Side impact protection on automobile seat

Abstract

A child seat for mounting on a vehicle seat includes a seatback and a headrest connectable to the seatback. The headrest has an inner surface that defines a head receiving region of the headrest. The inner surface has a headrest support surface positioned at a rear portion of the head receiving region and a side impact protection portion positioned between the headrest support surface and a front portion of the head receiving region. A recess is disposed between the side impact protection portion and the front portion of the head receiving region. At least one of the side impact protection portion and the inner surface at least partially defines the recess.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application requests U.S. Application No. 63 / 513,831, filed July 14, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 520,696, filed August 21, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 581,870, filed September 11, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 586,325, filed September 28, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 586,914, filed September 29, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 590,009, filed October 13, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 593,255, filed October 26, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 593,267, filed October 26, 2023; and U.S. Application No. 63 / 593,267, filed October 30, 2023. U.S. Application No. 63 / 594,252, filed November 8, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 597,310, filed November 22, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 601,806, filed November 22, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 601,808, filed December 8, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 607,906, filed December 22, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 614,211, filed December 22, 2023; U.S. Application No. 63 / 614,245, filed January 23, 2024; and U.S. Application No. 63 / 623,848, filed January 25, 2024. U.S. Application No. 63 / 624,861, filed February 7, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 550,880, filed February 15, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 553,977, filed February 21, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 555,950, filed March 4, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 561,020, filed March 21, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 567,967, filed March 21, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 568,132, filed April 10, 2024; and U.S. Application No. 63 / 632,234, filed April 12, 2024. U.S. Application No. 63 / 633,096, filed April 12, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 633,401, filed April 12, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 633,416, filed April 18, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 635,674, filed May 2, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 641,742, filed May 17, 2024; and U.S. Application No. 63 / 649,011, filed June 21, 2024.The rights of U.S. Application No. 63 / 662,715 and U.S. Application No. 63 / 662,717, filed June 21, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to child seats, and more specifically, to systems, assemblies, and methods for side-impact protection of child seats in vehicles. Background Technology

[0004] Child seats are designed to protect children from injury or death during a vehicle collision. Existing child restraint systems typically consist of a base section and a seat section that is detachably mounted on the base section. When the child seat is secured to the vehicle via a lower anchor or vehicle harness, the base section must be adjusted to the appropriate reclining angle. Additionally, depending on the type of seat used, the seat can be positioned forward- or rear-facing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to an embodiment, a child seat for installation in a vehicle seat includes a seat back and a headrest connectable to the seat back. The headrest has an inner surface defining a head-receiving area. The inner surface has a headrest support surface located at a rear portion of the head-receiving area and a side impact protection portion located between the headrest support surface and a front portion of the head-receiving area. A recess is disposed between the side impact protection portion and the front portion of the head-receiving area. At least one of the side impact protection portion and the inner surface at least partially defines the recess.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion has a curved construction.

[0007] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion has a concave configuration at a location adjacent to the front portion of the head receiving region.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, another recess is located between the side impact protection portion and the headrest support surface.

[0009] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion includes an inwardly facing surface toward the interior of the head receiving region. The inwardly facing surface includes a first side impact protection region extending between the rear and front portions of the head receiving region and a second side impact protection region extending between the rear and front portions of the head receiving region. The first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region are arranged at an angle.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the interface between the first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region is linear.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the interface between the first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region is curved.

[0012] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection region is located between the headrest support surface and the second side impact protection region.

[0013] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by at least one of the second side impact protection area and the inner surface.

[0014] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by the first side impact protection area.

[0015] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by both the second side impact protection area and the inner surface.

[0016] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection region has a substantially planar surface.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection region has a concave curvature.

[0018] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the inner surface extends between a first front end and a second front end disposed at the front portion of the head receiving region. The side impact protection portion is a first side impact protection portion located between the headrest support surface and the first front end, and the recess is a first recess. A second side impact protection portion is positioned between the headrest support surface and the second front end. The second recess extends between the second side impact protection portion and the front portion of the head receiving region.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection portion and the first recess are the same as the second side impact protection portion and the second recess.

[0020] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion includes at least one side impact protection device. The at least one side impact protection device may be removably attached to the headrest.

[0021] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion includes at least one side impact protection device integrally formed with the headrest.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, at least one side impact protection device is arranged in the head receiving area.

[0023] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one side impact protection device is positioned adjacent to and in contact with the rear of the head receiving region.

[0024] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one side impact protection device is offset from the rear of the head receiving region.

[0025] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one side impact protection device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0026] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the side impact protection portion that at least partially defines the recess has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0027] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion includes a portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest. The recess is positioned between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest.

[0028] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest. The recess has a concave curved portion.

[0029] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the portion of the headrest closest to the central longitudinal axis is positioned between the rear portion of the head receiving area and the center of gravity of the occupant's head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0030] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the side impact protection portion of the headrest, located at the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis, has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0031] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes a seat back and a headrest connectable to the seat back. The headrest includes: a rear portion of the headrest; at least one headrest side member extending from the rear portion of the headrest toward a front portion of the headrest; a side impact protection portion extending along the at least one headrest side member; and a recess defined between the side impact protection portion and the front portion of the headrest.

[0032] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion has a curved construction.

[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion has a convex configuration.

[0034] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess has a curved construction.

[0035] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the recess has a concave curved structure.

[0036] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess has an inclined configuration.

[0037] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion includes an inward surface having a first side impact protection region and a second side impact protection region extending between the rear portion of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest. The first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region are arranged at an angle.

[0038] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the interface between the first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region is linear.

[0039] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the interface between the first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region is curved.

[0040] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection region is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the second side impact protection region.

[0041] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by at least one of the second side impact protection area and the at least one headrest side member.

[0042] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by the intersection between the first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region.

[0043] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by both the second side impact protection area and the at least one headrest side member.

[0044] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection region has a substantially planar surface.

[0045] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection region has a concave curvature.

[0046] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion includes at least one side impact protection device. The at least one side impact protection device may be removably connected to the at least one headrest side member.

[0047] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one side impact protection device may be removably attached to the rear portion of the headrest.

[0048] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0049] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion includes at least one side impact protection device integrally formed with the headrest.

[0050] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0051] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device is arranged within the head receiving area.

[0052] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the side impact protection portion that at least partially defines the recess has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0053] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion includes a portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest. The recess is positioned between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest.

[0054] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest.

[0055] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the portion of the headrest closest to the central longitudinal axis is positioned between the rear portion of the headrest and the center of gravity of the occupant's head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0056] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the side impact protection portion of the headrest, located at the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis, has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0057] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes a seat back and a headrest connectable to the seat back. The headrest has an inner surface defining a head-receiving area in which a occupant's head is received. The headrest includes a rear portion located at the rear of the head-receiving area. The headrest is positioned such that a portion of the central longitudinal axis closest to the head-receiving area lies between the rear portion of the headrest and the center of gravity of the head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0058] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the head receiving region includes a recess disposed between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving region and the front portion of the headrest.

[0059] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess has a curved construction.

[0060] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the recess has a concave structure.

[0061] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess has an inclined configuration.

[0062] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest includes a side impact protection device, and the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving area is part of the side impact protection device.

[0063] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device has at least a partially bent configuration.

[0064] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device has at least a partially convex configuration.

[0065] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device includes an inward surface having a first side impact protection region and a second side impact protection region extending between the rear portion of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest. The first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region are arranged at an angle.

[0066] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is positioned such that the portion of the central longitudinal axis closest to the head receiving area is arranged at the intersection between the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area.

[0067] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection region is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the second side impact protection region.

[0068] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the head receiving area also includes a recess disposed between the front portion of the side impact protection device and the headrest.

[0069] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by the second side impact protection area.

[0070] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection region has a substantially planar surface.

[0071] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection region has a concave curvature.

[0072] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest further includes at least one headrest side member extending from the rear portion of the headrest toward the front portion of the headrest, and the side impact protection device may be removably connected to the at least one headrest side member.

[0073] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one headrest side member includes a first headrest side member and a second headrest side member, and the gap between the first headrest side member and the second headrest side member varies with the height of the headrest at a location between the SIP device and the front portion of the headrest.

[0074] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the gap between the first headrest side member and the second headrest side member at a position near the top of the headrest between the SIP device and the front portion of the headrest is greater than the gap between the first headrest side member and the second headrest side member at a position near the bottom of the headrest between the SIP device and the front portion of the headrest.

[0075] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device may be removably attached to the rear portion of the headrest.

[0076] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device is formed together with the headrest.

[0077] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the SIP device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0078] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes a seat back and a headrest connectable to the seat back. The headrest has an inner surface defining a head-receiving area. The inner surface has: a headrest support surface positioned at the rear of the head-receiving area; and a side-impact protection portion positioned between the headrest support surface and the front of the head-receiving area. A portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head-receiving area is spaced apart from the headrest support surface. The portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head-receiving area is part of the side-impact protection portion.

[0079] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion has at least a partially curved configuration.

[0080] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion has at least a partially concave construction.

[0081] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection portion includes an inward surface having a first side impact protection region and a second side impact protection region extending between the rear portion of the head receiving region and the front portion of the headrest. The first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region are arranged at an angle.

[0082] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is positioned such that the portion of the central longitudinal axis closest to the head receiving area is arranged at the interface between the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area.

[0083] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection region is located between the rear portion of the head receiving region and the second side impact protection region.

[0084] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the head receiving area also includes a recess disposed between the side impact protection portion and the front portion of the headrest.

[0085] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving area.

[0086] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by at least one of the second side impact protection area and the inner surface.

[0087] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess extends from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest to the front portion of the headrest.

[0088] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest.

[0089] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the recess has a concave curved structure.

[0090] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is positioned such that the portion of the central longitudinal axis closest to the head receiving area is laterally spaced from the headrest support surface.

[0091] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is positioned such that the portion of the central longitudinal axis closest to the head receiving area is arranged forward relative to the central longitudinal axis from the headrest support surface.

[0092] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes a seat back and a headrest connectable to the seat back. The headrest includes a rear portion and at least one headrest side member extending from the rear portion toward a front portion of the headrest. The at least one headrest side member and the rear portion at least partially define a head receiving area. A protrusion is disposed at the at least one headrest side member. The protrusion extends into the head receiving area. A recess is defined between the protrusion and the front portion of the headrest.

[0093] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the protrusion has a curved configuration.

[0094] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the protrusion has a concave configuration.

[0095] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess has a curved construction.

[0096] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the recess has a concave structure.

[0097] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess has an inclined configuration.

[0098] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, another recess is located between the protrusion and the rear portion of the headrest.

[0099] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the protrusion is formed by a side impact protection device disposed at the at least one headrest side member.

[0100] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device may be removably attached to the headrest.

[0101] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device is integrally formed with the headrest.

[0102] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0103] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device includes an inward surface encompassing a first side impact protection region and a second side impact protection region extending between the rear portion of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest. The first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region are arranged at an angle.

[0104] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection region is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the second side impact protection region.

[0105] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by at least one of the second side impact protection area and the at least one headrest side member.

[0106] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess is at least partially defined by both the second side impact protection area and the at least one headrest side member.

[0107] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, other embodiments include a side impact protection device disposed at the at least one headrest side member. The other side impact protection device is disposed between the side impact protection device and the front portion of the headrest.

[0108] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device has a first hardness, and the other side impact protection device has a second hardness, which is different from the first hardness.

[0109] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a further recess is formed between the side impact protection device and the other side impact protection device. A gasket is disposed within the other recess.

[0110] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the protrusion that at least partially defines the recess has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0111] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the protrusion includes a portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest. The recess extends between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest.

[0112] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest.

[0113] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the portion of the headrest closest to the central longitudinal axis is positioned between the rear portion of the headrest and the center of gravity of the occupant's head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0114] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the protrusion located at the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0115] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one headrest side member includes a first headrest side member and a second headrest side member disposed on opposite sides of the posterior portion of the headrest. The protrusion is disposed at the first headrest side member, and another protrusion is disposed at the second headrest side member.

[0116] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the protrusion and the other protrusion are substantially symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis of the headrest.

[0117] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the protrusion is substantially parallel to the corresponding surface of the other protrusion.

[0118] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes a seat back and a headrest connectable to the seat back. The headrest has an inner surface defining a head-receiving area. The inner surface has a headrest support surface located at the rear of the head-receiving area and a protrusion disposed on the inner surface. A recess is disposed between the protrusion and the front portion of the headrest.

[0119] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the protrusion has a curved configuration.

[0120] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the protrusion has a convex configuration.

[0121] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess has a curved construction.

[0122] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the recess has a concave structure.

[0123] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess has an inclined configuration.

[0124] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, another recess is located between the protrusion and the headrest support surface.

[0125] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the protrusion is arranged at a side impact protection portion of the inner surface, and the side impact protection portion is positioned between the rear portion of the head receiving area and the front portion of the headrest.

[0126] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a side impact protection device is included that is attached to the headrest at the side impact protection portion. The protrusion is formed by the side impact protection device.

[0127] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device may be removably attached to the headrest.

[0128] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device is integrally formed with the headrest.

[0129] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the SIP device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0130] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, other embodiments include an additional side impact protection device disposed at the side impact protection portion. The additional side impact protection device is disposed between the side impact protection device and the front portion of the headrest.

[0131] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the side impact protection device has a first hardness, and the other side impact protection device has a second hardness, which is different from the first hardness.

[0132] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a further recess is formed between the side impact protection device and the other side impact protection device. A gasket is disposed within the other recess.

[0133] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the protrusion that at least partially defines the recess has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0134] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the protrusion includes a portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest, wherein the recess extends between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest.

[0135] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest.

[0136] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the portion of the headrest closest to the central longitudinal axis is positioned between the rear portion of the headrest and the center of gravity of the occupant's head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0137] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the protrusion located at the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

[0138] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a side impact protection portion is included at the inner surface and a side impact protection device is attached to the headrest at the side impact protection portion.

[0139] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, other embodiments include an additional protrusion disposed on the inner surface, wherein the protrusion and the other protrusion are substantially symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis of the headrest.

[0140] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the surface of the protrusion is substantially parallel to the corresponding surface of the other protrusion.

[0141] According to an embodiment, a child seat for installation in a vehicle seat includes a seat back and a headrest connectable to the seat back. The headrest includes an inner surface defining a head-receiving area. The inner surface has a first front end, a second front end, and a rear end, with the center of the headrest located at the rear end in a lateral direction extending between the first and second front ends. A head contact position is located between the center of the headrest and the first front end; a first side impact protection (SIP) device is located at a first portion of the headrest within the head-receiving area; a second side impact protection (SIP) device is located at the first portion of the headrest within the head-receiving area; and a recess is located between the first and second SIP devices.

[0142] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest includes a rear portion and a headrest side member, and the first SIP device and the second SIP device are disposed on the headrest side member.

[0143] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, at least one of the first SIP device and the second SIP device is offset from both the first front end and the second front end.

[0144] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the second SIP device is spaced apart from the first SIP device along the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving region.

[0145] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first SIP device has a first portion positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving region, and the second SIP device has a second portion positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving region. The recess is defined between the first portion and the second portion.

[0146] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first portion of the first SIP device is positioned in the head receiving area at a location in the longitudinal direction between the rear and the center of gravity of the occupant's head.

[0147] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, at least one of the first SIP device and the second side impact device is positioned adjacent to and in contact with the rear portion of the inner surface.

[0148] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, other embodiments include a gasket disposed between the first SIP device and the second SIP device.

[0149] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the hardness of the pad is less than that of the first SIP device and the second SIP device.

[0150] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first SIP device has a first hardness, and the second SIP device has a second hardness. The first hardness is different from the second hardness.

[0151] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first SIP device has a first hardness, and the second SIP device has a second hardness. The first hardness is equal to the second hardness.

[0152] According to an embodiment, a child seat for installation in a vehicle seat includes a seat back and a headrest connectable to the seat back. The headrest includes a rear portion and at least one headrest side member extending from the rear portion toward the front portion of the headrest. The at least one headrest side member and the rear portion of the headrest at least partially define a head receiving area. A side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed at the at least one headrest side member at a location adjacent to the front portion of the headrest. The SIP device is offset from the rear portion of the headrest.

[0153] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the SIP device includes a convex curvature.

[0154] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the SIP device further includes an inward surface having a first side impact protection region and a second side impact protection region disposed between the rear portion of the head receiving region and the front portion of the headrest. The first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region are arranged at an angle.

[0155] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection area is offset from the at least one headrest side member.

[0156] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection region has a convex curvature.

[0157] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the thickness of the SIP device decreases from the first side impact protection area toward the front of the headrest.

[0158] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection region is arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the rear portion of the headrest.

[0159] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection area is arranged substantially parallel to the rear portion of the headrest.

[0160] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the thickness of the SIP device increases from the first side impact protection area toward the front of the headrest.

[0161] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is positioned such that a portion of the central longitudinal axis of the headrest is located at the front of the headrest.

[0162] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the SIP device extends to cover less than half the length of the at least one headrest side member.

[0163] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes a seat back and a headrest connected to the seat back. The headrest includes a headrest housing having a rear portion and at least one housing headrest side member extending from the rear portion toward the front portion of the headrest. A connector member is connectable to the headrest housing. The connector member extends beyond the at least one housing headrest side member to define the front portion of the headrest.

[0164] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest housing comprises a first material and the connector member comprises a second material, wherein the hardness of the second material is less than that of the first material.

[0165] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the connector member includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface can be positioned adjacent to the inner surface of the headrest housing.

[0166] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the inner surface of the connector member defines the head receiving area of ​​the headrest.

[0167] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, at least one side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed at the connector member.

[0168] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is integrally formed with the connector component.

[0169] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device may be removably connected to the connector component.

[0170] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is disposed on the inner surface of the connector member.

[0171] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is positioned between the central body portion of the connector member and the front portion of the headrest.

[0172] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the connector member includes a first side portion and a second side portion extending from the central body portion toward the front portion of the headrest, and the at least one SIP device is disposed at one of the first side portion and the second side portion.

[0173] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the connector member includes a reinforcing region disposed on the connector member extending beyond a portion of the headrest housing.

[0174] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the reinforcing region is arranged on the outer surface of the connector member.

[0175] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the connector member includes at least one feature that can engage with the headrest housing to properly position the connector member around the headrest.

[0176] According to an embodiment, a child seat for installation in a vehicle seat includes a seat back and a headrest connectable to the seat back. The headrest includes an inner surface defining a head-receiving area. The inner surface has a first front end, a second front end, and a rear end. At least one side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed within the head-receiving area of ​​the headrest. The at least one SIP device has an inwardly facing surface facing the head-receiving area. The length of the inwardly facing surface, measured between the rear end of the inner surface and the flip line of the at least one SIP device, varies with the height of the at least one SIP device.

[0177] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the flip line has a forward configuration.

[0178] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the length of the inward surface near the top of the at least one SIP device is between about 90 mm and about 140 mm.

[0179] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the length of the inward surface near the bottom of the at least one SIP device is between about 40 mm and about 90 mm.

[0180] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device has a base surface, and at a location near the front end of the at least one SIP device, the base surface is offset from the inner surface of the headrest, such that a gap is formed between the base surface and the inner surface of the at least one SIP device.

[0181] According to an embodiment, a child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat includes a child seat comprising a seat portion, a rear portion extending from the seat portion, and a headrest. A side-impact protection (SIP) device is arranged around the headrest, and a shoulder SIP device is alignable with the shoulder of the occupant of the child seat. A portion of the strap path of the child seat for receiving vehicle harness straps is defined by at least one of the head SIP device and the shoulder SIP device.

[0182] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the bottom surface of the head SIP device defines the portion of the strap path.

[0183] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest includes an opening for receiving the vehicle harness, and the bottom surface of the head SIP device is positioned adjacent to the opening.

[0184] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the soft article may be positioned to overlap with the head SIP device. The soft article defines the portion of the strap path.

[0185] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the shoulder SIP device is attached to the headrest.

[0186] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is movable relative to the child seat, and the shoulder SIP device is movable relative to the child seat together with the headrest.

[0187] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the soft article may be positioned to overlap with the shoulder SIP device. The soft article defines a portion of the strap path.

[0188] According to an embodiment, a child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat includes a child seat comprising a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. A shoulder SIP device is alignable with the shoulder of the occupant of the child seat, and a soft material on the shoulder forms a recess in which at least a portion of the shoulder SIP device is received.

[0189] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the shoulder soft article overlaps with the forward surface of the shoulder SIP device.

[0190] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the shoulder soft material encapsulates the shoulder SIP device.

[0191] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the child seat has a headrest comprising a headrest soft article, and the shoulder soft article is integrally formed with the headrest soft article.

[0192] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is movable relative to the child seat, and the shoulder SIP device is movable relative to the child seat together with the headrest.

[0193] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the child seat includes a soft material disposed on the rear portion, and the shoulder soft material is integrally formed with the soft material disposed on the rear portion.

[0194] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the shoulder soft article defines a portion of the child seat's harness path for receiving the vehicle harness.

[0195] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a recess is formed between the at least one SIP device and at least one of the first front end and the second front end of the headrest.

[0196] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the recess extends between the front portion of the at least one SIP device and at least one of the first front end and the second front end of the headrest.

[0197] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, at least one second SIP device is arranged within the head receiving area.

[0198] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one second SIP device is a pad.

[0199] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the hardness of the at least one second SIP device is less than the hardness of the at least one SIP device. Attached Figure Description

[0200] The following description should not be construed as limiting in any way. Referring to the accompanying drawings, similar elements are numbered similarly.

[0201] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a child restraint system according to an embodiment.

[0202] Figure 2A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including at least one head SIP device covered by soft material.

[0203] Figure 2B This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, comprising at least one head SIP device having soft material.

[0204] Figure 3A This is a front view of the headrest of a child seat including multiple head SIP devices according to an embodiment.

[0205] Figure 3B According to the embodiments Figure 3A A perspective view of the head SIP device.

[0206] Figure 4A This is a perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0207] Figure 4B According to the embodiments Figure 4A Detailed perspective view of the head SIP device.

[0208] Figure 5A This is a top perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0209] Figure 5B According to the embodiments Figure 5A Side perspective view of the head SIP device.

[0210] Figure 6A This is a side perspective view of a headrest according to an embodiment, the headrest comprising a head SIP device and an auxiliary body of compressible material arranged overlapping with the head SIP device.

[0211] Figure 6B According to the embodiments Figure 6A Side perspective view of the head SIP device and the auxiliary body of the compressible material.

[0212] Figure 7A This is a top perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0213] Figure 7B Includes according to embodiments Figure 7A A schematic diagram of the head SIP device.

[0214] Figure 8A This is a top perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0215] Figure 8B Includes according to embodiments Figure 8A A schematic diagram of the head SIP device.

[0216] Figure 9A This is a top perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0217] Figure 9B Includes according to embodiments Figure 9A A schematic diagram of the head SIP device.

[0218] Figure 10A This is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including a headrest with at least one head SIP.

[0219] Figure 10B According to the embodiments Figure 10A A perspective view of the headrest.

[0220] Figure 10C According to the embodiments Figure 10A Side view of the head SIP device.

[0221] Figure 11A This is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including a headrest with at least one head SIP.

[0222] Figure 11B According to the embodiments Figure 11A A perspective view of the headrest.

[0223] Figure 11C According to the embodiments Figure 11A Side view of the head SIP device.

[0224] Figure 12A This is a perspective view of the headrest of a child seat with multiple head SIP devices arranged in its area, according to an embodiment.

[0225] Figure 12B According to the embodiment, when the passenger is positioned in the child seat Figure 12A A perspective view of the headrest.

[0226] Figure 13A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment.

[0227] Figure 13B According to the embodiments Figure 13A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0228] Figure 13C According to the embodiments Figure 13A A top view of the headrest.

[0229] Figure 13D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 13A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0230] Figure 13E According to the embodiments Figure 13D Top view of the head SIP assembly.

[0231] Figure 14 This is a top view of a child positioned relative to the headrest of a child seat with a head SIP assembly, according to an embodiment.

[0232] Figure 15A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment.

[0233] Figure 15B According to the embodiments Figure 15A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0234] Figure 15C According to the embodiments Figure 15A A top view of the headrest.

[0235] Figure 15D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 15A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0236] Figure 15E According to the embodiments Figure 15DTop view of the head SIP assembly.

[0237] Figure 16A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment.

[0238] Figure 16B According to the embodiments Figure 16A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0239] Figure 16C According to the embodiments Figure 16A A top view of the headrest.

[0240] Figure 16D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 16A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0241] Figure 16E According to the embodiments Figure 16D Top view of the head SIP assembly.

[0242] Figure 17A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment.

[0243] Figure 17B According to the embodiments Figure 17A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0244] Figure 17C According to the embodiments Figure 17A A top view of the headrest.

[0245] Figure 17D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 17A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0246] Figure 17E According to the embodiments Figure 17D Top view of the head SIP assembly.

[0247] Figure 18A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment.

[0248] Figure 18B According to the embodiments Figure 18A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0249] Figure 18C According to the embodiments Figure 18A A top view of the headrest.

[0250] Figure 18D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment.Figure 18A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0251] Figure 18E According to the embodiments Figure 18D Top view of the head SIP assembly.

[0252] Figure 19A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged to contact the same side of the occupant's head.

[0253] Figure 19B According to the embodiments Figure 19A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0254] Figure 19C According to the embodiments Figure 19A A top view of the headrest.

[0255] Figure 19D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 19A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0256] Figure 19E According to the embodiments Figure 19D Top view of the head SIP assembly.

[0257] Figure 20A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the occupant's head.

[0258] Figure 20B According to the embodiments Figure 20A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0259] Figure 20C According to the embodiments Figure 20A A top view of the headrest.

[0260] Figure 20D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 20A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0261] Figure 20E According to the embodiments Figure 20D Top view of the head SIP assembly.

[0262] Figure 21AThis is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the occupant's head.

[0263] Figure 21B According to the embodiments Figure 21A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0264] Figure 21C According to the embodiments Figure 21A A top view of the headrest.

[0265] Figure 21D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 21A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0266] Figure 21E According to the embodiments Figure 21D Top view of the head SIP assembly.

[0267] Figure 22A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the occupant's head.

[0268] Figure 22B According to the embodiments Figure 22A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0269] Figure 22C According to the embodiments Figure 22A A top view of the headrest.

[0270] Figure 22D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 22A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0271] Figure 22E According to the embodiments Figure 22D Top view of the head SIP assembly.

[0272] Figure 23A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the occupant's head.

[0273] Figure 23B According to the embodiments Figure 23A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0274] Figure 23C According to the embodiments Figure 23AA top view of the headrest.

[0275] Figure 23D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 23A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly.

[0276] Figure 23E According to the embodiments Figure 23D Top view of the head SIP assembly.

[0277] Figure 24A This is a side view of the headrest of a child seat in a first configuration according to an embodiment, including a control mechanism and at least one head SIP assembly.

[0278] Figure 24B According to the embodiments Figure 24A A top view of the headrest.

[0279] Figure 24C This is a side view of the headrest of a child seat in a second configuration according to an embodiment, including a control mechanism and at least one head SIP assembly.

[0280] Figure 24D According to the embodiments Figure 24C A top view of the headrest.

[0281] Figure 25A This is a side view of the headrest of a child seat in a first configuration according to an embodiment, including a control mechanism and at least one head SIP assembly.

[0282] Figure 25B According to the embodiments Figure 25A A top view of the headrest.

[0283] Figure 25C This is a side view of the headrest of a child seat in a second configuration according to an embodiment, including a control mechanism and at least one head SIP assembly.

[0284] Figure 25D According to the embodiments Figure 25C A top view of the headrest.

[0285] Figure 26A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest in a first configuration, the headrest having a head SIP assembly including a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the occupant's head.

[0286] Figure 26B According to the embodiments Figure 26A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0287] Figure 26C According to the embodimentsFigure 26A A top view of the headrest.

[0288] Figure 26D It is in the second construction according to the embodiment. Figure 26A A perspective view of the headrest.

[0289] Figure 26E According to the embodiments Figure 26D A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0290] Figure 26F According to the embodiments Figure 26D A top view of the headrest.

[0291] Figure 27A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly, the head SIP assembly including a plurality of head SIP devices disposed on the same side of the occupant's head when the mounting straps are arranged around the child seat in a first position.

[0292] Figure 27B According to the embodiment, when the mounting strap is arranged around the child seat at the second position... Figure 27A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0293] Figure 28A This is a perspective view of the headrest of a child seat with a head SIP device made of a friction material, according to an embodiment.

[0294] Figure 28B According to the embodiments Figure 28A Front view of the headrest.

[0295] Figure 29A This is a perspective view of the headrest of a child seat according to an embodiment, the headrest having a head SIP device disposed at the front end of the headrest.

[0296] Figure 29B This is a perspective view of the headrest of a child seat according to an embodiment, the headrest having another head SIP device disposed at the front end of the headrest.

[0297] Figure 30A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including a headrest with a head SIP device in a first configuration.

[0298] Figure 30B According to the embodiments Figure 30A A top view of the child seat.

[0299] Figure 31A It is a head SIP device with a second configuration according to an embodiment. Figure 30A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0300] Figure 31B According to the embodiments Figure 31A A top view of the child seat.

[0301] Figure 32A This is a front perspective view of the headrest of a child seat according to an embodiment, which has at least one head SIP device covered by a soft material.

[0302] Figure 32B According to the embodiments Figure 32A Side perspective view of the headrest.

[0303] Figure 32C According to the embodiments Figure 32A A top view of the headrest.

[0304] Figure 33A This is a front perspective view of the rear portion of a child seat according to an embodiment, having at least one shoulder SIP device disposed on its inner surface.

[0305] Figure 33B According to the embodiments Figure 33A A side perspective view of the rear portion of a structure including at least one shoulder SIP device.

[0306] Figure 33C According to the embodiments Figure 33A A side perspective view of at least one shoulder SIP device.

[0307] Figure 34A This is a front view of the shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0308] Figure 34B According to the embodiments Figure 34A Front perspective view of the shoulder SIP device.

[0309] Figure 35A According to the embodiment, it includes a portion arranged at the rear. Figure 34A-34B A perspective view of a child seat with a shoulder SIP device.

[0310] Figure 35B According to the embodiments Figure 35A A top view of the child seat.

[0311] Figure 36A This is a front view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment.

[0312] Figure 36B According to the embodiments Figure 36A Front perspective view of the shoulder SIP device.

[0313] Figure 36CAccording to the embodiment, it includes a portion arranged at the rear. Figure 36A-36B A perspective view of a child seat with a shoulder SIP device.

[0314] Figure 36D According to the embodiments Figure 36C A top view of the child seat.

[0315] Figure 37A This is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment, having at least one shoulder SIP device arranged on the inner surface of the rear portion when the headrest is in the lowered position.

[0316] Figure 37B According to the embodiment, when the headrest is in the raised position Figure 37A Front view of a child seat.

[0317] Figure 38A This is a top perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the rear portion of the child seat.

[0318] Figure 38B According to the embodiments Figure 38A Front view of a child seat.

[0319] Figure 38C According to the embodiments Figure 38A A side-view view of a child seat, showing soft materials installed around it.

[0320] Figure 39 This is a top perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the seat portion of the child seat.

[0321] Figure 40A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the child seat.

[0322] Figure 40B According to the embodiments Figure 40A Front view of a child seat.

[0323] Figure 41A This is a perspective view of a torso SIP assembly comprising multiple torso SIP devices according to an embodiment.

[0324] Figure 41B It is installed around the inner surface of the child seat according to the embodiment. Figure 41A A perspective view of the torso SIP assembly.

[0325] Figure 41CIt is installed around the inner surface of the child seat according to the embodiment. Figure 41A Front view of the torso SIP assembly.

[0326] Figure 42A This is a perspective view of a torso SIP assembly comprising multiple torso SIP devices according to an embodiment.

[0327] Figure 42B It is installed around the inner surface of the child seat according to the embodiment. Figure 42A A perspective view of the torso SIP assembly.

[0328] Figure 42C It is installed around the inner surface of the child seat according to the embodiment. Figure 42A Front view of the torso SIP assembly.

[0329] Figure 43A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the child seat.

[0330] Figure 43B According to the embodiments Figure 43A Another perspective view of the child seat.

[0331] Figure 44A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the rear portion of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device being in a first configuration.

[0332] Figure 44B According to the embodiments Figure 44A Front view of a child seat.

[0333] Figure 44C It is an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration. Figure 44A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0334] Figure 44D According to the embodiments Figure 44C Front view of a child seat.

[0335] Figure 45A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the rear portion of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device being in a first configuration.

[0336] Figure 45B According to the embodiments Figure 45A Front view of a child seat.

[0337] Figure 45C It is an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration. Figure 45A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0338] Figure 45D According to the embodiments Figure 45C Front view of a child seat.

[0339] Figure 46 This is a perspective view of a child seat with at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0340] Figure 47A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device being in a first configuration.

[0341] Figure 47B According to the embodiments Figure 47A Front view of a child seat.

[0342] Figure 47C It is an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration. Figure 47A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0343] Figure 47D According to the embodiments Figure 47C Front view of a child seat.

[0344] Figure 48A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device being in a first configuration.

[0345] Figure 48B According to the embodiments Figure 48A Front view of a child seat.

[0346] Figure 48C It is an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration. Figure 48A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0347] Figure 48D According to the embodiments Figure 48C Front view of a child seat.

[0348] Figure 49AThis is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device being in a first configuration.

[0349] Figure 49B According to the embodiments Figure 49A Front view of a child seat.

[0350] Figure 49C It is an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration. Figure 49A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0351] Figure 49D According to the embodiments Figure 49C Front view of a child seat.

[0352] Figure 49E According to the embodiments Figure 49C A top view of the child seat.

[0353] Figure 50A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including at least one external SIP device arranged at a support base.

[0354] Figure 50B According to the embodiments Figure 50A Side view of a child seat.

[0355] Figure 51A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including at least one external SIP device arranged at a support base.

[0356] Figure 51B According to the embodiments Figure 51A Side view of a child seat.

[0357] Figure 52A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the child seat.

[0358] Figure 52B According to the embodiments Figure 52A Side view of a child seat.

[0359] Figure 53A This is a side view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the seat portion of the child seat.

[0360] Figure 53B According to the embodiments Figure 53A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0361] Figure 54A This is a side view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of the child seat near the strap path opening.

[0362] Figure 54B According to the embodiments Figure 54A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0363] Figure 55A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of the child seat near the strap path opening.

[0364] Figure 55B According to the embodiments Figure 55A Rear view of the child seat.

[0365] Figure 55C According to the embodiments Figure 55B Front view of a child seat.

[0366] Figure 55D According to the embodiments Figure 55A Side view of the child seat.

[0367] Figure 55E It is positioned on the vehicle seat adjacent to the door according to the embodiment. Figure 55A A top view of the child seat.

[0368] Figure 55F According to the embodiments Figure 55A Another rear perspective view of at least one external SIP device.

[0369] Figure 56A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of the child seat near the strap path opening.

[0370] Figure 56B According to the embodiments Figure 56A Side view of a child seat.

[0371] Figure 57 This is a perspective view of an external SIP device having a slot for engaging vehicle harnesses according to an embodiment.

[0372] Figure 58 This is a perspective view of an external SIP device having a clamp for engaging vehicle harnesses according to an embodiment.

[0373] Figure 59This is a perspective view of an external SIP device having a rotatable clamp for engaging vehicle harnesses, according to an embodiment.

[0374] Figure 60 This is a perspective view of an external SIP device that can be rotatably engaged with a vehicle harness according to an embodiment.

[0375] Figure 61A This is a perspective view of an infant car seat according to an embodiment, having at least one external SIP device arranged at the handle hub.

[0376] Figure 61B This is a side view of an infant car seat according to an embodiment, the infant car seat having at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the seat portion.

[0377] Figure 61C According to the embodiments Figure 61B Top perspective view of at least one external SIP device.

[0378] Figure 62A This is a perspective view of a child according to an embodiment, the child including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of a child seat, the at least one external SIP device being in a first configuration.

[0379] Figure 62B According to an embodiment, it has at least one external SIP device in a second configuration. Figure 62A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0380] Figure 63A This is a perspective view of a child according to an embodiment, the child including an external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of a child seat, the external SIP device being in a first configuration.

[0381] Figure 63B It is an external SIP device with a second configuration according to an embodiment. Figure 63A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0382] Figure 63C It is an external SIP device with a third configuration according to an embodiment. Figure 63A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0383] Figure 64A This is a perspective view of a child according to an embodiment, the child including an external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of a child seat, the external SIP device being in a first configuration.

[0384] Figure 64B It is an external SIP device with a second configuration according to an embodiment. Figure 64A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0385] Figure 64C It is an external SIP device with a third configuration according to an embodiment. Figure 64A A perspective view of a child car seat.

[0386] Figure 65A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, comprising at least one SIP device and an actuation mechanism operatively coupled to said at least one SIP device.

[0387] Figure 65B It is in the unactuated configuration according to the embodiment. Figure 65A A perspective view of the actuation mechanism and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a first configuration.

[0388] Figure 65C According to the embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is actuated and at least one SIP device is in the second configuration Figure 65A Front view of a child seat.

[0389] Figure 65D This is a perspective view of an actuation mechanism in an actuation configuration and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a second configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0390] Figure 66A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, comprising at least one SIP device and an actuation mechanism operatively coupled to said at least one SIP device.

[0391] Figure 66B It is in the unactuated configuration according to the embodiment. Figure 66A A perspective view of the actuation mechanism and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a first configuration.

[0392] Figure 66C According to the embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is not actuated and at least one SIP device is in the first configuration Figure 66A Another front view of the child seat.

[0393] Figure 66D This is a side view of an actuation mechanism in an unactuated configuration and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a first configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0394] Figure 66E According to the embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is in the actuation configuration and at least one SIP device is in the second configuration... Figure 66A Front view of a child seat.

[0395] Figure 66F It is in the actuation structure according to the embodiment. Figure 66E A perspective view of the actuation mechanism and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a second configuration.

[0396] Figure 66G According to the embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is actuated and at least one SIP device is in the second configuration Figure 66E Another front view of the child seat.

[0397] Figure 66H This is a side view of an actuation mechanism in an actuation configuration and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a second configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0398] Figure 67A This is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment, having at least one SIP device that can switch between a first configuration and a second configuration in response to movement of the headrest.

[0399] Figure 67B According to the embodiments Figure 67A Rear view of the child seat.

[0400] Figure 67C It is in the unacted position according to the embodiment. Figure 67A A detailed perspective view of the actuation mechanism of the child seat and at least one SIP device in the first configuration.

[0401] Figure 67D It is in the unacted position according to the embodiment. Figure 67A A detailed front view of the actuation mechanism of the child seat and at least one SIP device in the first configuration.

[0402] Figure 67E According to the embodiment, it has at least one SIP device in a second configuration and an actuation mechanism in an actuation configuration. Figure 67A Front view of a child seat.

[0403] Figure 67F According to the embodiments Figure 67E Rear view of the child seat.

[0404] Figure 67G It is in the actuation structure according to the embodiment. Figure 67E Detailed perspective view of the actuation mechanism of the child seat and at least one SIP device in the second configuration.

[0405] Figure 67H It is in the actuation structure according to the embodiment. Figure 67EA detailed front view of the actuation mechanism of the child seat and at least one SIP device in the second configuration.

[0406] Figure 68A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest in a first configuration, the headrest having a head SIP assembly including a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the occupant's head.

[0407] Figure 68B According to the embodiments Figure 68A A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0408] Figure 68C According to the embodiments Figure 68A A top view of the headrest.

[0409] Figure 68D It is in the second construction according to the embodiment. Figure 68A A perspective view of the headrest.

[0410] Figure 68E According to the embodiments Figure 26D A frontal perspective view of the headrest.

[0411] Figure 68F According to the embodiments Figure 68D A top view of the headrest.

[0412] Figure 69A This is a side view of a headrest having at least one head SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0413] Figure 69B According to the embodiments Figure 69A Rear view of the headrest.

[0414] Figure 70A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having a headrest in a lowered position and at least one shoulder device operatively connected to the headrest.

[0415] Figure 70B According to the embodiment, when the headrest is in the raised position Figure 70A Front view of a child seat.

[0416] Figure 71 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system with a combined SIP assembly including a head SIP device and a shoulder SIP device.

[0417] Figure 72 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly that includes a head SIP unit and a torso SIP unit.

[0418] Figure 73This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system with a combined SIP assembly that includes a head SIP unit and an external SIP unit.

[0419] Figure 74 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system with a combined SIP assembly that includes shoulder SIP devices and torso SIP devices.

[0420] Figure 75 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system with a combined SIP assembly that includes a shoulder SIP device and an external SIP device.

[0421] Figure 76 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly that includes a torso SIP unit and an external SIP unit.

[0422] Figure 77 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly that includes a head SIP unit, a shoulder SIP unit, and a torso SIP unit.

[0423] Figure 78 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system with a combined SIP assembly including a head SIP unit, a shoulder SIP unit, and an external SIP unit.

[0424] Figure 79 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly that includes a head SIP unit, a torso SIP unit, and an external SIP unit.

[0425] Figure 80 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly that includes a shoulder SIP device, a torso SIP device, and an external SIP device.

[0426] Figure 81 This is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly that includes a head SIP unit, a shoulder SIP unit, a torso SIP unit, and an external SIP unit.

[0427] Figure 82A This is a top view of a child positioned relative to the headrest of a child seat with multiple head SIP devices, according to an embodiment.

[0428] Figure 82B According to the embodiment, during a side impact event, relative to Figure 82A A top-down view of a child's headrest positioning.

[0429] Figure 83 This is a perspective view of a head SIP device that can switch between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration according to another embodiment.

[0430] Figure 84A This is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having a plurality of shoulder SIP devices attached to a movable headrest in a raised position.

[0431] Figure 84B This is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having a plurality of shoulder SIP devices attached to a movable headrest in a lowered position.

[0432] Figure 85 According to the embodiments Figures 84A-84B Exploded perspective view of the shoulder SIP device.

[0433] Figures 86A-86D This is a view of a torso SIP device in various configurations according to an embodiment.

[0434] Figure 86E This is a side view of the torso SIP device in the first configuration.

[0435] Figure 86F This is a side view of the torso SIP device in the second configuration.

[0436] Figure 87A This is a perspective view of a child seat with a torso SIP assembly according to an embodiment, the torso SIP assembly being held in place around the child seat by a connecting assembly.

[0437] Figure 87B According to the embodiments, when Figure 87A A detailed perspective view of the torso SIP assembly when the connecting assembly is in the first position.

[0438] Figure 87C According to the embodiments, when Figure 87A A detailed perspective view of the torso SIP assembly when the connecting assembly is in the second position.

[0439] Figure 88A This is a rear view of the torso SIP assembly when the connecting assembly is in the first position, according to an embodiment.

[0440] Figure 88B According to the embodiments, when Figure 88A Rear view of the torso SIP assembly when the connecting assembly is in the second position.

[0441] Figure 88C This is a side perspective view of the torso SIP assembly when the connecting assembly is in the first position according to an embodiment.

[0442] Figure 88D According to the embodiments, when Figure 88CSide view of the torso SIP assembly when the connecting assembly is in the second position.

[0443] Figure 89A This is a perspective view of a child seat having a torso SIP assembly and a corresponding control device associated with the torso SIP device of the torso SIP assembly, according to an embodiment.

[0444] Figure 89B This is a detailed perspective view of the control device according to an embodiment.

[0445] Figure 89C According to the embodiment, when the control device is in the first position Figure 89A A perspective view of the torso SIP assembly.

[0446] Figure 89D According to the embodiment, when the control device is in the first position Figure 89A A perspective view of the torso SIP assembly.

[0447] Figure 90A This is a perspective view of a child seat including an external SIP device in a first position, according to an embodiment.

[0448] Figure 90B This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including an external SIP device in a second position.

[0449] Figure 91 According to the embodiments Figure 90A-90B Detailed perspective view of the external SIP device.

[0450] Figure 92A According to the embodiments Figure 91 Front perspective view of the external SIP device.

[0451] Figure 92B According to the embodiments Figure 92A Rear perspective view of the external SIP device.

[0452] Figure 93 According to the embodiments Figure 92A A side view of the external SIP device.

[0453] Figure 94 According to the embodiments Figure 93 Exploded side view of the external SIP device.

[0454] Figure 95 According to the embodiments Figure 94 An exploded cross-sectional view of the external SIP device.

[0455] Figure 96AThis is a side view of an external SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0456] Figure 96B It is in the second construction according to the embodiment. Figure 96A Side view of the external SIP device.

[0457] Figure 97A and 97B This is a perspective view of a child seat system according to an embodiment, including a connecting member associated with an external SIP device.

[0458] Figure 98A This is a perspective view of a child seat system according to an embodiment, which is rearwardly constructed and includes a connecting member associated with an external SIP device.

[0459] Figure 98B It is configured in a forward-facing manner according to an embodiment and includes a connecting member associated with an external SIP device. Figure 98A A perspective view of a child car seat system.

[0460] Figure 99 This is a perspective view of a child seat system according to an embodiment, having an external SIP device arranged at a support base.

[0461] Figure 100 This is a perspective view of a child seat system having a movable external SIP device arranged at a support base, according to another embodiment.

[0462] Figure 101 This is a perspective view of a child seat system according to an embodiment, having a movable external SIP device arranged at a support base.

[0463] Figure 102A and 102B This is a perspective view of a child seat system having a movable external SIP device arranged at a support base, according to yet another embodiment.

[0464] Figure 103 This is a perspective view of a child seat system according to another embodiment, having a movable external SIP device arranged at a support base.

[0465] Figure 104 This is a perspective view of a child seat system having a pivotable external SIP device arranged at a support base, according to another embodiment.

[0466] Figure 105 This is a perspective view of a child seat system having a retractable external SIP device arranged at a support base, according to another embodiment.

[0467] Figure 106A and106B This is a perspective view of a support base having an external SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0468] Figure 107A and 107B These are various views of a child seat system according to an embodiment, including an actuation mechanism for automatically changing the SIP device.

[0469] Figure 108A This is a plan view of a child seat system with a SIP device when the child seat is in a forward-facing configuration according to an embodiment.

[0470] Figure 108B This is a plan view of a child seat system with a SIP device when the child seat rotates between the rearward and forward configurations according to an embodiment.

[0471] Figure 109A This is an exploded perspective view of a child seat system in a forward configuration according to an embodiment, the child seat having a system for automatically deploying the SIP device based on the position of the child seat relative to the vehicle seat and the configuration of the child seat.

[0472] Figure 109B According to the embodiments Figure 109A Floor plan of the child seat system.

[0473] Figure 110A According to the embodiment, when the child seat rotates away from the forward-facing configuration Figure 109A An exploded perspective view of a child car seat system.

[0474] Figure 110B According to the embodiments Figure 110A Floor plan of the child seat system.

[0475] Figure 111 This is a front view of the control features of an actuator for moving a support base according to an embodiment.

[0476] Figure 112 This is a side view of a child seat system according to an embodiment, the child seat system comprising a child seat having at least one external SIP device at the seat portion.

[0477] Figure 113A This is a schematic diagram of a cup holder in an extended configuration of a child seat according to an embodiment.

[0478] Figure 113B This is a schematic diagram of a cup holder in an extended configuration of a child seat according to an embodiment.

[0479] Figure 113C This is a schematic diagram of the cup holder of a child seat during a collision event, according to an embodiment.

[0480] Figure 114A This is a schematic diagram of a cup holder in an extended configuration of a child seat according to an embodiment.

[0481] Figure 114B This is a schematic diagram of a cup holder in an extended configuration of a child seat according to an embodiment.

[0482] Figure 114C This is a schematic diagram of the cup holder of a child seat during a collision event, according to an embodiment.

[0483] Figure 115 This is a view of a child seat system according to an embodiment, the child seat system comprising a child seat having at least one external SIP device at the seat portion.

[0484] Figure 116A This is a perspective view of an infant car seat with at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0485] Figure 116B This is another perspective view of an infant car seat with at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0486] Figure 116C This is another perspective view of an infant car seat according to an embodiment, having a handle in a rear position and having at least one external SIP device.

[0487] Figure 116D This is another perspective view of an infant car seat according to an embodiment, having a handle in a rear position and having at least one external SIP device.

[0488] Figure 117A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0489] Figure 117B According to the embodiments Figure 117A Floor plan of the child car seat.

[0490] Figure 118A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment.

[0491] Figure 118B According to the embodiments Figure 118A Floor plan of the child car seat.

[0492] Figure 119A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0493] Figure 119B According to the embodiments Figure 119AFloor plan of the child car seat.

[0494] Figure 120A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment.

[0495] Figure 120B According to the embodiments Figure 120A Floor plan of the child car seat.

[0496] Figure 121A This is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0497] Figure 121B This is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including a SIP device in a second configuration.

[0498] Figure 122A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0499] Figure 122B This is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment.

[0500] Figure 123A This is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0501] Figure 123B This is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including a SIP device in a second configuration.

[0502] Figure 124A This is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0503] Figure 124B This is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including a SIP device in a second configuration.

[0504] Figure 125A This is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0505] Figure 125B This is a perspective view of a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0506] Figure 125C This is a perspective view of a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment.

[0507] Figure 126A-126C This is a perspective view of a child seat system having deformable SIP devices at various locations according to an embodiment.

[0508] Figure 127A This is a side perspective view of a child seat system including a foldable SIP device in a first configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0509] Figure 127B This is a rear perspective view of a child seat system including a foldable SIP device in a first configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0510] Figure 127C This is a rear perspective view of a child seat system including a foldable SIP device in a second configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0511] Figure 128A This is a plan view of a child seat system including a foldable SIP device in a first configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0512] Figure 128B This is a more detailed perspective view of a portion of a SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0513] Figure 129 This is a plan view of a child seat system including a SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0514] Figure 130 This is a perspective view of a child seat system including a SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0515] Figure 131A-131C These are various perspective views of a child car seat system according to an embodiment, the child car seat system including an external SIP device configured as a leg and movable between a first configuration and a second configuration.

[0516] Figure 132A-132C These are various views of the header SIP assembly according to an embodiment.

[0517] Figure 133A-133C It is attached to the headrest housing according to the embodiment. Figure 132A-132C The various views of the head SIP assembly.

[0518] Figure 134A-134C These are various views of a headrest comprising at least one head SIP device according to another embodiment.

[0519] Figure 134D and 134E According to the embodiments Figure 134C The headrest is a cross-sectional view taken along line HH.

[0520] Figure 135A-135C These are various views of a headrest comprising at least one head SIP device according to another embodiment.

[0521] Figures 136A-136BThese are front and rear perspective views of the shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0522] Figure 137 This is a rear perspective view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment.

[0523] Figure 138 This is a front view of the shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0524] Figure 139 This is a front view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment.

[0525] Figure 140A This is a front perspective view of the insert associated with the shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0526] Figure 140B According to the embodiments Figure 140A The rear perspective view of the insert.

[0527] Figure 141 This is a front perspective view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment.

[0528] Figure 142A and 142B These are various perspective views of a shoulder SIP device surrounded by soft material according to an embodiment.

[0529] Figure 143A and 143B These are various perspective views of a headrest soft article having an integrated soft article associated with a shoulder SIP device, according to an embodiment.

[0530] Figure 144A This is a front view of a soft headrest article having cutouts for accommodating a shoulder SIP device, according to an embodiment.

[0531] Figure 144B It is installed on the embodiment. Figure 144A Front view of a child seat with a soft headrest.

[0532] Figure 145A-145E These are various views of a child seat system according to an embodiment, having at least one external SIP device in a forward, rearward, and intermediate configuration.

[0533] Figure 146A This is a perspective view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0534] Figure 146B According to the embodiments Figure 146A Front view of the external SIP device.

[0535] Figure 146C According to the embodiments Figure 146A Side view of the external SIP device.

[0536] Figure 147A and 147B It is installed in the child seat according to the embodiment. Figures 146A-146C Various perspective views of the external SIP device.

[0537] Figure 148A This is a perspective view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0538] Figure 148B According to the embodiments Figure 148A Rear view of the external SIP device.

[0539] Figure 148C According to the embodiments Figure 148A Plan view of the external SIP device.

[0540] Figure 149A This is a perspective view of the bracket surrounding the strap path opening of the child seat according to an embodiment.

[0541] Figure 149B It is operably connected to according to the embodiments. Figure 148A-148C External SIP device Figure 149A A perspective view of the support structure.

[0542] Figure 150 This is a perspective view of the interface between the external SIP device and the child seat according to an embodiment.

[0543] Figure 151A This is a perspective view of a child seat system having a removable seat portion and at least one torso SIP device according to an embodiment.

[0544] Figure 151B According to the embodiments Figure 151A Detailed view of the torso SIP device and surrounding soft materials.

[0545] Figure 152A-152B These are various views of a shoulder SIP device relative to a headrest arrangement including a head SIP device, according to an embodiment.

[0546] Figure 153 This is a perspective view of a child seat system having at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0547] This document provides a detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and methods by way of example and not limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0548] Now for reference Figure 1An example of a child seat system 20 according to an embodiment is shown. The child seat system 20 can be detachably secured to a vehicle seat, for example, via a latch or anchoring mechanism (not shown) (see [link]). Figure 55E This latching or anchoring system, often used, is sometimes referred to as a “lower anchor and tether for children,” such as a latching system. Alternatively or additionally, the child seat system 20 may be detachably secured to the vehicle seat via a vehicle harness (not shown) associated with the vehicle seat.

[0549] A child seat system 20 may include a support base or base 22 and a child seat 23 having a rigid seat housing 24 coupled to the support base 22, the seat housing 24 being adapted to receive a child. In one embodiment, the seat housing 24 is detachably connected to the support base 22, thereby allowing the seat housing 24 to be separated from the support base 22. Alternatively, the support base 22 and the seat housing 24 may be permanently connected or attached together. As used herein, the term "permanently connected" refers to embodiments where the seat housing 24 is not intended to be detached from the support base 22 by a user and may have an integral or non-detachable construction.

[0550] The seat housing 24 may include a seat portion 26 and a backrest or upright portion 28 arranged at an angle relative to the seat portion 26. The seat portion 26 and the upright portion 28 may be detachably connected, or alternatively, permanently connected. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the upright portion 28 and the seat portion 26 are integrally formed as a single unit. In another alternative aspect, the upright portion 28 may be rotatably connected to the seat portion 26, such that the upright portion 28 can tilt and recline relative to the seat portion 26.

[0551] As shown, the upright portion 28 of the seat housing 24 includes an upright support surface 30, which generally faces forward and extends from a first end or top 32 of the upright portion 28 to a second opposite end or bottom 34. A first upright side member 36 may be arranged at the first side 38 of the upright support surface 30, and a second upright side member 40 may be arranged at the second opposite side 42 of the upright support surface 30. Thus, the first upright side member 36 and the second upright side member 40 form the left and right sides of the upright portion 28, respectively. As shown, the first upright side member 36 and the second upright side member 40 extend forward from the upright support surface 30. The first upright side member 36 and the second upright side member 40 may extend substantially perpendicular to the upright support surface 30, or alternatively, may extend from the upright support surface at another angle, for example, an angle greater than 90° (therefore, the corresponding angle is, for example, at least 90°). Therefore, the upright support surface 30 and the first upright side member 36 and the second upright side member 40 define a backrest area or upright support cavity that receives the upper body of a child.

[0552] In embodiments where the child seat is a toddler seat, the upright side members 36, 40 facilitate proper positioning of the vehicle harness when the child seat system 20 is installed in the vehicle. In some embodiments, each upright side member 36, 40 has an opening 44 formed therein. The opening 44 may be configured to receive a vehicle seat belt (not shown) to secure the child seat system 20 to the vehicle seat in a forward-facing high-back configuration.

[0553] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the upright portion 28 of the seat housing 24 includes a headrest 46. The headrest 46 is attached to or integral with the upright portion 28. The headrest 46 may be fixed, or in some embodiments, it may be configured to move relative to the upright support surface 30. For example, the headrest 46 may be configured to translate relative to the upright support surface 30 between a vertically retracted position and a vertically extended position, thereby allowing adjustment based on the size of the child positioned within the child seat system 20.

[0554] Seat portion 26 includes a seat support surface 50, generally upward, extending from a first end or front portion 52 of seat portion 26 to a second end or rear portion 54. A first seat side member 56 may be disposed at a first side 58 of seat support surface 50, and a second seat side member 60 may be disposed at a second opposite side (not shown) of seat support surface 50. The first seat side member 56 and the second seat side member 60 extend upward and form the left and right sides of seat portion 26. The seat support surface 50 and the first seat side member 56 and the second seat side member 60 together define an area in which at least a portion of a child's lower body can be received.

[0555] As shown, seat side members 56 and 60 extend from seat support surface 50 at an angle. The angle of the first seat side member 56 relative to seat support surface 50 may be the same as the angle of the first upright side member 36 relative to upright support surface 30, but it is not necessary. Similarly, the angle of the second seat side member 60 relative to seat support surface 50 may be the same as the angle of the second upright side member 40 relative to upright support surface 30, but it is not necessary. In this embodiment, the first upright side member 36 and the first seat side member 56 are integrally formed with each other and integrally formed with seat housing 24, and the second upright side member 40 and the second seat side member 60 are integrally formed with each other and integrally formed with seat housing 24.

[0556] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each seat side member 56, 60 has a groove 66 formed therein, the groove being configured to act as a leg strap guide during at least one usage mode of the child seat 23. The groove 66 may be configured to receive and position a leg strap portion or a separate restraint strap of a vehicle restraint member to ensure that the child seat 23 is in a position such as… Figure 1The child seat system 20 is attached to the vehicle seat 10 in the forward-facing high-back configuration shown.

[0557] When the child seat 23 is attached to the support base 22, the child seat 23 can move relative to the support base 22. In embodiments, the child seat 23 can rotate relative to the support base 22 between various configurations. For example, the child seat 23 can rotate between a first rotational configuration (e.g., a configuration where the child seat 23 is in a forward position) and a second rotational configuration (e.g., a configuration where the child seat 23 is in a rearward position). However, it should be understood that embodiments in which the child seat 23 can be positioned in one or more additional configurations between the first and second rotational configurations are also within the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, embodiments in which the child seat 23 cannot rotate relative to the support base 22 are also covered herein.

[0558] Alternatively or additionally, the child seat 23 may be movable relative to the support base 22 to adjust the tilt of the child seat 23. The child seat 23 may move along a tilt path between a first position (e.g., an upright position) and a second position (e.g., a reclined position). However, it should be understood that both the first and second positions can be tilted positions with different degrees of tilt. This document also covers embodiments in which the child seat 23 can be positioned in any of a plurality of positions between the upright and reclined positions, as well as embodiments in which the tilt of the child seat 23 is not adjustable relative to the support base 22. It should be understood that this document refers to... Figure 1 The child seat system 20 shown and described is intended only as an example, and child seat systems 20 with other configurations are also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, although the child seat 23 of the child seat system 20 is shown and described as a toddler seat, in other embodiments, the child seat may be an infant car seat for children under 2 years of age, with a height of 35 inches or less and / or a weight of 40 pounds or less.

[0559] Child seat systems, such as child seat system 20, may include at least one side impact protection device. The at least one side impact protection (SIP) device may be removably attached to child seat system 20, for example, via double-sided tape, adhesive, or mechanical fasteners. Alternatively, at least one SIP device may be permanently attached to or integrated with it, such that the structure of child seat system 20 (e.g., seat housing 24 of child seat 23) and one or more SIP devices form a single integral component. As will be described in more detail below, one or more SIP devices may be installed at various locations around the support base 22 and / or child seat 23. For example, the SIP device may be located, for example, at the upright portion 28, seat portion 26, or headrest 46 of child seat 23. Additionally, such SIP devices may be arranged on the inner or outer surface of child seat 23.

[0560] The SIP device associated with a child seat system (e.g., child seat system 20) may be formed of a material with a stiffness less than that of the seat shell 24 or the support base 22. Using a material with reduced stiffness can facilitate the absorption of energy applied to the child seat system 20 during an accident, such as a side impact. In some embodiments, the stiffness of the material of the SIP device of the child seat system 20 is also greater than that of the soft material mounted around the seat shell 24 and / or headrest 46 to provide additional energy absorption beyond that of the soft material. In embodiments, the SIP device may be configured to have sacrificial features that are designed to break or deform during a collision to help absorb energy. In some embodiments, the SIP device or portions thereof may be formed of foam materials, such as expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polystyrene (EPS), and / or expanded polyolefin (EPO) with example densities of 30 g / l, 45 g / l, and 50 g / l. Various other materials and their specifications are also covered. It should be understood that any of these materials, or another material with reduced stiffness relative to the seat shell of the child seat, may be used in any exemplary embodiment of the SIP device described herein.

[0561] Continue to refer to Figure 1 In one embodiment, the child seat system 20 includes one or more SIP devices 70a, 70b that can be used to restrain or control the movement of the occupant's head during a side impact. Such head SIP devices 70a, 70b may be arranged in an area of ​​the child seat 23 surrounding or adjacent to the occupant's head. In one embodiment, at least one head SIP device 70a, 70b is associated with and mounted to the headrest 46 of the child seat 23. As discussed further below, in some embodiments, the child seat system 20 may include one or more additional SIP devices, such as shoulder SIP devices 72a, 72b, external SIP device 74, and / or torso SIP device (not shown).

[0562] It should be understood that the construction of a headrest (e.g., headrest 70) and its positioning relative to the child seat 23 can vary based on the orientation of the child seat 23 (e.g., relative to the vehicle or direction of travel). Headrests typically comprise a rigid body or structure with soft articles (such as padding, cushioning, fabric, etc.) positioned around one or more surfaces of the rigid body (e.g., surfaces of the rigid body accessible to the head of the child seat occupant). As will be described in more detail below, a headrest can be positioned adjacent to an inner surface of the headrest within the head-receiving area of ​​the headrest. Unless another arrangement is indicated, any embodiment described herein comprising a headrest that can be positioned at such an inner surface area should be understood as positioning the headrest generally between the structural body or housing of the headrest (e.g., a relatively rigid portion of the headrest) and the soft articles covering the headrest. Such a headrest can be attached to the structural body of the headrest or to the soft articles that can be positioned around it.

[0563] Now for reference Figure 2A and 2B The diagram illustrates a headrest 102 of a child seat 100, similar to a headrest 46 of a child seat 23. The headrest 102 includes a rear portion 104 with a headrest support surface 106 oriented, for example, generally parallel to the upright support surface (not shown) of the upright portion 110 of the child seat 100. Additionally, the headrest 102 includes at least one headrest side member. For example, a first headrest side member 112 may extend from a first side 114 of the rear portion 104, and a second headrest side member 116 may extend in the opposite direction from a second side 118 of the rear portion 104.

[0564] The first headrest side member 112 and the second headrest side member 116 include inward surfaces 120, 122. These inward surfaces 120, 122, combined with the headrest support surface 106 of the rear portion 104 of the headrest, form the inner surface of the headrest 102 and define the head receiving area 124 (see [link to article]). Figure 2BThe headrest support surface 106 may form the rear portion of the inner surface, while the inward surfaces 120 and 122 of the headrest side members 112 and 116 may form the first and second headrest side portions of the inner surface. In an embodiment, the headrest support surface 106 defines the rear portion of the head receiving region 124. The inward surfaces 120 and 122 extend from the headrest support surface 106 to the distal first front end 126a and second front end 126b, respectively. For example, the front ends 126a and 126b, disposed at the ends of the first headrest side member 112 and the second headrest side member 116, may define the front portion of the head receiving region 124. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the rear portion 104 of the headrest, the first headrest side member 112, and the second headrest side member 116 as described herein may refer to portions of the rigid body or structure of the headrest 102. Therefore, the soft article can be positioned to overlap with the inward surfaces 120 and 122 of the head receiving area 124 facing the rigid body of the corresponding headrest support surface 106 and the headrest side members 112 and 116.

[0565] When a passenger is seated in the child seat 100, the passenger's head is positioned within a head receiving area 124 between the inward surfaces 120, 122 of the headrest side members 112, 116, and the rear of the passenger's head is generally positioned close to or in contact with the headrest support surface 106. It should be understood that the headrest embodiments shown throughout the accompanying drawings may include similar rear and side members as described above with reference to the rear portion 104 and side portions 112, 116, respectively. These headrests, as shown throughout the drawings, may also include a head receiving area similar to that described above with reference to the head receiving area 124.

[0566] Headrest 102 may have at least one side impact protection portion disposed at any suitable location surrounding headrest 102. In embodiments, the head side impact protection (SIP) portion is located within head receiving region 124 of headrest 102, for example, between its rear and front portions. Embodiments including multiple side impact protection portions are also covered herein. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a first head SIP portion 130a is positioned near a first headrest side member 112, and a second head SIP portion 130b is disposed near a second headrest side member 116, on the opposite side of headrest 102. The head SIP portions 130a, 130b of headrest 102 may include a protrusion generally disposed on the inner surface of headrest 102 extending inward toward head receiving region 124. As will be described in more detail below, the head SIP portion (e.g., head SIP portions 130a, 130b) may include one or more head SIP devices, and in some embodiments, one of the head SIP devices may form a protrusion extending from the inner surface.

[0567] At least one head SIP device 132a, 132b can be arranged at any suitable location around the headrest. In an embodiment, the first head SIP device 132a is arranged at or near a first side portion of the inner surface of the headrest 102 (e.g., the first headrest side member 112), and the second head SIP device 132b is arranged at or near a second side portion of the inner surface of the headrest 102 (e.g., the second headrest side member 116). It should be understood that the function of the head SIP devices 132a, 132b and any other head SIP devices described herein can depend not only on the position of the head SIP devices 132a, 132b relative to the headrest 102, but also on the height and / or shape of the head SIP devices 132a, 132b. The construction of the first head SIP device 132a and the second head SIP device 132b can, but does not need to, be substantially the same. Furthermore, embodiments in which the headrest 102 contains only a single head SIP device or more than two SIP devices are also within the scope of this disclosure. At least one head SIP device 132a, 132b may be permanently or removably attached to the headrest 102, for example, attached to a portion of the inner surface of the headrest 102.

[0568] In an embodiment, such as Figure 2B As shown, at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b is located on or adjacent to the surface of the rigid body, for example, at a location between the rigid body and a soft article configured to overlap the rigid body. In such embodiments, at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b may be integrally formed with the rigid body, or alternatively, may be a separate component mounted to the rigid body. At least one head SIP device 132a, 132b may be directly mounted to the rigid body, or may be mounted to or formed within a soft article that can be connected to the rigid body. In other embodiments, at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b may be mounted on the outer surface of the soft article, such that at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b is positioned to directly contact the occupant's head. It should be understood that any other SIP device disclosed herein (e.g., referring to Figures 3-33B, 68A-69B, 82A-83, 117A-118B, 122A-124B, 129, and 132A-134D) can be arranged anywhere around the headrest as described herein.

[0569] exist Figure 3A-23EExamples of various head SIP devices are shown, such as those that can be positioned within the head SIP portion of a headrest, for example, similar to head SIP portions 130a, 130b, and will be described in more detail below. The head SIP device may extend to cover the entire height of the headrest, or alternatively, extend to cover only a portion of the height of the headrest. In embodiments, the height of the head SIP device, measured along its vertical axis, is at least 2 inches, and in some embodiments is at least about 2.5 inches, at least about 3 inches, at least about 3.5 inches, at least about 4 inches, at least about 4.5 inches, and at least about 5 inches.

[0570] Now for reference Figure 3A and Figure 3B The headrest 200 shown includes a first head SIP portion 201a, which includes a first head SIP device disposed at a first portion of the inner surface of the headrest 200 (e.g., disposed at the inward surface 212 of the first headrest side member 204). Furthermore, a second head SIP portion 201b may include a second head SIP device 202b, which is mounted to a second portion of the headrest 200 and positioned to overlap with the second portion of the headrest (e.g., the inward surface 214 of the second headrest side member 206). However, embodiments in which at least one head SIP device 202a, 202b is disposed at another portion of the headrest 200 (e.g., the rear portion 208) are also covered herein. At least one head SIP device 202a, 202b may have bases 210a, 210b that can be mounted to the inward surfaces 212, 214 of the first headrest side member 204 and / or the second headrest side member 206, respectively. At least one head SIP device 202a, 202b may alternatively or additionally have inwardly facing surfaces 216a, 216b facing the interior of the headrest 200. Base surfaces 210a, 210b may, but need not, have a profile complementary to one or more corresponding surfaces of the headrest 200. Furthermore, in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the profile of the outer periphery of at least one head SIP device 202a, 202b may differ from the corresponding portion of the headrest 200 on which the head SIP devices 202a, 202b are mounted. For example, as shown, the head SIP devices 202a, 202b may be a general rounded corner (square with rounded corners) shape, or they may be rectangular or rectangular with rounded corners.

[0571] In other embodiments, for example Figure 4A and Figure 4BAs shown in the headrest 300, the head SIP portion 301 of the headrest 300 may include a head SIP device 302 having a profile complementary to that of an adjacent portion of the headrest 300. As previously described, the headrest 300 may include a rear portion 304, a first headrest side member 306, and a second headrest side member 308. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 302 is positioned adjacent to the inner surface 310 of the second headrest side member 308. Therefore, the profile of the outer periphery of the head SIP device 302 may be similar to that of the inner surface 310 of the headrest side member 308, for example, equal in size and / or shape. In such an embodiment, the head SIP device 302 may be arranged substantially centrally around the headrest side member 308 and may be sized to cover or overlap with a large portion of the surface 310 of the headrest side member 308 extending between the lateral edge of the headrest support surface 312 at the rear portion 304 of the headrest 300 and the front end 314 of the headrest side member 308. In such embodiments, the outer periphery of the head SIP device 302 may be substantially flush with or aligned with one or more edges of, for example, the front end 314 of the headrest side member 308. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device may be disposed at another portion of the headrest 300, such as at the first headrest side member 306. In such embodiments, the configuration of the additional head SIP device may, but does not need to, be the same as that of the head SIP device 302 shown and described herein.

[0572] However, in other embodiments, such as using Figure 5A and 5B The headrest 400 shown has a head SIP portion 401. Figure 5B Only a portion of the head SIP device 402 may have a profile complementary to an adjacent portion of the headrest 400 (e.g., a headrest side member). As previously described, the headrest 400 may include a rear portion 404, a first headrest side member 406, and a second headrest side member (not shown). In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 402 is mounted to the inner surface 408 of the first headrest side member 406. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device may be arranged at another portion of the headrest 400, such as at the second headrest side member. In such embodiments, the configuration of the additional head SIP device may, but does not need to, be the same as the head SIP device 402 shown and described herein.

[0573] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, only the distal end 410 of the head SIP device 402 has a profile complementary to the corresponding end 412 of the headrest side member 406. In such an embodiment, the head SIP device 402a may extend to cover only a portion of the distance between the headrest support surface 414 of the rear portion 404 of the headrest 400 and the front end 412 of the headrest side member 406. Alternatively or additionally, the head SIP device 402 may extend to cover only a portion of the height of the headrest side member 406, for example, extending between its top 416 and bottom 418. However, in embodiments where the head SIP device 402 extends to cover only a portion of the headrest side member 406, the head SIP device 402 does not need to be arranged adjacent to the front end 412 of the headrest side member 406.

[0574] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the thickness of the first head SIP device 202a and the second head SIP device 202b is substantially uniform across the width of each head SIP device 202a, 202b (measured between the headrest support surface 209 and the front ends 220 of the headrest side members 204, 206). Therefore, when the head SIP devices 202a, 202b are mounted to the headrest 200, the inward surfaces 216 of the head SIP devices 202a, 202b are arranged relative to the headrest support surface 209 at substantially the same angle as the headrest side members 204, 206. The head SIP devices 202a, 202b are shown to be formed of a flexible or semi-rigid foam material. However, any suitable material configured to absorb energy is within the scope of this disclosure.

[0575] In some embodiments, the head SIP device of the child seat is configured to cause the occupant's head to roll in the event of a side impact. Figure 4A-5B In a non-limiting embodiment, the thickness of the corresponding head SIP devices 302, 402, as measured between the outward surface 420 and the inward surfaces 322, 422 of the head SIP devices 302, 402, can vary between the opposite ends of the head SIP devices 302, 402. Figures 4A-4B In the middle, the thickness of the head SIP device 302 is wedge-shaped, and the thickness of the head SIP device 302 gradually increases from the end closest to the headrest support surface 312 toward the front end 314 of the headrest side member 308.

[0576] The thickness of the head SIP device 302 across its width can be increased to achieve a desired angle of the inward surface 322 relative to the headrest support surface 312. In embodiments, the maximum thickness of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 302 is about 2 inches, and in some embodiments it is less than 1.5 inches, such as about 1¼ inches, about 1 inch, or about ½ inch. However, embodiments of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 302 having a maximum thickness greater than 2 inches are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0577] In other embodiments, for example Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the head SIP device 402 is wedge-shaped, and the thickness of the head SIP device 402 gradually decreases from the end closest to the headrest support surface 414 toward the front end 412 of the headrest side member 406. Therefore, the inward surface 422 of the head SIP device 402 gradually narrows outward away from the center of the headrest 400. In embodiments, the maximum thickness of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 402 is about 1 inch, and in some embodiments it is less than 1 inch, for example, about ¾ inch, about 0.5 inch, or about ¼ inch. However, embodiments of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 402 having a maximum thickness greater than 1 inch are also within the scope of this disclosure. Although the wedge-shaped head SIP devices 302, 402 are shown in the figures as being formed of expanded polystyrene, in other embodiments, the head SIP devices 302, 402 may be formed of other materials.

[0578] In embodiments, the headrest SIP device of the headrest described herein is configured to cause the occupant's head to roll in the event of a side impact, for example by defining a wavy recess associated with the head receiving area of ​​the headrest. Reference Figure 5A and Figure 5B A recess 432 associated with the head SIP device 402 may be positioned adjacent to the head SIP device 402. The recess 432 may be partially defined by the inward surface 422 of the head SIP device 402 and a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 412 of the headrest 400. Furthermore, the recess 432 may extend from a portion of the head SIP device 402 laterally closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 430 to the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 412 of the headrest 400. Figure 5A and Figure 5B In a non-limiting embodiment, the portion of the headrest SIP device 402 closest to the CLA is located at the intersection line L between the inward surface 422 and the rear portion 404. Therefore, the intersection line L is positioned closer to the rear portion than the front end 412 of the headrest 400.

[0579] The recess 430 can also be defined by a vertical plane extending from the intersecting line L toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 412. This vertical plane is... Figure 5AThe recess 432 is indicated by line 434. In this embodiment, line 434 is substantially parallel to the CLA orientation. At least in part due to this wedge-shaped or angled configuration of the headrest SIP device 402, the lateral dimension of the recess 432 gradually increases in the direction toward the front portion 412 of the headrest 400. The gradual decrease in the thickness of the headrest SIP device 402 and the corresponding increase in the resulting recess 432 facilitate forward roll of the occupant's head during a side impact event.

[0580] Furthermore, in the embodiments, such as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the head support device 502 associated with the headrest 500 may alternatively or additionally comprise a compressible material body, such as that shown in 504, for example, flexible foam. In the non-limiting embodiment shown in the figures, the compressible material body 504 is positioned immediately adjacent to the inward surface 506 of the head support device 502, such as a wedge-shaped member similar to 302. Although the compressible material body 504 is shown as being directly attached to the head support device 502, in other embodiments, such a body may be integrated into a soft article that can be positioned around the headrest 500 and the head support device 502. In addition to the padding of the soft article, the compressible material 504 may also provide cushioning for the occupant's head during a collision event. Although the compressible material body 504 is shown as being positioned adjacent to the head support device 502 disposed at a second headrest side member 510, it should be understood that such a body 504 may be arranged adjacent to another head support device positioned at another location around the headrest 500, such as adjacent to a first headrest side member 512. Alternatively or additionally, the compressible material body 504 may be located at any position relative to the headrest 500, including positions where the head SIP device is not present.

[0581] Now for reference Figure 7A-9B Embodiments of headrests 600, 700, 800 with head SIP devices 602, 702, 802 are shown, which can be mounted to both the headrest support surfaces 604, 704, 804 of the rear portions 606, 706, 806 and the inner surfaces 608, 708, 808 of the headrest side members 610, 710, 810. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device may be arranged at another portion of each headrest 600, 700, 800, for example at a second headrest side member. In such embodiments, the construction of the additional head SIP device may, but does not need to, be the same as the head SIP devices 602, 702, 802 shown and described herein.

[0582] In each embodiment, the SIP base 620, 720, 820 of the head SIP devices 602, 702, 802 may have a contour complementary to a portion of both the headrest support surfaces 604, 704, 804 and the surfaces 608, 708, 808 of the headrest side members 610, 710, 810. In such an embodiment, the head SIP devices 602, 702, 802 may extend to cover only a portion of the headrest side members 610, 710, 810 between the headrest support surfaces 604, 704, 804 and the front end 614 of the headrest side members 610, 710, 810.

[0583] exist Figure 7A and Figure 7B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the inward surface 622 of the head SIP device 602 has a smooth, continuous profile, for example, formed by curvature. However, in other embodiments, the inward surfaces 722, 822 of the head SIP devices 702, 802 may include one or more lateral impact protection portions or regions arranged at various angles relative to each other and relative to the headrest support surfaces 704, 804. Figure 8A and 8B as well as Figure 9A and 9B In a non-limiting embodiment, the inward surfaces 722, 822 include first side impact protection regions 724, 824 and second side impact protection regions 726, 826 arranged at a non-parallel angle to each other. The axial length of the first side impact protection regions 724, 824 may be the same as the axial length of the second side impact protection regions 726, 826. However, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection regions 724, 824 may have a longer axial length than the second side impact protection regions 726, 826, or the first side impact protection regions 724, 824 may have a shorter axial length than the second side impact protection regions 726, 826. In some embodiments, the first side impact protection regions 724, 824 are arranged at an obtuse angle relative to the second side impact protection regions 726, 826. As shown, the overall dimensions of the first side impact protection regions 724, 824 and the second side impact protection regions 726, 826, and the angle defined between them are... Figures 8A-8B Implementation examples and Figure 9A and 9B Variations exist between embodiments. The overall dimensions of the first side impact protection areas 724 and 824 may also be relatively larger or smaller than the overall dimensions of the second side impact protection areas 726 and 826.

[0584] In a collision, the movement of the occupant's head will be driven along a path defined by the inward surfaces 622, 722, 822 of the head SIP devices 602, 702, 802. In embodiments where the inward surfaces include multiple side impact protection areas, the movement of the occupant's head will be driven from the first side impact protection area 724, 824 to the second side impact protection area 726, 826.

[0585] refer to Figure 7A and Figure 7B The inward surface 622 can extend continuously from the headrest support surface 604 of the headrest 600 to the surface 608 of the headrest side member 610. For example... Figure 7A As shown, the recess 630 may be at least partially defined within the head receiving region 628 by the head SIP device 602. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the recess 630 is partially defined by the inward surface 622 of the head SIP device 602 and by a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 612 of the headrest 600. Furthermore, the recess 630 may extend from a portion of the head SIP device 602 that is laterally closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 628 to the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 612 of the headrest 600. Figure 7A and Figure 7B In a non-limiting embodiment, the portion of the head SIP device 602 closest to the CLA is located at the intersection line L0 between the inward surface 622 and the headrest support surface 604 of the rear portion 606. Figure 7A Therefore, the intersecting line L0 is positioned closer to the rear portion 606 than the front end 612 of the headrest 600. The recess 630 can also be defined by a vertical plane extending from the intersecting line L0 toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 12. Figure 7A The vertical plane represented by line 632 can be substantially parallel to the CLA orientation.

[0586] refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B In a non-limiting embodiment of the headrest 700's head SIP device 702, the inward surface 722 may include a first side impact protection region 724 arranged closest to the rear portion 706 of the headrest 700 and a second side impact protection region 726 extending from the first side impact protection region 724 toward the front end (not shown) of the headrest 700. The first side impact protection region 724 may extend along... Figure 8A The vertical intersecting line, represented by L1, converges with the second side impact protection area 726. The intersecting line L1 can be arranged at any suitable angle relative to the rear portion 706. In an embodiment, the intersecting line L1 is the portion of the head SIP device 702 positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 728 (in the lateral direction).

[0587] The recess 730 is at least partially defined within the head receiving region 728 of the headrest 700 by the head SIP device 702. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the recess 730 extends from the intersection line L1 toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edge of the front end (not shown) of the headrest 700. The plane of the recess 730 extending between the intersection line L1 and the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end (shown at P1) may be coplanar with the first side impact protection region 724. The recess 730 may also be defined by a second side impact protection region 726 of the inward surface 722 and a surface 708 of the headrest side member 710 extending between the edge of the second side impact protection region 726 and the front end of the headrest 700.

[0588] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, by Figure 8A The vertical plane represented by axis X1 extends from the front end and is positioned to be tangent to the inward surface 722 at the intersection line L1 between the first side impact protection area 724 and the second side impact protection area 726. Axis X1 intersects the headrest support surface 704 at the intersection point I1. In an embodiment, the distance between the headrest support surface 704 and the intersection line L1, measured along axis X1, is shorter than the distance between the intersection line L1 and the front end of the headrest 700, measured along axis X1.

[0589] refer to Figure 9A and Figure 9B The inward surface 822 of the headrest SIP device 802 shown similarly includes a first lateral impact protection region 824 adjacent to the headrest support surface 804 and a second lateral impact protection region 826 extending from the first lateral impact protection region 824 toward the front end 814 of the headrest 800. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the inward surface 822 further includes a third lateral impact protection region 828 extending from the edge of the second lateral impact protection region 826. Although the third lateral impact protection region 828 is shown extending substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 808 of the headrest side member 810, embodiments in which the third lateral impact protection region 828 is angled toward the front portion 814 of the headrest 800 are also covered herein. The first lateral impact protection region 824 may extend along the front end 814 of the headrest 800. Figure 9A The first vertical intersecting line, represented by L2a, converges with the second side impact protection area 826, and the second side impact protection area 826 can converge with the third side impact protection area 828 along the second vertical intersecting line, represented by L2b. The intersecting line L2a of the head SIP device 802 can be laterally positioned as the central longitudinal axis CLA closest to the head receiving area 832.

[0590] The recess 830 is at least partially defined within the head receiving region 832 of the headrest 800, between the head SIP device 802 and the front portion 814 of the headrest 800. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the recess 830 extends from a first intersecting line L2a toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edge of the front end 814 of the headrest 800. This plane, represented by line P2, extending between the intersecting line L2a and the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 814, may be coplanar with the first side impact protection region 824. The recess 830 may also be defined by the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 814 of the headrest 800, the second side impact protection region 826 and the third side impact protection region 828 of the inward surface 822, and the surface 808 of the headrest side member 810 extending between the edge of the third side impact protection region 828 and the front end 814 of the headrest 800.

[0591] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, by Figure 9A The vertical plane represented by axis X2 extends from the front end 814 and is positioned to be tangent to the inward surface 822 at the first intersection line L2a. Axis X2 intersects the headrest support surface 804 at intersection point I2. In this embodiment, the distance between the headrest support surface 804 and the first intersection line L2a, measured along axis X2, is shorter than the distance between the intersection line L2a and the front end 814, measured along axis X2.

[0592] Figure 2A-9B Each embodiment shown discloses at least one head SIP device formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material (e.g., expanded polystyrene). However, references... Figure 10A-11C In other embodiments, head SIP devices 902, 1002 associated with the headrests 901, 1001 of the child seats 900, 1000 and their side impact protection portions 903, 1003 can be formed of flexible or elastic materials. In embodiments, one or more head SIP devices 902, 1002 disposed at the illustrated head SIP portions 903, 1003 are or include structurally modifiable bodies that can be transformed into different configurations via changes in shape and / or structure. Examples of structurally modifiable bodies include, but are not limited to, inflatable balloons or airbags. Structurally modifiable bodies 902, 1002 can be filled with fluids, such as liquids or air.

[0593] Similar to previously disclosed embodiments, headrests 901, 1001 may include rear portions 904, 1004, first headrest side members 906, 1006, and second headrest side members 908, 1008. Outer surfaces 910, 1010 of structurally modifiable bodies 902, 1002 may be permanently or removably attached to a portion of headrests 901, 1001, such as the inner surfaces 912, 1012 of headrest side members 908, 1008. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device may be arranged at another portion of each headrest 901, 1001, such as at the first headrest side member 906, 1006. In such embodiments, the construction of the additional head SIP device may, but does not need to, be the same as the head SIP devices 902, 1002 shown and described herein.

[0594] When inflated, the structurally modifiable bodies 902, 1002 protrude from the internal surfaces 912, 1012 of the headrest side members 908, 1008. Furthermore, the structurally modifiable bodies 902, 1002 can be elastically deformable to absorb energy applied to them during a collision event. As will be described in more detail below, the structurally modifiable bodies 902, 1002 can be permanently inflated or padded. Alternatively, the structurally modifiable bodies 902, 1002 can switch between a deflated or retracted configuration and an inflatable or extended configuration, for example, when an occupant is present within the child seat 900, 1000.

[0595] like Figure 11A-11C As shown, in this embodiment, the outline of the head SIP device 1002 is generally complementary to a portion of the headrest 1001 that overlaps with the head SIP device 1002. For example, a portion 1014 of the head SIP device 1002 located near the front end 1016 and bottom 1018 of the headrest side member 1008 may have a generally circular outline, and a portion 1020 of the headrest upright support surface 1022 of the head SIP device 1002, positioned closest to the rear portion 1004, may have a generally linear outline. Figures 10A-10C In another embodiment shown, the head SIP device 902 has a substantially circular configuration. As shown, head SIP devices 902, 1002 can be positioned to substantially overlap with a large portion of the headrest side members 908, 1008. The outlines of the head SIP devices 902, 1002 formed via a structurally modifiable body (e.g., a balloon or airbag) described herein are intended only as examples. It should be understood that any other configuration of the head SIP device described herein (e.g., regarding...) Figure 2A-9B The aforementioned alternative terrain can become a structure with the previously described shape in at least one construction of the main body, which can modify the main body.

[0596] although Figure 2B-11CEach embodiment shows only a single head SIP device in any given area of ​​the headrest, but in embodiments, multiple head SIP devices may be arranged in the same area of ​​the headrest, such as in the rear portion of the headrest or at corresponding side members. For example, in Figure 12A and Figure 12B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 are associated with or mounted to the same headrest side member 1106 of the headrest 1100. In such an embodiment, the material, profile, shape, and / or stiffness of the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 may be the same, or alternatively, may be different. In fact, the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 may contain the material, profile, shape, and / or stiffness of any other head SIP device shown and discussed herein. Furthermore, such a first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 may be mounted to the headrest 1100 independently of each other.

[0597] In this embodiment, the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 are both part of a single head SIP portion 1101. Although the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 are shown and described at the respective headrest side members 1106, it should be understood that in other embodiments, another first head SIP device 1102 and second head SIP device 1104 may be arranged at another portion of the headrest 1100, for example at the opposite headrest side members (not shown). In such embodiments, the construction of the first head SIP device 1102 may, but does not need to, be the same and / or the construction of the second head SIP device 1104 may, but does not need to, be the same.

[0598] In embodiments that include multiple head SIP devices (e.g., head SIP device 1102 and head SIP device 1104) arranged on a single surface of the headrest 1100, the recess 1110 (see...) Figure 12A The head receiving area 1112 of the headrest 1100 may be at least partially defined by a plurality of head SIP devices 1102, 1104. As shown, each of the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 has a corresponding inward surface 1120, 1122. Although the inward surfaces 1120, 1122 are shown to have a generally planar configuration, this document also covers at least one of the inward surfaces 1120, 1122 having a plurality of side impact protection areas (e.g., as described above). Figure 7A-9BThe recess 1110 may be defined by a plane that connects a portion of the inward surface 1120, laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the headrest 1100, to the end of the second headrest 1104, positioned closest to the first headrest 1102. The recess 1110 may also be defined by the surface of the end 1124 of the first headrest 1102 facing the second headrest 1104, the end 1126 of the second headrest 1104 facing the first headrest 1102, and the surface of the headrest side member 1106 extending therebetween.

[0599] In the previously described embodiments, the head SIP devices located at or adjacent to different portions of the headrest (e.g., opposing headrest side members) are separate devices individually mounted thereon. However, in other embodiments, multiple head SIP devices may be integrally formed into a single unit, referred herein as a head SIP assembly. For example, in Figures 13A-13E In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the head SIP assembly 1202 includes a head SIP device 1204a that can be positioned at or adjacent to a first headrest side member 1206, another head SIP device 1204b that can be positioned at or adjacent to a second headrest side member 1208, and a connector member 1210 connecting the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b. In such an embodiment, the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b arranged at opposite headrest side members 1206 and 1208 may be substantially the same or may vary.

[0600] It should be understood that, for example, the head SIP assembly 1202 may be associated with one or more head SIP portions of a headrest. For example, the headrest 1201 may include a first head SIP portion 1230a arranged near a first headrest side member 1206 and a second head SIP portion 1230b arranged near a second headrest side member 1208. When the head SIP assembly 1202 is mounted within the head receiving region 1228 of the headrest 1201, a first head SIP device 1204a of the head SIP assembly 1202 may be arranged within the first head SIP portion 1230a and form at least a portion of the first head SIP portion, and a second head SIP device 1204b may be arranged within the second head SIP portion 1230b and form at least a portion of the second head SIP portion.

[0601] As shown in the figures, the head SIP assembly 1202 described herein can be configured as an insert that is removably connected to the child seat 1200 or alternatively permanently connected to the child seat 1200. The head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b of the head SIP assembly 1202 can be formed of at least one material, and the connector member 1210 can be formed of a different material than the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b. However, embodiments in which the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b and the connector member 1210 are formed of the same material are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0602] In one embodiment, connector member 1210 includes a body portion 1212 of a headrest support surface 1223 that can be positioned adjacent to the rear portion 1214 of headrest 1201, and two side portions 1216, 1218 that can be positioned to overlap with each headrest side member 1206, 1208, respectively. In such an embodiment, the outer surface of head SIP assembly 1202 may include a profile complementary to one or more surfaces of headrest 1201 to which head SIP assembly 1202 is connectable. For example, the outer surface of head SIP assembly 1202 may be shaped to match the surface of headrest support surface 1223, the surface of first headrest side member 1206 and / or the surface of second headrest side member 1208, and contact each of the surfaces of headrest support surface 1223, first headrest side member 1206 and second headrest side member 1208. However, this document also covers embodiments in which the connector member 1210 is configured to contact only a portion of the headrest 1201 (e.g., one or more of the headrest support surfaces) and the two headrest side members.

[0603] exist Figures 13A-13E In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each head SIP device 1204a, 1204b of the head SIP assembly 1202 may extend from the body portion 1212 of the connector member 1210 to cover most or even the entire length of the side portions 1216, 1218 of the head SIP assembly 1202. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b extend to or substantially extend to the front ends 1234a, 1234b of the side portions 1216, 1218. It should be understood that when the head SIP assembly 1202 is mounted around the headrest 1201, the ends of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b may be flush with the front ends 1233a, 1233b of the headrest 1201, or alternatively, may be offset therefrom by a distance. The outward surfaces 1220a, 1220b of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b may be complementary to and abut against the side portions 1216, 1218, and in some embodiments, complementary to and abut against the body portion 1212 of the connector member 1210. For example... Figure 13D and Figure 13E As shown, the inward surfaces 1222a, 1222b of the headrest SIP devices 1204a, 1204b can be defined by a plurality of different lateral impact protection regions arranged at different angles relative to the headrest support surface 1223. The first lateral impact protection regions 1224a, 1224b of each inward surface 1222a, 1222b are positioned closest to the body portion 1212 of the connector member 1210, and in some embodiments, are adjacent to said body portion. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first lateral impact protection regions 1224a, 1224b are oriented substantially perpendicular to the body portion 1212 and the headrest support surface 1223.

[0604] As shown in the figure, second side impact protection regions 1226a and 1226b extending from the first side impact protection regions 1224a and 1224b to the ends of the side portions 1216 and 1218 can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection regions 1224a and 1224b. In an embodiment, the angle α between the first side impact protection regions 1224a and 1224b and the corresponding second side impact protection regions 1226a and 1226b is an obtuse angle. As shown in the figure, the thickness at the second side impact protection regions 1226a and 1226b of the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b can gradually decrease towards the front end 1230 of the head SIP assembly 1202. The angle α and the thickness variation form an outward slope that adds a gap defined relative to the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b along the length of the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b.

[0605] In an embodiment, each of the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b may form a recess 1232a and 1232b within the head receiving region 1228 of the headrest 1201, for example, between the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b and the front ends 1234a and 1234b of the headrest 1201. The first side impact protection regions 1224a and 1224b may be adjacent to the second side impact protection regions 1226a and 1226b at the intersection lines represented by L3a and L3b, respectively. The intersection lines L3a and L3b may be opposite portions of the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b, laterally positioned to be closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 1228. Each recess 1232a, 1232b extends from corresponding generally vertically oriented intersecting lines L3a, L3b toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1234a, 1234b of the headrest side members 1206, 1208. The plane of each recess 1232a, 1232b extending from the intersecting lines L3a, L3b toward the plane containing the front ends 1233a, 1233b indicated by lines P3a and P3b may be coplanar with the first side impact protection surfaces 1224a, 1224b of each corresponding head SIP device 1204a, 1204b. The recesses 1232a, 1232b may also be defined by second side impact protection areas 1226a, 1226b and a plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1233a, 1233b.

[0606] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, by Figure 13E The vertical plane represented by axis X3a extends from the front end 1233a of the headrest side member 1206 or the front end 1234a of the side portion 1216, and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1222a at the intersection line L3a. Axis X3a may intersect the headrest support surface 1204 at the intersection position I3a. Similarly, the vertical plane represented by axis X3b extends from the front end 1233b of the headrest side member 1208 or the front end 1234b of the side portion 1218, and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1222b at the intersection line L3b. Axis X3b may intersect the headrest support surface 1204 at the intersection position I3b. In the embodiment, measured along the corresponding axes X3a and X3b, the distance between the headrest support surface 1204 and the intersecting lines L3a and L3b is less than the distance between the intersecting lines L3a and L3b and the front ends 1234a and 1234b of the headrest side members 1206 and 1208.

[0607] Figure 14Another embodiment of a head SIP assembly 1302 mounted to a headrest 1301 is shown. Similar to the previous embodiment, the head SIP assembly 1302 includes a connector member 1306 having a body portion 1308, a first side portion 1310, and a second side portion 1312, as well as head SIP devices 1304a and 1304b. Head SIP devices 1304a and 1304b are respectively arranged adjacent to the first side portion 1310 and the second side portion 1312 of the connector member 1306, as previously described. When the head SIP assembly 1302 is mounted to the headrest 1301, the first side portion 1310 may be arranged at or adjacent to the first headrest side member 1314, the second side portion 1312 may overlap with the second headrest side member 1316, and the body portion 1308 is arranged at the headrest support surface of the rear portion 1318 of the headrest 1301. Figure 14 In the non-limiting embodiments shown, each head SIP device 1304a, 1304b of the head SIP assembly 1302 may extend from the body portion 1308 of the connector member 1306 to cover at least half the length of the side portions 1310, 1312 of the head SIP assembly 1302, and in some embodiments, the extension covers substantially the entire length of the side portions 1310, 1312 of the head SIP assembly 1302. However, the length of the side portions 1310, 1312 of the connector member 1306 may be equal to or different from the length of the corresponding headrest side members 1314, 1316.

[0608] Similar to previous embodiments, each head SIP device 1304a, 1304b includes inward surfaces 1320a, 1320b, which include first side impact protection regions 1322a, 1322b positioned closest to the body portion 1308 of the connector member 1306, and second side impact protection regions 1324a, 1324b extending forward away from the first side impact protection regions 1322a, 1322b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first side impact protection regions 1322a, 1322b are arranged at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the body portion 1308. In the embodiment, the angle β between the body portion 1308 and the first side impact protection regions 1322a, 1322b can be between approximately 65 degrees and approximately 85 degrees. The second side impact protection regions 1324a, 1324b extending from the first side impact protection regions 1322a, 1322b at the intersection lines L4a, L4b can have a curved configuration, such as a concave curvature. Therefore, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1304a and 1304b gradually decreases towards the front end 1326a and 1326b of the headrest 1301 on the second side impact protection areas 1324a and 1324b. The intersecting lines L4a and L4b can be the portions (in the lateral direction) where the head SIP devices 1304a and 1304b are positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1328.

[0609] In an embodiment, each of the head-mounted SIP devices 1304a, 1304b may form a recess 1330a, 1330b within the head-receiving region 1328 of the headrest 1201 for guiding the movement of the occupant's head during a side impact event. Each recess 1330a, 1330b extends from corresponding intersecting lines L4a, L4b toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1326a, 1326b of the headrest side members 1314, 1316. The plane extending from the intersecting lines L4a, L4b toward the plane (represented by lines P4a and P4b) that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1326a, 1326b of the recesses 1330a, 1330b may be coplanar with the first side impact protection surfaces 1322a, 1322b of each corresponding head-mounted SIP device 1304a, 1304b. The recesses 1330a and 1330b may also be defined by the second side impact protection areas 1324a and 1324b and by the surface of at least one of the side portions 1310 and 1312 extending between the edges of the respective second side impact protection areas 1324a and 1324b and the front ends 1326a and 1326b of the headrest 1301 and the headrest side members 1314 and 1316.

[0610] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a vertical plane represented by axis X4a, starting from the front end 1326a of the headrest side member 1314, is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1320a at the intersection line L4a. Furthermore, axis X4a may intersect the headrest support surface 1304 or the adjacent body portion 1308 of the connector member 1306 at the intersection point I4a. Another vertical plane, represented by axis X4b, extends from the front end 1326b of the headrest side member 1316 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1320b at the intersection line L4b. Axis X4b may intersect the headrest support surface 1304 or the adjacent body portion 1308 at the intersection point I5b. In the embodiment, measured along the corresponding axes X4a and X4b, the distance between the headrest support surface 1304 and the intersecting lines L4a and L4b is less than the distance between the intersecting lines L5a and L5b and the front ends 1326a and 1326b of the headrest side members 1314 and 1316.

[0611] Now for reference Figures 15A-15E Another example of a head SIP assembly 1402 with head SIP devices 1404a and 1404b is shown. Head SIP devices 1404a and 1404b are respectively arranged adjacent to a first side portion 1408 and a second side portion 1410 of a connector member 1406 of the head SIP assembly 1402. The connector member 1406 also includes a body portion 1416 connecting the first side portion 1408 and the second side portion 1410. As shown, the head SIP assembly 1402 can be positioned adjacent to a headrest 1401 such that the first side portion 1408 is disposed at or adjacent to a first headrest side member 1412, the second side portion 1410 is disposed at or adjacent to a second headrest side member 1414, and the body portion 1416 is disposed at a headrest support surface 1418 of the rear portion 1420 of the headrest 1401.

[0612] Each head SIP device 1404a, 1404b includes inward surfaces 1420a, 1420b, which include first side impact protection regions 1422a, 1422 positioned closest to the body portion 1416 and second side impact protection regions 1424a, 1424b extending forward away from the first side impact protection regions 1422a, 1422. As shown, the first side impact protection regions 1422a, 1422 may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the body portion 1416 of the connector member 1406 and the headrest support surface 1418. The second side impact protection regions 1424a, 1424b extending from the first side impact protection regions 1422a, 1422 may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection regions 1422a, 1422. In an embodiment, the angle α between the first side impact protection regions 1422a, 1422 and the second side impact protection regions 1424a, 1424b (see [reference]). Figure 15E ) is an obtuse angle (e.g., greater than 90 degrees).

[0613] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b are mounted near the rear of head SIP assembly 1402, for example at the interface between the body portion 1416 and the side portions 1408, 1410 of connector member 1406. Each head SIP device 1404a, 1404b may extend to cover only a portion of the length of each side portion 1408, 1410 and / or headrest side member 1412, 1414. As shown, head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b may extend to the center of the side portions 1408, 1410 and / or headrest side members 1412, 1414. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 1404a, 1404b extends to cover less than half the length of the corresponding side portion 1408, 1410. However, embodiments in which at least one head SIP device 1404a, 1404b is longer or shorter are also covered herein.

[0614] Due to the positioning and construction of the head SIP devices 1404a and 1404b, the side portions 1408 and 1410 of the connector member 1406 can extend beyond the ends of the head SIP devices 1404a and 1404b toward the front end of the headrest 1401, as shown in the figure. In other embodiments, the ends of the side portions 1408 and 1410 of the connector member 1406 can be flush with the head SIP devices 1404a and 1404b. Figures 15A-15EAs shown, the lengths of the side portions 1408 and 1410 of the connector member 1406 can be equal to those of the headrest side members 1412 and 1414. However, in other embodiments, the side portions 1408 and 1410 will be shorter than the headrest side members 1412 and 1414. Therefore, in this configuration, the headrest side members 1412 and 1414 will extend beyond the side portions 1408 and 1410 of the connector member 1406.

[0615] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 1404a forms a first recess 1430a within the head receiving region 1428, and the head SIP device 1404b forms a second recess 1430b within the head receiving region 1428. The first side impact protection regions 1422a and 1422b can be respectively located within L5a and L5b (…). Figure 15C The generally vertical intersection line L5a, L5b is adjacent to the second side impact protection areas 1424a, 1424b of each head SIP device 1401a, 1404b. The intersection lines L5a, L5b may be the portion of the head SIP device 1404a, 1404b laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1428.

[0616] The first recess 1430a is partially defined by a second side impact protection area 1424a and a plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1432a, 1432b of the headrest side members 1412, 1414. The first recess 1430a may also be partially defined by a side portion 1408 extending between the edge of the corresponding second side impact protection area 1424a and the front end 1432a, or by the surface of the headrest side member 1412. The recess 1430a may also be defined by a plane represented by a line P5a extending laterally from the intersecting line L6a to the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1432a, 1432b of the headrest side members 1412, 1414. This plane extending from the intersecting line L5a toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1432a may be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 1422a of the head SIP device 1404a.

[0617] Similarly, the second recess 1430b extends from the intersecting line L6b toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1432a, 1432b of the headrest side members 1412, 1414. The plane of the recess 1430b, indicated by line P5b, extending laterally from the intersecting line L5b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1432b, can be coplanar with the first side impact protection region 1422b of the head SIP device 1404b. The recess 1430b can also be defined by the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1432a, 1432b, the second side impact protection region 1424b, and the surface of at least one of the side portions 1410 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection region 1424b and the front end 1432b and the headrest side member 1414.

[0618] refer to Figure 15C A vertical plane, represented by axis X5a, extends from the front end 1432a of the headrest side member 1412 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1420a at the intersection line L5a. Furthermore, axis X5a may intersect the headrest support surface 1404 or the adjacent main body portion 1416 of the connector member 1406 at the intersection location I5a. Another vertical plane, represented by axis X5b, extends from the front end 1432b of the headrest side member 1414 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1420b at the intersection line L5b. Axis X5b may intersect the headrest support surface 1404 or the adjacent main body portion 1416 at the intersection location I5b. In the embodiment, the distance between the intersection points I5a and I5b and the intersection lines L5a and L5b is less than the distance between the intersection lines L5a and L5b and the front ends 1432a and 1432b of the headrest side members 1412 and 1414.

[0619] It should be understood that Figure 5A-9B and Figure 12A-15E Each of the disclosed embodiments includes a head SIP device positioned at or adjacent to the rear portion of the headrest. Embodiments where the head SIP device is located at the main body portion of the head SIP assembly can similarly be considered as being positioned adjacent to the rear portion of the headrest. A head SIP device with this configuration defines a recess extending between at least one surface of the head SIP device and the front portion of the headrest within the head receiving region of the headrest.

[0620] Now for reference Figures 16A-16E In embodiments where the head SIP device is spaced apart from or offset from the front of the headrest (e.g., the rear facing the head receiving area), a recess is also configured to define a recess within the head receiving area of ​​the headrest. Figures 16A-16EThe headrest 1501 shown includes a head SIP assembly 1502 comprising head SIP devices 1504a and 1504b. Head SIP devices 1504a and 1504b are respectively arranged adjacent to a first side portion 1508 and a second side portion 1510 of a connector member 1506 of the head SIP assembly 1502. The connector member 1506 further includes a body portion 1512 connecting the first side portion 1508 and the second side portion 1510. Similar to previous embodiments, the head SIP assembly 1502 may be positioned adjacent to the headrest 1501 such that the first side portion 1508 is disposed at or adjacent to a first headrest side member 1514, the second side portion 1510 is disposed at or adjacent to a second headrest side member 1516, and the body portion 1512 is disposed at the headrest support surface 1518 of the rear portion 1519 of the headrest 1501.

[0621] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first head SIP device 1504a and the second head SIP device 1504b of the headrest SIP assembly 1502 can be considered to be mounted, for example, near the front portions 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501 via the connector member 1506. This configuration of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b is particularly suitable for embodiments in which the child seat 1500 is oriented forward relative to the vehicle seat. As shown, the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b can be positioned at or near the front ends 1511a, 1511b of the side portions 1508, 1510 of the connector member 1506. The head SIP devices 1504a and 1504b can extend from the center of the side portions 1508, 1510 to the front ends 1511a and 1511b, respectively. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 1504a, 1504b extends to cover less than half the length of the corresponding side portions 1508, 1510. However, embodiments in which at least one head SIP device 1504a, 1504b is longer or shorter are also covered herein.

[0622] The outward surfaces 1520a, 1520b of the corresponding head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b may be parallel to and mounted to the corresponding side portions 1508, 1510 of the connector member 1506. The inward surfaces 1522a, 1522b of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b may be defined by a plurality of different side impact protection regions arranged at different angles relative to the headrest support surface 1518. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, surfaces 1522a, 1522b include first side impact protection regions 1524a, 1524b oriented parallel to or substantially parallel to the body portion 1512 of the connector member 1506 and the headrest support surface 1518. In other embodiments, the first side impact protection regions 1524a, 1524b may be arranged at an angle β between 3 degrees and 30 degrees relative to the body portion 1512. The second side impact protection areas 1526a and 1526b of the inward surfaces 1522a and 1522b extending from the first side impact protection areas 1524a and 1524b may have a generally circular or curved profile, such as a convex curvature. In an embodiment, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1504a and 1504b may gradually decrease from the first side impact protection areas 1524a and 1524b toward the corresponding front ends 1511a and 1511b of the head SIP assembly 1502. The first side impact protection areas 1524a and 1524b may be adjacent to the adjacent second side impact protection areas 1526a and 1526b at a generally vertically oriented intersection line, shown as L6a and L6b. The intersection lines L6a and L6b may be portions of the head SIP devices 1504a and 1504b laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1528.

[0623] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a recess is formed in the head receiving region between the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b and the front portions 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501. For example... Figure 16EAs shown, each recess 1530a, 1530b extends from a portion of the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b positioned closest to the head receiving region 1528 to a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the portion of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA is the corresponding intersecting lines L6a, L6b. The planes (represented by lines 1540a, 1540b) defining the sides of the recesses 1530a, 1530b extending laterally from the inner edge of the front portion 1503a, 1503b can be parallel to the central longitudinal axis CLA. The recesses 1530a and 1530b may also be defined by at least one of a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1503a and 1503b of the headrest 1501, a second side impact protection area 1526 and 1526b, and a side portion 1508 and 1510 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection area 1526 and 1526b and the front portion 1503a and 1503b of the headrest 1501, and a headrest side member 1514 and 1516.

[0624] like Figure 16C As shown, a vertical plane represented by axis X6a extends from the front portion 1503a of the headrest 1501 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1522a at the intersection line L6a, and another vertical plane represented by axis X6b extends from the front portion 1503b of the headrest 1501 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1522b at the intersection line L6b. Axes X6a and X6b intersect with the adjacent body portion 1512 of the headrest support surface 1504 or connector member 1506 at intersection points I6a and I6b, respectively. In this embodiment, the distance between the intersection points I6a and I6b of each head SIP device 1504a and 1504b and the intersection lines L6a and L6b is greater than the distance between the intersection lines L6a and L6b and the front portions 1503a and 1503b of the headrest 1501.

[0625] exist Figures 17A-17EAnother embodiment of a head SIP assembly 1602 that can be mounted to a headrest 1601 of a child seat 1600 is shown. Similar to previous embodiments, a first head SIP device 1604a and a second head SIP device 1604b are mounted at the end of a connector member 1606, for example, at or near the front end 1608 of the side portions 1610, 1612 of the connector member 1606. In this embodiment, when the head SIP assembly 1602 is mounted around the headrest 1601, the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b are positioned at or near the front portion 1603 of the headrest 1601. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 1604a, 1604b extends to cover less than half the length of the respective side portions 1610, 1612. However, embodiments in which at least one head SIP device 1604a, 1604b is longer or shorter are also covered herein.

[0626] The surfaces 1620a and 1620b of the head SIP devices 1604a and 1604b can be positioned to contact and be parallel to the side portions 1610 and 1612 of the connector member 1606. According to this embodiment, the inward surfaces 1622a and 1622b of the head SIP devices 1604a and 1604b include first side impact protection regions 1624a and 1624b positioned closest to the body portion 1614 of the connector member 1606, and second side impact protection regions 1626a and 1626b located near the corresponding front ends 1608a and 1608b of the connector member 1606.

[0627] The first side impact protection regions 1624a, 1624b may be oriented at a non-parallel angle relative to the corresponding side portions 1610, 1612 of the connector member 1606 and the body portion 1614 extending between and connecting the side portions 1610, 1612. In one embodiment, the first side impact protection regions 1624a, 1624b extend relatively inward away from the corresponding side portions 1610, 1612. However, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection regions 1624a, 1624b of the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b may have a curved configuration, such as a concave or convex curvature or configuration. The second side impact protection regions 1626a, 1626b of the inward surfaces 1622a, 1622b extend from the first side impact protection regions 1624a, 1624b and are arranged at an angle relative to the first side impact protection regions. In embodiments, the second side impact protection regions 1626a, 1626b are oriented substantially perpendicular to the main body portion 1614, or alternatively or additionally, are arranged substantially parallel to the adjacent side portions 1610, 1612 of the connector member 1606. However, embodiments in which the second side impact protection regions 1626a, 1626b are arranged at a non-parallel angle (e.g., an acute angle) are also covered herein. As shown, the distance between the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b decreases substantially toward the front end 1603 of the headrest.

[0628] Now for reference Figures 18A-18E Another embodiment of the headrest 1701 and head SIP assembly 1702 of the child seat 1700 is shown. Similar to Figures 17A-17EIn one embodiment, the head SIP assembly 1702 includes a first head SIP device 1704a and a second head SIP device 1704b located at the distal end of the connector member 1706, for example near the front ends 1708a, 1708b of the respective side portions 1709, 1710. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the contours of the inward surfaces 1720a, 1720b of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b may vary between the relative tops 1712a, 1712b and bottoms 1714a, 1714b of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b. For example, first lateral impact protection regions 1722a, 1722b located near the first upper end 1712 of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b may be oriented substantially parallel to the adjacent side portions 1709, 1710 of the connector member 1706. Second side impact protection regions 1724a and 1724b, extending from the first side impact protection regions 1722a and 1722b toward the opposite bottom 1714 of the head SIP devices 1704a and 1704b, may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection region 1722. In an embodiment, the angle between the first side impact protection region 1722 and the second region 1724 is an obtuse angle.

[0629] Although the second side impact protection region 1724 is shown as having a planar surface or configuration, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection region 1724 of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b may have a curved configuration, such as a convex curvature. Regardless of whether the second side impact protection region 1724 has a linear or curved configuration, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b at the second side impact protection region 1724 may gradually decrease towards the bottom of the headrest 1701. This variation in the height of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b can be combined with any other configuration extending between the front and rear portions of the head SIP devices, as previously described (or as will be described later).

[0630] As an alternative or supplement to the head SIP assembly having multiple head SIP devices arranged on opposite and interconnected side portions of the connector member as previously described herein, the head SIP assembly may comprise multiple head SIP devices arranged on the same surface of the connector member (e.g., on the same side portion). In such an embodiment, the multiple head SIP devices arranged on the same side portion of the connector member may, but need not, be mounted to form a continuous inward surface.

[0631] refer to Figures 19A-19EThe diagram illustrates a head SIP assembly 1802 that can be mounted to a headrest 1801. Multiple head SIP devices are arranged on the same surface of a connector member 1808. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a first head SIP device 1804a and a second head SIP device 1806a are arranged at a first side portion 1810 of the connector member 1808, and a first head SIP device 1804b and a second head SIP device 1806b are arranged at a second side portion 1812 of the connector member 1808. In such embodiments, the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b may include the same or different construction (size and / or shape) as each other and / or as the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b located at the same side portion 1810 or 1812. Furthermore, the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b may contain the same or different material as each other and / or as the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b disposed in the same side portions 1810, 1812. In embodiments, the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b have reduced stiffness compared to the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b. However, all head SIP devices in the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b and the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b are configured to absorb energy during a collision event. Although not shown, it should be understood that the first head SIP devices 1804a and the second head SIP devices 1806a may be disposed within the first SIP head portion, and the first head SIP devices 1804b and the second head SIP devices 1806b may be disposed within the second SIP portion.

[0632] The first head SIP devices 1804a and 1804b and the second head SIP devices 1806a and 1806b can have any suitable configuration. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first head SIP devices 1804a and 1804b have a configuration similar to... Figures 15A-15E The construction is basically similar. For example... Figure 19EAs shown, each head SIP device 1804a, 1804b includes inward surfaces 1820a, 1820b, which include first side impact protection regions 1822a, 1822b positioned closest to the body portion 1814 of the connector member 1808, and second side impact protection regions 1824a, 1824b extending forward away from the first side impact protection regions 1822a, 1822b. As shown, the first side impact protection regions 1822a, 1822b can be arranged substantially perpendicular to the body portion 1814. The second side impact protection regions 1824a, 1824b extending from the first side impact protection regions 1822a, 1822b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection regions 1822a, 1822b. The angle between the first side impact protection regions 1822a, 1822b and the second side impact protection regions 1824a, 1824b can be greater than 90 degrees.

[0633] The second head SIP devices 1806a and 1806b may have outer surfaces 1830a and 1830b complementary to the side portions 1810 and 1812. The inner surfaces 1832a and 1832b of the second head SIP devices 1806a and 1806b may be oriented substantially parallel to the outer surfaces 1830a and 1830b and / or the side portions 1810 and 1812 along the length of the second head SIP devices 1806a and 1806b. Therefore, the thickness of the second head SIP devices 1806a and 1806b may be substantially uniform along their length. Although the respective rear ends 1834a, 1834b of the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b are shown as only a portion adjacent to the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b, in some embodiments, the rear ends 1834a, 1834b of the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b may have a profile complementary to the adjacent ends of the respective first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b.

[0634] In an embodiment, each of the first head-mounted SIP devices 1804a and 1804b may form a recess 1840a and 1840b within the head-receiving region 1842 of the headrest 1801 for guiding the movement of the occupant's head during a side impact event. The first side impact protection regions 1822a and 1822b of the corresponding inward surfaces 1820a and 1820b of the first head-mounted SIP devices 1804a and 1804b may respectively adjoin second side impact protection regions 1824a and 1824b at a generally vertical intersection line represented by L7a and L7b. The intersection lines L7a and L7b may be portions of the head-mounted SIP devices 1804a and 1804b laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head-receiving region 1842.

[0635] One side of each recess 1840a, 1840b extends laterally from the corresponding intersecting lines L7a, L7b toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front ends 1842a, 1842b of the headrest side members 1844, 1846. The planes of the recesses 1840a, 1840b, represented by lines P7a and P7b respectively, extending laterally from the intersecting lines L7a, L7b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front ends 1842a, 1842b, can be coplanar with the first side impact protection surfaces 1822a, 1822b of each corresponding first head SIP device 1804a, 1804b. The recesses 1840a and 1840b may also be defined by the second side impact protection areas 1824a and 1824b, a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1842a and 1842b, and a surface defined by at least one of the side portions 1810 and 1812 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection areas 1824a and 1824b and the front end 1842a and 1842b and the headrest side members 1844 and 1846.

[0636] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a vertical plane represented by axis X7a extends from the front end 1842a of the headrest side member 1844 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1820a at the intersection line L7a. Furthermore, axis X7a may intersect the headrest support surface 1804 or the adjacent body portion 1814 of the connector member 1808 at the intersection point I7a. Another vertical plane represented by axis X7b extends from the front end 1842b of the headrest side member 1846 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1820b at the intersection line L7b. Axis X7b may intersect the headrest support surface 1804 or the adjacent body portion 1814 at the intersection point I7b. In one embodiment, measured along the corresponding axes X7a and X7b, the distance between the headrest support surface 1804 and the intersecting lines L7a and L7b is less than the distance between the intersecting lines L7a and L7b and the front ends 1842a and 1842b of the headrest side members 1844 and 1846. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the second head SIP device 1806a is disposed within the recess 1840a formed by the first head SIP device 1804a. Similarly, the second head SIP device 1806b is disposed within the recess 1840b formed by the first head SIP device 1804b.

[0637] exist Figures 20A-20EIn a non-limiting embodiment of the head SIP assembly 1902 shown, each side portion 1906, 1908 of the connector member 1904 of the head SIP assembly 1902 is similarly associated with a plurality of head SIP devices. As shown, the head SIP assembly 1902 includes a plurality of first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b, which are positioned near the opposite rear portion of the connector member 1904, for example near the interface between the respective side portions 1906, 1908 and the body portion 1909. In this embodiment, the first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b have the same characteristics as in the previous embodiment ( Figures 19A-19E ) and in Figures 15A-15E The configurations disclosed are substantially the same. In this configuration, each first head SIP device 1910a, 1910b includes inward surfaces 1912a, 1912b, which include first side impact protection regions 1914a, 1914b positioned closest to the body portion 1909 of the connector member 1904, and second side impact protection regions 1916a, 1916b extending forward away from the first side impact protection regions 1914a, 1914b. As shown, the first side impact protection regions 1914a, 1914b can be arranged substantially perpendicular to the body portion 1909. The second side impact protection regions 1916a, 1916b extending from the first side impact protection regions 1914a, 1914b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection regions 1914a, 1914b. The angle between the first side impact protection areas 1914a and 1914b and the second side impact protection areas 1916a and 1916b can be greater than 90 degrees.

[0638] Additionally, corresponding second head SIP devices 1920a and 1920b can be mounted to each side portion 1906 and 1908 of the head SIP assembly 1902, such that when the head SIP assembly 1902 is mounted to the headrest 1901, the second head SIP devices 1920a and 1920b are close to the front ends 1918a and 1918b of the headrest side members 1940 and 1942. The second head SIP devices 1920a and 1920b can have the same characteristics as the previously... Figures 16A-16EThe disclosed SIP devices have essentially the same construction. The inward surfaces 1922a, 1922b of the corresponding second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b can be defined by multiple different regions arranged at different angles relative to the body portion 1909. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, surfaces 1922a, 1922b include first lateral impact protection regions 1924a, 1924b oriented parallel to or substantially parallel to the body portion 1909 of the connector member 1904. Second lateral impact protection regions 1926a, 1926b of the inward surfaces 1922a, 1922b extending from the first lateral impact protection regions 1924a, 1924b can have generally circular or curved profiles, such as convex curvature. In an embodiment, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1920a and 1920b gradually decreases from the first side impact protection areas 1924a and 1924b toward the corresponding front ends 1918a and 1918b of the head SIP assembly 1902.

[0639] As shown in the figure, gaps may exist between the first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b and the second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b at each side portion 1906, 1908. The combination of the individual first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b and the second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b, located near the front and rear of the connector member 1904, can be adapted to absorb energy during a collision, regardless of the child seat's installation orientation relative to the vehicle seat.

[0640] First recesses 1930a, 1930b (see also) Figure 20C and 20E The head receiving area 1928 of the headrest 1901 may be at least partially defined by a plurality of head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b, 1920a, 1920b. As shown, each first head SIP device 1910a, 1910b and each second head SIP device 1920a, 1920b has a corresponding inward surface 1912a, 1912b, 1922a, 1922b. The first recesses 1930a, 1930b may be partially defined by a plane extending from the corresponding intersection lines L8a, L8b of the first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b to the corresponding intersection lines L9a, L9b of the second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b. The generally vertical intersecting lines L8a and L8b can be the portions of the head SIP devices 1910a and 1910b that are laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 1928. Similarly, the generally vertical intersecting lines L9a and L9b can be the portions of the head SIP devices 1920a and 1920b that are laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 1928.

[0641] The first recesses 1930a and 1930b may also be defined by the surfaces of the second side impact protection regions 1916a and 1916b of the first head SIP devices 1910a and 1910b, the first side impact protection regions 1924a and 1924b of the second head SIP devices 1920a and 1920b, and the side portions 1906 and 1908 extending therebetween. In an embodiment, each of the second head SIP devices 1920a and 1920b may form a recess 1932a and 1932b within the head receiving region 1928 of the headrest 1901. The first side impact protection regions 1924a and 1924b of the corresponding inward surfaces 1922a and 1922b of the second head SIP devices 1920a and 1920b may respectively adjoin the second side impact protection regions 1926a and 1926b at the intersection lines indicated by L9a and L9b.

[0642] Each recess 1932a, 1932b may extend from the corresponding intersecting lines L9a, L9b toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1918a, 1918b of the headrest side members 1940, 1942. This plane extending from the intersecting lines L9a, L9b toward the plane (indicated by lines 1939a, 1939b) that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1918a, 1918b may be parallel to CLA. Recesses 1932a, 1932b may also be defined by the second side impact protection areas 1926a, 1926b, the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1918a, 1918b, and by at least one of the surfaces of the side portions 1906, 1908 extending between the edges of the respective second side impact protection areas 1926a, 1926b and the front ends 1918a, 1918b, and the surfaces of the headrest side members 1940, 1942.

[0643] Similar to the previous embodiments, in Figures 21A-21EIn the non-limiting embodiment shown, each side portion 2006, 2008 of the connector member 2004 of the head SIP assembly 2002 is associated with a plurality of head SIP devices. As shown, the head SIP assembly 2002 includes a plurality of first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b positioned near the relative rear of the connector member 2004, for example near the interface between the respective side portions 2006, 2008 and the body portion 2009. A plurality of second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b may be positioned near the front of the connector member 2004, for example near the ends 2014a, 2014b of the side portions 2006, 2008. In an embodiment, first head SIP devices 2010a and 2010b arranged near the rear of connector member 2004 are interconnected with second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b arranged near corresponding front ends 2014a and 2014b of connector member 2004. The first head SIP devices 2010a and 2010b may include... Figures 15A-15E The head SIP devices disclosed in 19A-19E and 20A-20E have essentially similar constructions.

[0644] For example, each first head SIP device 2010a, 2010b includes inward surfaces 2013a, 2013b, which include first side impact protection regions 2016a, 2016b positioned closest to the body portion 2009 and second side impact protection regions 2018a, 2018b extending forward away from the first regions 2016a, 2016b. As shown, the first side impact protection regions 2016a, 2016b may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the body portion 2009 of the connector member 2004. The second side impact protection regions 2018a, 2018b extending from the first side impact protection regions 2016a, 2016b may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection regions 2016a, 2016b. In an embodiment, the angle α between the first side impact protection regions 2016a, 2016b and the second side impact protection regions 2018a, 2018b is greater than 90 degrees.

[0645] The second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b can have the same as Figures 13A-13EThe SIP devices described herein have a substantially similar construction. However, as shown in the figures, the second SIP devices 2012a and 2012b can extend from or near the front ends 2034a and 2034b of the first head SIP devices 2010a and 2010b, or close to the headrest side members 2036 and 2038. The surfaces 2020a and 202b of the second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b can include multiple different lateral impact protection areas arranged at different angles. The first lateral impact protection areas 2022a and 2022b of the corresponding surfaces 2020a and 2020b of the second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the main body portion 2009. The first side impact protection areas 2022a and 2022b of the second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b can be laterally offset from the first side impact protection areas 2016a and 2016b adjacent to the first head SIP devices 2010a and 2010b, such that the lateral gap D1 between the first side impact protection areas 2022a and 2022b of the head SIP assembly 2002 aligned with the second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b is greater than the lateral gap D2 between the first side impact protection areas 2016a and 2016b of the head SIP assembly 2002 aligned with the first head SIP devices 2010a and 2010b. The corresponding second side impact protection areas 2024a and 2024b of the surfaces 2020a and 2020b of the second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b extend from the first side impact protection areas 2022a and 2022b toward the front of the headrest 2001. Furthermore, the second side impact protection regions 2024a and 2024b may have smooth or curved contours, such as convex curvature. In an embodiment, the thickness of the second SIP devices 2012a and 2012b at the second side impact protection regions 2024a and 2024b gradually decreases toward the front ends 2013a and 2013b of the connector member 2004.

[0646] It should be understood that the material or hardness of the first head SIP devices 2010a and 2010b may be the same as or different from the hardness of the second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b, regardless of whether the first head SIP devices 2010a and 2010b and the second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b are individually positioned around the connector member 2004 or interconnected.

[0647] Used in side-impact events (see Figure 21C and 21EThe wavy recesses 2030a and 2030b that control the movement of the occupant's head during use may be at least partially defined within the head receiving area 2028 of the headrest 2001 by a plurality of head-in-place devices 2010a, 2010b, 2012a, and 2012b. As shown, each first head-in-place device 2010a and 2010b and each second head-in-place device 2012a and 2012b has a corresponding inward surface 2013a, 2013b, 2020a, and 2020b. The first recesses 2030a and 2030b may be partially defined by a plane extending from the corresponding intersection lines L10a and L10b of the first head-in-place devices 2010a and 2010b to the corresponding intersection lines L11a and L11b of the second head-in-place devices 2012a and 2012b. The generally vertical intersecting lines L10a, L10b, L11a, L11b can represent a portion of the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 2028 closest to the headrest 2001, with each head SIP device 2010a, 2010b, 2012a, 2012b laterally positioned. The first recesses 2030a, 2030b are also defined by the surfaces of the second side impact protection areas 2018a, 2018b of the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b, the first side impact protection areas 2022a, 2022b of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b, and the side portions 2006, 2008 extending therebetween.

[0648] Each of the second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b may also form a recess 2032a and 2032b within the head receiving region 2028 of the headrest 1901. The first side impact protection regions 2022a and 2022b of the corresponding inward surfaces 2020a and 2020b of the second head SIP devices 2012a and 2012b may respectively adjoin the second side impact protection regions 2018a and 2018b at the intersection lines represented by L11a and L11b. Each recess 2032a and 2032b may be partially defined by a plane extending laterally from the corresponding intersection lines L11a and L11b toward the inner edges of the front ends 2034a and 2034b of the headrest side members 2036 and 2038. The plane extending laterally from the intersecting lines L11a, L11b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 2034a, 2034b can be coplanar with the first side impact protection surfaces 2022a, 2022b of each corresponding second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b. The recesses 2032a, 2032b can also be defined by at least one of the second side impact protection areas 2024a, 2024b, the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 2034a, 2034b, and the surfaces of the side portions 2006, 2008 extending between the edges of the corresponding second side impact protection areas 2024a, 2024b and the front ends 2034a, 2034b, and the surfaces of the headrest side members 2036, 2038.

[0649] Now for reference Figures 22A-22EAnother embodiment of the head SIP assembly 2102 is shown, the head SIP assembly having first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b disposed at corresponding side portions 2108, 2110 of connector member 2111. The first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b may have inward surfaces 2112a, 2112b, the inward surfaces including first side impact protection regions 2114a, 2114b and second side impact protection regions 2116a, 2116b arranged at non-parallel angles to each other. Generally vertical intersecting lines L12a, L12b are respectively disposed at the interface between the first side impact protection regions 2114a, 2114b and the second side impact protection regions 2116a, 2116b. The intersecting lines L12a and L12b can be portions of the first head SIP devices 2104a and 2104b laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area. Furthermore, measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2130a and 2130b and positioned tangent to lines L12a and L12b, the distance between the intersecting lines L12a and L12b and the rear portion 2138 of the headrest 2101 can be less than the distance between the intersecting lines L12a and L12b and the front ends 2130a and 2130b of the headrest side members 2132 and 2134.

[0650] The second head SIP devices 2106a and 2106b have inward surfaces 2118a and 2118b, which include first side impact protection regions 2120a and 2120b and second side impact protection regions 2122a and 2122b arranged at non-parallel angles to each other. Generally vertical intersecting lines L13a and L13b are respectively arranged at the interface between the first side impact protection regions 2120a and 2120b and the second side impact protection regions 2122a and 2122b. The intersecting lines L13a and L13b may be portions of the second head SIP devices 2106a and 2106b laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 2126. Furthermore, when measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2130a, 2130b and positioned tangent to lines L13a, L13b, the distance between the intersecting lines L13a, L13b and the rear portion 2138 of the headrest 2101 can be greater than the distance between the intersecting lines L13a, L13b and the front ends 2130a, 2130b of the headrest side members 2132, 2134.

[0651] Similar to the previous embodiment, the first recesses 2124a, 2124b (see Figure 21C and 21EThe head receiving area 2126 of the headrest 2101 can be defined by multiple head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, 2106a, 2106b. As shown, the sides of the first recesses 2124a, 2124b can be defined by a plane extending from the corresponding intersection lines L12a, L12b of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b to the corresponding intersection lines L13a, L13b of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b. The first recesses 2124a, 2124b can also be defined by the surfaces of the second side impact protection areas 2116a, 2116b of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, the first side impact protection areas 2120a, 2120b of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b, and the side portions 2106, 2108 extending therebetween.

[0652] In an embodiment, each of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b may form a recess 2128a, 2128b within the head receiving region 2126 of the headrest 2101. Each recess 2128a, 2128b may have a side portion defined by a plane extending laterally from the corresponding intersecting lines L13a, L13b toward the inner edge of the front ends 2130a, 2130b of the headrest side members 2132, 2134. The plane extending laterally from the intersecting lines L13a, L13b toward the inner edge of the front ends 2130a, 2130b (defined by lines 2150a, 2150b) Figure 22E The plane extending from the headrest side members 2128a, 2128b may be parallel to the central longitudinal axis CLA. The recesses 2128a, 2128b may also be defined by the second side impact protection regions 2122a, 2122ba and a plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 2130a, 2130b of the headrest side members 2132, 2134. In embodiments where the ends of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b are offset from the front ends 2130a, 2130b of the headrest 2101, the second recesses 2128a, 2128b may also be defined by at least one of the surfaces of the side portions 2108, 2110 and the surfaces of the headrest side members 2132, 2134 extending between the edges of the respective second side impact protection regions 2122a, 2122b and the front ends 2130a, 2130b.

[0653] In the illustrated embodiment, the head SIP assembly 2102 includes third head SIP devices 2140a and 2140b disposed on the same side portions 2108 and 2110 as the first head SIP devices 2104a and 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a and 2106b on the connector body 2112. In such an embodiment, the third head SIP devices 2140a and 2140b may have a similar material or hardness to at least one of the first head SIP devices 2104a and 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a and 2106b, or alternatively, a different hardness or hardness. As shown, the third head SIP devices 2140a and 2140b may be positioned in front of at least one of the first head SIP devices 2104a and 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a and 2106b. In a non-limiting embodiment, third head SIP devices 2108a, 2108b are mounted within first recesses 2124a, 2124b. The third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b may be constructed substantially equal to the contours of the first recesses 2124a, 2124b, such that the corresponding first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b, and third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b collectively form a smooth, substantially continuous inward surface. Furthermore, the third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b may be permanently or removably connected to connector member 2111 or to the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b.

[0654] Installable to Figures 23A-23EIn another embodiment of the headrest 2201 and head SIP assembly 2202 of the child seat 2200 shown, each side portion 2206, 2208 of the connector member 2204 includes a first head SIP device 2210a, 2210b, a second head SIP device 2212a, 2212b, a third head SIP device 2214a, 2214b, and a fourth head SIP device 2216a, 2216b. The first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b may be arranged close to the opposite rear portion of the connector member 2204, for example at the interface between the respective side portions 2206, 2208 and the body portion 2218. The third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b may be arranged close to the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230 but offset from said front ends. The first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b and the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b can have any suitable construction, such as any of the head SIP devices similar to those in the previous embodiments described herein. Additionally, the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b and the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b can comprise the same or different materials having the same or different hardness.

[0655] As shown in the figure, the first head SIP devices 2210a and 2210b may have inward surfaces 2220a and 2220b, which include corresponding first and second side impact protection areas arranged at non-parallel angles. Generally vertical intersecting lines L14a and L14b are respectively arranged at the interface between the first and second side impact protection areas. The intersecting lines L14a and L14b may be portions of the first head SIP devices 2210a and 2210b laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 2222. Furthermore, when measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2226a, 2226b and positioned tangent to lines L14a, L14b, the distance between the intersecting lines L14a, L14b and the rear portion 2224 of the headrest 2201 can be less than the distance between the intersecting lines L14a, L14b and the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230b.

[0656] The third head SIP devices 2214a and 2214b have inward surfaces 2231a and 2231b, which include a first side impact protection region and a second side impact protection region arranged at a non-parallel angle to each other. Generally vertical intersecting lines L15a and L15b are respectively arranged at the interface between the first and second side impact protection regions. The intersecting lines L15a and L15b may be portions of the second head SIP devices 2214a and 2214b laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 2222. Furthermore, when measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2226a, 2226b and positioned tangent to lines L15a, L15b, the distance between the intersecting lines L15a, L15b and the rear portion 2224 of the headrest 2201 can be greater than the distance between the intersecting lines L15a, L15b and the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230.

[0657] Similar to the previous embodiment, the first recesses 2232a, 2232b (see Figure 23C and 23E The headrest 2201 head receiving area 2222 can be at least partially defined by multiple head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b, 2214a, 2214b. As shown, the first recesses 2232a, 2232b can be partially defined by a plane extending from the corresponding intersection lines L14a, L14b of the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b to the corresponding intersection lines L15a, L15b of the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b. The first recesses 2232a, 2232b can also be defined by the side impact protection areas and corresponding surfaces of the side portions 2206, 2208 of the respective head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b, 2214a, 2214b arranged therein.

[0658] Each of the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214 can form a recess 2234a, 2234b within the head receiving region 2222 of the headrest 2201. Each recess 2234a, 2234b extends from corresponding intersecting lines L15a, L15b toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230. The side portions of the recesses 2234a, 2234b formed by this plane extending laterally from the intersecting lines L15a, L15b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 2226a, 2226b can be parallel to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 2222. The recesses 2234a and 2234b may also be defined by at least one of the following: the portion of the inner surface 2231a and 2231b; the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 2226a and 2226b of the headrest side members 2228 and 2230; and the surface of the side portions 2206 and 2208 and the surface of the headrest side members 2228 and 2230 extending between the edge of the third head SIP device 2214a and 2214 and the front end 2130a and 2130b.

[0659] The second head SIP devices 2212a and 2212b can be positioned between the first head SIP devices 2210a and 2210b and the third head SIP devices 2214a and 2214b, for example, within the first recesses 2232a and 2232b, respectively. Therefore, the contours of the second head SIP devices 2212a and 2212b can, but do not need to, match the contours of the first recesses 2232a and 2232b. The fourth head SIP devices 2216a and 2216b can be positioned between the third head SIP devices 2214a and 2214b and the front ends 2226a and 2226b of the headrest side members 2228 and 2230. In an embodiment, the fourth head SIP devices 2216a and 2216b are located within corresponding recesses 2234a and 2234b. The contours of the fourth head SIP devices 2216a and 2216b may, but do not need to, match the contours of the recesses 2234a and 2234b. The second head SIP devices 2212a and 2212b and the fourth head SIP devices 2216a and 2216b can have any suitable configuration. Furthermore, the second head SIP devices 2212a and 2212b and the fourth head SIP devices 2216a and 2216b can comprise the same or different materials having the same or different hardness. It should be understood that the second and fourth head SIP devices can be removably mounted to the headrest, and in some embodiments, neither the second nor the fourth head SIP device is connected to the connector member, or only one of the second and fourth head SIP devices can be connected to the connector member.

[0660] In an embodiment, second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b may be connected to corresponding first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b, and the hardness of the second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b may be less than the hardness of the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b. Alternatively or additionally, fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b may be connected to third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b, and the hardness of the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b may be less than the hardness of the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b. It should be understood that any head SIP device or combination of head SIP devices described herein with respect to head SIP assemblies may alternatively be directly mounted to the headrest without connector components.

[0661] Now for reference Figures 132A-133C Another embodiment of the head SIP assembly 11800 is shown. As shown, the head SIP assembly 11800 includes a connector member 11802 having a central body portion 11804, a first side portion 11806 extending from a first side of the body portion 11804, and a second side portion 11808 extending from a second opposite side of the body portion 11804. A first head SIP device 11810a may be disposed at or adjacent to the first side portion 11806 of the connector member 11802, and a second head SIP device 11810b may be disposed at or adjacent to the second side portion 11808 of the connector member 11802. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b are mounted near the rear of the head SIP assembly 11800, for example at the interface between the body portion 11804 and the corresponding side portions 11806, 11808 of the connector member 11802.

[0662] In this embodiment, a cut or notch is formed at the bottom of the headrest assembly 11800. As shown, a first cut 11817a is formed directly below the first headrest assembly 11810a, and a second cut 11817b may be formed directly below the second headrest assembly 11810b. When the child seat system is in a forward-facing configuration, such as in booster mode of operation, cuts 11817a and 11817b may form portions of the vehicle harness path. Therefore, the bottoms 11821a and 11821b of the first and second headrest assemblies 11810a and 11810b may define a portion of the vehicle harness path.

[0663] like Figure 133A-133CAs shown, the headrest SIP assembly 11800 can be removably or permanently attached to the structural housing 11820 of the headrest. The headrest housing 11820 may include a rear housing portion 11822 and at least one housing headrest side member, such as a first housing headrest side member 11824 and a second housing headrest side member 11826 disposed on the opposite side of the rear portion 11822 and extending toward the front of the headrest housing 11820. The headrest SIP assembly 11800 may be positioned adjacent to the inner surface of the headrest housing 11820. For example, the main body portion 11804 of the connector component 11802 may be positioned adjacent to the rear portion 11822 of the headrest housing 11820, the first side portion 11806 and the first head SIP device 11810a of the connector component 11802 may be positioned adjacent to the first housing headrest side member 11824 of the headrest housing 11820 (the first side portion 11806 is in direct contact with the first housing headrest side member 11824), and the second side portion 11808 and the second head SIP device 11810b of the connector component 11802 may be positioned adjacent to the second housing headrest side member 11826 (the second side portion 11808 is in direct contact with the second housing headrest side member 11826). At least a portion of the rear or outer surface 11816 of the head SIP assembly 11800 may have a profile complementary to the profile of the inner surface of the rear portion 11822 and the housing headrest side members 11824, 11826, in order to facilitate engagement between them.

[0664] The headrest housing 11820 may comprise or be formed of a first material having a first hardness, and the connector member 11802 may be formed of a second material having a second hardness. In an embodiment, the hardness of the second material is less than that of the first material. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the side portions 11806, 11808 of the connector member 11802 are elongated such that the distal ends 11812a, 11812b of each side portion 11806, 11808 extend beyond the corresponding front ends 11828a, 11828b of the corresponding headrest housing side members 11824, 11826 of the headrest housing 11820. Therefore, the distal ends 11812a, 11812b of each side portion 11806, 11808 may define the front or forward extent of the headrest.

[0665] Connector member 11802 includes one or more reinforcing regions 11814a, 11814b. These reinforcing regions 11814a, 11814b may be arranged at portions of connector member 11802 located near the front ends 11828a, 11828b of the headrest side members 11824, 11826 of the housing (e.g., near the distal ends 11812a, 11812b of each side portion 11806, 11808). As shown, the reinforcing regions 11814a, 11814b may have increased thickness compared to adjacent portions of connector member 11802. This increased thickness can increase the rigidity of connector member 11802, thereby reinforcing the portion of connector member 11802 extending beyond headrest housing 11820. Furthermore, in embodiments, reinforcing regions 11814a and 11814b may be shaped to define one or more features configured to abut or engage the headrest housing 11820 to properly position the head SIP assembly 11800 relative to the headrest housing. Although reinforcing regions 11814a and 11814b are shown arranged on the outer surface of the connector member 11802, embodiments in which reinforcing regions are formed on their inner surfaces are also covered herein.

[0666] Each head SIP device 11810a, 11810b may extend to cover only a portion of the length of each side portion 11806, 11808. As shown, the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b may extend to the center of the side portions 11806, 11808. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 11810a, 11810b extends to cover approximately half the length of the respective side portion 11806, 11808. However, embodiments in which at least one head SIP device 11810a, 11810b is longer or shorter are also covered herein.

[0667] Similar to previously disclosed embodiments, each head SIP device 11810a, 11810b includes inward surfaces 11818a, 11818b having first side impact protection regions 11830a, 11830b positioned closest to the body portion 11804, and second side impact protection regions 11832a, 11832b extending forward away from the first side impact protection regions 11830a, 11830b. As shown, the first side impact protection regions 11830a, 11830b may be arranged at an angle to the body portion 11804 of the connector member 11802. The second side impact protection regions 11832a, 11832b may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the corresponding first side impact protection regions 11830a, 11830b.

[0668] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 11810a forms a first recess 11834a within the head receiving region 11829 of the structural housing 11820, and the head SIP device 11810b forms a second recess 11834b within the head receiving region 11829. The first side impact protection regions 11830a and 11830b can be respectively located within L16a and L16b (…). Figure 133C The generally vertical intersecting lines L16a and L16b are adjacent to the corresponding second side impact protection areas 11832a and 11832b of each head SIP device 11810a and 11810b. The intersecting lines L16a and L16b can be positioned at the portion of the head SIP device 11810a and 11810b that is laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area.

[0669] The first recess 11834a is partially defined by a second side impact protection area 11832a and a plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11812a, 11812b of the side portions 11806, 11808 of the connector member 11802. The surface of the first side portion 11806, extending between the edge of the corresponding second side impact protection area 11832a and the front end 11812a, may also partially define the first recess 11834a. The recess 11834a is further defined by a plane extending laterally from the intersection line L16a to the inner edges of the front ends 11812a, 11812b of the side portions 11806, 11808. This plane is in... Figure 133C The recess 11834a is indicated by line P16a. The plane extending laterally from the intersecting line L16a toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11182a may, but does not need to, be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 11830a of the head SIP device 11810a.

[0670] Similarly, the second recess 11834b extends from the intersecting line L16b toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11812a and 11812b of the side portions 11806 and 11808. The plane of the recess 11834b, indicated by line P16b, extending laterally from the intersecting line L16b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11812b, may, but does not need to, be coplanar with the first side impact protection region 11830b of the head SIP device 11810b. The recess 11834b may also be defined by the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11812a and 11812b, the second side impact protection region 11832b, and the surface of the second side portion 11808 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection region 11832b and the front end 11812b.

[0671] Further reference Figure 133CA vertical plane, represented by axis X16a, extends from the front end 11812a of the first side portion 11806 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface of the head SIP device 11810a at the intersection line L16a. Furthermore, plane X16a may intersect the body portion 11804 of the connector member 11802 at the intersection location I16a. Another vertical plane, represented by axis X16b, extends from the front end 11812b of the second side portion 11808 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface of the head SIP device 11810b at the intersection line L16b. Plane X16b may intersect the body portion 11804 of the connector member 11802 at the intersection location I16b. In an embodiment, measured along axes X16a and X16b, the distance between the intersection points I16a and I16b and the corresponding intersection lines L16a and L16b is less than the distance between the intersection lines L16a and L16b and the corresponding front ends 11812a and 11812b of the side portions 11806 and 11808.

[0672] refer to Figures 132A-133C In embodiments, the upper transition regions 11819a, 11819b and / or the lower transition regions 11821a, 11821b may extend between the inward surfaces 11818a, 11818b and the adjacent surface of the connector member 11802. However, it should be understood that in embodiments where the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b are directly mounted to the headrest, the upper transition regions 11819a, 11819b and / or the lower transition regions 11821a, 11821b may extend between the inward surfaces 11818a, 11818b and the inner surface of the headrest. The upper and / or lower transition regions may be shaped or molded to form a smooth profile. Furthermore, the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b may, but need not, extend to cover the entire height of the SIP assembly 18000 and / or the headrest 18200. For example, head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b (e.g., upper transition regions 11819a, 11819b thereof) may extend to the top of SIP assembly 11800 and / or headrest 11820, and / or head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b (e.g., lower transition regions 11821a, 11821b thereof) may extend to the bottom of SIP assembly 11800 and / or headrest 11820.

[0673] Now for reference Figure 134A-134DAnother embodiment of a headrest 11900 including at least one head SIP device is shown. As shown, the headrest 11900 has a rear portion 11902, a first headrest side member 11904, and a second headrest side member 11906. The rear portion 11902, the first headrest side member 11904, and the second headrest side member 11906 together define a head receiving region 11908 of the headrest 11900. A first head SIP device 11910a may be disposed at or adjacent to the first headrest side member 11904, and a second head SIP device 11910b may be disposed at or adjacent to the second headrest side member 11906. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 11910a, 11910b are mounted near the rear of the headrest 11900, for example at the interface between the rear portion 11902 and the respective headrest side members 11904, 11906.

[0674] Each head SIP device 11910a, 11910b includes inward surfaces 11912a, 11912b. In an embodiment, as shown, the inward surfaces 11912a, 11912b may each include a single lateral impact protection region. As shown, the first ends 11916a, 11916b of the inward surfaces 11912a, 11912b positioned closest to the rear portion 11902 may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the rear portion. The inward surfaces 11912a, 11912b may also extend at a non-parallel angle relative to the vertical axis. The planes of the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b can be tilted relative to the vertical axis, such that the bottom ends 11918a and 11918b of the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b closest to the bottom of the headrest 11900 can be positioned closer to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 11908 of the headrest 11900 than the ends 11920a and 11920b of the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b closest to the top of the headrest 11900.

[0675] Alternatively or additionally, the lengths of the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b, parallel to the CLA measurement, can vary in height along the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b. As shown, the front edges 11922a and 11922b of the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b can be defined by a flip line T1. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the flip line T1 is arranged at an angle relative to the rear portion 11902 of the headrest. For example, the flip line T1 can have a forward-facing configuration. Therefore, the length of the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b extending between the rear portion 11902 of the headrest and the flip line T1 near the top of the front edges 11922a and 11922b of the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b (shown by LI1) is greater than the length of the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b extending between the rear portion 11902 of the headrest and the flip line T1 near the bottom of the front edges 11922a and 11922b of the inward surfaces 11912a and 11912b (shown by LI2). The length LI1 can be between approximately 90 mm and approximately 140 mm, for example, approximately 95 mm, approximately 100 mm, approximately 110 mm, or approximately 130 mm. The length LI2 can be between approximately 40 mm and approximately 90 mm, for example, approximately 50 mm, approximately 60 mm, approximately 70 mm, approximately 80 mm, and approximately 85 mm. It should be understood that the ranges for LI1 and LI2 are intended only as examples, and this document covers other suitable values ​​beyond the ranges provided.

[0676] Each of the headrest SIP devices 11910a, 11910b may have a base surface 11914a, 11914b that faces a corresponding portion of the headrest 11900 or is integral with said corresponding portion. In an embodiment, the base surfaces 11914a, 11914b of the headrest SIP devices 11910a, 11910b, such as the surfaces near the respective front ends of the headrest SIP devices 11910a, 11910b, extend away from the corresponding surfaces of the adjacent headrest side members 11904, 11906. This profile forms a gap or recess between the base surfaces 11914a, 11914b near the front of each headrest SIP device 11910a, 11910b and the respective front ends 11922a, 11922b of the headrest 11900. Including these recesses can improve the impact on the occupant's head during a collision event by facilitating the rolling of the occupant's head.

[0677] refer to Figure 135A-135CAnother embodiment of the headrest 11950 is shown. As shown, the headrest 11950 includes a rear portion 11952 having a headrest support surface (not shown), a first headrest side member 11954, and a second headrest side member 11956. A head SIP assembly 11960 may be positioned around the headrest 11950 and includes a connector member 11962 having a central body portion 11964, a first side portion 11966 extending from a first side of the body portion 11964, and a second side portion 11968 extending from a second opposite side of the body portion 11964. A first head SIP device 11970a may be disposed at or adjacent to the first side portion 11966 of the connector member 11962, and a second head SIP device 11970b may be disposed at or adjacent to the second side portion 11968 of the connector member 11962. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, head SIP devices 11970a, 11970b are mounted near the rear of head SIP assembly 11960, for example at the interface between the main body portion 11964 of connector member 11962 and the corresponding side portions 11966, 11968.

[0678] Each head SIP device 11970a, 11970b may extend to cover only a portion of the length of each side portion 11966, 11968. As shown, the head SIP devices 11970a, 11970b may extend substantially to the center of the side portions 11966, 11968. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 11970a, 11970b extends less than half the length of the corresponding side portion 11966, 11968. However, embodiments in which at least one head SIP device 11970a, 11970b is longer or shorter are also covered herein.

[0679] Similar to previously disclosed embodiments, each head SIP device 11970a, 11970b includes inward surfaces 11972a, 11972b, each inward surface having first side impact protection regions 11974a, 11974b positioned closest to the body portion 11964, and second side impact protection regions 11976a, 11976b extending forward away from the first side impact protection regions 11974a, 11974b. As shown, the first side impact protection regions 11974a, 11974b may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the body portion 11964 of the connector member 11962. The second side impact protection regions 11976a, 11976b may also be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the corresponding first side impact protection regions 11974a, 11974b.

[0680] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 11970a forms a first recess 11980a within the head receiving region 11961 of the head SIP assembly 11960 (see [link]). Figure 135C The head SIP device 11970b forms a second recess 11980b within the head receiving region 11961. The first side impact protection regions 11974a, 11974b may respectively adjoin the corresponding second side impact protection regions 11976a, 11976b of each head SIP device 11970a, 11970b at a generally vertically intersecting line indicated by L17a and L17b (see...). Figure 135B and 135C The intersecting lines L17a and L17b can be positioned laterally on the portion of the head SIP devices 11970a and 11970b that is closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 11961.

[0681] The first recess 11980a is partially defined by a second side impact protection area 11976a and a plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11982a, 11982b of the side portions 11966, 11968 of the connector member 11962. The surface of the first side portion 11966, extending between the second side impact protection area 11976a and the front end 11982a, may also partially define the first recess 11980a. The recess 11980a is further defined by a plane extending laterally from the intersection line L17a to the inner edges of the front ends 11982a, 11982b of the side portions 11966, 11968. This plane... Figure 135C The recess 11980a is indicated by line P17a. The plane P17a extending laterally from the intersecting line L17a toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11982a may, but does not need to, be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 11974a of the head SIP device 11970a.

[0682] Similarly, the second recess 11980b extends from the intersecting line L17b toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11982a, 11982b of the side portions 11966, 11968. The plane of the recess 11980b, indicated by line P17b, extending laterally from the intersecting line L17b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11982a, 11982b, may, but does not need to, be coplanar with the first side impact protection region 11974a of the head SIP device 11970b. The recess 11980b may also be defined by the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11982a, 11982b, the second side impact protection region 11976b, and the surface of the second side portion 11968 extending between the second side impact protection region 11976b and the front end 11982b.

[0683] Further reference Figure 135C A vertical plane, represented by axis X17a, extends from the front end 11982a of the first side portion 11966 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 111972a of the head SIP device 11970a at the intersection line L17a. Furthermore, plane X17a may intersect the body portion 11964 of the connector member 11962 at the intersection position I17a. Another vertical plane, represented by axis X17b, extends from the front end 11982b of the second side portion 11968 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 11972b of the head SIP device 11970b at the intersection line L17b. Plane X17b may intersect the body portion 11964 of the connector member 11962 at the intersection position I17b. In an embodiment, measured along axes X17a and X17b, the distance between the intersection points I17a and I17b and the corresponding intersection lines L17a and L17b is less than the distance between the intersection lines L17a and L17b and the corresponding front ends 11982a and 11982b of the side portions 11966 and 11968.

[0684] Continue to refer to Figure 135A-135C In one embodiment, the gap between the first side portion 11966 and the second side portion 11968 varies within the height of the head SIP assembly. For example, the gap formed between the tops of the first side portion 11966 and the second side portion 11968 of the head SIP assembly may be larger than the gap formed between the first side portion 11966 and the second side portion 11968 near the bottom of the head SIP assembly. Including this taper within the height of the head SIP assembly 11960 allows for control of the occupant's head roll during a collision event.

[0685] In this embodiment, the head support unit or head support assembly can be adjusted relative to the headrest. For example, the orientation of one or more head support units can be selected based on the direction in which the child seat is installed in the vehicle seat, i.e., rearward or forward. Figures 24A-24DIn the non-limiting embodiment shown, head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b are mounted to the inner surfaces of corresponding headrest side members 2304, 2305 of the headrest 2301. As shown, each head SIP assembly 2302a, 2302b includes corresponding first head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b and corresponding second head SIP devices 2308a, 2308b. The first head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b and the second head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b can be connected to each other, for example, via connector members (not shown). The first head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b have a first hardness, and the second head SIP devices 2308a, 2308b have a second hardness, wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

[0686] Head SIP assembly 2302a or 2302b may be associated with a first configuration for forward mounting with child seat system 2300. Figure 24A -B) and a second configuration associated with rearward mounting of the child seat system 2300 ( Figure 24C -D) can move between, for example, can rotate about an axis. It should be understood that the head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b can switch between a first configuration and a second configuration when the soft materials are positioned around the headrest and when the soft materials are removed from the headrest. In an embodiment, when the child seat is in a forward-facing configuration, the head SIP devices of the head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b with greater rigidity, such as head SIP devices 2306a or 2306b, are positioned near the rear of the headrest 2301, and when the child seat is in a rearward-facing configuration, the head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b with greater rigidity can be positioned near the front 2314 of the headrest 2301.

[0687] As shown in the figure, in the first configuration, the first headrest SIP devices 2306a and 2306b are positioned closest to the headrest support surface 2310 of the headrest 2301, and the second headrest SIP devices 2308a and 2308b are positioned closest to the front portion 2314 of the headrest 2301. When the child seat system is mounted in the rearward direction and the headrest SIP assemblies 2302a and 2302b are in the second configuration, the second headrest SIP devices 2308a and 2308b are positioned closest to the headrest support surface 2310, and the first headrest SIP devices 2306a and 2306b are positioned closest to the front end 2314 of the headrest 2301. This rotation of the headrest SIP assemblies 2302a and 2302b can be driven by an adjustment control panel 2320 or other control mechanism operably connected to the headrest SIP assembly 2302 and located outside the child seat. Although the control mechanism 2320 is shown disposed at the second headrest side member 2305, in other embodiments, the control mechanism 2320 may be disposed at the first headrest side member 2304. Furthermore, it should be understood that a single control mechanism 2320 can be used to change one or more of the plurality of head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b.

[0688] In other embodiments, such as Figures 25A-25D As shown, the overall headroom of the head SIP assembly can vary based on the orientation of the child seat system installed in the vehicle seat. Head SIP assemblies 2402a, 2402b can be mounted to corresponding headrest side members 2404, 2406 of the headrest 2401. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each head SIP assembly 2402a, 2402b includes a corresponding first head SIP device 2408a, 2408b and an adjacent second head SIP device 2410a, 2410b. The rigidity of the first head SIP devices 2408a, 2408b can be greater than the rigidity of the second head SIP devices 2410a, 2410b. Each head SIP assembly 2402a, 2402b has a first configuration associated with forward mounting of the child seat system 2400. Figure 25A -B) and a second construction associated with rearward mounting of the child seat system 2400 ( Figure 25C -D).

[0689] In the first configuration, the second head SIP device 2410 extends from the first head SIP device 2408, covering the majority of the length of the adjacent headrest side members 2404, 2406. In embodiments, the length of the second head SIP device 2410 in the first configuration may be at least twice the length of the first head SIP device 2408, and in some embodiments, may be, for example, three or four times. However, in the second configuration, the length of the second head SIP device 2410 is reduced relative to its length in the first configuration. As shown, the second head SIP device 2410 may extend to cover only a small portion of the length of the headrest side members 2404, 2406. In embodiments, the length of the second head SIP device 2410 in the second configuration may be similar to or equal to the length of the first head SIP device 2408.

[0690] To accommodate this change in length, the second head SIP unit 2410 can retract into the corresponding cavity, or can be selectively inflated and deflated to achieve the desired configuration. Similar to previous embodiments, it should be understood that the head SIP assemblies 2402a, 2402b can switch between a first configuration and a second configuration when the soft materials are positioned around the headrest and when the soft materials are removed from the headrest. The switching of the second head SIP units 2410a, 2410b can be controlled by adjusting the control panel 2420 or other control mechanisms operatively coupled to the second head SIP units 2410a, 2410a and disposed outside the child seat. Although the control mechanism 2420 is shown disposed at the second headrest side member 2406, in other embodiments, the control mechanism 2420 may be disposed at the first headrest side member 2404 or at another suitable location around the child seat. Furthermore, it should be understood that a single control mechanism 2420 can be used to change the corresponding second head SIP device 2410a or 2410b, or alternatively, it can be used to change the plurality of second head SIP devices 2410a and 2410b.

[0691] For reference Figures 26A-26F Another embodiment of at least one headrest SIP device that can be switched between a first configuration and a second configuration is shown. As shown, the headrest 2502 of the child seat 2500 includes a rear portion 2504 having an upright support surface 2506, a first headrest side member 2508, and a second headrest side member 2510. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first headrest SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second headrest SIP devices 2514a, 2514b are respectively mounted at each of the headrest side members 2508, 2510. At least one of the first headrest SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second headrest SIP devices 2514a, 2514b is available relative to the headrest 2502 in a first retracted configuration ( Figures 26A-26C) and second extension or expansion structure ( Figure 26D-26F The child seat 2500 can move between the retracted and extended configurations. In such embodiments, at least one of the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b can be coupled to the child seat 2500 in both the retracted and extended configurations. Furthermore, in embodiments, the convertible first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and / or the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b can be locked in the retracted configuration, the extended configuration, or both.

[0692] When in the retracted configuration, the outer surfaces 2516a, 2516b, 2518a, 2518b of at least one of the first headrest SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second headrest SIP devices 2514a, 2514b are substantially flush with the corresponding surfaces 2517, 2519 of the first headrest side member 2508 and the second headrest side member 2510. As shown, in the retracted configuration, the first headrest SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second headrest SIP devices 2514a, 2514b retract into gaps 2526, 2528 defined between the headrest side members 2508, 2510 and the adjacent upright side members 2522, 2524 of the seat housing 2520 of the child seat 2500. In the extended configuration, at least one of the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b protrudes beyond the surfaces of the first headrest side member 2508 and the second headrest side member 2510 to reduce the available space within the area defined by the headrest 2502 (e.g., reducing the space for a child's head to move laterally within the headrest's boundaries). When in the extended and retracted configurations, the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b may be covered by a soft material of the headrest 2502. However, in other embodiments, when in the extended configuration, one or more of the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b may protrude through the soft material.

[0693] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the at least one first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and / or the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b is a rigid body configured to translate along an axis between the retracted and extended configurations. However, in other embodiments, the head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b, 2514a, 2514b may be configured to rotate or move between the retracted and extended configurations in another manner. For example, in Figures 68A-68FIn the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first head SIP devices 6504a, 6504b and the second head SIP devices 6506a, 6506b arranged at the headrest 6502 of the child seat 6500 are structurally modifiable bodies, such as balloons or airbags, which can be deployed in the first deflation configuration ( Figures 68A-68C ) and second inflatable structure ( Figure 68D-68F The deflation configuration may also be referred to herein as a retracted or collapsed configuration, and the inflation configuration may also be referred to herein as an extended or expanded configuration. A valve (not shown) may be used to maintain fluid within the balloon during inflation. When in the extended or collapsed configuration, at least a portion of the first head SIP devices 6504a, 6504b and the second head SIP devices 6506a, 6506b that is in contact with the occupant may be covered by the soft material of the headrest 6502. However, in other embodiments, when in the extended configuration, the portion of the first head SIP device 6504a, 6504b and the second head SIP device 6506a, 6506b that is in contact with the occupant may protrude through the soft material.

[0694] When in the vented configuration, a portion of the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, and 6506b may be arranged within a cavity formed in the headrest, or alternatively, may extend into the gaps 6524a and 6524b formed between the headrest side members 6514 and 6516 and the upright side members 6510 and 6512 of the seat housing 6508. Therefore, when air or another fluid is supplied to the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, and 6506b, the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, and 6506b change and extend into the headrest cavity 6520. In other embodiments, a source 6522, arranged in fluid communication with the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b, may be positioned between the headrest side members 6514, 6516 and the upright side members 6510, 6512. In such embodiments, the source may be fluidly connected to one or more of a plurality of structurally modifiable bodies, such as the plurality of structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b associated with a given side member 6514, 6516 of the headrest 6502. For example, a first source 6520a positioned within a gap 6524a between the headrest side member 6514 and the adjacent side member 6510 may be operatively coupled to both structurally modifiable bodies 6504a and 6506a. Similarly, a second source 6520b located within the gap 6524b between the headrest side member 6516 and the adjacent side member 6512 can be operatively coupled to both structurally modifiable bodies 6504b and 6506b.

[0695] When the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b are in a deflated configuration, the at least one source 6520a, 6520b disposed between the headrest 6502 and the seat housing 6508 inflates, and when the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b are inflated, the at least one source 6520a, 6520b deflates. Alternatively, a single source may be fluidly connected to each respective structurally modifiable body 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b.

[0696] It should be understood that the energy absorption rate of the SIP device in the deployed configuration can be greater than that in the retracted configuration. In an embodiment, the transition of the head SIP device between the retracted and extended configurations can occur automatically in response to the child seat being installed in the vehicle seat. (Reference) Figures 27A-27B The headrest 2502 and the first SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second SIP devices 2514a, 2514b are connected with Figures 26A-26E The same applies to those in the image. When the child seat, such as the 2500, is in forward-facing orientation (… Figure 27A When the child seat 2500 is in a rear-facing orientation, the strap 2530 for attaching the child seat 2500 to the vehicle seat is positioned in a first position, for example, near the center of the upright portion 2532 of the child seat 2500. Similarly, when the child seat 2500 is in a rear-facing orientation... Figure 27B When the child seat 2500 is engaged with the vehicle seat, a strap 2530 is positioned around the child seat 2500 at a second position, such as near the front portion 2536 of the seat portion 2534. When this strap 2530 is tensioned, it applies force to a corresponding actuator 2540, 2542 associated with one of the first and second positions.

[0697] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, only portions of the plurality of headrest SIP devices 2512a, 2512b, 2514a, 2514b arranged at the headrest 2502 change between retracted and extended configurations in response to the straps being installed in their respective positions. For example, when the child seat 2500 is mounted in a forward orientation, the straps 2530 engage the actuator 2540, such that only the second headrest SIP devices 2514a, 2514b arranged near the front of the headrest 2502 change to the extended configuration. In this forward orientation, the first headrest SIP devices 2512a, 2512b located near the rear of the headrest 2502 remain in the retracted configuration. Similarly, when the child seat 2500 is mounted in a rearward orientation, the straps 2530 engage the actuator 2542, such that only the first headrest SIP devices 2512a, 2512b arranged near the rear of the headrest 2502 change to the extended configuration. In this rearward orientation, the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b located near the front of the headrest 2502 will remain in the retracted configuration.

[0698] In other embodiments, the switching between retracted and extended configurations of at least one head SIP device can occur automatically in response to the presence of an occupant in the child seat or in response to a force applied to the child seat (e.g., during a side impact event). Although the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b are shown at each headrest side member 2508, 2510, it should be understood that embodiments with only a single head SIP device are also within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that in embodiments where multiple head SIP devices arranged at the same portion of the headrest (e.g., the same headrest side member) are interchangeable, the multiple head SIP devices can switch between retracted and extended configurations simultaneously / commonly or independently.

[0699] refer to Figure 82A and 82BAnother embodiment of a headrest 7900 is shown, the headrest having a first head SIP portion 7902a including at least one first head SIP device 7904a and a second head SIP portion 7902b having at least one second head SIP device 7904b. As shown, the first head SIP portion 7902a is disposed between the rear portion 7906 of the headrest 7900 and the first headrest side member 7908, and the second head SIP portion 7902b is disposed between the rear portion 7906 of the headrest and the second headrest side member 7910. Although the first head SIP portion 7902a and the second head SIP portion 7902b and the corresponding head SIP devices 7904a, 7904b are shown as separate devices not integrated into the connected SIP assembly, it should be understood that in other embodiments, such an assembly with the two SIP devices 7904a, 7904b connected together can be mounted to the inner surface of the headrest 7900.

[0700] As shown in the figure, the side impact protection devices of, for example, head SIP devices 7904a and 7904b can vary along a longitudinal axis CLA extending between the rear portion 7906 and the front portions 7930a, 7930b of the headrest receiving region 7905 of the headrest 7900. For example, each of the head SIP devices 7904a and 7904b includes inward surfaces 7912a, 7912b having first side impact protection regions 7914a, 7914b and second side impact protection regions 7916a, 7916b arranged at an angle relative to each other.

[0701] The portion of the headrest 7900 located between the rear portion 7906 and the front portions 7930a and 7930b, and positioned as the closest in the lateral direction to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 7905 of the headrest 7900, is referred to herein as the "head contact position." Figure 82A The points are labeled C1 and C2. In this embodiment, the head contact points C1 and C2 are the portions of the headrest configured to first contact the occupant's head during a side impact event.

[0702] The head contact positions C1 and C2 are laterally offset from the inner surface of the headrest 7900 and may be located at the interface between the first lateral impact protection areas 7914a and 7914b and the second lateral impact protection areas 7916a and 7916b of the inward surfaces 7912a and 7912b. In such embodiments, the intersecting lines previously described herein with reference to Figures 2-23E may also be head contact positions. As shown, the head contact positions C1 and C2 may be located between the surface of the rear portion 7906 of the headrest (e.g., the headrest support surface 7918) of the head receiving area 7905 and the center of gravity CoG of the occupant's head in the direction along the central longitudinal axis CLA. In an embodiment, the head contact positions C1 and C2 are offset from the headrest support surface 7918.

[0703] Similar to Figure 14 In some embodiments, the recess 7920a may be defined between the head contact positions C1, C2 and the front portion 7930a of the headrest 7900. As shown, a vertical plane PT1 extending from the front end 7930a in a direction or position tangential to the head contact position C1 intersects the headrest support surface 7918 at the intersection position IT1. In some embodiments, the recess 7920a is defined between the vertical plane PT1, the second side impact protection area 1716a, and, in some embodiments, the inner surface 7932a of the headrest side member 7908 extending from the head contact position C1 toward the front portion 7930a of the headrest. However, in other embodiments, the recesses 7920a, 7920b may be defined at least partially by a plane extending from the head contact positions C1, C2 to a plane that extends laterally from the inner edge of the front end 7930a of the headrest and is coplanar with the first side impact protection area 7914a.

[0704] In an embodiment, another recess or a second recess 7920b of the head receiving region 7905 may be defined between the head contact positions C1, C2 and the front portion 7930b of the headrest 7900. As shown, a second vertical plane, designated PT2, extends from the front end 7930b in a direction or position tangent to the head contact position C2 and intersects the headrest support surface 7918 at the intersection position IT2. In an embodiment, the recess 7920b may be defined between the vertical plane PT2, the second side impact protection region 1716b, and, in some embodiments, the inner surface 7932b of the headrest side member 7910 extending from the head contact position C2 toward the front portion 7930b of the headrest. However, in other embodiments, the recess 7920b may be defined at least partially by a plane extending from the head contact position C2 to a plane that extends laterally from the inner edge of the front end 7930b of the headrest and is coplanar with the first side impact protection region 7914b.

[0705] like Figure 82BAs shown, contact with head contact points C1 and C2 during a side impact may cause head roll. For example, during a side impact, when the child seat system is in the rear-facing position, the head SIP devices 1304a and 1304b may cause the headrest 1301 to contact the head earlier, inducing head roll. Inducing head roll allows energy to be absorbed for a longer period of time and causes off-axis load on the head. This off-axis load on the head reduces the pure lateral load and peak head y-acceleration, and increases head x-acceleration.

[0706] For reference Figure 28A and 28B This illustrates another type of headrest SIP device suitable for use with a child seat system 2600. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one headrest SIP device 2602a, 2602b, 2602c is, for example, a friction surface 2604a, 2604b, 2604c formed via a friction material, intended to generate friction between the material and the occupant's head to control or terminate head movement. One or more headrest SIP devices 2602a, 2602b, 2602c in the form of friction surfaces may be arranged on the inner surface of the headrest 2606. For example, a first friction surface 2604a may be arranged at or substantially adjacent to the headrest support surface 2608. A second friction surface 264b and / or a third friction surface 2604c may be positioned near the bottom front portion 2610a, 2610b of the respective headrest side members 2612, 2614. Friction surfaces 2602a, 2602b, and 2602c may be arranged at the headrest 2606 and covered by a soft material positioned around the headrest, or alternatively, may be arranged at the soft material (e.g., on the outside of the soft material). When the child seat system 2600 is in a rear-facing configuration, where the occupant's head is pushed against the headrest support surface 2608 during a collision, forming a friction surface 2604a at the headrest support surface 2608 may be particularly advantageous. When the child seat system 2600 is in a forward-facing configuration, friction surfaces 2604b and 2604c may be advantageous at the bottom front portion 2610 of the headrest side members 2612 and 2614, preventing the occupant's head from sliding off the headrest 2606 and impacting the vehicle door panel. The friction surfaces 2604a, 2604b, 2604c described herein can be formed by positioning friction material between a headrest 2606 and a soft article that can be mounted around the headrest 2606, or in embodiments that include another head SIP device or a head SIP assembly previously described herein, the friction materials 2604a, 2604b, 2604c can be arranged between the soft article and the head SIP device or head SIP assembly.

[0707] Another type of headrest SIP device can be used to extend one or more sizes of the headrest of a child seat system. (Reference) Figure 29A and 29B The headrest SIP assembly 2702 shown includes at least one extension wing 2704a, 2704b positionable at the respective headrest side members 2706, 2708. The extension wings 2704a, 2704b may be attached to the headrest 2701, or alternatively, may be integrally formed therewith. The extension wings 2704a, 2704b may be arranged at the front ends 2710a, 2710b of the headrest side members 2706, 2708, thereby increasing the distance of the headrest 2701 (measured from back to front). Alternatively or additionally, the extension wings 2704a, 2704b may be arranged at the bottom surfaces 2712a, 2712b of the respective headrest side members 2706, 2708. The extension wings 2704a, 2704b may extend to cover the entire bottom surface, such as... Figure 29A As shown, or alternatively, it may be possible to extend to cover only a portion of it. Figure 29B A notch or cutout 2714 is formed at the bottom of the headrest 2701 to receive the occupant's shoulder.

[0708] In one embodiment, the front ends 2716a, 2716b, defined by the extension wings 2704a, 2704b, extend relative to the headrest support surface 2720 at a corresponding non-perpendicular angle. Furthermore, the front ends 2716a, 2716b protrude beyond the adjacent edges of the corresponding upright side members 2722, 2724 of the seat housing of the child seat 2700. In another embodiment, the front ends 2716a, 2716b of the extension wings may be aligned with or protrude beyond the upright side members 2722, 2724 at their entire height.

[0709] refer to Figures 30A-31B The illustration shows at least one head SIP device 2804a, 2804b associated with headrest 2802 and having another configuration. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the at least one head SIP device 2804a, 2804b may be in a first retracted configuration ( Figure 30A and 30B ) and second expansion construction ( Figure 31A and 31BThe head SIP devices 2804a and 2804b can be mounted to the headrest side members 2806 and 2808, for example, near their front ends 2810a and 2810b and / or bottom surfaces 2812a and 2812b. In the retracted configuration, the head SIP devices 2804a and 2804b can be located within the boundary defined by the headrest 2802. In the extended or expanded configuration, the head SIP devices 2804a and 2804b can protrude beyond the headrest side members 2806 and 2808 in one or more directions. When in the extended and retracted configurations, the first head SIP device 2804a and the second head SIP device 2804b can be covered by a soft material of the headrest 2802. However, in other embodiments, when in the extended configuration, one or more of the first head SIP device 2804a and the second head SIP device 2804b can protrude through the soft material.

[0710] As shown in the figures, each head SIP device 2804a, 2804b may include a body 2820a, 2820b, said body being configured to project forward from the front ends 2810a, 2810b of the headrest side members 2806, 2808 when in an extended configuration, and downward beyond the bottom surfaces 2812a, 2812b near the front ends 2810a, 2810b of the headrest side members 2806, 2808. In embodiments, the head SIP devices 2804a, 2804b may be formed via a structurally modifiable body, such as an inflatable balloon or airbag, and when the structurally modifiable body is transformed into an extended configuration, the structurally modifiable body will protrude beyond the front ends 2810a, 2810b and / or the bottom 2812a, 2812b of the headrest 2801. However, embodiments in which the head SIP devices 2804a, 2804b are rigid bodies are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0711] Figure 83 Another embodiment of a headrest 8000 having at least one head SIP device that can be switched between a first retracted configuration and a second deployed configuration is shown. As shown, the headrest 8000 includes a first head SIP device 8002a mounted to a first headrest side member 8004 and a second head SIP device 8002b mounted to a second headrest side member 8006. The head SIP devices 8002a and 8002b can be positioned near the front ends 8008a and 8008b of the headrest side members 8004 and 8006. Similar to Figures 30A-31BIn an embodiment, in a retracted configuration, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b may be located within a boundary defined by the headrest 8000. In an extended or expanded configuration, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b may protrude beyond the headrest side members 8004, 8006 in one or more directions. As shown, each head SIP device 8002a, 8002b may include a body 8010a, 8010b configured to protrude forward from the front ends 8008a, 8008b of the headrest side members 8004, 8006.

[0712] Figure 122A-122B It is shown that it can be constructed in the first structure ( Figure 122A ) and second construction ( Figure 122B Another embodiment of a child seat 10800 with at least one headrest SIP device 10804 that can be switched between different headrests 10802 and 10804. The headrest SIP device 10804 may be removably attached to the headrest 10802, or alternatively, may be permanently attached thereto. When in position in the seat 10800, the headrest SIP device 10804 is arranged adjacent to and extends around the inner surface 10806 of the headrest 10802. The headrest SIP device 10804 may be movably attached to the headrest 10802, or alternatively or additionally, movably attached to the seat belt 10808 of the child seat 10800, such as a strap or a pad attached to the strap of the seat belt. During normal use of the child seat 10800, the headrest SIP device 10804 remains positioned adjacent to and in contact with the inner surface 10806 of the headrest 10802, as in some embodiments. Figure 122A As shown. In Figure 122B In the event of a collision, the head SIP device 10804 is configured to move with the occupant. Therefore, the head SIP device 10804 will separate the child from the inner surface 10806 of the headrest 10802 to protect the head from contact with the other surface.

[0713] For reference Figures 123A-124B Various examples of headrests configured to deform from a first configuration to a second configuration in response to a collision event are shown. Figure 123A-12BIn this embodiment, a head support device 10902 is positioned at or adjacent to the inner surface 10904 of the headrest 10900 of the child seat. As shown, the head support device 10902 may extend around substantially the entire inner surface 10904 of the headrest 10900. The headrest 10900 may be formed of a compressible or elastic material configured to deform, for example, elongate, when a compressive force is applied thereto. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, when a force is applied to the head support device 10902, such as when a force is applied through the occupant's head during a collision event, the material of the head support device 10902 displaces. As shown, the head support device 10902 is configured to absorb the energy applied thereto by expanding. In an embodiment, the head support device 10902 is configured to deform such that the head support device 10902 extends, for example, beyond the front end 10906 of the headrest 10900. However, deformation in alternative or additional directions is also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0714] exist Figure 124A-124B In a non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 11002 is positioned in a similar manner at or near the inner surface 11004 of the headrest 11000 of the child seat. As shown, the head SIP device 11002 may extend around substantially the entire inner surface 11004 of the headrest 11000. The headrest 11000 includes a central portion 11006, a first headrest side member 11008 extending from opposite sides of the central portion 11006, and a second headrest side member 11010. As shown, the portion of the head SIP device 11002 located adjacent to at least one of the first headrest side member 11008 and the second headrest side member 11010 has a double-walled construction. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the ends 11012a, 11012b of the head SIP device 11002 fold back onto its inward surface 11014 to form a second wall of the portion of the head SIP device 11002 located adjacent to at least one of the first headrest side member 11008 and the second headrest side member 11010. The head SIP device 11002 may be formed of a flexible, bendable material, enabling the formation of folds. (The remaining text appears to be incomplete and requires further context.) Figure 83 and 122A In each embodiment described in -124B, it should be understood that the disclosed head SIP device, when in an extended configuration, may be covered by a soft material of the headrest, or alternatively, at least a portion thereof may be outside the soft material.

[0715] During a collision, the occupant's head can come into contact with and exert force on the head-mounted SIP device 11002. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, when force is applied to the side of the head-mounted SIP device 11002 (e.g., its double-walled section), the force can cause translation of the inner wall of the head-mounted SIP device 11002 adjacent to the ends 11012a, 11012b of the head-mounted SIP device 11002. As shown, the head-mounted SIP device 11002 is configured to absorb the energy applied thereto by deploying.

[0716] exist Figures 30A-31B In a non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 2804a, 2804b can pivot about an axis between a retracted configuration and an deployed configuration. However, in Figure 83 In the illustrated embodiment, head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b are movable, for example, translating, along each respective headrest side member 8004, 8006 between retracted and deployed configurations. The bodies 8010a, 8010b of the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b may be rigid bodies translatable between retracted and deployed configurations. In such embodiments, a portion of the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b may be received within the headrest 8000, or alternatively or additionally, the head SIP devices may retract into themselves, for example via a retractable configuration. In other embodiments, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b may be formed via a structurally modifiable body, such as an inflatable balloon or airbag. In such embodiments, when the structurally modifiable bodies 8010a, 8010b are transformed into the deployed configuration, the structurally modifiable bodies project forward from the front ends 8008a, 8008b of the headrest 8000.

[0717] For reference Figures 32A-32C Another example of a headrest 2900 with at least one head SIP device is shown. As an alternative to or supplement to the head SIP devices previously described herein, a head SIP device (not shown) may comprise one or more rigid or semi-rigid bodies positioned to overlap with headrest side members 2906, 2908 to control the gap between the side members 2906, 2908 for receiving the occupant's head. In embodiments, the head SIP device is shaped to control the gap such that the occupant's head is spaced apart from or offset from the headrest support surface of the rear portion 2904 of the headrest 2900 by at least a minimum distance. For example, the head SIP devices may be angled relative to each other to position the occupant's head at least about 0.5 inches from the rear portion 2904 of the headrest 2900, and in some embodiments, at least about 0.75 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.25 inches, and about at least 1.5 inches. The head SIP device may, but does not need to, span the entire headrest support surface between adjacent headrest side members 2906, 2908.

[0718] In another embodiment, such as Figure 69A and 69B As shown, at least one head SIP device 6602 is positioned on the exterior of the headrest 6600. In this embodiment, the at least one head SIP device 6602 is not covered by a soft material. As shown, at least one SIP device 6602 may be arranged at the rear side 6604 of at least a portion of the headrest 6600. For example, the head SIP device 6602 is shown positioned adjacent to the rear side 6604 of the headrest side member 6606. As previously described, the head SIP device 6602 may have a rigid, semi-rigid, or inflatable body and may, but does not need to, have a profile complementary to the adjacent headrest side member 6606. Such a head SIP device 6602 can absorb energy during a side impact. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the headrest side member 6606 is shown having an edge 6608 disposed at its rear side 6604 and extending from the top of the headrest 6600 to its front end 6610. In one embodiment, the head SIP device 6602 is at least partially positioned below the edge 6608, for example, within the gap formed between the edge 6608 and the outer surface of the headrest 6600.

[0719] It should be understood that the head SIP devices shown and described herein are merely examples, and any suitable head SIP device is within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, head SIP devices arranged on opposite sides of a head SIP assembly are generally shown as substantially identical, but embodiments in which the construction of the head SIP devices differs on both sides of the headrest are also covered herein. As will be described in more detail below, shoulder SIP devices may be positioned adjacent to the inner surface of the upright portion of the seat housing, for example at the first or second upright side member. Unless another arrangement is mentioned, any embodiment described herein that includes a shoulder SIP device that can be positioned in such an inner surface area should be understood as positioning the shoulder SIP device generally between the seat housing of the child seat and a soft article covering the inner surface of the seat housing. Such a shoulder SIP device may be attached to the structural body of the headrest or a soft article that can be positioned around it. In the embodiments described herein, where the shoulder SIP device is associated with and, in some embodiments, movable with the headrest of the child seat, the shoulder SIP device may, but does not need to, be covered by a soft article.

[0720] Now refer to it again Figure 1As an alternative to or supplement to the head SIP device 70 shown and described herein, the child seat system 20 may also include one or more SIP devices 72a, 72b disposed on the inner surface of the child seat 23 for restricting or controlling shoulder movement of the occupant of the child seat system 20. Such SIP devices 72a, 72b, also referred to herein as “shoulder SIP devices,” may be disposed in areas of the child seat 23, such as the rear or upright portion 28 of the child seat 23, generally aligned with and configured to contact the occupant’s shoulder or upper arm.

[0721] For reference Figure 33A and 33B The illustrated non-limiting embodiment of the child seat 3002 includes a seat housing 3003 having an upright portion 3004, the upright portion including a support surface 3006, a first upright side member 3008, and a second upright side member 3010, as previously described. At least one shoulder SIP device is attached to the child seat 3002. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a first shoulder SIP device 3012a is disposed at the first upright side member 3008, and a second shoulder SIP device 3012b is disposed at the second upright side member 3010. Although only a single shoulder SIP device 3012a, 3012b is shown and described as being disposed on each side of the occupant, it should be understood that embodiments including multiple shoulder SIP devices available for contact with the same shoulder of the occupant are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0722] The first shoulder SIP device 3012a and the second shoulder SIP device 3012b can be permanently or removably attached to the child seat 3002. In an embodiment, as shown... Figure 33C As shown, the child seat 3002 includes at least one engagement feature 3014a, such as a guard, which protrudes from the inner surface of the seat housing 3003, for example at the upright side members 3008, 3010. The engagement feature 3014a may abut or engage a portion of the corresponding shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b to facilitate proper positioning of the shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b around the child seat 3000.

[0723] The first shoulder SIP device 3012a and the second shoulder SIP device 3012b are located on opposite sides of the child seat 3002 and may be substantially the same or may have different constructions. Although Figures 33A-33CThe shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b shown have a generally circular shape, such as annular or elliptical, but embodiments in which one or more shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b have another shape are also within the scope of this disclosure. As shown, the first shoulder SIP device 3012a and the second shoulder SIP device 3012b can be aligned along a horizontal axis and protrude toward the interior of the child seat 3002 beyond the interior surfaces of the upright side members 3008, 3010. In embodiments, the shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b are sized and positioned to allow the headrest 3020 of the child seat 3002 ( Figure 33A (This includes any soft objects associated with it, which can be raised and lowered freely without interference.)

[0724] For reference Figure 34A and 34B Examples of shoulder SIP devices 3100, such as those similar to shoulder SIP devices 72 and 3012a, 3012b, are shown in more detail. As shown, the shoulder SIP device 3100 includes a body having a base or mounting surface 3102 for mounting to a portion of a child seat, a occupant-facing surface 3104 for contact with the occupant of the child seat, and a side portion 3106 extending between the base 3102 and the occupant-facing surface 3104. In embodiments, such as... Figure 34A and 34B As best shown, the interface or transition area between the occupant-facing surface 3104 and the side portion 3106 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 is shaped or molded, for example, rounded or angled, to facilitate occupant movement around the shoulder SIP device 3100. In other embodiments, this interface may include an inclined surface extending outward from the occupant-facing surface toward the base. In this embodiment, this shape of the transition area facilitates forward movement of the occupant.

[0725] Shoulder SIP device 3100, for example in Figures 33A-33C Those used in exemplary embodiments may have a constant thickness defined by the side portion 3106. In such embodiments, the distance between the occupant-facing surface 3104 and the base 3102 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 is constant. In embodiments where the upright side members (e.g., upright side members 3008, 3010) of the child seat extend at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the upright support surface (e.g., surface 3006), the occupant-facing surface 3104 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 attached to the upright side members 3008, 3010 may also be arranged at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the upright support surface.

[0726] In other embodiments, such as Figure 34A and 34BAs shown, the thickness of the side portion 3106 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 can vary, for example, between the front and rear of the child seat. Figures 35A-35B In a non-limiting embodiment of the child seat 3200 shown, the side portion 3204 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 attached to the upright side member 3206 of the child seat 3200 can be varied such that the angle of the base 3208 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is complementary to the angle of the upright side member 3206 relative to the upright support surface 3210. Therefore, when the base 3208 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is properly positioned on the upright side member 3206, the occupant-facing surface 3212 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the upright support surface 3210. Although only a single shoulder SIP device 3202 is shown in the figures, it should be understood that another shoulder SIP device 3202 can be positioned on the opposite side of the seat, for example, in a similar location attached to the upright side member 3220.

[0727] refer to Figures 36A-36D A shoulder SIP device 3300 according to another embodiment is shown. Similar to the previously described embodiments, the shoulder SIP device 3300 includes a body having a base or mounting surface 3302 for mounting to a portion of a child seat 3320 (e.g., upright side member 3322), an occupant-facing surface 3304 for contact with the occupant of the child seat, and a side portion 3306 extending between the base 3302 and the occupant-facing surface 3304. The interface between the occupant-facing surface 3304 and the side portion 3306 may be circular, as previously described. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the occupant-facing surface 3304 of the shoulder SIP device 3300 has a non-planar configuration and includes a first portion or region 3308 arranged at a first angle relative to the base 3302 and a second portion or region 3310 arranged at a second angle relative to the base 3302. The first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 may be separable from each other by a central portion 3312.

[0728] The thickness of the shoulder SIP device 3300 may be greatest at the central portion 3312, such that the first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 slope downward away from the central portion 3312. The slopes of the first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 may be equal or different. In an embodiment, the central portion 3312 has a generally circular profile, forming a smooth transition zone between the first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 on the occupant-facing surface 3304. The curved central portion 3312 and the sloped first and second portions 3308 facilitate movement of the occupant's shoulder around the shoulder SIP device 3300 during a collision event. Although only a single shoulder SIP device 3300 is shown in the figures, it should be understood that another shoulder SIP device 3300 may be positioned on the opposite side of the seat, for example, at a similar location to where it is attached to the upright side member 3224.

[0729] exist Figures 37A-37B Another embodiment of a shoulder SIP device suitable for use with a child seat 3400 is shown. As shown, at least one shoulder SIP device 3402a, 3402b associated with the child seat 3400 has an elongated body that can be positioned at an upright portion 3406 of the seat housing 3404 of the child seat 3400. In the embodiment, the first shoulder SIP device 3402a is positioned to overlap with a first upright side member 3408 of the child seat 3400, and the second first shoulder SIP device 3402b is positioned to overlap with a second upright side member 3410 of the child seat 3400. Although the child seat 3400 is shown and described as having two separate and different shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b, embodiments in which the two bodies are integral or connected together as a single shoulder SIP device are also covered herein.

[0730] The top portions 3412a, 3412b of the corresponding shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can be aligned with the top 3403 of the upright portion 3406 of the seat housing 3404, and the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can extend to cover only a portion of the upright side members 3408, 3410 or alternatively cover substantially their entire height. When the headrest 3416 is in its lowest position relative to the seat housing 3404, the bottom or lower end portions 3414a, 3414b of the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can be aligned with or positioned near the bottom of the headrest 3416 of the child seat 3400. Although the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b are shown as having an outer periphery with a profile complementary to the respective upright side members 3408, 3410, embodiments in which the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b have a different profile are also covered herein. Furthermore, the respective profiles of the occupant-facing surfaces 3420a, 3420b of the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can be configured such that the headrest 3416 can be in a lowered position ( Figure 37A ) and rising position ( Figure 37B It can move between the shoulder SIP devices 3402a and 3402b without being interfered with.

[0731] Figures 70A-70B Another example of a child seat 6700 is shown. As shown, the child seat 6700 includes a seat housing 6702 having an upright portion 6704 and a seat portion 6706, and a headrest 6708, the headrest being available in a first low position relative to the upright portion 6704. Figure 70A ) and the second highest position ( Figure 70A The headrest 6708 is movable between the headrest and the headrest 6712b. In one embodiment, at least one shoulder SIP device is attached to the bottom 6710 of the headrest 6708 and extends downward beyond the bottom 6710. As shown, a first shoulder SIP device 6712a may be positioned near a first side 6714 of the headrest 6708, and a second shoulder SIP device 6712b may be positioned near an opposite second side 6716 of the headrest 6708. The first shoulder SIP device 6712a and the second shoulder SIP device 6712b may have any suitable size and shape. By associating the at least one shoulder SIP device 6712a, 6712b with the headrest 6708, the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b can move together with the headrest 6708. This configuration can provide enhanced protection by adjusting the position of the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b based on the height of the occupant. In addition, in some embodiments, the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b may alternatively or additionally move relative to the headrest 6708 to provide improved adjustability.

[0732] refer to Figure 84A-85 This shows that it can be located in a low position ( Figure 84A ) and high position ( Figure 84B Another example of a child seat 8100 with a headrest 8102 that moves between the headrests 8102 and the child seat 8100. Similar to the previous embodiment, a first shoulder SIP device 8104a may be coupled to the bottom 8110a of a first headrest side member 8106 and extend downward beyond the bottom 8110a, and a second shoulder SIP device 8104b may be coupled to the bottom 8110b of a second headrest side member 8108 and extend downward beyond the bottom 8110b. The shoulder SIP devices 8104a, 8104b may move relative to the seat body of the child seat 8100 along with the headrest 8102, for example, moving between a first position and a second position.

[0733] exist Figure 85 Examples of shoulder SIP devices, such as shoulder SIP device 8104a, are shown in detail herein. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, shoulder SIP device 8104a includes a body 8112 formed by a housing 8114 and at least one insert 8116. As shown, the housing 8114 may include a rear wall 8124 and at least one side wall 8126 extending from the rear wall 8124 at an angle. In some embodiments, the rear wall 8124 of the housing 8114 has a profile that is generally complementary to at least one of the adjacent upright side members 8122 of the corresponding headrest side member 8106 and the seat back 8120 of the child seat 8110. However, embodiments in which the rear wall 8124 has a different profile are also covered herein. As shown, the rear wall 8124 may form one end of the housing 8114, and the at least one side wall 8126 may project substantially vertically from the rear wall 8124. Furthermore, the at least one sidewall 8126 may comprise a plurality of sidewalls or a single continuous sidewall extending around a portion of the periphery of the rear wall 8124 to define a cavity 8128 therein for receiving an insert 8116 between the at least one sidewall 8126 and the rear wall 8124.

[0734] The at least one insert 8116 may be a single insert, or alternatively, a plurality of inserts having similar or different constructions. The single insert or the plurality of inserts may have a size and / or shape complementary to the cavity 8128 of the housing 8114. The at least one insert 8116 may be permanently or removably mounted within the cavity 8128 via any suitable mounting mechanism, such as adhesive or one or more engagement features configured to cooperate with a corresponding portion of the housing. In an embodiment, the housing 8114 is formed of a first material, and the insert 8116 is formed of a second material. The hardness of the first material may be similar to, or alternatively, different from, the hardness of the second material. In an embodiment, the first material is plastic, and the second material is a foam material.

[0735] The shoulder SIP device 8104a can be attached to and moved with the headrest 8102. In an embodiment, the shoulder SIP device 8104a is mechanically coupled to the headrest 8102 via one or more fasteners, such as screws or bolts (not shown). However, other suitable coupling mechanisms, such as hook and loop fasteners, magnets, or snaps, can be used to engage the shoulder SIP device 8104a in place. As shown, the coupling mechanism can be configured to engage a portion of the housing 8114. For example, a plurality of openings 8130 for receiving corresponding fasteners can be formed in the housing 8114, for example, on its surface facing the interior of the cavity 8128. Embodiments that include coupling mechanisms arranged at another location around the housing or alternatively or additionally at the insert are also within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, embodiment...

Claims

1. A child seat for installation on a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat backrest; as well as A headrest, which can be connected to the seat back, has the following features: An inner surface defining a head-receiving area of ​​the headrest, the inner surface having a headrest support surface positioned at the rear of the head-receiving area and a side impact protection portion positioned between the headrest support surface and the front of the head-receiving area; and A recess is disposed between the side impact protection portion and the front portion of the head receiving region, wherein at least one of the side impact protection portion and the inner surface at least partially defines the recess.

2. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein, The side impact protection section has a curved structure.

3. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein, The side impact protection portion has a concave structure at a position adjacent to the front of the head receiving area.

4. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein, Another recess is located between the side impact protection portion and the headrest support surface.

5. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein, The side impact protection portion further includes an inward surface facing the interior of the head receiving area, the inward surface including a first side impact protection area extending between the rear and front portions of the head receiving area and a second side impact protection area extending between the rear and front portions of the head receiving area, the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area being arranged at an angle.

6. The child seat according to claim 5, wherein, The interface between the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area is linear.

7. The child seat according to claim 5, wherein, The interface between the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area is curved.

8. The child seat according to claim 5, wherein, The first side impact protection area is located between the headrest support surface and the second side impact protection area.

9. The child seat according to claim 5, wherein, The recess is defined at least partially by at least one of the second side impact protection area and the inner surface.

10. The child seat according to claim 9, wherein, The recess is at least partially defined by the first side impact protection area.

11. The child seat according to claim 9, wherein, The recess is defined at least in part by both the second side impact protection area and the inner surface.

12. The child seat according to claim 5, wherein, The second side impact protection area has a substantially planar surface.

13. The child seat according to claim 5, wherein, The second side impact protection area has a concave curvature.

14. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein, The inner surface extends between a first front end and a second front end disposed at the front portion of the head receiving area, the side impact protection portion is a first side impact protection portion located between the headrest support surface and the first front end, and the recess is a first recess. and A second side impact protection portion is positioned between the headrest support surface and the second front end, wherein a second recess extends between the second side impact protection portion and the front portion of the head receiving area.

15. The child seat according to claim 14, wherein, The first side impact protection portion and the first recess are the same as the second side impact protection portion and the second recess.

16. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein, The side impact protection section also includes at least one side impact protection device that can be removably attached to the headrest.

17. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein, The side impact protection section also includes at least one side impact protection device integrally formed with the headrest.

18. The child seat of claim 1, further comprising at least one side impact protection device disposed in the head receiving area.

19. The child seat according to claim 18, wherein, The at least one side impact protection device is positioned adjacent to and in contact with the rear of the head receiving area.

20. The child seat according to claim 18, wherein, The at least one side impact protection device is offset from the rear of the head receiving area.

21. The child seat according to claim 18, wherein, The at least one side impact protection device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

22. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein, The surface that at least partially defines the recess of the side impact protection portion has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

23. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein, The side impact protection portion includes a portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest, wherein the recess is positioned between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest.

24. The child seat according to claim 23, wherein, The recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest, and the recess has a concave curved portion.

25. The child seat according to claim 23, wherein, The headrest is positioned such that the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis is located between the rear of the head receiving area and the center of gravity of the occupant's head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

26. The child seat according to claim 23, wherein, The surface of the side impact protection portion of the headrest, located at the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis, has a substantially vertical planar construction between the top and bottom of the headrest.

27. A child seat, comprising: Seat backrest; as well as A headrest, which can be connected to the seat back, comprises: The back part of the headrest, At least one headrest side member, the at least one headrest side member extending from the rear portion of the headrest toward the front portion of the headrest; A side impact protection portion, the side impact protection portion extending along the at least one headrest side member; as well as A recess defined between the side impact protection portion and the front portion of the headrest.

28. The child seat according to claim 27, wherein, The side impact protection section has a curved structure.

29. The child seat according to claim 28, wherein, The side impact protection section has a convex structure.

30. The child seat according to claim 27, wherein, The recess has a curved structure.

31. The child seat according to claim 30, wherein, The recess has a concave structure.

32. The child seat according to claim 27, wherein, The recess has an inclined structure.

33. The child seat according to claim 27, wherein, The side impact protection portion further includes an inward surface having a first side impact protection area and a second side impact protection area extending between the rear portion of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest, the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area being arranged at an angle.

34. The child seat according to claim 33, wherein, The interface between the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area is linear.

35. The child seat according to claim 33, wherein, The interface between the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area is curved.

36. The child seat according to claim 33, wherein, The first side impact protection area is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the second side impact protection area.

37. The child seat according to claim 33, wherein, The recess is defined at least partially by the second side impact protection area and at least one of the at least one headrest side member.

38. The child seat according to claim 37, wherein, The recess is defined at least in part by the intersection between the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area.

39. The child seat according to claim 37, wherein, The recess is defined at least partially by both the second side impact protection area and the at least one headrest side member.

40. The child seat according to claim 37, wherein, The second side impact protection area has a substantially planar surface.

41. The child seat according to claim 37, wherein, The second side impact protection area has a concave curvature.

42. The child seat according to claim 27, wherein, The side impact protection section also includes at least one side impact protection (SIP) device, which is removably connected to the at least one headrest side member.

43. The child seat according to claim 42, wherein, The at least one SIP device can be removably attached to the rear portion of the headrest.

44. The child seat according to claim 42, wherein, The at least one SIP device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

45. The child seat according to claim 27, wherein, The side impact protection portion also includes at least one side impact protection (SIP) device integrally formed with the headrest.

46. ​​The child seat according to claim 45, wherein, The at least one SIP device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

47. The child seat according to claim 27, wherein, The headrest includes an inner surface that defines a head receiving area of ​​the headrest, and the side impact protection portion further includes a side impact protection (SIP) device disposed within the head receiving area.

48. The child seat according to claim 27, wherein, The surface that at least partially defines the recess of the side impact protection portion has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

49. The child seat according to claim 27, wherein, The side impact protection portion includes a portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest, wherein the recess is positioned between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest.

50. The child seat according to claim 49, wherein, The recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest.

51. The child seat according to claim 49, wherein, The headrest is positioned such that the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the center of gravity of the occupant's head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

52. The child seat according to claim 49, wherein, The surface of the side impact protection portion of the headrest, located at the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis, has a substantially vertical planar construction between the top and bottom of the headrest.

53. A child seat, comprising: Seat backrest; as well as A headrest, the headrest being connectable to the seat back and having an inner surface defining a head-receiving area of ​​the headrest, the occupant’s head being received within the head-receiving area, the headrest including a rear portion of the headrest at the rear of the head-receiving area; The headrest is positioned such that a portion of the central longitudinal axis closest to the head receiving area is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the center of gravity of the head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

54. The child seat according to claim 53, wherein, The head receiving area also includes a recess disposed between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving area and the front portion of the headrest.

55. The child seat according to claim 54, wherein, The recess has a curved structure.

56. The child seat according to claim 55, wherein, The recess has a concave structure.

57. The child seat according to claim 53, wherein, The recess has an inclined structure.

58. The child seat according to claim 53, wherein, The headrest also includes a side impact protection (SIP) device, and the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving area is part of the SIP device.

59. The child seat according to claim 58, wherein, The SIP device has at least a partially bent structure.

60. The child seat according to claim 59, wherein, The SIP device has at least a partially convex structure.

61. The child seat according to claim 58, wherein, The SIP device further includes an inward surface having a first lateral impact protection region and a second lateral impact protection region extending between the rear portion of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest, the first lateral impact protection region and the second lateral impact protection region being arranged at an angle.

62. The child seat according to claim 61, wherein, The headrest is positioned such that the portion of the central longitudinal axis closest to the head receiving area is arranged at the intersection between the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area.

63. The child seat according to claim 61, wherein, The first side impact protection area is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the second side impact protection area.

64. The child seat according to claim 61, wherein, The head receiving area also includes a recess disposed between the front portion of the SIP device and the headrest.

65. The child seat according to claim 64, wherein, The recess is at least partially defined by the second side impact protection area.

66. The child seat according to claim 65, wherein, The second side impact protection area has a substantially planar surface.

67. The child seat according to claim 65, wherein, The second side impact protection area has a concave curvature.

68. The child seat according to claim 58, wherein, The headrest also includes at least one headrest side member extending from the rear portion of the headrest toward the front portion of the headrest, and the SIP device can be removably connected to the at least one headrest side member.

69. The child seat according to claim 68, wherein, The at least one headrest side member includes a first headrest side member and a second headrest side member, and the gap between the first headrest side member and the second headrest side member varies with the height of the headrest at a position between the SIP device and the front portion of the headrest.

70. The child seat according to claim 69, wherein, The gap between the first headrest side member and the second headrest side member at a position near the top of the headrest between the SIP device and the front portion of the headrest is greater than the gap between the first headrest side member and the second headrest side member at a position near the bottom of the headrest between the SIP device and the front portion of the headrest.

71. The child seat according to claim 58, wherein, The SIP device can be removably attached to the rear portion of the headrest.

72. The child seat according to claim 58, wherein, The SIP device is formed together with the headrest.

73. The child seat according to claim 58, wherein, The SIP device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

74. A child seat, comprising: Seat backrest; as well as A headrest, connectable to the seat back, having an inner surface defining a head-receiving area, the inner surface having: A headrest support surface, wherein the headrest support surface is positioned at the rear of the head receiving area; A side impact protection portion, wherein the side impact protection portion is positioned between the headrest support surface and the front of the head receiving area; and Wherein, the headrest is positioned such that a portion of the central longitudinal axis closest to the head receiving area is spaced apart from the headrest support surface, and the portion of the headrest positioned such that the central longitudinal axis closest to the head receiving area is part of the side impact protection portion.

75. The child seat according to claim 74, wherein, The side impact protection section has at least a partially bent structure.

76. The child seat according to claim 74, wherein, The side impact protection portion has at least a partially concave structure.

77. The child seat according to claim 74, wherein, The side impact protection portion further includes an inward surface having a first side impact protection area and a second side impact protection area extending between the rear portion of the head receiving area and the front portion of the headrest, the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area being arranged at an angle.

78. The child seat according to claim 77, wherein, The headrest is positioned such that the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving area is arranged at the interface between the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area.

79. The child seat according to claim 77, wherein, The first side impact protection area is located between the rear portion of the head receiving area and the second side impact protection area.

80. The child seat according to claim 77, wherein, The head receiving area also includes a recess disposed between the side impact protection portion and the front portion of the headrest.

81. The child seat according to claim 80, wherein, The recess is at least partially defined by the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving area.

82. The child seat according to claim 80, wherein, The recess is defined at least partially by at least one of the second side impact protection area and the inner surface.

83. The child seat according to claim 80, wherein, The recess extends from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest to the front portion of the headrest.

84. The child seat according to claim 83, wherein, The recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest.

85. The child seat according to claim 84, wherein, The recess has a concave structure.

86. The child seat according to claim 74, wherein, The headrest is positioned such that the portion of the central longitudinal axis closest to the head receiving area is laterally spaced from the headrest support surface.

87. The child seat according to claim 74, wherein, The headrest is positioned such that the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving area is arranged forward relative to the central longitudinal axis from the headrest support surface.

88. A child seat, comprising: Seat backrest; as well as A headrest, which can be connected to the seat back, the headrest comprising: The back part of the headrest, At least one headrest side member, the at least one headrest side member extending from the rear portion of the headrest toward the front portion of the headrest, the at least one headrest side member and the rear portion of the headrest at least partially defining a head receiving area; A protrusion, the protrusion being disposed at the at least one headrest side member, the protrusion extending into the head receiving area; and A recess defined between the protrusion and the front portion of the headrest.

89. The child seat according to claim 88, wherein, The protrusion has a curved structure.

90. The child seat according to claim 89, wherein, The protrusion has a concave structure.

91. The child seat according to claim 88, wherein, The recess has a curved structure.

92. The child seat according to claim 88, wherein, The recess has a concave structure.

93. The child seat according to claim 88, wherein, The recess has an inclined structure.

94. The child seat according to claim 88, wherein, Another recess is located between the protrusion and the rear portion of the headrest.

95. The child seat according to claim 88, wherein, The protrusion is formed by a side impact protection device arranged on at least one headrest side member.

96. The child seat according to claim 95, wherein, The side impact protection device can be removably attached to the headrest.

97. The child seat according to claim 95, wherein, The side impact protection device is integrally formed with the headrest.

98. The child seat according to claim 95, wherein, The side impact protection device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

99. The child seat according to claim 95, wherein, The side impact protection device includes an inward surface that includes a first side impact protection area and a second side impact protection area extending between the rear portion of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest, the first side impact protection area and the second side impact protection area being arranged at an angle.

100. The child seat according to claim 99, wherein, The first side impact protection area is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the second side impact protection area.

101. The child seat according to claim 99, wherein, The recess is defined at least partially by the second side impact protection area and at least one of the at least one headrest side member.

102. The child seat according to claim 99, wherein, The recess is defined at least partially by both the second side impact protection area and the at least one headrest side member.

103. The child seat of claim 95, further comprising a side impact protection device disposed at the at least one headrest side member, the side impact protection device being disposed between the side impact protection device and the front portion of the headrest.

104. The child seat according to claim 103, wherein, The side impact protection device has a first hardness, and the other side impact protection device has a second hardness, which is different from the first hardness.

105. The child seat according to claim 103, wherein, Another recess is formed between the side impact protection device and the other side impact protection device, and a liner is disposed in the other recess.

106. The child seat according to claim 88, wherein, The surface of the protrusion that at least partially defines the recess has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

107. The child seat according to claim 88, wherein, The protrusion includes a portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest, wherein the recess extends between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest.

108. The child seat according to claim 107, wherein, The recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest.

109. The child seat according to claim 107, wherein, The headrest is positioned such that the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the center of gravity of the occupant's head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

110. The child seat according to claim 107, wherein, The surface of the protrusion located at the portion of the headrest that is closest to the central longitudinal axis has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

111. The child seat according to claim 88, wherein, The at least one headrest side member includes a first headrest side member and a second headrest side member disposed on opposite sides of the rear portion of the headrest, wherein the protrusion is disposed on the first headrest side member and another protrusion is disposed on the second headrest side member.

112. The child seat according to claim 111, wherein, The protrusion and the other protrusion are substantially symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis of the headrest.

113. The child seat according to claim 112, wherein, The surface of the protrusion is substantially parallel to the corresponding surface of the other protrusion.

114. A child seat, comprising: Seat backrest; as well as A headrest, connectable to the seat back, having an inner surface defining a head-receiving area, the inner surface having: A headrest support surface, wherein the headrest support surface is positioned at the rear of the head receiving area; A protrusion, the protrusion being disposed on the inner surface; as well as A recess is provided between the protrusion and the front portion of the headrest.

115. The child seat according to claim 114, wherein, The protrusion has a curved structure.

116. The child seat according to claim 115, wherein, The protrusion has a convex structure.

117. The child seat according to claim 114, wherein, The recess has a curved structure.

118. The child seat according to claim 114, wherein, The recess has a concave structure.

119. The child seat according to claim 114, wherein, The recess has an inclined structure.

120. The child seat according to claim 114, wherein, Another recess is located between the protrusion and the headrest support surface.

121. The child seat according to claim 114, wherein, The protrusion is disposed at the side impact protection portion of the inner surface, the side impact protection portion being positioned between the rear portion of the head receiving area and the front portion of the headrest.

122. The child seat of claim 121, further comprising a side impact protection (SIP) device attached to the headrest at the side impact protection portion, wherein, The protrusion is formed by the SIP device.

123. The child seat according to claim 122, wherein, The SIP device can be removably attached to the headrest.

124. The child seat according to claim 122, wherein, The SIP device is integrally formed with the headrest.

125. The child seat according to claim 58, wherein, The SIP device extends to at least one of the top and bottom of the headrest.

126. The child seat of claim 121, further comprising another SIP device disposed at the side impact protection portion, the other SIP device being disposed between the SIP device and the front portion of the headrest.

127. The child seat according to claim 125, wherein, The SIP device has a first hardness, and the other SIP device has a second hardness, which is different from the first hardness.

128. The child seat according to claim 127, wherein, Another recess is formed between the SIP device and the other SIP device, and a liner is disposed within the other recess.

129. The child seat according to claim 114, wherein, The surface of the protrusion that at least partially defines the recess has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

130. The child seat according to claim 114, wherein, The protrusion includes a portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest, wherein the recess extends between the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the headrest and the front portion of the headrest.

131. The child seat according to claim 129, wherein, The recess extends continuously from the portion of the headrest positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis to the front portion of the headrest.

132. The child seat according to claim 129, wherein, The headrest is positioned such that the portion closest to the central longitudinal axis is located between the rear portion of the headrest and the center of gravity of the occupant's head in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

133. The child seat according to claim 129, wherein, The surface of the protrusion located at the portion of the headrest that is closest to the central longitudinal axis has a substantially vertical planar configuration between the top and bottom of the headrest.

134. The child seat of claim 121, further comprising a side impact protection portion on the inner surface and a side impact protection device attached to the headrest at the side impact protection portion.

135. The child seat of claim 114, further comprising another protrusion disposed on the inner surface, wherein, The protrusion and the other protrusion are substantially symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis of the headrest.

136. The child seat according to claim 135, wherein, The surface of the protrusion is substantially parallel to the corresponding surface of the other protrusion.

137. A child seat for installation on a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat backrest; A headrest, which can be connected to the seat back, comprises: An inner surface that defines a head-receiving area of ​​the headrest, the inner surface having a first front end, a second front end, and a rear portion, and the center of the headrest in a lateral direction extending between the first front end and the second front end is located at the rear portion; The head contact position is arranged between the center of the headrest and the first front end; A first side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed at a first portion of the headrest within the head receiving area of ​​the headrest. A second side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed at the first portion of the headrest within the head receiving area of ​​the headrest. as well as A recess is disposed between the first SIP device and the second SIP device.

138. The child seat according to claim 137, wherein, The headrest includes a rear portion and a headrest side member, with the first SIP device and the second SIP device disposed on the headrest side member.

139. The child seat according to claim 137, wherein, At least one of the first SIP device and the second SIP device is offset from both the first front end and the second front end.

140. The child seat according to claim 139, wherein, The second SIP device is spaced apart from the first SIP device along the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving region.

141. The child seat according to claim 137, wherein, The first SIP device has a first portion positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving region, and the second SIP device has a second portion positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis of the head receiving region, wherein the recess is defined between the first portion and the second portion.

142. The child seat according to claim 141, wherein, The first portion of the first SIP device is positioned in the head receiving area in the longitudinal direction at a position between the rear and the center of gravity of the occupant's head.

143. The child seat according to claim 137, wherein, At least one of the first SIP device and the second SIP device is positioned adjacent to and in contact with the rear portion of the inner surface.

144. The child seat of claim 137, further comprising a pad disposed between the first SIP device and the second SIP device.

145. The child seat according to claim 144, wherein, The hardness of the liner is less than that of the first SIP device and the second SIP device.

146. The child seat according to claim 144, wherein, The first SIP device has a first hardness, and the second SIP device has a second hardness, wherein the first hardness is different from the second hardness.

147. The child seat according to claim 144, wherein, The first SIP device has a first hardness, and the second SIP device has a second hardness, wherein the first hardness is equal to the second hardness.

148. A child seat for installation on a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat backrest; A headrest, which can be connected to the seat back, the headrest comprising: The back part of the headrest, At least one headrest side member, the at least one headrest side member extending from the rear portion of the headrest toward the front portion of the headrest, the at least one headrest side member and the rear portion of the headrest at least partially defining a head receiving area; as well as A side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed at the at least one headrest side member at a position adjacent to the front portion of the headrest, the SIP device being offset from the rear portion of the headrest.

149. The child seat according to claim 148, wherein, The SIP device includes a convex curvature.

150. The child seat according to claim 148, wherein, The SIP device further includes an inward surface having a first side impact protection region and a second side impact protection region disposed between the rear portion of the head receiving region and the front portion of the headrest, the first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region being arranged at an angle.

151. The child seat according to claim 150, wherein, The second side impact protection area is offset from the at least one headrest side member.

152. The child seat according to claim 150, wherein, The second side impact protection area has a convex curvature.

153. The child seat according to claim 150, wherein, The thickness of the SIP device decreases from the first side impact protection area toward the front of the headrest.

154. The child seat according to claim 150, wherein, The first side impact protection area is arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the rear portion of the headrest.

155. The child seat according to claim 150, wherein, The second side impact protection area is arranged substantially parallel to the rear portion of the headrest.

156. The child seat according to claim 150, wherein, The thickness of the SIP device increases from the first side impact protection area toward the front of the headrest.

157. The child seat according to claim 148, wherein, The headrest is positioned such that a portion of its central longitudinal axis is located at the front of the headrest.

158. The child seat according to claim 148, wherein, The SIP device extends to cover less than half the length of the at least one headrest side member.

159. A child seat, comprising: Seat backrest; as well as A headrest, connected to the seat back, the headrest comprising: A headrest housing having a rear portion and at least one headrest side member extending from the rear portion toward the front portion of the headrest; as well as A connector component capable of being connected to the headrest housing, the connector component extending beyond the at least one housing headrest side component to define the front portion of the headrest.

160. The child seat according to claim 159, wherein, The headrest housing comprises a first material and the connector component comprises a second material, wherein the hardness of the second material is less than that of the first material.

161. The child seat according to claim 159, wherein, The connector component includes an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer surface being locating adjacent to the inner surface of the headrest housing.

162. The child seat according to claim 161, wherein, The inner surface of the connector component defines the head receiving area of ​​the headrest.

163. The child seat of claim 161, further comprising at least one side impact protection (SIP) device disposed at the connector member.

164. The child seat according to claim 163, wherein, The at least one SIP device is integrally formed with the connector component.

165. The child seat according to claim 163, wherein, The at least one SIP device can be removably connected to the connector component.

166. The child seat according to claim 163, wherein, The at least one SIP device is disposed on the inner surface of the connector component.

167. The child seat according to claim 164, wherein, The at least one SIP device is positioned between the central body portion of the connector component and the front portion of the headrest.

168. The child seat according to claim 167, wherein, The connector component includes a first side portion and a second side portion extending from the central body portion toward the front portion of the headrest, and the at least one SIP device is disposed at one of the first side portion and the second side portion.

169. The child seat according to claim 161, wherein, The connector component also includes a reinforcing region disposed on the connector component extending beyond a portion of the headrest housing.

170. The child seat according to claim 169, wherein, The reinforcing region is located on the outer surface of the connector component.

171. The child seat according to claim 161, wherein, The connector component includes at least one feature capable of engaging with the headrest housing to properly position the connector component around the headrest.

172. A child seat for installation on a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat backrest; A headrest, which can be connected to the seat back, comprises: The inner surface defines the head-receiving area of ​​the headrest, and the inner surface has a first front end, a second front end, and a rear end. At least one side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed in the head receiving area of ​​the headrest, the at least one SIP device having an inward surface facing the head receiving area, wherein the length of the inward surface, measured between the rear portion of the inward surface and the flip line of the at least one SIP device, varies with the height of the at least one SIP device.

173. The child seat according to claim 172, wherein, The flip line has a forward configuration.

174. The child seat according to claim 164, wherein, The length of the inward surface near the top of the at least one SIP device is between approximately 90 mm and approximately 140 mm.

175. The child seat according to claim 164, wherein, The length of the inward surface near the bottom of the at least one SIP device is between approximately 40 mm and approximately 90 mm.

176. The child seat according to claim 164, wherein, The at least one SIP device has a base surface, and at a location near the front end of the at least one SIP device, the base surface is offset from the inner surface of the headrest, such that a gap is formed between the base surface and the inner surface of the at least one SIP device.

177. A child seat system capable of being positioned on a vehicle seat, the child seat system comprising: A child car seat, the child car seat comprising a seat portion, a rear portion extending from the seat portion, and a headrest; Side impact protection (SIP) device, the side impact protection device being arranged around the headrest; as well as A shoulder SIP device that can be aligned with the shoulder of the occupant of the child seat; A portion of the strap path for receiving the vehicle straps in the child seat is defined by at least one of the head SIP device and the shoulder SIP device.

178. The child seat system according to claim 177, wherein, The bottom surface of the head SIP device defines the portion of the strap path.

179. The child seat system according to claim 178, wherein, The headrest includes an opening for receiving the vehicle harness, and the bottom surface of the head SIP device is positioned adjacent to the opening.

180. The child seat system of claim 177 further includes a soft material, the soft material being positioned to overlap with the headrest SIP device, wherein, The soft material defines a portion of the strap path.

181. The child seat system according to claim 177, wherein, The shoulder SIP device is attached to the headrest.

182. The child seat system according to claim 177, wherein, The headrest is movable relative to the child seat, and the shoulder SIP device is movable together with the headrest relative to the child seat.

183. The child seat system of claim 177 further includes a soft material, the soft material being positioned to overlap with the shoulder SIP device, wherein, The soft material defines a portion of the strap path.

184. A child seat system capable of being positioned on a vehicle seat, the child seat system comprising: A child car seat, the child car seat comprising a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion; A shoulder side impact protection (SIP) device is arranged to align with the shoulder of the occupant of the child seat. as well as A soft material for the shoulder, the soft material for the shoulder forming a recess, at least a portion of the shoulder SIP device being received within the recess.

185. The child seat system according to claim 184, wherein, The soft shoulder material overlaps with the forward surface of the shoulder SIP device.

186. The child seat system according to claim 184, wherein, The soft material on the shoulder encloses the shoulder SIP device.

187. The child seat system according to claim 184, wherein, The child seat also includes a headrest, which comprises a headrest soft material, and the shoulder soft material is integrally formed with the headrest soft material.

188. The child seat system according to claim 187, wherein, The headrest is movable relative to the child seat, and the shoulder SIP device is movable together with the headrest relative to the child seat.

189. The child seat system according to claim 184, wherein, The child seat also includes a soft material disposed on the rear portion, and the shoulder soft material is integrally formed with the soft material disposed on the rear portion.

190. The child seat system according to claim 184, wherein, The soft shoulder pads define a portion of the child seat's strap path for receiving the vehicle straps.

191. The child seat system of claim 172 further includes a recess formed between at least one of the first front end and the second front end of the at least one SIP device and the headrest.

192. The child seat system according to claim 191, wherein, The recess extends between the front portion of at least one SIP device and at least one of the first front end and the second front end of the headrest.

193. The child seat of claim 18, further comprising at least one second SIP device disposed within the head receiving area.

194. The child seat according to claim 193, wherein, The at least one second SIP device is a gasket.

195. The child seat according to claim 193, wherein, The hardness of the at least one second SIP device is less than the hardness of the at least one SIP device.

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