Adjustable headrest

Abstract

Vehicle seat (10), comprising: a backrest (14) coupled to a seat section (12), a headrest arrangement (20, 20A, 20B, 20C) supported by the backrest (14), which is operable between neutral configuration (C1) and surrounding configuration (C2), wherein the headrest arrangement (20, 20A, 20B, 20C) has the following: a headrest base frame (26) with an adjustable lower section (30) configured to move laterally between an extended position (E) and a retracted position (R), and a first and a second side support (32, 34) which are adjustable to the headrest base frame (26) and can be operated between an upright position (U) and an operating position (D); a drive system (70) comprising the following: a shaft (72) rotatably coupled to a first and a second support strut (22, 24) between a first and a second position (P1, P2); and a first and a second support arm (82, 84) which are arranged on the shaft (72) and operatively coupled to the first and second side support (32, 34), wherein the first and second support arm (82, 84) are configured to rotate with the shaft (72) when the first and second support arm (82, 84) move between the upright position (U) and the operating position (D).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a headrest assembly for a vehicle seat and, more particularly, to a headrest assembly that is adjustable to provide a surrounding configuration to provide greater comfort and support to a vehicle occupant. BACKGROUND

[0002] Headrests are often located on the back of a vehicle seat and can be uncomfortable, especially if the headrest isn't adjustable to meet the individual occupant's needs. After long journeys, tired passengers often feel frazzled from sleeping with their heads at an uncomfortable angle. Therefore, a headrest arrangement that fully supports the upper body laterally is desirable, providing a wraparound configuration similar to a travel pillow.

[0003] From DE 10 2004 030 933 B3, DE 10 2009 021 267 A1 and US 2001 10 040 401 A1 a headrest arrangement with an adjustable lower section and adjustable side supports is known. SUMMARY

[0004] One aspect of the present invention includes a vehicle seat having a backrest coupled to a seat cushion. A headrest assembly is supported by the backrest and is operable between neutral and surrounding configurations. The headrest assembly includes a headrest base frame with a lower portion configured to move laterally between extended and retracted positions. One or more side supports are adjustably coupled to the headrest base frame and operable between an upright and a deployed position relative to the headrest base frame.

[0005] Another aspect of the present invention includes a headrest assembly having a headrest base with an upper and a lower portion. The lower portion of the headrest base is operable between an extended and a retracted position relative to the upper portion of the headrest base. First and second side supports are pivotally coupled to the headrest base and operable between an upright and a deployed position. The headrest assembly provides a surrounding configuration when the lower portion of the headrest base is in the extended position and the first and second side supports are deployed.

[0006] Another aspect of the present invention includes a headrest assembly including a centrally disposed headrest base having an upper portion and an adjustable lower portion. The adjustable lower portion is configured to move laterally between an extended and a retracted position relative to the upper portion. First and second side supports are operatively coupled to the headrest base frame on opposite sides of the headrest base frame. The first and second side supports are operable between an upright and a deployed position relative to the headrest base frame. Due to the adjustable components of the headrest assembly, a headrest assembly operable between a neutral and a surrounding configuration is provided.

[0007] These and other aspects, objects and features of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon closer examination of the following description, claims and appended drawings. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0008] The drawings show: Fig. 1 is a front perspective view of a vehicle seat with a headrest according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2A - 2D perspective views of the headrest assembly from Fig. 1 from the front showing the conversion of the headrest assembly from a first configuration to a second configuration, Fig. 3 is a top perspective view of a seat portion of the vehicle seat with cushions removed to expose a frame and an air inflation system, Fig. 4 a perspective view of the seat section Fig. 3 from above, on which a backrest is arranged, the headrest being made of Fig. 1 in the second configuration and coupled to the air inflation system, Fig. 5A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a headrest assembly, with components of the headrest assembly shown in phantom to reveal a drive system in a first configuration, Fig. 5B is a perspective view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 5A with the drive system in a second configuration, Fig. 6A a perspective view of the drive system Fig. 5A with a locking mechanism and a release mechanism, Fig. 6B a perspective view of the drive system Fig. 6A, Fig. 7A is a perspective view of a drive system seen from behind, to which the locking mechanism and the release mechanism are operatively coupled, Fig. 7B is an elevation of the release mechanism Fig. 7A from behind, Fig. 7C is a front perspective view of the locking mechanism and the release mechanism shown in a released position, Fig. 8A is a front perspective view of the drive system shown in a release position coupled to a lower portion of the headrest assembly, Fig. 8B is a perspective view of the drive system shown in an operating position Fig. 8A, Fig. 9 a perspective view of the headrest assembly from Fig. 5B with a representation of a relative movement of the side supports, Fig. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the drive system from the rear, the drive system comprising a motor, Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the drive system from the rear, the drive system comprising a pneumatic actuator, Fig. 12A is a front perspective view of a vehicle seat with a headrest assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention shown in a first configuration, and Fig. 12B is a perspective view of the vehicle seat and headrest assembly of Fig. 12A is a front view showing the headrest assembly in a second configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] For the purposes of this description, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, “rear”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and derivatives thereof shall all refer to the invention as described in Fig. 1. It is to be understood, however, that the invention may take various alternative orientations unless expressly stated to the contrary. Further, it is to be understood that the specific devices and methods illustrated in the appended drawings and described in the following description are simply embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting unless expressly stated otherwise in the claims.

[0010] The reference number 10 in Fig. 1 generally denotes a vehicle seat assembly in an illustration according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle seat 10 may be a driver's seat or any other passenger seat, such as a first row seat, a second row seat, or a seat in any subsequent row. The vehicle seat 10 includes a seat portion 12 having a cushion member 12A upon which a vehicle occupant may sit. A track assembly 13 is coupled to the seat portion 12 and is intended to be secured to a floor surface of a vehicle for moving the vehicle seat 10 between a forward and a rearward position. The vehicle seat 10 also includes a backrest 14 extending upwardly from a rearward portion of the seat portion 12 to support the upper body of a vehicle occupant. The backrest 14 includes an upper portion 16 to which a headrest assembly 20 is adjustably mounted.The headrest assembly 20 is supported by first and second support struts 22, 24 slidably received within the upper portion 16 of the seatback 14. The first and second support struts 22, 24 are configured to adjustably move the headrest assembly 20 in a substantially vertical direction, as indicated by arrow 25. In use, the seatback 14 is configured to support the head of a vehicle occupant when the vehicle occupant leans their head against the headrest assembly 20. The embodiment in FIG. Fig. Although Figure 1 shows a single vehicle seat 10, it should be possible to use a vehicle seat 10 of any size, such as a bench seat, which may have one or more headrest assemblies 20.

[0011] How to continue in Fig. 1, the headrest assembly 20 includes a centrally disposed headrest base frame 26 with an upper portion 28 disposed above a lower portion 30. First and second side supports 32, 34 are disposed on opposite sides 26A, 26B of the headrest base frame 26, adjustably coupled to the headrest base frame 26, and pivotally operable between an upright and a deployed position, as described below. The headrest assembly 20 is intended to be a multi-configuration headrest assembly, which may be used in Fig. 1 in a basic state or neutral configuration, thereby defining a first configuration for the headrest assembly 20. The conversion of the headrest assembly 20 to a surrounding configuration resembling a comfort and support configuration in the manner of a travel pillow will now be described with reference to Fig. 2A - 2D.

[0012] Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B show the headrest assembly 20 in the neutral configuration C1 ( Fig. 2A), wherein the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26 is shown in a retracted position R and the first and second side supports 32, 34 are shown in the upright position U. As shown in the neutral configuration C1, the headrest assembly 20 provides a generally uniform forward-facing contour 36 in which the upper and lower portions 28, 30 of the headrest base frame 26, together with the first and second side supports 32, 34, lie in a substantially common plane. The outer surfaces 27 of the upper and lower portions 28, 30 of the headrest base frame 26, together with the outer surfaces 32a, 34a of the first and second side supports 32, 34, face forward, as shown in Fig. 2A when the headrest assembly 20 is in the neutral configuration C1. As shown in Fig. 2B, the lower section 30 of the headrest base frame 26 is located with respect to the Fig. 2A in a laterally extended position E. In the extended position E, the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26 has moved in a forward direction of the vehicle, as indicated by arrow A, to displace the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26 relative to the upper portion 28. After moving to the extended position E, the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26 is configured to support the neck of a vehicle occupant, while the upper portion 28 of the headrest base frame 26 supports the back of the head of a vehicle occupant. This is due to the fact that the upper and lower portions 28, 30 of the headrest base frame 26, as shown in Fig. 2B are stepped or offset with respect to one another, with the lower portion 30 in the extended position E. It is contemplated that the upper portion 28 of the headrest base frame 26 is a fixed member which does not move laterally in its disposition over the adjustable lower portion 30.

[0013] Fig. 2C shows the first side support 32 in an operating position D after it has been pivoted relative to the headrest base frame 26 along a rotational path (see arrow B). Fig. 2C, the first side support 32 provides an inner support surface 38 to support one side of the head and neck of a vehicle occupant, similar to an outwardly extending leg of a travel pillow. When the first side support 32 is in the upright position U ( Fig. 2A), the inner support surface 38, which is an innermost surface of the side support 32, is exposed and is disposed generally adjacent to the first side 26A of the headrest base frame 26. When the second side support 34 is in the deployed position D ( Fig. 2D), an inner support surface thereof is similarly also available to support the head of the passenger accommodated therebetween.

[0014] Fig. Figure 2D shows the second side support 34 in a deployed position D after it has been rotated along a rotational path (see arrow C) from the upright position U to the deployed position D. When the first and second side supports 32, 34 are in the deployed position D, the first and second side supports 32, 34 extend generally outwardly from the central headrest base frame 26 in a forward direction, and the outer surfaces 32a, 34a of the first and second side supports 32, 34 face generally downwardly (see Fig. 2D). When the first and second side supports 32, 34 are in the deployed position D, a head receiving area 39 is defined for receiving the head of a vehicle occupant. When the first and second side supports 32, 34 are in the deployed position D and the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26 is in the extended position E, the headrest assembly 20 provides a second configuration C2, referred to herein as a first surrounding configuration, which provides comfort and support to a vehicle occupant similar to a U-shaped travel pillow accessory. It is further contemplated that the first and second side supports 32, 34 in the deployed position D ( Fig. 2D) while the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26 is in the retracted position R to define a second configuration C2, referred to herein as a second surrounding configuration, which, similar to a U-shaped travel pillow accessory, also provides comfort and support to a vehicle occupant, but without the additional support provided by the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26. When the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26 is moved from the retracted position R ( Fig. 2A) into the extended position E ( Fig. 2B), the lower section 30 of the headrest base frame 26 moves laterally into the head receiving area 39.

[0015] It is contemplated that deployment of the individual components of the headrest assembly 20 as they move from the neutral configuration C1 to the surrounding configuration C2 may be initiated by a user engaging a user interface to select a desired configuration for the headrest assembly 20. The individual components of the headrest assembly 20 that are adjustable (the first and second side supports 32, 34 and the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26) may move as the headrest assembly 20 is transformed from the neutral configuration C1 ( Fig. 2A) to the surrounding configuration C2 ( Fig. 2D) individually or together. Systems configured to move the adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20 are further described below.

[0016] Compared to Fig. 1, the cushion member 12A is shown in Fig. 3 has been removed from the seat portion 12A. After removing the cushion member 12A, a seat frame 40 is revealed, which may be a metal frame configured to support the cushion member 12A and the vehicle occupant when the vehicle occupant is seated on the seat portion 12 of the vehicle seat 10. As shown, the seat frame 40 has a plurality of inflatable air bladders 42-45 generally supported thereon. In the assembled state (see Fig. 1) the air bubbles 42 - 45 are generally covered and concealed by the cushion member 12A. Fig. 3 shows an air inflation system 50 having a motor or pump 51 for inflating the air bladders 42-45 coupled to air passages 52 to provide a customized seating arrangement for a vehicle occupant. As shown in Fig. 4, the air inflation system 50 is arranged in a space 60 defined by a backrest frame 62 and coupled to the backrest frame 62. The Fig. 4 further comprises air passages 54 ( Fig. 4) for driving one or more pneumatic mechanisms configured to position the components of the headrest assembly 20 between the neutral configuration C1 ( Fig. 1 and Fig. 2A) and the surrounding configuration C2 ( Fig. 2D and Fig. 4) and the configurations therebetween. It is contemplated that the pneumatic mechanisms are configured to drive movement of the adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20, and that the adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20 can be selectively moved to adjust a position of any adjustable component by means of a controller 56 interacting with a user interface 58, such as a switch, button, or touchscreen display.It is further contemplated that the pneumatic mechanisms configured to drive movement of the adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20 may be further configured to move the components synchronously using the controller 56 and the user interface 58 so that all adjustable components of the headrest assembly (including the first and second side supports 32, 34 and the lower portion 30 of the headrest base frame 26) as well as a height adjustment mechanism for the first and second support struts 22, 24 may be moved synchronously.

[0017] Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B show a headrest assembly 20A according to another embodiment. The headrest assembly 20A has several features similar to the headrest assembly 20 described above, so like reference numerals are used to describe similar parts of the headrest assembly 20A as they appear in the description of the headrest assembly 20. In Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, the headrest base frame 26 and the first and second side supports 32, 34 are shown in phantom so that a drive system 70 is visible. Fig. 5A specifically shows the headrest assembly 20A in the neutral configuration C1. Fig. 5B specifically shows the head restraint assembly 20A in the surrounding configuration C2. As shown, the drive system 70 includes a generally horizontally disposed shaft 72 having first and second ends 74, 76. The shaft is rotatably coupled to mounting plates 22A, 24A that are coupled to the first and second support struts 22, 24. Thus, a central portion 78 of the shaft 72 is disposed within an interior 26A of the head restraint base frame 26 and interconnects the first and second support struts 22, 24 via the plates 22A, 24A in which the shaft 72 is rotatably received in a direction indicated by arrow R1 between first and second positions P1, P2. The first and second ends 74, 76 of the shaft 72 extend outwardly from the headrest base frame 26 into inner portions 32A, 34A of the first and second side supports 32, 34.The first and second ends 74, 76 are coupled, respectively, to first and second support arms 82, 84, which are fixedly coupled to lower portions of the shaft 72 for rotation with the shaft 72 in the direction indicated by arrow R1. In the position shown in . Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, the drive system 70 synchronously moves the first and second side supports 32, 34 from the upright position U to the deployed position D while the shaft 72 rotates from the first position P1 to the second position P2. Furthermore, the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 moves synchronously from the retracted position R to the extended position E while the first and second side supports 32, 34 move from the upright position U to the deployed position D. A gear arrangement, as further described below, provides for the synchronized movement of the first and second side supports 32, 34 and the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26.

[0018] According to the specific presentation in Fig. 5B, the drive system 70 includes a biasing mechanism 90 in the form of a torsion spring operatively coupled to the central portion 78 of the shaft 72. The biasing mechanism 90 has an engaging end 92 that engages a drive cam 94 further coupled to the first support arm 82 via a connecting shaft 96. When assembled, the biasing mechanism 90 is configured to bias the shaft 72 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 along the path indicated by arrow R1. A locking mechanism 100 is configured to lock and retain the shaft 72 in the first position P1 with the first and second side supports 32, 34 in the upright position U and the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 in the retracted position R. The locking mechanism 100 is released using a release mechanism 102.After the locking mechanism 100 is released by the release mechanism 102, the shaft 72, as biased by the biasing mechanism 90, rotates along the path indicated by arrow R1 from the first position P1 to the second position P2. Thus, FIG. Fig. 5A, the shaft 72 is in position P1, in which it is held by the locking mechanism 100. In Fig. 5B, the shaft 72 has rotated to the second position P2, as biased by the biasing mechanism 90. In the second position P2, the first and second side supports 32, 34 are in the deployed position D, and the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 is in the extended position E.

[0019] From the deployment position D, the first and second side supports 32, 34 can be manually rotated upwards into the upright position U by a user, wherein the locking mechanism 100 automatically locks the first and second side supports 32, 34 in the upright position U. The release mechanism 102 is released using a release button 104, which is in the Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, is arranged on the second side support 34. When the first and second side supports 32, 34 are in the upright position U, the release button 104 is properly aligned with the release mechanism 102 for releasing the locking mechanism 100 of the drive system 70. When the first and second side supports 32, 34 are in the deployed position D, the release button 104 is, as shown in Fig. 5B, is rotated out of alignment with the release mechanism 102 and therefore cannot engage it. It is contemplated that the release button 104 is a spring-biased button coupled to an engagement shaft 106 having a distal end 108. It is contemplated that a housing 110 of the release button 104 includes a biasing mechanism for biasing the release button 104 outwardly in a direction indicated by arrow 112. When the release button 104 is pushed inwardly in a direction indicated by arrow 114, the engagement shaft 106 is contemplated to contact the release mechanism 102, as described below with reference to Fig. 7A - 7C are further described.

[0020] In Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B, the drive system 70 has the locking mechanism 100 in the locked position L. The locking mechanism 100 includes a pawl 120 having first and second ends 122, 124. The pawl 120 is rotationally coupled to a shaft 126 for rotation along the path indicated by arrow R2. A biasing mechanism 128 in the form of a torsion spring is coupled to the pawl 120 to bias the pawl 120 toward forward rotation along the path indicated by arrow R2 (see Fig. 6A). A detent 130 is coupled to the shaft 72 and includes a first notch 132 that is engaged by the first end 122 of the pawl 120 when the locking mechanism 100 is in the locked position L. In this manner, the first end 122 of the pawl 120 maintains the adjustable components of the headrest assembly in the neutral or first configuration C1 by engaging the second end 122 with the first notch 132 of the detent 130.

[0021] In Fig. 7A, the release mechanism 102 includes a lever 140 having a first end 142 and a second end 144. The first end 142 of the lever 140 is operatively engaged with the second end 124 of the pawl 120 via a pin 125 extending inwardly from the second end 124 of the latch 120. The second end 144 of the lever 140 is operatively engaged with the distal end 108 of the shaft 106 of the release button 104 when, as indicated above, the first and second side supports 32, 34 are in the upright position U. Fig. 7A shows an actuation path (A1-A4) for releasing the locking mechanism 100 to thereby allow the shaft 72 to rotate in a forward direction from position P1 to position P2. The actuation path is indicated by arrow A1, which indicates an inward depression of the release button 104 such that the distal end 108 of the shaft 106 acts on the second end 144 of the lever 140 to urge the second end 144 of the lever 140 inward in a direction indicated by arrow A2. The lever 140 is contemplated to pivot on a pivot pin 146, which may be coupled to a static component of the headrest base frame 26 of the headrest assembly 20A. As the second end 144 of the lever 140 moves inward along the path indicated by arrow A2, the first end 142 moves or rotates downward in a direction indicated by arrow A3 to act on the pin 125 coupled to the pawl 120.This downward movement of the first end 142 of the lever 140 in the direction indicated by arrow A3 causes the second end 124 of the pawl 120 to also move downward, while the pawl 120 pivots on the shaft 126 in a rearward direction indicated by arrow A4. Movement of the pawl 120 in the direction indicated by arrow A4 disengages the first end 122 of the pawl 120 from the first notch 132 of the detent 130, thereby releasing the shaft 72, as best seen in FIG. Fig. 7C. In Fig. 7C, the locking mechanism 100 is in the unlocked position UL, so that the shaft 72 can rotate along the path indicated by arrow R1 from the first position P1 to the second position P2. As further shown in Fig. 7C, the first and second support arms 82, 84 move in the direction indicated by arrows B and C to the deployment position D for the first and second side supports 32, 34.

[0022] According to the presentation in Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B, the locking mechanism 100 of the drive system 70 is in the unlocked position UL, allowing the shaft 72 to rotate from the first position P1 to the second position P2 to engage the adjustable components of the head restraint assembly 20A. The head restraint assembly 20A of the present concept further includes a gear assembly 149 including a first gear 150 disposed on the central portion 78 of the shaft 72 and gear-meshed with a second gear 152 rotationally coupled to the plate 24A. The first and second gears 150, 152 may be described as pinions having mating toothed portions that mesh with one another. Thus, as the shaft 72 rotates in a forward direction along the path indicated by arrow R1 from position P1 to position P2, the first gear 150 also rotates in a forward direction along a path indicated by arrow R1.Rotation of the first gear 150 in the forward direction, as indicated by arrow R1, causes the second gear 152, with which the first gear 150 is engaged, to rotate in a reverse or reverse direction, as indicated by arrow A5. The second gear 152 is further coupled to a rack 154 disposed on an upper surface 31 of the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26. The rack 154 has a plurality of mating teeth for engaging the second gear 152. Thus, as the second gear 152 rotates in a reverse direction, as indicated by arrow A5, the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 moves laterally out of the retracted position R (see FIG. Fig. 8A) to the extended position E (see Fig. 8B), while the rack 154 is driven forward in a path indicated by arrow A6 due to its engagement with the second gear 152. Thus, the gear assembly 149 ensures that the adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20A move synchronously from the neutral configuration C1 to the surrounding configuration C2. As the shaft 72 rotates from the first position P1 to the second position P2, the first and second support arms 82, 84 rotate downward in the direction indicated by arrows B and C, while the gear assembly 149 advances the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 toward the extended position E to synchronously complete the surrounding configuration C2. Specifically, Fig. 8B, the first end 122 of the pawl 120 is disposed in a second notch 134 disposed on the detent 130. As indicated above, the pawl 120 is biased toward forward rotation by the torsion spring 128, such that the pawl 120 rides along the upper surface of the detent 130 until the first end 122 engages the second notch 134 disposed on the detent 130. In this manner, the pawl 120 acts as a locking mechanism for the rotation of the shaft 72 at position P2 through its engagement with the second notch 34 of the detent 130, which is operatively coupled to the shaft 72.

[0023] When the adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20A are all connected together, the movement of the first or second side support 32, 34 from the deployed position D to the upright position U causes all adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20A to move toward the neutral configuration C1. As specifically described in Fig. 9, the first side support 32 is in the deployed position and can be moved along the path indicated by arrow B to the upright position U. As shown, the second side support 34 is similarly in the deployed position D and can be moved along the path indicated by arrow C to the upright position U. Movement of the first or second side support 32, 34 causes the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 to retract laterally along the path indicated by arrow A to the retracted position R. This is because the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 is coupled to the shaft 72 by the gear assembly 149 as described above.

[0024] According to the presentation in Fig. 10, a motor 200 is coupled to one embodiment of a headrest assembly 20B, the motor having a drive shaft 202 having a gear 204 disposed at one end, the gear 204 being coupled to the second gear 152 of the gear assembly 149 described above. It is further contemplated that the drive shaft 202 may be a toothed drive shaft having a direct driving relationship with the gear 152. The motor 200 further includes electrical leads 206 by which the motor 200 is coupled to the power system of a vehicle. It is contemplated that the motor 200 may control the movement of the adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20B using a user interface similar to that shown in Fig. 4. The motor 200 may also be coupled to the latch 120 to release the adjustable components from the locking mechanism 100 in a manner similar to that described above.

[0025] Fig. 11 shows another embodiment of a headrest assembly 20C having a pneumatic actuator 210 with a drive shaft 202 and a gear 204 operatively coupled to the second gear 152 of the gear assembly 149 described above. It is further contemplated that the drive shaft 202 may be a toothed drive shaft directly in driven relationship with the gear 152. The pneumatic actuator 210 may be coupled to the drive shaft 202 described above with reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 described inflation system 50. Fig. 11 shows supply lines 54A, 54B that supply energy to the pneumatic actuator 210 to adjust the adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20C.

[0026] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B show the vehicle seat 10 on which the embodiment of the headrest assembly 20A is arranged. In the specific illustration of Fig. 12A, the headrest assembly 20A is in a first configuration C1 in which the first and second support arms 32, 34 are in the upright position C and the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 is in the retracted position R. In the illustration of Fig. 12A, Fig. 12B, the release button 104 is arranged on the second side support 34. With specific reference to Fig. 12B, it is provided that the release button 104 has been pushed inward to release the first and second side supports 32, 34 so that they can rotate downward along paths indicated by arrows B and C into the deployed position D. Furthermore, the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 has moved along the path indicated by arrow A into the extended position E. By means of the drive system 70 and the gear arrangement 149 described above, it is provided that the movement of the first and second side supports 32, 34 and the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 into the second configuration C2 (see Fig. 12B) is carried out synchronously by a user pressing the release button 104. To return the adjustable components to the first configuration C1, a user rotates the first side support or the second side support 32, 34 from the deployed position D to the upright position U. Furthermore, it is provided that with the connection of all adjustable components, a user can also slide the lower portion 30A of the headrest base frame 26 in a lateral direction from the extended position E to the retracted position R in order to move the adjustable components of the headrest assembly 20A into the first configuration C1 and lock them there (see Fig. 12A).

[0027] It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiment of the described invention and other components is not limited to any particular material. Other embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a variety of materials, unless otherwise described herein.

[0028] For purposes of the present disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the direct or indirect interconnection of two (electrical or mechanical) components. Such interconnection may be stationary or movable. Such interconnection may be achieved with the two (electrical or mechanical) components and any additional intermediate members integrally formed as a single, one-piece body with each other or with the two components. Such interconnection may be permanent or removable or detachable, unless otherwise specified.

[0029] It is also important to note that the design and arrangement of the elements of the invention, as apparent from the embodiments, are only illustrative. While only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who read this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in size, dimensions, structures, shapes, and proportions of the various elements, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter presented.For example, elements shown as being integrally formed may be constructed from multiple parts, or elements shown as being comprised of multiple parts may be integrally formed, the function of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise different, the length or width of the structures and / or links or connectors or other elements of the system may be different, the type or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be different. It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the present innovations.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0030] It is understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary disclosed structures and processes are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

[0031] It is to be understood that changes and modifications may be made to the above structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present invention, and it is further understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless such claims expressly state otherwise. List of reference symbols 10 vehicle seat 12 seating section 12A Cushion link 13 Rail arrangement 14 Backrest 16 upper section 20, 20A, 20B, 20C Headrest arrangement 22 first support strut 22A mounting plate 24 second support strut 24A mounting plate 26 headrest base frame 26A Page 26B Page 28 upper section 30, 30A lower section 32 first side support 32a Outer surface Section 32A 34 second side support 34a Outer surface Section 34A 36 Contour 38 inner support surface 39 Head receiving area 40 seat frames 42-45 air bubbles 50 air inflation system 51 Motor or pump 52 Air passage 54 Air passage 54A, 54B supply lines 56 Control 58 User interface 60 rooms 62 backrest frame 70 drive system 72 Wave 74 first end 76 second end Section 78 82 first support arm 84 second support arm 90 Preload mechanism 100 locking mechanism 102 Release mechanism 104 Release button 106 interventional shaft 108 End 110 housings 112 Arrow 114 Arrow 120 jack 122 first end 124 second end 125 pen 126 Wave 128 Preload mechanism or torsion spring 130 rest 132 first notch 134 second notch 140 levers 142 first end 144 second end 146 pivot pin 149 Gear arrangement 150 first gear 152 second gear 200 engine 202 drive shaft 204 gear 206 electrical cable 210 Actuator A1 Arrow A2 Arrow A3 Arrow A4 Arrow A5 Arrow B Arrow C Arrow C1 neutral configuration C2 second configuration D Operating position E extended position L locked position P1 first position P2 second position R1 Arrow R2 Arrow U upright position UL unlocked position

Claims

[1] Vehicle seat (10), comprising: a backrest (14) coupled to a seat section (12), a headrest assembly (20, 20A, 20B, 20C) supported by the backrest (14) and operable between a neutral configuration (C1) and a surrounding configuration (C2), the headrest assembly (20, 20A, 20B, 20C) comprising: a headrest base frame (26) having an adjustable lower portion (30) configured to move laterally between an extended position (E) and a retracted position (R), and a first and a second side support (32, 34) adjustably coupled to the headrest base frame (26) and operable between an upright position (U) and a deployed position (D); a drive system (70) comprising: a shaft (72) rotatably coupled to a first and a second support strut (22, 24) between a first and a second position (P1, P2); and first and second support arms (82, 84) disposed on the shaft (72) and operatively coupled to the first and second side supports (32, 34), the first and second support arms (82, 84) configured to rotate with the shaft (72) as the first and second support arms (82, 84) move between the upright position (U) and the deployed position (D). [2] The vehicle seat (10) of claim 1, wherein the first and second side supports (32, 34) are pivotally coupled to the headrest base frame (26). [3] The vehicle seat (10) of claim 2, wherein the first and second side supports (32, 34) are configured to pivot between the upright position (U) and the deployed position (D), and further wherein the first and second side supports (32, 34) extend outwardly from the headrest base frame (26) in a forward direction in the deployed position (D). [4] The vehicle seat (10) of claim 3, wherein the first and second side supports (32, 34) have inner support surfaces (38) that are exposed when the first and second side supports (32, 34) are in the deployed position (D). [5] Vehicle seat (10) according to claim 4, wherein the inner support surfaces (38) of the first and second side supports (32, 34) are arranged on opposite sides of a head receiving area (39) when the first and second side supports (32, 34) are in the deployed position (D). [6] The vehicle seat (10) of claim 5, wherein the adjustable lower portion (30) of the headrest base frame (26) extends laterally into the head receiving area (39) when the adjustable lower portion (30) of the headrest base frame (26) is in the extended position (E). [7] The vehicle seat (10) of claim 1, wherein the headrest base frame (26) is a centrally disposed headrest base frame (26) having a laterally fixed upper portion (28) disposed above the adjustable lower portion (30). [8] The vehicle seat (10) of claim 1, wherein the headrest assembly (20, 20A, 20B, 20C) is supported on the backrest (14) by the first and second support struts (22, 24) which are vertically adjustable. [9] Vehicle seat (10) according to claim 1, comprising: a gear arrangement (149) comprising: a first gear (150) arranged on the shaft (72) and a second gear (152) meshing with the first gear (150), the second gear (152) being operatively coupled to a rack (154) disposed on the adjustable lower portion (30) of the headrest base frame (26) such that the adjustable lower portion (30) of the headrest base frame (26) moves between the retracted position (R) and the extended position (E) when the shaft (72) rotates from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2). [10] Vehicle seat (10) according to claim 9, comprising: a locking mechanism (100) operatively coupled to the shaft (72) and configured to lock and hold the shaft (72) in the first position (P1), a release mechanism (102) operatively coupled to the locking mechanism (100) and configured to release the shaft (72) to rotate from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2), the release mechanism (102) having a release button (104) disposed on the first or second support arm (82, 84), and a biasing mechanism (128) operatively coupled to the shaft (72), the biasing mechanism (128) biasing the shaft (72) toward the second position (P2). [11] Headrest assembly (20, 20A, 20B, 20C) comprising: a central headrest base frame (26) with an upper section (28) and an adjustable lower portion (30), wherein the adjustable lower portion (30) is configured to move laterally between an extended position (E) and a retracted position (R) with respect to the upper portion (28), and first and second side supports (32, 34) operatively coupled to the headrest base frame (26) on opposite sides between an upright position (U) and a deployed position (D); a drive system (70) comprising: a shaft (72) rotatable between a first and a second position (P1, P2), the shaft (72) having first and second ends (74, 76) disposed on opposite sides of a central portion (78), the central portion (78) being disposed substantially within an interior (26A) of the headrest base frame (26), first and second support arms (82, 84) disposed at the first and second ends (74, 76) of the shaft (72) and operatively coupled to the first and second side supports (32, 34), the first and second support arms (82, 84) being configured to rotate with the shaft (72) when the first and second support arms (82, 84) move between the upright position (U) and the deployed position (D); and a gear arrangement (149) comprising: a first gear (150) arranged on the shaft (72) and a second gear (152) meshing with the first gear (150), the second gear (152) being operatively coupled to a rack (154) disposed on the adjustable lower portion (30) of the headrest base frame (26) such that the adjustable lower portion (30) of the headrest base frame (26) moves between the retracted position (R) and the extended position (E) when the shaft (72) rotates. [12] The headrest assembly (20, 20A, 20B, 20C) of claim 11, wherein the shaft (72) is biased toward the second position (P2), and further wherein the adjustable lower portion (30) of the headrest base frame (26) moves to the extended position (E) and the first and second side supports (32, 34) move to the deployed position (D) when the shaft (72) rotates from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2). [13] Headrest assembly (20, 20A, 20B, 20C) according to claim 12, comprising: a locking mechanism (100) operatively coupled to the shaft (72) and configured to lock and hold the shaft (72) in the first position (P1). [14] Headrest assembly (20, 20A, 20B, 20C) according to claim 13, comprising: a release mechanism (102) operatively coupled to the locking mechanism (100) and configured to release the shaft (72) to rotate from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2).

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