Child seat and child seat system

Abstract

The utility model discloses a child seat and a child seat system. The child seat used for being installed on a vehicle seat comprises a seat part, a rear part extending from the seat part and a headrest. The seat portion, the rear portion, and the headrest in combination define an interior of the child seat. The child seat includes a combined side impact protection assembly, side impact protection (SIP), having at least two of a first SIP device disposed at the headrest, a second SIP device disposed at an exterior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion, and a second SIP device disposed at an exterior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion. And a third SIP device disposed at an interior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to child seats and child seat systems, and more particularly, to systems, assemblies, and methods for side impact protection of child seats in vehicles. Background Art

[0002] Child seats are designed to protect children from injury or death during a vehicle collision. Existing child restraint systems typically consist of a base portion and a seat portion that is removably mounted to the base portion. When the child seat is secured to the vehicle via lower anchors or vehicle belts, the base portion must be adjusted to the appropriate reclining angle. Additionally, depending on the type of seat being used, the seat can be positioned in either a forward-facing or rearward-facing orientation. Utility Model Content

[0003] According to an embodiment, a child seat for mounting on a vehicle seat includes a seat portion, a rear portion extending from the seat portion, and a headrest. The seat portion, the rear portion, and the headrest collectively define an interior of the child seat. The child seat includes a combined side impact protection (SIP) assembly having at least two of the following: a first SIP device disposed at the headrest, a second SIP device disposed on an exterior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion, and a third SIP device disposed on an interior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion.

[0004] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second SIP device is arranged at the rear portion.

[0005] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments the second SIP device is arranged at the seat part.

[0006] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second SIP device may engage with a vehicle belt of the vehicle seat.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the child seat includes an opening associated with a vehicle harness path, and the second SIP device is connected to the child seat proximate the opening.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second SIP device is disposed rearward of the opening associated with the vehicle tether path.

[0009] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second SIP device is convertible between a first configuration and a second configuration relative to the child seat.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is arranged at the rear portion.

[0011] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is a shoulder SIP device.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is a torso SIP device.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is arranged at the seat part.

[0014] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is movable relative to the rear portion, and the third SIP device is movably coupled to the headrest.

[0015] 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, second and third SIP devices can be transformed between a first configuration, in which the at least one of the first, second and third SIP devices does not protrude into the interior of the child seat, and a second configuration, in which the at least one of the first, second and third SIP devices extends into the interior of the child seat.

[0016] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the combined SIP assembly includes the first SIP device and the second SIP device.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments the second SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

[0019] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the combined SIP assembly further includes the third SIP device.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

[0022] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the combined SIP assembly includes the first SIP device and the third SIP device.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

[0025] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the combined SIP assembly further includes the second SIP device.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments the second SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

[0028] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the combined SIP assembly includes the second SIP device and the third SIP device.

[0029] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments the second SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

[0033] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the combined SIP assembly includes the first SIP device, the second SIP device disposed at the rear portion, and the third SIP device disposed at the rear portion.

[0034] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the combined SIP assembly further comprises a fourth SIP device disposed within the interior of the seat portion.

[0035] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first SIP device is one of a plurality of first SIP devices arranged at the headrest.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the plurality of first SIP devices are arranged at opposite sides of the headrest.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the plurality of first SIP devices are arranged at a same side of the headrest.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the second SIP device is one of a plurality of second SIP devices arranged at the exterior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion.

[0039] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the plurality of second SIP devices are arranged at the exterior of the rear portion.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the third SIP device is one of a plurality of third SIP devices arranged at the interior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion.

[0041] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the plurality of third SIP devices are arranged at the interior of the rear portion.

[0042] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the plurality of third SIP devices are arranged at the interior of the seat portion.

[0043] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, at least one of the plurality of third SIP devices is arranged at the interior of the rear portion, and at least one of the plurality of third SIP devices is arranged at the interior of the seat portion.

[0044] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the child seat may be received on a support base, the child seat being rotatable relative to the support base between a plurality of positions.

[0045] According to an embodiment, a child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat includes a child seat having a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. At least one side impact protection (SIP) device is positionable around the rear portion. The at least one SIP device is aligned with a shoulder of an occupant of the child seat.

[0046] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the child seat includes a seat shell defining the seat portion and the rear portion, and the at least one SIP device is attached to the seat shell.

[0047] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the child seat includes a headrest, and the at least one SIP device is positioned at an interior surface of the rear portion adjacent to the headrest.

[0048] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is movable between a raised position and a lowered position relative to the rear portion, and the at least one SIP device is sized and positioned such that the headrest is freely movable between the raised position and the lowered position relative to the rear portion.

[0049] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the child seat includes a headrest, and the at least one SIP device is attached to the headrest.

[0050] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest is movable between a raised position and a lowered position relative to the rear portion, and the at least one SIP device is movable with the headrest.

[0051] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the headrest includes a belt guide, and the at least one SIP device is positioned adjacent to the belt guide.

[0052] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a soft item is disposed about the headrest. The soft item includes at least one cutout disposed adjacent to the at least one SIP device.

[0053] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device has a body comprising a mounting surface positionable adjacent to the rear portion, an occupant-facing surface engageable by the occupant of the child seat, and side portions extending between the mounting surface and the occupant-facing surface. The side portions are contoured to facilitate movement of the occupant around the at least one SIP device.

[0054] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a transition zone is arranged between the rider-facing surface and the side portion. The transition zone is shaped to facilitate forward movement of the rider.

[0055] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the transition region is rounded.

[0056] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the transition region is sloped.

[0057] According to an embodiment, a child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat includes a child seat having a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. The seat portion and the rear portion define an interior of the child seat. At least one side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed within the interior of the child seat. The at least one SIP device is configured to contact the torso of an occupant of the child seat.

[0058] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the child seat includes a seat shell defining the seat portion and the rear portion, and the at least one SIP device is attached to the seat shell.

[0059] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is positioned about the child seat such that an upper surface of the at least one SIP device forms an armrest for the occupant of the child seat.

[0060] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is arranged at the seat part.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device defines a portion of a tether path for receiving a vehicle tether.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the seat portion is configured as a booster and is removably coupled to the rear portion.

[0063] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device includes a pad positioned proximate to the buttocks of the occupant of the child seat.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is arranged at the rear portion.

[0065] In addition or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is convertible between a first configuration and a second configuration. The at least one SIP device is coupled to the child seat in both the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0066] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, when in the first configuration, the at least one SIP device is retracted and not configured to restrict movement of the occupant within the child seat, and when in the second configuration, the at least one SIP device is extended into the interior of the child seat and is configured to contact the torso of the occupant.

[0067] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, when in the first configuration, the at least one SIP device is flush with an adjacent surface of the child seat, and when in the second configuration, the at least one SIP device protrudes beyond the adjacent surface of the child seat into the interior.

[0068] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is translatable between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0069] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is rotatable between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0070] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device has a rigid body.

[0071] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device has a structurally modifiable body.

[0072] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device has a wedge shape.

[0073] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is arranged at a location at the seat portion spaced apart from the rear portion.

[0074] According to an embodiment, a child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat includes a child seat having a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. An opening formed in the child seat defines a portion of a tether path for receiving a vehicle tether. At least one side impact protection (SIP) device is connected to an exterior of the child seat proximate the opening.

[0075] In addition or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device includes a guide portion operable to engage the vehicle tether. The guide portion is positioned to guide the vehicle tether along the tether path.

[0076] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the guide portion is positioned to guide the vehicle tether toward the opening.

[0077] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the guide portion is a groove formed in the body of the at least one SIP device, and the vehicle tether is receivable within the groove.

[0078] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the guide portion includes a guide member extending from the at least one SIP device, and the vehicle tether is receivable between the guide member and the at least one SIP device.

[0079] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the guide member is movable relative to the at least one SIP device between a first position in which the vehicle tether is freely movable relative to the guide portion and a second position in which the vehicle tether is locked within the guide portion.

[0080] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is movably coupled to the child seat. The at least one SIP device is movable between a first position in which the vehicle harness is freely movable relative to the at least one SIP device and a second position in which the vehicle harness is locked into engagement with the at least one SIP device.

[0081] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

[0082] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one SIP device is disposed proximate an interface between the rear portion and the seat portion.

[0083] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a rear surface of the at least one SIP device is flush with an exterior of the rear portion.

[0084] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the rear portion of the child seat includes a rear portion, a first upright side member arranged at a first side of the rear portion, and a second upright side member arranged at a second side of the rear portion, and the rear surface of the at least one SIP device is flush with the rear portion.

[0085] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the rear portion of the child seat includes a rear portion, a first upright side member arranged at a first side of the rear portion, and a second upright side member arranged at a second side of the rear portion, and the contour of the rear surface of the at least one SIP device corresponds to the contour of the rear portion at the height of the at least one SIP device.

[0086] In addition or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, at least one SIP device is configured to rotate the child seat in response to a force being applied to the at least one SIP device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0087] The following description should not be considered limiting in any way. Referring to the accompanying drawings, similar elements are numbered similarly:

[0088] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a child restraint system according to an embodiment;

[0089] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a child seat including at least one head SIP device covered by a soft item according to an embodiment;

[0090] Figure 2B is a perspective view of a child seat including at least one head SIP device with a soft item according to an embodiment;

[0091] Figure 3A is a front view of a headrest of a child seat including a plurality of head SIP devices according to an embodiment;

[0092] Figure 3B According to the embodiment Figure 3A A perspective view of the head SIP device;

[0093] Figure 4A is a perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0094] Figure 4B According to the embodiment Figure 4A A detailed perspective view of the head SIP device;

[0095] Figure 5A is a top perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0096] Figure 5B According to the embodiment Figure 5A A side perspective view of the head SIP device;

[0097] Figure 6A is a side perspective view of a headrest according to an embodiment, the headrest including a head SIP device and an auxiliary body of compressible material in an overlapping arrangement with the head SIP device;

[0098] Figure 6B According to the embodiment Figure 6A A side perspective view of the head SIP device and the auxiliary body of compressible material;

[0099] Figure 7A is a top perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0100] Figure 7B Contains according to the embodiment Figure 7A Schematic diagram of the head SIP device;

[0101] Figure 8A is a top perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0102] Figure 8B Contains according to the embodiment Figure 8A Schematic diagram of the head SIP device;

[0103] Figure 9A is a top perspective view of a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0104] Figure 9B Contains according to the embodiment Figure 9A Schematic diagram of the head SIP device;

[0105] Figure 10A is a front view of a child seat including a headrest having at least one head SIP according to an embodiment;

[0106] Figure 10B According to the embodiment Figure 10A A perspective view of the headrest;

[0107] Figure 10C According to the embodiment Figure 10A A side view of the head SIP device;

[0108] Figure 11A is a front view of a child seat including a headrest having at least one head SIP according to an embodiment;

[0109] Figure 11B According to the embodiment Figure 11A A perspective view of the headrest;

[0110] Figure 11C According to the embodiment Figure 11A A side view of the head SIP device;

[0111] Figure 12A is a perspective view of a headrest of a child seat having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged at an area thereof according to an embodiment;

[0112] Figure 12B When the occupant is placed in the child seat according to the embodiment Figure 12A A perspective view of the headrest;

[0113] Figure 13A is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0114] Figure 13B According to the embodiment Figure 13A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0115] Figure 13C According to the embodiment Figure 13A A top view of the headrest;

[0116] Figure 13D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 13A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0117] Figure 13E According to the embodiment Figure 13D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0118] Figure 14 is a top view of a child positioned relative to a headrest of a child seat having a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0119] Figure 15A is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0120] Figure 15B According to the embodiment Figure 15A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0121] Figure 15C According to the embodiment Figure 15A A top view of the headrest;

[0122] Figure 15D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 15A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0123] Figure 15E According to the embodiment Figure 15D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0124] Figure 16A is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0125] Figure 16B According to the embodiment Figure 16A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0126] Figure 16C According to the embodiment Figure 16A A top view of the headrest;

[0127] Figure 16D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 16A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0128] Figure 16E According to the embodiment Figure 16D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0129] Figure 17A is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0130] Figure 17B According to the embodiment Figure 17A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0131] Figure 17C According to the embodiment Figure 17A A top view of the headrest;

[0132] Figure 17D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 17A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0133] Figure 17E According to the embodiment Figure 17D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0134] Figure 18A is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0135] Figure 18B According to the embodiment Figure 18AA front perspective view of a headrest;

[0136] Figure 18C According to the embodiment Figure 18A A top view of the headrest;

[0137] Figure 18D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 18A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0138] Figure 18E According to the embodiment Figure 18D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0139] Figure 19A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged to contact the same side of an occupant's head;

[0140] Figure 19B According to the embodiment Figure 19A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0141] Figure 19C According to the embodiment Figure 19A A top view of the headrest;

[0142] Figure 19D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 19A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0143] Figure 19E According to the embodiment Figure 19D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0144] Figure 20A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of an occupant's head;

[0145] Figure 20B According to the embodiment Figure 20A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0146] Figure 20C According to the embodiment Figure 20A A top view of the headrest;

[0147] Figure 20D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 20A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0148] Figure 20EAccording to the embodiment Figure 20D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0149] Figure 21A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of an occupant's head;

[0150] Figure 21B According to the embodiment Figure 21A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0151] Figure 21C According to the embodiment Figure 21A A top view of the headrest;

[0152] Figure 21D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 21A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0153] Figure 21E According to the embodiment Figure 21D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0154] Figure 22A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of an occupant's head;

[0155] Figure 22B According to the embodiment Figure 22A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0156] Figure 22C According to the embodiment Figure 22A A top view of the headrest;

[0157] Figure 22D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 22A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0158] Figure 22E According to the embodiment Figure 22D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0159] Figure 23A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of an occupant's head;

[0160] Figure 23B According to the embodiment Figure 23A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0161] Figure 23C According to the embodiment Figure 23A A top view of the headrest;

[0162] Figure 23D Separated from the headrest according to the embodiment Figure 23A A perspective view of a head SIP assembly;

[0163] Figure 23E According to the embodiment Figure 23D A top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0164] Figure 24A is a side view of a headrest of a child seat including a control mechanism and at least one head SIP assembly in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0165] Figure 24B According to the embodiment Figure 24A A top view of the headrest;

[0166] Figure 24C is a side view of a headrest of a child seat including a control mechanism and at least one head SIP assembly in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0167] Figure 24D According to the embodiment Figure 24C A top view of the headrest;

[0168] Figure 25A is a side view of a headrest of a child seat including a control mechanism and at least one head SIP assembly in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0169] Figure 25B According to the embodiment Figure 25A A top view of the headrest;

[0170] Figure 25C is a side view of a headrest of a child seat including a control mechanism and at least one head SIP assembly in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0171] Figure 25D According to the embodiment Figure 25C A top view of the headrest;

[0172] Figure 26A 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 an occupant's head;

[0173] Figure 26BAccording to the embodiment Figure 26A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0174] Figure 26C According to the embodiment Figure 26A A top view of the headrest;

[0175] Figure 26D is in the second configuration according to the embodiment Figure 26A A perspective view of the headrest;

[0176] Figure 26E According to the embodiment Figure 26D A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0177] Figure 26F According to the embodiment Figure 26D A top view of the headrest;

[0178] Figure 27A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest having a head SIP assembly including a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of an occupant's head when a mounting strap is arranged in a first position about the child seat;

[0179] Figure 27B According to an embodiment, when the mounting belt is arranged in the second position around the child seat Figure 27A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0180] Figure 28A is a perspective view of a headrest of a child seat having a head SIP device formed of a friction material according to an embodiment;

[0181] Figure 28B According to the embodiment Figure 28A A front view of the headrest;

[0182] Figure 29A is a perspective view of a headrest of a child seat according to an embodiment, the headrest having a head SIP device arranged at a front end of the headrest;

[0183] Figure 29B is a perspective view of a headrest of a child seat according to an embodiment, the headrest having another head SIP device arranged at a front end of the headrest;

[0184] Figure 30A is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0185] Figure 30B According to the embodiment Figure 30A A top view of a child seat;

[0186] Figure 31A is a SIP device with a head in a second configuration according to an embodiment Figure 30A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0187] Figure 31B According to the embodiment Figure 31A A top view of a child seat;

[0188] Figure 32A is a front perspective view of a headrest of a child seat having at least one head SIP device covered by a soft item according to an embodiment;

[0189] Figure 32B According to the embodiment Figure 32A A side perspective view of a headrest;

[0190] Figure 32C According to the embodiment Figure 32A A top view of the headrest;

[0191] Figure 33A is a front perspective view of a rear portion of a child seat having at least one shoulder SIP device disposed at an interior surface thereof according to an embodiment;

[0192] Figure 33B According to the embodiment Figure 33A a side perspective view of a rear portion of the SIP device comprising at least one shoulder;

[0193] Figure 33C According to the embodiment Figure 33A a side perspective view of at least one shoulder SIP device;

[0194] Figure 34A is a front view of a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0195] Figure 34B According to the embodiment Figure 34A A front perspective view of a shoulder SIP device;

[0196] Figure 35A According to an embodiment, the invention includes a Figures 34A-34B A perspective view of a child seat with a shoulder SIP device;

[0197] Figure 35B According to the embodiment Figure 35A A top view of a child seat;

[0198] Figure 36A is a front view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0199] Figure 36B According to the embodiment Figure 36A A front perspective view of a shoulder SIP device;

[0200] Figure 36C According to an embodiment, the invention includes a Figures 36A-36B A perspective view of a child seat with a shoulder SIP device;

[0201] Figure 36D According to the embodiment Figure 36C A top view of a child seat;

[0202] Figure 37A is a front view of a child seat having at least one shoulder SIP device disposed at an interior surface of a rear portion when a headrest is in a lowered position according to an embodiment;

[0203] Figure 37B When the headrest is in the raised position according to an embodiment Figure 37A Front view of the child seat;

[0204] Figure 38A is a top perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device disposed at an interior surface of a rear portion of the child seat;

[0205] Figure 38B According to the embodiment Figure 38A A front perspective view of a child seat;

[0206] Figure 38C According to the embodiment Figure 38A A side perspective view of a child seat with a soft item mounted around the child seat;

[0207] Figure 39 is a top perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device disposed at an interior surface of a seat portion of the child seat;

[0208] Figure 40A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device disposed at an interior surface of the child seat;

[0209] Figure 40B According to the embodiment Figure 40A Front view of the child seat;

[0210] Figure 41A is a perspective view of a torso SIP assembly including a plurality of torso SIP devices according to an embodiment;

[0211] Figure 41B is installed around the inner surface of the child seat according to an embodiment Figure 41AA perspective view of the trunk SIP assembly;

[0212] Figure 41C is installed around the inner surface of the child seat according to an embodiment Figure 41A A front view of the trunk SIP assembly;

[0213] Figure 42A is a perspective view of a torso SIP assembly including a plurality of torso SIP devices according to an embodiment;

[0214] Figure 42B is installed around the inner surface of the child seat according to an embodiment Figure 42A A perspective view of the trunk SIP assembly;

[0215] Figure 42C is installed around the inner surface of the child seat according to an embodiment Figure 42A A front view of the trunk SIP assembly;

[0216] Figure 43A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device disposed at an interior surface of the child seat;

[0217] Figure 43B According to the embodiment Figure 43A Another perspective view of the child seat;

[0218] Figure 44A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed at an interior surface of a rear portion of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device in a first configuration;

[0219] Figure 44B According to the embodiment Figure 44A Front view of the child seat;

[0220] Figure 44C is a device according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration Figure 44A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0221] Figure 44D According to the embodiment Figure 44C Front view of the child seat;

[0222] Figure 45A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed at an interior surface of a rear portion of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device in a first configuration;

[0223] Figure 45BAccording to the embodiment Figure 45A Front view of the child seat;

[0224] Figure 45C is a device according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration Figure 45A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0225] Figure 45D According to the embodiment Figure 45C Front view of the child seat;

[0226] Figure 46 is a perspective view of a child seat having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0227] Figure 47A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed at an interior surface of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device in a first configuration;

[0228] Figure 47B According to the embodiment Figure 47A Front view of the child seat;

[0229] Figure 47C is a device according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration Figure 47A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0230] Figure 47D According to the embodiment Figure 47C Front view of the child seat;

[0231] Figure 48A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed at an interior surface of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device in a first configuration;

[0232] Figure 48B According to the embodiment Figure 48A Front view of the child seat;

[0233] Figure 48C is a device according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration Figure 48A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0234] Figure 48D According to the embodiment Figure 48C Front view of the child seat;

[0235] Figure 49Ais a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed at an interior surface of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device in a first configuration;

[0236] Figure 49B According to the embodiment Figure 49A Front view of the child seat;

[0237] Figure 49C is a device according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration Figure 49A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0238] Figure 49D According to the embodiment Figure 49C Front view of the child seat;

[0239] Figure 49E According to the embodiment Figure 49C A top view of a child seat;

[0240] Figure 50A is a perspective view of a child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed at a support base according to an embodiment;

[0241] Figure 50B According to the embodiment Figure 50A A side view of a child seat;

[0242] Figure 51A is a perspective view of a child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed at a support base according to an embodiment;

[0243] Figure 51B According to the embodiment Figure 51A A side view of a child seat;

[0244] Figure 52A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed at an exterior surface of the child seat;

[0245] Figure 52B According to the embodiment Figure 52A A side view of a child seat;

[0246] Figure 53A is a side view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed at an exterior surface of a seat portion of the child seat;

[0247] Figure 53B According to the embodiment Figure 53A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0248] Figure 54A is a side view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed at an exterior surface of a rear portion of the child seat proximate a harness path opening;

[0249] Figure 54B According to the embodiment Figure 54A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0250] Figure 55A is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed at an exterior surface of a rear portion of the child seat proximate a harness path opening;

[0251] Figure 55B According to the embodiment Figure 55A A rear perspective view of a child seat;

[0252] Figure 55C According to the embodiment Figure 55B Front view of the child seat;

[0253] Figure 55D According to the embodiment Figure 55A A side perspective view of a child seat;

[0254] Figure 55E is positioned on a vehicle seat adjacent to a vehicle door according to an embodiment Figure 55A A top view of a child seat;

[0255] Figure 55F According to the embodiment Figure 55A Another rear perspective view of at least one external SIP device;

[0256] Figure 56A is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed at an exterior surface of a rear portion of the child seat proximate a harness path opening;

[0257] Figure 56B According to the embodiment Figure 56A A side view of a child seat;

[0258] Figure 57 is a perspective view of an external SIP device having a slot for engaging a vehicle tether strap according to an embodiment;

[0259] Figure 58 is a perspective view of an external SIP device having a clamp for engaging a vehicle tether according to an embodiment;

[0260] Figure 59is a perspective view of an external SIP device having a rotatable clamp for engaging a vehicle tether according to an embodiment;

[0261] Figure 60 is a perspective view of an external SIP device rotatable to engage a vehicle tether according to an embodiment;

[0262] Figure 61A is a perspective view of an infant car seat having at least one external SIP device disposed at a handle hub according to an embodiment;

[0263] Figure 61B is a side view of an infant car seat having at least one external SIP device disposed at an exterior surface of a seat portion according to an embodiment;

[0264] Figure 61C According to the embodiment Figure 61B a top perspective view of at least one external SIP device;

[0265] Figure 62A is a perspective view of a child including at least one external SIP device disposed at an exterior surface of a rear portion of a child seat, the at least one external SIP device being in a first configuration, according to an embodiment;

[0266] Figure 62B is a device according to an embodiment having at least one external SIP device in a second configuration Figure 62A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0267] Figure 63A is a perspective view of a child including an external SIP device disposed at an exterior surface of a rear portion of a child seat, the external SIP device being in a first configuration, according to an embodiment;

[0268] Figure 63B is a device according to an embodiment having an external SIP device in a second configuration Figure 63A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0269] Figure 63C is a device according to an embodiment having an external SIP device in a third configuration Figure 63A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0270] Figure 64A is a perspective view of a child including an external SIP device disposed at an exterior surface of a rear portion of a child seat, the external SIP device being in a first configuration, according to an embodiment;

[0271] Figure 64B is a device according to an embodiment having an external SIP device in a second configuration Figure 64A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0272] Figure 64C is a device according to an embodiment having an external SIP device in a third configuration Figure 64A A perspective view of a child seat;

[0273] Figure 65A is a front perspective view of a child seat including at least one SIP device and an actuation mechanism operably coupled to the at least one SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0274] Figure 65B is in an unactuated configuration according to an embodiment Figure 65A a perspective view of an actuation mechanism and at least one SIP device operably coupled to the actuation mechanism in a first configuration;

[0275] Figure 65C According to an embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is actuated and at least one SIP device is in the second configuration Figure 65A A front perspective view of a child seat;

[0276] Figure 65D is a perspective view of an actuation mechanism in an actuated configuration and at least one SIP device operably coupled to the actuation mechanism in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0277] Figure 66A is a front perspective view of a child seat including at least one SIP device and an actuation mechanism operably coupled to the at least one SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0278] Figure 66B is in an unactuated configuration according to an embodiment Figure 66A a perspective view of an actuation mechanism and at least one SIP device operably coupled to the actuation mechanism in a first configuration;

[0279] Figure 66C According to an embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is not actuated and at least one SIP device is in the first configuration Figure 66A Another front perspective view of the child seat;

[0280] Figure 66D is a side view of an actuation mechanism in an unactuated configuration and at least one SIP device operably coupled to the actuation mechanism in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0281] Figure 66E According to an embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is in the actuated configuration and the at least one SIP device is in the second configuration Figure 66A A front perspective view of a child seat;

[0282] Figure 66F is in an actuated configuration according to an embodiment Figure 66E a perspective view of an actuation mechanism and at least one SIP device operably coupled to the actuation mechanism in a second configuration;

[0283] Figure 66G According to an embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is actuated and at least one SIP device is in the second configuration Figure 66E Another front perspective view of the child seat;

[0284] Figure 66H is a side view of an actuation mechanism in an actuated configuration and at least one SIP device operably coupled to the actuation mechanism in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0285] Figure 67A is a front view of a child seat having at least one SIP device transformable between a first configuration and a second configuration in response to movement of a headrest according to an embodiment;

[0286] Figure 67B According to the embodiment Figure 67A A rear perspective view of a child seat;

[0287] Figure 67C is in the unactuated position according to an embodiment Figure 67A A detailed perspective view of an actuation mechanism of a child seat and at least one SIP device in a first configuration;

[0288] Figure 67D is in the unactuated position according to an embodiment Figure 67A A detailed front view of an actuation mechanism of a child seat and at least one SIP device in a first configuration;

[0289] Figure 67E is a method according to an embodiment having at least one SIP device in a second configuration and an actuation mechanism in an actuated configuration Figure 67A Front view of the child seat;

[0290] Figure 67F According to the embodiment Figure 67E A rear perspective view of a child seat;

[0291] Figure 67G is in an actuated configuration according to an embodiment Figure 67E A detailed perspective view of an actuation mechanism of a child seat and at least one SIP device in a second configuration;

[0292] Figure 67H is in an actuated configuration according to an embodiment Figure 67Ea detailed front view of an actuation mechanism of a child seat and at least one SIP device in a second configuration;

[0293] Figure 68A 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 an occupant's head;

[0294] Figure 68B According to the embodiment Figure 68A A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0295] Figure 68C According to the embodiment Figure 68A A top view of the headrest;

[0296] Figure 68D is in the second configuration according to the embodiment Figure 68A A perspective view of the headrest;

[0297] Figure 68E According to the embodiment Figure 26D A front perspective view of a headrest;

[0298] Figure 68F According to the embodiment Figure 68D A top view of the headrest;

[0299] Figure 69A is a side view of a headrest having at least one head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0300] Figure 69B According to the embodiment Figure 69A Rear view of the headrest;

[0301] Figure 70A is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having a headrest in a lowered position and at least one shoulder device operably coupled to the headrest;

[0302] Figure 70B When the headrest is in the raised position according to an embodiment Figure 70A Front view of the child seat;

[0303] Figure 71 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a head SIP device and a shoulder SIP device;

[0304] Figure 72 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a head SIP device and a torso SIP device;

[0305] Figure 73is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a head SIP device and an outer SIP device;

[0306] Figure 74 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a shoulder SIP device and a torso SIP device;

[0307] Figure 75 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a shoulder SIP device and an external SIP device;

[0308] Figure 76 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a torso SIP device and an external SIP device;

[0309] Figure 77 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a head SIP device, a shoulder SIP device, and a torso SIP device;

[0310] Figure 78 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a head SIP device, a shoulder SIP device, and an outer SIP device;

[0311] Figure 79 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a head SIP device, a torso SIP device, and an external SIP device;

[0312] Figure 80 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a shoulder SIP device, a torso SIP device, and an external SIP device;

[0313] Figure 81 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly including a head SIP device, a shoulder SIP device, a torso SIP device, and an external SIP device;

[0314] Figure 82A is a top view of a child positioned relative to a headrest of a child seat having multiple head SIP devices according to an embodiment;

[0315] Figure 82B is according to an embodiment during a side impact event relative to Figure 82A A top view of a child with the head restraint positioned;

[0316] Figure 83 is a perspective view of a head SIP device transformable between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration according to another embodiment;

[0317] Figure 84A is a front view of a child seat having a plurality of shoulder SIP devices attached to a movable headrest in a raised position according to an embodiment;

[0318] Figure 84B is a front view of a child seat having a plurality of shoulder SIP devices attached to a movable headrest in a lowered position according to an embodiment;

[0319] Figure 85 According to the embodiment Figures 84A-84B An exploded perspective view of the shoulder SIP device;

[0320] Figures 86A-86D are views of a torso SIP device in various configurations according to an embodiment;

[0321] Figure 86E is a side view of the torso SIP device in a first configuration;

[0322] Figure 86F is a side view of the torso SIP device in a second configuration;

[0323] Figure 87A is a perspective view of a child seat having a torso SIP assembly held in place about the child seat by a connection assembly according to an embodiment;

[0324] Figure 87B According to the embodiment Figure 87A A detailed perspective view of the torso SIP assembly when the connecting assembly is in a first position;

[0325] Figure 87C According to the embodiment Figure 87A a detailed perspective view of the torso SIP assembly when the connecting assembly is in a second position;

[0326] Figure 88A is a rear view of the torso SIP assembly when the connection assembly is in a first position according to an embodiment;

[0327] Figure 88B According to the embodiment Figure 88A a rear view of the torso SIP assembly when the connection assembly is in the second position;

[0328] Figure 88C is a side perspective view of a torso SIP assembly according to an embodiment when the connection assembly is in a first position;

[0329] Figure 88D According to the embodiment Figure 88Ca side view of the torso SIP assembly when the connection assembly is in a second position;

[0330] Figure 89A is a perspective view of a child seat having a torso SIP assembly and corresponding controls associated with a torso SIP device of the torso SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0331] Figure 89B is a detailed perspective view of a control device according to an embodiment;

[0332] Figure 89C According to an embodiment, when the control device is in the first position Figure 89A A perspective view of a trunk SIP device of the trunk SIP assembly;

[0333] Figure 89D According to an embodiment, when the control device is in the first position Figure 89A A perspective view of a trunk SIP device of the trunk SIP assembly;

[0334] Figure 90A is a perspective view of a child seat including an external SIP device in a first position according to an embodiment;

[0335] Figure 90B is a perspective view of a child seat including an external SIP device in a second position according to an embodiment;

[0336] Figure 91 According to the embodiment Figures 90A-90B Detailed perspective view of the external SIP device;

[0337] Figure 92A According to the embodiment Figure 91 A front perspective view of an external SIP device;

[0338] Figure 92B According to the embodiment Figure 92A A rear perspective view of an external SIP device;

[0339] Figure 93 According to the embodiment Figure 92A A side view of an external SIP device;

[0340] Figure 94 According to the embodiment Figure 93 An exploded side view of an external SIP device;

[0341] Figure 95 According to the embodiment Figure 94 A cross-sectional exploded view of an external SIP device;

[0342] Figure 96Ais a side view of an external SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0343] Figure 96B is in the second configuration according to the embodiment Figure 96A A side view of an external SIP device;

[0344] Figure 97A and Figure 97B is a perspective view of a child seat system including an engagement member associated with an external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0345] Figure 98A is a perspective view of a child seat system in a rearward configuration and including an engagement member associated with an external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0346] Figure 98B is a forward-facing configuration according to an embodiment and includes an engagement member associated with an external SIP device Figure 98A A perspective view of a child seat system;

[0347] Figure 99 is a perspective view of a child seat system having an external SIP device disposed at a support base according to an embodiment;

[0348] Figure 100 is a perspective view of a child seat system having a movable external SIP device disposed at a support base according to another embodiment;

[0349] Figure 101 is a perspective view of a child seat system having a movable external SIP device disposed at a support base according to an embodiment;

[0350] Figure 102A and 102B is a perspective view of a child seat system having a movable external SIP device disposed at a support base according to yet another embodiment;

[0351] Figure 103 is a perspective view of a child seat system having a translatable external SIP device disposed at a support base according to another embodiment;

[0352] Figure 104 is a perspective view of a child seat system having a pivotable external SIP device disposed at a support base according to another embodiment;

[0353] Figure 105 is a perspective view of a child seat system having a retractable external SIP device disposed at a support base according to another embodiment;

[0354] Figure 106A and106B is a perspective view of a support base with an external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0355] Figure 107A and 107B are various views of a child seat system including an actuating mechanism for automatically changing a SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0356] Figure 108A is a plan view of a child seat system with a SIP device according to an embodiment when the child seat is in a forward-facing configuration;

[0357] Figure 108B is a plan view of a child seat system having a SIP device when the child seat is rotated between a rearward-facing configuration and a forward-facing configuration according to an embodiment;

[0358] Figure 109A is an exploded perspective view of a child seat system in a forward-facing configuration according to an embodiment, the child seat having a system for automatically deploying a SIP device based on the position of the child seat relative to a vehicle seat and the configuration of the child seat;

[0359] Figure 109B According to the embodiment Figure 109A A plan view of the child seat system;

[0360] Figure 110A When the child seat is rotated away from the forward configuration according to an embodiment Figure 109A An exploded perspective view of a child seat system;

[0361] Figure 110B According to the embodiment Figure 110A A plan view of the child seat system;

[0362] Figure 111 is a front view of a control feature of an actuator for moving a support base according to an embodiment;

[0363] Figure 112 is a side view of a child seat system according to an embodiment, the child seat system including a child seat having at least one external SIP device at a seat portion;

[0364] Figure 113A is a schematic diagram of a cup holder of a child seat in an extended configuration according to an embodiment;

[0365] Figure 113B is a schematic diagram of a cup holder of a child seat in an extended configuration according to an embodiment;

[0366] Figure 113C is a schematic diagram of a cup holder of a child seat during a collision event according to an embodiment;

[0367] Figure 114A is a schematic diagram of a cup holder of a child seat in an extended configuration according to an embodiment;

[0368] Figure 114B is a schematic diagram of a cup holder of a child seat in an extended configuration according to an embodiment;

[0369] Figure 114C is a schematic diagram of a cup holder of a child seat during a collision event according to an embodiment;

[0370] Figure 115 is a diagram of a child seat system according to an embodiment, the child seat system including a child seat having at least one external SIP device at a seat portion;

[0371] Figure 116A is a perspective view of an infant car seat having at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0372] Figure 116B is another perspective view of an infant car seat having at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0373] Figure 116C is another perspective view of an infant car seat having a handle in a rear position and having at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0374] Figure 116D is another perspective view of an infant car seat having a handle in a rear position and having at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0375] Figure 117A is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0376] Figure 117B According to the embodiment Figure 117A A floor plan of the child seat;

[0377] Figure 118A is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0378] Figure 118B According to the embodiment Figure 118A A floor plan of the child seat;

[0379] Figure 119A is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0380] Figure 119B According to the embodiment Figure 119AA floor plan of the child seat;

[0381] Figure 120A is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0382] Figure 120B According to the embodiment Figure 120A A floor plan of the child seat;

[0383] Figure 121A is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0384] Figure 121B is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0385] Figure 122A is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0386] Figure 122B is a perspective view of a child seat including a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0387] Figure 123A is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0388] Figure 123B is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0389] Figure 124A is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0390] Figure 124B is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0391] Figure 125A is a plan view of a child seat including a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0392] Figure 125B is a perspective view of a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0393] Figure 125C is a perspective view of a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0394] Figures 126A-126C is a perspective view of a child seat system having a deformable SIP device at various positions according to an embodiment;

[0395] Figure 127A is a side perspective view of a child seat system including a foldable SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0396] Figure 127B is a rear perspective view of a child seat system including a foldable SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0397] Figure 127C is a rear perspective view of a child seat system including a foldable SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0398] Figure 128A is a plan view of a child seat system including a foldable SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0399] Figure 128B is a more detailed perspective view of a portion of a SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0400] Figure 129 is a plan view of a child seat system including a SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0401] Figure 130 is a perspective view of a child seat system including a SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0402] Figures 131A-131C are various perspective views of a child seat system according to an embodiment, the child seat system including an external SIP device configured as a foot and movable between a first configuration and a second configuration;

[0403] Figures 132A-132C 1 are various views of a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0404] Figures 133A-133C is attached to the headrest shell according to an embodiment Figures 132A-132C Various views of the head SIP assembly;

[0405] Figures 134A-134C are various views of a headrest including at least one head SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0406] Figure 134D and 134E According to the embodiment Figure 134C a cross-sectional view of a headrest;

[0407] Figures 135A-135C are various views of a headrest including at least one head SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0408] Figures 136A-136Bare front and rear perspective views of a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0409] Figure 137 is a rear perspective view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0410] Figure 138 is a front view of a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0411] Figure 139 is a front view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0412] Figure 140A is a front perspective view of an insert associated with a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0413] Figure 140B According to the embodiment Figure 140A a rear perspective view of the insert;

[0414] Figure 141 is a front perspective view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0415] Figure 142A and 142B are various perspective views of a shoulder SIP device surrounded by a soft article according to an embodiment;

[0416] Figure 143A and 143B are various perspective views of a headrest soft article having an integral soft article associated with a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0417] Figure 144A is a front view of a headrest soft good having a cutout for accommodating a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0418] Figure 144B is a device according to an embodiment of the present invention having a Figure 144A Front view of a child seat with soft items in the head restraint;

[0419] Figures 145A-145E are various views of a child seat system having at least one external SIP device in forward, rearward, and intermediate configurations according to an embodiment;

[0420] Figure 146A is a perspective view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0421] Figure 146B According to the embodiment Figure 146A Front view of the external SIP device;

[0422] Figure 146C According to the embodiment Figure 146A A side view of an external SIP device;

[0423] Figure 147A and 147B is mounted to a child seat according to an embodiment Figures 146A-146C Various perspective views of the external SIP device;

[0424] Figure 148A is a perspective view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0425] Figure 148B According to the embodiment Figure 148A Rear view of the external SIP device;

[0426] Figure 148C According to the embodiment Figure 148A A plan view of the external SIP device;

[0427] Figure 149A is a perspective view of a bracket surrounding a belt path opening of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0428] Figure 149B is operatively coupled to Figures 148A-148C External SIP device Figure 149A A perspective view of the bracket;

[0429] Figure 150 is a perspective view of an interface between an external SIP device and a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0430] Figure 151A 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; and

[0431] Figure 151B According to the embodiment Figure 151A Detailed view of the torso SIP device and surrounding soft items;

[0432] Figures 152A-152B are various views of a shoulder SIP device arranged relative to a headrest including a head SIP device according to an embodiment; and

[0433] Figure 153 is a perspective view of a child seat system having at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0434] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and methods is provided herein by way of example and not limitation with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0435] Now refer to Figure 1, shows an example of a child seat system 20 according to an embodiment. The child seat system 20 may be detachably secured to a vehicle seat (see FIG. 1 ), for example, via a latch or anchor mechanism (not shown). Figure 55E ). Such latch or anchor systems that are often used are sometimes referred to as "lower anchors and tethers for children," such as the LATCH system. Alternatively or in addition, the child seat system 20 may be removably secured to the vehicle seat via a vehicle harness (not shown) associated with the vehicle seat.

[0436] The child seat system 20 can include a support base or bottom 22 and a child seat 23 having a rigid seat shell 24 coupled to the support base 22, the seat shell 24 being adapted to receive a child. In an embodiment, the seat shell 24 is removably connected to the support base 22, thereby allowing the seat shell 24 to be separated from the support base 22. Alternatively, the support base 22 and the seat shell 24 can be permanently connected or attached together. As used herein, the term "permanently connected" refers to an embodiment in which the seat shell 24 is not intended to be removed from the support base 22 by a user and may have an integral or inseparable construction.

[0437] The seat shell 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 coupled, or alternatively, may be permanently coupled. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the upright portion 28 and the seat portion 26 are integrally formed as a single, unitary body. In another alternative, the upright portion 28 may be rotatably connected to the seat portion 26 so that the upright portion 28 can tilt and recline relative to the seat portion 26.

[0438] As shown, the upright portion 28 of the seat shell 24 includes an upright support surface 30 that faces generally 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 can be disposed at a first side 38 of the upright support surface 30, and a second upright side member 40 can be disposed 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 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 can extend generally perpendicular to the upright support surface 30, or alternatively, can extend from the upright support surface at another angle, such as an angle greater than 90° (thus, the respective angles are, for example, at least 90°). Thus, the upright support surface 30 and the first and second upright side members 36, 40 define a backrest area or upright support cavity within which the upper torso of a child is received.

[0439] In embodiments where the child seat is a toddler seat, the upright side members 36, 40 can facilitate proper positioning of the vehicle's harness when the child seat system 20 is installed in a vehicle. In some embodiments, each upright side member 36, 40 has an opening 44 formed therein. The opening 44 can 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.

[0440] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the upright portion 28 of the seat shell 24 includes a headrest 46. The headrest 46 is attached to or integral with the upright portion 28. The headrest 46 can be fixed or, in some embodiments, can be configured to move relative to the upright support surface 30. For example, the headrest 46 can 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.

[0441] The seat portion 26 includes a seat support surface 50 that faces generally upward and extends from a first end or front 52 to a second end or rear 54 of the seat portion 26. A first seat-side member 56 can be disposed at a first side 58 of the seat support surface 50, and a second seat-side member 60 can be disposed at a second, opposite side (not shown) of the seat support surface 50. The first and second seat-side members 56, 60 extend upward and form left and right sides of the seat portion 26. The seat support surface 50 and the first and second seat-side members 56, 60, in combination, define an area within which at least a portion of a child's lower body can be received.

[0442] As shown, the seat side members 56, 60 extend at an angle from the seat support surface 50. The angle of the first seat side member 56 relative to the seat support surface 50 can be the same as the angle of the first upright side member 36 relative to the upright support surface 30, but this need not be the case. Similarly, the angle of the second seat side member 60 relative to the seat support surface 50 can be the same as the angle of the second upright side member 40 relative to the upright support surface 30, but this need not be the case. In an embodiment, the first upright side member 36 and the first seat side member 56 are integrally formed with each other and with the seat shell 24, and the second upright side member 40 and the second seat side member 60 are integrally formed with each other and with the seat shell 24.

[0443] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, each seat side member 56, 60 has a slot 66 formed therein that is configured to serve as a leg strap guide during at least one use mode of the child seat 23. The slot 66 can be configured to receive and position the leg strap portion of a vehicle restraint or a separate restraint strap to secure the child seat 23 to the vehicle when 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 in FIG.

[0444] When the child seat 23 is coupled to the support base 22, the child seat 23 can move relative to the support base 22. In an embodiment, the child seat 23 can rotate between a plurality of configurations relative to the support base 22. For example, the child seat 23 can rotate between a first rotational configuration (e.g., a configuration in which the child seat 23 is in a forward position) and a second rotational configuration (e.g., a configuration in which 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 rotational configuration and the second rotational configuration are also within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, embodiments in which the child seat 23 cannot rotate relative to the support base 22 are also contemplated herein.

[0445] Alternatively or in addition, the child seat 23 can be moved relative to the support base 22 to adjust the tilt of the child seat 23. The child seat 23 can be moved along a tilt path between a first position (e.g., an upright position) and a second position (e.g., a reclined position). However, it will be appreciated that both the first position and the second position can be inclined positions having different degrees of inclination. Also contemplated herein are embodiments in which the child seat 23 can be arranged in any of a plurality of positions between the upright position and the reclined position, as well as embodiments in which the tilt of the child seat 23 relative to the support base 22 is not adjustable. It will be appreciated that reference is made herein to Figure 1 The child seat system 20 shown and described is intended to be exemplary only, and child seat systems 20 having other configurations are also within the scope of the present 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 can be an infant car seat for children less than two years old, less than or equal to 35 inches in height, and / or less than or equal to 40 pounds in weight.

[0446] A child seat system, such as the child seat system 20, can include at least one side impact protection device. At least one side impact protection (SIP) device can be removably connected to the child seat system 20, for example, via double-sided tape, an adhesive, or a mechanical fastener. Alternatively, at least one SIP device can be permanently connected thereto or integrated therewith, such that the structure of the child seat system 20 (e.g., the seat shell 24 of the child seat 23) and the one or more SIP devices form a single, integral component. As will be described in more detail below, one or more SIP devices can be mounted at various locations around the support base 22 and / or the child seat 23. For example, a SIP device can be located, for example, at the upright portion 28, the seat portion 26, or the headrest 46 of the child seat 23. In addition, such a SIP device can be arranged at an interior surface or an exterior surface of the child seat 23.

[0447] A SIP device associated with a child seat system (e.g., child seat system 20) can be formed from a material having a lower hardness than the hardness of the seat shell 24 or support base 22. Using a material with reduced hardness can facilitate absorption of energy applied to the child seat system 20 during an incident, such as a side impact. In some embodiments, the material of the SIP device of the child seat system 20 can also have a higher hardness than the hardness of soft goods mounted around the seat shell 24 and / or headrest 46 to provide additional energy absorption beyond that of the soft goods. In some embodiments, the SIP device can be configured with sacrificial features that are configured to break or deform during a collision to assist in energy absorption. In some embodiments, the SIP device or portions thereof can be formed from a foam material, 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 specifications are contemplated. It should be understood that any of these materials, or another material with a reduced hardness relative to the seat shell of the child seat, can be used in any exemplary embodiment of the SIP device described herein.

[0448] Continue to refer Figure 1 In an 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 head of an occupant of the child seat system 20 during a side impact. Such head SIP devices 70a, 70b can be arranged at an area of the child seat 23 surrounding or adjacent to the occupant's head. In an embodiment, at least one head SIP device 70a, 70b is associated with a headrest 46 of the child seat 23, and in some embodiments is mounted thereto. As discussed further below, in some embodiments, the child seat system 20 can include one or more additional SIP devices, such as shoulder SIP devices 72a, 72b, an external SIP device 74, and / or a torso SIP device (not shown).

[0449] It should be understood that the construction of the head SIP device (e.g., head SIP device 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). A headrest typically includes a rigid body or structure with a soft good (e.g., padding, cushioning, fabric, etc.) positioned around one or more surfaces of the rigid body (e.g., a surface of the rigid body that a child seat occupant's head can contact). As will be described in more detail below, the head SIP device can be positioned adjacent to an interior surface of the headrest within a head-receiving area of the headrest. Unless another arrangement is indicated, any embodiments described herein that include a head SIP device positionable at such an interior surface area should be understood to position the head SIP device generally between the structural body or shell of the headrest (e.g., a relatively rigid portion of the headrest) and the soft good covering the headrest. Such a head SIP device can be attached to the structural body of the headrest or the soft good positionable around it.

[0450] Now refer to Figure 2A and 2B , a headrest 102 of the child seat 100 is shown that is similar to the headrest 46 of the child seat 23. The headrest 102 includes a headrest rear portion 104 having a headrest support surface 106 that is, for example, oriented generally parallel to an upright support surface (not shown) of an 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 headrest rear portion 104, and a second headrest side member 116 may extend in an opposite direction from a second side 118 of the headrest rear portion 104.

[0451] The first and second headrest side members 112, 116 include inwardly facing surfaces 120, 122. In conjunction with the headrest support surface 106 of the headrest rear portion 104, the inwardly facing surfaces 120, 122 form the interior surface of the headrest 102 and define a head receiving area 124 (see FIG. Figure 2B). The headrest support surface 106 can form a rear portion of the inner surface, and the inwardly facing surfaces 120, 122 of the headrest side members 112, 116 can form first and second headrest side portions of the inner surface. In an embodiment, the headrest support surface 106 defines a rear portion of a head receiving area 124. The inwardly facing surfaces 120, 122 extend from the headrest support surface 106 to distal first and second front ends 126a, 126b, respectively. For example, the front ends 126a, 126b, such as disposed at the ends of the first and second headrest side members 112, 116, can define a front portion of the head receiving area 124. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the headrest rear portion 104, the first and second headrest side members 112, 116, as described herein, can refer to portions of the rigid body or structure of the headrest 102. Thus, the soft item may be positioned in an overlapping arrangement with the corresponding headrest support surface 106 and the inwardly facing surfaces 120 , 122 of the headrest side members 112 , 116 that face the head receiving area 124 of the rigid body.

[0452] When an occupant is seated in the child seat 100, the occupant's head is disposed within the head receiving area 124 between the inwardly facing surfaces 120, 122 of the headrest side members 112, 116, and the rear of the occupant's head is generally disposed adjacent to or in contact with the headrest support surface 106. It should be understood that the headrest embodiments shown herein throughout the figures may include similar headrest rear portions and headrest side members as described above with reference to the headrest rear portion 104 and the headrest side portions 112, 116, respectively. These headrests, as shown throughout the figures, may also include similar head receiving areas as described above with reference to the head receiving area 124.

[0453] The headrest 102 can include at least one side impact protection portion disposed at any suitable location around the headrest 102. In one embodiment, the side impact protection (SIP) portion is located within the head receiving area 124 of the headrest 102, for example, between its rear and front portions. Embodiments comprising multiple side impact protection portions are also contemplated herein. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a first head SIP portion 130a is positioned adjacent to the first headrest side member 112, and a second head SIP portion 130b is disposed adjacent to the second headrest side member 116, on the opposite side of the headrest 102. The head SIP portions 130a, 130b of the headrest 102 can include protrusions disposed generally on the inner surface of the headrest 102, extending inwardly toward the head receiving area 124. As will be described in more detail below, a head SIP portion (e.g., head SIP portions 130a, 130b) can include one or more head SIP devices, and in some embodiments, one of the head SIP devices can be formed as a protrusion extending from the inner surface.

[0454] 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 adjacent to 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 adjacent to 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 functionality of the head SIP devices 132a, 132b and any additional 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 need not, be substantially identical. Furthermore, embodiments in which the headrest 102 includes only a single head SIP device or more than two SIP devices are also within the scope of the present disclosure. At least one head SIP device 132a , 132b may be permanently or removably attached to the headrest 102 , such as to a portion of an inner surface of the headrest 102 .

[0455] In an embodiment, Figure 2B As shown, at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b is located at or adjacent to a surface of the rigid body, such as at a location between the rigid body and a soft item configured to overlap the rigid body. In such an embodiment, the at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b can be formed integrally with the rigid body, or alternatively, can be a separate component mounted to the rigid body. The at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b can be mounted directly to the rigid body, or can be mounted to or formed within a soft item that can be connected to the rigid body. In other embodiments, the at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b can be mounted on an exterior surface of the soft item such that the at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b can be positioned in direct contact with the head of the occupant. It should be understood that any other SIP device disclosed herein (e.g., reference Figures 3A-33B , 68A-69B, 82A-83, 117A-118B, 122A-124B, 129 and 132A-134D) can be arranged at any position around the headrest as described herein.

[0456] exist Figure 3A-23EExamples of various head SIP devices are shown in FIG. , for example, that may be positioned within a head SIP portion of a headrest, such as head SIP portions 130a and 130b, and are described in greater detail below. The head SIP device may extend across the entire height of the headrest, or alternatively, may extend across only a portion of the height of the headrest. In embodiments, the height of the head SIP device, as measured along a 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.

[0457] Now refer to Figure 3A and Figure 3B The illustrated headrest 200 includes a first head SIP portion 201a comprising a first head SIP device disposed at a first portion of an inner surface of the headrest 200 (e.g., disposed at an inward-facing surface 212 of the first headrest side member 204). Furthermore, a second head SIP portion 201b may include a second head SIP device 202b mounted to a second portion of the headrest 200 and positioned to form an overlapping arrangement with the second portion of the headrest (e.g., an inward-facing surface 214 of the second headrest side member 206). However, embodiments are also contemplated herein 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). The at least one head SIP device 202a, 202b may have a base portion 210a, 210b that can be mounted to the inward-facing surfaces 212, 214 of the first and / or second headrest side members 204, 206, respectively. At least one head SIP device 202a, 202b may alternatively or additionally have an inwardly facing surface 216a, 216b that faces toward the interior of the headrest 200. The base surfaces 210a, 210b may, but need not, have a contour that is complementary to one or more corresponding surfaces of the headrest 200. Furthermore, in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the outer perimeter of at least one head SIP device 202a, 202b may have a contour that differs from the corresponding portion of the headrest 200 to which the head SIP device 202a, 202b is mounted. For example, as shown, the head SIP devices 202a, 202b may have a generally rounded (square with rounded corners) shape, or may be rectangular or rectangular with rounded corners.

[0458] In other embodiments, for example Figure 4A and Figure 4BAs shown in FIG. 3 , the headrest 300 of the headrest 300 may include a head SIP device 302 having a profile that is complementary to that of adjacent portions 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 an interior surface 310 of the second headrest side member 308. Thus, the outer perimeter of the head SIP device 302 may have a profile similar to that of the interior surface 310 of the headrest side member 308, e.g., being equal in size and / or shape. In such an embodiment, the head SIP device 302 may be generally centered around the headrest side member 308 and may be sized to cover or overlap a substantial portion of the surface 310 of the headrest side member 308 extending between the lateral edges 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 an embodiment, the outer perimeter of the head SIP device 302 can be substantially flush or aligned with, for example, one or more edges of the front end 314 of the headrest side member 308. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device can be disposed at another portion of the headrest 300, such as the first headrest side member 306. In such an embodiment, the configuration of the additional head SIP device can, but need not, be the same as the head SIP device 302 shown and described herein.

[0459] However, in other embodiments, for example, using Figure 5A and 5B The headrest 400 shown, the head SIP portion 401 ( Figure 5B ) may have a profile that is 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 non-limiting embodiment shown, the head SIP device 402 is mounted to an interior surface 408 of the first headrest side member 406. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device can be arranged at another portion of the headrest 400, such as the second headrest side member. In such an embodiment, the construction of the additional head SIP device can, but need not, be the same as the head SIP device 402 shown and described herein.

[0460] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, only the distal end 410 of the head SIP device 402 has a profile that is complementary to the corresponding end 412 of the headrest side member 406. In such an embodiment, the head SIP device 402a can 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 can extend to cover only a portion of the height of the headrest side member 406, such as 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 need not be disposed adjacent to the front end 412 of the headrest side member 406.

[0461] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the thickness of the first and second head SIP devices 202a, 202b is substantially uniform across the width of each head SIP device 202a, 202b (the width measured between the headrest support surface 209 and the front ends 220 of the headrest side members 204, 206). Thus, when the head SIP devices 202a, 202b are mounted to the headrest 200, the inwardly facing surfaces 216 of the head SIP devices 202a, 202b are arranged at substantially the same angle relative to the headrest support surface 209 and the headrest side members 204, 206. The head SIP devices 202a, 202b are shown as being formed from a flexible or semi-rigid foam material. However, any suitable material configured to absorb energy is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0462] In some embodiments, the head SIP device of the child seat is shaped to cause the occupant's head to roll in the event of a side impact. Figures 4A-5B In a non-limiting embodiment, the thickness of the respective head SIP devices 302, 402 as shown, measured between the outwardly facing surface 420 of the head SIP devices 302b, 402 and the inwardly facing surfaces 322, 422 of the head SIP devices 302, 402, may vary between opposite ends of the head SIP devices 302, 402. Figures 4A-4B , 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 .

[0463] The increase in thickness across the width of the head SIP device 302 can be selected to achieve a desired angle of the inwardly facing surface 322 relative to the headrest support surface 312. In an embodiment, the maximum thickness of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 302 is about 2 inches, and in some embodiments is less than 1.5 inches, such as about 1 1 / 4 inches, about 1 inch, or about 1 / 2 inch. However, embodiments in which the wedge-shaped head SIP device 302 has a maximum thickness greater than 2 inches are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0464] 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 an embodiment, the maximum thickness of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 402 is about 1 inch, and in some embodiments is less than 1 inch, such as about 3 / 4 inch, about 0.5 inch or about 1 / 4 inch. However, embodiments in which the wedge-shaped head SIP device 402 has a maximum thickness greater than 1 inch are also within the scope of the present 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 can be formed of other materials.

[0465] In embodiments, the head SIP device of the headrest described herein is configured to induce a roll of an occupant's head in the event of a side impact, such as by defining a contoured recess associated with a head receiving area of the headrest. Figure 5A and Figure 5B , a recess 432 associated with the head SIP device 402 can be located proximate to the head SIP device 402. The recess 432 can be partially defined by the inward-facing surface 422 of the head SIP device 402 and by a plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front end 412 of the headrest 400. Furthermore, the recess 432 can extend from a portion of the head SIP device 402 that is located laterally closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 430 to a plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front end 412 of the headrest 400. Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the non-limiting embodiment of FIG, the portion of the head SIP device 402 closest to the CLA is located at the intersection line L between the inwardly facing surface 422 and the rear portion 404. Thus, the intersection line L is located closer to the rear portion than the front end 412 of the headrest 400.

[0466] The recess 430 may also be defined by a vertical plane extending from the intersection line L toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 412. Figure 5A434. In an embodiment, line 434 is oriented substantially parallel to the CLA. Due, at least in part, to the wedge-shaped or angled configuration of the head SIP device 402, the lateral dimension of the recess 432 gradually increases in a direction toward the front portion 412 of the headrest 400. The gradual decrease in thickness of the head SIP device 402 and the corresponding increase in recess 432 formed thereby help prevent the occupant's head from rolling forward during a side impact.

[0467] Furthermore, in the embodiment, Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the head SIP device 502 associated with the headrest 500 may alternatively or additionally include a body of compressible material, shown as 504, such as a flexible foam. In the non-limiting embodiment shown in the figures, the body of compressible material 504 is positioned proximate to an inward-facing surface 506 of the head SIP device 502, such as a wedge-shaped member similar to 302. Although the body of compressible material 504 is shown as being mounted directly to the head SIP device 502, in other embodiments, such a body may be integrated into a soft item that can be positioned around the headrest 500 and the head SIP device 502. In addition to the cushioning of the soft item, the compressible material 504 can also provide cushioning for the occupant's head during a collision. Although the body of compressible material 504 is shown as being positioned adjacent to the head SIP device 502 positioned at the second headrest side member 510, it should be understood that such a body 504 can be positioned adjacent to another head SIP device positioned at another location around the headrest 500, such as adjacent to the first headrest side member 512. Alternatively or additionally, the body of compressible material 504 may be located anywhere relative to the headrest 500 , including locations where no head SIP device is present.

[0468] Now refer to Figures 7A-9B , an embodiment of a headrest 600, 700, 800 having a head SIP device 602, 702, 802 is shown that can be mounted to both the headrest support surface 604, 704, 804 of the headrest rear portion 606, 706, 806 and the interior surface 608, 708, 808 of the headrest side member 610, 710, 810. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device can be disposed at another portion of each headrest 600, 700, 800, such as a second headrest side member. In such an embodiment, the configuration of the additional head SIP device can, but need not, be identical to the head SIP device 602, 702, 802 shown and described herein.

[0469] In each embodiment, the SIP base 620, 720, 820 of the head SIP device 602, 702, 802 can have a contour that is complementary to both the headrest support surface 604, 704, 804 and a portion of the surface 608, 708, 808 of the headrest side member 610, 710, 810. In such an embodiment, the head SIP device 602, 702, 802 can extend over only a portion of the headrest side member 610, 710, 810 between the headrest support surface 604, 704, 804 and the front end 614 of the headrest side member 610, 710, 810.

[0470] exist Figure 7A and Figure 7B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the inwardly facing surface 622 of the head SIP device 602 has a smooth, continuous contour, such as formed by a curvature. However, in other embodiments, the inwardly facing surfaces 722, 822 of the head SIP devices 702, 802 may include one or more side impact protection portions or areas 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 surface 722, 822 includes a first side impact protection area 724, 824 and a second side impact protection area 726, 826 arranged at a non-parallel angle to each other. The axial length of the first side impact protection area 724, 824 can be the same as the axial length of the second side impact protection area 726, 826. However, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection area 724, 824 can have a longer axial length than the second side impact protection area 726, 826, or the first side impact protection area 724, 824 can have a shorter axial length than the second side impact protection area 726, 826. In some embodiments, the first side impact protection area 724, 824 is arranged at an obtuse angle relative to the second side impact protection area 726, 826. As shown, the overall dimensions of the first side impact protection area 724, 824 and the second side impact protection area 726, 826 and the angle defined therebetween are Figures 8A-8B Examples and Figure 9A and 9B The overall size of the first side impact protection area 724 , 824 may also be relatively larger or smaller than the overall size of the second side impact protection area 726 , 826 .

[0471] In the event of a crash, movement of the occupant's head will be driven along a path defined by the inwardly facing surface 622, 722, 822 of the head SIP device 602, 702, 802. In embodiments where the inwardly facing surface includes multiple side impact protection areas, 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.

[0472] refer to Figure 7A and Figure 7B , the inward surface 622 may extend continuously from the headrest support surface 604 of the headrest 600 to the surface 608 of the headrest side member 610. Figure 7A As shown, a recess 630 can be at least partially defined by the head SIP device 602 within the head receiving area 628. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the recess 630 is partially defined by the inwardly facing surface 622 of the head SIP device 602 and by a plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front end 612 of the headrest 600. Additionally, the recess 630 can extend from a portion of the head SIP device 602 positioned laterally closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 628 to a plane extending laterally from an 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 ( Figure 7A ). Thus, the intersection line L0 is located 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 intersection line L0 toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 12. Figure 7A This vertical plane, represented by line 632 in FIG, may be oriented substantially parallel to the CLA.

[0473] refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the non-limiting embodiment of the head SIP device 702 of the headrest 700 shown in FIG, the inward surface 722 can include a first side impact protection area 724 disposed proximate to the rear portion 706 of the headrest 700 and a second side impact protection area 726 extending from the first side impact protection area 724 toward the front end (not shown) of the headrest 700. The first side impact protection area 724 can be disposed along the inner surface of the headrest 700. Figure 8A The vertical intersection line indicated by L1 in the figure converges with the second side impact protection area 726. The intersection line L1 can be arranged at any suitable angle relative to the rear portion 706. In an embodiment, the intersection line L1 is the portion of the head SIP device 702 that is located closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 728 (in the lateral direction).

[0474] A recess 730 is at least partially defined by the head SIP device 702 within the head receiving area 728 of the headrest 700. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the recess 730 extends from the intersection line L1 toward a plane extending transversely from an inner edge of a front end (not shown) of the headrest 700. The plane of the recess 730 extending between the intersection line L1 and the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end (shown at P1) can be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 724. The recess 730 can also be defined by the second side impact protection area 726 of the inwardly facing surface 722 and the surface 708 of the headrest side member 710 extending between the edge of the second side impact protection area 726 and the front end of the headrest 700.

[0475] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, Figure 8A A vertical plane, represented by axis X1 in FIG. 7 , extends from the front end and is positioned tangent to the inwardly facing surface 722 at an 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 an intersection location I1. In an embodiment, the distance between the headrest support surface 704 and intersection line L1, measured along axis X1, is shorter than the distance between intersection line L1 and the front end of the headrest 700, measured along axis X1.

[0476] refer to Figure 9A and Figure 9B , the inwardly facing surface 822 of the illustrated head SIP device 802 similarly includes a first side impact protection area 824 adjacent to the headrest support surface 804 and a second side impact protection area 826 extending from the first side impact protection area 824 toward the front end 814 of the headrest 800. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the inwardly facing surface 822 additionally includes a third side impact protection area 828 extending from an edge of the second side impact protection area 826. Although the third side impact protection area 828 is shown as extending substantially perpendicular to the interior surface 808 of the headrest side member 810, embodiments are also contemplated herein in which the third side impact protection area 828 is angled toward the front end 814 of the headrest 800. The first side impact protection area 824 may extend along the Figure 9A The first vertical intersection line indicated by L2a in the head SIP device 802 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 a second vertical intersection line indicated by L2b. The intersection line L2a of the head SIP device 802 can be positioned transversely proximate to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 832.

[0477] A recess 830 is at least partially defined within a head receiving area 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 intersection line L2a toward a plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front end 814 of the headrest 800. This plane, represented by line P2, extending between the intersection line L2a and the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 814 can be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 824. The recess 830 can 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 area 826 and the third side impact protection area 828 of the inwardly facing surface 822, and the surface 808 of the headrest side member 810 extending between an edge of the third side impact protection area 828 and the front end 814 of the headrest 800.

[0478] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, Figure 9A A vertical plane, represented by axis X2 in FIG. 8 , extends from the front end 814 and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 822 at a first intersection line L2a of the inward surface 822. Axis X2 intersects the headrest support surface 804 at an intersection position I2. In an embodiment, the distance between the headrest support surface 804 and the first intersection line L2a, as measured along axis X2, is shorter than the distance between the intersection line L2a and the front end 814, as measured along axis X2.

[0479] Figures 2A-9B Each of the embodiments shown in discloses at least one head SIP device formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material (e.g., expanded polystyrene). However, reference Figures 10A-11C In other embodiments, the head SIP devices 902, 1002 associated with the head side impact protection portion 903, 1003 of the headrest 901, 1001 of the child seat 900, 1000 can be formed from a flexible or elastic material. In an embodiment, one or more head SIP devices 902, 1002 arranged at the illustrated head SIP portion 903, 1003 are or include a structurally modifiable body that can be transformed into different configurations through changes in shape and / or structure. Examples of structurally modifiable bodies include, but are not limited to, inflatable balloons or airbags. The structurally modifiable body 902, 1002 can be filled with a fluid, such as liquid or air.

[0480] Similar to previously disclosed embodiments, the headrests 901, 1001 can include a rear portion 904, 1004, a first headrest side member 906, 1006, and a second headrest side member 908, 1008. The outward-facing surface 910, 1010 of the structurally modifiable body 902, 1002 can be permanently or removably secured to a portion of the headrest 901, 1001, such as an interior surface 912, 1012 of the headrest side member 908, 1008. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device can be disposed at another portion of each headrest 901, 1001, such as the first headrest side member 906, 1006. In such embodiments, the configuration of the additional head SIP device can, but need not, be identical to the head SIP device 902, 1002 shown and described herein.

[0481] When filled, the structurally modifiable body 902, 1002 protrudes from the interior surface 912, 1012 of the headrest side member 908, 1008. In addition, the structurally modifiable body 902, 1002 can be elastically deformable to absorb energy imparted thereto during a collision event. As will be described in greater detail below, the structurally modifiable body 902, 1002 can be permanently filled or inflated. Alternatively, the structurally modifiable body 902, 1002 can be transformed between a deflated or retracted configuration and an inflated or extended configuration, for example, when an occupant is present within the child seat 900, 1000.

[0482] like Figures 11A-11C As shown, in an embodiment, the profile of the head SIP device 1002 is generally complementary to a portion of the headrest 1001 that is overlapped by the head SIP device 1002. For example, a portion 1014 of the head SIP device 1002 located near the front end 1016 and the bottom 1018 of the headrest side member 1008 can have a generally circular profile, and a portion 1020 of the head SIP device 1002 located closest to the headrest upright support surface 1022 of the rear portion 1004 can have a generally linear profile. Figures 10A-10C In another embodiment shown, the head SIP device 902 has a substantially circular configuration. As shown, the head SIP device 902, 1002 can be positioned to substantially overlap a majority of the headrest side members 908, 1008. The profiles of the head SIP devices 902, 1002 described herein as being formed via a structurally modifiable body (e.g., a balloon or airbag) are intended to be examples only. It should be understood that any other configurations of the head SIP devices described herein (e.g., regarding Figures 2A-9B Said) may alternatively be formed as a structurally modifiable body having the previously described shape in at least one configuration of the body.

[0483] although Figure 2B-11CEach embodiment of the present invention only shows a single head SIP device at any given area of the headrest, but in embodiments, multiple head SIP devices may be arranged at the same area of the headrest, such as at the rear portion of the headrest or at the corresponding side members. 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 hardness of the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 can be the same, or alternatively, can be different. In fact, the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 110 can include the material, profile, shape and / or hardness of any other head SIP device shown and discussed herein. In addition, such a first head SIP device 1102 and a second head SIP device 1104 can be mounted to the headrest 1100 independently of each other.

[0484] In an 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 corresponding headrest side members 1106, it should be understood that in other embodiments, another first head SIP device 1102 and a second head SIP device 1104 can be arranged at another part of the headrest 1100, such as at an opposite headrest side member (not shown). In such an embodiment, the construction of the first head SIP device 1102 can, but need not, be the same and / or the construction of the second head SIP device 1104 can, but need not, be the same.

[0485] In embodiments including multiple head SIPs (e.g., head SIP 1102 and head SIP 1104) disposed at a single surface of headrest 1100, recess 1110 (see Figure 12A ) can be at least partially defined within a head receiving area 1112 of the headrest 1100 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 respective inwardly facing surface 1120, 1122. Although the inwardly facing surfaces 1120, 1122 are shown as having a generally planar configuration, it is also contemplated herein that at least one of the inwardly facing surfaces 1120, 1122 has a plurality of side impact protection areas (e.g., as described above in Figures 7A-9BThe recess 1110 can be defined by a plane connecting a portion of the inward-facing surface 1120 positioned transversely closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the headrest 1100 to an inward-facing surface 1122 at the end of the second head SIP device 1104 positioned closest to the first head SIP device 1102. The recess 1110 can also be defined by an end 1124 of the first head SIP device 1102 facing the second head SIP device 1104, an end 1126 of the second head SIP device 1104 facing the first head SIP device 1102, and a surface of the headrest side member 1106 extending therebetween.

[0486] In the previously described embodiments, the head SIP devices positioned at or adjacent to different portions of the headrest (e.g., opposing headrest side members) are separate devices mounted thereto. However, in other embodiments, multiple head SIP devices may be integrally formed into a unitary body, also referred to 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 positionable at or adjacent to a first headrest side member 1206, another head SIP device 1204b positionable at or adjacent to a second headrest side member 1208, and a connector member 1210 coupled to both head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b. In such an embodiment, the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b disposed at opposing headrest side members 1206 and 1208 may be substantially identical or may vary.

[0487] It should be understood that a head SIP assembly, such as the head SIP assembly 1202, can be associated with one or more head SIP portions of a headrest. For example, the headrest 1201 can include a first head SIP portion 1230a disposed proximate to the first headrest side member 1206 and a second head SIP portion 1230b disposed proximate to the second headrest side member 1208. When the head SIP assembly 1202 is installed in the head receiving area 1228 of the headrest 1201, the first head SIP device 1204a of the head SIP assembly 1202 can be disposed in the first head SIP portion 1230a and form at least a portion of the first head SIP portion, and the second head SIP device 1204b can be disposed in the second head SIP portion 1230b and form at least a portion of the second head SIP portion.

[0488] As shown, the head SIP assembly 1202 described herein can be configured as an insert that can be 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 from at least one material, and the connector member 1210 can be formed from 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 from the same material are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0489] In an embodiment, the connector member 1210 includes a main portion 1212 that can be positioned adjacent to a headrest support surface 1223 of a rear portion 1214 of the headrest 1201, and two side portions 1216, 1218 that can be positioned to form an overlapping arrangement with each headrest side member 1206, 1208, respectively. In such an embodiment, the outer surface of the head SIP assembly 1202 can include a contour that is complementary to one or more surfaces of the headrest 1201 to which the head SIP assembly 1202 can be connected. For example, the outer surface of the head SIP assembly 1202 can be shaped to match the headrest support surface 1223, a surface of the first headrest side member 1206, and / or a surface of the second headrest side member 1208, and contact each of the headrest support surface 1223, a surface of the first headrest side member 1206, and a surface of the second headrest side member 1208. However, embodiments are also contemplated herein in which the connector member 1210 is configured to contact only a portion of the headrest 1201 (eg, one or more of the headrest support surfaces) and both headrest side members.

[0490] exist Figures 13A-13E In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of the head SIP assembly 1202, each head SIP device 1204a, 1204b can extend from the main body portion 1212 of the connector member 1210 to cover most of the length, 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 installed around the headrest 1201, the ends of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b can be flush with the front ends 1233a, 1233b of the headrest 1201, or alternatively, can be offset therefrom. The outwardly facing surfaces 1220a, 1220b of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b may be complementary to and abut the side portions 1216, 1218, and in some embodiments, the body portion 1212 of the connector member 1210. Figure 13D and Figure 13E As shown, the inward-facing surfaces 1222a, 1222b of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b can be defined by a plurality of different side impact protection zones arranged at different angles relative to the headrest support surface 1223. A first side impact protection zone 1224a, 1224b of each inward-facing surface 1222a, 1222b is positioned proximate to the main body portion 1212 of the connector member 1210, and in some embodiments, is proximate to the main body portion. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first side impact protection zones 1224a, 1224b are oriented substantially perpendicular to the main body portion 1212 and the headrest support surface 1223.

[0491] As shown, the second side impact protection areas 1226a, 1226b extending from the first side impact protection areas 1224a, 1224b to the ends of the side portions 1216, 1218 can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection areas 1224a, 1224b. In an embodiment, the angle α between the first side impact protection areas 1224a, 1224b and the corresponding second side impact protection areas 1226a, 1226b is an obtuse angle. As shown, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b at the second side impact protection areas 1226a, 1226b can gradually decrease toward the front end 1230 of the head SIP assembly 1202. The angle α and the thickness change form an outward slope that increases the gap defined by the opposing head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b over the length of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b.

[0492] In an embodiment, each of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b can form a recess 1232a, 1232b within the head receiving area 1228 of the headrest 1201, for example, between the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b and the front ends 1234a, 1234b of the headrest 1201. The first side impact protection area 1224a, 1224b can abut the second side impact protection area 1226a, 1226b at intersection lines indicated by L3a and L3b, respectively. The intersection lines L3a and L3b can be opposing portions of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b that are laterally positioned proximate to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1228. Each recess 1232a, 1232b extends from a corresponding generally vertical intersection line L3a, L3b toward a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1234a, 1234b of the headrest side members 1206, 1208. The plane of each recess 1232a, 1232b extending from the intersection line L3a, L3b toward a plane containing the front end 1233a, 1233b indicated by lines P3a and P3b can be coplanar with the first side impact protection surface 1224a, 1224b of each corresponding head SIP device 1204a, 1204b. The recesses 1232a, 1232b can also be defined by the second side impact protection area 1226a, 1226b and the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1233a, 1233b.

[0493] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, Figure 13E The vertical plane represented by axis X3a in FIG 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 inwardly facing surface 1222a at intersection line L3a. Axis X3a may intersect the headrest support surface 1204 at intersection location 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 inwardly facing surface 1222b at intersection line L3b. Axis X3b may intersect the headrest support surface 1204 at intersection location I3b. In an embodiment, the distance between the headrest support surface 1204 and the intersection line L3a, L3b is less than the distance between the intersection line L3a, L3b and the front ends 1234a, 1234b of the headrest side members 1206, 1208, measured along the respective axes X3a, X3b.

[0494] Figure 14Another embodiment of a head SIP assembly 1302 mounted to a headrest 1301 is shown in . Similar to the previous embodiment, the head SIP assembly 1302 includes a connector member 1306 having a main body portion 1308, a first side portion 1310, and a second side portion 1312, and head SIP devices 1304a, 1304b. The head SIP devices 1304a and 1304b are arranged adjacent to the first side portion 1310 and the second side portion 1312 of the connector member 1306, respectively, as described above. When the head SIP assembly 1302 is mounted to the headrest 1301, the first side portion 1310 can be arranged at or adjacent to the first headrest side member 1314, the second side portion 1312 can form an overlapping arrangement with the second headrest side member 1316, and the main 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 embodiment shown, each head SIP device 1304a, 1304b of the head SIP assembly 1302 can extend from the main body portion 1308 of the connector member 1306 to cover at least half of the length of the side portions 1310, 1312 of the head SIP assembly 1302, and in some embodiments, to cover 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 can be equal to or different than the length of the corresponding headrest side members 1314, 1316.

[0495] Similar to the previous embodiments, each head SIP device 1304a, 1304b includes an inward-facing surface 1320a, 1320b comprising a first side impact protection area 1322a, 1322b positioned proximate the main body portion 1308 of the connector member 1306 and a second side impact protection area 1324a, 1324b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection area 1322a, 1322b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first side impact protection areas 1322a, 1322b are arranged at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the main body portion 1308. In an embodiment, the angle β between the main body portion 1308 and the first side impact protection areas 1322a, 1322b can be between approximately 65 degrees and approximately 85 degrees. The second side impact protection areas 1324a, 1324b extending from the first side impact protection areas 1322a, 1322b at the intersection lines L4a, L4b can have a curved configuration, such as a concave curvature. Thus, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1304a, 1304b gradually decreases over the second side impact protection areas 1324a, 1324b toward the front ends 1326a, 1326b of the headrest 1301. The intersection lines L4a, L4b may be portions of the head SIP devices 1304a, 1304b that are located closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1328 (in the lateral direction).

[0496] In an embodiment, each of the head SIP devices 1304a, 1304b may form a recess 1330a, 1330b within the head receiving area 1328 of the headrest 1201 to guide the movement of the occupant's head during a side impact. Each recess 1330a, 1330b extends from the corresponding intersection line L4a, L4b toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1326a, 1326b of the headrest side members 1314, 1316. The plane of the recesses 1330a, 1330b extending from the intersection line L4a, L4b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1326a, 1326b (indicated by lines P4a and P4b) may be coplanar with the first side impact protection surface 1322a, 1322b of each corresponding head SIP device 1304a, 1304b. The recesses 1330a, 1330b may also be defined by the second side impact protection areas 1324a, 1324b and by a surface of at least one of the side portions 1310, 1312 and headrest side members 1314, 1316 extending between the edges of the respective second side impact protection areas 1324a, 1324b and the front ends 1326a, 1326b of the headrest 1301.

[0497] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a vertical plane represented by axis X4a, extending from front end 1326a of headrest side member 1314, is positioned tangent to inwardly facing surface 1320a at intersection line L4a. Furthermore, axis X4a may intersect headrest support surface 1304 or adjacent main body portion 1308 of connector member 1306 at intersection location I4a. Another vertical plane represented by axis X4b, extending from front end 1326b of headrest side member 1316, is positioned tangent to inwardly facing surface 1320b at intersection line L4b. Axis X4b may intersect headrest support surface 1304 or adjacent main body portion 1308 at intersection location I5b. In an embodiment, the distance between the headrest support surface 1304 and the intersection lines L4a, L4b is less than the distance between the intersection lines L5a, L5b and the front ends 1326a, 1326b of the headrest side members 1314, 1316, measured along the respective axes X4a, X4b.

[0498] Now refer to Figures 15A-15E , shows another example of a head SIP assembly 1402 having head SIP devices 1404a and 1404b. Head SIP devices 1404a and 1404b are respectively positioned adjacent to a first side portion 1408 and a second side portion 1410 of a connector member 1406 of the head SIP assembly 1402. Connector member 1406 also includes a body portion 1416 connecting the first side portion 1408 and the second side portion 1410. As shown, head SIP assembly 1402 can be positioned adjacent to a headrest 1401 such that first side portion 1408 is positioned adjacent to a first headrest side member 1412, second side portion 1410 is positioned adjacent to a second headrest side member 1414, and body portion 1416 is positioned at a headrest support surface 1418 of a rear portion 1420 of headrest 1401.

[0499] Each head SIP device 1404a, 1404b includes an inwardly facing surface 1420a, 1420b, which includes a first side impact protection area 1422a, 1422 positioned closest to the main body portion 1416 and a second side impact protection area 1424a, 1424b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection area 1422a, 1422. As shown, the first side impact protection area 1422a, 1422 can be arranged substantially perpendicular to the main body portion 1416 of the connector member 1406 and the headrest support surface 1418. The second side impact protection area 1424a, 1424b extending from the first side impact protection area 1422a, 1422 can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection area 1422a, 1422. In an embodiment, the angle α between the first side impact protection area 1422a, 1422 and the second side impact protection area 1424a, 1424b (see Figure 15E ) is an obtuse angle (e.g., greater than 90 degrees).

[0500] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b are mounted near the rear of the head SIP assembly 1402, for example, at the interface between the main body portion 1416 of the connector member 1406 and the side portions 1408, 1410. Each head SIP device 1404a, 1404b can extend to cover only a portion of the length of each side portion 1408, 1410 and / or the headrest side members 1412, 1414. As shown, the head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b can extend to the center of the side portions 1408, 1410 and / or the headrest side members 1412, 1414. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, 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 contemplated.

[0501] Due to the positioning and configuration of the head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b, the side portions 1408, 1410 of the connector member 1406 can extend beyond the ends of the head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b toward the front end of the headrest 1401, as shown. In other embodiments, the ends of the side portions 1408, 1410 of the connector member 1406 can be flush with the head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b. Figures 15A-15EAs shown, the side portions 1408, 1410 of the connector member 1406 can be equal in length to the headrest side members 1412, 1414. However, in other embodiments, the side portions 1408, 1410 will be shorter than the headrest side members 1412, 1414. Thus, in such a configuration, the headrest side members 1412, 1414 will extend beyond the side portions 1408, 1410 of the connector member 1406.

[0502] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the head SIP device 1404a forms a first recess 1430a within the head receiving area 1428, and the head SIP device 1404b forms a second recess 1430b within the head receiving area 1428. The first side impact protection areas 1422a, 1422b can be formed in the space between L5a and L5b ( Figure 15C ) is adjacent the second side impact protection area 1424a, 1424b of each head SIP device 1401a, 1404b at a generally vertical intersection line indicated by . The intersection line L5a, L5b may be the portion of the head SIP device 1404a, 1404b that is laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1428.

[0503] The first recess 1430a is partially defined by the second side impact protection area 1424a and a plane extending transversely from the inner edges of the front ends 1432a, 1432b of the headrest side members 1412, 1414. The surface of the side portion 1408 or headrest side member 1412 extending between the edge and the front end 1432a of the respective second side impact protection area 1424a may also partially define the first recess 1430a. The recess 1430a is further defined by a plane indicated by a line P5a extending from the intersection line L6a to a plane extending transversely from the inner edges of the front ends 1232a, 1432b of the headrest side members 1412, 1414. This plane of the recess 1430a, extending from the intersection line L5a toward the plane extending transversely from the inner edges of the front ends 1432a, may be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 1422a of the head SIP device 1404a.

[0504] Similarly, the second recess 1430b extends from the intersection line L6b toward a plane extending transversely 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 from the intersection line L5b toward the plane extending transversely from the inner edges of the front ends 1432b, may be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 1422b of the head SIP device 1404b. The recess 1430b may also be defined by the plane extending transversely from the inner edges of the front ends 1432a, 1432b, the second side impact protection area 1424b, and a surface of at least one of the side portion 1410 and the headrest side member 1414 extending between the edge of the corresponding second side impact protection area 1424b and the front end 1432b.

[0505] refer to Figure 15C A vertical plane indicated by axis X5a extends from front end 1432a of headrest side member 1412 and is positioned tangent to inwardly facing surface 1420a at intersection line L5a. Furthermore, axis X5a may intersect headrest support surface 1404 or adjacent main body portion 1416 of connector member 1406 at intersection location I5a. Another vertical plane indicated by axis X5b extends from front end 1432b of headrest side member 1414 and is positioned tangent to inwardly facing surface 1420b at intersection line L5b. Axis X5b may intersect headrest support surface 1404 or adjacent main body portion 1416 at intersection location I5b. In an embodiment, the distance between the intersection position I5a, I5b and the intersection line L5a, L5b is smaller than the distance between the intersection line L5a, L5b and the front ends 1432a, 1432b of the headrest side members 1412, 1414, measured along the respective axes X5a, X5b.

[0506] It should be understood that Figures 5A-9B and Figures 12A-15E Each embodiment disclosed herein includes a head SIP device positioned at or adjacent to a rear portion of a headrest. Embodiments in which the head SIP device is located at the main body portion of the head SIP assembly can similarly be considered positionable adjacent to the rear portion of the headrest. A head SIP device having this configuration defines a recess within the head receiving area of the headrest that extends between at least one surface of the head SIP device and the front portion of the headrest.

[0507] Now refer to Figures 16A-16E Embodiments in which the head SIP device is spaced or offset from the front of the headrest (eg, toward the rear of the head receiving area) are also configured to define a recess within the head receiving area of the headrest. Figures 16A-16EThe head SIP assembly 1502 of the headrest 1501 shown in FIG includes head SIP devices 1504a and 1504b. The 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 also includes a body portion 1512 connecting the first side portion 1508 and the second side portion 1510. Similar to the previous embodiment, the head SIP assembly 1502 can be positioned adjacent to the headrest 1501 such that the first side portion 1508 is arranged at or adjacent to the first headrest side member 1514, the second side portion 1510 is arranged at or adjacent to the second headrest side member 1516, and the body portion 1512 is arranged at the headrest support surface 1518 of the rear portion 1519 of the headrest 1501.

[0508] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first and second head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b of the head SIP assembly 1502 can be considered to be mounted near the front portions 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501, for example, via the connector member 1506. This configuration of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b can be 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, respectively. 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 non-limiting embodiment shown, at least one head SIP device 1504a, 1504b extends over less than half the length of the respective side portion 1508, 1510. However, embodiments are also contemplated herein where at least one head SIP device 1504a, 1504b is longer or shorter.

[0509] The outward-facing surfaces 1520a, 1520b of the respective head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b can be parallel to and mounted to the respective side portions 1508, 1510 of the connector member 1506. The inward-facing surfaces 1522a, 1522b of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b can be defined by a plurality of different side impact protection zones arranged at different angles relative to the headrest support surface 1518. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the surfaces 1522a, 1522b include a first side impact protection zone 1524a, 1524b oriented parallel or substantially parallel to the main body portion 1512 of the connector member 1506 and the headrest support surface 1518. In other embodiments, the first side impact protection zones 1524a, 1524b can be arranged at an angle β between 3 and 30 degrees relative to the main body portion 1512. The second side impact protection areas 1526a, 1526b of the inwardly facing surfaces 1522a, 1522b extending from the first side impact protection areas 1524a, 1524b can have a generally rounded or curved profile, such as a convex curvature. In an embodiment, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b can gradually decrease from the first side impact protection areas 1524a, 1524b toward the respective front ends 1511a, 1511b of the head SIP assembly 1502. The first side impact protection areas 1524a, 1524b can abut the adjacent second side impact protection areas 1526a, 1526b at a generally vertically oriented intersection line, designated L6a, L6b. The intersection lines L6a, L6b can be the portion of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b that is laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1528.

[0510] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a recess is formed in the head receiving area between the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b and the front portion 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501. Figure 16EAs shown, each recess 1530a, 1530b can extend from a portion of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1528 to a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front ends 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the portion of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA is the respective intersection lines L6a, L6b. The planes (represented by lines 1540a, 1540b, respectively) defining the sides of the recesses 1530a, 1530b extending from the intersection lines L6a, L6b toward the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front portions 1503a, 1503b can be parallel to the central longitudinal axis CLA. The recesses 1530a, 1530b may also be defined by a plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front end 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501, the second side impact protection area 1526, 1526b, and at least one of the side portions 1508, 1510 and headrest side members 1514, 1516 extending between the edges of the respective second side impact protection areas 1526, 1526b and the front portion 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501.

[0511] 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-facing surface 1522a at intersection line L6a. Another vertical plane represented by axis X6b extends from the front portion 1503b of the headrest 1501 and is positioned tangent to the inward-facing surface 1522b at intersection line L6b. Axes X6a and X6b intersect the headrest support surface 1504 or the adjacent main body portion 1512 of the connector member 1506 at intersection locations I6a and I6b, respectively. In an embodiment, the distance between intersection locations I6a and I6b of each head SIP device 1504a and 1504b and intersection lines L6a and L6b is greater than the distance between intersection lines L6a and L6b and the front portion 1503a and 1503b of the headrest 1501.

[0512] exist Figures 17A-17E, illustrates another embodiment of a head SIP assembly 1602 that can be mounted to a headrest 1601 of a child seat 1600. Similar to the previous embodiments, a first head SIP device 1604a and a second head SIP device 1604b are mounted at the ends of a connector member 1606, for example, at or near a front end 1608 of side portions 1610, 1612 of the connector member 1606. In an embodiment, when the head SIP assembly 1602 is mounted around the headrest 1601, the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b are positioned at or near a front portion 1603 of the headrest 1601. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 1604a, 1604b extends over less than half the length of the respective side portion 1610, 1612. However, embodiments in which at least one head SIP device 1604a, 1604b is longer or shorter are also contemplated.

[0513] The surfaces 1620a, 1620b of the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b can be positioned in contact with and parallel to the side portions 1610, 1612 of the connector member 1606. The inwardly facing surfaces 1622a, 1622b of the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b according to this embodiment include a first side impact protection area 1624a, 1624b positioned proximate to the main body portion 1614 of the connector member 1606 and a second side impact protection area 1626a, 1626b located near the respective front ends 1608a, 1608b of the connector member 1606.

[0514] The first side impact protection areas 1624a, 1624b can be oriented at a non-parallel angle relative to the respective side portions 1610, 1612 of the connector member 1606 and the body portion 1614 extending between and connecting the side portions 1610, 1612. In an embodiment, the first side impact protection areas 1624a, 1624b extend relatively inwardly away from the respective side portions 1610, 1612. However, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection areas 1624a, 1624b of the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b can have a curved configuration, such as a concave curvature or configuration or a convex curvature or configuration. The second side impact protection areas 1626a, 1626b of the inwardly facing surfaces 1622a, 1622b extend from the first side impact protection areas 1624a, 1624b and are disposed at an angle relative to the first side impact protection areas. In an embodiment, the second side impact protection areas 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 areas 1626a, 1626b are arranged at non-parallel angles (e.g., acute angles) are also contemplated herein. As shown, the distance between the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b generally decreases toward the front end 1603 of the headrest.

[0515] Now refer to Figures 18A-18E , shows another embodiment of a head SIP assembly 1702 of a headrest 1701 of a child seat 1700. Similar to Figures 17A-17EIn the embodiment of the present invention, 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 non-limiting embodiment shown, the profile of the inwardly facing surfaces 1720a, 1720b of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b can vary between the relative tops 1712a, 1712b and bottoms 1714a, 1714b of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b. For example, the first side impact protection areas 1722a, 1722b located near the first upper ends 1712 of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b can be oriented substantially parallel to the adjacent side portions 1709, 1710 of the connector member 1706. Second side impact protection areas 1724a, 1724b extending from first side impact protection areas 1722a, 1722b toward opposing bottoms 1714 of head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to first side impact protection area 1722. In an embodiment, the angle between first side impact protection area 1722 and second area 1724 is an obtuse angle.

[0516] Although the second side impact protection area 1724 is shown as having a planar surface or configuration, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection area 1724 of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b can have a curved configuration, such as a convex curvature. Regardless of whether the second side impact protection area 1724 has a linear configuration or a curved configuration, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b at the second side impact protection area 1724 can gradually decrease toward 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 back of the head SIP devices, as previously described (or as will be described later).

[0517] As an alternative or supplement to the head SIP assembly having multiple head SIP devices arranged at opposite and interconnected side portions of a connector component as previously described herein, the head SIP assembly may include multiple head SIP devices arranged at the same surface (e.g., the same side portion) of the connector component. In such an embodiment, the multiple head SIP devices arranged at the same side portion of the connector component may, but need not, be installed to form a continuous inwardly facing surface.

[0518] refer to Figures 19A-19E, shows a head SIP assembly 1802 that can be mounted to a headrest 1801. Multiple head SIP devices are arranged at the same surface of a connector member 1808. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, 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 an embodiment, the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b can include the same or different configuration (size and / or shape) as each other and / or as the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b at the same side portion 1810 or 1812. Furthermore, the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b can comprise the same or different materials as each other and / or as the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b disposed on the same side portions 1810, 1812. In an embodiment, the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b have a reduced stiffness compared to the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b. However, all of the first and second head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b, 1806a, 1806b are configured to absorb energy during a crash event. Although not shown, it should be understood that the first and second head SIP devices 1804a, 1806a can be disposed within the first SIP head portion, and the first and second head SIP devices 1804b, 1806b can be disposed within the second SIP portion.

[0519] The first and second header SIP devices 1804a, 1804b, 1806a, 1806b may have any suitable configuration. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first header SIP devices 1804a and 1804b have configurations similar to those of FIG. Figures 15A-15E The basically similar structure of Figure 19EAs shown, each head SIP device 1804a, 1804b includes an inward-facing surface 1820a, 1820b including a first side impact protection area 1822a, 1822b positioned proximate the main body portion 1814 of the connector member 1808 and a second side impact protection area 1824a, 1824b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection area 1822a, 1822b. As shown, the first side impact protection area 1822a, 1822b can be arranged substantially perpendicular to the main body portion 1814. The second side impact protection area 1824a, 1824b extending from the first side impact protection area 1822a, 1822b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection area 1822a, 1822b. The angle between the first side impact protection area 1822a, 1822b and the second side impact protection area 1824a, 1824b can be greater than 90 degrees.

[0520] The second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b can have outer surfaces 1830a, 1830b that are complementary to the side portions 1810, 1812. The inwardly facing surfaces 1832a, 1832b of the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b can be oriented substantially parallel to the outer surfaces 1830a, 1830b and / or the side portions 1810, 1812 over the length of the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b. Thus, the thickness of the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b can be substantially uniform over their length. Although the respective rear ends 1834a, 1834b of the second header SIP devices 1806a, 1806b are shown as abutting only a portion of the adjacent first header SIP devices 1804a, 1804b, in some embodiments, the rear ends 1834a, 1834b of the second header SIP devices 1806a, 1806b may have a profile that is complementary to the adjacent ends of the respective first header SIP devices 1804a, 1804b.

[0521] In an embodiment, each of the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b can form a recess 1840a, 1840b within the head receiving area 1842 of the headrest 1801 to guide the movement of the occupant's head during a side impact. The first side impact protection areas 1822a, 1822b of the inward-facing surfaces 1820a, 1820b of the respective first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b can abut the second side impact protection areas 1824a, 1824b, respectively, at substantially vertical intersection lines indicated by L7a and L7b. The intersection lines L7a, L7b can be the portion of the head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b that is laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1842.

[0522] One side of each recess 1840a, 1840b may extend from the corresponding intersection line L7a, L7b toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1842a, 1842b of the headrest side members 1844, 1846. The planes of the recesses 1840a, 1840b, represented by lines P7a and P7b, respectively, extending from the intersection lines L7a, L7b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1842a, 1842b, may be coplanar with the first side impact protection surface 1822a, 1822b of each corresponding first head SIP device 1804a, 1804b. The recesses 1840a, 1840b can also be defined by the second side impact protection area 1824a, 1824b, a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1842a, 1842b, and a surface of at least one of the side portions 1810, 1812 and the headrest side members 1844, 1846 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection area 1824a, 1824b and the front end 1842a, 1842b.

[0523] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a vertical plane represented by axis X7a extends from front end 1842a of headrest side member 1844 and is positioned tangent to inwardly facing surface 1820a at intersection line L7a. Furthermore, axis X7a may intersect headrest support surface 1804 or adjacent body portion 1814 of connector member 1808 at intersection location I7a. Another vertical plane represented by axis X7b extends from front end 1842b of headrest side member 1846 and is positioned tangent to inwardly facing surface 1820b at intersection line L7b. Axis X7b may intersect headrest support surface 1804 or adjacent body portion 1814 at intersection location I7b. In an embodiment, the distance between the headrest support surface 1804 and the intersection lines L7a, L7b, as measured along respective axes X7a, X7b, is less than the distance between the intersection lines L7a, L7b and the front ends 1842a, 1842b of the headrest side members 1844, 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.

[0524] exist Figures 20A-20EIn the non-limiting embodiment of the illustrated header SIP assembly 1902, each side portion 1906, 1908 of the connector member 1904 of the header SIP assembly 1902 is similarly associated with a plurality of header SIP devices. As shown, the header SIP assembly 1902 includes a plurality of first header SIP devices 1910a, 1910b positioned near the relative 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 an embodiment, the first header SIP devices 1910a, 1910b have the same configuration as the previous embodiment ( Figures 19A-19E ) and in Figures 15A-15E . In this configuration, each first head SIP device 1910a, 1910b includes an inwardly facing surface 1912a, 1912b comprising a first side impact protection area 1914a, 1914b positioned proximate the main body portion 1909 of the connector member 1904 and a second side impact protection area 1916a, 1916b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection area 1914a, 1914b. As shown, the first side impact protection areas 1914a, 1914b can be arranged substantially perpendicular to the main body portion 1909. The second side impact protection areas 1916a, 1916b extending from the first side impact protection areas 1914a, 1914b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection areas 1914a, 1914b. The angle between the first side impact protection areas 1914a, 1914b and the second side impact protection areas 1916a, 1916b may be greater than 90 degrees.

[0525] Additionally, a respective second head SIP device 1920a, 1920b may be mounted to each side portion 1906, 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 device 1920a, 1920b is proximate to the front ends 1918a, 1918b of the headrest side members 1940, 1942. The second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b may have the same shape as previously described. Figures 16A-16E. The inwardly facing surfaces 1922a, 1922b of the respective second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b can be defined by a plurality of different regions arranged at different angles relative to the main body portion 1909. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the surfaces 1922a, 1922b include first side impact protection regions 1924a, 1924b oriented parallel or substantially parallel to the main body portion 1909 of the connector member 1904. Second side impact protection regions 1926a, 1926b of the inwardly facing surfaces 1922a, 1922b extending from the first side impact protection regions 1924a, 1924b can have a generally rounded or curved profile, such as a convex curvature. In an embodiment, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b may gradually decrease from the first side impact protection areas 1924a, 1924b toward the respective front ends 1918a, 1918b of the head SIP assembly 1902.

[0526] As shown, a gap can exist between the first head SIP device 1910a, 1910b and the second head SIP device 1920a, 1920b at each side portion 1906, 1908. The combination of individual first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b and second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b positioned near the front and rear of the connector member 1904 can be suitable for absorbing energy during a collision regardless of the mounting orientation of the child seat relative to the vehicle seat.

[0527] The first recesses 1930a, 1930b (see Figure 20C and 20E ) can be at least partially defined within a head receiving area 1928 of the headrest 1901 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-facing surface 1912a, 1912b, 1922a, 1922b. A first recess 1930a, 1930b can be partially defined by a plane extending from a corresponding intersection line L8a, L8b of the first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b to a corresponding intersection line L9a, L9b of the second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b. The generally vertical intersection lines L8a, L8b may be the portions of the head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b that are laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1928. Similarly, the generally vertical intersection lines L9a, L9b may be the portions of the head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b that are laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1928.

[0528] The first recesses 1930a, 1930b can also be defined by the second side impact protection areas 1916a, 1916b of the first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b, the first side impact protection areas 1924a, 1924b of the second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b, and the surfaces of the side portions 1906, 1908 extending therebetween. In an embodiment, each of the second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b can form a recess 1932a, 1932b within the head receiving area 1928 of the headrest 1901. The first side impact protection areas 1924a, 1924b of the inward-facing surfaces 1922a, 1922b of the respective second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b can abut the second side impact protection areas 1926a, 1926b, respectively, at the intersection lines indicated by L9a and L9b.

[0529] Each recess 1932a, 1932b can extend from the corresponding intersection line L9a, L9b toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1918a, 1918b of the headrest side members 1940, 1942. The plane extending from the intersection lines L9a, L9b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1918a, 1918b (indicated by lines 1939a, 1939b) can be parallel to the CLA. The recesses 1932a, 1932b can also be defined by the second side impact protection areas 1926a, 1926b, the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1918a, 1918b, and at least one of the surface of the side portions 1906, 1908 extending between the edge of the corresponding second side impact protection area 1926a, 1926b and the front end 1918a, 1918b, and the surface of the headrest side members 1940, 1942.

[0530] Similar to the previous embodiment, Figures 21A-21EIn the non-limiting embodiment shown, each side portion 2006, 2008 of the connector component 2004 of the header SIP assembly 2002 is associated with a plurality of header SIP devices. As shown, the header SIP assembly 2002 includes a plurality of first header SIP devices 2010a, 2010b positioned near the relative rear of the connector component 2004, such as near the interface between the respective side portions 2006, 2008 and the main body portion 2009. A plurality of second header SIP devices 2012a, 2012b can be positioned near the front of the connector component 2004, such as near the ends 2014a, 2014b of the side portions 2006, 2008. In an embodiment, a first head SIP device 2010a, 2010b disposed near the rear of the connector member 2004 is interconnected with a second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b disposed near the respective front ends 2014a, 2014b of the connector member 2004. The first head SIP device 2010a, 2010b may include a Figures 15A-15E , 19A-19E and 20A-20E are of substantially similar construction.

[0531] For example, each first head SIP device 2010a, 2010b includes an inwardly facing surface 2013a, 2013b comprising a first side impact protection area 2016a, 2016b positioned proximate the main body portion 2009 and a second side impact protection area 2018a, 2018b extending forwardly away from the first area 2016a, 2016b. As shown, the first side impact protection area 2016a, 2016b can be arranged substantially perpendicular to the main body portion 2009 of the connector member 2004. The second side impact protection area 2018a, 2018b extending from the first side impact protection area 2016a, 2016b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection area 2016a, 2016b. In one embodiment, the angle α between the first side impact protection area 2016a, 2016b and the second side impact protection area 2018a, 2018b is greater than 90 degrees.

[0532] The second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b may have Figures 13A-13E. However, as shown, the second SIP devices 2012a, 2012b can extend from the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b to or near the front ends 2034a, 2034b of the headrest side members 2036, 2038. The surfaces 2020a, 202b of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b can include multiple different side impact protection areas arranged at different angles. The first side impact protection areas 2022a, 2022b of the respective surfaces 2020a, 2020b of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the main body portion 2009. The first side impact protection areas 2022a, 2022b of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b may be laterally offset from the first side impact protection areas 2016a, 2016b of the adjacent first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b such that a lateral gap D1 between the first side impact protection areas 2022a, 2022b of the aligned second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b of the head SIP assembly 2002 is greater than a lateral gap D2 between the first side impact protection areas 2016a, 2016b of the aligned first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b of the head SIP assembly 2002. The respective second side impact protection areas 2024a, 2024b of the surfaces 2020a, 2020b of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b extend from the first side impact protection areas 2022a, 2022b toward the front of the headrest 2001. Furthermore, the second side impact protection areas 2024a, 2024b may have a smooth or curved profile, such as a convex curvature. In an embodiment, the thickness of the second SIP devices 2012a, 2012b at the second side impact protection areas 2024a, 2024b gradually decreases toward the front ends 2013a, 2013b of the connector member 2004.

[0533] It should be understood that the material or hardness of the first header SIP devices 2010a, 2010b can be the same or different than the hardness of the second header SIP devices 2012a, 2012b, regardless of whether the first header SIP devices 2010a, 2010b and the second header SIP devices 2012a, 2012b are positioned separately or interconnected around the connector member 2004.

[0534] For use in the event of a side impact (see Figure 21C and 21E) can be at least partially defined within the head receiving area 2028 of the headrest 2001 by a plurality of head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b, 2012a, 2012b. As shown, each first head SIP device 2010a, 2010b and each second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b has a corresponding inward-facing surface 2013a, 2013b, 2020a, 2020b. The first recesses 2030a, 2030b can be partially defined by a plane extending from the corresponding intersection lines L10a, L10b of the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b to the corresponding intersection lines L11a, L11b of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b. The generally vertical intersection lines L10a, L10b, L11a, L11b may represent a portion of each head SIP device 2010a, 2010b, 2012a, 2012b that is laterally positioned proximate the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 2028 of the headrest 2001. The first recess 2030a, 2030b may also be defined by the second side impact protection area 2018a, 2018b of the first head SIP device 2010a, 2010b, the first side impact protection area 2022a, 2022b of the second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b, and the surfaces of the side portions 2006, 2008 extending therebetween.

[0535] Each of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b may also form a recess 2032a, 2032b within the head receiving area 2028 of the headrest 1901. The first side impact protection area 2022a, 2022b of the inward-facing surfaces 2020a, 2020b of the respective second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b may abut the second side impact protection area 2018a, 2018b, respectively, at intersection lines L11a and L11b. Each recess 2032a, 2032b may be partially defined by a plane extending from the corresponding intersection line L11a, L11b toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front ends 2034a, 2034b of the headrest side members 2036, 2038. This plane extending from the intersection lines L11a, L11b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front ends 2034a, 2034b can be coplanar with the first side impact protection surface 2022a, 2022b of each respective second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b. The recessed portion 2032a, 2032b can also be defined by at least one of the second side impact protection area 2024a, 2024b, the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front ends 2034a, 2034b, and the surface of the side portions 2006, 2008 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection area 2024a, 2024b and the front ends 2034a, 2034b, and the surface of the headrest side members 2036, 2038.

[0536] Now refer to Figures 22A-22E, shows another embodiment of a header SIP assembly 2102 having first and second header SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, 2106a, 2106b disposed at respective side portions 2108, 2110 of a connector member 2111. The first header SIP devices 2104a, 2104b may have inwardly facing surfaces 2112a, 2112b including first and second side impact protection areas 2114a, 2114b, 2116a, 2116b disposed at non-parallel angles relative to each other. Substantially vertical intersection lines L12a, L12b are disposed at interfaces between the first and second side impact protection areas 2114a, 2114b, 2116a, 2116b, respectively. The intersection lines L12a, L12b may be the portion of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b that is laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area. Furthermore, the distance between the intersection lines L12a, L12b and the rear portion 2138 of the headrest 2101, as measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2130a, 2130b and positioned tangent to the lines L12a, L12b, may be less than the distance between the intersection lines L12a, L12b and the front ends 2130a, 2130b of the headrest side members 2132, 2134.

[0537] The second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b have inwardly facing surfaces 2118a, 2118b that contain first and second side impact protection areas 2120a, 2120b, 2122a, 2122b, arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to each other. Substantially vertical intersection lines L13a, L13b are disposed at the interface between the first and second side impact protection areas 2120a, 2120b, 2122a, 2122b, respectively. Intersection lines L13a, L13b may be portions of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b that are laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 2126. In addition, the distance between the intersection lines L13a, L13b and the rear portion 2138 of the headrest 2101 can be greater than the distance between the intersection lines L13a, L13b and the front ends 2130a, 2130b of the headrest side members 2132, 2134, measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2130a, 2130b and positioned tangent to the lines L13a, L13b.

[0538] Similar to the previous embodiment, the first recesses 2124a, 2124b (see Figure 21C and 21E) can be defined within the head receiving area 2126 of the headrest 2101 by a plurality of 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 respective intersection lines L12a, L12b of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b to the respective intersection lines L13a, L13b of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b. The first recesses 2124a, 2124b can also be defined by 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 surfaces of the side portions 2106, 2108 extending therebetween.

[0539] In an embodiment, each of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b may form a recess 2128a, 2128b within the head receiving area 2126 of the headrest 2101. Each recess 2128a, 2128b may have a side portion defined by a plane extending from the corresponding intersection line L13a, L13b toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 2130a, 2130b of the headrest side member 2132, 2134. The side portion of each recess 2128a, 2128b may be defined by a plane extending from the intersection line L13a, L13b toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 2130a, 2130b (defined by lines 2150a, 2150b (see FIG. 2 )). Figure 22E ) represents) extending in a plane parallel to the central longitudinal axis CLA. The recesses 2128a, 2128b may also be defined by the second side impact protection areas 2122a, 2122ba and a plane extending transversely from the inner edge 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 a surface of the side portions 2108, 2110 and a surface of the headrest side members 2132, 2134 extending between the edge and the front ends 2130a, 2130b of the respective second side impact protection areas 2122a, 2122b.

[0540] In the illustrated embodiment, the header SIP assembly 2102 includes third header SIP devices 2140a, 2140b disposed on the same side portions 2108, 2110 of the connector body 2112 as the first and second header SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, 2106a, 2106b. In such an embodiment, the third header SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can have a similar material or hardness as at least one of the first and second header SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, 2106a, 2106b, or alternatively, a different hardness or hardness. As shown, the third header SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can be positioned forward of at least one of the first and second header SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, 2106a, 2106b. In a non-limiting embodiment, the third header SIP devices 2108a, 2108b are mounted within the first recesses 2124a, 2124b. The third header SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can be configured to substantially mirror the contours of the first recesses 2124a, 2124b, such that the respective first header SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, the second header SIP devices 2106a, 2106b, and the third header SIP devices 2140a, 2140b, in combination, form a smooth, substantially continuous inwardly facing surface. Furthermore, the third header SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can be permanently or removably connected to the connector member 2111 or to the first header SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second header SIP devices 2106a, 2106b.

[0541] Can be installed on Figures 23A-23EIn another embodiment of the head SIP assembly 2202 of the headrest 2201 of the child seat 2200 shown in FIG, 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 device 2210a, 2210b can be arranged near the relatively rear portion of the connector member 2204, for example, at the interface between the corresponding side portion 2206, 2208 and the main body 2218. The third head SIP device 2214a, 2214b can be arranged near the front end 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230 but offset therefrom. The first head SIP device 2210a, 2210b and the third head SIP device 2214a, 2214b can have any suitable configuration, such as any of the head SIP devices of the previous embodiments described herein. In addition, the first head SIP device 2210a, 2210b and the third head SIP device 2214a, 2214b can include the same or different materials with the same or different hardness.

[0542] As shown, the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b can have inwardly facing surfaces 2220a, 2220b that contain respective first and second side impact protection areas arranged at non-parallel angles relative to each other. Substantially vertical intersection lines L14a, L14b are disposed at the interface between the first and second side impact protection areas, respectively. Intersection lines L14a, L14b can be the portion of the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b that is laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 2222. In addition, the distance between the intersection lines L14a, L14b and the rear portion 2224 of the headrest 2201 can be smaller than the distance between the intersection lines L14a, L14b and the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230b, measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2226a, 2226b and positioned tangent to the lines L14a, L14b.

[0543] The third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b have inwardly facing surfaces 2231a, 2231b that contain first and second side impact protection areas arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to each other. Substantially vertical intersection lines L15a, L15b are disposed at the interface between the first and second side impact protection areas, respectively. Intersection lines L15a, L15b may be the portion of the second head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b that is laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 2222. In addition, the distance between the intersection lines L15a, L15b and the rear portion 2224 of the headrest 2201 can be greater than the distance between the intersection lines L15a, L15b and the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230, measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2226a, 2226b and positioned tangent to the lines L15a, L15b.

[0544] Similar to the previous embodiment, the first recesses 2232a, 2232b (see Figure 23C and 23E ) can be at least partially defined within the head receiving area 2222 of the headrest 2201 by a plurality of head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b, 2214a, 2214b. As shown, first recesses 2232a, 2232b can be partially defined by a plane extending from respective intersection lines L14a, L14b of the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b to respective 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 of the respective head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b, 2214a, 2214b disposed therebetween and corresponding surfaces of the side portions 2206, 2208.

[0545] Each of the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214 can form a recess 2234a, 2234b within the head receiving area 2222 of the headrest 2201. Each recess 2234a, 2234b can extend from the corresponding intersection line L15a, L15b toward a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230. The sides of the recesses 2234a, 2234b (indicated by lines 2240a, 2240b) formed by the plane extending from the intersection lines L15a, L15b toward the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 2226a, 2226b can be parallel to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 2222. The recesses 2234a, 2234b may also be defined by portions of the inwardly facing surfaces 2231a, 2231b, a plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230, and at least one of a surface of the side portions 2206, 2208 and a surface of the headrest side members 2228, 2230 extending between an edge of the third head SIP device 2214a, 2214 and the front ends 2130a, 2130b.

[0546] The second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b can be positioned between the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b and the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b, for example, within the first recesses 2232a, 2232b, respectively. Thus, the contours of the second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b can, but need not, match the contours of the first recesses 2232a, 2232b. The fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b can be positioned between the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b and the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230. In an embodiment, the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b are located within the respective recesses 2234a, 2234b. The profile of the fourth head SIP device 2216a, 2216b can, but need not, match the profile of the recesses 2234a, 2234b. The second head SIP device 2212a, 2212b and the fourth head SIP device 2216a, 2216b can have any suitable configuration. In addition, the second head SIP device 2212a, 2212b and the fourth head SIP device 2216a, 2216b can comprise the same or different materials having the same or different hardness. It should be understood that the second head SIP device and the fourth head SIP device can be removably mounted to the headrest, and in some embodiments, neither the second head SIP device nor the fourth head SIP device can be connected to the connector member, or only one of the second head SIP device and the fourth head SIP device can be connected to the connector member.

[0547] In an embodiment, the second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b can be connected to the respective first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b, and the hardness of the second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b can be less than the hardness of the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b. Alternatively or in addition, the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b can be connected to the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b, and the hardness of the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b can 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 the head SIP assembly can alternatively be directly mounted to the headrest without a connector member.

[0548] Now refer to Figures 132A-133C , shows another embodiment of a header SIP assembly 11800. As shown, the header 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 header SIP device 11810a can be disposed at or adjacent to the first side portion 11806 of the connector member 11802, and a second header SIP device 11810b can be disposed at or adjacent to the second side portion 11808 of the connector member 11802. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the header SIP devices 11810a, 11810b are mounted near the rear of the header SIP assembly 11800, for example, at the interface between the body portion 11804 and the respective side portions 11806, 11808 of the connector member 11802.

[0549] In an embodiment, cutouts or notches are formed at the bottom of the head SIP assembly 11800. As shown, a first cutout 11817a is formed directly below the first head SIP device 11810a, and a second cutout 11817b can be formed directly below the second head SIP device 11810b. When the child seat system is in a forward-facing configuration, such as in a booster mode of operation, the cutouts 11817a, 11817b can form portions of a vehicle harness path. Thus, the bottoms 11821a, 11821b of the first and second head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b can define a portion of a vehicle harness path.

[0550] like Figures 133A-133CAs shown, the head SIP assembly 11800 can be removably or permanently connected to the structural shell 11820 of the headrest. The headrest shell 11820 can include a shell rear portion 11822 and at least one shell headrest side member, such as a first shell headrest side member 11824 and a second shell headrest side member 11826 disposed on opposite sides of the rear portion 11822 and extending toward the front of the headrest shell 11820. The head SIP assembly 11800 can be positioned adjacent to the inner surface of the shell 11820 of the headrest. For example, the main body portion 11804 of the connector member 11802 can be positioned adjacent to the rear portion 11822 of the headrest shell 11820, the first side portion 11806 of the connector member 11802 and the first head SIP device 11810a can be positioned adjacent to the first shell headrest side member 11824 of the headrest shell 11820 (the first side portion 11806 is in direct contact with the first shell headrest side member 11824), and the second side portion 11808 of the connector member 11802 and the second head SIP device 11810b can be positioned adjacent to the second shell headrest side member 11826 (the second side portion 11808 is in direct contact with the second shell headrest side member 11826). At least a portion of the rear or exterior surface 11816 of the head SIP assembly 11800 can have a contour that is complementary to the contours of the interior surfaces of the rear portion 11822 and the shell headrest side members 11824, 11826 to facilitate engagement therebetween.

[0551] The headrest shell 11820 can include or be formed from a first material having a first hardness, and the connector member 11802 can be formed from a second material having a second hardness. In an embodiment, the hardness of the second material is less than the hardness 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 end 11812a, 11812b of each side portion 11806, 11808 extends beyond the respective front ends 11828a, 11828b of the corresponding headrest shell side members 11824, 11826 of the headrest shell 11820. Thus, the distal end 11812a, 11812b of each side portion 11806, 11808 can define a front or forward extent of the headrest.

[0552] Connector member 11802 includes one or more reinforcement areas 11814a, 11814b. These reinforcement areas 11814a, 11814b can be arranged near the front ends 11828a, 11828b of the headrest shell side members 11824, 11826 of the connector member 11802 (e.g., near the distal ends 11812a, 11812b of each side portion 11806, 11808). As shown, the reinforcement areas 11814a, 11814b can have an increased thickness compared to the adjacent portions of the connector member 11802. This increased thickness can increase the rigidity of the connector member 11802, thereby strengthening the portion of the connector member 11802 that extends beyond the headrest shell 11820. Furthermore, in embodiments, the reinforced regions 11814a, 11814b can be shaped to define one or more features configured to abut or engage the headrest shell 11820 to properly position the head SIP assembly 11800 relative to the headrest shell. Although the reinforced regions 11814a and 11814b are shown as being disposed at an exterior surface of the connector member 11802, embodiments in which the reinforced regions are formed at an interior surface thereof are also contemplated herein.

[0553] Each head SIP device 11810a, 11810b can extend to cover only a portion of the length of each side portion 11806, 11808. As shown, the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b can extend to the center of the side portions 11806, 11808. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, 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 contemplated herein.

[0554] Similar to the previously disclosed embodiments, each head SIP device 11810a, 11810b includes an inwardly facing surface 11818a, 11818b having a first side impact protection area 11830a, 11830b positioned proximate the main body portion 11804, and a second side impact protection area 11832a, 11832b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection area 11830a, 11830b. As shown, the first side impact protection areas 11830a, 11830b can be arranged at an angle to the main body portion 11804 of the connector member 11802. The second side impact protection areas 11832a, 11832b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the respective first side impact protection areas 11830a, 11830b.

[0555] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the head SIP device 11810a forms a first recess 11834a within the head receiving area 11829 of the structural shell 11820, and the head SIP device 11810b forms a second recess 11834b within the head receiving area 11829. The first side impact protection areas 11830a, 11830b can be formed in the space formed by L16a and L16b ( Figure 133C ) are adjacent the respective second side impact protection areas 11832a, 11832b of each head SIP device 11810a, 11810b at a generally vertical intersection line indicated by ). The intersection lines L16a, L16b may be positioned at a portion of the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b that is laterally positioned proximate to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area.

[0556] The first recess 11834a is partially defined by the second side impact protection area 11832a and a plane extending laterally from the inner edge 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 and the front end 11812a of the respective second side impact protection area 11832a may also partially define the first recess 11834a. The recess 11834a is further defined by a plane extending from the intersection line L16a to the inner edge of the front ends 11812a, 11812b of the side portions 11806, 11808. This plane is at Figure 133C The plane of the recess 11834a extending from the intersection line L16a toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11182a can, but need not, be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 11830a of the head SIP device 11810a.

[0557] Similarly, second recess 11834b extends from intersection line L16b toward a plane extending transversely from the inner edges of front ends 11812a, 11812b of side portions 11806, 11808. The plane of recess 11834b, represented by line P16b, extending from intersection line L16b toward the plane extending transversely from the inner edges of front ends 11812b may, but need not, be coplanar with first side impact protection area 11830b of head SIP device 11810b. Recess 11834b may also be defined by the plane extending transversely from the inner edges of front ends 11812a, 11812b, second side impact protection area 11832b, and the surface of second side portion 11808 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection area 11832b and front end 11812b.

[0558] Further references Figure 133CA vertical plane, indicated by axis X16a, extends from front end 11812a of first side portion 11806 and is positioned tangent to the inward-facing surface of head SIP device 11810a at intersection line L16a. Furthermore, plane X16a may intersect main body portion 11804 of connector member 11802 at intersection location I16a. Another vertical plane, indicated by axis X16b, extends from front end 11812b of second side portion 11808 and is positioned tangent to the inward-facing surface of head SIP device 11810b at intersection line L16b. Plane X16b may intersect main body portion 11804 of connector member 11802 at intersection location I16b. In an embodiment, the distance between the intersection position I16a, I16b and the respective intersection line L16a, L16b is smaller than the distance between the intersection line L16a, L16b and the respective front ends 11812a, 11812b of the side portions 11806, 11808, measured along the axes X16a, X16b.

[0559] refer to Figures 132A-133C In one embodiment, the upper transition regions 11819a, 11819b and / or the lower transition regions 11821a, 11821b may extend between the inward-facing 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-facing surfaces 11818a, 11818b and the inner surface of the headrest. The upper and / or lower transition regions may be shaped or formed to create a smooth contour. Furthermore, the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b may, but need not, extend across the entire height of the SIP assembly 18000 and / or the headrest 18200. For example, the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b (e.g., their upper transition regions 11819a, 11819b) can extend to the top of the SIP assembly 11800 and / or the headrest 11820, and / or the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b (e.g., their lower transition regions 11821a, 11821b) can extend to the bottom of the SIP assembly 11800 and / or the headrest 11820.

[0560] Now refer to Figures 134A-134D, illustrates another embodiment of a headrest 11900 including at least one head SIP device. As shown, headrest 11900 includes a rear portion 11902, a first headrest side member 11904, and a second headrest side member 11906. Rear portion 11902, first headrest side member 11904, and second headrest side member 11906 collectively define a head-receiving area 11908 of headrest 11900. A first head SIP device 11910a may be positioned at or adjacent to first headrest side member 11904, and a second head SIP device 11910b may be positioned at or adjacent to second headrest side member 11906. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, head SIP devices 11910a and 11910b are mounted near the rear of headrest 11900, for example, at the interface between rear portion 11902 and respective headrest side members 11904 and 11906.

[0561] Each head SIP device 11910a, 11910b includes an inward-facing surface 11912a, 11912b. In an embodiment, as shown, inward-facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b may each include a single side impact protection zone. As shown, first ends 11916a, 11916b of inward-facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b positioned closest to rear portion 11902 may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the rear portion. Inward-facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b may also extend at a non-parallel angle relative to a vertical axis. The planes of the inward surfaces 11912a, 11912b can be tilted relative to the vertical axis so that the bottom ends 11918a, 11918b of the inward surfaces 11912a, 11912b located 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, 11920b of the inward surfaces 11912a, 11912b located closest to the top of the headrest 11900.

[0562] Alternatively or additionally, the length of the inwardly facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b, measured parallel to the CLA, can vary across the height of the inwardly facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b. As shown, the front edges 11922a, 11922b of the inwardly facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b can be defined by a flip line T1. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the flip line T1 is disposed at an angle relative to the rear portion 11902 of the headrest. For example, the flip line T1 can have a forward-facing configuration. Thus, the length of the inward-facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b extending between the rear portion 11902 of the headrest and the flip line T1 near the top of the front edges 11922a, 11922b of the inward-facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b (indicated by LI1) is greater than the length of the inward-facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b extending between the rear portion 11902 of the headrest and the flip line T1 near the bottom of the front edges 11922a, 11922b of the inward-facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b (indicated by LI2). Length LI1 may be between approximately 90 mm and approximately 140 mm, such as approximately 95 mm, approximately 100 mm, approximately 110 mm, or approximately 130 mm. Length LI2 may be between approximately 40 mm and approximately 90 mm, such as approximately 50 mm, approximately 60 mm, approximately 70 mm, approximately 80 mm, or approximately 85 mm. It should be understood that the ranges for LI1 and LI2 are intended to be examples only, and that other suitable values outside of the ranges provided are contemplated herein.

[0563] Each of the head SIP devices 11910a, 11910b may have a base surface 11914a, 11914b that faces or is integral with the corresponding portion of the headrest 11900. In one embodiment, the base surfaces 11914a, 11914b of the head SIP devices 11910a, 11910b, for example, surfaces near the respective front ends of the head SIP devices 11910a, 11910b, extend away from the corresponding surfaces adjacent to the headrest side members 11904, 11906. This contour creates a gap or recess between the base surface 11914a, 11914b near the front of each head SIP device 11910a, 11910b and the respective front ends 11922a, 11922b of the headrest 11900. The inclusion of these recesses can improve the impact of the occupant's head during a collision by facilitating rolling of the occupant's head.

[0564] refer to Figures 135A-135C, another embodiment of a headrest 11950 is shown. As shown, 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 can be positioned around 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 body portion 11964, and a second side portion 11968 extending from a second, opposite side of body portion 11964. A first head SIP device 11970a can be disposed at or adjacent to first side portion 11966 of connector member 11962, and a second head SIP device 11970b can be disposed at or adjacent to second side portion 11968 of connector member 11962. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the head SIP devices 11970a, 11970b are mounted near the rear of the head SIP assembly 11960, such as at the interface between the main body portion 11964 and the respective side portions 11966, 11968 of the connector member 11962.

[0565] Each head SIP device 11970a, 11970b can extend to cover only a portion of the length of each side portion 11966, 11968. As shown, the head SIP devices 11970a, 11970b can extend generally to the center of the side portions 11966, 11968. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, at least one head SIP device 11970a, 11970b extends less than half the length of the respective side portion 11966, 11968. However, embodiments in which at least one head SIP device 11970a, 11970b is longer or shorter are also contemplated herein.

[0566] Similar to the previously disclosed embodiments, each head SIP device 11970a, 11970b includes an inwardly facing surface 11972a, 11972b having a first side impact protection region 11974a, 11974b positioned proximate the main body portion 11964, and a second side impact protection region 11976a, 11976b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection region 11974a, 11974b. As shown, the first side impact protection regions 11974a, 11974b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the main body portion 11964 of the connector member 11962. The second side impact protection regions 11976a, 11976b can also be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the respective first side impact protection regions 11974a, 11974b.

[0567] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the head SIP device 11970a forms a first recess 11980a within the head receiving area 11961 of the head SIP assembly 11960 (see Figure 135C ), and the head SIP device 11970b forms a second recess 11980b within the head receiving area 11961. The first side impact protection area 11974a, 11974b can be adjacent to the corresponding second side impact protection area 11976a, 11976b of each head SIP device 11970a, 11970b at the generally vertical intersection lines indicated by L17a and L17b, respectively (see Figure 135B and 135C ). The intersection lines L17a, L17b can be positioned at a portion of the head SIP devices 11970a, 11970b that is laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 11961.

[0568] The first recess 11980a is partially defined by the 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 from the intersection line L17a to the inner edges of the front ends 11982a, 11982b of the side portions 11966, 11968. This plane is at Figure 135C This plane P17a of the recess 11980a extending from the intersection line L17a toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11982a can, but need not, be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 11974a of the head SIP device 11970a.

[0569] Similarly, the second recess 11980b extends from the intersection line L17b toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11982a, 11982b of the side portions 11966, 11968. The plane of the recess 11980b, represented by line P17b, extending from the intersection line L17b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11982a, 11982b can, but need not, be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 11974a of the head SIP device 11970b. The recess 11980b can also be defined by the plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 11982a, 11982b, the second side impact protection area 11976b, and the surface of the second side portion 11968 extending between the second side impact protection area 11976b and the front end 11982b.

[0570] Further references Figure 135C A vertical plane indicated by axis X17a extends from front end 11982a of first side portion 11966 and is positioned tangent to inwardly facing surface 11972a of head SIP device 11970a at intersection line L17a. Furthermore, plane X17a may intersect main body portion 11964 of connector member 11962 at intersection location I17a. Another vertical plane indicated by axis X17b extends from front end 11982b of second side portion 11968 and is positioned tangent to inwardly facing surface 11972b of head SIP device 11970b at intersection line L17b. Plane X17b may intersect main body portion 11964 of connector member 11962 at intersection location I17b. In an embodiment, the distance between the intersection position I17a, I17b and the respective intersection line L17a, L17b is smaller than the distance between the intersection line L17a, L17b and the respective front ends 11982a, 11982b of the side portions 11966, 11968, measured along the axes X17a, X17b.

[0571] Continue to refer Figures 135A-135C In an embodiment, the gap between the first side portion 11966 and the second side portion 11968 varies across the height of the head SIP assembly. For example, the gap formed between the top of the first side portion 11966 and the second side portion 11968 of the head SIP assembly can 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 such a taper within the height of the head SIP assembly 11960 can control the roll of an occupant's head during a crash event.

[0572] In an embodiment, the head SIP device or head SIP assembly can be adjusted relative to the headrest. For example, the orientation of one or more head SIP devices can be selected based on the direction in which the child seat is mounted to the vehicle seat, i.e., rear-facing or front-facing. Figures 24A-24DIn the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG, head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b are mounted to the inner surfaces of the corresponding headrest side members 2304, 2305 of the headrest 2301. As shown, each head SIP assembly 2302a, 2302b includes a corresponding first head SIP device 2306a, 2306b and a corresponding second head SIP device 2308a, 2308b. The first head SIP device 2306a, 2306b and the second head SIP device 2306a, 2306b can be connected to each other, for example, via a connector member (not shown). The first head SIP device 2306a, 2306b has a first hardness, and the second head SIP device 2308a, 2308b has a second hardness, wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

[0573] The head SIP assembly 2302a or 2302b can be in a first configuration associated with a forward-facing installation of the child seat system 2300 ( Figure 24A -B) and a second configuration associated with a rearward-facing installation of the child seat system 2300 ( Figure 24C -D), such as being rotatable about an axis. It should be understood that the head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b can transition between a first configuration and a second configuration when both soft items are positioned around the headrest and when both soft items are removed from the headrest. In an embodiment, when the child seat is in the forward-facing configuration, the head SIP device of the head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b having a greater hardness, such as head SIP device 2306a or 2306b, is positioned near the rear portion of the headrest 2301, and when the child seat is in the rear-facing configuration, the head SIP device 2306a, 2306b having a greater hardness can be positioned near the front portion 2314 of the headrest 2301.

[0574] As shown, in the first configuration, the first head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b can be positioned proximate to the headrest support surface 2310 of the headrest 2301, and the second head SIP devices 2308a, 2308b can be positioned proximate to the front portion 2314 of the headrest 2301. When the child seat system is installed in a rearward-facing orientation and the head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b are in the second configuration, the second head SIP devices 2308a, 2308b can be positioned proximate to the headrest support surface 2310, and the first head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b can be positioned proximate to the front portion 2314 of the headrest 2301. This rotation of the head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b can be driven by an adjustment control dial 2320 or other control mechanism operably coupled to the head SIP assembly 2302 and disposed on the exterior of the child seat. Although the control mechanism 2320 is shown as being 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 appreciated that a single control mechanism 2320 may be used to transform one or more of the multiple head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b.

[0575] In other embodiments, Figures 25A-25D As shown, the overall head accommodation space of the head SIP assembly can vary based on the direction in which the child seat system is installed to the vehicle seat. The head SIP assemblies 2402a, 2402b can be mounted to the corresponding headrest side members 2404, 2406 of the headrest 2401. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, 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 hardness of the first head SIP device 2408a, 2408b can be greater than the hardness of the second head SIP device 2410a, 2410b. Each head SIP assembly 2402a, 2402b has a first configuration ( Figure 25A -B) and a second configuration associated with rearward-facing installation of the child seat system 2400 ( Figure 25C -D).

[0576] In the first configuration, the second head SIP device 2410 extends from the first head SIP device 2408 to cover a substantial portion of the length of the adjacent headrest side members 2404, 2406. In an embodiment, the length of the second head SIP device 2410 when 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 the length of the second head SIP device 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 an embodiment, the length of the second head SIP device 2410 when in the second configuration may be similar to or equal to the length of the first head SIP device 2408.

[0577] In order to adapt to this transformation of length, the second head SIP device 2410 can be retracted into the corresponding cavity, or can be selectively inflated and deflated to achieve the desired structure. Similar to the previous embodiment, it should be understood that when soft items are all positioned around the headrest and when soft items are all removed from the headrest, the head SIP assembly 2402a, 2402b can be transformed between the first structure and the second structure. The transformation of the second head SIP device 2410a, 2410b can be controlled by adjusting the control dial 2420 or other control mechanism that is operably connected to the second head SIP device 2410a, 2410a and is arranged at the outside of the child seat. Although the control mechanism 2420 is shown as being arranged at the second headrest side member 2406, in other embodiments, the control mechanism 2420 can be arranged at the first headrest side member 2404 or at another suitable position around the child seat. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that a single control mechanism 2420 may be used to transform a corresponding second head SIP device 2410a or 2410b, or alternatively may be used to transform the plurality of second head SIP devices 2410a and 2410b.

[0578] Reference Figures 26A-26F , another embodiment of at least one head SIP device that can be converted 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 non-limiting embodiment shown, the first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b are respectively mounted at each of the headrest side members 2508, 2510. At least one of the first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b can be relative to the headrest 2502 in a first retracted configuration ( Figures 26A-26C) and a second extended or deployed configuration ( Figures 26D-26F ). In such embodiments, at least one of the first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b can be coupled to the child seat 2500 in both the retracted configuration and the extended configuration. Furthermore, in embodiments, the convertible first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and / or the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b can be locked in the retracted configuration, the extended configuration, or both.

[0579] When in the retracted configuration, an outer surface 2516a, 2516b, 2518a, 2518b of at least one of the first and second head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b, 2514a, 2514b can be substantially flush with a corresponding surface 2517, 2519 of the first and second headrest side members 2508, 2510. As shown, in the retracted configuration, the first and second head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b, 2514a, 2514b are retracted into gaps 2526, 2528 defined between the headrest side members 2508, 2510 and adjacent upright side members 2522, 2524 of the seat shell 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 surface of the first headrest side member 2508 and the second headrest side member 2510 to reduce the available space within the space defined by the headrest 2502 (e.g., reducing the space for a child's head to move side to side within the confines of the headrest). When in the extended and retracted configurations, the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b can be covered by the soft goods 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 can protrude through the soft goods.

[0580] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the at least one first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and / or second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b is a rigid body configured to translate along an axis between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. However, in other embodiments, the head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b, 2514a, 2514b can 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 in FIG, the first head SIP device 6504a, 6504b and the second head SIP device 6506a, 6506b arranged at the headrest 6502 of the child seat 6500 are structurally modifiable bodies, such as balloons or airbags, which can be in a first deflated configuration ( Figures 68A-68C ) and the second inflatable structure ( Figures 68D-68F ) between. It should be understood that the deflated structure may also be referred to as the stowed or retracted structure in this article, and the inflated structure may also be referred to as the extended or deployed structure in this article. A valve (not shown) may be used to maintain the fluid in the balloon during inflation. When in the extended structure and the retracted structure, at least a portion of the first head SIP device 6504a, 6504b and the second head SIP device 6506a, 6506b that may come into contact with the occupant may be covered by the soft item of the headrest 6502. However, in other embodiments, when in the extended structure, the portion of the first head SIP device 6504a, 6504b and the second head SIP device 6506a, 6506b that may come into contact with the occupant may protrude through the soft item.

[0581] When in the deflated configuration, a portion of the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b can be disposed within a cavity formed in the headrest, or alternatively or additionally, can extend into gaps 6524a, 6524b formed between the headrest side members 6514, 6516 and the upright side members 6510, 6512 of the seat shell 6508. Thus, upon providing air or another fluid to the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b, the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b transform and extend into the headrest cavity 6520. In other embodiments, a source 6522 disposed in fluid communication with the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b can be positioned between the headrest side members 6514, 6516 and the upright side members 6510, 6512. In such embodiments, the source can 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 can be operably coupled to both the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a and 6506a. Similarly, a second source 6520b positioned within a gap 6524b between the headrest side member 6516 and the adjacent side member 6512 can be operably coupled to both the structurally modifiable bodies 6504b and 6506b.

[0582] When the structurally modifiable body 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b is in the deflated configuration, the at least one source 6520a, 6520b disposed between the headrest 6502 and the seat shell 6508 expands, and when the structurally modifiable body 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b is inflated, the at least one source 6520, 6520b deflates. Alternatively, a single source may be fluidly connected to each respective structurally modifiable body 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b.

[0583] It will be appreciated that the energy absorption rate of the SIP device in the deployed configuration may be greater than the energy absorption rate of the SIP device in the stowed configuration. In embodiments, the transition of the head SIP device between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration may occur automatically in response to the child seat being installed on the vehicle seat. Figures 27A-27B , the headrest 2502 and the first SIP device 2512a, 2512b and the second SIP device 2514a, 2514b and Figures 26A-26E When a child seat such as the 2500 is in a forward-facing orientation ( Figure 27A ), a tether 2530 that can be used to couple the child seat 2500 to a vehicle seat is arranged at a first location, such as near the center of an upright portion 2532 of the child seat 2500. Similarly, when the child seat 2500 is in a rearward orientation ( Figure 27B ), a strap 2530 that can be used to couple the child seat 2500 to the vehicle seat is disposed at a second location around the child seat 2500, such as near a front portion 2536 of the seat portion 2534. When this strap 2530 is tensioned, it applies a force to a respective actuator 2540, 2542 associated with one of the first and second positions.

[0584] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, only the portion of the plurality of head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b, 2514a, 2514b positioned near the headrest 2502 transitions between the retracted and extended configurations in response to the installation of the harness in the corresponding position. For example, when the child seat 2500 is installed in a forward-facing orientation, the harness 2530 engages the actuator 2540, causing only the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b positioned near the front of the headrest 2502 to transition to the extended configuration. In this forward-facing orientation, the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b positioned near the rear of the headrest 2502 remain in the retracted configuration. Similarly, when the child seat 2500 is installed in a rearward-facing orientation, the harness 2530 engages the actuator 2542, causing only the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b positioned near the rear of the headrest 2502 to transition 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.

[0585] In other embodiments, the transformation of at least one head SIP device between the retracted and extended configurations can occur automatically in response to the presence of an occupant in the child seat, in response to force being applied to the child seat (e.g., during a side impact event). Although the first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b are shown as being at each headrest side member 2508, 2510, it should be understood that embodiments having only a single head SIP device are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that in embodiments where multiple head SIP devices disposed at the same portion of the headrest (e.g., the same headrest side member) are transformable, the multiple head SIP devices can be transformed between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration simultaneously / together or independently.

[0586] refer to Figure 82A and 82B, shows another embodiment of a headrest 7900 having a first head SIP portion 7902a including at least one first head SIP device 7904a and a second head SIP portion 7902b including at least one second head SIP device 7904b. As shown, the first head SIP portion 7902a is positioned between the rear portion 7906 and the first headrest side member 7908 of the headrest 7900, and the second head SIP portion 7902b is positioned between the rear portion 7906 and the second headrest side member 7910. While the first and second head SIP portions 7902a, 7902b, and the corresponding head SIP devices 7904a, 7904b, are shown as separate devices not integrated into a connected SIP assembly, it should be understood that in other embodiments, such an assembly, including the two SIP devices 7904a, 7904b connected together, can be mounted to the inner surface of the headrest 7900.

[0587] As shown, the configuration of side impact protection devices, such as head SIP devices 7904a and 7904b, can vary along a longitudinal axis CLA extending between a rear portion 7906 and a front portion 7930a, 7930b of a headrest in a head receiving area 7905 of a headrest 7900. For example, each of the head SIP devices 7904a, 7904b includes an inwardly facing surface 7912a, 7912b having a first side impact protection area 7914a, 7914b and a second side impact protection area 7916a, 7916b disposed at an angle relative to one another.

[0588] The portion of the headrest 7900 that is located between the headrest rear portion 7906 and the front ends 7930a, 7930b of the headrest 7900 and that is positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 7905 of the headrest 7900 in the lateral direction is referred to herein as the "head contact position". Figure 82A In an embodiment, the head contact locations C1 , C2 are portions of the headrest that are configured to first contact the occupant's head during a side impact event.

[0589] The head contact locations C1, C2 are laterally offset from the inner surface of the headrest 7900 and can be positioned at the interface between the first side impact protection areas 7914a, 7914b and the second side impact protection areas 7916a, 7916b of the inward-facing surfaces 7912a, 7912b. In such embodiments, the intersection lines previously described herein with reference to FIG. 2-23E can also be head contact locations. As shown, the head contact locations C1, C2 can be positioned between a surface of the headrest rear portion 7906 of the head receiving area 7905 (e.g., the headrest support surface 7918) and the center of gravity CoG of the occupant's head in a direction along the central longitudinal axis CLA. In embodiments, the head contact locations C1, C2 are offset from the headrest support surface 7918.

[0590] Similar to Figure 14 In some embodiments, the recess 7920a may be defined between the head contact locations C1 and C2 and the front portion 7930a of the headrest 7900. As shown, a vertical plane, designated PT1, extending from the front end 7930a in a direction or position tangential to the head contact location C1 intersects the headrest support surface 7918 at an intersection location 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 locations C1 toward the front portion 7930a of the headrest. However, in other embodiments, the recesses 7920a and 7920b may be at least partially defined by a plane extending from the head contact locations C1 and C2 to a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 7930a of the headrest and coplanar with the first side impact protection area 7914a.

[0591] In embodiments, another recess or second recess 7920b of the head receiving area 7905 may be defined between the head contact locations C1 and 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 tangential to the head contact location C2 and intersects the headrest support surface 7918 at an intersection location IT2. In embodiments, the recess 7920b may be defined between the vertical plane PT2, the second side impact protection area 1716b, and, in some embodiments, the inner surface 7932b of the headrest side member 7910 extending from the head contact location C2 toward the front portion 7930b of the headrest. However, in other embodiments, the recess 7920b may be at least partially defined by a plane extending from the head contact location C2 to a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 7930b of the headrest and coplanar with the first side impact protection area 7914b.

[0592] like Figure 82BAs shown in FIG, contact with head contact locations C1 and C2 may induce head roll during a side impact. For example, during a side impact, when the child restraint system is in the rearward-facing position, head SIP devices 1304a and 1304b cause the headrest 1301 to contact the head earlier, inducing head roll. Inducing head roll allows energy to be absorbed over a longer period of time and induces off-axis head loads. This off-axis head load reduces the net lateral load and peak head y-acceleration, while increasing the head x-acceleration.

[0593] Reference Figure 28A and 28B , illustrates another type of head SIP device suitable for use with a child seat system 2600. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 2602a, 2602b, 2602c is a friction surface 2604a, 2604b, 2604c, for example, formed of a friction material, intended to generate friction between the material and the occupant's head to control or stop head movement. One or more head SIP devices 2602a, 2602b, 2602c, in the form of friction surfaces, may be disposed on an interior surface of a headrest 2606. For example, a first friction surface 2604a may be disposed at or substantially adjacent to a headrest support surface 2608. A second friction surface 264b and / or a third friction surface 2604c may be positioned near a bottom front portion 2610a, 2610b of a respective headrest side member 2612, 2614. The friction surfaces 2602a, 2602b, 2602c can be disposed on the headrest 2606 and covered by a soft item positioned around the headrest, or alternatively, can be disposed on the soft item (e.g., on the exterior of the soft item). Forming the friction surface 2604a on the headrest support surface 2608 can be particularly beneficial when the child seat system 2600 is in a rearward-facing configuration, where the occupant's head is pushed toward the headrest support surface 2608 during a collision. When the child seat system 2600 is in a forward-facing configuration, the friction surfaces 2604b, 2604c on the bottom front portion 2610 of the headrest side members 2612, 2614 can be beneficial to prevent the occupant's head from sliding out of the headrest 2606 and striking the vehicle door panel. The friction surfaces 2604a, 2604b, 2604c described herein can be formed by positioning friction material between the headrest 2606 and a soft item that can be installed around the headrest 2606, or in embodiments including another head SIP device or a head SIP assembly previously described herein, the friction material 2604a, 2604b, 2604c can be arranged between the soft item and the head SIP device or head SIP assembly.

[0594] Another type of head SIP device can be used to extend one or more dimensions of a child seat system's head restraint. Figure 29A and 29B , the head SIP assembly 2702 shown includes at least one extension wing 2704a, 2704b that can be positioned at the corresponding headrest side members 2706, 2708. The extension wings 2704a, 2704b can be connected to the headrest 2701, or alternatively, can be formed integrally therewith. The extension wings 2704a, 2704b can 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 in addition, the extension wings 2704a, 2704b can be arranged at the bottom surfaces 2712a, 2712b of the corresponding headrest side members 2706, 2708. The extension wings 2704a, 2704b can extend to cover the entire bottom surface, as shown. Figure 29A As shown, or alternatively, it may be extended to cover only a portion thereof ( Figure 29B ) to form a recess or cutout 2714 at the bottom of the headrest 2701 for receiving the shoulders of the occupant.

[0595] In an embodiment, the front ends 2716a, 2716b defined by the extension wings 2704a, 2704b extend at respective non-perpendicular angles relative to the headrest support surface 2720. Furthermore, the front ends 2716a, 2716b protrude beyond the adjacent edges of the respective upright side members 2722, 2724 of the seat shell of the child seat 2700. In an embodiment, the front ends 2716a, 2716b of the extension wings can be aligned with or protrude beyond the entire height of the upright side members 2722, 2724.

[0596] refer to Figures 30A-31B , shows at least one head SIP device 2804a, 2804b associated with a headrest 2802 and having another configuration. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the at least one head SIP device 2804a, 2804b can be in a first retracted configuration ( Figure 30A and 30B ) and the second expanded structure ( Figure 31A and 31B) between the headrest side members 2806, 2808. The corresponding head SIP devices 2804a, 2804b can be mounted to the headrest side members 2806, 2808, for example, near their front ends 2810a, 2810b and / or bottom surfaces 2812a, 2812b. In the retracted configuration, the head SIP devices 2804a, 2804b can be located within the boundaries defined by the headrest 2802. In the deployed or extended configuration, the head SIP devices 2804a, 2804b can protrude beyond the headrest side members 2806, 2808 in one or more directions. When in the extended configuration and the retracted configuration, the first head SIP device 2804a and the second head SIP device 2804b can be covered by the soft goods 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 goods.

[0597] As shown, each head SIP device 2804a, 2804b may include a body 2820a, 2820b configured to project forward from a front end 2810a, 2810b of the headrest side members 2806, 2808 when in the extended configuration and to extend downwardly beyond a bottom surface 2812a, 2812b near the front end 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 bladder or airbag, and when the structurally modifiable body is transformed into the extended configuration, the structurally modifiable body will project beyond the front end 2810a, 2810b and / or 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 the present disclosure.

[0598] Figure 83 Another embodiment of a headrest 8000 having at least one head SIP device that can be transformed 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, 8002b can be positioned near the front ends 8008a, 8008b of the headrest side members 8004, 8006. Similar to Figures 30A-31BIn the embodiment of the present invention, in the retracted configuration, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b can be located within the boundaries defined by the headrest 8000. In the deployed or extended configuration, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b can protrude in one or more directions beyond the headrest side members 8004, 8006. As shown, each head SIP device 8002a, 8002b can include a body 8010a, 8010b configured to protrude forward from a front end 8008a, 8008b of the headrest side members 8004, 8006.

[0599] Figures 122A-122B shows a configuration that can be configured in a first configuration ( Figure 122A ) and the second construction ( Figure 122B ) is another embodiment of a headrest 10802 of a child seat 10800 having at least one head SIP device 10804 that is convertible between different headrests. The head SIP device 10804 can be removably connected to the headrest 10802, or alternatively, can be permanently connected thereto. When in place in the seat 10800, the head SIP device 10804 is arranged adjacent to an interior surface 10806 of the headrest 10802 and extends around substantially the entire interior surface 10806. The head SIP device 10804 can be removably attached to the headrest 10802, or alternatively or in addition, can be removably attached to a safety belt 10808 of the child seat 10800, such as a webbing or a piece of padding attached to the webbing of the safety belt. During normal use of the child seat 10800, the head SIP device 10804 remains positioned adjacent to the interior surface 10806 of the headrest 10802, and in some embodiments, in contact therewith, such as Figure 122A As shown. Figure 122B In the embodiment of the present invention, during a crash event, the head SIP device 10804 is configured to move with the occupant. Therefore, the head SIP device 10804 will separate from the inner surface 10806 of the headrest 10802 by the child to protect the head from contacting another surface.

[0600] Reference Figures 123A-124B , shows various examples of headrests configured to deform from a first configuration to a second configuration in response to a collision event. Figures 123A-12BIn the illustrated embodiment, a head SIP device 10902 is positioned on or adjacent to an interior surface 10904 of a child seat's headrest 10900. As shown, the head SIP device 10902 can extend around substantially the entire interior surface 10904 of the headrest 10900. The headrest 10900 can be formed from a compressible or elastic material configured to deform, such as to extend, when a compressive force is applied thereto. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, when a force is applied to the head SIP device 10902, such as by an occupant's head during a crash, the material of the head SIP device 10902 displaces. As shown, the head SIP device 10902 is configured to absorb the applied energy by expanding. In an embodiment, the head SIP device 10902 is configured to deform, for example, extending beyond a front end 10906 of the headrest 10900. However, deformation in alternative or additional directions is also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0601] exist Figures 124A-124B In a non-limiting embodiment, a head SIP device 11002 is similarly positioned at or adjacent to an interior surface 11004 of a child seat's headrest 11000. As shown, the head SIP device 11002 can extend around substantially the entire interior surface 11004 of the headrest 11000. The headrest 11000 includes a center portion 11006, and first and second headrest side members 11008, 11010 extending from opposite sides of the center portion 11006. As shown, a portion of the head SIP device 11002 located adjacent to at least one of the first and second headrest side members 11008, 11010 has a double-walled construction. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the ends 11012a, 11012b of the head SIP device 11002 are folded back onto the inwardly facing surface 11014 thereof to form a second wall of a 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 such that a folded portion can be formed. Figure 83 and 122A In each of the embodiments described in -124B, it should be understood that the disclosed head SIP device can be covered by the softgoods of the headrest when in the extended configuration, or alternatively, at least a portion thereof can be external to the softgoods.

[0602] During a crash event, an occupant's head may contact and exert forces on the head SIP device 11002. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, when a force is applied to the sides of the head SIP device 11002 (e.g., its double-walled section), the force may cause the proximal ends 11012a, 11012b of the head SIP device 11002 of the interior walls of the head SIP device 11002 to translate. As shown, the head SIP device 11002 is configured to absorb the energy exerted thereon by expanding.

[0603] 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 extended configuration. Figure 83 In the illustrated embodiment, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b are movable, e.g., translationally, along each respective headrest side member 8004, 8006 between a retracted and deployed configuration. The bodies 8010a, 8010b of the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b may be rigid bodies that can translate between the retracted and deployed configurations. In such embodiments, a portion of the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b may be received within the interior of the headrest 8000, or alternatively or additionally, the head SIP devices may be retracted into themselves, e.g., via a retractable configuration. In other embodiments, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b may be formed using a structurally modifiable body, such as an inflatable balloon or airbag. In such embodiments, when the structurally modifiable body 8010a, 8010b is transformed into the deployed configuration, the structurally modifiable body protrudes forward from the front ends 8008a, 8008b of the headrest 8000.

[0604] Reference Figures 32A-32C , shows another example of a headrest 2900 having at least one head SIP device. As an alternative to or in addition 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 in an overlapping arrangement with the headrest side members 2906, 2908 to control the clearance between the side members 2906, 2908 for receiving an occupant's head. In an embodiment, the head SIP device is shaped to control the clearance so that the occupant's head is spaced or offset by at least a minimum distance from the headrest support surface of the rear portion 2904 of the headrest 2900. For example, the head SIP devices may be angled relative to each other to position the occupant's head at least approximately 0.5 inches, and in some embodiments, at least approximately 0.75 inches, approximately 1 inch, approximately 1.25 inches, and approximately at least 1.5 inches, from the rear portion 2904 of the headrest 2900. The head SIP device may, but need not, span the entire headrest support surface between adjacent headrest side members 2906, 2908.

[0605] In another embodiment, if Figure 69A and 69B As shown in FIG, at least one head SIP device 6602 is positioned outside the headrest 6600. In such an embodiment, the at least one head SIP device 6602 is not covered by a soft item. 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 as being 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 need not, 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 non-limiting embodiment shown, the headrest side member 6606 is shown as having an edge 6608 arranged at its rear side 6604 and extending from the top of the headrest 6600 to its front end 6610. In an embodiment, the head SIP device 6602 is positioned at least partially below the rim 6608 , such as within a gap formed between the rim 6608 and an exterior surface of the headrest 6600 .

[0606] It should be understood that the head SIP devices shown and described herein are by way of example only, and that head SIP devices having any suitable configuration are within the scope of this disclosure. In addition, head SIP devices arranged at opposite sides of the head SIP assembly are generally shown as being substantially identical, but embodiments in which the configuration of the head SIP devices is different on either side of the headrest are also encompassed herein. As will be described in more detail below, the shoulder SIP devices can be positioned adjacent to the inner surface of the upright portion of the seat shell, for example at the first or second upright side members. Unless another arrangement is mentioned, any embodiment described herein that includes a shoulder SIP device that can be positioned at such an inner surface area should be understood to position the shoulder SIP device generally between the seat shell of the child seat and a soft item covering the inner surface of the seat shell. Such a shoulder SIP device can be attached to the structural body of the headrest or a soft item that can be positioned around it. In the embodiments described herein, in which the shoulder SIP device is associated with the headrest of the child seat and, in some embodiments, can move with it, the shoulder SIP device can, but need not, be covered by a soft item.

[0607] Now refer to it again Figure 1As an alternative to or in addition to the head SIP device 70 shown and described herein, the child seat system 20 may further include one or more SIP devices 72a, 72b disposed at an interior surface of the child seat 23 that may be used to limit or control movement of the shoulders of an occupant of the child seat system 20. Such SIP devices 72a, 72b, also referred to herein as "shoulder SIP devices," may be disposed at an area of the child seat 23, such as the rear or upright portion 28 of the child seat 23, that is generally aligned with and configured to contact the shoulders or upper arms of the occupant.

[0608] Reference Figure 33A and 33B , the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of a child seat 3002 includes a seat shell 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 coupled 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 at each side of an occupant, it should be understood that embodiments including multiple shoulder SIP devices that can be used to contact the same shoulder of an occupant are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0609] The first shoulder SIP device 3012a and the second shoulder SIP device 3012b can be permanently or removably coupled to the child seat 3002. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 33C As shown, the child seat 3002 includes at least one engagement feature 3014a, such as a rib, that projects from an interior surface of the seat shell 3003, such as at the upright side members 3008, 3010. The engagement feature 3014a can abut or engage a portion of a corresponding shoulder SIP arrangement 3012a, 3012b to facilitate proper positioning of the shoulder SIP arrangements 3012a, 3012b around the child seat 3000.

[0610] The first and second shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b are positioned at opposite sides of the child seat 3002 and may be substantially identical or may have different configurations. Figures 33A-33CThe shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b shown in the figure have a generally circular shape, such as a ring or an oval shape, but embodiments in which one or more of the shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b have another shape are also within the scope of the present 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 beyond the interior surfaces of the upright side members 3008, 3010 toward the interior of the child seat 3002. In an embodiment, the shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b are sized and positioned to allow the headrest 3020 ( Figure 33A ), including any soft items associated with it, can be raised and lowered freely without interference.

[0611] Reference Figure 34A and 34B , an example of a shoulder SIP device 3100 is shown in more detail, for example, similar to shoulder SIP devices 72 and 3012a, 3012b. As shown, the shoulder SIP device 3100 includes a body having a base or mounting surface 3102 that can be mounted to a portion of a child seat, an occupant-facing surface 3104 that can contact an occupant of the child seat, and side portions 3106 extending between the base 3102 and the occupant-facing surface 3104. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 34A and 34B As best shown, the interface or transition zone between the occupant-facing surface 3104 and the side portion 3106 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 is shaped or formed, such as rounded or angled, to facilitate movement of the occupant 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 embodiments, this shape of the transition zone may facilitate forward movement of the occupant.

[0612] Shoulder SIP device 3100, for example Figures 33A-33C 3006) can have a constant thickness defined by the side portions 3106. In such embodiments, the distance between the occupant-facing surface 3104 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 and the base 3102 is constant. In embodiments where the upright side members of the child seat (e.g., upright side members 3008, 3010) 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 can also be arranged at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the upright support surface.

[0613] In other embodiments, 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 the non-limiting embodiment of the child seat 3200 shown, the side portions 3204 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 that are attached to the upright side members 3206 of the child seat 3200 can be varied so that the angle of the base 3208 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 complements the angle of the upright side members 3206 relative to the upright support surface 3210. Thus, when the base 3208 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is installed in place on the upright side members 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 at the opposite side of the seat, for example, attached to a similar location on the upright side members 3220.

[0614] refer to Figures 36A-36D , shows a shoulder SIP device 3300 according to another embodiment. Similar to the previously described embodiments, shoulder SIP device 3300 includes a body having a base or mounting surface 3302 that can be mounted to a portion of a child seat 3320 (e.g., upright side members 3322), an occupant-facing surface 3304 that can contact an occupant of the child seat, and side portions 3306 extending between base 3302 and occupant-facing surface 3304. The interface between occupant-facing surface 3304 and side portions 3306 can be rounded, as previously described. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, occupant-facing surface 3304 of shoulder SIP device 3300 has a non-planar configuration and includes a first portion or region 3308 disposed at a first angle relative to base 3302 and a second portion or region 3310 disposed at a second angle relative to base 3302. First portion 3308 and second portion 3310 can be separated from each other by a center portion 3312.

[0615] The thickness of the shoulder SIP device 3300 can be greatest at the center portion 3312, such that the first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 slope downwardly away from the center portion 3312. The slopes of the first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 can be equal or different. In an embodiment, the center portion 3312 has a generally circular profile that forms a smooth transition between the first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 of the occupant-facing surface 3304. The inclusion of the curved center portion 3312 and the sloped first portion 3308 and second portion 3310 facilitates movement of the occupant's shoulders around the shoulder SIP device 3300 during a crash event. Although only a single shoulder SIP device 3300 is shown in the figures, it should be understood that another shoulder SIP device 3300 can be positioned on the opposite side of the seat, for example, at a similar location attached to the upright side member 3224.

[0616] exist Figures 37A-37B , another embodiment of a shoulder SIP device suitable for use with a child seat 3400 is shown in FIG. As shown, at least one shoulder SIP device 3402a, 3402b associated with the child seat 3400 has an elongated body positionable at an upright portion 3406 of a seat shell 3404 of the child seat 3400. In an embodiment, a first shoulder SIP device 3402a is positioned in an overlapping arrangement with a first upright side member 3408 of the child seat 3400, and a second first shoulder SIP device 3402b is positioned in an overlapping arrangement 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 distinct shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b, embodiments in which the two bodies are integral or connected together as a single shoulder SIP device are also contemplated herein.

[0617] The top portions 3412a, 3412b of the respective shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can be aligned with the top 3403 of the upright portion 3406 of the seat shell 3404, and the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can extend over only a portion of, or alternatively, substantially the entire height of, the upright side members 3408, 3410. The bottom or lower end portions 3414a, 3414b of the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can be aligned with or disposed near the bottom of the headrest 3416 of the child seat 3400 when the headrest 3416 is in its lowermost position relative to the seat shell 3404. Although the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b are shown as having outer perimeters having contours that are complementary to the corresponding upright side members 3408, 3410, embodiments in which the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b have another contour are also contemplated herein. In addition, the respective contours of the occupant-facing surfaces 3420a, 3420b of the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can be configured such that the headrest 3416 can be lowered in the lowered position ( Figure 37A ) and raised position ( Figure 37B ) without being interfered with by the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b.

[0618] Figures 70A-70B 6700. As shown, the child seat 6700 includes a seat shell 6702 having an upright portion 6704 and a seat portion 6706, and a headrest 6708 that can be positioned relative to the upright portion 6704 in a first low position ( Figure 70A ) and the second highest position ( Figure 70A ) between the headrest 6708 and the shoulder SIP device. In an embodiment, at least one shoulder SIP device is coupled to the bottom 6710 of the headrest 6708 and extends downwardly beyond the bottom 6710. As shown, a first shoulder SIP device 6712a can be arranged near a first side 6714 of the headrest 6708, and a second shoulder SIP device 6712b can be arranged near an opposite second side 6716 of the headrest 6708. The first shoulder SIP device 6712a and the second shoulder SIP device 6712b can 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. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b may alternatively or additionally be movable relative to the headrest 6708 to provide improved adjustability.

[0619] refer to Figures 84A-85 , shows a device with a low position ( Figure 84A ) and high position ( Figure 84B ) is another example of a child seat 8100 that includes a headrest 8102 that moves between a first position and a second position. Similar to the previous embodiment, a first shoulder SIP device 8104a can be coupled to and extend downwardly beyond a bottom portion 8110a of a first headrest side member 8106, and a second shoulder SIP device 8104b can be coupled to and extend downwardly beyond a bottom portion 8110b of a second headrest side member 8108. The shoulder SIP devices 8104a, 8104b can move relative to the seat body of the child seat 8100 along with the headrest 8102, for example, between a first position and a second position.

[0620] exist Figure 85 Detailed descriptions of examples of shoulder SIP devices are provided herein, such as shoulder SIP device 8104a. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, shoulder SIP device 8104a includes a body 8112 formed by a shell 8114 and at least one insert 8116. As shown, shell 8114 may include a rear wall 8124 and at least one side wall 8126 extending at an angle from rear wall 8124. In some embodiments, rear wall 8124 of shell 8114 has a profile that is generally complementary to at least one of the corresponding headrest side member 8106 and the adjacent upright side member 8122 of the seat back 8120 of child seat 8110. However, embodiments in which rear wall 8124 has a different profile are also contemplated herein. As shown, rear wall 8124 may form one end of shell 8114, and at least one side wall 8126 may protrude substantially perpendicularly from rear wall 8124. Furthermore, the at least one side wall 8126 may comprise a plurality of side walls or a single continuous side wall extending around a portion of the periphery of the rear wall 8124 to define a cavity 8128 between the at least one side wall 8126 and the rear wall 8124 within which the insert 8116 may be received.

[0621] The at least one insert 8116 can be a single insert, or alternatively, can be a plurality of inserts having similar or different configurations. The single insert or the plurality of inserts in combination can have a size and / or shape that is complementary to the cavity 8128 of the housing 8114. The at least one insert 8116 can be permanently or removably mounted within the cavity 8128 via any suitable mounting mechanism, such as an adhesive or one or more engaging features configured to cooperate with corresponding portions of the housing. In an embodiment, the housing 8114 is formed from a first material and the insert 8116 is formed from a second material. The hardness of the first material can be similar to, or alternatively, can be different from, the hardness of the second material. In an embodiment, the first material is a plastic and the second material is a foam material.

[0622] Shoulder SIP device 8104a is connectable to headrest 8102 and can move with it. In an embodiment, shoulder SIP device 8104a is mechanically connected to 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 buckles, can be used to connect shoulder SIP device 8104a in place. As shown, the coupling mechanism can be configured to engage a part of housing 8114. For example, a plurality of openings 8130 for receiving corresponding fasteners can be formed in housing 8114, such as at its surface facing the inside of cavity 8128. Embodiments comprising a coupling mechanism arranged at another position around the housing or alternatively or additionally arranged at the insert are also within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, embodiments in which the at least one insert 8116 is attached to housing 8114 and shoulder SIP device 8104a is attached to headrest 8102 using the same coupling mechanism are also encompassed herein. It should be appreciated that the shoulder SIP device 8104b disposed at the second headrest side member 8108 may have a similar configuration and coupling mechanism to connect the shoulder SIP device 8104b to the headrest 8102 .

[0623] Reference Figures 136A-141 , shows various examples of another shoulder SIP device. Figures 136A-136B In a non-limiting embodiment, the body 12002 of the shoulder SIP device 12000 also includes a rear wall 12004 and at least one mounting wall 12006 oriented at an angle relative to the rear wall 12004. The rear wall 12004 can have a contour that is generally complementary to a portion of the headrest. However, embodiments in which the rear wall 12004 has a different contour are also contemplated herein.

[0624] The shoulder SIP device 12000 can be positioned relative to the child seat such that the occupant is configured to contact the forward-facing surface 12008 of the rear wall 12004. Furthermore, the mounting wall 12006 can extend from the rear wall 12004 at a non-parallel angle. In an embodiment, the mounting wall 12006 extends from the forward-facing surface 12008 of the rear wall 12004, for example, near the first end 12010 of the rear wall 12004. A coupling mechanism (not shown) for coupling the shoulder SIP device 12000 to a portion of the child seat (e.g., a headrest or portion of the seat shell) can be associated with a portion of the body 12002. Similar to the previous embodiments, the coupling mechanism can include one or more fasteners, such as screws or bolts (not shown), which can be received within corresponding openings 12012 formed in the mounting wall 12006.

[0625] In some embodiments, the outwardly facing surface 12014 of the rear wall 12004 is a solid surface or a substantially solid surface. However, in other embodiments, such as Figure 136B 14. As shown, the rear wall 12004 has one or more areas of material removed from the outward-facing surface 12014, such that hollow pockets 12016 are formed at the outward-facing surface 12014. These pockets or areas of removed material 12016 may extend through only a small portion of the thickness of the rear wall 12004 as they leave the forward-facing solid surface 12008, or alternatively, may extend across substantially the entire thickness of the rear wall 12004. The resulting structural ribs 12018 formed at the rear wall 12004 provide the desired structural rigidity to the shoulder SIP device 12000. While a combination of horizontally and vertically oriented structural ribs 12018 is shown, it should be understood that embodiments comprising only horizontally oriented ribs, only vertically oriented ribs, or ribs of another orientation are also contemplated herein.

[0626] The structural ribs 12018 formed by removing areas of material may have a profile that is complementary to the profile of the body 12002. However, in some embodiments, such as Figure 137 As shown, the outermost edge 12020 of one or more structural ribs 12018, such as the edge of the horizontally oriented rib 12018 of the shoulder SIP device 12000, can have a profile that differs from the profile of the body 12002. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the edge 12020 of the one or more ribs 12018 is scalloped by forming a small notch therein. Thus, the edge 12020 of the at least one rib 12018 is at least partially offset from the periphery of the rear wall 12004 at the location, for example, in the inward direction.

[0627] Figure 138 and 139 Another example of a shoulder SIP device 12100 is shown. Figures 136A-136B In the embodiment shown, the shoulder SIP device 12100 includes a body 12102 having a rear wall 12104 and at least one mounting wall 12106 extending at an angle from a forward surface 12108 of the rear wall 12104. As an alternative or in addition to removing a region of material from the outwardly facing surface 12114 of the rear wall 12104, in the non-limiting embodiment shown, one or more regions of material can be removed from the forward surface 12108 of the rear wall 12104, thereby forming a hollow recess 12116 in the body of the shoulder SIP device 12100 (see FIG. Figure 138 ). The hollow cavity 12116 may be filled with auxiliary material 12122 (see Figure 139 In an embodiment, the hollow cavity 12116 formed in the body 12102 is filled with multiple sheets of expanded polypropylene. However, embodiments in which another suitable material is alternatively or additionally disposed within the hollow cavity 12116 are also contemplated herein.

[0628] As mentioned above, the occupant may directly contact the forward-facing surface 12008, 12108 of the rear wall 12004, 12104, or an auxiliary material, such as auxiliary material 12122, positioned within a recess 12116 formed in the forward-facing surface 12008, 12108. However, in other embodiments, an insert may be disposed at the forward-facing surface 12008, 12108 of the rear wall 12004, 12104. Figures 140A-140B , shows an example of an insert 12250 that can be positioned adjacent to the forward facing surface of a rear wall, such as the rear wall 12104 of the shoulder SIP device 12100. As shown, the front portion 12252 of the insert 12250 can comprise a continuous or solid surface. Figure 140B In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the rear portion 12254 of the insert 12250 includes one or more contoured regions 12960. However, embodiments in which the rear portion 12954 of the insert 12250 also has a substantially solid, smooth surface are also contemplated herein.

[0629] In an embodiment, the one or more undulating regions 12260 are complementary to the one or more hollow pockets 12216 formed in the forward-facing surface 12208 of the rear wall 12204. Thus, each undulating region 12260 can form a tight fit with a corresponding pocket in the body 12202. One or more grooves or recesses 12262 can be formed in the rear surface to define each undulating region. These grooves 12262 can be complementary to the structural ribs 12218 defined by the hollow pockets 12216. The thickness of each undulating region can be substantially the same, as shown. However, in other embodiments, the thickness of the undulating region 12260 can vary based on the depth of the rear wall 12204 and / or the depth of the corresponding pocket 12216 at that location. The exemplary insert 12250 is formed from expanded polypropylene; however, any suitable material is contemplated herein.

[0630] In embodiments where the insert 12250 or supplemental material 12222 is integrated into the shoulder SIP device 12200, as shown and described herein, the insert 12250 or supplemental material 12222 can be bonded or attached to the back wall 12204 using an adhesive, such as tape. However, any suitable type of connection, including both permanent and removable connections, is contemplated herein.

[0631] refer to Figure 141, shows another example of a shoulder SIP device 12300. Similar to the previous embodiment, shoulder SIP device 12300 includes a body 12302 having a rear wall 12304 and at least one mounting wall 12306 extending at an angle from a forward surface 12308 of rear wall 12304. The outward-facing surface 12310 of rear wall 12304 can be substantially solid, or alternatively, can have a plurality of recesses formed therein, as previously described. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, an auxiliary body 12320 is attached to the outward-facing surface 12310 of rear wall 12304. The auxiliary body 12320 can, but need not, extend across the entire outward-facing surface 12310. The thickness of the auxiliary body 12320 can be uniform over its length, or alternatively, can vary, for example, based on the contour of the body 12302. The auxiliary body 12320 can be formed from any suitable material. In an embodiment, the material of the auxiliary body 12320 has a greater hardness than the material of the main body 12302. However, embodiments in which the auxiliary body 12320 has the same hardness as the main body 12302 or a reduced hardness relative to the main body 12302 are also contemplated herein.

[0632] Reference Figures 152A-152B , shows an example of a shoulder SIP device 13100 that can be positioned adjacent to a head SIP device 13102. The head SIP assembly 13102 can have Figures 132A-133B As shown, the header SIP assembly 13102 includes a connector member 13104 having a central body portion 13106, a first side portion 13108 extending from a first side of the body portion 13104, and a second side portion 13110 extending from an opposite second side of the body portion 13104. A first header SIP device (not shown) can be disposed at or adjacent to the first side portion 13108 of the connector member 13104, and a second header SIP device 13112b can be disposed at or adjacent to the second side portion 13110 of the connector member 13104. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the header SIP devices 13112a, 13112b are mounted near the rear of the header SIP assembly 13102, for example, at the interface between the body portion 13106 and the respective side portions 13108, 13110 of the connector member 13104.

[0633] In an embodiment, cutouts or recesses are formed at the bottom of the head SIP assembly 11800. As shown, a first cutout 13114a can be formed directly below the first head SIP device 13112a, and a second cutout 13114b can be formed directly below the second head SIP device 13112b. When the associated child seat system is in a forward-facing configuration, such as in a booster operating mode, the cutouts 13114a, 13114b can form part of a vehicle tether belt path. Thus, the bottoms of the first and second head SIP devices can define a portion of the vehicle tether belt path.

[0634] As shown, at least one shoulder SIP device 13100a, 13100b, similar to Figure 136A and 136B As described, it is arranged adjacent to the head SIP assembly 13002. However, it should be understood that the at least one shoulder SIP device may have a Figures 70A-70B , 84A-85 and 136A-141 , the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200 and 12300 of the embodiments shown in FIG. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, when mounted to a child seat (e.g., child seat 6700 or 8100), the at least one shoulder SIP device 13100a, 13100b can move together with the headrest SIP assembly 13102 and a corresponding headrest (not shown) of the child seat.

[0635] exist Figures 152A-152B In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a first shoulder SIP device 13100a is positioned directly below a corresponding opening 13114a formed at a first side portion 13108 of a head SIP assembly 13102, and a second shoulder SIP device 13100b is positioned directly below a corresponding opening 13114b formed at a first side portion 13110 of the head SIP assembly 13102. Thus, both the head SIP assembly 13102 and the corresponding shoulder SIP devices 13100a, 13100b can define at least a portion or portions of a vehicle harness path for a child seat. For example, the head SIP assembly 13102 or its head SIP devices 13112a, 13112b can define a top or upper boundary of the vehicle harness path, and the shoulder SIP devices 13100a, 13100b can define a bottom or lower boundary of the vehicle harness path.

[0636] Any of the embodiments described herein, such as shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, 12300, and 13100a, 13100b (and further herein with respect to Figures 142A-143B Any of the described shoulder SIP devices 12402 and 12502 may additionally include a soft item positioned to form an overlapping arrangement with at least a portion of the body of the shoulder SIP device (e.g., the front of the body of the shoulder SIP device). In such embodiments, the soft item surrounding the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, 12300, 13100a, 13100b, 12402, and 12502 may form or define a portion of the vehicle tether path.

[0637] exist Figures 142A-142B In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of the child seat 12400, the child seat 12400 includes a shoulder SIP device (not shown) at least partially covered by a soft good 12402. In an embodiment, the shoulder SIP device is substantially enclosed by the soft good 12402. The soft good 12402 is separate from the other soft goods of the child seat 12400, such as the soft goods of the headrest 12404 and the soft goods 12406 of the upright portion 12408 of the child seat 12400. As shown, the soft good 12402 covers substantially the entire body of the shoulder SIP device. However, embodiments in which the soft good 12402 extends around only a portion of the body of the shoulder SIP device are also contemplated herein. The soft good 12402 may include a cushion, such as polyurethane foam, that may be positioned to overlap or be immediately adjacent to a front or forward-facing surface (e.g., surfaces 12008, 12108, 12208, 12308) of the body of the shoulder SIP device.

[0638] In other embodiments, the soft goods of the shoulder SIP devices, such as the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, and 12300, may be integrated with the soft goods of another portion of the child seat. Figures 143A-143B, a child seat 12500 is shown having at least one shoulder SIP device 12502 mounted to and movable with a headrest 12504. It should be understood that the shoulder SIP device 12502 can have any of the configurations disclosed with respect to 70A-70B, 84A-85, or 136A-141. The child seat 12500 includes a headrest soft good 12506 positionable about the inner surface of the headrest 12504 and capable of contacting the occupant's head. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the headrest soft good 12506 is elongated and has at least one recess 12508a, 12508b formed therein at a location vertically below the bottom of the headrest 12504. The at least one shoulder SIP device 12502 is insertable into the at least one pocket 12508a, 12508b such that the soft item in the pocket 12508a, 12508b substantially covers the forward facing surface 12510 of the shoulder SIP device 12502. Although the soft items 12508a, 12508b are proposed to be integral with the headrest soft item 12506, in other embodiments, the soft item corresponding to the shoulder SIP device can be integral with the soft item associated with the upright support portion of the child seat.

[0639] refer to Figures 144A-144B In some embodiments, the body of a soft item 12604, which can be positioned around a headrest 12602 of a child seat 12600, can be elongated and extend around an upright or rear portion 12608 of the child seat. For example, the headrest soft item 12604 can overlap all or at least a portion of an upright support surface (not shown) of the child seat 12600. The headrest soft item 12604 includes a headrest portion 12610, which can be positioned in an overlapping arrangement with the headrest 12602, and a rear portion 12612, which can be positioned in an overlapping arrangement with the rear portion 12608 of the child seat 12600. To allow for proper movement of one or more shoulder SIP devices 12620a, 12620b with the headrest 12602, at least one cutout, designated 12622, can be formed in one or more areas of the headrest soft item 12604. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the cutouts 12622 are formed near an upper end 12624 of the rear portion 12612 located near the headrest portion 12604. The cutouts 12622 can be sized and shaped based on the configuration of the shoulder SIP devices 12620a, 12620b that can be mounted to the headrest 12602 so that the headrest soft item 12604 does not interfere with the movement of the shoulder SIP devices 12620a, 12620b. It should be understood that these cutouts 12622 can be present regardless of whether the shoulder SIP devices are covered by a soft item and whether such a soft item is part of the headrest soft item 12604.

[0640] Reference Figures 38A-49E , various examples of SIP devices suitable for use with child seats to restrict movement of the torso or hips of an occupant of the child seat are shown. Such SIP devices may be referred to herein as "torso SIP devices," wherein these devices are typically arranged on the occupant-facing surface of the child seat at an area (the seat portion or the rear portion) of the child seat that is generally aligned with the occupant and configured to contact the occupant at any location between the occupant's torso (e.g., between the hips and the shoulders). It should be understood that the torso SIP devices shown and described herein may be integrated into a child seat as an alternative to or in combination with one or more of the head SIP devices and shoulder SIP devices previously described herein. As will be described in more detail below, the torso SIP device may be positioned adjacent to an inner surface of the seat shell, such as at an upright portion or seat portion thereof. Unless another arrangement is mentioned, any embodiment described herein that includes a torso SIP device that can be positioned at such an inner surface area should be understood to position the torso SIP device generally between the seat shell of the child seat and a soft item covering the inner surface of the seat shell. Such a torso SIP device may be attached to a seat shell or a soft item positionable thereabout.

[0641] exist Figures 38A-38C In the non-limiting embodiment shown in , the child seat 3500 includes at least one torso SIP device, and in some embodiments, multiple torso SIP devices. For example, a first torso SIP device 3502a and a second torso SIP device 3502b can be arranged at the child seat 3504 of the child seat 3500. As shown, the first torso SIP device 3502a can be arranged at a first upright side member 3510 of an upright portion 3508 of a seat shell 3506 of the child seat, and the second torso SIP device 3502b can be arranged at a corresponding second upright side member 3512. Although only the first torso SIP device 3502a and the second torso SIP device 3502b are shown and described herein, it should be understood that embodiments having more than one torso SIP device associated with the same torso area of the occupant (e.g., at the left or right side of the occupant) are also contemplated herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the first torso SIP device 3502a and the second torso SIP device 3502b are substantially identical; however, embodiments in which the first torso SIP device 3502a and the second torso SIP device 3502b are constructed differently are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0642] The first and second torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can be positioned adjacent to the bottom 3516 of the upright support surface 3514 of the upright portion 3508, e.g., upwardly adjacent to or near the interface between the upright portion 3508 and the seat portion 3509. As shown, the torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can be located between the surface of the seat shell 3506 and the soft item 3520 surrounding the seat shell 3506 (see FIG. Figure 38C In an embodiment, the first and second torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b have a height that is generally limited to the torso area of the occupant. For example, the torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can be positioned so that they do not extend beyond the occupant's hips. Alternatively, in an embodiment in which the upright side members 3510, 3512 include an opening 3522 that defines a portion of the vehicle's harness path when the child seat 3504 is installed in a forward-facing configuration, the torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can be positioned vertically below the opening 3522.

[0643] The first and second trunk SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can extend inwardly from substantially adjacent front edges 3524a, 3524b of the respective upright side members 3510, 3512 toward the passenger area. In addition, the main bodies of the trunk SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can extend upwardly along at least a portion of the upright support surface 3514. The trunk SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can span the entire width of the upright side members 3510, 3512 between the front edges 3524a, 3524b and the upright support surface 3514, or only a portion thereof. In some embodiments, the thickness of each trunk SIP device 3502a, 3502b (measured perpendicular to the respective first and second upright side members 3510, 3512) is substantially uniform throughout its height. In such embodiments, the upper surface 3526 of the torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b is flat and may have a generally horizontal orientation.

[0644] Reference Figure 39, another embodiment of a child seat 3600 is shown having at least one torso SIP device (e.g., a first torso SIP device 3602a and a second torso SIP device 3602b). Unlike previous embodiments in which the torso SIP device is located at a rear portion of the child seat, in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one of the first torso SIP device 3602a and the second torso SIP device 3602b is located at the seat portion 3604 of the child seat 3600. For example, the first torso SIP device 3602a and the second torso SIP device 3602b may be disposed at the first seat-side member 3606 and the second seat-side member 3608 of the seat portion 3604, e.g., near the rear portion 3612 of the seat support surface 3610. Although not shown, the first torso SIP device 3602a and the second torso SIP device 3602b may have a configuration including a uniform thickness, as previously described.

[0645] Alternatively, as Figure 39 As shown, the thickness of the first and second trunk SIP devices 3602a, 3602b can vary within the height of the trunk SIP devices 3602a, 3602b. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the thickness of the first and second trunk SIP devices 3602a, 3602b gradually increases from the upper surface 3614 of the trunk SIP devices 3602a, 3602b toward the seat support surface 3610. However, it should be understood that trunk SIP devices 3602a, 3602b having any suitable configuration are within the scope of the present disclosure. Examples of other suitable configurations include, but are not limited to, annular or elliptical trunk SIP devices, rectangular trunk SIP devices, curved trunk SIP devices, and polygonal trunk SIP devices.

[0646] exist Figures 40A-40B In yet another embodiment shown in , a child seat 3700 includes at least one trunk SIP device. Similar to the previous embodiment, a first trunk SIP device 3702a can be arranged at a first seat-side member 3706 of a seat portion 3704 of the child seat 3700, and a second trunk SIP device 3702b can be arranged at a second seat-side member 3708 of the seat portion 3704. As shown, the trunk SIP devices 3702a, 3702b can be located adjacent to or in proximity to a rear portion 3712 of a seat support surface 3710. However, embodiments in which the trunk SIP devices 3702a, 3702b are alternatively or additionally arranged at an upright portion 3714 of the child seat 3700 (e.g., adjacent to a first upright side member 3716 and a second upright side member 3718, respectively) are also contemplated herein.

[0647] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the trunk SIP devices 3702a, 3702b have a generally rectangular body, wherein the thickness of the body is significantly less than the height of the body. When installed around the child seat 3700, the first upper end 3720a, 3720b of each trunk SIP device 3702a, 3702b can be disposed at or immediately adjacent to the side members 3706, 3708, 3716, 3718 of the seat portion 3704 or the upright portion 3714, respectively. The second lower end 3722 of each trunk SIP device 3702a, 3702b can be laterally spaced from the first upper end 3720 toward the occupant, thereby reducing the gap between the trunk SIP devices 3702a, 3702b. In this configuration, each trunk SIP device 3702a, 3702b is disposed at a non-parallel angle relative to the adjacent side members 3706, 3708, 3716, 3718. For example, the torso SIP devices 3702a, 3702b may be arranged at an angle of about 5 degrees to about 45 degrees relative to the seat support surface 3710. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a gap or clearance 3724a, 3724b may be formed between the side members 3706, 3708, 3715, or 3718 and the body of the respective torso SIP device 3702a, 3702b.

[0648] exist Figures 38A-40B In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the first and second torso SIP devices are disclosed as separate devices that are mounted around the child seat. However, in other embodiments, the first and second torso SIP devices located at opposite sides of the child seat may be integrally formed as a single body. For example, in Figures 41A-41CIn the non-limiting embodiment shown in , a trunk SIP assembly 3802 comprising one or more trunk SIP devices can be mounted to a child seat 3800. As shown, the trunk SIP assembly 3802 includes: a first trunk SIP device 3804a, which can be positioned near the torso of an occupant in the child seat; a second trunk SIP device 3804b, which can be positioned near the torso of an occupant in the child seat 3800 at the same height or at a different height; and a connector body 3806, which connects the first torso SIP device 3804a and the second torso SIP device 3804b. In such an embodiment, the trunk SIP devices 3804a, 3804b can be formed from a first material, and the connector body 3806 can be formed from a different second material. However, embodiments in which the SIP devices 3804a, 3804b and the connector body 3806 are formed from the same material are also within the scope of the present disclosure. As shown, trunk SIP assembly 3802 can be an insert that is removably attached to child seat 3800, or alternatively, can be permanently attached to child seat 3800. In embodiments where trunk SIP assembly 3802 is detachable from child seat 3800, trunk SIP assembly 3802 can be used as an insert intended for use with an occupant of a desired size, e.g., less than 40 pounds. Thus, trunk SIP assembly 3802 can be removed as needed to make room for a larger occupant.

[0649] refer to Figures 41A-41CIn the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first and second trunk SIP devices 3804a, 3804b have generally vertically oriented occupant-facing surfaces 3810a, 3810b configured to contact an occupant. Furthermore, the trunk SIP devices 3804a, 3804b may have outwardly facing surfaces or bases 3812a, 3812b that complement the curved portions of adjacent portions of the child seat 3800 (e.g., portions of the upright side members 3820, 3822). As shown, a connector body 3806 extends between and couples the first and second trunk SIP devices 3804a, 3804b. Furthermore, a portion of the connector body 3806 may be disposed between the first and second trunk SIP devices 3804a, 3804b and a surface of the child seat (e.g., the upright side members 3820, 3822). In such embodiments, the occupant-facing surface 3814 of the connector body 3806 can complement the contours of adjacent portions of the child seat, such as the upright side members 3820, 3822, the upright support surface 3824 of the upright portion 3825 of the child seat 3800, and / or the seat side members 3826, 3828 and / or the seat support surface 3830 of the seat portion 3832 of the child seat 3800. The first torso SIP device 3804a and the second torso SIP device 3804b can be disposed within corresponding pockets formed in the connector body 3806. In embodiments, the first torso SIP device 3804a and the second torso SIP device 3804b are enclosed by the connector body 3806.

[0650] Figures 42A-42C Another embodiment of a trunk SIP assembly 3902 suitable for use with a child seat 3900 is shown. As shown, the trunk SIP assembly 3902 can be substantially similar to the trunk SIP assemblies of the previous embodiments. The trunk SIP assembly 3902 includes a plurality of first trunk SIP devices arranged at opposite sides of a connector body 3906. As shown, the connector body 3906 can include a rear portion 3908 and a first side portion 3910 and a second side portion 3912 extending from opposite sides of the rear portion 3908. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a first trunk SIP device 3904a is arranged adjacent to the first side portion 3910, and another first trunk SIP device 3904b is arranged adjacent to the second side portion 3912 of the connector body 3906. The first trunk SIP devices 3904a and 3904b can be substantially identical.

[0651] In addition, the torso SIP assembly 3902 may include at least one second torso SIP device, and in some embodiments, a plurality of second torso SIP devices. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a second torso SIP device 3914a is arranged adjacent to the first side portion 3910, and another second torso SIP device 3914b is arranged adjacent to the second side portion 3912 of the connector body 3906. The second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be positioned in the upper torso region of the child seat 3900, such as associated with the chest of the occupant, such as between the hips and shoulders. In a non-limiting embodiment, the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b are positioned adjacent to and vertically overlap the corresponding first torso SIP devices 3904a, 3904b. However, embodiments in which the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b may be offset (laterally and / or vertically) from the first torso SIP devices 3904a, 3904b are also contemplated herein.

[0652] The second trunk SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be formed from a material selected to absorb collision energy. In some embodiments, the hardness of the second trunk SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be different from the hardness of the first trunk SIP devices 3904a, 3904b. For example, the second trunk SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be softer or have a reduced hardness compared to the first trunk SIP devices 3904a, 3904b. In other embodiments, the second trunk SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be harder than the first trunk SIP devices 3904a, 3904b, or can have substantially the same hardness as the first trunk SIP devices 3904a, 3904b.

[0653] As shown, the outwardly facing surfaces of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b and / or the connector body 3906 complement the contours of the child seat 3900, such as the contours at the upright portion 3916 of the child seat 3900. For example, the first side portion 3910 can be positioned adjacent to the first upright side member 3918, and the second side portion 3912 of the connector body 3906 can be positioned adjacent to the second upright side member 3920. In some embodiments, as Figure 42AAs shown, the respective heights of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b, measured, for example, parallel to the side portions 3910, 3912 of the connector body 3906, can vary within the height of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the front or forward-facing surfaces 3922a, 3922b of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be angled between the upper ends and the center portion of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b. The angled portion of the front surface 3922 of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can position the occupant's arms toward the front of the child seat. This positioning can improve crash performance by preventing the occupant's arms from being compressed between the upright side members and the occupant's torso.

[0654] Reference Figures 43A-43B , illustrates another embodiment of a child seat 4000 of a child seat system including at least one trunk SIP device. In this embodiment, trunk SIP devices 4002a, 4002b are disposed on an occupant-facing surface of each upright side member 4006, 4008 of an upright portion 4004 of a seat shell 4005 of the child seat 4000. As shown, the trunk SIP devices 4002a, 4002b generally have planar upper surfaces 4010a, 4010b that are positioned to form armrests for the occupant of the child seat 4000. The trunk SIP devices 4002a, 4002b can be integrally formed with the seat shell 4005. As shown, a soft good 4012 can be positioned to overlap the inward-facing surface of at least a portion of the trunk SIP devices 4002a and 4002b.

[0655] Reference Figures 151A-151B , the child seat system 13000 shown includes a support base 13002 and a child seat 13004 receivable on the support base 13002. Child seat 13004 includes a seat shell 13006 that defines a seat portion 13008 and an upright portion 13010 of child seat 13000. As shown, upright portion 13010 includes an upright support surface 13012, a first upright side member 13014 extending from a first side of upright support surface 13010, and a second upright side member 13016 extending from an opposite second side of upright support surface 13010. Seat portion 13008 may also include a generally upward-facing seat support surface 13020, a first seat-side member 13022 may be disposed on the first side of seat support surface 13020, and a second seat-side member 13024 may be disposed on the opposite second side of seat support surface 13020.

[0656] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each seat side member 13022, 13024 has a slot 13026 formed therein that is configured to function as a leg strap guide during at least one mode of use of the child seat 13000. In some operating modes of the child seat 13004, the slot 13026 can be configured to receive and position a leg strap portion of a vehicle restraint or a separate restraint strap to secure a child within the child seat 13004.

[0657] The seat portion 13008 can be removably connected to both the support base 13002 and the rear portion 13010. When separated from the remainder of the child seat system 13000, the seat portion 13008 can be configured as a booster seat that can be positioned in direct contact with a vehicle seat and configured to support a child thereon.

[0658] The portion of the first side member 13022 disposed between the slot 13026 and a portion of the rear portion 13008 (e.g., the first upright support member 13014) can be contoured to form an armrest when the seat portion 13008 is separated from the child seat 13004. Similarly, the portion of the second side member 13022 disposed between the slot 13026 and a portion of the rear portion 13008 (e.g., the second upright support member 13016) can be contoured to form an armrest when the seat portion 13008 is separated from the child seat 13004. These armrest portions are identified as 13028a, 13028b, respectively.

[0659] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a first torso SIP device 13030a is permanently or removably coupled to the first armrest portion 13028a, and a second torso SIP device 13030b is permanently or removably coupled to the second armrest portion 13028b. The torso SIP devices 13030a, 13030b may comprise one or more pieces of padding or foam and may be attached to the child seat 13004 using a chemical adhesive or via a mechanical connection, including but not limited to snap connections, magnets, rivets, or hook-and-loop fasteners. Because the torso SIP devices 13030a, 13030b are disposed in the portion of the seat side members 13022, 13024 proximate to the slot 13026 formed therein, the torso SIP devices 13030a, 13030b may be considered to define the portion of the vehicle harness path that extends through the seat portion 13008 of the child seat 13004.

[0660] The torso SIP devices 13030a, 13030b are shown as being positioned at an inwardly facing surface of one of the first and second armrest portions 13028a, 13028b such that the torso SIP devices 13030a, 13030b may be proximate to and configured to contact the occupant's buttocks. However, embodiments in which the torso SIP devices 13030a, 13030b are alternatively or additionally disposed at another surface of the armrest portions 13028a, 13028b are also contemplated herein. In embodiments, as Figure 151B As shown, the soft good 13032 associated with the upright portion 13010 of the child seat 13000 can be configured to at least partially overlap the torso SIP devices 13030a, 13030b when the seat portion 13008 is connected to the child seat 13004.

[0661] In some embodiments, the trunk SIP device can be transformed between a first configuration and a second configuration. For example, the trunk SIP device can be moved between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration relative to the seat shell of the child seat. In such embodiments, the trunk SIP device can be connected to the child seat in both the retracted configuration and the extended configuration. In addition, in an embodiment, the trunk SIP device can be locked in the retracted configuration, the extended configuration, or both. It should be understood that the trunk SIP device is typically positioned between the child seat and the soft item when in the retracted configuration, and can also be arranged between the child seat and the soft item when in the extended configuration. However, embodiments in which the trunk SIP device is configured to protrude through or exceed the soft item overlapping the child seat when in the extended configuration are also encompassed herein. In addition, the trunk SIP device can be transformed between the extended and retracted configurations not only when the soft item is removed from the child seat, but also when the soft item is positioned around the child seat.

[0662] refer to Figures 44A-44D , a first torso SIP device 4102a can be associated with a first portion (e.g., first upright side member 4106) of the seat shell 4104 of the child seat 4100, and a second torso SIP device 4102b can be associated with a second portion (e.g., second upright side member 4108) of the seat shell 4104. In an embodiment, each of the first upright side member 4106 and the second upright side member 4108 has a cavity 4110a, 4110b formed therein (see FIG. Figure 44C and 44D). When in the retracted configuration, the first and second SIP devices 4102a, 4102b are positioned within respective cavities 4110 of the first and second upright side members 4106, 4108. As shown, when in the retracted configuration, the occupant-facing surfaces 4112a, 4112b of the torso SIP devices 4102a, 4102b can be substantially flush with adjacent interior surfaces of the first and second upright side members 4106, 4108, or another adjacent portion of the seat shell 4104. In the extended configuration, the first and second torso SIP devices 4102a, 4102b are removed from their cavities 4110a, 4110b and positioned adjacent to the occupant surface of the ...

Claims

1. A child seat for installation on a vehicle seat, characterized in that: The child seat comprises: Seat part; a rear portion extending from the seat portion; a headrest, the seat portion, the rear portion, and the headrest collectively defining an interior of the child seat; A combined side impact protection assembly, a side impact protection assembly or SIP, comprising at least two of: a first SIP device, the first SIP device being arranged at the headrest; a second SIP device disposed at an exterior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion; and A third SIP device is disposed at an interior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion.

2. The child seat according to claim 1, characterized in that The second SIP device is arranged at the rear portion.

3. The child seat according to claim 1, characterized in that The second SIP device is arranged at the seat portion.

4. The child seat according to claim 1, characterized in that The second SIP device is engageable with a vehicle belt strap of the vehicle seat.

5. The child seat according to claim 1, characterized in that The child seat includes an opening associated with a vehicle harness path, and the second SIP device is connected to the child seat proximate the opening.

6. The child seat according to claim 5, characterized in that The second SIP device is disposed rearwardly of the opening associated with the vehicle tether path.

7. The child seat according to claim 1, characterized in that The second SIP device is convertible between a first configuration and a second configuration relative to the child seat.

8. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein: The third SIP device is arranged at the rear portion.

9. The child seat according to claim 8, characterized in that The third SIP device is a shoulder SIP device.

10. The child seat according to claim 8, characterized in that The third SIP device is a torso SIP device.

11. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein: The third SIP device is arranged at the seat portion.

12. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein: The headrest is movable relative to the rear portion, and the third SIP device is movably coupled to the headrest.

13. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first, second, and third SIP devices is convertible between a first configuration in which the at least one of the first, second, and third SIP devices does not protrude into the interior of the child seat, and a second configuration in which the at least one of the first, second, and third SIP devices extends into the interior of the child seat.

14. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein The combined SIP assembly includes the first SIP device and the second SIP device.

15. The child seat according to claim 14, characterized in that The second SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

16. The child seat according to claim 14, characterized in that The second SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

17. The child seat according to claim 14, characterized in that The combined SIP assembly also includes the third SIP device.

18. The child seat according to claim 17, characterized in that The third SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

19. The child seat according to claim 17, wherein: The third SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

20. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein The combined SIP assembly includes the first SIP device and the third SIP device.

21. The child seat according to claim 20, characterized in that The third SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

22. The child seat according to claim 20, characterized in that The third SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

23. The child seat according to claim 20, characterized in that The combined SIP assembly also includes the second SIP device.

24. The child seat according to claim 23, characterized in that The second SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

25. The child seat according to claim 23, characterized in that The second SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

26. The child seat according to claim 1, characterized in that The combined SIP assembly includes the second SIP device and the third SIP device.

27. The child seat according to claim 26, characterized in that The second SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

28. The child seat according to claim 26, characterized in that The second SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

29. The child seat according to claim 26, characterized in that The third SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

30. The child seat according to claim 26, wherein: The third SIP device is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

31. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein: The combined SIP assembly has the first SIP device, the second SIP device disposed at the rear portion, and the third SIP device disposed at the rear portion.

32. The child seat according to claim 31, characterized in that The combined SIP assembly also includes a fourth SIP device disposed within the interior of the seat portion.

33. The child seat according to claim 1, characterized in that The first SIP device is one of a plurality of first SIP devices arranged at the headrest.

34. The child seat according to claim 33, characterized in that The plurality of first SIP devices are arranged at opposite sides of the headrest.

35. The child seat according to claim 33, characterized in that The plurality of first SIP devices are arranged at a same side of the headrest.

36. The child seat according to claim 1, characterized in that The second SIP device is one of a plurality of second SIP devices arranged at the exterior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion.

37. The child seat according to claim 36, characterized in that The plurality of second SIP devices are arranged at the exterior of the rear portion.

38. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein: The third SIP device is one of a plurality of third SIP devices arranged at the interior of at least one of the seat portion and the rear portion.

39. The child seat according to claim 38, characterized in that The plurality of third SIP devices are arranged at the inner portion of the rear portion.

40. The child seat according to claim 38, wherein The plurality of third SIP devices are arranged at the interior of the seat portion.

41. The child seat according to claim 38, characterized in that At least one of the third plurality of SIP devices is disposed at the interior of the rear portion, and at least one of the third plurality of SIP devices is disposed at the interior of the seat portion.

42. The child seat according to claim 1, wherein: The child seat is receivable on a support base, the child seat being rotatable relative to the support base between a plurality of positions.

43. A child seat system capable of being positioned on a vehicle seat, characterized in that The child seat system comprises: a child seat comprising a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion; and At least one side impact protection device, or SIP, is positionable about the rear portion, the at least one SIP device being aligned with a shoulder of an occupant of the child seat.

44. The child seat system according to claim 43, wherein: The child seat also includes a seat shell defining the seat portion and the rear portion, and the at least one SIP device is attached to the seat shell.

45. The child seat system according to claim 43, wherein: The child seat further includes a headrest, and the at least one SIP device is positioned at the interior surface of the rear portion adjacent to the headrest.

46. The child seat system according to claim 45, characterized in that The headrest is movable between a raised position and a lowered position relative to the rear portion, and the at least one SIP device is sized and positioned such that the headrest is freely movable between the raised position and the lowered position relative to the rear portion.

47. The child seat system according to claim 43, wherein: The child seat further includes a headrest, and the at least one SIP device is attached to the headrest.

48. The child seat system according to claim 47, wherein: The headrest is movable relative to the rear portion between a raised position and a lowered position, and the at least one SIP device is movable with the headrest.

49. The child seat system according to claim 47, wherein: The headrest includes a belt guide, and the at least one SIP device is positioned adjacent to the belt guide.

50. The child seat system according to claim 47, wherein: The child seat also includes a soft item disposed about the headrest, the soft item including at least one cutout disposed adjacent to the at least one SIP device.

51. The child seat system according to claim 43, wherein: The at least one SIP device has a body including a mounting surface positionable adjacent to the rear portion, an occupant-facing surface engageable by the occupant of the child seat, and side portions extending between the mounting surface and the occupant-facing surface, the side portions being contoured to facilitate movement of the occupant about the at least one SIP device.

52. The child seat system according to claim 51, wherein: Also included is a transition region between the occupant-facing surface and the side portions, the transition region being shaped to facilitate forward movement of the occupant.

53. The child seat system according to claim 52, wherein: The transition zone is circular.

54. The child seat system according to claim 52, wherein: The transition zone is inclined.

55. A child seat system capable of being positioned on a vehicle seat, characterized in that The child seat system comprises: a child seat comprising a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion, wherein the seat portion and the rear portion define an interior of the child seat; and At least one side impact protection device, or SIP, is disposed within the interior of the child seat, the at least one SIP device being configured to contact a torso of an occupant of the child seat.

56. The child seat system according to claim 55, characterized in that The child seat also includes a seat shell defining the seat portion and the rear portion, and the at least one SIP device is attached to the seat shell.

57. The child seat system according to claim 55, characterized in that The at least one SIP device is positioned about the child seat such that an upper surface of the at least one SIP device forms an armrest for the occupant of the child seat.

58. The child seat system according to claim 55, characterized in that The at least one SIP device is arranged at the seat part.

59. The child seat system according to claim 58, characterized in that The at least one SIP device defines a portion of a tether path for receiving a vehicle tether.

60. The child seat system according to claim 59, wherein: The seat portion is configured as a booster and is removably coupleable to the rear portion.

61. The child seat system according to claim 59, wherein: The at least one SIP device includes a pad positioned proximate to the buttocks of the occupant of the child seat.

62. The child seat system according to claim 55, characterized in that The at least one SIP device is arranged at the rear portion.

63. The child seat system according to claim 55, characterized in that The at least one SIP device is convertible between a first configuration and a second configuration, the at least one SIP device being coupled to the child seat in both the first configuration and the second configuration.

64. The child seat system according to claim 63, characterized in that In the first configuration, the at least one SIP device is retracted and not configured to restrict movement of the occupant within the child seat, and in the second configuration, the at least one SIP device is extended into the interior of the child seat and configured to contact the torso of the occupant.

65. The child seat system according to claim 63, characterized in that In the first configuration, the at least one SIP device is flush with an adjacent surface of the child seat, and in the second configuration, the at least one SIP device protrudes beyond the adjacent surface of the child seat into the interior.

66. The child seat system according to claim 63, characterized in that The at least one SIP device is translatable between the first configuration and the second configuration.

67. The child seat system according to claim 63, characterized in that The at least one SIP device is rotatable between the first configuration and the second configuration.

68. The child seat system according to claim 55, characterized in that The at least one SIP device has a rigid body.

69. The child seat system according to claim 55, characterized in that The at least one SIP device has a structurally modifiable body.

70. The child seat system according to claim 55, characterized in that The at least one SIP device has a wedge shape.

71. The child seat system according to claim 55, characterized in that The at least one SIP device is arranged at the seat portion at a position spaced apart from the rear portion.

72. A child seat system capable of being positioned on a vehicle seat, characterized in that The child seat system comprises: a child seat comprising a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion, and an opening formed in the child seat defining a portion of a harness path for receiving a vehicle harness; and At least one side impact protection device, or SIP, is connected to the exterior of the child seat proximate the opening.

73. The child seat system according to claim 72, characterized in that The at least one SIP device includes a guide portion operable to engage the vehicle tether, the guide portion positioned to guide the vehicle tether along the tether path.

74. The child seat system according to claim 73, characterized in that The guide portion is positioned to guide the vehicle tether toward the opening.

75. The child seat system according to claim 73, characterized in that The guide portion is a groove formed in the body of the at least one SIP device, and the vehicle tether is receivable within the groove.

76. The child seat system according to claim 73, characterized in that The guide portion includes a guide member extending from the at least one SIP device, the vehicle tether being receivable between the guide member and the at least one SIP device.

77. The child seat system according to claim 76, characterized in that The guide member is movable relative to the at least one SIP device between a first position in which the vehicle tether is freely movable relative to the guide portion and a second position in which the vehicle tether is locked within the guide portion.

78. The child seat system according to claim 72, characterized in that The at least one SIP device is movably coupled to the child seat, the at least one SIP device being movable between a first position in which the vehicle harness is free to move relative to the at least one SIP device and a second position in which the vehicle harness is locked into engagement with the at least one SIP device.

79. The child seat system according to claim 72, characterized in that The at least one SIP device is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

80. The child seat system according to claim 72, wherein: The at least one SIP device is disposed proximate an interface between the rear portion and the seat portion.

81. The child seat system according to claim 72, wherein: The rear surface of the at least one SIP device is flush with the exterior of the rear portion.

82. The child seat system according to claim 81, characterized in that The rear portion of the child seat includes a rear portion, a first upright side member disposed at a first side of the rear portion, and a second upright side member disposed at a second side of the rear portion, and a rear surface of the at least one SIP device is flush with the rear portion.

83. The child seat system according to claim 81, characterized in that The rear portion of the child seat includes a rear portion, a first upright side member arranged at a first side of the rear portion, and a second upright side member arranged at a second side of the rear portion, and the contour of the rear surface of the at least one SIP device corresponds to the contour of the rear portion at the height of the at least one SIP device.

84. The child seat system according to claim 72, wherein: At least one SIP device is configured to rotate the child seat in response to a force being applied to the at least one SIP device.

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