Vehicle Seating Arrangement

Abstract

A seating arrangement for a vehicle is shown, comprising a plurality of seats, including at least two front seats, at least two rear seats, and a rear folding seat located between the two rear seats. The folding seat includes a seat back located behind the rear seats, and the rear seats are laterally movable between a first position, in which the rear seats are close to each other and generally cover the seat back of the folding seat, and a second position, in which the rear seats are spaced apart from each other and the seat back of the folding seat is exposed. The arrangement may also include rear seats that are rotatable relative to the seat back to provide a storage surface.

Description

[0001] The application is a divisional application of the PCT international application PCT / US2019 / 012868 (application date: January 9, 2019; priority date: January 9, 2018) entering China's Chinese invention patent application (application number 201980007137.0; invention name: "Vehicle Seat Arrangement"; national phase entry date: July 1, 2020).

[0002] This application claims priority to Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 615,142, filed on January 9, 2018, and Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 16 / 242,626, filed on January 8, 2019, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to side-by-side vehicles and all-terrain vehicles and, more particularly, to seating arrangements for such vehicles. Background Art

[0004] Typically, all-terrain vehicles ("ATVs") and utility vehicles ("UVs") are used to carry one or two passengers and a small amount of cargo on a variety of terrains. Due to the increasing recreational interest in ATVs, dedicated ATVs (such as those used for off-road racing, racing, and cargo transportation) have entered the market. Most ATVs include seats for sitting side by side for up to two passengers or for passengers to be located behind the ATV driver. Side-by-side ATVs, in which the driver and passenger sit side by side on laterally spaced seats, have become popular because they can allow the passenger to share the driver's viewpoint. Side-by-side vehicles also typically include front seats and rear seats to accommodate four passengers, such as shown in U.S. Patents 8,328,235 and / or 9,393,894, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle includes a frame, a plurality of seats, the plurality of seats including at least two front seats, at least two rear seats, and a rear folding seat located between the two rear seats; the folding seat includes a seat back located behind the rear seats, and the rear seats are laterally movable between a first position and a second position, in which the rear seats are close to each other and generally cover the seat back of the folding seat, and in which the rear seats are spaced apart from each other and the seat back of the folding seat is exposed.

[0006] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame; at least two front seats; at least two rear seats, each rear seat having a seat back and a seat bottom; and a rear folding seat located between the two rear seats, the rear folding seat having a seat back and a seat bottom; the seat back of the folding seat is located between the seat backs of these rear seats, and the seat bottom of the folding seat is elevated relative to the seat bottoms of these rear seats, and wherein the seat bottom of the folding seat includes storage space.

[0007] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes a frame, a plurality of seats, the plurality of seats including at least two front seats and at least two rear seats, the rear seats being laterally movable between a first position in which the rear seats are close to each other and a second position in which the rear seats are spaced apart from each other.

[0008] In another embodiment, a vehicle includes: a frame having a front seat frame portion and a rear seat frame portion; a plurality of seats including at least two front seats supported by the front seat frame portion and at least two rear seats supported by the rear seat frame portion; the rear seats including a seat bottom and a seat back, wherein the seat bottom is rotatable relative to the rear seat frame portion and the seat backs are movable relative to the frame.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, a vehicle seat includes a seat bottom having a seat bottom base and a seat bottom cushion portion on which an occupant will sit; a seat back having a seat back base and a seat back cushion portion against which the occupant's back will rest when sitting; the seat bottom base and the seat back base including air passages therethrough, the air passages being connected to openings on outer surfaces of the seat bottom cushion portion and the seat back cushion portion; and an air supply device for supplying ventilation air to the air passages. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a left front perspective view of the seating arrangement of this embodiment;

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A left side view of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0013] Figure 3 It is a left front perspective view of the rear seat;

[0014] Figure 4 Another embodiment of a rear seat is shown in which the seat bottom is rotatable;

[0015] Figure 5 is similar to Figure 4 , showing the seat bottom after being rotated downward;

[0016] Figure 6 shows an underside view of a panel to which the seat bottom is coupled;

[0017] Figure 7 A seat bottom of a folding seat configured as a storage container is shown;

[0018] Figure 8 shows a front perspective view of another embodiment of a seating arrangement in which a folding seat is accessible;

[0019] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 A seating arrangement where the folding seats are not exposed;

[0020] Fig.10 The seat bottom of the folding seat is shown movable along the track;

[0021] Fig.11 Another embodiment of a rear seat is shown in which the seat bottom is rotatable;

[0022] Fig.12 Shows Fig.11 An embodiment wherein increased storage space is provided when the seat bottom is rotated downward;

[0023] Fig.13 is a diagrammatic sketch of the seatbacks of the passenger seat and the folding seat, wherein the folding seat is not accessible;

[0024] Fig.14 Shows something like Fig.13 A diagrammatic sketch of a folding seat with the seatback accessible;

[0025] Fig.15 A forced air cooling system for any passenger seat is shown;

[0026] Fig.16 Shows Fig.15 a rear perspective view of a seat showing a fan;

[0027] Fig.17 is a left front perspective view of another embodiment of a rear seat and folding seat assembly;

[0028] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 A left rear perspective view of the seating arrangement;

[0029] Fig.19 Shows something like Fig.17perspective view of the seat bottom rotated forward;

[0030] Fig. 20 yes Fig.17 a left rear perspective view of a seat assembly of the invention with the seat bottom rotated forward and the seat back removed from the rear seat frame;

[0031] Fig.21 is an enlarged view of the seat back assembly;

[0032] Fig. 22 yes Fig.17 a left front perspective view of a seat assembly with the seat bottom rotated forward and the seat back removed;

[0033] Fig.23 yes Fig. 20 an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the seat assembly shown;

[0034] Fig.24 It passes through Fig.17 A cross-sectional view taken along line 24-24;

[0035] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 an enlarged view of a cross section of;

[0036] Fig.26 yes Fig.24 an enlarged portion of a cross-sectional view of;

[0037] Fig. 27 is an enlarged rear perspective view of a latch assembly attached to a seat back;

[0038] Fig.28 A left front perspective view showing an alternative frame and seating arrangement for the front and rear seats;

[0039] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 a side view of a vehicle;

[0040] Fig.30 is a left rear perspective view of a portion of the left rear seat;

[0041] Fig.31 is a left front perspective view of the left rear seat;

[0042] Fig.32 showing the left rear seat bottom in a lowered position and in a partially rotated phantom view;

[0043] Fig.33 showing a seat bottom coupled to the vehicle frame in a lower position and a seat back coupled to the vehicle frame in an upper position;

[0044] Fig.34The seat back is shown lifted off the seat bottom;

[0045] Fig.35 The seat bottom is shown in a nested configuration when in a fully rotated open position;

[0046] Fig.36 an enlarged perspective view showing a latch of a seat back in a latched position latched to a vehicle frame;

[0047] Fig.37 A seat back is shown with a latch attached to its back side with the clasp in a disassembled position;

[0048] Fig.38 Shows Fig.15 and Fig.16 Alternative ventilated seats as shown; and

[0049] Fig.39 Shows Fig.38 Rear perspective view of the ventilated seats. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a vehicle seating arrangement is shown in which a front row 2 and a rear row 4 are coupled to a vehicle frame 6. The vehicle may be similar to U.S. Patents 8,328,235 and / or and 9,393,894, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference. The front row 2 includes a driver seat 10 having a seat bottom 12 and a seat back 14. The front passenger seat is shown as 16, having a seat bottom 18 and a seat back 20. For the convenience of the front passenger, a console 22 may be positioned between the seats 10, 16.

[0051] Still see Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the rear row 4 includes a passenger seat 30 having a seat bottom 32 and a seat back 34. A right rear passenger seat 36 is provided, which has a seat bottom 38 and a seat back 40. A folding seat 44 is provided between the rear seats 30 and 36 and has a seat bottom 46 and a seat back 48. As provided herein, the folding seat 44 is intended to have selective accessibility for use, so that the seats 30 and 36 can be moved to allow or prohibit access to the folding seat 44. Figure 1 As shown, the folding seat 44 is in a position showing the accessibility of the folding seat. It should also be noted that the folding seat 44 is intended for children, so that the seat bottom 46 and the seat back 48 are narrower than the rest of the seat bottom and seat back. Figure 2 Also best shown in FIG. 4 , the seat bottom 46 is shown elevated relative to the seat bottom 32 to provide better visibility for a child using the folding seat 44 .

[0052] See now Figure 3 , the rear seats 30, 36 and the folding seat 44 are shown in a position where the folding seat 44 is not accessible. More specifically, the seats 30 and 36 are shown moving laterally toward each other in front of the seat back 48, and the seat bottom 46 moves forward to allow the seats 30 and 36 to move laterally. The lateral movement of the seat backs 34, 40 and the longitudinal movement of the seat bottom 46 are further described herein.

[0053] See now Figures 4 to 6 , the lateral movement of seats 30 and 36 will be described in more detail. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, seats 30 and 36 are directly coupled to a movable panel 60 which is pivoted around a rotatable edge 64 ( Figure 5 ) onto the base panel 62. Figure 6 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the seat bottom 32 includes mounting arms 70 that are coupled to the panel 60 by fasteners 72. The fasteners 72 are laterally movable in the grooves 74 so that the seats 30 and 36 can be moved toward and away from each other to accommodate the folding seat 44. The fasteners 72 can be bolts, such as large flat head bolts or bolts with flat heads or large round heads. In practice, the bolts 72 can tighten the arms 70 to the panel 60 or simply allow enough clearance for the seat bottom 32 to move laterally within the slots 74, while another adjustment mechanism can lock the seat in a lateral position. Alternatively, instead of having bolts 72, fasteners such as T-slot nuts or knob fasteners (e.g., 3-wing knobs or star knobs) can be used to loosen and tighten the seat and the panel without the use of tools. Regardless of the type of fasteners 72, when the panel 60 is rotated to a position where the seat bottoms 32, 38 face downward, the panels 60 and 62 form a substantially planar storage area, as further discussed herein. Seat bottom 46 in Figure 5 60 is shown as having been moved forward to accommodate the movement of panel 60.

[0054] like Figure 7 As shown, the seat bottom 46 of the folding seat 44 may be a storage container having a lower portion 80 and a cover portion 82 that also forms a cushion portion of the seat bottom 46 and wherein the lower portion 80 includes an interior volume 84, such a storage container may be a cooler.

[0055] See now Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , Figure 8 The rear seats 30 and 36 are shown spaced apart from each other to expose the folding seat 44. As shown, the seat bottom 46 is coupled to the I-shaped track 90, and the seat bottom 46 includes a recessed area 92 for receiving the track 90 so that the seat bottom 46 can be moved from the Figure 8The position shown moves forward to Fig. 9 This movement allows the seats 30 and 36 to move laterally toward each other to cover the seat back 48 of the folding seat 44. It should also be understood that the rear occupants are not Fig. 9 The configuration of the track 90 has the best viewpoint because they can see the front through the spacing between the driver and the front passenger. It should be understood that the track 90 can be any shape, such as U-shaped, L-shaped, T-shaped, etc.

[0056] See now Fig.10 ,and Figure 6 72, rear seats 30 and 36 may include a lateral track system 100 including brackets 102 coupled to the bottom of seat bottom 38, wherein each bracket 102 includes an upper roller 104 and a lower roller 106 spanning along tube 108. In the current embodiment, these rollers have an hourglass configuration, but may be any shape that allows such movement. Tube 108 is fixed relative to the frame by an angled bracket 110. Latch mechanism 114 includes a lever arm 116 having a peg (not shown) aligned with one of a plurality of apertures 118, so that rotation of lever 116 disengages the peg from aperture 118, whereby seats 32, 36 may be moved laterally, at which time lever 116 may be aligned with new spaced apertures 118. Fig.10 Also shown is an I-shaped track 120 that is received in an opening 122 in the seat bottom 46 , allowing the seat bottom 46 to move longitudinally forward, thereby allowing room for lateral movement of the seat bottoms 32 , 38 .

[0057] See now Fig.11 and Fig.12 , further embodiments of seating arrangements are described. Fig.11 An embodiment similar to Figure 5 , wherein a seat frame 131 having a track mechanism 130 is provided. The track mechanism 130 is similar to Fig.10 The track mechanism 100 is shown except that the track mechanism 130 is coupled at the back side of the seats 30 and 36. The track mechanism 130 includes a bracket 132 coupled to a seat frame 131, which carries an upper roller 134 and a lower roller 136 that slide along a tube 138. Fig.11 The embodiment also includes separate panel portions 142a and 142b, wherein the seat bottoms 32 and 38 are each mounted to the respective panel portions 142a and 142b. Fig.12 As shown, when in Fig.11 The configuration provides additional storage space so that cargo, such as a bicycle 150, can be stored and transported in the vehicle when the rear seats are not needed.

[0058] See now Fig.13 and Fig.14 , schematically shows another seating arrangement, wherein Fig.13 In the embodiment, the seat backs 162 and 168 significantly cover the seat back 166 of the folding seat 44, while in Fig.14 , seat backs 162 and 168 are moved laterally outward to expose seat back 166. As shown, seat backs 162 and 168 are each moved laterally inward or outward by a distance of 3.5 inches, so that the centerline spacing between seat backs 162 and 168 changes from 21 inches to 28 inches, thereby allowing each seat to move 3.5 inches. It should also be understood that these seats can move a distance greater than 28 inches because the lateral outward movement of the seats is limited by the width of the vehicle. Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the seat back 166 is generally trapezoidal with side edges 166a, while the seat backs 162 and 168 have complementary surfaces 162a and 168a that are arranged at the sides of the seat back 166. Fig.13 The position shown overlaps the seat bottom 166 .

[0059] See also Fig.15 and Fig.16 , shows a ventilated seat, wherein the seat is a one-piece seat having a shell portion 202, wherein the seat bottom is defined by a molded cushion 204, and the seat back is defined by molded portions 206, 208, and 210. A fan 212 is located on the back side of the shell portion 202 to force air through the shell to the front side of the seat. Passages are defined between the cushions 204-210, such that a passage 216 is defined between the cushions 204 and 206, a passage 218 is defined between the cushions 206 and 208, a passage 220 is defined between the cushions 206 and 210, and a passage 222 is defined between the cushions 208 and 210. The air forced into the passages 216-222 cools the body of the occupant. It should also be understood that the air can be conditioned to include heated air or cold air, depending on the ambient temperature.

[0060] See now Figures 17 to 27, another embodiment of a rear seat assembly is shown generally at 250, which includes a seat frame 252, a left seat 254 having a seat bottom 256 and a seat back 258, and a right passenger seat 260 having a seat bottom 262 and a seat back 264. A folding seat 270 is located between the seats 254 and 260 and includes a seat back 272 and a seat bottom 274. It should be understood that the seat bottom 274 of the folding seat 270 can be moved forward and backward in any manner described above. The seats 254 and 260 can be moved laterally to a position such that the seat bottom 274 of the folding seat 270 can be located between the seat bottoms 256 and 262, thereby providing space for a third person on the folding seat 270, or the seats 254 and 260 can be moved toward each other when the folding seat 270 is not needed.

[0061] See also Figures 17 to 19 , the seat frame 252 is described in more detail. The seat frame 252 includes two longitudinally extending rails 280 having brackets 282 for coupling to the frame 6. The frame 252 further includes a plate 284 on which the seats 254 and 260 are supported. The seat frame 252 further includes front brackets 290 to which hinges 292 are attached, which are coupled to seat supports 294. Fig.19 As best shown, the seat support 294 can be rotated forward about the hinge 292 and can be rotated to a position where the seat support 294 is substantially parallel, such as Figure 5 The location of Fig.19 As best shown, seat bottoms 256 and 262 rotate about a center of rotation 298 via hinge 292 .

[0062] See now Fig.17 and Fig. 20 , the seat bottoms 256 and 262 include a seat base 300 that is coupled to the seat support 294. Fig. 20 As best shown, the seat support 294 includes an open slot 302 that receives a sliding track 304 coupled to the bottom of the seat base 300. Fasteners 306 couple the sliding track 304 to the seat base 300, which allows the track 304 to slide laterally within the slot 302.

[0063] See now Fig.19 , Fig. 20 and Fig. 22 , further describing the seat frame 252. Fig.19 As best shown, the plate 284 includes a cutout 310 to accommodate lateral movement of the seat backs 254, 260, as further described herein. Fig.21 and Fig. 22As best shown, the frame 252 further includes a seat back frame member 312 that includes an upper channel 314, a lower channel 316, and an upright support 318. The channels 314 and 316 define a channel opening 320, wherein at least the upper channel 314 includes a shoulder bolt 322.

[0064] See again Fig. 20 , the seat back assembly 254 and 260 includes a seat back support 330 having a lower portion 332 and an upper extension 334. The seat back support 330 further includes a circular slider 338, as described herein. The seat backs 254 and 260 further include a latch assembly 340, which also includes a circular slider 342. It should be appreciated that the circular slider 338 can be located in the channel 316 ( Fig. 22 ), and the slider 342 is located in the channel 314 ( Fig. 22 ) wherein the bottom portion 332 of the seat support 330 is located in the cutout 310 ( Fig.19 This allows the seat backs 254 and 260 to move laterally by moving the sliders 338, 342 within the corresponding channels 316, 314.

[0065] It should be appreciated that the seat backs 254, 260 include a rear seat body portion 350 that is constructed of a strong composite material, such as a molded plastic material, while the front side 352 includes cushioning to provide comfort to the occupant. Thus, the seat support 330 can be fastened directly to the seat body 350, such as where the slider 338 includes a threaded shank that is received within a threaded aperture in the body 350. This allows both the circular slider 338 and the lower seat support 330 to be retained on the seat body 350. This is Fig.21 3, wherein the seat body 350 includes an integrated rib portion 360, and the slider 338 includes a hexagonal shank portion 362 that can be tightened by a wrench. A threaded shank (not shown) extends forward from the hexagonal shank 362 and screws into the threaded insert of the rib portion 360.

[0066] See now Fig.19 and Fig.23 , depicts a latch assembly that latches the seat bottom 256, 262 to the seat back 254, 260. As shown, the seat bottom 256 includes a receiving opening 372 ( Fig.23 ) and a latch receiver 370 of a release lever 374, wherein the receiver 372 can engage with a latch stud 376 ( Fig.19 ) connection and disconnection. It should be understood that the seat support 294 includes an opening 380 ( Fig.23), the latch stud 376 can be received through the opening. Thus, the seat bottom 256 and the seat back 254 are disconnected from each other (such as in Fig.19 1 and 1) can move laterally independently when latched together, but when in a locked condition (as in the Fig.17 It should be appreciated that latch 370 and peg 376 are substantially similar to those described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,678,464, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0067] It should also be appreciated that the seat bottom 256 and the seat back 254 are designed to rotate relative to each other. Fig.24 As best shown, the seat back includes a curved lower edge 380, while the seat bottom includes a curved upper edge 382. The edges 380, 382 are generally defined along a radius 384 relative to the axis of rotation 298. Thus, the seat bottom 256 can rotate relative to the seat back 254 because the surfaces 380, 382 are along the radius of rotation.

[0068] See now Fig. 27 , further describing the latch 340. As shown, the latch 340 defines a four-bar linkage including a fixed link 400, which is coupled to a boss 402 defined in the seat back 350. The circular slider 342 is similar to the slider 338 ( Fig.21 ), which couples the upper link 400 to the boss 402. Thus, the link 400 is fixed relative to the seat back 254. The latch 340 further includes a right L-shaped element 410, a pull rod 412, and a left L-shaped link 414. The L-shaped member 410 includes a lower leg 420 coupled to the link 412 at a coupling portion 422, and coupled to the upper link 400 at a coupling point 424. The L-shaped member 410 further includes a leg 428 extending to the right, which has a slot 430 that opens upward.

[0069] The left leg 414 includes a lower leg 434 coupled to the tie rod 412 at a coupling point 436. The L-shaped link 414 includes a leftwardly extending leg 440 coupled to the upper link 400 at a coupling point 442. The leg 440 extends leftwardly and has a slot 430 that opens downwardly. The lanyard 450 is coupled to the lower leg 434 at the slot 452, and the leg 434 is spring loaded to the link 400 by the tension spring 456. Thus, when the lanyard moves in the direction of arrow 458, both links 410 and 414 move in a clockwise direction, while link 412 moves to the left, as shown in FIG. Fig. 27 Thus, when the slider 342 is located in the channel 314, the leftmost position of the seat back 254 is aligned with the short post 322 ( Fig. 22) is coupled to the latch opening 434. It should be understood that another short post 322 is located at position 460, so that the rightmost position of the seat back 254 does not overlap with the latch opening 430 coupled to the short post 322 at position 460.

[0070] See now Fig.28 and Fig.29 , another embodiment of a vehicle seating arrangement is shown, wherein a front row 502 and a rear row 504 are coupled to a vehicle frame 506. The vehicle may be similar to U.S. Patents 8,328,235 and / or and 9,393,894, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference. The front row 502 includes a driver seat 510 having a seat bottom 512 and a seat back 514. The front passenger seat is shown as 516, having a seat bottom 518 and a seat back 520.

[0071] Still see Fig.28 and Fig.29 , the rear row 504 includes a left rear passenger seat 530 having a seat bottom 532 and a seat back 534. A right rear passenger seat 536 is provided, which has a seat bottom 538 and a seat back 540. A folding seat 544 can be provided between the rear seats 530 and 536, similar to any of the embodiments described above. Fig.28 As best shown, the frame 506 has a front seat frame 550 and a rear seat frame 552. The front seat frame can be similar to that shown and described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 615,684 filed on January 10, 2018, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0072] See now Fig.30 and Fig.31 , the rear seat frame 552 and the left rear seat 530 are described in more detail. It should be understood that the right rear seat 536 operates in the same manner and is connected to the rear seat frame 552 in a similar manner, so only the left rear seat 530 is described. As shown, the rear seat frame 552 is defined by a front transverse tube 560 and a rear transverse tube 562. The front transverse tube 560 is supported by a base 564, and the rear transverse tube 562 is supported by a rear base 566. The bases 564 and 566 are each connected to a longitudinally extending frame tube 568 of the frame 506. As shown in FIG. Fig.31 As best shown, the front transverse tube 560 includes front brackets 570 that extend forwardly from the front transverse tube and define hinges 571 ( Fig.35 ), as further described herein. Fig.30 and Fig.33As best shown, the rear frame tube 562 includes a wire loop 572 coupled thereto (e.g., by welding to the frame tube 562) and defining an opening in which the seat back 534 is nested, as further described herein. Additionally, the frame tube 562 may include an alignment post 576 (at Fig.33 Only one of them can be seen in the figure), which is used to align the seat bottom 532 with the rear frame tube 562, as further described herein. Now see Fig.31 and Fig.34 , seat bottom 532 is described in more detail.

[0073] like Fig.34 As shown, the seat bottom 532 includes a padded cushion portion 580 coupled to a rotatable frame 582. The frame 582 includes a left frame bracket 584 and a right frame bracket 586. The hinge 571 is partially defined by a front hinge portion 588 having an opening 590, as shown in FIG. 31, which receives a pin 594 ( Fig.31 ) to be rotatable relative to the front frame tube 560. Pin 594 defines a hinge axis 595. Frame brackets 584 and 586 each include a rear cantilevered portion 590 having an aperture 592. See Fig.33 , the seat bottom 532 is shown in a seated position in which the cantilevered portion 590 rests atop the frame tube 562 to support the seat bottom 532. The frame brackets 584 and 586 further include recesses 596 ( Fig.34 ), for contacting and supporting the front frame tube 560, such as Fig.33 Best shown. Fig.33 and Fig.34 As shown, in the Fig.33 In the seated position shown, the alignment aperture 592 is aligned with the alignment post 576. Fig.30 and Fig.32 As shown, the seat bottom 532 is Fig.30 The position shown can be rotated to Fig.32 The illustrated position, in which the cantilevered portion 590 is now supported by a support member 604 that is coupled to the back side of the front seat support 550 .

[0074] It should also be understood that if Fig.32 As shown, the seat back 534 is removed to allow the seat bottom 532 to be rotated. To achieve this, the seat back 534 includes a latch mechanism 620 ( Fig.33 ), as further described herein, the latch mechanism latches the seat back 534 to the frame 506. Fig.33As best shown, the seat back 534 includes a structural seat back frame 624, which may be a molded plastic material with a molded material or cushion 626 attached thereto. The seat back frame 624 includes two legs 630 ( Fig.34 ) and arm portion (or pile) 632 ( Fig.34 ), the two legs are located on the metal wire ring 572 ( Fig.33 ) within the opening defined by the arm portion, the arm portion being received within the pile receiving seat 636 of the seat bottom 532. Fig.34 As best shown, the seat bottom 532 includes an angled cushion surface 640 that slopes upward and forward and meets a complementary surface 642 on the seat back 534. Fig.33 When the seat back 534 is latched in place by the latch mechanism 620, the seat bottom 532 is fixed in place and cannot rotate due to the position of the seat back 534 relative to the seat bottom 532. Fig.33 In the position, the seat back 534 is positioned relative to both the frame and the seat bottom 532 by the foot portion 630 and the arm portion 632. In other words, when in Fig.32 In cargo mode (when seat bottom 532 is rotated forward), the seat back can be moved by means of wire loop 572 ( Fig.33 ) is held in place by the foot portion 630. Fig.37 As best shown, the seat back 534 includes a hook 634 for temporarily holding the seat back 534 up and out of the way while the seat bottom 532 is rotated, as further described herein.

[0075] like Fig.35 As best shown, the seat frame 552 and the seat bottom 532 can have a nested configuration defined by a recess defined in the seat pan 650 and a corresponding protrusion and recess in the seat bottom 532. For example, the seat pan 650 includes a recess 652 that corresponds to a protrusion 654 in the seat bottom. Likewise, a recess 656 in the seat bottom 532 corresponds to a protrusion 658 in the seat pan 650. Thus, structural rigidity can be added to the seat bottom 532 and the seat frame 552 without adding a vertical dimension to the seat bottom 532 (i.e., the seat is not raised relative to the frame to achieve the structural rigidity of the recess). The recess 652 and the protrusion 654 also define a surface for storing cargo. That is, the upper ends of the recess 656 and the protrusion 658 define a planar surface, wherein the hinge axis 595 is located below the planar surface so as not to interfere with storage.

[0076] See now Fig.36 and Fig.37 , the latch assembly 620 is described in more detail. Fig.36672, a latch housing 670 is shown having a slot 672 in which a latch lever 674 is mounted. A release lever 676 is provided that can release the latch lever 674. The release lever 676 is easily accessible by passing through an aperture 678 through the seat back 534. The latch 674 is similar to a latch of the type of automobile door. The latch assembly 620 further includes a latch pin assembly 680, which includes a bracket 682 that can be coupled to a frame tube 684 by a fastener 686 and provides a cantilever bracket 690 having opposing flanges 692 for receiving a latch pin 694. The fastener 696 is received through the plate 692 and the latch pin 694 and is held in place by a fastener 698. Thus, moving the slot 672 on the latch pin 694 moves the latch pin 694 to a position locked by the latch lever 674, and when the release lever 676 is actuated, the latch 674 releases the pin 694 to remove the seat back. Alternatively, the entire latch pin assembly 680 can be in the form of a wire form coupled to the frame tube 684. As previously mentioned, the seat back 534 includes a hook 634, and this hook can be hooked onto the latch pin 694 to temporarily hold the seat back 534 upward during rotation of the seat bottom 532.

[0077] like Fig.38 and Fig.39 As shown, a seat 700 for air circulation is shown, which is Fig.15 and Fig.16 Alternative embodiment shown. Fan (similar to Fig.16 The fan 212 of the seat shell or seat chassis 704 is directly or indirectly connected to one or more inlet ports 702. The air is directed through channels 706, 708, 710 designed in the seat shell or chassis 704. Once the air enters the channel on the back side of the foam 716, it exits through air ports 718, 720, 722 to reach the front side of the foam. These air ports 718, 720, 722 are positioned to maximize circulation in key areas around the operator. For example, there may be a series of air ports in the lumbar area or seat area.

[0078] Preferably, the A side of the foam 716 includes heavily textured or raised comfort and support features 726, 730 and is designed not to be perfectly flat but to hold the occupant above the base foam to provide optimal circulation. This can be accomplished with the appropriate foam density or by applying a skin to the foam to help it retain its shape. If the textured foam itself is not a decorative surface for the seat, a layer of reticulated foam, or even a cut and sewn covering can be applied over the textured foam.

[0079] The fan for circulating the air can be mounted remotely and connected by hoses or other ducts in such a way that one or more seats can share the same air source. If multiple seats share the same air source, the air flow can be controlled so as not to provide air to empty seats. The fan can also be directly connected to the seat. The air can be cooled or heated by a variety of methods before entering the seat. Ambient air can also be used, as circulation is the first step to improve comfort.

[0080] Although the present invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the application is intended to cover any variant, use, or modification of the present invention using the general principles of the present invention. Further, the application is intended to cover deviations from the present disclosure that fall within known or customary practices in the field to which the present invention belongs.

Claims

1. A vehicle seat, comprising: a housing portion defining an inlet port and at least one ventilation passage extending from the inlet port; a seat bottom having a seat bottom base and a seat bottom cushion portion where an occupant will sit; a seat back having a seat back base and a seat back cushion portion against which an occupant's back rests when seated; the seat bottom base and the seat back base including air passages therethrough, the air passages communicating with openings on outer surfaces of the seat bottom cushion portion and the seat back cushion portion, wherein the inlet port of the shell portion is in fluid communication with the air passages of the seat bottom cushion portion and the seat back cushion portion via at least one vent passage of the shell portion; as well as An air supply device is provided for supplying ventilation air to the air passage.

2. The vehicle seat of claim 1 wherein the seat bottom cushion portion and the seat back cushion portion have raised features to isolate an occupant's body from the seat bottom base and the seat back base and further provide assistance for air ventilation. 3 . The vehicle seat of claim 1 , further comprising an air intake duct coupled to a portion of the seat and in communication with the air passage.

4. A vehicle seat, comprising: a seat bottom having a seat bottom base and a seat bottom cushion portion where an occupant will sit, the seat bottom having mounting arms; a removable panel, the seat bottom coupled to the removable panel, the mounting arm of the seat bottom coupled to the removable panel via a fastener, wherein the removable panel defines an open slot, wherein the removable panel defines a recess proximate the open slot, wherein the fastener extends through the open slot and is positioned within a profile of the recess; as well as A base panel to which the movable panel is hinged about a rotatable edge.

5. The vehicle seat of claim 4, wherein the seat bottom includes a mounting arm coupled to the movable panel.

6. The vehicle seat of claim 5, wherein the mounting arm is coupled to the movable panel by a fastener.

7. The vehicle seat of claim 6 wherein the movable panel includes a slot within which the fastener is laterally movable.

8. The vehicle seat of claim 4, wherein the removable panel and the base panel provide a planar storage area when the removable panel is rotated to a position where the seat bottom faces downward.

9. A vehicle seat system, comprising: a seat, the seat comprising a seat bottom; and a removable panel, the seat bottom being coupled to the removable panel, the removable panel defining a thickness and a recess extending into the thickness; as well as A track system includes a bracket coupled to the seat bottom, the bracket including upper and lower rollers, the bracket being positioned with the groove and within a contour of the movable panel defined by the thickness.

10. The vehicle seating system of claim 9, wherein the upper roller and the lower roller are operable to span along a tube supported by the vehicle.

11. The vehicle seating system of claim 9, further comprising a latch mechanism comprising a lever arm, wherein a tube supported by the vehicle comprises a plurality of apertures, and wherein the lever arm is configured to align with one of the plurality of apertures of the tube.

12. The vehicle seating system of claim 11, wherein operation of the lever arm is configured to allow lateral movement of the seat.

13. A vehicle seat assembly comprising: a seat frame including two longitudinally extending rails operable to couple to a frame of a vehicle, a plate, and a front bracket; a first seat having a seat bottom and a seat back supported by the plate of the seat frame, wherein the seat bottom is coupled to a seat support; a second seat having a seat bottom and a seat back supported by the plate of the seat frame, wherein the seat bottom is coupled to a seat support; and a hinge coupled to the front bracket of the seat frame and the seat bottom, wherein the seat support is operable to rotate forward about the hinge and to a position in which the seat support faces downward, wherein the first seat and the second seat are operable to translate laterally relative to the seat support.

14. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 13 wherein the seat bottom includes a seat base coupled to the seat support.

15. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 14, wherein the seat support includes an open slot that receives a slide track coupled to a bottom portion of the seat base.

16. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 15, further comprising a fastener operable to couple the slide track to the seat base to allow the slide track to slide laterally within the open slot.

17. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 13 wherein said plate includes cutouts to accommodate lateral movement of said seat back.

18. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 17, wherein the seat frame further comprises a seat back frame member including an upper channel, a lower channel and upright supports.

19. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 18, wherein the upper channel and the lower channel define a channel opening, wherein at least the upper channel includes a shoulder bolt.

20. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 19, wherein the seat back includes a lower portion, an upper extension, and a circular slider, wherein the circular slider is located within the upper channel and the lower channel to allow the seat back to move laterally with the circular slider.

Images