Improved accessibility to a fixed anchor point for child safety seat anchorages in a vehicle

Abstract

System for the targeted detection of a child safety seat anchorage in a vehicle, the system comprising: one seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190); a seat anchorage (10); an actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) operable by a user; a connection fastening element which is attached to a part of the seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190) to adjust the portion of the seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190) to expose the seat anchor (10); and an extension link connecting the actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) to the fastening element, the extension link being a tether (139, 174).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The disclosed inventive concept relates generally to vehicle seats and safety systems. More specifically, the disclosed inventive concept relates to a system for selectively and strategically moving a seat foam or seat cover to expose anchors for a child safety seat. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Child restraint systems (CRS) are increasingly used in a variety of markets, including some where safety conditions include anchorage accessibility for such systems. The use of CRS is becoming increasingly popular in motor vehicles. Various state and federal rules and regulations require that children of certain ages be seated in child restraint systems (CRS) or in a booster seat. For example, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that children from birth to age three be seated in a rear-facing seat, while children between ages one and seven should be seated in a forward-facing seat. Booster seats are recommended for children between ages four and 12. Age variations in these recommendations are due to factors such as the individual child's height and weight.

[0003] However, CRS vehicle anchors are often not easily visible and / or accessible on some vehicles. Although a child anchor identification symbol (such as a label or button) is often incorporated into the vehicle seatback to help vehicle users identify the approximate anchor locations, accessibility is nevertheless often limited because the anchors are located behind or beneath the seat foam and upholstery, which must be adjusted to view and access the anchors for CRS installation or removal.

[0004] Anchorage conditions such as these increase the difficulty of installation and removal due to limited visibility and limited hand clearance for an anchor that is tightly fitted between the seat foam / cover and the seat frame or vehicle structures. Releasing a CRS can be particularly difficult when attempting to release a spring clip from a child seat webbing hook without being able to see the anchor for a child seat that is tightly secured to the vehicle seat or without finger clearance.

[0005] Such vehicle seats are known from DE 10 2007 060 673 A1 and DE 103 31 618 B3.

[0006] Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide a practical and cost-effective solution regarding the use of CRS anchorages in today's motor vehicles.

[0007] The object of the invention is achieved by systems of patent claims 1 and 10. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the subclaims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The disclosed inventive concept provides a solution to the need to conceal CRS anchors while still making them readily accessible to the consumer. The inventive concept disclosed herein contemplates the use of a seatback foam adjustment assembly comprising a user-operable actuator, a terminal fastener, and an extension connecting the actuator and the terminal fastener. By moving the user-operable actuator, a portion of one or both of the seat bottom and seatback can be adjusted, allowing visualization of and access to the CRS anchor. Such a system fully satisfies the need to provide easy access to the CRS anchor while simultaneously completely and aesthetically concealing the anchor when not in use.

[0009] Therefore, the disclosed inventive concept improves the convenience of installing a CRS in a vehicle, particularly for the rear row seats of the vehicle. The system of the disclosed inventive concept provides improved accessibility to lower child restraint anchors for parents without compromising seat comfort or anchor performance. This results in higher customer satisfaction and offers improved real-world use beyond the details typically provided in OEM vehicle and CRS manuals. The disclosed inventive concept provides an alternative to systems that provide manual operation or electronic signal-based, magnet / axle / gear / shaft-driven linear or rotary mechanisms that move CRS anchors along the indentation line of a vehicle seat.Such systems are designed to “present” the otherwise hidden anchorages to provide improved customer accessibility and to simplify the installation / removal of child seats and improve the “accuracy” of installation.

[0010] The concepts presented in this document avoid the complexity associated with multi-position anchors and obviate the need to prevent the design of a multi-position anchor for off-road use or out-of-area anchor positions. The overall objective of the disclosed inventive concept is to change the current approach of "displaying" CRS anchors by moving them to an accessible position to adjust one or both of a portion of the backrest and seat bottom to reveal the CRS anchor.

[0011] This approach prevents changes to the vehicle seat structure, anchorage design, or load paths. By eliminating the need to move the CRS anchorage to an accessible position, complex mechanisms such as sensors, locking devices, position controllers, gears, axles, motors, drive shafts, magnets, and the like are eliminated. Additionally, there is no need to consider package-specific range limitations for multi-position anchorages.

[0012] According to the disclosed inventive concept, no structural changes to the seat or body are necessary. No motors, magnets, or additional structure are required, and there is no need to reconsider anchor load carrying capacity or vehicle-specific content / packaging limitations. Furthermore, there is no need to integrate sensors to maintain tight functional tolerances or ensure the same degree of resilience to changes in production layout. The package required for the disclosed invention is minimal, the cost is low, and the approach is relatively simple. This results in improved accessibility and customer satisfaction while improving the accuracy of consumer installations.

[0013] The above advantages and other advantages and features will be readily apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments shown in more detail in the accompanying drawings and described below by way of example of the invention, in which: Fig. Figure 1 is a plan view of a portion of a vehicle seat having CRS anchorages hidden by the vehicle seatback, according to current technology; Fig. 2 the view of Fig. 1, but showing the hand of an operator physically manipulating the vehicle seatback to access the CRS anchorage in accordance with current technology; Fig. 3 is a side sectional view of a vehicle seat illustrating the arrangement for retracted portions of the backrest and seat bottom to reveal the CRS anchorage, the arrangement including two levers according to a first embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept, the levers being shown in their rest positions; Fig. 4 is a view similar to that of Fig. 3, but showing the two levers moved to their operating positions, with parts of the backrest and seat base retracted to reveal the CRS anchorage; Fig. 5 is a side sectional view of a vehicle seat illustrating the arrangement for retracting a portion of the backrest to reveal the CRS anchorage, the arrangement comprising a single lever according to a second embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept, the lever being shown in its rest position; Fig. 6 is a view similar to that of Fig. 5, but showing the lever moved to its operating position with part of the backrest retracted to reveal the CRS anchorage; Fig. 7 is a side sectional view of a vehicle seat illustrating the arrangement for retracting a portion of the vehicle seatback, including a tether strap and an associated tether locking mechanism in its rest position according to a third embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept; Fig. 8 is a view similar to that of Fig. 7, but showing the tether moved to its operating position and locked, with part of the backrest retracted to reveal the CRS anchorage; Fig. 9 a rear view of the backrest of the seat of the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, which illustrates the tether for retracting part of the backrest to provide access to the CRS anchorage; Fig. 10 is a view of a part of the rear part of the vehicle backrest showing the retaining strap of the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 with an alternative locking mechanism; Fig. 11 is a view similar to that of Fig. 10, but showing the tension belt actuator moved to its operating position with part of the backrest retracted to reveal the CRS anchorage; Fig. 12 is a side sectional view of a vehicle seat illustrating the arrangement for retracting a portion of the backrest to reveal the CRS anchorage, the arrangement comprising a lever connected to a pivotable member attached to the lower portion of the front part of the backrest, shown in its rest position according to a fourth embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept; and; Fig. 13 is a view similar to that of Fig. 12, but showing the lever moved to its operating position with part of the backrest retracted to reveal the CRS anchorage; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0015] In the following figures, like reference numerals are used to refer to the same components. In the following description, various operating parameters and components are described for various constructed embodiments. These specific parameters and components are included as examples and are not intended to be limiting.

[0016] The Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 illustrate an example of known vehicle seat technology that includes CRS anchors hidden by the seatback. The illustrated seat anchor assembly, or assembly, generally indicated at 10, is typical of known arrangements. The seat anchor assembly, or assembly, 10 includes a seatback 12 and a seat bottom 14. The seatback 12 and seat bottom 14 may be connected by a hinge 16 or anchored to the vehicle by known methods.

[0017] Typically, in the known seat anchorage or unit 10, a CRS anchorage 18 is intentionally concealed, as in Fig. 1. Access to the CRS anchorage 18 is achieved by physically moving a portion of the backrest 12 away from the CRS anchorage 18, as shown in Fig. 2. This figure illustrates the inconvenience associated with the user's need to physically adjust a portion of the seatback 12 to access the CRS anchor 18. Prior designs present a challenge in attaching the CRS bracket (not shown) to the CRS anchor 18 and an even greater challenge in removing the CRS bracket because the necessary adjustment of the portion of the seatback 12 to allow access to the CRS anchor 18 is made even more difficult by the presence of the CRS on the vehicle seat.

[0018] The disclosed inventive concept provides a general solution to the problem encountered by the user of a current vehicle seat when attempting to attach a CRS to the CRS anchorage. The general solution is presented in the present document in four embodiments of the disclosed inventive concept. In particular, the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 shows a first embodiment, the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 represent a second embodiment, the Fig. 7, Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 represent a third embodiment, the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 refer to the embodiment of the Fig. 7, Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, by representing a locking mechanism for locking a retaining belt, and the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 illustrate a fourth embodiment. It is to be understood that these embodiments of the disclosed inventive concept are not intended to be limiting, as it is to be understood that modifications to these embodiments are contemplated.

[0019] A common feature of the four embodiments of the disclosed inventive concept is the interface fastener provided to mechanically adjust a portion of the backrest (or seat bottom) to allow easy access to the CRS anchor. The interface fastener may consist of something as simple as a seam sewn into the cover trim, or a plastic, textile, or alternative material sewn or otherwise inserted, embedded, or secured into one of the cover trim (presumably a B-surface to be cosmetically invisible to the user), seat cushion, or backrest foam beneath the cover trim, or into both a cover trim and the foam covered thereby in combination.

[0020] Additional common features of the four embodiments of the disclosed inventive concept include the tension member, the actuator, and the optional tension member guide. The tension member may be, for example, one or more straps, cables, cords, wires, or tethers. The actuator may be, for example, one or more of a lever, a handle, or a strap. The optional tension member guide may be, for example, one or more of a guide sleeve, pulley, channel, or slot. The optional tension member guide may comprise a smooth surface or may have a friction and wear-reducing surface. The optional tension member guide may be an existing surface on the seat frame or seat structure or may be a dedicated attachment.

[0021] Regarding the Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 is a sectional view of a seat according to the first embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept, indicated generally at 20. The seat 20 includes a backrest 22 and a seat bottom 24. The seat 20 may be one of a variety of seats and may include an outer framework in or upon which the molded foam rests, an outer surface such as the sheet metal second row seat in a sedan (for example, under the rear parcel shelf), and an inner wire mesh framework upon which the foam is molded.

[0022] According to the illustrated seat 20, the non-limiting arrangement for the backrest 22 is an inner backrest frame 26 and an outer backrest frame 28. The backrest 22 further includes a backrest foam 30 and a backrest trim 32. The non-limiting arrangement for the seat bottom 24 is an inner seat bottom frame 34 and an outer seat bottom frame 36. The seat bottom 24 further includes a seat bottom foam 38 and a seat bottom trim 40.

[0023] The seat 20 of the first embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, includes a backrest foam adjustment assembly 42 and a seat bottom foam adjustment assembly 44. A CRS anchor 46 is fitted approximately between the backrest 22 and the seat bottom 24.

[0024] The backrest foam adjustment assembly 42 includes an actuator 48 in the form of a lever pivotally mounted to the backrest 22 by an actuating pin 50. The actuating lever 48 is attached to a backrest connection attachment member 56 by a backrest extension member 58.

[0025] The seat bottom foam adjustment assembly 44 includes an actuator 60 in the form of a lever pivotally mounted to the seat bottom 24 by an actuating pin 62. The actuating lever 60 is attached to a mounting member 64 connected to the seat bottom by a seat bottom extension member 66. The seat bottom mounting member 66 is guided by a pair of spaced-apart tension member guides 68 and 68'.

[0026] If they are in their unadjusted state as shown in Fig. 3, the CRS anchorage 46 is concealed by portions of both the backrest 22 and the seat bottom 24. To gain access to the CRS anchorage 46, portions of both the backrest 22 and the seat bottom 24 are adjusted so that the CRS anchorage 46 is positioned as shown in Fig. 4 is visible.

[0027] To adjust parts of the backrest 22 and the seat base 24, the operator operates one or the other or both the actuating lever 48 and the actuating lever 60 from their non-adjusting rest positions, which are in Fig. 3 are shown, in whose active adjusting positions, which are shown in Fig. 4. When the user decides to operate the backrest foam adjustment assembly 42, the actuating lever 48 is moved from the position shown in Fig. 3 shown position into the Fig. 4. Movement of the actuating lever 48 causes the backrest extension member 58 to act on the backrest connection fastener 56, thereby adjusting a portion of the backrest 22 so that it is moved out of the user's line of sight.

[0028] When the user decides to operate the seat bottom foam adjustment assembly 44, the actuating lever 60 is moved from the Fig. 3 shown position into the Fig. 4. Movement of the actuating lever 60 causes the seat bottom extension member 66 to act upon the fastening member 64 connected to the seat bottom, thereby adjusting a portion of the seat bottom 24 so that it is moved out of the user's line of sight.

[0029] It should be noted that with regard to the first embodiment described in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, it is not necessary that both the seatback foam adjustment assembly 42 and the seat bottom foam adjustment assembly 44 be provided in the same vehicle or even in all seats within a single vehicle. It should also be noted that although the actuating lever 48 and the actuating lever 60 are shown as pivoting handles, other manually operable devices may be used instead.

[0030] Regarding the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, a sectional view of a seat according to the second embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept is shown, generally indicated at 70. The seat 70 includes a backrest 72 and a seat bottom 74. The seat 70 may be one of a variety of seats and may include an outer framework in or upon which the molded foam rests, an outer surface such as the second-row sheet metal seat in a sedan (for example, under the rear parcel shelf), and an inner wire mesh framework upon which the foam is molded.

[0031] According to the illustrated seat 70, the non-limiting arrangement for the backrest 72 is an inner backrest frame 76 and an outer backrest frame 78. The backrest 72 further includes a backrest foam 80 and a backrest trim 82. The non-limiting arrangement for the seat bottom 74 is an inner seat bottom frame 84 and an outer seat bottom frame 86. The seat bottom 74 further includes a seat bottom foam 88 and a seat bottom trim 90.

[0032] The seat 70 of the second embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept shown in the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, includes a backrest foam adjustment assembly 92. A CRS anchor 94 is fitted approximately between the backrest 72 and the seat bottom 74.

[0033] The backrest foam adjustment assembly 92 includes an actuator 95 in the form of a lever pivotally mounted to the backrest 72 by an actuating pin 96. The actuating lever 95 is attached to a backrest connection attachment member 98 by a backrest extension member 100. A tension member guide 102 is preferably, but not entirely, provided against which the backrest extension member 100 advances.

[0034] If they are in their unadjusted state as shown in Fig. 5, the CRS anchor 94 is concealed by portions of both the backrest 72 and the seat bottom 74. To gain access to the CRS anchor 94, a portion of the backrest 72 is adjusted so that the CRS anchor 94 is positioned as shown in Fig. 6 becomes visible.

[0035] To adjust the part of the backrest 72, the operator actuates the actuating lever 95 from its non-adjusting rest position, which is Fig. 5, into its active adjusting position, which is shown in Fig. 6. In particular, to provide access to the CRS anchor 94, the user rotates the actuating lever 95 from the position shown in Fig. 5 shown position into the Fig. 6. Movement of the actuating lever 95 causes the backrest extension member 100 to act on the backrest connection fastener 98, thereby adjusting a portion of the backrest 72 so that it is moved out of the user's line of sight.

[0036] Regarding the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 is a sectional view of a seat according to the third embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept, generally indicated at 110. Fig. 9 is a view of the backrest of the seat 110 of the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8. The seat 110 includes a backrest 112 and a seat bottom 114. As previously mentioned with respect to the first two embodiments of the disclosed inventive concept, the seat 110 may be one of a variety of seats and may include an outer framework in or upon which the molded foam rests, an outer surface such as the sheet metal second row seat in a sedan (for example, under the rear parcel shelf), and an inner wire mesh framework upon which the foam is molded.

[0037] According to the illustrated seat 110, the non-limiting arrangement for the backrest 112 is an inner backrest frame 116 and an outer backrest frame 118. The backrest 112 further includes a backrest foam 120 and a backrest trim 122. The non-limiting arrangement for the seat bottom 114 is an inner seat bottom frame 124 and an outer seat bottom frame 126. The seat bottom 114 further includes a seat bottom foam 128 and a seat bottom trim 130.

[0038] The seat 110 of the second embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept shown in the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, includes a backrest foam adjustment assembly 132. A CRS anchor 134 is fitted approximately between the backrest 112 and the seat bottom 114.

[0039] The backrest foam adjustment assembly 132 includes a tether adjuster 136, opposite the actuating levers of the two previous embodiments. The tether adjuster 136 includes a spring-loaded, V-shaped pivoting pawl 137 and a tether locking plate 138. The tether adjuster 136 selectively locks and retains a tether 139 by providing the tether 139 by gripping a portion of the tether 139 between the V-shaped pivoting pawl 137 and the tether locking plate 138. The tether adjuster 136 is preferably mounted to the outer seat bottom frame 126, although attachment locations are possible.

[0040] A backrest adjustment assembly 140 is provided in the lower front portion of the backrest 120. The tether strap 139 is connected to the backrest adjustment assembly 140. A tether guide 142 is provided, which is preferably an existing element of the backrest 120.

[0041] If they are in their unadjusted state as shown in Fig. 7, the CRS anchor 134 is concealed by portions of both the backrest 112 and the seat bottom 114. To gain access to the CRS anchor 134, a portion of the backrest 112 is adjusted so that the CRS anchor 134 is positioned as shown in Fig. 8 is visible.

[0042] To adjust the portion of the backrest 112, the operator actuates the tether adjuster 136 from its non-adjusting rest position, which is Fig. 7, into its active adjusting position, which is shown in Fig. 8. In particular, to provide access to the CRS anchorage 134, the user pulls the tether 139 upwards, thereby displacing the backrest adjustment assembly 140 from the position shown in Fig. 7 shown position into the Fig. 8, thereby adjusting a portion of the backrest 112 so that it is moved out of the user's line of sight and exposes the CRS anchor 134. To release the tension on the tether adjuster 136, the user presses the V-shaped pivoting pawl 137 so that it moves away from the tether locking plate 138 and the tension on the tether 139 is released.

[0043] Although the Fig. 7, Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 illustrate the tether adjuster 136 as the mechanism for selectively locking a tether 139, other approaches are possible to lock and hold the tether 139, as shown in the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 are shown.

[0044] Referring to the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11, a portion of a seat is shown, generally indicated as 170. The seat 170 includes a backrest 172. A tether strap 174 is shown extending through the backrest 172. The tether strap 174 is connected at one end to a backrest retraction assembly, as shown in FIGS. Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 and described in this context. It should be understood that although the tether 174 is shown connected to the backrest 172, it may alternatively or additionally be connected to the seat bottom (not shown).

[0045] A tether movement and locking assembly 176 is connected to the backrest 172 (or, as appropriate, the seat bottom) for moving and selectively retaining or releasing the tether 174. It should be understood that the tether movement and locking assembly 176, as shown, is for illustrative purposes only, and that the lock may be smaller than that shown with respect to the seat 170.

[0046] The tether movement and locking assembly 176 includes a movable handle 178 pivotally mounted to a mounting base 180. The mounting base 180 is fixed to the backrest 172. A mounting clamp 182 is attached to the tether 174 and is operatively connected to the movable handle 178 and the mounting base 180.

[0047] In Fig. Figure 10 illustrates the rest position of the tether movement and locking assembly 176. In this position, the tether 174 remains retracted within the seatback 172, and the seatback adjustment assembly (not shown) is in its non-adjusted position. If access to the CRS anchorage is desired, the operator moves the movable handle 178 to withdraw a portion of the tether 174 from the seatback 172, as shown in Fig. 11. This removal adjusts the backrest adjustment assembly, exposing the CRS anchorage as previously explained. The movement of the movable handle 178 to the adjusted position, which is shown in Fig. 11, also results in locking the tether movement and locking assembly 176 in its adjusted position. Release of the tether 174 to allow the seatback adjustment assembly to return to its unadjusted position is achieved by moving the movable handle 178 back toward the seatback 172.

[0048] Regarding the Fig. 12 and Fig. Figure 13 shows a sectional view of a seat according to the fourth embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept, generally indicated at 190. The seat 190 includes a backrest 192 and a seat bottom 194. The seat 190 may be one of a variety of seats and may include an outer framework in or upon which the molded foam rests, an outer surface such as the second-row sheet metal seat in a sedan, and an inner wire mesh framework upon which the foam is molded.

[0049] According to the illustrated seat 190, the non-limiting arrangement for the backrest 192 is an inner backrest frame 196 and an outer backrest frame 198. The backrest 192 further includes a backrest foam 200 and a backrest trim 202. The non-limiting arrangement for the seat bottom 194 is an inner seat bottom frame 204 and an outer seat bottom frame 206. The seat bottom 194 further includes a seat bottom foam 208 and a seat bottom trim 210.

[0050] The seat 190 of the fourth embodiment of the disclosed inventive concept shown in the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, includes a backrest foam adjustment assembly 212. A CRS anchor 214 is fitted approximately between the backrest 192 and the seat bottom 194.

[0051] The backrest foam adjustment assembly 212 includes an actuator 216, which may be constructed of a variety of materials, including, for example, a bonded or molded cover on pressboard, plastic, or other lightweight semi-rigid material. The actuator 216 is pivotally attached to the backrest 192 by a pivot 218. A backrest connector attachment member 220 is operatively connected to the actuator 216. The backrest connector attachment member 220 is pivotally attached to the backrest 192 by a pivot 222. A rigid tensile member or coupling 224 connects the actuator 216 and the backrest connector attachment member 220.

[0052] If they are in their unadjusted state as shown in Fig. 12, the CRS anchorage 214 is hidden by portions of both the backrest 192 and the seat bottom 194. To gain access to the CRS anchorage 214, a portion of the backrest 192 is adjusted so that the CRS anchorage 214 is positioned as shown in Fig. 13 is visible.

[0053] To adjust the portion of the backrest 192 to make the CRS anchorage 214 visible to the user, the operator operates the actuator 216 from its non-adjusting rest position, which is Fig. 12, into its active adjusting position, which is shown in Fig. 13. In particular, to provide access to the CRS anchor 214, the user rotates the actuator 216 from the position shown in Fig. 12 shown position into the Fig.13. Movement of the actuator 216 causes the coupling 224 to act on the backrest connector fastener 220, thereby adjusting a portion of the backrest 192 to move it out of the user's line of sight and enable attachment of the CRS bracket to the CRS anchor 214.

[0054] The CRS anchor reveal system according to various embodiments of the disclosed inventive concept can be used in any vehicle seat equipped with a CRS anchor. While specific CRS anchor locations have been illustrated and described in the figures, it is understood that the CRS anchors may be provided in locations other than those shown and described. The illustrated and described CRS anchor reveal system according to the disclosed inventive concept would be applicable regardless of the location of the CRS anchors. Additional and alternative concepts

[0055] The lower portion of the backrest, the foam, or the rear portion of the seat cushion foam could be pivoted slightly about an axis to expose the anchors, as opposed to compressing the foam as previously discussed, with the cover retracted without moving the seat structure. These concepts need not be limited to lower CRS anchors, but could, if desired, be adapted to upper CRS tether anchors for specific unit configurations. Additionally, the disclosed inventive concept could be applied to either a seat cushion or a lower backrest at the indentation line, or both. A single user action (presumably through a cable-type attachment) could simultaneously expose the anchors by compressing both the lower backrest foam and the cushion foam with an actuator.Initially, it is assumed that the greatest benefit is achieved by minimal exposure of anchors from an overhead observation point. It is also possible to provide openings, recesses, or pockets, etc., for positioning the actuator, and clearance for a customer's hand to access the actuator in the seatback, on the rear parcel shelf, or similar. Graphics can also be included to enhance the convenience of the customer's operation. Decorative covers and customer connection devices for cosmetic and ergonomic purposes can also be added.

Claims

[1] System for the targeted detection of a child safety seat anchorage in a vehicle, the system comprising: one seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190); a seat anchorage (10); an actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) operable by a user; a connection fastening element which is attached to a part of the seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190) to adjust the portion of the seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190) to expose the seat anchor (10); and an extension link connecting the actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) to the fastening element, the extension link being a tether (139, 174). [2] The system of claim 1, wherein the seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190) includes a backrest (22, 72, 112, 172, 192) and wherein the actuator (48, 60, 95, 216), the fastener, and the extension link are connected to the backrest (22, 72, 112, 172, 192). [3] The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190) includes a seat bottom (24, 74, 114, 194) and wherein the actuator (48, 60, 95, 216), the fastener, and the extension link are connected to the seat bottom (24, 74, 114, 194). [4] A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operator-operable actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) is selected from a group consisting of a lever, a handle (178) and a strap. [5] System according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a tension element guide. [6] A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the operator operable actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) is a tether movement and locking assembly. [7] The system of claim 6, wherein the tether movement and locking assembly comprises a movable handle (178), a base (180) to which the handle (178) is attached, and a clamp (182) to which the tether (139, 174) is attached. [8] A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operator-operable actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) comprises a spring-loaded pawl (137) and a tether locking plate (182), a portion of the tether (139, 174) being clamped between the pawl (137) and the tether locking plate (182). [9] System according to claim 8, wherein the pawl (137) is pivotable and has a V-shape. [10] System for the targeted detection of a child safety seat anchorage in a vehicle, the system comprising: one seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190); a seat anchorage (10); an actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) operable by a user; a terminal fastener secured to a portion of the seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190), the fastener selectively movable between a first anchor-concealing position and a second anchor-revealing position; and an extension connection connecting the actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) to the fastening element, the extension connection being a tether (139, 174). [11] The system of claim 10, wherein the seat includes a backrest (20, 70, 110, 170, 190) and wherein the actuator (48, 60, 95, 216), the fastener, and the extension link are connected to the backrest (20, 70, 110, 170, 190). [12] The system of claim 10 or 11, wherein the seat (20, 70, 110, 170, 190) includes a seat bottom and wherein the actuator (48, 60, 95, 216), the fastener, and the extension link are connected to the seat bottom (24, 74, 114, 194). [13] The system of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the operator-operable actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) is selected from the group consisting of a lever, a handle (178), and a strap. [14] System according to one of claims 10 to 13, further comprising a tension element guide. [15] A system according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the operator operable actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) is a tether movement and locking assembly. [16] The system of claim 15, wherein the tether movement and locking assembly comprises a movable handle (178), a base (180) to which the handle (178) is attached, and a clamp (182) to which the tether (139, 174) is attached. [17] A system according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the operator-operable actuator (48, 60, 95, 216) comprises a spring-loaded V-shaped pivotable pawl (137) and a tether locking plate (138), a portion of the tether (139, 174) being captured between the pawl (137) and the tether locking plate (138).

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