Inertia latch for vehicle armrest

Abstract

A vehicle seat assembly is provided that includes an armrest configured to rotate about an axis between an upper position and a lower position. The inertia latch has a ratchet and is configured to move between a disengaged position and an engaged position to inhibit unintended movement of the armrest in the event of a crash. Certain implementations include one or more gears.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application relates to a safety system for a vehicle seat assembly. More particularly, the safety system includes an inertia latch that moves between a disengaged position and an engaged position to inhibit unintended movement of an armrest in the event of a crash. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally described, various vehicles, such as electric vehicles, internal combustion engine vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc., may be configured with a foldable armrest for a seating assembly, such as a front or rear bench seat. More specifically, the armrest may be integrated into the rear bench seat and fold down between the rear seats to allow for a central seating location. In the event of an accident, e.g., a frontal collision, rear-end collision, the armrest may rapidly rotate relative to the seat depending on the position of the armrest and the direction of impact of the vehicle. Protective structures and methods may be incorporated into the vehicle to inhibit unintended movement of the armrest in the event of a collision to protect the occupant. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One aspect relates to a vehicle seat assembly including an armrest configured to rotate about an axis between an upper position and a lower position, a locking plate, a rotating plate configured to rotate about an axis with the armrest and having a groove, and a pawl positioned relative to the groove for movement between a disengaged position and an engaged position. The pawl is biased to move toward the disengaged position by a biasing force. When in the disengaged position, the pawl disengages from the locking plate to allow the armrest to move between the upper position and the lower position. When in the engaged position, the pawl engages with the locking plate to inhibit movement of the armrest at least toward the lower position.

[0004] In a variation of the above aspect, the pawl is configured to move from the disengaged position to the engaged position when the magnitude of change in speed of the rotating plate causes the inertia of the pawl to exceed the biasing force.

[0005] In a variation of the above aspect, the armrest is further configured to rotate relative to the backrest of the vehicle seat assembly.

[0006] In a variation of the above embodiment, the locking plate is fixed relative to the backrest.

[0007] In a variation of the above aspect, the rotating plate is configured to rotate with the armrest relative to the locking plate.

[0008] In a variation of the above aspect, the change in velocity is a linear velocity change.

[0009] A variation of the above aspect further includes a spring configured to apply a biasing force to the pawl.

[0010] In a variation of the above aspect, the rotating plate further includes an aperture and the pawl includes a post, the aperture and the post supporting the spring.

[0011] A variation of the above aspect further includes a bracket rotatably fixed to the locking plate.

[0012] A variation of the above aspect further includes a shaft defining an axis, the rotating plate being coupled to the shaft.

[0013] One aspect relates to a vehicle seat assembly including an armrest configured to rotate about an axis between an upper position and a lower position, a rotating plate configured to rotate about an axis with the armrest, a locking plate configured to selectively rotate with the rotating plate, a finger configured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position relative to the locking plate and to prevent the locking plate from rotating with the rotating plate when in the engaged position, and a pawl supported by the locking plate and the rotating plate. The pawl is configured to move between the engaged position and the disengaged position. The pawl inhibits movement of the armrest toward at least the lower position by locking the rotating plate to the locking plate when the finger is in the engaged position.

[0014] A variation of the above aspect further includes a ball disposed within the container, the ball configured to move the fingers from the disengaged position to the engaged position in response to a magnitude of change in velocity of the container that causes inertia of the ball to move within the container.

[0015] A variation of the above embodiment further includes a hat at least partially supported by the sphere, the fingers being supported by the hat.

[0016] In a variation of the above aspect, the overlay is configured to pivot between the first and second positions in response to the ball moving within the container.

[0017] In a variation of the above aspect, the armrest is further configured to rotate relative to the backrest of the vehicle seat assembly.

[0018] In a variation of the above embodiment, the fingers are fixed relative to the backrest.

[0019] In a variation of the above aspect, the change in velocity is a linear velocity change.

[0020] In a variation of the above embodiment, the rotating plate is disposed within the locking plate.

[0021] In a variation of the above aspect, at least a portion of the pawl is disposed between the rotating plate and the locking plate.

[0022] One aspect relates to a vehicle seat assembly that includes an armrest configured to rotate about an axis between an upper position and a lower position, and an inertia latch having a ratchet and configured to move between a disengaged position and an engaged position to inhibit unintended movement of the armrest in the event of a crash.

[0023] One aspect relates to a vehicle seat assembly that includes an armrest configured to rotate about an axis between an upper position and a lower position, a rotating plate, one or more gears connecting the armrest to the rotating plate such that the rotating plate has a greater angular rotational velocity than the armrest, a toothed plate, a locking plate or pinion configured to selectively rotate with the rotating plate, a finger configured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position relative to the locking plate or pinion and prevent the locking plate or pinion from rotating when in the engaged position, and a pawl configured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position and lock the rotating plate to the toothed plate when the finger is in the engaged position.

[0024] A variation of the above aspect further includes a ball disposed within the container, the ball configured to move the fingers from the disengaged position to the engaged position in response to a magnitude of change in velocity of the container that causes inertia of the ball to move within the container.

[0025] A variation of the above aspect further includes an overlying portion at least partially supported by the sphere, the fingers being supported by the overlying portion.

[0026] In a variation of the above aspect, the overlay is configured to pivot between the first and second positions in response to the ball moving within the container.

[0027] In a variation of the above aspect, the armrest is further configured to rotate relative to the backrest of the vehicle seat assembly.

[0028] In a variation of the above embodiment, the fingers are fixed relative to the backrest.

[0029] In a variation of the above aspect, the change in velocity is a linear velocity change.

[0030] In a variation of the above embodiment, the rotating plate is disposed within the tooth plate.

[0031] In a variation of the above aspect, at least a portion of the pawl is disposed between the rotating plate and the tooth plate.

[0032] One aspect relates to an inertia latch configured to prevent rotation of an armrest about an axis between an upper position and a lower position, the inertia latch including a rotating plate, one or more gears configured to couple the armrest to the rotating plate, a toothed plate, a locking plate or pinion configured to selectively rotate with the rotating plate, and a pawl configured to selectively prevent rotation of the rotating plate relative to the toothed plate.

[0033] In a variation of the above embodiment, the rotating plate has a greater angular rotation rate than the armrest. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0034] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements and in which:

[0035] [Figure 1A] 1 is an exemplary perspective view of an armrest and backrest of a vehicle seat assembly including an inertia latch that provides occupant safety;

[0036] [Figure 1B] 1B is an exemplary diagram of a portion of the armrest of FIG. 1A showing an inertial latch configured to inhibit unintended movement of the armrest in the event of a crash to protect an occupant.

[0037] [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is a top view of the inertia latch of FIG. 1B showing the pawl in a disengaged position.

[0038] [Figure 2A] FIG. 1B is a view similar to FIG. 1A, except with the armrests in the lowered position.

[0039] [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a top view of the inertia latch of FIG. 2A showing the pawl still in the disengaged position when the armrest is in the down position.

[0040] [Figure 3A]FIG. 1C is a top view of the inertia latch of FIG. 1B before the inertia latch undergoes a change in velocity sufficient to move the pawls into an engaged position.

[0041] [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a plan view similar to FIG. 3A, except that the inertial latch has undergone a change in velocity sufficient to cause the pawl to begin moving toward the engaged position.

[0042] [Figure 4A] FIG. 3C is a plan view similar to FIG. 3B, except that the inertial latch has undergone a change in velocity sufficient to move the pawl into an engaged position.

[0043] [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a plan view similar to FIG. 4A, except that the rotating plate and armrest have been rotated slightly in a counterclockwise direction toward the lowered position such that at least one tooth on the pawl tightly engages at least one tooth on the locking plate, restraining the armrest from moving further toward the lowered position.

[0044] [Figure 5A] 1B is similar to FIG. 1A but showing an interim position of the armrest after it has initially moved to an upward position and before it rebounds slightly toward a downward position;

[0045] [Figure 5B] The final position of the armrest is shown after a slight rebound towards the downward position.

[0046] [Figure 6] FIG. 1C is an exploded view of the armrest and inertia latch of FIG.

[0047] [Figure 7] 1 is an exemplary perspective view of another embodiment of an armrest and backrest of a vehicle seat assembly including an inertia latch that provides occupant safety; FIG.

[0048] [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a top view of the inertia latch of FIG. 7 before the ball and fingers of the inertia latch undergo a change in velocity sufficient to engage the fingers with the locking plate and prevent rotation of the locking plate.

[0049] [Figure 9] Similar to FIG. 8, except that fingers lock the locking plate to prevent it from rotating.

[0050] [Figure 10] Similar to FIG. 9, except that the rotating plate and armrest rotate slightly in a counterclockwise direction toward the lower position, with the rotating plate pushing the pawl into tight engagement with the locking plate, inhibiting or preventing further movement of the armrest toward the lower position.

[0051] [Figure 11] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of an armrest and inertia latch similar to that shown in FIG. 7, except that the inertia latch includes one or more gears.

[0052] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an assembled view of the gear(s) and inertia latch of FIG. 11.

[0053] [Figure 13] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating an example of the amount of rotation before an inertia latch is locked.

[0054] [Figure 14] The advantages of the inertia latch of FIG. 11 are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0055] Generally described, one or more aspects of the present disclosure relate to a safety system for a vehicle seat assembly. In certain embodiments, the present disclosure relates to an inertia latch for an armrest including a ratchet. The armrest is configured to rotate about an axis between an up position and a down position. A rotating plate of the inertia latch rotates with the armrest. In certain embodiments, a locking plate of the inertia latch does not rotate with the armrest. In certain other embodiments, a locking plate of the inertia latch selectively rotates with the armrest. In certain embodiments, a pawl selectively engages the locking plate to inhibit rotation of the armrest.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the pawl is disposed within a groove in the rotating plate and is movable between a disengaged position and an engaged position depending on the amount of inertia experienced by the pawl. The pawl is biased to move toward the disengaged position by a biasing force, e.g., a spring. When in the disengaged position, the pawl allows the armrest to move between an upper position and a lower position. In certain embodiments, when in the engaged position, the pawl engages with the locking plate to inhibit movement of the armrest at least toward the lower position. For example, the pawl and locking plate can be configured to inhibit rotation toward one or both of the upper and lower positions.

[0057] The pawl is capable of moving from the disengaged position to the engaged position when the magnitude of the change in speed of the rotating plate causes the inertia of the pawl to exceed the biasing force.

[0058] In the case of a folding armrest integrated into the rear seat bench of an automobile, the inertia latch disclosed herein overcomes the tendency of the armrest to fold or unfold near the occupant in the event of an accident (e.g., frontal collision, rear-end collision). The inertia latch improves occupant safety by locking the armrest against rotation and preventing unintended rapid rotation of the armrest. In certain embodiments, when the inertia latch is activated, the armrest can only rotate toward an upward position. Once in the upward position, the armrest is inhibited from rotating toward a downward position.

[0059] The inertial latch is activated because certain structures of the inertial latch are sensitive to acceleration. In certain embodiments, the rotating plate and / or ball are sensitive to acceleration (i.e., change in velocity). For example, the pawl of the rotating plate can lock onto the locking plate when the acceleration exceeds a certain threshold (e.g., 2.5g). For example, in other embodiments, the ball can lock the rotation of the locking plate onto the finger when the acceleration exceeds a certain threshold (e.g., 2.5g). If the acceleration is less than the threshold, the inertial latch is not activated.

[0060] In certain embodiments, the pawl and the rotating plate can articulate with one another using a mating surface to allow the pawl to slide along the surface of the rotating plate. In certain embodiments, the pawl and / or the rotating plate can include two or more teeth to reduce the amount of rebound or movement of the armrest when the inertial latch is activated. For example, additional teeth can reduce the time it takes for the inertial latch to fully lock. Additional teeth can also increase the reliability of the inertial latch by distributing the rotational force caused by the rotation of the armrest to two or more teeth. The inertial latches disclosed herein can be applicable to side armrests as well as other rotating accessible accessories (e.g., tables and foot rests).

[0061] The embodiments of the inertia latches provided herein may include one or more exemplary features, such as a pawl moving in a groove, complementary teeth on the pawl and locking plate, biasing force / biasing location, a keyway between the shaft and the rotating plate, a ball and receptacle, and a concentric rotating plate. The listed features are merely exemplary and are not exhaustive of the features and advantages provided by the inertia latches disclosed herein. For example, an armrest including one of the inertia latches disclosed herein does not need to use an unlock button or other structure on the front of the armrest. In this way, the inertia latches disclosed herein are essentially invisible to the occupant and do not require activation by the occupant. In certain embodiments, the inertia latches disclosed herein are activated without occupant intervention.

[0062] In certain embodiments, a biasing force (e.g., a coil spring, gravity) can determine an actuation profile that controls the positioning of the pawl relative to the rotating plate when subjected to acceleration. For example, the speed or spring constant of the coil spring can be selected to ensure that the pawl is in an engaged position when the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 2.5g). Of course, the predetermined threshold is not limited to 2.5g and can be any other value. For example, exemplary values ​​include any value or range of values ​​between the enumerated values ​​(e.g., 1g, 1.5g, 2.0g, 2.5g, 3g, 3.5g, 4.0g, etc.).

[0063] 1A is an exemplary perspective view of an armrest 22 and a left seat back 24 of a vehicle seat assembly 20 that provides occupant safety. The vehicle seat assembly 20 may further include a right seat back and left and right seats 26. For example, a typical vehicle seat assembly for a rear seat may include left and right passenger seats, with the armrest 22 separating the left seat back 24 from the right seat back. The armrest 22 may be located between the front seats, on the side of the front seats, between the rear seats, and / or on the side of the rear seats.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the armrest 22 can be moved between an upper position 30 and a lower position 32 (FIG. 2A). In certain embodiments, an occupant moves the armrest 22 between the upper and lower positions. When in the lower position, the armrest 22 and any controls or accessories carried by the armrest 22 (e.g., heating / cooling seat controls, entertainment controls, HVAC controls, cup holders, etc.) may be accessible by the occupant. In certain embodiments, when in the upper position 30, a third seating position located between the left and right seat backrests is made available to a third rear seat occupant.

[0065] In certain embodiments, the angle of the backrest 24 relative to the seat 26 is user adjustable. In this manner, the user can fine-tune the angular position of the backrest 24 relative to the seat 26 to enhance the user's comfort.

[0066] FIG. 1B is an exemplary diagram of a portion of the armrest 22 of FIG. 1A, illustrating one embodiment of an inertial latch 44 configured to inhibit unintended movement of the armrest 22 to protect an occupant in the event of a crash. In a particular embodiment, the armrest 22 rotates about an axis 28 between an upper position 30 and a lower position 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the axis 28 is defined by a longitudinal axis of a shaft 38. The shaft 38 rotatably connects the armrest 22 to the seat back 24. For example, in a particular embodiment, the armrest 22 includes a frame 34 that provides rigidity and structure to the padding or other soft structure of the armrest 22. In a particular embodiment, the frame 34 is covered by the padding of the armrest 22. In a particular embodiment, the frame 34 includes one or more holes 36 sized and shaped to receive the shaft 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more holes 36 are located near a base of the frame 34.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the shaft 38 includes a body 40 and a head 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 40 is prevented from rotating relative to the frame 34. For example, in certain embodiments, the shaft 38 is fixed relative to the frame 34 to prevent relative rotation between the shaft 38 and the armrest 22.

[0068] In certain embodiments, head 42 of shaft 38 is sized and shaped to engage protrusion 68 (FIG. 4B) of inertia latch 44 to prevent rotating plate 64 of inertia latch 44 from rotating relative to shaft 38. In certain embodiments, protrusion 68 is supported by member 50. In certain embodiments, member 50 rotates with rotating plate 64.

[0069] In certain embodiments, the rotating plate 64 of the inertia latch 44 is locked to the shaft 38. In certain embodiments, relative rotation is prevented by the non-circular shapes of both the head 42 and the protrusion 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the head 42 and the protrusion 68 have complementary square shapes. Of course, other shapes (e.g., square, triangular, etc.) are within the scope of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, the shaft 38 is secured to the rotating plate 64 of the inertia latch 44 via welding, adhesives, fasteners, etc.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the base of the shaft 38 opposite the head 42 may include a threaded hole sized and shaped to receive a bolt 86 (FIG. 6). The bolt 86 may secure the shaft 38 to the backrest 24.

[0071] 1C is a top view of the inertia latch 44 of FIG. 1B. In certain embodiments, the inertia latch 44 includes a locking plate 46 and a rotating plate 64. In certain embodiments, the locking plate 46 is fixed relative to the seat back 24. In certain embodiments, the locking plate 46 moves with the seat back 24 when the seat back 24 is folded forward and downward toward the seat 26. In certain embodiments, the locking plate 46 is fixed relative to the vehicle.

[0072] In certain embodiments, the locking plate 46 does not rotate when the armrest 22 rotates between the upper position 30 and the lower position 32. In certain embodiments, when the backrest 24 is locked in the upright position, movement of the backrest 24 and the locking plate 46 is prevented.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the rotating plate 64 is fixed to the armrest 22. In certain embodiments, the rotating plate 64 is fixed to the frame 34 of the armrest 22. In this manner, the rotating plate 64 rotates about the axis 28 with the armrest 22 as the armrest 22 moves between the upper position 30 and the lower position 32.

[0074] The rotating plate 64 is sensitive to acceleration such that the inertial latch 44 is activated. For example, the pawl 72 of the rotating plate 64 may lock into the locking plate 46 when the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 2.5 g). In certain embodiments, when the acceleration is below the predetermined threshold, the inertial latch 44 is not activated.

[0075] In certain embodiments, when the inertia latch 44 is not actuated, the shaft 38, the frame 34 of the armrest 22, and the rotating plate 64 of the inertia latch 44 rotate together as the armrest 22 moves between the upper position 30 and the lower position 32. In certain embodiments, when the inertia latch 44 is actuated, the shaft 38, the frame 34 of the armrest 22, and the rotating plate 64 of the inertia latch 44 are inhibited or prevented from rotating in at least one direction (i.e., clockwise, counterclockwise, or both directions) relative to the locking plate 46 of the inertia latch 44.

[0076] In certain embodiments, the locking plate 46 can include a body 48 having an opening 60. In the illustrated embodiment, a wall or surface defined by the opening 60 can include one or more teeth 62 (FIG. 6). In certain embodiments, the opening 60 in the locking plate 46 functions as a gear. In this manner, the one or more teeth 62 are sized and shaped to engage the pawl 72 of the inertia latch 44 when the pawl 72 is in an engaged position 82. In FIG. 1C, the pawl 72 of the inertia latch 44 is in a disengaged position 80 relative to the one or more teeth 62 in the opening 60.

[0077] In certain embodiments, the rotating plate 64 can include a body 66 ( FIG. 6 ). In certain embodiments, the body 66 is coupled to the shaft 38 for rotation therewith. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 66 includes a groove 70 sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the pawl 72. The pawl 72 and the rotating plate 64 can articulate with one another using mating surfaces. For example, the pawl 72 can slide along the groove 70 between an engaged position 82 and a disengaged position 80. In certain embodiments, the pawl 72 includes one or more teeth 74 configured to engage one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46 when the pawl 72 is in the engaged position 82.

[0078] In certain embodiments, the pawl 72 can include two or more teeth 74 to reduce the amount of rebound or movement of the armrest 22 when the inertial latch 44 is actuated. For example, the additional teeth 74 can reduce the amount of time it takes for the inertial latch 44 to fully lock. The additional teeth 74 can also increase the reliability of the inertial latch 44 by distributing the rotational force caused by rotation of the armrest 22 across two or more teeth 74.

[0079] In certain embodiments, the pawl 72 includes a post 76. In certain embodiments, the post 76 is configured to secure a biasing member 78. In certain embodiments, the biasing member 78 applies a biasing force to the pawl 72. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member 78 is configured as a coil spring. The spring applies a tension force between the pawl 72 and the rotating plate 64. For example, the spring can have a first end and a second end. The first end can be coupled to the post 76 of the pawl 72 and the second end can be coupled to the opening 52 of the rotating plate 64.

[0080] In certain embodiments, one or more characteristics of the biasing member 78 (e.g., length, spring constant (k), etc.) and / or one or more characteristics of the pawl 72 (e.g., mass, material, shape, etc.) can be varied. For example, in certain embodiments, the characteristics of the biasing member 78 and / or the pawl 72 are selected to cause the pawl 72 to remain in the disengaged position 80 until a magnitude of change in the speed of the rotating plate 64 causes the inertia of the pawl 72 to overcome the biasing force and move to the engaged position 82. In certain embodiments, the biasing force can determine an actuation profile that controls the positioning of the pawl 72 relative to the rotating plate 64 when subjected to acceleration. For example, one or more characteristics of the coil spring can be selected to ensure that the pawl 72 is in the engaged position 82 when the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 2.5g). Of course, the predetermined threshold is not limited to 2.5g and can be any other value, as well as any value or range of values ​​between the enumerated values ​​(e.g., 1g, 1.5g, 2.0g, 2.5g, 3g, 3.5g, 4.0g, etc.).

[0081] The shape of the one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46 and the one or more teeth 74 of the pawl 72 can be selected to inhibit or prevent the armrest 22 from rotating in at least one direction (i.e., clockwise, counterclockwise, or both directions) relative to the locking plate 46 of the inertia latch 44. In certain embodiments, the one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46 and the one or more teeth 74 of the pawl 72 are asymmetrical to limit movement in a single direction.

[0082] Figure 2A is a view similar to Figure 1A, except with the armrest 22 in the lower position 32. Figure 2B is a top view of the inertia latch 44 of Figure 2A, showing the pawl 72 still in the disengaged position 80 when the armrest 22 is in the lower position 32. In certain embodiments, the characteristics of the biasing member 78 and / or the pawl 72 are selected such that the pawl 72 remains in the disengaged position 80 when the rotating plate 64 is rotated such that the groove 70 faces downward and the armrest 22 is in the lower position 32.

[0083] In a particular embodiment, the inertia latch 44 includes a bracket 84. In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket 84 is disposed between the rotating plate 64 and the frame 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket 84 does not rotate when the armrest 22 rotates between the upper position 30 and the lower position 32.

[0084] Figure 3A is a top view of the inertia latch 44 of Figure 1B before the inertia latch 44 undergoes a change in velocity sufficient to move the pawl 72 toward the engaged position 82. The pawl 72 maintains its position in the disengaged position 80 with its one or more teeth 74 disengaged from the one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46. In Figure 3A, the armrest 22 is in the up position.

[0085] 3B is a plan view similar to FIG. 3A, except that the inertia latch 44 has experienced a sufficient change in velocity to begin moving the pawl 72 toward the engaged position 82. Thus, the inertia of the pawl 72 moving away from the body 66 of the rotating plate 64 causes the pawl 72 to slide along the groove 70 in the body 66 toward the locking plate 46.

[0086] 4A is a plan view similar to FIG. 3B, except that the velocity change experienced by the inertia latch 44 has increased sufficiently for the inertia of the pawl 72 to overcome the biasing force and slide further along the groove 70 of the body 66 toward the locking plate 46. In the embodiment shown, the pawl 72 slides along the groove 70 until one or more teeth 74 of the pawl 72 contacts and partially engages one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46. Without the slight relative rotation between the pawl 72 and the locking plate 46, the relative lack of engagement between the one or more teeth 74 of the pawl 72 and the one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46 would inhibit the one or more teeth 74 of the pawl 72 from initially fully engaging the one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46. Of course, depending on the pitch of the tooth or teeth 74 of the pawl 72 and the tooth or teeth 62 of the locking plate 46, for example, in the absence of slight relative rotation between the pawl 72 and the locking plate 46, the degree of engagement between the tooth or teeth 62, 74 will vary. In Figure 4A, the armrest 22 is still in the up position.

[0087] 4B is a plan view similar to FIG. 4A , except that the rotating plate 64 and armrest 22 have been rotated slightly in a counterclockwise direction toward the lower position 32 to allow full engagement between the one or more teeth 74 of the pawl 72 and the one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46. In FIG. 4B , the armrest 22 has moved slightly toward the lower position 32 before achieving full engagement. The engagement inhibits further movement of the armrest 22 toward the lower position 32. In other embodiments, the one or more teeth 74 of the pawl 72 and the one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46 achieve full engagement without requiring relative rotation between the pawl 72 and the locking plate 46.

[0088] 5A is similar to FIG 1A and shows an interim position of the armrest 22 after it has initially moved or begun to reside in the upper position 30 and before it slightly rebounds toward the lower position 32. For example, in certain embodiments, the armrest 22 can only rotate toward the upper position 30 when the inertia latch 44 is activated. Once in the upper position 30 and locked by the locking plate 46, the armrest 22 is inhibited or prevented from rotating toward the lower position 32.

[0089] Figure 5B shows the final position of the armrest 22 after a slight rebound toward the lower position 32, as indicated by the change in position of the inertia latch 44 from Figure 4A to Figure 4B. The armrest 22 is locked and prevented from unintentional rapid rotation toward the lower position 32, enhancing occupant safety.

[0090] 6 is an exploded view of the armrest 24 and inertia latch 44 of FIG. 1B. In certain embodiments, the inertia latch 44 includes a locking plate 46 and a rotating plate 64. The rotating plate 64 of the inertia latch 44 rotates with the armrest 22. In certain embodiments, the locking plate 46 of the inertia latch 44 does not rotate with the armrest 22. In certain embodiments, the periphery of the body 66 of the rotating plate 64 is sized and shaped to fit at least partially within the opening 60 of the locking plate 46. In this manner, the rotating plate 64 can rotate within the opening 60 as the armrest 22 moves between the upper position 30 and the lower position 32.

[0091] In certain embodiments, the locking plate 46 may include a body 48 having an opening 60. In the illustrated embodiment, a wall or surface defined by the opening 60 may include one or more teeth 62. In certain embodiments, the opening 60 in the locking plate 46 functions as a gear. In this manner, the one or more teeth 62 are sized and shaped to engage the pawl 72 of the inertia latch 44 when the pawl 72 is in the engaged position 82.

[0092] In certain embodiments, the rotating plate 64 can include a body 66. In certain embodiments, the body 66 is coupled to the shaft 38 for rotation therewith. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 66 includes a groove 70 sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the pawl 72. The pawl 72 and the rotating plate 64 can articulate with one another using mating surfaces. For example, the pawl 72 can slide along the groove 70 between an engaged position 82 and a disengaged position 80. In certain embodiments, the pawl 72 includes one or more teeth 74 configured to engage one or more teeth 62 of the locking plate 46 when the pawl 72 is in the engaged position 82.

[0093] In certain embodiments, the pawl 72 includes a post 76. In certain embodiments, the post 76 is configured to secure a biasing member 78. The biasing member 78 applies a biasing force to the pawl 72. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member 78 is configured as a coil spring that applies tension between the pawl 72 and the rotating plate 64. For example, the spring can have a first end and a second end. The first end couples to the post 76 of the pawl 72 and the second end couples to the opening 52 of the rotating plate 64.

[0094] In a particular embodiment, the inertia latch 44 includes a bracket 84. In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket 84 is disposed between the rotating plate 64 and the frame 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket 84 does not rotate when the armrest 22 rotates between the upper position 30 and the lower position 32.

[0095] In certain embodiments, the armrest 22 includes a frame 34. In certain embodiments, the frame 34 includes one or more holes 36 sized and shaped to receive a shaft 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more holes 36 are located near a base of the frame 34.

[0096] FIG. 7 is an exemplary perspective view of an armrest 122 and left seat back 124 of a vehicle seat assembly 120 including an inertia latch 144 that provides occupant safety.

[0097] The vehicle seat assembly 120 may further include a right seat backrest and left and right seats 126. For example, a typical vehicle seat assembly for a rear seat may include left and right passenger seats with an armrest 122 separating the left seat backrest from the right seat backrest. In certain embodiments, the armrest 122 may move between an upper position 130 and a lower position. In certain embodiments, an occupant moves the armrest 122 between the upper position 130 and the lower position. When in the lower position, the armrest 122 and any controls or accessories carried by the armrest 122 (e.g., heating / cooling seat controls, entertainment controls, HVAC controls, cup holders, etc.) may be accessible by the occupant. In certain embodiments, when in the upper position 130, a third seating position located between the left seat backrest and the right seat backrest is made available to a third rear seat occupant.

[0098] In certain embodiments, the angle of the backrest 124 relative to the seat 126 is user adjustable. In this manner, the user can fine-tune the angular position of the backrest 124 relative to the seat 126 to enhance the user's comfort.

[0099] The inertial latch 144 is configured to inhibit unintended movement of the armrest 122 to protect the occupant in the event of a collision. In certain embodiments, the armrest 122 rotates about an axis 128 between the upper position 130 and the lower position. In the illustrated embodiment, the axis 128 is defined by the longitudinal axis of the shaft 138 (FIG. 8).

[0100] 8 is a top view of the inertia latch 144 of FIG. 7. In the case of a folding armrest integrated into the rear seat bench of an automobile, the inertia latch 144 overcomes the tendency of the armrest 122 to fold or unfold near the occupant in the event of an accident (e.g., frontal collision, rear-end collision). The inertia latch 144 locks the armrest 122 against rotation, improving occupant safety by preventing unintended rapid rotation of the armrest 122. In certain embodiments, when the inertia latch 144 is activated, the armrest 122 can only rotate toward the upper position 130. Once in the upper position 130, the armrest 122 is inhibited from rotating toward the lower position.

[0101] In certain embodiments, the inertial latch 144 includes a ball 150 and a finger 172 that actuate in response to changes in vehicle speed. The ball 150 is sensitive to acceleration (i.e., changes in speed) and thus actuates the inertial latch 144. For example, the ball 150 can cause the finger 172 to lock the rotation of the locking plate 146 when the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 2.5 g).

[0102] In certain embodiments, when not activated, ball 150 rests within receptacle 174 below overhang 176. In this non-activated position, fingers 172 do not engage locking plate 146. In certain embodiments, overhang 176 is positioned relative to ball 150 such that sufficient movement of ball 150 in any one of a number of directions can lift overhang 176 and cause fingers 172 to engage locking plate 146. In certain embodiments, receptacle 174 has a concave or cup-shaped configuration.

[0103] When the acceleration is below a predetermined threshold, the inertial latch 144 is not actuated. When not actuated, as shown in FIGURE 8, the ball 150 lifts the finger 172 out of engagement with the locking plate 146 of the inertial latch 144. When the finger 172 is not engaged with the locking plate 146, the locking plate 146 is free to rotate with the rotating plate 164 and the armrest 122 as the armrest 122 moves between the upper position 130 and the lower position.

[0104] Figure 9 is similar to Figure 8, except that the inertia latch 144 is actuated to engage the finger 172 with the locking plate 146, preventing further rotation of the locking plate 146 in at least one direction. Once rotation of the locking plate 146 is prevented, further rotation of the armrest 122 causes the rotating plate 164 to rotate relative to the locking plate 146. This movement of the rotating plate 164 relative to the locking plate 146 causes the pawl 152 to then lock the rotating plate 164 relative to the locking plate 146. Once locked, the locking plate 146 prevents the rotating plate 164 and armrest 122 from further rotation.

[0105] In certain embodiments, upon actuation, the ball 150 changes position within the container such that the overlay 176 lifts and causes the fingers 172 to engage the locking plate 146 .

[0106] In certain embodiments, one or more characteristics of the ball 150 (e.g., mass, material, shape, etc.) can be modified. For example, in certain embodiments, the characteristics of the ball 150 are selected such that the magnitude of the change in velocity of the container 174 and the upper cover 176 causes the ball 150 to not activate the inertial latch 144 until the inertia of the ball 150 lifts the upper cover 176. For example, one or more characteristics of the ball 150 can be selected to ensure that the finger 172 is in the engaged position 182 when the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 2.5g). Of course, the predetermined threshold is not limited to 2.5g and can be any other value, as well as any value or range of values ​​between the recited values ​​(e.g., 1g, 1.5g, 2.0g, 2.5g, 3g, 3.5g, 4.0g, etc.).

[0107] The shapes of the teeth 154, 156, 162 of the locking plate 146 and the pawl 152 can be selected to inhibit or prevent the armrest 122 from rotating in at least one direction (i.e., clockwise, counterclockwise, or both directions) relative to the locking plate 146 of the inertia latch 144. In certain embodiments, one or more teeth 154, 162 of the locking plate 146 and one or more teeth 156 of the pawl 152 are asymmetrical to limit movement in a single direction.

[0108] In certain embodiments, the rotating plate 164 rotates with the armrest 122 as the armrest 122 rotates between the upper position 130 and the lower position. In certain embodiments, the rotating plate 164 is fixed to the armrest 122. In this manner, the rotating plate 164 rotates with the armrest 122 about the axis 128 as the armrest 122 moves between the upper position 130 and the lower position. In certain embodiments, the locking plate 146 can rotate with the rotating plate 164 when the inertia latch 144 is not activated, but is prevented from rotating with the rotating plate 164 when the inertia latch 144 is activated.

[0109] In certain embodiments, the inertial latch 144 includes a biasing member 178 (e.g., a spring). In certain embodiments, the biasing member 178 is configured to bias the locking plate 146 against the rotating plate 164.

[0110] In certain embodiments, the ball 150 is sensitive to acceleration to activate the inertial latch 144. For example, the ball 150 can lock the finger 172 to the locking plate 146 when the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 2.5 g). In certain embodiments, when the acceleration is below the predetermined threshold, the inertial latch 144 is not activated.

[0111] In certain embodiments, when the inertia latch 144 is not actuated, the armrest 122, the rotating plate 164 of the inertia latch 144, and the locking plate 146 rotate together as the armrest 122 moves between the upper position 130 and the lower position. In certain embodiments, when the inertia latch 144 is actuated, the armrest 122 and the rotating plate 164 of the inertia latch 144 are inhibited or prevented from rotating in at least one direction (i.e., clockwise, counterclockwise, or both) relative to the locking plate 146 of the inertia latch 144.

[0112] In certain embodiments, the locking plate 146 can include one or more external teeth 154 and one or more internal teeth 162. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 154 and the one or more internal teeth 162 are concentric. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 154 and the one or more internal teeth 162 have different pitches. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 154 and the one or more internal teeth 162 have the same pitch. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 154 and / or the one or more internal teeth 162 are asymmetric. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 154 and / or the one or more internal teeth 162 are symmetric. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more external teeth 154 and the one or more internal teeth 162 are asymmetric.

[0113] The one or more external teeth 154 can be positioned to engage the fingers 172 when the inertia latch 144 is actuated. As such, the one or more external teeth 154 are sized and shaped to be engaged by the fingers 172 of the inertia latch 144 when the fingers 172 are in the engaged position 182. In FIG. 9 , the fingers 172 of the inertia latch 144 are in the engaged position 182 with respect to the one or more external teeth 154 of the locking plate 146.

[0114] In certain embodiments, an inner wall or surface of the locking plate 146 may include one or more internal teeth 162. In certain embodiments, the pawl 152 includes one or more teeth 156. In certain embodiments, when the locking plate 146 is prevented from rotating with the rotating plate 164 and the armrest 122 is moved slightly toward the lower position, the one or more teeth 156 of the pawl 152 engage with the one or more internal teeth 162. As such, the one or more internal teeth 162 are sized and shaped to engage with the one or more teeth 156 of the pawl 152.

[0115] In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the pawl 152 is supported between the rotating plate 164 and the locking plate 146. In certain embodiments, the pawl 152 is movably coupled to both the rotating plate 164 and the locking plate 146. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, after the locking plate 146 is prevented from rotating with the rotating plate 164, the one or more teeth 156 of the pawl 152 begin to move in a direction toward the one or more internal teeth 162 of the locking plate 146. In contrast, when the locking plate 146 is allowed to rotate with the rotating plate 164, the one or more teeth 156 of the pawl 152 remain in a retracted or disengaged position ( FIG. 8 ) relative to the one or more internal teeth 162 of the locking plate 146.

[0116] 10 is similar to FIG. 9 , except that the rotating plate 164 and armrest 144 have rotated slightly in a counterclockwise direction toward the lowered position, with the rotating plate 164 pushing at least one tooth 156 of the pawl 152 into tight engagement with at least one internal tooth 162 of the locking plate 146, restraining the armrest 144 from moving further toward the lowered position. In certain embodiments, the locking plate 146 includes one or more openings 158 configured to receive one or more posts 160 of the pawl 152. In certain embodiments, the one or more posts 160 slide within the one or more openings 158 as the pawl 152 moves between a retracted or disengaged position (FIGS. 8 and 9) and an extended or engaged position (FIG. 10).

[0117] In the illustrated embodiment, the armrest 144 has rebounded 10 degrees toward the down position; however, the disclosure is not so limited. In certain embodiments, the pawl 152 and / or locking plate 146 may include teeth having a pitch selected to reduce the degree of rebound or movement of the armrest 122 when the inertial latch 144 is actuated. For example, additional teeth may reduce the time it takes for the inertial latch 144 to fully latch. Additional teeth may also increase the reliability of the inertial latch 144 by distributing the rotational force caused by rotation of the armrest 122 over two or more teeth.

[0118] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of an armrest 222 and an inertial latch 244 similar to that shown in FIG. 7, except that the inertial latch 244 includes one or more gears 200. FIG. 12 is an assembled view of the one or more gears 200 and the inertial latch 244 of FIG. 11. The inertial latch 244 is configured to inhibit unintended movement of the armrest 222 to protect the occupant in the event of a crash. In certain embodiments, the armrest 222 rotates about an axis 228 between an up position and a down position. When in the down position, the armrest 222 and any controls or accessories carried by the armrest 222 (e.g., heating / cooling seat controls, entertainment controls, HVAC controls, cup holders, etc.) may be accessible by the occupant. In certain embodiments, when in the up position, a third seating position located between the left and right seat backrests is made available to a third rear seat occupant.

[0119] The inertia latch 244 is configured to inhibit unintended movement of the armrest 222 in the event of a crash to protect the occupant. In certain embodiments, the armrest 222 rotates about an axis 228 between an upper position and a lower position. In the case of a folding armrest integrated into a rear seat bench of a vehicle, the inertia latch 244 overcomes the tendency of the armrest 222 to fold or unfold near the occupant in the event of an accident (e.g., a frontal collision, a rear-end collision). The inertia latch 244 locks the rotation of the armrest 222 and improves occupant safety by preventing unintended rapid rotation of the armrest 222. In certain embodiments, when the inertia latch 244 is activated, the armrest 222 can only rotate toward the upper position. Once in the upper position, the armrest 222 is inhibited from rotating toward the lower position.

[0120] In certain embodiments, the inertial latch 244 includes a ball 250 and a finger 272 that actuate in response to changes in vehicle speed. The ball 250 is sensitive to acceleration (i.e., speed changes) and thus actuates the inertial latch 244. For example, the ball 250 can cause the finger 272 to lock the rotation of the locking plate or pinion 246 when the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 2.5 g).

[0121] In certain embodiments, when not activated, ball 250 rests within receptacle or basket 274 under overhang or tongue 276. In this non-activated position, fingers 272 do not engage locking plate or pinion 246. In certain embodiments, overhang 276 is positioned relative to ball 250 such that sufficient movement of ball 250 in any one of a number of directions can lift overhang or tongue 276 and cause fingers 272 to engage locking plate 246. In certain embodiments, receptacle 274 has a concave or cup-shaped configuration.

[0122] When the acceleration is below a predetermined threshold, the inertia latch 244 is not actuated. When not actuated, the ball 250 lifts the finger 272 out of engagement with the locking plate or pinion 246 of the inertia latch 244. When the finger 272 is not engaged with the locking plate or pinion 246, the locking plate or pinion 246 is free to rotate.

[0123] Once the locking plate or pinion 246 is prevented from rotating, further rotation of the armrest 222 will cause the pawl 252 to lock the rotating plate 264 against the toothed plate 201. Once locked together, the toothed plate 201 prevents the rotating plate 264 and armrest 222 from further rotation.

[0124] The embodiment shown in FIG. 11 includes one or more gears 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more gears 200 include four gears and a pin 209. Of course, the one or more gears 200 can include fewer or more than four gears and one pin 209, as well as any combination of gears 200 and pins 209 of the type known to those skilled in the art. In certain embodiments, the inertial latch 244 further includes one or more bushings 211. An example gear ratio of the gears 200 is 1:4. Of course, the present disclosure is not limited to a gear ratio of 1:4, and can instead have any other gear ratio.

[0125] In certain embodiments, the inertial latch 244 further includes a shell 203 and a housing 205. In certain embodiments, one or more fasteners 207 secure the housing 205 to the shell 203.

[0126] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of the amount of rotation before the inertia latch locks. In the illustrated example, the armrest 222 rotates 8 degrees before locking. Without the gears 200, in certain embodiments, the armrest 222 rotates 32 degrees before locking. In this manner, the gears 200 can reduce the amount of rotation of the armrest 222 that occurs after the locking plate or pinion 246 is prevented from rotating. In certain embodiments, the gears 200 reduce the locking angle to 1 / 4 of the locking angle of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7. Of course, the present disclosure is not limited to achieving a 1 / 4 reduction in the locking angle, but instead can achieve any other amount of reduction in the locking angle.

[0127] In certain embodiments, upon actuation, the ball 250 changes position within the receptacle 274 to lift the overhanging portion 276 and engage the fingers 272 with the locking plate or pinion 246 .

[0128] In certain embodiments, one or more characteristics of the ball 250 (e.g., mass, material, shape, etc.) can be modified. For example, in certain embodiments, the characteristics of the ball 250 are selected such that the magnitude of the change in velocity of the container 274 and the upper cover 276 causes the ball 250 to not activate the inertial latch 244 until the inertia of the ball 250 lifts the upper cover 276. For example, one or more characteristics of the ball 250 can be selected to ensure that the fingers 272 are in an engaged position when the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 2.5g). Of course, the predetermined threshold is not limited to 2.5g and can be any other value, as well as any value or range of values ​​between the recited values ​​(e.g., 1g, 1.5g, 2.0g, 2.5g, 3g, 3.5g, 4.0g, etc.).

[0129] The shapes of the locking plate or pinion 246, the pawl 252, and the respective teeth 254, 256, 262 of the tooth plate 201 can be selected to inhibit or prevent the armrest 222 from rotating in at least one direction (i.e., clockwise, counterclockwise, or both directions) relative to the tooth plate 201 of the inertia latch 244.

[0130] In certain embodiments, the rotating plate 264 rotates with the armrest 222 as the armrest 222 rotates between the upper and lower positions. In certain embodiments, the rotating plate 264 is coupled to the armrest 222 via one or more gears 200. In certain embodiments, the gearing of the one or more gears 200 (e.g., 1:8, 1:4, 1:2, etc.) is selected to increase the rotational sensitivity of the rotating plate 264 relative to the armrest 222. In this manner, a small angular rotation of the armrest 222 results in a larger angular rotation of the rotating plate 264. This larger angular rotation results in a reduced locking angle relative to the locking angle of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7.

[0131] The rotating plate 264 rotates with the armrest 222 but at a greater angular rotational velocity than the armrest 222 via one or more gears 200. In certain embodiments, the locking plate or pinion 246 can rotate with the rotating plate 264 when the inertia latch 244 is not actuated, but is prevented from rotating with the rotating plate 264 when the inertia latch 244 is actuated. In certain embodiments, the inertia latch 244 includes a biasing member 278 (e.g., a spring).

[0132] In certain embodiments, the inertial latch 244 is actuated by the ball 250 being sensitive to acceleration. For example, the ball 250 may lock the finger 272 to the locking plate or pinion 246 when the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 2.5 g). In certain embodiments, when the acceleration is below the predetermined threshold, the inertial latch 244 is not actuated.

[0133] In certain embodiments, the locking plate or pinion 246 may include one or more external teeth 254. In certain embodiments, the tooth plate 201 may include one or more internal teeth 262. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 254 and the one or more internal teeth 262 are concentric. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 254 and the one or more internal teeth 262 have different pitches. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 254 and the one or more internal teeth 262 have the same pitch. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 254 and / or the one or more internal teeth 262 are asymmetric. In certain embodiments, the one or more external teeth 254 and / or the one or more internal teeth 262 are symmetric. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more external teeth 254 and the one or more internal teeth 262 are asymmetric.

[0134] The one or more external teeth 254 can be positioned to engage the fingers 272 when the inertial latch 244 is actuated. As such, the one or more external teeth 254 are sized and shaped to be engaged by the fingers 272 of the inertial latch 244 when the fingers 272 are in the engaged position.

[0135] In certain embodiments, an inner wall or surface of the tooth plate 201 may include one or more internal teeth 262. In certain embodiments, the pawl 252 includes one or more teeth 256. In certain embodiments, when the lock plate or pinion 246 is prevented from rotating and the armrest 222 is moved slightly toward the lower position, the one or more teeth 256 of the pawl 252 engage with the one or more internal teeth 262. As such, the one or more internal teeth 262 are sized and shaped to engage with the one or more teeth 256 of the pawl 252.

[0136] In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the pawl 252 is supported between the rotating plate 264 and the tooth plate 201. In certain embodiments, the pawl 252 is movably coupled to both the rotating plate 264 and the tooth plate 201.

[0137] Figure 14 illustrates the advantages of the inertial latch of Figure 11. The advantages include one or more of: minimizing structural deflection and maintaining structural integrity, controlling forward movement of the occupant's pelvis and torso during a frontal impact, protecting the occupant by minimizing deflection angles while holding cargo, and a more robust design that meets regulations (e.g., seat back strength standards (ECE R17 / GB15083)).

[0138] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the disclosure to the exact form or particular field of use disclosed. Thus, various alternative embodiments and / or modifications to the disclosure, whether expressly described or implied herein, are contemplated in light of the disclosure. Having thus described an embodiment of the disclosure, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the disclosure is limited only by the scope of the claims.

[0139] In the above specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to certain embodiments. However, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, the various embodiments disclosed herein can be modified or embodied in various other ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Thus, this description should be considered as illustrative and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art how to make and use the various embodiments of the disclosed glove box actuation assembly. It should be understood that the forms of the disclosure shown and described herein should be construed as representative embodiments. Equivalent elements, materials, processes or steps may be substituted for those typically shown and described herein. Furthermore, certain features of the disclosure can be utilized independently of the use of other features, as will become apparent to those skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the disclosure. The terms "comprise," "comprising," "containing," "comprising," "having," "being," and the like are used to describe and claim the disclosure and are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, i.e., allowing for the presence of items, components or elements not expressly described. Reference to the singular should also be construed to relate to the plural.

[0140] Furthermore, the various embodiments disclosed herein should be construed in an exemplary and explanatory sense, and should not be construed as limiting the disclosure in any way. All references to joining (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, connected, etc.) are used only to aid the reader in understanding the disclosure, and do not create any limitations with respect to the position, orientation, or use of the systems and / or methods disclosed herein in particular. Thus, any reference to joining should be interpreted broadly. Moreover, such references to joining do not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected to each other. Moreover, without limitation, all numerical terms such as "first", "second", "third", "primary", "secondary", "primary", or any other ordinary and / or numerical terms should also be interpreted only as identifiers to aid the reader in understanding the various elements, embodiments, variations and / or modifications of the disclosure, and in particular do not create any limitations with respect to the order or preference of any element, embodiment, variation and / or modification relative to or over another element, embodiment, variation and / or modification.

[0141] It will also be understood that one or more elements shown in the drawings / figures may be implemented in a more separate or integrated manner, or may be removed or rendered inoperative in certain cases, as may be useful depending on the particular application.

Claims

1. an armrest configured to rotate about an axis between an upper position and a lower position; A locking plate; a rotating plate having a groove configured to rotate about the axis with the armrest; a pawl disposed relative to the groove for movement between a disengaged position and an engaged position, the pawl being biased by a biasing force to move toward the disengaged position, the pawl disengaging from the locking plate when in the disengaged position to allow movement of the armrest between the upper position and the lower position, and engaging the locking plate when in the engaged position to restrict movement of the armrest at least toward the lower position; A vehicle seat assembly comprising:

2. 2. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the pawl is configured to move from the disengaged position to the engaged position when a magnitude of change in speed of the rotating plate causes the inertia of the pawl to exceed the biasing force.

3. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1 , wherein the armrest is further configured to rotate relative to a seat back of the vehicle seat assembly.

4. 4. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 3, wherein the locking plate is fixed relative to the seat back.

5. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1 , wherein the rotating plate is configured to rotate with the armrest relative to the locking plate.

6. 3. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 2, wherein said change in velocity is a linear change in velocity.

7. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a spring configured to apply the biasing force to the pawl.

8. 8. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 7, wherein said rotating plate further comprises an aperture, said pawl comprises a post, said aperture and said post supporting said spring.

9. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a bracket rotatably secured to said locking plate.

10. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 1 further comprising a shaft defining said axis, said rotating plate being coupled to said shaft.

11. an armrest configured to rotate about an axis between an upper position and a lower position; a rotating plate configured to rotate about the axis with the armrest; a locking plate configured to selectively rotate with the rotating plate; a finger configured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position relative to the locking plate, the finger preventing the locking plate from rotating with the rotating plate when in the engaged position; a pawl supported by the locking plate and the rotating plate and configured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the pawl engaging the rotating plate with the locking plate when the finger is in the engaged position, thereby inhibiting movement of the armrest at least toward the downward position; A vehicle seat assembly comprising:

12. 12. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 11, further comprising a ball disposed within a container, the ball configured to move the fingers from the disengaged position to the engaged position in response to a magnitude of change in velocity of the container that causes inertia of the ball to move within the container.

13. 13. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 12, further comprising an overlay supported at least in part by said ball, said overlay supporting said finger.

14. 14. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 13, wherein the overlay is configured to pivot between a first position and a second position in response to the ball moving within the container.

15. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 11 , wherein the armrest is further configured to rotate relative to a seat back of the vehicle seat assembly.

16. 16. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 15, wherein the fingers are fixed relative to the seat back.

17. 13. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 12, wherein the change in velocity is a linear change in velocity.

18. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 11 , wherein the rotating plate is disposed within the locking plate.

19. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 11 , wherein at least a portion of the pawl is disposed between the rotating plate and the locking plate.

20. an armrest configured to rotate about an axis between an upper position and a lower position; an inertia latch having a ratchet and configured to move between a disengaged position and an engaged position to inhibit unintended movement of the armrest in the event of a collision; A vehicle seat assembly comprising:

21. an armrest configured to rotate about an axis between an upper position and a lower position; A rotating plate; one or more gears connecting the armrest to the rotating plate such that the rotating plate has a greater angular rotational velocity than the armrest; The tooth plate and a locking plate or pinion configured to selectively rotate with the rotating plate; a finger configured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position relative to the locking plate or pinion, the finger preventing the locking plate or pinion from rotating when in the engaged position; a pawl configured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the pawl locking the rotor plate to the tooth plate when the finger is in the engaged position; A vehicle seat assembly comprising:

22. 22. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 21, further comprising a ball disposed within a container, the ball configured to move the fingers from the disengaged position to the engaged position in response to a magnitude of change in velocity of the container that causes inertia of the ball to move within the container.

23. 23. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 22, further comprising an overlay supported at least in part by said ball, said overlay supporting said fingers.

24. 24. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 23, wherein the overlay is configured to pivot between a first position and a second position in response to the ball moving within the container.

25. 22. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 21, wherein the armrest is further configured to rotate relative to a seat back of the vehicle seat assembly.

26. 26. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 25, wherein the fingers are fixed relative to the seat back.

27. 23. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 22, wherein the change in velocity is a linear change in velocity.

28. 22. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 21, wherein the rotating plate is disposed within the tooth plate.

29. 22. The vehicle seat assembly of claim 21, wherein at least a portion of the pawl is disposed between the rotating plate and the tooth plate.

30. an inertia latch configured to prevent rotation of the armrest about an axis between an upper position and a lower position, A rotating plate; one or more gears configured to couple the armrest to the rotating plate; The tooth plate and a locking plate or pinion configured to selectively rotate with the rotating plate; a pawl configured to selectively prevent rotation of the rotor plate relative to the tooth plate; 1. An inertia latch comprising:

31. The inertia latch of claim 30, wherein the rotating plate has a greater angular rotation rate than the armrest.

Images