Cushion frame module for seat having super-comfortable position

Abstract

A cushion reclining module is configured to be assembled between a seat cushion of a vehicle seat assembly and a track assembly. The cushion tilting module is configured to tilt the seat cushion between an upright seating position and a rearward tilted position. The cushion reclining module includes: opposing lift links fixedly coupled to distal ends of the transverse tube and configured to be operatively coupled to a seat cushion; an attachment fastener fixedly coupled to the transverse tube and pivotally coupled to the threaded nut; an electric motor operatively coupled to a lead screw meshingly engaged with the threaded nut; and a motor mounting bracket configured to be assembled with the track assembly.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 346,337, filed on May 27, 2022, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to seat assemblies for use in automotive vehicles. More particularly, the present invention relates to a cushion frame module for use in an automotive seat assembly and configured to reposition the seat assembly between an upright seating position and an extra-comfort position. Background Art

[0004] Motor vehicles typically include one or more seat assemblies having a seat cushion and a seat back for supporting an occupant above the vehicle floor. It is generally known that certain seat assemblies include a leg rest mechanism that can be selectively deployed to provide support for the legs of the occupant. It is also generally known that the leg rest mechanism retracts to a stowed position when not in use. In addition, it is generally known that certain seat assemblies can pivot between an upright seating position and an ultra-comfortable position in which the seat cushion is tilted rearward and the leg rest is deployed.

[0005] It is also generally known that the core seat structures are different for the front and rear seats. Furthermore, the core seat structures differ between different manufacturers and vary based on the functionality included within the seat assembly. When constructing the seat assembly, the core seat structure may need to be modified in order to integrate the seat cushion tilt functionality and the leg rest mechanism within the seat assembly. Furthermore, various components may be required to add the seat cushion tilt functionality and the leg rest mechanism to a range of different core seat structures, including core seat structures for the front and rear seats.

[0006] The incidence of occupants waiting in a vehicle increases while the vehicle is parked, such as, by way of non-limiting example, while an electric vehicle is being charged, while an occupant is resting, and the like.

[0007] It is desirable to move or recline a vehicle seat to a more relaxed position, such as an ultra-comfort position, to enhance occupant comfort. Further, it is desirable to add a seat cushion recline function and a leg rest mechanism to a seat assembly with minimal modification to the existing core structure of the seat assembly. Further, it is desirable to add a seat cushion recline function and a leg rest mechanism to existing front and rear seat assemblies. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to one embodiment, a seat cushion tilt module is provided, which is configured to be assembled with a seat assembly used in a vehicle. The seat assembly includes a seat cushion, an opposing upper track slidably coupled to a corresponding lower track, and an opposing front link that couples the seat cushion to the corresponding upper track. The seat cushion tilt module includes: a motor support bracket configured to be fixedly coupled to the opposing upper track of the seat assembly; an electric motor supported by the motor support bracket; a lead screw operatively coupled to the electric motor; and a threaded nut having a threaded channel extending through the threaded nut, the threaded channel meshingly engaging with the lead screw. The cushion tilt module also includes an attachment link having a lower end pivotably coupled to the threaded nut, a transverse tube fixedly coupled to an upper end of the attachment link and rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the transverse tube, and an opposing lift link having a proximal end fixedly coupled to the transverse tube and a distal end configured to pivotally couple to a corresponding front link of the seat assembly. The cushion tilt module is configured to selectively tilt the seat cushion between an upright seating position and a rearward tilt position after the motor support bracket is fixedly coupled to the opposing upper rail and the front link is pivotably coupled to the distal end of the corresponding lift link.

[0009] According to another embodiment, a cushion frame module is provided, which is configured to be assembled with a seat assembly used in a vehicle. The seat assembly includes a seat cushion, an opposite upper rail slidably connected to a corresponding lower rail, and opposite front and rear links connecting the seat cushion to the corresponding upper rail. The cushion frame module includes a cushion tilt module and a leg rest module. The cushion tilt module includes: a motor support bracket, which is configured to be fixedly connected to the opposite upper rail of the seat assembly; an electric motor, which is supported by the motor support bracket; a lead screw, which is operatively connected to the electric motor; a threaded nut, which has a threaded channel extending through the threaded nut and meshingly engaged with the lead screw; and an attachment link, which has a lower end pivotally connected to the threaded nut. The seat cushion tilt module also includes: a transverse tube, which is fixedly connected to the upper end of the attachment link and can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube; a relative lifting link, the relative lifting link having a proximal end fixedly connected to the transverse tube and a distal end configured to be pivotally connected to the corresponding front link of the seat assembly. The seat cushion tilt module is configured to selectively tilt the seat cushion between an upright sitting position and a rearward tilted position after the motor support bracket is fixedly connected to the relative upper track and the front link is pivotally connected to the distal end of the corresponding lifting link. The leg rest module includes a leg rest mechanism, which is fixedly connected to a mounting bracket, which is configured to be fixedly connected to the seat cushion. The leg rest module is configured to selectively extend the leg rest mechanism to the deployed position and selectively retract the leg rest mechanism to the stowed position after the mounting bracket is fixedly connected to the seat cushion of the seat assembly.

[0010] According to another embodiment, a seat assembly for use in a vehicle is provided. The seat assembly includes: a seat cushion; relative upper rails, the relative upper rails being slidably connected to corresponding lower rails; and a seat cushion tilt module, which is fixedly connected to the upper rails. The seat assembly also includes relative front links, the relative front links having an upper connecting end connected to the seat cushion and having a lower connecting end pivotably connected to the seat cushion tilt module. The seat assembly also includes a leg rest module, which includes a mounting bracket fixedly connected to the seat cushion and a leg rest mechanism fixedly connected to the mounting bracket. The seat cushion tilt module is configured to selectively tilt the seat cushion between an upright sitting position and a rearward tilt position. The leg rest module is configured to selectively extend the leg rest mechanism to a deployed position and selectively retract the leg rest mechanism to a stowed position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as they will be better understood by referring to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a seat assembly assembled with a seat cushion frame module including a seat cushion tilt module and a leg rest module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and which shows the seat assembly in an upright seating position;

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of a seat assembly prior to being assembled with a seat cushion frame module;

[0014] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of a portion of a seat assembly, wherein a leg rest module is omitted;

[0015] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a seat cushion tilt module removed from a seat assembly;

[0016] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a seat assembly showing a seat cushion tilt module in a tilted position;

[0017] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of a leg rest module including a leg rest mechanism assembled with a mounting bracket;

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A rear perspective view of a leg rest mechanism assembled with a leg rest cover according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A side view of a seat assembly showing the seat cushion tilt module in a lowered position and the leg rest mechanism in a stowed position;

[0020] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A side view of a seat assembly showing the seat cushion tilt module in a lowered position, wherein the leg rest module is omitted;

[0021] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 a side view of a seat assembly showing the seat cushion tilt module in a reclined position and the seat cushion in a rearwardly tilted position;

[0022] Fig.11 yes Figure 8A side view of a seat assembly showing the seat assembly in an ultra-comfort position, the seat cushion tilt module in a reclined position, and the leg rest mechanism in a deployed position;

[0023] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a seat assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A perspective view of a seat assembly assembled with a seat cushion tilt module according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Fig.14 is a perspective view of a seat cushion tilt module in a lowered position according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 A perspective view of a seat cushion tilt module in a tilted position;

[0027] Fig.16 is a perspective view of a seat assembly assembled with a seat cushion tilt module according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing the seat assembly in an upright seating position and the seat cushion tilt module in a lowered position;

[0028] Fig.17 yes Fig.16 A perspective view of the seat cushion tilt module in a lowered position;

[0029] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 A perspective view of the seat cushion tilt module in a tilted position; and

[0030] Fig.19 yes Fig.16 A three-dimensional view of a seat assembly showing the seat assembly in an ultra-comfort position and the seat cushion tilt module in a tilted position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Figures 1 to 19 Components of a seat assembly 10 for use in a motor vehicle according to the embodiments described herein are illustrated. Directional references such as top, bottom, upper, lower, upward, downward, longitudinal, lateral, left, right, etc., used or shown in the specification, drawings, or claims are relative terms used for ease of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Referring to the drawings, like reference numerals indicate like or corresponding components throughout the several views.

[0032] like Figure 1As depicted in , the seat assembly 10 includes a seat cushion 12 and a seat back 14 pivotally connected to the seat cushion 12. The seat back 14 can be pivoted between an upright sitting position, a plurality of reclined sitting positions, and a folded flat position overlapping the seat cushion 12, as is generally known in the art. The seat cushion 12 can include a front cushion 12a that is pivotally connected to a rear cushion 12b by opposing cushion pivots 15, as is generally known in the art. The seat assembly 10 also includes a track assembly 16 that includes opposing upper tracks 18 that are slidably connected to corresponding lower tracks 20 and are configured to reposition the seat assembly 10 in a forward direction and a rearward direction along the lower tracks 20, as is generally known in the art. In addition, the seat assembly 10 includes opposing front and rear links 22 and 24, the front and rear links 22 and 24 having upper and lower link ends, the upper link ends being pivotally coupled to respective inner and outer sides 25a, 25b of the seat cushion 12 via respective front and rear upper pivots 26, 28, and the lower link ends being configured to pivotally couple to the upper track 18 of the track assembly 16. It will be appreciated that the upper ends of the front and rear links 22 and 24 may be fixedly coupled to respective inner and outer sides 25a, 25b of the seat cushion 12 without altering the scope of the present invention. Additionally, the lower link ends of the front and rear links 22 and 24 may be configured to be fixedly coupled to the upper track 18 without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0033] Reference Figure 1 The seat assembly 10 also includes a cushion frame module 30 that is assembled to the seat cushion 12 and is configured to be able to move between an upright seating position and an ultra-comfortable position ( Fig.11 ) and provide leg support for an occupant when the seat assembly 10 is in the super comfort position. The cushion frame module 30 can be configured to be added to the front seat and / or the rear seat. The cushion frame module 30 can also be configured to selectively reposition the seat assembly 10 to the super comfort position when the vehicle is stationary, such as when the vehicle is parked or when the vehicle is charging, as non-limiting examples.

[0034] Figure 2 The seat assembly 10 is shown without the cushion frame module 30 and without the ability to tilt the seat cushion 12 in the rearward direction to an ultra-comfort position. The seat assembly 10 may include a front row 6-way power (fore / aft, lift and front tilt functions) core seat structure. The seat assembly 10 may include a front cushion tilt motor 32 located near the inner side 25a of the seat cushion 12 and configured to tilt the front cushion 12a about the cushion pivot 15 between a lower position and an upper position (in Fig.11When the front seat cushion 12a is in the lower position, the front seat cushion tilting motor 32 is actuated in the forward direction to pivot the front seat cushion 12a upward to the upper position. When the front seat cushion tilting motor 32 is actuated in the reverse direction, the front seat cushion 12a pivots toward the lower position.

[0035] It will be appreciated that the seat assembly 10 may have a rear core seat structure, a front core seat structure, a lift function, a forward tilt function, and / or other seat functions without changing the scope of the present invention. Figure 2 , the seat assembly 10 includes longitudinally spaced track brackets 34 that are fixedly coupled to each of the upper tracks 18. In addition, the seat assembly 10 includes opposing front and rear lower pivots 36, 38 that pivotally or fixedly couple the lower ends of the respective front and rear links 22, 24 to the track brackets 34.

[0036] Reference Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 5 The cushion frame module 30 includes a cushion tilt module 40, which is configured to tilt the seat cushion 12 in the upright seating position ( Figure 1 ) and the backward tilt position ( Figure 5 ) between the seat cushion tilt module 40. Figure 1 is shown in the lowered position and in Figure 5 The cushion tilt module 40 is a separate mechanism that can be installed between the top of the track assembly 16 and below the cushion lower pivot points, such as the front lower pivot 36 and the rear lower pivot 38, with minimal changes to the existing structure of the seat assembly 10.

[0037] like Figure 4 As depicted in , the seat cushion tilt module 40 includes a motor support bracket 42 having a central section 44 extending between opposite end flanges 46 configured to be fixedly coupled to the corresponding upper rails 18. The end flanges 46 extend laterally away from the central section 44 and may be vertically offset above the central section 44. In addition, the end flanges 46 may include a plurality of mounting holes 48 configured to align with holes (not shown) in the corresponding upper rails 18. Referring to Figure 3 , the end flanges 46 are fixedly coupled to the respective upper rails 18 by mechanical fasteners 50 extending through mounting holes 48 in the end flanges 46 and through holes (not shown) in the respective upper rails 18. It will be appreciated that screws, pins, rivets, welded connections, etc. may be used as the mechanical fasteners 50 without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0038] like Figure 4As shown in , the seat cushion tilt module 40 also includes an auxiliary bracket 52 that is configured to be fixedly coupled to the upper track 18 behind the motor support bracket 42. The auxiliary bracket 52 includes a central portion 54 that is vertically offset from and extends between opposite end tabs 56. The end tabs 56 may include one or more mounting holes 58 that are configured to align with holes (not shown) in the upper track 18. Referring to Figure 3 , the end tabs 56 are fixedly coupled to the respective upper rails 18 by mechanical fasteners 60 extending through the mounting holes 58 and through holes in the respective upper rails 18. It will be appreciated that screws, pins, rivets, welded connections, etc. may be used as the mechanical fasteners 60 without altering the scope of the present invention.

[0039] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the seat cushion tilt module 40 includes a rear bracket 62 that is configured to be fixedly coupled to the upper track 18 behind the auxiliary bracket 52. The rear bracket 62 includes a central span 64 that is vertically offset from and extends between opposing curved protrusions 66. The curved protrusions 66 may include mounting holes 68 that are configured to align with holes (not shown) in the upper track 18. Referring to Figure 3 , the bent tab 66 can be fixedly coupled to the corresponding upper rail 18 by a mechanical fastener 70 extending through the mounting hole 68 and through a hole (not shown) in the corresponding upper rail 18. It will be understood that screws, pins, rivets, welded connections, etc. can be used as the mechanical fastener 70 without changing the scope of the present invention.

[0040] like Figure 4 , the seat tilt module 40 includes spaced apart clips 71 that fixedly couple the rear bracket 62 to the auxiliary bracket 52. In addition, the seat tilt module 40 also includes laterally spaced apart rear mounts 72 having base portions 74 fixedly coupled to the upper sides of the rear bracket 62. The rear mounts 72 are substantially L-shaped and include upright portions 76 extending at substantially right angles from the base portions 74. In addition, the seat tilt module 40 includes opposing rear links 78 having bottom portions pivotally coupled to the upright portions 76 of the respective rear mounts 72 by base pivots 80.

[0041] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5The seat cushion tilt module 40 also includes an inner support 82a and an outer support 82b, which are configured to be pivotally coupled to the front link 22 and the rear link 24 on the respective inner side 25a and the outer side 25b of the seat assembly 10. The side supports 82a, 82b are substantially tubular, having a substantially rectangular cross-section extending between a front end 84 and a rear end 86. The side supports 82a, 82b also include an upper wall 88 and a lower wall 90 extending laterally between a distal wall 92 and a proximal wall 94. In addition, the side supports 82a, 82b include a front flange 96 extending substantially downwardly from the proximal wall 94. It will be understood that the general shape of the inner support 82a and the outer support 82b can vary without changing the scope of the present invention.

[0042] like Figure 4 As depicted in , the side supports 82a, 82b also include spaced apart front and rear bosses 98, 100 that are fixedly coupled to corresponding holes 102 in the distal wall 92. The front and rear bosses 98, 100 project laterally outwardly from the distal wall 92 and include a channel 104 extending laterally therethrough. Figure 1 The front and rear bosses 98, 100 are spaced apart on the side supports 82a, 82b and are configured to be pivotally coupled to the front and rear links 22, 24 on the respective inner and outer sides 25a, 25b of the seat assembly 10 via the front and rear lower pivots 36, 38. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the cushion tilt module 40 also includes opposing rear pivots 106 that pivotally couple the upper portion of the rear link 78 near the rear end 86 to the proximal end walls 94 of the adjacent inboard and outboard supports 82 a and 82 b.

[0043] like Figure 4 , the seat cushion tilt module 40 also includes a rear support 108 fixedly coupled to the inner and outer side supports 82a, 82b. In more detail, the rear support 108 is a substantially U-shaped support having opposite side flanges 110 protruding at substantially right angles from the distal ends of a laterally extending middle section 112. The side flanges 110 are fixedly coupled to adjacent side supports 82a, 82b by a pair of spaced-apart mechanical fasteners 114. It will be understood that screws, pins, rivets, welded connections, etc. may be used as the mechanical fasteners 114 without changing the scope of the present invention.

[0044] Also like Figure 4, the seat tilt module 40 includes a laterally spaced front mount 116 having a base portion 118 fixedly coupled to the central section 44 of the motor support bracket 42. The front mount 116 is substantially L-shaped and includes an upright portion 120 extending at a substantially right angle from the base portion 118 and includes a channel 122 extending laterally through the upright portion 120. In addition, the seat tilt module 40 includes a transverse tube 124 having a tube end pivotably coupled to the channel 122 in the corresponding front mount 116 by a tube pivot 126. The transverse tube 124 can rotate about a longitudinal axis 127 of the transverse tube 124. The seat tilt module 40 also includes a laterally spaced lift link 128 having a proximal end fixedly coupled to the transverse tube 124 adjacent the front mount 116. The lift links 128 include distal ends that are laterally offset from respective proximal ends, wherein the distal ends are pivotally coupled to the front flanges 96 on the adjacent side supports 82a, 82b via lift pivots 130.

[0045] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the cushion tilt module 40 also includes a mounting block 132 fixedly coupled to the transverse tube 124. The mounting block 132 is substantially U-shaped, having a side wall 134 extending between the proximal ends of the spaced-apart side legs 136. In addition, the mounting block 132 may include a rear support portion 138 extending laterally between the side legs 136. In addition, the transverse tube 124 may include an inner tube 124a and an outer tube 124b, the inner tube 124a and the outer tube 124b having proximal ends fixedly coupled to the respective side legs 136, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 It will be appreciated that the transverse tube 124 may extend laterally through the mounting block 132 without changing the scope of the present invention. Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the cushion tilt module 40 includes a threaded nut 140 having a threaded passage 142 extending longitudinally therethrough. The threaded nut 140 includes laterally spaced side walls 144 pivotally coupled to adjacent side legs 136 of the mounting block 132 via nut pivots 146. The side legs 136 form an actuator linkage operatively coupled between the threaded nut 140 and the transverse tube 124.

[0046] like Figure 4As shown in , the seat tilt module 40 also includes a lead screw 148 meshingly engaged with the threaded channel 142 in the threaded nut 140. In addition, the seat tilt module 40 also includes an electric motor 150 supported above the motor support bracket 42 by a motor mounting bracket 152. The motor mounting bracket 152 is a substantially U-shaped bracket having opposite side walls 154 that are pivotally or fixedly coupled to the electric motor 150. Figure 4 , the electric motor 150 is mounted to the motor mounting bracket 152, wherein the distal end of the electric motor 150 is oriented toward the outer side 25b of the seat assembly 10 (i.e., outboard orientation). It will be understood that the orientation of the electric motor 150 can be reversed (i.e., inboard orientation) to provide clearance for other components without changing the scope of the present invention. The electric motor 150 is operatively coupled to the lead screw 148 and is configured to rotate the lead screw 148 in a first rotational direction when the electric motor 150 is actuated in a forward direction. Additionally, when the electric motor 150 is actuated in a reverse direction, the electric motor 150 rotates the lead screw 148 in a second rotational direction different from the first rotational direction. The rotation of the lead screw 148 in the first rotational direction and the second rotational direction causes the threaded nut 140 to shift along the lead screw 148 in a forward direction (arrow 156) and a rearward direction (arrow 156'), respectively.

[0047] Reference Figures 2 to 5 To assemble the cushion tilt module 40 with the seat assembly 10, the front link 22 and the rear link 24 are disconnected from the front lower pivot 36 and the rear lower pivot 38, respectively. Next, holes are added to the upper track 18 that are configured to align with the mounting holes 48, 58, 68 in the motor support bracket 42, the auxiliary bracket 52, and the rear bracket 62, respectively. It will be understood that the upper track 18 can be replaced with an alternative upper track 18 that includes holes configured to align with the mounting holes 48, 58, 68 without changing the scope of the present invention. Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4, the cushion tilt module 40 is placed on the upper track 18, wherein the mounting holes 48, 58, 68 are aligned with the corresponding holes in the upper track 18. Next, the mechanical fasteners 50, 60, 70 are inserted through the mounting holes 48, 58, 68 and into the corresponding holes in the upper track 18 to fixedly couple the motor support bracket 42, the auxiliary bracket 52, and the rear bracket 62 to the upper track 18. The front link 22 and the rear link 24 are assembled with the corresponding front bosses 98 and rear bosses 100 on the adjacent side supports 82a, 82b. The front lower pivot 36 and the rear lower pivot 38 are respectively inserted through the lower holes (not shown) in the corresponding front link 22 and rear link 24 and inserted into the holes 104 in the front bosses 98 and rear bosses 100 to pivotally couple the lower ends of the front link 22 and the rear link 24 to the adjacent side supports 82a, 82b.

[0048] Reference Figure 1 and 6 The cushion frame module 30 also includes a leg rest module 158 that is configured to provide support for the occupant's legs when the seat assembly 10 is in the super comfort position. The leg rest module 158 includes a leg rest mechanism 160 that is fixedly coupled to a mounting bracket 162 that is configured to be fixedly coupled to a front portion of the seat cushion 12. In addition, the leg rest mechanism 160 is configured to be in the stowed position ( Figure 1 ) and the expanded position ( Fig.11 ) between the two.

[0049] like Figures 6 to 8As depicted in , the leg rest mechanism 160 includes a main platform 164, opposite side brackets 166, and opposite connecting mechanisms 168. The opposite connecting mechanisms 168 include outer ends fixedly or pivotally connected to the main platform 164 and inner ends pivotally or fixedly connected to the corresponding side brackets 166. The connecting mechanisms 168 are configured to raise / lower and extend / retract the main platform 164 between a stowed position and an extended position. The side brackets 166 include spaced apart holes 170 extending laterally therethrough. The leg rest mechanism 160 also includes a main motor 172, a cross member 174, a leg rest lead screw 176, a leg rest threaded nut 178, and a central bracket 180. The main motor 172 is fixedly or pivotally connected to a cross member 174, which extends between the opposite connecting mechanisms 168 and is fixedly connected to the opposite connecting mechanisms 168. The main motor 172 is operatively coupled to the lead screw 176 and is configured to selectively rotate the lead screw 176 in a forward rotational direction and a reverse rotational direction when the main motor 172 is actuated in a forward direction and a reverse direction, respectively. The threaded nut 178 meshingly engages with the lead screw 176 and is fixedly coupled or pivotably coupled to the center bracket 180. The center bracket 180 includes spaced apart holes 182. In operation, the link mechanism 168 is raised and extended by the main motor 172 rotating the lead screw 176 in a forward rotational direction, which causes the threaded nut 178 to shift rearwardly along the lead screw 176. Additionally, the link mechanism 168 is lowered and retracted by the main motor 172 rotating the lead screw 176 in a reverse rotational direction, which causes the threaded nut 178 to shift forwardly along the lead screw 176.

[0050] The leg rest mechanism 160 may further include a secondary platform 184 slidably coupled to the main platform 164 and operatively coupled to a secondary motor 186 configured to selectively extend and retract the secondary platform 184. Figure 7 As depicted in FIG. 1 , the leg rest mechanism 160 may also include a cover 188 configured to provide a protective and decorative surface for the leg rest mechanism 160. For clarity, in FIG. Figure 1 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Fig.11 The cover 188 is omitted. It will be appreciated that the leg rest mechanism 160 may vary in size, shape, and included functionality without changing the scope of the present invention.

[0051] like Figure 6As shown in FIG. 1 , the mounting bracket 162 includes a main support 190 extending between and fixedly coupled to opposing attachment brackets 192. In addition, the mounting brackets 162 include opposing mounting flanges 194 extending laterally outward from the respective attachment brackets 192. The attachment brackets 192 may include apertures 196 configured to be mounted to existing components (not shown) of the seat assembly 10. In addition, the attachment brackets 192 include spaced apart holes (not shown) extending laterally through the attachment brackets 192 and configured to align with the holes 170 in the side brackets 166 of the leg rest mechanism 160. During assembly, the side brackets 166 are fixedly coupled to the respective attachment brackets 192 by inserting mechanical fasteners 198 through the holes in the attachment brackets 192 and through the holes 170 in the side brackets 166. It will be understood that screws, pins, rivets, welded connections, etc. may be used as the mechanical fasteners 198 without changing the scope of the present invention.

[0052] In addition, the mounting flange 194 can be fixedly coupled to the lower surface of the seat cushion 12 or the front cushion 12a using one or more mechanical fasteners 200 inserted through holes (not shown) in the mounting flange 194. In addition, the main support 190 includes a mounting hole 202 configured to align with the hole 182 in the center bracket 180 of the leg rest mechanism 160. During assembly, the center bracket 180 is fixedly coupled to the main support 190 by inserting a mechanical fastener (not shown) through the mounting hole 202 in the main support 190 and through the hole 182 in the center bracket 180. It will be understood that the mounting flange 194 can vary in size, shape, and specific features in order to mount a particular leg rest mechanism 160 to a particular seat assembly 10. It will be understood that screws, pins, rivets, welded connections, etc. can be used as the mechanical fastener 200 without changing the scope of the present invention.

[0053] The seat assembly 10 can be placed in an upright seating position (184) according to the needs of the occupant by pivoting the seat cushion 12 relative to the rear pivot 106 to a rearwardly tilted position by the seat cushion tilt module 40 and the leg rest mechanism 160 raising the main platform 164 and extending the secondary platform 184. Figure 8 ) and super comfortable position ( Fig.11 ) between the upper and lower legs. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the leg rest mechanism 160 moves as the seat cushion tilts to provide about 65° of travel and about 80 mm of leg extension. It will be appreciated that for a particular seat assembly 10, the travel and leg extension may be increased and / or decreased as desired.

[0054] Reference Figure 8 and Fig. 9, the seat assembly 10 is initially in an upright seating position, wherein the front seat cushion 12a is in a lowered position, the seat cushion tilt module 40 is in a lowered position, and the leg rest mechanism 160 is in a stowed position, wherein the secondary platform 184 is in a retracted position. Figure 5 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The leg rest module 158 is omitted.

[0055] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Fig.10 To move the seat assembly 10 from the upright seating position to the super comfort position, the occupant activates movement of the electric motor 150 in the forward direction, thereby rotating the lead screw 148 in a first rotational direction and causing the threaded nut 140 to travel in the forward direction (arrow 156) along the lead screw 148. As the threaded nut 140 is repositioned forward (arrow 156) along the lead screw 148, the mounting block 132 is rotated rearwardly (arrow 204, i.e., as in Figure 5 and Fig.10 ), thereby rotating the transverse tubes 124, 124a, 124b and the connected lifting link 128 rearwardly about the tube pivot 126 (arrow 206, i.e., as viewed in FIG. Figure 5 and Fig.10 When the lifting link 128 is rotated rearwardly (arrow 206), the front end 84 of the side supports 82a, 82b is lifted upwardly (arrow 208), thereby causing the side supports 82a, 82b to rotate rearwardly (arrow 210, i.e., as viewed in FIG. 1 ) about the rear pivot 106. Figure 5 and Fig.10 ) and tilts the seat cushion 12 to a rearwardly tilted position.

[0056] Reference Figure 7 and Fig.11 After the seat cushion 12 is tilted to the rearward tilt position by the cushion tilt module 40, the occupant activates the movement of the main motor 172 in the forward direction within the leg rest mechanism 160, thereby extending the connecting mechanism 168 and lifting the main platform 164 (arrow 212). After the connecting mechanism 168 is extended, the occupant activates the movement of the secondary motor 186 in the forward direction, which extends the secondary platform 184 (arrow 214). When the connecting mechanism 168 and the secondary platform 184 are fully extended, the leg rest mechanism 160 is in the deployed position.

[0057] When the legrest module 158 is fixedly connected to the front cushion 12a, the seat assembly 10 includes a front cushion tilt motor 32. When the legrest module 158 is in the deployed position and the front cushion 12a is in the lower position, actuating the front cushion tilt motor 32 in the forward direction causes the front cushion 12a to tilt upward (arrow 216) around the cushion pivot 15 to the upper position (shown as 12a'), and causes the main platform 164 and the auxiliary platform 184 to tilt upward to the full upper position (shown as 164' and 184') in response to the movement of the front cushion 12a. In addition, when the front cushion 12a is in the upper position, actuating the front cushion tilt motor 32 in the reverse direction causes the front cushion 12a to pivot downward (arrow 216') around the cushion pivot 15 to the lower position (shown as 12a), and causes the main platform 164 and the auxiliary platform 184 to tilt downward to the full lower position (shown as 184 and 164) with the movement of the front cushion 12a. Thus, in addition to the lift and extend functions, the front cushion tilt motor 32 allows additional adjustment of the leg rest mechanism 160. The occupant can selectively adjust the tilt of the front cushion 12a and leg rest mechanism 160 between a fully upper position (shown as 12a', 164' and 184') and a fully lower position (shown as 12a, 164 and 184).

[0058] Reference Fig.11 To return the seat assembly 10 from the extra-comfort position to the upright seating position, the occupant activates movement of the front cushion tilt motor 32 in the reverse direction to return the front cushion 12a and the leg rest mechanism 160 to the fully lowered position (arrow 216'). Next, the occupant activates movement of the secondary motor 186 in the reverse direction, which retracts (arrow 214') the secondary platform 184 to the retracted position. After the secondary platform 184 is retracted, the occupant activates movement of the main motor 172 in the reverse direction, thereby lowering the linkage 168 and retracting (arrow 212') the main platform 164 to the stowed position. Figure 5 and Fig.10 , after the leg rest mechanism 160 is in the stowed position, the occupant initiates movement of the cushion tilt module 40 to return the seat assembly 10 to the upright seating position. In more detail, the occupant initiates movement of the electric motor 150 in the reverse direction, thereby rotating the lead screw 148 in the rearward rotational direction. Rotation of the lead screw 148 in the rearward rotational direction causes the threaded nut 140 to travel in the rearward direction (arrow 156') along the lead screw 148. When the threaded nut 140 is repositioned rearwardly along the lead screw 148 (arrow 156'), the mounting block 132 rotates forwardly about the nut pivot 146 (arrow 204', i.e., as in Figure 5 and Fig.10 ), thereby rotating the transverse tubes 124, 124a, 124b and the connected lifting link 128 forward about the tube pivot 126 (arrow 206', i.e., as in Figure 5 and Fig.10 As the lifting link 128 rotates forward (arrow 206'), the front end 84 of the side supports 82a, 82b is lowered downward (arrow 208'), thereby causing the side supports 82a, 82b to rotate forward about the rear pivot 106 (arrow 210', i.e., as in FIG. Figure 5 and Fig.10 ) until the seat cushion tilt module 40 is in the lowered position. It will be understood that the order of movement of the seat cushion tilt module 40 and the leg rest mechanism 160 may vary without changing the scope of the present invention. For example, as a non-limiting example, the occupant may initiate deployment of the leg rest mechanism 160, and then the seat cushion tilt module 40 and the linkage mechanism 168 may be actuated simultaneously. It will also be understood that the order of movement of the seat cushion tilt module 40 and the leg rest mechanism 160 may be controlled by an electronic control module ECU (not shown) without changing the scope of the present invention.

[0059] Fig.12 and Fig.13 A second embodiment of a seat assembly 10' and a seat cushion tilt module 40' is shown in Fig.12 and Fig.13 In the drawings, like primed reference numerals indicate similar elements to those described above. Fig.12 The seat assembly 10' shown in FIG. 1 includes a front cushion tilt motor 32' located adjacent the outer side 25b' of the seat cushion 12' to replace the front cushion tilt motor 32'. Figure 3 The front seat cushion tilt motor 32 shown in FIG. Only the significant differences between the two embodiments are reflected in the drawings and the following description. Fig.13 The seat cushion tilt module 40' includes an alternative motor support bracket 42' that is configured to provide clearance for components within the seat assembly 10' and to assemble with the upper track 18'. Figure 3 Compared to the outer side orientation of the electric motor 150 in FIG. Fig.13 The seat assembly 10' is oriented inboard 25a' (ie, inboard orientation) to provide clearance for the front cushion tilt motor 32'.

[0060] Fig.14 and Fig.15 A third embodiment of the seat cushion tilt module 40" is shown in Fig.14 and Fig.15 In the drawings, the same double prime reference numerals denote elements similar to those described above. Only the significant differences between the third embodiment and the embodiments shown above are reflected in the drawings and the following description. Fig.14 and Fig.15The seat cushion tilt module 40" includes a transverse tube 124" having a central section 218 radially offset from a distal tube end 220 to replace Figure 4 In addition, the seat cushion tilt module 40" includes a first attachment link and a second attachment link 222 to replace Figure 4 Mounting block 132. Fig.14 and Fig.15 The first and second attachment links 222 in the seat cushion tilt module 40" have distal ends pivotally coupled to the threaded nut 140" via the nut pivot 146" and proximal ends fixedly coupled to the central section 218 of the transverse tube 124". It will be understood that the seat cushion tilt module 40" may include a single attachment link 222 in place of the first and second attachment links 222 without changing the scope of the present invention. In addition, the seat cushion tilt module 40" includes support tubes 224 fixedly coupled to the opposite side supports 82a", 82b" in place of the support tubes 224. Figure 4 The rear support member 108 shown in FIG.

[0061] Figures 16 to 19 A fourth embodiment of a seat assembly 10-1 and a seat cushion tilt module 40-1 is shown. Figures 16 to 19 In the drawings, the same reference numerals with a suffix of "-1" denote elements similar to those described above. Only the significant differences between the fourth embodiment and the embodiments shown above are reflected in the drawings and the following description. Fig.16 , the seat assembly 10-1 includes a seat cushion 12-1, a front link 22-1 and a rear link 24-1 having an upper end fixedly or pivotally connected to the seat cushion 12-1, and an upper rail 18-1 having an upper end slidably connected to the corresponding lower rail 20-1. The rear link 24-1 has a lower end pivotally connected to a corresponding rail bracket 34-1, and the rail bracket 34-1 is fixedly connected to the upper rail 18-1. The seat assembly 10-1 also includes a cushion tilt module 40-1 operatively connected between the front link 22-1 and the upper rail 18-1. In contrast to the previous embodiment, the cushion tilt module 40-1 is only operatively connected between the front link 22-1 and the upper rail 18-1, and there is no additional component that operatively connects the rear link 24-1 to the upper rail 18-1.

[0062] like Fig.17 and Fig.18As depicted in , the cushion tilt module 40-1 includes a motor support bracket 42-1 having a central section 44-1 extending between opposing end flanges 46-1 and a mounting hole 48-1 extending vertically through the end flanges 46-1. The cushion tilt module 40-1 also includes an electric motor 150-1 supported above the motor support bracket 42-1 by a motor mounting bracket 152-1, which is fixedly coupled to the central section 44-1 of the motor support bracket 42-1. The cushion tilt module 40-1 also includes a front mount 116-1 having a base portion 118-1 configured to be fixedly coupled to an associated upper track 18-1 and an upright portion 120-1 extending at a substantially right angle from the base portion 118-1. The base portion 118 - 1 also includes one or more mounting holes 226 configured to align with holes (not shown) in the upper track 18 - 1 .

[0063] Reference Figures 17 to 19 , the cushion tilt module 40-1 also includes a transverse tube 124-1 having an opposing tube end 220-1 pivotably coupled to the upright portion 120-1 of the front mount 116-1 via a tube pivot 126-1. In addition, the transverse tube 124-1 includes a central section 218-1 radially offset from the tube end 220-1. The cushion tilt module 40-1 also includes an opposing attachment link 222-1 having a distal end pivotably coupled to the threaded nut 140-1 via a nut pivot 146-1 and a proximal end fixedly coupled to the central section 218-1 of the transverse tube 124-1. The cushion tilt module 40-1 also includes a laterally spaced lift link 128-1 having a proximal end fixedly coupled to the transverse tube 124-1. Additionally, the lift link 128 - 1 includes a channel 228 near a distal end that is configured to be pivotally coupled to a corresponding front link 22 - 1 of the seat assembly 10 - 1 .

[0064] like Fig.16 and Fig.17As depicted in , to assemble the cushion tilt module 40-1 with the seat assembly 10-1, the motor support bracket 42-1 and the front mount 116-1 are fixedly coupled to the upper track 18-1 by inserting the mechanical fasteners 230, 232 through the mounting holes 48-1, 226 in the motor support bracket 42-1 and the front mount 116-1, respectively, and into the holes (not shown) in the upper track 18-1. Next, the front lower pivot 36-1 is inserted through the passage (not shown) in the front link 22-1 and through the passage 228 in the corresponding lift link 128-1, thereby pivotably coupling the front link 22-1 with the corresponding lift link 128-1.

[0065] The seat cushion tilt module 40, 40', 40", 40-1 is scalable and modular and can be customized to fit a variety of seat assemblies with minimal changes to the core seat structure. Without changing the scope of the present invention, as a non-limiting example, the size, shape and position of the components in the seat cushion tilt module 40, 40', 40", 40-1 can be adjusted to accommodate different core seat structures, including the motor support bracket 42, 42', 42-1, the auxiliary bracket 52, the rear bracket 62, the rear support 108, the mounting block 132, the attachment link 222, 222-1, the transverse tube 124, 124", 124-1, the rear link 78 and the lifting link 128, 128-1.

[0066] As discussed above, the seat assembly 10, 10', 10-1 of the present invention includes a cushion frame module 30, which includes a cushion tilt module 40, 40', 40", 40-1 and a leg rest module 158, and the cushion frame module 30 is configured to reposition the seat assembly 10, 10', 10-1 to an ultra-comfort position, wherein the seat cushion 12 is tilted rearward and the leg rest mechanism 160 is deployed. In addition, the cushion tilt module 40, 40', 40", 40-1 and the leg rest module 158 can be assembled with various seat assemblies having different core seat structures with minimal modification to the core seat structure. Furthermore, as a non-limiting example, the cushion tilt module 40, 40', 40", 40-1, such as by adjusting the lateral position of the electric motor 150, 150', 150-1, may be adjusted to provide clearance for components within the core seat structure. Additionally, the leg rest module 158 includes a mounting bracket 162 that may be adjusted to mount to a variety of seat assemblies with minimal changes to the core seat structure. Finally, the cushion frame module 30 may be added to an existing seat assembly after the seat assembly is initially assembled with minimal changes to the existing core seat structure.

[0067] The present invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it should be understood that the terms used are intended to have the nature of descriptive terms rather than restrictive terms. In view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible. Therefore, it should be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the present invention may be implemented in a manner different from that specifically described.

Claims

1. A seat cushion tilting module configured to be assembled with a seat assembly used in a vehicle, the seat assembly comprising a seat cushion, opposing upper rails slidably coupled to corresponding lower rails, and opposing front links coupling the seat cushion to the corresponding upper rails, the seat cushion tilting module comprising: a motor support bracket configured to be fixedly coupled to opposed upper tracks of the seat assembly; an electric motor, the electric motor being supported by the motor support bracket; a lead screw operatively coupled to the electric motor; a threaded nut having a threaded passage extending therethrough, the threaded passage meshingly engaging the lead screw; an attachment link having a lower end pivotably coupled to the threaded nut; a transverse tube fixedly coupled to an upper end of the attachment link and rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the transverse tube; and an opposing lift link having a proximal end fixedly coupled to the cross tube and a distal end configured to pivotally couple to a corresponding front link of the seat assembly; Wherein, the cushion tilt module is configured to selectively tilt the seat cushion between an upright seating position and a rearward tilted position after the motor support bracket is fixedly connected to the relative upper track and the front link is pivotably connected to the distal end of the corresponding lifting link.

2. The seat cushion tilting module according to claim 1, wherein: When the cushion tilt module is in the lowered position, the electric motor selectively rotates the lead screw in a first rotational direction, thereby causing the threaded nut to travel in a forward direction along the lead screw, causing the attachment link and the transverse tube to rotate rearwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube, thereby causing the lift link to rotate upwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube until the cushion tilt module is in the tilted position; and When the seat cushion tilt module is in the tilted position, the electric motor selectively rotates the lead screw in a second rotational direction, thereby causing the threaded nut to travel in a rearward direction along the lead screw, causing the attachment link and the transverse tube to rotate forwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube, thereby causing the lifting link to rotate downwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube until the seat cushion tilt module is in the lowered position.

3. The seat cushion tilting module according to claim 2, further comprising: opposing front mounting members pivotably coupled to respective tube ends of the transverse tube; Wherein, the front mounting member is fixedly coupled to the motor support bracket, or is configured to be fixedly coupled to a corresponding upper track of the seat assembly.

4. The seat cushion tilting module according to claim 2, wherein: The attachment link also includes: A second attachment link is pivotably coupled to the threaded nut and fixedly coupled to the transverse tube.

5. The seat cushion tilting module according to claim 4, further comprising: opposing side supports having forward portions pivotally coupled to distal ends of respective lift links; Wherein, the opposite side supports are configured to be pivotally coupled to corresponding front links of the seat assembly.

6. The seat cushion tilting module according to claim 5, further comprising: a rear bracket configured to be fixedly coupled to an opposing upper track of the seat assembly; as well as An opposing rear link having a bottom portion pivotally coupled to the rear bracket and an upper portion pivotally coupled to a rear portion of a respective side support, wherein the rear portion is longitudinally spaced from the front portion along the respective side support.

7. The seat cushion tilting module according to claim 4, wherein: The electric motor is supported above the motor support bracket in either an inboard orientation or an outboard orientation to provide clearance within the seat assembly.

8. A seat cushion frame module configured to be assembled with a seat assembly used in a vehicle, the seat assembly comprising a seat cushion, opposing upper rails slidably coupled to corresponding lower rails, and opposing front and rear links coupling the seat cushion to the corresponding upper rails, the seat cushion frame module comprising: A seat cushion tilt module, the seat cushion tilt module comprising: a motor support bracket, the motor support bracket being configured to be fixedly connected to the relative upper rails of the seat assembly; an electric motor, the electric motor being supported by the motor support bracket; a lead screw, the lead screw being operatively connected to the electric motor; a threaded nut, the threaded nut having a threaded channel extending through the threaded nut and meshingly engaged with the lead screw; an attachment link, the attachment link having a lower end pivotally connected to the threaded nut; a transverse tube, the transverse tube being fixedly connected to the attachment an upper end of a connecting link and capable of rotating about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube; an opposing lift link, the opposing lift link having a proximal end fixedly coupled to the transverse tube and a distal end configured to be pivotally coupled to a corresponding front link of the seat assembly, wherein the cushion tilt module is configured to selectively tilt the seat cushion between an upright seating position and a rearward tilted position after the motor support bracket is fixedly coupled to the opposing upper rail and the front link is pivotally coupled to the distal end of the corresponding lift link; and A legrest module, the legrest module includes a legrest mechanism, the legrest mechanism is fixedly connected to a mounting bracket, the mounting bracket is configured to be fixedly connected to the seat cushion, wherein the legrest module is configured to selectively extend the legrest mechanism to an extended position and selectively retract the legrest mechanism to a stowed position after the mounting bracket is fixedly connected to the seat cushion of the seat assembly.

9. The seat cushion frame module according to claim 8, wherein: When the cushion tilt module is in the lowered position, the electric motor selectively rotates the lead screw in a first rotational direction, thereby causing the threaded nut to travel in a forward direction along the lead screw, causing the attachment link and the transverse tube to rotate rearwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube, thereby causing the lift link to rotate upwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube until the cushion tilt module is in the tilted position; and When the seat cushion tilt module is in the tilted position, the electric motor selectively rotates the lead screw in a second rotational direction, thereby causing the threaded nut to travel in a rearward direction along the lead screw, causing the attachment link and the transverse tube to rotate forwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube, thereby causing the lifting link to rotate downwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube until the seat cushion tilt module is in the lowered position.

10. The seat cushion frame module according to claim 9, wherein the seat cushion tilting module further comprises: opposing front mounting members pivotably coupled to respective tube ends of the transverse tube; Wherein, the front mounting member is fixedly coupled to the motor support bracket, or is configured to be fixedly coupled to a corresponding upper track of the seat assembly.

11. The seat cushion frame module of claim 9, wherein the attachment link further comprises: A second attachment link is pivotably coupled to the threaded nut and fixedly coupled to the transverse tube.

12. The seat cushion frame module according to claim 11, wherein the seat cushion tilt module further comprises: opposing side supports having forward portions pivotally coupled to distal ends of respective lift links; Wherein, the opposite side supports are configured to be pivotally coupled to corresponding front links of the seat assembly.

13. The seat cushion frame module according to claim 12, wherein the seat cushion tilt module further comprises: a rear bracket configured to be fixedly coupled to an opposing upper track of the seat assembly; as well as An opposing rear link having a bottom portion pivotally coupled to the rear bracket and an upper portion pivotally coupled to a rear portion of a respective side support, wherein the rear portion is longitudinally spaced from the front portion along the respective side support.

14. The seat cushion frame module according to claim 11, wherein: The electric motor is selectively mounted on the motor support bracket in an inboard orientation or an outboard orientation to provide clearance within the seat assembly.

15. The seat cushion frame module according to claim 10, wherein the leg rest mechanism further comprises: an opposing side bracket, the opposing side bracket being fixedly coupled to the mounting bracket; an opposing link mechanism having an inner end pivotably coupled or fixedly coupled to a corresponding one of the opposing side brackets and having an outer end; a main platform pivotably or fixedly coupled to the outer ends of the opposing linkage mechanisms; a leg rest threaded nut having a second threaded passage extending therethrough and pivotally coupled to the mounting bracket; a leg rest lead screw meshingly engaged with a second threaded passage in the leg rest threaded nut; as well as A main motor is operatively connected to the leg rest lead screw and fixedly connected to the relative connecting mechanism, and the main motor is configured to selectively rotate the leg rest lead screw in a forward rotation direction and a reverse rotation direction to cause the relative connecting mechanism to extend and retract the main platform accordingly.

16. The seat cushion frame module according to claim 15, wherein the mounting bracket further comprises: an opposing attachment bracket, the opposing attachment bracket being fixedly coupled to a corresponding side bracket of the leg rest mechanism; a main support member fixedly coupled to and extending between the opposing attachment brackets; as well as Opposing mounting flanges project from respective attachment brackets and are configured to be fixedly coupled to the seat cushion of the seat assembly.

17. A seat assembly for use in a vehicle, the seat assembly comprising: Seat cushions; Relative upper rails, the relative upper rails being slidably coupled to the corresponding lower rails; a seat cushion tilt module fixedly coupled to the upper track; an opposing front link having an upper link end coupled to the seat cushion and a lower link end pivotably coupled to the cushion tilt module; and a leg rest module, the leg rest module comprising a mounting bracket fixedly coupled to the seat cushion and a leg rest mechanism fixedly coupled to the mounting bracket; wherein the cushion tilt module is configured to selectively tilt the seat cushion between an upright seating position and a rearward tilted position; and The leg rest module is configured to selectively extend the leg rest mechanism to an extended position and selectively retract the leg rest mechanism to a stowed position.

18. The seat assembly of claim 17, wherein the seat cushion tilt module further comprises: a motor support bracket fixedly coupled to the opposed upper rails of the seat assembly; an electric motor, the electric motor being supported by the motor support bracket; a lead screw operatively coupled to the electric motor; a threaded nut having a threaded passage extending therethrough, the threaded passage meshingly engaging the lead screw; an attachment link having a lower end pivotably coupled to the threaded nut; a transverse tube fixedly coupled to an upper end of the attachment link and rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the transverse tube; and An opposing lift link has a proximal end fixedly coupled to the cross tube and a distal end pivotably coupled to a respective front link.

19. The seat assembly of claim 18, wherein: When the cushion tilt module is in the lowered position, the electric motor selectively rotates the lead screw in a first rotational direction, thereby causing the threaded nut to travel in a forward direction along the lead screw, causing the attachment link and the transverse tube to rotate rearwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube, thereby causing the lift link to rotate upwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube until the cushion tilt module is in the tilted position; and When the seat cushion tilt module is in the tilted position, the electric motor selectively rotates the lead screw in a second rotational direction, thereby causing the threaded nut to travel in a rearward direction along the lead screw, causing the attachment link and the transverse tube to rotate forwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube, thereby causing the lifting link to rotate downwardly about the longitudinal axis of the transverse tube until the seat cushion tilt module is in the lowered position.

20. The seat assembly of claim 19, further comprising: an opposing side support having a front portion pivotally coupled to a distal end of a corresponding lift link, wherein the opposing side support is pivotally coupled to a corresponding front link of the seat assembly; a rear bracket fixedly coupled to the opposing upper rails; and An opposing rear link having a bottom portion pivotally coupled to the rear bracket and an upper portion pivotally coupled to a rear portion of a respective side support, wherein the rear portion is longitudinally spaced from the front portion along the respective side support.

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