereby locking the seat fitting (and thus the seat) to the seat track. The threaded shaft can be rotated via, for example, an Allen wrench or a drill. To detach the seat from the seat track, the person can unscrew the threaded shaft of each seat fitting. Then, the seat can be removed from the seat track and / or moved along the seat track to another position.

[0024] The process of screwing the threaded shaft to deploy / retract the locking post takes a significant amount of time. Additionally, each seat can have four seat fittings. Thus, a person must perform the same operation four times to attach or detach a single seat from the seat track. If a vehicle has multiple seats, this operation becomes even more time-consuming. For example, some airplanes have dozens or hundreds of seats. Thus, a person may need to spend a significant amount of time to rearrange the seats in a vehicle cabin.

[0025] Disclosed herein is an exemplary seat fitting that is easier and quicker to operate for attaching a seat to a seat track and detaching the seat from the seat track. The exemplary mechanically actuated seat fitting disclosed herein includes a body and a locking post movable relative to the body. The locking post is movable between a retracted position in which the locking post is disposed in a recess formed in the bottom surface of the body and an extended position in which the locking post moves outwardly from the bottom surface of the body. The exemplary seat fitting includes a plunger disposed in a passage that extends between the top surface of the body and the recess formed in the bottom surface of the body. The plunger is coupled to the locking post. The plunger extends outwardly from the top surface of the body. To move the locking post from the retracted position to the extended position, a vehicle operator can push down on the top of the plunger, which moves the locking post outwardly from the body to the extended position. For example, the vehicle operator can step on the top of the plunger with his / her foot. Then, the vehicle operator can insert a pin into the plunger to lock the locking post in the extended position, thereby locking the seat fitting to the seat track and thus locking the seat to the seat track.

[0026] To unlock a seat fitting from a seat track, a person can remove a pin, which allows a plunger to move a locking post back to a retracted position (e.g., via a biasing force from a spring). In some examples, a tool is used to insert and / or remove the pin. Compared to known processes of turning a threaded shaft, the process of depressing the plunger and / or inserting / removing the pin is relatively fast. Thus, a person can more quickly and efficiently attach and / or detach the (one or more) seat fittings to / from the seat track. This also prevents or reduces the amount of time a person must squat or bend over when operating the seat fitting.

[0027] Exemplary electromechanically actuated seat fittings are also disclosed herein. The exemplary electromechanically actuated seat fittings disclosed herein include a solenoid disposed within a body of the seat fitting. The seat fitting also includes a locking post coupled to the solenoid. The solenoid is operable to move the locking post between a retracted position, in which the locking post is disposed within the body, and an extended position, in which the locking post extends outwardly from a bottom surface of the body and into the seat track. In some examples, when the solenoid is energized, the solenoid moves the locking post to the retracted position, and when the solenoid is de-energized, the solenoid moves the mechanical locking post (e.g., via a biasing force from a spring) to the extended position. Thus, the seat fitting can be unlocked from the seat track by energizing the solenoid, and the seat fitting can be locked to the seat track by de-energizing the solenoid.

[0028] In some examples disclosed herein, the solenoid in the seat fitting is energized by attaching a tool to an interface on the seat. The tool can include a power source. When the tool is attached to the interface on the seat, the power source energizes the solenoid in the seat fitting, thereby unlocking the seat fitting from the seat track. The seat can then be moved to another position and / or completely removed from the cabin of the vehicle. When the seat is in the new desired position, the tool can be removed from the interface. When the tool is removed from the interface, the solenoid is de-energized and the locking post is deployed, which locks the seat fitting to the seat track and thereby locks the seat to the seat track.

[0029] Although the examples disclosed herein are described in connection with seats on an aircraft, it should be understood that any of the examples disclosed herein can be similarly implemented in connection with other vehicles such as buses, trains, or ships.

[0030] Turning now to the drawings, Figure 1An exemplary vehicle is shown in which the examples disclosed herein may be implemented. In this example, the vehicle is an aircraft 100. The aircraft 100 includes a fuselage 102, a first wing 104 (left wing) coupled to the fuselage 102, and a second wing 106 (right wing) coupled to the fuselage 102. In the example shown, the aircraft 100 includes a first engine 108 carried by the first wing 104 and a second engine 110 carried by the second wing 106. In other examples, the aircraft 100 may include only one engine or may include more than two engines. The fuselage 102 defines a cabin 112 (shown in dashed lines) that houses passengers and cargo. The cabin 112 may contain one or more seats for passengers and / or crew members.

[0031] Figure 2 An exemplary seat 200 is shown coupled to an exemplary floor panel 202 in the cabin 112 of the aircraft 100 via an exemplary seat attachment system 204 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The seat attachment system 204 is configured to movably couple the seat 200 to the floor panel 202. Although only one seat 200 is shown, it should be understood that the cabin 112 may include multiple rows of seats, the same or different from the seat 200, disposed in front of and / or behind the seat 200. In the example shown, the seat 200 includes three individual seat positions (e.g., forming a seat unit or bench). In other examples, the seat 200 may include more or fewer individual seat positions (e.g., one, two, four, five, etc.).

[0032] In the illustrated example, the seat 200 includes four legs, including a first leg 206, a second leg 208, a third leg 210, and a fourth leg 212. In other examples, the seat 200 may include more or fewer legs. The seat attachment system 204 includes seat fittings for attaching the legs 206-212 to an exemplary first seat track 214 and a second seat track 216 disposed in the floor 202 of the cabin 112. Specifically, in this example, the seat attachment system 204 includes a first seat fitting 218 coupled to the first leg 206, a second seat fitting 220 coupled to the second leg 208, a third seat fitting 222 coupled to the third leg 210, and a fourth seat fitting 224 coupled to the fourth leg 212. The first seat fitting 218 and the third seat fitting 222 couple the respective first leg 206 and third leg 210 to the first seat track 214, and the second seat fitting 220 and the fourth seat fitting 224 couple the respective second leg 208 and fourth leg 212 to the second seat track 216. The seat fittings 218-224 may be coupled (e.g., locked) to the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216 to attach the seat 200 to the floor 202, or disengaged (e.g., unlocked) from the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216 to disengage the seat 200 from the floor 202. For example, the seat 200 may be disengaged from the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216, and moved to another position on the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216, and reattached to the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216.

[0033] The first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216 may be flush with the floor 202 or recessed below the floor 202. In some examples, carpet or other floor material is disposed over the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216 between seat rows. The first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216 may be relatively long (e.g., 30 feet) such that multiple rows of seats may be coupled to the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216. For example, the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216 may extend along the length of the fuselage 112 ( Figure 1 ). Another seat in the cabin 112 may also be attached to the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216 via seat fittings. The seats in the cabin 112 may be disconnected from the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216 and rearranged or reconfigured (e.g., spaced closer, spaced farther apart, removed from the cabin 112, etc.).

[0034] Figure 3 A section of the first seat track 214 is shown. The second seat track 216 ( Figure 2) is the same as the first seat track 214. Thus, any structure or function disclosed in connection with the first seat track 214 can be similarly applied to the second seat track 216. In the illustrated example, the first seat track 214 has a first flange 300 and a second flange 302, the second flange being separated from the first flange 300 by a slot 304. A channel 306 is defined below the first flange 300 and the second flange 302. In this example, the first flange 300 and the second flange 302 have circular grooves or notches 308 (one being referenced on each of the first flange 300 and the second flange 302). Teeth or ribs 310 are formed between the notches 308. The ribs 310 define discrete positions at which seat fittings can be coupled to the first seat track 214, as further disclosed in detail herein.

[0035] Figure 4 and Figure 5 is a perspective view of a first exemplary seat fitting 218. The second, third, and fourth seat fittings 220, 222, 224 are the same as the first seat fitting 218. Thus, any structure or function disclosed in connection with the first seat fitting 218 can be similarly applied to the second, third, and fourth seat fittings 220, 222, 224.

[0036] As Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, the first seat fitting 218 includes a body 400. In some examples, the body 400 is constructed of a metal such as aluminum. In other examples, the body 400 can be constructed of other materials (e.g., plastic). The body 400 is to be coupled to the first leg 206 ( Figure 2 ). In the illustrated example, the body 400 has a fastener opening 402. A fastener 404 (e.g., a bolt) is inserted through the fastener opening 402 and a corresponding opening in the first leg 206 to couple the body 400 to the first leg 206. In other examples, the first seat fitting 218 can be coupled to the first leg 206 via other mechanical and / or chemical fastening techniques (e.g., rivets, friction fit, welding, adhesives, etc.).

[0037] In the illustrated example, the body 400 has a top side or surface 406 and a bottom side or surface 408. When the first seat fitting 218 is coupled to the first seat track 214, the bottom surface 408 will face the first seat track 214 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). In some examples, when the first seat fitting 218 is coupled to the first seat track 214, the bottom surface 408 contacts or engages the first seat track 214.

[0038] To slidably couple the first seat fitting 218 to the first seat track 214 ( Figure 2), the first seat fitting 218 includes one or more fixing posts. In this example, the first seat fitting 218 includes a first fixing post 410, a second fixing post 412, and a third fixing post 414. The first, second, and third fixing posts 410 - 414 are coupled and extend from the bottom surface 408 of the body 400. Each of the first, second, and third posts 410 - 414 has a rod portion and a disc portion. The first, second, and third fixing posts 410 - 414 are spaced apart such that when the first seat fitting 218 is placed on top of the first seat track 214, all three of the first, second, and third fixing posts 410 - 414 can be simultaneously inserted into corresponding notches 308 ( Figure 3 ) and channels 306 ( Figure 3 ). Once the first, second, and third fixing posts 410 - 414 are inserted into the channel 306, the first seat fitting 218 can slide along the first seat track 214 in either direction. When the first, second, and third fixing posts 410 - 414 are located below the ribs 310 ( Figure 3 ), the first seat fitting 218 can be prevented from being pulled out of the first seat track 214. This occurs in certain increments defined by the spacing between the ribs 310. Although in this example, the first seat fitting 218 includes three fixing posts, in other examples, the first seat fitting 218 can include more (e.g., four, five, etc.) or fewer (e.g., one, two) fixing posts.

[0039] To lock the first seat fitting 218 in a specific position along the first seat track 214 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), the exemplary first seat fitting 218 includes a locking post 416. In this example, the locking post 416 is formed by two opposing semi - circles. The locking post 416 can move up and down from the bottom surface 408 of the body 400. As Figure 5 shown, a recess 500 is formed in the bottom surface 408 of the body 400. The locking post 416 is disposed in the recess 500. The locking post 416 can be moved into and out of the recess 500. The locking post 416 can move between a first position called the retracted position and a second position called the extended position ( Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown positions). In the retracted position, the locking post 416 is disposed in the recess 500 such that the locking post 416 does not extend into the notch 308 in the first seat track 214 ( Figure 3) In some examples, when the locking post 416 is in the retracted position, the bottom surface 502 of the locking post 416 is flush with or above the bottom surface 408 of the main body 400. In other examples, when the locking post 416 is in the retracted position, the bottom surface 502 of the locking post 416 extends beyond the bottom surface 408 of the main body 400, as long as the locking post 416 does not extend into the notch 308 in the first seat track 214. In the extended position (which is the position shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 ), the locking post 416 extends outward from the recess 500 and extends beyond the bottom surface 408 of the main body 400. When the first seat fitting 218 is disposed on the first seat track 214 and the locking post 416 is in the extended position, the locking post 416 extends into two adjacent notches 308 in the first seat track 214. The locking post 416 is offset from the spacing of the first, second, and third fixing posts 410 - 414 such that when the locking post 416 is disposed in the two notches 308, the first, second, and third fixing posts 410 - 414 are disposed below the rib 310 ( Figure 3 ). In this way, the first, second, and third fixing posts 410 - 414 prevent the first seat fitting 218 from moving away from the first seat track 214, and the locking post 416 prevents the first seat fitting 218 from sliding along the first seat track 214. Thus, the first seat fitting is attached (e.g., locked) to the first seat track 214.

[0040] Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C are cross-sectional views of an exemplary first seat fitting 218, showing an exemplary sequence of moving the locking post 416 from the retracted position to the extended position. The exemplary sequence can be performed to connect the first seat fitting 218 to the first seat track 214 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0041] As Figure 6A shown, the main body 400 has a first channel 600 defined between the top surface 406 and the recess 500 formed in the bottom surface 408. The first seat fitting 218 includes a plunger 602 disposed in the first channel 600 and connected to the locking post 416. The top 604 of the plunger 602 extends outward from the top surface 406 of the main body 400. The plunger 602 can move up and down in the first channel 600 to move the locking post 416 into and out of the recess 500 between the retracted position and the extended position. In Figure 6A , the locking post 416 is in the retracted position. Thus, the locking post 416 retracts into the recess 500. In this example, the bottom surface 502 of the locking post 416 is flush with or flat against the bottom surface 408 of the main body 400.

[0042] In the illustrated example, the first seat fitting 218 includes a spring 606 disposed within a first channel 600. The spring 606 biases the plunger 602 beyond the top surface 406 of the body 400 and thus biases the locking post 416 to the retracted position. The exemplary first seat fitting 218 also includes Figure 6A the exemplary pin 608 shown. The pin 608 is used to lock the locking post 416 in the extended position, as disclosed in further detail herein. The pin 608 can be inserted into a second channel 610 formed in the body 400. The second channel 610 is connected to the first channel 600. In this example, the second channel 610 is transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the first channel 600. An exemplary tool 612 is also shown in FIG. 6, which can be used to insert the pin 608 into the second channel 610 and / or remove the pin 608 from the second channel 610. The tool 612 can be carried by a person, for example. As Figure 6A shown, the plunger 602 has an opening 614. In Figure 6A the retracted position, the opening 614 is not aligned with the second channel 610.

[0043] To move the locking post 416 from the retracted position to the extended position, a person can push down on the plunger 602. For example, a person can step on the top 604 of the plunger 602 with his / her foot. This moves the plunger 602 into the first channel 600, thereby moving the locking post 416 outward from the bottom surface 408 of the body 400 to the extended position, as Figure 6B shown. As Figure 6B shown, the top 604 of the plunger 602 engages a boss 616 in the first channel 600, which provides a stop or limit to indicate that the locking post 416 is in the extended position. When the locking post 416 is in the extended position, the opening 614 in the plunger 602 is aligned with the second channel 610. Then, the pin 608 can be inserted (e.g., via the tool 612) through the second channel 610 and into the opening 614.

[0044] Figure 6C The pin 608 inserted into the second channel 610 and the opening 614 in the plunger 602 is shown. The tool 612 can release the pin 608. The pin 608 remains in the second channel 610 and the opening 614. Thus, the locking post 416 is held in the extended position by the pin 608. As described above, when the locking post 416 is in the extended position, the locking post 416 prevents the first seat fitting 218 (and thus the seat 200 ( Figure 2 )) from sliding forward or backward along the first seat track 214 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). Thus, the first seat fitting 218 cannot move forward or backward to be removed from the first seat track 214.

[0045] To remove from the first seat track 214 (Figure 2 and Figure 3 ) To release the first seat fitting 218, the example sequence can be performed in reverse. For example, the tool 612 can be inserted into the second channel 610 and the pin 608 can be pulled out of the opening 614 in the plunger 602. Once the pin 608 is disengaged from the opening 614, the spring 606 biases the plunger 602 upward, which moves the locking post 416 back into the recess 500 to the retracted position ( Figure 6A ). Once the locking post 416 is in the retracted position, the seat 200 ( Figure 2 ) can be moved along the first seat track 214 ( Figure 2 and Figure 4 ) forward or backward to a new position and / or removed from the first seat track 214. This exemplary process can be similarly performed on other seat fittings 220 - 224 ( Figure 2 ).

[0046] As Figure 6C shown, when the pin 608 is inserted into the opening 614 of the plunger 602, the pin 608 does not extend outward from the second channel 610 or beyond the outer surface of the body 400. In some examples, this prevents inadvertent tampering with the pin 608, which could inadvertently release the first seat fitting 218 from the first seat track 214 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). However, in other examples, the pin 608 can be longer such that a portion of the pin 608 extends outward from the second channel 610.

[0047] The tool 612 can be any tool for inserting and / or removing the pin 608. For example, the tool 612 can include an electromagnet. When the electromagnet is energized, the pin 608 is attracted to the electromagnet. The electromagnet can be de - energized to release the pin 608. As another example, the tool 612 can include a vacuum for sucking and holding the pin 608. The vacuum can be stopped to release the pin 608. As another example, the tool 612 can include a tip that can be actuated to grip the pin 608. The tip can also be de - actuated to release the pin 608. In some examples, the tool 612 is used to insert and retrieve the pin 608. In other examples, a person can insert the pin 608 without the tool 612. For example, the user can use his / her hand to insert the pin 608.

[0048] Thus, in this example, the first seat fitting 218 does not require turning a threaded shaft to extend or retract the locking post, as seen in known seat fittings. Instead, compared to known seat fittings, the exemplary sequence of pushing the plunger 602 and / or inserting / removing the pin 608 is relatively quick and simple. In this way, the user can quickly and effectively attach the seat 200 to the base plate 202 or detach it from the base plate 202, which saves a significant amount of time and effort.

[0049] Figure 7 illustrates another exemplary seat attachment system 700 that can be used to removably couple an exemplary seat 702 to a floor panel 202 in a cabin 112 of an aircraft 100( Figure 1 ). Although only one seat 702 is shown, it should be understood that the cabin 112 can include multiple rows of seats, the same or different from seat 702, disposed in front of and / or behind seat 702. In the illustrated example, seat 702 includes three individual seat positions (e.g., forming a seat unit or bench). In other examples, seat 702 can include more or fewer individual seat positions (e.g., one, two, four, five, etc.).

[0050] In the illustrated example, seat 702 includes four legs, including a first leg 704, a second leg 706, a third leg 708, and a fourth leg 710. In other examples, seat 702 can include more or fewer legs. The seat attachment system 700 includes seat fittings for attaching legs 704 - 710 to an exemplary first seat track 712 and a second seat track 714 disposed in the floor panel 202 of the cabin 112. Specifically, in this example, the seat attachment system 700 includes a first seat fitting 716 coupled to the first leg 704, a second seat fitting 718 coupled to the second leg 706, a third seat fitting 720 coupled to the third leg 708, and a fourth seat fitting 722 coupled to the fourth leg 710. The first seat fitting 716 and the third seat fitting 720 couple the respective first leg 704 and third leg 708 to the first seat track 712, and the second seat fitting 718 and the fourth seat fitting 722 couple the respective second leg 706 and fourth leg 710 to the second seat track 714. The seat fittings 716 - 722 can be coupled (e.g., locked) to the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714 to attach seat 702 to the floor panel 202, or disengaged (e.g., unlocked) from the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714 to detach seat 702 from the floor panel 202. For example, seat 702 can be detached from the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714, moved to another position on the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714, and re - attached to the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714.

[0051] The first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714 can be flush with the floor panel 202 or recessed below the floor panel 202. In some examples, carpet or other floor materials are disposed above the first seat track 214 and the second seat track 216 between the seat rows. The first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714 can be relatively long (e.g., 30 feet) such that multiple rows of seats can be coupled to the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714. For example, the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714 can extend along the length of the fuselage 112 ( Figure 1 ). The seats in the cabin 112 can be disconnected from the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714 and rearranged or reconfigured (e.g., closer spacing, farther spacing, removed from the cabin 112, etc.).

[0052] In this example, the seat fittings 716-722 are electromechanically actuated. The seat fittings 716-722 can be operated (e.g., activated or deactivated) to connect the seat 702 to the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714 or disconnect it from the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714. Each of the seat fittings 716-722 includes a solenoid, an example of which is shown in more detail Figures 10A - 10C . When the solenoid is energized, the seat fittings 716-722 are released or disengaged from the respective seat tracks 712, 714, and when the solenoid is de-energized, the seat fittings 716-722 are respectively attached or coupled to the respective seat tracks 712, 714.

[0053] To energize the solenoids of the seat fittings 716-722, the exemplary seat attachment system 700 includes a tool 724. The tool 724 can be carried and used by a person. In the example shown, the tool 724 includes a power source 726 and first and second terminals 728 and 730 (e.g., electrical connectors, pins, or plugs). The power source 726 can be implemented by one or more batteries (e.g., alkaline batteries, lithium-ion batteries, etc.). The seat attachment system 700 also includes an interface 732. In the example shown, the interface 732 is disposed on one side (e.g., the aisle side) of the seat 702. In other examples, the interface 732 can be disposed at other locations, such as on one of the seat fittings 716-722, on one of the legs 704-710, on the arm of the seat 702, etc. An enlarged view of the interface 732 is shown in the illustration in Figure 7 . The interface 732 includes first and second terminals 734 and 736 (e.g., electrical connectors, pins, or plugs). The seat 702 includes a wire harness 738 (shown in dashed lines) that electrically couples the terminals 734, 736 of the interface 732 to the seat fittings 716-722. The wire harness 738 can extend through portions of the seat 702 and the legs 704-710.

[0054] When the tool 724 is attached to the interface 732, the first terminal 728 and the second terminal 730 of the tool 724 mate with or connect to the first terminal 734 and the second terminal 736 of the interface 732. The terminals 728, 730, 734, 736 can be, for example, male or female terminals. Then, the power source 726 powers or energizes the solenoid in the seat fittings 716 - 722. In some examples, when the tool 724 is connected to the interface 732, the power source 726 automatically energizes the solenoid. In other examples, the tool 724 can include a button or a trigger that, when activated, powers the solenoid. Energizing the solenoid releases the seat fittings 716 - 722 from the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714. Thus, a person can connect the tool 724 to the interface 732 to detach the seat 702 from the floor panel 202 so that the person can move the seat 702 to another location or remove the seat 702 from the cabin 112.

[0055] In some examples, the tool 724 and / or the interface 732 can include one or more features to help ensure proper connection / alignment of the terminals 728, 730, 734, 736 and / or to hold the tool 724 on the interface 732. For example, as Figure 7 shown, the tool 724 includes a first magnet 740 and a second magnet 742, and the interface 732 includes a first magnet 744 and a second magnet 746. When the tool 724 engages the interface 732, the magnets 740, 742 on the tool 724 are magnetically attracted to the magnets 744, 746 on the interface 732. This helps maintain the connection and alignment between the tool 724 and the interface 732. In some examples, the magnetic connection is sufficient to hold the tool 724 on the interface 732 such that a person can release the tool 724 and the tool 724 remains connected to the interface 732. Although in this example the tool 724 and the interface 732 each include two magnets, in other examples, the tool 724 and / or the interface 732 can include more or fewer magnets. Additionally, one or more of the magnets 740, 742, 744, 746 can be replaced by a sheet of magnetic material (e.g., ferromagnetic material such as nickel).

[0056] Figure 8 A section of the first seat track 712 is shown. The second seat track 714 ( Figure 7) is the same as the first seat track 712. Accordingly, any structure or function disclosed in connection with the first seat track 712 can be similarly applied to the second seat track 714. In the illustrated example, the first seat track 712 has a first flange 800 and a second flange 802, which is separated from the first flange 800 by a slot 804. A channel 806 is defined below the first flange 800 and the second flange 802. The first seat track 712 has a longitudinal axis 808. In this example, the first flange 800 and the second flange 802 do not have notches or teeth as in the Figure 3 example. This enables the first seat fitting 716 and the third seat fitting 720 ( Figure 7 ) to be positioned at any location along the first seat track 712. However, in other examples, the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714 can be the same as the Figure 3 illustrated first seat track 214, which includes notches and ribs that define discrete locations where the first seat fitting 716 and the third seat fitting 720 can be attached.

[0057] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the first exemplary seat fitting 716. The second, third, and fourth seat fittings 718, 720, 722 are the same as the first seat fitting 716. Accordingly, any structure or function disclosed in connection with the first seat fitting 716 can also be applied to the second, third, and fourth seat fittings 718, 720, 722.

[0058] In the illustrated example, the first seat fitting 716 includes a body 900. In some examples, the body 900 is constructed of a metal such as aluminum. In other examples, the body 900 can be constructed of other materials. The body 900 will be coupled to the first leg 704 ( Figure 7 ). In the illustrated example, the body 900 has a fastener opening 902. A fastener 904 (e.g., a bolt) is inserted through the fastener opening 902 and a corresponding opening in the first leg 704 to couple the body 400 to the first leg 704. In other examples, the first seat fitting 716 can be coupled to the first leg 704 via other mechanical and / or chemical fastening techniques (e.g., rivets, friction fits, welding, adhesives, etc.).

[0059] In the illustrated example, the body 900 has a bottom side or surface 906. When the first seat fitting 716 is attached to the first seat track 712, the bottom surface 906 will face the first seat track 712 ( Figure 7 and Figure 8 ). In some examples, when the first seat fitting 716 is coupled to the first seat track 712, the bottom surface 906 contacts or engages the first seat track 712.

[0060] To couple the first seat fitting 716 to the first seat track 712 ( Figure 7 and Figure 8 ), the first seat fitting 716 includes a locking post 908. As Figure 9 shown, the locking post 908 extends outwardly from a recess 910 formed in the bottom surface 906 of the body 900. As further disclosed in detail herein, the locking post 908 can be moved into and out of the recess 910. In the illustrated example, the locking post 908 has a stem 912 and an arm 914 coupled to the distal end of the stem 912. The arm 914 extends transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the stem 912.

[0061] The locking post 908 is movable between a first position, referred to as the retracted position, and a second position, referred to as the extended position ( Figure 9 the positions shown). An exemplary sequence of this movement is further shown in conjunction with Figures 10A through 10C . When the locking post 908 is in the extended position (which is the Figure 9 position shown), the locking post 908 extends outwardly from the recess 910 and the bottom surface 906 of the body 900. Additionally, when the locking post 908 is in the extended position, the arm 914 is oriented transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the longitudinal axis 808 ( Figure 8 ) of the first seat track 712 ( Figure 8 ). When the first seat fitting 716 is disposed on the first seat track 712 and the locking post 908 is in the extended position, the locking post 908 extends into the first seat track 712 to lock, attach, and / or otherwise couple the first seat fitting 716 to the first seat track 712.

[0062] When the locking post 908 is in the retracted position, the locking post 908 is retracted within the recess 910 such that the locking post 908 does not extend into the first seat track 712 ( Figure 7 and Figure 8 ). In some examples, when the locking post 908 is in the retracted position, the bottom surface 916 of the locking post 908 does not extend beyond the bottom surface 906 of the body 900. In other words, the bottom surface 916 of the locking post 908 can be aligned with or recessed relative to the bottom surface 906 of the body 900. This is advantageous because the first seat fitting 716 does not include any structure extending from the bottom surface 906 that could damage the floor pan 202 (e.g., carpet) when the seat 702 ( Figure 7 ) is moved. In other examples, when the locking post 908 is in the retracted position, the bottom surface 916 of the locking post 908 is set above or below the bottom surface 906 of the body 900, as long as the locking post 908 does not rotate or turn into engagement with the first seat track 712. Additionally, when the locking post 908 is in the retracted position, the locking post 908 rotates such that the arm 914 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 808 of the first seat track 712Figure 8 ) Orientation.

[0063] Figure 10A , Figure 10B and Figure 10C are cross-sectional views of an exemplary first seat fitting 716 and a first seat track 712, showing an exemplary sequence of attaching the first seat fitting 716 to the first seat track 712. As Figure 10A shown, the first seat fitting 716 includes a solenoid 1000. In this example, the solenoid 1000 is a rotary linear solenoid. The solenoid 1000 is operable to move a locking post 908 between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the locking post 908 is disposed within a body 900 in the retracted position and extends outwardly from a bottom surface 906 of the body 900 and into the first seat track 712 in the extended position. In Figure 10A , the locking post 908 is in the retracted position.

[0064] In the example shown, the solenoid 1000 is disposed within the body 900 of the first seat fitting 716. Specifically, the solenoid 1000 is disposed within a cavity 1002 formed within the body 900. The solenoid 1000 includes a coil 1004 and a core 1006. When the coil 1004 is energized, the core 1006 attracts the locking post 908 and Figure 10A moves the locking post 908 upward to the retracted position. This occurs when a user attaches a tool 724 ( Figure 7 ) to an interface 732 ( Figure 7 ). As Figure 10A shown, the locking post 908 is disposed within the interior of the body 900. In this example, in the retracted position, a bottom surface 916 of the locking post 908 is aligned with the bottom surface 906 of the body 900. When the locking post 908 is in the retracted position, an arm 914 is oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis 808 ( Figure 8 ) of the first seat track 712. As long as the solenoid 1000 is energized, the locking post 908 remains in this position. In Figure 10A the state shown, the first seat fitting 716 is not coupled to the first seat track 712. Thus, the first seat fitting 716 (and thus the seat 702 ( Figure 7 )) can be moved to another position on the first seat track 712 or removed from the first seat track 712.

[0065] In the example shown, the solenoid 1000 includes a biasing member, such as a spring 1008, to bias the locking post 908 to the extended position when the solenoid 1000 is de-energized. In Figure 10A , the spring 1008 has been compressed. The solenoid 1000 also includes a guide 1010. The guide 1010 causes the locking post 908 to rotate near the end of its stroke, as shown in connection withFigure 10B and Figure 10C is disclosed in more detail.

[0066] To lock the first seat fitting 716 to the first seat track 712, a person removes the tool 724 ( Figure 9 ) from the interface 732 ( Figure 7 ), which cuts off the power supply and / or otherwise de-energizes the solenoid 1000. When the solenoid 1000 is de-energized, the spring 1008 biases the locking post 908 outward from the bottom surface 906 of the body 900, as Figure 10B shown. As Figure 10B shown, the locking post 908 linearly moves through the slot 804 and into the channel 806 of the first seat track 712.

[0067] As Figure 10C shown, at the end of the linear movement of the locking post 908, the guide 1010 causes the locking post 908 to rotate or spin. For example, the locking post 908 rotates about the axis 1012 of the rod 912. Thus, when the solenoid 1000 is de-energized, the locking post 908 moves away (e.g., linearly away) from the bottom surface 906 of the body 900 and rotates about the axis of the locking post 908. In Figure 10C , the locking post 908 is in the extended position. Once the locking post 908 rotates, as Figure 10C shown, the arm 914 is disposed below the flanges 800, 802 of the first seat track 712. This prevents the first seat fitting 716 from moving away from the first seat track 712. Additionally, the arm 914 of the locking post 908 is rotated into contact with the bottom surfaces of the flanges 800, 802. Additionally or alternatively, the arm 914 may contact other surfaces of the first seat track 712 in the channel 806. The frictional engagement between the arm 914 and the first seat track 712 is sufficient to hold the first seat fitting 716 in place and prevent the first seat fitting 716 from moving along the first seat track 712. In some examples, the frictional engagement is sufficient to hold the seat 900 under certain loads (e.g., 9g force) required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In some examples, the solenoid 1000 rotates the locking post 908 approximately 90° (e.g., ±10°) from the position shown in Figure 10A and Figure 10B to the position shown in Figure 10C . Thus, in some examples, when the locking post 908 is in the extended position, the arm 914 is oriented transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the longitudinal axis 808 of the first seat track 712 ( Figure 8 ). In other examples, the locking post 908 is rotated further greater than 90° or less than 90°. For example, the amount of rotation can be optimized based on the length of the arm 914 and the shape of the channel 806.

[0068] If a user desires to detach a first seat fitting 716 from a first seat track 712, the user can attach a tool 724 ( Figure 7 ) to an interface 732 ( Figure 7 ), thereby energizing a solenoid 1000. In this case, the solenoid 1000 pulls a locking post 908 back into the body 900 to a retracted position. Specifically, in the reverse order of Figures 10A through 10C , the locking post 908 rotates about an axis 1012 and moves toward (e.g., linearly toward) a bottom surface 906 of the body 900. Thus, when the solenoid 1000 is energized, the locking post 908 moves from an extended position to a retracted position, and when the solenoid 1000 is de-energized, the locking post 908 moves from the retracted position to the extended position. The exemplary seat attachment system 700 ( Figure 7 ) is advantageous because the seat fittings 716 - 722 do not require any power source to remain fixed to the seat tracks 712, 714. Instead, when it is desired to detach the seat 702 from the seat tracks 712, 714, power is used only for a short period of time to energize the solenoid. Additionally, the configuration of the solenoid acts as a fail-safe because if power is lost, the seat remains fixed to the seat tracks 712, 714.

[0069] In Figure 7 the example shown, the tool 714 and the interface 732 include terminals to transfer power to a solenoid in the seat fittings 716 - 722. In other examples, the tool 724 and the interface 732 can include wireless power devices to wirelessly transfer power. For example, the tool 724 can include a transmitter coil and the interface 732 can include a receiver coil. The tool 724 can be placed close to or in contact with the interface 732 to energize the solenoid.

[0070] As Figure 8 shown, a first flange 800 and a second flange 802 of the first seat track 712 do not include any notches or ribs. Thus, the first seat fitting 716 can be attached anywhere along the first seat track 712, which provides the ability to position the seat 702 anywhere along the first seat track 712. In other examples, the first seat fitting 716 can be used with a seat track having notches and ribs, such as the seat track shown in Figure 3 . In this case, the locking post 908 should be located under some of the ribs 310.

[0071] Figure 11 Another exemplary seat attachment system 1100 is shown for attaching a seat to a floor panel 202 in a cabin 112 of an aircraft 100 ( Figure 1 ). In Figure 11 , the seat 702, the seat tracks 712, 714, and the seat fittings 716 - 722 are the same as those described above in connection withFigure 7 the same as those disclosed. However, in this example, power is supplied to seat 702 via power source 1102, which is a power source on aircraft 100 (e.g., a battery, a generator, etc.). Seat 702 is electrically connected to power source 1102 via harness 1104. Harness 1104 can supply power to seat 702 for other devices (such as a display screen on seat 702). In other examples, power can be supplied to seat 702 via a wireless power device (e.g., a transmitter coil in floor panel 202 and a receiver coil in seat 702). In the example shown, seat attachment system 1100 includes an interface 1106 on one side of seat 702. An enlarged view of interface 1106 is shown in Figure 11 the illustration in. Interface 1106 includes a first terminal 1108 and a second terminal 1110. First terminal 1108 and second terminal 1110 are part of a circuit between power source 1102 and harness 738 connected to seat fittings 716 - 722. Seat attachment system 1100 includes a tool 1112. In this example, tool 1112 is a jumper wire (e.g., a wire). When tool 1112 is connected to first terminal 1108 and second terminal 1110 of interface 1106, tool 1112 completes the circuit such that power is supplied to seat fittings 716 - 722 to energize a solenoid (e.g., solenoid 1000( Figure 10A ))). When tool 1112 is detached from interface 1106, the solenoid is de-energized. Thus, in this example, tool 1112 carried by a user does not include a power source.

[0072] In another example, interface 1106 can include a switch that can be activated by a unique radio frequency identification (RFID) signal. A person can carry a tool that emits an RFID signal. When the tool is close to or connected to interface 1106, the RFID signal activates the switch, which closes the circuit to energize the solenoid.

[0073] Figure 12 Another exemplary seat attachment system 1200 is shown for attaching a seat to floor panel 202 in the cabin 112 of aircraft 100( Figure 1 ). In Figure 12 this, seat 702, seat tracks 712, 714 and seat fittings 716 - 722 are the same as those disclosed above in connection with Figure 7 and Figure 11 this. And Figure 11Similarly, power supply 1102 supplies power to seat 702. However, in this example, seat 702 does not include an interface. Instead, seat fittings 716-722 are remotely powered by controller 1202. Controller 1202 regulates the power to the solenoids in seat fittings 716-720. Controller 1202 may be implemented by a device (such as a control panel with buttons, a touch screen display, etc.) in another part of the cabin 112 (such as in the cockpit, galley, etc.). A person can interact with controller 1202 to power on the solenoids in seat fittings 716-720, thereby detaching seat 702 from first seat track 712 and second seat track 714, and power off the solenoids in seat fittings 716-722, thereby attaching seat 702 to first seat track 712 and second seat track 714. In some examples, each seat is individually controllable. Thus, a person can attach / detach one seat at a time or attach / detach multiple seats simultaneously.

[0074] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an exemplary method 1300 that can be performed to adjust the position of a seat in a vehicle. In combination with Figure 7 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 the seat 702, the first seat track 712, and the first seat fitting 716 of Figure 7 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 Exemplary method 1300 is described. However, it should be understood that exemplary method 1300 can be similarly performed in combination with other exemplary seat fittings 718-722 and / or second seat track 714. Exemplary method 1300 can be performed in combination with

[0075] At block 1302, exemplary method 1300 includes powering on the solenoid 1000 in the first seat fitting 716 coupled to seat 702 to release seat 702 from the first seat track 714 in the aircraft 100. When the solenoid 1000 is powered on, the solenoid 1000 moves the locking post 908 from the extended position, in which the locking post 908 extends from the bottom surface 906 of the body 900, to the retracted position, in which the locking post 908 is disposed within the body 900. In some examples, as Figures 10A through 10C shown, this movement from the extended position to the retracted position includes rotational and linear movement of the locking post 908.

[0076] In some examples, powering on the solenoid 1000 includes coupling a tool to an interface on seat 702 or the first seat fitting 716. In some examples, the tool includes a power source. For example, in Figure 7In the seat attachment system 700, the tool 724 can be coupled to the interface 732 on the seat 702. The tool 724 includes a power source 726. When the tool 724 is coupled to the interface 732 on the seat 702, the power source 726 energizes the solenoid 1000 in the first seat fitting 716. In other examples, such as in Figure 11 the seat attachment system 1100, the tool 1112 does not include a power source. In other examples, such as in the seat attachment system 1200, the solenoid 1000 can be energized remotely via the controller 1202.

[0077] At block 1304, the exemplary method 1300 includes moving the seat 702 from a first position to a second position (block 1304) when the solenoid 1000 is energized. For example, the seat 702 can be moved forward or backward to a new position on the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714.

[0078] At block 1306, the exemplary method 1300 includes de-energizing the solenoid 1000 to attach the first seat fitting 716 to the first seat track 714 when the seat 702 is in the second position (block 1306). In some examples, de-energizing the solenoid 1000 includes detaching the tool from the interface. For example, in Figure 7 the seat attachment system 700, the tool 724 can be removed from the interface 732 on the seat 702, which de-energizes the solenoid 1000. As another example, in Figure 11 the seat attachment system 1100, the tool 1112 can be removed from the interface 1106 on the seat 702, which also de-energizes the solenoid 1000. In other examples, such as in the seat attachment system 1200, the solenoid 1000 can be de-energized remotely via the controller 1202.

[0079] When the solenoid 1000 in the first seat fitting 716 is de-energized, the locking post 908 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, as Figures 10A through 10C shown, thereby attaching the first seat fitting 716 (and thus, the seat 702) to the first seat track 712. The locking post 908 moves from the retracted position to the extended position via the force from the spring 1008.

[0080] Although in this example, the solenoid 1000 remains energized when the seat 702 is moved to the second position, in other examples, the solenoid 1000 can be de-energized after the seat 702 is detached from the first seat track 712. Then, the solenoid 1000 can be re-energized before placing the first seat fitting 716 on the first seat track 712 and attaching the first seat fitting 716 to the first seat track 712.

[0081] Although in some examples disclosed herein, a solenoid is energized to disengage seat fittings 716-722 from a first seat track 712 and a second seat track 714, and then the solenoid is de-energized to attach the seat fittings 716-722 to the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714, in other examples, the solenoid is configured to operate in reverse. Specifically, the solenoid can be de-energized to disengage the seat fittings 716-722 from the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714, and then the solenoid can be energized to attach the seat fittings 716-722 to the first seat track 712 and the second seat track 714. In such an example, a constant power source may be required to keep the solenoid energized. For example, a power source (e.g., one or more batteries) can be connected to the seat 702. In other examples, power can be supplied via a harness 1104.

[0082] "Comprising" and "including" (and all forms and tenses thereof) are used herein as open - ended terms. Thus, whenever a claim uses any form of "comprising" or "including" (e.g., comprises, includes, consisting of, containing, having, etc.) as a preamble or in any kind of claim recitation, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc. may exist without falling outside the scope of the corresponding claim or recitation. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term, e.g., in the preamble of a claim, it is open - ended in the same manner as the terms "comprising" and "including" are open - ended. When used, for example, in the form of A, B, and / or C, the term "and / or" means any combination or subset of A, B, C, such as (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, and (7) A and B and C. As used herein, in the context of describing a structure, component, item, object, and / or thing, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes any one of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein, in the context of describing a structure, component, item, object, and / or thing, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes any one of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein, in the context of describing the execution or performance of a process, instruction, action, activity, and / or step, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes any one of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein, in the context of describing the execution or performance of a process, instruction, action, activity, and / or step, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes any one of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0083] As used herein, singular references (e.g., "a", "an", "first", "second", etc.) do not exclude a plurality. As used herein, the term "a" or "an" entity means one or more of that entity. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more", and "at least one" may be used interchangeably herein. Further, although listed separately, a plurality of devices, elements, or method acts may be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these features may be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not imply that a combination of the features is not feasible and / or advantageous.

[0084] Based on the foregoing, it will be understood that the exemplary seat fittings, seat attachment systems, and methods disclosed herein can be used to easily and quickly attach a seat to a floorboard in a vehicle / detach a seat from the floorboard. Thus, the examples disclosed herein enable rapid reconfiguration of the seat, thereby saving time and cost associated with changing the seat configuration. Some of the exemplary seat fittings disclosed herein are also lighter and less expensive to manufacture. Additionally, some of the examples disclosed herein utilize specialized tools that reduce or prevent tampering with the seat fittings.

[0085] Exemplary methods, devices, and articles for attaching a seat to a floorboard in a vehicle are disclosed herein. Different aspects of the examples disclosed herein can be combined in other examples. Further examples and their combinations include the following clauses.

[0086] Clause 1 is a seat fitting for attaching a seat to a seat track in a vehicle. The seat fitting includes a body having a bottom surface facing the seat track, a locking post, and a solenoid disposed in the body. The solenoid is operable to move the locking post between a retracted position, in which the locking post is disposed within the body, and an extended position, in which the locking post extends outwardly from the bottom surface of the body and into the seat track.

[0087] Clause 2 includes the seat fitting according to Clause 1, wherein when the solenoid is energized, the locking post moves from the extended position to the retracted position, and when the solenoid is de-energized, the locking post moves from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0088] Clause 3 includes the seat fitting according to Clause 2, wherein when the solenoid is de-energized, the locking post moves away from the bottom surface of the body and rotates about an axis of the locking post.

[0089] Clause 4 includes the seat fitting according to Clause 3, wherein when the solenoid is energized, the locking post rotates about the axis of the locking post and moves toward the bottom surface of the body.

[0090] Clause 5 includes the seat fitting according to Clause 3 or 4, wherein the solenoid rotates the locking post by approximately 90°.

[0091] Clause 6 includes the seat fitting according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the locking post has a rod and an arm coupled to a distal end of the rod, the arm extending transversely to the rod.

[0092] Clause 7 includes the seat fitting according to Clause 6, wherein when the locking post is in the retracted position, the arm is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the seat track, and when the locking post is in the extended position, the arm is oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the seat track.

[0093] Clause 8 includes the seat fitting according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein the solenoid includes a spring for biasing the locking post to the extended position when the solenoid is de-energized.

[0094] Clause 9 includes the seat fitting according to any one of Clauses 1 to 8, wherein when the locking post is in the retracted position, the bottom surface of the locking post does not extend beyond the bottom surface of the body.

[0095] Clause 10 is a method including: energizing a solenoid in a seat fitting coupled to a seat to release the seat fitting from a seat track in a vehicle; moving the seat from a first position to a second position when the solenoid is energized; and de-energizing the solenoid to attach the seat fitting to the seat track when the seat is in the second position.

[0096] Clause 11 includes the method according to Clause 10, wherein the energizing of the solenoid includes coupling a tool to an interface on the seat or the seat fitting.

[0097] Clause 12 includes the method according to Clause 11, wherein the de-energizing of the solenoid includes detaching the tool from the interface.

[0098] Clause 13 includes the method according to Clause 12, wherein the tool includes a power source for energizing the solenoid when the tool is coupled to the interface.

[0099] Clause 14 includes the method according to any one of Clauses 10 to 13, wherein when the solenoid is energized, the solenoid moves the locking post from an extended position to a retracted position, in which the locking post extends from the bottom surface of the body of the seat fitting, and in which the locking post is disposed within the body of the seat fitting in the retracted position.

[0100] Clause 15 includes the method according to Clause 14, wherein when the solenoid is de-energized, the solenoid moves the locking post from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0101] Clause 16 includes the method according to Clause 15, wherein the solenoid includes a spring for moving the locking post from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0102] Clause 17 is a seat attachment system that includes a seat fitting to be coupled to a seat. The seat fitting includes a body having a top surface and a bottom surface; a passage defined between recesses formed in the top surface and the bottom surface; a locking post disposed in the recess, the locking post being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; a plunger disposed in the passage and coupled to the locking post, the plunger having an opening; and a pin that can be inserted into the opening of the plunger to hold the locking post in the extended position. The seat attachment system further includes a tool for removing the pin from the opening.

[0103] Clause 18 includes the seat attachment system according to Clause 17, wherein the seat fitting includes a spring for biasing the plunger out of the top surface of the body.

[0104] Clause 19 includes the seat attachment system according to Clause 17 or 18, wherein when the locking post is in the retracted position, a bottom surface of the locking post is flush with a bottom surface of the body.

[0105] Clause 20 includes the seat attachment system according to any one of Clauses 17 to 19, wherein when the pin is inserted into the opening, the pin does not extend beyond an outer surface of the body.

[0106] Although certain exemplary methods, devices, and articles have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Instead, this patent covers all methods, devices, and articles that fall entirely within the scope of the claims of this patent.

[0107] The appended claims are hereby incorporated by reference into the detailed description, where each claim independently serves as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A seat fitting for attaching a seat to a seat track in a vehicle, the seat fitting comprising: a body having a bottom surface facing the seat track; a locking post; and a solenoid disposed in the body, the solenoid including a guide, the solenoid being operable to move the locking post between a retracted position and an extended position, in the retracted position the locking post being disposed in the body, in the extended position the locking post extending outwardly from the bottom surface of the body and into the seat track, the guide causing the locking post to rotate about an axis of the locking post as the solenoid moves the locking post between the retracted position and the extended position.

2. The seat fitting according to claim 1, wherein when the solenoid is energized, the locking post moves from the extended position to the retracted position, and when the solenoid is de-energized, the locking post moves from the retracted position to the extended position.

3. The seat fitting according to claim 2, wherein when the solenoid is de-energized, the locking post moves away from the bottom surface of the body and rotates about an axis of the locking post.

4. The seat fitting according to claim 3, wherein when the solenoid is energized, the locking post rotates about the axis of the locking post and moves toward the bottom surface of the body.

5. The seat fitting according to claim 3, wherein the guide causes the locking post to rotate by approximately 90°.

6. The seat fitting according to claim 1, wherein the locking post has a rod and an arm coupled to a distal end of the rod, the arm extending transversely to the rod.

7. The seat fitting according to claim 6, wherein when the locking post is in the retracted position, the arm is oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the seat track, and when the locking post is in the extended position, the arm is oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the seat track.

8. The seat fitting according to claim 1, wherein the solenoid includes a spring for biasing the locking post to the extended position when the solenoid is de-energized.

9. The seat fitting according to claim 1, wherein when the locking post is in the retracted position, a bottom surface of the locking post does not extend beyond the bottom surface of the body.

10. A method, comprising: Energize a solenoid in a seat fitting coupled to a seat to release the seat fitting from a seat track in a vehicle, the seat fitting including a body having a bottom surface facing the seat track and a locking post, the solenoid being disposed in the body, wherein when the solenoid is energized, the solenoid moves the locking post from an extended position, in which the locking post extends outwardly from the bottom surface of the body and into the seat track, to a retracted position, in which the locking post is disposed within the body, and wherein the solenoid includes a guide that causes the locking post to rotate about an axis of the locking post as the solenoid moves the locking post between the retracted position and the extended position; When the solenoid is energized, move the seat from a first position to a second position; and When the seat is in the second position, de-energize the solenoid to attach the seat fitting to the seat track.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein energizing the solenoid includes coupling a tool to an interface on the seat or the seat fitting.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein de-energizing the solenoid includes detaching the tool from the interface.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the tool includes a power source for energizing the solenoid when the tool is coupled to the interface.

14. The method according to claim 10, wherein when the solenoid is de-energized, the solenoid moves the locking post from the retracted position to the extended position.

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