Seat comprising a sound cancellation system

Abstract

Seating including a sound cancellation system is described. An example vehicle bench seat has a first backrest, a first loudspeaker, a second backrest, a second loudspeaker, a center portion, and a seat base. The first loudspeaker is disposed within the first backrest, and the second loudspeaker is disposed within the second backrest. Each of the first loudspeaker and the second loudspeaker emits primary sound waves and secondary sound waves. The secondary sound waves of the first loudspeaker are 180 degrees out of phase with the primary sound waves of the first loudspeaker, and the secondary sound waves of the second loudspeaker are 180 degrees out of phase with the primary sound waves of the second loudspeaker. The center portion includes a channel that directs the secondary sound waves emitted by the first loudspeaker and the second loudspeaker into a vehicle cabin to cancel unwanted primary sound waves.

Description

field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to the field of seats, including sound output devices. More specifically, this disclosure relates to vehicle seats, including sound cancellation systems. background

[0002] In some vehicles, loudspeakers are grouped and associated with different areas within the vehicle compartment. When loudspeakers in two or more areas actively emit sound waves from different audio sources, these loudspeakers produce mixed sound, which can be uncomfortable for the vehicle occupants without adequate sound cancellation. For effectiveness, sound cancellation waves should be directed towards the occupants to whom certain sound waves are to be canceled, without placing any sound barrier between the sound cancellation waves and the occupants.

[0003] For example, such as Figures 1 to 4 As shown, a conventional vehicle compartment includes a first bucket seat 12, a second bucket seat 14, and a rear bench seat 16. The first bucket seat 12 has a first speaker 18, the second bucket seat 14 has a second speaker 20, and the rear bench seat 16 has a third speaker 22 and a fourth speaker 24. During use, each of the speakers 18, 20, 22, and 24 emits a primary sound wave 26 and an infrasound wave 28. Regarding the first bucket seat 12 and the second bucket seat 14, the infrasound wave 28 of the first speaker 18 cancels or cancels the primary sound wave 26 of the first speaker 18, and the infrasound wave 28 of the second speaker 20 cancels or cancels the primary sound wave 26 of the second speaker 20. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first bucket seat 12 and the second bucket seat 14 include slots 29 through which infrasound 28 propagates, enabling sound cancellation. Furthermore, there is no sound barrier between the first bucket seat 12 and the second bucket seat 14 to prevent the infrasound 28 from canceling the primary sound wave 26. Therefore, although conventional bucket seats 12 and 14 provide a sound cancellation mechanism, these bucket seats do not provide any directionality for the infrasound 28, thus reducing the overall impact of sound cancellation on the occupants.

[0004] Regarding the rear bench seat 16, the third speaker 22 is located in the first compartment 30, the second speaker 24 is located in the second compartment 32, and the armrest 34 is located between the third speaker 22 and the fourth speaker 24. Figure 4As shown, the infrasound waves 28 of the third speaker 22 and the fourth speaker 24 are prevented from propagating to the outside of the respective chambers 30, 32. Furthermore, when the armrest 34 is in the upright storage position, it forms a sound barrier between the third speaker 22 and the fourth speaker 24, thereby preventing any infrasound waves 28 from eliminating the main sound wave 26.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for new and useful vehicle seats, including those with sound cancellation systems.

[0006] Overview of selected example embodiments

[0007] This article describes various example seats, including those with sound cancellation systems.

[0008] The example seat includes a first backrest, a first speaker, a second backrest, a second speaker, and a central portion. The first backrest has a first occupant support portion, a first side portion, and defines a first channel extending from the first occupant support portion to the first side portion. The first speaker is disposed within the first channel. The second backrest has a second occupant support portion, a second side portion, and defines a second channel extending from the second occupant support portion to the second side portion. The second speaker is disposed within the second channel. The central portion is disposed between the first backrest and the second backrest. The central portion has a third occupant support portion, a third side portion pointing towards the first backrest, and a fourth side portion pointing towards the second backrest, and defines a third channel extending from the third side portion to the third occupant support portion and a fourth channel extending from the fourth side portion to the third occupant support portion.

[0009] Another example seat includes a first backrest, a first speaker, a second backrest, a second speaker, and a central portion. The first backrest has a first occupant support portion, a first side portion, and defines a first channel extending from the first occupant support portion to the first side portion. The first speaker is disposed within the first channel and emits primary and secondary sound waves during use. The second backrest has a second occupant support portion, a second side portion, and defines a second channel extending from the second occupant support portion to the second side portion. The second speaker is disposed within the second channel and emits primary and secondary sound waves during use. The central portion is disposed between the first and second backrests. The central portion includes a pivotable armrest that is movable between an upright position and a lowered position. The pivotable armrest has a third occupant support portion, a third side portion pointing towards the first backrest, a fourth side portion pointing towards the second backrest, and defines a third channel extending from the third side portion to the third occupant support portion and a fourth channel extending from the fourth side portion to the third occupant support portion. The third channel has a first end portion disposed adjacent to the first channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position. The fourth channel has a first end adjacent to the second channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position. A first speaker is disposed within the first channel such that a portion of the infrasound waves emitted by the first speaker propagates through the first and third channels. A second speaker is disposed within the second channel such that a portion of the infrasound waves emitted by the second speaker propagates through the second and fourth channels.

[0010] Another example seat includes a first backrest, a first speaker, a second backrest, a second speaker, and a central portion. The first backrest has a first occupant support portion, a first side portion, and defines a first channel extending from the first occupant support portion to the first side portion. The first speaker is disposed within the first channel and emits primary and infrasound waves during use. The infrasound wave of the first speaker is a zeroing wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the primary sound wave of the first speaker. The second backrest has a second occupant support portion, a second side portion, and defines a second channel extending from the second occupant support portion to the second side portion. The second speaker is disposed within the second channel and emits primary and infrasound waves during use. The infrasound wave of the second speaker is a zeroing wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the primary sound wave of the second speaker. The central portion is disposed between the first and second backrests. The central portion includes a pivotable armrest that is movable between an upright position and a lowered position. The pivotable armrest has a third occupant support portion, a third side portion pointing towards a first backrest, and a fourth side portion pointing towards a second backrest, defining a third channel extending from the third side portion to the third occupant support portion and a fourth channel extending from the fourth side portion to the third occupant support portion. The third channel has a first end portion adjacent to the first channel when the pivotable armrest is in an upright position. The third channel guides infrasound waves from a first speaker away from the central portion and the first speaker. The fourth channel has a first end portion adjacent to the second channel when the pivotable armrest is in an upright position. The fourth channel guides infrasound waves from a second speaker away from the central portion and the second speaker. The first speaker is disposed within the first channel such that a portion of the infrasound waves from the first speaker propagates through both the first and third channels. The second speaker is disposed within the second channel such that a portion of the infrasound waves from the second speaker propagates through both the second and fourth channels.

[0011] Further understanding of these examples can be gained by reading the following detailed description and accompanying figures. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0012] Figure 1 This is a front view of a bucket seat in a conventional vehicle.

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The illustration shows a partial perspective side view of the first bucket chair.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a partial front view of a bench seat in a conventional vehicle. The armrests are shown in either an upright or stored position.

[0015] Figure 4 It is a section taken along line 4-4. Figure 3 The image shows a partial cross-sectional view of a bench seat on a vehicle.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a partial front view of a first embodiment of a vehicle bench seat including a sound cancellation system. The armrests are shown in an upright or stored position.

[0017] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Another partial front view of the bench seat in the vehicle shown in the middle illustration. The armrests are shown in the lowered position.

[0018] Figure 7 It is a section taken along line 7-7. Figure 5 The image shows a partial cross-sectional view of a bench seat on a vehicle.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a partial front view of a second embodiment of a vehicle bench seat including a sound cancellation system. The armrests are shown in an upright or stored position.

[0020] Figure 9 It is a section taken along line 9-9. Figure 8 The image shows a partial cross-sectional view of a bench seat on a vehicle.

[0021] Figure 10 It is a section taken from 10-10 along the line. Figure 8 The image shows a partial cross-sectional view of a bench seat on a vehicle.

[0022] Figure 11 This is a partial front view of a third embodiment of a vehicle bench seat including a sound cancellation system. The armrests are shown in an upright or stored position.

[0023] Figure 12 It is a section taken along line 12-12. Figure 11 The image shows a partial cross-sectional view of a bench seat on a vehicle.

[0024] Figure 13 This is a partial front view of a fourth embodiment of a vehicle bench seat including a sound cancellation system. The armrests and headrest are shown in an upright position.

[0025] Figure 14 It is a section taken along line 14-14. Figure 13 The image shows a partial cross-sectional view of a bench seat on a vehicle.

[0026] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 The image shows a partial front view of the headrest of a bench seat in a vehicle. The headrest is in an upright position.

[0027] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The image shows a partial front view of the headrest. The headrest is shown in an inclined position.

[0028] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 The image shows a partial side view of the headrest. The headrest is shown in an inclined position.

[0029] Detailed description of the selected example

[0030] The following detailed description and accompanying drawings illustrate various exemplary embodiments of a seat including a sound cancellation system. These examples are provided to enable those skilled in the art to manufacture and use seats including a sound cancellation system. These examples are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way.

[0031] Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 A first embodiment of a vehicle bench seat 100 including a sound cancellation system 110 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the sound cancellation system 110 includes a channel 112 disposed within the vehicle bench seat 100. The vehicle bench seat 100 has a longitudinal axis 101, a first backrest 114, a first speaker 116, a second backrest 118, a second speaker 120, a central portion 122, and a seat base 123 disposed adjacent to the first backrest 114, the second backrest 118, and the central portion 122.

[0032] The first backrest 114 has a first occupant support portion 124, a first rear portion 126, a first side portion 128, and defines a first channel 130. The first side portion 128 extends from the first occupant support portion 124 to the first rear portion 126. The first channel 130 extends from the first occupant support portion 124 to the first side portion 128. A first speaker 116 is disposed within the first channel 130 defined by the first backrest 114. The first backrest 114 includes a first acoustically transparent material 132 between the first speaker 116 and the first occupant support portion 124, a first perforated decorative element 134 adjacent to the first acoustically transparent material 132 along the first occupant support portion 124, and a second perforated decorative element 136 between the first speaker 116 and the center portion 122.

[0033] The second backrest 118 has a second occupant support portion 138, a second rear portion 140, a second side portion 142, and defines a second channel 144. The second side portion 142 extends from the second occupant support portion 138 to the second rear portion 140. The second channel 144 extends from the second occupant support portion 138 to the second side portion 142. A second speaker 120 is disposed within the channel 144 defined by the second backrest 118. The second backrest 118 includes a second acoustically transparent material 146 between the second speaker 120 and the second occupant support portion 138, a third perforated decorative element 148 adjacent to the second acoustically transparent material 146 along the occupant support portion 138, and a fourth perforated decorative element 150 between the second speaker 120 and the center portion 122.

[0034] A central portion 122 is disposed between a first backrest 114 and a second backrest 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the central portion 122 includes a pivotable armrest 152, which can be positioned such that... Figure 5 and Figure 7 The upright or storage position shown is similar to... Figure 6 The armrest 152 moves between the lowered positions shown. When the pivotable armrest 152 is in the upright position, the central portion 122 has a third occupant support portion 154, a third rear portion 156, a third side portion 158, and a fourth side portion 160, defining a third channel 162 and a fourth channel 164. The third side portion 158 points toward and is disposed adjacent to the first backrest 114, and the fourth side portion 160 points toward and is disposed adjacent to the second backrest 118. Each of the third side portion 158 and the fourth side portion 160 extends from the third occupant support portion 154 to the third rear portion 156. The third channel 162 extends from the third side portion 158 to the third occupant support portion 154. The fourth channel 164 extends from the fourth side portion 160 to the third occupant support portion 154. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the third channel 162 and the fourth channel 164 is defined on the pivotable armrest 152.

[0035] A third channel 162, defined by the central portion 122, extends from a first end 166 located at the third side portion 158 to a second end 168 located at the third occupant support portion 154. When the pivotable armrest 152 is in the upright position, the first end 166 of the third channel 162 is adjacent to the first channel 130 defined by the first backrest 114. A fourth channel 164, defined by the central portion 122, extends from a first end 170 located at the second side portion 142 to a second end 172 located at the third occupant support portion 154. When the pivotable armrest 152 is in the upright position, the first end 170 of the fourth channel 164 is adjacent to the second channel 144 defined by the second backrest 118.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the central portion 122 includes a third acoustically transparent material 174 located at the second end 168 of the third occupant support portion 154 at the third channel 162, and a fourth acoustically transparent material 176 located at the second end 172 of the fourth channel 164 adjacent to the third occupant support portion 154. Furthermore, the central portion 122 includes a fifth perforated decorative element 178 adjacent to the third acoustically transparent material 174 along the third occupant support portion 154, a sixth perforated decorative element 180 adjacent to the fourth acoustically transparent material 176 along the third occupant support portion 154, a seventh perforated decorative element 182 along the third side portion 158 and located between the first backrest 114 and the third channel 162, and an eighth perforated decorative element 184 along the fourth side portion 160 and located between the second backrest 118 and the fourth channel 164.

[0037] like Figure 7 As shown, each of the first speaker 116 and the second speaker 120 emits a primary sound wave 186 and an infrasound wave 188 during use. The primary sound wave 186 of the first speaker 116 may be the same as or different from the primary sound wave 186 of the second speaker 120, depending on the audio source used by the occupant of the vehicle bench seat 100. The first speaker 116 is disposed within a first channel 130 defined by a first backrest 114, such that the primary sound wave 186 of the first speaker 116 propagates through a first occupant support portion 124 of the first backrest 114, and a portion of the infrasound wave 188 of the first speaker 116 propagates through the first channel 130 defined by the first backrest 114, a first side portion 128 of the first backrest 114, a third side portion 158 of the center portion 122, and a third channel 162 defined by the center portion 122. The infrasound 188 of the first speaker 116 is a null wave 180 degrees out of phase with the main sound wave 186 of the first speaker 116, and is used to eliminate the main sound wave 186 of the first speaker 116 in various parts of the vehicle compartment. The second speaker 120 is disposed within a second channel 144 defined by the second backrest 118, such that the main sound wave 186 of the second speaker 120 propagates through the second occupant support portion 138 of the second backrest 118, and a portion of the infrasound 188 of the second speaker 120 propagates through the second channel 144 defined by the second backrest 118, the second side portion 142 of the second backrest 118, the fourth side portion 160 of the center portion 122, and the fourth channel 164 defined by the center portion 122. The infrasound 188 of the second speaker 120 is a null wave 180 degrees out of phase with the main sound wave 186 of the second speaker 120, and is used to eliminate the main sound wave 186 of the second speaker 120 in various parts of the vehicle compartment.

[0038] like Figure 7As shown, a portion 125 of the first channel 130 defined by the first backrest 114, extending from the first side 128 toward the first speaker 116, guides the infrasound 188 of the first speaker 116 away from the first backrest 114 and away from the first speaker 116 along axis 127. Axis 127 is positioned at an angle 129 of less than 90 degrees relative to longitudinal axis 101. A portion 139 of the second channel 144 defined by the second backrest 118, extending from the second side 142 toward the second speaker 120, guides the infrasound 188 of the second speaker 120 away from the second backrest 118 and away from the second speaker 120 along axis 141. Axis 141 is positioned at an angle 143 of less than 90 degrees relative to longitudinal axis 101. A portion 190 of the third channel 162 of the pivotable armrest 152, extending from the second end 168 toward the first end 166 of the third channel 162, guides the infrasound 188 of the first speaker 116 away from the central portion 122 and away from the first speaker 116 along a first axis 191. The first axis 191 is set at a first angle 193 of less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 101. A portion 192 of the fourth channel 164 of the pivotable armrest 152, extending from the second end 172 toward the first end 170 of the fourth channel 164, guides the infrasound 188 of the second speaker 120 away from the central portion 122 and away from the second speaker 120 along a second axis 195. The second axis 195 is set at an angle 197 of less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 101.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the first channel 130 defined by the first backrest 114 is defined by a first foam layer 194 disposed within the first backrest 114, the second channel 144 defined by the second backrest 118 is defined by a second foam layer 196 disposed within the second backrest 118, and each of the third channel 162 and the fourth channel 164 defined by the central portion 122 is defined by a third foam layer 198 disposed within the central portion 122. While foam layers 194, 196, and 198 have been illustrated to define channels 130, 144, 162, and 164, channels included in the seat can be defined wholly or partially by any suitable structure capable of transmitting sound waves. The selection of a suitable structure to define the channels can be based on various considerations, such as the structural arrangement of the seat. Examples of suitable structures considered suitable for forming part or all of the channels include foam layers, tubular members, and any other structures considered suitable for a particular embodiment. For example, as described in more detail herein, Figure 11 and Figure 12 The illustration shows channels 430, 444, 462, and 464 defined by individual tubular members 502, 504, 506, and 508.

[0040] In use, when the pivotable armrest 152 is in the upright position, the sound cancellation system 110 provides a mechanism for guiding nulling sound waves (e.g., infrasound 188) through the armrest 152 and toward an occupant who wishes to cancel sound waves from speakers not being used by occupants. For example, when the first speaker 116 is actively emitting the main sound wave 186 from a first audio source different from the second audio source (the second speaker 120 is actively emitting the main sound wave 186 from its own emission), the sound cancellation system 110 provides a mechanism for using the third channel 162 and the fourth channel 164 defined by the armrest 152 to guide the infrasound 188 of the first speaker 116 and the infrasound 188 of the second speaker 120 through the armrest 152. Furthermore, when the pivotable armrest 152 is in the lowered position, the structural arrangement of the first channel 130 defined by the first backrest 114 and the second channel 144 defined by the second backrest 118 provides a mechanism for directing nulling sound waves (e.g., infrasound 188) toward an occupant who wishes to eliminate sound waves from speakers not used by the occupant.

[0041] While the first backrest 114, second backrest 118, and center portion 122 have been illustrated as including acoustically permeable material and perforated trim, the first backrest, second backrest, and center portion of a vehicle bench seat may include any suitable material with any suitable structural arrangement. The selection of suitable materials and suitable structural arrangements of materials can be based on a variety of considerations, including the type of speakers included in the seat. Examples of materials and structural arrangements of materials considered suitable for use as acoustically permeable material and / or perforated trim include knitted layers of material, highly breathable material layers, mesh foam, acoustically transparent fabric, acoustic screens, and any other materials or structural arrangements of materials considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

[0042] Although the first speaker 116 has been illustrated as emitting a primary acoustic wave 186 and an infrasonic wave 188 that is 180 degrees out of phase with respect to the primary acoustic wave 186 of the first speaker 116, and the second speaker 120 has been illustrated as emitting a primary acoustic wave 186 and an infrasonic wave 188 that is 180 degrees out of phase with respect to the primary acoustic wave 186 of the second speaker 120, any suitable speaker capable of generating primary and / or infrasonic waves may be included in the seat. The selection of a suitable speaker may be based on various considerations, including the desired sound cancellation to be achieved. Examples of speakers considered suitable for inclusion in the seat include monopole speakers, dipole speakers, and any other speakers considered suitable for a particular embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the first speaker 116 and the second speaker 120 are dipole speakers.

[0043] Although channel 112 has been illustrated as guiding sound waves at a specific angle (e.g., angle 129, angle 143, angle 193, angle 197) relative to the longitudinal axis 101 of the vehicle bench seat 100, a portion of the channel may guide sound waves along any suitable axis set at any suitable angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the seat. Examples of angles considered suitable for positioning sound waves along their guiding axis relative to the longitudinal axis of the seat include angles equal to, less than, greater than, or approximately 90 degrees, 45 degrees, and any other angles considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

[0044] While the first channel 130 has been illustrated as being integrated into the first backrest 114 of the vehicle bench seat 100, the second channel 144 has been illustrated as being integrated into the second backrest 118 of the vehicle bench seat 100, and the third channel 162 and the fourth channel 164 have been illustrated as being integrated into the central portion 122 of the vehicle bench seat, the channels described herein can be integrated into any suitable seat and / or any suitable portion of a seat. The selection of suitable seats and portions of seats to integrate channels (such as those described herein) can be based on a variety of considerations, including the location of the sound waves to be eliminated. Examples of seats considered suitable for integrating channels (such as those described herein) include bucket seats, bench seats, vehicle bucket seats, vehicle bench seats, and any other seats considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Examples of seat portions considered suitable for integrating channels include within the backrest, headrest, armrest, and any other portion of the seat considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Alternatively, alternative embodiments may include a central portion that omits pivotable armrests and includes a first and a second channel within a structure defining the central portion (e.g., a backrest), as described herein.

[0045] Although the first backrest 114, the second backrest 118, and the center portion 122 have been illustrated with a specific structural arrangement, the backrests and center portion can have any suitable structural arrangement, and the choice of a suitable structural arrangement can be based on various considerations, including the materials forming the backrests and / or center portion. For example, occupant support portions (e.g., occupant support portions 124, occupant support portions 138, occupant support portions 154) provide support for the occupant's back when the occupant is seated in the seat and can have any suitable profile shape for occupant comfort.

[0046] Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10A second embodiment of a vehicle bench seat 200 including a sound cancellation system 210 is illustrated. The sound cancellation system 210 includes a channel 212 disposed within the vehicle bench seat 200, which, except as described in detail below, is similar to... Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The illustrated passage 112 is shown in the figure above. In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle bench seat 200 has a first longitudinal axis 201, a second longitudinal axis 203, a first backrest 214, a first speaker 216, a second backrest 218, a second speaker 220, a center portion 222, a first seat base 223 disposed adjacent to the first backrest 214, and a second seat base 225 disposed adjacent to the second backrest 218.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the central portion 222 includes a pivotable armrest 252 and a headrest 302, a first channel 230 of a first backrest 214 is disposed adjacent to the armrest 252 and the headrest 302, and a second channel 244 of a second backrest 218 is disposed adjacent to the armrest 252 and the headrest 302.

[0048] When the pivotable armrest 252 is in the upright position, the armrest 252 has a third occupant support portion 254, a third rear portion 256, a third side portion 258, and a fourth side portion 260, defining a third channel 262 and a fourth channel 264. The third side portion 258 points toward and is disposed adjacent to the first backrest 214, and the fourth side portion 260 points toward and is disposed adjacent to the second backrest 218. Each of the third side portion 258 and the fourth side portion 260 extends from the third occupant support portion 254 of the armrest 252 to the third rear portion 256. The third channel 262 extends from the third side portion 258 to the third occupant support portion 254. The fourth channel 264 extends from the fourth side portion 260 to the third occupant support portion 254.

[0049] The headrest 302 has a fourth occupant support portion 304, a fourth rear portion 306, a fifth side portion 308, and a sixth side portion 310, and defines a fifth channel 312 and a sixth channel 314. The fifth side portion 308 points toward and is disposed adjacent to the first backrest 214, and the sixth side portion 310 points toward and is disposed adjacent to the second backrest 218. Each of the fifth side portion 308 and the sixth side portion 310 extends from the fourth occupant support portion 304 of the headrest 302 to the fourth rear portion 306. The fifth channel 312 extends from the fifth side portion 308 to the fourth occupant support portion 304. The sixth channel 314 extends from the sixth side portion 310 to the fourth occupant support portion 304.

[0050] A fifth channel 312 defined by the headrest 302 extends from a first end 316 located at a fifth side portion 308 to a second end 318 located at a fourth occupant support portion 304. The first end 316 of the fifth channel 312 is disposed adjacent to a first channel 230 defined by a first backrest 214. A sixth channel 314 defined by the headrest 302 extends from a first end 320 located at a sixth side portion 310 to a second end 322 located at a fourth occupant support portion 304. The first end 320 of the sixth channel 314 is disposed adjacent to a second channel 244 defined by a second backrest 218. In the illustrated embodiment, the headrest 302 includes a fifth acoustically permeable material 324 adjacent to the fourth occupant support portion 304 at the second end 318 of the fifth channel 312 and a sixth acoustically permeable material 326 adjacent to the fourth occupant support portion 304 at the second end 322 of the sixth channel 314. In addition, the headrest 302 includes a ninth perforated decorative piece 328 along the fourth occupant support portion 304 adjacent to the fifth acoustically permeable material 324, a tenth perforated decorative piece 330 along the fourth occupant support portion 304 adjacent to the sixth acoustically permeable material 326, an eleventh perforated decorative piece 332 along the fifth side portion 308 located between the first backrest 214 and the fifth acoustically permeable material 324, and a twelfth perforated decorative piece 334 along the sixth side portion 310 located between the second backrest 218 and the sixth acoustically permeable material 326.

[0051] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, a first speaker 216 is disposed within a first channel 230 defined by a first backrest 214, such that a portion of the infrasound 288 emitted by the first speaker 216 propagates through the first channel 230 defined by the first backrest 214, a first side portion 228 of the first backrest 214, a third channel 262 defined by the armrest 252, and a fifth channel 312 defined by the headrest 302. A second speaker 220 is disposed within a second channel 244 defined by a second backrest 218, such that a portion of the infrasound 288 emitted by the second speaker 220 propagates through the second channel 244 defined by the second backrest 218, a second side portion 242 of the second backrest 218, a fourth channel 264 defined by the armrest 252, and a sixth channel 314 defined by the headrest 302.

[0052] like Figure 9 As shown, the portion 336 of the fifth channel 312 defined by the headrest 302, extending from the second end 318 toward the first end 316, guides the infrasound 288 of the first speaker 216 away from the central portion 222 and away from the first speaker 216 along the first axis 337. The first axis 337 is set at a first angle 339 relative to the first longitudinal axis 201, which is between approximately 45 degrees and approximately 90 degrees. Similarly... Figure 9As shown, the portion 338 of the sixth channel 314 defined by the headrest 302, extending from the second end 322 toward the first end 320, guides the infrasound 288 of the second speaker 220 along the second axis 341 away from the central portion 222 and away from the second speaker 220. The second axis 341 is set at an angle 343 relative to the longitudinal axis 201, the angle 343 being between approximately 45 degrees and approximately 90 degrees.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the first channel 230 defined by the first backrest 214 is defined by a first foam layer 294 disposed within the first backrest 214, the second channel 244 defined by the second backrest 218 is defined by a second foam layer 296 disposed within the second backrest 218, each of the third channel 262 and the fourth channel 264 defined by the armrest 252 is defined by a third foam layer 298 disposed within the armrest 252, and each of the fifth channel 312 and the sixth channel 314 defined by the headrest 302 is defined by a fourth foam layer 340 disposed within the headrest 302.

[0054] In use, when the pivotable armrest 252 is in the upright position, the sound cancellation system 210 provides a mechanism for guiding nulling sound waves (e.g., infrasound 288) through both the armrest 252 and the headrest 302 toward an occupant who wishes to cancel sound waves from speakers not being used by the occupant. Furthermore, when the pivotable armrest 252 is in the lowered position, the structural arrangement of the first channel 230 defined by the first backrest 214 and the second channel 244 defined by the second backrest 218 provides a mechanism for guiding nulling sound waves (e.g., infrasound 288) toward an occupant who wishes to cancel sound waves from speakers not being used by the occupant.

[0055] Figure 11 and Figure 12 A third embodiment of a vehicle bench seat 400 including a sound cancellation system 410 is illustrated. The sound cancellation system 410 includes a channel 412 disposed within the vehicle bench seat 400, which, except as described in detail below, is similar to... Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The illustrated passage 112 is shown in the figure above. In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle bench seat 400 has a longitudinal axis 401, a first backrest 414, a first speaker 416, a second backrest 418, a second speaker 420, a center portion 422, a first seat base 423 disposed adjacent to the first backrest 414, a second seat base 425 disposed adjacent to the second backrest 418, and a third seat base 427 disposed adjacent to the center portion 422.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, a first channel 430 within a first backrest 414 has a first portion 431 defined by a first foam layer 494 and a second portion 433 formed by a first tubular member 502. A second channel 444 within a second backrest 418 has a first portion 445 defined by a second foam layer 496 and a second portion 447 formed by a second tubular member 504. A third channel 462 within a central portion 422 is formed by a third tubular member 506, and a fourth channel 464 within a central portion 422 is formed by a fourth tubular member 508.

[0057] A first tubular member 502 extends from a first speaker 416 to a first side portion 428 of a first backrest 414. A second tubular member 504 extends from a second speaker 420 to a second side portion 442 of a second backrest 418. A third tubular member 506 extends from a first end portion 510 located at a third side portion 458 to a second end portion 512 located at a third occupant support portion 454. When the pivotable armrest 452 is in an upright position, the first end portion 510 of the third tubular member 506 is disposed adjacent to a first channel 430 defined by the first backrest 414. A fourth tubular member 508 extends from a first end portion 514 located at a fourth side portion 460 to a second end portion 516 located at the third occupant support portion 454. When the pivotable armrest 452 is in an upright position, the first end portion 514 of the fourth tubular member 508 is disposed adjacent to a second channel 444 defined by the second backrest 418. Optionally, the tubular members may include a mesh located at the ends of the tubular members to enhance the structural integrity of the ends of the tubular members.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the central portion 422 includes a third acoustically permeable material 474 located at the second end 512 of the third occupant support portion 454 within the third tubular member 506, and a fourth acoustically permeable material 476 located at the second end 516 of the third occupant support portion 454 within the fourth tubular member 508. Furthermore, the central portion 422 includes a fifth perforated decorative element 478 adjacent to the third acoustically permeable material 474 along the third occupant support portion 454; a sixth perforated decorative element 480 adjacent to the fourth acoustically permeable material 476 along the third occupant support portion 454; a seventh perforated decorative element 482 located between the first backrest 414 and the third acoustically permeable material 474 along the third side portion 458; and an eighth perforated decorative element 484 located between the second backrest 418 and the fourth acoustically permeable material 476 along the fourth side portion 460.

[0059] like Figure 12As shown, a first speaker 416 is disposed within a first channel 430 defined by a first backrest 414, such that a portion of the infrasound 488 emitted by the first speaker 416 propagates through a first tubular member 502 disposed within the first backrest 414 and a third tubular member 506 disposed within the central portion 422. A second speaker 420 is disposed within a second channel 444 defined by a second backrest 418, such that a portion of the infrasound 488 emitted by the second speaker 420 propagates through a second tubular member 504 disposed within the second backrest 418 and a fourth tubular member 508 disposed within the central portion 422.

[0060] The portion 520 of the third tubular member 506 extending from the second end 512 toward the first end 514 guides the infrasound 488 of the first speaker 416 away from the central portion 422 and away from the first speaker 416 along the first axis 521. The first axis 521 is set at a first angle 523 of less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 401. The portion 522 of the fourth tubular member 508 extending from the second end 516 toward the first end 514 guides the infrasound 488 of the second speaker 420 away from the central portion 422 and away from the second speaker 420 along the second axis 525. The second axis 525 is set at an angle 527 of less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 401.

[0061] As described herein, the first, second, third, and fourth tubular members included in the vehicle bench seat can be formed of any suitable material and have any suitable structural arrangement capable of transmitting sound waves. Examples of materials considered suitable for forming the tubular members included in the vehicle bench seat include plastics, as well as any other materials considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

[0062] Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 A fourth embodiment of a vehicle bench seat 600 including a sound cancellation system 610 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the sound cancellation system 610 includes a plurality of speakers 616 disposed within the vehicle bench seat 600, which generate a null wave during use, as described in more detail herein. Apart from the detailed description below, the vehicle bench seat 600 is similar to... Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7The vehicle bench seat 100 is illustrated in the figure and described above. The vehicle bench seat 600 has a longitudinal axis 601, a first backrest 614, a first plurality of speakers 616, a second backrest 618, a second plurality of speakers 620, a center portion 622, a first seat base 623 disposed adjacent to the first backrest 614, and a second seat base 625 disposed adjacent to the second backrest 618.

[0063] like Figure 14 As shown, the first backrest 614 has a first occupant support portion 624, a first rear portion 626, a first side portion 628, and defines a first chamber 630, in which a speaker 617 of a plurality of speakers 616 is disposed. The first chamber 630 extends from the first occupant support portion 624 toward the first rear portion 626. The first backrest 614 includes a first acoustically permeable material 632 located between the speaker 617 and the first occupant support portion 624, and a first perforated decorative element 634 adjacent to the first acoustically permeable material 632 along the first occupant support portion 624.

[0064] The second backrest 618 has a second occupant support portion 638, a second rear portion 640, and a second side portion 642, and defines a second chamber 644 in which a speaker 621 of the second plurality of speakers 620 is disposed. The second chamber 644 extends from the second occupant support portion 638 toward the second rear portion 640. The second backrest 618 includes a second acoustically transparent material 646 located between the speaker 621 and the second occupant support portion 638, and a second perforated decorative element 648 adjacent to the second acoustically transparent material 646 along the second occupant support portion 638.

[0065] A central portion 622 is disposed between a first backrest 614 and a second backrest 618. In the illustrated embodiment, the central portion 622 includes a pivotable armrest 652, a pivotable headrest 702, a first speaker 704, and a second speaker 706. Each of the first speaker 704 and the second speaker 706 is disposed within the pivotable headrest 702.

[0066] The pivotable headrest 702 can be used in situations such as Figure 13 and Figure 15 The upright position shown and as Figure 16 and Figure 17The headrest 702 is movable between the indicated tilt positions. It has a third occupant support portion 708, a third rear portion 710, a third side portion 712, and a fourth side portion 714, defining a third chamber 716 and a fourth chamber 718. The third side portion 712 is disposed adjacent to the first backrest 614, and the fourth side portion 714 is disposed adjacent to the second backrest 618. Each of the third side portion 712 and the fourth side portion 714 extends from the third occupant support portion 708 to the third rear portion 710. The third chamber 716, defined by the headrest 702, extends from the third occupant support portion 708 toward the third rear portion 710. The fourth chamber 718, defined by the headrest 702, extends from the third occupant support portion 708 toward the third rear portion 710. A first speaker 704 is disposed within the third chamber 716 defined by the headrest 702, and a second speaker 706 is disposed within the fourth chamber 718 defined by the headrest 702.

[0067] The headrest 702 includes a third acoustically transparent material 720 located between the first speaker 704 and the third occupant support portion 708, and a fourth acoustically transparent material 722 located between the second speaker 706 and the third occupant support portion 708. Furthermore, the headrest 702 includes a third perforated decorative element 724 adjacent to the third acoustically transparent material 720 along the third occupant support portion 708, and a fourth perforated decorative element 726 adjacent to the fourth acoustically transparent material 722 along the third occupant support portion 708.

[0068] Each of the first plurality of speakers 616 disposed in the first backrest 614, the second plurality of speakers 620 disposed in the second backrest 618, the first speaker 704 disposed in the headrest 702, and the second speaker 706 disposed in the headrest 702 emits a main sound wave 686 during use. Speaker 617 of the first plurality of speakers 616 is disposed within a first chamber 630 defined by the first backrest 614, such that the main sound wave 686 propagates through a first occupant support portion 624 of the first backrest 614. Speaker 621 of the second plurality of speakers 620 is disposed within a second chamber 644 defined by the second backrest 618, such that the main sound wave 686 propagates through a second occupant support portion 638 of the second backrest 618. First speaker 704 is disposed within a third chamber 716 defined by the headrest 702, such that the main sound wave 686 propagates through a third occupant support portion 708 of the headrest 702. The second speaker 706 is disposed within the fourth chamber 718 defined by the headrest 702, such that the main sound wave 686 propagates through the third occupant support portion 708 of the headrest 702. In the illustrated embodiment, the first speaker 704 and the second speaker 706 are monopole speakers.

[0069] The primary acoustic wave 686 of the first speaker 704 disposed within the headrest 702 is a null wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the primary acoustic wave 686 of one or more speakers (e.g., speaker 621) in the second plurality of speakers 620, and is used to cancel the primary acoustic wave 686 of one or more speakers (e.g., speaker 621) in the second plurality of speakers 620. The primary acoustic wave 686 of the second speaker 706 disposed within the headrest 702 is a null wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the primary acoustic wave 686 of one or more speakers (e.g., speaker 617) in the first plurality of speakers 616, and is used to cancel the primary acoustic wave 686 of one or more speakers (e.g., speaker 617) in the first plurality of speakers 616.

[0070] The first speaker 704 and the second speaker 706, disposed within the headrest 702, can be activated using any suitable method or technology, and the selection of a suitable method or technology for activating the speakers used to eliminate sound waves within the vehicle compartment can be based on various considerations, including the arrangement of various speakers within the vehicle compartment. For example, the first speaker (e.g., first speaker 704) included in the headrest can be activated by an occupant of the vehicle compartment using a switch, by using one or more sensors disposed within the seat where the occupant resides (e.g., the seat including the second backrest 618) to sense the occupant's weight, and / or when the occupant activates the audio system (e.g., the second plurality of speakers 620). Similarly, the second speaker (e.g., second speaker 706) included in the headrest can be activated by an occupant of the vehicle compartment using a switch, by using one or more sensors disposed within the seat where the occupant resides (e.g., the seat including the first backrest 614) to sense the occupant's weight, and / or when the occupant activates the audio system (e.g., the first plurality of speakers 616).

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, a first chamber 630 defined by a first backrest 614 is defined by a first foam layer 694 disposed within the first backrest 614, a second chamber 644 defined by a second backrest 618 is defined by a second foam layer 696 disposed within the second backrest 618, and each of a third chamber 716 and a fourth chamber 718 defined by a headrest 702 is defined by a third foam layer 728 disposed within the headrest 702. While foam layers 694, 696, and 728 have been illustrated to define chambers 630, 644, 716, and 718, chambers included in the seat can be defined wholly or partially by any suitable structure capable of transmitting sound waves, and the selection of a suitable structure defining the chamber can be based on various considerations, such as the structural arrangement of the seat. For example, a chamber can be defined wholly or partially by a partially enclosed structure formed of any suitable material (e.g., polymer, plastic).

[0072] In use, the sound cancellation system 610 provides a mechanism for directing zeroing sound waves (e.g., the main sound wave 686 of the first speaker 704 and the main sound wave 686 of the second speaker 706) toward the occupant who wishes to cancel sound waves from speakers not used by the occupant.

[0073] Movement of the headrest 702 between its upright and reclining positions can be achieved using any suitable system, and the selection of a suitable system for achieving this movement can be based on various considerations, including the structural arrangement of the headrest relative to the remainder of the vehicle seat. Examples of suitable systems considered suitable for achieving movement of the headrest between the upright and reclining positions include conventional systems using a motor and sleeve system, as well as any other system considered suitable for a particular embodiment. For example, in a motor and sleeve system, the motor can be activated by a switch used by an occupant of the vehicle compartment, driving the sleeve along a shaft to achieve movement of the headrest about the shaft between the upright and reclining positions. For example, the sleeve and shaft can be connected via a pin, which is fixed to the sleeve and extends through a helical groove in the shaft to achieve a forward tilt of approximately 40 degrees. Alternatively, the sleeve and shaft can be connected via a pin, which is fixed to the shaft and extends through a helical groove in the sleeve to achieve a forward tilt of approximately 40 degrees. The motor can be attached to the sleeve using any suitable structure capable of achieving movement of the sleeve. For example, a toothed belt and gears can be used to attach the motor to the sleeve, or a circulating rope can be attached to both the sleeve and the motor. Alternatively, a solenoid can be used to move the sleeve. Once the sleeve has begun to rotate, it will move axially along the length of the shaft until it reaches the end of the slot, moving the mechanical lock from the locked position to the unlocked position, thus allowing movement of the headrest to begin. The mechanical lock can include any suitable means and / or system capable of holding the headrest in position until it moves to the unlocked position. For example, the mechanical lock can include a mating slot, a lateral gear system, a locking block and spring system, and / or a locking pin system.

[0074] In a locking block and spring system, axial movement of the sleeve along the length of the shaft causes the locking block and spring to move axially along the shaft in the same direction as the sleeve, until the cam moves in the first direction and the headrest begins to move from an upright position to a tilted position. As the headrest begins to move from the tilted position to the upright position, the spring pushes the locking block, causing the cam to move in a second direction opposite to the first direction, locking the headrest in place. In a locking pin system, as the sleeve moves axially along the length of the shaft in the first direction, the locking pin is removed from a hole defined in a support bracket attached to the headrest, allowing movement of the headrest from an upright position to a tilted position. To lock the headrest in a specific position, the sleeve moves in the opposite second direction, positioning the pin within a hole defined by the support bracket (e.g., using a spring) to lock the headrest in place.

[0075] While various embodiments have been illustrated as bench seats in vehicles, the features of the sound cancellation systems described herein can be incorporated into any suitable structure and / or seat assembly, and the selection of suitable structures and / or seat assemblies incorporating sound cancellation systems (such as those described herein) can be based on a variety of considerations, including the desired sound cancellation to be achieved. Furthermore, the various embodiments described herein can be used in conjunction with the electronic sound absorber described in U.S. Patent No. 2,983,790 to Olson, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0076] Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and substitutions can be developed for the described and illustrated embodiments based on the general teachings of this disclosure, and various elements and features of one example described and illustrated herein can be combined with various elements and features of another example without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the inventors have selected the specific examples disclosed herein merely for the purpose of describing and illustrating examples of the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or its protection, which is given by the full scope of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.

[0077] This disclosure relates to, but is not limited to, the following embodiments.

[0078] 1. A seat, comprising:

[0079] A first backrest has a first occupant support portion, a first side portion, and defines a first channel extending from the first occupant support portion to the first side portion;

[0080] A first loudspeaker is disposed within the first channel;

[0081] The second backrest has a second occupant support portion, a second side portion, and defines a second channel extending from the second occupant support portion to the second side portion;

[0082] A second speaker is disposed within the second channel;

[0083] A central portion, disposed between the first backrest and the second backrest, the central portion having a third occupant support portion, a third side portion pointing towards the first backrest, a fourth side portion pointing towards the second backrest, and defining a third channel extending from the third side portion to the third occupant support portion and a fourth channel extending from the fourth side portion to the third occupant support portion; and

[0084] A seat base is disposed adjacent to the first backrest, the second backrest, and the central portion.

[0085] 2. The seat according to embodiment 1, wherein the central portion includes a pivotable armrest movable between an upright position and a lowered position; and

[0086] Each of the third and fourth channels is defined on the pivotable armrest.

[0087] 3. The seat according to Embodiment 2, wherein the third channel has a first end disposed adjacent to the first channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position; and

[0088] The fourth channel has a first end located adjacent to the second channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position.

[0089] 4. The seat according to embodiment 1, wherein each of the first speaker and the second speaker emits a primary sound wave and an infrasound wave during use;

[0090] The first loudspeaker is disposed within the first channel, such that a portion of the infrasound waves emitted by the first loudspeaker propagates through both the first and third channels; and

[0091] The second speaker is disposed within the second channel, such that a portion of the infrasound waves from the second speaker propagates through the second channel and the fourth channel.

[0092] 5. The seat according to embodiment 4, wherein the infrasound of the first speaker is a null wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the main sound wave of the first speaker; and

[0093] The infrasound wave of the second loudspeaker is a zero-adjustment wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the main sound wave of the second loudspeaker.

[0094] 6. The seat according to embodiment 4, wherein the third channel guides the infrasound waves of the first speaker away from the central portion and the first speaker; and

[0095] The fourth channel guides the infrasound waves from the second speaker away from the central portion and the second speaker.

[0096] 7. The seat according to embodiment 6, wherein the seat has a longitudinal axis; and

[0097] The infrasound waves from the first loudspeaker are guided away from the central portion and away from the first loudspeaker along an axis set at an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0098] 8. The seat according to embodiment 6, wherein the seat has a longitudinal axis; and

[0099] The infrasound waves from the second loudspeaker are guided away from the central portion and away from the second loudspeaker along an axis set at an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0100] 9. The seat according to embodiment 4, wherein the first channel guides the infrasound waves of the first speaker away from the first backrest and the first speaker; and

[0101] The second channel guides the infrasound waves from the second speaker away from the second backrest and the second speaker.

[0102] 10. The seat according to embodiment 1, wherein a portion of the first channel is formed by a first tubular member extending from the first speaker to the first side portion; and

[0103] A portion of the second channel is formed by a second tubular member extending from the second speaker to the second side.

[0104] 11. The seat according to embodiment 10, wherein the third channel is formed by a third tubular member; and

[0105] The fourth channel is formed by a fourth tubular component.

[0106] 12. The seat according to embodiment 11, wherein each of the first tubular member, the second tubular member, the third tubular member, and the fourth tubular member is formed of plastic.

[0107] 13. The seat according to embodiment 1, wherein a portion of the first channel is defined by a first foam layer disposed within the first backrest;

[0108] A portion of the second channel is defined by a second foam layer disposed within the second backrest; and

[0109] A portion of each of the third and fourth channels is defined by a third foam layer disposed within the central portion.

[0110] 14. The seat according to Embodiment 1, wherein the first backrest includes a first perforated decorative element located between the first speaker and the third side portion; and

[0111] The second backrest includes a second perforated decorative element located between the second speaker and the fourth side portion.

[0112] 15. The seat according to Embodiment 1, wherein the central portion includes a third sound-permeable material and a fourth sound-permeable material, the third sound-permeable material being disposed within the third channel and adjacent to the third occupant support portion, and the fourth sound-permeable material being disposed within the fourth channel and adjacent to the third occupant support portion.

[0113] 16. The seat according to embodiment 1, wherein the central portion includes a headrest;

[0114] Each of the third channel and the fourth channel is defined on the headrest;

[0115] The third channel has a first end disposed adjacent to the first channel; and

[0116] The fourth channel has a first end located adjacent to the second channel.

[0117] 17. The seat according to embodiment 1, wherein the central portion includes a pivotable headrest;

[0118] The seat also includes a third speaker and a fourth speaker disposed within the pivotable headrest, each of the third speaker and the fourth speaker emitting a main sound wave during use;

[0119] Wherein, the main acoustic wave of the third loudspeaker is a null wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the main acoustic wave of the second loudspeaker; and

[0120] The main sound wave of the fourth loudspeaker is a zero-adjustment wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the main sound wave of the first loudspeaker.

[0121] 18. The seat according to Embodiment 1, wherein the seat base includes a plurality of seat bases, a first seat base of the plurality of seat bases is disposed adjacent to the first backrest, a second seat base of the plurality of seat bases is disposed adjacent to the second backrest, and a third seat base of the plurality of seat bases is disposed adjacent to the central portion.

[0122] 19. A seat, comprising:

[0123] A first backrest has a first occupant support portion, a first side portion, and defines a first channel extending from the first occupant support portion to the first side portion;

[0124] A first loudspeaker is disposed within the first channel, and the first loudspeaker emits primary sound waves and secondary sound waves during use;

[0125] The second backrest has a second occupant support portion, a second side portion, and defines a second channel extending from the second occupant support portion to the second side portion;

[0126] A second speaker is disposed within the second channel, and the second speaker emits primary sound waves and infrasound waves during use;

[0127] A central portion, disposed between the first backrest and the second backrest, includes a pivotable armrest movable between an upright position and a lowered position. The pivotable armrest has a third occupant support portion, a third side portion pointing towards the first backrest, a fourth side portion pointing towards the second backrest, and defines a third channel extending from the third side portion to the third occupant support portion and a fourth channel extending from the fourth side portion to the third occupant support portion. The third channel has a first end portion adjacent to the first channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position, and the fourth channel has a first end portion adjacent to the second channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position.

[0128] A seat base is disposed adjacent to the first backrest, the second backrest, and the central portion;

[0129] The first loudspeaker is disposed within the first channel, such that a portion of the infrasound waves emitted by the first loudspeaker propagates through both the first and third channels; and

[0130] The second speaker is disposed within the second channel, such that a portion of the infrasound waves from the second speaker propagates through the second channel and the fourth channel.

[0131] 20. A seat, comprising:

[0132] A first backrest has a first occupant support portion, a first side portion, and defines a first channel extending from the first occupant support portion to the first side portion;

[0133] A first loudspeaker is disposed within the first channel. During use, the first loudspeaker emits a primary sound wave and an infrasound wave. The infrasound wave of the first loudspeaker is a null wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the primary sound wave of the first loudspeaker.

[0134] The second backrest has a second occupant support portion, a second side portion, and defines a second channel extending from the second occupant support portion to the second side portion;

[0135] A second speaker is disposed within the second channel. During use, the second speaker emits a primary sound wave and an infrasound wave. The infrasound wave of the second speaker is a nulling wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the primary sound wave of the second speaker.

[0136] A central portion, disposed between the first backrest and the second backrest, includes a pivotable armrest movable between an upright position and a lowered position. The pivotable armrest has a third occupant support portion, a third side portion pointing towards the first backrest, a fourth side portion pointing towards the second backrest, and defines a third channel extending from the third side portion to the third occupant support portion and a fourth channel extending from the fourth side portion to the third occupant support portion. The third channel has a first end portion adjacent to the first channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position, and the third channel guides the infrasound waves of the first speaker away from the central portion and the first speaker. The fourth channel has a first end portion adjacent to the second channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position, and the fourth channel guides the infrasound waves of the second speaker away from the central portion and the second speaker.

[0137] A seat base is disposed adjacent to the first backrest, the second backrest, and the central portion;

[0138] The first loudspeaker is disposed within the first channel, such that a portion of the infrasound waves emitted by the first loudspeaker propagates through both the first and third channels; and

[0139] The second speaker is disposed within the second channel, such that a portion of the infrasound waves from the second speaker propagates through the second channel and the fourth channel.

Claims

1. A seat comprising: a first backrest having a first occupant support portion, a first side portion, and defining a first channel extending from the first occupant support portion to the first side portion; a first speaker disposed within the first channel; a second backrest having a second occupant support portion, a second side portion, and defining a second channel extending from the second occupant support portion to the second side portion; a second speaker disposed within the second channel, wherein each of the first and second speakers emits, during use, a primary sound wave and a secondary sound wave; a center portion disposed between the first and second backrests, the center portion having a third occupant support portion, a third side portion directed toward the first backrest, a fourth side portion directed toward the second backrest, and defining a third channel extending from the third side portion to the third occupant support portion and a fourth channel extending from the fourth side portion to the third occupant support portion, wherein the third channel directs the secondary sound wave of the first speaker away from the center portion and the first speaker, and wherein the fourth channel directs the secondary sound wave of the second speaker away from the center portion and the second speaker; and a seat base disposed adjacent to the first backrest, the second backrest, and the center portion.

2. The seat of claim 1, wherein, the center portion includes a pivotable armrest movable between an upright position and a lowered position; and wherein each of the third and fourth channels is defined on the pivotable armrest.

3. The seat of claim 2, wherein, the third channel has a first end portion disposed adjacent to the first channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position; and wherein the fourth channel has a first end portion disposed adjacent to the second channel when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position.

4. The seat of claim 1, wherein, the first speaker is disposed within the first channel such that a portion of the secondary sound wave of the first speaker propagates through the first channel and the third channel; and wherein the second speaker is disposed within the second channel such that a portion of the secondary sound wave of the second speaker propagates through the second channel and the fourth channel.

5. The seat of claim 4, wherein, the secondary sound wave of the first speaker is a 180-degree out-of-phase nulling wave relative to the primary sound wave of the first speaker; and wherein the secondary sound wave of the second speaker is a 180-degree out-of-phase nulling wave relative to the primary sound wave of the second speaker.

6. The seat of claim 1, wherein, the seat has a longitudinal axis; and wherein the secondary sound wave of the first speaker is directed away from the center portion and away from the first speaker along an axis disposed at an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

7. The seat of claim 1, wherein, the seat has a longitudinal axis; and wherein the secondary sound wave of the second speaker is directed away from the center portion and away from the second speaker along an axis disposed at an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

8. The seat of claim 4, wherein, the first channel directs the secondary sound wave of the first speaker away from the first backrest and the first speaker; and the fourth channel directs the secondary sound wave of the second speaker away from the second backrest and the second speaker. wherein the second channel directs the infrasound waves of the second speaker away from the second backrest and the second speaker.

9. The seat of claim 1, wherein, a portion of the first channel is formed by a first tubular member extending from the first speaker to the first side portion; and wherein a portion of the second channel is formed by a second tubular member extending from the second speaker to the second side portion.

10. The seat of claim 9, wherein, the third channel is formed by a third tubular member; and wherein the fourth channel is formed by a fourth tubular member.

11. The seat of claim 10, wherein, each of the first tubular member, the second tubular member, the third tubular member, and the fourth tubular member is formed from plastic.

12. The seat of claim 1, wherein, a portion of the first channel is defined by a first foam layer disposed within the first backrest; wherein a portion of the second channel is defined by a second foam layer disposed within the second backrest; and wherein a portion of each of the third channel and the fourth channel is defined by a third foam layer disposed within the center portion.

13. The seat of claim 1, wherein, the first backrest includes a first perforated trim located between the first speaker and the third side portion; and wherein the second backrest includes a second perforated trim located between the second speaker and the fourth side portion.

14. The seat of claim 1, wherein, the center portion includes a third sound-transmissive material disposed within the third channel and adjacent to the third occupant support portion and a fourth sound-transmissive material disposed within the fourth channel and adjacent to the third occupant support portion.

15. The seat of claim 1, wherein, the center portion includes a headrest; wherein each of the third channel and the fourth channel is defined on the headrest; wherein the third channel has a first end portion disposed adjacent to the first channel; and wherein the fourth channel has a first end portion disposed adjacent to the second channel.

16. The seat of claim 1, wherein, the center portion includes a pivotable headrest; the seat further includes a third speaker and a fourth speaker disposed within the pivotable headrest, each of the third speaker and the fourth speaker emitting primary sound waves during use; wherein the primary sound waves of the third speaker are 180 degrees out of phase zeroth order waves relative to the primary sound waves of the second speaker; and wherein the primary sound waves of the fourth speaker are 180 degrees out of phase zeroth order waves relative to the primary sound waves of the first speaker.

17. The seat of claim 1, wherein, the seat base includes a plurality of seat bases, a first seat base of the plurality of seat bases disposed adjacent to the first backrest, a second seat base of the plurality of seat bases disposed adjacent to the second backrest, and a third seat base of the plurality of seat bases disposed adjacent to the center portion.

18. A seat, comprising: a first backrest having a first occupant support portion, a first side portion, and defining a first channel extending from the first occupant support portion to the first side portion; a first speaker disposed within the first channel, the first speaker emitting primary sound waves and infrasound waves during use; a second backrest having a second occupant support portion, a second side portion, and defining a second channel extending from the second occupant support portion to the second side portion; a second speaker disposed within the second channel, the second speaker emitting primary sound waves and infrasound waves during use; a second loudspeaker disposed within the second passage, the second loudspeaker emitting primary sound waves and secondary sound waves during use; a center portion disposed between the first backrest and the second backrest, the center portion including a pivotable armrest movable between an upright position and a lowered position, the pivotable armrest having a third occupant support portion, a third side portion directed toward the first backrest, a fourth side portion directed toward the second backrest, and defining a third passage extending from the third side portion to the third occupant support portion and a fourth passage extending from the fourth side portion to the third occupant support portion, the third passage having a first end portion disposed adjacent the first passage when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position, the fourth passage having a first end portion disposed adjacent the second passage when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position; a seat base disposed adjacent the first backrest, the second backrest, and the center portion; wherein the first loudspeaker is disposed within the first passage such that a portion of the secondary sound waves of the first loudspeaker propagate through the first passage and the third passage; and wherein the second loudspeaker is disposed within the second passage such that a portion of the secondary sound waves of the second loudspeaker propagate through the second passage and the fourth passage.

19. A seat comprising: a first backrest having a first occupant support portion, a first side portion, and defining a first passage extending from the first occupant support portion to the first side portion; a first loudspeaker disposed within the first passage, the first loudspeaker emitting primary sound waves and secondary sound waves during use, the secondary sound waves of the first loudspeaker being 180 degrees out of phase with the primary sound waves of the first loudspeaker; a second backrest having a second occupant support portion, a second side portion, and defining a second passage extending from the second occupant support portion to the second side portion; a second loudspeaker disposed within the second passage, the second loudspeaker emitting primary sound waves and secondary sound waves during use, the secondary sound waves of the second loudspeaker being 180 degrees out of phase with the primary sound waves of the second loudspeaker; a center portion disposed between the first backrest and the second backrest, the center portion including a pivotable armrest movable between an upright position and a lowered position, the pivotable armrest having a third occupant support portion, a third side directed toward the first backrest, a fourth side directed toward the second backrest, and defining a third passageway extending from the third side to the third occupant support portion, the third passageway having a first end disposed adjacent the first passageway when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position, the third passageway directing the secondary sound waves of the first speaker away from the center portion and the first speaker, the fourth passageway having a first end disposed adjacent the second passageway when the pivotable armrest is in the upright position, the fourth passageway directing the secondary sound waves of the second speaker away from the center portion and the second speaker; and a seat base disposed adjacent the first backrest, the second backrest, and the center portion; wherein the first speaker is disposed within the first passageway such that a portion of the secondary sound waves of the first speaker propagate through the first passageway and the third passageway; and wherein the second speaker is disposed within the second passageway such that a portion of the secondary sound waves of the second speaker propagate through the second passageway and the fourth passageway. ​

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