Automotive seat headrest position management device

Abstract

A headrest position management device for seats of automobile is described that transitions between use and non-use positions, with cycles initiated either manually or by a control unit. In the first cycle, manual force shifts the headrest from use to non-use position, while in the second cycle, activation of a lever accomplishes the reverse movement. The device is integrable with existing automobile seat structures and headrests, regardless of their dimensions. The control unit, depicted with a rectangular body, includes a bracket and a guide for secure attachment to seat frame. The bracket facilitates attachment to seat frame, particularly near headrest, ensuring seamless integration. The movable guide aligns with the headrest's stay rod, ensuring synchronization between control unit and headrest's movements, enhancing usability and ergonomics. A weight-based activation mechanism is described in another embodiment.

Description

[0001] AUTOMOTIVE SEAT HEADREST POSITION MANAGEMENT DEVICE

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

[0003] The present invention relates to a device for automotive seat headrest and more particularly to a device for automotive seat headrest position management.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

[0005] When considering the safety of passengers in automotive vehicles, the significance of the headrests cannot be overstated, particularly in the event of accidents or collisions. Further, positioning of headrests in vehicle seats plays a critical role in mitigating the severity of injuries during accidents. Traditionally, in case of rear seats, headrests are equipped with two positions such as an upper position and a lower position. While the lower position is commonly favored to optimize the driver's visibility through the rear window during regular driving conditions, it is not the safest position in the event of an accident. Studies have consistently shown that the upper position provides superior protection against whiplash and neck injuries in rear-end collisions.

[0006] In instances, where occupants are unaware or fail to adjust the headrest assembly to its designated or intended position, or if the headrest remains in a nonuse position i.e. the lower position during a crash, there is a notable absence of support for the occupant's head during impact, significantly increasing the risk of injury. Furthermore, it is worthwhile to note that in such circumstances, occupants may encounter difficulties in claiming insurance coverage due to the failure to adhere to recommended safety practices. Unfortunately, due to a lack of awareness, headrests are frequently left in the down position, even as individuals continue to use their vehicles. Despite the safety benefits associated with the upper position, it has been observed that the individuals often neglect to adjust their headrests, accordingly, leaving them perpetually in the lower position. This prevailing tendency poses a significant safety concern, as it compromises the effectiveness of the headrest in safeguarding occupants during collisions.

[0007] To address this challenge and enhance automotive safety standards, development of controlled seat headrest positioning is very important that could control the adjustment of headrests from the lower to the upper position, when necessary, to ensure optimal safety for vehicle occupants without requiring manual intervention. By seamlessly transitioning the headrest to the recommended position during critical moments, such as sudden deceleration or collision events, this technology serves as a proactive measure to reduce the risk of whiplash and other related injuries.

[0008] The United States Patent US10994641B2 to Kang, Hyun Suk discloses a positioning device for vehicular seat that enables an occupant to adjust the position of the headrest according to body type or posture. However, the mechanism includes a rotating plate and rotating shaft with a movable member that makes the mechanism complex in nature.

[0009] The Chinese Patent Application CN102107615A to Charles Philippe and Remy Christophe discloses a height adjustable headrest for an automobile seat backrest that includes a slidable frame and a lock, to lock the headrest into position. The headrest is operable mechanically and does not include any switch or lever.

[0010] There is a need of a device for managing the positioning automotive seat headrests to the best position to enhance the passenger safety. There is also a need of a device that brings the headrest in the best position either by automatic arrangement or manual activation for passenger safety.

[0011] SUMMARY

[0012] The present invention relates to an automotive seat headrest position management device that enables controlled and ergonomic adjustment of a headrest between a use position and a non-use position. The device is configured for enhanced passenger safety, comfort, and convenience, and is integrable with existing automotive seat and headrest assemblies without requiring structural modifications. The device includes a headrest with vertically adjustable stay rods and a control mechanism operable via a lever or a switch. The lever or switch is configured to be actuated manually by a seat occupant and is connected to a control unit via a flexible cable.

[0013] The control unit, positioned to the seat frame, includes a bracket for secure attachment, a guide for movement with the stay rods, an activator plate, a latch assembly comprising a hook and a cam, and a spring to bias the assembly. The device functions in two operational cycles such as a closing cycle initiated by manual pressure on the headrest to move it from a raised use position to a lowered non-use position, and an opening cycle triggered by actuating the lever or switch, which pulls the cable and causes the latch assembly to transition to an unlocked state, allowing the headrest to return to the raised use position under spring force.

[0014] The guide transitions between top and bottom positions depending on the headrest’s position, synchronizing the headrest movement with the latch mechanism.

[0015] In additional embodiments, the device may include a release latch mechanism that enables activation through a downward push. The release unit is linked to the control unit via the cable, and pressure on the release unit introduces pull in the cable to trigger the latch unlocking process. Another embodiment includes a motion sensor mounted on the seat to detect the presence of an occupant. Upon detecting occupancy, the sensor sends an electric signal through a wire to the control unit to activate the latch mechanism, enabling automatic repositioning of the headrest.

[0016] The control unit may also be activated based on the detection of a predefined minimum weight of a seated occupant, thereby enabling automated transition of the headrest without manual input. The device components, including the front and back covers, internal latch components, and spiral spring provide smooth and reliable operation. The present invention teaches ergonomic and intuitive adjustment of the headrest, increases user safety during collision events, reduces fatigue during long journeys, and enhances the usability for passengers of varying ages and abilities. The invention is advantageously universally compatible with existing automotive seat and headrest structures.

[0017] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS: The objectives and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description read in accordance with the accompanying drawings wherein,

[0018] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an automotive seat headrest position management device in accordance with the present invention;

[0019] FIG. 2 is a side view of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG.1 showing a first use position of a headrest;

[0020] FIG. 3 is a side view of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1 showing a second non-use position of the headrest;

[0021] FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG.1 showing the first use position of a headrest;

[0022] FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1 showing the second nonuse position of the headrest;

[0023] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a control unit of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1;

[0024] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the control unit of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1;

[0025] FIG. 8 shows a rear perspective view of the control unit of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1 that is positioned on a frame of a seat;

[0026] FIG. 9 is an exploded view along axis-X of the control unit of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1; FIG. 9A shows a front perspective view of an independent locking unit of the device of FIG. 1;

[0027] FIG. 10 shows a cross sectional view of the control unit of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1 in a locked position;

[0028] FIG. 11 shows a cross sectional view of the control unit of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1 in an intermediate position;

[0029] FIG. 12 shows a cross sectional view of the control unit of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1 in an unlocked position;

[0030] FIG. 13 shows a front perspective view of another embodiment of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 1;

[0031] FIG. 14 shows a schematic of another embodiment of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 13; and

[0032] FIG. 15 shows a schematic of another embodiment of the automotive seat headrest position management device of FIG. 13.

[0033] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

[0034] References in the specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or function described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0035] References in the specification to “preferred embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or function described in detail thereby omitting known constructions and functions for clear description of the present invention.

[0036] The foregoing description of specific embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching.

[0037] In general aspect, the present invention discloses a device for position management of the headrest of automotive seats. Accordingly, upon occupancy of the seat, the headrest moves from its folded or non-use position to the designated or highest position. This movement is activated by detecting seat occupancy of the seat. Alternately, the movement is activated by pushing a switch for example, a mechanical or electrical switch or activating a lever conveniently positioned within the car's interior. By automating the adjustment process, occupants are relieved of the need to manually reposition the headrest, ensuring optimal safety without requiring active intervention.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 1, the automotive seat headrest position management device 100, hereinafter referred to as device 100 is described. It is noted that headrest 104 of an automobile seat 108 has two positions such as a first upright position and a second folded down position. The first position is preferably a use position, and the second position is a non-use position. The headrest 104 includes stay rods 106 that provides structural support to the headrest 104, ensuring that the headrest 104 remains securely in place and maintains its position during vehicle maneuvers and impacts. The stay rod 106 preferably allows for vertical adjustment of the headrest 104, enabling passengers to customize the height for optimal comfort and support.

[0039] In the first use position, headrest 104 is raised to provide support to the occupant's head and neck while sitting in seat 108. In the second position, the headrest 104 is folded down touching a top portion of seat 108. This position allows for better visibility through the rear windshield and also facilitates folding down seat 108.

[0040] In this embodiment of the present invention, device 100 includes a lever or switch 112, a cable 116, a position control unit 120, and a bracket (not visible) positioned on the seat frame 124. The lever or switch 112 is preferably positioned within the foam seat 108 surface for accessibility by the seated individual. The device 100 operates through two cycles such as an opening cycle and a closing cycle.

[0041] Now referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the headrest 104 transitions from the first position i.e. use position to the second position i.e. the non-use position, and in the closing cycle, the headrest 104 moves back from the second position to the first position. Notably, the headrest 104 generally resides in a second folded position.

[0042] Activation of lever or switch 112 initiates the second cycle, causing the headrest 104 to shift from the first to the second position. The first cycle commences through manual pressure applied to the headrest 104 in a direction indicated by arrow ‘1’, moving it from the first to the second position. The second cycle commences through manual pressure applied to the lever or switch 112 moving the headrest 104 in a direction indicated by arrow ‘2’, moving it from the second to the first position.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the control unit 120 is described as a unit having an approximately rectangular body. This control unit 120 has a bracket 600 and a guide 604. Bracket 600 is securely affixed to the rear portion of the control unit 120, facilitating its connection to a frame 608 mounted on seat 108, where the device 100 is intended to be positioned for a secure and integrated positioning.

[0044] The control unit 120 is detachably secured onto the frame 608 utilizing the bracket 600. The bracket 600 is affixed to the frame 608 at predetermined location, particularly in close proximity to the headrest 104. This configuration advantageously allows for the integration of the control unit 120 with the seat 108.

[0045] The guide 604, that may take the form of a plate or strip, is connected with the body of the control unit 120. The guide 604 is movable relative to the frame 608, specifically in alignment with the position of the stay rod 106 of the headrest 104. This arrangement ensures that the control unit 120 remains synchronized with the movements of the headrest 104, providing ergonomic and user-friendly functionality.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 9A, an exploded view of the control unit 120 is presented, detailing its constituent parts. The control unit 120 includes a front cover 900 and a back cover 904, enclosing its internal components. Among these components are the guide 604, an activator plate 606, the latch assembly 607, a spring 612, and a stopper pin 616, each serving a specific function within the assembly. The guide 604 and the activator plate 606 facilitates the movement of the control unit 120 within its intended framework, ensuring smooth operation and alignment with the seat assembly components. The latch assembly 607securely holds control unit 120 in place once installed, providing stability and reliability during use. The cable 116 connects the control unit 120 with the lever 112 is received within the latch assembly 607, for the transmission of control signals or activation movement of the lever 112. Additionally, the spring 612 is incorporated to manage movement of the headrest 104 through the control unit 120.

[0047] Furthermore, the first pin 614 and the second pin 616 is included to position the latch assembly 607 and the spring 612 on the activator plate 606. The second pin 616 that also acts as a stopper prevents overextension or unintended movement of the control unit 120, ensuring safe and controlled operation. The activator plate

[0048] 606 is normal to the guide 604. Collectively, these components contribute to the functionality and reliability of the control unit 120, enabling seamless integration with the seat assembly and efficient operation of the device. The latch assembly

[0049] 607 comprises an independent locking unit configured by a hook 620 and a cam 624. The cam 624 is provided with a through-hole 625 adapted to receive one end of a cable 116. Said end of the cable 116 includes a hook, locking mechanism, or equivalent securing means, which is insertable into the through-hole 625 of the cam 624 to affect a locking engagement between the cable 116 and the cam 624. Furthermore, the said end of the cable 116 is retained and secured in position by a joint formed of metal, plastic, or a combination thereof. Referring to FIGS. 10, 11 and 12, the control unit 120 is described. The control unit 120 includes the latch assembly 607 (FIG. 9) positioned upon the activator plate 606, further including the first pin 614, the second pin 616, and the spring 612. This assembly has an independent locking unit 618 (FIG. 9A) that includes a hook 620 and a cam 624. Activation of the locking unit is achieved through the application of an external force, typically by means of the cable 116 (Ref. FIG. 1, FIG. 9). The latch assembly 607 is operable between a locked position and an unlocked position, offering flexibility in its functionality.

[0050] The latch assembly 607 has a coaxially arranged hook 620 and cam 624, aligning with the central axis of the first pin 614. Positioned preferably at the upper extremity of the activator plate 606, by means of the first pin 614, the latch assembly 607 offers optimal placement for functionality. Spring 612, preferably of spiral configuration, is removably positioned on the activator plate 606, maintaining a predefined distance below the first pin 614.

[0051] The guide 604 has two distinct positions such as a first top position and a second bottom position. The guide 604 is positioned at its top position when the headrest 104 is in its operational or "use" position. Conversely, when the headrest 104 is pushed into its non-use position, the guide 604 is pushed to its bottom position. In this bottom position, the latch assembly 607 is effectively locked, and the spring 612 is compressed. This configuration readies the latch assembly 607 for unlocking, which can be initiated by activating the lever to pull the cable.

[0052] The guide 604 has two distinct positions such as a first top position and a second bottom position. The guide 604 is positioned at its top position when the headrest 104 is in its operational or "use" position. Conversely, when the headrest 104 is lowered down into its non-use position, the guide 604 is pushed to its bottom position. In this bottom position, the latch assembly 607 is effectively locked, and the spring 612 is compressed. This configuration readies the latch assembly 607 for unlocking, that is initiated by activating the lever to pull the cable.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 11, in operation, the lever 112 is pushed. This push initiates the engagement of the cam 624, inducing the rotation of the hook 620 around the first pin 614, thereby unlocking the latch assembly 607. Concurrently, the spring 612 aids in the upward displacement of the stay rod 106. As the headrest 104 is raised, the latch assembly 607 seamlessly transitions to the unlocked position. The headrest stay rod 106 engages with plastic sleeve lock to get into use position. Conversely, downward pressure on the headrest 104 triggers the engagement of the guide 604 by the stay rod 106, leading to the secure locking of the latch assembly 607. This locking occurs as the hook 620 firmly engages with the cam 624, ensuring stability and reliability in the assembly's operation.

[0054] This seamless transition of the headrest 104 between the two positions in accordance with the present invention not only simplifies the task for occupants but also serves as a proactive measure to safeguard against potential injury in the event of a collision or sudden deceleration.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, in another embodiment, the device of the present invention includes a release latch mechanism 1300. The release latch mechanism 1300 is activable by applying pressure in the downward direction on the seat. The release latch mechanism 1300 includes a release unit 1304 and a control unit 1308. The cable 116 connects the release unit 1304 to the control unit

[0056] 1308. When the user occupies the seat of the automotive, pressure is applied in a direction depicted by the downwards arrow ‘A’, causing the release unit 1304 to be pushed in a downwards direction. It is to be noted that the release lever may be positioned on the side of the seat, below the seat or on the lower end of the backrest of the automotive seat. This downward push of the release unit 1304 causes a tension in the cable 116, thereby triggering the control unit 1308 and the latch assembly 607 (Ref. FIG. 9). This causes the headrest 104 to be unlocked.

[0057] In yet another embodiment, the device 1400 of the present invention includes a motion sensor. The motion sensor 1404 is positioned on the seat such that it is able to detect the presence of a user on the seat. The motion sensor 1404 is connected to the control unit 1408 via a wire 1412. When the motion sensor 1404 detects the occupancy of the seat, an electrical signal is sent to the control unit 1408. The electrical signal activates the control unit 1408 and the latch assembly 607. In this embodiment, the latch assembly 607 is activable by an actuator 1414, for example, a motor or a solenoid or the like. Also, the motion sensor 1404 may communicate with an additional controller 1416 such as a microcontroller or a microprocessor that is configured to activate the actuator in accordance with the signals from the sensor 1404. In other words, this embodiment includes two controllers such a mechanical controller and an electronic controller.

[0058] In another embodiment, the control unit 120 activates based on the minimum predefined weight of a passenger occupying the seat 108, triggering the second cycle. The device 100 is integrable with an existing headrest 104 and seat frame of an automobile seat. The device 100 is adaptable to existing headrest 104 irrespective of the dimensions of the respective stay rods 106.

[0059] The device 100 of the present invention offers several advantages, for example, safety of passengers, enhanced comfort, universal compatibility, convenience to users and many more. The passengers can easily adjust the headrest 104 between use and non-use positions, providing customized support and comfort according to their preference. By seamlessly integrating with existing headrest and seat structures, the invention ensures that safety features, such as head and neck support, remain intact while allowing for easy adjustment.

[0060] The device 100 is adaptable to various headrest 104 and seat frame dimensions, making it suitable for integration into a wide range of automobile seats without requiring major modifications. The automated transition between positions, whether initiated manually or by weight sensing, reduces the need for manual adjustments, enhancing convenience for the passengers. The synchronized movement between the control unit and the headrest 104 provides an intuitive and user-friendly experience, ensuring ease of operation for passengers of different ages and abilities. The device 100 emphasizes ergonomic principles, ensuring that the headrest adjusts smoothly and comfortably, enhancing overall seating experience and reducing fatigue during long journeys.

[0061] The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others, skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omission and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but such are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An automotive seat headrest position management device 100 comprising: a headrest 104 configured to move between a first position and a second position; stay rods 106 connected to the headrest 104, said stay rods106 providing vertical adjustment; a lever or a switch 112 configured to be actuated by a seat occupant; a cable 116 operatively coupled to the lever or switch 112; a control unit 120 positioned to a seat frame and operatively connected to the cable 116, the control unit 120 including: a bracket 600 for attachment to the seat frame, a guide 604 configured to move with the stay rods 106, an activator plate 606, a latch assembly 607 including a hook 620 and a cam 624, and a spring 612 biasing the latch assembly 607, wherein activation of the lever or switch 112 pulls the cable116 to actuate the latch assembly 607, transitioning the headrest 104 from the second position to the first position, and wherein downward pressure on the headrest moves the headrest from the first position to the second position.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the first position is a use position, and the second position is a non-use or folded position.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the guide 604 is movable between a top position and a bottom position, and wherein the latch assembly 607 locks in the bottom position.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the latch assembly 607 transitions from a locked position to an unlocked position upon rotation of the hook 620 around a pin in response to the cam 624 being actuated by the cable 116.

5. The device of claim 1, further comprising a release latch mechanism comprising a release unit 1304 connected to the control unit by the cable 116, the release unit being actuatable by a downward push.

6. The device of claim 1, further comprising a motion sensor 1404 mounted to the seat and configured to detect seat occupancy and transmit a signal to activate the control unit.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the motion sensor 1404 is electrically connected to the control unit by a wire 1412.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the control unit is activated based on detection of a minimum predefined weight of a seat occupant.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the control unit includes a front cover and a back cover enclosing internal components including the activator plate 606, latch assembly 607, spring 612, guide 604, and pins 614, 616.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the spring 612 is a spiral spring configured to bias the headrest to the first position.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the control unit is integrable with existing automobile seat and headrest structures without modification.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the control unit and headrest movements are synchronized through the guide 604 aligned with the stay rods 106.

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