Friction module and adjustable headrest comprising a friction module

Abstract

An adjustable headrest includes a guide configured to be coupled to a seat, a head support coupled to the guide and configured to be movable along an adjustment path relative to the seat, and a slider having a surface defining a recess that receives the guide. A retainer is positioned to urge the surface of the slider against the surface of the guide to maintain friction between the surface of the slider and the surface of the guide. Additionally, the adjustable headrest includes a bracket that is either fixed relative to the head support or fixed relative to the seat. The bracket has a mounting section positioned to be either fixed relative to the head support or fixed relative to the seat, and a guide-receiving portion that receives the guide. The slider and the bracket are separate components and are formed from the same material or different materials.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. 201980053344.X, entitled “Friction module, friction hinge and adjustable headrest comprising a friction module and / or friction hinge” filed on June 7, 2019. Background Art

[0002] Vehicle passenger seats typically include a headrest located at the top of the seat. The purpose of the headrest is to increase passenger safety and comfort by providing support to the back of the passenger's head. To accommodate passengers of varying heights, headrests are often designed to be vertically adjustable. Once the headrest is vertically adjusted, it is desirable to maintain the desired height.

[0003] Aircraft seat headrests face additional design challenges. For example, as commercial airlines continue to seek new ways to reduce fuel costs, it is advantageous to produce lightweight headrests that provide adequate safety and comfort for passengers. Furthermore, headrests with simple adjustment mechanisms offer the added advantage of reduced maintenance time, thereby increasing aircraft service time.

[0004] To achieve all of these objectives, U.S. Patent Publication No. WO 2016 / 149341 provides improvements to previously used headrest devices. Although significant improvements are achieved through the teachings of U.S. Patent Publication No. WO 2016 / 149341, further improvements are still needed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Aspects of the present invention include an adjustable headrest apparatus and system thereof.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an adjustable headrest includes: a guide configured to be coupled to a seat; a head support coupled to the guide and configured to be movable along an adjustment path relative to the seat; and a slider having a surface defining a recess for receiving the guide so that the surface of the slider contacts the surface of the guide. A retaining member is positioned to push the surface of the slider toward the surface of the guide, thereby maintaining friction between the surfaces of the slider and the guide and preventing accidental movement of the slider relative to the guide along the adjustment path. In addition, the adjustable headrest includes a bracket that can be fixed relative to the head support or relative to the seat. The bracket has a mounting section positioned to be fixed relative to the head support or for fixing to the seat and a guide receiving portion that receives the guide. The slider and the bracket are separate components and are formed of the same material or different materials.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present application, an adjustable headrest includes a guide configured to couple to a seat and having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, a head support coupled to the guide and configured to be movable along an adjustment path relative to the seat, and a bracket that is either fixed or fixable relative to the seat. The bracket has a mounting section that is fixed or fixable to the seat and a guide receiver for receiving the guide. The adjustable headrest further includes a releasable assembly having an engaged configuration and a released configuration. The release assembly restricts movement of the at least one end of the guide in the engaged configuration and allows movement of the at least one end of the guide in the released configuration. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] The application can be better understood from the following detailed description in conjunction with the following drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:

[0009] Figure 1 is a front perspective view showing an embodiment of an adjustable headrest;

[0010] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view showing the adjustable headrest of Figure 1 ;

[0011] Figure 3 is an exploded front perspective view showing the adjustable headrest of Figure 1 , showing internal components;

[0012] Figure 4A is a front perspective view showing subassembly of components of the adjustable headrest of Figure 1 , in a downward position;

[0013] Figure 4B is a front view showing the subassembly of Figure 4A ;

[0014] Figure 4C is a side view showing the subassembly of Figure 4A ;

[0015] Figure 5A is a front perspective view showing the subassembly of Figure 4A , in an upward position;

[0016] Figure 5B is a front view showing the subassembly of Figure 5A ;

[0017] Figure 5C It shows Figure 5A A side view of a subassembly of

[0018] Figure 6A is shown in the downward position Figure 4A Rear view of the subassembly;

[0019] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A A side view of a subassembly of

[0020] Figure 7 yes Figure 4A An exploded front perspective view of a subassembly of

[0021] Figure 8A and Figure 8B is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a friction module, which can be used in Figure 1 In the adjustable headrest shown;

[0022] FIG9A and FIG9B are Figure 8A and Figure 8B An exploded perspective view of the friction module shown;

[0023] 10A-10H illustrate that Figure 1 Embodiments of a sliding member for use in an adjustable headrest;

[0024] Figures 11A-11C Shows that it can be Figure 1 Embodiments of guide components for use in adjustable head restraints;

[0025] Figures 12A-12E Shows that it can be Figure 1 Embodiments of a retaining member for use in an adjustable headrest;

[0026] 13A and 13B are perspective views of another embodiment of a friction module with and without a retainer, respectively, according to aspects of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 14A is a front view illustrating a non-limiting embodiment of an adjustable headrest according to aspects of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 14B It shows Figure 14A Rear perspective view of the adjustable headrest;

[0029] Figure 14C It shows Figure 14A Rear view of the adjustable headrest;

[0030] Figures 15A-15C yes Figure 14Atop, side and bottom views of the adjustable headrest of

[0031] Figure 16A and Figure 16B is Figure 1 front and side views of the adjustable headrest of

[0032] Figure 16C and Figure 16D is Figure 1 front and side views of the adjustable headrest of

[0033] Figure 16E and Figure 16F is Figure 1 front and side views of the adjustable headrest of

[0034] Figures 17A-17C is Figure 14A front perspective, rear view and top view of the adjustable headrest of

[0035] Figures 17D-17F is Figure 14A front perspective, rear view and top view of the adjustable headrest of

[0036] Figure 17G-17I is Figure 14A front perspective, rear view and top view of the adjustable headrest of

[0037] Figure 18A and Figure 18B is Figure 14B rear perspective view of the adjustable headrest apparatus of

[0038] Figure 18C is a close-up view of a portion of the quick release apparatus of Figure 18B

[0039] and Figure 18D is Figure 18E rear perspective view of the adjustable headrest apparatus of Figure 14B

[0040] is a close-up view of a portion of the quick release apparatus of Figure 18F Figure 18E is

[0041] Figure 18G Figure 18B ​​a rear perspective view of the adjustable headrest apparatus and quick release assembly with the first end of the guide member removed from the quick release assembly;

[0042] Figure 18H yes Figure 18G A side view of an adjustable headrest device;

[0043] Figure 19 yes Figures 18A-18C An exploded rear perspective view of a quick release assembly;

[0044] Figures 20A-20E yes Figure 19 A perspective view, a front view, a top view, and a side view of an exemplary bracket component of a quick release assembly of FIG.

[0045] Figure 21 yes Figure 14B An exploded rear perspective view of an adjustable headrest assembly;

[0046] Figures 22A-22E are perspective, front, and side views of a non-limiting friction module according to aspects of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 22F yes Figures 22A-22E Exploded view of the friction module;

[0048] Figures 23A-23E yes Figures 22A-22F A front perspective view, a front view, a rear view and a side view of the bracket;

[0049] Figures 24A-24G yes Figures 22A-22F a front perspective view, a rear perspective view, a front view, a rear view and a side view of a first bushing;

[0050] Figure 24H-Figure 24N yes Figures 22A-22F a front perspective view, a rear perspective view, a front view, a rear view and a side view of a second bushing;

[0051] Figures 25A-25F yes Figures 22A-22F A perspective view, a side view, a top view and a bottom view of a sliding member; and

[0052] Figures 26A-26F yes Figures 22A-22F A perspective view, a side view, a top view and a bottom view of the retaining member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] While the invention is shown and described herein with reference to particular embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications may be made to the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims without departing from the invention.

[0054] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention include a friction module, a friction hinge, and an adjustable headrest apparatus. The friction module may be used in any device where it is desirable to provide friction between components that slide and / or rotate relative to each other. The friction hinge may be used in any system or device where a hinge may be used. Embodiments of the friction hinge may provide symmetrical or asymmetrical friction when rotated in different directions. The adjustable headrest may be used in any seat requiring a headrest. The adjustable headrest may be configured to include one or more friction modules and / or friction hinges as further described herein.

[0055] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An embodiment of an adjustable headrest apparatus 300 is shown. As a general overview, the adjustable headrest 300 may include a head support 302, a guide 360, and a slider 370.

[0056] The head support 302 of the adjustable headrest 300 may include a central portion 310. The central portion 310 has a front side 312 that faces the passenger's head. The central portion 310 of the head support 302 may be configured to provide support for the passenger's head. For example, the central portion 310 of the head support 302 may have a concave configuration. In one embodiment, when the passenger positions their head within the concave configuration of the central portion 310, one or more side portions 314 of the central portion 310 substantially surround the passenger's head.

[0057] In another embodiment, the side portions 314 of the central portion 310 do not substantially surround the passenger's head when the passenger positions his or her head in the concave configuration of the central portion 310. According to a preferred embodiment, the central portion 310 of the head support 302 substantially surrounds the passenger's head if one or more of the side portions 314 align with or extend beyond the passenger's ears when the passenger positions his or her head in the concave configuration and faces forward, away from the adjustable headrest 300. As a further example, Figure 1 As shown in , the front face 312 of the central portion 310 may be flat so as to lie within a single plane.

[0058] The head support 302 can include one or more wings 320 coupled to the central portion 310 of the head support 302. The wings 320 can be directly or indirectly attached to the central portion 310 of the head support 302, for example, by hinges 330 that attach side portions 324 of the wings 320 to side portions 314 of the central portion 310. Alternatively, the wings 320 can be directly or indirectly coupled to the central portion 310 of the head support 302 by attaching to other components of the adjustable headrest 300 that are attached and / or coupled to the central portion 310. For example, the wings 320 can be coupled to the central portion 310 by attaching and / or coupling to the slider 370, the guide 360, and / or other components that are attached and / or coupled to the central portion 310. Such coupling of components includes direct or indirect coupling, such as by direct or indirect connection, securing, attaching, engaging, etc., of one or more components.

[0059] Preferably, the wings 320 are rotatable relative to the central portion 310. In one embodiment, at least one wing 320 is coupled for movement about an axis that is angled relative to the adjustment path. The axis of rotation of the wing 320 can be angled relative to a vertical axis. When the wing 320 is rotated toward the passenger's body, the lower portion 324 of the wing 320 can be in an advanced position relative to the upper portion 326 of the wing 320, facing the passenger. In one embodiment, the lower portion 324 of the wing 320 is configured to align with the passenger's neck.

[0060] The head support 302 is configured to be movable relative to the seat back along an adjustment path. Preferably, the adjustment path is vertical or nearly vertical, for example, by being substantially aligned with the seat back. The head support 302 is coupled to a guide 360 ​​and a slider 370. The guide 360 ​​can be positioned to extend along the adjustment path. The slider 370 is engaged with and / or attached to the guide 360 ​​to facilitate movement of the head support 302 along the adjustment path.

[0061] The head support 302 can be moved along the adjustment path by coupling the head support 302 to the guide 360 ​​and the slider 370. In one embodiment, the head support 302 is attached to the slider 370, and the slider 370 is engaged with and / or attached to the guide 360, so that the head support 302 is coupled to the guide 360 ​​by being attached to the slider 370. In this embodiment, the slider 370 can move along the adjustment path with the head support 302.

[0062] In another embodiment, the head support 302 is attached to the guide 360, and the guide 360 ​​engages and / or is attached to the slide 370, such that the head support 302 is coupled to the slide 370 by being attached to the guide 360. According to this embodiment, the guide 360 ​​can move along the adjustment path with the head support 302.

[0063] refer to Figure 2 The adjustable headrest 300 can include a mounting portion 340 configured to be attached to a seat back. The mounting portion 340 is further coupled to the head support 302. In one embodiment, the mounting portion 340 is coupled to the head support 302 by being attached to a guide 360. In another embodiment, the mounting portion 340 is coupled to the head support 302 by being attached to a slider 370.

[0064] The mounting portion 340 may have an attachment section 342 to facilitate attachment of the mounting portion 340 to another component of the adjustable headrest 300 and / or the seat back. Attachment to the mounting portion 340 may be mechanical (e.g., by welding, riveting, screwing, nailing, bolting, etc.) or non-mechanical (e.g., by adhesive, etc.). Figure 3 As shown, for example, rivets are used for various connections between components of an assembly. For example, rivets are used to fasten the hinges of a head support, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 Although these rivets are not shown in the drawings as being in a riveted state (e.g. Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), but it should be understood that these rivet fasteners are riveted into place to complete the assembly process.

[0065] Implementing the mounting portion 340 enables quick and easy coupling of the head support 302 and / or the adjustable headrest 300 to the seat back. Additionally, the mounting portion 340 can protect the internal components of the adjustable headrest 300 (e.g., the guides 360, the sliders 370, the retainers 390, and / or any accessories) from various shocks, forces, pressures, vibrations, etc., received by the mounting portion 340, which may be generated by use of the adjustable headrest 300 in a vehicle and / or by passenger motion (e.g., a child bumping or otherwise impacting the seat back and / or the adjustable headrest 300).

[0066] Figures 4A-4C The interior components of an exemplary adjustable headrest 300 are shown with a mounting portion 340. In this embodiment, the mounting portion 340 is coupled to a slide 370 by being attached to a guide 360. The slide 370 is in a downward position relative to the adjustment path. Although Figures 4A-4C Not shown, but the head support 302 can be coupled and / or attached to the slide 370 .

[0067] Figures 5A-5C Also shown are the interior components of the adjustable headrest 300 having the mounting portion 340. Figures 4A-4C different, Figures 5A-5C The slider 370 is shown in an upward position. The slider 370 can be positioned at any point along the adjustment path between the upward position and the downward position. Therefore, in embodiments where the head support 302 is coupled and / or attached to the slider 370, the head support 302 can also be positioned at any point along the adjustment path between the upward position and the downward position.

[0068] In other embodiments, the guide 360 ​​is movable along the adjustment path between an upward position and a downward position. In embodiments that also utilize a mounting portion 340, the mounting portion 340 can be coupled to the guide 360 ​​by being attached to a slider 370. Thus, the guide 360 ​​is movable along the adjustment path between an upward position and a downward position relative to the slider 370 and the mounting portion 340. The head support 302 can be coupled and / or attached to the guide 360 ​​so that the head support 302 can be positioned at any point along the adjustment path between the upward position and the downward position.

[0069] The head support 302 can be configured to rotate about a pivot axis defined by a pivot assembly (not shown). The pivot axis can be angled relative to the adjustment path to allow pivotal movement of the head support 302 relative to the seat about the pivot axis. In one embodiment, the pivot axis is perpendicular to the adjustment path. In another embodiment, the pivot axis is parallel to the top of the seat back.

[0070] A pivoting device can be used to enable the head support 302 to rotate toward and / or away from the passenger's head. The pivoting device can be designed as a hinge (such as the rotary hinge described herein) or any other device and / or mechanism that can pivot or rotate about an axis. Preferably, the pivoting device is attached and / or coupled to the head support 302 and a component of the adjustable headrest 300 that is also movable along the adjustment path. In one embodiment, the pivoting device is attached and / or coupled to the head support 302 and the sliding member 370, thereby enabling the head support 302 to move along the adjustment path and to rotate about the pivot axis. In another embodiment, the pivoting device is attached and / or coupled to the head support 302 and the guide member 370, thereby enabling the head support 302 to move along the adjustment path and to rotate about the pivot axis.

[0071] Reference Figure 7FIG9 , further disclosed below, illustrates exemplary internal components of an adjustable headrest 300 . The internal components of the adjustable headrest 300 may include a friction module 100 , which also includes a guide 360 ​​and a slider 370 . The friction module 100 may also include one or more retainers, such as retainer 390 . Although the friction module 100 is described with reference to an embodiment configured for use with the adjustable headrest 300 , those skilled in the art will readily recognize various applications for the friction module 100 in other devices, apparatuses, and / or systems based on the description herein. For example, the friction module 100 is particularly advantageous in any application where a predetermined and modifiable amount of friction is desired between two or more components that slide and / or rotate relative to one another. For example, friction modules (such as the friction module 100 or variations thereof) are particularly advantageous when used with sliding components of various types of components across a variety of industries and applications. Illustrative examples include furniture, armrests, tray tables, extensions, adjusters, and any other component where two or more components slide and / or rotate relative to one another along or about a path or axis.

[0072] 10A-10H , the slider 370 has an inner surface 372 defining a recess 371 for receiving the guide 360. The inner surface 372 of the slider 370 can contact the outer surface 362 of the guide 360 ​​when the recess 371 receives the guide 360. The slider 370 can be configured to have two or more separate inner surfaces 372 defining one or more recesses 371 that contact the guide 360. In one embodiment, the two or more separate inner surfaces 372 of the slider 370 define a single recess 371. In another embodiment, the two or more separate inner surfaces 372 of the slider 370 define two or more recesses 371.

[0073] Additionally or alternatively, one or more recesses 371 of the slider 370 can receive one or more guides 360. For example, a single slider 370 defining two recesses 371 on either end of the slider 370 can be positioned between two guides 360, such that each recess 371 receives a different guide 360. As another example, more than one slider 370 defining one or more recesses 371 can engage and / or attach to more than one guide 360, with each slider 370 receiving only one guide 360. In one embodiment, a plurality of guides 360 are configured to be coupled to the seat, and each of the recesses 371 defined by the inner surface 372 of the slider 370 receives one of the guides 360. When a guide 360 ​​is received in a recess 371, the slider 370 can engage and / or attach to the guide 360.

[0074] The slider 370 and / or the guide 360 ​​can rotate and / or slide relative to each other. In one embodiment, the slider 370 is prevented from rotating relative to the guide 360 ​​about the longitudinal axis of the guide 360. For example, the slider 370 can be coupled to the head support 302 to prevent the slider 370 from rotating relative to the guide 360. As another example, the inner surface 372 of the slider 370 can be configured to have a portion of such inner surface 372 (e.g., a protrusion) that engages a portion of the outer surface 362 of the guide 360 ​​(e.g., a depression or groove) to prevent the slider 370 from rotating relative to the guide 360. In another embodiment, the slider 370 is prevented from sliding along the length 364 of the guide 360. According to another embodiment, the slider 370 can simultaneously rotate about the guide 360 ​​and slide along the length 364 of the guide 360.

[0075] The slider 370 may define a gap 381 extending from the recess 371 to the outer surface 380 of the slider 370, thereby allowing compression of the slider 370 to increase friction between the inner surface 372 of the slider 370 and the outer surface 362 of the guide member 360. The gap 381 enables the slider 370 to deform without applying a large amount of force and / or without the slider 370 being formed of a highly deformable material. Therefore, the slider 370 can be formed of a durable material such as a plastic material and / or a metal material. In one embodiment, the slider 370 is formed of a plastic material.

[0076] The slider 370 can be configured to have sections integrally formed with the slider 370 or sections attached and / or coupled to the slider 370. For example, the slider 370 can include a block section 374 having an inner surface 376 defining a recess 373. The recess 373 defined by the inner surface 376 of the block section 374 can also be a hole, thereby receiving the guide 360. The block section 374 can be configured to have no gaps to facilitate compression of the block section 374. Therefore, the inner surface 376 of the block section 374 can provide a minimal amount of friction with the outer surface 362 of the guide 360.

[0077] The nub section 374 can be configured to facilitate insertion of the guide 360 ​​into the recess 373 and / or recess 371 during manufacturing, maintenance, etc. The nub section 374 can also be configured to protect the slider 370 and / or the friction section 378 from impacts with other components of the adjustable headrest 300 (e.g., the attachment section 342 of the mounting portion 340), which may be caused by adjustment of the head support 302 along the adjustment path, such as when an occupant moves the adjustable headrest 300 relative to the seat. The nub section 374 can provide additional strength to prevent disengagement and / or separation of the slider 370 and guide 360. It can also be used to align the guide relative to the slider so that the recess formed by the slider extends along the same axis as the guide.

[0078] The slider 370 can also be configured to include a friction section 378, wherein the inner surface 372 of the friction section 378 defines a recess 371 that contacts the outer surface 362 of the guide 360 ​​to generate a certain amount of friction. In one embodiment, the slider 370 is solely the friction section 378. The recess 371 defined by the inner surface 372 of the friction section 378 can be a portion of the recess 373 defined by the inner surface 376 of the block section 374. In one embodiment, the majority of the friction generated by the slider 370 is generated by the contact between the inner surface 372 of the friction section 378 and the outer surface 362 of the guide 360. The friction section 378 can be formed of a different material than other portions or sections of the slider 370.

[0079] The slider 370 can be configured to generate different amounts of friction, for example, by using one or more retaining members 390 of different shapes and / or materials. The slider 370 has an outer surface 380 that can define a groove 383. The groove 383 can be positioned to at least partially receive the retaining member 390. In addition, the outer surface 380 of the slider 370 can define one or more grooves 383 to at least partially receive one or more retaining members 390. The depth of the groove 383 (not shown) can vary along the length of the groove 383. The depth of the groove 383 can vary to form a notch receiving portion (not shown) that engages a portion of the retaining member 390, such as the notch portion 398 of the retaining member 390, to increase the amount of force required to remove the retaining member 390 from the groove 383.

[0080] While such grooves may optionally be provided on the surface of the slide to hold or engage or otherwise at least partially receive one or more retainers, the retainer on the slide may alternatively be a clamp or band that at least partially surrounds the slide. In such an embodiment, the grooves may be eliminated.

[0081] like Figures 11A-11CAs shown, guide 360 ​​has an outer surface 362 and a length 364. Guide 360 ​​can be configured to have a variety of cross-sectional shapes, such as cylindrical, triangular, rectangular, hexagonal, or any other shape. By providing a non-cylindrical guide, relative rotation of the guide within the slide can be limited or prevented.

[0082] Reference Figures 12A-12E , the retainer 390 can be positioned to contact at least a portion of the outer periphery of the slider 370 (e.g., the outer surface 380) and / or the friction section 378 of the slider 370. The retainer 390 can have a shape configured to extend along the outer surface 380 of the slider 370. The retainer 390 can include an end portion 396 and a middle portion 394 having one or more curved portions. The one or more curved portions of the middle portion 394 can extend from the first end portion 396 to the second end portion 396.

[0083] In one embodiment, the middle portion 394 has a C-shaped curvature, i.e., the retainer 390 has the general shape of the letter "C," which is not limited to any particular font, size, and / or case. The end portions 396 may extend in the projected direction of the middle portion 394 to form an extension of the middle portion 394. Alternatively, the end portions 396 may extend in a direction away from the projected direction of the middle portion 394. For example, the end portions 396 may extend outward, away from the center of the curvature of the middle portion 394.

[0084] In one embodiment, the curved portion of the middle section 394 and the end portions 396 together form an Ω shape, i.e., the retainer 390 has the general shape of the Greek letter "Ω," which is not limited to any particular font, size, and / or case. In another embodiment, the notched portion 398 forms a connection point between the middle section 394 and the end portions 396 extending in a direction that is angled relative to the protruding direction of the middle section 394. The end portions 396 may also extend inwardly relative to the one or more curved portions of the middle section 394. Preferably, the retainer 390 has a shape configured to extend along the outer surface 380 of the slider 370. For example, the retainer 390 may be configured to be received by the groove 383 of the outer surface 380 of the slider 370 and / or the friction section 378 of the slider 370.

[0085] If the retainer 390 has a "C" shape or an Ω shape, the friction segment 378 preferably also has a corresponding "C" shape or an Ω shape. In other words, the outer surface of the friction segment 378 or the inner surface of the groove 383 preferably has a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the retainer 390 in order to provide substantially uniform contact and evenly distribute the force generated by the retainer 390 on the friction segment 378. Alternatively, a separate contact surface may be provided for one or more point contacts or area contacts between the friction segment 378 and the retainer 390.

[0086] The retainer 390 can be used to urge the inner surface 372 of the slider 370 and / or the friction section 378 toward the outer surface 362 of the guide 360, thereby maintaining friction between the inner surface 372 of the slider 370 and the outer surface 362 of the guide 360. By using the retainer 390, unintended movement between the slider 370 and the guide 360 ​​along the adjustment path can be inhibited and / or prevented. For example, inhibiting and / or preventing unintended movement between the slider 370 and the guide 360 ​​includes providing sufficient friction to maintain the position of the adjustable headrest 300 under the influence of forces such as: forces generated by gravity (e.g., on the head support 302 and other components of the adjustable headrest 300 that are not fixed relative to the seat along the adjustment path); forces generated by the vehicle (e.g., vibration, acceleration, deceleration, jolts or jerks and / or takeoff and landing); and forces generated by the passenger that do not intend to adjust the adjustable headrest 300 (e.g., movement of the passenger's head when his or her head contacts the head support 302 and / or slightly bumps into the adjustable headrest 300). The retainer 390 can be formed from a variety of materials, including plastics and / or metal compounds. In one embodiment, the retainer 390 is formed from a metal material.

[0087] The slider 370 can be configured to support one or more retainers 390, thereby increasing the friction between the inner surface 372 of the slider 390 and the surface 362 of the guide 360 ​​by adding one or more additional retainers 390. In one embodiment, the outer surface 380 of the slider 370 defines a plurality of grooves 383 that are positioned to at least partially receive the retainers 390.

[0088] By utilizing the guide 360, slider 370, and / or retainer 390, the friction module 100 and / or adjustable headrest 300 can be configured to maintain a predetermined range of frictional force between the inner surface 372 of the slider 370 and the outer surface 362 of the guide 360 ​​as the slider 370 moves along the adjustment path relative to the guide 360, thereby providing a range of forces required to move the guide and slider relative to each other. Furthermore, the predetermined range of forces can be maintained after the slider 370 moves along the path relative to the guide 360 ​​for a predetermined number of cycles. In one embodiment, the materials used in the guide 360, slider 370, and / or retainer 390 are selected to maintain the predetermined range of frictional force within a predetermined temperature range.

[0089] For example, a friction module (e.g., friction module 100) and / or an adjustable headrest (such as adjustable headrest 300) can be configured to have a range of 3-6 pounds of force. Thus, a force within this range is required to slide the components relative to each other along the adjustment path. The sliding force within the range of forces can be provided by a single guide and a single slider, or by a combination of guides and sliders. For example, the sliding force within the range of forces can also be provided by a single guide and multiple sliders on the guide, or by multiple guides and multiple sliders on the guide. Thus, each such guide and slider will be configured to provide a predetermined sliding force, either alone or in combination with one or more other guides and sliders.

[0090] This predetermined range of forces is preferably maintained over the actual useful life of the product, during which the relative positions of the components cycle through each movement. For example, the force required to move the slider 370 relative to the guide 360 ​​preferably remains within the predetermined range of forces even after the slider 370 has cycled along the path relative to the guide 360 ​​for a predetermined number of times. While various numbers of cycles can be selected, a number of cycles can be selected within the range of 10,000-20,000.

[0091] Recognizing that the relative positions of components can change in various temperature environments, it is preferable to maintain such a predetermined range of forces over a relatively large temperature range. For example, it is preferable that the force required to move the slider 370 relative to the guide 360 ​​remain within a predetermined range of forces even over a relatively large temperature range. While various temperature ranges can be selected, one exemplary temperature range is -20°C to +40°C.

[0092] The adjustable headrest 300 may also include one or more rotary hinges. The rotary hinges may be used (e.g., to enable the wings 320 to rotate relative to the central portion 310) and / or as pivoting devices to allow the head support 302 to pivot and / or rotate relative to a pivot axis.

[0093] Whether part of a headrest or used separately as part of another assembly, the rotary hinge can include a shaft (such as a shaft) having a longitudinal axis extending along a pivot axis (such as the longitudinal axis of the guide 360). Figure 8A - guide 360 ​​in FIG. 9B ) and a hinge member (such as inner surface 372 in FIG. 9A-9B ) having an inner surface Figure 8A - Slider 370 in FIG. 9B ). The surface of the hinge member defines a recess (such as recess 371 in FIG. 9A and 9B ) configured to receive the shaft whereby the inner surface of the hinge member contacts the surface of the shaft (such as Figure 8A - outer surface 362 in FIG. 9B ). The hinge member can rotate in opposite directions relative to the shaft about the pivot axis. The hinge member can be prevented from sliding relative to the shaft along the longitudinal axis of the shaft.

[0094] The hinge component can be configured to define a gap (such as gap 381 in Figures 9A-9B) that extends from a recess defined by the inner surface to an outer surface of the hinge component (such as outer surface 380 in Figures 9A-9B). The gap allows compression of the hinge component to increase friction between a surface of the hinge component and a surface of the shaft, causing the surface of the hinge component to contact the surface of the shaft. The friction generated between the hinge component and the shaft can be sufficient to prevent unintended movement of the hinge component relative to the shaft about the pivot axis.

[0095] The rotary hinge can be configured to generate an asymmetric friction torque; for example, the friction force generated by rotating the hinge component in a first rotational direction may not be equal to the friction force generated by rotating the hinge component in a second rotational direction. Such an optional asymmetric torque is advantageous when it is desired to apply a force that requires the hinge component to rotate in the first rotational direction, and to apply a greater force to rotate the hinge component in the second or opposite direction. For example, to provide head support, it may be desirable to rotate the hinge component forward (toward the head) compared to forward (toward the head). Figure 1 The wings of the headrest assembly shown in are preferably more difficult to move rearward (away from the user's head). In other words, the force required to rotate the wings rearward is preferably greater than the force required to rotate the wings forward, thereby providing improved head support while still facilitating adjustment of the wing position.

[0096] In one embodiment, the gap extending from the recess to the outer surface of the hinge member may be positioned to provide asymmetric frictional moments when the hinge member rotates in different directions.

[0097] In another embodiment, the recess defined by the surface of the hinge component can be constructed and / or positioned to provide an asymmetric friction torque when the hinge components rotate in opposite directions. In yet another embodiment, the thick portion of the hinge component defining the recess has a greater thickness than the thin portion of the hinge component, whereby compression of the hinge component compresses the thin portion of the hinge component more than the thick portion of the hinge component to provide the asymmetric friction torque. By utilizing one or more retainers 390, the asymmetric friction torque generated between the hinge component and the shaft can be increased.

[0098] One or more retainers 390 can be used to increase the friction generated between the hinge components and the shaft. Retainers 390 can be configured as described herein with respect to friction module 100 and / or adjustable headrest 300. Furthermore, based on the description herein, those skilled in the art will appreciate various variations of retainers 390 depending on the specific application of the rotary hinge.

[0099] As previously described in connection with friction module 100 and adjustable headrest 300, the rotary hinge can be configured to have a predetermined amount of friction within a predetermined range, thereby providing a range of forces required to rotate its components relative to one another. Furthermore, the predetermined force range can be maintained after a predetermined number of rotation cycles of the components. Furthermore, the materials used in the rotary hinge are preferably selected so that the predetermined range of friction forces is maintained within a predetermined temperature range.

[0100] For example, a rotary hinge can be configured to have a predetermined range of forces, such that a force within that range is required to rotate the components relative to each other about a pivot axis. The rotational force within that range of forces can be provided by a single rotary hinge or by a combination of hinges. Thus, each such rotary hinge will be configured to provide a selected rotational force, either alone or in combination with one or more other rotary hinges.

[0101] Preferably, this predetermined range of rotational forces is maintained over the actual useful life of the product, during which the relative positions of the components cycle through each movement. For example, the force required to rotate the components of a rotary hinge relative to each other preferably remains within the predetermined range of forces even after a predetermined number of rotational cycles. While a variety of cycles can be selected, a number of cycles in the range of 10,000-20,000 may be selected.

[0102] Recognizing that the relative positions of components can change in various temperature environments, it is preferable to maintain a predetermined range of rotational forces over a relatively wide temperature range. For example, it is preferable that the force required to rotate the components of a rotary hinge be maintained within a predetermined range of forces even over a relatively wide temperature range. While various temperature ranges can be selected, one exemplary temperature range is -20°C to +40°C.

[0103] 13A and 13B , another embodiment of a friction module 400 according to aspects of the present invention is shown. In general overview, the friction module 400 includes a guide 460 and a slider 470. The friction module 400 may also include one or more retainers 490. As shown in FIG13A , the retainers 490 are configured as retainer strips. The friction module 400 is highly advantageous for any device where a predetermined and modifiable amount of friction is desired between two or more components that slide and / or rotate relative to each other. For example, the friction module 400 is highly advantageous when used with sliding components of various types of assemblies in various industries and applications, such as furniture, armrests, tray tables, extensions, adjusters, and the like.

[0104] The guide 460 has an outer surface 462 that extends along the longitudinal axis of the guide 460. The slider 470 and / or the guide 460 can rotate and / or slide relative to each other. In one embodiment, the slider 470 is prevented from rotating relative to the guide 460 about the longitudinal axis of the guide 460. In another embodiment, the slider 470 is prevented from sliding along the length of the guide 460 and / or in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the guide 460. According to another embodiment, the slider 470 can simultaneously rotate about the guide 460 and slide along the length of the longitudinal axis of the guide 460 and / or in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the guide 460.

[0105] The slider 470 includes a block section 474 and a friction section 478. The block section 474 and the friction section 478 each define a recess adapted to receive the guide 460. The block section 474 can be configured to protect the slider 470 and / or the friction section 478 from impact with an object (e.g., a component of the adjustable headrest 300) when the friction module 400 is used in the adjustable headrest 300.

[0106] The friction segment 478 has an inner surface defining a recess that contacts the outer surface 462 of the guide member 460 to generate a certain amount of friction. The friction segment 478 defines a gap 481 that extends from the recess defined by the friction segment 478 to the outer surface of the friction segment 478, thereby allowing the friction segment 478 to be compressed to increase the friction between the inner surface of the friction segment 478 and the outer surface 462 of the guide member 460. The gap 481 enables the friction segment 478 to deform without applying a large amount of force and / or without being formed from a highly deformable material. For example, one or more retainers 490 of different shapes and / or materials may be provided on the friction segment 478 to increase the amount of friction generated between the inner surface of the recess defined by the friction segment 478 and the outer surface 462 of the guide member 460.

[0107] The friction section 478 of the slider 470 has an outer surface defining a plurality of protrusions 483. The protrusions 483 can be configured to at least partially receive at least one retainer 490, for example, between protrusions 483a and 483b. In one embodiment, when positioned on the friction section 478 between the protrusions 483a and 483b, the retainer 490 contacts the protrusions 483a and 483b.

[0108] The kit for an adjustable headrest can include one or more of the aforementioned components of the adjustable headrest 300, including the friction module 100 and / or the rotary hinge as described herein. The kit for an adjustable headrest can also include a pivoting device and one or more cushions (not shown) and / or cover materials (not shown). The one or more cushions and / or cover materials can be coupled to the head support 302. Based on the description herein, one skilled in the art will understand suitable techniques for using one or more cushions or cover materials with the adjustable headrest 300 to provide additional comfort to the user.

[0109] Additionally, one skilled in the art will understand how to assemble the adjustable headrest kit based on the drawings and description provided herein. Embodiments of the kit for the adjustable headrest 300 enable the assembler to increase or decrease the force required by the user to adjust the head support 302 along the adjustment path by increasing or decreasing the friction generated between the inner surface 372 of the slider 370 and the outer surface 362 of the guide 360.

[0110] One exemplary method for increasing or decreasing the friction generated between the inner surface 372 of the slider 370 and the outer surface 362 of the guide 360 ​​includes adding or removing retainers 390 from the slider 370. Another exemplary method includes replacing one or more retainers 390 with one or more retainers 390 formed of a different material or having a different shape. Yet, another exemplary method includes replacing the guide 360 ​​and / or slider 370 with a guide 360 ​​and / or slider 370 of a different material and / or shape.

[0111] Figures 14A-15C An embodiment of an adjustable headrest apparatus 1100 is shown. As a general overview, the adjustable headrest 1100 may include a head support 1102 , a guide 1150 , and a slider 1170 .

[0112] The head support 1102 of the adjustable headrest 1100 can include a central portion 1110. The central portion 1110 has a front side 1112 that faces the passenger's head. The central portion 1110 of the head support 1102 can be configured to provide support for the passenger's head. For example, the central portion 1110 of the head support 1102 can have a concave configuration. In one embodiment, when the passenger positions their head within the concave configuration of the central portion 1110, one or more side portions 1114 of the central portion 1110 substantially surround the passenger's head.

[0113] In another embodiment, the side portions 1114 of the central portion 1110 do not substantially surround the passenger's head when the passenger positions his or her head in the concave configuration of the central portion 1110. According to a preferred embodiment, the central portion 1110 of the head support 1102 substantially surrounds the passenger's head if, when the passenger positions his or her head in the concave configuration and faces forward, away from the adjustable headrest 1100, one or more of the side portions 1114 align with or extend beyond the passenger's ears. As a further example, if Figures 15A-15C As shown, the front face 112 of the central portion 1110 may be flat so as to lie in a single plane. Figures 15A-15C In the illustrated embodiment, the central portion 1110 includes a first attachment section 1116a and a second attachment section 1116b. At least one of the attachment sections 1116a and / or 1116b includes an attachment section 1116 that defines a guide receiving slot 1118 that originates from an inlet 1119.

[0114] The head support 1102 can include one or more wings 1120 coupled to the central portion 1110 of the head support 1102. The wings 1120 can be directly or indirectly attached to the central portion 1110 of the head support 1102, for example, by hinges 1122 that attach side portions 1124 of the wings 1120 to side portions 1114 of the central portion 1110. Alternatively, the wings 1120 can be directly or indirectly coupled to the central portion 1110 of the head support 1102 by attachment to the adjustable headrest 1100 and / or by other components coupled to the central portion 110. For example, the wings 1120 can be coupled to the central portion 1110 by attachment and / or coupling to the slider 1170, the guide 1150, and / or other components attached and / or coupled to the central portion 1110. Such coupling of components includes direct or indirect coupling, such as by direct or indirect connection, fixing, attaching, joining, etc., of one or more components.

[0115] Reference Figures 17A-17I, the wings 1120 can rotate relative to the central portion 1110. For example, the wings 1120 can be at an angle of 15°, 45°, 90°, or any angle therebetween relative to the central portion 1110 or a plane defined by the central portion 1110. In one embodiment, at least one wing 1120 is coupled for movement about an axis that is angled relative to the adjustment path. The axis of rotation of the wing 1120 can be angled relative to a vertical axis. When the wing 1120 rotates toward the passenger's body, the lower portion 1124 of the wing 1120 can be in a forward position toward the passenger relative to the upper portion 1126 of the wing 1120. In one embodiment, the lower portion 1128 of the wing 1120 is configured to align with the passenger's neck.

[0116] The head support 1102 is configured to be movable relative to the seat back along an adjustment path. For example, the head support 1102 can be adjusted along the adjustment path to a position such as: Figure 16A As shown in the upward position, Figure 16C central location as shown, or as Figure 16E 11. The head support 1102 is preferably in a vertical or near-vertical direction, such as by being generally aligned with the seat back of the seat. The head support 1102 is coupled to the guide 1150 and the bracket 1160. The guide 1150 can be positioned to extend in a direction along the adjustment path. For example, the guide 1150 can have an axis A1 that is parallel to or coaxial with the adjustment path. The bracket 1160 is engaged with and / or attached to the guide 1150 to facilitate movement of the head support 1102 along the adjustment path.

[0117] exist Figures 14A-19 In the embodiment shown, the head support 1102 is attached to the guide 1150, and the guide 1150 is engaged and / or attached to the bracket 1160, such that the head support 1102 is coupled to the bracket 1160 by being attached to the guide 1150. According to this embodiment, the guide 1150 can move along the adjustment path with the head support 1102 (e.g., as Figures 16A-16E Although not shown, the head support 1102 and guide 1150 can be positioned at any point along the adjustment path between the upward position and the downward position.

[0118] In another embodiment, the head support 1102 is attached to the bracket 1160, and the bracket 1160 engages and / or is attached to the guide 1150, such that the head support 1102 is coupled to the guide 1150 by being attached to the bracket 1160. In this embodiment, the bracket 1160 can move along the adjustment path with the head support 1102, such that the bracket 1160 and the head support 1102 can be positioned at any point along the adjustment path between the upward position and the downward position.

[0119] Figure 14B , the adjustable headrest 1100 includes a mounting portion 1140 configured to attach to a seat back. The mounting portion 1140 is in turn coupled to the head support 1102. In one embodiment, the mounting portion 1140 is coupled to the head support 1102 by attaching to a guide 1150. In another embodiment, the mounting portion 1140 is coupled to the head support 1102 by attaching to a slide 1170. Attachment to the mounting portion 1140 may be mechanical (e.g., by welding, riveting, screwing, nailing, bolting, etc.) or non-mechanical (e.g., by adhesive, etc.). Figure 14A As shown, for example, rivets can be used for various connections between components of an assembly. For example, rivets are used to fasten the hinges of a head support, such as Figures 14A-19 shown.

[0120] Implementing the mounting portion 1140 enables quick and easy coupling of the head support 1102 and / or the adjustable headrest 1100 to the seat back. Additionally, the mounting portion 1140 can protect the internal components of the adjustable headrest 1100 (e.g., the guides 1150, brackets 1160, sliders 1170, retainers 1190, and / or any accessories) from various shocks, forces, pressures, vibrations, etc., received by the mounting portion 340, which may be generated by use of the adjustable headrest 1100 in a vehicle and / or the actions of a passenger (e.g., a child bumping or otherwise impacting the seat back and / or the adjustable headrest 1100).

[0121] The headrest 1100 may include a quick release device for quickly and easily coupling the head support 1102 to the mounting portion 1140 and / or the seat back. Figures 14A-18H In the illustrated embodiment, the quick release device 1300 is coupled to the top portion of the head support 1102, but in another embodiment of the present invention, the quick release device 1300 can be coupled to the bottom portion of the head support. In yet another embodiment, a first quick release device 1300 is coupled to the top portion of the head support 1102, and a second quick release device 1300 is coupled to the bottom portion of the head support 1102. Additionally, one or more quick release devices, such as quick release device 1300, are optionally positioned at one or more intermediate locations between the top and bottom portions of the head support 1102.

[0122] The quick release device 1300 is configured to have an engaged configuration and a released configuration. The quick release device 1300 limits the movement of the end of the guide 1150 in the engaged configuration and allows the end of the guide 1150 to move in the released configuration. For example, Figures 18A-18C An embodiment of the quick release assembly 1300 is shown in an engaged configuration, while Figure 18D-18EAn embodiment of a quick release device 1300 is shown in a released configuration.

[0123] Reference Figures 18A-18E In the illustrated embodiment, the quick release device 1300 includes a first bracket member 1320a coupled to a second bracket member 1320b via a biasing member 1310. The biasing member 1310 may be a compression spring, an extension spring, a compressible elastomer, or the like.

[0124] The bracket member 1320 defines a guide receiving slot 1324 having an entrance 1326 at an edge 1328 of the quick release assembly 1300 for receiving the first end 1154 of the guide 1150. Preferably, the edge 1328 forms a contact side 1329 on at least one side of the entrance 1326. The contact side 1329 is angled relative to the edge 1328 such that a force is applied to the contact side 1329 from contact with the first end 1154 of the guide 1150 to move the bracket member 1320 to align the entrance 1326 with the first end 1154 of the guide 1150. The guide receiving slot 1324 of the bracket member 1320 extends inwardly from the entrance 1326 in at least a first direction D1 to receive and / or secure the first end 1154 of the guide 1150. Figure 20B In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket member 1320 defines a guide receiving slot 1324 that extends from an edge 1328 along a first direction D1 to a receiving position 1330 and extends from the receiving portion 1330 along a second direction D2 to a fixed position 1332. In another embodiment, the bracket member defines a guide receiving slot 1324 that extends from the edge 1328 along a single first direction D1 to the fixed position 1332.

[0125] Bracket member 320 includes at least one coupling slot 1322 for coupling bracket member 1320 to attachment section 1116 of central portion 1110. Coupling slot is adapted to couple brackets 1320a and / or 1320b to attachment section 1116 of central portion 1110 while allowing brackets 1230a and / or 1230b to slide or move relative to each other. Coupling slot 1322 extends in at least one direction that allows bracket members 1320a and / or 1320b to be positioned such that inlet 1326 of bracket member 1320 is aligned with inlet 1119 of guide receiving slot 1118 of attachment section 1116, and to be positioned such that inlet 1326 of bracket member 1320 is not aligned with inlet 1119 of guide receiving slot 1118.

[0126] As described above, the quick-release assembly 1300 has an engaged configuration that restricts movement of at least one end of the guide relative to the quick-release assembly 1300, and a released configuration that allows movement of at least one end of the guide relative to the quick-release assembly 1300. In the released configuration, the inlet 1326 of the bracket member 1320 is aligned with the inlet 1119 of the central portion 1110, which allows the first end 1154 of the guide 1150 to be removed from the guide receiving slot 1324. In the engaged configuration, the inlet 1326 of the bracket member 1320 is not aligned with the inlet 1119 of the central portion 1110, such that the first end 1154 of the guide 1150 is fixed (e.g., trapped in the fixed position 1322). In one embodiment, the guide receiving slot 1324 of the bracket member 1320 is angled relative to the guide receiving slot 1118 of the central portion 1110 when the entrance 1326 of the guide receiving slot 1314 is aligned with the entrance 1119 of the guide receiving slot 1118. In such an embodiment, the quick release device 1300 is positioned in the release configuration so that the first end 1154 of the guide 1150 is removed from the guide receiving slot 1324. Figure 18B In the illustrated embodiment, when the inlet 1326 of the guide receiving slot 1314 is aligned with the inlet 1119 of the guide receiving slot 1118, a section of the guide receiving slot 1324 (e.g., from the fixed position 1330 to the inlet 1326) is aligned relative to the guide receiving slot 1118 of the central portion 1110. The head support 1102 can be configured to rotate about a pivot axis defined by a pivot device (not shown). The pivot axis can be angled relative to the adjustment path, thereby allowing the head support 1102 to pivot relative to the seat about the pivot axis. In one embodiment, the pivot axis is perpendicular to the adjustment path. In another embodiment, the pivot axis is parallel to the top of the seat back. The pivot device can be configured to enable the head support 1102 to rotate toward and / or away from the passenger's head. The pivot device can be configured as a hinge or any other device and / or mechanism capable of pivoting or rotating about an axis. The pivoting device can be attached and / or coupled to the head support 1302 component of the adjustable headrest 1100, which can also move along the adjustment path. Figures 22A-22F, further disclosed below, are exemplary internal components of the adjustable headrest 1100. The internal components of the adjustable headrest 1100 may include a friction module 1200, which also includes a guide 1150, a bracket 1160, and a slider 1170. The friction module 1200 may also include one or more retaining members, such as retaining member 1190. Although the friction module 1200 is described with reference to an embodiment configured for use with the adjustable headrest 1100, those skilled in the art will readily recognize various applications for the friction module 1200 in other devices, apparatuses, and / or systems based on the description herein. For example, the friction module 1200 is particularly advantageous in any device where a predetermined and modifiable amount of friction is desired between two or more components that slide and / or rotate relative to one another. For example, a friction module (such as the friction module 1200, such as a modification of the friction module 1200) is particularly advantageous when used with sliding components of various types of components in a variety of industries and applications. Illustrative examples include furniture, armrests, tray tables, extensions, adjusters, and any other assembly in which two or more components slide and / or rotate relative to each other along or about a path or axis.

[0127] Guide 1150 has an outer surface 1152 and a length L1. Guide 1150 includes a first end 1154 as described above and a second end 1156 having a tapered shape. The tapered shape of second end 1156 allows first end 1154 to be removed from guide receiving slot 1354 of quick release member 1300 and guide receiving slot 1118 of attachment section 1116b by allowing second end 1156 to be angled within the aperture of attachment section 1116a. Guide 1150 can be configured to have a variety of cross-sectional shapes, such as cylindrical, triangular, rectangular, hexagonal, or any other shape. By providing a non-cylindrical guide, relative rotation of the guide within the slider can be limited or prevented.

[0128] The bracket 1160 is fixed relative to the head support 1102 or relative to the seat back. The bracket 1160 includes: a mounting portion 1161 positioned to be fixed relative to the head support 1102 or for fixing to the seat; and a guide receiving portion 1164 for receiving the guide 1150. The mounting portion 1161 may include Figures 23A-23E The holes shown are for attachment to the mounting portion 1140, or may be configured for attachment to the mounting portion 1140 and / or the seat back by other known means.

[0129] exist Figures 23A-23EIn the illustrated embodiment, bracket 1160 includes a first guide receiver 1164a and a second guide receiver 1164b, which is spaced apart from first guide receiver 1164a by a distance D3. The distance D3 between the two guide receivers 1164 can be adapted to receive slider 1170 therebetween. In one embodiment, distance D3 between guide receivers 1164a and 1164b is the same as or substantially the same as length L2 of slider 1170. When slider 1170 and bracket 1160 are coupled to guide 1150, length L2 of slider 1170 is determined along the portion of slider 1170 between the two guide receivers 1164 of bracket 1160. Preferably, when the bracket 1160 and the slider 1170 are coupled to the guide 1150, the distance D3 between the two guide receivers 1164 is configured to capture the slider 1170, such that the bracket 1160 and the slider 1170 slide simultaneously along the adjustment path. The guide receivers 1164 have an inner surface 1162 defining a channel for receiving the bushing 1166. For example, the first guide receiver 1164a can define a first channel 1163a for receiving the first bushing 1166a, while the second guide receiver 1164b can define a second channel 1163b for receiving the second bushing 1166b. The bracket 1160 can also define a groove 1165 adapted to receive and engage at least a portion of the bushing 1166 (e.g., a lip 1169 of the bushing 1166).

[0130] Bushing 1166 is configured to be received within passageway 1163 of bracket 1160 and has an inner surface 1168 defining a passageway for receiving guide 1150. Inner surface 1168 of bushing 1166 is adapted to contact outer surface 1152 of guide 1150 when bushing 1166 is positioned between inner surface 1162 of bracket 1160 and outer surface 1152 of guide 1150. Inner surface 1168 of bushing 1166 may define a passageway corresponding to the shape of outer surface 1152 of guide 1150. In one embodiment, the passageway defined by inner surface 1168 of bushing 1166 has an axis A2 that extends in the same direction or substantially the same direction as axis A1 of guide 1150. For example, axis A2 of inner bushing 1166 may extend in a direction that differs by 3° or less, 2° or less, or 1° or less from the direction of axis A1 of guide 1150. In one embodiment, the axis A2 of the inner bushing 1166 is coaxial with the axis A1 of the guide 1150 .

[0131] The bushing 1166 can include a lip 1169 to engage and / or rotationally secure the bushing 1166 relative to the bracket 1160. For example, the lip 1169 of the bracket 1160 can be adapted to be received by the slot 1165 formed by the bracket 1160 such that the bushing 1166 is rotationally secured relative to the bracket 1160. The bushing 1166 can be formed of any suitable material, including different or the same material as the bracket 1160, the slider 1170, and / or the guide 1150. In one embodiment, the bushing 1166 is formed of a polymer material that is lightweight and / or produces low / minimal static and dynamic friction during contact with the guide 1150. Suitable materials for the bushing 1166 include, but are not limited to, acetal, ABS, and injection molded grade plastics. By using a bushing 1166 that is different than the bracket 1160, the bushing 1166 and the bracket 1160 can be formed of different materials to produce a friction module 1200 and / or a headrest apparatus 1100 with improved strength while maintaining a desired weight. Further, by using a bushing 1166 that is different than the bracket 1160, the failure mode of the headrest 1100 during an impact test can be moved from the slider and / or bracket to the rivet. For example, during testing of two headrests, by installing a load to the head support while the mounting portion of the headrest was fixed, it was determined that a headrest having a bracket formed of spring steel and a bushing formed of nylon had a failure tensile strength of 210 pounds, while a similar headrest having a bracket and an integral bushing formed of PEI (polyetherimide) had a failure tensile strength of 95 pounds. Additionally, the failure of the headrest having a bracket and an integral bushing formed of PEI occurred at the bracket / slider, while the failure of the headrest having a bracket formed of spring steel and a bushing formed of nylon occurred at the top rivet of the bracket.

[0132] In other words, it is believed that the reconfiguration of the bracket and slider assembly in this embodiment unexpectedly improved the performance of the headrest under tests simulating a crash or impact. Specifically, by reconfiguring the headrest 1100 to include a bracket with a bushing (possibly independent of the selected material), the force required for the headrest to fail was significantly increased. More specifically, this reconfiguration appears to have shifted the failure mode from the material failing at a certain force to the rivet fastener failing at a greater force. As noted above, the force required for failure was increased by more than a factor of two, and this increase in failure force is believed to be attributable to the reconfiguration of the assembly, and not simply due to the selection of the material.

[0133] Further, embodiments having a spring steel bracket exhibited increased resiliency for retaining the metal rivet during a peel test. In these tests, the rear of the headrest is mounted to a rigid surface (simulating a seat frame), the front of the headrest is raised to a maximum travel height (simulating a worst case scenario), and a load is applied in a forward direction at the center of the top edge of the front.

[0134] Furthermore, this embodiment is advantageous in that even in the event of a failure, the headrest remains coupled to the rest of the assembly and the seat. This means that in the event of a crash or impact, the headrest is less likely to become detached from the seat.

[0135] Reference Figure 25A -52F, the slider 1170 has an inner surface 1172 that defines a recess 1171 for receiving the guide 1150. The inner surface 1172 of the slider 1170 can be in contact with the outer surface 1152 of the guide 1150 when the recess 1171 receives the guide 1150. The slider 1170 can be configured to have two or more separate inner surfaces 1172 defining one or more recesses 1171 that contact the guide 1150. In one embodiment, the two or more separate inner surfaces 1172 of the slider 1170 define a single recess 1171. In another embodiment, the two or more separate inner surfaces 1172 of the slider 1170 define two or more recesses 1171. Additionally and / or alternatively, more than one slider 1170 can be coupled to the guide 1150 and / or positioned between the guide-receiving portion 1164 of the bracket 1160.

[0136] The slider 1170 and / or the guide 1150 can rotate and / or slide relative to one another. In one embodiment, the slider 1170 is prevented from rotating about the axis Al of the guide 1150 relative to the guide 1150. For example, the slider 1170 can be coupled to the mounting portion 1140 to block rotation of the slider 1170 relative to the guide 1150. As another example, the inner surface 1172 of the slider 1170 can be configured to have a portion (e.g., a protrusion) of the inner surface 1172 that engages a portion (e.g., a recess or groove) of the outer surface 1152 of the guide 1150 to block rotation of the slider 1170 relative to the guide 1150. In another embodiment, the slider 1170 is prevented from sliding along the length LI of the guide 1150.

[0137] Slider 1170 may define a gap 1181 extending from recess 1171 to outer surface 1180 of slider 1170, thereby allowing compression of slider 1170 to increase friction between inner surface 1172 of slider 1170 and outer surface 1152 of guide 1150. Gap 1181 enables slider 1170 to deform without applying significant force and / or without being formed from a highly deformable material. Therefore, slider 1170 may be formed from a durable material such as plastic and / or metal. In one embodiment, slider 1170 is formed from a plastic material such as PEI (polyetherimide). In one embodiment, the majority of friction generated by slider 1170 and bushing 1166 is generated by contact between inner surface 1172 of slider 1170 and outer surface 1152 of guide 1150.

[0138] The slider 1170 can be configured to generate different amounts of friction, for example, by using one or more retaining members 1190 of different shapes and / or materials. The slider 1170 has an outer surface 1180 that can define a plurality of protrusions 1183. The protrusions 1183 can be configured to at least partially receive at least one retaining member 1190, for example, between protrusions 1183a and 1183b. In one embodiment, the retaining member 1190 contacts the protrusions 1183a and 1183b when positioned on the slider 1170 between the protrusions 1183a and 1183b. Figures 26A-26E , the retainer 1190 can be positioned to contact at least a portion of the periphery, such as the outer surface 1180 of the slider 1170. The retainer 1190 can have a shape configured to extend along the outer surface 1180 of the slider 1170. The retainer 1190 can include an end portion 1196 and a middle portion 1194 having one or more curved portions, such as Figures 26A-26F As shown. One or more curved portions of the intermediate portion 1194 may extend from the first end 1196a to the second end 1196b. Although the retainer 1190 is shown as Figures 26A-26E , but in alternative embodiments, the retaining member 1190 is a clamp or a retaining wire.

[0139] In one embodiment, the middle portion 1194 has a C-shaped curvature, i.e., the retainer 1190 has the general shape of the letter "C," which is not limited to any particular font, size, and / or case. The end portions 1196 may extend in the direction of projection of the middle portion 1194 to form an extension of the middle portion 1194. Alternatively, the end portions 1196 may extend in a direction away from the direction of projection of the middle portion 1194. For example, the end portions 1196 may extend outward, away from the center of the curvature of the middle portion 1194.

[0140] In one embodiment, the curved portion of the middle portion 1194 and the end portion 1196 together form an Ω shape, that is, the retainer 1190 has the general shape of the Greek letter "Ω", which is not limited to any particular font, size and / or capitalization. In another embodiment, a notch portion 1198 is formed at the connection point between the middle portion 1194 and the end portion 1196 by the end portion 1196 extending in a direction that is angled to the protruding direction of the middle portion 1194. The end portion 1196 can also extend inwardly relative to one or more curved portions of the middle portion 1194. Preferably, the retainer 1190 has a shape that is configured to extend along the outer surface 1180 of the slider 1170. For example, the retainer 1190 can be configured to be received by a protrusion 1183 of the outer surface 1180 of the slider 1170.

[0141] The retainer 1190 has a "C" shape or an Ω shape, and the slider 1170 is preferably also provided with a corresponding "C" or Ω shape. In other words, the outer surface 1180 between the protrusions 1183 can be provided with a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the retainer 1190, so as to provide substantially uniform contact and evenly distribute the force generated by the retainer 1190 applied to the slider 1170. Alternatively, a separate contact surface can be provided for one or more point contacts or area contacts between the slider 1170 and the retainer 1190.

[0142] The retaining member 1190 can be used to urge the inner surface 1172 of the slider 1170 toward the outer surface 1152 of the guide 1150, thereby maintaining friction between the inner surface 1172 of the slider 1170 and the outer surface 1152 of the guide 1150. By using the retaining member 1190, unintended movement between the slider 1170 and the guide 1150 along the adjustment path can be inhibited and / or prevented. For example, inhibiting and / or preventing unintended movement between the slider 1170 and the guide 1150 includes providing sufficient friction to maintain the position of the adjustable headrest 1100 under the influence of forces such as: forces generated by gravity (e.g., on the head support 1102 and other components of the adjustable headrest 1100 that are not fixed relative to the seat along the adjustment path); forces generated by the vehicle (e.g., vibration, acceleration, deceleration, jolts or jerks and / or takeoff and landing); and forces generated by a passenger who unintentionally adjusts the adjustable headrest 1100 (e.g., movement of the passenger's head when his or her head contacts the head support 1102 and / or slightly bumps into the adjustable headrest 1100). The retainer 1190 can be formed from a variety of materials, including plastics and / or metal compounds. In one embodiment, the retainer 1190 is formed from a metal material.

[0143] The slider 1170 can be configured to support one or more retainers 1190, thereby increasing the frictional force between the inner surface 1172 of the slider 1170 and the outer surface 1152 of the guide 1150 by adding one or more additional retainers 1190. In one embodiment, the outer surface 1180 of the slider 1170 defines a plurality of protrusions 1183 positioned to at least partially receive the retainers 1190.

[0144] The slider 1170 and / or the retainers 1190, the friction module 1200, and / or the adjustable headrest 1100 can be configured to have an amount of frictional force between the inner surface 1172 of the slider 1170 and the outer surface 1152 of the guide 1150 within a predetermined range as the slider 1170 moves along the adjustment path relative to the guide 1150, thereby providing a range of force required to move the guide 1150 and the slider 1170 relative to each other. Additionally, the predetermined range of force can be maintained after a predetermined number of cycles of the slider 1170 moving along the adjustment path relative to the guide 1150. In one embodiment, the materials used in the guide 1150, the slider 1170, and / or the retainers 1190 are selected to maintain the predetermined range of frictional force within a predetermined range of temperatures.

[0145] For example, a friction module (e.g., the friction module 1200) and / or an adjustable headrest (such as the adjustable headrest 1100) can be configured to have a range of force of 3-6 pounds. As such, a force within the range is required to slide the components relative to each other along the adjustment path. The sliding force within the range of force can be provided by a single guide 1150 and a single slider 1170 on the guide 1150, or by a single guide 1150 and a plurality of sliders 1170, or by a plurality of guides 1150 and a plurality of sliders 1170 on the guides 1150. Thus, each such guide 1150 and slider 1170 would be configured to provide the predetermined sliding force either alone or in combination with one or more other guides 1150 and sliders 1170.

[0146] It is preferable to maintain such a predetermined range of force over the actual useful life of the product, during which the relative positions of the components cycle with each movement. For example, it is preferable for the force required to move the guide 1150 relative to the slider 1170 to remain within the predetermined range of force even after a predetermined number of cycles of the guide 1150 moving along the adjustment path relative to the slider 1170. While various numbers of cycles can be selected, a number of cycles within the range of 10,000-20,000 can be selected.

[0147] Recognizing that the relative positions of components can change in various temperature environments, it is preferable to maintain such a predetermined range of forces over a relatively large temperature range. For example, it is preferable that the force required to move the guide 1150 relative to the slider 1170 remain within a predetermined range of forces even over a relatively large temperature range. While various temperature ranges can be selected, one exemplary temperature range is -20°C to +40°C.

[0148] The kit for an adjustable headrest can include one or more of the aforementioned components of the adjustable headrest 1100, including the friction module 1200 and / or the rotary hinge as described herein. The kit for an adjustable headrest can also include a pivoting device and one or more cushions (not shown) and / or cover materials (not shown). The one or more cushions and / or cover materials can be coupled to the head support 1102. Based on the description herein, one skilled in the art will understand suitable techniques for using one or more cushions or cover materials with the adjustable headrest 1100 to provide additional comfort to the user.

[0149] Additionally, one skilled in the art will understand how to assemble the adjustable headrest kit based on the drawings and description provided herein. Embodiments of the kit for the adjustable headrest 1100 enable the assembler to increase or decrease the force required by the user to adjust the head support 1102 along the adjustment path by increasing or decreasing the friction generated between the inner surface 1172 of the slider 1170 and the outer surface 1152 of the guide 1150.

[0150] One exemplary method for increasing or decreasing the friction generated between the inner surface 1172 of the slider 1170 and the outer surface 1152 of the guide 1150 includes adding or removing retainers 1190 from the slider 1170. Another exemplary method includes replacing one or more retainers 1190 with one or more retainers 1190 formed of a different material or having a different shape. Yet, another exemplary method includes replacing the guide 1150 and / or slider 1170 with a guide 1150 and / or slider 1170 of a different material and / or shape.

[0151] Various exemplary aspects of the invention can be summarized as follows:

[0152] Aspect 1: An adjustable headrest, comprising:

[0153] guides;

[0154] a head support coupled to the guide and configured to be movable along an adjustment path relative to the seat;

[0155] a slider having a surface defining a recess that receives the guide such that the slider surface contacts the guide surface;

[0156] a retainer positioned to urge the surface of the slider toward the surface of the guide, thereby maintaining friction between the surfaces of the slider and the guide and preventing unintended movement of the slider relative to the guide along the adjustment path; and

[0157] a bracket fixable relative to the head support or fixed relative to the seat, the bracket having a mounting section and a guide receiving portion, the mounting section being positioned to be fixed relative to the head support or fixed to the seat, the guide receiving portion receiving the guide;

[0158] The slide and the bracket are separate components and formed from the same material or different materials.

[0159] Aspect 2: The adjustable headrest of aspect 1, wherein the guide is attached to the head support and is movable along the adjustment path with the head support.

[0160] Aspect 3: The adjustable headrest according to any one of aspects 1 and 2, wherein the slider is movable relative to the head support.

[0161] Aspect 4: The adjustable headrest according to any one of aspects 1-3, further comprising a mounting portion configured for attachment to a seat.

[0162] Aspect 5: The adjustable headrest according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein movement of the slider relative to the mounting portion is restricted.

[0163] Aspect 6: The adjustable headrest according to any one of aspects 1-5, wherein the guide receiving portion of the bracket defines at least one recess for receiving the guide.

[0164] Aspect 7: The adjustable headrest according to any one of aspects 1-6, wherein the head support comprises a middle portion and at least one wing portion, the at least one wing portion being coupled for pivotal movement relative to the middle portion.

[0165] Aspect 8: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 1-7, wherein the at least one wing is coupled for movement about a pivot axis, the pivot axis being angled relative to the adjustment path.

[0166] Aspect 9: The adjustable headrest according to any one of Aspects 1-8 further includes a pivot device, which is connected to the head support and defines a pivot axis that is angled relative to the adjustment path, thereby allowing the head support to pivotally move relative to the seat about the pivot axis.

[0167] Aspect 10: The adjustable headrest according to any one of aspects 1-9, wherein the pivot axis of the pivot device is perpendicular to the adjustment path.

[0168] Aspect 11: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 1-10, wherein the guide receiving portion of the bracket defines two or more recesses.

[0169] Aspect 12: The adjustable headrest according to aspect 11, wherein the recesses defined by the guide receiving portion of the bracket receive the guides and are spaced apart from each other, and the slider is positioned in the space between the recesses defined by the guide receiving portion of the bracket.

[0170] Aspect 13: An adjustable headrest according to any one of aspects 1-12, wherein the slider defines a gap extending from the recess to the outer surface of the slider, thereby allowing compression of the slider to increase friction between the surface of the slider and the surface of the guide.

[0171] Aspect 14: The adjustable headrest of aspect 13, wherein the outer surface of the slider defines at least one ridge positioned to limit movement of the retainer relative to the outer surface of the slider.

[0172] Aspect 15: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 1-14, wherein the slider is formed of a plastic material.

[0173] Aspect 16: The adjustable headrest of any one of aspects 1-15, wherein the retaining member has a shape configured to extend along an outer surface of the slider.

[0174] Aspect 17: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 1-18, wherein the retaining member includes end portions and a curved portion extending between the end portions.

[0175] Aspect 18: The adjustable headrest of aspect 17, wherein the curved portion is C-shaped.

[0176] Aspect 19: The adjustable headrest according to aspect 18, wherein the curved portion and the end portion of the retaining member together form an Ω shape.

[0177] Aspect 20: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 1-19, wherein the retaining member is formed of a metal material.

[0178] Aspect 21 : The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 1-20, comprising a plurality of guides and a plurality of brackets, the plurality of guides and the plurality of brackets being fixable relative to the seat or fixable relative to the head support, each bracket having a guide-receiving portion that receives one of the guides.

[0179] Aspect 22: The adjustable headrest of claim 21, the slide and the bracket being formed of different materials.

[0180] Aspect 23: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 1-22, further comprising a bushing received in the guide-receiving portion of the bracket, the bushing receiving the guide.

[0181] Aspect 24: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 1-23, the guide-receiving portion of the bracket defining two or more recesses spaced apart from each other, the slide positioned in the space between the recesses defined by the guide-receiving portion of the bracket, the adjustable headrest further comprising a plurality of bushings, one of the bushings being received in each of the recesses and receiving the guide.

[0182] Aspect 25: An adjustable headrest, comprising:

[0183] a guide having a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion;

[0184] a head support coupled to the guide and configured to be movable along an adjustment path relative to the seat;

[0185] a bracket fixable relative to the seat or fixed relative to the seat, the bracket having a mounting section fixed to or fixable to the seat and a guide-receiving portion for receiving the guide; and

[0186] a releasable assembly having an engaged configuration and a released configuration, the release assembly limiting movement of the at least one end portion of the guide in the engaged configuration and allowing movement of the at least one end portion of the guide in the released configuration.

[0187] Aspect 26: The adjustable headrest of aspect 25, wherein the head support includes a slot having an entrance at an edge of the head support, the slot of the head support extending inwardly from the entrance to a distal end in a first direction so as to receive the first end portion of the guide, and

[0188] the releasable assembly includes a bracket member defining a slot having an entrance at an edge of the releasable assembly, the slot of the bracket member extending inwardly from the entrance to a receiving end in a second direction, the receiving end for receiving the first end portion of the guide, and

[0189] wherein the entrance of the slot of the head support is aligned with the entrance of the slot of the bracket member when the releasable assembly is in the released configuration, and the entrance of the slot of the head support is offset from the entrance of the slot of the bracket member when the releasable assembly is in the engaged configuration.

[0190] Aspect 27: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 25 and 26, wherein the slot of the releasable assembly extends in the second direction to the receiving position and from the receiving position along a third direction to a fixed position.

[0191] Aspect 28: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 26 and 27, wherein the first direction of the slot of the head support is angled relative to the second direction of the slot of the bracket member.

[0192] Aspect 29: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 25-28, wherein the releasable assembly includes a biasing member configured to bias the bracket member along the third direction such that the bracket member is biased to receive the first end portion of the guide in the fixed position.

[0193] Aspect 30: The adjustable headrest of any of aspects 25-29, wherein the end portion of the guide has a tapered configuration.

[0194] Aspect 31 : A friction module, comprising:

[0195] a guide;

[0196] a slider having a surface defining a recess that receives the guide such that the surface of the slider contacts a surface of the guide;

[0197] at least one retainer positioned to urge the surface of the slider toward the surface of the guide to maintain a frictional force between the surface of the slider and the surface of the guide and to resist unintended movement of the slider relative to the guide along the adjustment path; and

[0198] a bracket having a guide-receiving portion that receives the guide;

[0199] The slide and the bracket are separate components and are formed of the same material or different materials.

[0200] Aspect 32: The friction module according to Aspect 31 comprises a plurality of retainers, wherein the sliding member is configured to support the plurality of retainers, and the friction between the surface of the sliding member and the surface of the guide member is increased by adding one or more additional retainers.

[0201] Aspect 33: The friction module according to any one of aspects 31 and 32, wherein an outer surface of the slider defines a plurality of grooves positioned to at least partially receive the retainer.

[0202] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that these embodiments are provided as examples only. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many variations, changes, and substitutions will occur to them. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An adjustable headrest, comprising: guides; a head support coupled to the guide and configured to be movable along an adjustment path relative to the seat; a slider having a surface defining a recess that receives the guide such that the slider surface contacts the guide surface; a retainer positioned to urge a surface of the slider toward a surface of the guide, thereby maintaining friction between the surfaces of the slider and the guide and preventing unintended movement of the slider relative to the guide along the adjustment path; as well as a bracket fixable relative to the head support or fixed relative to the seat, the bracket having a mounting section and a guide receiving portion, the mounting section being positioned to be fixed relative to the head support or fixed to the seat, the guide receiving portion receiving the guide; The slide and the bracket are separate components and are formed of the same material or different materials; The guide receiving portion includes a first guide receiving portion and a second guide receiving portion, the slider is received between the first guide receiving portion and the second guide receiving portion, and a distance between the first guide receiving portion and the second guide receiving portion is substantially the same as a length of the slider. 2 . The adjustable headrest of claim 1 , wherein the guide is attached to the head support and is movable along the adjustment path with the head support.

3. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, wherein the slider is movable relative to the head support.

4. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, further comprising a mounting portion configured for attachment to a seat.

5. The adjustable headrest of claim 4, wherein movement of the slider relative to the mounting portion is restricted. 6 . The adjustable headrest of claim 4 , wherein the guide receiving portion of the bracket defines at least one recess for receiving the guide.

7. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, the head support comprising a central portion and at least one wing portion coupled for pivotal movement relative to the central portion.

8. The adjustable headrest of claim 7, wherein the at least one wing is coupled for movement about a pivot axis, the pivot axis being angled relative to the adjustment path.

9. The adjustable headrest of claim 1 further comprising a pivot arrangement coupled to the head support and defining a pivot axis angled relative to the adjustment path to permit pivotal movement of the head support relative to the seat about the pivot axis.

10. An adjustable head restraint according to claim 9, wherein the pivot axis of the pivot arrangement is perpendicular to the adjustment path.

11. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, wherein the guide receiving portion of the bracket defines two or more recesses.

12. The adjustable headrest according to claim 11, wherein the recesses defined by the guide receiving portions of the bracket receive the guides and are spaced apart from each other, the slider being positioned in a space between the recesses defined by the guide receiving portions of the bracket.

13. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, wherein the slider defines a gap extending from the recess to an outer surface of the slider, thereby allowing compression of the slider to increase friction between a surface of the slider and a surface of the guide.

14. The adjustable headrest of claim 13, wherein the outer surface of the slider defines at least one ridge positioned to limit movement of the retainer relative to the outer surface of the slider.

15. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, wherein the slider is formed from a plastic material. 16 . The adjustable headrest of claim 1 , wherein the retaining member has a shape configured to extend along an outer surface of the slider.

17. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, wherein the retaining member includes ends and a curved portion extending between the ends.

18. The adjustable headrest of claim 17, wherein the curved portion is C-shaped.

19. The adjustable headrest according to claim 18, wherein the curved portion and the end portion of the retaining member together form an Ω shape.

20. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, wherein the retaining member is formed of a metallic material.

21. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, comprising a plurality of guides and a plurality of brackets, the plurality of brackets being fixable relative to the seat or fixed relative to the head support, each bracket having a guide receiving portion for receiving one of the guides.

22. The adjustable headrest of claim 21, wherein the slider and the bracket are formed of different materials.

23. The adjustable headrest of claim 1, further comprising a bushing received in the guide receiving portion of the bracket, the bushing receiving the guide.

24. The adjustable headrest according to claim 1, wherein the guide receiving portion of the bracket defines two or more recesses spaced apart from each other, the sliding member is positioned in the space between the recesses defined by the guide receiving portion of the bracket, and the adjustable headrest further comprises a plurality of bushings, one of the bushings being respectively received in each of the recesses and receiving the guide.

25. A friction module, comprising: guides; a slider having a surface defining a recess that receives the guide such that the slider surface contacts the guide surface; at least one retaining member positioned to urge the surface of the slider toward the surface of the guide, thereby maintaining friction between the surfaces of the slider and the guide and preventing unintended movement of the slider relative to the guide along an adjustment path; as well as a bracket having a guide member receiving portion for receiving the guide member; The slide and the bracket are separate components and are formed of the same material or different materials; The guide receiving portion includes a first guide receiving portion and a second guide receiving portion, the slider is received between the first guide receiving portion and the second guide receiving portion, and a distance between the first guide receiving portion and the second guide receiving portion is substantially the same as a length of the slider.

26. The friction module according to claim 25, comprising a plurality of retaining members, wherein The slider is configured to support a plurality of retainers, and the friction between the surface of the slider and the surface of the guide is increased by adding one or more additional retainers.

27. The friction module according to claim 25, wherein An outer surface of the slider defines a plurality of grooves positioned to at least partially receive the retainer.

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