Child seat system

Abstract

The utility model discloses a child seat system. The child seat system used for being installed on a vehicle seat comprises a supporting base portion and a child seat capable of being connected to the supporting base portion. The child seat includes a seat body having a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. A cup holder is disposed at the child seat. The cup holder is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A cup may be received within the cup holder when the cup holder is in the extended position.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

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

[0002] Child seats are designed to protect children from injury or death during a vehicle collision. Existing child restraint systems generally include a base portion and a seat portion that is detachably mounted on the base portion. When the child seat is secured to a vehicle via lower anchors or vehicle belts, the base portion must be adjusted to the proper recline angle. Additionally, depending on the type of seat used, the seat can be positioned in a forward-facing or rear-facing orientation. SUMMARY

[0003] According to embodiments, a child seat system for mounting on a vehicle seat includes a support base and a child seat connectable to the support base. The child seat includes a seat body having a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. A cup holder is disposed at the child seat. The cup holder is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A cup is receivable within the cup holder when the cup holder is in the extended position.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the cup is receivable within the cup holder only when the cup holder is in the extended position.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the cup holder is pivotable between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the cup holder is translatable between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments a biasing mechanism is operably coupled to the cup holder. The biasing mechanism exerts a biasing force on the cup holder to bias the cup holder toward the extended position when the cup holder is in the extended position.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the biasing mechanism is not operably coupled to the cup holder when the cup holder is retracted.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the locking member is associated with the cup holder. The locking member can be selectively used to lock the cup holder in the extended position.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the locking member is transformable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, and when in the locked configuration the locking member locks the cup holder in the extended position.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the biasing mechanism exerts the biasing force on the locking member when in the locked configuration.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments an impact member is disposed between the cup holder and the child seat. The impact member is compressed by the cup holder when a force is applied to the cup holder in the direction of the child seat, and the impact member is expandable when the force is removed from the cup holder.

[0013] According to an embodiment, a child seat system for mounting on a vehicle seat includes a support base and a child seat connectable to the support base. The child seat includes a seat body having a seat portion and a back portion extending from the seat portion. A side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed external to the child seat or the support base. The SIP device is configured to permanently deform in response to application of a force to the SIP device.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is configured to collapse in response to application of the force.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device includes a body having at least one area of weakness formed therein, and the SIP device is collapsible at the at least one area of weakness.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one area of weakness is formed by a slot.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one area of weakness is formed by a slot.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one weakened region is formed by a recess.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one weakened region is formed by a recess.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device can be removably connected to the child seat.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device can be removably connected to the child seat when in the permanently deformed configuration.

[0022] According to an embodiment, a child seat has a main body including a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. A headrest is operably coupled to the rear portion. The headrest is movable relative to the rear portion between a first position overlapping the rear portion and a second position vertically offset from the rear portion. At least one side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed externally of the headrest.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the headrest includes a headrest rear portion and at least one headrest side member extending from the headrest rear portion toward a front of the headrest. The at least one SIP device is disposed at the at least one headrest side member.

[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one headrest side member includes a rim extending from a top of the headrest to a front. The at least one SIP device is positioned at least partially beneath the rim.

[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device has a complementary profile to the at least one headrest side member.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device can be removably connected to the headrest.

[0027] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is permanently affixed to the headrest.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device has a first rigidity and the headrest has a second rigidity. The first rigidity is different than the second rigidity.

[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is movable with the headrest relative to the back portion.

[0030] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is positionable in an overlapping arrangement with the back portion.

[0031] According to an embodiment, a child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat includes a support base and a child seat connectable to the support base. The child seat includes a seat body having a seat portion and a back portion extending from the seat portion. At least one side impact protection (SIP) device is arranged outside of the support base. The child seat system has a maximum width at the at least one SIP device.

[0032] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the support base includes a base seat portion and a base back portion, and the at least one SIP device is arranged at the base seat portion.

[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the support base includes a base seat portion and a base back portion, and the at least one SIP device is arranged at the base back portion.

[0034] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is removably connected to the support base.

[0035] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is permanently attached to the support base.

[0036] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is movable relative to the support base between a first position and a second position.

[0037] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is translatable between the first position and the second position.

[0038] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is rotatable between the first position and the second position.

[0039] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is separable from the support base during the transition between the first position and the second position.

[0040] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is deployed in the first position and stowed in the second position.

[0041] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is configured to contact a vehicle door in the first position.

[0042] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the at least one SIP device is deployed on a first lateral side of the support base in the first position and deployed on a second lateral side of the support base in the second position.

[0043] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the child seat has a width at a location in alignment with the at least one SIP device that is less than a width of the support base at the at least one SIP device.

[0044] According to an embodiment, a child seat system for mounting on a vehicle seat includes a child seat having a seat body including a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. A side impact protection (SIP) device is attachable to the child seat via at least two connectors.

[0045] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments a tether extends between the child seat and the SIP device. The tether forms one of the two connectors.

[0046] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device includes a body, and the body of the SIP device is directly connectable to the child seat. The connection between the body of the SIP device and the child seat is one of the two connections.

[0047] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the body of the SIP device is removably connectable to the child seat.

[0048] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is configured to permanently deform in response to a force applied to the SIP device.

[0049] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device includes a body having at least one weakened area formed therein, and the SIP device is collapsible at the at least one weakened area.

[0050] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is attachable to the child seat via both of the connections simultaneously.

[0051] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the child seat system includes a support base, and the child seat is connectable to the support base. The SIP device is attachable to at least one of the child seat and the support base via at least two connections.

[0052] According to an embodiment, a child seat system for mounting on a vehicle seat includes a child seat having a seat body including a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. A side impact protection (SIP) device is associated with the child seat. The SIP device is transformable between a first state in which the SIP device is detached from the child seat and a second state in which the SIP device is attached to the child seat.

[0053] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments in the second state the SIP device is attached to an upright portion of the child seat.

[0054] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments in the second state the SIP device is removably attached to the child seat.

[0055] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is transformable from the second state to the first state.

[0056] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is permanently attached to the child seat.

[0057] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is not transformable from the second state to the first state.

[0058] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is configured to permanently deform in response to a force applied to the SIP device.

[0059] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device includes a body having at least one area of weakness formed therein, and the SIP device is collapsible at the at least one area of weakness.

[0060] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments in the second state the SIP device is transformable between a stowed position and a deployed position.

[0061] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the child seat system includes a support base, and the child seat is connectable to the support base. In the second state the SIP device is attachable to at least one of the child seat and the support base.

[0062] According to an embodiment, a method of operating a child seat system includes providing a child seat; and mounting a side impact protection (SIP) device separate from the child seat about an exterior of the child seat.

[0063] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments mounting the SIP device about the exterior of the child seat includes locking the SIP device in position relative to the child seat.

[0064] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments locking the SIP device includes removably coupling the SIP device to the child seat.

[0065] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the installing the SIP device is performed by a user after purchasing the child seat.

[0066] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the installing the SIP device is performed by a manufacturer prior to purchasing the child seat.

[0067] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments deforming a portion of at least one of the SIP device and the child seat such that the SIP device is not separable from the child seat after installation.

[0068] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is tethered to the child seat prior to installing the SIP device.

[0069] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments a support base is provided. The child seat is connectable to the support base. Installing the SIP device includes installing the SIP device around an exterior of at least one of the child seat and the support base.

[0070] According to an embodiment, a child seat system for installation on a vehicle seat includes a child seat having a seat body including a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion. The child seat has a vehicle harness path for receiving a harness associated with the vehicle seat. A side impact protection (SIP) device is disposed at the child seat. The SIP device is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the vehicle harness path is inaccessible, and in the second position, the vehicle harness path is accessible.

[0071] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the child seat includes an opening associated with the vehicle harness path, and in the first position, the SIP device overlaps at least a portion of the opening, and in the second position, the SIP device is spaced apart from the opening.

[0072] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments in the first position, the SIP device covers the entire opening.

[0073] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is attached to the child seat proximate the opening associated with the vehicle belt path.

[0074] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the opening is arranged at the rear portion of the child seat.

[0075] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the opening is arranged at the seat portion of the child seat.

[0076] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is rotatable between the first position and the second position.

[0077] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the SIP device is translatable between the first position and the second position.

[0078] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the child seat is in a rear-facing configuration when the SIP device is in the first position and the child seat is in a forward-facing configuration when the SIP device is in the second position.

[0079] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments the child seat system includes a support base. The child seat is connectable to the support base. The SIP device is arranged at at least one of the child seat and the support base. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0080] The following description is not to be taken in a limiting sense as the generic principles and features described herein can be applied to other embodiments. Similar reference numerals in different drawings denote similar elements:

[0081] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a child restraint system according to an embodiment;

[0082] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a child seat including at least one head SIP device covered by a soft article according to an embodiment;

[0083] Figure 2B is a perspective view of a child seat including at least one head SIP device with a soft article according to an embodiment;

[0084] Figure 3Ais a front view of a headrest of a child seat comprising a plurality of head SIP devices according to an embodiment;

[0085] Figure 3B is a perspective view of a head SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 3A

[0086] Figure 4A is a perspective view of a headrest comprising a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0087] Figure 4B is a detailed perspective view of a head SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 4A

[0088] Figure 5A is a top perspective view of a headrest comprising a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0089] Figure 5B is a side perspective view of a head SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 5A

[0090] Figure 6A is a side perspective view of a headrest comprising a head SIP device and an auxiliary body of compressible material in overlapping arrangement with the head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0091] Figure 6B is a side perspective view of a head SIP device and an auxiliary body of compressible material according to an embodiment; Figure 6A

[0092] Figure 7A is a top perspective view of a headrest comprising a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0093] Figure 7B is a schematic view comprising a head SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 7A

[0094] Figure 8A is a top perspective view of a headrest comprising a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0095] Figure 8B is a schematic view comprising a head SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 8A

[0096] Figure 9A is a top perspective view of a headrest comprising a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0097] Figure 9B is a schematic view comprising a head SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 9A

[0098] ​​​​​​​Figure 10A is a front view of a child seat comprising a headrest with at least one head SIP according to an embodiment;

[0099] Figure 10B is a perspective view of a headrest of Figure 10A according to an embodiment;

[0100] Figure 10C is a side view of a head SIP device of Figure 10A according to an embodiment;

[0101] Figure 11A is a front view of a child seat comprising a headrest with at least one head SIP according to an embodiment;

[0102] Figure 11B is a perspective view of a headrest of Figure 11A according to an embodiment;

[0103] Figure 11C is a side view of a head SIP device of Figure 11A according to an embodiment;

[0104] Figure 12A is a perspective view of a headrest of a child seat with a plurality of head SIP devices arranged at regions thereof according to an embodiment;

[0105] Figure 12B is a perspective view of a headrest of Figure 12A when a rider is arranged within a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0106] Figure 13A is a perspective view of a child seat comprising a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0107] Figure 13B is a front perspective view of a headrest of Figure 13A according to an embodiment;

[0108] Figure 13C is a top view of a headrest of Figure 13A according to an embodiment;

[0109] Figure 13D is a perspective view of a head SIP assembly of Figure 13A separated from a headrest according to an embodiment;

[0110] Figure 13E is a top view of a head SIP assembly of Figure 13D according to an embodiment;

[0111] Figure 14 is a top view of a child positioned relative to a headrest of a child seat with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0112] Figure 15A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0113] Figure 15B According to the embodiments Figure 15A A frontal perspective view of the headrest;

[0114] Figure 15C According to the embodiments Figure 15A A top view of the headrest;

[0115] Figure 15D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 15A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly;

[0116] Figure 15E According to the embodiments Figure 15D Top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0117] Figure 16A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0118] Figure 16B According to the embodiments Figure 16A A frontal perspective view of the headrest;

[0119] Figure 16C According to the embodiments Figure 16A A top view of the headrest;

[0120] Figure 16D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 16A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly;

[0121] Figure 16E According to the embodiments Figure 16D Top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0122] Figure 17A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0123] Figure 17B According to the embodiments Figure 17A A frontal perspective view of the headrest;

[0124] Figure 17C According to the embodiments Figure 17A A top view of the headrest;

[0125] Figure 17D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 17A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly;

[0126] Figure 17E According to the embodiments Figure 17D Top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0127] Figure 18A This is a perspective view of a child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0128] Figure 18B According to the embodiments Figure 18A A frontal perspective view of the headrest;

[0129] Figure 18C According to the embodiments Figure 18A A top view of the headrest;

[0130] Figure 18D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 18A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly;

[0131] Figure 18E According to the embodiments Figure 18D Top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0132] Figure 19A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged to contact the same side of the occupant's head;

[0133] Figure 19B According to the embodiments Figure 19A A frontal perspective view of the headrest;

[0134] Figure 19C According to the embodiments Figure 19A A top view of the headrest;

[0135] Figure 19D It is detachable from the headrest according to the embodiment. Figure 19A A perspective view of the head SIP assembly;

[0136] Figure 19E According to the embodiments Figure 19D Top view of the head SIP assembly;

[0137] Figure 20A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest with a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the occupant's head;

[0138] Figure 20B According to the embodiments Figure 20Afront perspective view of the headrest of

[0139] Figure 20C is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 20A top view of the headrest of

[0140] Figure 20D is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 20A perspective view of the head SIP assembly of

[0141] Figure 20E is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 20D top view of the head SIP assembly of

[0142] Figure 21A is a perspective view of a child seat comprising a headrest with a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the head of an occupant according to an embodiment

[0143] Figure 21B is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 21A front perspective view of the headrest of

[0144] Figure 21C is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 21A top view of the headrest of

[0145] Figure 21D is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 21A perspective view of the head SIP assembly of

[0146] Figure 21E is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 21D top view of the head SIP assembly of

[0147] Figure 22A is a perspective view of a child seat comprising a headrest with a head SIP assembly having a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the head of an occupant according to an embodiment

[0148] Figure 22B is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 22A front perspective view of the headrest of

[0149] Figure 22C is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 22A top view of the headrest of

[0150] Figure 22D is a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 22A perspective view of the head SIP assembly of

[0151] Figure 22Eis 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 a head of an occupant; Figure 22D is a top view of a head SIP assembly of the headrest of

[0152] 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 a head of an occupant;

[0153] Figure 23B 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 a head of an occupant; Figure 23A is a front perspective view of the headrest of

[0154] Figure 23C is a top view of the headrest of Figure 23A

[0155] Figure 23D is a perspective view of a head SIP assembly of the headrest of Figure 23A

[0156] Figure 23E is a top view of a head SIP assembly of the headrest of Figure 23D

[0157] 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;

[0158] Figure 24B is a top view of the headrest of Figure 24A

[0159] 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;

[0160] Figure 24D is a top view of the headrest of Figure 24C

[0161] 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;

[0162] Figure 25B is a top view of the headrest of Figure 25A

[0163] 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;

[0164] ​​​​​​Figure 25D is a top view of a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 25C

[0165] 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 at a same side of a head of an occupant;

[0166] Figure 26B is a front perspective view of a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 26A

[0167] Figure 26C Figure 26A is a top view of a headrest according to an embodiment

[0168] Figure 26D is a perspective view of a headrest according to an embodiment in a second configuration Figure 26A

[0169] Figure 26E is a front perspective view of a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 26D

[0170] Figure 26F is a top view of a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 26D

[0171] 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 at a same side of a head of an occupant when a harness is arranged around the child seat at a first position;

[0172] Figure 27B is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment when a harness is arranged around the child seat at a second position Figure 27A

[0173] Figure 28A is a perspective view of a headrest of a child seat according to an embodiment having a head SIP device formed of a frictional material;

[0174] Figure 28B is a front view of a headrest according to an embodiment Figure 28A

[0175] 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;

[0176] Figure 29B ​​​​​​​​This is a perspective view of the headrest of a child seat according to an embodiment, the headrest having another head SIP device disposed at the front end of the headrest;

[0177] Figure 30A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including a headrest with a head SIP device in a first configuration;

[0178] Figure 30B According to the embodiments Figure 30A A top view of the child seat;

[0179] Figure 31A It is a head SIP device with a second configuration according to an embodiment. Figure 30A A perspective view of a child car seat;

[0180] Figure 31B According to the embodiments Figure 31A A top view of the child seat;

[0181] Figure 32A This is a front perspective view of the headrest of a child seat having at least one head SIP device covered by a soft material, according to an embodiment.

[0182] Figure 32B According to the embodiments Figure 32A Side perspective view of the headrest;

[0183] Figure 32C According to the embodiments Figure 32A A top view of the headrest;

[0184] Figure 33A This is a front perspective view of the rear portion of a child seat according to an embodiment, having at least one shoulder SIP device disposed on its inner surface;

[0185] Figure 33B According to the embodiments Figure 33A A side perspective view of the rear portion including at least one shoulder SIP device;

[0186] Figure 33C According to the embodiments Figure 33A A side perspective view of at least one shoulder SIP device;

[0187] Figure 34A This is a front view of the shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0188] Figure 34B According to the embodiments Figure 34A Front perspective view of the shoulder SIP device;

[0189] Figure 35A According to the embodiment, it includes a portion arranged at the rear.Figure 34A-34B A perspective view of a child seat with a shoulder SIP device;

[0190] Figure 35B According to the embodiments Figure 35A A top view of the child seat;

[0191] Figure 36A This is a front view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0192] Figure 36B According to the embodiments Figure 36A Front perspective view of the shoulder SIP device;

[0193] Figure 36C According to the embodiment, it includes a portion arranged at the rear. Figure 36A-36B A perspective view of a child seat with a shoulder SIP device;

[0194] Figure 36D According to the embodiments Figure 36C A top view of the child seat;

[0195] Figure 37A This is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment, having at least one shoulder SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the rear portion when the headrest is in the lowered position;

[0196] Figure 37B According to the embodiment, when the headrest is in the raised position Figure 37A Front view of a child seat;

[0197] Figure 38A This is a top perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the rear portion of the child seat;

[0198] Figure 38B According to the embodiments Figure 38A Front perspective view of a child seat;

[0199] Figure 38C According to the embodiments Figure 38A A side perspective view of a child seat, showing soft materials installed around the child seat;

[0200] Figure 39 This is a top perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the seat portion of the child seat;

[0201] Figure 40A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having at least one torso SIP device disposed on the inner surface of the child seat;

[0202] Figure 40B is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 40A

[0203] Figure 41A is a perspective view of a torso SIP assembly comprising a plurality of torso SIP devices according to an embodiment

[0204] Figure 41B is a perspective view of a torso SIP assembly according to an embodiment mounted around an interior surface of a child seat Figure 41A

[0205] Figure 41C is a front view of a torso SIP assembly according to an embodiment mounted around an interior surface of a child seat Figure 41A

[0206] Figure 42A is a perspective view of a torso SIP assembly comprising a plurality of torso SIP devices according to an embodiment

[0207] Figure 42B is a perspective view of a torso SIP assembly according to an embodiment mounted around an interior surface of a child seat Figure 42A

[0208] Figure 42C is a front view of a torso SIP assembly according to an embodiment mounted around an interior surface of a child seat Figure 42A

[0209] Figure 43A is a perspective view of a child seat having at least one torso SIP device arranged at an interior surface of a rear portion of the child seat in a first configuration according to an embodiment

[0210] Figure 43B is another perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 43A

[0211] is a perspective view of a child seat having at least one torso SIP device arranged at an interior surface of a rear portion of the child seat in a second configuration according to an embodiment Figure 44A

[0212] Figure 44B is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 44A

[0213] Figure 44C is a perspective view of a child seat having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment Figure 44A ​​​​​​​​

[0214] Figure 44D is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 44C

[0215] Figure 45A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device arranged at an interior surface of a rear portion of the child seat in a first configuration

[0216] Figure 45B is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 45A

[0217] Figure 45C is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration Figure 45A

[0218] Figure 45D is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 45C

[0219] Figure 46 is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration

[0220] Figure 47A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device arranged at an interior surface of the child seat in a first configuration

[0221] Figure 47B is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 47A

[0222] Figure 47C is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration Figure 47A

[0223] Figure 47D is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 47C

[0224] is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device arranged at an interior surface of the child seat in a first configuration Figure 48A

[0225] is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 48B Figure 48A ​​​​​​​​

[0226] Figure 48C a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration; Figure 48A perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0227] Figure 48D a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration; Figure 48C front view of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0228] Figure 49A perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device arranged at an interior surface of the child seat, the at least one torso SIP device being in a first configuration;

[0229] Figure 49B front view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration; Figure 49A

[0230] perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration; Figure 49C Figure 49A front view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration;

[0231] Figure 49D Figure 49C perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration;

[0232] Figure 49E perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration; Figure 49C

[0233] perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising at least one external SIP device arranged at a support base; Figure 50A

[0234] side view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration; Figure 50B Figure 50A perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising at least one external SIP device arranged at a support base;

[0235] Figure 51A side view of a child seat according to an embodiment having at least one torso SIP device in a second configuration;

[0236] Figure 51B Figure 51A perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising at least one external SIP device arranged at a support base;

[0237] Figure 52A perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising at least one external SIP device arranged at an exterior surface of the child seat;

[0238] Figure 52B perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising at least one external SIP device arranged at an exterior surface of the child seat; Figure 52A ​​​​Side view of the child seat;

[0239] Figure 53A This is a side view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the seat portion of the child seat;

[0240] Figure 53B According to the embodiments Figure 53A A perspective view of a child car seat;

[0241] Figure 54A This is a side view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of the child seat near the strap path opening;

[0242] Figure 54B According to the embodiments Figure 54A A perspective view of a child car seat;

[0243] Figure 55A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of the child seat near the strap path opening;

[0244] Figure 55B According to the embodiments Figure 55A Rear view of the child seat;

[0245] Figure 55C According to the embodiments Figure 55B Front view of a child seat;

[0246] Figure 55D According to the embodiments Figure 55A Side view of the child seat;

[0247] Figure 55E It is positioned on the vehicle seat adjacent to the door according to the embodiment. Figure 55A A top view of the child seat;

[0248] Figure 55F According to the embodiments Figure 55A Another rear perspective view of at least one external SIP device;

[0249] Figure 56A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including at least one external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of the child seat near the strap path opening;

[0250] Figure 56B According to the embodiments Figure 56A Side view of the child seat;

[0251] Figure 57 is a perspective view of an external SIP device having a slot for engaging a vehicle harness according to an embodiment;

[0252] Figure 58 is a perspective view of an external SIP device having a clamp for engaging a vehicle harness according to an embodiment;

[0253] Figure 59 is a perspective view of an external SIP device having a rotatable clamp for engaging a vehicle harness according to an embodiment;

[0254] Figure 60 is a perspective view of an external SIP device rotatable into engagement with a vehicle harness according to an embodiment;

[0255] 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;

[0256] Figure 61B is a side view of an infant car seat having at least one external SIP device disposed at an external surface of a seat portion according to an embodiment;

[0257] Figure 61C is a top perspective view of at least one external SIP device of Figure 61B according to an embodiment;

[0258] Figure 62A is a perspective view of a child including at least one external SIP device disposed at an external surface of a rear portion of a child seat, the at least one external SIP device in a first configuration, according to an embodiment;

[0259] Figure 62B is a perspective view of a child seat of Figure 62A having at least one external SIP device in a second configuration, according to an embodiment;

[0260] Figure 63A is a perspective view of a child including an external SIP device disposed at an external surface of a rear portion of a child seat, the external SIP device in a first configuration, according to an embodiment;

[0261] Figure 63B is a perspective view of a child seat of Figure 63A having an external SIP device in a second configuration, according to an embodiment;

[0262] Figure 63C is a perspective view of a child seat of Figure 63AA perspective view of a child car seat;

[0263] Figure 64A This is a perspective view of a child according to an embodiment, the child including an external SIP device disposed on the outer surface of the rear portion of a child seat, the external SIP device being in a first configuration;

[0264] Figure 64B It is an external SIP device with a second configuration according to an embodiment. Figure 64A A perspective view of a child car seat;

[0265] Figure 64C It is an external SIP device with a third configuration according to an embodiment. Figure 64A A perspective view of a child car seat;

[0266] Figure 65A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including at least one SIP device and an actuation mechanism operatively coupled to said at least one SIP device;

[0267] Figure 65B It is in the unactuated configuration according to the embodiment. Figure 65A A perspective view of the actuation mechanism and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a first configuration;

[0268] Figure 65C According to the embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is actuated and at least one SIP device is in the second configuration Figure 65A Front perspective view of a child seat;

[0269] Figure 65D This is a perspective view of an actuation mechanism in an actuation configuration and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a second configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0270] Figure 66A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, including at least one SIP device and an actuation mechanism operatively coupled to said at least one SIP device;

[0271] Figure 66B It is in the unactuated configuration according to the embodiment. Figure 66A A perspective view of the actuation mechanism and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a first configuration;

[0272] Figure 66C According to the embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is not actuated and at least one SIP device is in the first configuration Figure 66A Another front view of the child seat;

[0273] Figure 66D This is a side view of an actuation mechanism in an unactuated configuration and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a first configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0274] Figure 66E According to the embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is in the actuation configuration and at least one SIP device is in the second configuration... Figure 66A Front perspective view of a child seat;

[0275] Figure 66F It is in the actuation structure according to the embodiment. Figure 66E A perspective view of the actuation mechanism and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a second configuration;

[0276] Figure 66G According to the embodiment, when the actuation mechanism is actuated and at least one SIP device is in the second configuration Figure 66E Another front view of the child seat;

[0277] Figure 66H This is a side view of an actuation mechanism in an actuation configuration according to an embodiment and at least one SIP device operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism in a second configuration.

[0278] Figure 67A This is a front view of a child seat according to an embodiment, having at least one SIP device that can switch between a first configuration and a second configuration in response to movement of the headrest.

[0279] Figure 67B According to the embodiments Figure 67A Rear view of the child seat;

[0280] Figure 67C It is in the unacted position according to the embodiment. Figure 67A A detailed perspective view of the actuation mechanism of the child seat and at least one SIP device in the first configuration;

[0281] Figure 67D It is in the unacted position according to the embodiment. Figure 67A A detailed front view of the actuation mechanism of the child seat and at least one SIP device in the first configuration;

[0282] Figure 67E According to the embodiment, it has at least one SIP device in a second configuration and an actuation mechanism in an actuation configuration. Figure 67A Front view of a child seat;

[0283] Figure 67F According to the embodiments Figure 67E Rear view of the child seat;

[0284] Figure 67G It is in the actuation structure according to the embodiment. Figure 67E Detailed perspective view of the actuation mechanism of the child seat and at least one SIP device in the second configuration;

[0285] Figure 67H It is in the actuation structure according to the embodiment. Figure 67E A detailed front view of the actuation mechanism of the child seat and at least one SIP device in the second configuration;

[0286] Figure 68A This is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat including a headrest in a first configuration, the headrest having a head SIP assembly including a plurality of head SIP devices arranged on the same side of the occupant's head;

[0287] Figure 68B According to the embodiments Figure 68A A frontal perspective view of the headrest;

[0288] Figure 68C According to the embodiments Figure 68A A top view of the headrest;

[0289] Figure 68D It is in the second construction according to the embodiment. Figure 68A A perspective view of the headrest;

[0290] Figure 68E According to the embodiments Figure 26D A frontal perspective view of the headrest;

[0291] Figure 68F According to the embodiments Figure 68D A top view of the headrest;

[0292] Figure 69A This is a side view of a headrest having at least one head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0293] Figure 69B According to the embodiments Figure 69A Rear view of the headrest;

[0294] Figure 70A This is a front perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment, the child seat having a headrest in a lowered position and at least one shoulder device operatively connected to the headrest;

[0295] Figure 70B According to the embodiment, when the headrest is in the raised position Figure 70A Front view of a child seat;

[0296] Figure 71 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a head SIP device and a shoulder SIP device;

[0297] Figure 72 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a head SIP device and a torso SIP device;

[0298] Figure 73 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a head SIP device and an outer SIP device;

[0299] Figure 74 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a shoulder SIP device and a torso SIP device;

[0300] Figure 75 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a shoulder SIP device and an outer SIP device;

[0301] Figure 76 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a torso SIP device and an outer SIP device;

[0302] Figure 77 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a head SIP device, a shoulder SIP device and a torso SIP device;

[0303] Figure 78 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a head SIP device, a shoulder SIP device and an outer SIP device;

[0304] Figure 79 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a head SIP device, a torso SIP device and an outer SIP device;

[0305] Figure 80 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a shoulder SIP device, a torso SIP device and an outer SIP device;

[0306] Figure 81 is a schematic view of a child seat system having a combined SIP assembly comprising a head SIP device, a shoulder SIP device, a torso SIP device and an outer SIP device;

[0307] Figure 82A is a top view of a child positioned relative to a headrest of a child seat having a plurality of head SIP devices according to an embodiment;

[0308] Figure 82B is a top view of a child positioned relative to a headrest of Figure 82A

[0309] Figure 83 is a perspective view of a head SIP device transformable between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration according to another embodiment;

[0310] 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;

[0311] 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;

[0312] Figure 85 is an exploded perspective view of a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 84A-84B

[0313] Figure 86A-86D are views of a torso SIP device in various configurations according to an embodiment;

[0314] Figure 86E is a side view of a torso SIP device in a first configuration;

[0315] Figure 86F is a side view of a torso SIP device in a second configuration;

[0316] Figure 87A is a perspective view of a child seat having a torso SIP assembly held in place around the child seat by a connection assembly according to an embodiment;

[0317] Figure 87B is a detailed perspective view of a torso SIP assembly when a connection assembly of Figure 87A is in a first position according to an embodiment;

[0318] Figure 87C is a detailed perspective view of a torso SIP assembly when a connection assembly of Figure 87A is in a second position according to an embodiment;

[0319] Figure 88A is a rear view of a torso SIP assembly when a connection assembly is in a first position according to an embodiment;

[0320] Figure 88B is a rear view of a torso SIP assembly when a connection assembly of Figure 88A ​​rear view of the torso SIP assembly with the connection assembly in the second position;

[0321] Figure 88C side perspective view of the torso SIP assembly when the connection assembly is in the first position according to an embodiment;

[0322] Figure 88D perspective view of the torso SIP assembly when Figure 88C side view of the torso SIP assembly with the connection assembly in the second position;

[0323] Figure 89A perspective view of a child seat with a torso SIP assembly and corresponding control device associated with the torso SIP device of the torso SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0324] Figure 89B detailed perspective view of the control device according to an embodiment;

[0325] Figure 89C perspective view of the torso SIP device of the torso SIP assembly when the control device is in the first position according to an embodiment; Figure 89A perspective view of the torso SIP device of the torso SIP assembly when the control device is in the first position according to an embodiment;

[0326] Figure 89D perspective view of the torso SIP device of the torso SIP assembly when the control device is in the first position according to an embodiment; Figure 89A perspective view of the torso SIP device of the torso SIP assembly when the control device is in the first position according to an embodiment;

[0327] Figure 90A perspective view of a child seat comprising an external SIP device in a first position according to an embodiment;

[0328] Figure 90B perspective view of a child seat comprising an external SIP device in a second position according to an embodiment;

[0329] Figure 91 detailed perspective view of the external SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 90A-90B front perspective view of the external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0330] Figure 92A rear perspective view of the external SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 91 rear perspective view of the external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0331] Figure 92B side view of the view of the external SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 92A side view of the view of the external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0332] Figure 93 perspective view of the external SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 92A perspective view of the external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0333] Figure 94is a side view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment Figure 93 is an exploded side view of an external SIP device

[0334] Figure 95 is a side view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment Figure 94 is a cross-sectional exploded view of an external SIP device

[0335] Figure 96A is a side view of an external SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment

[0336] Figure 96B is a side view of an external SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment Figure 96A

[0337] Figure 97A and 97B is a perspective view of a child seat system comprising an engagement member associated with an external SIP device according to an embodiment

[0338] Figure 98A is a perspective view of a child seat system in a rear-facing configuration and comprising an engagement member associated with an external SIP device according to an embodiment

[0339] Figure 98B is a perspective view of a child seat system in a forward-facing configuration and comprising an engagement member associated with an external SIP device according to an embodiment Figure 98A

[0340] Figure 99 is a perspective view of a child seat system having an external SIP device arranged at a support base according to an embodiment

[0341] Figure 100 is a perspective view of a child seat system having a movable external SIP device arranged at a support base according to another embodiment

[0342] Figure 101 is a perspective view of a child seat system having a movable external SIP device arranged at a support base according to an embodiment

[0343] Figure 102A and 102B is a perspective view of a child seat system having a movable external SIP device arranged at a support base according to yet another embodiment

[0344] Figure 103 is a perspective view of a child seat system having a translatable external SIP device arranged at a support base according to another embodiment

[0345] Figure 104 ​​is a perspective view of a child seat system having a pivotable external SIP device arranged at a support base according to another embodiment;

[0346] Figure 105 is a perspective view of a child seat system having a telescoping external SIP device arranged at a support base according to another embodiment;

[0347] Figure 106A and 106B is a perspective view of a support base having an external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0348] Figure 107A and 107B is various views of a child seat system containing an actuation mechanism for automatically transforming a SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0349] Figure 108A is a plan view of a child seat system having a SIP device when the child seat is in a forward-facing configuration according to an embodiment;

[0350] Figure 108B is a plan view of a child seat system having a SIP device when the child seat is rotated between a rear-facing configuration and a forward-facing configuration according to an embodiment;

[0351] Figure 109A is an exploded perspective view of a child seat system in a forward-facing configuration 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 according to an embodiment;

[0352] Figure 109B is a plan view of a child seat system of Figure 109A according to an embodiment;

[0353] Figure 110A is an exploded perspective view of a child seat system of Figure 109A when the child seat is rotated away from a forward-facing configuration according to an embodiment;

[0354] Figure 110B is a plan view of a child seat system of Figure 110A according to an embodiment;

[0355] Figure 111 is a front view of a control feature of an actuator for moving a support base according to an embodiment;

[0356] Figure 112 is a side view of a child seat system containing a child seat having at least one external SIP device at a seat portion according to an embodiment;

[0357] Figure 113Ais a schematic view of a cup holder of a child seat according to an embodiment in an extended configuration;

[0358] Figure 113B is a schematic view of a cup holder of a child seat according to an embodiment in an extended configuration;

[0359] Figure 113C is a schematic view of a cup holder of a child seat according to an embodiment during a crash event;

[0360] Figure 114A is a schematic view of a cup holder of a child seat according to an embodiment in an extended configuration;

[0361] Figure 114B is a schematic view of a cup holder of a child seat according to an embodiment in an extended configuration;

[0362] Figure 114C is a schematic view of a cup holder of a child seat according to an embodiment during a crash event;

[0363] Figure 115 is a view of a child seat system comprising a child seat having at least one external SIP device at a seat portion according to an embodiment;

[0364] Figure 116A is a perspective view of an infant car seat having at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0365] Figure 116B is another perspective view of an infant car seat having at least one external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0366] Figure 116C is another perspective view of an infant car seat having at least one external SIP device and having a handle in a rear position according to an embodiment;

[0367] Figure 116D is another perspective view of an infant car seat having at least one external SIP device and having a handle in a rear position according to an embodiment;

[0368] Figure 117A is a perspective view of a child seat comprising a SIP device in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0369] Figure 117B is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment; Figure 117A

[0370] Figure 118A is a perspective view of a child seat comprising a SIP device in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0371] ​Figure 118B is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 118A

[0372] Figure 119A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a first configuration

[0373] Figure 119B is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 119A

[0374] Figure 120A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a second configuration

[0375] Figure 120B is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment Figure 120A

[0376] Figure 121A is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a first configuration

[0377] Figure 121B is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a second configuration

[0378] Figure 122A is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a first configuration

[0379] Figure 122B is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a second configuration

[0380] Figure 123A is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a first configuration

[0381] Figure 123B is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a second configuration

[0382] Figure 124A is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a first configuration

[0383] Figure 124B is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a second configuration

[0384] Figure 125A is a plan view of a child seat according to an embodiment comprising a SIP device in a first configuration

[0385] Figure 125B ​​​is a perspective view of a SIP device according to an embodiment in a first configuration;

[0386] Figure 125C is a perspective view of a SIP device according to an embodiment in a second configuration;

[0387] Figure 126A-126C is a perspective view of a child seat system with deformable SIP devices at various positions according to an embodiment;

[0388] Figure 127A is a side perspective view of a child seat system containing foldable SIP devices in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0389] Figure 127B is a rear perspective view of a child seat system containing foldable SIP devices in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0390] Figure 127C is a rear perspective view of a child seat system containing foldable SIP devices in a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0391] Figure 128A is a plan view of a child seat system containing foldable SIP devices in a first configuration according to an embodiment;

[0392] Figure 128B is a more detailed perspective view of a portion of a SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0393] Figure 129 is a plan view of a child seat system containing a SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0394] Figure 130 is a perspective view of a child seat system containing a SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0395] Figure 131A-131C is various perspective views of a child seat system containing an outer SIP device configured as a leg and movable between a first configuration and a second configuration according to an embodiment;

[0396] Figure 132A-132C are various views of a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment;

[0397] Figure 133A-133C are various views of a head SIP assembly according to an embodiment attached to a headrest housing of Figure 132A-132C

[0398] Figure 134A-134C are various views of a headrest containing at least one head SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0399] ​Figure 134D and 134E is a cross-sectional view of the headrest according to an embodiment, taken along the line H-H; Figure 134C

[0400] Figure 135A-135C are various views of a headrest comprising at least one head SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0401] Figures 136A-136B are a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0402] Figure 137 is a rear perspective view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0403] Figure 138 is a front view of a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0404] Figure 139 is a front view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0405] Figure 140A is a front perspective view of an insert associated with a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0406] Figure 140B is a rear perspective view of an insert of Figure 140A according to an embodiment;

[0407] Figure 141 is a front perspective view of a shoulder SIP device according to another embodiment;

[0408] Figure 142A and 142B are various perspective views of a shoulder SIP device surrounded by a soft item according to an embodiment;

[0409] Figure 143A and 143B are various perspective views of a headrest soft item having an integrated soft item associated with a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0410] Figure 144A is a front view of a headrest soft item having a cutout for accommodating a shoulder SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0411] Figure 144B is a front view of a child seat on which is mounted Figure 144A a headrest soft item according to an embodiment;

[0412] Figures 145A-145E are various views of a child seat system having at least one external SIP device in a forward, rearward and intermediate configuration according to an embodiment; ​

[0413] Figure 146A is a perspective view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0414] Figure 146B is a perspective view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 146A is a front view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0415] Figure 146C is a side view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 146A

[0416] Figure 147A and 147B are various perspective views of an external SIP device mounted to a child seat according to an embodiment; Figures 146A-146C

[0417] Figure 148A is a perspective view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0418] Figure 148B is a rear view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 148A

[0419] Figure 148C is a plan view of an external SIP device according to an embodiment; Figure 148A

[0420] Figure 149A is a perspective view of a bracket opening a harness path around a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0421] Figure 149B is a perspective view of a bracket of an external SIP device operably coupled to Figures 148A-148C according to an embodiment; Figure 149A

[0422] Figure 150 is a perspective view of an interface between an external SIP device and a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0423] 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

[0424] Figure 151B is a detailed view of a torso SIP device and surrounding soft goods of Figure 151A according to an embodiment;

[0425] Figures 152A-152B are various views of a shoulder SIP device relative to a headrest arrangement containing a head SIP device according to an embodiment;

[0426] Figure 153 ​​​​​is a perspective view of a child seat system having at least one external SIP device according to embodiments.

[0427] Figure 154A is a front view of a child seat system including a retractable SIP device tethered to a child seat according to embodiments; and

[0428] Figure 154B is a perspective view of a child seat system according to embodiments. Figure 154A is a perspective view of a child seat system including a retractable SIP device tethered to a child seat according to embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0429] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method is provided herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, by way of example only, which will be described in the detailed description of the figures, an embodiment of the child seat system 20 according to embodiments is shown. The child seat system 20 can be detachably secured to a vehicle seat (see

[0430] Reference is now made to Figure 1 , an example of a child seat system 20 according to embodiments is shown. The child seat system 20 can be detachably secured to a vehicle seat (see Figure 55E ) via a latch or anchoring mechanism (not shown). Such latch or anchoring systems that are often used are sometimes referred to as "lower anchors and tethers for children," such as the LATCH system. Alternatively or additionally, the child seat system 20 can be detachably secured to a vehicle seat via vehicle seat belts (not shown) associated with the vehicle seat.

[0431] 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 embodiments, the seat shell 24 is detachably 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 affixed together. As used herein, the term "permanently connected" refers to embodiments in which the seat shell 24 is not intended to be detached by a user from the support base 22 and can have a unitary or inseparable construction.

[0432] The seat shell 24 can include a seat portion 26 and a backrest or upright portion 28 disposed at an angle relative to the seat portion 26. The seat portion 26 and the upright portion 28 can be detachably coupled, or alternatively, can 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 aspect, the upright portion 28 can be rotatably connected to the seat portion 26 such that the upright portion 28 can be tilted and reclined relative to the seat portion 26.

[0433] As shown, the upright portion 28 of the seat shell 24 includes an upright support surface 30 that generally faces forward and extends from a first or top end 32 to a second or bottom end 34 of the upright portion 28. 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 and second upright side members 36, 40 form left and right sides, respectively, of the upright portion 28. As shown, the first and second upright side members 36, 40 extend forward from the upright support surface 30. The first and second upright side members 36, 40 can extend generally perpendicular to the upright support surface 30, or alternatively, can extend at another angle from the upright support surface, e.g., an angle greater than 90° (thus, the respective angle is, e.g., at least 90°). Thus, the upright support surface 30, as well as the first and second upright side members 36, 40, define a backrest region or upright support cavity within which an upper body of a child is received.

[0434] In embodiments in which the child seat is a toddler seat, the upright side members 36, 40 can facilitate proper positioning of vehicle belts 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 openings 44 can be configured to receive vehicle seat belts (not shown) to secure the child seat system 20 in a forward high back configuration to a vehicle seat.

[0435] 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, allowing for adjustment based on the size of a child positioned within the child seat system 20.

[0436] The seat portion 26 includes a seat support surface 50 that generally faces upward and extends from a first or front end 52 to a second or rear end 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, respectively, of the seat portion 26. The seat support surface 50, as well as the first and second seat side members 56, 60, in combination, define a region within which at least a portion of a lower body of a child is receivable.

[0437] As shown, the seat side members 56, 60 extend from the seat support surface 50 at an angle. 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 need not be. 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 need not be. In embodiments, the first upright side member 36 and the first seat side member 56 are integrally formed with one another and with the seat shell 24, and the second upright side member 40 and the second seat side member 60 are integrally formed with one another and with the seat shell 24.

[0438] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each seat side member 56, 60 has a slot 66 formed therein that is configured to act as a leg belt guide during at least one mode of use of the child seat 23. The slot 66 can be configured to receive and position a leg belt portion of a vehicle restraint or a separate restraint harness to attach the child seat system 20 to the vehicle seat 10 when the child seat 23 is in a forward-facing high-back configuration as shown in FIG. 1. Figure 1 In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each seat side member 56, 60 has a slot 66 formed therein that is configured to act as a leg belt guide during at least one mode of use of the child seat 23. The slot 66 can be configured to receive and position a leg belt portion of a vehicle restraint or a separate restraint harness to attach the child seat system 20 to the vehicle seat 10 when the child seat 23 is in a forward-facing high-back configuration as shown in FIG. 1.

[0439] When the child seat 23 is coupled to the support base 22, the child seat 23 can be movable relative to the support base 22. In embodiments, the child seat 23 can be rotatable relative to the support base 22 between multiple configurations. For example, the child seat 23 can be rotatable between a first rotational configuration (e.g., a configuration in which the child seat 23 is in a forward-facing position) and a second rotational configuration (e.g., a configuration in which the child seat 23 is in a rear-facing position). However, it should be appreciated that embodiments in which the child seat 23 is positionable 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. Additionally, embodiments in which the child seat 23 is not rotatable relative to the support base 22 are also contemplated herein.

[0440] Alternatively or additionally, the child seat 23 can be movable relative to the support base 22 to adjust the recline of the child seat 23. The child seat 23 can be movable along a recline path between a first position (e.g., an upright position) and a second position (e.g., a reclined position). However, it should be appreciated that both the first position and the second position can be positions of a reclined arrangement that have different degrees of recline. 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 recline of the child seat 23 is not adjustable relative to the support base 22, are also contemplated herein. It should be appreciated that reference herein to the child seat 23 being movable relative to the support base 22 includes reference to the child seat 23 being movable relative to the support base 22 in any of the manners described herein. Figure 1The child seat system 20 shown and described is intended only as an example, and child seat systems 20 having other configurations are 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 use by a child less than 2 years old, less than or equal to 35 inches in height, and / or less than or equal to 40 pounds in weight.

[0441] A child seat system, such as the child seat system 20, can include at least one side impact protection device. The at least one side impact protection (SIP) device can be removably connected to the child seat system 20, for example, via double-sided tape, adhesive, or mechanical fasteners. Alternatively, the at least one SIP device can be permanently connected thereto or integral therewith, such that the structure of the child seat system 20 (e.g., the seat shell 24 of the child seat 23) and the SIP device(s) form a single unitary component. As will be described in greater detail below, the SIP device(s) can be mounted at various locations around the support base 22 and / or the child seat 23. For example, the SIP device can be located at, for example, the upright portion 28, the seat portion 26, or the headrest 46 of the child seat 23. Additionally, such SIP devices can be disposed at interior or exterior surfaces of the child seat 23.

[0442] The SIP device associated with a child seat system (e.g., the child seat system 20) can be formed of a material having a hardness less than that of the seat shell 24 or the support base 22. The use of a material having a reduced hardness can facilitate the absorption of energy applied to the child seat system 20 during an unexpected event, such as a side impact. In some embodiments, the material of the SIP device of the child seat system 20 also has a hardness greater than that of the soft goods mounted around the seat shell 24 and / or the headrest 46 to provide additional energy absorption beyond that of the soft goods. In embodiments, the SIP device can be configured to have sacrificial features configured to break or deform during a crash to help absorb energy. In some embodiments, the SIP device or portions thereof can be formed of a foam material, such as expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polystyrene (EPS), and / or expanded polyolefin (EPO) at example densities such as 30 g / l, 45 g / l, and 50 g / l. Various other materials and their specifications are contemplated. It should be understood that any of these materials or another material having a reduced hardness relative to the seat shell of the child seat can be used in any of the example embodiments of the SIP device described herein.

[0443] With continued reference to Figure 1In embodiments, child seat system 20 includes one or more SIP devices 70a, 70b that can be used to restrain or control the movement of an occupant's head of child seat system 20 during a side impact. Such head SIP devices 70a, 70b can be disposed at an area of child seat 23 that surrounds or is adjacent to an occupant's head. In embodiments, at least one head SIP device 70a, 70b is associated with a headrest 46 of child seat 23, and in some embodiments is mounted to the headrest. As discussed further below, in some embodiments, child seat system 20 can include one or more additional SIP devices, such as shoulder SIP devices 72a, 72b, an outer SIP device 74, and / or a torso SIP device (not shown).

[0444] It should be appreciated that the construction of a head SIP device (e.g., head SIP device 70) and its positioning relative to child seat 23 can vary based on the orientation of child seat 23 (e.g., relative to a vehicle or direction of travel). A headrest generally includes a rigid body or structure with a soft item (such as padding, cushioning, fabric, etc.) positioned about one or more surfaces of the rigid body (e.g., surfaces of the rigid body that an occupant's head of a child seat can contact). As will be described in greater detail below, a head SIP device can be positioned adjacent to an inner surface of a headrest within a head receiving area of the headrest. Unless another arrangement is indicated, any embodiments described herein that include a head SIP device that can be positioned at such an inner surface area should be understood to generally position the head SIP device between a structural body or housing of the headrest (e.g., a relatively rigid portion of the headrest) and a soft item covering the headrest. Such a head SIP device can be attached to the structural body of the headrest or the soft item that can be positioned about it.

[0445] Referring now to Figure 2A and 2B , a headrest 102 of a child seat 100 is shown that is similar to headrest 46 of child seat 23. Headrest 102 includes a headrest rear portion 104 having a headrest support surface 106 that is oriented, for example, generally parallel to an upright support surface (not shown) of an upright portion 110 of child seat 100. Additionally, headrest 102 includes at least one headrest side member. For example, a first headrest side member 112 can extend from a first side 114 of headrest rear portion 104, and a second headrest side member 116 can extend in an opposite direction from a second side 118 of headrest rear portion 104.

[0446] The first and second headrest side members 112, 116 include inward facing surfaces 120, 122. In combination with the headrest support surface 106 of the headrest rear portion 104, the inward facing surfaces 120, 122 form an inner surface of the headrest 102 and bound a head receiving area 124 (see Figure 2B ). The headrest support surface 106 can form a rear portion of the inner surface, while the inward facing surfaces 120, 122 of the headrest side members 112, 116 can form first and second headrest side portions of the inner surface. In embodiments, the headrest support surface 106 bounds a rear portion of the head receiving area 124. The inward 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, e.g., disposed at the ends of the first and second headrest side members 112, 116, can bound a front portion of the head receiving area 124. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the headrest rear portion 104, the first headrest side member 112, and the second headrest side member 116 as described herein can refer to portions of a rigid body or structure of the headrest 102. Accordingly, a soft good can be positioned in overlapping arrangement with the corresponding headrest support surface 106 and the inward facing surfaces 120, 122 of the headrest side members 112, 116 facing the rigid body of the head receiving area 124.

[0447] When a rider is seated within the child seat 100, the rider's head is disposed within the head receiving area 124 between the inward facing surfaces 120, 122 of the headrest side members 112, 116, and a rear portion of the rider's head is typically disposed proximate to or in contact with the headrest support surface 106. It will be appreciated that the headrest embodiments illustrated throughout the drawings herein can all include similar headrest rear portions and headrest side members as described above with respect to the headrest rear portion 104 and the headrest side portions 112, 116, respectively. These headrests as illustrated throughout the drawings can also include similar head receiving areas as described above with respect to the head receiving area 124.

[0448] The headrest 102 can have at least one side impact protection portion arranged at any suitable location about the headrest 102. In embodiments, a head side impact protection (SIP) portion is located within the head receiving region 124 of the headrest 102, for example between its rear and front portions. Embodiments including multiple side impact protection portions are also contemplated herein. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a first head SIP portion 130a is positioned proximate the first headrest side member 112, and a second head SIP portion 130b is arranged proximate the second headrest side member 116, on opposite sides of the headrest 102. The head SIP portions 130a, 130b of the headrest 102 can include protrusions arranged generally at the interior surface of the headrest 102 that extend inwardly toward the head receiving region 124. As will be described in greater detail below, a head SIP portion (e.g., the head SIP portions 130a, 130b) can include one or more head SIP devices, and in some embodiments, one of the head SIP devices can form the protrusion extending from the interior surface.

[0449] The at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b can be arranged at any suitable location about the headrest. In embodiments, a first head SIP device 132a is arranged at or proximate a first side portion (e.g., the first headrest side member 112) of the interior surface of the headrest 102, and a second head SIP device 132b is arranged at or proximate a second side portion (e.g., the second headrest side member 116) of the interior surface of the headrest 102. It will be appreciated that the functionality of the head SIP devices 132a, 132b and any additional head SIP devices described herein can depend not only on the location 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 configuration of the first head SIP device 132a and the second head SIP device 132b can, but need not, be substantially identical. Further, 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. The at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b can be permanently or removably attached to the headrest 102, for example to a portion of the interior surface of the headrest 102.

[0450] In embodiments, as Figure 2BAs shown, the 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 article configured to overlap the rigid body. In such embodiments, the at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b can be integrally formed 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 article that is connectable to the rigid body. In other embodiments, the at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b can be mounted on an exterior surface of a soft article such that the at least one head SIP device 132a, 132b is positionable in direct contact with a head of an occupant. It will be appreciated that any other SIP device disclosed herein (e.g., with reference to FIGS. 3-33B, 68A-69B, 82A-83, 117A-118B, 122A-124B, 129, and 132A-134D) can be arranged at any location about a headrest as described herein.

[0451] In Figures 3A-23E Examples of various head SIP devices, such as positionable within a head SIP portion of a headrest, such as similar to head SIP portions 130a, 130b, are shown in FIGS. 3-33B, 68A-69B, 82A-83, 117A-118B, 122A-124B, 129, and 132A-134D, and will be described in greater detail below. The head SIP devices can extend to cover an entire height of the headrest, or alternatively, to cover only a portion of the height of the headrest. In embodiments, the head SIP devices have a height, measured along a vertical axis, of at least 2 inches, and in some embodiments, 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.

[0452] Reference is now made to Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe illustrated headrest 200 includes a first head SIP portion 201a that includes a first head SIP device arranged at a first portion of an inner surface of the headrest 200, such as at the inward facing surface 212 of the first headrest side member 204. In addition, a second head SIP portion 201b can include a second head SIP device 202b that is mounted to a second portion of the headrest 200 and positioned in overlapping arrangement with the second portion of the headrest, such as the inward facing surface 214 of the second headrest side member 206. However, embodiments are also contemplated herein in which at least one of the head SIP devices 202a, 202b is arranged at another portion of the headrest 200, such as, for example, the rear portion 208. The at least one head SIP device 202a, 202b can have a base 210a, 210b that can be mounted to the inward facing surface 212, 214 of the first headrest side member 204 and / or the second headrest side member 206, respectively. The at least one head SIP device 202a, 202b can alternatively or additionally have an inward facing surface 216a, 216b that faces toward the interior of the headrest 200. The base surface 210a, 210b can, but need not, have a profile that is complementary to one or more corresponding surfaces of the headrest 200. In addition, in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the profile of the outer perimeter of the at least one head SIP device 202a, 202b can be different than the corresponding portion of the headrest 200 at which the head SIP device 202a, 202b is mounted. For example, as illustrated, the head SIP devices 202a, 202b can be generally rounded (square with rounded corners) in shape, or can be rectangular or rectangular with rounded corners.

[0453] In other embodiments, for example Figure 4A and Figure 4BAs shown in the headrest 300, the head SIP portion 301 of the headrest 300 may include a head SIP device 302 having a profile complementary to that of an adjacent portion of the headrest 300. As previously described, the headrest 300 may include a rear portion 304, a first headrest side member 306, and a second headrest side member 308. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 302 is positioned adjacent to the inner surface 310 of the second headrest side member 308. Therefore, the profile of the outer periphery of the head SIP device 302 may be similar to that of the inner surface 310 of the headrest side member 308, for example, equal in size and / or shape. In such an embodiment, the head SIP device 302 may be arranged substantially centrally around the headrest side member 308 and may be sized to cover or overlap with a large portion of the surface 310 of the headrest side member 308 extending between the lateral edge of the headrest support surface 312 at the rear portion 304 of the headrest 300 and the front end 314 of the headrest side member 308. In such embodiments, the outer periphery of the head SIP device 302 may be substantially flush with or aligned with one or more edges of, for example, the front end 314 of the headrest side member 308. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device may be disposed at another portion of the headrest 300, such as at the first headrest side member 306. In such embodiments, the configuration of the additional head SIP device may, but does not need to, be the same as that of the head SIP device 302 shown and described herein.

[0454] However, in other embodiments, such as using Figure 5A and 5B The headrest 400 shown has a head SIP portion 401. Figure 5B Only a portion of the head SIP device 402 may have a profile complementary to an adjacent portion of the headrest 400 (e.g., a headrest side member). As previously described, the headrest 400 may include a rear portion 404, a first headrest side member 406, and a second headrest side member (not shown). In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 402 is mounted to the inner surface 408 of the first headrest side member 406. Although not shown, it should be understood that another head SIP device may be arranged at another portion of the headrest 400, such as at the second headrest side member. In such embodiments, the configuration of the additional head SIP device may, but does not need to, be the same as the head SIP device 402 shown and described herein.

[0455] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, only the distal end 410 of the head SIP device 402 has a complementary profile to the corresponding end 412 of the headrest side member 406. In such embodiments, 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, for example between its top 416 and bottom 418. However, in embodiments in which 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 proximate to the front end 412 of the headrest side member 406.

[0456] In Figure 3A and Figure 3B the non-limiting embodiment illustrated, the thickness of the first head SIP device 202a and the second head SIP device 202b is substantially uniform across the width of each head SIP device 202a, 202b (the width measured between the headrest support surface 209 and the front end 220 of the headrest side member 204, 206). Thus, when the head SIP devices 202a, 202b are installed to the headrest 200, the inward facing surface 216 of the head SIP devices 202a, 202b are disposed at substantially the same angle relative to the headrest support surface 209 as the headrest side members 204, 206. The head SIP devices 202a, 202b are illustrated as being formed of a flexible or semi-rigid foam material. However, any suitable material configured to absorb energy is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0457] In some embodiments, the head SIP device of a child seat is shaped to induce occupant head roll in the event of a side impact. In Figures 4A-5B the non-limiting embodiment illustrated, the thickness of the respective head SIP devices 302, 402 measured between the outward facing surface 420 of the head SIP device 302b, 402 and the inward facing surface 322, 422 of the head SIP device 302, 402 can vary between opposite ends of the head SIP device 302, 402. In Figures 4A-4B the non-limiting embodiment illustrated, 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 nearest the headrest support surface 312 toward the front end 314 of the headrest side member 308.

[0458] The thickness of the head SIP device 302 across its width can be increased to achieve a desired angle of the inward surface 322 relative to the headrest support surface 312. In embodiments, the maximum thickness of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 302 is about 2 inches, and in some embodiments it is less than 1.5 inches, such as about 1¼ inches, about 1 inch, or about ½ inch. However, embodiments of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 302 having a maximum thickness greater than 2 inches are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0459] In other embodiments, for example Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the head SIP device 402 is wedge-shaped, and the thickness of the head SIP device 402 gradually decreases from the end closest to the headrest support surface 414 toward the front end 412 of the headrest side member 406. Therefore, the inward surface 422 of the head SIP device 402 gradually narrows outward away from the center of the headrest 400. In embodiments, the maximum thickness of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 402 is about 1 inch, and in some embodiments it is less than 1 inch, for example, about ¾ inch, about 0.5 inch, or about ¼ inch. However, embodiments of the wedge-shaped head SIP device 402 having a maximum thickness greater than 1 inch are also within the scope of this disclosure. Although the wedge-shaped head SIP devices 302, 402 are shown in the figures as being formed of expanded polystyrene, in other embodiments, the head SIP devices 302, 402 may be formed of other materials.

[0460] In embodiments, the headrest SIP device of the headrest described herein is configured to cause the occupant's head to roll in the event of a side impact, for example by defining a wavy recess associated with the head receiving area of ​​the headrest. Reference Figure 5A and Figure 5B A recess 432 associated with the head SIP device 402 may be positioned adjacent to the head SIP device 402. The recess 432 may be partially defined by the inward surface 422 of the head SIP device 402 and a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 412 of the headrest 400. Furthermore, the recess 432 may extend from a portion of the head SIP device 402 laterally closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 430 to the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 412 of the headrest 400. Figure 5A and Figure 5B In a non-limiting embodiment, the portion of the headrest SIP device 402 closest to the CLA is located at the intersection line L between the inward surface 422 and the rear portion 404. Therefore, the intersection line L is positioned closer to the rear portion than the front end 412 of the headrest 400.

[0461] The recess 430 can also be defined by a vertical plane extending from the intersecting line L toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 412. This vertical plane is... Figure 5AThe line 434 is represented in the center. In embodiments, the line 434 is oriented substantially parallel to the CLA. Due at least in part to this wedge or angled configuration of the head SIP device 402, the transverse dimension of the recess 432 gradually increases in a direction toward the front 412 of the headrest 400. The gradual decrease in thickness of the head SIP device 402 and the corresponding increase in the recess 432 formed thereby facilitates forward rolling of the occupant's head during a side impact event.

[0462] Further, in embodiments, as shown in Figure 6A and Figure 6B The head SIP device 502 associated with the headrest 500 can alternatively or additionally incorporate a compressible material body, as shown at 504, such as a flexible foam, in the non-limiting embodiments shown in the drawings. In the non-limiting embodiments shown in the drawings, the compressible material body 504 is positioned proximate to the inward facing surface 506 of the head SIP device 502, such as similar to the wedge member of 302. Although the compressible material body 504 is shown as being mounted directly to the head SIP device 502, in other embodiments such a body can be integrated into a soft good that can be positioned about the headrest 500 and the head SIP device 502. In addition to the padding of the soft good, the compressible material 504 can also provide cushioning for the occupant's head during a crash event. Although the compressible material body 504 is shown as being positioned proximate to the head SIP device 502 disposed at the second headrest side member 510, it should be appreciated that such a body 504 can be disposed proximate to another head SIP device positioned at another location about the headrest 500, such as proximate to the first headrest side member 512. Alternatively or additionally, the compressible material body 504 can be located at any location relative to the headrest 500, including locations where no head SIP device is present.

[0463] Reference is now made to Figures 7A-9B embodiments of headrests 600, 700, 800 having head SIP devices 602, 702, 802 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 appreciated that another head SIP device can be disposed at another portion of each headrest 600, 700, 800, such as at the second headrest side member. In such embodiments, the configuration of the additional head SIP device can but need not be the same as the head SIP devices 602, 702, 802 shown and described herein.

[0464] In each embodiment, the SIP base 620, 720, 820 of the head SIP device 602, 702, 802 can have a profile that is complementary to a portion of both the headrest support surface 604, 704, 804 and the surface 608, 708, 808 of the headrest side member 610, 710, 810. In such embodiments, the head SIP device 602, 702, 802 can extend to cover 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.

[0465] In Figure 7A and Figure 7B non-limiting embodiments of the head SIP device 602, the inward facing surface 622 has a smooth, continuous profile, for example, formed by a curvature. However, in other embodiments, the inward facing surface 722, 822 of the head SIP device 702, 802 can include one or more side impact protection portions or regions arranged at various angles relative to each other and relative to the headrest support surface 704, 804. In Figure 8A and 8B and Figure 9A and 9B non-limiting embodiments of the head SIP device 602, the inward facing surface 622 has a smooth, continuous profile, for example, formed by a curvature. However, in other embodiments, the inward facing surface 722, 822 of the head SIP device 702, 802 can include one or more side impact protection portions or regions arranged at various angles relative to each other and relative to the headrest support surface 704, 804. In Figures 8A-8B non-limiting embodiments of the head SIP device 602, the inward facing surface 622 has a smooth, continuous profile, for example, formed by a curvature. However, in other embodiments, the inward facing surface 722, 822 of the head SIP device 702, 802 can include one or more side impact protection portions or regions arranged at various angles relative to each other and relative to the headrest support surface 704, 804. In Figure 9A and 9B non-limiting embodiments of the head SIP device 602, the inward facing surface 622 has a smooth, continuous profile, for example, formed by a curvature. However, in other embodiments, the inward facing surface 722, 822 of the head SIP device 702, 802 can include one or more side impact protection portions or regions arranged at various angles relative to each other and relative to the headrest support surface 704, 804. In

[0466] In a crash event, movement of the occupant's head will be driven along a path defined by the inward-facing surface 622, 722, 822 of the head SIP device 602, 702, 802. In embodiments in which the inward-facing surface includes multiple side impact protection zones, movement of the occupant's head will be driven from a first side impact protection zone 724, 824 to a second side impact protection zone 726, 826.

[0467] Referring to Figure 7A and Figure 7B , the inward-facing surface 622 can extend continuously from a headrest support surface 604 of the headrest 600 to a surface 608 of the headrest side member 610. As shown in Figure 7A , the recess 630 can be at least partially defined within the head receiving area 628 by the head SIP device 602. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the recess 630 is partially defined by the inward-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. Further, the recess 630 can extend from a portion of the head SIP device 602 laterally closest to a central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 628 to the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 612 of the headrest 600. In the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 7A and Figure 7B , the portion of the head SIP device 602 closest to the CLA is located at an intersection line L0 between the inward-facing surface 622 and the headrest support surface 604 of the rear portion 606. Figure 7A Thus, the intersection line L0 is positioned closer to the rear portion 606 than the front end 612 of the headrest 600. The recess 630 can also be defined by a vertical plane extending from the intersection line L0 toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 12. This vertical plane, represented by line 632 in Figure 7A , can be oriented substantially parallel to the CLA.

[0468] Referring to the non-limiting embodiment of the head SIP device 702 of the headrest 700 shown in Figure 8A and Figure 8B , the inward-facing surface 722 can include a first side impact protection zone 724 disposed proximate to the rear portion 706 of the headrest 700 and a second side impact protection zone 726 extending from the first side impact protection zone 724 toward a front end (not shown) of the headrest 700. The first side impact protection zone 724 can converge with the second side impact protection zone 726 along a vertical intersection line represented by LI in Figure 8A . The intersection line LI can be disposed at any suitable angle relative to the rear portion 706. In embodiments, the intersection line LI is a portion of the head SIP device 702 positioned closest to a central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 728 (in the lateral direction).

[0469] The recess 730 is defined at least partially within the head-receiving area 728 of the headrest 700 by the head SIP device 702. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the recess 730 extends from the intersection line LI toward a plane extending transversely from an inner edge of a front end (not shown) of the headrest 700. A plane of the recess 730 extending between the intersection line LI and the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end (shown at PI) 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 inward-facing surface 722 and a surface 708 of the headrest side member 710 extending between an edge of the second side impact protection area 726 and the front end of the headrest 700.

[0470] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a vertical plane represented by an axis XI in Figure 8A extends from the front end and is positioned to be tangent to the inward-facing surface 722 at the intersection line LI between the first side impact protection area 724 and the second side impact protection area 726. The axis XI intersects the headrest support surface 704 at an intersection location II. In embodiments, a distance between the headrest support surface 704 and the intersection line LI measured along the axis XI is shorter than a distance between the intersection line LI and the front end of the headrest 700 measured along the axis XI.

[0471] Referring to Figure 9A and Figure 9B , the inward-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 a front end 814 of the headrest 800. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the inward-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 in which the third side impact protection area 828 is angled toward the front portion 814 of the headrest 800 are also contemplated herein. The first side impact protection area 824 can extend along a first vertical intersection line represented by L2a in Figure 9A converges with the second side impact protection area 826 along a first vertical intersection line represented by L2a in

[0472] The recess 830 is at least partially bounded 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 the first intersection line L2a toward a plane extending transversely 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 transversely 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 bounded by the plane extending transversely 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 inward facing surface 822, and the surface 808 of the headrest side member 810 extending between the edge of the third side impact protection area 828 and the front end 814 of the headrest 800.

[0473] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a vertical plane represented by the axis X2 in Figure 9A extends from the front end 814 and is positioned to be tangent to the inward facing surface 822 at the first intersection line L2a of the inward facing surface 822. The axis X2 intersects the headrest support surface 804 at an intersection location I2. In embodiments, the distance between the headrest support surface 804 and the first intersection line L2a measured along the axis X2 is shorter than the distance between the intersection line L2a and the front end 814 measured along the axis X2.

[0474] Figures 2A-9B Each of the embodiments illustrated in Figs. 10A-10C disclose at least one head SIP device formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as expanded polystyrene. However, with reference to Figs. 11A-11C, Figures 10A-11C In other embodiments, the head SIP device 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 of a flexible or elastic material. In embodiments, one or more head SIP devices 902, 1002 disposed at the illustrated head SIP portion 903, 1003 is or includes a structurally-modifiable body that can be transformed into different configurations via a change in shape and / or structure. Examples of a structurally-modifiable body include, but are not limited to, an inflatable balloon or airbag. The structurally-modifiable body 902, 1002 can be filled with a fluid, such as a liquid or air.

[0475] Similar to previously disclosed embodiments, 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. A structure-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 appreciated 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 the same as the head SIP devices 902, 1002 shown and described herein.

[0476] When inflated, the structure-modifiable body 902, 1002 protrudes from the interior surface 912, 1012 of the headrest side member 908, 1008. Further, the structure-modifiable body 902, 1002 can be elastically deformable to absorb energy imparted thereon during a crash event. As will be described in greater detail below, the structure-modifiable body 902, 1002 can be permanently inflated or aerated. Alternatively, the structure-modifiable body 902, 1002 can transform between a deflated or retracted configuration and an inflated or extended configuration, such as when an occupant is present within the child seat 900, 1000.

[0477] As Figures 11A-11C shown, in an embodiment, the profile of the head SIP device 1002 is generally complementary to the 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 that is located proximate 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 that is positioned proximate the headrest upright support surface 1022 of the rear portion 1004 can have a generally linear profile. In Figures 10A-10C 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 member 908, 1008. The profile of the head SIP devices 902, 1002 formed via a structure-modifiable body (e.g., a balloon or airbag) described herein is intended only as an example. It should be appreciated that any other configuration of the head SIP device described herein (e.g., with respect to Figures 2A-9B described) can alternatively be formed as a structure-modifiable body having the previously described shape in at least one configuration of the body.

[0478] Although Figures 2B-11CEach embodiment shows only a single head SIP device in any given area of ​​the headrest, but in embodiments, multiple head SIP devices may be arranged in the same area of ​​the headrest, such as in the rear portion of the headrest or at corresponding side members. For example, in Figure 12A and Figure 12B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 are associated with or mounted to the same headrest side member 1106 of the headrest 1100. In such an embodiment, the material, profile, shape, and / or stiffness of the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 may be the same, or alternatively, may be different. In fact, the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 may contain the material, profile, shape, and / or stiffness of any other head SIP device shown and discussed herein. Furthermore, such a first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 may be mounted to the headrest 1100 independently of each other.

[0479] In this embodiment, the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 are both part of a single head SIP portion 1101. Although the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 are shown and described at the respective headrest side members 1106, it should be understood that in other embodiments, another first head SIP device 1102 and second head SIP device 1104 may be arranged at another portion of the headrest 1100, for example at the opposite headrest side members (not shown). In such embodiments, the construction of the first head SIP device 1102 may, but does not need to, be the same and / or the construction of the second head SIP device 1104 may, but does not need to, be the same.

[0480] In embodiments that include multiple head SIP devices (e.g., head SIP device 1102 and head SIP device 1104) arranged on a single surface of the headrest 1100, the recess 1110 (see...) Figure 12A The head receiving area 1112 of the headrest 1100 may be at least partially defined by a plurality of head SIP devices 1102, 1104. As shown, each of the first head SIP device 1102 and the second head SIP device 1104 has a corresponding inward surface 1120, 1122. Although the inward surfaces 1120, 1122 are shown to have a generally planar configuration, this document also covers at least one of the inward surfaces 1120, 1122 having a plurality of side impact protection areas (e.g., as described above). Figures 7A-9BEmbodiments of the headrest 1100 can include a recess 1110 defined by a portion of the inward facing surface 1120 positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the headrest 1100 connected to a plane of the inward facing surface 1122 positioned closest to the end of the second head SIP device 1104 that is proximate 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 surfaces of the headrest side members 1106 extending therebetween.

[0481] In the previously described embodiments, the head SIP devices disposed at or proximate to different portions of the headrest (e.g., opposing headrest side members) are separate devices that are separately mounted thereto. However, in other embodiments, multiple head SIP devices can be integrally formed as a unitary body, also referred to herein as a head SIP assembly. For example, in Figures 13A-13E In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP assembly 1202 includes a head SIP device 1204a positionable at or proximate to a first headrest side member 1206, another head SIP device 1204b positionable at or proximate to a second headrest side member 1208, and a connector member 1210 coupled to both head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b. In such embodiments, the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b arranged at opposing headrest side members 1206, 1208 can be substantially identical or can vary.

[0482] It should be appreciated 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 arranged proximate to the first headrest side member 1206 and a second head SIP portion 1230b arranged proximate to the second headrest side member 1208. When the head SIP assembly 1202 is mounted within the head receiving region 1228 of the headrest 1201, the first head SIP device 1204a of the head SIP assembly 1202 can be arranged within and form at least a portion of the first head SIP portion 1230a, and the second head SIP device 1204b can be arranged within and form at least a portion of the second head SIP portion 1230b.

[0483] As shown, the head SIP assembly 1202 described herein can be configured as an insert that is removably connectable to the child seat 1200 or alternatively permanently connected to the child seat 1200. The head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b of the head SIP assembly 1202 can be formed of at least one material, and the connector member 1210 can be formed of a different material than the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b. However, embodiments in which the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b and the connector member 1210 are formed of the same material are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0484] In embodiments, the connector member 1210 includes a main portion 1212 that is positionable adjacent to a headrest support surface 1223 of a rear portion 1214 of the headrest 1201, and two side portions 1216, 1218 that are positionable in overlapping arrangement with each of the headrest side members 1206, 1208, respectively. In such embodiments, an outer surface of the head SIP assembly 1202 can include a profile that is complementary to one or more surfaces of the headrest 1201 to which the head SIP assembly 1202 is connectable. For example, the outer surface of the head SIP assembly 1202 can be shaped to match and contact each of 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. However, embodiments in which the connector member 1210 is configured to contact only a portion of the headrest 1201 (e.g., one or more of the headrest support surfaces) and both of the headrest side members are also contemplated herein.

[0485] In Figures 13A-13E In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b of the head SIP assembly 1202 can extend from the main portion 1212 of the connector member 1210 over a majority or even an 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 to the front ends 1234a, 1234b of the side portions 1216, 1218. It will be appreciated 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 by a distance. The outward facing surfaces 1220a, 1220b of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b can be complementary to and abut the side portions 1216, 1218, and in some embodiments, the main portion 1212 of the connector member 1210. As shown, the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b can be configured to extend over a majority or even an entire length of the side portions 1216, 1218 of the head SIP assembly 1202. In some embodiments, the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b can be configured to extend over a majority or even an entire length of the side portions 1216, 1218 of the head SIP assembly 1202.Figure 13D and Figure 13E As shown, the inward facing surfaces 1222a, 1222b of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b can be bounded by a plurality of different side impact protection regions arranged at different angles relative to the headrest support surface 1223. A first side impact protection region 1224a, 1224b of each inward facing surface 1222a, 1222b is positioned proximate to, and in some embodiments immediately adjacent to, the body portion 1212 of the connector member 1210. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first side impact protection region 1224a, 1224b is oriented substantially perpendicular to the body portion 1212 and the headrest support surface 1223.

[0486] As shown, a second side impact protection region 1226a, 1226b extending from the first side impact protection region 1224a, 1224b to the end of the side portions 1216, 1218 can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection region 1224a, 1224b. In embodiments, the angle a between the first side impact protection region 1224a, 1224b and the corresponding second side impact protection region 1226a, 1226b is obtuse. As shown, the thickness at the second side impact protection region 1226a, 1226b of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b can taper toward the front end 1230 of the head SIP assembly 1202. The angle a and the change in thickness create an outward slope that increases the gap bounded by the opposing head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b over the length of the head SIP devices 1204a, 1204b.

[0487] In an embodiment, each of the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b may form a recess 1232a and 1232b within the head receiving region 1228 of the headrest 1201, for example, between the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b and the front ends 1234a and 1234b of the headrest 1201. The first side impact protection regions 1224a and 1224b may be adjacent to the second side impact protection regions 1226a and 1226b at the intersection lines represented by L3a and L3b, respectively. The intersection lines L3a and L3b may be opposite portions of the head SIP devices 1204a and 1204b, laterally positioned to be closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 1228. Each recess 1232a, 1232b extends from corresponding generally vertically oriented intersecting lines L3a, L3b toward a plane that extends laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1234a, 1234b of the headrest side members 1206, 1208. The plane of each recess 1232a, 1232b extending from the intersecting lines L3a, L3b toward the plane containing the front ends 1233a, 1233b indicated by lines P3a and P3b may be coplanar with the first side impact protection surfaces 1224a, 1224b of each corresponding head SIP device 1204a, 1204b. The recesses 1232a, 1232b may also be defined by second side impact protection areas 1226a, 1226b and a plane extending laterally from the inner edges of the front ends 1233a, 1233b.

[0488] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, by Figure 13E The vertical plane represented by axis X3a extends from the front end 1233a of the headrest side member 1206 or the front end 1234a of the side portion 1216, and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1222a at the intersection line L3a. Axis X3a may intersect the headrest support surface 1204 at the intersection position I3a. Similarly, the vertical plane represented by axis X3b extends from the front end 1233b of the headrest side member 1208 or the front end 1234b of the side portion 1218, and is positioned tangent to the inward surface 1222b at the intersection line L3b. Axis X3b may intersect the headrest support surface 1204 at the intersection position I3b. In the embodiment, measured along the corresponding axes X3a and X3b, the distance between the headrest support surface 1204 and the intersecting lines L3a and L3b is less than the distance between the intersecting lines L3a and L3b and the front ends 1234a and 1234b of the headrest side members 1206 and 1208.

[0489] Figure 14Another embodiment of a head SIP assembly 1302 mounted to a headrest 1301 is shown. Similar to the previous embodiment, the head SIP assembly 1302 includes a connector member 1306 having a body portion 1308, a first side portion 1310, and a second side portion 1312, and head SIP devices 1304a, 1304b. The head SIP devices 1304a and 1304b are arranged proximate to the first side portion 1310 and the second side portion 1312 of the connector member 1306, respectively, as previously described. When the head SIP assembly 1302 is mounted to the headrest 1301, the first side portion 1310 can be arranged at or proximate to a first headrest side member 1314, the second side portion 1312 can be in an overlapping arrangement with a second headrest side member 1316, and the body portion 1308 is arranged at a headrest support surface of a rear portion 1318 of the headrest 1301. In Figure 14 In the non-limiting embodiment shown, each head SIP device 1304a, 1304b of the head SIP assembly 1302 can extend from the body portion 1308 of the connector member 1306 at least half the length of the side portions 1310, 1312 of the head SIP assembly 1302, and in some embodiments, extend 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.

[0490] Similar to the previous embodiments, each head SIP device 1304a, 1304b includes an inward facing surface 1320a, 1320b that includes a first side impact protection region 1322a, 1322b positioned proximate to the body portion 1308 of the connector member 1306 and a second side impact protection region 1324a, 1324b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection region 1322a, 1322b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first side impact protection region 1322a, 1322b is disposed at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the body portion 1308. In embodiments, the angle β between the body portion 1308 and the first side impact protection region 1322a, 1322b can be between about 65 degrees and about 85 degrees. The second side impact protection region 1324a, 1324b extending from the first side impact protection region 1322a, 1322b at the intersection line L4a, L4b can have a curved configuration, such as a concave curvature. As a result, the thickness of the head SIP device 1304a, 1304b gradually decreases over the second side impact protection region 1324a, 1324b toward the front end 1326a, 1326b of the headrest 1301. The intersection line L4a, L4b can be a portion of the head SIP device 1304a, 1304b positioned proximate to a central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 1328 (in the transverse direction).

[0491] In embodiments, each of the head SIP devices 1304a, 1304b can form a recess 1330a, 1330b within the head receiving region 1328 of the headrest 1201 for guiding movement of the occupant’s head during a side impact event. Each recess 1330a, 1330b extends from the corresponding intersection line L4a, L4b toward a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1326a, 1326b of the headrest side member 1314, 1316. The plane of the recess 1330a, 1330b extending from the intersection line L4a, L4b toward the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1326a, 1326b (represented by lines P4a and P4b) can be coplanar with the first side impact protection surface 1322a, 1322b of each respective head SIP device 1304a, 1304b. The recess 1330a, 1330b can also be bounded by the second side impact protection region 1324a, 1324b and by a surface of at least one of the side portion 1310, 1312 and the headrest side member 1314, 1316 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection region 1324a, 1324b and the front end 1326a, 1326b of the headrest 1301.

[0492] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a vertical plane represented by axis X4a, starting from the front end 1326a of the headrest side member 1314, is positioned to be tangent to the inward facing surface 1320a at intersection line L4a. Further, the axis X4a can intersect the headrest support surface 1304 or the adjacent body portion 1308 of the connector member 1306 at intersection location I4a. Another vertical plane represented by axis X4b extends from the front end 1326b of the headrest side member 1316 and is positioned to be tangent to the inward facing surface 1320b at intersection line L4b. The axis X4b can intersect the headrest support surface 1304 or the adjacent body portion 1308 at intersection location I5b. In embodiments, the distance between the headrest support surface 1304 and the intersection lines L4a, L4b, measured along the respective axes X4a, X4b, is less than the distance between the intersection lines L5a, L5b and the front ends 1326a, 1326b of the headrest side members 1314, 1316.

[0493] Referring now to Figures 15A-15E Another example of a head SIP assembly 1402 having head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b is shown. The head SIP devices 1404a and 1404b are arranged proximate to a first side portion 1408 and a second side portion 1410 of a connector member 1406 of the head SIP assembly 1402, respectively. The connector member 1406 also includes a body portion 1416 connecting the first side portion 1408 and the second side portion 1410. As shown, the head SIP assembly 1402 can be positioned proximate to a headrest 1401 such that the first side portion 1408 is arranged at or proximate to a first headrest side member 1412, the second side portion 1410 is arranged at or proximate to a second headrest side member 1414, and the body portion 1416 is arranged at a headrest support surface 1418 of a rear portion 1420 of the headrest 1401.

[0494] Each head SIP device 1404a, 1404b includes an inward facing surface 1420a, 1420b that includes a first side impact protection region 1422a, 1422 positioned proximate to the body portion 1416 of the connector member 1406 and a second side impact protection region 1424a, 1424b that extends forwardly away from the first side impact protection region 1422a, 1422. As shown, the first side impact protection region 1422a, 1422 can be arranged substantially perpendicular to the body portion 1416 of the connector member 1406 and the headrest support surface 1418. The second side impact protection region 1424a, 1424b that extends from the first side impact protection region 1422a, 1422 can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection region 1422a, 1422. In embodiments, the angle a (see FIG. 14) between the first side impact protection region 1422a, 1422 and the second side impact protection region 1424a, 1424b is an obtuse angle (e.g., greater than 90 degrees). Figure 15E

[0495] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b are mounted proximate to the rear of the head SIP assembly 1402, e.g., at the interface between the body portion 1416 and the side portions 1408, 1410 of the connector member 1406. Each head SIP device 1404a, 1404b can extend to cover only a portion of the length of each side portion 1408, 1410 and / or headrest side member 1412, 1414. As shown, the head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b can extend to the center of the side portions 1408, 1410 and / or headrest side members 1412, 1414. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 1404a, 1404b extends to cover less than half the length of the respective side portion 1408, 1410. However, embodiments are also contemplated herein in which at least one head SIP device 1404a, 1404b is longer or shorter.

[0496] 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 toward the front end of the headrest 1401 beyond the ends of the head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b, 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. As Figures 15A-15E ​As shown, the length of the side portions 1408, 1410 of the connector member 1406 can be equal 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.

[0497] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, 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 area 1422a, 1422b can abut the second side impact protection area 1424a, 1424b of each head SIP device 1401a, 1404b, respectively, at a generally vertical intersection line represented by L5a and L5b. Figure 15C )represent. The intersection lines L5a, L5b can be portions of the head SIP devices 1404a, 1404b that are laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 1428.

[0498] The first recess 1430a is partially defined by the second side impact protection area 1424a and a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1432a, 1432b of the headrest side member 1412, 1414. The surface of the side portion 1408 or headrest side member 1412 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection area 1424a and the front end 1432a can also partially define the first recess 1430a. The recess 1430a can also be defined by a plane extending from the intersection line L6a to a plane represented by a line P5a extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1232a, 1432b of the headrest side member 1412, 1414. This plane of the recess 1430a extending from the intersection line L5a toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 1432a can be coplanar with the first side impact protection area 1422a of the head SIP device 1404a.

[0499] Similarly, the second recess 1430b extends from the intersection line L6b toward a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1432a, 1432b of the headrest side member 1412, 1414. The plane of the recess 1430b represented by line P5b extending from the intersection line L5b toward a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1432b can be coplanar with the first side impact protection region 1422b of the head SIP device 1404b. The recess 1430b can also be bounded by the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1432a, 1432b, the second side impact protection region 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 respective second side impact protection region 1424b and the front end 1432b.

[0500] Reference is made to Figure 15C A vertical plane represented by axis X5a extends from the front end 1432a of the headrest side member 1412 and is positioned to be tangent to the inward facing surface 1420a at the intersection line L5a. Further, the axis X5a can intersect the headrest support surface 1404 or the adjacent body portion 1416 of the connector member 1406 at an intersection location I5a. Another vertical plane represented by axis X5b extends from the front end 1432b of the headrest side member 1414 and is positioned to be tangent to the inward facing surface 1420b at the intersection line L5b. The axis X5b can intersect the headrest support surface 1404 or the adjacent body portion 1416 at an intersection location I5b. In embodiments, the distance between the intersection locations I5a, I5b and the intersection lines L5a, L5b, measured along the respective axis X5a, X5b, is less than the distance between the intersection lines L5a, L5b and the front ends 1432a, 1432b of the headrest side members 1412, 1414.

[0501] It will be appreciated that, Figures 5A-9B and Figures 12A-15E Each of the embodiments disclosed in the Summary and can include 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 a body portion of a head SIP assembly can similarly be considered as being positionable adjacent to a rear portion of a headrest. A head SIP device having such a configuration defines a recess within a head receiving region of the headrest extending between at least one surface of the head SIP device and a front portion of the headrest.

[0502] Reference is now made to Figures 16A-16E Embodiments in which the head SIP device is spaced apart or offset from a front portion of the headrest, e.g., toward a rear of the head receiving region, are also configured to define a recess within a head receiving region of the headrest. Figures 16A-16EThe head SIP assembly 1502 of the headrest 1501 shown in the middle includes head SIP devices 1504a and 1504b. The head SIP devices 1504a and 1504b are arranged proximate to a first side portion 1508 and a second side portion 1510, respectively, 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 embodiments, the head SIP assembly 1502 can be positioned proximate to the headrest 1501 such that the first side portion 1508 is arranged at or proximate to a first headrest side member 1514, the second side portion 1510 is arranged at or proximate to a second headrest side member 1516, and the body portion 1512 is arranged at a headrest support surface 1518 of a rear portion 1519 of the headrest 1501.

[0503] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first head SIP device 1504a and the second head SIP device 1504b of the head SIP assembly 1502 can be considered to be mounted, e.g., via the connector member 1506, near the front 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501. This configuration of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b can be particularly suitable for embodiments in which the child seat 1500 is in a forward-facing orientation 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 of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b extends over less than half the length of the respective side portion 1508, 1510. However, embodiments in which at least one of the head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b is longer or shorter are also contemplated herein.

[0504] Outward facing surfaces 1520a, 1520b of respective head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b can be parallel to and mounted to respective side portions 1508, 1510 of connector member 1506. Inward facing surfaces 1522a, 1522b of head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b can be bounded by a plurality of different side impact protection regions arranged at different angles relative to headrest support surface 1518. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, surfaces 1522a, 1522b include first side impact protection regions 1524a, 1524b oriented parallel or substantially parallel to body portion 1512 of connector member 1506 and headrest support surface 1518. In other embodiments, first side impact protection regions 1524a, 1524b can be arranged at an angle β between 3 and 30 degrees relative to body portion 1512. Second side impact protection regions 1526a, 1526b of inward facing surfaces 1522a, 1522b extending from first side impact protection regions 1524a, 1524b can have a generally rounded or curved profile, such as a convex curvature. In embodiments, the thickness of head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b can taper from first side impact protection regions 1524a, 1524b toward respective front ends 1511a, 1511b of head SIP assembly 1502. First side impact protection regions 1524a, 1524b can abut adjacent second side impact protection regions 1526a, 1526b at generally vertically oriented intersection lines shown as L6a, L6b. Intersection lines L6a, L6b can be portions of head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b transversely positioned closest to a central longitudinal axis CLA of head receiving region 1528.

[0505] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a recess is formed within the head receiving region between head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b and front portions 1503a, 1503b of headrest 1501. As shown, recess 1530a, 1530b can be formed in head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b and / or headrest 1501. In embodiments, recess 1530a, 1530b can be formed in head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b and / or headrest 1501 to accommodate a portion of a head of a user positioned in head receiving region 1528. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, recess 1530a, 1530b is formed in head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b and / or headrest 1501 to accommodate a portion of a head of a user positioned in head receiving region 1528. In embodiments, recess 1530a, 1530b can be formed in head SIP devices 1504a, 1504b and / or headrest 1501 to accommodate a portion of a head of a user positioned in head receiving region 1528. Figure 16EAs shown, each recess 1530a, 1530b can extend from a portion of the head SIP device 1504a, 1504b positioned proximate to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 1528 to a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the portion of the head SIP device 1504a, 1504b positioned proximate to the central longitudinal axis CLA is the respective intersection line L6a, L6b. A plane (indicated by line 1540a, 1540b, respectively) of the side of the recess 1530a, 1530b extending from the intersection line L6a, L6b toward the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front 1503a, 1503b can be parallel to the central longitudinal axis CLA. The recess 1530a, 1530b can also be bounded by the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501, the second side impact protection region 1526, 1526b, and at least one of the side portion 1508, 1510 and the headrest side member 1514, 1516 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection region 1526, 1526b and the front 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501.

[0506] As shown, Figure 16C a vertical plane represented by axis X6a extends from the front 1503a of the headrest 1501 and is positioned tangent to the inward facing surface 1522a at intersection line L6a, and another vertical plane represented by axis X6b extends from the front 1503b of the headrest 1501 and is positioned tangent to the inward facing surface 1522b at intersection line L6b. The axes X6a, X6b intersect the adjacent body portion 1512 of the headrest support surface 1504 or connector member 1506 at intersection locations I6a, I6b, respectively. In embodiments, the distance between the intersection location I6a, I6b and the intersection line L6a, L6b of each head SIP device 1504a, 1504b is greater than the distance between the intersection line L6a, L6b and the front 1503a, 1503b of the headrest 1501.

[0507] In Figures 17A-17EAnother embodiment of a head SIP assembly 1602 that can be installed to a headrest 1601 of a child seat 1600 is shown. Similar to the previous embodiments, first and second head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b are installed at the ends of a connector member 1606, for example at or near the front ends 1608 of the side portions 1610, 1612 of the connector member 1606. In embodiments, when the head SIP assembly 1602 is installed around the headrest 1601, the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b are positioned at or near the front 1603 of the headrest 1601. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one of the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b extends to cover less than half the length of the respective side portion 1610, 1612. However, embodiments are also contemplated herein in which at least one of the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b is longer or shorter.

[0508] 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 inward facing surfaces 1622a, 1622b of the head SIP devices 1604a, 1604b according to the present embodiment include a first side impact protection region 1624a, 1624b positioned closest to the body portion 1614 of the connector member 1606 and a second side impact protection region 1626a, 1626b located near the respective front end 1608a, 1608b of the connector member 1606.

[0509] The first side impact protection regions 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 embodiments, the first side impact protection regions 1624a, 1624b extend relatively inwardly away from the respective side portions 1610, 1612. However, in other embodiments, the first side impact protection regions 1624a, 1624b of the head SIP arrangement 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 regions 1626a, 1626b of the inward facing surfaces 1622a, 1622b extend from and are arranged at an angle relative to the first side impact protection regions 1624a, 1624b. In embodiments, the second side impact protection regions 1626a, 1626b are oriented substantially perpendicular to the body portion 1614, or alternatively or additionally, arranged substantially parallel to the adjacent side portions 1610, 1612 of the connector member 1606. However, embodiments are also contemplated herein in which the second side impact protection regions 1626a, 1626b are arranged at a non-parallel angle, such as an acute angle. As shown, the distance between the head SIP arrangements 1604a, 1604b generally decreases toward the front end 1603 of the headrest.

[0510] Referring now to Figures 18A-18E , another embodiment of a head SIP assembly 1702 of a headrest 1701 of a child seat 1700 is shown. Similar to the head SIP assembly 1602 of the headrest 1601 of the child seat 1600, the head SIP assembly 1702 includes a first side impact protection region 1724a, 1724b and a second side impact protection region 1726a, 1726b. Figures 17A-17EIn embodiments, the head SIP assembly 1702 includes first and second head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b located at the distal end of the connector member 1706, e.g., near the front ends 1708a, 1708b of the respective side portions 1709, 1710. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the profile of the inwardly facing surfaces 1720a, 1720b of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b can vary between the opposing top 1712a, 1712b and bottom 1714a, 1714b of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b. For example, a first side impact protection region 1722a, 1722b located near the first upper end 1712 of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b can be oriented substantially parallel to the adjacent side portion 1709, 1710 of the connector member 1706. A second side impact protection region 1724a, 1724b extending from the first side impact protection region 1722a, 1722b toward the opposing bottom 1714 of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b can be disposed at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection region 1722. In embodiments, the angle between the first side impact protection region 1722 and the second region 1724 is an obtuse angle.

[0511] While the second side impact protection region 1724 is illustrated as having a planar surface or configuration, in other embodiments, the second side impact protection region 1724 of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b can have a curved configuration, e.g., a convex curvature. Whether the second side impact protection region 1724 has a linear configuration or a curved configuration, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b at the second side impact protection region 1724 can taper toward the bottom of the headrest 1701. This variation in height of the head SIP devices 1704a, 1704b can be combined with any other configuration extending between the front and rear of the head SIP device, as previously described (or as will be described later).

[0512] As an alternative or supplement to a head SIP assembly having multiple head SIP devices arranged at opposing and interconnected side portions of a connector member, as previously described herein, a head SIP assembly can include multiple head SIP devices arranged at the same surface of a connector member, e.g., at the same side portion. In such embodiments, the multiple head SIP devices arranged at the same side portion of the connector member can, but need not, be mounted to form a continuous inwardly facing surface.

[0513] Reference Figures 19A-19E, a head SIP assembly 1802 mountable to a headrest 1801 is shown. A plurality of head SIP devices are arranged at the same surface of a connector member 1808. In the shown non-limiting embodiment, a first head SIP device 1804a and a second head SIP device 1806a are arranged at a first side portion 1810 of the connector member 1808, and a first head SIP device 1804b and a second head SIP device 1806b are arranged at a second side portion 1812 of the connector member 1808. In such embodiments, the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b can comprise the same or different configuration (size and / or shape) than each other and / or than the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b at the same side portion 1810 or 1812. Further, the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b can comprise the same or different material than each other and / or than the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b arranged at the same side portion 1810, 1812. In embodiments, the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b have a reduced stiffness compared to the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b. However, all of the head SIP devices of the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b and the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b are configured to absorb energy during a crash event. Although not shown, it should be appreciated that the first head SIP device 1804a and the second head SIP device 1806a can be arranged within a first SIP head portion, and the first head SIP device 1804b and the second head SIP device 1806b are arranged within a second SIP portion.

[0514] The first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b and the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b can have any suitable configuration. In the shown non-limiting embodiment, the first head SIP devices 1804a and 1804b have substantially similar configuration as the first head SIP device 1802 of Figures 15A-15E Figure 19E ​As shown, each of the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b includes an inward-facing surface 1820a, 1820b that includes a first side impact protection region 1822a, 1822b positioned proximate to the body portion 1814 of the connector member 1808 and a second side impact protection region 1824a, 1824b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection region 1822a, 1822b. As shown, the first side impact protection region 1822a, 1822b can be arranged substantially perpendicular to the body portion 1814. The second side impact protection region 1824a, 1824b extending from the first side impact protection region 1822a, 1822b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the first side impact protection region 1822a, 1822b. The angle between the first side impact protection region 1822a, 1822b and the second side impact protection region 1824a, 1824b can be greater than 90 degrees.

[0515] The second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b can have an outer surface 1830a, 1830b that is complementary to the side portions 1810, 1812. The inward-facing surface 1832a, 1832b of the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b can be oriented substantially parallel to the outer surface 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 head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b are shown as abutting only a portion of the adjacent first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b, in some embodiments, the rear ends 1834a, 1834b of the second head SIP devices 1806a, 1806b can have a profile that is complementary to the adjacent ends of the respective first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b.

[0516] In embodiments, each of the first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b can form a recess 1840a, 1840b within the head receiving region 1842 of the headrest 1801 for guiding movement of the occupant’s head during a side impact event. The first side impact protection region 1822a, 1822b of the inward-facing surface 1820a, 1820b of the respective first head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b can abut the second side impact protection region 1824a, 1824b at a generally vertical intersection line represented by L7a and L7b, respectively. The intersection lines L7a, L7b can be portions of the head SIP devices 1804a, 1804b that are laterally positioned proximate to a central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 1842.

[0517] One side of each recess 1840a, 1840b can extend from the corresponding intersection line L7a, L7b toward a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1842a, 1842b of the headrest side member 1844, 1846. The plane of the recess 1840a, 1840b represented by lines P7a and P7b, respectively, extending from the intersection line L7a, L7b toward a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1842a, 1842b can be coplanar with the first side impact protection surface 1822a, 1822b of each respective first head SIP device 1804a, 1804b. The recess 1840a, 1840b can also be bounded by the second side impact protection region 1824a, 1824b, the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1842a, 1842b, and the surface of at least one of the side portion 1810, 1812 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection region 1824a, 1824b and the front end 1842a, 1842b and the headrest side member 1844, 1846.

[0518] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a vertical plane represented by axis X7a extends from the front end 1842a of the headrest side member 1844 and is positioned tangent to the inward facing surface 1820a at the intersection line L7a. Further, the axis X7a can intersect the headrest support surface 1804 or the adjacent body portion 1814 of the connector member 1808 at an intersection location I7a. Another vertical plane represented by axis X7b extends from the front end 1842b of the headrest side member 1846 and is positioned tangent to the inward facing surface 1820b at the intersection line L7b. The axis X7b can intersect the headrest support surface 1804 or the adjacent body portion 1814 at an intersection location I7b. In embodiments, the distance between the headrest support surface 1804 and the intersection line L7a, L7b is less than the distance between the intersection line L7a, L7b and the front end 1842a, 1842b of the headrest side member 1844, 1846, measured along the respective axis X7a, X7b. 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.

[0519] In Figures 20A-20EIn the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of head SIP assembly 1902, each side portion 1906, 1908 of connector member 1904 of head SIP assembly 1902 is similarly associated with a plurality of head SIP devices. As shown, head SIP assembly 1902 includes a plurality of first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b positioned proximate to an opposite rear portion of connector member 1904, e.g., proximate to an interface between respective side portions 1906, 1908 and body portion 1909. In embodiments, first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b have substantially the same construction as those previously disclosed in Figures 19A-19E ) and in Figures 15A-15E . In such constructions, each first head SIP device 1910a, 1910b includes an inward facing surface 1912a, 1912b including a first side impact protection region 1914a, 1914b positioned proximate to body portion 1909 of connector member 1904 and a second side impact protection region 1916a, 1916b extending forwardly away from first side impact protection region 1914a, 1914b. As shown, first side impact protection region 1914a, 1914b can be arranged substantially perpendicular to body portion 1909. Second side impact protection region 1916a, 1916b extending from first side impact protection region 1914a, 1914b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to first side impact protection region 1914a, 1914b. The angle between first side impact protection region 1914a, 1914b and second side impact protection region 1916a, 1916b can be greater than 90 degrees.

[0520] Additionally, respective second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b can be mounted to each side portion 1906, 1908 of head SIP assembly 1902 such that second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b are proximate to front ends 1918a, 1918b of headrest side members 1940, 1942 when head SIP assembly 1902 is mounted to headrest 1901. Second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b can have substantially the same construction as those previously disclosed in Figures 16A-16EThe SIP devices disclosed in the middle are substantially identical construction. The inward 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 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 body portion 1909 of the connector member 1904. Second side impact protection regions 1926a, 1926b of the inward facing surfaces 1922a, 1922b extending from the first side impact protection regions 1924a, 1924b can have a generally circular or curved profile, such as a convex curvature. In embodiments, the thickness of the head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b can taper from the first side impact protection regions 1924a, 1924b toward the respective front ends 1918a, 1918b of the head SIP assemblies 1902.

[0521] As shown, at each side portion 1906, 1908, there can be a gap between the first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b and the second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b. The combination of the separate 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 adapted to absorb energy during a crash regardless of the mounting orientation of the child seat relative to the vehicle seat.

[0522] The first recesses 1930a, 1930b (see Figure 20C and 20E ) can be at least partially defined within the head receiving region 1928 of the headrest 1901 by the 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 respective inward facing surface 1912a, 1912b, 1922a, 1922b. The first recesses 1930a, 1930b can be partially defined by planes extending from the respective intersection lines L8a, L8b of the first head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b to the respective intersection lines L9a, L9b of the second head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b. The generally vertical intersection lines L8a, L8b can be portions of the head SIP devices 1910a, 1910b positioned laterally closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 1928. Similarly, the generally vertical intersection lines L9a, L9b can be portions of the head SIP devices 1920a, 1920b positioned laterally closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 1928.

[0523] The first recesses 1930a, 1930b can also be bounded by the second side impact protection area 1916a, 1916b of the first head SIP device 1910a, 1910b, the first side impact protection area 1924a, 1924b of the second head SIP device 1920a, 1920b, and the surface of the side portion 1906, 1908 extending therebetween. In embodiments, 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 area 1924a, 1924b of the inward facing surface 1922a, 1922b of the respective second head SIP device 1920a, 1920b can abut the second side impact protection area 1926a, 1926b at the intersection line represented by L9a and L9b, respectively.

[0524] Each recess 1932a, 1932b can extend from the corresponding intersection line L9a, L9b towards a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1918a, 1918b of the headrest side member 1940, 1942. This plane extending from the intersection line L9a, L9b towards a plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1918a, 1918b can be parallel to the CLA. The recess 1932a, 1932b can also be bounded by the second side impact protection area 1926a, 1926b, the plane extending transversely from the inner edge of the front end 1918a, 1918b, and at least one of the surface of the side portion 1906, 1908 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection area 1926a, 1926b and the front end 1918a, 1918b and the surface of the headrest side member 1940, 1942.

[0525] Similar to the previous embodiments, in Figures 21A-21EIn the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each side portion 2006, 2008 of the connector member 2004 of the head SIP assembly 2002 is associated with a plurality of head SIP devices. As shown, the head SIP assembly 2002 includes a plurality of first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b positioned proximate to an opposite rear portion of the connector member 2004, e.g., proximate to an interface between the respective side portion 2006, 2008 and the body portion 2009. A plurality of second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b can be positioned proximate to a front portion of the connector member 2004, e.g., proximate to an end 2014a, 2014b of the side portion 2006, 2008. In embodiments, the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b arranged proximate to the rear portion of the connector member 2004 are interconnected with the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b arranged proximate to the respective front end 2014a, 2014b of the connector member 2004. The first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b can include a configuration substantially similar to the head SIP devices disclosed in Figures 19A-19E and 20A-20E. Figures 15A-15E

[0526] For example, each first head SIP device 2010a, 2010b includes an inward facing surface 2013a, 2013b including a first side impact protection region 2016a, 2016b positioned proximate to the body portion 2009 and a second side impact protection region 2018a, 2018b extending forwardly away from the first region 2016a, 2016b. As shown, the first side impact protection region 2016a, 2016b can be arranged substantially perpendicular to the body portion 2009 of the connector member 2004. The second side impact protection region 2018a, 2018b extending from the first side impact protection region 2016a, 2016b can be arranged at a non-parallel angle with respect to the first side impact protection region 2016a, 2016b. In embodiments, the angle a between the first side impact protection region 2016a, 2016b and the second side impact protection region 2018a, 2018b is greater than 90 degrees.

[0527] The second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b can have a configuration substantially similar to the head SIP devices disclosed in Figures 19A-19E and 20A-20E. Figures 13A-13E ​The second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b can be substantially similar in construction to the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b described above. However, as shown, the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b can extend from the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b to or near the front end 2034a, 2034b of the headrest side member 2036, 2038. The surface 2020a, 202b of the second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b can include a plurality of different side impact protection regions arranged at different angles. The first side impact protection region 2022a, 2022b of the respective surface 2020a, 202b of the second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the main body portion 2009. The first side impact protection region 2022a, 2022b of the second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b can be laterally offset from the first side impact protection region 2016a, 2016b of the first head SIP device 2010a, 2010b adjacent thereto, such that the lateral gap Dl between the aligned first side impact protection regions 2022a, 2022b of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b of the head SIP assembly 2002 is greater than the lateral gap D2 between the aligned first side impact protection regions 2016a, 2016b of the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b of the head SIP assembly 2002. The respective second side impact protection region 2024a, 2024b of the surface 2020a, 2020b of the second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b extends from the first side impact protection region 2022a, 2022b toward the front of the headrest 2001. Further, the second side impact protection region 2024a, 2024b can have a smooth or curved profile, such as a convex curvature. In embodiments, the thickness of the second SIP device 2012a, 2012b at the second side impact protection region 2024a, 2024b gradually decreases toward the front end 2013a, 2013b of the connector member 2004.

[0528] It should be appreciated that the material or hardness of the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b can be the same or different than the hardness of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b, regardless of whether the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b and the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b are positioned separately or interconnected about the connector member 2004.

[0529] For side impact events (see Figure 21C and 21EWaviness 2030a, 2030b that controls movement of a passenger's head during a crash can be at least partially defined by a plurality of head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b, 2012a, 2012b within a head receiving area 2028 of the headrest 2001. As shown, each first head SIP device 2010a, 2010b and each second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b has a respective inward facing surface 2013a, 2013b, 2020a, 2020b. The first waviness 2030a, 2030b can be partially defined by a plane extending from a respective intersection line L10a, L10b of the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b to a respective intersection line Ll la, Ll lb of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b. The generally vertical intersection lines L10a, L10b, Ll la, Ll lb can represent a portion of each head SIP device 2010a, 2010b, 2012a, 2012b that is positioned laterally closest to a central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 2028 of the headrest 2001. The first waviness 2030a, 2030b can also be defined by a surface of the second side impact protection area 2018a, 2018b of the first head SIP devices 2010a, 2010b, the first side impact protection area 2022a, 2022b of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b, and the side portions 2006, 2008 extending therebetween.

[0530] Each of the second head SIP devices 2012a, 2012b can 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 surface 2020a, 2020b of the respective second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b can abut the second side impact protection area 2018a, 2018b at an intersection line represented by Ll la and Ll lb, respectively. Each recess 2032a, 2032b can be bounded in part by a plane extending from the corresponding intersection line Ll la, Ll lb towards an inner edge of the front end 2034a, 2034b of the headrest side member 2036, 2038. This plane extending from the intersection line Ll la, Ll lb towards the inner edge of the front end 2034a, 2034b can be coplanar with the first side impact protection surface 2022a, 2022b of each respective second head SIP device 2012a, 2012b. The recess 2032a, 2032b can also be bounded by the second side impact protection area 2024a, 2024b, a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 2034a, 2034b, and at least one of the surface of the side portion 2006, 2008 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection area 2024a, 2024b and the front end 2034a, 2034b and the surface of the headrest side member 2036, 2038.

[0531] Reference is now made to Figures 22A-22EFIG. 21 shows another embodiment of a head SIP assembly 2102 having first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b arranged at respective side portions 2108, 2110 of a connector member 2111. The first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b can have inward facing surfaces 2112a, 2112b including first side impact protection regions 2114a, 2114b and second side impact protection regions 2116a, 2116b arranged at non-parallel angles to each other. Generally vertical intersection lines L12a, L12b are arranged at the interface between the first side impact protection regions 2114a, 2114b and the second side impact protection regions 2116a, 2116b, respectively. The intersection lines L12a, L12b can be portions of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b that are laterally positioned closest to a central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region. Further, the distance between the intersection lines L12a, L12b and a rear portion 2138 of the headrest 2101 can be less than the distance between the intersection lines L12a, L12b 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 tangential to the lines L12a, L12b.

[0532] The second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b have inward facing surfaces 2118a, 2118b including first side impact protection regions 2120a, 2120b and second side impact protection regions 2122a, 2122b arranged at non-parallel angles to each other. Generally vertical intersection lines L13a, L13b are arranged at the interface between the first side impact protection regions 2120a, 2120b and the second side impact protection regions 2122a, 2122b, respectively. The intersection lines L13a, L13b can be portions of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b that are laterally positioned closest to a central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 2126. Further, the distance between the intersection lines L13a, L13b and a 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 tangential to the lines L13a, L13b.

[0533] Similar to the previous embodiments, the first recesses 2124a, 2124b (see Figure 21C and 21EA head receiving region 2126 of the headrest 2101 can be defined within by the plurality of head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, 2106a, 2106b. As shown, the sides of the first recesses 2124a, 2124b can be defined by planes 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 surfaces of the second side impact protection regions 2116a, 2116b of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, the first side impact protection regions 2120a, 2120b of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b, and the surfaces of the side portions 2106, 2108 extending therebetween.

[0534] In embodiments, each of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b can form a recess 2128a, 2128b within the head receiving region 2126 of the headrest 2101. Each recess 2128a, 2128b can have sides defined by planes extending from the corresponding intersection line L13a, L13b towards an inner edge of the front end 2130a, 2130b of the headrest side member 2132, 2134 laterally. This plane extending from the intersection line L13a, L13b towards the inner edge of the front end 2130a, 2130b laterally (represented by lines 2150a, 2150b (see FIG. 21) can be parallel to the central longitudinal axis CLA. The recess 2128a, 2128b can also be defined by the second side impact protection region 2122a, 2122b and the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 2130a, 2130b of the headrest side member 2132, 2134. In embodiments in which the ends of the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b are offset from the front end 2130a, 2130b of the headrest 2101, the second recess 2128a, 2128b can also be defined by at least one of the surface of the side portion 2108, 2110 and the surface of the headrest side member 2132, 2134 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection region 2122a, 2122b and the front end 2130a, 2130b. Figure 22E

[0535] ​In the illustrated embodiment, the head SIP assembly 2102 includes third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b disposed at the same side portions 2108, 2110 of the connector body 2112 as the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b. In such embodiments, the third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can have a similar material or durometer as at least one of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b, or alternatively a different durometer or hardness. As shown, the third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can be positioned forward of at least one of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b. In non-limiting embodiments, the third head SIP devices 2108a, 2108b are mounted within the first recesses 2124a, 2124b. The third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can be configured to substantially equal the profile of the first recesses 2124a, 2124b, such that the respective first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b, and third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b combine to form a smooth, substantially continuous inward facing surface. Further, the third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can be permanently or removably connected to the connector member 2111 or to the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b.

[0536] In the illustrated embodiment, the head SIP assembly 2102 includes third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b disposed at the same side portions 2108, 2110 of the connector body 2112 as the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b. In such embodiments, the third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can have a similar material or durometer as at least one of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b, or alternatively a different durometer or hardness. As shown, the third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can be positioned forward of at least one of the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b. In non-limiting embodiments, the third head SIP devices 2108a, 2108b are mounted within the first recesses 2124a, 2124b. The third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can be configured to substantially equal the profile of the first recesses 2124a, 2124b, such that the respective first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b, second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b, and third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b combine to form a smooth, substantially continuous inward facing surface. Further, the third head SIP devices 2140a, 2140b can be permanently or removably connected to the connector member 2111 or to the first head SIP devices 2104a, 2104b and the second head SIP devices 2106a, 2106b. Figures 23A-23EIn yet another embodiment of the head SIP assembly 2202 of the headrest 2201 of the child seat 2200 shown in FIG. 22, each side portion 2206, 2208 of the connector member 2204 includes a first head SIP device 2210a, 2210b, a second head SIP device 2212a, 2212b, a third head SIP device 2214a, 2214b, and a fourth head SIP device 2216a, 2216b. The first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b can be arranged proximate to the opposing rear portions of the connector member 2204, e.g., at the interface between the respective side portions 2206, 2208 and the main body portion 2218. The third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b can be arranged proximate to, but offset from, the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230. The first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b and the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b can have any suitable configuration, e.g., similar to any of the head SIP devices of the previous embodiments described herein. Additionally, the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b and the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b can include the same or different materials having the same or different stiffnesses.

[0537] As shown, the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b can have inwardly facing surfaces 2220a, 2220b that include respective first and second side impact protection regions arranged at non-parallel angles to each other. A generally vertically intersecting line L14a, L14b is arranged at the interface between the first and second side impact protection regions, respectively. The intersecting lines L14a, L14b can be portions of the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b that are positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head reception region 2222. Further, the distance between the intersecting lines L14a, L14b and the rear portion 2224 of the headrest 2201 can be less than the distance between the intersecting lines L14a, L14b and the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230, as measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2226a, 2226b and positioned tangential to the lines L14a, L14b.

[0538] The third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b have inward facing surfaces 2231a, 2231b that include a first side impact protection region and a second side impact protection region arranged at non-parallel angles to each other. A generally vertically intersecting line L15a, L15b is arranged at the interface between the first side impact protection region and the second side impact protection region, respectively. The intersecting lines L15a, L15b can be portions of the second head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b that are laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region 2222. Further, the distance between the intersecting lines L15a, L15b and the rear portion 2224 of the headrest 2201 can be greater than the distance between the intersecting lines L15a, L15b and the front ends 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side members 2228, 2230, measured along a line extending from the respective front ends 2226a, 2226b and positioned tangential to the lines L15a, L15b.

[0539] Similar to the previous embodiments, the first recesses 2232a, 2232b (see Figure 23C and 23E ) can be at least partially defined within the head receiving region 2222 of the headrest 2201 by the plurality of head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b, 2214a, 2214b. As shown, the first recesses 2232a, 2232b can be partially defined by planes extending from the respective intersecting lines L14a, L14b of the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b to the respective intersecting 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 regions of the respective head SIP devices 2210a, 2110b, 2214a, 2214b arranged therebetween and the corresponding surfaces of the side portions 2206, 2208.

[0540] Each of the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b 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 laterally from the inner edge of the front end 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side member 2228, 2230. The side portions (indicated by lines 2240a, 2240b) of the recess 2234a, 2234b formed by this plane extending laterally from the intersection line L15a, L15b toward the plane extending laterally 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 recess 2234a, 2234b can also be bounded by portions of the inner facing surface 2231a, 2231b, the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side member 2228, 2230, and at least one of the surface of the side portion 2206, 2208 and the surface of the headrest side member 2228, 2230 extending between the edge of the third head SIP device 2214a, 2214 and the front end 2130a, 2130b.

[0541] 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, e.g., within the first recesses 2232a, 2232b, respectively. Accordingly, the profile of the second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b can, but need not, match the profile 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 end 2226a, 2226b of the headrest side member 2228, 2230. In embodiments, the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b are within the respective recesses 2234a, 2234b. The profile of the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b can, but need not, match the profile of the recesses 2234a, 2234b. The second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b and the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b can have any suitable configuration. Additionally, the second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b and the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b can comprise the same or different materials having the same or different hardnesses. It will be appreciated that the second head SIP devices and the fourth head SIP devices can be removably mounted to the headrest, and in some embodiments, neither of the second head SIP devices and the fourth head SIP devices are connected to the connector member, or only one of the second head SIP devices and the fourth head SIP devices can be connected to the connector member.

[0542] In embodiments, the second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b can be connected to respective first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b, and the second head SIP devices 2212a, 2212b can have a hardness that is less than the hardness of the first head SIP devices 2210a, 2210b. Alternatively or additionally, the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b can be connected to the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b, and the fourth head SIP devices 2216a, 2216b can have a hardness that is less than the hardness of the third head SIP devices 2214a, 2214b. It will be appreciated that any of the head SIP devices or combinations of head SIP devices described herein with respect to the head SIP assemblies can alternatively be mounted directly to the headrest without a connector member.

[0543] Reference is now made to Figures 132A-133C FIG. 18, which shows another embodiment of a head SIP assembly 11800. As shown, the head SIP assembly 11800 includes a connector member 11802 having a central body portion 11804, a first side portion 11806 extending from a first side of the body portion 11804, and a second side portion 11808 extending from a second, opposite side of the body portion 11804. A first head SIP device 11810a can be disposed at or adjacent to the first side portion 11806 of the connector member 11802, and a second head SIP device 11810b can be disposed at or adjacent to the second side portion 11808 of the connector member 11802. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b are mounted near the rear of the head SIP assembly 11800, for example at the interface between the body portion 11804 and the respective side portions 11806, 11808 of the connector member 11802.

[0544] In embodiments, a cutout or notch is 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, for example in a booster mode of operation, the cutouts 11817a, 11817b can form part of the vehicle belt path. Accordingly, the bottoms 11821a, 11821b of the first and second head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b can define a portion of the vehicle belt path.

[0545] As Figures 133A-133CAs shown, the head SIP assembly 11800 can be removably or permanently connected to a structural shell 11820 of the headrest. The headrest shell 11820 can include a shell back 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 at opposite sides of the back portion 11822 and extending toward a front of the headrest shell 11820. The head SIP assembly 11800 can be positioned immediately adjacent to an inner surface of the shell 11820 of the headrest. For example, the body portion 11804 of the connector member 11802 can be positioned adjacent to the back portion 11822 of the headrest shell 11820, the first side portion 11806 and the first head SIP device 11810a of the connector member 11802 can be positioned adjacent to the first shell headrest side member 11824 of the headrest shell 11820 (the first side portion 11806 being in direct contact with the first shell headrest side member 11824), and the second side portion 11808 and the second head SIP device 11810b of the connector member 11802 can be positioned adjacent to the second shell headrest side member 11826 (the second side portion 11808 being in direct contact with the second shell headrest side member 11826). At least a portion of the rear or outer surface 11816 of the head SIP assembly 11800 can have a contour that is complementary to a contour of the inner surfaces of the back portion 11822 and the shell headrest side members 11824, 11826 to facilitate engagement therebetween.

[0546] The headrest shell 11820 can include or be formed of a first material having a first hardness, and the connector member 11802 can be formed of a second material having a second hardness. In embodiments, 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 elongate such that the distal ends 11812a, 11812b of each side portion 11806, 11808 extend beyond a respective front end 11828a, 11828b of the corresponding headrest shell side member 11824, 11826 of the headrest shell 11820. Thus, the distal ends 11812a, 11812b of each side portion 11806, 11808 can define a front or forward extent of the headrest.

[0547] The connector member 11802 includes one or more reinforced regions 11814a, 11814b. These reinforced regions 11814a, 11814b can be disposed at portions of the connector member 11802 positioned proximate the front ends 11828a, 11828b of the headrest shell side members 11824, 11826 (e.g., proximate the distal ends 11812a, 11812b of each side portion 11806, 11808). As shown, the reinforced regions 11814a, 11814b can have an increased thickness as compared to adjacent portions of the connector member 11802. This increased thickness can increase the rigidity of the connector member 11802, thereby reinforcing the portions of the connector member 11802 that extend beyond the headrest shell 11820. Further, 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 the outer surface of the connector member 11802, embodiments in which the reinforced regions are formed at the inner surface thereof are also contemplated herein.

[0548] 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 of 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.

[0549] Similar to previously disclosed embodiments, each head SIP device 11810a, 11810b includes an inward facing surface 11818a, 11818b having a first side impact protection region 11830a, 11830b positioned proximate the main body portion 11804, and a second side impact protection region 11832a, 11832b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection region 11830a, 11830b. As shown, the first side impact protection region 11830a, 11830b can be disposed at an angle with the main body portion 11804 of the connector member 11802. The second side impact protection region 11832a, 11832b can be disposed at a non-parallel angle relative to the respective first side impact protection region 11830a, 11830b.

[0550] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 11810a forms a first recess 11834a within the head receiving region 11829 of the structural shell 11820, and the head SIP device 11810b forms a second recess 11834b within the head receiving region 11829. The first side impact protection region 11830a, 11830b can abut the respective second side impact protection region 11832a, 11832b of each head SIP device 11810a, 11810b at a generally vertical intersection line represented by L16a and L16b, respectively. Figure 133C The intersection lines L16a, L16b can be disposed at portions of the head SIP devices 11810a, 11810b that are laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving region.

[0551] The first recess 11834a is partially bounded by the second side impact protection region 11832a and a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11812a, 11812b of the side portion 11806, 11808 of the connector member 11802. The surface of the first side portion 11806 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection region 11832a and the front end 11812a can also partially bound the first recess 11834a. The recess 11834a is further bounded by a plane extending from the intersection line L16a to the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11812a, 11812b of the side portion 11806, 11808. This plane is represented in 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 region 11830a of the head SIP device 11810a.

[0552] Similarly, the second recess 11834b extends from the intersection line L16b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11812a, 11812b of the side portion 11806, 11808. The plane of the recess 11834b extending from the intersection line L16b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11812b, represented by line P16b, can, but need not, be coplanar with the first side impact protection region 11830b of the head SIP device 11810b. The recess 11834b can also be bounded by the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11812a, 11812b, the second side impact protection region 11832b, and by the surface of the second side portion 11808 extending between the edge of the respective second side impact protection region 11832b and the front end 11812b.

[0553] Further reference is made to Figure 133CA vertical plane represented by axis X16a extends from the front end 11812a of the first side portion 11806 and is positioned to be tangent to the inward facing surface of the head SIP device 11810a at intersection line L16a. Further, the plane X16a can intersect the body portion 11804 of the connector member 11802 at intersection location I16a. Another vertical plane represented by axis X16b extends from the front end 11812b of the second side portion 11808 and is positioned to be tangent to the inward facing surface of the head SIP device 11810b at intersection line L16b. The plane X16b can intersect the body portion 11804 of the connector member 11802 at intersection location I16b. In embodiments, the distance between the intersection locations I16a, I16b and the respective intersection lines L16a, L16b, as measured along the axes X16a, X16b, is less than the distance between the respective intersection lines L16a, L16b and the respective front ends 11812a, 11812b of the side portions 11806, 11808.

[0554] Referring to Figures 132A-133C In embodiments, the upper transition region 11819a, 11819b and / or the lower transition region 11821a, 11821b can extend between the inward facing surface 11818a, 11818b and an adjacent surface of the connector member 11802. However, it should be appreciated that in embodiments where the head SIP device 11810a, 11810b is directly mounted to a headrest, the upper transition region 11819a, 11819b and / or the lower transition region 11821a, 11821b can extend between the inward facing surface 11818a, 11818b and an interior surface of the headrest. The upper transition region and / or the lower transition region can be shaped or formed so as to form a smooth profile. Further, the head SIP device 11810a, 11810b can, but need not, extend the entire height of the SIP assembly 18000 and / or the headrest 18200. For example, the head SIP device 11810a, 11810b (e.g., the upper transition region 11819a, 11819b thereof) can extend to the top of the SIP assembly 11800 and / or the headrest 11820, and / or the head SIP device 11810a, 11810b (e.g., the lower transition region 11821a, 11821b thereof) can extend to the bottom of the SIP assembly 11800 and / or the headrest 11820.

[0555] Referring now to Figures 134A-134DAnother embodiment of a headrest 11900 including at least one head SIP device is shown. As shown, the headrest 11900 includes a rear portion 11902, a first headrest side member 11904, and a second headrest side member 11906. The rear portion 11902, the first headrest side member 11904, and the second headrest side member 11906 in combination define a head receiving area 11908 of the headrest 11900. A first head SIP device 11910a can be disposed at or adjacent to the first headrest side member 11904, and a second head SIP device 11910b can be disposed at or adjacent to the second headrest side member 11906. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the head SIP devices 11910a, 11910b are mounted near the rear of the headrest 11900, for example at the interface between the rear portion 11902 and the respective headrest side members 11904, 11906.

[0556] Each head SIP device 11910a, 11910b includes an inward facing surface 11912a, 11912b. In embodiments, as shown, the inward facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b can each include a single side impact protection area. As shown, a first end 11916a, 11916b of the inward facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b positioned closest to the rear portion 11902 can be disposed at a non-parallel angle relative to the rear portion. The inward facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b can also extend at a non-parallel angle relative to a vertical axis. The plane of the inward facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b can be skewed relative to a vertical axis such that a bottom end 11918a, 11918b of the inward facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b located closest to the bottom of the headrest 11900 can be positioned closer to a central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 11908 of the headrest 11900 than an end 11920a, 11920b of the inward facing surfaces 11912a, 11912b located closest to the top of the headrest 11900.

[0557] Alternatively or additionally, the length of the inward facing surface 11912a, 11912b measured parallel to the CLA can vary over the height of the inward facing surface 11912a, 11912b. As shown, the front edge 11922a, 11922b of the inward facing surface 11912a, 11912b can be defined by a flip line Tl. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the flip line Tl is disposed at an angle relative to the rear portion 11902 of the headrest. For example, the flip line Tl can have a forward-facing configuration. Accordingly, the length of the inward facing surface 11912a, 11912b extending between the rear portion 11902 of the headrest and the flip line Tl near the top of the front edge 11922a, 11922b of the inward facing surface 11912a, 11912b (indicated by LI1) is greater than the length of the inward facing surface 11912a, 11912b extending between the rear portion 11902 of the headrest and the flip line Tl near the bottom of the front edge 11922a, 11922b of the inward facing surface 11912a, 11912b (indicated by LI2). The length LI1 can be between about 90 mm and about 140 mm, such as about 95 mm, about 100 mm, about 110 mm, or about 130 mm. The length LI2 can be between about 40 mm and about 90 mm, such as about 50 mm, about 60 mm, about 70 mm, about 80 mm, and about 85 mm. It should be appreciated that the ranges for LI1 and LI2 are intended only as examples, and other suitable values outside of the ranges provided are contemplated herein.

[0558] Each of the head SIP devices 11910a, 11910b can have a base surface 11914a, 11914b facing or integral with a corresponding portion of the headrest 11900. In embodiments, the base surface 11914a, 11914b of the head SIP device 11910a, 11910b, such as a surface near the respective front end of the head SIP device 11910a, 11910b, extends away from a corresponding surface of the adjacent headrest side member 11904, 11906. This contour forms a void or pocket between the base surface 11914a, 11914b near the front of each head SIP device 11910a, 11910b and the respective front end 11922a, 11922b of the headrest 11900. Inclusion of these pockets can improve impact to the occupant’s head during a crash event by facilitating rolling of the occupant’s head.

[0559] Reference Figures 135A-135CFIG. 1 1 1 1 shows another embodiment of a headrest 1 1950. As shown, the headrest 1 1950 includes a rear portion 1 1952 having a headrest support surface (not shown), a first headrest side member 1 1954, and a second headrest side member 1 1956. A head SIP assembly 1 1960 can be positioned about the headrest 1 1950 and includes a connector member 1 1962 having a central body portion 1 1964, a first side portion 1 1966 extending from a first side of the body portion 1 1964, and a second side portion 1 1968 extending from a second, opposite side of the body portion 1 1964. A first head SIP device 1 1970a can be disposed at or adjacent the first side portion 1 1966 of the connector member 1 1962, and a second head SIP device 1 1970b can be disposed at or adjacent the second side portion 1 1968 of the connector member 1 1962. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 1 1970a, 1 1970b are mounted near the rear of the head SIP assembly 1 1960, e.g., at the interface between the body portion 1 1964 and the respective side portions 1 1966, 1 1968 of the connector member 1 1962.

[0560] Each head SIP device 1 1970a, 1 1970b can extend to cover only a portion of the length of each side portion 1 1966, 1 1968. As shown, the head SIP devices 1 1970a, 1 1970b can extend generally to the center of the side portions 1 1966, 1 1968. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 1 1970a, 1 1970b extends less than half the length of the respective side portion 1 1966, 1 1968. However, embodiments are also contemplated herein in which at least one head SIP device 1 1970a, 1 1970b is longer or shorter.

[0561] Similar to previously disclosed embodiments, each head SIP device 1 1970a, 1 1970b includes an inward-facing surface 1 1972a, 1 1972b having a first side impact protection region 1 1974a, 1 1974b positioned closest to the body portion 1 1964, and a second side impact protection region 1 1976a, 1 1976b extending forwardly away from the first side impact protection region 1 1974a, 1 1974b. As shown, the first side impact protection region 1 1974a, 1 1974b can be disposed at a non-parallel angle relative to the body portion 1 1964 of the connector member 1 1962. The second side impact protection region 1 1976a, 1 1976b can also be disposed at a non-parallel angle relative to the respective first side impact protection region 1 1974a, 1 1974b.

[0562] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, 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 abut the respective second side impact protection area 11976a, 11976b of each head SIP device 11970a, 11970b at a generally vertical intersection line represented by L17a and L17b, respectively (see Figure 135B and 135C ). The intersection lines L17a, L17b can be disposed at portions of the head SIP devices 11970a, 11970b that are laterally positioned closest to the central longitudinal axis CLA of the head receiving area 11961.

[0563] The first recess 11980a is partially defined by the second side impact protection area 11976a and a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11982a, 11982b of the side portion 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 can also partially define the first recess 11980a. The recess 11980a is also defined by a plane extending from the intersection line L17a to a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11982a, 11982b of the side portion 11966, 11968. This plane is represented in Figure 135C by line P17a. This plane P17a of the recess 11980a extending from the intersection line L17a toward the 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.

[0564] Similarly, the second recess 11980b extends from the intersection line L17b toward a plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11982a, 11982b of the side portion 11966, 11968. The plane of the recess 11980b extending from the intersection line L17b toward the plane extending laterally from the inner edge of the front end 11982a, 11982b represented by line P17b 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 edge of the front end 11982a, 11982b, the second side impact protection area 11976b, and by the surface of the second side portion 11968 extending between the second side impact protection area 11976b and the front end 11982b.

[0565] With further reference Figure 135C A vertical plane represented by axis X17a extends from the front end 11982a of the first side portion 11966 and is positioned to be tangent to the inward facing surface 11972a of the head SIP device 11970a at intersection line L17a. Further, the plane X17a can intersect the body portion 11964 of the connector member 11962 at intersection location I17a. Another vertical plane represented by axis X17b extends from the front end 11982b of the second side portion 11968 and is positioned to be tangent to the inward facing surface 11972b of the head SIP device 11970b at intersection line L17b. The plane X17b can intersect the body portion 11964 of the connector member 11962 at intersection location I17b. In embodiments, the distance between the intersection locations I17a, I17b and the corresponding intersection lines L17a, L17b, measured along the axes X17a, X17b, is less than the distance between the intersection lines L17a, L17b and the corresponding front ends 11982a, 11982b of the side portions 11966, 11968.

[0566] With further reference Figures 135A-135C In embodiments, the gap between the first side portion 11966 and the second side portion 11968 varies over 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 greater than the gap formed between the first side portion 11966 and the second side portion 11968 near the bottom of the head SIP assembly. Inclusion of such a taper over the height of the head SIP assembly 11960 can control the roll of the occupant’s head during a crash event.

[0567] In embodiments, 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 installed to the vehicle seat, i.e., facing rearward or facing forward. In Figures 24A-24DIn the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 23, head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b are mounted to interior surfaces of respective headrest side members 2304, 2305 of headrest 2301. As shown, each head SIP assembly 2302a, 2302b includes a respective first head SIP device 2306a, 2306b and a respective second head SIP device 2308a, 2308b. First head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b and second head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b can be connected to each other, for example, via a connector member (not shown). First head SIP devices 2306a, 2306b have a first stiffness, and second head SIP devices 2308a, 2308b have a second stiffness, the first stiffness being greater than the second stiffness.

[0568] Head SIP assemblies 2302a or 2302b are movable, for example, rotatable about an axis, between a first configuration (A) associated with forward-facing installation of child seat system 2300 Figure 24A (B) and a second configuration (C) associated with rear-facing installation of child seat system 2300 Figure 24C (D). It is understood that head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b can be transformed between the first and second configurations when the soft goods are all positioned about the headrest and when the soft goods are all removed from the headrest. In embodiments, the head SIP device of head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b having the greater stiffness, such as head SIP device 2306a or 2306b, is positioned about the rear of headrest 2301 when the child seat is in the forward-facing configuration, and the head SIP device 2306a, 2306b having the greater stiffness can be positioned about the front 2314 of headrest 2301 when the child seat is in the rear-facing configuration.

[0569] As shown in the figure, in the first configuration, the first headrest SIP devices 2306a and 2306b are positioned closest to the headrest support surface 2310 of the headrest 2301, and the second headrest SIP devices 2308a and 2308b are positioned closest to the front portion 2314 of the headrest 2301. When the child seat system is mounted in the rearward direction and the headrest SIP assemblies 2302a and 2302b are in the second configuration, the second headrest SIP devices 2308a and 2308b are positioned closest to the headrest support surface 2310, and the first headrest SIP devices 2306a and 2306b are positioned closest to the front end 2314 of the headrest 2301. This rotation of the headrest SIP assemblies 2302a and 2302b can be driven by an adjustment control panel 2320 or other control mechanism operably connected to the headrest SIP assembly 2302 and located outside the child seat. Although the control mechanism 2320 is shown disposed at the second headrest side member 2305, in other embodiments, the control mechanism 2320 may be disposed at the first headrest side member 2304. Furthermore, it should be understood that a single control mechanism 2320 can be used to change one or more of the plurality of head SIP assemblies 2302a, 2302b.

[0570] In other embodiments, such as Figures 25A-25D As shown, the overall headroom of the head SIP assembly can vary based on the orientation of the child seat system installed in the vehicle seat. Head SIP assemblies 2402a, 2402b can be mounted to corresponding headrest side members 2404, 2406 of the headrest 2401. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each head SIP assembly 2402a, 2402b includes a corresponding first head SIP device 2408a, 2408b and an adjacent second head SIP device 2410a, 2410b. The rigidity of the first head SIP devices 2408a, 2408b can be greater than the rigidity of the second head SIP devices 2410a, 2410b. Each head SIP assembly 2402a, 2402b has a first configuration associated with forward mounting of the child seat system 2400. Figure 25A -B) and a second construction associated with rearward mounting of the child seat system 2400 ( Figure 25C -D).

[0571] In the first configuration, the second head SIP device 2410 extends to cover a substantial portion of the length of the adjacent headrest side members 2404, 2406. In embodiments, the second head SIP device 2410 can be at least double the length of the first head SIP device 2408 when in the first configuration, and in some embodiments, can be, for example, triple or quadruple. 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 can extend to cover only a small portion of the length of the headrest side members 2404, 2406. In embodiments, the length of the second head SIP device 2410 when in the second configuration can be similar to or equal to the length of the first head SIP device 2408.

[0572] To accommodate this transformation in length, the second head SIP device 2410 can be retracted into a corresponding cavity, or can be selectively inflated and deflated to achieve the desired configuration. Similar to the previous embodiments, it should be understood that the head SIP assemblies 2402a, 2402b can be transformed between the first and second configurations when the soft goods are both positioned about the headrest and when the soft goods are both removed from the headrest. The transformation of the second head SIP devices 2410a, 2410b can be controlled by an adjustment control dial 2420 or other control mechanism operably coupled to the second head SIP devices 2410a, 2410a and disposed outside of the child seat. Although the control mechanism 2420 is shown disposed at the second headrest side member 2406, in other embodiments, the control mechanism 2420 can be disposed at the first headrest side member 2404 or another suitable location about the child seat. Further, it should be appreciated that a single control mechanism 2420 can be used to transform the corresponding second head SIP device 2410a or 2410b, or alternatively, can be used to transform both of the second head SIP devices 2410a and 2410b.

[0573] Referring now to Figures 26A-26F , another embodiment of at least one head SIP device that can be transformed between a first configuration and a second configuration is shown. As shown, the headrest 2502 of the child seat 2500 includes a rear portion 2504 having an upright support surface 2506, a first headrest side member 2508, and a second headrest side member 2510. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b are mounted at each of the headrest side members 2508, 2510, respectively. At least one of the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b can be transformed relative to the headrest 2502 between a first retracted configuration (FIG. 25A) and a second extended configuration (FIG. 25B). In the illustrated embodiment, the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b are transformed between the first and second configurations by a first control mechanism 2520, and the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b are transformed between the first and second configurations by a second control mechanism 2522. In other embodiments, a single control mechanism can be used to transform both of the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and both of the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b. Figures 26A-26C) and a second extended or deployed configuration (FIG. 21B). Figures 26D-26F In such embodiments, the 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. Further, in embodiments, the transformable first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and / or the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b can be lockable in the retracted configuration, the extended configuration, or both.

[0574] When in the retracted configuration, the outer surfaces 2516a, 2516b, 2518a, 2518b of at least one of the first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b can be substantially flush with the respective surfaces 2517, 2519 of the first headrest side member 2508 and the second headrest side member 2510. As shown, in the retracted configuration, the first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b are retracted into a gap 2526, 2528 defined between the headrest side members 2508, 2510 and the 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 device 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b protrudes beyond the surfaces of the first headrest side member 2508 and the second headrest side member 2510 to reduce the available space within the space defined by the headrest 2502 (e.g., to reduce the space for a child's head to move left and right within the confines of the headrest). The first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b can be covered by the soft goods of the headrest 2502 when in the extended configuration and the retracted configuration. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b can protrude through the soft goods when in the extended configuration.

[0575] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the at least one first head SIP device 2512a, 2512b and / or the second head SIP device 2514a, 2514b is a rigid body configured to translate along an axis between the retracted configuration and the 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, the first head SIP devices 6504a, 6504b and the second head SIP devices 6506a, 6506b arranged at the headrest 6502 of the child seat 6500 are structurally modifiable bodies, such as balloons or airbags, which can be deployed in the first deflation configuration ( Figures 68A-68C ) and second inflatable structure ( Figures 68D-68F The deflation configuration may also be referred to herein as a retracted or collapsed configuration, and the inflation configuration may also be referred to herein as an extended or expanded configuration. A valve (not shown) may be used to maintain fluid within the balloon during inflation. When in the extended or collapsed configuration, at least a portion of the first head SIP devices 6504a, 6504b and the second head SIP devices 6506a, 6506b that is in contact with the occupant may be covered by the soft material of the headrest 6502. However, in other embodiments, when in the extended configuration, the portion of the first head SIP device 6504a, 6504b and the second head SIP device 6506a, 6506b that is in contact with the occupant may protrude through the soft material.

[0576] When in the vented configuration, a portion of the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, and 6506b may be arranged within a cavity formed in the headrest, or alternatively, may extend into the gaps 6524a and 6524b formed between the headrest side members 6514 and 6516 and the upright side members 6510 and 6512 of the seat housing 6508. Therefore, when air or another fluid is supplied to the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, and 6506b, the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, and 6506b change and extend into the headrest cavity 6520. In other embodiments, a source 6522, arranged in fluid communication with the structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b, may be positioned between the headrest side members 6514, 6516 and the upright side members 6510, 6512. In such embodiments, the source may be fluidly connected to one or more of a plurality of structurally modifiable bodies, such as the plurality of structurally modifiable bodies 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b associated with a given side member 6514, 6516 of the headrest 6502. For example, a first source 6520a positioned within a gap 6524a between the headrest side member 6514 and the adjacent side member 6510 may be operatively coupled to both structurally modifiable bodies 6504a and 6506a. Similarly, a second source 6520b located within the gap 6524b between the headrest side member 6516 and the adjacent side member 6512 can be operatively coupled to both structurally modifiable bodies 6504b and 6506b.

[0577] When the structure-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 is inflated, and when the structure-modifiable body 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b is inflated, the at least one source 6520, 6520b is deflated. Alternatively, a single source can be fluidly connected to each respective structure-modifiable body 6504a, 6504b, 6506a, 6506b.

[0578] It will be appreciated that the energy absorption of the SIP device in the deployed configuration can be greater than the energy absorption of the SIP device in the stowed configuration. In embodiments, the transformation of the head SIP device between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration can occur automatically in response to the child seat being installed on the vehicle seat. With reference to Figures 27A-27B , the headrest 2502 and the first and second SIP devices 2512a, 2512b, 2514a, 2514b are the same as those in Figures 26A-26E . When the child seat 2500 is in the forward-facing orientation ( Figure 27A ), the harness 2530 that can be used to couple the child seat 2500 to the vehicle seat is disposed at a first position, for example, near the center of the upright portion 2532 of the child seat 2500. Similarly, when the child seat 2500 is in the rear-facing orientation ( Figure 27B ), the harness 2530 that can be used to couple the child seat 2500 to the vehicle seat is disposed at a second position around the child seat 2500, for example, near the front 2536 of the seat portion 2534. When this harness 2530 is tensioned, it exerts a force on the respective actuator 2540, 2542 associated with one of the first and second positions.

[0579] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, only the portion of the plurality of head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b, 2514a, 2514b disposed at the headrest 2502 transforms between the retracted and extended configurations in response to the harness being installed at the respective location. For example, when the child seat 2500 is installed in a forward-facing orientation, the harness 2530 engages the actuator 2540 such that only the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b disposed near the front of the headrest 2502 transform to the extended configuration. In this forward-facing installation orientation, the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b located near the rear of the headrest 2502 will remain in the retracted configuration. Similarly, when the child seat 2500 is installed in a rear-facing orientation, the harness 2530 engages the actuator 2542 such that only the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b disposed near the rear of the headrest 2502 transform to the extended configuration. In this rear-facing orientation, the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b located near the front of the headrest 2502 will remain in the retracted configuration.

[0580] In other embodiments, the transformation of at least one head SIP device between the retracted and extended configurations can occur automatically in response to an occupant being present within the child seat, in response to a force being applied to the child seat (e.g., during a side impact event). Although the first head SIP devices 2512a, 2512b and the second head SIP devices 2514a, 2514b are illustrated at each headrest side member 2508, 2510, it should be appreciated that embodiments having only a single head SIP device are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Further, it should be appreciated that in embodiments where multiple head SIP devices are disposed at the same portion of the headrest (e.g., the same headrest side member), the multiple head SIP devices can transform between the retracted and extended configurations simultaneously / cooperatively or independently.

[0581] With reference to Figure 82A and 82BFIG. 8, for example, 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 having at least one second head SIP device 7904b. As shown, the first head SIP portion 7902a is arranged between a rear portion 7906 of the headrest 7900 and a first headrest side member 7908, and the second head SIP portion 7902b is arranged between the headrest rear portion 7906 and a second headrest side member 7910. Although the first and second head SIP portions 7902a, 7902b and corresponding head SIP devices 7904a, 7904b are shown as separate devices that are not integrated into a connected SIP assembly, it should be understood that in other embodiments such an assembly of the two SIP devices 7904a, 7904b connected together can be mounted to an inner surface of the headrest 7900.

[0582] As shown, the configuration of the side impact protection devices, such as the head SIP devices 7904a and 7904b, can vary along a longitudinal axis CLA extending between the headrest rear portion 7906 and the front portions 7930a, 7930b of the head receiving area 7905 of the headrest 7900. For example, each of the head SIP devices 7904a, 7904b includes an inward facing surface 7912a, 7912b having a first side impact protection region 7914a, 7914b and a second side impact protection region 7916a, 7916b arranged at an angle relative to each other.

[0583] The portion of the headrest 7900 located between the headrest rear portion 7906 and the front ends 7930a, 7930b of the headrest 7900 and 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 location," which in the embodiment of FIG. 8 is identified as CI and C2. In embodiments, the head contact locations CI, C2 are the portions of the headrest configured to contact the occupant's head first during a side impact event. Figure 82A In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the head contact locations CI, C2 are the portions of the headrest configured to contact the occupant's head first during a side impact event.

[0584] Head contact locations CI, C2 are laterally offset from the inner surface of the headrest 7900 and can be disposed at the interface between the first side impact protection regions 7914a, 7914b and the second side impact protection regions 7916a, 7916b of the inward facing surfaces 7912a, 7912b. In such embodiments, the intersection lines described previously herein with reference to FIGS. 2-23E can also be head contact locations. As shown, the head contact locations CI, C2 can be positioned between the surface of the headrest rear portion 7906 (e.g., the headrest support surface 7918) of the head receiving region 7905 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 CI, C2 are offset from the headrest support surface 7918.

[0585] Similar to the embodiments of Figure 14 , a recess 7920a can be defined between the head contact locations CI, C2 and the front 7930a of the headrest 7900. As shown, a vertical plane denoted PT1 extending from the front end 7930a in a direction or position tangential to the head contact location CI intersects the headrest support surface 7918 at an intersection location IT1. In embodiments, the recess 7920a is defined between the vertical plane PT1, the second side impact protection region 1716a, and in some embodiments, the inner surface 7932a of the headrest side member 7908 extending from the head contact location CI toward the front 7930a of the headrest. However, in other embodiments, the recess 7920a, 7920b can be at least partially defined by a plane extending from the head contact location CI, 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 region 7914a.

[0586] In embodiments, another recess or second recess 7920b of the head receiving region 7905 can be defined between the head contact locations CI, C2 and the front 7930b of the headrest 7900. As shown, a second vertical plane denoted 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 can be defined between the vertical plane PT2, the second side impact protection region 1716b, and in some embodiments, the inner surface 7932b of the headrest side member 7910 extending from the head contact location C2 toward the front 7930b of the headrest. However, in other embodiments, the recess 7920b can 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 region 7914b.

[0587] As Figure 82BAs shown in the middle, head contact locations CI, C2 contact can induce head roll during a side impact. For example, during a side impact, when the child seat system is in a rear-facing position, the head SIP devices 1304a, 1304b can cause the headrest 1301 to contact the head earlier and induce head roll. Inducing head roll allows energy to be absorbed over a longer period of time and induces off-axis loading of the head. This off-axis loading of the head results in a reduction in the pure lateral loading and head peak y- acceleration and an increase in head x-acceleration.

[0588] Referring now to Figure 28A and 28B , another type of head SIP device suitable for use with the child seat system 2600 is shown. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one head SIP device 2602a, 2602b, 2602c is a friction surface 2604a, 2604b, 2604c formed, for example, via a friction material, intended to create friction between the material and the occupant's head to control or terminate movement of the head. The one or more head SIP devices 2602a, 2602b, 2602c in the form of a friction surface can be disposed at an interior surface of the headrest 2606. For example, a first friction surface 2604a can be disposed at or generally adjacent to a headrest support surface 2608. A second friction surface 264b and / or a third friction surface 2604c can be positioned near the bottom front 2610a, 2610b of the respective headrest side members 2612, 2614. The friction surfaces 2602a, 2602b, 2602c can be disposed at the headrest 2606 and covered by a soft good positioned around the headrest, or alternatively, can be disposed at the soft good (e.g., disposed on the exterior of the soft good). When the child seat system 2600 is in a rear-facing configuration, with the occupant's head being pushed toward the headrest support surface 2608 during a crash event, it can be particularly beneficial to have a friction surface 2604a formed at the headrest support surface 2608. When the child seat system 2600 is in a forward-facing configuration, the friction surfaces 2604b, 2604c at the bottom front 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 impacting the vehicle door panel. The friction surfaces 2604a, 2604b, 2604c described herein can be formed by positioning a friction material between the headrest 2606 and a soft good that can be installed around the headrest 2606, or in embodiments that include another head SIP device or a head SIP assembly described previously herein, the friction material 2604a, 2604b, 2604c can be disposed between the soft good and the head SIP device or head SIP assembly.

[0589] Another type of head SIP device can be used to extend one or more dimensions of the headrest of a child seat system. Referring to Figure 29A and 29B , the head SIP assembly 2702 is shown to include at least one extension wing 2704a, 2704b positionable at the respective headrest side member 2706, 2708. The extension wing 2704a, 2704b can be connected to the headrest 2701, or alternatively, can be integrally formed therewith. The extension wing 2704a, 2704b can be disposed at the front end 2710a, 2710b of the headrest side member 2706, 2708, thereby increasing the distance (measured from back to front) of the headrest 2701. Alternatively or additionally, the extension wing 2704a, 2704b can be disposed at the bottom surface 2712a, 2712b of the respective headrest side member 2706, 2708. The extension wing 2704a, 2704b can extend to cover the entire bottom surface, as shown in Figure 29A , or alternatively, can extend to cover only a portion thereof ( Figure 29B ) to form a notch or cutout 2714 at the bottom of the headrest 2701 for receiving the shoulder of an occupant.

[0590] In embodiments, the front end 2716a, 2716b defined by the extension wing 2704a, 2704b extends at a respective non-perpendicular angle with respect to the headrest support surface 2720. Further, the front end 2716a, 2716b protrudes beyond the adjacent edge of the respective upright side member 2722, 2724 of the seat shell of the child seat 2700. In embodiments, the front end 2716a, 2716b of the extension wing can be aligned with or protrude beyond the entire height of the upright side member 2722, 2724.

[0591] Referring to Figures 30A-31B , at least one head SIP device 2804a, 2804b is shown associated with a headrest 2802 and having another configuration. In the shown non-limiting embodiment, the at least one head SIP device 2804a, 2804b is movable between a first retracted configuration Figure 30A and 30B , and a second deployed configuration Figure 31A and 31Bbetween the first retracted configuration and the second deployed configuration. The corresponding head SIP device 2804a, 2804b can be mounted to the headrest side member 2806, 2808, for example, near the front end 2810a, 2810b and / or the bottom surface 2812a, 2812b thereof. In the retracted configuration, the head SIP device 2804a, 2804b can be located within the boundary defined by the headrest 2802. In the deployed or extended configuration, the head SIP device 2804a, 2804b can protrude beyond the headrest side member 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, one or more of the first head SIP device 2804a and the second head SIP device 2804b can protrude through the soft goods when in the extended configuration.

[0592] As shown, each head SIP device 2804a, 2804b can include a body 2820a, 2820b configured to protrude forward from the front end 2810a, 2810b of the headrest side member 2806, 2808 and downward beyond the bottom surface 2812a, 2812b near the front end 2810a, 2810b of the headrest side member 2806, 2808 when in the extended configuration. In embodiments, the head SIP device 2804a, 2804b can be formed from a structurally-modifiable body, such as an inflatable bladder or airbag, and when the structurally-modifiable body is transformed to the extended configuration, the structurally-modifiable body will protrude beyond the front end 2810a, 2810b and / or the bottom 2812a, 2812b of the headrest 2801. However, embodiments in which the head SIP device 2804a, 2804b is a rigid body are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0593] Figure 83 Another embodiment of a headrest 8000 having at least one head SIP device transformable 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 end 8008a, 8008b of the headrest side member 8004, 8006. Similar to the head SIP devices 2804a, 2804b of the headrest 2800, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b can be formed from a structurally-modifiable body, such as an inflatable bladder or airbag, and when the structurally-modifiable body is transformed to the extended configuration, the structurally-modifiable body will protrude beyond the front end 8008a, 8008b of the headrest 8000. However, embodiments in which the head SIP device 8002a, 8002b is a rigid body are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Figures 30A-31BIn the retracted configuration, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b can be located within the bounds defined by the headrest 8000 in embodiments. In the deployed or extended configuration, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b can protrude beyond the headrest side members 8004, 8006 in one or more directions. As shown, each head SIP device 8002a, 8002b can include a body 8010a, 8010b configured to protrude forward from the front end 8008a, 8008b of the headrest side members 8004, 8006.

[0594] Figures 122A-122B Another embodiment of a headrest 10802 of a child seat 10800 having at least one head SIP device 10804 transformable between a first configuration Figure 122A ) and a second configuration Figure 122B ) is shown. 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, and extends around substantially the entire interior surface 10806 of the headrest 10802. The head SIP device 10804 can be movably attached to the headrest 10802, or alternatively or additionally, to the harness 10808 of the child seat 10800, such as a strap or a pad attached to a strap of the harness. During normal use of the child seat 10800, the head SIP device 10804 remains positioned adjacent to, and in some embodiments in contact with, the interior surface 10806 of the headrest 10802, as shown. Figure 122A In the event of a crash, the head SIP device 10804 is configured to move with the occupant. Thus, the head SIP device 10804 will be separated from the interior surface 10806 of the headrest 10802 by the child to protect the head from contact with another surface. Figure 122B

[0595] Reference is now made to Figures 123A-124B , various examples of headrests configured to deform from a first configuration to a second configuration in response to a crash event are shown. In Figures 123A-12B ​In this embodiment, a head support device 10902 is positioned at or adjacent to the inner surface 10904 of the headrest 10900 of the child seat. As shown, the head support device 10902 may extend around substantially the entire inner surface 10904 of the headrest 10900. The headrest 10900 may be formed of a compressible or elastic material configured to deform, for example, elongate, when a compressive force is applied thereto. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, when a force is applied to the head support device 10902, such as when a force is applied through the occupant's head during a collision event, the material of the head support device 10902 displaces. As shown, the head support device 10902 is configured to absorb the energy applied thereto by expanding. In an embodiment, the head support device 10902 is configured to deform such that the head support device 10902 extends, for example, beyond the front end 10906 of the headrest 10900. However, deformation in alternative or additional directions is also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0596] exist Figures 124A-124B In a non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP device 11002 is positioned in a similar manner at or near the inner surface 11004 of the headrest 11000 of the child seat. As shown, the head SIP device 11002 may extend around substantially the entire inner surface 11004 of the headrest 11000. The headrest 11000 includes a central portion 11006, a first headrest side member 11008 extending from opposite sides of the central portion 11006, and a second headrest side member 11010. As shown, the portion of the head SIP device 11002 located adjacent to at least one of the first headrest side member 11008 and the second headrest side member 11010 has a double-walled construction. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the ends 11012a, 11012b of the head SIP device 11002 fold back onto its inward surface 11014 to form a second wall of the portion of the head SIP device 11002 located adjacent to at least one of the first headrest side member 11008 and the second headrest side member 11010. The head SIP device 11002 may be formed of a flexible, bendable material, enabling the formation of folds. (The remaining text appears to be incomplete and requires further context.) Figure 83 and 122A In each embodiment described in -124B, it should be understood that the disclosed head SIP device, when in an extended configuration, may be covered by a soft material of the headrest, or alternatively, at least a portion thereof may be outside the soft material.

[0597] During a crash event, a head of an occupant can contact and apply a force to the head SIP device 11002. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, when a force is applied to a side of the head SIP device 11002 (e.g., to a double-walled section thereof), the force can translate the adjacent ends 11012a, 11012b of the inner wall of the head SIP device 11002. As illustrated, the head SIP device 11002 is configured to absorb energy applied thereto by expanding.

[0598] In Figures 30A-31B non-limiting embodiments, the head SIP devices 2804a, 2804b are pivotable about an axis between a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration. However, in Figure 83 the illustrated embodiment, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b are movable, e.g., translatable, along each respective headrest side member 8004, 8006 between retracted and expanded configurations. The bodies 8010a, 8010b of the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b can be rigid bodies that are translatable between retracted and expanded configurations. In such embodiments, a portion of the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b can be received within an interior of the headrest 8000, or, alternatively or additionally, the head SIP devices can retract into themselves, e.g., via a telescoping configuration. In other embodiments, the head SIP devices 8002a, 8002b can be formed via a structurally-modifiable body, e.g., an inflatable balloon or airbag. In such embodiments, the structurally-modifiable body 8010a, 8010b protrudes forward from the front end 8008a, 8008b of the headrest 8000 when the structurally-modifiable body is transformed to the expanded configuration.

[0599] Referring now Figures 32A-32C to FIG. 29, another example of a headrest 2900 having at least one head SIP device is shown. As an alternative or supplement to the head SIP devices previously described herein, the head SIP devices (not shown) can include one or more rigid or semi-rigid bodies positioned to form an overlapping arrangement with the headrest side members 2906, 2908 to control a gap between the side members 2906, 2908 that receives an occupant’s head. In embodiments, the head SIP devices are shaped to control the gap such that an occupant’s head is spaced apart or offset from a headrest support surface of a rear portion 2904 of the headrest 2900 by at least a minimum distance. For example, the head SIP devices can be angled relative to one another to position an occupant’s head at least about 0.5 inches, and in some embodiments, at least about 0.75 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.25 inches, and about at least 1.5 inches, from the rear portion 2904 of the headrest 2900. The head SIP devices can, but need not, span the entire headrest support surface between adjacent headrest side members 2906, 2908.

[0600] In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 69A and 69B At least one head SIP device 6602 is positioned at an exterior of the headrest 6600. In such embodiments, the at least one head SIP device 6602 is not covered by a soft good. As shown, at least one SIP device 6602 can be disposed at a rear side 6604 of at least a portion of the headrest 6600. For example, the head SIP device 6602 is shown positioned adjacent to a rear side 6604 of a headrest side member 6606. As previously described, the head SIP device 6602 can have a rigid, semi-rigid, or inflatable body, and can but need not have a complementary contour to the adjacent headrest side member 6606. Such a head SIP device 6602 can absorb energy during a side impact. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the headrest side member 6606 is shown having a rim 6608 disposed at a rear side 6604 thereof and extending from a top of the headrest 6600 to a front end 6610 thereof. In embodiments, the head SIP device 6602 is positioned at least partially under the rim 6608, for example within a gap formed between the rim 6608 and an exterior surface of the headrest 6600.

[0601] It should be appreciated 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 the present disclosure. Further, the head SIP devices disposed 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 differs on either side of the headrest are also encompassed herein. As will be described in greater detail below, shoulder SIP devices can be positioned adjacent to an interior surface of an upright portion of the seat shell, for example at a first or second upright side member. Unless another arrangement is mentioned, any embodiment described herein that includes a shoulder SIP device that can be positioned at such an interior surface region should be understood to generally position the shoulder SIP device between the seat shell of the child seat and a soft good covering the interior surface of the seat shell. Such shoulder SIP devices can be attached to or can be positioned about a structural body of the headrest or a soft good covering the same. In embodiments described herein in which the shoulder SIP devices are associated with and in some embodiments movable with the headrest of the child seat, the shoulder SIP devices can but need not be covered by a soft good.

[0602] Reference is now again made to Figure 1As an alternative or in addition to the head SIP devices 70 shown and described herein, the child seat system 20 can also include one or more SIP devices 72a, 72b arranged at an interior surface of the child seat 23 that can be used to limit or control movement of the shoulders of an occupant of the child seat system 20. Such SIP devices 72a, 72b, which are also referred to herein as “shoulder SIP devices,” can be arranged at a region of the child seat 23, such as the rear or upright portion 28 of the child seat 23, in general alignment with and configured to contact the shoulders or upper arms of an occupant.

[0603] Referring now to Figure 33A and 33B The illustrated non-limiting embodiment of the child seat 3002 includes a seat shell 3003 having an upright portion 3004 that includes 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 arranged at the first upright side member 3008, and a second shoulder SIP device 3012b is arranged at the second upright side member 3010. Although only a single shoulder SIP device 3012a, 3012b is shown and described as being arranged 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.

[0604] 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 embodiments, as shown in Figure 33C The child seat 3002 includes at least one engagement feature 3014a, such as a ledge, that protrudes 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 the corresponding shoulder SIP device 3012a, 3012b to facilitate proper positioning of the shoulder SIP device 3012a, 3012b about the child seat 3000.

[0605] The first shoulder SIP device 3012a and the second shoulder SIP device 3012b are disposed at opposite sides of the child seat 3002 and can be substantially identical or can have different configurations. Although Figures 33A-33CThe shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b shown in FIG. 31 have a generally circular shape, such as a ring or oval shape, although embodiments in which the one or more shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b have another shape are 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 toward the interior of the child seat 3002 beyond the interior surfaces of the upright side members 3008, 3010. In embodiments, the shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b are sized and positioned to allow the headrest 3020 of the child seat 3002 to be positioned above the shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b when the headrest 3020 is in a raised position. Figure 33A The shoulder SIP devices 3012a, 3012b, including any soft goods associated therewith, are freely raisable and lowerable without interference.

[0606] Referring now to Figure 34A and 34B , an example of a shoulder SIP device 3100, such as similar to the shoulder SIP devices 72 and 3012a, 3012b, is shown in greater detail. As shown, the shoulder SIP device 3100 includes a body having a base or mounting surface 3102 mountable to a portion of a child seat, a rider-facing surface 3104 contactable with a rider of the child seat, and a side portion 3106 extending between the base 3102 and the rider-facing surface 3104. In embodiments, as Figure 34A and 34B best shown, the interface or transition zone between the rider-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 a rider around the shoulder SIP device 3100. In other embodiments, this interface can include a sloped surface that extends outward from the rider-facing surface toward the base. In embodiments, this shape of this transition zone can facilitate forward movement of a rider.

[0607] The shoulder SIP device 3100, such as those used in the example embodiments of Figures 33A-33C , can have a constant thickness defined by the side portion 3106. In such embodiments, the distance between the rider-facing surface 3104 and the base 3102 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 is constant. In embodiments in which the upright side members of a child seat, such as the upright side members 3008, 3010, extend at a non-perpendicular angle relative to an upright support surface, such as the surface 3006, the rider-facing surface 3104 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 that is attached to the upright side members 3008, 3010 can also be arranged at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the upright support surface.

[0608] In other embodiments, such as Figure 34A and 34BAs shown, the thickness of the side portion 3106 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 can vary, for example, between the front and back of the child seat. For example, the thickness of the side portion 3106 of the shoulder SIP device 3100 can be greater at the front of the child seat than at the back of the child seat. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of the child seat 3200, the side portion 3204 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 that is attached to the upright side member 3206 of the child seat 3200 can vary such that the angle of the base 3208 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is complementary to the angle of the upright side member 3206 relative to the upright support surface 3210. Thus, when the base 3208 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is installed in place to the upright side member 3206, the occupant-facing surface 3212 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the upright support surface 3210. Although only a single shoulder SIP device 3202 is shown in the figure, it should be appreciated that another shoulder SIP device 3202 can be disposed at the opposite side of the seat, for example, attached to a similar position of the upright side member 3220. Figures 35A-35B In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of the child seat 3200, the side portion 3204 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 that is attached to the upright side member 3206 of the child seat 3200 can vary such that the angle of the base 3208 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is complementary to the angle of the upright side member 3206 relative to the upright support surface 3210. Thus, when the base 3208 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is installed in place to the upright side member 3206, the occupant-facing surface 3212 of the shoulder SIP device 3202 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the upright support surface 3210. Although only a single shoulder SIP device 3202 is shown in the figure, it should be appreciated that another shoulder SIP device 3202 can be disposed at the opposite side of the seat, for example, attached to a similar position of the upright side member 3220.

[0609] With reference to Figures 36A-36D a shoulder SIP device 3300 according to another embodiment is shown. Similar to the previously described embodiments, the shoulder SIP device 3300 includes a body having a base or mounting surface 3302 that is mountable to a portion of a child seat 3320, such as an upright side member 3322, an occupant-facing surface 3304 that is contactable with an occupant of the child seat, and a side portion 3306 that extends between the base 3302 and the occupant-facing surface 3304. The interface between the occupant-facing surface 3304 and the side portion 3306 can be rounded, as previously described. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the occupant-facing surface 3304 of the shoulder SIP device 3300 has a non-planar configuration and includes a first portion or region 3308 that is disposed at a first angle relative to the base 3302 and a second portion or region 3310 that is disposed at a second angle relative to the base 3302. The first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 can be separated from one another by a central portion 3312.

[0610] The thickness of the shoulder SIP device 3300 can be greatest at the central portion 3312, such that the first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 slope downward away from the central portion 3312. The slopes of the first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 can be equal or different. In embodiments, the central portion 3312 has a generally circular profile that forms a smooth transition between the first portion 3308 and the second portion 3310 of the surface 3304 facing the occupant. The inclusion of the curved central 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 appreciated that another shoulder SIP device 3300 can be disposed at the opposite side of the seat, e.g., at a similar location to the similar location attached to the upright side member 3224.

[0611] In Figures 37A-37B Another embodiment of a shoulder SIP device suitable for use with the child seat 3400 is shown in FIG. 34. 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 embodiments, a first shoulder SIP device 3402a is positioned in 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 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.

[0612] The top portions 3412a, 3412b of the respective shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can align with the top 3403 of the upright portion 3406 of the seat shell 3404, and the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can extend to cover 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 align with or be 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 that encompass a profile complementary to the respective upright side members 3408, 3410, embodiments in which the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b have another profile are also contemplated herein. Moreover, the respective profiles of the occupant-facing surfaces 3420a, 3420b of the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b can be configured such that the headrest 3416 is movable between a lowered position Figure 37A ) and a raised position Figure 37B ) without interference from the shoulder SIP devices 3402a, 3402b.

[0613] Figures 70A-70B Another example of a child seat 6700 is shown. 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 is movable relative to the upright portion 6704 between a first, low position Figure 70A ) and a second, high position Figure 70A In embodiments, at least one shoulder SIP device is coupled to the bottom 6710 of the headrest 6708 and extends downward beyond the bottom 6710. As shown, a first shoulder SIP device 6712a can be disposed near a first side 6714 of the headrest 6708, and a second shoulder SIP device 6712b can be disposed near an opposite second side 6716 of the headrest 6708. The first and second shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 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 with the headrest 6708. Such a configuration can provide enhanced protection by adapting the position of the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b based on the height of the occupant. Moreover, in some embodiments, the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b can alternatively or additionally move relative to the headrest 6708 in order to provide improved adaptability.

[0614] Reference is made toFigures 84A-85 FIG. 1 illustrates another example of a child seat 8100 having a headrest 8102 that is movable between a low position (FIG. 1 1) and a high position (FIG. 1 1). Figure 84A Figure 84B Similar to the previous embodiments, a first shoulder SIP device 8104a can be coupled to a bottom 81 10a of the first headrest side member 8106 and extend downward beyond the bottom 81 10a, and a second shoulder SIP device 8104b can be coupled to a bottom 81 10b of the second headrest side member 8108 and extend downward beyond the bottom 81 10b. The shoulder SIP devices 8104a, 8104b are movable relative to the seat body of the child seat 8100 with the headrest 8102, e.g., between the first and second positions.

[0615] An example of a shoulder SIP device, such as the shoulder SIP device 8104a, is illustrated in detail in Figure 85 In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the shoulder SIP device 8104a includes a body 81 12 formed by a housing 81 14 and at least one insert 81 16. As shown, the housing 81 14 can include a back wall 8124 and at least one side wall 8126 extending at an angle from the back wall 8124. In some embodiments, the back wall 8124 of the housing 81 14 has a profile that is substantially 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 the child seat 81 10. However, embodiments in which the back wall 8124 has a different profile are also contemplated herein. As shown, the back wall 8124 can form one end of the housing 81 14, and the at least one side wall 8126 can project substantially perpendicularly from the back wall 8124. Further, the at least one side wall 8126 can include a plurality of side walls or a single continuous side wall that extends around a portion of a perimeter of the back wall 8124 to define a cavity 8128 therebetween in which the insert 81 16 can be received.

[0616] The at least one insert 81 16 can be a single insert, or alternatively, 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 81 14. The at least one insert 81 16 can be permanently or removably mounted within the cavity 8128 via any suitable mounting mechanism, such as an adhesive or one or more engagement features configured to cooperate with a corresponding portion of the housing. In embodiments, the housing 81 14 is formed of a first material and the insert 81 16 is formed of a second material. The first material can have a hardness that is similar to, or alternatively, different from, the hardness of the second material. In embodiments, the first material is a plastic and the second material is a foam material. ​

[0617] The shoulder SIP device 8104a can be connected to the headrest 8102 and can move therewith. In embodiments, the shoulder SIP device 8104a is mechanically coupled to the headrest 8102 via one or more fasteners, such as screws or bolts (not shown). However, other suitable coupling mechanisms can be used to couple the shoulder SIP device 8104a in place, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, magnets, or snaps. As shown, the coupling mechanisms can be configured to engage a portion of the housing 8114. For example, a plurality of openings 8130 for receiving corresponding fasteners can be formed in the housing 8114, such as at a surface facing the interior of the cavity 8128. Embodiments that include coupling mechanisms arranged at another location about the housing or alternatively or additionally arranged at the insert are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, embodiments in which the same coupling mechanisms are used to attach the at least one insert 8116 to the housing 8114 and to attach the shoulder SIP device 8104a to the headrest 8102 are also contemplated herein. It will be appreciated that the shoulder SIP device 8104b arranged at the second headrest side member 8108 can have a similar configuration and coupling mechanisms to connect the shoulder SIP device 8104b to the headrest 8102.

[0618] Referring now to Figures 136A-141 various examples of another shoulder SIP device are shown. In the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 136A-136B The body 12002 of the shoulder SIP device 12000 likewise 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 profile that is generally complementary to a portion of a headrest. However, embodiments in which the rear wall 12004 has a different profile are also contemplated herein.

[0619] The shoulder SIP device 12000 can be positioned relative to a child seat such that an occupant is configured to contact a 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 embodiments, the mounting wall 12006 extends from the forward-facing surface 12008 of the rear wall 12004, such as near a first end 12010 of the rear wall 12004. A coupling mechanism (not shown) for connecting the shoulder SIP device 12000 to a portion of a child seat, such as a portion of a headrest or 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.

[0620] In some embodiments, an outward-facing surface 12014 of the rear wall 12004 is a solid surface or substantially solid surface. However, in other embodiments, asFigure 136B As shown, the rear wall 12004 has one or more material regions removed from the outward surface 12014, such that hollow recesses 12016 are formed at the outward surface 12014. These recesses, or the material regions 12016 with removed material, may extend only a small portion of the thickness of the rear wall 12004 as they leave the forward solid surface 12008, or alternatively, may extend to cover substantially the entire thickness of the rear wall 12004. The resulting structural flange 12018 formed at the rear wall 12004 provides the required structural stiffness to the shoulder SIP device 12000. Although a combination of horizontally oriented and vertically oriented structural flanges 12018 is shown, it should be understood that embodiments including only horizontally oriented flanges, only vertically oriented flanges, or flanges of another orientation are also covered herein.

[0621] The structural flange 12018 formed by removing a material region can have a profile 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 guard edges 12018, such as the edge of the horizontally oriented guard edge 12018 of the shoulder SIP device 12000, may have a profile different from the profile of the body 12002. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the edge 12020 of one or more guard edges 12018 is fan-shaped by forming small notches therein. Thus, the edge 12020 of the at least one guard edge 12018 is at least partially offset from the periphery of the rear wall 12004 at the location, for example, in the internal direction.

[0622] Figure 138 and 139 Another example of a shoulder SIP device 12100 is shown. Similar to... Figures 136A-136B In one embodiment, 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 supplement to removing material regions from the outward surface 12114 of the rear wall 12104, in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, one or more material regions may 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...). Figure 138 The hollow cavity 12116 can be filled with auxiliary material 12122 (see...). Figure 139 In one 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 otherwise arranged within the hollow cavity 12116 are also covered herein.

[0623] As noted above, the occupant can directly contact the forward-facing surface 12008, 12108 of the back wall 12004, 12104, or an auxiliary material positioned within the recess 12116 formed in the forward-facing surface 12008, 12108, such as the auxiliary material 12122. However, in other embodiments, an insert can be disposed at the forward-facing surface 12008, 12108 of the back wall 12004, 12104. Reference is made to Figures 140A-140B FIG. 12A, for example, shows an example of an insert 12250 that can be positioned adjacent to the forward-facing surface of a back wall, such as the back wall 12104 of the shoulder SIP device 12100. As shown, the forward portion 12252 of the insert 12250 can comprise a continuous or solid surface. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 12A, the rear portion 12254 of the insert 12250 comprises one or more contoured regions 12260. However, embodiments in which the rear portion 12254 of the insert 12250 also has a substantially solid, smooth surface are also contemplated herein. Figure 140B

[0624] In embodiments, the one or more contoured regions 12260 are complementary to the one or more hollow recesses 12216 formed at the forward-facing surface 12208 of the back wall 12204. Thus, each contoured region 12260 can form a tight fit with a corresponding recess of the body 12202. One or more grooves or recesses 12262 can be formed in the rear surface to define the individual contoured regions. These grooves 12262 can be complementary to the structural stop 12218 defined by the hollow recess 12216. The thickness of each contoured region can be substantially the same, as shown. However, in other embodiments, the thickness of the contoured regions 12260 can vary based on the depth of the back wall 12204 at that location and / or the depth of the corresponding recess 12216. The example insert 12250 is formed from an expanded polypropylene material; however, any suitable material is contemplated herein.

[0625] In embodiments in which the insert 12250 or the auxiliary material 12222 is integrated into the shoulder SIP device 12200, the insert 12250 or the auxiliary material 12222 can be adhered or attached to the back wall 12204 using an adhesive, such as tape, as shown and described herein. However, any suitable type of connection is contemplated herein, including both permanent and removable connections.

[0626] Reference is made to Figure 141 ​FIG. 12 shows another example of a shoulder SIP device 12300. Similar to the previous embodiments, the shoulder SIP device 12300 includes a main body 12302 having a rear wall 12304 and at least one mounting wall 12306 extending at an angle from a forward-facing surface 12308 of the rear wall 12304. An outward-facing surface 12310 of the rear wall 12304 can be substantially solid, or alternatively, a plurality of pockets can be formed therein, as previously described. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, an auxiliary body 12320 is attached to the outward-facing surface 12310 of the rear wall 12304. The auxiliary body 12320 can, but need not, extend to cover the entire outward-facing surface 12310. The thickness of the auxiliary body 12320 can be uniform across its length, or alternatively, can vary, for example, based on the profile of the main body 12302. The auxiliary body 12320 can be formed of any suitable material. In embodiments, 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.

[0627] Referring now to Figures 152A-152B , an example of a shoulder SIP device 13100 positionable adjacent to a head SIP device 13102 is shown. The head SIP assembly 13102 can have substantially the same construction as that shown and described with respect to Figures 132A-133B As shown, the head 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 head SIP device (not shown) can be disposed at or adjacent to the first side portion 13108 of the connector member 13104, and a second head SIP device 13112b can be disposed at or adjacent to the second side portion 13110 of the connector member 13104. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 13112a, 13112b are mounted near the rear of the head 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.

[0628] In embodiments, a cutout or notch is 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. The cutouts 13114a, 13114b can form part of the vehicle belt path when the associated child seat system is in a forward-facing configuration, such as in a boost mode of operation. Thus, the bottoms of the first and second head SIP devices can define a portion of the vehicle belt path.

[0629] As shown, at least one shoulder SIP device 13100a, 13100b is arranged in close proximity to the head SIP assembly 13002, similar to the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, and 12300 described with respect to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 84A-85 and 136A-141. However, it should be understood that the at least one shoulder SIP device can have the configurations described with respect to the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, and 12300 of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 84A-85 and 136A-141. Figure 136A and 136B As shown, at least one shoulder SIP device 13100a, 13100b is arranged in close proximity to the head SIP assembly 13002, similar to the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, and 12300 described with respect to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 84A-85 and 136A-141. However, it should be understood that the at least one shoulder SIP device can have the configurations described with respect to the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, and 12300 of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 84A-85 and 136A-141. Figures 70A-70B

[0630] In Figures 152A-152B In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment shown, the first shoulder SIP device 13100a is positioned directly below a corresponding opening 13114a formed at the first side portion 13108 of the head SIP assembly 13102, and the second shoulder SIP device 13100b is positioned directly below a corresponding opening 13114b formed at the 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 the vehicle belt path of the 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 belt path, and the shoulder SIP devices 13100a, 13100b can define a bottom or lower boundary of the vehicle belt path.

[0631] ​The shoulder SIP devices of any of the embodiments described herein, such as the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, 12300, and 13100a, 13100b (as well as additionally below with respect to Figures 142A-143B The shoulder SIP devices 12402 and 12502 described can additionally include a soft good positioned in overlapping arrangement with at least a portion of the body of the shoulder SIP device, such as the front face of the body of the shoulder SIP device. In such embodiments, the soft good surrounding the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, 12300, 13100a, 13100b, 12402, and 12502 can form or define a portion of the vehicle belt path.

[0632] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 12, Figures 142A-142B In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 12, the child seat 12400 includes a shoulder SIP device (not shown) that is at least partially covered by a soft good 12402. In embodiments, the shoulder SIP device is substantially enclosed by the soft good 12402. The soft good 12402 is separate from other soft goods of the child seat 12400, such as the soft good of the headrest 12404 and the soft good 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 only around a portion of the body of the shoulder SIP device are also contemplated herein. The soft good 12402 can include a padding, such as polyurethane foam, that can be positioned in overlapping arrangement with or in close proximity to the front or forward facing surface of the body of the shoulder SIP device, such as the surfaces 12008, 12108, 12208, 12308.

[0633] In other embodiments, the soft good of the shoulder SIP device, such as the shoulder SIP devices 6712a, 6712b, 8104a, 8104b, 12000, 12100, 12200, and 12300, can be integral with the soft good of another portion of the child seat. With reference to Figures 143A-143BFIG. 1 1 1 illustrates a child seat 1 1000 having at least one shoulder SIP device 1 1002 mounted to and movable with a headrest 1 1004. It should be understood that the shoulder SIP device 1 1002 can have the configuration disclosed with respect to any of 70A-70B, 84A-85, 136A-141. The child seat 1 1000 includes a headrest soft good 1 1006 positionable about an inner surface of the headrest 1 1004 and can be in contact with a head of an occupant. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the headrest soft good 1 1006 is elongated and has at least one pocket 1 1008a, 1 1008b formed therein at a location vertically below a bottom of the headrest 1 1004. The at least one shoulder SIP device 1 1002 can be inserted into the at least one pocket 1 1008a, 1 1008b such that the soft good of the pocket 1 1008a, 1 1008b substantially covers a forward facing surface 1 1010 of the shoulder SIP device 1 1002. Although the soft good 1 1008a, 1 1008b is proposed to be integral with the headrest soft good 1 1006, in other embodiments, the soft good corresponding to the shoulder SIP device can be integral with the soft good associated with the upright support portion of the child seat.

[0634] With reference to Figures 144A-144B In some embodiments, a body of a soft good 12604 positionable about a headrest 12602 of a child seat 12600 can be elongated and extend about an upright or rear portion 12608 of the child seat. For example, the headrest soft good 12604 can also overlap an entire or at least a portion of an upright support surface (not shown) of the child seat 12600. The headrest soft good 12604 includes a headrest portion 12610 positionable in overlapping arrangement with the headrest 12602 and a rear portion 12612 positionable in overlapping arrangement with the rear portion 12608 of the child seat 12600. To enable proper movement of one or more shoulder SIP devices 12620a, 12620b with the headrest 12602, at least one cutout, designated 12622, can be formed at one or more areas of the headrest soft good 12604. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the cutout 12622 is formed proximate to an upper end 12624 of the rear portion 12612 located near the headrest portion 12604. The cutout 12622 can be sized and shaped based on the configuration of the shoulder SIP devices 12620a, 12620b mountable to the headrest 12602 such that the headrest soft good 12604 does not interfere with movement of the shoulder SIP devices 12620a, 12620b. It should be understood that these cutouts 12622 can exist regardless of whether the shoulder SIP devices are covered by a soft good and whether such soft good is part of the headrest soft good 12604.

[0635] With reference nowFigures 38A-49E This document illustrates various examples of SIP devices suitable for use with child seats to restrict movement of the torso or hips of the occupant. Such SIP devices may be referred to herein as “torso SIP devices,” wherein these devices are typically arranged in a region (seat portion or rear portion) of the child seat on the occupant-facing surface of the child seat, this region being 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 shoulders). It should be understood that the torso SIP devices shown and described herein can be integrated into the 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 the inner surface of the seat housing, such as in its upright portion or seat portion. Unless another arrangement is mentioned, any embodiment described herein that includes a torso SIP device that can be positioned in such an inner surface area should be understood as positioning the torso SIP device generally between the seat housing of the child seat and a soft article covering the inner surface of the seat housing. This torso SIP device can be attached to the seat shell or a soft object that can be positioned around it.

[0636] exist Figures 38A-38C In the non-limiting embodiments shown, the child seat 3500 includes at least one torso SIP device, and in some embodiments, it includes multiple torso SIP devices. For example, a first torso SIP device 3502a and a second torso SIP device 3502b may be arranged at the child seat 3504 of the child seat 3500. As shown, the first torso SIP device 3502a may be arranged at the first upright side member 3510 of the upright portion 3508 of the seat housing 3506 of the child seat, and the second torso SIP device 3502b may be arranged at the 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 region of the occupant (e.g., on the left or right side of the occupant) are also covered herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the first torso SIP device 3502a and the second torso SIP device 3502b are substantially the same; however, embodiments in which the construction of the first torso SIP device 3502a and the second torso SIP device 3502b differs are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0637] The first and second torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can be positioned proximate to a bottom 3516 of the upright support surface 3514 of the upright portion 3508, e.g., upwardly proximate 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 a surface of the seat shell 3506 and a soft good 3520 that surrounds the seat shell 3506 (see Figure 38C ). In embodiments, the first and second torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b have a height that is substantially confined to the torso region of the occupant. For example, the torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can be positioned such that it does not extend beyond the occupant's hips. Alternatively, in embodiments in which the upright side members 3510, 3512 include openings 3522 that define a portion of the vehicle harness path when the child seat 3504 is installed in a forward-facing configuration, the torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can be arranged vertically below the openings 3522.

[0638] The first and second torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can extend inwardly from a substantially proximate front edge 3524a, 3524b of the respective upright side member 3510, 3512 toward the occupant region. Further, the body of the torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b can extend upwardly along at least a portion of the upright support surface 3514. The torso 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 torso SIP device 3502a, 3502b (measured perpendicular to the respective first and second upright side members 3510, 3512) is substantially uniform over its height. In such embodiments, the upper surface 3526 of the torso SIP devices 3502a, 3502b is flat, and can have a substantially horizontal orientation.

[0639] Reference is now made to Figure 39Another embodiment of a child seat 3600 having at least one torso SIP device (e.g., a first torso SIP device 3602a and a second torso SIP device 3602b) is shown. Unlike previous embodiments in which the torso SIP device is located at the 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 arranged at the first seat side member 3606 and the second seat side member 3608 of the seat portion 3604, for example, 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 construction including a uniform thickness, as previously described.

[0640] Alternatively, such as Figure 39 As shown, the thickness of the first torso SIP device 3602a and the second torso SIP device 3602b can vary within the height of the torso SIP devices 3602a and 3602b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the thickness of the first torso SIP device 3602a and the second torso SIP device 3602b gradually increases from the upper surface 3614 of the torso SIP devices 3602a and 3602b toward the seat support surface 3610. However, it should be understood that torso SIP devices 3602a and 3602b with any suitable construction are within the scope of this disclosure. Examples of other suitable constructions include, but are not limited to, annular or elliptical torso SIP devices, rectangular torso SIP devices, curved torso SIP devices, and polygonal torso SIP devices.

[0641] exist Figures 40A-40B In another embodiment shown, the child seat 3700 includes at least one torso SIP device. Similar to previous embodiments, a first torso SIP device 3702a may be disposed at a first seat side member 3706 of the seat portion 3704 of the child seat 3700, and a second torso SIP device 3702b may be disposed at a second seat side member 3708 of the seat portion 3704. As shown, the torso SIP devices 3702a and 3702b may be located adjacent to or close to the rear portion 3712 of the seat support surface 3710. However, embodiments in which the torso SIP devices 3702a and 3702b are alternatively or additionally disposed at the upright portion 3714 of the child seat 3700 (e.g., adjacent to the first upright side member 3716 and the second upright side member 3718, respectively) are also covered herein.

[0642] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the torso SIP devices 3702a, 3702b have a generally rectangular body, with the thickness of the body being substantially less than the height of the body. When installed about the child seat 3700, the first upper end 3720a, 3720b of each torso SIP device 3702a, 3702b can be disposed at or in close proximity to the side members 3706, 3708, 3716, 3718 of the seat portion 3704 or upright portion 3714, respectively. The second lower end 3722 of each torso SIP device 3702a, 3702b can be laterally spaced from the first upper end 3720 toward the occupant, thereby reducing the gap between the torso SIP devices 3702a, 3702b. In this configuration, each torso SIP device 3702a, 3702b is disposed at a non-parallel angle relative to the adjacent side member 3706, 3708, 3716, 3718. For example, the torso SIP devices 3702a, 3702b can be disposed at an angle of about 5 degrees to about 45 degrees relative to the seat support surface 3710. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a void or gap 3724a, 3724b can be formed between the side member 3706, 3708, 3715 or 3718 and the body of the respective torso SIP device 3702a, 3702b.

[0643] In Figures 38A-40B In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first and second torso SIP devices disclosed are separate devices that are installed about the child seat, respectively. However, in other embodiments, the first and second torso SIP devices located at opposite sides of the child seat can be integrally formed as a single body. For example, in Figures 41A-41CIn the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 38, a torso SIP assembly 3802 including one or more torso SIP devices can be installed to a child seat 3800. As shown, the torso SIP assembly 3802 includes a first torso SIP device 3804a positionable proximate to a torso of an occupant within the child seat, a second torso SIP device 3804b positionable proximate to the torso of the occupant within the child seat 3800 at the same height or at a different height, and a connector body 3806 coupling the first and second torso SIP devices 3804a, 3804b. In such embodiments, the torso SIP devices 3804a, 3804b can be formed of a first material and the connector body 3806 can be formed of a different second material. However, embodiments in which the SIP devices 3804a, 3804b and the connector body 3806 are formed of the same material are also within the scope of the present disclosure. As shown, the torso SIP assembly 3802 can be an insert removably connected to the child seat 3800, or alternatively, can be permanently connected to the child seat 3800. In embodiments in which the torso SIP assembly 3802 is separable from the child seat 3800, the torso SIP assembly 3802 can be used as an insert intended for use with an occupant having a desired body size, such as less than 40 pounds. Thus, the torso SIP assembly 3802 can be removed as needed in order to make room for an occupant of a larger body size.

[0644] Reference Figures 41A-41CIn the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first torso SIP device 3804a and the second torso SIP device 3804b have generally vertically oriented occupant-facing surfaces 3810a, 3810b configured to contact an occupant. Further, the torso SIP devices 3804a, 3804b can have outwardly facing surfaces or bases 3812a, 3812b that complement the curvature of adjacent portions of the child seat 3800, such as portions of the upright side members 3820, 3822. As shown, a connector body 3806 extends between and couples the first torso SIP device 3804a and the second torso SIP device 3804b. Further, a portion of the connector body 3806 can be disposed between the first torso SIP device 3804a and the second torso SIP device 3804b and a surface of the child seat, such as the upright side members 3820, 3822. In such embodiments, an 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 of the upright portion 3825 of the child seat 3800, the upright support surface 3824, 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 respective 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.

[0645] Figures 42A-42C Another embodiment of a torso SIP assembly 3902 suitable for use with a child seat 3900 is shown. As shown, the torso SIP assembly 3902 can be substantially similar to the torso SIP assemblies of the previous embodiments. The torso SIP assembly 3902 includes a plurality of first torso SIP devices disposed at opposite sides of a connector body 3906. As shown, the connector body 3906 can include a rear portion 3908 and first and second side portions 3910, 3912 extending from opposite sides of the rear portion 3908. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a first torso SIP device 3904a is disposed adjacent to the first side portion 3910, and another first torso SIP device 3904b is disposed adjacent to the second side portion 3912 of the connector body 3906. The first torso SIP devices 3904a, 3904b can be substantially identical.

[0646] Further, the torso SIP assembly 3902 can include at least one second torso SIP device, and in some embodiments, a plurality of second torso SIP devices. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a second torso SIP device 3914a is arranged proximate to the first side portion 3910, and another second torso SIP device 3914b is arranged proximate to the second side portion 3912 of the connector body 3906. The second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be positioned within an upper torso region of the child seat 3900, for example associated with a chest of an occupant, for example between the hips and the shoulders. In non-limiting embodiments, the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b are positioned immediately proximate to and in vertical overlapping arrangement with the corresponding first torso SIP devices 3904a, 3904b. However, embodiments in which the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be offset (laterally and / or vertically) from the first torso SIP devices 3904a, 3904b are also contemplated herein.

[0647] The second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be formed of a material selected to absorb crash energy. In some embodiments, the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can have a different stiffness than the first torso SIP devices 3904a, 3904b. For example, the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be softer or have a reduced stiffness as compared to the first torso SIP devices 3904a, 3904b. In other embodiments, the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be stiffer than the first torso SIP devices 3904a, 3904b, or can have substantially the same stiffness as the first torso SIP devices 3904a, 3904b.

[0648] As shown, the outward facing surfaces of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b and / or the connector body 3906 complement the contours of the child seat 3900, for example at the upright portion 3916 of the child seat 3900. For example, the first side portion 3910 can be positioned proximate to a first upright side member 3918, and the second side portion 3912 of the connector body 3906 can be positioned proximate to a second upright side member 3920. In some embodiments, as shown, the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b are positioned proximate to the first and second upright side members 3918, 3920, respectively. 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 be varied within the heights of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the front or forward surfaces 3922a, 3922b of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can be angled between the upper end and the central portion of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b. The angled portion of the front surfaces 3922 of the second torso SIP devices 3914a, 3914b can position the arms of the occupant toward the front of the child seat. Such positioning can improve crash...

Claims

1. A child seat system for mounting on a vehicle seat, characterized by The child seat system comprises: a support base; a child seat connectable to the support base, the child seat including a seat body having a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion; and a side impact protection device, SIP, arranged externally of the child seat or the support base, the SIP device configured to permanently deform in response to an application of force to the SIP device.

2. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein, The SIP device is configured to collapse in response to the application of the force.

3. The child seat system of claim 2, wherein, The SIP device includes a body having at least one area of weakness formed therein, the SIP device collapsible at the at least one area of weakness.

4. The child seat system of claim 3, wherein, The at least one area of weakness is formed from a material having a reduced strength compared to the child seat.

5. The child seat system of claim 3, wherein, The at least one area of weakness is formed by a slot.

6. The child seat system of claim 3, wherein, The at least one area of weakness is formed by a recess.

7. The child seat system of claim 3, wherein, The at least one area of weakness is formed by connecting two discrete components.

8. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein, The SIP device is removably connectable to the child seat.

9. The child seat system of claim 8, wherein, The SIP device is removably connectable to the child seat when in a permanently deformed configuration.

10. A child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat, characterized by, The child seat system comprises: a support base; a child seat connectable to the support base, the child seat including a seat body having a seat portion and a rear portion extending from the seat portion; and at least one side impact protection device, SIP, arranged externally of the support base, wherein the child seat system has a maximum width at the at least one SIP device.

11. The child seat system of claim 10, wherein, The support base includes a base seat portion and a base rear portion, the at least one SIP device arranged at the base seat portion.

12. The child seat system of claim 10, wherein, The support base includes a base seat portion and a base rear portion, the at least one SIP device arranged at the base rear portion.

13. The child seat system of claim 10, wherein, The at least one SIP device is removably connected to the support base.

14. The child seat system of claim 10, wherein, The at least one SIP device is permanently attached to the support base.

15. The child seat system of claim 10, wherein, The at least one SIP device is movable relative to the support base between a first position and a second position.

16. The child seat system of claim 15, wherein, The at least one SIP device is translatable between the first position and the second position.

17. The child seat system of claim 15, wherein, The at least one SIP device is rotatable between the first position and the second position.

18. The child seat system of claim 15, wherein, The at least one SIP device is separable from the support base during a transition between the first position and the second position.

19. The child seat system of claim 15, wherein, In the first position, the at least one SIP device is deployed, and in the second position, the at least one SIP device is stowed.

20. The child seat system of claim 19, wherein, In the first position, the at least one SIP device is configured to contact a vehicle door.

21. The child seat system of claim 15, wherein, In the first position, the at least one SIP device is deployed on a first lateral side of the support base, and in the second position, the at least one SIP device is deployed on a second lateral side of the support base.

22. The child seat system of claim 10, wherein, The child seat has a width at a location in alignment with the at least one SIP device that is less than a width of the support base at the at least one SIP device.

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