Seat attachment and related systems and methods for attaching seats to seat tracks within a vehicle - Patents.com

Abstract

To provide seat fittings for attaching seats to seat tracks in a vehicle, and related systems and methods.SOLUTION: An example seat fitting includes a body 400 having a bottom surface to face a seat track, a locking stud 416, and a solenoid disposed in the body. The solenoid is operable to move the locking stud between a retracted position, in which the locking stud is disposed in the body, and an extended position, in which the locking stud extends outward from the bottom surface of the body into the seat track. Therefore, the present invention reduces the amount of time needed to rearrange or reconfigure one or more seats in a vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to seat fittings, and more particularly to seat fittings and related systems and methods for fitting a seat to a seat track within a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] Modern vehicles, such as airplanes, buses, trains, subways, etc., often include rows of seats or benches. The seats or benches are coupled to tracks located on the floor of the vehicle. The seats or benches can be disconnected from the seat tracks and rearranged according to desired spacing and / or configuration. Summary of the Invention

[0003]

[0003] Disclosed herein is an exemplary seat attachment for attaching a seat to a seat track within a vehicle. The exemplary seat attachment includes a body having an underside facing the seat track, a locking stud, and a solenoid disposed within the body. The solenoid is operable to move the locking stud between a retracted position, in which the locking stud is disposed within the body, and an extended position, in which the locking stud extends outwardly from the underside of the body into the seat track.

[0004]

[0004] An exemplary method disclosed herein includes powering a solenoid in a seat attachment coupled to a seat to release the seat attachment from a seat track within a vehicle, moving the seat from a first position to a second position while powering the solenoid, and, while the seat is in the second position, removing power from the solenoid to attach the seat attachment to the seat track.

[0005]

[0005] An exemplary seat attachment system disclosed herein includes a seat attachment coupled to a seat. The seat attachment includes a body having an upper surface and a lower surface. A channel is defined between the upper surface and a recess formed in the lower surface. The seat attachment also includes a fixed stud disposed in the recess. The fixed stud is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The seat attachment further includes a plunger disposed in the channel and coupled to the fixed stud. The plunger has an opening. The seat attachment also includes a pin insertable into the opening in the plunger to hold the fixed stud in the extended position. The seat attachment system further includes a tool for removing the pin from the opening. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an exemplary aircraft in which embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an example seat and an example seat attachment system, including an example seat track and an example seat attachment, that may be used to attach a seat to a floor within an aircraft cabin. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 illustrates a section of an exemplary seat track of the exemplary seat mounting system. [Figure 4] 3 is a top perspective view of an exemplary seat mounting of the exemplary seat mounting system of FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary seat attachment of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] 6A, 6B, and 6C illustrate an exemplary sequence for moving the exemplary fixing studs of the exemplary seat attachment of FIGS. 4 and 5 from a retracted position to an extended position. [Figure 7]

[0007] 2 illustrates an example seat and an example seat mounting system, including an example seat track and an example seat mount, that may be used to mount the seat to a floor within the cabin of the aircraft of FIG. 1. [Figure 8]

[0008] 8 illustrates a section of an exemplary seat track of the exemplary seat mounting system of FIG. 7. [Figure 9]

[0009] 8 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary seat mounting of the exemplary seat mounting system of FIG. [Figure 10]

[0010] 10A, 10B, and 10C show an example sequence for moving example fixing studs of an example seat attachment of FIG. 9 from a retracted position to an extended position to attach the example seat attachment of FIG. 9 to the example seat track of FIG. 8. [Figure 11]

[0011] 2 illustrates an example seat and an example seat mounting system, including an example seat track and an example seat mount, that may be used to mount the seat to a floor within the cabin of the aircraft of FIG. 1. [Figure 12]

[0012] 2 illustrates an example seat and an example seat mounting system, including an example seat track and an example seat mount, that may be used to mount the seat to a floor within the cabin of the aircraft of FIG. 1. [Figure 13]

[0013] 13 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for adjusting a seat position within a vehicle that may be performed using any of the example seat mounting systems of FIGS. 7, 11, and 12. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007]

[0014] The drawings are not to scale. Instead, thicknesses of layers or regions may be exaggerated in the drawings. Generally, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawing(s) and the accompanying description to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0008]

[0015] Descriptions such as "first," "second," and "third" are used herein when identifying multiple elements or components that may be referenced individually. Unless otherwise specified or apparent based on the context of their use, such descriptions are not intended to imply any sense of priority, physical order, or arrangement in a list, or chronological order, but are used merely as labels to refer to multiple elements or components individually to facilitate understanding of the disclosed examples. In some embodiments, the description "first" may be used to refer to an element in the detailed description, but the same element may be referred to in the claims with a different description, such as "second" or "third." In such instances, it should be understood that these descriptions are used merely to facilitate reference to multiple elements or components.

[0009]

[0016] Exemplary seat attachments for attaching seats to a floor within a vehicle are disclosed herein. The exemplary seat attachments disclosed herein are easier and quicker to use to attach / remove seats to / from a floor. Thus, the embodiments disclosed herein reduce the amount of time required to rearrange or reconfigure one or more seats within a vehicle.

[0010]

[0017] Known vehicles, such as airplanes, buses, trains, etc., often include one or more rows of seats for passengers to sit in within the cabin of the vehicle. Each seat is removably coupled to a pair of seat tracks in the floor of the cabin. The seat tracks extend longitudinally throughout the entire cabin of the vehicle. The seats can be removed from the seat tracks and rearranged or reconfigured. For example, the seats can be moved further apart or closer together. Additionally, one or more seats can be removed entirely from the vehicle and / or one or more seats can be added to the vehicle. Often, it is desirable to rearrange the seats. For example, it may be desirable to rearrange the seats between flights of the aircraft to increase or decrease the spacing between the rows of seats.

[0011]

[0018] In known seat attachment systems, each seat is coupled to a seat track via a seat attachment. The seat attachment is coupled to the leg of the seat. Each seat attachment includes a movable locking stud and a number of fixed studs. To attach a seat to the seat track, a person (e.g., a crew member of the transport vehicle) places the seat attachment on the seat track, whereby the fixed studs are inserted into notches formed in the seat track. Then, for each seat attachment, the person deploys the fixing stud by screwing a threaded shaft (e.g., a bolt) into the body of the seat attachment. The seat attachment (and thus the seat) is thereby fixed to the seat track. The threaded shaft can be rotated, for example, via an Allen wrench or power drill. To remove a seat from the seat track, the person can unscrew the respective threaded shaft of the seat attachment. The seat can then be removed from the seat track and / or moved along the seat track to another position.

[0012]

[0019] This process of screwing the threaded shaft to deploy / retract the fixing stud takes a significant amount of time. Furthermore, each seat may have four seat attachments. Thus, one person must perform the same action four times to install / remove one seat from the seat track. This action becomes even more time consuming when the vehicle has multiple seats. For example, an aircraft may have dozens or hundreds of seats. Thus, one person may require a significant amount of time to rearrange the seats within the cabin of the vehicle.

[0013]

[0020] An exemplary seat attachment is disclosed herein that operates more easily and quickly to attach / remove a seat to / from a seat track. The exemplary mechanically actuated seat attachment disclosed herein includes a body and a fixed stud movable relative to the body. The fixed stud is movable between a retracted position in which the fixed stud is disposed within a recess formed in the underside of the body and an extended position in which the fixed stud is moved outwardly from the underside of the body. The exemplary seat attachment includes a plunger disposed in a channel extending between an upper surface of the body and a recess formed in the underside of the body. The plunger is coupled to the fixed stud. The plunger extends outwardly from the upper surface of the body. To move the fixed stud from the retracted position to the extended position, a transport operator can depress an upper end of the plunger. The fixed stud is thereby moved outwardly from the body to the extended position. For example, a transport operator can step on an upper end of the plunger with his / her foot. The transport operator then inserts a pin into the plunger to lock the fixed stud in the extended position. Thereby, the seat attachment is secured to the seat track and therefore the seat is secured to the seat track.

[0014]

[0021] To unlock the seat attachment from the seat track, a single person can remove the pin, which allows the plunger to move the locking stud back to the retracted position (e.g., via bias from a spring). In some embodiments, a tool is used to insert and / or remove the pin. This process of depressing the plunger and / or inserting / removing the pin is quicker compared to the known process of screwing in a threaded shaft. Thus, a single person can more quickly and efficiently install / remove the seat attachment(s) from the seat track. This also eliminates or reduces the amount of time a single person must crawl or bend when manipulating a seat attachment.

[0015]

[0022] An exemplary electromechanically actuated seat attachment is also disclosed herein. The exemplary electromechanically actuated seat attachment disclosed herein includes a solenoid disposed within a body of the seat attachment. The seat attachment also includes a fixed stud coupled to the solenoid. The solenoid is operable to move the fixed stud between a retracted position, in which the fixed stud is disposed within the body, and an extended position, in which the fixed stud extends outwardly from an underside of the body into the seat track. In some embodiments, the solenoid moves the fixed stud to the retracted position when powered and moves the mechanical fixed stud to the extended position when depowered (e.g., via a biasing force from a spring). Thus, the seat attachment can be unlocked from the seat track by powering the solenoid and locked to the seat track by removing power from the solenoid.

[0016]

[0023] In some embodiments disclosed herein, a solenoid in the seat attachment is powered by attaching a tool to an interface on the seat. The tool may include a power source. When the tool is attached to the interface on the seat, the power source powers the solenoid in the seat attachment, thereby unlocking the seat attachment from the seat track. The seat may then be moved to another position and / or removed entirely from the cabin of the vehicle. When the seat is in the new desired position, the tool may be removed from the interface. When the tool is removed from the interface, the solenoid is depowered and a locking stud is deployed, thereby locking the seat attachment to the seat track and therefore the seat to the seat track.

[0017]

[0024] Although the embodiments disclosed herein are described in the context of seats on an aircraft, it is understood that any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be similarly implemented in the context of other vehicles, such as buses, trains, or boats.

[0018]

[0025] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary vehicle in which embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented. In this embodiment, the vehicle is an aircraft 100. The aircraft 100 includes a fuselage 102, a first wing 104 (left wing) coupled to the fuselage 102, and a second wing 106 (right wing) coupled to the fuselage 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the aircraft 100 includes a first engine 108 carried by the first wing 104 and a second engine 110 carried by the second wing 106. In other embodiments, the aircraft 100 may include only one engine, or may include two or more engines. The fuselage 102 defines a cabin 112 (shown in dashed lines) in which passengers and cargo are carried. The cabin 112 may include one or more seats for passengers and / or flight crew.

[0019]

[0026] 2 illustrates an example seat 200 coupled to an example floor 202 in a cabin 112 of an aircraft 100 (FIG. 1) via an example seat attachment system 204 constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. The seat attachment system 204 is used to removably couple the seat 200 to the floor 202. Although only one seat 200 is illustrated, it is understood that the cabin 112 may include multiple rows of seats, either the same as or different from the seat 200, located in front of and / or behind the seat 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the seat 200 includes three separate seating positions (e.g., forming a seat unit or bench). In other embodiments, the seat 200 may include more or fewer separate seating positions (e.g., one, two, four, five, etc.).

[0020]

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the seat 200 includes four legs including a first leg 206, a second leg 208, a third leg 210, and a fourth leg 212. In other embodiments, the seat 200 may include more or less legs. The seat mounting system 204 includes seat attachments for attaching the legs 206-212 to exemplary first and second seat tracks 214, 216 disposed on the floor 202 of the cabin 112. In particular, in this embodiment, the seat mounting system 204 includes a first seat attachment 218 coupled to the first leg 206, a second seat attachment 220 coupled to the second leg 208, a third seat attachment 222 coupled to the third leg 210, and a fourth seat attachment 224 coupled to the fourth leg 212. First and third seat attachments 218, 222 couple the respective first and third legs 206, 210 to the first seat track 214, and second and fourth seat attachments 220, 224 couple the respective second and fourth legs 208, 212 to the second seat track 216. The seat attachments 218-224 may be coupled (e.g., secured) to the first and second seat tracks 214, 216 to attach the seat 200 to the floor 202, or may be uncoupled (e.g., unlocked) from the first and second seat tracks 214, 216 to remove the seat 200 from the floor 202. For example, the seat 200 may be removed from the first and second seat tracks 214, 216, moved to another position on the first and second seat tracks 214, 216, and reattached to the first and second seat tracks 214, 216.

[0021]

[0028] The first and second seat tracks 214, 216 may be flush with the floor 202 or may be recessed below the floor 202. In some embodiments, carpet or other flooring is placed over the first and second tracks 214, 216 between the rows of seats. The first and second seat tracks 214, 216 may be relatively long (e.g., 30 feet), such that multiple rows of seats may be coupled to the first and second seat tracks 214, 216. For example, the first and second seat tracks 214, 216 may extend along the length of the fuselage 112 (FIG. 1). Other seats within the cabin 112 may also be attached to the first and second seat tracks 214, 216 via seat attachments. The seats within the cabin 112 may be decoupled from the first and second seat tracks 214, 216 and rearranged or reconfigured (eg, closer together, spaced apart, removed from the cabin 112, etc.).

[0022]

[0029] FIG. 3 shows a section of the first seat track 214. The second seat track 216 (FIG. 2) is identical to the first seat track 214. Thus, any structure or function disclosed in relation to the first seat track 214 can be similarly applied to the second seat track 216. In the illustrated embodiment, the first seat track 214 has a first flange 300 and a second flange 302 separated from the first flange 300 by a slot 304. A channel 306 is defined below the first and second flanges 300, 302. In this embodiment, the first and second flanges 300, 302 have circular grooves or notches 308 (one of which is referenced on each of the first and second flanges 300, 302). Teeth or ribs 310 are formed between the notches 308. The ribs 310 define discrete locations where a seat attachment may be coupled to the first seat track 214, as disclosed in further detail herein.

[0023]

[0030] 4 and 5 are perspective views, respectively, of a first exemplary seat attachment 218. The second, third, and fourth seat attachments 220, 222, 224 are identical to the first seat attachment 218. Thus, any structure and functionality disclosed in relation to the first seat attachment 218 may be applied to the second, third, and fourth seat attachments 220, 222, 224 as well.

[0024]

[0031] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the first seat attachment 218 includes a body 400. In some embodiments, the body 400 is constructed from a metal, such as aluminum. In other embodiments, the body 400 may be constructed from other materials (e.g., plastic). The body 400 is to be coupled to the first leg 206 ( FIG. 2 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the body 400 has a fastener opening 402. A fastener 404 (e.g., a bolt) is inserted through the fastener opening 402 and a corresponding opening in the first leg 206 to couple the body 400 to the first leg 206. In other embodiments, the first seat attachment 218 may be coupled to the first leg 206 via other mechanical and / or chemical fastening techniques (e.g., rivets, friction fit, welding, adhesives, etc.).

[0025]

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the body 400 has an upper side or upper surface 406 and a lower side or lower surface 408. The lower surface 408 will face the first seat track 214 when the first seat mount 218 is coupled to the first seat track 214 (FIGS. 2 and 3). In some embodiments, the lower surface 408 contacts or engages the first seat track 214 when the first seat mount 218 is coupled to the first seat track 214.

[0026]

[0033] The first seat attachment 218 includes one or more stationary studs for slidably coupling the first seat attachment 218 with the first seat track 214 (FIG. 2). In this embodiment, the first seat attachment 218 includes a first stationary stud 410, a second stationary stud 412, and a third stationary stud 414. The first, second, and third stationary studs 410-414 are coupled to and extend from the lower surface 408 of the body 400. Each of the first, second, and third studs 410-414 has a stem portion and a disc portion. The first, second, and third stationary studs 410-414 are spaced apart. Thereby, when the first seat attachment 218 is positioned on the top end of the first seat track 214, all three of the first, second and third stationary studs 410-414 can be simultaneously inserted into the corresponding notches 308 (FIG. 3) in the first seat track 214 and into the channel 306 (FIG. 3). When the first, second and third stationary studs 410-414 are inserted into the channel 306, the first seat attachment 218 can slide in either direction along the first seat track 214. When the first, second and third stationary studs 410-414 are positioned under the ribs 310 (FIG. 3), the first seat attachment 218 is prevented from being pulled out of the first seat track 214. This occurs at specific increments defined by the spacing between the ribs 310. In this embodiment, the first seat mount 218 includes three stationary studs, however, in other embodiments, the first seat mount 218 may include more (e.g., four, five, etc.) or fewer (e.g., one, two) stationary studs.

[0027]

[0034] To secure the first seat attachment 218 at a particular position along the first seat track 214 (FIGS. 2 and 3), the exemplary first seat attachment 218 includes a fixing stud 416. In this embodiment, the fixing stud 416 is formed by two opposing semicircles. The fixing stud 416 is movable up and down from the lower surface 408 of the body 400. As shown in FIG. 5, a recess 500 is formed in the lower surface 408 of the body 400. The fixing stud 416 is disposed within the recess 500. The fixing stud 416 is movable into and out of the recess 500. The fixing stud 416 is movable between a first position, referred to as a retracted position, and a second position, referred to as an extended position (as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5). In the retracted position, the fixing stud 416 is disposed within the recess 500. 4 and 5, the fixing stud 416 extends outwardly from the recess 500 and beyond the lower surface 408 of the body 400. In some embodiments, when the fixing stud 416 is in the retracted position, the lower surface 502 of the fixing stud 416 is flush with or above the lower surface 408 of the body 400. In other embodiments, when the fixing stud 416 is in the retracted position, the lower surface 502 of the fixing stud 416 extends beyond the lower surface 408 of the body 400 to the extent that the fixing stud 416 does not extend into the notch 308 in the first seat track 214. In the extended position, which is the position shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the fixing stud 416 extends outwardly from the recess 500 and beyond the lower surface 408 of the body 400. When the first seat attachment 218 is positioned on the first seat track 214 and the fixed stud 416 is in an extended position, the fixed stud 416 extends into two adjacent notches 308 in the first seat track 214. The fixed stud 416 is offset and spaced from the first, second and third stationary studs 410-414 such that when the fixed stud 416 is positioned in two of the notches 308, the first, second and third stationary studs 410-414 are positioned below the rib 310 (FIG. 3).Thus, the first, second, and third stationary studs 410-414 prevent the first seat attachment 218 from moving away from the first seat track 214, and the fixed stud 416 prevents the first seat attachment 218 from sliding along the first seat track 214. As a result, the first seat attachment is attached (e.g., fixed) to the first seat track 214.

[0028]

[0035] 6A, 6B, and 6C are cross-sectional views of an example first seat mount 218 illustrating an example sequence for moving the fixing stud 416 from a retracted position to an extended position. The example sequence can be performed to couple the first seat mount 218 to the first seat track 214 (FIGS. 2 and 3).

[0029]

[0036] As shown in FIG. 6A, the body 400 has a first channel 600 defined between the upper surface 406 and a recess 500 formed in the lower surface 408. The first seat attachment 218 includes a plunger 602 disposed within the first channel 600 and coupled to the fixed stud 416. An upper end portion 604 of the plunger 602 extends outwardly from the upper surface 406 of the body 400. The plunger 602 is movable up and down within the first channel 600 to move the fixed stud 416 into and out of the recess 500 between a retracted position and an extended position. In FIG. 6A, the fixed stud 416 is in a retracted position. Thus, the fixed stud 416 is retracted into the recess 500. In this embodiment, the lower surface 502 of the fixed stud 416 is flush or coplanar with the lower surface 408 of the body 400.

[0030]

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the first seat attachment 218 includes a spring 606 disposed within the first channel 600. The spring 606 biases the plunger 602 outward from the top surface 406 of the body 400, thus biasing the fixed stud 416 to a retracted position. The exemplary first seat attachment 218 also includes an exemplary pin 608, shown in FIG. 6A. As disclosed in further detail herein, the pin 608 is used to secure the fixed stud 416 in an extended position. The pin 608 is insertable into a second channel 610 formed within the body 400. The second channel 610 is coupled to the first channel 600. In this embodiment, the second channel 610 traverses (is perpendicular to) the first channel 600. Also shown in Figure 6 is an exemplary tool 612 that can be used to insert and / or remove the pin 608 into and / or from the second channel 610. The tool 612 can be carried, for example, by a person. As shown in Figure 6A, the plunger 602 has an opening 614. In the retracted position of Figure 6A, the opening 614 is not aligned with the second channel 610.

[0031]

[0038] To move the fixation stud 416 from the retracted position to the extended position, a person may press down on the plunger 602. For example, a person may step on the top end portion 604 of the plunger 602 with his / her foot, which moves the plunger 602 into the first channel 600. The fixation stud 416 is thereby moved outwardly from the lower surface 408 of the body 400 to the extended position, as shown in FIG. 6B. As shown in FIG. 6B, the top end portion 604 of the plunger 602 engages a ledge 616 in the first channel 600. The ledge 616 provides a stop or limit to indicate that the fixation stud 416 is in the extended position. When the fixation stud 416 is in the extended position, the opening 614 in the plunger 602 aligns with the second channel 610. The pin 608 is then inserted through the second channel 610 and into the opening 614 (eg, via a tool 612).

[0032]

[0039] 6C shows the pin 608 inserted into the second channel 610 and the opening 614 in the plunger 602. The tool 612 can release the pin 608. The pin 608 remains in the second channel 610 and the opening 614. The fixing stud 416 is thus held in the extended position by the pin 608. As described above, when the fixing stud 416 is in the extended position, the fixing stud 416 prevents the first seat attachment 218 (and thus the seat 200 (FIG. 2)) from sliding forward or rearward along the first seat track 214 (FIGS. 2 and 3). Thus, the first seat attachment 218 cannot move forward or rearward to remove from the first seat track 214.

[0033]

[0040] To release the first seat attachment 218 from the first seat track 214 (FIGS. 2 and 3), the exemplary sequence may be performed in reverse. For example, a tool 612 may be inserted into the second channel 610 and the pin 608 may be withdrawn from the opening 614 in the plunger 602. Once the pin 608 has been removed from the opening 614, the spring 606 urges the plunger 602 upward, thereby moving the fixation stud 416 back into the recess 500 to the retracted position (FIG. 6A). Once the fixation stud 416 is in the retracted position, the seat 200 (FIG. 2) may be slid forward or rearward along the first seat track 214 (FIGS. 2 and 4) to a new position and / or removed from the first seat track 214. This exemplary process may be performed with the other seat attachments 220-224 (FIG. 2) as well.

[0034]

[0041] As shown in FIG. 6C , when the pin 608 is inserted into the opening 614 of the plunger 602, the pin 608 does not extend outwardly from the second channel 610 or beyond the exterior surface of the body 400. In some embodiments, this prevents unintentional tampering with the pin 608, which could inadvertently release the first seat attachment 218 from the first seat track 214 (FIGS. 2 and 3). However, in other embodiments, the pin 608 may be long enough that a portion of the pin 608 extends outwardly from the second channel 610.

[0035]

[0042] The tool 612 may be any tool used to insert the pin 608 and / or remove the pin 608. For example, the tool 612 may include an electromagnet. When the electromagnet is powered, the pin 608 is attracted to the electromagnet. The electromagnet may be depowered to release the pin 608. As another example, the tool 612 may include a vacuum used to attract and hold the pin 608. The vacuum may be created to release the pin 608. As another example, the tool 612 may include a tip that may be activated to grab the pin 608. The tip may also be deactivated to release the pin 608. In some embodiments, the tool 612 is used to insert and retrieve the pin 608. In other embodiments, a single person may insert the pin 608 without the tool 612. For example, a user may insert the pin 608 using his / her hand.

[0036]

[0043] Thus, in this embodiment, the first seat attachment 218 does not need to screw in a threaded shaft to extend or retract a fixing stud, as occurs in known seat attachments. Instead, the exemplary sequence of depressing the plunger 602 and / or inserting / removing the pin 608 is quicker and simpler compared to known seat attachments. Thus, a user can quickly and efficiently attach / remove the seat 200 to / from the floor 202, thereby saving significant time and energy.

[0037]

[0044] 7 illustrates another example seat attachment system 700 that may be used to removably couple an example seat 702 to a floor 202 within the cabin 112 of the aircraft 100 (FIG. 1). Although only one seat 702 is illustrated, it is understood that the cabin 112 may include multiple rows of seats, the same or different from the seat 702, located in front of and / or behind the seat 702. In an example embodiment, the seat 702 includes three separate seating positions (e.g., forming a seat unit or bench). In other embodiments, the seat 702 may include more or fewer separate seating positions (e.g., one, two, four, five, etc.).

[0038]

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the seat 702 includes four legs including a first leg 704, a second leg 706, a third leg 708, and a fourth leg 710. In other embodiments, the seat 702 may include more or less legs. The seat mounting system 700 includes seat attachments for attaching the legs 704-710 to exemplary first and second seat tracks 712, 714 disposed on the floor 202 of the cabin 112. In particular, in this embodiment, the seat mounting system 700 includes a first seat attachment 716 coupled to the first leg 704, a second seat attachment 718 coupled to the second leg 706, a third seat attachment 720 coupled to the third leg 708, and a fourth seat attachment 722 coupled to the fourth leg 710. First and third seat attachments 716, 720 couple the respective first and third legs 704, 708 to the first seat track 712, and second and fourth seat attachments 718, 722 couple the respective second and fourth legs 706, 710 to the second seat track 714. The seat attachments 716-722 may be coupled (e.g., secured) to the first and second seat tracks 712, 714 to attach the seat 702 to the floor 202, or may be uncoupled (e.g., unlocked) from the first and second seat tracks 712, 714 to remove the seat 702 from the floor 202. For example, the seat 702 may be removed from the first and second seat tracks 712, 714, moved to another location on the first and second seat tracks 712, 714, and reattached to the first and second seat tracks 712, 714.

[0039]

[0046] The first and second seat tracks 712, 714 may be flush with the floor 202 or may be recessed below the floor 202. In some embodiments, carpet or other flooring is placed over the first and second tracks 214, 216 between the rows of seats. The first and second seat tracks 712, 714 may be relatively long (e.g., 30 feet), such that multiple rows of seats may be coupled to the first and second seat tracks 712, 714. For example, the first and second seat tracks 712, 714 may extend along the length of the fuselage 112 (FIG. 1). Seats within the cabin 112 may be decoupled from the first and second seat tracks 712, 714 and rearranged or reconfigured (e.g., closer together, spaced apart, removed from the cabin 112, etc.).

[0040]

[0047] In this embodiment, the seat attachments 716-722 are electromechanically actuated. The seat attachments 716-722 can be operated (e.g., activated or deactivated) to couple or decouple the seat 702 to the first and second seat tracks 712, 714. Each of the seat attachments 716-722 includes a solenoid. An example of a solenoid is shown in further detail in connection with Figures 10A-10C. When the solenoid is powered, the seat attachment 716-722 is released or decoupled from the respective seat track 712-714, and when the solenoid is depowered, the seat attachment 716-722 is attached or coupled to the respective seat track 712, 714.

[0041]

[0048] To power the solenoids of the seat attachments 716-722, the exemplary seat attachment system 700 includes a tool 724. The tool 724 may be carried and used by a single person. In the illustrated embodiment, the tool 724 includes a power source 726 and first and second terminals 728, 730 (e.g., electrical connectors, pins, or plugs). The power source 726 may be implemented by one or more batteries (e.g., alkaline batteries, lithium ion batteries, etc.). The seat attachment system 700 also includes an interface 732. In one exemplary embodiment, the interface 732 is located on one side (e.g., the aisle side) of the seat 702. In other embodiments, the interface 732 may be located in other locations, such as on one of the seat attachments 716-722, one of the legs 704-710, an arm of the seat 702, etc. An enlarged view of the interface 732 is shown in the callout of FIG. 7. The interface 732 includes first and second terminals 734, 736 (e.g., electrical connectors, pins, or plugs). The seat 702 includes a wiring harness 738 (shown in dashed lines) that electrically couples the terminals 734, 736 of the interface 732 to the seat mounts 716-722. The wiring harness 738 may extend through portions of the seat 702 and through the legs 704-710.

[0042]

[0049] When the tool 724 is attached to the interface 732, the first and second terminals 728, 730 of the tool 724 communicate or connect with the first and second terminals 734, 736 of the interface 732. For example, the terminals 728, 730, 734, 736 may be male or female terminals. The power source 726 then powers or energizes the solenoids in the seat attachments 716-722. In some embodiments, the power source 726 automatically powers the solenoids when the tool 724 is connected to the interface 732. In other embodiments, the tool 724 may include a button or trigger that provides power to the solenoids when activated. By powering the solenoids, the seat attachments 716-722 are released from the first and second seat tracks 712, 714. Thus, one person can connect the tool 724 to the interface 732 and remove the seat 702 from the floor 202. Thereby, a single person can move the seat 702 to another position or remove it from the cabin 112 .

[0043]

[0050] In some embodiments, the tool 724 and / or the interface 732 may include one or more features to ensure proper connection / alignment of the terminals 728, 730, 734, 736 and / or to aid in retaining the tool 724 on the interface 732. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the tool 724 includes first and second magnets 740, 742 and the interface 732 includes first and second magnets 744, 746. When the tool 724 is engaged with the interface 732, the magnets 740, 742 of the tool 724 are magnetically attached to the magnets 744, 746 of the interface 732. This helps to maintain the connection and alignment between the tool 724 and the interface 732. In some embodiments, the magnetic connection is sufficient to retain the tool 724 on the interface 732. Thereby, a single person can release the tool 724 and the tool 724 remains connected to the interface 732. In this embodiment, tool 724 and interface 732 each include two magnets, although in other embodiments, tool 724 and / or interface 732 may include more or fewer magnets. Additionally, one or more of magnets 740, 742, 744, 746 may be replaced by pieces of magnetic material (e.g., a ferromagnetic material such as nickel).

[0044]

[0051] FIG. 8 shows a section of the first seat track 712. The second seat track 714 (FIG. 7) is identical to the first seat track 712. Thus, any structure or function disclosed in relation to the first seat track 712 can be similarly applied to the second seat track 714. In the illustrated embodiment, the first seat track 712 has a first flange 800 and a second flange 802 separated from the first flange 800 by a slot 804. A channel 806 is defined below the first and second flanges 800, 802. The first seat track 712 has a longitudinal axis 808. In this embodiment, the first and second flanges 800, 802 do not have notches or teeth as in the embodiment of FIG. 3. This allows the first and third seat attachments 716, 720 (FIG. 7) to be positioned anywhere along the first seat track 712. However, in other embodiments, the first and second seat tracks 712, 714 may be the same as the first track 214 shown in Figure 3. It includes notches and ribs that define discrete locations at which the first and third seat mounts 716, 720 may be attached.

[0045]

[0052] 9 is a perspective view of a first exemplary seat attachment 716. The second, third, and fourth seat attachments 718, 720, 722 are identical to the first seat attachment 716. Thus, any structure(s) or function(s) disclosed in connection with the first seat attachment 716 also apply to the second, third, and fourth seat attachments 718, 720, 722.

[0046]

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the first seat attachment 716 includes a body 900. In some embodiments, the body 900 is constructed from a metal, such as aluminum. In other embodiments, the body 900 may be constructed from other materials. The body 900 is to be coupled to the first leg 704 ( FIG. 7 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the body 900 has a fastener opening 902. A fastener 904 (e.g., a bolt) is inserted through the fastener opening 902 and a corresponding opening in the first leg 704 to couple the body 400 to the first leg 704. In other embodiments, the first seat attachment 716 may be coupled to the first leg 704 via other mechanical and / or chemical fastening techniques (e.g., rivets, friction fit, welding, adhesives, etc.).

[0047]

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the body 900 has an underside or lower surface 906. The lower surface 906 will face the first seat track 712 (FIGS. 7 and 8) when the first seat mount 716 is attached to the first seat track 712. In some embodiments, the lower surface 906 contacts or engages the first seat track 712 when the first seat mount 716 is coupled to the first seat track 712.

[0048]

[0055] To couple the first seat attachment 716 to the first seat track 712 (FIGS. 7 and 8), the first seat attachment 716 includes a fixing stud 908. As shown in FIG. 9, the fixing stud 908 extends outwardly from a recess 910 formed in the underside 906 of the body 900. As disclosed in further detail herein, the fixing stud 908 is movable into and out of the recess 910. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixing stud 908 has a stem 912 and an arm 914 coupled to a distal end of the stem 912. The arm 914 extends transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the stem 912.

[0049]

[0056] The fixed stud 908 is movable between a first position, referred to as a retracted position, and a second position, referred to as an extended position (as shown in FIG. 9). An exemplary sequence of this movement is shown in further detail in connection with FIGS. 10A-10C. When the fixed stud 908 is in the extended position, as shown in FIG. 9, the fixed stud 908 extends outwardly from the recess 910 and the underside 906 of the body 900. Furthermore, when the fixed stud 908 is in the extended position, the arm 914 is oriented transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the longitudinal axis 808 (FIG. 8) of the first seat track 712 (FIG. 8). When the first seat attachment 716 is positioned on the first seat track 712 and the fixing stud 908 is in the extended position, the fixing stud 908 extends into the first seat track 712 to secure, attach and / or otherwise couple the first seat attachment 716 to the first seat track 712.

[0050]

[0057] When the fixing stud 908 is in the retracted position, the fixing stud 908 is retracted into the recess 910, so that the fixing stud 908 does not extend into the first seat track 712 (FIGS. 7 and 8). In some embodiments, when the fixing stud 908 is in the retracted position, the lower surface 916 of the fixing stud 908 does not extend beyond the lower surface 906 of the body 900. In other words, the lower surface 916 of the fixing stud 908 may be aligned or recessed relative to the lower surface 906 of the body 900. This is advantageous because the first seat attachment 716 does not include any structure extending from the lower surface 906 that could potentially damage the floor 202 (e.g., carpet) when moving the seat 702 (FIG. 7). In other embodiments, when the fixed stud 908 is in the retracted position, the underside 916 of the fixed stud 908 is disposed beyond or below the underside 906 of the body 900, unless the fixed stud 908 is rotated or turned into engagement with the first seat track 712. Additionally, when the fixed stud 908 is in the retracted position, the fixed stud 908 is rotated such that the arm 914 is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 808 ( FIG. 8 ) of the first seat track 712.

[0051]

[0058] 10A, 10B, and 10C are cross-sectional views of an exemplary first seat attachment 716 and first seat track 712 illustrating an exemplary sequence for attaching the first seat attachment 716 to the first seat track 712. As shown in FIG. 10A, the first seat attachment 716 includes a solenoid 1000. In this embodiment, the solenoid 1000 is a rotary-linear solenoid. The solenoid 1000 is operable to move the fixed stud 908 between a retracted position disposed within the body 900 and an extended position extending outwardly from the underside 906 of the body 900 and into the first seat track 712. In FIG. 10A, the fixed stud 908 is in the retracted position.

[0052]

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, a solenoid 1000 is disposed within the body 900 of the first seat mount 716. In particular, the solenoid 1000 is disposed within a cavity 1002 formed within the body 900. The solenoid 1000 includes a coil 1004 and a core 1006. When the coil 1004 is powered, the core 1006 attracts the fixed stud 908, causing the fixed stud 908 to move upwardly to the retracted position of FIG. 10A. This occurs when a user attaches the tool 724 (FIG. 7) to the interface 732 (FIG. 7). As shown in FIG. 10A, the fixed stud 908 is disposed inside the body 900. In this embodiment, in the retracted position, the lower surface 916 of the fixed stud 908 is aligned with the lower surface 906 of the body 900. When the fixing stud 908 is in the retracted position, the arm 914 is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 808 (FIG. 8) of the first seat track 712. The fixing stud 908 remains in this position as long as the solenoid 1000 is powered. In the state shown in Figure 10A, the first seat attachment 716 is not coupled to the first seat track 712. Thus, the first seat attachment 716 (and thus the seat 702 (Figure 7)) can be moved to another position on the first seat track 712 or removed from the first seat track 712.

[0053]

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the solenoid 1000 includes a biasing member, such as a spring 1008, to bias the fixed stud 908 to an extended position when the solenoid 1000 is depowered. In Figure 10A, the spring 1008 is compressed. The solenoid 1000 also includes a guide 1010. The guide 1010 rotates the fixed stud 908 near the end of its travel, as will be disclosed in more detail in connection with Figures 10B and 10C.

[0054]

[0061] To secure the first seat attachment 716 to the first seat track 712, a person removes the tool 724 (FIG. 7) from the interface 732 (FIG. 9), thereby turning off the current to the solenoid 1000 and / or otherwise de-energizing the solenoid 1000. When the solenoid 1000 is de-energized, the spring 1008 biases the fixation stud 908 outwardly from the underside 906 of the body 900, as shown in FIG. 10B. As shown in FIG. 10B, the fixation stud 908 is moved linearly through the slot 804 and into the channel 806 of the first seat track 712.

[0055]

[0062] At the end of the linear movement of the fixed stud 908, the guide 1010 rotates or spins the fixed stud 908, as shown in FIG. 10C. The fixed stud 908 rotates, for example, about the axis 1012 of the stem 912. Thus, when the solenoid 1000 is de-energized, the fixed stud 908 moves (for example, linearly) away from the lower surface 906 of the body 900 and rotates about the axis of the fixed stud 908. In FIG. 10C, the fixed stud 908 is in an extended position. Once the fixed stud 908 has been rotated, as shown in FIG. 10C, the arm 914 is positioned below the flanges 800, 802 of the first seat track 712. This prevents the first seat attachment 716 from moving away from the first seat track 712. Additionally, the arm 914 of the fixed stud 908 is rotated into contact with the lower surfaces of the flanges 800, 802. Additionally or alternatively, the arm 914 may contact other surfaces of the first seat track 712 within the channel 806. The frictional engagement between the arm 914 and the first seat track 712 is sufficient to hold the first seat attachment 716 in place and prevent the first seat attachment 716 from moving along the first seat track 712. In some embodiments, the frictional engagement is sufficient to hold the seat 900 under a certain load required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (e.g., 9 times gravity). In some embodiments, the solenoid 1000 rotates the fixed stud 908 by approximately 90 degrees (e.g., ±10 degrees) from the position shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B to the position shown in FIG. 10C. Thus, in some embodiments, when the fixed stud 908 is in the extended position, the arm 914 is oriented transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the longitudinal axis 808 ( FIG. 8 ) of the first seat track 712. In other embodiments, the fixation stud 908 is rotated more or less than 90 degrees. The amount of rotation can be optimized based on, for example, the length of the arm 914 and the shape of the channel 806.

[0056]

[0063] When a user desires to remove the first seat attachment 716 from the first seat track 712, the user can attach a tool 724 (FIG. 7) to the interface 732 (FIG. 7) and power the solenoid 1000. In such a case, the solenoid 1000 pulls the fixed stud 908 back into the body 900 to the retracted position. In particular, the fixed stud 908 rotates about the axis 1012 and moves toward (e.g., linearly toward) the underside 906 of the body 900 in the reverse direction of the sequence of FIGS. 10A-10C. Thus, the fixed stud 908 moves from an extended position to a retracted position when the solenoid 1000 is powered, and moves from the retracted position to the extended position when the solenoid 1000 is depowered. The exemplary seat attachment system 700 (FIG. 7) is advantageous because it does not require any power for the seat attachments 716-722 to remain secured to the seat tracks 712, 714. Instead, power is used to energize solenoids for a short period of time when it is desired to remove the seat 702 from the seat tracks 712, 714. Additionally, the solenoid configuration acts as a failsafe because if power is lost, the seat will remain secured to the seat tracks 712, 714.

[0057]

[0064] 7, tool 714 and interface 732 include terminals for transferring power to solenoids in seat mounts 716-722. In other embodiments, tool 724 and interface 732 may include wireless power devices for transferring power wirelessly. For example, tool 724 may include a transmitting coil and interface 732 may include a receiving coil. Tool 724 may be positioned near or in contact with interface 732 to power the solenoids.

[0058]

[0065] As shown in FIG. 8, the first and second flanges 800, 802 of the first seat track 712 do not include any notches or ribs. Thus, the first seat attachment 716 can be attached anywhere along the first seat track 712, allowing the seat 702 to be positioned anywhere along the first seat track 712. In other embodiments, the first seat attachment 716 can be used with a seat track having notches and ribs, such as the seat track shown in FIG. 3. In such cases, the fixing stud 908 would be positioned under certain of the ribs 310.

[0059]

[0066] FIG. 11 illustrates another exemplary seat attachment system 1100 used to attach a seat to the floor 202 in the cabin 112 of the aircraft 100 (FIG. 1). In FIG. 11, the seat 702, seat tracks 712, 714, and seat attachments 716-722 are the same as described above in connection with FIG. 7. However, in this embodiment, power is provided to the seat 702 via a power source 1102. The power source 1102 is a power source (e.g., a battery, a generator, etc.) on the aircraft 100. The seat 702 is electrically coupled to the power source 1102 via a wiring harness 1104. The wiring harness 1104 can provide power to the seat 702 for other devices such as a display screen of the seat 702. In other embodiments, power can be provided to the seat 702 via a wireless power device (e.g., a transmitting coil in the floor 202 and a receiving coil in the seat 702). In the illustrated embodiment, the seat attachment system 1100 includes an interface 1106 on a side of the seat 702. An expanded view of the interface 1106 is shown in the callouts of FIG. 11. The interface 1106 includes a first terminal 1108 and a second terminal 1110. The first and second terminals 1108, 1110 are part of a circuit between the power source 1102 and the wiring harness 738 connected to the seat mounts 716-722. The seat mount system 1100 includes a tool 1112. In this embodiment, the tool 1112 is a jumper (e.g., a wire). When the tool 1112 is connected to the first and second terminals 1108, 1110 of the interface 1106, the tool 1112 completes a circuit such that power is provided to the seat mounts 716-722 to power the solenoids (e.g., solenoid 1000 (FIG. 10A)). When the tool 1112 is removed from the interface 1106, the solenoids are depowered. Thus, in this embodiment, the tool 1112 carried by the user does not include a power source.

[0060]

[0067] In another embodiment, the interface 1106 may include a switch that can be activated by a unique radio frequency identification (RFID) signal. A person may carry a tool that emits an RFID signal. When the tool is brought near or connected to the interface 1106, the RFID signal activates the switch, which closes a circuit to power a solenoid.

[0061]

[0068] FIG. 12 illustrates another exemplary seat attachment system 1200 used to attach a seat to the floor 202 in the cabin 112 of the aircraft 100 (FIG. 1). In FIG. 12, the seat 702, seat tracks 712, 714, and seat attachments 716-722 are the same as those described above in connection with FIGS. 7 and 11. As in FIG. 11, power is provided to the seat 702 by the power source 1102. However, in this embodiment, the seat 702 does not include an interface. Instead, the seat attachments 716-722 are remotely powered by a controller 1202. The controller 1202 regulates power to solenoids in the seat attachments 716-720. The controller 1202 may be implemented by a device (e.g., a control panel with buttons, a touch screen display, etc.) in another portion of the cabin 112 (e.g., in the cockpit, in the galley, etc.). A single person interacts with the controller 1202 to power the solenoids in the seat attachments 716-720 to remove the seat 702 from the first and second seat tracks 712, 714, and to de-power the solenoids in the seat attachments 716-722 to install the seat 702 in the first and second seat tracks 712, 714. In some embodiments, each seat is individually controllable. Thus, a single person can install / remove one seat at a time or install / remove multiple seats simultaneously.

[0062]

[0069] FIG 13 is a flow chart depicting an example method 1300 that may be performed to adjust a seat position within a vehicle. The example method 1300 is described in conjunction with the seat 702, first seat track 712, and first seat attachment 716 of FIGS. 7, 11, and 12. However, it is understood that the example method 1300 may be similarly performed in conjunction with the other example seat attachments 718-722 and / or second seat track 714. The example method 1300 may be performed in conjunction with any of the example seat attachment systems 700, 1100, 1200 of FIGS. 7, 11, and 12.

[0063]

[0070] At block 1302, the example method 1300 includes powering a solenoid 1000 in a first seat mount 716 coupled to a seat 702 to release the seat 702 from a first seat track 714 in an aircraft 100. When the solenoid 1000 is powered, the solenoid 1000 moves a stationary stud 908 from an extended position extending from a lower surface 906 of the body 900 to a retracted position disposed within the body 900. In some embodiments, this movement from the extended position to the retracted position includes rotational and linear movement of the stationary stud 908, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C.

[0064]

[0071] In some embodiments, powering the solenoid 1000 includes coupling a tool to an interface on the seat 702 or the first seat attachment 716. In some embodiments, the tool includes a power source. For example, in the seat attachment system 700 of FIG. 7, the tool 724 may be coupled to an interface 732 on the seat 702. The tool 724 includes a power source 726. When the tool 724 is coupled to the interface 732 on the seat 702, the power source 726 powers the solenoid 1000 in the first seat attachment 716. In other embodiments, such as the seat attachment system 1100 of FIG. 11, the tool 1112 does not include a power source. In other embodiments, such as the seat attachment system 1200, the solenoid 1000 may be powered remotely via the controller 1202.

[0065]

[0072] At block 1304, the example method 1300 includes moving the seat 702 from a first position to a second position while the solenoid 1000 is powered (block 1304). For example, the seat 702 may be moved forward or backward to a new position on the first and second seat tracks 712, 714.

[0066]

[0073] At block 1306, the example method 1300 includes de-energizing the solenoid 1000 to attach the first seat attachment 716 to the first seat track 714 while the seat 702 is in the second position (block 1306). In some embodiments, de-energizing the solenoid 1000 includes decoupling the tool from the interface. For example, in the seat attachment system 700 of FIG. 7, the tool 724 may be removed from the interface 732 on the seat 702, thereby de-energizing the solenoid 1000. As another example, in the seat attachment system 1100 of FIG. 11, the tool 1112 may be removed from the interface 1106 on the seat 702, thereby de-energizing the solenoid 1000. In other embodiments, such as the seat attachment system 1200, the solenoid 1000 may be de-energized remotely via the controller 1202.

[0067]

[0074] When the solenoid 1000 of the first seat attachment 716 is de-energized, the fixed stud 908 moves from a retracted position to an extended position, as shown in Figures 10A-10C, thereby attaching the first seat attachment 716 (and thus the seat 702) to the first seat track 712. The fixed stud 908 is moved from a retracted position to an extended position via force from a spring 1008.

[0068]

[0075] In this example, the solenoid 1000 remains powered while the seat 702 is moved to the second position, while in other examples the solenoid 1000 is depowered after the seat 702 is removed from the first seat track 712. The solenoid 1000 may then be powered again prior to placing the first seat mount 716 on the first seat track 712 and attaching the first seat mount 716 to the first seat track 712.

[0069]

[0076] While in some embodiments disclosed herein, the solenoid is powered to remove the seat attachments 716-722 from the first and second seat tracks 712, 714 and is depowered to install the seat attachments 716-722 in the first and second seat tracks 712, 714, in other embodiments, the solenoid may be configured to operate in reverse. In particular, the solenoid may be depowered to remove the seat attachments 716-722 from the first and second seat tracks 712, 714 and may be depowered to install the seat attachments 716-722 in the first and second seat tracks 712, 714. In one such embodiment, a constant supply of power is required to keep the current flowing through the solenoid. For example, a power source (e.g., one or more batteries) may be connected to the seat 702. In other embodiments, power may be provided via the wiring harness 1104.

[0070]

[0077] "Including" and "comprising" (and all forms and tenses thereof) are used herein as open-ended terms. Thus, when any form of "include" or "comprise" (e.g., comprises, includes, comprising, including, having, etc.) is used in a claim as a preamble or in the scope of any claim, it should be understood that additional components, terms, etc. may be present without departing from the scope of the corresponding claim or claim. The phrase "at least" is used herein as a transitional term, for example in a claim preamble, and is open-ended in the same manner that the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended. For example, when the term "and / or" is used in a format such as A, B, and / or C, it means any combination or subset of A, B, and / or C, such as (1) A only, (2) B only, (3) C only, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, and (7) A, B and C. As used herein, in the context of describing structures, components, articles, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to embodiments that include either (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein, in the context of describing structures, components, articles, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to embodiments that include either (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein, in the context of describing the implementation or performance of a process, instructions, operations, and / or steps, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of: (1) at least one A; (2) at least one B; and (3) at least one A and at least one B.Similarly, as used herein, in the context of describing the implementation or performance of a process, instructions, operations, and / or steps, the phrase “at least one of A or B” is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of: (1) at least one A; (2) at least one B; and (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0071]

[0078] As used herein, singular references (e.g., "a", "an", "first", "second", etc.) do not exclude a plurality. The term "a" or "an" entity, when used herein, refers to one or more of that entity, and the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more", and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, although individually listed, a plurality of means, elements or method actions may be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. Furthermore, although individual features may be included in different embodiments or claims, these may conceivably be combined, and inclusion in different embodiments or claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous.

[0072]

[0079] From the foregoing, the exemplary seat attachments, seat attachment systems, and methods disclosed herein can be used to easily and quickly attach / detach seats to / from the floor within a vehicle. As a result, the embodiments disclosed herein allow for rapid reconfiguration of seats, which saves time and costs associated with changing seat configurations. Some exemplary seat attachments disclosed herein are also lighter and less expensive to manufacture. Additionally, some embodiments disclosed herein utilize specialized tools that reduce or prevent tampering with the seat attachments.

[0073]

[0080] Exemplary methods, apparatus, and articles for attaching a seat to a floor within a vehicle are disclosed herein. Various aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein may be combined with other embodiments. Further embodiments and combinations thereof include the following clauses:

[0074]

[0081] Clause claim 1 is a seat attachment for mounting a seat to a seat track within a vehicle. The seat attachment includes a body having an underside facing the seat track, a fixed stud, and a solenoid disposed within the body. The solenoid is operable to move the fixed stud between a retracted position, in which the fixed stud is disposed within the body, and an extended position, in which the fixed stud extends outwardly from the underside of the body into the seat track.

[0075]

[0082] Clause 2 includes a seat mounting as described in clause 1, wherein the fixed stud moves from an extended position to a retracted position when the solenoid is energized, and moves from the retracted position to the extended position when the solenoid is de-energized.

[0076]

[0083] Clause 3 includes a seat attachment as described in clause 2, wherein when the solenoid is de-energized the fixed stud moves away from the underside of the body and rotates about the axis of the fixed stud.

[0077]

[0084] Clause 4 includes the seat attachment of clause 3, wherein when the solenoid is powered, the fixed stud rotates about its axis and moves towards the underside of the body.

[0078]

[0085] Clause 5 includes a seat attachment as described in clause 3 or clause 4, in which the solenoid rotates the fixed stud by approximately 90 degrees.

[0079]

[0086] Clause 6 includes a seat attachment according to any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the fixing stud has a stem and an arm connected to a distal end of the stem and extending transversely to the stem.

[0080]

[0087] Clause 7 includes a seat mounting as described in clause 6, wherein when the fixing stud is in the retracted position, the arm is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the seat track, and when the fixing stud is in the extended position, the arm is oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the seat track.

[0081]

[0088] Clause 8 includes the seat mounting of any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the solenoid includes a spring for biasing the fixing stud into the extended position when the solenoid is de-energized.

[0082]

[0089] Clause 9 includes a seat attachment according to any one of clauses 1 to 8, wherein when the fixing studs are in the retracted position, the undersides of the fixing studs do not extend beyond the underside of the body.

[0083]

[0090] Clause 10 is a method that includes powering a solenoid in a seat attachment coupled to a seat to release the seat attachment from a seat track within a vehicle, moving the seat from a first position to a second position while powering the solenoid, and while the seat is in the second position, depowering the solenoid to attach the seat attachment to the seat track.

[0084]

[0091] Clause 11 includes the method of clause 10, wherein powering the solenoid includes coupling the tool to an interface on the seat or a seat attachment.

[0085]

[0092] Clause 12. The method of clause 11, wherein depowering the solenoid includes decoupling the tool from the interface.

[0086]

[0093] Clause 13 includes the method of clause 12, wherein the tool includes a power source for powering the solenoid when coupled to the interface.

[0087]

[0094] Clause 14 includes a method according to any one of clauses 10 to 13, wherein when the solenoid is powered, the solenoid moves the fixing stud from an extended position, in which the fixing stud extends from an underside of the body of the seat attachment, to a retracted position, in which the fixing stud is disposed within the body of the seat attachment.

[0088]

[0095] Clause 15 includes the method of clause 14, wherein the solenoid moves the fixed stud from the retracted position to the extended position when the solenoid is de-energized.

[0089]

[0096] Clause 16 includes the method of clause 15, wherein the solenoid includes a spring for moving the fixed stud from a retracted position to an extended position.

[0090]

[0097] Clause 17 is a seat attachment system including a seat attachment coupled to a seat. The seat attachment includes a body having an upper surface and a lower surface, a channel defined between a recess formed in the upper surface and the lower surface, a fixed stud disposed in the recess, the fixed stud movable between a retracted position and an extended position, a plunger disposed in the channel and coupled to the fixed stud, the plunger having an opening, and a pin insertable into the opening in the plunger to hold the fixed stud in the extended position. The seat attachment system also includes a tool for removing the pin from the opening.

[0091]

[0098] Clause 18 includes the seat attachment system of clause 17, wherein the seat attachment includes a spring that biases the plunger outwardly from the top surface of the body.

[0092]

[0099] Clause 19 includes a seat mounting system as described in clauses 17 to 18, wherein when the fixing studs are in the retracted position, the underside of the fixing studs is flush with the underside of the body.

[0093]

[0100] Clause 20. A seat attachment system as claimed in any one of clauses 17 to 19, wherein when the pin is inserted into the opening, the pin does not extend beyond an outer surface of the body.

[0094]

[0101] Although certain exemplary methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent application is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent application covers all methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scope of the claims of this patent application.

[0095]

[0102] The following claims are hereby incorporated by reference into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A seat attachment for attaching a seat to a seat track within a vehicle, comprising: a body having a lower surface facing the seat track; Fixed studs, and a solenoid disposed within the body operable to move the fixation stud between a retracted position in which the fixation stud is disposed within the body and an extended position in which the fixation stud extends outwardly from the underside of the body and into the seat track; the fixed stud moves from the extended position to the retracted position when the solenoid is powered and moves from the retracted position to the extended position when the solenoid is not powered; A seat attachment wherein when the solenoid is de-energized, the fixed stud moves away from the underside of the body and rotates about its axis.

2. 2. The seat attachment of claim 1, wherein when the solenoid is energized, the fixed stud rotates about the axis of the fixed stud and moves toward the underside of the body.

3. 2. The seat attachment of claim 1, wherein the solenoid rotates the fixed stud by approximately 90 degrees.

4. 2. The seat attachment of claim 1, wherein the fixation stud has a stem and an arm coupled to a distal end of the stem and extending transversely relative to the stem.

5. 5. The seat attachment of claim 4, wherein the arm is oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the seat track when the fixing stud is in the retracted position, and the arm is oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the seat track when the fixing stud is in the extended position.

6. 2. The seat attachment of claim 1, wherein the solenoid includes a spring for biasing the fixed stud to the extended position when the solenoid is not powered.

7. 2. A seat attachment as claimed in claim 1, wherein an underside of said fixing stud does not extend beyond said underside of said body when said fixing stud is in said retracted position.

8. powering a solenoid in a seat attachment coupled to a seat to release the seat attachment from a seat track within a vehicle; moving the seat from a first position to a second position while the solenoid is powered; and removing power to the solenoid to attach the seat mount to the seat track while the seat is in the second position; when the solenoid is powered, the solenoid moves a fixing stud from an extended position in which the fixing stud extends from an underside of a body of the seat attachment to a retracted position in which the fixing stud is disposed within the body of the seat attachment; when the solenoid is de-energized, the solenoid moves the stationary stud from the retracted position to the extended position; When the solenoid is de-energized, the fixed stud moves away from the lower surface of the body and rotates about its axis.

9. The method of claim 8 , wherein powering the solenoid comprises coupling a tool to an interface on the seat or the seat attachment.

10. The method of claim 9 , wherein depowering the solenoid comprises decoupling the tool from the interface.

11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the tool includes a power source for powering the solenoid when the tool is coupled to the interface.

12. The method of claim 8, wherein when the solenoid is powered, the fixed stud rotates about the axis of the fixed stud and moves toward the underside of the body.

13. The method of claim 8, wherein the solenoid includes a spring for moving the fixed stud from the retracted position to the extended position.

14. The method of claim 8, wherein when the fixation stud is in the retracted position, an underside of the fixation stud does not extend beyond the underside of the body.

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