Automotive safety seats

Abstract

Provides a rotatable safety seat to protect children and keep them safe while inside the vehicle. [Solution] The rotatable car safety seat comprises an upper part having a seat having a foremost point and configured to accommodate a child, and a seat rotation element 114 that can rotate with the seat about a seat rotation axis SA; a lower part 120 configured to be attached to a passenger seat of a car having a longitudinal direction and a central axis spaced apart from the seat rotation axis; and a moving mechanism connected to the seat rotation element and operable to convert the rotation of the seat rotation element about the seat rotation axis into movement of the seat rotation element along a circular orbit about the central axis, so that the seat is moved eccentrically with respect to the central axis together with the seat rotation element and rotated simultaneously about the seat rotation axis, thereby continuously changing the distance between the foremost point of the seat and the central axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter of the present disclosure is in the field of automotive safety and relates to automotive safety seats, specifically seats for safely accommodating children.

Background Art

[0002] Automotive safety seats are designed to protect children and safely support them while they are in the vehicle. These seats are typically attached either forward or backward in the direction of travel on top of an existing automotive seat.

[0003] Most safety seats are stationary. Positioning a safety seat inside a vehicle can be a cumbersome and heavy task. Often, the caregiver has to bend and arch their back to properly position the child in the safety seat located inside the vehicle or to remove the child from the safety seat.

[0004] Some safety seats are rotatable. Rotating the seat towards the rear door makes it easier to insert / pull the seat and position / remove the child. However, the caregiver may still need to bend / arch their back to reach the seat / child.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] The subject matter of the present disclosure provides a rotatable safety seat, particularly for use in an automobile. The rotatable safety seat described reduces the need for a caregiver to bend or arch their back while inserting / removing the seat from the automobile or while positioning / removing a child from the seat. Further, the rotatable safety seat described is easy to manufacture, has special safety measures, is reliable, and is resistant to breakage.

[0006] According to a first aspect, a rotatable automotive safety seat, The upper part comprises a seat that is the upper part, having a foremost point and configured to accommodate a child, and a seat rotation element having a fixed connection to the seat so as to be rotatable with the seat about a seat rotation axis, A lower part having a longitudinal direction and a central axis spaced apart from the seat rotation axis, configured to be attached to a passenger seat of an automobile, A rotatable automotive safety seat is provided, comprising a moving mechanism connected to a seat rotation element and capable of converting the rotation of the seat rotation element about a seat rotation axis into the movement of the seat rotation element along a circular orbit about a central axis, and vice versa, thereby ensuring that when the seat is rotated by the user, the seat is moved eccentrically with respect to the central axis together with the seat rotation element and rotated simultaneously about the seat rotation axis, thereby continuously changing the distance between the foremost point of the seat and the central axis.

[0007] A rotatable automotive safety seat is configured to rotate / swivel around a lower central axis, sometimes referred to as the base, to a predetermined position on a plane defined by the passenger seat (particularly parallel to the ground). The rotation of the seat around the central axis is often referred to herein as eccentric rotation. The predetermined position may be one of the following: forward-facing, rearward-facing, lateral-facing (sometimes referred to as perpendicular orientation toward one of the rear doors), or any other angular orientation, all of which are relative to the direction of driving, which is the same as the direction of the lower longitudinal axis and / or the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0008] As the safety seat rotates to a lateral orientation, the safety seat also rotates around its rotation axis, thereby changing the distance between the seat's foremost point and the central axis. In other words, rotation around the rotation axis shifts the seat's orientation, specifically the orientation of the center of the seat's field of vision, away from the central axis, orienting the seat towards the rear door of the vehicle. In other words, the safety seat moves laterally outward relative to its lower longitudinal axis, thereby moving closer to the rear door. This allows the child caregiver to easily handle the seat / child without having to excessively bend or arch their back.

[0009] The moving mechanism may be capable of operating to rotate the upper part and the seat simultaneously around both the central axis and the seat rotation axis. The rotation of the seat with a seat rotation element around the central axis (eccentric rotation) is converted into the simultaneous rotation of the seat with a seat rotation element around the seat rotation axis, and vice versa. Characteristics such as the angular velocity of the rotational movement around the two axes may be synchronized, or they may have a specific relationship between them. This, firstly, allows for easy handling of the seat rotation / displacement by the caregiver by using only one hand, leaving the other hand to carry the child. Secondly, this overcomes the need for an excessive number of parts in the moving mechanism, which would have been required if the eccentric rotation and displacement of the seat from the central axis (when rotated around the seat rotation axis and changing the distance between the front of the seat and the central axis) were performed by two sub-mechanisms in two separate actions. Thirdly, since there are weight limits on safety seats according to safety standards, this makes it possible to manufacture lightweight moving mechanisms. For example, according to some safety standards, the total weight of a safety seat is limited to 33 kilograms, including the weight of a 15-kilogram child. Reducing the number of parts also directly correlates to a reduction in failures and malfunctions.

[0010] While the rotatable car safety seat is exemplified herein in relation to a child car seat, this should not limit the subject matter of this disclosure and it should be noted that it may be adapted in relation to any type of child support, such as car seats, booster seats, carrycots, infant car beds, infant carriers, child safety seats, infant safety seats, child restraint systems, and restraint car seats, and may be adapted to any required weight and size of child and paralyzed individual. The described rotatable safety seat can be adapted for use with or without a vehicle's safety belt, can be used in any type of vehicle, and can be positioned in any vehicle seat, such as any side or center front or rear seat. The rotatable safety seat can be configured to conform to any acceptable standard, such as ISOFIX standards.

[0011] In some embodiments, the seat has a default orientation (e.g., forward or backward orientation) where the line connecting the central axis and the seat rotation axis is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and a maximum rotational orientation (e.g., the lateral orientation is rightward or leftward orientation) where the line is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the distance is maximum when the seat reaches its maximum rotational orientation.

[0012] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism can be operated to convert the clockwise rotation of the seat rotation element about the seat rotation axis into counterclockwise movement of the seat rotation element along a circular orbit about the central axis, and vice versa.

[0013] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the moving mechanism is located between the seat rotation axis and the central axis.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lower part includes a cavity that houses at least a portion of the moving mechanism.

[0015] In some embodiments, the cavity houses at least a portion of the sheet rotation element.

[0016] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism is operable so that the seat can be rotated by the user manually pulling the seat.

[0017] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism consists of at least one rotatable element.

[0018] In some embodiments, the seat rotation element and the moving mechanism form a gear assembly.

[0019] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism comprises at least two rotatable elements, each including a central gear having an axis coinciding with a central axis and a fixed position relative to the lower part when the moving mechanism is operational, and intermediate gears that rotatably engage with the central gear and each of the seat rotation elements.

[0020] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism comprises a peripheral ring having an axis coinciding with the central axis and a fixed position relative to the lower part, at least when the moving mechanism is operational, the peripheral ring is formed with internal teeth that mesh with the outside of the seat rotation element.

[0021] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism comprises a central wheel having an axis coinciding with a central axis and a fixed position relative to the lower part, at least when the moving mechanism is operational, and a belt connecting the seat rotation element and the central wheel, thereby causing the seat having the seat rotation element to rotate eccentrically with respect to the central axis, the belt moving and influencing the rotation of the seat rotation element and the seat around the seat rotation axis.

[0022] In some embodiments, a rotatable automotive safety seat includes a soft lock mechanism that can operate to stabilize the seat at a predetermined orientation angle along a circular trajectory while it is rotating.

[0023] In some embodiments, a rotatable vehicle safety seat includes a locking mechanism operable to secure a seat having a seat rotation element to a lower portion, the locking mechanism configured to at least unlock the seat rotation element from the lower portion and enable rotation of the seat having the seat rotation element relative to the lower portion.

[0024] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism - a first unlocked state in which the movement mechanism is operable to enable rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element about a central rotation axis of the lower portion while the locking mechanism prevents rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element about the seat rotation axis, - a second unlocked state in which the seat having the seat rotation element is free to rotate about the seat rotation axis and the movement mechanism is operable to convert rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element about the seat rotation axis into rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element about the central rotation axis and vice versa, and is operable to selectively enable.

[0025] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is configured to enable rotation of the seat having the seat rotation element relative to the lower portion in one direction while preventing rotation of the seat having the seat rotation element relative to the lower portion in the opposite direction.

[0026] According to a second aspect, a rotatable vehicle safety seat comprising an upper portion including a seat configured to accommodate a child, a lower portion configured to be attached to a passenger seat of a vehicle, a movement mechanism operable to enable rotation of the upper portion relative to the lower portion, A locking mechanism operable to fix an upper part to a lower part, comprising a locking mechanism configured to unlock a seat from the lower part, enable rotation of the seat in one direction with respect to the lower part, and prevent rotation of the seat in the opposite direction with respect to the lower part, is provided with a rotatable vehicle safety seat.

[0027] The safety of children, other passengers sitting next to the children, and the caregiver is of utmost importance. The rotatable safety seat includes a locking mechanism that prevents sudden and unintended rotation in a direction not desired by the caregiver while the seat is being rotated in a desired direction.

[0028] According to a third aspect, a rotatable vehicle safety seat, An upper part, comprising a seat configured to accommodate a child, and a seat rotation element fixedly connected to the seat so as to be able to rotate with the seat about a seat rotation axis; A lower part, configured to be attached to a passenger seat of a vehicle and having a central rotation axis spaced apart from the seat rotation axis; A movement mechanism operable to enable rotational movement of a seat having a seat rotation element connected to the seat rotation element and the lower part and centered on the seat rotation axis, and rotational movement of a seat having a seat rotation element centered on the central rotation axis; A locking mechanism configured to at least indirectly lock the movement mechanism, and - A first unlocked state in which the movement mechanism is operable to enable rotational movement of a seat having a seat rotation element centered on the central rotation axis of the lower part, while the locking mechanism prevents rotational movement of a seat having a seat rotation element centered on the seat rotation axis; A rotatable automotive safety seat is provided, comprising: a locking mechanism that is operable to selectively enable a second unlocked state in which a seat having a seat rotation element rotates freely about a seat rotation axis, and a moving mechanism that is operable to convert the rotational movement of the seat having a seat rotation element about the seat rotation axis to the rotational movement of the seat having a seat rotation element about a central rotation axis, and vice versa.

[0029] Sometimes, for example, a caregiver sitting next to a child during a ride may want to attend to the child. It can be advantageous that the seat can be rotated so that the child is oriented perpendicular to the lower longitudinal axis and the caregiver, while not extending outward towards the rear door. Furthermore, this rotational movement around only the lower central axis can be useful when it is raining, thus preventing the child from getting wet while getting out of the car.

[0030] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism comprises a rotatable unit having a unit rotation axis aligned with a central rotation axis, and the locking mechanism is operable to lock the rotatable unit in a second unlocked state to prevent its rotation relative to the lower part, and to unlock the rotatable unit from the lower part in a first unlocked state.

[0031] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises a right handle arm and a left handle arm configured to lock the rotatable unit to the top, the handle arms terminating at release buttons located on the right and left sides of the seat, respectively, and pressing each release button releases the top from the rotatable element, allowing the seat to rotate, having a seat rotation element about both a central rotation axis and a seat rotation axis, by pulling the seat. Each of the right and left handle arms may engage with at least one tooth formed on the rotatable unit and its underside, such that the top of the right handle arm is locked to the rotatable unit in their respective directions, while the other handle arm, when released, slides freely against the rotatable unit.

[0032] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises at least one lever arm configured to lock the rotatable unit to its lower position, the lever arm terminating at a switch button located at the lower position, and pressing the switch button releases the rotatable unit from its lower position, allowing the upper part to rotate together with the rotatable unit about a central axis of rotation at the lower position. The at least one lever arm may comprise a right lever arm and a left lever arm, each terminating at a right switch button and a left switch button, respectively, and pressing each switch button allows the upper part to rotate only to the respective side about the central axis of rotation. Each of the right and left lever arms may engage with at least one tooth formed on the rotatable unit and inside it, such that the rotatable unit is locked to its lower position in its respective direction, while when the other lever arm is released, it rotates freely in the opposite direction about the central axis of rotation.

[0033] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a ratchet assembly.

[0034] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the moving mechanism is located between the seat rotation axis and the central axis.

[0035] In some embodiments, the seat rotation element and the moving mechanism form a gear assembly.

[0036] In some embodiments, the gear assembly comprises a rotatable unit, a seat rotation element, and a transition gear connected between the rotatable unit and the seat rotation element, and in a second unlocked state, the seat is rotated counterclockwise about the seat rotation axis by rotating the upper part clockwise about the central rotation axis.

[0037] In some embodiments, the sheet is initially configured to be oriented along its lower longitudinal axis, either in the driving direction or opposite to the driving direction.

[0038] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism is operable to rotate the sheet substantially perpendicular to the lower longitudinal axis.

[0039] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism is operable to rotate the top part both about the central axis and about the seat rotation axis by manually pulling the seat to either side.

[0040] In some embodiments, the movement mechanism can operate to synchronize the eccentric displacement of the seat with the distance between the foremost point of the seat and the central axis (the orientation shift of the center of the field of view of a person positioned on the seat).

[0041] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism consists of a circular element that is operable to cause eccentric displacement and orientation misalignment of the sheet, thereby changing the distance between the foremost point of the sheet and the central axis.

[0042] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism comprises a central gear having an axis coinciding with the central axis and at least a first fixed position relative to the lower part, and an intermediate transition gear that engages with the central gear and the seat rotation element.

[0043] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism includes a peripheral ring having an axis coinciding with the central axis and a fixed position relative to the lower part, the peripheral ring being formed with internal teeth that mesh with the outside of the seat rotation element.

[0044] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism includes a central wheel having an axis coinciding with a central axis and at least a first fixed position relative to the lower part, and a belt connecting the seat rotation element and the central wheel, thereby causing the belt to move by rotating the upper part eccentrically with respect to the central axis, and influencing the rotation of the seat rotation element about the seat rotation axis.

[0045] In some embodiments, a rotatable automotive safety seat includes a soft lock mechanism that can be operated to stabilize the seat at a predetermined orientation angle while the seat is rotated relative to its lower longitudinal axis.

[0046] While the explanation is specifically related to child car safety seats, it should be understood that the presented subject matter is not limited to that and can be applied to other swivel / rotatable seats, such as general swivel seats both inside and outside cars. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0047] Embodiments are described herein, only as non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in order to better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it can actually be carried out.

[0048] [Figure 1A] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1B] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1C] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1D] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1E] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1F] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1G1] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1G2] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1G3] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1G4] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1H] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1I] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1J] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1K] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1L1] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 1L2] A first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 2A1]The present disclosure illustrates a non-limiting example of a moving mechanism incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, configured for eccentric rotation and orientational displacement of the seat by changing the distance of the seat's foremost point from the central axis. [Figure 2A2] The present disclosure illustrates a non-limiting example of a moving mechanism incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, configured for eccentric rotation and orientational displacement of the seat by changing the distance of the seat's foremost point from the central axis. [Figure 2B1] The present disclosure illustrates a non-limiting example of a moving mechanism incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, configured for eccentric rotation and orientational displacement of the seat by changing the distance of the seat's foremost point from the central axis. [Figure 2B2] The present disclosure illustrates a non-limiting example of a moving mechanism incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, configured for eccentric rotation and orientational displacement of the seat by changing the distance of the seat's foremost point from the central axis. [Figure 3A1] A non-limiting example of a locking system incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 3A2] A non-limiting example of a locking system incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 3A3] A non-limiting example of a locking system incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 3A4] A non-limiting example of a locking system incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 3A5] A non-limiting example of a locking system incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 3A6] A non-limiting example of a locking system incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 3A7]A non-limiting example of a locking system incorporated into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 4A] A second, non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated, which includes a moving mechanism capable of both eccentric and centripetal rotation of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism. [Figure 4B] A second, non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated, which includes a moving mechanism capable of both eccentric and centripetal rotation of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism. [Figure 4C] A second, non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated, which includes a moving mechanism capable of both eccentric and centripetal rotation of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism. [Figure 4D] A second, non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated, which includes a moving mechanism capable of both eccentric and centripetal rotation of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism. [Figure 4E] A second, non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated, which includes a moving mechanism capable of both eccentric and centripetal rotation of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism. [Figure 4F] A second, non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated, which includes a moving mechanism capable of both eccentric and centripetal rotation of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism. [Figure 5A] A soft lock mechanism for integration into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 5B] A soft lock mechanism for integration into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 5C] A soft lock mechanism for integration into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 5D] A soft lock mechanism for integration into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 5E]A soft lock mechanism for integration into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 5F] A soft lock mechanism for integration into a rotatable automotive safety seat, as described in the subject matter of this disclosure, is illustrated. [Figure 6A-6B] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6C] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6D] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6E] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6F] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6G] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6H] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6I] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6J]Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6K] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6L] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6M] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Figure 6N] Further non-limiting examples of rotatable automotive safety seats, including a moving mechanism that allows for eccentric rotation and orientation displacement of the seat, and a corresponding locking mechanism, are illustrated. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0049] According to a first aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure, a rotatable automotive safety seat, The upper part comprises a seat that is the upper part, having a foremost point and configured to accommodate a child, and a seat rotation element having a fixed connection to the seat so as to be rotatable with the seat about a seat rotation axis, A lower part having a longitudinal direction and a central axis spaced apart from the seat rotation axis, configured to be attached to a passenger seat of an automobile, A rotatable automotive safety seat is provided, comprising a moving mechanism connected to a seat rotation element and capable of converting the rotation of the seat rotation element about a seat rotation axis into the movement of the seat rotation element along a circular orbit about a central axis, and vice versa, thereby ensuring that when the seat is rotated by the user, the seat is moved eccentrically with respect to the central axis together with the seat rotation element and rotated simultaneously about the seat rotation axis, thereby continuously changing the distance between the foremost point of the seat and the central axis.

[0050] Refer to Figures 1A to 1L2 illustrating a first non-limiting example of a rotatable automotive safety seat 100 as constituted by the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0051] As shown, the rotatable seat 100 includes an upper part 110, a lower part 120, and a moving mechanism 130 that is operable to allow the rotatable seat to rotate.

[0052] As specifically shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the upper section 110 includes a seat 112 and a seat rotation element 114. The seat 112 has a foremost point FMP and is configured to accommodate a child. The seat rotation element 114 is fixedly attached to the seat 112 on the bottom side of the seat and therefore rotates with the seat as a single part when the seat is rotated by the user, as will be further described below. The seat 112 to which the seat rotation element 114 is attached is typically rotatable about a seat rotation axis SA, which is the axis of symmetry of the seat rotation element 114. Thus, since they are fixedly attached to each other, whenever it is mentioned that the seat is rotated / rotated, the same movement is applied to the seat rotation element, and vice versa.

[0053] The lower section 120 is configured to be attached to a passenger seat of a vehicle, such as the rear seat of a vehicle, which has a longitudinal direction (the direction of travel). As shown in Figure 1G, the lower section 120 has a central axis CA spaced apart from the seat rotation axis SA, a longitudinal axis LOA, and a transverse axis LAA. The central axis CA may, but may not, be the axis of symmetry of the lower section 120. The longitudinal axis LOA is the axis of symmetry that passes along the length of the lower section and typically coincides with the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The transverse axis LAA is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LOA, and both are located in a horizontal plane substantially parallel to and defining the plane defined by the passenger seat of the vehicle to which the lower section 120 is attached.

[0054] The rotatable automotive safety seat 100 includes a moving mechanism connected to a seat rotation element 114 and operable to rotate the seat rotation element 114 and the seat 112 in a horizontal plane.

[0055] To make it clear, for example, in Figure 1D, the sheet 112 and other parts described below are shown transparently to reveal the sheet rotation element 114 and the moving mechanism 130 connected to the sheet rotation element 114 (both located below the sheet 112). Note that the moving mechanism can be configured in various ways, as will be further described below with reference to Figures 2A-2B. A first non-limiting example of the moving mechanism, referred to as moving mechanism 130A, is described in Figures 1A-1L.

[0056] As shown in Figures 1G1 to 1G4, the rotatable automotive safety seat 100 is typically oriented either forward (as shown in Figure 1G1) or backward (as shown in Figure 1G2) with respect to the longitudinal direction (driving direction) of the vehicle, which basically coincides with the longitudinal axis LOA direction.

[0057] The moving mechanism is operable to rotate the sheet (and the sheet rotation element 114) eccentrically around the central axis CA. Thus, as seen in Figure 1H, for example, compared to Figure 1D, the sheet rotation element 114 and the sheet 112 fixedly connected to it are displaced by rotating counterclockwise with respect to the central axis CA, as shown by arrow AR1. If this is the only rotational movement that occurs, the sheet is oriented outwards from the paper, for example toward the left rear door of the car facing the central axis CA. However, as described above, the moving mechanism is also operable to rotate the sheet rotation element 114 and the sheet 112 fixedly connected to it, so that the sheet 112 moves away from the central axis CA, for example toward the right rear door of the car, when at least both are rotated clockwise as shown by arrow AR2.

[0058] The moving mechanism is operable to rotate the seat and seat rotation element a full 360° turn. While the seat rotation element rotates 360° eccentrically clockwise / counterclockwise around the central axis CA, the seat rotates 360° centrally counterclockwise / clockwise around the seat rotation axis SA, in addition to its eccentric rotation. In particular, the moving mechanism is operable to rotate the seat toward the right rear door (e.g., the right-facing position shown in Figures 1F and 1G3) or toward the left rear door (e.g., the left-facing position shown in Figure 1G4). ​​Each of the positions in Figures 1G3 and 1G4 can be reached by starting from either the forward-facing or rearward-facing position shown in Figures 1G1 and 1G2, respectively. Thus, the moving mechanism is operable to rotate the seat substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and the lower longitudinal axis (90 degrees toward either of the rear doors).

[0059] Exploded views showing the main components of the rotatable seat 100 are shown in Figures 1H and 1I, respectively, with respect to the seat's default forward-facing and right-side-facing orientations. As shown, the rotatable seat assembly includes (from bottom to top): a lower 120 including a lower base 120B and an upper base 120A; a cavity 122 formed in the upper base 120A, configured to house a moving mechanism 130; a moving mechanism 130 including a first component 130A and an intermediate rotating unit 136; a seat rotating element 114 connected to the moving mechanism 130A; a rotatable cover 126; and a seat 112 having a foremost point FMP.

[0060] The upper base 120A includes a backrest 120A1 configured to abut against the back of a passenger seat. The upper base also includes a cavity 122 that houses at least a portion of the moving mechanism 130A. The upper base 120A may also include a cavity that houses a seat rotation element 114. The cavity conceals the moving mechanism and / or seat rotation element, keeping them out of the reach of passengers, thereby providing safety to both the passenger on one side and the moving mechanism / seat rotation element on the other side. Specifically, as in the example described herein, the upper base 120 has a single cavity 122 that houses the seat rotation element 114 and the moving mechanism 130A. A locking disc 114D is positioned above the seat rotation element 114 and the portion of the moving mechanism 130A, maintaining their spatial position relative to each other inside the cavity 122.

[0061] The intermediate rotation unit 136 is located above the seat rotation element 114 and the moving mechanism 130A. The intermediate rotation unit 136 has a first hole 1361H through which the seat rotation element 114 passes, connecting to the seat 112 on its upper side and to the moving mechanism 130A on its lower side. A second hole 1362H in the intermediate rotation unit 136 connects to the central trajectory CL located on the central axis CA. Thus, the nominal distance between the intermediate rotation unit 136, specifically between holes 1361H and 1362H, defines the distance between the seat rotation axis SA and the central axis CA, and consequently defines the circular trajectory at the position of the seat rotation axis SA, where the position of the central axis CA is the center of the circular trajectory. As shown, the intermediate rotating unit 136 includes a plurality of wheels 136W on the outer circumference to facilitate and / or stabilize the rotation of the intermediate rotating unit 136 inside the cavity 122, and the wheels 136W travel along a defined path 122R along the outside of the cavity. Note that the structure of the intermediate rotating unit is not necessarily as shown, and other shapes can be used in the same way. In one simple example, the intermediate rotating unit has an arm / beam / rod shape with through holes that allow the intermediate rotating unit to be connected to a central trajectory located on the central axis and to a sheet rotating element on the sheet rotation axis. The intermediate rotating unit may extend to the outer circumference of the cavity and may have one or more wheels that travel along a predetermined circular path on the outer circumference of the cavity.

[0062] The cover 126 is configured to safely conceal the moving mechanism inside the cavity of the upper base. The cover also has a hole 126H that allows the seat rotation element 114 to be connected to the seat 112.

[0063] From Figure 1I, it can be seen that when the sheet 112 is rotated to the right, the intermediate rotating unit 136 and the cover 126 rotate counterclockwise together with the sheet rotating element 114. Also, as described above, the sheet rotation axis SA moved along the circular trajectory together with the sheet rotating element 114 and the sheet 112.

[0064] The mobility mechanism is configured to be operated manually. Specifically, the mobility mechanism allows the user to rotate the seat 112 and the seat rotation element 114 by manually pulling the seat towards themselves. The mobility mechanism is also configured for one-handed operation. The user pulls the seat with one hand to pull and rotate the seat at the same time, similar to opening a car door. This frees up the second hand, so that the user can carry the child, place the child in the seat, take the child out of the seat, and rotate the seat backward to the default forward-facing or rear-facing position.

[0065] The moving mechanism is connected to the seat rotation element 114 and is capable of converting the rotation of the seat rotation element 114 about the seat rotation axis SA into the movement of the seat rotation element 114 along a circular orbit about the central axis CA, and vice versa. In other words, the moving mechanism also converts the movement of the seat rotation element 114 along a circular orbit about the central axis CA into the rotation of the seat rotation element 114 about the seat rotation axis SA. This ensures that when the seat 112 is rotated by the user, the moving mechanism, together with the seat rotation element 114, moves eccentrically with respect to the central axis CA (along a circular orbit) and rotates simultaneously about the seat rotation axis SA, thereby continuously changing the distance between the foremost point FMP of the seat and the central axis CA. This is illustrated, for example, in Figures 1J and 1K, which represent the front and rightward orientations, respectively. As shown in Figure 1(j), the distance between the foremost point FMP and the central axis CA is D1, and as shown in Figure 1K, the distance between the foremost point FMP and the central axis CA is D2, which is greater than D1. In fact, the maximum distance between the foremost point FMP and the central axis CA occurs when the sheet is oriented to the right or left, and the minimum distance occurs when the sheet is oriented to the front or rear.

[0066] As can be understood, the moving mechanism is capable of rotating the sheet, which has a sheet rotation element, around the central axis CA when the sheet is positioned at any point along a circular trajectory between forward and backward orientations, thereby displacing the sheet with the sheet rotation element eccentrically with respect to the central axis CA, and rotating the sheet around the sheet rotation axis SA, thereby shifting the orientation of the sheet away from the central axis CA. Thus, the moving mechanism is configured to synchronize the eccentric displacement with respect to the central axis CA and the orientation shift of the sheet, i.e., to change the distance between the foremost point of the sheet and the central axis. The eccentric rotation of the sheet around the central axis CA and the central rotation around the sheet rotation axis SA are operated simultaneously in a synchronous manner. The eccentric rotation affects the central rotation, and vice versa. Both rotational movements are interconnected and synchronized. This characteristic makes it even easier to manually pull and rotate the sheet with one hand in a single motion.

[0067] In some embodiments, the moving mechanism includes a circular element that is operable to cause eccentric displacement of the sheet with respect to the central axis and to change the distance between the frontmost point of the sheet and the central axis. In particular, the moving mechanism includes only a circular, symmetrically rotatable element. This configuration allows for easier manufacturing and a more robust structure and performance. Thus, the eccentric displacement and orientation misalignment of the sheet are achieved by the rotational movement of the elements of the moving mechanism, specifically by circular rotational movement that affects, for example, the angular and lateral displacement of the front edge or center point of the sheet. This is the case for the moving mechanism 130A shown in Figures 1A to 1L.

[0068] In Figure 1L1, the seat is in a forward-facing position, and in Figure 1L2, the seat is rotated 90 degrees to the right. The moving mechanism 130A includes a gear assembly that includes a first central gear 132A and a second lateral gear 134A connected thereto. The second gear 134A is connected to a seat rotation element 114, which in this example is also configured as a gear. Essentially, all three gears are located in a plane substantially horizontal and parallel to the lower plane. The central gear 132A has a central axis that coincides with the central axis CA and is stationary so as not to rotate, i.e., it has a fixed position relative to the lower 120. The second gear 134A acts as an intermediate gear that engages with the central gear 132A and the seat rotation element 114. As can be understood, when the seat rotation element 114 rotates clockwise, the second gear 134A rotates counterclockwise, and vice versa. Similarly, when the second gear 134A rotates counterclockwise, the seat rotation element rotates clockwise. Since the first central gear 132A is stationary, the second gear 134A slides over the first gear 132A in a counterclockwise direction with respect to the central axis CA, thereby rotating eccentrically with respect to the central axis CA in a counterclockwise direction. This causes the seat rotation element 114 to approach the right rear door of the automobile until the seat rotation element passes π / 2 radians, as illustrated in Figure 1L2. The moving mechanism 130A allows for both eccentric movement around the central axis CA and synchronous movement around the seat rotation axis SA. In one particular example, the ratio between the two rotational movements is 1:2, i.e., for each eccentric angular displacement X of the seat having the seat rotation element with respect to the central axis, the seat rotates by an angle of 2X around the seat rotation axis. This can be achieved by providing a second gear and a first gear having twice the diameter of the seat rotation element.

[0069] The examples shown in Figures 1L1 to 1L2 use three gears that interact with each other to enable simultaneous eccentric and self-rotating movement of the seat, but more than four gears can be used, some of which are used intermediately between the seat rotation element and the central gear, mainly to synchronize rotational movement between different gears, and it is understood that when the seat is pulled to the right (from the starting position when viewed in the forward direction), the seat rotates clockwise around the seat rotation axis and counterclockwise around the central axis, and when pulled to the left, it rotates in the opposite direction. In a non-limiting example, the movement mechanism includes four gears, and the seat rotation element has internal teeth that mesh with the external teeth of a second gear that mesh with the external teeth of a third gear that mesh with the external teeth of a third gear that mesh with the external teeth of a central gear.

[0070] As mentioned above, seats typically have an orientation that faces either forward or backward relative to the direction of travel. In other words, the default orientation is one in which the line connecting the central axis and the seat rotation axis is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0071] Additionally, the seat has the maximum rotational orientation when the aforementioned line is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. In other words, the maximum rotational orientation occurs when the seat is oriented to the right or left. When the seat is in the maximum rotational orientation, the distance between the foremost point FMP of the seat and the central axis CA is maximum.

[0072] As already mentioned, the moving mechanism can operate to convert the clockwise rotation of the seat rotation element and the seat around the seat rotation axis into counterclockwise movement of the seat rotation element and the seat along a circular orbit around the central axis, and vice versa.

[0073] Herein, we refer to Figures 2A–2B illustrating different non-limiting examples of the rotatable automotive safety seat moving mechanism of the subject matter of this disclosure. Note that a cover and an intermediate rotation unit can be used with the rest of the moving mechanism shown, although not necessarily shown specifically in all figures. Figures 2A1–2A2 illustrate a second non-limiting example of the moving mechanism 130B constructed by the subject matter described herein. As seen in the figures, an upper bottom side including a seat 112 and a seat rotation element 114 fixedly connected to the seat 112 so as to rotate with the seat about a seat rotation axis SA are shown. Also shown are a cover 126 and an intermediate rotation unit 136 located between the seat 112 and the seat rotation element 114. The moving mechanism 130B, like the central gear 132A in the moving mechanism 130A, includes a central wheel / gear 132B that is positioned inside the cavity in the lower part 120 and has a central axis aligned with the central axis CA, and is stationary so as not to rotate during the eccentric rotation of the seat 112 and seat rotation element 114 around the central axis CA, i.e., it has a fixed position relative to the lower part 120.

[0074] The central wheel 132B and the seat rotation element 114 are connected by a timing belt 134B, as specifically shown in Figure 2B2. All three elements (seat rotation element, central wheel, and timing belt) are located in a plane substantially horizontal and parallel to the lower plane.

[0075] As can be understood, rotating the seat 112, which has the seat rotation element 114 eccentrically with respect to the central axis CA, moves the timing belt 134B, which affects the rotation of the seat rotation element 114 and the seat 112 around the seat rotation axis SA, and vice versa. In other words, the timing belt 134B works in the opposite way, starting to move when the seat having the seat rotation element is rotated around the seat rotation axis SA, causing the seat to rotate eccentrically around the central axis CA. This ensures that when the seat is rotated by the user, the seat, together with the seat rotation element, is moved eccentrically with respect to the central axis CA and rotated simultaneously around the seat rotation axis, thereby ensuring that the distance between the foremost point FMP of the seat and the central axis CA changes precisely and continuously as described above.

[0076] As described above, in some embodiments, the diameter ratio between the seat rotation element 114 and the central wheel 132B is 1:2 in order to synchronize the eccentric movement about the central axis with the self-centering movement about the seat rotation axis.

[0077] Figures 2B1 to 2B2 illustrate a third non-limiting example of the moving mechanism 130C constructed according to the subject matter described herein. As seen in the figures, the peripheral ring 132C, having a central axis coinciding with the central axis CA and a fixed position relative to the lower part 120, has internal teeth 1322C that mesh with the outer teeth 1142C of the seat rotation element 114. When the seat is rotated eccentrically about the central axis CA with the seat rotation element 114, assisted by the intermediate rotation unit 136, the seat rotation element 114 and the seat 112 also begin to rotate about the seat rotation axis due to the meshing between the internal and external teeth on the peripheral ring 132C and the seat rotation element 114, respectively. Therefore, a seat having a seat rotation element is rotated eccentrically about a central axis CA and centrally about a seat rotation axis SA, thereby ensuring that when the seat is rotated by the user, the seat is moved eccentrically with respect to the central axis and rotated simultaneously about the seat rotation axis, thereby ensuring that the distance between the foremost point FMP of the seat and the central axis CA changes precisely and continuously as described above. In some embodiments, the diameter ratio between the seat rotation element 114 and the peripheral ring 132C is 1:2 in order to synchronize the eccentric movement about the central axis and the self-centered movement about the seat rotation axis.

[0078] In some embodiments, a rotatable automotive safety seat includes a locking mechanism that is operable to lock the seat in a downward position. The locking mechanism is configured to selectively unlock the seat from the downward position, allowing the seat to rotate relative to the downward position (together with the seat rotation element).

[0079] Refer to Figures 3A1 to 3A7, which illustrate non-limiting examples of locking mechanisms 140A comprised of the subject matter described herein.

[0080] The locking mechanism 140A allows the seat 114 to be easily released from the lower part 120 using only one hand. This frees up the second hand for other actions, such as carrying a child. In the described example, unlocking the seat is easily operated by release buttons 1422A and 1424A located on the right and left sides of the seat 114. Each release button is pressed to release the seat from the lower part, allowing it to be pulled and rotated to one side. Thus, by pressing the right button 1422A, the seat can be pulled and rotated to the right, and by pressing the left button 1424A, the seat can be pulled and rotated to the left. In one particular example, the locking mechanism, like the locking mechanism 140A, is configured to allow the seat to be pulled and rotated in one direction relative to the lower part, while preventing the seat from rotating in the opposite direction relative to the lower part. This makes the operation of the seat safer.

[0081] As shown, the release buttons are connected to the right handle arm 1442A and the left handle arm 1444A, which are operable to lock the seat 112 to the lower part 120 and to unlock the seat from the lower part 120. The handle arms pass through the corresponding holes 1122A and 1124A in the seat 112, and thus confine the seat 112 to a portion of the lower part 120.

[0082] Each handle arm terminates on its underside having teeth 1462A configured to engage with at least one corresponding recess 1262A, 1264A (two right and two left recesses are shown in Figure 3A4) located within or communicating with the lower part, so as to prevent the seat from moving relative to the lower part. In this specific example, the recesses are formed in the projection 136P of the intermediate rotating unit 136, as seen in Figure 3A3, but may be formed in another part. When the release button is pushed inward as shown by arrow AR4, the torsion spring 1482A moves the teeth outward, unlocking the seat from the lower part as shown by arrow AR3.

[0083] Figures 3A3 to 3A7 illustrate the unlocking of the seat for rotation to the right. The lower part 120 includes a cover 126 that conceals the moving mechanism and is located below the seat 112. The cover 126 has an opening 126H that allows connection between the seat rotation element 114 (located below the cover 126 at the same level as the moving mechanism) and the seat 112 located above the cover 126. The cover 126 and the intermediate rotation unit rotate together with the seat rotation element 114 about a central axis CA. This is illustrated by arrow AR5 in Figure 3A6, and it is understood that the cover and the intermediate rotation unit (including recesses 1262A and 1264A) rotate counterclockwise when the seat is rotated clockwise toward the right. Also, the left recess 1264A does not stop the rotation of the cover, intermediate rotation unit, and seat even when the left release button is not pressed.

[0084] As seen in Figure 3A5, when the right release button is pressed, the tooth 1462A is released / disengaged from the recess 1262A, allowing the seat to rotate to the right. As can be understood, the left recess 1264A is constructed and oriented to allow the seat to rotate to the right and the cover 126 to rotate counterclockwise without the need to actively release the tooth 1464A by pressing the left release button. Thus, the locking mechanism 140A allows the seat to rotate in the opposite direction while locking it in the lower position in one direction. The seat is immobile only when both handle arms are locked, and the seat is rotatable to the first side, and rotation to the second side is prevented when only the handle arm on the first side is released. In other words, the locking mechanism 140A may include a ratchet assembly that allows rotation to one side while preventing rotation to the other side. When the user releases the seat by pressing the right release button, the seat can be rotated to the right. After a short distance to the right, if the user pushes the seat back to the left, the seat is locked by the engagement of the left tooth 1464A and the left recess 1264A.

[0085] Figure 3A7 illustrates the seat 112 when fully rotated to the right. It is understood that when the seat rotation element rotates counterclockwise around the central axis, the cover and intermediate rotation unit rotate simultaneously to the left.

[0086] Please note that while the operation and deactivation of the locking mechanism 140A are performed and operated by mechanical means in the example described, they can also be operated by other means, such as electronically.

[0087] The rotatable automotive safety seat of the subject matter of this disclosure may include a movement mechanism that allows the aforementioned eccentric movement of the seat with respect to the lower central axis, along with deviation from there (changing the distance of the seat's foremost point from the central axis), and that allows additional relative movement between the upper (seat and seat rotation element) and the lower (lower base and upper base). Thereafter, the movement mechanism includes multiple operating schemes. In a first operating scheme, the movement mechanism is operable to rotate the seat both about the lower central rotation axis and about the seat rotation axis, as described above. In a second scheme, the movement mechanism is operable to rotate the upper (including the seat and seat rotation element) and additional elements (cover and intermediate rotation unit) about the central axis only. The rotatable automotive safety seat is provided with a locking mechanism that allows selective unlocking of different elements / parts of the lower and upper to enable the aforementioned movement schemes.

[0088] Non-limiting examples of the rotatable automotive safety seat 100A refer to Figures 4A to 4F illustrated. The automotive safety seat 100A can, for example, rotate eccentrically from a lower central axis in one movement scheme, as shown in Figures 1A to 2B, or, in a second movement scheme, rotate selectively about the lower central axis without changing the distance of the foremost point of the seat from the central axis CA.

[0089] The rotatable automotive safety seat 100A includes a moving mechanism and a locking mechanism that are operable to selectively enable the two moving / rotating schemes described above. As shown in Figure 4B, the non-limiting moving mechanism 1302 described may be configured at least in part similarly to the moving mechanism 130A, but having additional characteristics as described below herein. However, it will be understood that moving mechanisms 130B and 130C, although not specifically illustrated, may also be adjusted / modified to add additional characteristics and moving schemes. Thus, it will also be understood that the moving mechanisms 130A-130C described above may be modified to include additional characteristics.

[0090] As shown in Figure 4B, the seat 112 is rotated to the right without deviating from the central axis CA, and the seat 112 remains above the central axis CA and oriented toward the central axis CA, thereby maintaining the distance D3 between the foremost point FMP and the central axis, as shown in Figures 4E to 4F. In the example described, the central gear 132A is not fixed to the lower part 120, but can rotate relative to the lower part 120 about the central axis CA. Thus, the central gear 132A is referred to herein as a rotatable unit. The upper part 110, including the seat and the seat rotation element 114, the cover, and the intermediate rotation unit (neither of which are visible in Figure 4B) are all fixed to the central gear (rotatable unit) 132A and can rotate with it.

[0091] The locking mechanism is configured to selectively unlock the rotatable unit from the upper and lower bases while keeping it locked to the seat, seat rotation element, cover, and intermediate rotation unit (hereinafter collectively referred to as the upper part), allowing it to rotate around its own axis, which coincides with the central axis. As a result, the upper part rotates with it, its orientation is maintained toward the central axis, and the seat rotates while the distance between the foremost point and the central axis is maintained. Alternatively, the locking mechanism can selectively unlock the rotatable unit from the upper part while keeping it locked to the lower base, thereby preventing the rotatable unit from rotating around its own axis, while allowing the upper part to rotate eccentrically around the central axis, causing the seat and seat rotation element to rotate around the seat rotation axis as described above.

[0092] In the example described, the locking mechanism 1402 includes two locking sub-mechanisms. The first sub-mechanism is the locking mechanism 140A configured as described above, which is operable to lock and unlock the upper parts of the rotatable units, i.e., the central gear 132A, thereby fixing them as described above, or to allow them to rotate both about the central axis CA and about the seat rotation axis SA.

[0093] The second sub-mechanism is a locking mechanism 140B that locks and unlocks the rotatable unit (central gear 132A) from below, thereby disabling or enabling its central rotation together with the upper part around the central axis CA.

[0094] As shown in Figures 4B to 4D, the locking mechanism 140B includes two lever arms, a right lever arm 1442B and a left lever arm 1444B, configured to lock the rotatable unit 132A to the lower part 120. The lever arms terminate at switch buttons 1422B and 1424B located on the lower right and left sides, respectively, and the lever arms include teeth (1462B and 1464B) configured to engage with the rotatable unit on the inside.

[0095] In the example described, the operating mode of the locking mechanism 140B is the same as that of the locking mechanism 140A. Pressing each switch button releases the rotatable unit from the lower part on each side, allowing the upper part to rotate together with the rotatable unit about the central axis CA of the lower part on each side. Each of the right and left lever arms engages with at least one recess formed in the rotatable unit and its interior, such as the recess 1262B engaged by the teeth 1462B of the right lever arm 1442B, in such a manner that the rotatable unit is locked to the lower part in each direction, while when the other lever arm is released, it rotates freely in the opposite direction about the central axis. In other words, the locking mechanism 140B also includes a ratchet mechanism.

[0096] As can be seen from Figure 4D, when the right lever arm 1442B engages with the recess 1262B, it does not lock the rotatable unit to the left (counterclockwise), but only to the right (clockwise). Although not specifically shown, the reverse is also true. When the left lever arm 1444B engages with its respective recess, it does not lock the rotatable unit to the right (counterclockwise), but only to the left (clockwise). Therefore, in order to rotate the upper part together with the cover and the rotatable unit, one of the two lever arms must be released in each direction.

[0097] In some embodiments, the rotatable automotive safety seat of the subject matter of this disclosure includes a soft-lock mechanism that is operable to stabilize the seat at a predetermined orientation angle defining an intermediate position between a forward-facing position and a rearward-facing position while the seat is rotating around a lower longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the intermediate position also includes a forward-facing position and a rearward-facing position. This is useful for managing the safety seat without the need to frequently unlock the seat when it is in an intermediate position, such as when rotating perpendicularly toward the right or left rear door of the vehicle. The soft-lock mechanism stabilizes (temporarily locks) the seat in an intermediate position and allows the safety seat to be unlocked from the intermediate position by lightly pushing or pulling the seat in a desired direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) without requiring further action such as pressing a button.

[0098] Refer to Figures 5A to 5F, which illustrate non-limiting examples of the soft lock mechanism 150 according to the subject matter disclosed herein.

[0099] The soft lock mechanism 150 rotates with the seat and is configured to lock the seat at a predetermined angle during rotation. For example, the soft lock is achieved at angles of 0, 90, 180, 270 (or -90) degrees relative to the original orientation (which is forward or rearward orientation along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle). Thus, the soft lock mechanism has a fixed spatial relationship with respect to the rotatable seat. In the example described, the soft lock mechanism 150 is mounted on the side of the intermediate rotation unit 136 that rotates with the seat as described above.

[0100] The soft lock mechanism employs a reversible mechanism that enables automatic locking and unlocking without the need to press a button to unlock. In the example described, the soft lock mechanism 150 includes a spring 152 that is compressed when the soft lock mechanism reaches the lock point, and although it is partially relaxed, it remains compressed, as will be further described below.

[0101] The soft lock mechanism terminates with a wheel 154 that allows the seat to be unlocked from the soft lock point by applying a pushing or pulling force to the seat along its rotational path.

[0102] As shown, the locking point 158 ​​is configured as a hole / recess in the lower cavity into which the wheel 154 enters as the seat rotates as a result of the compressed spring being released outward.

[0103] Figures 5D to 5F illustrate the bottom views of the seat in three soft-lock positions. Figure 5D shows the seat in the rearward position, where the soft-lock mechanism locks the seat at lock point 158A. Figure 5E shows the seat in the lateral right position, where the soft-lock mechanism locks the seat at lock point 158B. Figure 5F shows the seat in the lateral left position, where the soft-lock mechanism locks the seat at lock point 158C. Note that, here as well, the cover 126 and the intermediate rotation unit 136 rotate in the opposite direction to the seat. For example, when the seat rotates counterclockwise from the rearward position (Figure 5D) to the right position (Figure 5E), the cover 126 and the intermediate rotation unit 136 rotate clockwise, unlocking from lock point 158A and locking at lock point 158B.

[0104] The attached drawings illustrate the soft lock mechanism, which, when the sheet rotates eccentrically around its central axis, changes the distance of the sheet's foremost point from the central axis, causing the sheet to shift (to the left and right) from the central axis. It is understood that the soft lock mechanism can be equally applied to the sheet's central rotation (as shown in Figures 4A to 4D).

[0105] Here, we refer to Figures 6A to 6N, which illustrate another embodiment of a rotatable automotive safety seat utilizing the subject principle described herein. Specifically, the embodiments described below herein relate to a safety seat incorporating a moving mechanism (which may be referred to below herein as a "rotating assembly") similar to the moving mechanism described in Figures 1A to 2A2. In addition, a locking mechanism having substantially the same function as the locking mechanism described in Figures 3A1 to 3A7 is described.

[0106] Figures 6A to 6N illustrate simplified exemplary diagrams of a rotatable safety seat 300 for a vehicle. As shown, the safety seat 300 includes a seat portion 102 configured to seat a child. The seat portion 102 may be mounted on a base portion 104, and in some embodiments, may be fixed to the base portion 104. The base portion 104 may be fixed to an existing vehicle seat. The safety seat 300 may include a rotating assembly 310 (Figure 6A) configured to simultaneously rotate the seat portion 102 eccentrically around a central trajectory 314 (Figure 6C) defining the central axis of the base portion 104, thereby changing the distance between the foremost point of the seat FMP and the central axis (therefore, the seat is shifted away from the central trajectory 314).

[0107] The base portion 104 may be constructed together with the rotating assembly 310 and may be adaptable to accommodate multiple types of safety seats, such as safety seats that increase in size as the child grows.

[0108] The chair portion 102 is mounted on the base portion 104. In some embodiments, the base portion 104 may include a bottom base 320 covered by an opening cover 326 and a base cover 124. The bottom base 320, the opening cover 326, and the base cover 124 may be connected to the chair portion 102 by a chair support 128.

[0109] In some embodiments, the opening cover 326 and / or the base cover 324 and any other elements of the safety sheet 300 may be formed to interlock with other elements to prevent any part of a child's body from being trapped inside, thereby minimizing recesses. For example, the opening cover 326 may be formed by an interlocking engagement with the bottom base 320.

[0110] The rotating assembly 310 is shown to be housed within the bottom base 320, but in some embodiments, the rotating assembly 310 may be located in any other preferred location. As seen in Figures 6A–6B, the rotating assembly 310 may include a central axis 330 aligned with a central trajectory 314. An intermediate rotating unit in the form of a rotating arm 134 is mounted on the central axis 330 via a connecting projection 135 (Figure 6C) and extends to a rim 336 of a central opening 138 formed in the bottom base 320. The seat portion 104 is rotated eccentrically by the rotating arm 134 by an eccentric shaft 340 mounted on a bearing 144. The bearing 144 may protrude from the rotating arm 134 and be positioned eccentrically from the central trajectory 314. In some embodiments, a support wheel 146 (Figure 6C) may be provided to support the rotating arm 134.

[0111] In the shown embodiment, the rotating arm 134 can make a full rotation within the rim 336 by means of a central wheel 350 supported by a central axis 330. The rotating arm 134 may also be mounted on a peripheral wheel 354 that forms a seat rotation element (it is fixedly connected to the chair section 102 and rotates with it about the chair rotation axis), and it may be confined to the central wheel 350 by a timing belt 358. As can be understood, this is similar to the moving mechanism 130B described above.

[0112] In some embodiments, the diameter ratio between the peripheral wheel 354 and the central wheel 350 may be approximately 1:2 to synchronize the rotation of the arm 134. Any preferred diameter ratio may be selected, and in some embodiments, three or more wheels may be used.

[0113] The chair section 102 may be attached to the chair support section 128 via an eccentric shaft 340 inserted therein and may be generally fixed in place. Thus, the chair section 102 and the chair support section 128 (and peripheral wheels 354) rotate simultaneously around a bearing 144 which is rotated by a rotating arm 134.

[0114] The chair portion 102, together with the peripheral wheels 354, forms the upper part, and the chair portion 102 has a foremost point FMP and is configured to accommodate a child. It is understood that the peripheral wheels 354 have a fixed connection to the chair portion 102 so that they can rotate together with the chair portion 102 about the seat rotation axis SA of the chair. The lower part, formed by the base portion 104, has a central axis CA spaced apart from the seat rotation axis SA. The moving mechanism, formed by the rotation assembly 310, is connected to the peripheral wheels 354 that form the seat rotation element, and the moving mechanism is operable to convert the rotation of the seat rotation element about the seat rotation axis into the movement of the seat rotation element along a circular orbit about the central axis, and vice versa. This ensures that when the chair portion is rotated by the user, the chair portion, together with the peripheral wheels, is moved eccentrically with respect to the central axis and rotated simultaneously about the seat rotation axis, thereby continuously changing the distance between the foremost point of the chair portion and the central axis.

[0115] In some embodiments, the safety seat 300 may include an optional locking assembly 160, which includes a ratchet subassembly 166 connected to the chair portion 102 via an opening cover 326 and a base cover 324, as will be further described below.

[0116] Figures 6E to 6N are simplified exemplary diagrams of a rotatable automotive safety seat equipped with a lock assembly 160. Note that the lock mechanism 160, having a subassembly 166, may be applied in conjunction with any of the moving mechanisms described above, specifically mechanisms 130A, 130B, and 130C.

[0117] Figures 6E and 6F show the opening cover 326 and the ratchet subassembly 166 in their disassembled and assembled states, respectively. Figure 6G shows a bottom view of the assembled opening cover 326 and ratchet subassembly 166. The ratchet subassembly 166 may include an upper ratchet ring 200 and a lower ratchet ring 202 that can be mounted on the ratchet support 204. As seen in Figure 6F, the assembled ratchet subassembly 166 may surround the bearing 144, or it may be mounted on the rotating arm 134, as seen in Figure 6G.

[0118] Figure 6H illustrates a partially assembled safety seat, showing an opening cover 326 assembled with the base cover 124 and ratchet subassembly 166 of Figure 6F. The base cover 124 may include two opposing bars 206 and 208 protruding from the base cover 124 of the base portion 104. Each bar 206 and 208 may be formed with their respective levers 210 and 212, or any other suitable switch or button extending therefrom and defining the two opposing levers 210 and 212.

[0119] The levers 210 and 212 are insertable into corresponding openings 216 formed in the chair support 128, thereby trapping the chair portion 104 between them.

[0120] Figure 6I shows a partially assembled base cover 124, and Figure 6J shows an assembled lock assembly 160 including the base cover 124 together with a ratchet subassembly 166. As seen in Figure 6I, bars 206 and 208 may be connected to the base cover 124 in any preferred manner, such as flexibly via a bearing 220 and a spring 222 that allow the bar 206 or 208 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise, as indicated by arrows 224. The spring 222 can be connected to the base cover 124 in any preferred manner, such as via a pin 228. The bearing 220 may be supported by a rotating shaft 226 or in any other preferred manner.

[0121] A pawl 230 protrudes from the edge of each bar 206 and 208, configured to engage with the teeth of the ratchet subassembly 166, thereby locking the upper ratchet ring 200 or the lower ratchet ring 202. When locked, bars 206 and 208 lock levers 210 and 212, and therefore lock the chair portion 102 trapped between them. As seen in the inset of Figure 6J, the pawl 230 of the right bar 206 locks the lower ratchet ring 202 to prevent clockwise rotation, and the pawl 230 of the left bar 208 locks the upper ratchet ring 200 to prevent counterclockwise rotation. Note that the direction of rotation can be reversed.

[0122] In some embodiments, the ratchet subassembly 166 may include a single ratchet ring having three or more teeth. The lock assembly 160 may be configured to lock at any preferred angle, fewer or more than the four equally divided lock positions shown.

[0123] In some embodiments, the lock assembly 160 is formed with one degree of freedom, and therefore, to lock the chair portion 102, it is sufficient to prevent the rotation of the rotating arm 134 around the base portion 104.

[0124] Figure 6K shows the bottom base 320 (and thus the seat portion 102 mounted on the base portion 104) positioned facing forward in the orientation of the vehicle's movement and fully locked by the lock assembly 160, as shown in Figure 6J. As seen in the inset, the pawl 230 of the right bar 206 locks the lower ratchet ring 202 and thus prevents clockwise rotation, and the pawl 230 of the left bar 208 locks the upper ratchet ring 200 and thus prevents counterclockwise rotation.

[0125] Figure 6L shows the bottom base 320 in an unlocked state while rotating clockwise to the right by pushing the right lever 210 in the direction of arrow 240. As seen in the inset, the pawl 230 of the right bar 206 locks the lower ratchet ring 202 and thus prevents clockwise rotation, while the pawl 230 of the left bar 208 is released from the upper ratchet ring 200 and thus allows clockwise rotation.

[0126] The lever 210 or 212 may be replaced by any switch or button, which may be pressed by a caregiver in a window formed in the chair portion 102 or any other suitable location.

[0127] Clockwise rotation is completed until the orientation is perpendicular to the rearward orientation, as shown in Figure 6M. As seen in the inset, the pawl 230 of the right bar 206 locks the lower ratchet ring 202 and thus prevents clockwise rotation, and the pawl 230 of the left bar 208 locks the upper ratchet ring 200 and thus prevents counterclockwise rotation.

[0128] Figure 6N shows the bottom base 320 in an unlocked state while rotating clockwise to the left by further pushing the right lever 210 in the direction of arrow 240. As seen in the inset, the pawl 230 of the right bar 206 locks the lower ratchet ring 202 and thus prevents clockwise rotation, while the pawl 230 of the left bar 208 is released from the upper ratchet ring 200 and thus allows clockwise rotation.

[0129] In some embodiments, the locking system 160 may be incorporated into other swivelable systems designed to rotate. For example, the locking system 160, including the ratchet subassembly 166 or any other elements described herein, may be used in a swivel chair, a swivelable screen support, or any other swivelable system.

[0130] In some embodiments, the lock assembly 160 may be configured to lock a portion of the swivel system. The ratchet subassembly 166 may be mounted on a portion of the swivel system. The ratchet may be positioned at any preferred location within the swivel system and is configured to engage with the teeth of the ratchet subassembly 166, thereby locking the ratchet. The bar and extending arm may or may not be included.

[0131] The embodiments described in Figures 6A to 6N show a swivel assembly 310 and / or lock assembly 160 mounted within the base portion 104. It should be understood that the swivel assembly 310 and / or lock assembly 160 may be located in any suitable location within the safety seat 300, such as within the seat portion 102. In some embodiments, the swivel assembly 310 and / or lock assembly 160 may be constructed as an auxiliary unit configured to engage with an existing commercially available safety seat.

Claims

1. A rotatable automotive safety seat assembly, The upper part comprises a seat that is the upper part, has a foremost point, and is configured to accommodate a child, and a seat rotation element fixedly connected to the seat so as to be able to rotate together with the seat about a seat rotation axis, A lower part, configured to be attached to a passenger seat of an automobile, having a central rotation axis that is spaced apart from the seat rotation axis and located on the longitudinal axis of the lower part, A moving mechanism, which is operably connected to the seat rotation element and the lower part, and is operable to enable either rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element around the seat rotation axis, or rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element around the central rotation axis, A locking mechanism configured to lock the moving mechanism at least indirectly, - A first unlocked state in which the moving mechanism is operable to allow rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element around the lower central rotation axis, while the locking mechanism prevents rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element around the seat rotation axis, and so that the foremost point of the seat is maintained at a first distance from the lower central rotation axis, A rotatable automotive safety seat assembly comprising: a locking mechanism that is operable to selectively enable a second unlocked state in which the seat having the seat rotation element rotates freely at least about the seat rotation axis, thereby moving the foremost point of the seat to at least one position located at a second distance greater than the first distance from the lower central rotation axis.

2. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a rotatable unit having a unit rotation axis aligned with the central rotation axis, and the locking mechanism is operable to lock the rotatable unit in the second unlocked state to prevent its rotation relative to the lower part, and to unlock the rotatable unit from the lower part in the first unlocked state.

3. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 2, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a right handle arm and a left handle arm configured to lock the rotatable unit to the upper part, the right handle arm and the left handle arm terminate at release buttons located on the right and left sides of the seat, respectively, and pressing the respective release buttons releases the upper part from the rotatable element, allowing the seat to rotate, having the seat rotation element about both the central rotation axis and the seat rotation axis, by pulling the seat.

4. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 3, wherein each of the right handle arm and the left handle arm engages with at least one recess formed in the rotatable unit and its lower side, such that the upper part of each is locked to the rotatable unit in the respective direction, while the other handle arm slides freely in the opposite direction relative to the rotatable unit when released.

5. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one lever arm configured to lock the rotatable unit to the lower part, the lever arm terminating at a switch button located at the lower part, and pressing the switch button releases the rotatable unit from the lower part, allowing the upper part to rotate together with the rotatable unit about the central axis of rotation of the lower part.

6. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 5, wherein the at least one lever arm comprises a right lever arm and a left lever arm, each terminating at a right switch button and a left switch button, respectively, and pressing the right switch button and the left switch button respectively allows the upper part to rotate only to each side about the central axis of rotation.

7. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 6, wherein each of the right lever arm and the left lever arm engages with at least one tooth formed on the rotatable unit and its inside, such that when the rotatable unit is locked to the lower part in each direction, while the other lever arm is released, it rotates freely in opposite directions about the central axis of rotation.

8. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a gear assembly.

9. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 8, in accordance with claim 2, wherein the gear assembly comprises the rotatable unit, the seat rotation element, and a transition gear connected between the rotatable unit and the seat rotation element, thereby, in the second unlocked state, the seat having the seat rotation element is rotated clockwise about the central rotation axis, thereby rotating the seat having the seat rotation element counterclockwise about the seat rotation axis, and vice versa.

10. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism is at least partially concealed inside a cavity formed in the lower part.

11. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a soft lock mechanism that is operable to stabilize the seat at a predetermined orientation angle while the seat is rotated with respect to the lower longitudinal axis.

12. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism is operable to convert the rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element about the seat rotation axis into the rotational movement of the seat having the seat rotation element about the central rotation axis, and vice versa.

13. The rotatable automotive safety seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism is configured to move the seat to the position of the second unlocked state, so that the foremost point is located at a greater lateral distance from the lower longitudinal axis than in the first unlocked state.

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