Child vehicle seat system with automatic lock

Abstract

A child seat mountable on a vehicle seat includes a seat bottom and a seat back extending from the seat bottom. A harness assembly is connected with the seat bottom and the seat back. The harness assembly includes a harness adjuster disposed at the seat bottom and an adjustment strap extending through the harness adjuster. At least one cover member extends proximate a front portion of the harness adjuster. The adjustment strap extends around the at least one cover member. A strap path defined by the at least one cover member has a serpentine configuration along which the adjustment strap is movable relative to the harness adjuster.

Description

[0001] Cross-citation of related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefits of U.S. Application No. 63 / 791,995, filed April 21, 2025; U.S. Application No. 63 / 933,809, filed December 8, 2025; and U.S. Application No. 63 / 933,835, filed December 8, 2025, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to the field of child restraint systems used in vehicles, and more specifically, to support bases and child seats for child restraint systems. Background Technology

[0004] Child restraint systems are designed to protect children from injury or death during a vehicle collision. Existing child restraint systems typically include a child seat, which has a backrest, a seat, and a seatbelt for restraining the child within the child seat.

[0005] Seat belts used in child seats selectively tighten or loosen and are then held in place by a central front adjuster (“CFA”), also known as a seat belt adjuster or “automatic lock (A-lock)”. The A-lock is typically used to secure car seat belts in place to maintain a close fit with a child inside the car seat. To secure the seat belt, the A-lock uses clamping features (e.g., a series of teeth) to engage with the seat belt tether (e.g., webbing). It is desirable to prevent debris from entering the A-lock or to minimize the amount of debris that does enter it. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to an embodiment, a child seat mountable in a vehicle seat includes a seat base and a seat back extending from the seat base. A seatbelt assembly is connected to the seat base and the seat back. The seatbelt assembly includes a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster. At least one cover extends proximally to the front of the seatbelt adjuster. The adjusting strap extends around the at least one cover. The strap path defined by the at least one cover has a serpentine configuration, along which the adjusting strap is movable relative to the seatbelt adjuster.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the at least one covering component is a single covering component.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the at least one covering component is a pair of covering components.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, when the strap path has the serpentine configuration, the pair of covering components are in an overlapping configuration.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the pair of covering members comprises an upper covering member and a lower covering member. In an overlapping configuration, the upper covering member is positioned between the bottom of the seat and the lower covering member.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, when the pair of cover components are in the overlapping configuration, the adjustment straps are freely movable to loosen the seatbelt assembly.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the lower cover member may move relative to the upper cover member and the seat bottom in response to applying a force to the exposed end of the adjustment strap.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the pair of covering members may change to a second configuration in response to applying force to the exposed end of the adjustment strap.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, in the second configuration, the pair of covering components are separated from each other.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, in the second configuration, the strap path defined by the pair of covering members has a generally linear configuration.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the pair of covering members includes an upper covering member and a lower covering member, and in a second configuration, the upper covering member remains in contact with the upper surface of the adjustment strap.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the at least one covering component is formed of a fabric material.

[0018] According to an embodiment, a child seat that can be mounted on a vehicle seat includes a seat base and a seat back extending from the seat base. The seat base has a strap receiving surface that defines a strap path and at least one groove for receiving debris. A seat belt assembly is connected to the seat base and the seat back. The seat belt assembly includes a seat belt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seat belt adjuster. The adjusting strap is selectively movable along the strap path.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the at least one slot is positioned between the front of the seat bottom and the seat belt adjuster.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the at least one slot is positioned near the front of the seatbelt adjuster.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seatbelt adjuster includes a housing, and the at least one slot is vertically aligned with the housing.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the at least one slot is positioned to overlap with the strap path.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the at least one slot is arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the adjustment belt.

[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seatbelt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about a rotation axis to selectively lock the adjusting strap to prevent movement along the strap path. The at least one slot is parallel to the rotation axis.

[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the at least one slot comprises a plurality of slots spaced axially along the belt path.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the at least one slot disposed at the bottom of the seat is configured to receive debris as the adjustment strap moves along the strap path.

[0027] According to one embodiment, a child seat that can be mounted on a vehicle seat includes a seat base and a seat back extending from the seat base. A seat belt assembly is connected to the seat base and the seat back. The seat belt assembly includes a seat belt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjustment strap extending through the seat belt adjuster. The adjustment strap has a non-linear configuration such that debris disposed at the adjustment strap is configured to fall off thereby by gravity.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the adjustment band has a curved configuration comprising a curvature extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the adjustment band.

[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the adjustment strap has the non-linear configuration in front of the seatbelt adjuster.

[0030] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the adjusting strap has the non-linear configuration at the seatbelt adjuster.

[0031] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, a portion of the adjustment band at the central longitudinal axis of the adjustment band is vertically positioned above the lateral side of the adjustment band.

[0032] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the uppermost surface of the adjustment band is disposed at the longitudinal axis of the adjustment band.

[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the adjustment band has an inverted U-shape.

[0034] According to one embodiment, a child seat mountable in a vehicle seat includes a seat base and a seat back extending from the seat base. A seatbelt assembly is connected to the seat base and the seat back. The seatbelt assembly includes a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster. A sleeve is mounted on the adjusting strap at a location outside the seatbelt adjuster. The sleeve is configured to slide frictionally relative to the adjusting strap as the adjusting strap moves relative to the seatbelt adjuster.

[0035] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the sleeve is arranged on a portion of the adjusting strap outside the bottom of the seat.

[0036] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the sleeve may be movable relative to the bottom of the seat.

[0037] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the sleeve is fixed relative to the bottom of the seat.

[0038] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the sleeve has a body that includes a first opening connected to the second opening, and the adjustment strap extends through the body between the first opening and the second opening.

[0039] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first opening is substantially equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the adjustment strap.

[0040] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the sleeve is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0041] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the sleeve is formed of a tightly woven material.

[0042] According to an embodiment, a child seat that can be mounted on a vehicle seat includes a seat base and a seat back extending from the seat base. A seat belt assembly is connected to the seat base and the seat back. The seat belt assembly includes a seat belt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seat belt adjuster. A cover is attached to at least one of the seat belt adjuster and the seat base. The cover is disposed at a location outside the seat belt adjuster and is shaped and positioned at least one of to guide debris away from the seat belt adjuster.

[0043] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seatbelt assembly includes a release actuator, and the cover is shaped and / or positioned to guide the debris away from the release actuator.

[0044] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the cover surrounds the front of the seatbelt adjuster and has a front opening through which the adjustment strap extends into the seatbelt adjuster.

[0045] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seatbelt adjuster is substantially surrounded by the cover.

[0046] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the cover is disposed at the peak of the seatbelt adjuster.

[0047] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seatbelt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about an axis, and the cover extends over the pivot portion of the lever.

[0048] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seatbelt adjuster is configured to prevent debris from entering the seatbelt adjuster from above.

[0049] According to one embodiment, a child seat mountable in a vehicle seat includes a seat base and a seat back extending from the seat base. A seatbelt assembly is connected to the seat base and the seat back. The seatbelt assembly includes a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster. The seatbelt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about an axis and a gap for receiving the adjusting strap, at least partially defined by the lever. The gap is vertically positioned above the lever.

[0050] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the lever may be rotatable about the axis to vary the tension applied to the adjusting strap by the seatbelt adjuster. The lever may also rotate toward the seat support surface at the bottom of the seat to reduce the tension applied to the adjusting strap.

[0051] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seatbelt adjuster is disposed within a cavity formed in the seat support surface at the bottom of the seat. The seatbelt adjuster is offset from the bottom of the cavity to prevent debris on the bottom of the cavity from reaching the seatbelt adjuster.

[0052] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seat belt assembly is positioned such that the adjustment strap is angled relative to the horizontal plane at a position directly upstream of the seat belt adjuster to prevent debris from the adjustment strap from entering the seat belt adjuster.

[0053] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, an opening is formed at the bottom of the seat, and the adjusting strap extends through the opening to the outside of the child seat. The gap of the seat belt adjuster is vertically positioned above the opening.

[0054] According to an embodiment, a child seat that can be mounted on a vehicle seat includes a seat base and a seat back extending from the seat base. A seat belt assembly is connected to the seat base and the seat back. The seat belt assembly includes a seat belt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seat belt adjuster. The seat belt adjuster is configured to apply tension to the adjusting strap at a contact area, and the adjusting strap extending from the contact area in at least one direction has an inclined configuration.

[0055] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the adjusting strap is selectively movable along the strap path, and the contact area forms a vertical peak of the strap path near the seatbelt adjuster.

[0056] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, an opening is formed at the bottom of the seat, and the adjustment strap extends through the opening to the outside of the child seat. The contact area is positioned vertically above the opening.

[0057] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the adjustment band extends at an angle between the contact area and the opening.

[0058] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seatbelt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about an axis and a gap for receiving the adjustment strap, at least partially defined by the lever. The gap is positioned vertically above the lever.

[0059] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the thickness of the gap varies based on the rotational position of the lever.

[0060] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the seatbelt adjuster is disposed within a cavity formed on the seat support surface at the bottom of the seat. The seatbelt adjuster is offset from the bottom of the cavity. Attached Figure Description

[0061] The following description should not be construed as limiting in any way. Referring to the accompanying drawings, the same element numbers are the same: Figure 1A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment; Figure 1B It is installed in a vehicle seat according to an embodiment for a toddler configuration. Figure 1A Side view of the child seat; Figure 1C According to the embodiments Figure 1A and Figure 1B A front view of a child car seat; Figure 2A This is a front view of a seatbelt assembly having a seatbelt in a fastening configuration according to an embodiment; Figure 2B According to the embodiment, it has a seat belt in an unfastened configuration. Figure 2A Front view of the seat belt assembly; Figure 3A This is a perspective view of a child seat with a detachable seatbelt adjuster according to an embodiment; Figure 3B According to the embodiments Figure 3A Detailed perspective view of the disassembled seat belt adjuster; Figure 3C It is installed in the child seat according to the embodiment. Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the seat belt adjuster; Figure 4A This is a cross-sectional view of a child seat according to an embodiment, comprising a pair of cover members arranged in an overlapping configuration; Figure 4B According to an embodiment, it has a pair of cover members in a separate configuration. Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of a child car seat; Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including a seat belt adjuster and at least one slot adjacent to the seat belt adjuster; Figure 6 It is a perspective view of a seat belt adjuster according to an embodiment and a plurality of slots arranged along the belt path of the adjusting belt; Figure 7A This is a cross-sectional view of a child seat including a seatbelt adjuster according to an embodiment; Figure 7B This is a detailed cross-sectional view of the seatbelt adjuster according to an embodiment; Figure 8A This is a cross-sectional view of a seatbelt adjuster including a cover according to an embodiment; Figure 8B This is a perspective view of a seatbelt adjuster enclosed within a covering according to an embodiment; Figure 8C This is a cross-sectional view of a seatbelt adjuster including a cover arranged at the apex, according to an embodiment; Figure 8D This is a cross-sectional view of a seatbelt adjuster including an internal protective component according to an embodiment; Figure 9A This is a perspective view of the sleeve of the adjusting belt according to an embodiment; Figure 9B This is a perspective view of the sleeve of the adjusting belt according to another embodiment; Figure 9C This is a perspective view of the sleeve of the adjusting belt according to yet another embodiment; Figure 9D This is a perspective view of the sleeve of the adjusting belt according to yet another embodiment; Figure 9E This is a cross-sectional view of an adjusting band having a sleeve slidably engaged therewith, according to an embodiment; Figure 10 This is a perspective view of an adjustment belt having a curved configuration above the longitudinal axis of the adjustment belt, according to an embodiment. Figure 11 This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including an adjustment strap extending from the front of the seat bottom; Figure 12A According to the embodiments Figure 11 Detailed perspective view of the adjustment belt; Figure 12B According to another embodiment Figure 11 Detailed perspective view of the adjustment belt; Figure 12C According to yet another embodiment Figure 12B A detailed perspective view of the array of features at the axial position of the adjustment belt; Figure 12D According to yet another embodiment Figure 11 Detailed perspective view of the adjustment belt; Figure 13A This is a perspective view of a seatbelt adjuster including brush features according to an embodiment; Figure 13B This is a perspective view of a seat belt adjuster including a screen, according to an embodiment; Figure 14A It is a perspective view of a recessed feature including brush features according to an embodiment; Figure 14B According to the embodiments Figure 14A An end view of the concave feature; Figure 15A This is a perspective view of a recessed feature according to another embodiment; Figure 15B This is a cross-sectional view of the recessed feature mounted around the adjustment belt according to an embodiment; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a sweeper operable to remove debris from an adjustable belt according to an embodiment; and Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of a cleaner with another configuration according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0062] This document provides a detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and methods by way of illustration and not limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0063] Now for reference Figures 1A to 1C An example of a child seat system 20 is shown. As shown, the child seat system 20 includes a support base 22, which can be detachably secured to the vehicle seat 10, for example, via a latch or anchoring mechanism not shown in the figure (see Figure 10). Figure 1B This latching or anchoring system, often used, is sometimes referred to as a “lower anchor and tether for children,” for example, a latching system. Alternatively or additionally, the support base 22 may be removably secured to the vehicle seat 10 via a vehicle seat belt associated with the vehicle seat 10.

[0064] The child seat system 20 further includes a child seat 24 associated with a support base 22. In one embodiment, the child seat 24 is detachably coupled to the support base 22, thereby allowing the child seat 24 to be separated from the support base 22. Alternatively, the support base 22 and at least a portion of the child seat 24 may be permanently connected or attached together, as will be described in detail below. As used herein, the term "permanently connected" means an embodiment in which the child seat 24 or a portion thereof is not intended to be removed from the support base 22 by a user.

[0065] The child seat 24 includes a seat back 26 and a seat bottom 28 arranged at an angle relative to the seat back 26. The seat bottom 28 may, but need not, be configured to be removably attached to the seat back 26. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the seat back 26 is formed by the seat housing 25 of the child seat 24 and includes a seat back having an upright support surface 30, which is generally face forward and extends from a first end or top 32 of the seat back portion 26 to a second opposite end or bottom 34 of the seat back 26. A first upright side member 36 may be arranged at a first side 38 of the upright support surface 30, and a second upright side member 40 may be arranged at a 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 seat back 26, 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 orthogonally to the upright support surface 30, or alternatively, they may extend from it at another angle, such as an angle greater than 90°. Thus, 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.

[0066] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the seat back 26 of the child seat 24 includes a headrest 46. The headrest 46 may be attached to or integrated with the seat back 26, or may be removably coupled to the seat back. The headrest 46 may be fixed, or in some embodiments, may be configured to move relative to the upright support surface 30. For example, the headrest 46 may be configured in a retracted position relative to the upright support surface 30. Figure 1C ) and the position of the extension ( Figure 1A and Figure 1B The seat backrest 26 can be shifted between the child seats 24, allowing for adjustment based on the size of the child positioned within the seat. However, it should be understood that embodiments in which the seat backrest 26 does not include the headrest 46 are also considered herein.

[0067] The seat base 28 of the child seat 24 may include a seat support surface 50, generally facing upwards, extending from a first end or front portion 52 of the seat base 28 to a second end or rear portion 54. A first seat side member 56 may be disposed at a first side 58 of the seat support surface 50, and a second seat side member 60 may be disposed at a second opposite side 62 of the seat support surface 50. The first seat side member 56 and the second seat side member 60 extend upwards from the left and right sides of the seat portion, respectively. The seat support surface 50 and the first seat side member 56 and the second seat side member 60 combine to define an area in which at least a portion of a child's lower body can be received.

[0068] 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, but does not need to, be the same as the angle of the first upright side member 36 relative to upright support surface 30. Similarly, the angle of the second seat side member 60 relative to seat support surface 50 may, but does not need to, be the same as the angle of the second upright side member 40 relative to upright support surface 30. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first seat side member 56 has a first groove 66a, and the second seat side member 60 has a second groove 66b formed therein. These grooves 66a and 66b are configured to act as lap belt guides during at least one usage mode of the child seat 24. In some operating modes of the child seat 24, the grooves 66a and 66b may be configured to receive and position the lap belt portion of a vehicle restraint or a separate restraint strap to secure the child within the child seat 24.

[0069] The seat base 28 of the child seat 24 can also be formed from the seat housing 25 of the child seat 24. In such embodiments, the seat back 26 and the seat base 28 can be integrally formed. However, in other embodiments, the seat base 28 of the child seat 24 can be removably attached to the child seat 24. In embodiments where the seat base 28 is separable from the child seat 24, the seat base 28 can be used independently of the rest of the child seat 24 as a booster seat, and can be positioned to directly contact the surface of the vehicle seat 10.

[0070] Continue to refer to Figures 1A to 1C In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the support base 22 includes a base seat portion 72 and a base backrest portion 74. The support base 22 includes: a first base member 76 having a bottom surface 78 adapted for placement on a support surface (e.g., vehicle seat 10); and a second base member 80 coupled to the first base member 76. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least a portion of the second base member 80 is positioned in an arrangement overlapping the upper surface 82 of the first base member 76. In the illustrated embodiment, the base backrest portion 74 of the support base 22 is formed solely of the second base member 80, and the base seat portion 72 of the support base 22 is formed by combining the first base member 76 and the second base member 80.

[0071] Continue to refer to Figures 1A to 1C And further reference Figures 2A to 2BThe child seat 24 may include a seatbelt assembly 100 operable to restrict movement of the child relative to the child seat 24. The seatbelt 101 of the seatbelt assembly 100 may include a crotch strap, at least one shoulder strap, and / or at least one lap belt. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the seatbelt assembly 100 is a five-point harness, including a crotch strap 102, a first shoulder strap 104a, a second shoulder strap 104b, a first lap belt 106a, and a second lap belt 106b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first shoulder strap 104a and the first lap belt 106a are integrally formed via a first section of webbing, and the second shoulder strap 104b and the second lap belt 106b are integrally formed via a second section of webbing. In such embodiments, opposite ends of each webbing section are attached to the child seat 24, such as inside or on the rear side of the seat back.

[0072] Buckle 110 may be disposed at the distal end of crotch strap 102, and shoulder straps 104a, 104b and waist straps 106a, 106b may be connected to each other and to the crotch strap 102 via buckle 110. In an embodiment, a first crotch buckle connector 112a, which can engage with buckle 110, is disposed at a first section of webbing, and a second crotch buckle connector 112b, which can engage with buckle 110, is disposed at a second section of webbing. In such embodiments, the upper portion of each section of webbing extending from each crotch buckle connector 112a, 112b may be considered as the corresponding shoulder strap 104a, 104b, and the lower portion of each section of webbing may be considered as the waist strap 106a, 106b. In some embodiments, the first shoulder strap 104a and the second shoulder strap 104b may be connected to each other at a location remote from the crotch buckle connectors 112a, 112b. For example, a first chest connector 114a may be located at one of the first shoulder straps 104a and the second shoulder strap 104b, and a second chest connector 114b, removably connected to the first chest connector 114a, may be located at the other of the first shoulder straps 104a and the second shoulder strap 104b. It should be understood that the seatbelt assemblies shown and described herein are intended only as examples, and seatbelt assemblies with other suitable configurations are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0073] Continue to refer to Figures 2A to 2B And further reference Figures 3A to 3BThe seatbelt assembly 100 may further include a seatbelt adjuster 120 (referred to herein as an automatic lock), operable to tension the straps 104a, 104b, 106a, 106b of the seatbelt 101 to prevent the seatbelt 101 from loosening during use. The seatbelt adjuster 120 may be disposed within a cavity 121 formed in the seat support surface 50. The adjusting strap 122 may be operably coupled to the straps 104a, 104b, 106a, 106b of the seatbelt 101, for example via a bracket 116 (see...). Figure 6 For example, a first end of the adjusting strap 122 may be attached to a bracket, and a second opposing end 124 of the adjusting strap 122 may extend through the seatbelt adjuster 120. The adjusting strap 122 is disposed within the seat bottom 28, generally between the bracket and the seatbelt adjuster 120, below the seat support surface 50. In an embodiment, the seat bottom 50 has a strap receiving surface for the adjusting strap 122.

[0074] The second end 124 of the adjusting strap 122 can extend from the cavity 121 formed in the seat support surface 50 to the outside of the child seat 24. A portion of the seat belt adjuster 120 exposed on the seat support surface 50 at the bottom 28 of the seat, or an element (not shown) operatively coupled thereto, can operate as a release actuator for the seat belt adjuster 120. During tension adjustment of the seat belt 101, the adjusting strap 122 can move along a strap receiving path defined by a strap receiving surface extending between the seat belt adjuster 120 and the front portion 52 of the child seat 24. A user can apply force to the exposed second end 124 of the adjusting strap 122 to increase the tension acting on the seat belt 101. When a user applies force to the adjusting strap 122, the adjusting strap 122 is configured to move along the strap path such that the length of the portion of the adjusting strap 122 exposed to the outside of the seat housing 25 increases. Furthermore, the user can apply force to the seatbelt adjuster 120 to disengage it from the adjusting strap 122, thereby releasing the tension acting on the seatbelt 101. With the tension relieved, the user can pull the seatbelt 101 to loosen it by increasing the length of the exposed portions of the straps 104a, 104b, 106a, and 106b. When the user reduces the tension in the seatbelt, the adjusting strap 122 translates along the strap path, thus reducing the length of the exposed portion of the adjusting strap 122.

[0075] Continue to refer to Figures 3A to 3CAn example of a seatbelt adjuster 120 is shown in more detail below. As shown, the seatbelt adjuster 120 may include a housing 130 and a lever 140 rotatably mounted to the housing 130. The housing 130 may be mechanically fastened to the inner surface of the seat bottom 28. In an embodiment, the housing 130 has a U-shaped or C-shaped configuration defining two sidewalls 132, 134 that are generally oriented parallel to each other. The lever 140 may be rotatably mounted to the housing 130 at a position between the sidewalls 132, 134. The lever 140 may rotate relative to the housing 130 about axis X, for example, in the engaged position (at... Figure 3B and Figure 3C (As shown) Rotates between the disengaged and engaged positions. In an embodiment, the biasing member 142 is operatively coupled to the lever 140 and operable to bias the lever 140 toward the engaged position. As shown, the lever 140 is positioned such that a gap is formed between the lever 140 and the adjacent surface of the housing 130 for receiving the adjustment strap 122. However, embodiments in which a gap is formed between the lever 140 and the adjacent surface of the seat housing 25 are also contemplated herein.

[0076] As shown, housing 130 includes a connecting member 136 extending between and connected to, or integrally formed with, sidewalls 132, 134. In such embodiments, a gap may be defined between the surface 138 of the connecting member 136 facing the lever 140 and the surface 144 of the lever 140 closest to the connecting member 136. In an embodiment, a cover 146 is disposed over at least a portion of the seatbelt adjuster 120. As shown, cover 146 may extend over the entire or substantially the entire seatbelt adjuster 120 and may cooperate with seat bottom 28 to define an opening 150 through which a second end 124 of the adjusting strap 122 extends. As shown, cover 146 may include the opening 148 or provide access to the lever 140 to rotate the lever 140 from an engaged position to a disengaged position. Cover 146 may serve as a hand protector while also potentially preventing contamination of the seatbelt adjuster 120.

[0077] The height of the gap can vary as the lever 140 rotates about its axis X. When the lever 140 is in the engaged position, the gap can have a first height, and when the lever 140 is in the disengaged position, the gap can have a second height greater than the first height. In an embodiment, the first height is less than the thickness of the adjusting belt 122. The lever 140 may be formed with a cam surface 144 to achieve this change in the gap height as the lever 140 rotates about its axis X. In such an embodiment, the cam surface 144 may contact the adjusting belt 122 and apply force to the adjusting belt 122. In other embodiments, one or more engaging members (not shown), such as one or more teeth, may project radially from the periphery of the lever 140. In such an embodiment, when the lever 140 is in the engaged position, at least one engaging member is positioned close to the connecting member 136 of the housing 130, and when in the disengaged position, at least one engaging member rotates away from the connecting member 136 of the housing 130.

[0078] It may be desirable to minimize contaminants or debris reaching the seatbelt adjuster 120. This can be done by guiding debris particles located on the surface of the adjusting strap 122 away from the seatbelt adjuster 120. Figures 4A to 4B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the child seat 24 includes a first or upper cover member 160 and a second or lower cover member 162. The first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162 may be formed of a rigid or semi-rigid fabric material, or another suitable material. The first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162 may be formed of a soft article of the child seat 24, or alternatively may be separable from the soft article. In this embodiment, the first cover member 160a and the second cover member 162 are positioned below the soft article associated with the seat bottom 28 of the child seat 24. Figure 4A As shown, a pair of cover members 160, 162 may be positioned overlappingly at or near the front portion 52 of the seat bottom 28. For example, the first cover member 160 may be above the seat support surface 50, and the second cover member 162 may be positioned at the front portion 52 of the seat bottom 28. As shown, a portion of the first cover member 160 may be positioned between the seat bottom 28 and the second cover member 162.

[0079] The distal end 124 of the adjusting strap 122 extends to the outside of the child seat 24 between the overlapping first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162. When the cover members 160 and 162 are in position... Figure 4AIn this first overlapping configuration shown, the strap path of the adjustment strap 122 has a first configuration, such as an S-shaped or serpentine configuration that bends around the distal end 164 of the first cover member 160 and the distal end 166 of the second cover member 162, respectively. The first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162 apply pressure to the adjustment strap 122, and the engagement of the first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162 with the adjustment strap 122 prevents food particles or debris from entering the seat bottom 28 and the interior of the seat belt adjuster 120 via the strap path.

[0080] At least one of the first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162 may be movable relative to the other of the first cover member 160 and the seat bottom 28. For example, the distal end 166 of the second cover member 162 may be pulled away from the seat bottom 28, disengaging from the engagement with the first cover member 160. When the first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162 are in this disengaged configuration, such as Figure 4B As shown, the belt path of the adjustment belt 122 has a second configuration different from the first configuration. When in the second configuration, the curvature formed in the belt path is significantly reduced. In this embodiment, the second configuration of the belt path is substantially linear.

[0081] For example, when the first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162 are in an overlapping configuration, the adjusting strap 122 of the seat belt 101 can move freely to reduce the tension of the seat belt 101. Therefore, as the tension of the seat belt 101 decreases, the first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162 can remain in the first overlapping configuration. However, in an embodiment, the user applies force to the exposed end 124 of the adjusting strap 122 to increase the tension of the adjusting strap 122 and tighten the seat belt, which can, for example, change the first cover member 160 and the second cover member 162 to a second configuration. The force applied to the adjusting strap 122 can cause the outermost cover member, such as the second overlapping cover member 162, to fold away from the seat bottom 28. The force applied to the adjusting strap 122 can also lift the end of the first cover member 160 away from the seat bottom 28 to form a more linear strap path. However, when the first cover member 160a and the second cover member 162 are in a separated configuration, the distal end 164 of the first cover member 160 can remain engaged with the surface of the adjustment strap 122 to prevent particles arranged on the surface of the adjustment strap 122 from flowing toward the seat belt adjuster 120.

[0082] Although a pair of cover members 160, 162 are shown and described herein, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the child seat 24 may comprise only a single cover member, such as a first or upper cover member 160 positioned near the seat support surface 50. In such embodiments, the distal end 164 of the cover member 160 may overlap with the front portion 52 of the seat bottom 28. Therefore, the adjustment strap 122 will extend parallel to the front portion 52 of the seat bottom 28 and then wrap around the distal end 164 of the cover member 160 toward the opening 150. The inherent stiffness of the cover member 160 will hold it in this overlapping position until a force exceeding a threshold is applied to the exposed end 124 of the adjustment strap 122. Applying a force exceeding the threshold to the adjustment strap 122 in a direction away from the child seat 24 to, for example, tighten the seat belt 101 will cause the cover member 160 to rotate (e.g., open) away from the seat bottom 28, thereby straightening the strap path of the adjustment strap 122.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, at least one slot 170 may be formed in the seat bottom 28, near the housing 130 of the seatbelt adjuster 120. (See reference) Figure 5 and Figure 6 The slots 170 may be arranged vertically above the seatbelt adjuster 120, or alternatively, below the seatbelt adjuster 120. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a plurality of slots 170 are axially spaced along the longitudinal axis L of the adjusting strap 122. In such embodiments, the slots 170 may be evenly spaced or unevenly spaced. The slots 170 may be oriented at a non-parallel angle relative to the longitudinal axis L of the adjusting strap 122. For example, the slots 170 may be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the adjusting strap 122 and / or parallel to the axis of rotation X of the lever 140.

[0084] The slot 170 can be formed at any suitable location along the strap path of the adjusting strap 122. As shown, one or more of the slots 170 can be positioned directly below the housing 130. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the slots 170 can be positioned in front of the seat belt adjuster 120, for example, between the housing 130 and the front portion 52 of the seat bottom 28. In embodiments containing one or more slots 170 at locations offset from or away from the housing 130 of the seat belt adjuster 120, the one or more slots 170 can overlap with the strap path of the adjusting strap 122, such that the adjusting strap 122 is directly above or below the slot 170. The slots 170 formed in the seat bottom 28 may, but do not need to, extend beyond one or both lateral sides of the adjusting strap 122, and in some embodiments, may, but do not need to, extend beyond one or both lateral sides of the housing 130 of the seat belt adjuster 120.

[0085] During the movement of the adjusting strap 122, particles or contaminants that may move along the strap path with the adjusting strap 122 may fall into one or more of the slots 170 by gravity. Therefore, these particles or debris may accumulate within the slots 170, rather than inside the seatbelt adjuster 120. In embodiments including one or more slots 170 as described herein, the slots 170 may extend only above a portion of the depth of the seat bottom 28. Thus, the slots 170 may be deep enough to receive contaminants therein at a location away from the strap path. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the slots 170 may be through-holes extending to another surface of the seat bottom 28. In such embodiments, the slots 170 form channels or pathways through which debris can fall from the child seat 24.

[0086] exist Figure 7A and Figure 7B Another example of a child seat 24 including a seatbelt adjuster 220 for tensioning and adjusting the harness 122 is shown. The seatbelt adjuster 220 can be used with... Figures 4A to 4B The seatbelt adjusters 120 shown are substantially identical, and similar components can be similarly numbered. However, in the non-limiting embodiment shown, the seatbelt adjuster 220 is rotated 180 degrees about a horizontal axis (e.g., about the axis of rotation X of the lever 140), such that the connecting part 236 of the housing 230 is positioned close to the lower side of the seat support surface 50, and the sidewalls 232, 234 extend downward from there. Therefore, the gap defined between the lever 240 and the connecting part 236 of the housing 230, through which the adjusting strap 122 can extend, is vertically positioned above the lever 240.

[0087] As shown, an adjustment strap 122 is formed at the bottom 28 of the seat and is vertically positioned below the gap of the seatbelt adjuster 220 through an opening 250 extending to the outside of the child seat 24. Therefore, the adjustment strap 122 can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the horizontal plane, or it can have an inclined configuration extending between the front portion 231 of the seatbelt adjuster 220 and the opening 250 to prevent debris from entering the seatbelt adjuster 220 at the adjustment strap 122. Tension can be applied to the adjustment strap 122 at a contact area along the strap path by lever 240. This contact area can form a vertical peak in the strap path of the adjustment strap 122 near the seatbelt adjuster 220. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the adjustment strap 122 extends downward from this peak contact area toward the front portion 231 of the seatbelt adjuster 220 in a first direction, and downward from this peak contact area toward the rear portion 233 of the seatbelt adjuster 220 in a second direction. By positioning the adjusting strap 122 above the lever 240, such that the adjusting strap 122 is tilted, for example, in front of and behind the lever 240, loose particles or debris disposed on the surface of the adjusting strap 122 may fall off due to gravity as the adjusting strap 122 moves relative to the lever 240. Unlike previous embodiments of the seatbelt adjuster 120 in which the lever 140 is shifted to the disengaged position by applying a downward force to the handle of the lever, in this embodiment, the lever 240 of the seatbelt adjuster 220 can be shifted to the disengaged position by applying an upward force F to the handle 245 of the lever 240.

[0088] Figures 8A to 8D Another embodiment of a seatbelt adjuster 320 is shown. The seatbelt adjuster 320 shown may have a housing 330 and a lever 340 rotatably mounted to the housing 330, as previously referenced. Figure 4A and Figure 4B As described. In Figures 8A to 8D In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the cover 380 is positioned near the exterior of the seatbelt adjuster 320. The cover 380 can be attached to at least one of the housing 330 of the seatbelt adjuster 320 and the seat base 28 of the child seat. Figure 8B As shown, the cover 380 can substantially surround the entire housing 330 of the seatbelt adjuster 320. In such embodiments, the cover 380 can define a narrow opening 382 near the front portion 331 of the housing 330. The height of the narrow opening 382 can be substantially equal to or slightly greater than the thickness of the adjusting strap 122. In other embodiments, the cover 380 can extend around a portion of the housing 330 or overlap only a portion of the housing 330. Figure 8AIn the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the cover 380 is disposed only at the front 331 of the housing 330. As described herein, the cover 380 may be shaped and / or positioned to guide debris away from the seatbelt adjuster 320. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each cover 380 generally extends to the surface of the adjusting strap 122. Therefore, as the adjusting strap 122 slides along the strap path past the seatbelt adjuster 320, the engagement between the cover 380 and particles or debris disposed on the surface of the adjusting strap 122 prevents particles and debris from entering the interior of the seatbelt adjuster 120. Reference Figure 8C A protective element or cover 380 may be disposed on the peak surface or uppermost surface 384 of the seatbelt adjuster 320. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the cover 380 extends, for example, over the pivot portion of the lever 340. Including such a cover 380 prevents debris from entering the seatbelt adjuster 320 from above, for example, during the actuation of the seatbelt adjuster 320 by a caregiver.

[0089] In another embodiment, such as Figure 8D As shown, the guard 386 may be disposed inside the housing 330, for example, between the front end 331 of the housing 330 and the lever 340 that guides the adjustment strap 122. As shown, the guard 386 may be attached to one or both sides of the housing 330. In an embodiment, the guard 386 is attached to opposite sides of the housing 330 and extends over the distance between opposite sides of the housing 330, and may be oriented, for example, parallel to the axis X of the lever 340. The guard 386 may have a rigid body, or alternatively, may comprise a semi-rigid body, such as formed of bristles or another element. The guard 386 may be positioned such that its distal end 388 contacts or is positioned directly adjacent to the surface of the adjustment strap 122. When the adjustment strap 122 is pulled back along the strap path to release the seatbelt 101, the guard 386 guides particles and debris at the surface of the adjustment strap 122 away from the gap between the housing 330 and the lever 340.

[0090] Now for reference Figures 9A to 9D The sleeve 400 can be mounted to the adjusting strap 122, for example, at a location outside a seatbelt adjuster (e.g., any of the seatbelt adjusters 120, 220, and 320 described herein). The sleeve 400 can be permanently attached to the adjusting strap 122, or alternatively, can be removed from there. Examples of various sleeve configurations 400 are shown. In each of the non-limiting embodiments shown, the sleeve 400 has, for example, a first opening 402 disposed at its first end 404 and a second opening 406 disposed, for example, at its second opposite end 408 (see...). Figure 9EThe first opening 402 and the second opening 406 are connected such that the adjusting strap 122 can extend through the interior 410 of the sleeve 400 between the first end 404 and the second end 408. The sleeve 400 can fit relatively tightly around the adjusting strap 122 at one or more locations to push contaminants from the surface of the adjusting strap 122 as it moves along the strap path.

[0091] In one embodiment, the sleeve 400 may be disposed within the interior of the seat base 28. In such an embodiment, the sleeve 400 may be arranged such that a front first end 404 of the sleeve 400 faces the front portion 52 of the seat base 28 and a rear second end 408 of the sleeve 400 faces the seat belt adjuster 320. The second end 408 of the sleeve 400 may be enlarged relative to the first end 404 of the sleeve 400, thereby forming an uneven shape. In one embodiment, the second end 408 of the sleeve 400 has a size and / or shape complementary to the front end 331 of the seat belt adjuster 320. In such an embodiment, the sleeve 400 may be positioned to at least partially overlap or surround the front end 331 of the seat belt adjuster 320. In one embodiment, the sleeve 400 is configured such that substantially the entire seat belt adjuster 320 can be received within a hollow interior 410 via an opening 406 formed in the second end 408. However, this document also envisions embodiments in which the second end 408 of the sleeve 400 is positioned near the front portion 52 of the seat bottom 28 and the first end 404 of the sleeve 400 is positioned near the seat belt adjuster 320. Furthermore, this document also envisions embodiments in which the second end 408 of the sleeve 400 has a substantially the same configuration as the first end 404 of the sleeve 400.

[0092] An embodiment in which the sleeve 400 is connected to a portion of the adjusting strap 122 disposed on the exterior of the seat bottom 28 is also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, as Figure 9E As shown, the second end 408 of the sleeve 400 may be arranged close to the cover 346, or alternatively or additionally, close to the release lever, which is operable to rotate the lever 340 of the seat belt adjuster 320 to release the tension applied to the adjusting strap 122.

[0093] The sleeve 400 can be formed from any suitable material. Examples of such materials include, but are not limited to, rubber, plastics, thermoplastic elastomers, and tightly woven materials. In one embodiment, the sleeve 400 is formed from a rigid material, and in another embodiment, the sleeve 400 is formed from a flexible material. Furthermore, the outer surface of the sleeve 400 can have a smooth, continuous configuration, for example... Figure 9B , Figure 9D and Figure 9E The truncated cone or umbrella shape is shown. Alternatively, the sleeve 400 can have a stepped configuration, for example... Figure 9AAs shown in the diagram. The sleeve 400 can be fixedly positioned relative to the seat housing 25, or alternatively, can be movably arranged relative to the child seat 24. The sleeve 400 can be arranged to slidably engage with the adjustment strap 122. Therefore, the sleeve 400 can move together with and relative to the adjustment strap 122. When the sleeve 400 slides relative to the adjustment strap 122, for example along its longitudinal axis L, the surface of the sleeve 400 frictionally engages with the adjacent surface of the adjustment strap 122. To achieve this frictional engagement, a first opening 402 formed in the sleeve 400 can have a size and / or shape complementary to the cross-section of the adjustment strap 122, and in some embodiments, the size and / or shape is substantially the same as the cross-section of the adjustment strap 122. However, in some embodiments, the size of the first opening 402 can be only slightly larger than the adjustment strap 122 to facilitate movement of the adjustment strap 122 relative to the sleeve 400. When the adjusting belt 122 moves relative to the sleeve 400, the sliding engagement between the first end 404 of the sleeve 400 and the adjacent surface of the adjusting belt 122 prevents particles and debris from moving into the interior 410 of the sleeve 400 along with the adjusting belt 122.

[0094] Reference Figures 3A to 9E In each embodiment shown and described, the adjusting strap 122 has been shown and described as having a substantially linear cross-section as it moves along the strap path relative to the child seat 24 and the seatbelt adjusters 120, 220, 320. However, in embodiments, the cross-section of the adjusting strap may have a non-linear or non-planar configuration at or near the seatbelt adjuster. Referring now... Figure 10 An example of an adjustment band 422 with a nonlinear or nonplanar cross-sectional configuration is shown. The adjustment band 422 shown in the figure has a curved configuration, wherein the curvature extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the adjustment band 422. For example, the adjustment band 422 may have a generally inverted U-shaped configuration, wherein the center of the adjustment band 422 is aligned with the central longitudinal axis L of the adjustment band 422 and arranged vertically above the side edges 423, 425 of the adjustment band 422. In this configuration, gravity acting on any particles disposed on the upper surface 426 of the adjustment band 422 at a position off-center from its center will cause contaminants to naturally displace or slide off the surface 426 of the adjustment band 422.

[0095] Now for reference Figures 11 to 12DTo minimize the movement of contaminants and debris particles along the belt path of the adjusting strap 522 toward the seatbelt adjuster (e.g., any one of seatbelt adjusters 120, 220, and 320), one or more elements may be arranged on the surface of the adjusting strap 522. In an embodiment, a plurality of features 530 are attached to and protrude from the upper surface 526 of the adjusting strap 522. As shown, the features 530 may be arranged at intervals along the longitudinal axis L of the adjusting strap 522. The features 530 at each of the plurality of axial positions may be substantially the same, or may vary along the longitudinal axis of the adjusting strap 522. A single feature 530 ( Figure 12D ) can be arranged in an axial position, or alternatively, multiple features 530 ( Figures 11 to 12C It can be arranged in the axial position.

[0096] In a non-limiting embodiment, feature 530 comprises a group of bristles "stitched" or attached to each other. However, it should be understood that feature 530 is also contemplated herein with another suitable configuration operable to prevent movement of debris particles. As shown in the figure, in Figure 12D In this embodiment, a single suture 530 can be arranged at each axial position. Although each of the plurality of sutures 530 is shown aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the adjusting strap 522, embodiments in which one or more sutures 530 are offset from the longitudinal axis L, for example, staggered in a first transverse direction and / or a second transverse direction, are also within the scope of this disclosure. Figures 12A to 12C In a non-limiting embodiment, an array 540 of sutures 530 is arranged at each axial position. Each suture 530 within the array 540 may be uniform or may vary. Furthermore, the plurality of arrays 540 arranged at the adjusting band 522 may be substantially identical or may vary. The array of sutures 530 at each axial position may span substantially the entire width of the adjusting band 522, or alternatively, may span only a portion thereof.

[0097] The array 540 of sutures 530 can extend at a non-parallel angle relative to the longitudinal axis L. For example... Figure 12B and Figure 12C As shown, each array 540 of the sutures 530 can have a generally linear configuration, which is oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the adjustment band 522. In another embodiment, as... Figure 11 and Figure 12AAs shown, each array 540 of the sutures 530 has a V-shaped configuration. Although the arrays 540 are oriented such that the vertices 542 of each array 540 are in front of the ends 544 of the array 540, embodiments in which the vertices 542 are behind the ends 544 of the array 540 are also within the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that the arrays 540 of the sutures 530 shown and described herein are intended to be illustrative only and this document covers arrays with any suitable configuration.

[0098] In some embodiments, the child seat system 20 may be designed to sweep away contaminants and other debris from the adjusting strap 622 as it moves along the strap path relative to the seatbelt adjuster 620. The seatbelt adjuster 620 may include a housing 630 and a lever 640 rotatably mounted to the housing 630 between an engaged position and a disengaged position, as previously referenced herein. Figure 4A and Figure 4B As described. Brush feature 650 can be installed at seat belt adjuster 620 and / or adjusting strap 622. Figure 13A In a non-limiting embodiment, brush feature 650 is attached to the housing 630 of seatbelt adjuster 620, for example at its front end, and extends toward the belt path. Brush feature 650 may be formed with various types of bristles, such as bristles similar to those used in window gaskets. The bristles may intersect the belt path and engage and brush the surface 626 of the adjusting belt 622 as the adjusting belt 622 traverses the belt path.

[0099] In other embodiments, for example Figure 13B As shown, the brush feature 652 in the form of a mesh screen can be located at or in front of the seat belt adjuster 620. In one embodiment, the mesh screen 652 is mounted to the front end 631 of the seat belt adjuster 620. However, embodiments in which the mesh screen is positioned separately from the seat belt adjuster are also contemplated herein. The edge of the mesh screen 652 can be positioned close to or in contact with the adjacent surface 626 of the adjusting belt 622, such that as the adjusting belt 622 moves along the belt path, the mesh screen 652 prevents any particles larger than the openings formed in the mesh screen 652 from moving further along the belt path into the interior of the seat belt adjuster 620.

[0100] refer to Figure 14A and Figure 14B The recessed feature 654 can slide along the longitudinal axis L of the adjusting strap 622. The recessed feature 654 can be fixed relative to the seat bottom 28 of the child seat 24, or it can be movable relative to the seat bottom 28 of the child seat 24. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the recessed feature 654 has a body comprising a first end 656 having a first opening 658 and a second end 660 having a second opening 662 (see [link to previous embodiment]). Figure 14BThe adjustment strap 622 extends through the hollow interior 664 between the first opening 658 and the second opening 662, connecting the first opening 658 to the second opening 662. In an embodiment, the recessed feature 654 includes a brush feature 666. The brush feature 666 may include a plurality of bristles 668, which may be arranged within the interior 664 of the recessed feature 654 and extend into the strap path to engage with adjacent surfaces of the adjustment strap 622. As the adjustment strap 622 translates relative to the recessed feature 654, the bristles 668 engage with one or more surfaces of the adjustment strap 622 and brush away debris from one or more surfaces of the adjustment strap 622.

[0101] In other embodiments, for example Figure 15A and Figure 15B As shown, the recessed feature 654 can be positioned to overlap with only one surface (e.g., surface 626) of the adjusting strap 622. As shown, the body of the recessed feature 654 may include a first end 656 in which an opening 658 is formed. Opposite ends 660 and lateral sides 663, 665 of the recessed feature 654 close to form a hollow cavity 664 within the recessed feature 654. When the recessed feature 654 shown slides relative to the surface 626 of the adjusting strap 622, debris and other contaminants can be swept across the brush feature 666 and trapped within the recessed feature 654. Because the recessed feature 654 can have a bottom that can be positioned to overlap with the surface 626 of the adjusting strap 622 between the first end 656 and the second end 660, the recessed feature 654 can be easily separated from the adjusting strap 622 to, for example, empty the contents of the cavity 664.

[0102] In some embodiments, for example, the movable feature of the driveable sweeper 760 is used to remove debris from the surface 726 of the adjusting strap 722. Reference Figure 16 The cleaner 760 includes at least one roller positioned adjacent to the belt path and engageable with a proximal surface 726 of the adjusting belt 722. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the at least one roller includes a first upper roller 762a positioned adjacent to the first surface 726 of the adjusting belt 722 and a second lower roller 762b positioned adjacent to the opposing second surface 728 of the adjusting belt 722. However, it should be understood that embodiments comprising only a single roller are also within the scope of this disclosure. Each roller 762a, 762b is rotatably mounted via shafts 764a, 764b and is rotatable about a corresponding axis defined by shafts 764a, 764b in response to movement of the adjusting belt 722 by a caregiver.

[0103] The belt 766 may be supported by a plurality of rotating shafts 768a, 768b spaced apart from each other. The belt 766 may be arranged close to a roller, such as an upper roller 762a. As shown, movement of the belt 766 can be driven by rotation of the upper roller 762a. In an embodiment, a drive gear 770 is fixed to and rotatable with a shaft 764a supporting the upper roller 762a. A driven gear 772 may be fixed to a shaft 768a associated with the belt 766 and positioned close to the upper roller 762a. The drive gear 770 may be arranged to mesh with the driven gear 772 such that rotation of the upper roller 762a about its axis in a first direction drives a corresponding rotation of the driven gear 772, thus driving rotation of the shaft 768a and the belt 766 in a second direction. Although the upper roller 762a and the belt 766 are described as having gear drive or connection, embodiments using another mechanism to transfer motion from the adjusting belt 722 to the belt 766 are also contemplated herein. In one embodiment, the cleaning wheel 774 is coupled to the shaft 768b of the belt 766, near the surface 726 of the adjusting belt 722. The cleaning wheel 774 may have multiple engagement features 776, such as teeth, bristles, or another suitable feature operable to engage debris disposed on the surface 726 of the adjusting belt 722.

[0104] In operation, the movement of the adjusting belt 722 drives the rotation of the upper roller 762a, which causes a corresponding movement of the belt 766. This movement of the belt 766 drives the cleaning wheel 774 to rotate about its axis. Therefore, the sweeper 760 can be automatically driven to clean the surface 726 of the adjusting belt 722 in response to the movement of the adjusting belt 722 along the belt path, for example, at a position upstream of the seatbelt adjuster 720. The sweeper 760 can brush away debris from the belt path to prevent debris from entering the seatbelt adjuster 720. In an embodiment, the sweeper 760 can scoop up debris from the surface 726 of the adjusting belt 722 and transfer it, for example, via the belt 766 to a location away from the belt path.

[0105] exist Figure 17In another embodiment shown, the cleaner 760 includes a first roller 780 and a second roller 782, both arranged close to the same surface of the regulating belt 722, such as the upper surface 726. The rollers 780 and 782 are axially spaced apart, forming a gap 784 therebetween. The rollers 780 and 782 can be driven independently of the regulating belt 722. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the rollers 780 and 782 can be driven by movement of the regulating belt 722 along the belt path. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the pair of rollers 780 and 782 cooperate to pull debris from the surface 726 of the regulating belt 722. As the regulating belt 722 moves along the belt path, the rotation of the rollers 780 and 782 draws debris upward from the surface 726 of the regulating belt 722 into the gap 784 formed between the pair of rollers 780 and 782. From the gap 784, the debris can be further rotated together with one of the rollers 780 and 782 to convey it to a designated storage area. The sweeper 760 may be positioned in front of the seatbelt adjuster 720, for example, towards the front 52 of the seat bottom 28. In an embodiment, a stop 786 may be located between the rear roller 782 and the seatbelt adjuster 720 to prevent debris removed by the roller 782 from falling behind the roller 782, near the front of the seatbelt adjuster 720.

[0106] Although various features operable to remove debris from the adjustment strap or prevent debris from moving into the seatbelt adjuster are described individually, it should be understood that any of the embodiments described herein can be combined. For example, as referenced... Figure 5 and 6 The described groove 170 may overlap with the belt path of an adjusting belt having a sleeve 400 thereto slidably engage; as referenced Figures 13A to 15B The described brush feature 666 can be used in combination with an adjustable strap 422 having an anti-curvature to facilitate the natural separation of debris by gravity; and as referenced Figures 8A to 8D The described cover 380 can be used in combination with a driveable sweeper 760. It should be understood that these combinations are intended to be illustrative only, and any combination of the various embodiments disclosed herein is within the scope of this disclosure.

[0107] The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurements of a specific quantity of equipment available at the time of application. As used herein, the term “substantially” and its derivatives and words with similar meanings, when used to describe size, shape, orientation, distance, spatial relationship, or other parameters, include said size, shape, orientation, distance, spatial relationship, or other parameters, and may also include a range of up to 10% more and down to 10% less than said parameter, a range of 5% more and down to 5% more than said parameter, a range of 3% more and down to 3% more than said parameter, and a range of 1% more and down to 1% more than said parameter.

[0108] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a / an” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms. It should be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising” specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0109] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments or multiple exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure, and equivalents can be substituted for elements of this disclosure. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of this disclosure without departing from the basic scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed as the best mode for carrying out this disclosure, but rather to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

[0110] The following technical solutions are provided in various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0111] Technical Solution 1: A child seat that can be installed in a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat bottom; A seat backrest that extends from the bottom of the seat; A seatbelt assembly connected to the seat base and the seat back, the seatbelt assembly including a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster; and At least one cover member extends near the front of the seatbelt adjuster, and the adjustment strap extends around the at least one cover member, wherein the strap path defined by the at least one cover member has a serpentine configuration, and the adjustment strap is movable relative to the seatbelt adjuster along the serpentine configuration.

[0112] Technical Solution 2: The child seat according to Technical Solution 1, wherein the at least one covering component is a single covering component.

[0113] Technical Solution 3: The child seat according to Technical Solution 1, wherein the at least one covering component is a pair of covering components.

[0114] Technical Solution 4: The child seat according to Technical Solution 3, wherein when the strap path has the serpentine configuration, the pair of covering components are in an overlapping configuration.

[0115] Technical Solution 5: The child seat according to Technical Solution 4, wherein the pair of covering components includes an upper covering component and a lower covering component, and in the overlapping configuration, the upper covering component is positioned between the bottom of the seat and the lower covering component.

[0116] Technical Solution 6: The child seat according to Technical Solution 5, wherein when the pair of covering components are in the overlapping configuration, the adjusting strap can move freely to loosen the seat belt assembly.

[0117] Technical Solution 7: The child seat according to Technical Solution 5, wherein the lower cover member is movable relative to the upper cover member and the bottom of the seat in response to a force applied to the exposed end of the adjusting strap.

[0118] Technical Solution 8: The child seat according to Technical Solution 4, wherein the pair of covering members are capable of changing to a second configuration in response to applying force to the exposed end of the adjusting strap.

[0119] Technical Solution 9: The child seat according to Technical Solution 8, wherein in the second configuration, the pair of covering components are separate from each other.

[0120] Technical solution 10: The child seat according to technical solution 8, wherein in the second configuration, the strap path defined by the pair of covering members has a generally linear configuration.

[0121] Technical Solution 11: The child seat according to Technical Solution 8, wherein the pair of covering components includes an upper covering component and a lower covering component, and in a second configuration, the upper covering component remains in contact with the upper surface of the adjustment strap.

[0122] Technical solution 12: The child seat according to technical solution 1, wherein at least one covering component is formed of fabric material.

[0123] Technical Solution 13: A child seat that can be installed in a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: The seat bottom has a strap receiving surface that defines a strap path and at least one groove for receiving debris; Seat backrest, the seat backrest extending from the bottom of the seat; and A seatbelt assembly connected to the seat bottom and the seat back, the seatbelt assembly including a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat bottom and an adjustment strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster, the adjustment strap being selectively movable along the strap path.

[0124] Technical Solution 14: The child seat according to Technical Solution 13, wherein at least one groove is positioned between the front of the bottom of the seat and the seat belt adjuster.

[0125] Technical solution 15: The child seat according to technical solution 14, wherein the at least one slot is positioned near the front of the seat belt adjuster.

[0126] Technical Solution 16: The child seat according to Technical Solution 13, wherein the seat belt adjuster includes a housing, and the at least one slot is vertically aligned with the housing.

[0127] Technical solution 17: The child seat according to technical solution 13, wherein the at least one slot is positioned to overlap with the strap path.

[0128] Technical solution 18: The child seat according to technical solution 13, wherein the at least one groove is arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the adjustment strap.

[0129] Technical Solution 19: The child seat according to Technical Solution 13, wherein the seat belt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about a rotation axis to selectively lock the adjusting strap to prevent movement along the strap path, and the at least one slot is parallel to the rotation axis.

[0130] Technical solution 20: The child seat according to technical solution 13, wherein the at least one slot comprises a plurality of slots spaced axially along the strap path.

[0131] Technical solution 21: The child seat according to technical solution 13, wherein the at least one slot disposed at the bottom of the seat is configured to receive debris during the movement of the adjusting strap along the strap path.

[0132] Technical Solution 22: A child seat that can be installed in a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat bottom; A seat backrest that extends from the bottom of the seat; A seatbelt assembly connected to the seat base and the seat back, the seatbelt assembly including a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster; and The aforementioned adjustment strap has a non-linear configuration such that debris disposed at the adjustment strap is configured to fall from there by gravity.

[0133] Technical Solution 23: The child seat according to Technical Solution 22, wherein the adjustment strap has a curved configuration, the curved configuration including a curvature extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the adjustment strap.

[0134] Technical Solution 24: The child seat according to Technical Solution 22, wherein the adjusting strap has the non-linear configuration in front of the seat belt adjuster.

[0135] Technical solution 25: The child seat according to technical solution 22, wherein the adjusting strap has the non-linear configuration at the seat belt adjuster.

[0136] Technical Solution 26: The child seat according to Technical Solution 22, wherein a portion of the adjusting strap at the central longitudinal axis of the adjusting strap is vertically positioned above the lateral side of the adjusting strap.

[0137] Technical Solution 27: The child seat according to Technical Solution 22, wherein the uppermost surface of the adjustment strap is arranged at the longitudinal axis of the adjustment strap.

[0138] Technical solution 28: The child seat according to technical solution 22, wherein the adjusting strap has an inverted U-shape.

[0139] Technical Solution 29: A child seat that can be installed in a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat bottom; A seat backrest that extends from the bottom of the seat; A seatbelt assembly connected to the seat base and the seat back, the seatbelt assembly including a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster; and A sleeve is mounted on the adjusting strap at a position outside the seat belt adjuster, wherein the sleeve is configured to slide relative to the adjusting strap in a frictional manner as the adjusting strap moves relative to the seat belt adjuster.

[0140] Technical solution 30: The child seat according to technical solution 29, wherein the sleeve is arranged on a portion of the adjusting strap on the outside of the bottom of the seat.

[0141] Technical solution 31: The child seat according to technical solution 29, wherein the sleeve is movable relative to the bottom of the seat.

[0142] Technical solution 32: The child seat according to technical solution 29, wherein the sleeve is fixed relative to the bottom of the seat.

[0143] Technical Solution 33: The child seat according to Technical Solution 29, wherein the sleeve has a body, the body including a first opening connected to a second opening, and the adjusting strap extending through the body between the first opening and the second opening.

[0144] Technical solution 34: The child seat according to technical solution 33, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the first opening is substantially equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the adjustment strap.

[0145] Technical solution 35: The child seat according to technical solution 29, wherein the sleeve is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0146] Technical solution 36: The child seat according to technical solution 29, wherein the sleeve is formed of a tightly woven material.

[0147] Technical Solution 37: A child seat that can be installed in a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat bottom; A seat backrest that extends from the bottom of the seat; A seatbelt assembly connected to the seat base and the seat back, the seatbelt assembly including a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster; and A cover, the cover being installed to at least one of the seat belt adjuster and the bottom of the seat, the cover being disposed at a location outside the seat belt adjuster, wherein the cover is shaped and positioned at least one of to guide debris away from the seat belt adjuster.

[0148] Technical Solution 38: The child seat according to Technical Solution 37, wherein the seat belt assembly further includes a release actuator, and the cover is shaped and / or positioned to guide the debris away from the release actuator.

[0149] Technical Solution 39: The child seat according to Technical Solution 37, wherein the cover surrounds the front of the seat belt adjuster and has a front opening, and the adjusting strap can extend through the front opening into the seat belt adjuster.

[0150] Technical solution 40: The child seat according to technical solution 37, wherein the seat belt adjuster is substantially surrounded by the cover.

[0151] Technical solution 41: The child seat according to technical solution 37, wherein the cover is disposed at the peak of the seat belt adjuster.

[0152] Technical solution 42: The child seat according to technical solution 41, wherein the seat belt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about an axis, and the cover extends over the pivot portion of the lever.

[0153] Technical solution 43: The child seat according to technical solution 41, wherein the seat belt adjuster is configured to prevent the debris from entering the seat belt adjuster from above.

[0154] Technical Solution 44: A child seat that can be installed in a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat bottom; A seat backrest that extends from the bottom of the seat; A seatbelt assembly connected to the seat base and the seat back, the seatbelt assembly including a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat base and an adjusting strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster; and The seatbelt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about an axis and a gap for receiving the adjusting strap, which is at least partially defined by the lever, wherein the gap is vertically positioned above the lever.

[0155] Technical Solution 45: The child seat according to Technical Solution 44, wherein the lever is rotatable about the axis to change the tension applied to the adjusting strap by the seat belt adjuster, and the lever is rotatable toward the seat support surface at the bottom of the seat to reduce the tension applied to the adjusting strap.

[0156] Technical Solution 46: The child seat according to Technical Solution 44, wherein the seat belt adjuster is disposed in a cavity formed in a seat support surface at the bottom of the seat, and the seat belt adjuster is offset from the bottom of the cavity to prevent debris on the bottom of the cavity from reaching the seat belt adjuster.

[0157] Technical Solution 47: The child seat according to Technical Solution 44, wherein the seat belt assembly is positioned such that the adjusting strap is arranged at an angle relative to the horizontal plane at a position directly upstream of the seat belt adjuster to prevent debris from the adjusting strap from entering the seat belt adjuster.

[0158] Technical Solution 48: The child seat according to Technical Solution 44, wherein an opening is formed at the bottom of the seat, and the adjusting strap extends through the opening to the outside of the child seat, and the gap of the seat belt adjuster is vertically positioned above the opening.

[0159] Technical Solution 49: A child seat that can be installed in a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat bottom; A seat backrest that extends from the bottom of the seat; A seatbelt assembly connected to the seat bottom and the seat back, the seatbelt assembly including a seatbelt adjuster and an adjusting strap disposed at the seat bottom, the adjusting strap passing through the seatbelt adjuster and extending through an opening formed in the seat bottom to the outside of the seat bottom; and The seatbelt adjuster is configured to apply tension to the adjusting strap at the contact area, and the adjusting strap extending from the contact area in at least one direction has an inclined configuration.

[0160] Technical solution 50: The child seat according to technical solution 49, wherein the adjusting strap is selectively movable along the strap path, and the contact area forms a vertical peak of the strap path near the seat belt adjuster.

[0161] Technical solution 51: The child seat according to technical solution 49, wherein an opening is formed at the bottom of the seat, and the adjustment strap extends through the opening to the outside of the child seat, wherein the contact area is vertically positioned above the opening.

[0162] Technical solution 52: The child seat according to technical solution 51, wherein the adjusting strap extends at an angle between the contact area and the opening.

[0163] Technical Solution 53: The child seat according to Technical Solution 49, wherein the seat belt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about an axis and a gap for receiving the adjusting strap, which is at least partially defined by the lever, wherein the gap is vertically disposed above the lever.

[0164] Technical solution 54: The child seat according to technical solution 53, wherein the thickness of the gap varies based on the rotational position of the lever.

[0165] Technical solution 55: The child seat according to technical solution 49, wherein the seat belt adjuster is disposed in a cavity formed at the seat support surface at the bottom of the seat, and the seat belt adjuster is offset from the bottom of the cavity.

Claims

1. A child seat that can be installed in a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat bottom; A seat backrest that extends from the bottom of the seat; A seatbelt assembly connected to the seat bottom and the seat back, the seatbelt assembly including a seatbelt adjuster disposed at the seat bottom and an adjustment strap extending through the seatbelt adjuster; and The seatbelt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about an axis and a gap for receiving the adjusting strap, which is at least partially defined by the lever, wherein the gap is vertically positioned above the lever.

2. The child seat of claim 1, wherein the lever is rotatable about the axis to change the tension applied to the adjusting strap by the seat belt adjuster, and the lever is rotatable toward the seat support surface at the bottom of the seat to reduce the tension applied to the adjusting strap.

3. The child seat of claim 1, wherein the seat belt adjuster is disposed within a cavity formed in a seat support surface at the bottom of the seat, the seat belt adjuster being offset from the bottom of the cavity to prevent debris on the bottom of the cavity from reaching the seat belt adjuster.

4. The child seat of claim 1, wherein the seat belt assembly is positioned such that the adjusting strap is angled relative to the horizontal plane at a position directly upstream of the seat belt adjuster to prevent debris from the adjusting strap from entering the seat belt adjuster.

5. The child seat of claim 1, wherein an opening is formed at the bottom of the seat, and the adjusting strap extends through the opening to the outside of the child seat, and the gap of the seat belt adjuster is vertically positioned above the opening.

6. A child seat that can be installed in a vehicle seat, the child seat comprising: Seat bottom; A seat backrest that extends from the bottom of the seat; A seatbelt assembly connected to the seat bottom and the seat back, the seatbelt assembly including a seatbelt adjuster and an adjustment strap disposed at the seat bottom, the adjustment strap passing through the seatbelt adjuster and extending through an opening formed in the seat bottom to the outside of the seat bottom; and The seatbelt adjuster is configured to apply tension to the adjusting strap at the contact area, and the adjusting strap extending from the contact area in at least one direction has an inclined configuration.

7. The child seat of claim 6, wherein the adjusting strap is selectively movable along the strap path, and the contact area forms a vertical peak of the strap path near the seat belt adjuster.

8. The child seat of claim 6, wherein an opening is formed at the bottom of the seat, and the adjustment strap extends through the opening to the outside of the child seat, wherein the contact area is vertically positioned above the opening.

9. The child seat of claim 8, wherein the adjusting strap extends at an angle between the contact area and the opening.

10. The child seat of claim 6, wherein the seat belt adjuster includes a lever rotatable about an axis and a gap for receiving the adjusting strap, at least partially defined by the lever, wherein the gap is vertically positioned above the lever.

11. The child seat of claim 10, wherein the thickness of the gap varies based on the rotational position of the lever.

12. The child seat of claim 6, wherein the seat belt adjuster is disposed within a cavity formed at a seat support surface at the bottom of the seat, the seat belt adjuster being offset from the bottom of the cavity.

Images