INTEGRATED CONFIGURABLE STORAGE UNDER A SEAT CUSHION

Abstract

Vehicle seat assembly (10) comprising: a seat backrest (14); a seat base (18) including a first section (22) and a second section (26), wherein the first and second sections (22, 26) are separately and pivotably operable between a raised position (30) and a lowered position (34); an inner storage space (38) defined between the first and second sections (22, 26); an inner compartment (42) coupled to the second section (26) of the inner storage space (38), wherein the inner compartment (42) is separately pivotable between the raised and lowered positions (30, 34); and a partition (46) defined in the first section (22) of the inner storage space (38).

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a vehicle seat assembly and in particular to a new and improved foldable seat assembly in which an inner storage insert is incorporated. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Drivers and consumers express a desire for additional and versatile storage space in their vehicles. The need and desire for this extra space and adaptability serve as a guideline for maximizing the available space in vehicles, where space is limited and secure storage for a variety of tools, packages, and the like is desirable. By creatively developing and implementing alternative storage options for a consumer's belongings, the utility of any vehicle can be expected to be enhanced. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] One aspect of the present invention includes a vehicle seat assembly comprising a seat backrest, a seat base including a first section and a second section, wherein the first and second sections are separately and pivotably operable between a raised position and a lowered position, an inner storage insert defined between the first and second sections, an inner compartment coupled to the second section of the inner storage insert, wherein the inner compartment is separately pivotable between the raised and lowered positions, and a division defined in the first section of the inner storage insert.

[0004] Another aspect of the present invention includes a vehicle seat assembly comprising a seat backrest, a seat base including a first section and a second section, wherein the first and second sections pivot separately between a raised and lowered position, an inner storage insert defined between the first and second sections, and an inner compartment coupled to the second section of the inner storage insert, wherein the inner compartment pivots separately between the raised and lowered positions.

[0005] Another aspect of the present invention includes a vehicle seat assembly comprising a seat backrest, a seat base including a first and second section that can be selectively operated between raised, lowered and open positions, an inner storage insert defined between the first and second section, and a partition coupled to the first section to divide the inner storage insert.

[0006] These and other aspects, objects and features of the present invention will be understandable and apparent to the person skilled in the art after reading the following description, the patent claims and the accompanying drawings. List of characters

[0007] The following applies to the drawings: Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective side view of a vehicle seat assembly arranged in a vehicle; Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of an aspect of the vehicle seat assembly; Fig. Figure 3 is a front view showing the vehicle seat assembly; Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first position of the vehicle seat assembly made of Fig. 3 along line IV-IV; Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second position of the vehicle seat assembly made of Fig. 4; Fig. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a third position of the vehicle seat assembly. Fig. 4; and Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fourth position of the vehicle seat assembly. Fig. 4. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0008] For the purposes of the description in this document, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and derivatives thereof refer to the invention in its orientation in Fig. 1. It is understood, however, that the invention can assume various alternative orientations, unless expressly stated otherwise. Furthermore, it is understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the patent specification below are merely exemplary embodiments of the concepts according to the invention defined in the accompanying claims. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical properties in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0009] In the sense used here, the expression "and / or," when used in a list of two or more items, means that each of the listed items can be used individually, or any combination of two or more of the listed items can be used. For example, if a composition is described as containing the components A, B, and / or C, then the composition can contain only A; only B; only C; A and B in combination; A and C in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B, and C in combination.

[0010] With reference to Fig. 1- Fig. 7 denotes the reference symbol 10 Generally, a vehicle seat assembly. The vehicle seat assembly 10 closes a seat backrest 14 and a seat base 18 one, including a first section 22 and a second section 26, where the first and second sections 22 , 26 jointly or sequentially between a raised position 30 and a lowered position 34 swivel. An inner storage insert. 38 is between the first and second sections 22 , 26 the seat base 18 Defined. An inner compartment. 42 is attached to the second section 26 of the inner storage insert 38 coupled, with the inner compartment 42 regardless of whether it's in the raised or lowered position 30 , 34 swivels. A division 46 is attached to the first section 22 coupled to form part of the inner storage insert 38 to separate and at least partially enclose.

[0011] As in Fig. Shown in 1 is the vehicle seat assembly 10 generally for use in a vehicle 50either as a front driver's seat, a front passenger seat and / or a rear seat of the vehicle 50 configured. The vehicle seat assembly 10 Generally, the seat backrest closes. 14 and the seat base 18 with a headrest 54 one that is also located at the top of the seat backrest 14 It can be mounted. The seat base 18 can be configured to stand on a support surface, such as a base plate 58 of the vehicle 50 , to be assembled. The vehicle seat assembly 10 is in an interior 62 of the vehicle 50 positioned. The vehicle seat assembly 10 , which in Fig. The vehicle shown in Figure 1 is positioned in a truck, although the type of vehicle is different. 50 should not be restrictive and the vehicle seat assembly 10 additionally in a car, a minivan or any other vehicle 50can be positioned.

[0012] In relation to Fig. 2 is now the vehicle seat assembly 10 with the headrest 54 shown, which are attached to the seat backrest 14 is coupled. Additionally, the seat base features 18 the first section 22 and the second 26 on, which the inner storage insert 38 Define. The inner storage insert 38 is defined by the space between the first and second sections 22 , 26 is enclosed, with the inner compartment 42 to the second section 26 in the inner storage insert 38 through a first pivot 66 is coupled. The first section 22 can the division 46 exhibiting which is coupled to it, whereby the division 46 the inner storage insert 38at least partially subdivided. Both the first section 22 as well as the second section 26 the seat base 18 are connected by a second pivot 74 with a support 70 connected. Additionally in Fig. As shown in section 2, the first section indicates 22 the seat base 18 a seat lock 78 on, which are equipped with a recording element 82 can be coupled to the second section 26 the seat base 18 is coupled. The seat lock 78 and the recording element 82 provide a means for securely coupling the first and second sections 22 , 26 the seat base 18 ready to provide additional security for a passenger, in addition to securing the items in the storage tray 38 and / or the inner compartment 42to be stored, to provide comfort and safety. The means for securely coupling the first and second sections. 22 , 26 the seat base 18 The inner compartment can be varied in other embodiments. 42 can contain one or more storage inserts 86 feature that can provide individualized storage space for the variety of items a passenger or user might wish to store.

[0013] As further in Fig. As shown in section 2, the first section concludes 22 a first page 68 , which provides a seating area 64 forms and a second page 72 one that is part of the division 46 is coupled, whereby the division 46 the inner compartment 42 touches when the first and second sections 22 , 26 in the lowered position 34are located. Additionally, the second side can 72 of the first section 22 a bulge that forms part of the inner storage insert 38 forms and the division 46 include, whereby the division 46 and the second page 72 work together to form the subdivided part of the storage insert. In some embodiments, the inner compartment can 42 and the division 46 be swapped, with the inner compartment 42 to the first section 22 is coupled and the division 46 to the second section 26 is coupled. In other embodiments, the inner compartment can 42 both the first and the second section 22 , 26 be coupled or the division 46 can be accessed via both the first and second sections 22 , 26 be coupled.

[0014] In some embodiments, the division 46 an opening element 48 and a fastening element 52 exhibit the division 46 can be made from a variety of materials, which are related to the first section 22 the seat base 18 They can be coupled. For example, the division 46 It may be made of an elastic mesh material, leather, nylon, polyester, cotton and / or another synthetic material. In some embodiments, the fastening element may 52 the division 46 For example, it could be a zipper, a Velcro fastener, a snap fastener, a magnet, and / or a strap. The fastening element 52 is used to divide 46 to close or fasten so that the contents inside can be at least partially contained. The opening element 48, which is used to secure the fastener 52 The opening mechanism could be, for example, a flap, a zipper, a handle, or a release handle.

[0015] The inner compartment 42 It can be customized in a variety of ways to suit a wide range of storage uses. For example, the inner compartment can 42 In some embodiments, they are made from a material that handles NVH (Noise, Vibration and Hardness). These NVH-handling materials can include, but are not limited to, ceramics, thermoplastics, a thermoset polymer system, metals, combinations thereof, and other similar materials. One or more storage inserts 38 can be stored in the inner storage insert 38 be enclosed, which is enclosed by the first and second sections 22 , 26 the seat base 18is formed. The one storage insert 38 or the multiple storage inserts 38 can be completely enclosed to provide a waterproof space for storing delicate or fragile materials. One storage insert 38 or the multiple storage inserts 38 The inner compartment(s) can also be open to provide quick access to the contents. In some embodiments, the inner compartment can... 42 It should be designed to utilize the entire space occupied by the inner storage insert. 38 of the second section 26 is provided, or to occupy a part thereof. In other embodiments, additional compartments, which are movable or permanently attached to the first and second sections, may be provided. 22 , 26 They may be attached to the inner storage insert 38 in addition to the inner compartment 42to be added. In some embodiments, the inner compartment extends 42 along the length of the inner storage insert 38 , which is between the first and second sections 22 , 26 the seat base 18 is defined. In other embodiments, the inner compartment extends 42 only across part of the width of the inner storage insert 38 , which is from the first and second sections 22 , 26 is provided.

[0016] In relation to Fig. Figure 3 shows a front view of the vehicle seat assembly 10 the assembly as a first seating unit 90 , on which a passenger can sit and a second seating unit 94 , on which up to two passengers can sit. The vehicle seat assembly 10 is attached to the floor panel 58 through one or more supports 70 coupled. The inner storage insert38 can choose between the first and second section 22 , 26 the seat base 18 be positioned and defined. In some embodiments, the first and second sections can be 22 , 26 the seat base 18 by means of which a locking opening is accessed 98 They can be accessed, locked, or coupled to each other. In other embodiments, the first and second sections can be 22 , 26 The sections may be locked together using an electronic lock, a push button, or any other fastening device known in the art, in order to secure the sections. 22 , 26 to position safely together. Both the first seat unit 90 as well as the second seating unit 94 can the locking opening 98 exhibiting a passenger who has locked the seat. 78 can trigger the recording element82 to decouple, so that the inner storage insert 38 and the inner compartment 42 ( Fig. 2) can be accessed.

[0017] In relation to Fig. 4 is the vehicle seat assembly 10 shown in a first position. The first section is located in the first position. 22 , the second section 26 and the inner compartment 42 each in the lowered position 34 In the first position, the first and second sections are 22 , 26 the seat backrest 14 coupled together to form the inner storage insert 38 and the inner compartment 42 to enclose. In some embodiments, a lifting element is included. 102 shown that this is a first locking mechanism. 110 of the first section 22 is coupled, with the first locking mechanism 110 to a flange 114 of the second section26 is coupled to each part of the seat base 18 in the lowered position 34 to hold them securely together so that a passenger can sit. The lifting element 102 is activated by a user to engage the first lock 110 through a spring 106 with the flange 114 to couple and decouple. In other embodiments, the mechanism for securing the first and second sections corresponds to... 22 , 26 the seat backrest 14 the description in Fig. 2.

[0018] In relation to Fig. 5 is the vehicle seat assembly 10 shown in a second position. In the second position, the first section 22 the seat base 18 in the elevated position 30 shown, while both the inner compartment 42 as well as the second section 26 in the lowered position 34shown. This configuration of the first and second sections. 22 , 26 can also be described as an open position of the vehicle seat assembly 10 can be described. In the open position, the inner compartment 42 It can be operated selectively between corresponding raised and lowered positions. The second position allows a passenger access to the inner storage compartment. 38 as well as the inner compartment 42 of the second section 26 in addition to the inner storage insert 38 and the division 46 of the first section 22 for access to any stored materials or goods. As in Fig. 5 shown, the inner compartment 42 a front partition wall 122 , a rear partition wall 126 , an upper partition wall 130 and a lower partition wall 134 exhibit the upper partition wall 130can extend over the entire length of the lower partition wall 134 extend to the space of the inner compartment 42 to enclose or it can extend over part of the length of the lower partition wall 134 extend to leave an opening for user access. In some embodiments, the compartment walls can 122 , 126 , 130 , 134 be rotatable and / or movable to access the inner compartment 42 to open or better access it. In other embodiments, the inner compartment must be opened. 42 Depending on the type and size of the materials to be stored, the front shelf wall is not necessarily the only option. 122 and / or the upper partition wall 130 exhibit.

[0019] In relation to Fig. 6 is the vehicle seat assembly 10 shown in a third position. The third position shows both the first section 22 as well as the inner compartment 42in the elevated position 30 on. Additionally, the second section 26 the seat base 18 shown in the third position, the one in the lowered position 34 as shown. If both the inner compartment 42 of the inner storage insert 38 as well as the first section 22 in the elevated position 30 Once inside, the passenger can access the remaining items in the inner storage compartment. 38 of the second section 26 Access it. In the third position, the passenger is not necessarily required to fully rely on the division. 46 of the first section 22 to access, since the inner compartment 42 in the elevated position 30 the division 46 Depending on the design, it can partially block the inner compartment. 42 is attached to the second section 26through the first pivot 66 coupled, causing a rotation of the inner compartment 42 into any position between the raised and lowered positions 30 , 34 and this is made possible by including it. In some embodiments, the first pivot pin couples 66 the support 70 both to the second section 26 as well as the inner compartment 42 .

[0020] In relation to Fig. 7 is the vehicle seat assembly 10 shown in a fourth position. Each piece from the first and second sections is in the fourth position. 22 , 26 and the inner compartment 42 in the elevated position 30 If each of the first and second sections 22 , 26 and the inner compartment 42 in the elevated positions 30 The first lock can be located 110reattach to the flange 114 to be coupled to form the first and second sections 22 , 26 the seat base 18 in the elevated position 30 to securely lock and fasten together. In the fourth position, a passenger is unable to access any of the inner storage compartments. 38 and the inner compartment 42 to access without the first lock 110 to activate. The seat backrest 14 is through a seat backrest swivel joint 118 to the support 70 coupled, the first section 22 is through the second pivot 74 to the support 70 coupled and the second section 26 and the inner compartment 42 are through the first pivot 66 to the support 70 coupled.

[0021] The person skilled in the art understands that the design of the described device and other components is not limited to a specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the device disclosed herein can be made from a wide variety of materials, unless otherwise described here.

[0022] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means that two (electrical or mechanical) components are connected to one another, directly or indirectly. Such a connection may be immovable or movable in nature. Such a connection may be achieved by forming the two (electrical or mechanical) components and any additional intervening elements in one piece as a single, unified body with one another or with the two components. Such a connection may be permanent in nature or removable or detachable in nature, unless otherwise specified.

[0023] It is equally important to note that the design and arrangement of the device elements, as shown in the exemplary embodiments, serve only for illustrative purposes. Although only some embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, the person skilled in the art, considering this disclosure, will readily recognize that many modifications are possible (e.g., 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 said subject matter.For example, elements shown as being constructed in one piece may be made of multiple parts, or elements shown as being in multiple parts may be constructed in one piece; the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise modified; the length or width of the structures and / or elements or connecting links or other elements of the system may be varied; and the type 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 from a plurality of different materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in a plurality of different colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, it is intended that all such modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present innovations.Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the desired and other embodiments without deviating from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0024] It is understood that all described processes or steps within described processes can be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present device. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein serve only for illustrative purposes and are not to be interpreted as limiting.

[0025] It is also understood that variations and modifications to the aforementioned structures and methods may be made without deviating from the concepts of the present device, and it is further understood that such concepts are to be covered by the following claims, unless these claims expressly provide otherwise by their wording.

[0026] The above description applies exclusively to the illustrated embodiments. Variations of the device will be obvious to those skilled in the art and to those who manufacture or use the device. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above serve only illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the device as defined by the following claims, which are to be interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law, including the doctrine of equivalence.

[0027] It is understood that variations and modifications can be made to the above structure without deviating from the concepts of the present invention, and it is further understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following patent claims, unless these patent claims expressly provide otherwise by their wording.

Claims

[1] Vehicle seat assembly comprising the following: a seat backrest; a seat base, including a first section and a second section, wherein the first and second sections are separately and pivotably operable between a raised position and a lowered position; an inner storage insert defined between the first and second sections; an inner compartment coupled to the second section of the inner storage insert, wherein the inner compartment is independently pivotable between the raised and lowered positions; and a division defined in the first section of the inner storage insert. [2] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the inner compartment has one or more storage inserts. [3] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the inner compartment extends along a length of the inner storage insert defined between the first and second sections of the seat base. [4] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first section comprises a first side forming a seat surface and includes a second side coupled to the partition, the partition touching the inner compartment when the first section and the second section are in the lowered position. [5] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the partition comprises an elastic mesh material, leather, nylon, polyester, cotton and / or another synthetic material. [6] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the partition is closed with a zipper, a hook and loop fastener, a snap fastener, a magnet and / or a strap. [7] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism coupled to the second section and a flange coupled to the first section, wherein the locking mechanism and the flange lock the first and second sections of the seat base together. [8] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first section comprises a first side forming a seat surface and includes a second side including a bulge forming part of the inner storage insert. [9] Vehicle seat assembly comprising the following: a seat backrest; a seat base, including a first section and a second section, wherein the first and second sections pivot separately between a raised and lowered position; an inner storage insert defined between the first and second sections; and an inner compartment coupled to the second section of the inner storage insert, the inner compartment pivoting separately between the raised and lowered positions. [10] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 9, wherein the inner compartment has one or more storage inserts. [11] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 9, wherein the inner compartment extends along a length of the inner storage insert defined between the first and second sections of the seat base. [12] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 9, wherein the inner compartment is constructed from a thermosetting polymer. [13] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 9, further comprising a support and a first pivot connection for pivotably attaching the first and second sections to the support, wherein the support couples the vehicle seat assembly to a floor panel of a vehicle. [14] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 9, further comprising a locking mechanism coupled to the second section and a flange coupled to the first section, wherein the locking mechanism and the flange lock the first and second sections of the seat base together. [15] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 9, wherein the first section comprises a first side forming a seat surface and includes a second side including a bulge forming part of the inner storage insert. [16] Vehicle seat assembly comprising the following: a seat backrest; a seat base, including a first and second section, which can be selectively operated between raised, lowered and open positions; an inner storage insert defined between the first and second sections; and a division that is linked to the first section to subdivide the inner storage insert. [17] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 16, wherein the partition comprises an elastic mesh material, leather, nylon, polyester, cotton and / or another synthetic material. [18] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 16, wherein the partition is closed with a zipper, a hook and loop fastener, a snap fastener, a magnet and / or a strap. [19] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 16, further comprising a locking mechanism coupled to the second section and a flange coupled to the first section, wherein the locking mechanism and the flange lock the first and second sections of the seat base together. [20] Vehicle seat assembly according to claim 16, wherein the first section comprises a first side forming a seat surface and includes a second side including a bulge forming part of the inner storage insert.

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