Adjustable upper backrest module

Abstract

Vehicle seating arrangement for a motor vehicle comprising a lower seat (12) and a backrest (14) extending upwards from the lower seat (12), the backrest (14) comprising: a lower stationary backrest base section (98) which further comprises a backrest frame assembly (90); an upper movable backrest hood module (100) that is vertically adjustable with respect to the lower stationary section (98), wherein the upper movable backrest hood module (100) further comprises an upper backrest sliding bracket (104); several rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) mounted on the backrest frame assembly (90) or the upper backrest slide bracket (104), and a slide rail (242, 244) mounted on the other of the backrest frame assembly (90) or upper backrest slide bracket (104), wherein the several rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) engage in the slide rail (242, 244); and an electric motor drive unit (294) mounted on the backrest frame assembly (90) or the upper backrest slide bracket (104), and a driven element (296) mounted on the other of the backrest frame assembly (90) or the upper backrest slide bracket (104), wherein the electric motor drive unit (294) engages with the driven element (296) to vertically adjust the upper movable backrest hood module (100) relative to the lower stationary section (98) when the electric motor drive unit (294) is actuated, wherein - a headrest (22) is integrated into the upper movable backrest hood module (100) and the upper movable backrest hood module (100) comprises a forward-facing surface (112) and a rearward-facing surface (240), and wherein the headrest (22) is received in a headrest shell (116) which is arranged on the forward-facing surface (112) of the upper movable backrest hood module (100); and / or - the lower stationary backrest base section (98) comprises a forward-facing surface and a rearward-facing surface (272), the forward-facing surface comprising a lower front backrest cushion (274) with an outer cover, and the rearward-facing surface (272) comprising a lower back panel (278) extending upwards with respect to the lower stationary backrest base section (98); and the upper movable backrest hood module (100) comprises a forward-facing hood cover (280), an upper outer plate (282) attached to a lower section (284) of the upper movable backrest hood module (100) below the forward-facing hood cover (280), and a rearward-facing hood back plate (110), and wherein the upper outer plate (282) extends downwards behind and under an upper edge (288) of the lower front backrest cushion (274) when the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is moved to its highest raised position, and the rearward-facing hood back plate (110) extends downwards under an upper edge (290) of the upward-extending lower back plate (278) when the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is moved to its highest raised position, wherein - the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is in a neutral position, and wherein, when the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is in the neutral position, a vertical gap of approximately 10 mm is defined between a lower edge of the forward-facing hood cover (280) and the upper edge (288) of the lower backrest cushion (274); and / or - the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is movable between the highest raised position and a lowest lowered position, wherein the vertical displacement between the highest raised position and the lowest lowered position is approximately 75 mm.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a vehicle seating arrangement for a vehicle, and in particular to a vehicle seating arrangement with an upper backrest module for arranging the backrest with an adjustable height. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Automotive customers evaluate and value features that enhance the driving experience. In particular, customers desire features that allow the vehicle seating arrangement to be adjusted to accommodate individual body types and sizes within the vehicle's passenger compartment, especially the vehicle controls. However, such features must employ designs that can accommodate the full range of occupant body types and sizes. To date, the only height adjustment for occupants has been raising, lowering, or tilting the entire seating arrangement and / or raising, lowering, or tilting the headrest. Therefore, a vehicle seating arrangement that supports an additional adjustment would be beneficial.

[0003] US 7,543,888 B2 discloses a vehicle seat with a backrest and a headrest. DE 10 2011 010 748 A1 discloses a trim element assembly that forms a pocket. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] One aspect of the present invention includes a vehicle seating arrangement for a vehicle which supports an extension of the backrest height to provide upper back support in the area of ​​the occupants.

[0005] Another aspect of the present invention includes a vehicle seating arrangement for a motor vehicle, comprising a lower seat and a backrest extending upwards from the lower seat. The backrest comprises a lower stationary backrest base section, which further includes a backrest frame assembly, and an upper movable backrest hood module that is vertically adjustable relative to the lower stationary section. The upper movable backrest hood module further comprises an upper backrest slide bracket, multiple rail guides mounted on the backrest frame assembly or the upper backrest slide bracket, and a rail mounted on the other of the backrest frame assembly or upper backrest slide bracket, the multiple rail guides slidably engaging in the rail.An electric motor drive unit is mounted on the backrest frame assembly or the upper backrest slide bar, and a driven element is mounted on the other of the backrest frame assembly or the upper backrest slide bar, the electric motor drive unit engaging with the driven element to vertically adjust the upper movable backrest hood module relative to the lower stationary section when the electric motor drive unit is actuated.

[0006] A further aspect of the present invention includes a backrest for a motor vehicle comprising an upper hood that is vertically displaceable with respect to a lower section, several rail guides that slidably engage in a rail, an electric motor mounted on a lower section frame or an upper hood slider, and a driven element mounted on the other of the lower section frame or upper hood slider, wherein the electric motor engages in the driven element to adjust the upper hood vertically with respect to the lower section.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention includes a vehicle seating arrangement for a motor vehicle, comprising a lower seat and a backrest extending upwards from the lower seat. The backrest comprises a lower backrest base section supported by a backrest frame assembly, an upper movable backrest hood module adjustable vertically with respect to the lower section, which is supported by an upper slide bar cooperating with a rear upper backrest slide bar, multiple rail guides mounted on the backrest frame assembly or the rear upper backrest slide bar, and a rail mounted on the other side of the backrest frame assembly or the rear upper backrest slide bar, the multiple rail guides slidably engaging in the rail.An electric motor drive unit is mounted on the backrest frame assembly or the rear upper backrest slide bar and is operationally coupled to the other backrest frame assembly or the rear upper backrest slide bar, wherein the electric motor drive unit sets the upper movable backrest hood module vertically with respect to the lower stationary section when the electric motor drive unit is actuated.

[0008] The person skilled in the art will understand and appreciate these and other aspects, tasks and features of the present invention after examining the following specification, claims and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] They show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of the vehicle seating arrangement according to the present disclosure, which is installed in the vehicle; Fig. 2 a perspective view of the vehicle seating arrangement according to the present disclosure; Fig. 3 a perspective view of the lower seat of the vehicle seating arrangement according to the present disclosure; Fig. 4 a skewed perspective view of the lower seat of the vehicle seating arrangement according to the present disclosure; Fig. 5 a perspective front view of the upholstery frame arrangement according to the present disclosure; Fig. 6 a perspective rear view of the upholstery frame arrangement according to the present disclosure; Fig. 7A a perspective front view of the backrest with the upper movable backrest hood module in the lowest position, according to the present disclosure; Fig. 7B a perspective front view of the backrest with the upper movable backrest hood module in the uppermost position, according to the present disclosure; Fig. 8 a perspective front view of the upper movable backrest hood module according to the present disclosure; Fig. 9 a perspective front view of the headrest according to the present disclosure; Fig. 9A a splayed perspective front view of the headrest according to the present disclosure; Fig. 9B an expanded perspective front view of the headrest, headrest dovetail, headrest shell, dovetail receptacle and rear upper sliding bracket according to the present disclosure; Fig. 10 a perspective front view of the headrest shell according to the present disclosure; Fig. 11 an expanded perspective rear view of the headrest dovetail, roller bearings and dovetail receptacle according to the present disclosure; Fig. 12 a perspective front view of the U-shaped element of the headrest according to the present disclosure; Fig. 13 a perspective front view of the upper movable backrest hood module according to the present disclosure; Fig. 14 a perspective front view of the upper movable backrest hood module and the U-shaped element installed according to the present disclosure; Fig. 15 a perspective front view of the upper movable backrest hood module, wherein the headrest has been removed in accordance with the present disclosure; Fig. 16 a cross-sectional view of the upper section of the backrest according to the present disclosure; Fig. 17 a splayed perspective front view of the upper movable backrest hood module according to the present disclosure; Fig. 18 a perspective front view of the rear upper sliding bracket of the backrest according to the present disclosure; Fig. 19 a rear view of the rear upper sliding bracket of the backrest according to the present disclosure; Fig. 20 a perspective front view of the backrest frame arrangement and backrest frame bracket according to the present disclosure; Fig. 21 a perspective front view of the rail guides and rails of the backrest according to the present disclosure; Fig. 22 a perspective front view of the back frame bracket of the backrest according to the present disclosure; Fig. 23 a perspective rear view of the back frame bracket of the backrest according to the present invention; Fig. 24 a perspective rear view of the motor nut of the backrest according to the present invention; Fig. 25 a perspective front view of the electric motor drive unit of the backrest according to the present invention; and Fig. 26 a perspective side view of the trim panel of the vehicle seat arrangement according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS

[0010] For the purposes of this description, the terms "top", "bottom", "right", "left", "back", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and derived terms shall refer to the invention with the orientation in Fig. 1. However, it will be understood that the invention can assume various alternative orientations unless expressly stated otherwise. It will also be understood that the specific devices and methods illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the accompanying claims. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical properties relating to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting unless expressly stated otherwise in the claims.

[0011] With reference to Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle seating arrangement 10 in the vehicle cabin 8 of a vehicle 6. The vehicle seating arrangement 10 can be a driver's seat, a passenger seat, a rear bucket seat, a rear-row seat as shown, or any other vehicle seat. The vehicle seating arrangement 10 has a lower seat 12 and a backrest 14 that is pivotally attached to the lower seat 12. The backrest 14 of the vehicle seating arrangement 10 has a forward-facing surface 16 and a rearward-facing surface 18, each covered with a protective and / or decorative material 20. Leather and / or vinyl are often preferred materials. The vehicle seating arrangement 10 also has a headrest 22 that is operationally coupled to an upper section 24 of the backrest 14 of the vehicle seating arrangement 10.The vehicle seating arrangement 10 typically also includes a vehicle seat base 26, which is configured to provide structural support for the vehicle seating arrangement 10. The vehicle seat base 26 is preferably supported by the seat-mounting rail arrangements 28, as is known in the prior art. The rail arrangement 28 for mounting the seat is configured to allow the vehicle seating arrangement 10 to be adjusted forwards and backwards with respect to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 6.

[0012] It is understood that the vehicle seating arrangement 10 can be arranged in many different locations within the vehicle than the one shown, e.g., on the passenger side, in the middle row, or in the rear seats. The vehicle seating arrangement 10 is thereby slidably coupled to a floor 32. It is also conceivable that the vehicle seating arrangement 10 does not have a rail arrangement 28 for seat mounting and is alternatively fixedly coupled to the vehicle floor 32.

[0013] The lower seat 12 has a cushion frame assembly 30, which in turn has a cushion frame 34 to which a seat belt buckle 36 is attached. A suspension system 38 is arranged within a rear section 40 of the cushion frame assembly 30 and below and opposite a cushion foam assembly 42, which is arranged above the occupant's support. The suspension system 38 preferably comprises adjustable springs 44 that support a central plate 46. Preferably, at least one variable tension spring 48 is mounted on the cushion frame assembly 30. The suspension system 38 may also include a motor 50, a gear 52, and a spring retainer 54. A fixed connecting rod 56 extends between lateral sides 58, 60 of the cushion frame 34, and a sleeve 62 rotatably surrounds the connecting rod 56.The electric motor 50 and the gear 52 are operationally coupled to the sleeve 62, and the spring fastening element 54 is rigidly mounted on the sleeve 62.

[0014] As in Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the variable tension springs 48 are mounted in tension between the spring mounting element 54 and a cushion pan 64, which is pivotally mounted to and forms a forward-facing section 66 of the upholstery frame 34. When activated, the electric motor 50 and the gear 52 are designed to rotate the sleeve 62 and the spring mounting element 54. In the illustrated example, rotating the sleeve 62 and the spring mounting element 54 backward raises a rear section 68 of the variable tension springs 48 and increases the tension applied to the variable tension springs 48. Raising the rear section 68 of the variable tension springs 48 increases the height of the seat surface 70.Additionally, a person skilled in the art will understand that increasing the tension of the variable tension springs 48 reduces their flexion or extension, meaning that the variable tension springs 48 and the cushioning foam assembly 42 move downwards a smaller distance when subjected to a load, such as when an occupant sits on the vehicle seat assembly 10. Rotating the sleeve 62 and the spring mounting element 54 forward lowers the rear section 68 of the variable tension springs 48 and reduces the tension applied to the variable tension springs 48. This increases the flexion or extension of the variable tension springs 48, meaning that the variable tension springs 48 and the cushioning foam assembly 42 move downwards a greater distance when an occupant sits on the vehicle seat assembly 10. Furthermore, lowering the rear section 68 of the variable tension springs 48 reduces the height of the seat surface 70.

[0015] As in Fig. 4, Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, a thigh support bracket 72 is attached to a rear section of the seat pan 64, preferably at a point approximately in the center of the seat frame 34. The thigh support bracket 72 has a base 74 which is attached to the seat pan 64 by two extended support vanes 76, 78, which act like a springboard or cantilever to support the backs of the thighs. Preferably, the thigh support bracket 72 forms the pair of support vanes 76, 78 which are arranged symmetrically along each side of a longitudinal centerline C of the vehicle seat assembly, with a notch 80 separating each of the support vanes 76, 78 at the base 74 along the longitudinal centerline C of the vehicle seat assembly.Preferably, each of the suspension vanes 76, 78 is approximately 150 mm wide transverse to the longitudinal centerline C of the vehicle seating arrangement in order to provide adequate support for the rear of each occupant's thigh.

[0016] Each of the spring-loaded vanes 76, 78 extends upwards and forwards to form a vertical gap G between a distal end 84, 86 of each spring-loaded vane 76, 78 and a forward-facing rim 82 of the cushioning socket 64, and is thus preferably arranged to support a single occupant's thigh independently of the other. Each of the spring-loaded vanes 76, 78 can be elastically depressed downwards by the weight of the occupant's thigh without coming into contact with the forward-facing rim 82 of the cushioning socket 64, thus providing elastic support. However, it is also conceivable that the cushioning thigh spring-loaded bracket 72 is arranged with only one spring-loaded vane, or with a pair of spring-loaded vanes 76, 78 that can be selectively coupled and uncoupled to act independently under a corresponding thigh of the occupant.

[0017] The upholstery leg suspension bracket 72 is preferably designed as a single cast component, but can be formed from two symmetrical pieces arranged on each side of the longitudinal centerline C of the vehicle seat assembly 10, each comprising one of the suspension vanes 76, 78. Preferably, the upholstery leg suspension bracket 72 is made of glass fiber reinforced injection-molded nylon with a thickness between approximately 2.5 and 3.5 mm.However, it should be noted that the cushion leg suspension bracket 72 can be effectively adjusted for specific performance criteria by an appropriate selection of the material from which the cushion leg suspension bracket 72 is made and the thickness of the cushion leg suspension bracket 72, by the addition of ribs (not shown) on the underside of the vanes on the cushion leg suspension bracket 72 and by the addition of a split line along the cushion leg suspension bracket 72 near the base 74 of the notch 80 separating the pair of suspension vanes 76, 78.

[0018] The upholstery foam assembly 42 is arranged above and attached to the upholstery frame 34, as shown in Fig. Figure 3 shows the cushion leg spring-loaded support bracket 72, and is supported by a forward-facing section 66. Preferably, the underside of the cushion foam assembly 42 is provided with a durable surface material that is particularly wear-resistant, because the relative movement between the spring-loaded vanes 76, 78 of the cushion leg spring-loaded support bracket 72 and the underside of the cushion foam assembly 42 causes the underside of the cushion foam assembly 42 to wear.

[0019] Preferably, the cushion pan 64 is pivotably mounted on the cushion frame 34 via a pair of swivel joints 88 arranged on each side of the cushion foam assembly 30, and thus adjustable. The cushion pan 64 mounted in this manner can be manually and pivotally adjusted using a rotary knob or lever (not shown), as is well known in the prior art of seats, or remotely pivotally adjusted using a motorized gear assembly (not shown), as is also well known in the prior art of seats.

[0020] The padded thigh support bracket 72 disclosed herein provides a flexible thigh support arrangement that is mounted directly onto the padded socket 64. The padded thigh support bracket 72 provides passive supports that can operate independently under the load of each leg, thus reducing leg muscle fatigue and providing support for important vehicle functions, in particular, for example, acceleration and deceleration with the right leg and manual gear shifting or relaxation of the left leg.

[0021] As in Fig. 7A, Fig. 7B, Fig. 16, Fig. 17 and Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the backrest 14 has a backrest frame assembly 90 comprising a rear support 94, a front cushion 92, and a rear trim panel 96, which surrounds the backrest frame assembly 90 in a clamping-shell arrangement. Preferably, and as described in more detail below, the backrest 14 has a lower stationary backrest base section 98 and an upper movable backrest hood module 100, which allows the upper section 24 of the backrest 14 to be raised or lowered according to an occupant's preference, and in particular to appropriately position the headrest 22 and a loudspeaker assembly 196, both of which are discussed in more detail below.The upper movable backrest hood module 100 has a front upper backrest slide bar 102, which forms a front face of the upper movable backrest hood module 100, a rear upper backrest slide bar 104, a hood foam 106, and a rear hood trim panel 110. The front upper backrest slide bar 102 and the rear hood trim panel 110 surround the rear upper backrest slide bar 104 in a clamp-shell-like arrangement, as shown in . Fig. 17 shown.

[0022] The forward-facing surface 112 of the upper section 24 of the backrest 14 has a central recess 114 that corresponds to and accommodates a headrest shell 116. The headrest shell 116 is preferably designed as a polymer shell that is mounted within the central recess 114 and is located on the forward-facing surface 112 of the backrest 14 and in front of a forward-facing surface 122 of the rear upper backrest sliding bracket 104. The headrest 22 is in turn received in a recess 120 of the headrest shell 116, which is located on the forward-facing surface 112 of the backrest 14. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the headrest 22 is thereby mounted within the upper movable backrest hood module 100 on the upper section 24 of the backrest 14.

[0023] Particularly in the case of high-performance seats installed in motor vehicles used for racing and motortrack, it is often necessary for the occupants, especially the driver, to wear a helmet or other type of protective headgear designed to safeguard the occupant's head. Existing headrests are often obstructive and tend to force the driver's head forward into uncomfortable positions due to their bulk. Since such headrests can often be removed, the support for the back of the head is also eliminated. This is particularly unacceptable in the case of performance seats intended for racing or sporting applications.Instead, a performance seat was needed that could be adapted to accommodate racing helmets and headgear, particularly in the head area where movement and visual flexibility are most needed, while also providing adequate support.

[0024] Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a headrest 22 that can be easily assembled and installed in the backrest 14, as well as easily removed and reinstalled without the need for tools or adjustments. The headrest 22, which further provides a pivot adjustment mechanism and a support structure as discussed below, can be easily attached to the upper section 24 of the backrest 14 by means of a dovetail joint for securing it in place, yet still allows the headrest 22 to be easily removed for racing, motortrack use, or maintenance requirements, and just as easily reinstalled. That is to say, as discussed below. Fig. Figures 8, 9B and 13 to 16 show that the headrest 22 is mounted on the forward-facing surface 122 of the rear upper backrest slide bar 104 via a headrest dovetail 124, which is removably received within a dovetail recess 126 mounted on the rear upper backrest slide bar 104. Preferably, the headrest can be folded forward and backward about a pair of pins 128 near its base, and the headrest 22 can be completely removed from the backrest 14, as discussed below.

[0025] The headrest 22 disclosed herein avoids the problems of existing headrests by being installed within the headrest shell 116 and being easily removable and reinstallable. This allows the headrest 22 to be removed from the backrest 14 to expose the headrest shell 116, which can then accommodate the driver's or passenger's helmet. The present disclosure avoids the disadvantages of previous removable headrest designs and replaces the downward-extending rods used to allow vertical adjustment of the headrest height 22 with a dovetail fastening mechanism. When the headrest 22 is simply removed from the backrest 14, as described in more detail below, a large cavity is formed in which a helmet or other headgear can be accommodated, allowing the driver and / or passenger to take up the seat with relative comfort.In such a case, even with the headrest 22 removed, the headrest shell 116 still provides head and neck support in the event of a rear impact, to prevent whiplash and other injuries. In this regard, it should also be noted that the headrest shell 116 is preferably lined with rubber padding 132, so that with the headrest 22 removed, any sudden or other contact of the occupant's helmet or headgear with the headrest shell 116 is dampened and minimized.

[0026] The headrest 22 has a headrest cover 134 which encloses the headrest 22, which further comprises a front headrest foam element 136, an EPP foam element 137, a headrest mechanism 138 comprising a generally U-shaped tube element 140, a rear mounting base plate 142, and a rear foam element 144. Preferably, the U-shaped tube element 140 and the rear mounting base plate 142 are made of steel. The U-shaped tube element 140 comprises two vertically and upwardly extending arms 146 which engage in a right and left end, respectively, of an upwardly and rearwardly extending tilted U-shaped support 148 to provide a rigid structural support for the headrest 22, as shown.The U-shaped tube element 140 is pivotably mounted on the rear mounting base plate 142 via the pair of opposing swivel joints 128, one of which has a spring-loaded ratchet mechanism 150, as shown in . Fig. Figure 12 shows a mechanism that, in one embodiment, normally pushes the headrest 22 into a forward-facing position via a spring 151. In use, the headrest 22 can be pivoted forward from a maximum rearward-facing position in discrete increments by means of a claw 152 engaging a cam 154, until it reaches a maximum forward-facing position. After reaching a maximum forward-facing position, the claw 152 is released from the cam 154 to release the ratchet mechanism 150, which in turn is released, allowing the headrest 22 to return to its rearward-facing position.Although the headrest 22 shown herein is to be adjusted manually, consideration is given to providing an electric motor and a quick-disconnect connection for driving the motor (not shown) to facilitate the easy removal of the headrest 22 from the backrest 14 and its reinstallation.

[0027] As in Fig. 9B and Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the dovetail fastening mechanism comprises the headrest dovetail 124, which is mounted on the rear of the headrest 22, in particular on the rear mounting base plate 142, by means of several mechanical fastening devices known from the prior art. The headrest dovetail 124 includes a rectangular block element 158, which preferably has a cavity 160 formed in a central section thereof to minimize weight. Several mechanical fastening device openings 162 are provided in a forward-facing surface 164 of the rectangular block element 158 ​​around the cavity 160 to facilitate fastening the rectangular block element 158 ​​to the rear mounting base plate 142 of the headrest 22.A pair of lateral engagement tongues 166 extends laterally in both directions beyond the lateral dimensions of the rectangular block element 158 ​​near a rear surface 168 of the headrest dovetail 124. An upper edge 170 extends slightly above an upper surface 172 of the rectangular block element 158.

[0028] The dovetail joint 126 is, as best described in Fig. 9B, Fig. 11 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 16, the dovetail receptacle 126 is mounted on the forward-facing surface 122 of the rear upper backrest sliding bracket 104 by means of several conventional mechanical fastening devices. That is, the dovetail receptacle 126 has a rear surface 176 that is adjacent to and rigidly attached to the forward-facing surface 122 of the rear upper backrest sliding bracket 104. A forward-facing surface 178 and an upper surface 180 of the dovetail receptacle 126 are provided with an opening that forms a T-shaped slot 182. The T-shaped slot 182 has a lateral width on the upper surface 180 that exceeds the lateral width of the forward-facing surface 178. Thus, the T-shaped slot 182 is formed on the forward-facing surface 178 and the upper surface 180 of the dovetail receptacle 126.A lower surface within the T-shaped slot 182 forms a lower shoulder 184 thereof.

[0029] A T-shaped slot 186 in the headrest shell 116 is shaped to match the shape of the T-shaped slot 182, with the headrest shell 116 concealing the remaining structure of the dovetail receptacle 126 to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance, as shown in Fig. Figure 15 illustrates this. The dovetail receptacle 126, which is arranged relative to the T-shaped slot 186, is designed to receive the lateral engagement tongues 166 of the headrest dovetail 124 when the headrest dovetail 124 is pushed downwards through the T-shaped slot 186 and into an upper opening 188 of the T-shaped slot 182 in the dovetail receptacle 126 from above until it rests on the lower shoulder 184. With the lateral engagement tongues 166 of the headrest dovetail 124 inserted into the T-shaped slot 182 in this manner, the headrest 22 is rigidly attached to the headrest dovetail 124 and can thus be securely installed in the central recess 114 of the backrest 14.

[0030] The T-shaped slot 182 in the dovetail receptacle 126 is further provided with a pair of recesses 190 in which a pair of spring-loaded roller bearings 192 are mounted. A matching pair of toothed recesses 194 is provided in the rear surface 168 of the headrest dovetail 124 and is aligned with each of the spring-loaded roller bearings 192 when the headrest 22 is installed. With the toothed recesses 194 thus aligned with and engaging the spring-loaded roller bearings 192, they are elastically pressed into the toothed recesses 194 by the spring-loaded roller bearings 192, securing the headrest dovetail 124 within the T-shaped slot 182 of the dovetail receptacle 126.By simply applying a moderate upward force to the headrest 22, the spring-loaded roller bearings 192 can be pushed backward to release their engagement with the toothed recesses 194. The headrest dovetail 124 can then be easily released from the T-shaped slot 182 of the dovetail receptacle 126, allowing the entire headrest 22 to be removed from the backrest 14. Therefore, the headrest 22 can be easily removed from the backrest 14 without the need for tools or adjustments. Similarly, the headrest 22 can be easily reinstalled in the headrest socket 116 of the backrest 14 without the need for tools or any adjustments.

[0031] It should be noted that the disclosed embodiment for mounting the headrest 22 to the upper section 24 of the backrest 14 does not itself provide a vertical adjustment of the headrest 22 relative to the upper section 24 of the backrest 14. Rather, as described below, the height of the headrest 22 can be adjusted by adjusting the upper section 24 of the backrest 14. This is particularly advantageous because existing headrest arrangements use adjustable rods that are typically adjustable within a vertical range of about 50 mm. However, since the upper section 24 of the backrest 14 of the present disclosure is designed to move within a range H of 75 mm, as discussed below, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 7A, the headrest 22 disclosed herein is provided with even greater adjustability.

[0032] Additionally, as in Fig. 13, Fig. 14 and Fig. Figure 15 shows a loudspeaker arrangement 196 located near the underside of the headrest shell 116, mounted via a pair of loudspeaker openings 198, 200 through both the headrest shell 116 and the rear upper backrest slide bar 104, which accommodate a pair of loudspeakers 206, as shown in Fig. Figure 16 shows the loudspeaker arrangement 196, which can include traditional woofer and tweeter systems up to more modern piezoelectric loudspeaker systems. Preferably, the loudspeakers include dual 7.5-watt drivers.

[0033] A resonance cavity 202 is formed close to and directly below the headrest shell 116, preferably within the rear upper backrest sliding bracket 104, in which the loudspeaker arrangement 196 is housed. The resonance cavity 202 comprises an enclosed volume, preferably of about 290 cm³. 3Since the resonance cavity 202 is formed in the rear upper backrest sliding bracket 104, it is thus enclosed within the backrest 14 between the front upper backrest sliding bracket 102 and the rear hood trim panel 110.

[0034] The pair of loudspeaker openings 198, 200 is preferably arranged laterally on the lower section 204 of the headrest shell 116, and the loudspeaker arrangement 196 comprises the pair of loudspeakers 206, which are arranged and mounted within one of the pair of loudspeaker openings 198, 200. The pair of loudspeaker openings 198, 200 opens into the headrest shell 116 and is arranged on the lower section 204 of the headrest shell 116. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, a slot 210 is formed between the pair of speaker openings 198, 200. The slot 210 is designed to receive a clip 212, which is dependent on a lower surface 214 of the polymer shell of the headrest shell 116. The polymer shell of the headrest shell 116 is partially attached to the backrest 14 by means of this clip. It was found that a positive and rigid attachment of the polymer shell of the headrest shell 116 to the backrest 14 near the speakers 206 prevents unwanted vibrations of the polymer shell of the headrest shell 116 when the speaker volume is increased. Furthermore, the slot 210 is sealed from the resonance cavity 202 by an enclosed cap 216, which extends downwards from the slot 210 into contact with a rearward-facing surface 218 of the resonance cavity 202.

[0035] The resonance cavity 202 further comprises a pair of passive radiator openings 220, 222, arranged in a lateral relationship and located on a rear surface 240 of the rear upper backrest sliding bracket 104, in which each of a pair of passive radiators 224, 226 is accommodated. The pair of passive radiator openings 220, 222 forms rearward-facing openings. The pair of passive radiators 224, 226 each comprises a circular elastomer membrane.

[0036] A headrest shell speaker grille 228 is arranged above the speaker openings 198, 200 and below the headrest 22, and a forward-facing gap F is arranged between the headrest shell speaker grille 228 and a lower section 230 of the headrest 22, as shown in Fig. Figure 7B shows the headrest shell speaker grille 228, which consists of a thin perforated metal mesh. Preferably, the perforated metal mesh is made of aluminum mesh approximately 0.005 inches thick.

[0037] As described above, the backrest 14 has a lower stationary backrest base section 98 and an upper movable backrest hood module 100, which allows the upper section 24 of the backrest 14 to be raised or lowered according to customer preference, and in particular to appropriately position the headrest 22 and the speaker openings 198, 200. The lower stationary backrest base section 98 is supported by the backrest frame assembly 90, while the upper movable backrest hood module 100 is vertically adjustable with respect to the lower stationary backrest base section 98 and is supported by the front upper backrest slide bar 102 in conjunction with the rear upper backrest slide bar 104.

[0038] Preferably, a set of four rail guides 232, 234, 236, 238 is mounted on the rear surface 240 of the rear upper backrest sliding bracket 104, as shown in Fig. Figure 19 shows the rail guides 232, 234, 236, 238 arranged in a generally rectangular orientation in two pairs on each side of the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104 around its centerline C. That is, the multiple rail guides 232, 234, 236, 238 are arranged on the rearward-facing surface 240 of the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104 in a pair of rows on the rearward-facing surface 240 of the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104 and on opposite sides of and relative to the centerline C thereof.

[0039] The rail guides 232, 234, 236, 238 are in turn engaged by a pair of slide rails 242, 244 mounted on the rear frame bracket 246. The pair of slide rails 242, 244 is mounted adjacent to a forward-facing surface 252 of the rear frame bracket 246. Each of the slide rails 242, 244 has a base 254 parallel to a forward-facing surface 256 of the backrest frame assembly 90, a pair of cooperating legs 258, 260 extending orthogonally from the base 254, and a pair of opposing tongues 262, 264 extending orthogonally from the cooperating legs 258, 260 in a plane parallel to the base 254.Likewise, each of the rail guides 232, 234, 236, 238 has a base 266 parallel to the rearward-facing surface 240 of the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104 and a pair of lugs 268, 270 extending outwards from the base 266. The pair of lugs 268, 270 is displaced from the rearward-facing surface 240 of the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104 and is slidably engaged on both sides by the opposing tongues 262, 264 of the slide rails 242, 244. Each of the rail guides 232, 234, 236, 238 thus slidably engages one of the slide rails 242, 244.

[0040] Although the preferred embodiment has been described, it should be noted that the multiple rail guides 232, 234, 236, 238 can be mounted either on the backrest frame assembly or the front upper backrest slide bracket 102, and that the rail can be arranged on the other element, namely the backrest frame assembly 90 or the front upper backrest slide bracket 102, as long as the slide rails 242, 244 engage slidably in the multiple rail guides 232, 234, 236, 238.

[0041] As in Fig. 7A, Fig. 7B and Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the lower stationary backrest base section 98 comprises a forward-facing surface and a rearward-facing surface 272. The forward-facing surface includes a lower backrest cushion 274 having an outer cover, while the rearward-facing surface 272 includes a semi-rigid lower rear plate 278 extending upward with respect to the lower stationary backrest base section 98. The upper movable backrest hood module 100 also includes a forward-facing hood cover 280, an upper outer plate 282 attached to a lower section 284 of the upper movable backrest hood module 100 below the forward-facing hood cover 280, and a rearward-facing hood trim plate 110.

[0042] Preferably, and to ensure an attractive appearance at all times, the outer panel 282 extends downwards behind and beneath an upper edge 288 of the lower backrest cushion 274 when the upper movable backrest hood module 100 is moved to its highest position. Similarly, the rearward-facing hood panel 110 extends downwards beneath an upper edge 290 of the upward-extending lower backrest panel 278 when the upper movable backrest hood module 100 is moved to its highest position.The forward-facing section of the lower stationary backrest base section 98 also includes the forward-facing surface, a rear foam pad and the backrest frame assembly 90, with the upper outer plate 282 extending downwards and being vertically displaceable within a space defined between the forward-facing surface 112 and the rear foam pad and backrest frame assembly 90.

[0043] An electric motor drive unit 294 is mounted on the backrest frame assembly 90 or the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104 and is operationally coupled to the other backrest frame assembly 90 or the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104, as shown in Fig. Figure 16 shows that the electric motor drive unit 294 can thus adjust the upper movable backrest hood module 100 relative to the lower stationary backrest base section 98 when the electric motor drive unit 294 is actuated.

[0044] Preferably, the electric motor drive unit 294 is mounted on the backrest frame assembly 90 and a driven element 296 is mounted on the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104, as shown in Fig. Figure 16 shows the driven element 296 preferably comprising a motor nut 298, and the electric motor drive unit 294 further comprises an electric motor 300 with a threaded output shaft 302 engaging in the motor nut 298 to vertically adjust the upper movable backrest hood module 100 with respect to the lower stationary backrest base section 98 when the electric motor drive unit 294 is actuated.

[0045] Preferably, the electric motor 300 is mounted on a rearward-facing surface 304 on the rear frame bracket 246, which in turn is rigidly attached to the backrest frame assembly 90, which forms the support structure for the lower stationary backrest base section 98 of the backrest 14. The electric motor 300 is preferably mounted on the rear frame bracket 246 by means of a rear frame reinforcement bracket 306 and thus engages the vertically extending threaded output shaft 302 and drives it selectively.

[0046] An upper section of the vertically extending threaded output shaft 302 is received within a threaded opening 308 within the motor nut 298, the motor nut 298 being rigidly attached to the rearward-facing surface 240 of the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104. When the electric motor 300 is actuated, the rotation of the vertically extending threaded output shaft 302 drives the motor nut 298 up or down, depending on its initial position and direction of rotation. A slot 310 in the rear frame bracket 246 allows the motor nut 298 to move up and down relative to the rear frame bracket 246.Since the motor nut 298 is rigidly mounted on the rear surface 240 of the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104, the upper movable backrest hood module 100 is moved either upwards or downwards, again depending on its initial position and direction of rotation, relative to the lower stationary backrest base section 98. Therefore, the interaction between the rail guides 232, 234, 236, 238 and the slide rails 242, 244 allows the upper movable backrest hood module 100 to be raised and lowered relative to the lower stationary backrest base section 98 of the backrest 14.

[0047] Although the electric motor 300 is preferably disclosed as being mounted on the backrest frame assembly 90 and the driven element 296 as being mounted on the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104, the components can be reversed. That is, the electric motor drive unit 294 can be mounted on the rear upper backrest slide bracket 104 and the driven element 296 can be mounted on the backrest frame assembly 90. A switch 312, with which the electric motor 300 is actuated, can be arranged on an outboard trim panel 314 of the seat assembly, as shown in Fig. 26 shown.

[0048] Based on the 50th percentile male model, the upper movable backrest hood module 100 has a neutral position N, as shown in Fig.Figure 7A shows the headrest 22 and the loudspeakers 206 positioned optimally relative to the occupant's head and ears. A vertical gap D is defined between a lower edge of the forward-facing hood cover 280 and the upper edge 288 of the lower backrest cushion 274. Preferably, the upper movable backrest hood module 100 is thus displaceable from the neutral position N to a lowest lowered position, in which the vertical height between the lowest lowered position and the neutral position N is approximately 10 mm. Preferably, the upper movable backrest hood module 100 is also displaceable from the neutral position N to a highest raised position via a vertical gap U, in which the vertical height between the lower edge and the upper edge 288, and thus between the highest raised position and the neutral position N, is approximately 65 mm.Therefore, the total vertical height H between the lower and upper edges 288, and thus between the highest raised position and the lowest lowered position, is approximately 75 mm, providing a wide range of height adjustments to accommodate occupants of different heights and body types. That is to say, this embodiment provides appropriate positioning of the headrest 22 and the loudspeakers 206 in relation to the occupant's head and can be adapted to the occupant's specific stature.By using the upper movable backrest hood module 100 of the present disclosure with a total travel distance of 75 mm in the vertical direction via an electric motor 300, which moves on a plurality of slide rails 242, 244, which enable the upper movable backrest hood module 100, including the headrest 22, to adjust the height to the range of occupant sizes from the smallest to the largest statures, the comfort of the occupant is increased.

[0049] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the headrest 22 and the loudspeakers 206 are thus precisely positioned at the lower level of the occupant's ear to enhance the occupant's listening experience and sense of personal space. By incorporating the loudspeaker arrangement 196 into the upper movable backrest hood module 100, sound and music can be enjoyed close to the occupant's ears and within a central recess 114 of the upper movable backrest hood module. The acoustics are maximized by the sound waves, which only have to travel a short distance. This proximity creates an experience of "live" sounds and clear hearing for the occupant.In particular, in combination with the built-in resonance cavity 202 below the loudspeaker openings 198, 200 and the dual passive radiators 224, 226, which are arranged on the rear and underside of the resonance cavity 202, it has been shown that the headrest 22 and loudspeaker 206 are arranged in an optimal position for the best listening and for the best acoustics.

[0050] Furthermore, the disclosed sound system provides the occupant of the vehicle seating arrangement 10 with the possibility of conducting private conversations without using the main cabin speaker system. That is to say, while using integrated hands-free telephone calls and vehicle systems that provide text-reading capabilities during vehicle operation, the speaker arrangement 196, which is located directly behind the occupant's ears, can operate at a lower volume, thus allowing for a private telephone conversation or private text-reading experience.

[0051] Furthermore, the person skilled in the art will understand that the design of the described invention and other components is not limited to a specific material. Other embodiments of the invention disclosed herein can be formed from many different materials, unless otherwise described herein.

[0052] For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "coupled" in all their forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc., and "connected" in all their forms, connect, connection, connected, etc., generally mean the direct or indirect electrical or mechanical joining of two components. Such a connection may be fixed or movable. Such a connection may be achieved with the two components electrically or mechanically and any additional intermediate elements formed as a single unit with each other or integrally with the two components. Such a connection may be permanent or removable, unless otherwise specified.

[0053] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term “operationally connected” generally means that one component functions in relation to another component, even if other components are arranged between the first and second components, and the term “operational” defines a functional relationship between the components.

[0054] It should be noted that the design and arrangement of the elements of the invention, as illustrated in the various embodiments, are for illustrative purposes only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, the person skilled in the art examining this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible, for example, variations in the sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values ​​of parameters, fastening arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc., without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present subject matter.For example, elements depicted as being formed in one piece may be constructed from multiple parts, or elements depicted as being formed from multiple parts may be constructed in one piece, whereby the function of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise modified, the length or width of the structures and / or elements or connecting elements or other elements of the system may be varied, and the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be changed. It should be noted that the elements and / or arrangements of the system may be constructed in many different colors, textures, and combinations of many different materials that provide sufficient strength or resistance to aging. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to fall within the scope of protection of these innovations.

[0055] Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made to the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the desired and other embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0056] It will be understood that any described methods or steps within the described methods can be combined with other disclosed methods or steps to form structures within the scope of protection of the present invention. The exemplary structures and methods disclosed herein serve illustrative purposes and should not be understood as limiting.

[0057] It will be understood that variations and modifications to the above-mentioned structure and methods can be made without deviating from the concepts of the present invention, and it will further be understood that such concepts are to be understood as being covered by the following claims, unless these claims expressly state otherwise by their language. Reference sign 6 vehicles 8 Vehicle cabin 10 Vehicle seating arrangement 12 lower seat 14 Backrest 16 forward-facing surfaces 18 rearward-facing surface 20 decorative materials 22 Headrest 24 upper section 26 Vehicle seat base 28 Rail arrangement 30 Upholstery frame arrangement 32 Floor 34 upholstered frames 36 Seat belt buckle 38 Suspension system 40 rear section 42 Cushion foam arrangement 44 adjustable springs 46 central plate 50 electric motor 52 gear 54 Spring fastening element 56 Connecting rod 58, 60 lateral pages 62 Sleeve 64 cushion pan 66 forward-pointing section 68 rear section 70 Seat surface 72 Upholstered thigh suspension brackets 74 base 76, 78 Suspension vanes 80 notch 82 Rand 84, 86 distal end 88 Swivel joint 90 Backrest frame arrangement 92 front padding 94 rear support 96 rear panel 98 Backrest base section 100 backrest hood modules 102 front upper backrest slide bar 104 rear upper backrest slide bar 106 Hood foam 110 rear hood trim panel 112 forward-facing surface 114 central recess 116 Headrest shell 120 recess 122 forward-facing surface 124 Headrest dovetail 126 Swallowtail photograph 128 pins, swivel joints 132 Rubber padding 134 Headrest cover 136 Headrest foam element 137 EPP foam element 138 Headrest mechanism 140 pipe elements 142 rear mounting base plate 144 rear foam element 146 arms 148 support 150 spring-loaded ratchet mechanism 151 spring 152 Claw 154 cams 158 rectangular block element 160 cavity 162 mechanical fastening device openings 164 surface 166 lateral intervention tongues 168 rear surface 170 upper edge 172 upper surface 176 rear surface 178 forward-facing surface 180 upper surface 182 T-shaped slot 184 lower shoulder 186 T-shaped slot 188 upper opening 190 cutouts 192 spring-loaded roller bearings 194 toothed recesses 196 loudspeaker arrangement 198, 200 speaker openings 202 Resonance cavity 204 lower section 206 speakers 210 slots 212 Clip 214 lower surface 216 enclosed cap 218 surface 220, 222 passive radiator apertures 224, 226 passive radiators 228 Headrest shell speaker grille 230 lower section 232, 234, 236, 238 Rail guides 240 rear surface 242,244 guide rails 246 rear frame bracket 252 forward-facing surface 254 base 256 forward-facing surface 258, 260 cooperating legs 262, 264 opposite tongues 266 base 268,270 ears 272 rearward-facing surface 274 lower backrest cushion 278 lower rear plate 280 Hood cover 282 upper outer plate 284 lower section 288 upper edge 290 upper edge 294 Electric motor drive unit 296 driven element 298 Engine nut 300 electric motor 302 Threaded output shaft 304 rearward-facing surface 306 rear frame reinforcement bracket 308 Threaded opening 310 slots 312 switches 314 Outboard fairing plate C Longitudinal centerline D vertical gap F forward-facing gap G vertical gap H vertical total height N neutral position U vertical gap

Claims

[1] Vehicle seating arrangement for a motor vehicle comprising a lower seat (12) and a backrest (14) extending upwards from the lower seat (12), the backrest (14) comprising: a lower stationary backrest base section (98) which further comprises a backrest frame assembly (90); an upper movable backrest hood module (100) that is vertically adjustable with respect to the lower stationary section (98), wherein the upper movable backrest hood module (100) further comprises an upper backrest sliding bracket (104); several rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) mounted on the backrest frame assembly (90) or the upper backrest slide bracket (104), and a slide rail (242, 244) mounted on the other of the backrest frame assembly (90) or upper backrest slide bracket (104), wherein the several rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) engage in the slide rail (242, 244); and an electric motor drive unit (294) mounted on the backrest frame assembly (90) or the upper backrest slide bracket (104), and a driven element (296) mounted on the other of the backrest frame assembly (90) or the upper backrest slide bracket (104), wherein the electric motor drive unit (294) engages with the driven element (296) to vertically adjust the upper movable backrest hood module (100) relative to the lower stationary section (98) when the electric motor drive unit (294) is actuated, wherein - a headrest (22) is integrated into the upper movable backrest hood module (100) and the upper movable backrest hood module (100) comprises a forward-facing surface (112) and a rearward-facing surface (240), and wherein the headrest (22) is received in a headrest shell (116) which is arranged on the forward-facing surface (112) of the upper movable backrest hood module (100); and / or - the lower stationary backrest base section (98) comprises a forward-facing surface and a rearward-facing surface (272), the forward-facing surface comprising a lower front backrest cushion (274) with an outer cover, and the rearward-facing surface (272) comprising a lower back panel (278) extending upwards with respect to the lower stationary backrest base section (98); and the upper movable backrest hood module (100) comprises a forward-facing hood cover (280), an upper outer plate (282) attached to a lower section (284) of the upper movable backrest hood module (100) below the forward-facing hood cover (280), and a rearward-facing hood back plate (110), and wherein the upper outer plate (282) extends downwards behind and under an upper edge (288) of the lower front backrest cushion (274) when the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is moved to its highest raised position, and the rearward-facing hood back plate (110) extends downwards under an upper edge (290) of the upward-extending lower back plate (278) when the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is moved to its highest raised position, wherein - the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is in a neutral position, and wherein, when the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is in the neutral position, a vertical gap of approximately 10 mm is defined between a lower edge of the forward-facing hood cover (280) and the upper edge (288) of the lower backrest cushion (274); and / or - the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is movable between the highest raised position and a lowest lowered position, wherein the vertical displacement between the highest raised position and the lowest lowered position is approximately 75 mm. [2] Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the upper movable backrest hood module (100) further comprises a loudspeaker arrangement (196) mounted in the headrest shell (116) and a resonance cavity (202) formed near the headrest shell (116) in which the loudspeaker arrangement (196) is received. [3] Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the electric motor drive unit (294) is mounted on the backrest frame arrangement (90) and the driven element (296) is mounted on the upper backrest slide bar (104). [4] Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the electric motor drive unit (294) is mounted on the upper backrest slide bracket (104) and the driven element (296) is mounted on the backrest frame arrangement (90). [5] Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the driven element (296) is a motor nut (298) and the electric motor drive unit (294) further comprises an electric motor (300) with a threaded output shaft (302) which engages in the motor nut (298). [6] Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 1, wherein a front section (66) of the lower stationary backrest base section (98) comprises the forward-facing surface, the lower front backrest cushion (274) and the backrest frame arrangement (90), wherein the upper outer plate (282) extends downwards and is vertically displaceable within a space defined between the forward-facing surface and the backrest frame arrangement (90). [7] Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is displaceable from the neutral position to a highest raised position, and wherein a vertical displacement between the highest raised position and the neutral position is about 65 mm, and wherein the upper movable backrest hood module (100) is displaceable from the neutral position to a lowest lowered position, and wherein a vertical displacement between the lowest lowered position and the neutral position is about 10 mm. [8] Backrest (14) for a motor vehicle, comprising an upper hood which is vertically displaceable with respect to a lower section (98), several rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) which slidably engage in a rail (242, 244), an electric motor (300) which is mounted on a lower section frame or upper backrest sliding bracket (104), and a driven element (296) mounted on the other of lower section frame or upper backrest sliding bracket (104), wherein the electric motor (300) engages in the driven element (296) to adjust the upper hood vertically in relation to the lower section (98), wherein the lower section (98) has a backrest frame assembly (90) and the multiple rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) are mounted on the backrest frame assembly (90) or the upper backrest slide bracket (104), and the rail (242, 244) is mounted on the other of backrest frame assembly (90) or upper backrest slide bracket (104), wherein the multiple rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) slidably engage in the rail (242, 244), and wherein a pair of rails (242, 244) is mounted on a forward-facing surface of the backrest frame assembly (90), each of the slide rails (242, 244) of the pair having a base (254) in parallel relation to the forward-facing surface of the backrest frame assembly (90), a pair of cooperating legs (258, 260) extending orthogonally from the base (254), and a pair of opposing tongues (262, 264) extending orthogonally from the legs (258, 260) in a plane parallel to the base (254). [9] Backrest according to claim 8, wherein the multiple rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) are mounted on a rearward-facing surface (240) of the upper backrest slide bracket (104) in a pair of rows on opposite sides of the rearward-facing surface (240) of the upper backrest slide bracket (104) with respect to a center line (C) therein, each of the rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) having a base (266) parallel to the rearward-facing surface (240) of the upper backrest slide bracket (104) and a pair of ears (268, 270) extending outwards from the base (266), the pair of ears (268, 270) being offset from the rearward-facing surface (240) of the upper backrest slide bracket (104) and on both The sides are brought into engagement by means of the opposing tongues (262, 264) of the rails (242, 244). [10] Backrest according to claim 8, wherein the electric motor (300) is mounted on the backrest frame assembly (90) and the driven element (296) is mounted on the upper backrest sliding bracket (104). [11] Vehicle seating arrangement for a motor vehicle, comprising: a lower seat (12); and a backrest (14) extending upwards from the lower seat (12), the backrest (14) comprising a lower backrest base section (98) supported by a backrest frame assembly (90), an upper movable backrest hood module (100) adjustable vertically with respect to the lower section (98) supported by a front upper slide bar (102) cooperating with a rear upper backrest slide bar (104), multiple rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) mounted on the backrest frame assembly (90) or the rear upper backrest slide bar (104), and a slide rail (242, 244) mounted on the other of the backrest frame assembly (90) or the rear upper backrest slide bar (104), wherein the multiple rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) slidably engage in the slide rail (242, 244); and an electric motor drive unit (294) mounted on the backrest frame assembly (90) or the rear upper backrest slide bar (104) and operationally coupled to the other backrest frame assembly (90) or the rear upper backrest slide bar (104), wherein the electric motor drive unit (294) vertically adjusts the upper movable backrest hood module (100) with respect to the lower stationary section (98) when the electric motor drive unit (294) is actuated, wherein the backrest (14) further comprises an upper backrest base bracket attached to a forward-facing surface (252) of an upper section of the backrest frame assembly (90), and wherein the pair of slide rails (242, 244) is mounted adjacent to a forward-facing surface (252) of the upper backrest base bracket (246), and wherein the multiple rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) are mounted on a rearward-facing surface (240) of the rear upper backrest slide bracket (104) in a pair of rows on opposite sides of the rearward-facing surface (240) of the rear upper backrest slide bracket (104) with respect to a center line (C) therein, each of the rail guides (232, 234, 236, 238) slidably engages in one of the slide rails (242, 244). [12] Vehicle seat arrangement according to claim 11, wherein the upper backrest base bracket comprises the pair of slide rails (242, 244) which is attached to the forward-facing surface (252) of the upper section of the backrest frame arrangement (90) on each side with respect to the center line (C) of the backrest frame arrangement (90).

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