Reduction of coil compression in exciter-based seat massage system

Abstract

An assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat includes an exciter, a bladder configured to be selectively inflated and deflated, and a carrier for supporting the exciter and the bladder within the seat. The exciter has a coil for generating vibrations to provide a haptic experience with the bladder for an occupant of the seat. The carrier enables operation of the exciter isolated from compressive forces generated by the occupant of the seat.

Description

REDUCTION OF COIL COMPRESSION IN EXCITER-BASED SEAT MASSAGE SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application relates to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 416,504, filed January 18, 2024, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 480,867, filed January 20, 2023. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 674,113, filed July 22, 2024, and to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 764,446, filed February 27, 2025, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated herein.BACKGROUND

[0002] Vehicle seats and other seats may include various comfort features including, for example, heating, cooling, and massage. Massage features are commonly implemented using pneumatic bladders. In such systems, bladders located within a seat are inflated and deflated in predefined sequences to impart a massage-like motion to a seated person.SUMMARY

[0003] While pneumatic bladder systems have been commonly used for massage features, performance of such systems can be limited by the capabilities and limitations of pneumatic systems.

[0004] To enhance the experience compared to using only pneumatic bladders, certain examples herein provide, among other things, a massage system that uses the vibrations generated by audio speakers and other types of devices to create a massage-like motion in addition to a pneumatic bladder system. Such other types of applicable devices that generate vibrations include, for example, speaker coils, eccentric motors, and vibration actuators like those sold by Foster Electric or Dayton Audio, and are collectively referred to herein generally as “exciters.” To achieve an optimum and effective massage experience, the exciter coils (e.g., speaker coils) must vibrate properly at their maximum intended amplitude. The exciter coil in this sense refers to the coil assembly (e.g., the wires, magnet assembly, rotor, stator, or other structure), and as used herein does not only refer to a single wire, which could also be interpretedas a coil. One factor that can negatively impact coil vibration, however, is compression of the exciter assembly. For example, if a seated occupant exerts force on the seat, either when initially sitting down or otherwise moving once seated, a compressive force may be applied to the coil of the massage exciters and interfere with their proper vibratory operation or even damage the exciters. In some examples, the vibration amplitude may be diminished or the exciter’s vibration motor may stall because the exciter lacks the power to counter the compressive force that may be exerted by a seated occupant. Thus, it is important to provide an exciter-based massage system with structural features that will isolate unwanted compressive forces exerted by a seated occupant and thereby prevent interference with the vibratory operation of the exciter and its coils and possible damage to the exciter.

[0005] One example provides an assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat that includes an exciter and a carrier. The exciter has a coil for creating a vibration. The carrier retains the exciter within the seat. The carrier allows for operation of the coil isolated from forces resulting from the occupant sitting in the seat that may compress the coil and limit its ability to vibrate.

[0006] Another example provides an assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat that includes, in an aspect combinable with other aspects, a carrier having a plate and a cylindrical projection extending away from the plate. The plate and the cylindrical projection define a cavity for housing an exciter.

[0007] Another example provides an assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat that includes, in another aspect combinable with the other aspects set forth in this disclosure, a carrier including a spine, a first mounting bracket, a second mounting bracket, and a plurality of flexible projections. The first mounting bracket is located at a first end of the spine and is configured to receive mounting hardware. The second mounting bracket is located at a second end of the spine that is opposite the first end of the spine. The plurality of projections is spaced along the spine. Each of the plurality of projections includes a mounting region spaced apart from the spine. An exciter is attached to the mounting region of each one of the plurality of projections.

[0008] Another example provides an assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat that includes, in another aspect combinable with the other aspects set forth in this disclosure, a carrier and a plurality of exciters. The carrier includes a plate and a plurality of cylindrical projectionsextending away from the plate. Each of the plurality of exciters is positioned within a respective cavity of each of the plurality of cylindrical projections.

[0009] Another example provides an assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat that includes an exciter having a coil for generating vibrations, a bladder configured to be selectively inflated and deflated, and a carrier for supporting the exciter and the bladder within the seat. The assembly is configured to be mounted in a seat including seat trim for supporting an occupant. The carrier supports the exciter and the bladder within the seat with the bladder positioned between the exciter and the seat trim.

[0010] Another example provides an assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat that includes an exciter having a coil for generating vibrations, a bladder configured to be selectively inflated and deflated, and a carrier for supporting the exciter and the bladder within the seat. The assembly is configured to be mounted in a seat including seat trim for supporting an occupant. The exciter extends through an aperture provided in the bladder such that both the bladder and the exciter are configured to contact the seat trim A grommet attached to the bladder around the aperture is configured to retain the exciter within the bladder’s aperture.

[0011] Another example provides a bladder having two fluid chambers that can be folded over and aligned with one another along a fold line provided in the bladder. Each bladder chamber includes an aperture to receive an exciter.

[0012] Another example provides a bladder having a first fluid chamber fluidly connected to a second fluid chamber via a connecting channel such that both chambers can be inflated by the same fluid supply conduit. The two chambers can be folded over and aligned with one another along a fold line provided in the bladder such that the exciter apertures for the two chambers are aligned with a single exciter inserted through the aligned apertures in both chambers.

[0013] Another example provides two bladders each having two fluid chambers with each chamber having an aperture for receiving an exciter. When the fluid chambers in each bladder are folded over one another along a fold line in each bladder the apertures in the folded-over chambers are aligned such that stacking the two bladders relative to one another aligns all the apertures so that a single exciter can extend through all the apertures in both of the stackedbladders. The longitudinal axes of the two stacked bladders can be oriented 90 degrees apart from one another.

[0014] Another example provides an assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat that includes, in another aspect combinable with the other aspects set forth in this disclosure, a carrier including an opening and a membrane. An exciter is retained within the opening by the membrane.

[0015] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Fig. 1 illustrates a seat including a massaging assembly according to some examples.

[0017] Fig. 2 is a schematic that illustrates the locations of exciters within the seat of Fig. 1 according to some examples.

[0018] Fig. 3 illustrates a massage system within the seat of Fig. 1 according to some examples.

[0019] Fig. 4 illustrates an alternate construction of a carrier for the massage system of Fig. 3 according to some examples.

[0020] Fig. 5 illustrates a massage system with the carrier of Fig. 4 according to some examples.

[0021] Fig. 6 illustrates a massage system within the seat of Fig. 1 according to some examples.

[0022] Fig. 7 illustrates an alternate view of the massage system of Fig. 6 according to some examples.

[0023] Fig. 8 illustrates a front view of the massage system of Fig. 6 according to some examples.

[0024] Fig. 9 illustrates a rear view of the massage system of Fig. 6 according to some examples.

[0025] Fig. 10 illustrates an alternate construction of a carrier for the massage system of Fig. 6 according to some examples.

[0026] Fig. 11 illustrates a shield of a carrier for the massage system of Fig. 6 according to some examples.

[0027] Fig. 12 illustrates a massage system within the seat of Fig. 1 according to some examples.

[0028] Fig. 13 illustrates a bottom-up view carrier of the massage system of Fig. 12 according to some examples.

[0029] Fig. 14 illustrates a top-down view carrier of the massage system of Fig. 12 according to some examples.

[0030] Fig. 15 illustrates a bottom-up view of an alternate construction of a carrier for the massage system of Fig. 12 according to some examples.

[0031] Fig. 16 illustrates an alternate construction of a massage system for use within the seat of Fig. 1 according to some examples.

[0032] Fig. 17A illustrates an alternate construction of a massage system for use within the seat of Fig. 1 in an undeformed condition according to some examples.

[0033] Fig. 17B illustrates the alternate construction of a massage system of Fig. 17A in a deformed condition according to some examples.

[0034] Fig. 18A illustrates an alternate construction of a massage system for use within the seat of Fig. 1 according to some examples.

[0035] Fig. 18B illustrates a section view of the massage system shown in Fig. 18A taken along section line AA.

[0036] Fig. 19A illustrates an alternate construction of a massage system for use within the seat of Fig. 1 according to some examples.

[0037] Fig. 19B illustrates a section view of the massage system shown in Fig. 18A taken along section line BB.

[0038] Fig. 20 illustrates an alternate construction of a massage system for use within the seat of Fig. 1 according to some examples.

[0039] Fig. 21 illustrates a seat including a massage assembly according to some examples.

[0040] Fig. 22 illustrates an example of a massage assembly included in the seat of Fig. 21.

[0041] Fig. 23 illustrates another example of a massage assembly included in the seat of Fig. 21.

[0042] Fig. 24A illustrates an example of a pneumatic bladder used in the massage assembly shown in Fig. 23.

[0043] Fig. 24B illustrates another view of the pneumatic bladder shown in Fig. 24A.

[0044] Fig. 24C illustrates an assembled view of the pneumatic bladder shown in Fig. 24A.

[0045] Fig. 25 illustrates a front isometric view of the seat of Fig. 21.

[0046] Fig. 26 illustrates a rear isometric view of the seat of Fig. 21.

[0047] Fig. 27 illustrates a front assembly view of the seat of Fig. 21.

[0048] Fig. 28 illustrates a rear assembly view of the seat of Fig. 21.

[0049] Fig. 29 illustrates another example of a seat including the massage system in Fig. 23.

[0050] Fig. 30 illustrates a front isometric view of the seat of Fig. 29 with seat trim removed.

[0051] Fig. 31 illustrates a rear isometric view of the seat of Fig. 29.

[0052] Fig. 32 illustrates a front assembly view of the seat of Fig. 29.

[0053] Fig. 33 illustrates a rear assembly view of the seat of Fig. 29.

[0054] Fig 34A illustrates a side view of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0055] Fig. 34B illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0056] Fig. 34C illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0057] Fig. 34D illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0058] Fig. 35 illustrates a side view of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0059] Fig. 36 illustrates a side view of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0060] Fig. 37 illustrates a side view of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0061] Fig. 38 illustrates a side view of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0062] Fig. 39 illustrates a top-down view of the exciter assembly of Fig. 35.

[0063] Fig. 40 illustrates a top-down view of an alternate construction the exciter assembly of Fig. 35.

[0064] Fig. 41 illustrates a top-down view of an alternate construction the exciter assembly of Fig. 35.

[0065] Fig. 42A illustrates a top-down view of a first step of assembling the exciter assembly of Fig. 35.

[0066] Fig. 42B illustrates a top-down view of a second step of assembling the exciter assembly of Fig. 35.

[0067] Fig. 42C illustrates a top-down view of a third step of assembling the exciter assembly of Fig. 35.

[0068] Fig. 43 illustrates is side view of the exciter assembly of Fig. 38.

[0069] Fig. 44 illustrates a side view of a mock-up of the exciter assembly shown schematically in Fig. 43.

[0070] Fig. 45 illustrates the mock-up of the exciter assembly shown in Fig. 44 in an unfolded state.

[0071] Fig. 46 illustrates another side view of the mock-up of Fig. 44.

[0072] Fig 47 illustrates a side view of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0073] Fig. 48 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0074] Fig. 49 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0075] Fig. 50 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0076] Fig. 51 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0077] Fig. 52 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0078] Fig. 53 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0079] Fig. 54 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0080] Fig. 55 illustrates a plan view of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0081] Fig. 56 illustrates an isometric side view of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0082] Fig. 57 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0083] Fig. 58 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0084] Fig. 59 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0085] Fig. 60 illustrates a side view of an alternate exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0086] Fig. 61 illustrates leakage points along a wired connection of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0087] Fig. 62 illustrates a side view of an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0088] Fig. 63 illustrates a side view of a portion of an alternate construction of the exciter assembly of Fig. 62.

[0089] Fig. 64 illustrates a side view of a portion of an alternate construction of the exciter assembly of Fig. 62.

[0090] Fig. 65 illustrates a side view of an exciter assembly positioned within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0091] Fig. 66 illustrates a side view of an exciter assembly alternately positioned relative to the seat of Fig. 1.

[0092] Fig. 67 illustrates a side view of exciter assemblies positioned within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0093] Fig. 68 illustrates a method for manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0094] Fig. 69A illustrates a first step in a method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0095] Fig. 69B illustrates a second step in a method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0096] Fig. 69C illustrates a third step in a method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0097] Fig. 69D illustrates a fourth step in a method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0098] Fig. 70A illustrates a first step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0099] Fig. 70B illustrates a second step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0100] Fig. 70C illustrates a third step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0101] Fig. 71 A illustrates a first step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0102] Fig. 7 IB illustrates a second step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0103] Fig. 71C illustrates a third step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0104] Fig. 72A illustrates a first step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0105] Fig. 72B illustrates a second step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0106] Fig. 72C illustrates a third step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0107] Fig. 72D illustrates a fourth step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0108] Fig. 72E illustrates a fifth step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0109] Fig. 72F illustrates a sixth step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0110] Fig. 73 A illustrates a first step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0111] Fig. 73B illustrates a second step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0112] Fig. 73C illustrates a third step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0113] Fig. 73D illustrates a fourth step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0114] Fig. 73E illustrates a fifth step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.

[0115] Fig. 73F illustrates a sixth step in another method of manufacturing an exciter assembly for use within the seat of Fig. 1.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0116] Before any embodiments, examples, aspects, and features are explained in detail, it is to be understood that those embodiments, examples, aspects, and features are not limited in their application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. Other embodiments, examples,aspects, and features are possible and capable of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0117] Fig. 1 illustrates an example of a massage seat 5 for a vehicle. However, other embodiments of the seat 5 are contemplated. For example, the massage assembly described herein could be implemented in an office seat, gaming seat, or various types of furniture, such as sofas, recliners, beds, and the like. As another example, a massage seat for use in a medical practice, such as a physical therapy clinic, or in a salon, such as a nail or hair salon, is contemplated. When used in a vehicle, the seat 5 can be used for either a driver or passenger. Generally, the side of the seat 5 that faces the seat occupant can be referred to as the A-side, while the side of the seat 5 facing away from the occupant can be referred to as the B-side.

[0118] The seat 5 includes a backrest 10 and a base 15. The base 15 in some examples is also referred to as the cushion. The backrest 10 and base 15 are hinged about a seat hinge 25 so that an angle of the backrest 10 relative to the base 15 can be adjusted, for example, by a seated occupant. The backrest 10 can include a headrest positioned at a headrest mounting location 20. When included as part of the seat 5, the headrest extends from the upper side of the backrest 10 opposite the seat hinge 25. The seat 5 can be mounted to a vehicle by seat rails or other mechanisms (not shown) that permit the position of the seat 5 to be adjusted fore and aft relative to the vehicle.

[0119] The seat 5 generally includes a backrest seating area 35 and a base seating area 40 to support a seated occupant and provide support surfaces in contact with the occupant. In some instances, seating areas may include additional support features such as, for example, backrest bolsters 45a, 45b, base bolsters 50a, 50b, and base cushion extender 55, all of which are shown in Fig. 1. The backrest bolsters 45a, 45b, the base bolsters 50a, 50b, and the base cushion extender 55 add supporting structure to the seating area to provide additional comfort, usability, or adjustability of the seat for an occupant, and all may provide additional support surfaces in contact with a seated occupant.

[0120] All or a portion of the backrest seating area 35 and the base seating area 40, including any of the backrest bolsters 45a, 45b, base bolsters 50a, 50b, and base cushion extender 55shown in Fig. 1, can include a massage element or in some cases a massage system 60. For example, Fig. 2 schematically illustrates the massage system 60 in the backrest 10 and base 15. The massage system 60 is positioned beneath the seat’s outer covering, which may comprise, for example, fabric, leather, plastic, or other seat covering material. Thus, the massage system 60 is not visible from the exterior of the seat 5.

[0121] The massage system 60 provides massaging vibrations to the seat occupant through the A-side of the backrest and base seating areas 35, 40, respectively. As a result, the massage system 60 is positioned sufficiently close enough beneath the underside of the seat’s outer cover on the A-side of the seat so that the seat occupant will feel the massaging vibrations generated by the massage system 60. If the massage system 60 is positioned too far away from the underside of the seat’s cover on the A-side of the seat 5, the desired massaging effect will be diminished or not felt at all.

[0122] Fig. 12 illustrates another massage system 60 provided in the backrest and base seating areas 35, 40, respectively. Figs. 2 and 12 provide only two examples of the possible configurations or layouts of massage system 60, which, depending on the desired user experience, can be provided in virtually any part of the seat 5 that directly supports and is in contact with a seated occupant.

[0123] The massage system 60 uses exciters 140 to generate vibrations that massage the occupant of the seat 5. Each exciter includes a coil. In some examples the exciter includes a diaphragm that is reciprocated by the coil. The exciters 140 (shown in Figs. 7, 8, 12, 16, 22, and 23) may be arranged in different configurations within the seat 5 such that the vibrations generated by the exciters 140 produce different massage effects. In some instances, the number of exciters 140 may be between six and ten. In other instances, the number of exciters is at least four. The exciters may be mounted in the seat 5 such that they are located close to the back or thigh of the seated occupant and avoid directly massaging the occupant’s ribs and spine. The locations of the exciters 140 may also be dictated by seating packaging requirements, so that the massage system 60 can be correctly installed within the seat 5.

[0124] In some examples, the natural frequency of the massage system 60 is designed to be between 30 Hz and 90 Hz, which has been found to provide a desirable massage experience.The natural frequency of the massage system 60 is a function of the stiffness of the carrier, any seal attached to the carrier, and the occupant’s mass. More particularly, the natural frequency is equal to the square root of the stiffness divided by the mass. Thus, the material used to make the carrier can change the natural frequency of the massage system 60. The geometry of the carrier can also change the natural frequency of the massage system 60. As such, in some examples the structure and material of the seal or membrane attaching the exciter to the carrier can be optimized such that the natural frequency of the massage system is between 30 Hz and 90 Hz for seated occupants weighing within a common range, for example 90 to 300 pounds. In other examples, frequencies in a narrower range or in a range outside of 30 Hz and 90 Hz are desirable. More detail is provided below relating to these and other features of the massage systems 60.

[0125] The proximity of the exciters 140 to the seated occupant may result in an undesirable compression of the exciters 140 and their coils, as mentioned above, depending on the configuration of the seat and the seated occupant’s weight and seating posture. Compression of the exciters 140 can adversely impact their individual performance and the overall performance of the massage system 60, diminishing the system’s effectiveness and the massage experience. Carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 (also often referred to as lumbar baskets) provide examples of structures, which can be manufactured from rubber or hard plastic, which protect the exciters 140 from this unwanted compression.

[0126] As discussed below, isolating the individual exciters from the vibrations of other exciters or other seating and vehicle components also provides an improved massage experience. Mounting each exciter 140 to an individual projection 90 that flexibly extends from a central spine 95 formed as part of a flexible carrier as shown in Figs. 3-5 provides one example that serves to isolate the individual exciters and their vibrations from each other and other seating / vehicle components. Suspending each exciter within an individual housing cavity 170 by attaching the exciter to the underside of a flexible gasket, seal, or membrane 145 that covers multiple cavity openings formed in a carrier 300 for multiple exciters (Figs. 6-11) or that individually covers the single cavity openings formed in a carrier 400 for a single exciter (Figs. 12-15) provides another example of how the exciters can be isolated to provide an improved massage experience. Yet another example shown in Fig. 16 suspends each exciter 140 from aflexible seal or membrane 145 that covers an exciter opening formed in a carrier 500. Each of these examples capitalizes on the isolation and localization of individual exciter vibrations to provide an overall stronger vibratory effect and resulting improved massage experience, while still offering a modular massage system package for easy installation into seat 5.

[0127] Fig. 3 illustrates one example of the massage system 60 within the seat 5 of Fig. 1. The view shown in Fig. 3 is a rear view of the backrest 10, with the seat covering removed so that the massage system 60 is visible. The massage system 60 includes a carrier or lumbar basket 100 and a spring 65 (also often referred to as a guidewire). The spring 65 is mounted to the seat frame 30 at seat frame mounting locations 85. Two seat frame mounting locations 85 are shown in Fig. 3 near the top of the backrest 10. The spring 65 is also mounted by at least two additional seat frame mounting locations 85 near the bottom of the backrest 10 that are hidden behind the seat frame 30 in the view of Fig. 3. The seat frame mounting locations 85 shown in Fig. 3 are formed by portions of the spring 65 inserted through the seat frame 30, although other implementations are contemplated such as clips, snaps, or bolts that retain the spring 65 in place relative to the seat frame 30. In other examples, the spring 65 can be configured differently to suspend the plate 87, such as when the packaging requirements of the plate 87 within the seat 5 differ from what is shown herein.

[0128] In the example shown in Fig. 3, the spring 65 includes three primary components, a cross beam 70 that extends between the seat frame mounting locations 85 and two spanner beams 75 that extend from the cross beam 70 and down opposite sides of the massage system 60 to an end of the seat frame 30 near the seat hinge 25. The spring 65 is connected to the carrier 100 at spring mounting locations 80. In the example shown in Fig. 3, two spring mounting locations 80 are used and are connected to a plate 87 of the carrier 100. Four additional spring mounting locations 80 connect the spring 65 to a shield 120 of the carrier 100. The two spring mounting locations 80 on the plate 87 are located at an upper portion of the plate 110. Two sets of spring mounting locations 80 are connected to the shield 120. The shield 120 is a rigid structure like the plate 87 and can be made of the same material as the plate 87. The shield 120 is positioned between the spring 65 and the plate 87 and provides a structure into which the plate 87 may be depressed under the weight of a seated occupant. The shield 120 therefore provides additional support to the seated occupant. The shield 120 is shown in more detail in Fig. 11. Inother instances, more or fewer spring mounting locations 80 can be provided at different locations on the plate 87 or on the shield 120. The spring mounting locations 80 are shown as snaps that receive the spring 65, but other embodiments are contemplated, such as, for example, fasteners or bolts, which are configured to retain the spring 65 in place relative to the carrier 100. The spring mounting locations are designed in some examples to allow the plate 87 to pivot when lumbar adjustments to the backrest 10 are made by a seated occupant.

[0129] The carrier 100 is thus suspended on the seat frame 30 by the spring 65 for independent flexing and movement relative to the frame, which serves to isolate vibrations from the vehicle chassis that would otherwise travel through the seat frame 30 to the massage system 60 and diminish the effectiveness of the massage system 60 and the massage experience. Similarly, suspension of the carrier 100 by the spring 65 also permits the carrier 100 to flex and move relative to a seated occupant and thereby isolate any forces created by the occupant’s movements that might interfere with the operation of the massage system 60 and the message experience.

[0130] The plate 87 has a plurality of projections or leaves 90, also referred to as fingers in some examples. The projections 90 are cantilevered from a central spine 95 that runs vertically down a middle region of the plate 87 as shown in Fig. 5. The carrier 100 is positioned and configured so that the spine 95 generally aligns with a spine of a seated occupant. Each projection 90 has a rounded mounting region 105 distal from the spine 95. The mounting region 105 of each projection 90 provides an area on which an exciter 140 can be installed using an adhesive. Alternatively, the exciters 140 can be fastened or clipped to the projections 90 using various hardware.

[0131] The cantilever design of the projections 90 allows the projections to be pre-loaded so that in a rest state, the projection is biased toward or away from the rest of the plate 87. In other words, for example, the projections can be bent at an angle away from a plane defined by the rest of the plate 87. Pre-loading and biasing the projections 90 can position the exciters 140 relatively close to a seated occupant to provide an effective and satisfactory massage experience while at the same time allow the exciters 140 to flex on projections 90 away from the occupant in response to any compressive forces the occupant may exert on the exciters. Allowing the excitersto flex away from compressive forces created by a seated occupant serves to prevent unwanted compression on the coils of the exciters 140 that would adversely affect exciter operation. In short, the pre-loaded exciter mounting projections 90 serve to position the exciters 140 close to a seated occupant for optimum massage operation while protecting against undesirable compression on the exciter coil or diaphragms resulting from compressive forces exerted by a seated occupant on the enclosed exciter system 60. In response to the dissipation or release of such compressive forces, the memory properties of the biased projections 90 will return the projections 90 to their initial at-rest unbiased positions.

[0132] The example shown in Fig. 3 includes eight projections 90, although more or fewer projections 90 can be provided depending on the desired massage experience. Although not shown, the massage system 60 shown in Fig. 3 can be adapted for use in the base 15.

[0133] Fig. 4 illustrates an alternate construction of a carrier 200 for the massage system 60 of Fig. 3. The plate 87 of the alternate carrier 200 is different from that shown in Fig. 3 in that the carrier 200 includes first and second mounting brackets 125, 130 with the spine 95 extending between them. The projections or leaves 90 are also different in structure from the projections shown in Fig. 3. The projections 90 in Fig. 4 have a substantially constant cross section extending from the spine 95 to the mounting region 105, which is at the distal end of the projection from the spine 95. Like the projections 90 of the example in Fig. 3, the exciters 140 are attached to the projections 90 at the mounting region 105. While four projections 90 are shown in Fig. 4, more or fewer projections 90 are contemplated.

[0134] Fig. 5 illustrates the carrier 200 of Fig. 4 installed into the seat 5. Unlike the example shown in Fig. 3, the carrier 200 in Fig. 5 only includes four spring mounting locations 80, two at the first mounting bracket 125 and two at the second mounting bracket 130. The spring 65 in this example includes two spanner beams 75 and lacks the cross beam 70 shown in Fig. 3. Each spanner beam 75 extends from a portion of the seat frame 30 near the seat hinge 25 (the connection to the seat frame 30 is not shown) to an upper portion of the seat frame 30 farther away from the seat hinge 25. The spanner beams 75 are connected to the seat frame 30 at seat frame mounting locations 85. The first and second mounting brackets 125, 130 are connected to the spring 65 such that each extends between the opposed spanner beams. The spring 65 andcarrier 200 combine to provide a sprung assembly, which in some examples can provide additional lumbar support to the seat occupant.

[0135] The features or components of the examples shown in Figs. 3 and 5, or other examples disclosed herein, are not meant to be exclusively independent, as concepts from each example can be incorporated into the other. Figs. 3 and 5 represent only two of several possibilities of the concepts contemplated.

[0136] Fig. 6 illustrates another example of the massage system 60 that can be applied in the seat 5. The view shown in Fig. 6, like that of Fig. 3, is a rear, cut away view of the seat 5 showing the massage system 60. The spring 65, including the spanner beams 75 and the cross beam 70 are substantially the same as that shown in Fig. 3, and as a result the seat frame mounting locations 85 and spring mounting locations 80 are substantially the same as shown in Fig. 3. The example shown in Fig. 6 differs from that shown in Fig. 3 in relation to the structure of the carrier 300.

[0137] The carrier 300 includes a plate 87 formed with eight cylindrical projections 135. The cylindrical projections 135 each defines a cavity 170 for receiving an exciter 140. The cylindrical projections 135, and as a result the cavities 170, are positioned in a similar configuration to the eight exciters 140 in the example shown in Fig. 3. The carrier 300 shown in Fig. 6 is flexible such that the plate 87 and cylindrical projections 135 therein can adjust to the body contour of a seated occupant. For example, the carrier 300 is flexible enough to flex from a first contour (when the seat 5 is empty) to a second contour (when the seat 5 is occupied). The carrier 300 has memory, so that the carrier will flex back to the first contour after the seat is no longer occupied.

[0138] The stiffness and memory of the carrier 300 depends on the type of material used to form the carrier 300. The cylindrical projections 135 provided on the carrier 300 increase the carrier’s rigidity compared to a flat plate of the same material. To address this increased rigidity and maintain the flexibility of the carrier 300, a living hinge 107 (Figs. 7, 9) is provided in the plate 87. Typically, a living hinge is a thin flexible hinge made from the same material as the two more rigid pieces the hinge connects. The living hinge 107 allows the connected more rigid pieces to bend along the line of the hinge. The living hinge in Figs. 7-9 is located between thethird and fourth set of cylindrical projections 135 (as counted from the top of the plate 87 in Figs. 7-9), but in other examples can be placed in other locations on the plate 87. With this configuration, the carrier 300 is still rigid enough to protect the exciters 140 and prevent compressive forces generated by a seated occupant from adversely affecting the quality or performance of the vibratory output of the exciters 140. In other words, the carrier 300 is rigid enough to prevent the exciters 140 from being damaged or distorted by the compressive forces that may be exerted by a seated occupant in the seat 5. In some examples, the carrier 300 is manufactured from hard rubber or plastic. In other examples, the plate 87 is flexible enough without the living hinge 107 to meet the flexibility requirements needed to provide adequate seated comfort and performance of the massage system 60. In some examples, the carrier 300 can provide the added benefit of being a noise attenuation device, reducing any noise created by the massage system 60.

[0139] Fig 7 illustrates a front view of the seat 5 and the carrier 300. The seat covering and other padding materials are removed in Fig. 7 such that only the seat frame 30 and massage system 60 remain. The dashed lines indicate how the exciters 140 are to be installed in the cavities 170 of the cylindrical projections 135, which extend from plate 87 toward the B-side of the seat 5. Two exciters 140 are shown in their installed positions. In the illustrated example, the exciters 140 are cylindrical-style speakers, although other exciter types could be used. The massage system 60 includes a flexible seal, membrane, or gasket 145, which can be made from rubber or similar material. Each exciter is connected to a seal 145 that is attached to the A-side of the plate 87. Although Fig. 7 illustrates a seal 145 to which four exciters 140 are attached, other numbers of exciters 140 could be attached to a single seal 145. In yet another example as shown in Fig. 8, the seal 145 might only be attached to a single exciter 140.

[0140] For example, the seal 145 can include an adhesive on the side facing toward the inside of the cylindrical projection 135 for attachment of an exciter 140. In other examples, the exciter 140 is mechanically affixed to the seal 145 with fasteners. Exciter 140 is thus suspended from the seal 145 within the cavity 170. The flexible nature of the seal 145 acts to “float” the suspended exciter 140 within the cavity 170 such that the exciter 140 is isolated from the rest of the seat 5.

[0141] Suspension of the exciters 140 from the seals 145 within the cavities 170 serves to localize and isolate the vibrations generated by each exciter 140 from (or at least lessen the transmission of vibrations to) the vibrations generated by the other exciters 140 and from other components of the massage system 60. Localizing and isolating the vibrations from the individual exciters 140 within each cavity 170 allows the vibrations from each exciter to be targeted to a particular anatomical area of a seated occupant, which can provide a more effective massage experience. The seals 145 also serve to isolate excessive vibration that may be caused by the carrier 300 and thus prevent the resulting noise that would be caused by resonance of the exciters 140 and the carrier 300 from such unwanted vibration.

[0142] In some examples, the seal 145 may contact the foam padding of the seat 5, which can increase the massage vibrations felt by the seated occupant. Depending on the material properties of the foam padding, positioning the exciter 140 in direct contact with the foam padding can increase the intensity of the vibrations or can disperse the vibrations throughout the massage area to provide an improved massage experience.

[0143] Electronic connections 150 shown in Figs. 7-8 electrically connect each exciter 140 to a signal source (for example, an analog amplifier controlled by a microprocessor) that provides electrical signals having an amplitude and frequency to cause vibration of an exciter at a desired magnitude and frequency.

[0144] The seal or gasket 145 is positioned on the carrier 300 over the installed exciters 140, between the carrier 300 and the seating area. Two seals 145, one for each bank of exciters 140, is shown in Fig. 7, although other cover layouts are contemplated that cover different numbers of the exciters 140.

[0145] The cavity 170 layout shown in Figs. 6 and 7 is not the only contemplated example of the carrier 300. Figs. 8, 9, 10, and 11 show different examples of the carrier 300 that could be installed into a seat 5. Further, the carriers 300 can be installed in different locations in the seat 5. For example, and without limitation, the carrier 300 shown in Figs. 8 and 9 can be adapted for installation in the backrest 10 as shown in Fig. 6. In another example, without limitation, the carrier 300 as shown in Fig. 10 can be adapted for installation into the seat base 15. Seals 145shown in Fig. 8 are examples of seals for individual exciters 140 as opposed to the seals 145 for multiple exciters 140 shown in Fig. 7.

[0146] Fig. 8 is a front view of the carrier 300 and Fig. 9 is a rear view of the carrier 300. These views illustrate, among other things, the stepped design of the cylindrical projections 135. The cylindrical projections 135 each includes a first portion 160 and a second portion 165. The first portion is cylindrical having a first diameter and the second portion also is cylindrical having a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter. A step 180 extends generally parallel to the plane defined by the plate 87 and connects the first portion 160 to the second portion 165. An end cap 202 extends across the end of the first portion 160 and closes off the cavity 170. In other examples, the end cap 202 is not included, and the cylindrical projection 135 is open and uncapped on both ends.

[0147] Fig. 8 also illustrates openings 155 that provide a path for electronic connections 150 from each exciter 140 to other connections in the seat 5 or the vehicle in which the seat 5 is installed. A factor that can adversely impact operation of an exciter-based massage system is exciter overheating, which can cause the exciters, specifically the exciter coils, to fail and render the system inoperable. This can be avoided by ensuring sufficient cooling airflow to the exciters. Ventilating the cavities 170 provides a solution to this operational problem. The openings 155 serve to provide a ventilation path for each exciter 140 to help limit overheating of the exciter coils.

[0148] In the example shown in Figs. 8 and 9, each opening 155 is formed as a partially recessed slot in the plate 87 that extends from the second portion 165. The openings 155 shown in Figs. 8-10 all extend laterally away from a centerline of the seat 5. In other examples, the openings 155 may be oriented in any direction relative to the seat 5 based on the requirements of the massage system 60 or seat 5.

[0149] Fig. 10 illustrates another example of the projections 135 in which the second portion 165 includes a square recessed portion that extends from the plate 87 to the circular, second portion 165, which forms the step 180 with the circular, first portion 160. Like the example in Figs. 8 and 9, the opening 155 is a slot that extends through the plate 87. The end cap 202 is connected to the first portion 160 and closes off the cavity 170.

[0150] Fig. 11 illustrates the shield 120 discussed above, which includes a channel 175. The channel 175 is recessed from the rest of the plate 87 (like the cavities 170 are recessed from to plate 87) to receive two exciters 140. The carrier 300 includes two openings 157 through which the exciters 140 and the projections 90 extend when the plate 87 is depressed toward the B-side under the weight of a seated occupant. While the shield 120 does not support the exciters 140 directly, the shield 120 provides a supportive structure to limit the extent of the deformation of the plate 87 when it is depressed by, for example, a seated occupant. Channel 175 functions in generally the same manner as the projections 135 in the carrier 300 and provides a recessed area for the exciters to protect them from unwanted compressive forces that may be exerted by a seated occupant. The channel 175 also provides a flow path for ventilating and cooling the exciters 140 to help prevent the exciters 140 from overheating.

[0151] Figs. 12-15 illustrate the seat 5 with another example of the massage system 60. More specifically, the massage system 60 includes an individual carrier 400 for each exciter 140 (best shown in Figs. 13-15) positioned on the seat 5. The carriers 400 may be made from a rigid material, for example plastic, to prevent the supported exciters 140 from being damaged by compressive forces exerted by the seated occupant. In the example shown in Fig. 12, the backrest 10 includes eight exciters 140 each supported by an individual carrier 400 in the backrest seating area 35, and the base 15 includes four exciters 140 each supported by an individual carrier 400 in the base seating area 40. The exciters 140 in this illustration are “flat m” style speakers, such as those marketed by Foster Electric or Dayton Audio, although different speaker styles or exciter styles could be used in other examples. Notably, the exciters 140 are located in the backrest 10 to roughly match the locations of the exciters 140 shown in Fig. 7 and, therefore, provide a similar massage effect or experience to a seated occupant as the massage system of Fig. 7. To install the carriers 400, a core section of foam padding is removed from the seat 5 to provide a space for the massage system 60. The electronic connections extend from the exciters 140 to connect the exciters 140 to other electronic components of the seat 5 or vehicle. After the exciters 140 are installed in the seat 5, a cover (not shown) is placed on the seating areas 35, 40 over the exciters 140, seals 145, and electronic connections 150 so that they are not visible.

[0152] Figs. 13 and 14 illustrate top-down and bottom-up views of the carrier 400. The carrier 400 includes a plate 87 from which the cylindrical projection 135 extends. Like the carrier shown in Fig. 7, the cylindrical projection 135 includes a first portion 160 and a second portion 165 connected by the step 180. The first portion 160 is closed with the end cap 202. The plate also includes mounting apertures 185 through which fasteners can extend. The mounting apertures 185 are used to fix the flexible seal 145 (from which the exciter 140 is suspended within cavity 170) to the carrier 400. The exciter 140 can, in some examples, be fixed to the seal 145 with an adhesive. In other examples the seal 145 is mechanically coupled to the exciter 140. The cavity 170 in which the exciter 140 is suspended serves to isolate the exciter 140 and the vibrations it generates from the rest of the seat 5 and thus provide a more concentrated and effective massage vibration to the seated occupant. The mounting apertures 185 are also used to mount the carrier 400 to the seat 5, for example directly to the seat frame 30 of the seat 5 or within the seat padding.

[0153] Numerous forms of the openings 155 are illustrated. For example, opening 155a extends through the second portion 165, and provides a space though which the electronic connections 150 (not shown in Figs. 13 and 14) can be routed away from the exciter 140. Openings 155b extend through the first portion 160 and portions of the step 180 and the end cap 202. The openings 155b are generally rectangular shaped with rounded corners and are spaced equally about the circumference of the cylindrical projection 135. The openings 155b are primarily provided for cooling and allow cooling air to access the exciter 140 to keep the exciter 140 from overheating.

[0154] Fig. 15 illustrates a bottom-up of view an alternate construction of the carrier 400 with alternative sizes and locations of the openings 155. Openings 155c are circumferentially spaced around the step 180 in four different groups. The openings 155c are rounded slots oriented such that the longest dimension of the slot extends away from a center of the carrier 400. Openings 155d extend from the plate 87 and through the first and second portions 160, 165, the step 180, and the end cap 202. Two of the openings 155d are shown in Fig. 15, although more or fewer openings 155d can be provided. The openings 155d provide a space where the electronic connections 150 (not shown in Fig. 15) can be routed away from the exciter 140. Fig. 15 also illustrates an opening 155e, which is a circular aperture centered on the generally circularend cap 202. The opening 155e also provides a channel for cooling air that extends to the exciter 140.

[0155] Fig. 16 illustrates an alternate construction of the massage system 60 with a carrier 500. The carrier 500 includes a different construction of the plate 87 that has a first mounting bracket 125 and two plate openings 205, although only one of the plate openings is visible in Fig. 16. The first mounting bracket 125 includes two wing portions that extend away from the main body of the plate 87. Each wing portion includes a spring mounting location 80 where the plate 87 is mounted to the spring 65 (not shown in Fig. 16). An exciter 140 is fixed within each plate opening 205 by a seal, gasket, or membrane 145, which in some examples is the same as the seal or gasket 145 shown in Figs. 7 and 8. The seal 145 is flexible and includes an adhesive on the side facing the inside of the opening 205 for attachment of an exciter 140. In other examples, the exciter 140 is mechanically affixed to the seal 145 with fasteners. Exciter 140 is thus suspended from seal 145 within opening 205. The flexible nature of the seal 145 acts to “float” the suspended exciter 140 within the plate opening 205 such that the exciter 140 is isolated from the rest of the seat 5. This improves the performance of the exciter 140 and improves the overall user massage experience.

[0156] The seals 145 illustrated in Fig. 16 are square to match the generally square shape of the plate openings 205, although other shapes of the seals 145 and plate openings 205 are contemplated. In some examples, the coil of the exciter 140 that vibrates is adhered directly to the seal 145. Padding 210 can be provided in the plate opening 205 in the empty space around the exciter 140. The padding can serve to further isolate the exciter 140 from the rest of the seat 5 and provide additional padded comfort to a seated occupant.

[0157] Figs. 17A and 17B illustrate an alternate construction of the massage system 60. Foam padding 210 is shown with, for example, carriers 400 positioned within the foam padding 210 adjacent the A-side of the backrest 10 or the base 15. The A-side of the backrest 10 or the base 15 includes trim 240. The trim 240 can be different in structure from the padding 210. For example, the trim 240 can be more porous than the padding 210 to help circulate ventilated air. Since the A-side surface of the seat 5, especially the trim 240, may already include complex structure, such as heated / ventilated foam, pneumatic bladders and related components formassage, and heating mats, it can be advantageous to install the exciters 140 from the B-side of the padding 210 to avoid interfering with such structure. A cavity 230 is formed within the B- side of the foam padding 210 to receive an exciter 140 positioned on the plate 87. The cavity 230 can extend through the foam padding 210 all the way to the trim 240. In an alternative example, the exciter 140 could be located on a projection 90 of the carrier 100 shown in Fig. 3. When a force F is applied to the foam padding 210, for example when the seat 5 is occupied, the foam padding 210 will deform in the same direction as the force F as illustrated in FIG. 17B. This deformation pushes the exciter 140 into the plate 87, and causes the plate 87 to also deform or deflect in the same direction as the force F.

[0158] The plate 87 is configured to deform or deflect so that the exciter will not be damaged or otherwise have its function impaired by exertion of force F as transmitted through the foam padding 210. In addition, the plate 87 and living hinge are configured to provide enough stiffness to maintain the exciter 140 close enough to the seated occupant so that the exciter 140 provides an optimal massage experience even when a force F is exerted. In some examples, the plate 87 includes a living hinge 107 or other seam so that the flexibility of the plate is optimized. For example, in Figs. 17A and 17B a portion of the plate 235 where the exciter 140 is attached is hinged from the rest of the plate 87. In the illustrated example, a living hinge is created along a hinge line between the plate 235 and the rest of the plate 87 to add flexibility to the plate 87 so that the exciter 140 can move in response to a force F exerted by a seated occupant and remain in an optimal location relative to the seated occupant. In other examples, the plate 87, due to its geometry, mounting scheme, or material properties alone, provides optimum flexibility to retain the exciter 140 in a location desired for optimum performance in response to exertion of a force F.

[0159] Figs. 18A to 20 illustrate yet other constructions of the massage system 60 where, like the construction in Figs. 17A and 17B, the exciter 140 is positioned in a cavity 170 of a housing 250, where the housing 250 is positioned within the B-side of the foam padding 210, which is an opposite side of the seat 5 from the exterior seat trim 240. Installing the exciters from the B-side can be advantageous because electronic connections to the exciters 140 are more easily installed (the electronic connections do not have to run though the foam padding 210, to the B-side of the seat, to connected with the rest of the electrical system). In addition, installing the exciters 140from the B-side can help ensure that the exciters stay in position for the life of the vehicle when compared to exciters installed in the A-side of the foam padding 210. Installing the exciters 140 from the B-side can also ease installation because the entire massage system 60 can be attached as a single unit into the B-side of the seat 5.

[0160] Fig. 18A illustrates a plate 87 connected to a housing 250. In some examples, the housing 250 is the same as the carrier 400 illustrated in Figs. 13-15. The housing 250 is inserted into a cavity 230 of the foam padding 210. The housing 250 includes a cavity 170. The housing 250 includes a housing support 245, where the housing support 245 is connected to the plate 87 by springs 260. The exciter 140 is suspended within the housing 250 by springs 255. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 18 A, and as best shown in Fig. 18B, the housing support 245 is suspended within a plate opening 265 by four of the springs 260, and the exciter 140 is suspended between the housing support 245 and another portion of the housing 250 by four springs 255 toward the B-side of the housing 250 and four springs 255 toward the A-side of the housing 250.

[0161] Figs. 19A and 19B illustrate a similar construction of the massage system 60 to that shown in Figs. 18A and 18B, although with some notable differences. Specifically, the housing support 245 is not connected to the exciter 140 via springs 255, only the portion of the housing 250 adjacent the A-side of the seat 5 is connected to the exciter 140 via springs 255. Like the construction shown in Figs. 18A and 18B, the housing support 245 is connected to the plate 87 via springs 260. The difference in the configuration of the springs shown in Figs. 18A and 18B compared to the configuration shown in Figs. 19A and 19B allows for different overall compression of the foam padding 210 based on the overall design of the seat 5 and can be optimized (via geometry or spring rate of the springs 255, 260) to best retain the exciter 140 relative to a seated occupant to provide an optimal massage experience.

[0162] Fig. 20 illustrates another example of the massage system 60 similar to those shown in Figs. 18A-19B, although with the difference that no housing 250, no springs 255, 260, and no housing support 245 are included. Instead, a seal or membrane 145 extends across the plate opening 265. The exciter 140 is connected directly to the seal 145 by an adhesive or mechanical fasteners. The exciter 140 extends into the B-side of the foam padding 210 within the cavity230, and the elasticity of the seal 145 preloads (i.e., biases) the exciter 140 into the cavity 230. In other words, the seal 145 biases the exciter 140 into the cavity 230 and allows the exciter 140 to flex out of the cavity when a seated occupant exerts a force on the exciter 140 in a direction toward the B-side of the seat 5.

[0163] In some examples, the springs 255 and the springs 260 may be the same or different and have the same or different spring rates. For example, the springs 255, 260 may be traditional coil springs or formed as membranes or seals similar to the seal 145. While the housing support 245 is shown as being generally circular, the housing support 245, housing 250, and cavity 230 can be other geometric shapes. The cavity 230 and the plate opening 265 can be other shapes to accommodate other sizes and forms of the exciter 140.

[0164] The constructions shown in Figs. 17A, 17B, and 20 all compensate for the removal of the foam padding 210, and resulting lack of the cushioning effect the padding provides, to make room for the cavities to house exciter 140 and its housing 250 by adjusting the spring rate of springs 255 or, in the case of the arrangement of Fig. 20, the biasing force of the seal or membrane 145 so that the springs 255 or seal 145, as the case may be, provide an appropriate cushioning effect in the place of the removed padding 210. That is, the springs 255 or seal 145 will behave in the same manner as the removed padding 210 to cushion a seated occupant and protect the exciters 140 from compressive forces exerted by the occupant. Thus, to compensate for the removal of the foam padding where the exciters 140 are placed, numerous factors are taken into account such as the seat 5 intended spring rate, the flexibility and configuration of the plate 87 (if any), the spring rate of the springs 255, 260 or seal 145 (if any), and the overall seat 5 geometry. Including the geometry of the exciters themselves.

[0165] Fig. 21 illustrates another example of a seat 5 and is similar to the seat 5 illustrated in Fig. 1. The seat includes the backrest 10 having the backrest seating area 35 and the base 15 having the base seating area 40 as described in more detail in reference to Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 21, the A-side of the seat 5 is the side where an occupant of the seat 5 sits. The B-side of the seat 5 is opposite the A-side, i.e., the B-side is the back of the seat 5. The trim 240 of the seat 5 is the outermost layer of the seat 5, and thus represents the portions of the seat 5 in Fig. 21 that arevisible. The seat 5 illustrated in Fig. 21 includes various features, which can be in whole or in part combined with any of the other examples and / or features described herein.

[0166] In some examples, the seat 5 illustrated in Fig. 21 includes the massage system 1000 illustrated in Fig. 22. While the massage system 1000 as illustrated is adapted to be installed into the backrest 10, a similar construction of a massage system 1000 could be used in the base 15. The massage system 1000 includes a carrier 1010 similar to the carriers illustrated in Figs. 3-5. The carrier 1010 is mounted on the spring 65 and includes a central spine 95 having leaves 90 extending therefrom. Each leaf 90 includes an exciter 140 mounted thereon. The leaves 90 and spring 65 are both flexible such that the exciter 140 is held against a seat occupant when the occupant is seated against the backrest and / or base seating areas 35, 40. To contrast the construction shown in Figs. 3-5, the example shown in Fig. 22 also includes pneumatic bladders 1015A-1015C. The bladders 1015A-1015C are positioned between one or more of the exciters 140 and the backrest or base seating area 35, 40 on the A-side of the seat 5. In the example shown in Fig. 22, the massage system 1000 includes six bladders 1015A-1015C: two upper bladders 1015A, two middle bladders 1015B, and two lower bladders 1015C. Note that, to reduce clutter in the figures, only one side of Fig. 22 includes these labels. Other examples of the massage system 1000 can include different numbers and layouts of bladders 1015A-1015C.

[0167] The configuration of bladders 1015A-1015C and exciters 140 in this example is symmetrically arranged across the spine 95, although in other examples the configuration of bladders 1015A-1015C may not be symmetric. In some examples, the exciters are arranged symmetrically across the spine from each other such that the exciters 140 are spaced 100mm to 200mm apart from each other (i.e., 50mm to 100mm from a center of the spine). Of particular note, the upper bladders 1015 A are in contact with two exciters 140 each, although in other embodiments each bladder 1015A-1015C may be only in contact with a single exciter 140. Because the exciters 140 are in direct contact with the bladders 1015 A- 1015 C, vibration from the exciters 140 is transmitted though the bladders 1015A-1015C and to the seat occupant regardless of whether the bladders 1015 A-1015C are inflated or deflated. The bladders 1015A-1015C are each connected to a controller 1025. The controller 1025 is a pneumatic controller, which includes hardware (e.g., conduits, pumps, electronics etc.) to supply air to the bladders 101 SA- 1015C. Stated otherwise, the controller 1025 operates to selectively inflate and deflate thebladders 1015A-1015C. The controller 1025 has the ability to, in combination with the exciters 140, supply air to inflate the bladders 1015A-1015C in a desired sequence and create a desired haptic experience for the seat occupant. In some examples, the controller 1025 also controls operation of the exciter 140. For example, the combination of effects from the exciters 140 and bladders 1015A-1015C can create a desirable experience for the seat occupant.

[0168] In some examples, the seat 5 illustrated in Fig. 21 includes the massage system 1005 illustrated in Fig. 23. While the massage system 1005 is illustrated as adapted to be installed into the backrest 10, a similar construction could be used in the base 15. The massage system 1005 includes the spring 65 mounted to the seat frame 30. Like the example in Fig. 22, a carrier 1012 is mounted to the spring 65. The carrier 1012 could be similar to any of the carriers described herein. Exciters 140 are slidably mounted within holes 1014 located within the carrier 1012, such that the exciters 140 can slide relative to the carrier 1012. The holes 1014 are obscured in Fig. 23 but are shown in Figs. 31-33. In this example six exciters 140 are shown, although examples with more or less exciters are contemplated. The massage system 1005 includes bladders 1020, each of which includes an aperture 1030 (see Figs. 24A-C) configured to receive a respective exciter 140. The bladders 1020 shown in Fig. 23 are mounted between the carrier 1012 and the trim 240 of the backrest seating area 35. In some examples, the bladders 1020 are connected to the carrier 1012, for example, by a staple fixing each of the bladders 1020 to the carrier 1012.

[0169] Each exciter 140 extends through a bladder aperture 1030 from the rear side of the respective bladder 1020 positioned adjacent the B-side of the seat 5 to the front side of the bladder 1020 adjacent the A-side of seat 5. A grommet 1045 attached to each bladder 1020 on the A-side of the bladder and is positioned to encircle a portion of each exciter 140 that extends from the A-side of each respective bladder 1020 and retain the exciter 140 within the bladder aperture 1030 to retain the exciter 140 and the bladder 1020 relative to one another such that the bladder 1020 and the exciter 140 will move together relative to an occupant of the seat 5 when the occupant sits in the seat 5. In this way, the exciter and bladder are secured and positioned together as a cohesive operating unit to provide a massaging or other haptic effect to an occupant of seat 5. The grommets 1045 also provide an advantage by damping vibrations from the exciters 140 to inhibit transmission of the vibrations into the bladder 1020. This damping limitsvibrations produced by the exciters 140 from dispersing and dissipating throughout the bladder 1020. As a result, vibrations from the exciters 140 are concentrated in the area adjacent the exciter and only felt by the occupant of the seat 5 locally in the vicinity of the exciters 140, thus providing a better user experience for the occupant of the seat 5. While the grommets 1045 shown herein are circular and extend about an entire circumference of the exciter 140, other examples of the grommet 1045 that perform the same function (e.g., damping and retaining the bladder 1020 in a desired location relative to the exciter 140) are contemplated. In some examples, the grommet 1045 is rubber. Note that, to reduce clutter in the figures, only one side of Fig. 23 includes these labels. In some examples, the bladders 1020 overlap one another (as is shown in Fig. 23).

[0170] In some examples, the bladders 1020 are generally square in cross-section and include an aperture 1030 to receive an exciter 140 and a single fluid chamber for receiving pressurized fluid, such as air, to inflate the bladder 1020. However, in other examples such as those shown in Figs. 24A-24C, each of the bladders 1020 is circular and includes two bladder chambers 1050 that can be folded over a fold line 1035 into an assembled bladder 1020 like that shown in Figs. 23 and 24B. Each bladder chamber 1050 includes an aperture 1030 as described above to receive an exciter 140, and the grommet 1045 connects the bladder 1020 to the exciter.

[0171] Referring now to Fig. 24A, the controller 1025 can be configured to supply air to inflate a first chamber 1050 of the bladder 1020 via a conduit 1040. The first chamber 1050 is fluidly connected to the second chamber 1050 of the bladder 1020 via a connecting channel 1055. Thus, the controller 1025 is able to inflate both chambers 1050 via the same conduit 1040. Fig. 24A illustrates the bladder 1020 prior to being folded over the fold line 1035, and Fig. 24B illustrates two of the bladders 1020 after each has been folded over the fold line 1035. The aperture 1030 for each of the two chambers 1050 of the same bladder 1020 are aligned after the bladder 1020 is folded over the fold line 1035 to align the two chambers 1050 in a stacked configuration so that a single exciter 140 can be inserted through the aligned apertures 1030 in both bladder chambers 1050, as is shown in Figs. 23 and 24B.

[0172] In some examples, a single exciter 140 extends through two or more bladders. Fig. 24C illustrates an example where the chambers 1050 in each of two bladders 1020 are foldedover one another along a fold line 1035 in each bladder 1020 and aligned as described above, and the two bladders 1020 are then stacked relative to one another and aligned such that a single exciter 140 extends through the apertures in both of the stacked bladders 1020. As can be seen by the location of where the conduits 1040 are connected to and exit the respective stacked bladders 1020, the longitudinal axes of the two stacked bladders 1020 are oriented 90 degrees apart from one another. Offsetting the alignment of the bladders 1020 in this manner can create an optimal user experience by achieving a more even inflation of the bladders 1020. Other orientations of the stacked bladders 1020 relative to one another are contemplated. Both conduits 1040 ultimately connect to the controller 1025.

[0173] Fig. 24C illustrates trim 240 placed over the central portion of bladders 1020 closest to the A-side of seat 5, which obscures the view of the exciter 140 and grommet 1045, to space the bladder / exciter assembly a desired distance below the surface or covering of the seat. In examples where the bladder 1020 is folded, or if more than one bladder 1020 is positioned around a single exciter 140, the grommet 1045 acts to hold both the exciter 140 and the uppermost bladder 1020 (i.e., the bladder 1020 closest to the seat occupant and the A-side) in an optimum position relative to the seat occupant to provide the best user experience.

[0174] The massage system 1005 comprising pneumatic bladders 1020 provided with apertures 1030 to receive and hold exciters 140 achieves other advantages over massage systems by using exciters 140 in combination with pneumatic bladders and positioning the bladders 1020 and the exciters 140 at the same distance from the seat occupant. In this way the vibration from the exciter 140 is not damped by the bladder 1020. Together, the exciters 140 and the bladders 1020 provide cohesive haptic experience for the occupant of the seat 5.

[0175] Another advantage to the constructions shown in Figs. 21-24C is that the exciter 140 and bladders 1015A-1015C, 1020 are both located in areas of the backrest 10 and base 15 where the seat occupant generates the most compressive forces against the backrest and base. This positioning improves the vibration and massage effects provided by the exciters 140 and bladders 1015A-1015C, 1020 and experienced by the seat occupant. In some known examples, exciters 140 and bladders 1015A-1015C, 1020 are located in pockets formed throughout the interior cushioning or other interior support material or filler of the seat 5.

[0176] In addition, it is contemplated that the individual components of the systems 1000, 1005, including the exciters and bladders can be installed in seat 5 as a single integrated unit such installation of individual components is avoided. In other words, the entire massage system 1000, 1005 would be attached to the seat frame 30 via the springs 65 as a single integrated assembly. This provides advantages over piecemeal systems, where individual exciters 140 and bladders 1015A-1015C, 1020 are installed into pockets throughout the seat 5. This also provides an advantage in that the supplier of the systems 1000, 1005 can provide a single, pre-assembled system for installation into a seat 5.

[0177] Figs. 25-33 illustrate additional views of the components of the massage systems described above and depicted in FIGS. 1-24 in assembled and unassembled states, seat 5 of Fig. 21, and an alternative example of a seat 5 including the massage system 1005. These illustrations are added to provide additional support for the various features described in detail above and can be in whole or in part combined with any of the other examples and / or features described herein.

[0178] Figs. 34A-34D illustrate an exciter assembly 1060 that may be used within the seat 5 shown in Fig. 1. The exciter assembly 1060 includes a pneumatic bladder chamber 1050 that is selectively inflated with pressurized fluid such as air and deflated via a supply conduit 1040. An exciter 140 is housed within bladder chamber 1050. Inflating and deflating bladder chamber 1050 through the selective supply of, for example, pressurized air, while at the same time operating the exciter 140 has been found to provide an enhanced massage experience to an occupant of seat 5.

[0179] In general, the exciter assembly 1060 is mounted near the A-side of the seat, which supports a seated occupant , so that the exciter assembly 1060 can provide a massaging effect to the seat’s occupant . While not illustrated in Figs. 34A-46, the exciter assembly 1060 is generally mounted within a cutout in foam padding of seat 5. For example, the exciter 140 can be mounted like the carrier 400 is mounted within the foam padding 210 in Fig. 17A. Like the example in Fig. 17A, the exciter 140 is positioned in a cutout within the padding 210 and behind the trim 240 on the A-side of the seat 5. The example exciter assembly 1060 shown in Figs. 34A-34D includes a chamber wall 1065 that defines a bladder chamber 1050. An exciter 140 ispositioned within the bladder chamber 1050 such that the exciter 140 acts, i.e., vibrates, directly on the chamber wall 1065.

[0180] Each of Figs. 34A-34D illustrates a different vibrational movement of the exciter 140, which in some examples may be generated by an electromagnetic, electromechanical, or electrostatic energy, or combinations thereof. Reference is made to the axes, which include a vertical axis 1070 extending in a direction perpendicular to the A-side of the seat 5 when the exciter assembly 1060 is installed within the seat 5. The horizontal axis 1075 is perpendicular to the vertical axis 1070, and extends generally parallel with the A-side of the seat 5. Fig. 34A illustrates an example of the exciter 140 that vibrates along the direction of the vertical axis 1070. Fig. 34B illustrates an example of the exciter 140 that vibrates along the vertical axis 1070. Fig. 34C illustrates an example of the exciter 140 that vibrates along the horizontal axis 1075. Fig. 34D illustrates an example of the exciter 140 that vibrates in a rotational pattern with directional vectors along both axes 1070 and 1075. The rotational vibration is not limited to any specific orientation, and therefore the exciter 140 can rotate about any axis relative to vertical and horizontal axes 1070, 1075.

[0181] Fig. 35 illustrates an exciter assembly 1060 like those shown in Figs. 34A-34D for ease of comparison with examples of the exciter assembly 1060 shown in Figs. 36-38. Figs. 36- 38 all include an exciter assembly 1060 with an A-side bladder chamber 1080 and a B-side bladder chamber 1085 that is separately formed from the A-side bladder chamber 1080. In the examples shown in Figs. 36 and 37, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 is fluidly connected to the B-side bladder chamber 1085 via a connecting channel 1055, such that pressurized air supplied to or exhausted from the B-side bladder chamber 1085 is at the same time also supplied to or exhausted from the A-side bladder chamber 1080. The supply conduit 1040 that can, in various embodiments, be connected to the A-side bladder chamber 1080 or the B-side bladder chamber 1085.

[0182] The difference between the embodiment of the exciter assembly 1060 shown in Fig. 36 with the embodiment shown in Fig. 37 is the location of the exciter 140. In the example shown in Fig. 36, the exciter 140 is located in the B-side bladder chamber 1085. In the example shown in Fig. 37, the exciter 140 is located in the A-side bladder chamber 1080. In the exampleshown in Fig. 38, the exciter 140 is in the B-side bladder chamber 1085 as in the example of FIG. 36. However, in the example shown in Fig. 38, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 is not fluidly connected to the B-side bladder chamber 1085. In other words, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 is fluidly isolated from the B-side bladder chamber 1085. Like the examples of the exciter assembly 1060 shown in both Figs. 36 and 37, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 and the B-side bladder chamber 1085of FIG. 38 are stacked along the vertical axis 1070. The stacking of the A-side bladder chamber 1080 and the B-side bladder chamber 1085 allows the exciter assembly 1060 to be installed in the seat 5 with the A-side bladder chamber 1080 positioned closer to the A-side of the seat than the B-side bladder chamber 1085.

[0183] Fig. 39 illustrates a top plan view of the exciter assembly 1060with exciter 140 positioned within the bladder chamber 1050. The conduit 1040 extends through the chamber wall 1065 to fluidly connect the bladder chamber 1050 to a pneumatic pump 1042. As mentioned, pneumatic pump 1042 supplies air to and exhausts air from the bladder chamber 1050 to provide a massage experience to the seat’s occupant.

[0184] Fig. 39 also illustrates a wired connection 1090 that passes through chamber wall 1065 via T-junction 1097 into conduit 1040 to connect the exciter 140 to the controller 1025 so that the controller 1025 can operate and power the exciter 140. The T-junction 1097 includes a leg that is offset from the conduit 1040, where a sealing location 1095 operates to prevent leaks as the wired connection 1090 passes through the conduit 1040 to ultimately connect to the controller 1025.

[0185] Fig. 40 illustrates another example of a way to connect the wired connection 1090 between the exciter 140 and the controller 1025. The example shown in Fig. 40 is the same as that of Fig. 39, except instead of passing through the first leg 1098 of a T-junction 1097 in the conduit 1040, the wired connection 1090 passes from the controller 1025 into bladder chamber 1050 through a sealing location 1095 formed in the chamber wall 1065 to connect to the exciter 140.

[0186] Fig. 41 illustrates yet another example of a way to connect the controller 1025 and the exciter 140. In the example of Fig. 41, a wireless connection 1100 is provided that extends across the chamber wall 1065 into the bladder chamber 1050, which, in some examples can beprovided through induction. The wireless connection 1100 can provide both control signals and power across the chamber wall 1065 to the exciter 140 from the controller 1025.

[0187] Figs. 42A-42C illustrate a method of assembling the exciter assembly 1060. First, as illustrated in Fig. 42A, a first portion 1120 and a second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are provided. The first portion 1120 (in solid lines) of the chamber wall 1065 is positioned above the second portion 1125 (in dashed lines) of the chamber wall 1065. The conduit 1040 is placed between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065. Then, the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 is welded to the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 at a weld location 1105 with the conduit 1140 therebetween, thus sealing the conduit 1040 between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065. While the weld location 1105 is illustrated in a corner of the first and second portions 1120, 1125 in Fig. 42 A, the weld location 1105 could be anywhere around a perimeter 1110 of the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065.

[0188] Turning to Fig. 42B, the method further includes arranging the exciter 140 on the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 and below the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065, such that the exciter 140 is positioned between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065. In some examples, the exciter 140 is then attached to at least one of the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 and the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065. In some examples, the exciter is also connected to a support (e.g., support 1600 illustrated in Figs. 49 and 50) at this time. The exciter 140 is connected to the wired connection 1090, which is passed through the conduit 1040. The wired connection 1090 is ultimately connected to the controller 1025. Next, as shown in Fig. 42C, the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 and the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are welded around their respective perimeters 1110 to define the air-tight bladder chamber 1050, thereby completing the exciter assembly 1060. Hence, the dashed lines of the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are no longer illustrated in Fig. 42C.

[0189] In some examples, the method further includes affixing the exciter 140 to one or both of the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065. Further, in a related method of assembling the example of the exciter assembly 1060 shown in Fig. 40, the step ofpassing the wired connection 1090 through the conduit 1040 is replaced by passing the wired connection 1090 between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065, and welding the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 to the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 along their respective perimeters 1110 and at the sealing location 1095. The wired connection 1090 thus passes through the resulting chamber wall 1065. The sealing location 1095 is air-tight to facilitate proper inflation of the bladder chamber 1050. Further, in examples where the exciter assembly 1060 includes the A-side bladder chamber 1080, the connecting channel 1055, and the B-side bladder chamber 1085, the step of welding the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 to the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 includes welding a combined perimeter of the connecting channel 1055, the A-side bladder chamber 1080, and the B-side bladder chamber 1085. This results in an extended perimeter weld line 1130, which is shown in Fig. 45. Thus, the A-side bladder chamber 1080, the connecting channel 1055, and the B-side bladder chamber 1085 in this example are formed from two sheets of material, i.e., the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065. After the welding step is complete, in some examples, such as in the exciter assembly 1060 shown in Fig. 43, the method further includes folding the A-side bladder chamber 1080 over to contact the B- side bladder chamber 1085. Adhesive 1115 is provided in some examples to retain contact between the A-side bladder chamber 1080 and the B-side bladder chamber 1085.

[0190] As mentioned above, Fig. 43 illustrates another example of the exciter assembly 1060, which is similar to the exciter assembly 1060 shown in Fig. 36. However, in the exciter assembly 1060 shown in Fig. 43, the connecting channel 1055 extends away from the A-side bladder chamber 1080 and bends 180 degrees to contact the B-side bladder chamber 1085 instead of travelling along the vertical axis 1070 directly between the A-side bladder chamber 1080 and the B-side bladder chamber 1085 as shown in Fig. 36.

[0191] Figs. 44-46 illustrate additional views of the exciter assembly 1060 in Fig. 43. Figs. 44 and 46 illustrate left side and right side views of the exciter assembly 1060 in Fig. 43 shown in illustrations based on images, instead of the schematic drawing of Fig. 43, such that the components of the exciter assembly 1060 are shown to scale. Further, Figs. 44 and 46 better illustrate how the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 connects to the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 at the perimeter 1110. More specifically, the exciter assembly1060 shown in Figs. 44 and 46 is partially inflated such that both the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 slope down to the perimeter 1110 where the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 connects to the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065. Figs. 44 and 46 also illustrate the adhesive 1115 connecting the A-side bladder chamber 1080 to the B-side bladder chamber 1085, which could be a glue or epoxy, or in some embodiments, a mechanical connection such as Velcro.

[0192] Fig. 45 illustrates the exciter assembly 1060 before the A-side bladder chamber 1080 is folder over and on top of the B-side bladder chamber 1085, and best illustrates the extended perimeter weld line 1130. Fig. 45 also provides an additional illustration of the wired connection 1090 passing from the exciter 140, within the B-side bladder chamber 1085, and out of the conduit 1040.

[0193] Referring generally to the example exciter assembly 60 illustrated in all of Figs. 34A- 62, positioning the exciter 140 within the pneumatic bladder chamber 1050 can result in significant advantages. For example, depending on the design combination of the pneumatic actuator and exciter 140, resonance frequencies may be present that affect the output of the exciter assembly 1060. By integrating the exciter 140 within the bladder chamber 1050, changing the air pressure of the bladder chamber 1050 modifies the resonance frequency of the exciter assembly 1060, thus allowing tuning of the resonance frequency of the exciter assembly 1060. Further, the exciter assembly 1060 provides an advantage of easier integration into the seat 5, as only a single assembly needs to be integrated to have pneumatic and exciter functionality within the seat 5, thus simplifying the seat 5 assembly and manufacturing process.

[0194] Fig. 47 illustrates an exciter assembly 1060 that may be used within the seat 5 as part of the massage system 60 within the backrest seating area 35 and / or the base seating area 40. The exciter assembly 1060 includes a pneumatic bladder chamber 1050 that is selectively inflated with pressurized fluid such as air and deflated via a conduit 1040. An exciter 140 is housed within bladder chamber 1050. Inflating and deflating bladder chamber 1050 through the selective supply of, for example, pressurized air, while at the same time operating the exciter 140 has been found to provide an enhanced massage experience to an occupant of seat 5.

[0195] In general, the exciter assembly 1060 is mounted near the A-side 7 of the seat, which supports a seated occupant, so that the exciter assembly 1060 can provide a massaging effect to the seat’s occupant. While not illustrated in Fig. 47, the exciter assembly 1060 is generally mounted within a cutout in foam padding 210 of seat 5. For example, the exciter 140 can be mounted within the foam padding 210 as shown in Figs. 65-67. The example exciter assembly 1060 shown in Fig. 47 includes a chamber wall 1065 that defines the bladder chamber 1050. An exciter 140 is positioned within the bladder chamber 1050 such that the exciter 140 acts, i.e., vibrates, directly on the chamber wall 1065.

[0196] Fig. 47 further illustrates a wired connection 1090 that passes from the exciter 140 within the bladder chamber 1050, through the conduit 1040, and to a controller 1025 that controls the operation of the exciter 140. The controller 1025 in some embodiments also controls a pneumatic pump 1042 (shown in Fig. 56) that supplies air to and exhausts air from the bladder chamber 1050 via the conduit 1040 to provide a massage experience to the seat 5 occupant. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 47, adhesive 1155 is used to affix the exciter 140 to the chamber wall 1065. In other examples, the exciter 140 is welded to the chamber wall 1065. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 47, the exciter is affixed to the chamber wall 1065 on the inside of the bladder chamber 1050 on the A-side 7. In other examples, the adhesive 1155 is not used, and the exciter 140 is instead otherwise mechanically fastened to the chamber wall 1065.

[0197] Fig. 48 illustrates an exciter assembly 1060 similar to the exciter assembly of Fig. 47, however, the exciter 140 is affixed to the A-side 7 of the chamber wall 1065 as well as the B-side 8 of the chamber wall 1065. Similar to the example in Fig. 47, the exciter 140 is affixed to the chamber wall 1065 with the adhesive 1155, although other attachment methods are contemplated. For example, the exciter 140 can be welded to the chamber wall 1065.

[0198] Figs. 49 and 50 illustrate yet other examples of the exciter assembly 1060, both of which utilize a support 1600. Instead of the exciter 140 being connected directly to the B-side 8 of chamber wall 1065 via the adhesive 1155, the exciter 140 is adhered to the support 1600, which spaces the exciter 140 away from the B-side 8 of chamber wall 1065 and biases the exciter toward the A-side 7. In other examples, the support 1600 is welded to the exciter 140. In yet other examples, the support 1600 is a single, monolithic piece integrated into the exciter 140.One example of the support 1600 is shown in Fig. 49, and is wave-shaped. Another example of the support 1600 is shown in Fig. 50, and is C-shaped. While two examples of the supports 1600 are illustrated herein, others are contemplated that serve substantially the same function within the exciter assembly 1060. In some examples the support 1600 is a foil flap, and in others are a layer of foam or rubber with stiffness and damping properties that emulate a spring.

[0199] Fig. 51 illustrates an example of an exciter 140 like that shown in Fig. 49, but in Fig. 51 is illustrated outside of the bladder chamber 1050. Because Fig. 51 is an isometric view, the wave-shaped support 1600 is more clearly visible. The support 1600 is mechanically connected to the exciter 140, as is the wired connection 1090. Fig. 52 illustrates yet another example of the exciter assembly 1060 in an inflated state such that the exciter 140, which is attached via the adhesive 1155 to the A-side 7 of bladder chamber wall 1065, being lifted off of the B-side 8 of bladder chamber wall 1065. Since the support 1600 is connected to the exciter 140 (e.g., via a mechanical connection such as a clip or fastener), the support 1600 is lifted away from the B- side 8 of bladder chamber wall 1065 as the exciter assembly 1060 inflates. As the exciter 140 moves within the bladder chamber 1050, there is sufficient length in the wired connection 1090 to allow the movement of the exciter 140 within the bladder chamber 1065 without straining the connections between the exciter 140 and the wired connection 1090. Figs. 53 and 54 illustrate additional alterative embodiments of the support 1600. Fig. 53 illustrates a support 1600 that is a spring, while Fig. 54 illustrates the support 1600 as being a circular, spring-like deformable structure such that the deformation of the circular structure acts like a spring when compressed between the exciter 140 and the B-side 8 of bladder chamber wall 1065. Similar to the example in Fig. 52, Figs. 53 and 54 also illustrate the exciter assembly 1060 in an inflated state such that the exciter 140, which is attached via the adhesive 1155 to the A-side 7 of bladder chamber wall 1065, together with the support 1600 being lifted off of the B-side 8 of bladder chamber wall 1065. The configuration shown in Figs. 52-54 is especially advantageous when the exciter assembly 1060 is positioned within a housing (e.g., a plastic housing such as carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500) when installed within the seat 5.

[0200] Fig. 55 and 56 illustrate alternative views of the exciter assembly 1060 described herein in the deflated (Fig. 55) and inflated (Fig. 56) states s. A pneumatic pump 1042 (illustrated in Fig. 57) operates to pump air into and exhaust air from the bladder chamber 1050to inflate and deflate the bladder chamber 1050 as illustrated in Figs. 55 and 56. In some examples, the pneumatic pump 1042 operates in conjunction with a valve module, which includes valves that are in some examples controlled by the controlled by 1025.

[0201] Figs. 57 and 58 illustrate an exciter assembly 1060 with an A-side bladder chamber 1080 and a B-side bladder chamber 1085 that is separately formed from the A-side bladder chamber 1080. The A-side bladder chamber 1080 is positioned nearer an A-side 7 of the seat 5 compared to the B-side bladder chamber 1085. The A-side bladder chamber 1080 is stacked directly on top of the B-side bladder chamber 1085. In the example shown in Fig. 57, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 is fluidly connected to the B-side bladder chamber 1085 via a connecting channel 1055, such that pressurized air supplied to or exhausted from one of the A-side or B-side bladder chamber 1080, 1085 is at the same time also supplied to or exhausted from the other of the A-side or B-side bladder chamber 1080, 1085. The conduit 1040 can, in various embodiments, be connected to the A-side bladder chamber 1080 or the B-side bladder chamber 1085.

[0202] The difference between the embodiment of the exciter assembly 1060 shown in Fig. 57 and the embodiment shown in Fig. 58 is the location of the exciter 140. In the example shown in Fig. 57, the exciter 140 is located in the B-side bladder chamber 1085. The exciter 140 is attached via the adhesive 1155 to the A-side 7 of the B-side bladder chamber 1085. In the example shown in Fig. 58, the exciter 140 is located in the A-side bladder chamber 1080. The exciter 140 is attached via the adhesive 1155 to the A-side 7 of the A-side bladder chamber 1080. In both examples, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 and the B-side bladder chamber 1085 can be affixed to one another via the adhesive 1155. In other examples, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 and the B-side bladder chamber 1085 can be affixed to one another via welding, or in any other suitable manner.

[0203] Fig. 57 also illustrates the wired connection 1090 passing through the conduit 1040 and into a T-junction 1097 to connect the exciter 140 to the controller 1025 so that the controller 1025 can operate and power the exciter 140. The T-junction 1097 includes a first leg 1098 having a sealing location 1095 through which the wired connection 1090 passes. The sealing location allows the wired connection 1090 to pass therethrough, but does not allow orsignificantly limits air passing through the sealing location 1095 so that air leakage does not affect operation of the exciter assembly 1060. The T-junction 1097 also includes a second leg 1099 that is offset from the first leg 1098. The second leg 1099 fluidly connects to the pneumatic pump 1042, which supplies are through the conduit 1040 and to the B-side bladder chamber 1085, and then via the connecting channel 1055, to the A-side bladder chamber 1080. In examples where the conduit 1040 fluidly connects to other bladder chambers 1050, the pneumatic pump 1042 will supply and exhaust air from the other or different bladder chambers 1050.

[0204] Turning to the exciter assembly 1060 shown in Fig. 59, the exciter 140 is in the B- side bladder chamber 1085 as in the example of Fig. 57. However, in the example shown in Fig. 59, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 is not fluidly connected to the B-side bladder chamber 1085. In other words, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 is fluidly isolated from the B-side bladder chamber 1085. Both of the A-side bladder chamber 1080 and the B-side bladder chamber 1085 include separate conduits 1040 that ultimately connect to one or more pneumatic pumps 1042 (see Fig. 57). In some examples, the A-side bladder chamber 1080 is adhered to the B-side bladder chamber 1085 using the adhesive 1155.

[0205] Fig. 60 illustrates another example of an exciter assembly, which is the same is the example shown in Fig. 47 but also illustrates additional structure connected to the conduit 1040. The additional structure includes the T-junction 1097 having the first leg 1098 and the second leg 1099, the sealing location 1095, the pneumatic pump 1042, and the controller 1025. These components and the general layout thereof is the same as those shown in Fig. 57, although the example shown in Fig. 60 includes only one bladder chamber 1050.

[0206] Fig. 61 illustrates locations of air along the wired connection 1090 that could result in air leaking through the sealing location 1095. As illustrated by the arrows in Fig. 61, air may leak between the conduit 1040 and the wired connection 1090, between the cable mantle 1615 of the wired connection 1090 and the wire sheath 1620, and between the wire sheath 1620 and the conductors 1625 (e.g., the conductive portion of the wire, that is, for example, copper). In some examples where no cable mantle 1615 is provided, leakage can occur between the conduit 1040 and the wire sheath 1620. In some examples, this configuration may be advantageous as thereare fewer leakage points without cable mantle 1615. Because the air within the bladder chamber 1050 is pressurized, air may leak through the above noted locations even though there are no readily perceptible openings or gaps between the connections of the different components, such as, for example, the connection between the conduit 1040 and the wired connection 1090. Leakage can be exacerbated by the repeated pressurization and depressurization of the bladder chamber 1050 over the life of the exciter assembly 1060.

[0207] Fig. 62 illustrates an example of a solution to reduce leakage through the locations illustrated in Fig. 61. A sealant 1630 (e.g., solder, although other sealants are contemplated) is provided on the connection between the wired connection 1090 and the exciter 140, which will restrict air flow between the wire sheath 1620 and the conductors 1625 (see Fig. 61). Further, a grommet 1635 is provided at the sealing location 1095 to improve the seal between the wired connection 1090 and the first leg 1098 where the wired connection passes through a wall of the first leg 1098 for connection to components external to the exciter assembly 1060. In some examples, the grommet 1635 includes two halves that are welded together around and sealed against the wired connection 1090. The weld can be a heat weld or a high-frequency weld, for example. The grommet 1635 in some examples may be made from polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, polybutylene terephthalate, and / or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. In other examples, a sealant may be use instead of the grommet 1635, for example a UV hardening sealant.

[0208] Figs. 63 and 64 illustrate detail views of the T-junction 1097 of Fig. 62, with modifications therein compared to the example in Fig. 62. Fig. 63 illustrates another solution for limiting air leaking through the wall of the first leg 1098. Instead of the grommet 1635 illustrated in Fig. 62, the T-junction 1097 includes apertures 1640 within the first leg 1098 that are sized to receive the wired connection 1090 such that the wired connection 1090 can pass from inside of the T-junction 1097 to the exterior of the first leg 1098. In the illustrated embodiment, two apertures 1640 are shown, each receiving one of the wire sheaths 1620. In other examples, only a single aperture 1640 is provided, which is sized to receive the cable mantle 1615. The wired connections 1090, in some examples, is also welded within the aperture(s) 1640 to provide additional sealing.

[0209] Fig. 64 illustrates yet another example of a T-junction 1097, and differs from those illustrated in Figs. 62 and 63 in that the T-junction 1097 is formed entirely from tubing, i.e., the same tubing used to connect to the conduit 1040 and the pneumatic pump 1042. In contrast, the T-junction in Figs. 62 and 63 is a T-fitting that is connected (e.g., welded or otherwise sealed to) to tubing that leads to the conduit 1040 or the pneumatic pump 1042. The T-fitting in some examples is PVC. Thus, in the example of the T-junction 1097 in Fig. 64, the apertures 1640 are formed directly within the tubing, which is the same tubing that connects to the conduit 1040 and pneumatic pump 1042. This eliminates a connection between the T-fitting and the tubing, thus eliminating the chance air will leak through the connection between the T-fitting and the conduit 1040. In some examples, the tubing material is the same material as the wire sheath 1620, which can make attachment (e.g., via welding) of the wired connection 1090 to the tubing of the first leg 1098 easier.

[0210] Figs. 65-68 illustrate various placements of the exciter assembly 1060 relative to foam padding 210 within the seat 5. As can be seen in the example shown in Fig. 65, the exciter assembly 1060, as installed into the seat 5, is positioned between foam padding 210 on the A- side 7 of the seat 5 and a suspension structure 1605 on the B-side 8 of the seat 5. The suspension structure 1605 biases the exciter assembly 1060 into contact against the foam padding 210.

[0211] The exciter assembly 1060 is positioned such that the exciter 140 abuts (indirectly via the chamber wall 1065) the foam padding 210. In the example shown in Fig. 66, the exciter assembly 1060 is positioned on the A-side 7 of the foam padding 210 of the seat 5. The outer covering (not illustrated) of the seat 5 will cover the exciter assembly 1060 and foam padding 210 such that the exciter assembly 1060 does not directly contact an occupant of the seat 5.

[0212] In the example shown in Fig. 67, six bladder chambers 1050 are shown. All of the bladder chambers 1050 are positioned between foam padding 210 on the A-side 7 of the seat 5 and a suspension structure 1605 on the B-side 8 of the seat 5. The six bladder chambers 1050 are arranged in two rows, where all the bladder chambers 1050 in one row of bladder chambers 1050 contact the foam padding 210 and all the bladder chambers 1050 in the other row of bladder chambers 1050 contact the suspension structure 1605. Each of the bladder chambers 1050 that contacts the foam padding 210 contact a corresponding one of the exciter assemblies 1060 thatcontact the suspension structure 1605. The three exciter assemblies 1060 are all connected, for example the three exciter assemblies 1060 could be connected in series (as shown in Fig. 67), to a first conduit 1040 by way of connecting channels 1055. The bladder chambers 1050 that contact the foam padding 210 are also shown as being connected in series to a second conduit 1040 by way of connecting channels 1055. In another example, the three exciter assemblies 1060 are each connected to the first conduit 1040 by individual channels (not shown) and the three bladder chambers 1050 are each connected to the second conduit 1040 by individual channels (not shown). -Each exciter 140 in exciter assemblies 1060 in FIG. 67 is positioned closer to the A-side 7 of the seat than the B-side 8 such that the exciters 140 indirectly contact via chamber walls 1065 of the exciter assemblies 1060 a corresponding bladder chamber 1050 that is in contact with the foam padding 210.

[0213] Fig. 68 illustrates steps for assembling the exciter assembly 1060 for guiding the wired connection 1090 through the conduit 1040. This can be a particularly difficult aspect of the assembly process. After arranging the exciter 140 on the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065, a mandrel 1610 is inserted through the conduit 1040. The mandrel 1610 is then used for welding the conduit 1040 to the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065, as the mandrel 1610 provides structure for the welding process. The mandrel 1610 positioned inside conduit 1040 provides an internal support structure for pressing the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 inward against the conduit 1040 in welding the chamber wall 1065 to the conduit 1040. Once the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are welded to the conduit, the wired connection 1090, which is connected to the exciter 140, can be attached to the mandrel 1610. The mandrel 1610 is then pulled through the conduit 1040 with the attached wired connection 1090, such that the wired connection 1090 is also pulled all the way through the conduit 1040.

[0214] Figs. 69A-69D illustrate steps for assembling the exciter assembly 1060, and more particularly, for attaching the exciter 140 to the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065, and then sealing the wired connection between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065. In a first step, the exciter 140 is attached to the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065, which is illustrated starting at Fig. 69A. In some examples, this is accomplished via the adhesive 1155. In some examples, no additional attachment mechanism isrequired - as the adhesive 1155 alone is enough to attach the exciter 140 to the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065. In other examples, the exciter 140 is welded to the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065. In such a welding operation, the exciter 140, which is connected to the wired connection 1090, is first placed between a first portion 1700 of a welding tool 1710 (the welding tool 1710 is shown in Fig. 69C) and a second portion 1705 of the welding tool 1710. The wired connection 1090 includes a connector 1715. Further, the wired connection 1090 is connected to the exciter 140 via soldering and the soldered connection is sealed with the sealant 1630. In some examples, the sealant 1630 is a UV hardening adhesive. The first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065, to which the exciter 140 will be attached, is positioned between the exciter 140 and the second portion 1705 of the welding tool 1710. In some examples, like that shown in Fig. 69, the adhesive 1155 is placed between the exciter 140 and the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065, even though the exciter 140 will be subsequently welded to the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065. However, in other examples, the exciter 140 and first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 are placed between the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 without the use of any further material. The first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 are pressed together, as indicated by the arrows, to weld the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 to the exciter 140. In some examples, the welding process is a high-frequency weld, and at least the first portion 1700 of the welding tool 1710 includes a sonotrode. In some examples, welding ribs can be included on the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 and / or the exciter 140 to enhance energy transfer and increase the effectiveness of the weld. In other examples, the weld can be performed by soldering pliers through heat welding.

[0215] Then, in a second step, which is illustrated in Fig. 69B, after the exciter 140 is attached to the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065, the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 is placed on an opposite side of the exciter 140 from the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065. Fig.69C illustrates the next step, which is to bond the perimeter of the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065 to the perimeter of the second portion 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 with the wired connection 1090 therebetween. The perimeters of the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are placed between the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710, with the wired connection 1090 placed between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 and the first andsecond portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710. The welding tool 1710, which in some examples is a high frequency welding machine, is connected to the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710and the wired connection 1090. The welding tool 1710 is connected to the wired connection 1090 so that the wired connection 1090, and more specifically the conductor 1625 (illustrated in Figs. 72A-72F), can act as a mandrel to complete the weld by providing structure for the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 to press against during the welding process. In some examples, a welding additive, such as tape or another substance, is provided between the wired connection 1090 and the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 to increase the effectiveness of the weld. Then, the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 are pressed together as indicated by the arrows to weld the first and second portions 1120,1125 of the chamber wall 1065 together and to the wired connection 1090. Fig. 69D illustrates the finished weld, including the weld portion 1725 - which is sealed airtight so that the bladder assembly 1060 can be inflated with air. While only one wired connection is illustrated in Fig. 69A-69D, in other examples more than one wired connection 1090 may be provided, and thus numerous wired connections 1090 are sealed between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 using the same steps described above.

[0216] Figs. 70A to 70C illustrate a similar process, except that the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are welded to the conduit 1040 instead of being welded directly to the wired connection 1090. Fig. 70A illustrates the conduit 1040 being positioned between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065. Fig. 70B illustrates the welding step in the process. Notably, the mandrel 1610 is inserted through the conduit 1040, and connected to the welding tool 1710, as no wired connection 1090 has yet been inserted through the conduit 1040 to use as a mandrel. To complete the weld, the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 are brought together as indicated by the arrows, and the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are welded directly to the conduit 1040. As can be seen in Fig. 70C, the welded portion 1730 results.

[0217] Figs. 71 A-71C illustrate an example process for welding together the perimeters 1110 of the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 to form exciter assembly 1060. After the exciter 140 is connected to the first portion 1120 of the chamber wall 1065, theexciter 140 and the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are placed between the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 such that the exciter 140 is located generally centrally between the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710. The first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 in this example are both generally C-shaped, such that a weld is created around the perimeters 1110 of the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 leaving a hollow interior volume formed between the welded perimeters of the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 to receive the exciter 140. Fig. 71B illustrates the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 moving together in the direction of the arrows to create the welded perimeter 1110. Fig. 71C illustrates the resultant weld, with welded portions 1735 forming the perimeter of the exciter assembly 1060. The process for welding the perimeter 1110 of the exciter assembly 1060 can be performed before the wired connection 1090 or the conduit 1040 is sealed between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 by sealing all of the perimeter 1110 except where the wired connection 1090 or the conduit 1040 is to be sealed between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065.

[0218] Figs. 72A-72F illustrate, with additional detail, the process described in Figs. 69B- 69D. In this example, the wired connection 1090 includes two conductors 1626 with respective wire sheaths 1620 with the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 configured to accommodate the two wires. Fig. 72A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the wired connection 1090, such that the wire sheaths 1620 and the conductors 1625 are visible. The wired connection 1090 is first placed between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065, which are then placed between the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710.

[0219] Fig. 72B illustrates the first of a two-step welding process. Notably, the conductors 1625 which are connected to the welding tool 1710 to act as a mandrel are opposite in polarity to the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710. Fig. 72C illustrates the completion of the first welding step, in which the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are welded around the wire sheaths 1620, but are not yet welded to one another. Then, Figs. 72D and 72E illustrate the second step of the two-step welding process. In this second welding step, the first portion 1700 of the welding tool 1710 is opposite in polarity tothe second portion 1705 of the welding tool 1710. The conductors 1625 do not need to be connected to the welding tool 1710. Due to the different polarities of the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710, the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are welded together in the welding step illustrated in Fig. 72E. This welding process provides an air-tight connection between the wired connection 1090 and the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 as illustrated in Fig. 72F.

[0220] Figs. 73 A-73F illustrate, with additional detail, the welding process described in Figs. 70A-70C, including the conduit 1040 and mandrel 1610 instead of the wired connection 1090. This welding process is similar to that described with reference to Figs. 72A-72F, except that in the welding step illustrated in Fig. 73B, the mandrel 1610 has an opposite polarity to the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710. After the components are arranged as shown in Fig. 73 A, the first welding step is performed as illustrated in Fig. 73B to weld the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 around the conduit 1040. In the second welding step illustrated in Figs. 73D and 73E, the first and second portions 1700, 1705 of the welding tool 1710 have opposite polarity, such that the mandrel 1610 is not assigned a polarity. The first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 are welded together to provide an air-tight connection between the first and second portions 1120, 1125 of the chamber wall 1065 and the conduit 1040.REPRESENTATIVE FEATURES

[0221] Representative features are set out in the following clauses, which stand alone or may be combined, in any combination, with one or more features disclosed in the text and / or drawings of the specification.

[0222] In one aspect, an assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat includes an exciter having a coil for creating a vibration, and a carrier for supporting the exciter within the seat, the carrier being configured to isolate the coil from forces exerted on the seat by the occupant of the seat.

[0223] In another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the carrier includes a plate and a cylindrical projection extending away from the plate, the plate and the cylindrical projection defining a cavity, and the exciter being positioned within the cavity.

[0224] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the cylindrical projection includes a first portion with a first diameter, a second portion with a second diameter that is different than the first diameter, and the first portion and the second portion are joined to form a step along the cylindrical projection.

[0225] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the cylindrical projection includes a closed face at a first end, and the exciter is positioned at a second end opposite the first end.

[0226] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the cylindrical projection includes an opening within at least one selected from the group consisting of the first portion, the second portion, and the closed face, and the opening is configured to provide airflow to the exciter.

[0227] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the assembly is located in at least one selected from the group consisting of a base of the seat and a back of the seat.

[0228] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the carrier includes: a spine, a first mounting bracket at a first end of the spine, a second mounting bracket at a secondend of the spine that is opposite the first end of the spine, and a plurality of flexible projections spaced along the spine, each of the plurality of projections includes a mounting region spaced apart from the spine, and the exciter is attached to the mounting region of one of the plurality of projections.

[0229] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter is one of a plurality of exciters, and each of the plurality of exciters is attached to a respective projection of the plurality of projections.

[0230] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the assembly includes a spring where the spine, plurality of projections, and plurality of exciters are located between opposite sides of the spring, the spring being fastened to the first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket, and the spring being configured to be attached to a frame of the seat.

[0231] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the seat includes a seating area for receiving a seated occupant, the assembly being located in at least one selected from the group consisting of a base of the seat and a back of the seat, the spring being positioned on the frame such that the spine and the plurality of exciters are located between the spring and the seating area, and the plurality of exciters being located between the plurality of projections and the seating area.

[0232] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the seating area is adjustable between a first contour and a second contour, and the spring and the plurality of projections are flexible such that the plurality of exciters are adjustable between the first contour and the second contour to match the seating area.

[0233] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter is one of a plurality of exciters, the carrier comprises a plate and a plurality of cylindrical projections extending away from the plate, and each of the plurality of exciters is positioned within a respective cavity of each of the plurality of cylindrical projections.

[0234] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, each cylindrical projection includes a first portion with a first diameter, a second portion with a second diameterthat is different than the first diameter, and the first portion and the second portion are joined to form a step along the cylindrical projection.

[0235] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, each cylindrical projection includes an opening within at least one selected from the group consisting of the first portion and the second portion, and the opening is configured to provide airflow to the respective exciter of the plurality of exciters.

[0236] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the assembly includes a spring, the spring including a cross beam and a spanner beam, the cross beam being attached to an upper portion of a back side of the plate, the spanner beam being attached to a mid-portion and to a lower portion of the back side of the plate, the mid-portion being located between the upper portion and the lower portion on the back side of the plate, the cross beam and the spanner beam surrounding the plurality of cylindrical projections, and the spring being configured to be attached to a frame of the seat.

[0237] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the seat includes a seating area for receiving a seated occupant, the assembly is located in at least one selected from the group consisting of a base of the seat and a back of the seat, and the spring is positioned on the frame such that the plate is located between the spring and the seating area.

[0238] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the seating area is adjustable between a first contour and a second contour, and the spring and the plate are flexible such that the plurality of exciters are adjustable between the first contour and the second contour to match the seating area.

[0239] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the carrier comprises an opening, the assembly further includes a seal, and the exciter is supported within the opening by the seal.

[0240] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the seal is coupled to the carrier and extends across the opening, and the exciter is coupled to the seal within the opening.

[0241] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter is a first exciter and the carrier comprises two or more openings, the assembly further includes a seal and a second exciter, and the seal extends across the two or more openings, supports the first exciter in one of the two or more openings, and supports the second exciter in another of the two or more openings.

[0242] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the carrier includes a plate, a first portion of the plate being connected to a second portion of the plate by a living hinge, and the exciter being connected to the first portion of the plate.

[0243] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the seat includes foam padding positioned along a side of the carrier, the foam padding includes a cavity, and the exciter is positioned on the first portion of the plate such that the exciter extends into the cavity.

[0244] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the living hinge is configured such that, when a force is applied to the foam padding toward the exciter, the first portion of the plate will deflect away from the foam padding.

[0245] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the plate and the living hinge are configured such that, when the force is applied to the foam padding toward the exciter, the living hinge is configured to maintain the exciter adjacent the foam padding such that the exciter provides a massage experience to the occupant of the seat.

[0246] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the seat includes foam padding positioned along a side of the carrier, the foam padding includes a cavity, and the exciter is attached to the carrier and extends into the cavity.

[0247] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the carrier is configured such that, when a force is applied to the foam padding toward the exciter, the carrier deflects away from the foam padding.

[0248] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the carrier is configured such that, when the force is applied to the foam padding toward the exciter, theexciter is maintained adjacent the foam padding to provide a massage experience to the occupant of the seat.

[0249] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the seat includes foam padding positioned along a side of the carrier, the foam padding includes a cavity, a housing is positioned within the cavity, and the exciter is positioned in the housing.

[0250] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the housing includes an opening, the opening facing away from the foam padding.

[0251] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the housing includes a housing support positioned around the opening of the housing, the housing support being connected to the carrier by at least one spring that is configured to allow relative movement between the carrier and the housing.

[0252] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the housing includes a housing support positioned around the opening of the housing, the housing support being connected to the carrier by four springs that are configured to allow relative movement between the carrier and the housing.

[0253] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter is connected to the housing by at least one spring such that the exciter is suspended within the housing and such that the at least one spring is configured to allow relative movement between the exciter and the housing.

[0254] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter is connected to the housing by four springs such that the exciter is suspended within the housing and such that the four springs are configured to allow relative movement between the exciter and the housing.

[0255] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the housing includes an A-side and a B-side opposite the A-side, the B-side of the housing including the opening, and at least one spring connects the exciter to the A-side of the housing such that the exciter is suspended within the housing.

[0256] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the B-side of the housing includes a housing support around the opening of the housing, and at least one spring connects the exciter to the housing support such that the exciter is suspended within the housing.

[0257] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter is connected to the housing only at the A-side of the housing.

[0258] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the housing includes an A-side and a B-side opposite the A-side, the B-side of the housing including the opening, and four springs connect the exciter to the A-side of the housing such that the exciter is suspended within the housing.

[0259] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the B-side of the housing includes a housing support around the opening of the housing, and four springs connect the exciter to the housing support such that the exciter is suspended within the housing.

[0260] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the carrier includes an opening, and a seal extends across the opening and supports the exciter within the opening such that the exciter extends into foam padding of the seat.

[0261] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter is bonded to the seal with an adhesive.

[0262] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the seal is elastic, the elasticity of the seal biases the exciter into the foam padding of the seat, and the seal is configured such that the exciter flexes out of the foam padding of the seat when a force is applied to the foam padding by the occupant of the seat.

[0263] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the carrier is located on a B-side of the seat, the foam padding is located between the B-side of the seat and an A-side of the seat, and, when a force is applied to the A-side of the seat by the occupant of the seat, the seal is configured to flex the exciter in a direction from the A-side of the seat to the B-side of the seat.

[0264] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, an assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat comprises an exciter having a coil for generating vibrations, a bladder configured to be selectively inflated and deflated, and a carrier for supporting the exciter and the bladder within the seat.

[0265] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the assembly is configured to be mounted in a seat including seat trim for supporting an occupant of the seat. The carrier supports the exciter and the bladder such that the bladder is positioned between the exciter and the seat trim.

[0266] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the assembly is configured to be mounted in a seat including seat trim for supporting an occupant of the seat. The carrier supports the exciter, which extends through the bladder such that both the bladder and the exciter are configured to contact the seat trim.

[0267] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the bladder includes an aperture through which the exciter extends.

[0268] In yet another aspect, which may be combinable with any other aspect, the assembly further includes a grommet. The grommet is attached to the bladder and retains the exciter within an aperture provided in the bladder.

[0269] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the bladder is a pneumatic bladder and includes a first chamber and a second chamber fluidly connected to the first chamber via a connecting channel that is configured to conduct the flow of a fluid from the first chamber to the second chamber.

[0270] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, a first aperture is located in both a first bladder chamber and a second bladder chamber. The bladder is configured such that when the first chamber is folded over the second chamber along a fold line in the bladder the exciter extends through both the first aperture and the second aperture.

[0271] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the assembly includes a second bladder with an aperture. The exciter extends through the aperture in the second bladder when the first bladder and second bladder are stacked relative to one another.

[0272] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, a first bladder and second bladder are stacked relative to one another with a longitudinal axis of the second bladder rotated 90 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the first bladder.

[0273] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the assembly is configured to be mounted in a backrest of the seat and / or a base of the seat.

[0274] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, an exciter assembly configured for massaging an occupant of a seat includes a chamber wall defining a bladder chamber, and an exciter positioned within the bladder chamber such that the exciter contacts the chamber wall of the bladder chamber.

[0275] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the chamber wall includes a first side and a second side opposite of the first side, the first side being configured to be oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the second side, and the exciter is attached to the first side.

[0276] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter is attached to the first side via an adhesive or a weld.

[0277] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the chamber wall includes a first side and a second side opposite of the first side, the first side being oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the second side, and the exciter is attached to the second side.

[0278] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter assembly further includes a conduit fluidly connecting the bladder chamber to a pneumatic pump.

[0279] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, a controller is configured to control the exciter via a wired connection passing through the conduit to connect to the exciter within the bladder chamber.

[0280] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the conduit includes a T-junction, wherein a first leg of the T-junction includes a sealing location through which the wired connection passes to connect to a controller configured to control the exciter.

[0281] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, a second leg of the T-junction connects the conduit to the pneumatic pump.

[0282] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the chamber wall includes a first side and a second side opposite of the first side, the first side being oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the second side, and the exciter is attached to the first side and to the second side.

[0283] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the chamber wall includes a first side and a second side opposite of the first side, the first side being configured to be oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the second side, the exciter is attached to the first side, and the exciter assembly includes a support within the bladder chamber, the support extending between the second side and the exciter.

[0284] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the support is a foil flap or a spring.

[0285] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the bladder chamber is a B-side bladder chamber, and wherein the exciter assembly further includes: an A- side bladder chamber separate from the B-side bladder chamber, the A-side bladder chamber being oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the B-side bladder chamber, and a connecting channel fluidly connecting the A-side bladder chamber to the B-side bladder chamber.

[0286] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the A-side bladder chamber is attached to the B-side bladder chamber with an adhesive or via a weld.

[0287] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the bladder chamber is an A-side bladder chamber, and wherein the exciter assembly further include: an B- side bladder chamber separate from the A-side bladder chamber, the A-side bladder chamber being oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the B-side bladder chamber, and a connecting channel fluidly connecting the A-side bladder chamber to the B-side bladder chamber.

[0288] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the bladder chamber is an A-side bladder chamber, and wherein the exciter assembly further includes: a B- side bladder chamber separate from the A-side bladder chamber, the A-side bladder chamber being fluidly separate from the B-side bladder chamber.

[0289] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter assembly, as installed into the seat, is oriented on the A-side of foam padding of the seat.

[0290] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the exciter assembly, as installed into the seat, is oriented between foam padding on the A-side of the seat and a suspension structure on a B-side of the seat that is opposite of the A-side of the seat, the suspension structure biasing the exciter assembly into contact against the foam padding.

[0291] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the bladder chamber is a B-side bladder chamber, and the exciter assembly further comprises: an A-side bladder chamber separate from the B-side bladder chamber, the A-side bladder chamber being oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the B-side bladder chamber, the A-side bladder chamber being fluidly separate from the B-side bladder chamber.

[0292] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the A-side bladder chamber is stacked on the B-side bladder chamber between the foam padding and the suspension structure.

[0293] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, a method for assembling an exciter assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat includes: welding a conduit between a first portion of a chamber wall and a second portion of the chamber wall, arranging an exciter on the second portion of the chamber wall and below the first portion of the chamberwall, such that the exciter is positioned between the first and second portions of the chamber wall, attaching the exciter to the first portion of the chamber wall, connecting the exciter to a wired connection configured to connect to a controller, the wired connection passing through the conduit, and welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall around a perimeter of a chamber defined between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, wherein at least the first portion of the chamber wall contacts the exciter.

[0294] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the method for assembling the exciter assembly further includes: after arranging the exciter on the second portion of the chamber wall, inserting a mandrel through the conduit, attaching the wired connection to the mandrel, and pulling the mandrel through the conduit to pull the wired connection through the conduit.

[0295] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, a method for assembling an exciter assembly configured for massaging an occupant of a seat includes arranging an exciter on a second portion of a chamber wall and below a first portion of a chamber wall, such that the exciter is positioned between the first and second portions of the chamber wall, and welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall around a perimeter of a chamber defined between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, wherein the exciter is positioned within the chamber.

[0296] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the method further includes, before or after welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall around or substantially around the perimeter, welding a wired connection, which is connected to the exciter, between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall through the steps of positioning the wired connection, including a sheath and a conductor within the sheath, between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, assigning the conductor a first polarity, and assigning first and second portions of a welding tool a second polarity, welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wallaround the sheath, assigning the first and second portions of the welding tool opposite polarities, and welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall.

[0297] In yet another aspect, which is combinable with any other aspect, the method further includes, before or after welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall around or substantially around the perimeter, welding a conduit between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall through the steps of positioning the conduit, including a mandrel within the conduit, between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, assigning the mandrel a first polarity, and assigning first and second portions of a welding tool a second polarity, welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall around the conduit, assigning the first and second portions of the welding tool opposite polarities, and welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall.

[0298] Although certain embodiments, examples, features, and aspects have been described and illustrated, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of the subject matter explained and shown.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat, the assembly comprising: an exciter having a coil for creating a vibration, and a carrier for supporting the exciter within the seat, the carrier configured to isolate the coil from forces exerted on the seat by the occupant of the seat.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the carrier comprises a plate and a cylindrical projection extending away from the plate, wherein the plate and the cylindrical projection define a cavity, and wherein the exciter is positioned within the cavity.

3. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the cylindrical projection includes a first portion with a first diameter, a second portion with a second diameter that is different than the first diameter, and wherein the first portion and the second portion are joined to form a step along the cylindrical projection.

4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the cylindrical projection includes a closed face at a first end, and wherein the exciter is positioned at a second end opposite the first end.

5. The assembly of claim 4, wherein the cylindrical projection includes an opening within at least one selected from the group consisting of the first portion, the second portion, and the closed face, and wherein the opening is configured to provide airflow to the exciter.

6. A seat including the assembly of claim 1, wherein the assembly is located in at least one selected from the group consisting of a base of the seat and a back of the seat.

7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the carrier comprises: a spine, a first mounting bracket at a first end of the spine, a second mounting bracket at a second end of the spine that is opposite the first end of the spine, and a plurality of flexible projections spaced along the spine, wherein each of the plurality of projections includes a mounting region spaced apart from the spine, and wherein the exciter is attached to the mounting region of one of the plurality of projections.

8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the exciter is one of a plurality of exciters, and wherein each of the plurality of exciters is attached to a respective projection of the plurality of projections.

9. The assembly of claim 8, further comprising a spring, wherein the spine, plurality of projections, and plurality of exciters are located between opposite sides of the spring, wherein the spring is fastened to the first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket, and wherein the spring is configured to be attached to a frame of the seat.

10. A seat including the assembly of claim 9, wherein the seat includes a seating area for receiving a seated occupant, wherein the assembly is located in at least one selected from the group consisting of a base of the seat and a back of the seat, wherein the spring is positioned on the frame such that the spine and the plurality of exciters are located between the spring and the seating area, and wherein the plurality of exciters is located between the plurality of projections and the seating area.

11. The seat of claim 10, wherein the seating area is adjustable between a first contour and a second contour, and wherein the spring and the plurality of projections are flexible such that the plurality of exciters are adjustable between the first contour and the second contour to match the seating area.

12. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the exciter is one of a plurality of exciters, wherein the carrier comprises a plate and a plurality of cylindrical projections extending away from the plate, and wherein each of the plurality of exciters is positioned within a respective cavity of each of the plurality of cylindrical projections.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein each cylindrical projection includes a first portion with a first diameter, a second portion with a section diameter that is different than the first diameter, and wherein the first portion and the second portion are joined to form a step along the cylindrical projection.

14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein each cylindrical projection includes an opening within at least one selected from the group consisting of the first portion and the second portion, the opening configured to provide airflow to the respective exciter of the plurality of exciters.

15. The assembly of claim 14, further comprising a spring, wherein the spring includes a cross beam and a spanner beam, wherein the cross beam is attached to an upper portion of a back side of the plate, wherein the spanner beam is attached to a mid-portion and to a lower portion of the back side of the plate, the mid-portion being located between the upper portion and the lower portion on the back side of the plate, wherein the cross beam and the spanner beam surround the plurality of cylindrical projections, and wherein the spring is configured to be attached to a frame of the seat.

16. A seat including the assembly of claim 15, wherein the seat includes a seating area for receiving a seated occupant, wherein the assembly is located in at least one selected from the group consisting of a base of the seat and a back of the seat, and wherein the spring is positioned on the frame such that the plate is located between the spring and the seating area.

17. The seat of claim 16, wherein the seating area is adjustable between a first contour and a second contour, and wherein the spring and the plate are flexible such that the plurality of exciters are adjustable between the first contour and the second contour to match the seating area.

18. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the carrier comprises an opening, wherein the assembly further includes a seal, and wherein the exciter is supported within the opening by the seal.

19. The assembly of claim 18, wherein the seal is coupled to the carrier and extends across the opening, and wherein the exciter is coupled to the seal within the opening.

20. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the exciter is a first exciter and the carrier comprises two or more openings, wherein the assembly further includes a seal and a second exciter, and wherein the seal extends across the two or more openings and supports the first exciter in one of the two or more openings and supports the second exciter in another of the two or more openings.

21. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the carrier includes a plate, wherein a first portion of the plate is connected to a second portion of the plate by a living hinge, and wherein the exciter is connected to the first portion of the plate.

22. The assembly of claim 21, wherein the seat includes foam padding positioned along a side of the carrier, the foam padding including a cavity, and wherein the exciter is positioned on the first portion of the plate such that the exciter extends into the cavity.

23. The assembly of claim 22, wherein the living hinge is configured such that, when a force is applied to the foam padding toward the exciter, the first portion of the plate will deflect away from the foam padding.

24. The assembly of claim 23, wherein the plate and the living hinge are configured such that, when the force is applied to the foam padding toward the exciter, the living hinge is configured to maintain the exciter adjacent the foam padding such that the exciter provides a massage experience to the occupant of the seat.

25. The assembly of claim 21, wherein the seat includes foam padding positioned along a side of the carrier, the foam padding including a cavity, and wherein the exciter is attached to the carrier and extends into the cavity.

26. The assembly of claim 25, wherein the carrier is configured such that, when a force is applied to the foam padding toward the exciter, the carrier deflects away from the foam padding.

27. The assembly of claim 26, wherein the carrier is configured such that, when the force is applied to the foam padding toward the exciter, the exciter is maintained adjacent the foam padding to provide a massage experience to the occupant of the seat.

28. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the seat includes foam padding positioned along a side of the carrier, the foam padding including a cavity, wherein a housing is positioned within the cavity, and wherein the exciter is positioned in the housing.

29. The assembly of claim 28, wherein the housing includes an opening, the opening facing away from the foam padding.

30. The assembly of claim 29, wherein the housing includes a housing support positioned around the opening of the housing, the housing support being connected to the carrier by at least one spring that is configured to allow relative movement between the carrier and the housing.

31. The assembly of claim 29, wherein the housing includes a housing support positioned around the opening of the housing, the housing support being connected to the carrier by four springs that are configured to allow relative movement between the carrier and the housing.

32. The assembly of claim 29, wherein the exciter is connected to the housing by at least one spring such that the exciter is suspended within the housing and such that the at least one spring is configured to allow relative movement between the exciter and the housing.

33. The assembly of claim 32, wherein the exciter is connected to the housing by four springs such that the exciter is suspended within the housing and such that the four springs are configured to allow relative movement between the exciter and the housing.

34. The assembly of claim 30, wherein the exciter is connected to the housing by at least one spring such that the exciter is suspended within the housing and such that the at least one spring is configured to allow relative movement between the exciter and the housing.

35. The assembly of claim 29, wherein the housing includes an A-side and a B-side opposite the A-side, wherein the B-side of the housing includes the opening, and wherein at least one spring connects the exciter to the A-side of the housing such that the exciter is suspended within the housing.

36. The assembly of claim 35, wherein the B-side of the housing includes a housing support around the opening of the housing, and wherein at least one spring connects the exciter to the housing support such that the exciter is suspended within the housing.

37. The assembly of claim 35, wherein the exciter is connected to the housing only at the A- side of the housing.

38. The assembly of claim 29, wherein the housing includes an A-side and a B-side opposite the A-side, wherein the B-side of the housing includes the opening, and wherein four springs connect the exciter to the A-side of the housing such that the exciter is suspended within the housing.

39. The assembly of claim 38, wherein the B-side of the housing includes a housing support around the opening of the housing, and wherein four springs connect the exciter to the housing support such that the exciter is suspended within the housing.

40. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the carrier includes an opening, wherein a seal extends across the opening and supports the exciter within the opening such that the exciter extends into foam padding of the seat.

41. The assembly of claim 40, wherein the exciter is bonded to the seal with an adhesive.

42. The assembly of claim 40, wherein the seal is elastic, wherein elasticity of the seal biases the exciter into the foam padding of the seat, and wherein the seal is configured such that the exciter flexes out of the foam padding of the seat when a force is applied to the foam padding by the occupant of the seat.

43. The assembly of claim 42, wherein the carrier is located on a B-side of the seat, wherein the foam padding is located between the B-side of the seat and an A-side of the seat, and wherein, when a force is applied to the A-side of the seat by the occupant of the seat, the seal is configured to flex the exciter in a direction from the A-side of the seat to the B-side of the seat.

44. An assembly for massaging an occupant of a seat, the assembly comprising: an exciter having a coil for generating vibrations, a bladder configured to be selectively inflated and deflated, and a carrier for supporting the exciter and the bladder within the seat.

45. The assembly of claim 44, wherein the assembly is configured to be mounted in a seat including seat trim configured to support an occupant, wherein the carrier supports the exciter and the bladder, and wherein the bladder is located between the exciter and the seat trim.

46. The assembly of claim 45, wherein the assembly is configured to be mounted in a seat including seat trim configured to support an occupant, wherein the carrier supports the exciter and the bladder, and wherein the exciter extends through the bladder such that both the bladder and the exciter are configured to contact the seat trim.

47. The assembly of claim 46, wherein the bladder includes an aperture through which the exciter extends.

48. The assembly of claim 47 further comprising a grommet attached to the bladder around the aperture, wherein the grommet retains the exciter and the bladder in place relative to one another.

49. The assembly of claim 48, wherein the bladder is a pneumatic bladder, wherein the bladder includes a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber fluidly connected to the first chamber via a connecting channel configured to conduct a flow of fluid from the first chamber to the second chamber.

50. The assembly of claim 49, wherein the aperture is a first aperture located in the first chamber, wherein the second chamber includes a second aperture, and wherein the bladder is configured such that when the first chamber is folded over and aligned with the second chamber along a fold line provided in the bladder the exciter extends through both the first aperture and the second aperture.

51. The assembly of claim 50 further comprising a second bladder, the second bladder includes a third aperture, and wherein the exciter also extends through the third aperture in the second bladder when the first bladder and the second bladder are stacked and aligned relative to one another.

52. The assembly of claim 51, wherein a longitudinal axis of the second bladder is rotated 90 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the first bladder when the first bladder and the second bladder are stacked and aligned relative to one another.

53. The assembly of claim 45, wherein the assembly is configured to be mounted in a backrest of the seat and / or a base of the seat.

54. An exciter assembly configured for massaging an occupant of a seat, the exciter assembly comprising: a chamber wall defining a pneumatic bladder chamber, and an exciter positioned within the bladder chamber such that the exciter contacts the chamber wall of the bladder chamber.

55. The exciter assembly of claim 54, wherein the exciter is configured to vibrate at least one selected of the group consisting of vertically, laterally, and rotationally.

56. The exciter assembly of claim 54, wherein the exciter is configured to vibrate via contracting and expanding.

57. The exciter assembly of claim 54, wherein the exciter assembly further includes a conduit configured to fluidly connect the bladder chamber to a pneumatic pump.

58. The exciter assembly of claim 57, wherein the exciter assembly further includes a wired connection and a sealing location on the conduit, wherein a controller is configured to control the exciter via the wired connection, the wired connection passing from the controller to the exciter via the sealing location on the conduit, and wherein the wired connection passes through the conduit to connect to the exciter within the bladder chamber.

59. The exciter assembly of claim 58, wherein the conduit includes a T-junction, and wherein the sealing location is located on an offset leg of the T-junction.

60. The exciter assembly of claim 57, wherein the exciter assembly further includes a wired connection and a sealing location on the chamber wall, wherein a controller is configured to control the exciter via the wired connection, the wired connection passing from the controller to the exciter via the sealing location on the chamber wall such that the wired connection passes through the chamber wall to connect to the exciter within the bladder chamber.

61. The exciter assembly of claim 57, wherein a controller is configured to control the exciter via a wireless connection, the wireless connection passing from the controller, wirelessly through the chamber wall, and to the exciter.

62. The exciter assembly of claim 57, wherein the bladder chamber is a B-side bladder chamber, and wherein the exciter assembly further comprises: an A-side bladder chamber separate from the B-side bladder chamber, and a connecting channel fluidly connecting the A-side bladder chamber to the B-side bladder chamber.

63. The exciter assembly of claim 62, wherein the A-side bladder chamber is stacked on the B-side bladder chamber such that, when the exciter assembly is installed into a seat, the A-side bladder chamber is configured to be closer to an A-side of the seat than the B-side bladder chamber.

64. The exciter assembly of claim 63, wherein the A-side bladder chamber is attached to the B-side bladder chamber with an adhesive.

65. The exciter assembly of claim 57, wherein the bladder chamber is a A-side bladder chamber, and wherein the exciter assembly further comprises: a B-side bladder chamber separate from the A-side bladder chamber, and a connecting channel fluidly connecting the A-side bladder chamber to the B-side bladder chamber, and wherein the A-side bladder chamber is stacked on the B-side bladder chamber such that, when the exciter assembly is installed into a seat, the A-side bladder chamber is configured to be closer to an A-side of the seat than the B-side bladder chamber.

66. The exciter assembly of claim 57, wherein the bladder chamber is a B-side bladder chamber, wherein the exciter assembly further comprises an A-side bladder chamber fluidly separate from the B-side bladder chamber, and wherein the A-side bladder chamber is stacked on the B-side bladder chamber such that, when the exciter assembly is installed into a seat, the A- side bladder chamber is configured to be closer to an A-side of the seat than the B-side bladder chamber.

67. A method for assembling an exciter assembly configured for massaging an occupant of a seat, the method comprising: welding a conduit between a first portion of a chamber wall and a second portion of the chamber wall, arranging an exciter on the second portion of the chamber wall and below the first portion of the chamber wall, such that the exciter is positioned between the first and second portions of the chamber wall, connecting the exciter to a wired connection configured to connect to a controller, the wired connection passing through the conduit, and welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall around a perimeter of a chamber defined between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, wherein at least the first portion of the chamber wall contacts the exciter.

68. An exciter assembly configured for massaging an occupant of a seat, the exciter assembly comprising: a chamber wall defining a bladder chamber, and an exciter positioned within the bladder chamber such that the exciter contacts the chamber wall of the bladder chamber.

69. The exciter assembly of claim 68, wherein the chamber wall includes a first side and a second side opposite of the first side, the first side being configured to be oriented nearer an A- side of the seat compared to the second side, and wherein the exciter is attached to the first side.

70. The exciter assembly of claim 69, wherein the exciter is attached to the first side via an adhesive or a weld.

71. The exciter assembly of claim 68, wherein the chamber wall includes a first side and a second side opposite of the first side, the first side being configured to be oriented nearer an A- side of the seat compared to the second side, and wherein the exciter is attached to the second side.

72. The exciter assembly of claim 69, wherein the exciter assembly further includes a conduit configured to fluidly connect the bladder chamber to a pneumatic pump.

73. The exciter assembly of claim 72, wherein the exciter assembly further includes a wired connection, wherein a controller is configured to control the exciter via the wired connection, and wherein the wired connection passes through the conduit to connect to the exciter within the bladder chamber.

74. The exciter assembly of claim 73, wherein the conduit includes a T-junction, wherein a first leg of the T-junction includes a sealing location through which the wired connection passes to connect to the controller.

75. The exciter assembly of claim 74, wherein a second leg of the T-junction connects the conduit to the pneumatic pump.

76. The exciter assembly of claim 68, wherein the chamber wall includes a first side and a second side opposite of the first side, the first side being configured to be oriented nearer an A- side of the seat compared to the second side, and wherein the exciter is attached to the first side and to the second side.

77. The exciter assembly of claim 68, wherein the chamber wall includes a first side and a second side opposite of the first side, the first side being configured to be oriented nearer an A- side of the seat compared to the second side, wherein the exciter is attached to the first side, and wherein the exciter assembly includes a support within the bladder chamber, the support extending between the second side and the exciter.

78. The exciter assembly of claim 77, wherein the support is a foil flap or a spring.

79. The exciter assembly of claim 69, wherein the bladder chamber is a B-side bladder chamber, and wherein the exciter assembly further comprises: an A-side bladder chamber separate from the B-side bladder chamber, the A-side bladder chamber being configured to be oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the B-side bladder chamber, and a connecting channel fluidly connecting the A-side bladder chamber to the B-side bladder chamber.

80. The exciter assembly of claim 79, wherein the A-side bladder chamber is attached to the B-side bladder chamber with an adhesive or via a weld.

81. The exciter assembly of claim 69, wherein the bladder chamber is an A-side bladder chamber, and wherein the exciter assembly further comprises: an B-side bladder chamber separate from the A-side bladder chamber, the A-side bladder chamber being configured to be oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the B-side bladder chamber, and a connecting channel fluidly connecting the A-side bladder chamber to the B-side bladder chamber.

82. The exciter assembly of claim 69, wherein the bladder chamber is an A-side bladder chamber, and wherein the exciter assembly further comprises: a B-side bladder chamber separate from the A-side bladder chamber, wherein the A-side bladder chamber is fluidly separate from the B-side bladder chamber.

83. The exciter assembly of claim 69, wherein the exciter assembly, as installed into the seat, is oriented on the A-side of foam padding of the seat.

84. The exciter assembly of claim 69, wherein the exciter assembly, as installed into the seat, is oriented between foam padding on the A-side of the seat and a suspension structure on a B- side of the seat that is opposite of the A-side of the seat, wherein the suspension structure is configured to bias the exciter assembly into contact against the foam padding.

85. The exciter assembly of claim 84, wherein the bladder chamber is a B-side bladder chamber, and wherein the exciter assembly further comprises: an A-side bladder chamber separate from the B-side bladder chamber, the A-side bladder chamber being configured to be oriented nearer an A-side of the seat compared to the B-side bladder chamber, wherein the A-side bladder chamber is fluidly separate from the B-side bladder chamber.

86. The exciter assembly of claim 85, wherein the A-side bladder chamber is stacked on the B-side bladder chamber between the foam padding and the suspension structure.

87. A method for assembling an exciter assembly configured for massaging an occupant of a seat, the method comprising: welding a conduit between a first portion of a chamber wall and a second portion of the chamber wall, arranging an exciter on the second portion of the chamber wall and below the first portion of the chamber wall, such that the exciter is positioned between the first and second portions of the chamber wall, attaching the exciter to the first portion of the chamber wall, connecting the exciter to a wired connection configured to connect to a controller, the wired connection passing through the conduit, and welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall around a perimeter of a chamber defined between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, wherein at least the first portion of the chamber wall contacts the exciter.

88. The method for assembling the exciter assembly according to claim 87 further comprising: after arranging the exciter on the second portion of the chamber wall, inserting a mandrel through the conduit, attaching the wired connection to the mandrel, and pulling the mandrel through the conduit to pull the wired connection through the conduit.

89. A method for assembling an exciter assembly configured for massaging an occupant of a seat, the method comprising: arranging an exciter on a second portion of a chamber wall and below a first portion of a chamber wall, such that the exciter is positioned between the first and second portions of the chamber wall, and welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall around a perimeter of a chamber defined between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, wherein the exciter is positioned within the chamber.

90. The method of claim 89, further comprising, before welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall around the perimeter, welding a wired connection, which is connected to the exciter, between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall through the steps of: positioning the wired connection, including a sheath and a conductor within the sheath, between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, assigning the conductor a first polarity, and assigning first and second portions of a welding tool a second polarity, welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall around the sheath, assigning the first and second portions of the welding tool opposite polarities, and welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall.

91. The method of claim 89, further comprising, before welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall around the perimeter, welding a conduit between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall through the steps of: positioning the conduit, including a mandrel within the conduit, between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, assigning the mandrel a first polarity, and assigning first and second portions of a welding tool a second polarity, welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall around the conduit, assigning the first and second portions of the welding tool opposite polarities, and welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall.

92. The method of claim 89, further comprising, after welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall substantially around the perimeter, welding a wired connection, which is connected to the exciter, between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall through the steps of: positioning the wired connection, including a sheath and a conductor within the sheath, between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, assigning the conductor a first polarity, and assigning first and second portions of a welding tool a second polarity, welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall around the sheath, assigning the first and second portions of the welding tool opposite polarities, and welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall.

93. The method of claim 89, further comprising, after welding the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall substantially around the perimeter, welding a conduit between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall through the steps of: positioning the conduit, including a mandrel within the conduit, between the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall, assigning the mandrel a first polarity, and assigning first and second portions of a welding tool a second polarity, welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall and the second portion of the chamber wall around the conduit, assigning the first and second portions of the welding tool opposite polarities, and welding, between the first and second portions of the welding tool, the first portion of the chamber wall to the second portion of the chamber wall.

94. The method for assembling the exciter assembly according to claim 87 further comprising: sealing a connection between the exciter and the wired connection with a sealant.

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