Telescopic headrest

Abstract

Headrest assembly (20) comprising: a headrest cushion (22) adjustably supported on a linkage system (52); a cover assembly (30) having a first element (30a) coupled to the linkage system (52) and a second element (30b) coupled to the first element, the first element (30a) being telescopically received in the second element (30b); and a gap defined between the first and second members (30a, 30b) and maintained when the cover assembly (30), driven by the linkage system (52), moves between a stowed and an extended position, wherein the first element (30a) comprises a first and a second side part (194, 196) which are spaced from one another, and an upper part (198) which connects the first and the second side part (194, 196) to one another, the second element (30b) comprises a first and a second side part (224, 226) which are spaced from each other, and an upper part (228) which connects the first and the second side part (224, 226) to each other, the upper part (198) of the first element (30a) comprises one or more spacers extending outwardly from an outer surface thereof, and the first and second side members (194, 196) of the first element (30a) each comprise one or more spacers extending outwardly from an outer surface thereof.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a headrest assembly for a vehicle seat, and more particularly to an adjustable headrest assembly having an adjustable cover assembly configured to telescopically conceal components of the headrest assembly. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A variety of headrest designs are available in the automotive industry that provide adjustment of a headrest to accommodate a variety of vehicle occupants in multiple positions. A headrest assembly capable of providing appropriate adjustment is desired to meet the needs of different vehicle occupants, and such a headrest should also be aesthetically pleasing by providing a cover assembly to conceal moving parts of the headrest assembly.

[0003] DE 199 23 909 A1 describes a headrest assembly for motor vehicle seats, comprising a headrest part which is guided along the main body of the headrest so as to be movable relative to a main body of the headrest along a linear movement direction, has a headrest surface which can be moved forwards towards the back of the vehicle occupant's head. For the linear movement of the headrest part, two cylindrical, tubular bodies are arranged telescopically within one another and are movable relative to one another. US 4 762 367 A describes a headrest for a vehicle seat which is horizontally movable by rotating an adjustment knob and whose inclination can be adjusted. US 4 720 146 A describes a headrest for a vehicle seat whose inclination can be adjusted by means of a pneumatic bladder enclosed between a headrest frame and a pivotally mounted cushion support.In addition, an artificially powered headrest is described that is adjustable in a horizontal plane. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Aspects of the invention are described in claims 1, 9, and 13. A headrest assembly includes a headrest cushion adjustably supported on a linkage system. A cover assembly includes a first member coupled to the linkage system and a second member coupled to the first member. The first member is telescopically received within the second member. When the cover assembly, driven by the linkage system, moves between a stowed and an extended position, a gap is defined and maintained between the first and second members.

[0005] A housing is configured to partially cover a linkage system operable between a forward and a rearward position. A cover assembly is operable between a stowed and a deployed position and includes a first member coupled to the linkage system for movement therewith. The cover assembly also includes a second member coupled to the first member. The first member is partially received within the second member when the cover assembly is in the stowed position.

[0006] A head restraint assembly includes a cover assembly operable between a stowed and a deployed position and configured to partially cover a linkage system. The cover assembly includes first and second members, the first member coupled to the linkage system for movement therewith. A plurality of spacers are disposed along an outer surface of the first member along a rearward edge thereof. The spacers are configured to engage an inner surface of the second member when the linkage system moves from a rearward position to a forward position.

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

[0008] In the drawings: Fig. 1 is a perspective front view of a vehicle seat arranged in a vehicle interior with a headrest arrangement; Fig. 2A is a side elevational view of a headrest assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, with a headrest cushion of the headrest assembly in a retracted position; Fig. 2B is a side elevation of the headrest of Fig. 2A with the headrest cushion, referring to Fig. 2A, in a forward position exposing an adjustable cover assembly; Fig. 2C a side elevation of the headrest of Fig. 2B with the headrest cushion in an extreme forward position; Fig. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the headrest assembly showing an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the headrest cushion; Fig. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 3A with the headrest cushion, referring to Fig. 3A, in a forward position; Fig. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 3B with the headrest cushion, referring to Fig. 3B, in a forward position; Fig. 4A is a front perspective view of a headrest assembly in which a rear cover and the headrest cushion are removed to expose a linkage system in a retracted position; Fig. 4B is a front perspective view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 4A with the linkage system in a fully extended position; Fig. 4C is a perspective rear view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 4A; Fig. 4D is a perspective rear view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 4B; Fig. 5A is a side elevation of the headrest of Fig. 2A, in which a panel is removed to expose the adjustable cover assembly; Fig. 5B is a side elevation of the headrest of Fig. 5A with the adjustable cover assembly in a partially extended position; Fig. 5C is a side elevation of the headrest assembly of Fig. 5B with the adjustable cover assembly in a fully extended position; Fig. 5D is a side elevation of the headrest assembly of Fig. 5A, in which a rear portion of the adjustable cover assembly is shown in several overlapping positions; Fig. 5E is a cross-sectional view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 2A, showing an engagement flange spaced from an inner rim of the housing; Fig. 5F is a cross-sectional view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 2B, showing the engagement flange resting on the inner rim of the housing; Fig. 5G is a cross-sectional view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 2C, which shows the engagement flange pivoted relative to the inner rim of the housing; Fig. 6A is a front perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 6B is a rear perspective view of the vehicle seat of Fig. 6A; Fig. 7A is a front perspective view of a cover plate; Fig. 7B is a perspective rear view of the cover plate of Fig. 7A; Fig. 7C a perspective rear view of the cover plate of Fig. 7B coupled to a frame component of a vehicle seat; Fig. 8A is a perspective front view of the cover plate of Fig. 7A, which is attached to the vehicle seat of Fig. 6A is coupled; Fig. 8B is a perspective front view of the cover plate of Fig. 8A, shown in dashed lines to reveal various coupling components of the vehicle seat; Fig. 9A is a side elevation of a headrest assembly in which the cover plate of Fig. 7A is arranged thereon in a retracted position; Fig. 9B is a side elevation of the headrest assembly of Fig. 9A, shown in an extended position with the cover plate also in an extended position; Fig. 10A is a front perspective view of a headrest assembly with a headrest cushion in a fully extended position; Fig. 10B is a front perspective view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 10A, in which the headrest cushion is removed; Fig. 11A is a front perspective view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 10B, in which a rear housing is removed; Fig. 11B is a front perspective view of the headrest assembly of Fig. 11A, in which the adjustable cover assembly is removed to expose the linkage system; Fig. 12 is a front perspective view of a headrest assembly shown in a retracted position with the components of the adjustable cover assembly retracted from the linkage system; Fig. 13A is a front perspective view of components of another embodiment of an adjustable cover assembly, pulled away from each other; Fig. 13B is a cross-sectional view of the cover assembly components of Fig. 13A in an assembled state, showing a spacer of the first element of the cover assembly spaced from a front engagement edge of a second element of the cover assembly; and Fig. 13C is a cross-sectional view of the cover assembly components of Fig. 13B, in which the engaging edge of the second element is shown in contact with the spacer of the first element. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] For the purposes of this description, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, “rear”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and terms derived therefrom shall 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. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and methods illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting unless expressly stated to the contrary in the claims.

[0010] Now referring to Fig. 1, a vehicle seat 10 is shown disposed within a vehicle interior 14 of a vehicle 12. The vehicle seat 10 includes a seat portion 16 coupled to a backrest 18. The backrest 18 includes an upper portion 18a to which a headrest assembly 20 is mounted. The headrest assembly 20 includes a housing 24, which is a rear housing disposed adjacent an adjustable headrest cushion 22. It is contemplated that the headrest cushion 22 is a padded member configured to support the head of a vehicle occupant seated on the vehicle seat 10. The vehicle seat 10 of Fig. 1 is shown as a driver-side vehicle seat, however, it is contemplated that the head restraint assembly 20 of the present invention may be disposed on any vehicle seat in a vehicle, including the options of front passenger seats, rear seats, folding seats, and third-row passenger seats. Fig. 1, as shown on a front driver-side vehicle seat 10, is therefore not intended to limit the basic idea of ​​the invention.

[0011] As noted above, the headrest assembly 20 is an adjustable headrest assembly, wherein the headrest cushion 22 is contemplated as being adjustable relative to the housing 24 in a forward direction, as indicated by arrow F, between an extended and a retracted position, and as indicated by arrow V, a vertical direction between a raised and a lowered position. Fig. 1, the headrest assembly 20 is contemplated to be in a home position H that correlates with the headrest cushion 22 in the lowered vertical position L and the retracted horizontal position R, such that the headrest cushion 22 is disposed directly in front of the housing 24. Movement of the headrest cushion 22 is contemplated to be initiated by one or more powered adjustment mechanisms that are substantially concealed by the housing 24 when the headrest assembly 20 is in the home position H.

[0012] Now referring to Fig. 2A, the headrest assembly 20 is shown in the initial position H, with the headrest cushion 22 in the retracted position relative to the housing 24. The headrest assembly 20 is supported by a backrest frame 28, which during assembly is generally recessed into the backrest 18 ( Fig. 1) is positioned, supported, and mounted thereto. The headrest cushion 22 is shown as a two-piece element having a padded front portion 22a, for engagement (or abutting support) by a user, and a rear coupling portion 22b. The housing 24 is also a two-piece element having a front panel 24a and a rear panel 24b, which are used to surround and conceal various adjustment mechanisms and systems used to adjust a position of the headrest cushion 22. As shown in Fig. 2A, an adjustable cover assembly 30 is arranged in a stowed position S' and is configured to cover an area between the headrest cushion 22 and the housing 24, as described in more detail below. The adjustable cover assembly 30 is, as shown in FIGS. Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C, is better exposed when the headrest cushion 22 moves forward relative to the housing 24 in a direction indicated by arrow F. It is contemplated that the adjustable cover assembly 30 is a multi-piece, injection-molded plastic assembly configured to substantially conceal various adjustment mechanisms and systems of the headrest assembly 20 when the headrest cushion 22 is adjusted horizontally relative to the housing 24.

[0013] Now referring to Fig. 2B, the headrest cushion 22 is shown in a forward position F1, wherein the headrest cushion 22 has moved in a vehicle forward direction relative to the housing 24 along a path indicated by arrow F. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 2B, the coupling portion 22b of the headrest cushion 22 is shown spaced from the front panel 24a of the housing 24 to define a distance S therebetween. Due to the distance S between the coupling portion 22b of the headrest cushion 22 and the front panel 24a of the housing 24, it can be seen that the adjustable cover assembly 30 has two gap-concealing elements, a first element 30a and a second element 30b, which together conceal adjustment components of the headrest assembly 20 over the distance S. It is contemplated that the first element 30a may be nested within the second element 30b, or vice versa, so that the adjustable cover assembly 30 may be telescopically extended in an apparently horizontal manner when the headrest housing 22 is driven in the forward direction away from the housing 24, as indicated by arrow F. In the Fig. 2B, the adjustable cover assembly 30 is in a middle position M with the first member 30a partially received within the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30. It is further contemplated that the first member 30a is fully retracted into the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 and partially received in a nested position therein when the headrest cushion 22 is in the retracted position R ( Fig. 2A). Therefore, given the nesting or telescoping relationship of the two components, the first element 30a and the second element 30b may also be referred to as inner and outer elements or gap hiders.

[0014] The adjustable cover assembly 30 is connected to a linkage system 52 ( Fig. 3A), which acts as a support for the headrest cushion 22, which is also coupled to the linkage system 52. The engagement between the first element 30a of the adjustable cover assembly 30 and the linkage system 52 is described below with reference to Fig. 12. The adjustable cover assembly 30 is further coupled to the housing 24 by a kinetic engagement between the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 and the front panel 24a of the housing 24. The housing 24 is a stationary assembly coupled to and supported by the seatback frame 28. Therefore, as the headrest cushion 22 moves horizontally in the direction indicated by arrow F, the adjustable cover assembly 30 follows the headrest cushion 22 on the linkage system 52 and extends in a telescopic manner, as described in more detail below. In this manner, the adjustable cover assembly 30 is a slave to the movement of the linkage system 52 and the headrest cushion 22 and extends or retracts only in response to the movement of the linkage system 52.Therefore, the adjustable cover assembly 30 functions as a two-piece gap concealer for the head restraint assembly 20 by concealing adjustment components that would otherwise be exposed in the distance S between the head restraint cushion 22 and the housing 24 when the head restraint cushion 22 is extended outwardly to the extended position E (. Fig. 2C) is pulled out.

[0015] Now referring to Fig. 2C, the headrest cushion 22 of the headrest assembly 20 is shown in the extended position E, which is considered to be a complete extension of the headrest cushion 22 in the direction indicated by arrow F, relative to the housing 24. In Fig. 2C, the first element 30a of the adjustable cover assembly 30 is shown more clearly in view of the increased distance S between the coupling part 22b of the headrest cushion 22 and the front panel 24a of the housing 24. In Fig. 2C, the first element 30a is in an outwardly extended position relative to the second element 30b, so that the first element 30a is no longer nested in the second element 30b. Therefore, in Fig. 2C, based on Fig. 2A, the adjustable cover assembly 30 is moved from a stowed position S' to an extended position D because the linkage system 52 has driven the headrest cushion 22 from the retracted position R to the extended position E. As in Fig. 2C, the headrest assembly 20 of the present invention provides, relative to the housing 24, a large extension range of the headrest cushion 22 in a forward direction F, thereby providing increased comfort to a vehicle occupant. As shown in Fig. 2C, while the headrest cushion 22 is in the extreme forward position E, the adjustment mechanisms of the headrest assembly 20 that provide this horizontal extension are substantially concealed by the adjustable cover assembly 30 and the housing 24. Because the adjustment mechanisms are concealed, the headrest assembly 20 of the present invention provides a more pleasing aesthetic relative to the adjustable headrest assemblies known on the market. Therefore, the adjustable cover assembly 30 is movable between a stowed and an extended position S', D ( Fig. 2A or 2C). It is contemplated that the headrest cushion 22 can move forward relative to the housing 24 from the retracted position R by approximately 50 mm toward the extended position E. Other ranges of forward movement are also contemplated.

[0016] Now referring to Fig. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the headrest assembly 20 in the home position H with the housing 24 removed to expose the adjustment mechanisms designed to control the movement of the headrest cushion 22 between the extended and retracted positions E, R ( Fig. 2C and 2A, respectively. The headrest cushion 22 is shown coupled to a support plate 40 which is connected to a mounting plate 42 which is in the design of Fig. 3A in the housing 24. The headrest cushion 22 is vertically adjustable along the path indicated by arrow V via a channel-rail assembly 44 disposed between the support plate 40 and the mounting plate 42. It is contemplated that the channel-rail assembly 44 between the headrest cushion 22 and the mounting plate 42 is an assembly utilizing a plurality of channels and rails received therein. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3A, a channel 46 on a front side 42a of the mounting plate 42 is coupled to the mounting plate 42 and configured to slidably receive a rail 48 therein. The rail 48 is coupled to the support plate 40. It is contemplated that the vertical movement of the headrest cushion 22 is initiated by an adjustment mechanism shown in the form of a linear actuator A2.

[0017] As in Fig. 3A, the mounting plate 42 further includes a rear side 42b having outwardly extending brackets 50. It is contemplated that the brackets 50 are double brackets extending rearwardly from the rear side 42b of the mounting plate 42, as best shown in FIGS. Fig. 4C and Fig. 4D. The brackets 50 serve as a pivotable mounting location for the linkage system 52. With reference to the cross-sectional view of Fig. 3A, only a portion of the linkage system 52 is shown, however, it is contemplated that the linkage system 52 may be assembled by one of ordinary skill in the art as in Fig. 3A and better in the Fig. 4A-4D, as described in more detail below. The linkage system 52 may be a four-bar linkage system having links of different sizes. One or more links may have multiple pivot locations to provide a multi-link system that operates as a reinforced four-bar linkage between a forward and a rearward position. It is contemplated that the linkage system 52 may pivot the head restraint cushion 22 between an extended position E, as shown in Fig. 2C, and a retracted position R, as shown in the Fig. 2A and Fig. 3A. The linkage system 52 includes a plurality of links, which are rigid elements pivotally connected to one another, as described in more detail below.

[0018] As in Fig. 3A, the linkage system 52 includes a front or first link 54, which may be described as an output link, having an upper portion 56 pivotally coupled to a bracket 50 of the mounting plate 42 at pivot point P1. It is contemplated that the first link 54 is one of a pair of front links connected together by a cross member 58 to form a unitary front link assembly. Fig. 3A, a second or rear link 60 is shown, which can be described as an input link having an upper portion 62 pivotally coupled to bracket 50 of mounting plate 42 at pivot point P2. As with the first link 54, it is contemplated that the second link 60 is one of a pair of rear links connected by a cross member 64. The cross member 64 is in Fig. 3A in the form of a plate that interconnects the rear links 60 of the linkage system 52 to define a one-piece rear link assembly. Thus, the mounting plate 42 and brackets 50 act as couplers for the output link (first link 54) and the input link (second link 60) in the linkage system 52. The linkage system 52 is configured to guide the movement of the head restraint cushion 22 from the retracted position R to a series of forward positions located along the path indicated by arrow F. Movement of the head restraint cushion 22 between the extended and retracted positions along the path indicated by arrow F is effected by an adjustment mechanism, shown in the form of a linear actuator A1, configured to translate the linkage system 52 between a forward and a rearward position.The first link 54 and the second link 60 are further pivotally coupled to a base plate 70 at pivot points P3, P4. The pivot point P3 is shown in FIGS. Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B. It is contemplated that the base plate 70, which may be described as a floor member, is extended in a substantially horizontal manner between the pairs of first and second members 54, 60. In Fig. 3A, a lower portion 66 of the second member 60 is shown coupled at pivot point P4 to a first side 72 of the base plate 70, as better seen in Fig. 3C. As noted above, the first link 54, the second link 60, and the base plate 70 define links of the linkage system 52, which are rigid elements pivotally coupled to one another.

[0019] As in Fig. 3A, the first actuator A1 is coupled to a bracket 80, which is further coupled to a bottom wall 74 of the base plate 70. It is contemplated that the bracket 80 is a connecting bracket pivotally coupled to the first actuator A1 at pivot point P5 and driven by, but independent of, the linkage system 52. The first actuator A1 includes a motor 82 operatively coupled to a spindle or threaded member 84. The threaded member 84 is configured to be driven by the motor 82 in a direction indicated by arrow 86, such that the first actuator A1 is a linear actuator. A connecting tab 88 is disposed on an upper portion of the threaded member 84 and pivotally connected to a connecting bracket 68 extending outwardly from the cross member 64 of the second link 60 at pivot point P6.When the head restraint cushion 22 is in the retracted position R, the first actuator A1 is configured to drive the threaded member 84 downward in the direction indicated by arrow 86 using the motor 82 threadedly engaged with the threaded member 84 to extend the head restraint cushion 22. In this manner, the first actuator A1 is configured to drive the head restraint cushion 22 forward by pulling the linkage system 52 downward and forward as indicated by arrow F. When the threaded member 84 is driven downward in a direction indicated by arrow 86, the coupling of the connecting tab 88 to the connecting bracket 68 of the second link 60 pulls the second link 60 downward to drive the four-bar linkage system 52 in the forward and downward direction, as further shown in FIGS. Fig. 3B-3D. It is contemplated that the base plate 70 of the linkage system 52 is a stationary base plate pivotally connected to the first and second members 54, 60 at pivot points P3 and P4. Because the upwardly extending connecting bracket 80 provides an independent pivot location P5 for the first actuator A1, the first actuator A1 has a distinct pivot location relative to the linkage system 52. In this manner, the first actuator A1 can pivot independently of the linkage system 52 as needed, as the linkage system 52 is translated fore and aft when the position of the head restraint cushion 22 is adjusted by a user.

[0020] Now referring to Fig. 3B, the headrest cushion 22 is shown in a forward position F1, which corresponds to the Fig. 2B. Therefore, the distance S can now be seen between the headrest cushion 22 and the cross member 58 of the first member 54. In Fig. 3B, the threaded element 84 was driven by the motor 82 of the first actuator A1 in a downward direction indicated by the arrow 86 to a position X. In this way, the linkage system 52 was moved by the first actuator A1 from the position shown in Fig. 3A shown starting position H into a forward position X. By moving the headrest cushion 22 into the forward position F1, the threaded element 84 moves from the starting position H ( Fig. 3A) into the Fig. 3B shown position X. Likewise, the linkage system 52 moves from the position shown in Fig. 3A shown starting position H into the position shown in Fig. 3B shown converted position X. It is considered that the forward position F1 of the headrest cushion 22, as shown in Fig. 3B, is approximately one-third of the forward range of movement of the headrest cushion 22 of the present concept.

[0021] Now referring to Fig. 3C, the headrest cushion 22 is shown in an intermediate position F2, which is in front of the Fig. 3B shown position F1. In Fig. 3C, the threaded element 84 was driven by the motor 82 of the actuator A1 into a position Y, which correlates with the transfer of the linkage system 52 into a forward position Y, whereby the, with respect to Fig. 3B, in Fig. 3C is provided. It is contemplated that in the intermediate position F2, the head restraint cushion 22 is adjusted forward approximately two-thirds of the total range of movement of the head restraint cushion 22 as driven by the linkage system 52.

[0022] Now referring to Fig. 4A, the linkage system 52 of the headrest assembly 20 is shown with the housing 24 and headrest cushion 22 removed from the headrest assembly 20. In Fig. 4A, the linkage system 52 is in the home or rear position H, which represents a recessed or retracted position in which the headrest cushion 22 would be located directly adjacent to the housing 24, as in Fig. 2A, and the linkage system 52 would be substantially concealed by and housed within the housing 24 ( Fig. 2A). As in Fig. 4A, the mounting plate 42 is coupled to the support plate 40 and includes two rearwardly extending brackets 50 having pivot points P1, P2 for pivotally coupling the first member 54 and the second member 60. The second member 60 is shown pivotally coupled to the base plate 72 at pivot point P4, and the first member 54 is shown pivotally coupled to the base plate 70 at pivot point P3, which is disposed on a mounting bracket 73 extending upwardly from the base plate 70. A support structure 90 is shown having support rods 26 extending therefrom for coupling the headrest assembly 20 to the seatback frame member 28.

[0023] Now referring to Fig. 4B, the linkage system 52 is shown in the fully extended forward position Z, in which the support plate 40 is fully retracted from the support structure 90. In the fully extended position Z, the linkage system 52 exposes the cross member 58, which interconnects two pairs of the first links 54, as described above. It is contemplated that the mounting plate 42, the first and second links 54, 60, and the base plate 70 are integral parts that are rigid elements pivotally connected to one another at pivot points (P1-P4) to provide for extension of the support plate 40 between the retracted and extended positions. In the Fig. 4B, the support plate 40 correlates with the headrest cushion 22, which is in the fully extended position E, as shown in Fig. 2C. In the fully extended or forward position Z, the linkage system 52 is concealed by a combination of the adjustable cover assembly 30 and the housing 24, as shown in Fig. 2C shown.

[0024] Now referring to Fig. 4C, the headrest assembly 20 is shown with the linkage system 52 in the rear position H, as similarly shown in Fig. 4A. The second member 60 is shown as a one-piece plate, with the two second members 60 being connected to each other by a cross member 64. In Fig. 4C, the mounting plate 42 is shown with two brackets 50 extending rearwardly therefrom for pivotally connecting the first and second members 54, 60 at pivot points P1, P2.

[0025] Now referring to Fig. 4D, the linkage system 52 is in the fully extended front position Z, with the support plate 40 in the lowered position. Fig. 4D is a rear view of the headrest assembly 20 as shown in Fig. 4B. In the Fig. 4C and Fig. 4D, the second actuator A2 is coupled to the mounting plate 42 for vertically moving the support plate 40 in the direction indicated by arrow V. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4D, the second actuator A2 is operatively coupled to the support plate 40 via an access passage 42c disposed through the mounting plate 42. It is contemplated that the access passage 42c is of sufficient vertical length to accommodate the full vertical movement of the head restraint cushion 22.

[0026] Now referring to Fig. 5A, the headrest assembly 20 is shown in a home position H with the headrest cushion 22 in the retracted position R. The housing 24 has been removed to show the adjustable cover assembly 30 in the stowed position S'. Therefore, it is contemplated that the linkage system 52 is in the rearward position H, which is best Fig. 4C. When the linkage system 52 is in the rearward position H, the first member 30a of the adjustable cover assembly 30 is partially received within the second member 30b. When the adjustable cover assembly 30 is in the stowed position S', the first member 30a is in its rearwardmost received position relative to the second member 30b. Furthermore, when the adjustable cover 30 is in the stowed position S', the second member 30b is recessed into the housing 24 and entirely concealed by the housing 24, as shown in Fig. 2A. As noted above and described in more detail below, the first element 30a of the adjustable cover assembly 30, with reference to Fig. 12, in an upper part of the mounting plate 42, coupled to the linkage system 52. The second element 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 is pivotally coupled to the first element 30a, as described below with reference to the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13A. In the coupled state, the first element 30a is linked to the second element 30b in that when the first element 30a moves with the linkage system 52 to which the first element 30a is coupled, the second element 30b also moves.

[0027] Now referring to Fig. 5B, the adjustable cover assembly 30 is in a middle position M, taking into account that the linkage system 52 is extending from the Fig. 5A shown rear position H into a Fig. 5B has moved forward position X. In the Fig. 5B, the linkage system 52 has driven the headrest cushion 22 to a forward position F1. Upon driving the headrest cushion 22 to the forward position F1, the linkage system 52 has transported the first member 30a and the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 in a forward direction, as best described with reference to the Fig. 5B shown support structure 90 is displayed. Thus, compared to Fig. 5A, in which the second element 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 is in a first position A, the second element 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 is now in a second position B, as in Fig. 5B. In addition, the first element 30a is shown in Fig. 5A in a first position A and now in Fig. 5B in a second position B. In position B, the first element 30a is extended outwardly from a partially nested position in the second element 30b. Furthermore, when the second element 30b is in position B, it is assumed that the second element 30b is in a Fig. 2B is partially pulled outwards from the housing 24.

[0028] As in the Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, the second member 30b includes an outwardly extending engagement flange 92 disposed around side and top portions of the second member 30b. Upon assembly, the outwardly extending engagement flange 92 of the second member 30b is adapted to engage an inner rim portion of the housing 24 at the front bezel 24a, as best shown in Fig. 5F. When the adjustable cover assembly 30 is in the center position M, the engagement flange 92 of the second member 30b is considered to be in contact with the inner rim of the front bezel 24a of the housing 24. The contact between the front bezel 24a and the engagement flange 92 closes all gaps into the housing 24 and causes the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 to pivot at pivot point P7 in a direction indicated by arrow 94. The pivot point P7 represents a pivoted coupling between the first member 30a and the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30, as described in more detail below.

[0029] Now referring to Fig. 5C, the adjustable cover assembly 30 is shown in the fully extended position D with the headrest cushion 22 in the fully extended position E. In the Fig. 5C, it is considered that the linkage system 52 is in the position shown in Fig. 4D. When the linkage system 52 drives the headrest cushion 22 to the fully extended position E, it is considered that the engagement flange 92 has held the upper portion of the second member 30b against the inner rim portion of the front panel 24a of the housing 24 to move the second member 30b from position B ( Fig. 5B) into a Fig. 5C. Pivoting of the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 again occurs at pivot point P7. Therefore, as the second member 30b pivots at pivot point P7 in a direction indicated by arrow 94, the upper portion 96 of the second member 30b moves rearwardly along a path indicated by arrow 98. This pivoting action again occurs when the engaging flange 92 engages an interior space of the front panel 24a of the housing 24 when the head restraint cushion 22 is driven to the extended position E by the linkage system 52.

[0030] Now referring to Fig. 5D, several positions of the second element 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 are shown as superimposed positions A, B and C. The positions A, B and C represent the positions shown in the Fig. 5A, Fig. 5B and 5C are shown individually. Fig. Figure 5D is used to show the relative pivotal movement of the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 at pivot point P7 along a path indicated by arrow 94.

[0031] Now referring to the Fig. 5E, Fig. 5F and Fig. 5G, the front panel 24a of the housing 24 is shown with an opening 99 through which the adjustable cover assembly 30 is extended outwardly. Fig. 5E and Fig. 5F, the housing 24 is shown in a cross-sectional view to reveal an inner rim portion 100 disposed along the opening 99 of the front bezel 24a. With specific reference to Fig. 5E, the engagement flange 92 of the second element 30b is shown spaced from the inner rim portion 100 of the front panel 24a of the housing 24. When the headrest cushion 22 is in the Fig. 5F, the engagement flange 92 of the cover assembly 30 contacts and abuts an inner surface of the inner rim portion 100 of the front panel 24a of the housing 24. The engagement between the engagement flange 92 of the cover assembly 30 and the inner rim portion 100 of the housing 24 closes the opening 99 of the front panel 24a and further causes the second member 30b of the cover assembly 30 to pivot or rotate at pivot point P7 in the direction indicated by arrow 94. During the pivotal movement of the second member 30b, an upper portion 96 of the second member 30b is tilted rearward in a direction indicated by arrow 98. The pivotal movement continues when the headrest cushion 22 moves to the Fig. 5G shown fully extended position E.

[0032] Now referring to the Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B shows a further embodiment of a vehicle seat 10a with a headrest assembly 20a arranged in a starting position H. The vehicle seat 10a includes a number of features similar to the Fig. 1 shown vehicle seat 10, for which the same reference numerals in the Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B. Likewise, the headrest assembly 20a includes features similar to those shown in Fig. 1. The housing 24c of the headrest assembly 20a is, compared to the housing 24 of the headrest assembly 20 of Fig. 1, a more substantial housing. The housing 24c of the headrest assembly 20a represents, in the Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B, provides a more fluid contour from the headrest assembly 20a to the backrest 18. The headrest cushion 22 of the vehicle seat 10a is contemplated to be an adjustable headrest cushion that can be Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B in the initial position H. The headrest cushion 22 is contemplated to be moved via a linkage system similar to the linkage system 52 described above.

[0033] Now referring to Fig. 7A, a flexible cover member 130 is shown having a plate member 132 generally centrally positioned within a support frame 134. The plate member 132 includes a front side 132A and a rear side 132B ( Fig. 7B). The support frame 134 is contemplated as being integrally connected to the plate member 132 having a flexible joint 136 operatively disposed therebetween. Because the plate member 132 has the flexible joint 136, it is operable between the extended and retracted positions, as described below with reference to FIG. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B. As described in the Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B, the support frame 134 includes first and second upright side members 138, 140 that are spaced apart from one another and connected by a lower connecting portion 142. The upright side members 138, 140 extend upwardly from the lower connecting portion 142. Together, the first and second upright side members 138, 140 and the lower portion 142 of the support frame 134 are rigid members that define a generally U-shaped configuration of the support frame 134 into which the plate member 132 is received. The flexible connecting portion 136 is in the form of a living hinge disposed between a lower portion 132C of the plate member 132 and the connecting portion 142 of the support frame 134. The flexible cover member 130 is contemplated, as shown in FIGS. Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B, is a one-piece element that may be injection molded to include the above-noted component parts in a single cover element.

[0034] Continue to the Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B, for connecting the support frame 134 to a vehicle seat, as described in more detail below, a plurality of mounting slots 144 are arranged around the support frame 134. A pair of flexible connectors 150, 152 are operatively coupled to the first and second upright side members 138, 140 of the support frame 134 and further connected to the plate member 132 on opposite sides thereof. The first and second flexible connectors 150, 152 each include retractable portions 154, 156 that provide sufficient material to allow the plate member 132 to move between an extended and a retracted position relative to the support frame 134. The Fig. The retractable portions 154, 156 shown in Figures 7A-7C comprise inwardly extending bundled pieces of material that can be stretched or flattened to accommodate the movement of the panel member 132 from the retracted position to the extended position. The flexible connectors 150, 152 are contemplated as being made of a soft polymeric material that is flexibly resilient and are integrally molded with the panel member 132 and the support frame 134. Because the flexible connectors 150, 152 are disposed on opposite sides of the panel member 132, the panel member 132 can stretch to an extended position when a head restraint assembly is extended horizontally and resume its designed or retracted position when the head restraint assembly is retracted to the home position.Given the flexibly elastic nature of the retracted portions 154, 156, the plate member 132 is extended outwardly toward the extended position only as required by the movement of an associated headrest assembly.

[0035] With specific reference to Fig. 7B, the rear or inner surface 132B of the plate member 132 is shown with a stiffening element in the form of a molded-in stiffener 160 disposed thereon. The molded-in stiffener 160 includes a plurality of heat-stake features 162 that help provide structural rigidity to the plate member 132.

[0036] Now referring to Fig. 7C, the flexible cover element 130 is attached to an inner surface 19A of a closure element 19, which, as in Fig. 6A, is shown coupled generally to the upper portion 18a of the seatback 18. The closure member 19 is a trim component of the vehicle seat 10a that is disposed beneath the adjustable head restraint assembly 20a. Fastening clips 164 extend outwardly from the inner surface 19A of the closure member 19 and are received by fastening slots 144 disposed around the support frame 134 of the flexible cover member 130. In this manner, the flexible cover member 130 is easily secured for covering components of a head restraint assembly, as described in more detail below. The flexible cover member 130 is removably coupled to the closure member 19, thereby providing targeted access to various components of the head restraint assembly for servicing thereof.

[0037] Now referring to Fig. 8A, the flexible cover element 130 is shown in a retracted position R as coupled at the end element 19 to the upper part 18a of the backrest 18. In the retracted position R, the flexible cover element 130 is in a substantially horizontal position, or more precisely, in a common plane with the backrest 18. Therefore, the flexible connectors 150, 152 are in a retracted or resting state. As shown in Fig. 8A, the closure member 19 includes a relief portion 19C configured to receive a portion of the linkage system 52 when the linkage system moves from the rearward position to the forward position. The flexible cover member 130 is coupled to the closure member 19 at the relief portion 19C to close off the relief portion 19C and conceal the linkage system. Referring to Fig. 8B, the flexible cover element 130 is shown in dashed lines so that a lower portion 59 of the linkage system 52 is disposed directly against the rear or inner surface 132B of the plate element 132. The lower portion 59 of the linkage system 52 may be Fig. 3A, as described above. Any other part of the linkage system 52 may be in contact with the inner surface 132B of the flexible cover member 130 to urge the flexible cover member 130 into an extended position, as described in more detail below. It is noted that in the Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B, the headrest cushion 22 has been removed to expose the channel-rail assembly 44 disposed on the mounting plate 42 of the linkage system 52.

[0038] Now referring to Fig. 9A, the flexible cover element 130 is shown in the retracted position R, with the plate element 132 extending substantially horizontally and the flexible connector 152 in a rest position adjacent to the linkage system 52. The flexible connector 150 is shown in the Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B, but it is assumed that it functions in a similar manner to the flexible connector 152. In the Fig. 9A, it is considered that the linkage system 52 is in a home position H such that the headrest cushion 22 is in a retracted position R. Therefore, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 9A, the linkage system 52 of the Fig. 3A, Fig. 4A and Fig. 4C shown position of the linkage system 52. In Fig. 9B, the linkage system 52 has been moved outwardly to move the headrest cushion 22 to a forward position F1, so that the linkage system 52 is in a forward position Y, as explained in more detail above and also in Fig. 3C. In Fig. 3C shows the distance S between the cross member 58 of the first link 54. In the Fig. 9B, the cross member 58 may form part of the lower part 59 ( Fig. 8B) of the linkage system 52, which is designed to contact the flexible cover element 130 and urge it into the extended position E, as in Fig. 9B. In the extended position E, the flexible connector 152 has been displaced outwardly from the flexible cover member 130, so that the retractable portion 156 of the flexible connector 152 is pulled or stretched when the lower portion 59 of the linkage system 52 acts on the inner surface 132B of the flexible cover member 130. When the linkage system 52 is extended from position Y ( Fig. 9B) to the starting or rear position H ( Fig. 9A), it is contemplated that the retractable portion 156 of the flexible connector 152 is retracted toward the rest position to return the flexible cover member 130 to the retracted position R. Thus, the flexible connectors 150, 152 are operable between an extended and a rest position. The flexible connectors 150, 152, and in particular the retractable portions 154, 156 thereof, are resilient members biased toward the rest position. Due to this arrangement, the flexible cover member 130 is urged or biased toward the retracted position R by the flexible connectors 150, 152, such that the flexible cover member 130 remains in continued contact with the linkage system 52 when the linkage system 52, by abutting the inner surface 132B, begins to act on the inner surface 132B of the plate member 132 to move the plate member 132 from the retracted position R ( Fig. 9A) into the extended position E ( Fig. 9B). In the Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B, the retractable portion 156 appears in an accordion-like configuration, however, it is contemplated that a smoother or continuous portion of the flexible, elastic material may be used, as in the Fig. 7A-7C shown.

[0039] Now referring to Fig. 10A, the headrest assembly 20 is shown with the headrest cushion 22 in the extended position E, which correlates with the adjustable cover assembly 30 in the extended position D. Therefore, the headrest cushion 22, as shown in Fig. 10B, is driven by the linkage system 52, offset outward from the housing 24. In Fig. 10B, the headrest cushion 22 has been removed to expose the mounting plate 42 to which the headrest cushion 22 is operatively coupled. As noted above, the mounting plate 42 is a front portion of the linkage system 52. In Fig. 10B, the linkage system 52 is in the extreme front position Z. In Fig. 10A, the linkage system 52 is substantially concealed by a combination of the adjustable cover assembly 30 and the housing 24. When the linkage system 52 is in the rearward or home position H, the linkage system 52 is substantially concealed by the housing 24 and only partially concealed by the adjustable cover assembly 30, as shown in Fig. 2A shown.

[0040] As noted above, the adjustable cover assembly 30 includes first and second members 30a, 30b, wherein the first member 30a is an inner member relative to the second member 30b, which is an outer member. The first member 30a is generally telescopically received within the outer second member 30b when the adjustable cover assembly 30 is in the stowed position S' ( Fig. 2A). When the linkage system 52 moves the headrest cushion 22 outwardly to the extended position E, the first member 30a of the adjustable cover assembly 30 is also driven outwardly from a substantially concealed position in the housing 24 and a nested position in the second member 30b. This is due to the fact that the first member 30a is fixedly coupled to the linkage system 52, as described in more detail below. As shown in Fig. 10B, a gap G exists between the first member 30a and the second member 30b. The gap G located between the first and second members 30a, 30b is provided to provide an aesthetically pleasing adjustable cover assembly 30 wherein the telescoping movement of the first and second members 30a, 30b and the pivoting movement of the second member 30b is a smooth and continuous appearing movement. The gap G between the first member 30a and the second member 30b enhances the overall aesthetics of the adjustable cover assembly 30 and is maintained during movement of the adjustable cover assembly 30 from the stowed position S' to the deployed position D, as further described below.

[0041] Now referring to Fig. 11A, the housing 24 has been removed and the adjustable cover assembly 30 is shown in the extended position D, so that the linkage system 52 is also in position Z, which correlates with an extreme forward position of the linkage system 52. The gap G is defined between the first element 30a and the second element 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 in Fig. 11A is shown arranged on an outer surface 190 of the first element 30a. The gap G defines a gap distance or spacing between the first and second elements 30a, 30b to allow independent movement of the first and second elements 30a, 30b. In Fig. 11A, the pivot point P7 is shown defining a pivoting access between the first and second members 30a, 30b for rotation of the second member 30b in the direction indicated by arrow 94.

[0042] Now referring to Fig. 11B, the adjustable cover assembly 30 has been removed to expose the linkage system 52 in the forward position Z. The mounting plate 42 of the linkage system 52 further includes an upper shoulder 170 having an elongated slot 172 and a clamping member 174 disposed therein. The upper shoulder portion 170 of the mounting plate 42 provides a connection location for the first member 30a of the adjustable cover assembly 30. As shown in Fig. 11B, a biasing mechanism 180 in the form of a spring is shown coupled to a mounting opening 176 located at a rear portion of the upper ledge 170. The biasing mechanism 180 is contemplated as coupling to an inner surface of the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 for biasing the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 toward an extended position when the mounting plate 42 is driven outwardly by the linkage system 52.

[0043] Now referring to Fig. 12, the first and second elements 30a, 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 are shown pulled away from the linkage system 52. In Fig. 12, the linkage system 52 is shown in the rear position or home position H. As in Fig. 12, the biasing mechanism 180 includes a first end 182 and a second end 184. The first end 182 is configured to couple to the mounting opening 176 in the upper shoulder portion 170 of the mounting plate 42. The second end 184 is configured to couple to a mounting tab 186 on the second member 30b, as best shown in Fig. 13A. As shown in Fig.12, the first member 30a includes a generally inverted U-shaped configuration having an outer surface 190 and an inner surface 192. The inverted U-shaped configuration of the first member 30a is defined by first and second side pieces 194, 196 that are interconnected by an upper piece 198. The upper piece 198 includes a downwardly extending mounting tab 200 disposed on the inner surface 192 of the upper piece 198. The mounting tab 200 is configured to receive the clamping member 174 for clamping the first member 30a to the upper shoulder portion 170 of the linkage system 52. The first and second side pieces 194, 196 further include inwardly extending mounting bosses 202. In Fig. 12, the mounting lug 202 is shown disposed on the side member 194, while it is contemplated that a similar mounting lug is disposed on the second side member 196 at an inner surface 192 thereof. It is contemplated that the mounting lugs 202 of the first member 30a are received in mounting openings 204 disposed in the rearwardly extending brackets 50 of the mounting plate 42 of the linkage system 52. Therefore, in the Fig. 11A, it is contemplated that the first member 30a is fixedly coupled to the linkage system 52 via the connection between the mounting tab 200 and the clamping element 174 with elongated slot 172 of the upper heel portion 170 of the mounting plate 42 and further by the connection of the mounting lugs 202 to the mounting openings 204 of the rearwardly extending brackets 50. The lower rear portions of the first and second side portions 194, 196 include pivot openings 206, 208 for pivotally coupling the second member 30b to the first member 30a. The guide slots 210, 212 are elongated slots disposed over the pivot openings 206, 208, as shown in Fig. 12. The guide slots 210, 212 are designed to receive guide elements arranged on the second element 30b, as described in more detail below.

[0044] As in Fig. 12, the second member 30b also includes a generally inverted U-shaped configuration having an outer surface 220 and an inner surface 222. The inverted U-shaped configuration of the second member 30b is defined by first and second side portions 224, 226 joined by an upper portion 228. A rearwardmost edge of the upper portion 228 includes the outwardly extending engagement flange 92 extending from the outer surface 220 of the second member 30b along the upper portion 228 and the first and second side portions 224, 226. As noted above, the engagement flange 92 is configured to abut a portion of the housing of the headrest assembly for pivotal movement of the second member 30b as the headrest cushion is translated forwardly.The second element 30b further comprises guide elements 230 configured to be received in the guide slots 210, 212 of the first element 30a. In . Fig. 12, the guide member 230 is disposed on the inner surface 222 of the first side member 224 and extends inwardly. It is contemplated that the second side member 226 also includes a guide member, such as the guide member 230, for coupling to the guide slot 212 of the first member 30a. A pivot member 232 disposed below the guide member 230 extends inwardly. It is further contemplated that the side member 226 also includes a pivot member 232. It is contemplated that the pivot members 232 of the second member 30b are received in the pivot openings 206, 208 of the first member 30a to define the pivot axis at pivot point P7 between the first and second members 30a, 30b, as shown in Fig. 11A. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the pivot member 232 is shown in the form of a bracket having spaced-apart engagement features 234, 236 that are flexibly resilient for fitting into the pivot openings 206, 208 of the first member 30a. Once received therein, the engagement features 234, 236 hold the second member 30b in pivotal engagement with the first member 30a. When the guide members 230 are disposed in the guide slots 210, 212, the pivotal movement of the second member 30b relative to the first member 30a is limited by the length of the guide slots 210, 212, which are considered to be relatively short slots to limit the pivotal movement of the second member 30b.

[0045] As noted above, the first and second members 30a, 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 are polymeric parts, so that the side pieces 194, 196 and 224, 226, respectively, can be spread apart for proper mounting of the first and second members 30a, 30b. With specific reference to the first member 30a, the first and second side pieces 194, 196 can be spread outwardly such that the first member 30a fits onto the top of the linkage system 52 and provides clearance for the mounting bosses 202 with respect to the rearwardly extending brackets 50 of the mounting plate 42. When mounting the first element 30a, the mounting lugs 202 are received in the mounting openings 204 of the rearwardly extending brackets 50 arranged on opposite sides of the linkage system 52. The first and second side members 194, 196 elastically return to their Fig. 12 to connect the first member 30a to the linkage system 52 when the mounting lugs 202 are aligned with and received in the mounting openings 204. Further, the downward movement of the first member 30a onto the linkage system 52 correlates with the coupling of the first member 30a to the elongated passage 172 of the upper shoulder portion 170 of the mounting plate 42. In this manner, the first member 30a of the adjustable cover assembly 30 is fixedly coupled to the linkage system 52.

[0046] Continue on Fig. Referring to Figure 12, the second member 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 includes flexibly elastic side members 224, 226. These side members 224, 226 can be spread apart to provide clearance for mounting the second member 30b to the first member 30a. In particular, sufficient clearance is required to provide space for the guide member 230 and the pivot member 232, which extend inwardly from both the first and second side members 224, 226. When the first and second flexibly elastic side members 224, 226 are spread apart from each other, clearance is provided to couple the pivot member 232 to the pivot openings 206, 208 of the first member 30a. Furthermore, the guide elements 230 are received in the guide slots 210, 212 of the first element 30a when the second element 30b is positioned over the first element 30a.Once properly aligned, the guide members 230 and the pivot members 232 are received in the guide slots 210, 212 and the pivot openings 206, 208, respectively, and the flexibly resilient nature of the first and second side portions 224, 226 of the second member 30b returns from an outwardly bent mounting position to its in . Fig. 12 shown rest position.

[0047] Now referring to Fig. 13A, the first and second elements 30a, 30b of the adjustable cover assembly 30 are arranged in a similar manner as in Fig. 12. As noted above, the inverted U-shaped configuration of the second element 30b is defined by the first and second side pieces 224, 226, which are connected by a top piece 228 to further define an interior space 246 of the second element 30b, in which the first element 30a can partially nest. In the Fig. 13A, the mounting tab 200 of the first element 30a is clearly shown for receiving the clamping element 174. The mounting tab 200 and the clamping element 174 are again used to firmly couple the first element 30a to the linkage system 52 on the mounting plate 42. As shown in Fig. 13A, the biasing mechanism 180 is configured to couple to the mounting tab 186 extending downwardly from the upper portion 228 of the second member 30b.

[0048] As in Fig. 13A, the mounting lugs 202 include a series of spacer features 203 disposed therearound to space the inner surface 192 of the first member 30a from the rearwardly extending brackets 50 of the linkage system 52. A plurality of spacers 240, 242 disposed along a trailing edge 199 of the first member 30a are disposed along the upper portion 198 of the first and second side portions 194, 196, respectively. The spacers 240, 242 are inclined or wedge-shaped elements configured to engage an inner rim portion 244 of the second member 30b as the first member 30a is advanced by the linkage system 52. The spacers 240, 242 are designed to engage the inner rim portion 244 of the second member 30b to maintain a gap G disposed between the first and second members 30a, 30b, as described above with reference to Fig. 10B and Fig. 11B. The engagement of the spacers 240, 242 of the first element 30a into the second element 30b is described below with reference to Fig. 13B and Fig. 13C is described in more detail.

[0049] Now referring to Fig. Figure 13B shows a cross-sectional view of the adjustable cover assembly 30 in which the first member 30a is partially nested within an interior space 246 of the second member 30b. The gap G is shown disposed between the upper or outer surface 190 of the first member 30a and the inner surface 222 of the second member 30b. Fig. 13B, the spacer 240 disposed on the upper portion 198 of the first member 30a is positioned away from the inner rim portion 244 of the second member 30b. As the linkage system 52 advances the first member 30a in a forward direction indicated by arrow F, the spacer 240 approaches the inner rim portion 244 of the second member 30b.

[0050] Now referring to Fig. 13C, the inner rim portion 244 of the second member 30b is now in contact with the spacer 240 of the first member 30a for engagement therewith. The engagement of the spacer 240 with the inner rim portion 244 of the second member 30b causes the second member 30b to move in concert with and supported by the first member 30a in a forward direction indicated by arrow F. As noted above, when the first member 30a begins to move the second member 30b from a concealed position within the housing 24 of the headrest assembly 20, the upwardly extending engagement flange 92 of the second member 30b moves toward engagement with the inner rim portion 100 of the housing 24, as best shown in FIGS. Fig. 5E, Fig. 5F and Fig. 5G to pivot the upper portion 96 of the second member 30b relative to the first member 30a. The pivotal movement of the second member 30b relative to the first member 30a is again a rearward pivotal movement at pivot point P7, as best shown in Fig. 5G shown.

[0051] It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the construction of the described invention and other components is not limited to any particular material. Other exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a variety of materials, unless otherwise described herein.

[0052] 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 components (electrical or mechanical). Such a connection may be stationary or movable. Such a connection may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate elements integrally connected to each other or to the two components as a single, one-piece body. Such a connection may be permanent or removable or detachable, unless otherwise specified.

[0053] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the invention as apparent from the exemplary embodiments are exemplary only. While only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, one skilled in the art who reads this disclosure will readily recognize 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 consisting of multiple parts may be integrally connected, the function of the connections may be reversed or otherwise different, the length or width of the structures and / or elements 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, and 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 to the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0054] 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 invention. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

[0055] 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 10a Vehicle seat 12 vehicles 14 Vehicle interior 16 Seat part 18 Backrest 18a upper part of the backrest 19 End element 19A inner surface of the end element 19C relief part 20 Headrest arrangement 20a Headrest arrangement 22 headrest cushions 22a front part 22b Coupling part 24 housings 24a front panel 24b rear panel 24c housing 26 support rods 28 backrest frame 30 Cover arrangement 30a first element 30b second element 40 support plate 42 Mounting plate 42a Front of the mounting plate 42b Back of the mounting plate 42c Access passage 44 channel-rail arrangement 46 channel 48 rail 50 brackets 52 rod system 54 first link 56 upper part 58 cross members 59 lower part of the rod system 60 second member 62 upper part 64 cross members 66 lower part of the second segment 68 connecting bracket 70 base plate 72 first side of the base plate 73 Mounting bracket 74 lower wall of the base plate 80 bracket 82 Engine 84 threaded element 86 Arrow 88 connecting plate 90 support structure 92 engagement flange 94 Arrow 96 upper part of the second element 98 Arrow 99 Opening of the front panel 100 inner crown part 130 flexible cover element 132 plate element 132A front 132B inner surface of the plate element 132C lower part of the plate element 134 support frames 136 flexible connection point 138 first upright side element 140 second upright side element 142 connecting part 144 mounting slots 150 first flexible connector 152 second flexible connector 154 retractable part 156 retractable part 160 molded stiffener 162 hot-staking features 164 fastening clips 170 upper heel part 172 elongated slot 174 clamping element 176 Mounting opening 180 pre-tensioning mechanism 182 first end 184 second end 186 mounting tab 190 outer surface of the first element 192 inner surface 194 first side panel 196 second side panel 198 upper part 199 trailing edge 200 mounting tabs 202 assembly approaches 203 distance features 204 mounting holes 206 Swivel opening 208 swivel opening 210 guide slot 212 guide slot 220 outer surface of the second element 222 inner surface 224 first side panel 226 second side panel 228 upper part 230 guide element 232 Swivel element 234 Intervention feature 236 Intervention feature 240 spacers 242 spacers 244 inner crown part 246 Interior of the second element

Claims

[1] Headrest assembly (20) comprising: a headrest cushion (22) adjustably supported on a linkage system (52); a cover assembly (30) having a first element (30a) coupled to the linkage system (52) and a second element (30b) coupled to the first element, the first element (30a) being telescopically received in the second element (30b); and a gap defined between the first and second members (30a, 30b) and maintained when the cover assembly (30), driven by the linkage system (52), moves between a stowed and an extended position, wherein the first element (30a) comprises a first and a second side part (194, 196) which are spaced from one another, and an upper part (198) which connects the first and the second side part (194, 196) to one another, the second element (30b) comprises a first and a second side part (224, 226) which are spaced from each other, and an upper part (228) which connects the first and the second side part (224, 226) to each other, the upper part (198) of the first element (30a) comprises one or more spacers extending outwardly from an outer surface thereof, and the first and second side members (194, 196) of the first element (30a) each comprise one or more spacers extending outwardly from an outer surface thereof. [2] The headrest assembly of claim 1, wherein the first member (30a) is coupled to the linkage system (52) at an inner surface (192) of the first member (30a). [3] The headrest assembly of claim 2, wherein the second member (30b) is pivotally coupled to the first member (30a). [4] A headrest assembly according to claim 3, wherein the second member (30b) is operable between an upright and a rearwardly inclined position. [5] A headrest assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising: an inner rim extending along the upper portion (228) and the first and second side portions (224, 226) of the second member (30b) on an inner surface (222) thereof. [6] The headrest assembly of claim 5, wherein the one or more spacers of the upper portion (198) of the first member (30a) engage a portion of the inner rim disposed on the upper portion (228) of the second member (30b) when the first member (30a) moves from a nested position within an interior space (246) of the second member (30b) to an outwardly extended position. [7] The headrest assembly of claim 6, wherein the one or more spacers of the first and second side portions (194, 196) of the first member (30a) engage portions of the inner rim disposed on the first and second side portions (224, 226) of the second member (30b) when the first member (30a) moves from a nested position within an interior space (246) of the second member (30b) to an outwardly extended position. [8] The headrest assembly of claim 7, wherein the one or more spacers disposed on the top portion (198) and the first and second side portions (194, 196) of the first member (30a) are configured to maintain the gap between the first member (30a) and the second member (30b) of the cover assembly (30). [9] Headrest assembly (20) comprising: a housing (24); a linkage system (52) operable between a forward and a rearward position relative to the housing (24); and a cover assembly (30) operable between a stowed and an extended position, the cover assembly (30) comprising a first member (30a) coupled to the linkage system (52) for movement therewith, and a second member (30b) coupled to the first member, the first member (30a) being partially received within the second member (30b) when the cover assembly (30) is in the stowed position, an upper portion of the first member (30a) of the cover assembly (30) being displaced outwardly relative to an upper portion of the second member (30b) when the cover assembly (30) moves from the stowed position to the extended position. [10] A headrest assembly according to claim 9, comprising: a gap defined between the first member (30a) and the second member (30b), the gap defining a clearance distance between the first member (30a) and the second member (30b) that is maintained between the first member (30a) and the second member (30b) when the cover assembly (30) moves between the stowed and deployed positions. [11] The headrest assembly of claim 10, wherein the first member (30a) includes a plurality of spacers disposed on an outer surface (190) thereof, the plurality of spacers being configured to engage an upper portion of the second member (30b) to advance the upper portion of the second member (30b) as the cover assembly (30) moves from the stowed position to the deployed position. [12] The headrest assembly of any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the cover assembly (30) is driven to the extended position when the linkage system (52) moves to the forward position. [13] Headrest assembly (20) comprising: a cover assembly (30) operable between a stowed and an extended position and configured to partially conceal a linkage system (52), the linkage system (52) comprising a first and a second member, the first member being coupled to the linkage system (52) for movement therewith; and a plurality of spacers arranged along an outer surface of the first member, the spacers being configured to engage an inner surface of the second member when the linkage system (52) moves from a rearward position to a forward position, the first member being in a partially nested position within an interior of the second member when the cover assembly (30) is in the stowed position, and further wherein the first member moves outwardly from the partially nested position as the cover assembly (30) moves from the stowed position to the extended position. [14] A headrest assembly according to claim 13, comprising: a gap defined between the first element and the second element, wherein the gap defines a clearance distance between the first member and the second member that is maintained between the first member and the second member by a plurality of spacers when the cover assembly (30) moves from the stowed position to the extended position.

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