Rotatable child seat

Abstract

A child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat includes a seat body having a seat back portion and a seat portion, a restraint harness coupled to the seat body, and soft goods arranged at the seat body. A pad is associated with the restraint harness. The pad includes a rigid or semi-rigid component and is anchored to the soft goods.

Description

WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) ROTATABLE CHILD SEAT CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No.63 / 683,352, filed on August 15, 2024, U.S. Application No.63 / 688,645, filed on August 29, 2024, and, U.S. Application No.63 / 852,384, filed on July 28, 2025, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the art of child restraint systemsfor use in a vehicle, and more particularly to child car seats having multiple use configurations. BACKGROUND

[0002] Some child car seats currently available on the market have multiple useconfigurations that allow for the seats to continue to be used as a child grows. For example, some child car seats can be selectively used in any one or more of: (1) a rear facing, reclined configuration for infants, (2) a forward facing, reclined configuration for toddlers, (3) a forward facing, high-back booster configuration for children weighing between, e.g., 40 pounds and 100 pounds, and (4) a forward facing, backless booster configuration for children weighing between, e.g., 40 pounds and 120 pounds. BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0003] According to an embodiment, a child seat system positionable on a vehicle seatincludes a seat body having a seat back portion and a seat portion, a restraint harness coupled to the seat body, and soft goods arranged at the seat body. A pad is associated with the restraint harness. The pad includes a rigid or semi-rigid component and is anchored to the soft goods.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the soft goods include upper soft goods arranged at the seat back portion and the pad is anchored to the upper soft goods.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the pad is permanently anchored to the upper soft goods.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the pad is stitched to the upper soft goods.WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000)

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the pad is removably anchored to the upper soft goods.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the upper soft goods includes a front surface and the pad is anchored to the front surface.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the upper soft goods includes a backside and the pad is anchored to the backside.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the rigid or semi-rigid component includes expanded polypropylene foam.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the restraint harness includes at least one shoulder strap and the pad is a shoulder pad positionable about a portion of the at least one shoulder strap.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the shoulder pad is foldable about a fold axis between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the shoulder pad includes a coupling mechanism operable to retain the shoulder pad in the closed configuration.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments a width between the fold axis and the coupling mechanism is equal to or greater than a width of the at least one shoulder strap.

[0015] According to an embodiment, a child seat system positionable on a vehicle seatincludes a seat body having a seat back portion and a seat portion. An occupant is receivable by the seat body. A headrest is coupled to the seat body. The headrest has a plurality of collapsible zones. The headrest is deformable at at least one of the plurality of collapsible zones in response to frontal impact forces.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments each of the plurality of collapsible zones is defined by at least one hollow pocket formed in the headrest.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the at least one hollow pocket is formed by an area of material removed from the headrest.WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000)

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the at least one hollow pocket is formed at an outer surface of the headrest.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the headrest is formed from a rigid foam.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the plurality of zones includes a first collapsible zone arranged at a first side of the headrest and a second collapsible zone arranged at a second side of the headrest. Both the first collapsible zone and the second collapsible zone are deformable in response to frontal impact forces.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the first collapsible zone is arranged at a lower region of the first side of the headrest proximate a first shoulder of the occupant and the second collapsible zone is arranged at a lower region of the second side of the headrest proximate a second shoulder of the occupant.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments a restraint harness is coupled to the seat body and includes a first shoulder strap and a second shoulder strap. The first collapsible zone is aligned with the first shoulder strap and the second collapsible zone is aligned with the second shoulder strap.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the headrest further includes a first head side impact protection (SIP) device and a second head SIP device.

[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the first head SIP device and the second head SIP device are integrally formed with the headrest.

[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the first collapsible zone is formed at the headrest in alignment with the first head SIP device and the second collapsible zone is formed at the headrest in alignment with the second head SIP device.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the headrest is deformable at another collapsible zone of the plurality of collapsible zones in response to side impact forces.

[0027] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the another collapsible zone of the plurality of collapsible zonesWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) deformable in response to side impact forces is arranged forward of the at least one collapsible zone deformable in response to frontal impact forces.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the another collapsible zone includes a third collapsible zone arranged at the first side of the headrest and a fourth collapsible zone arranged at the second side of the headrest.

[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the third collapsible zone is located proximate a front end of the first side portion and the fourth collapsible zone is located proximate a front end of the second side portion.

[0030] According to an embodiment, a child seat system positionable on a vehicle seatincludes a seat body having a seat back portion and a seat portion. A headrest is connected to the seat body and has a head receiving area sized to receive a head of a child therein. The headrest includes a back portion positioned at a back of the headrest, a front portion positioned at a front of the headrest, and a shoulder contact portion extending from the back portion of the headrest to define a bottom of the headrest. The headrest is movable such that the shoulder contact portion can contact a shoulder of the child.

[0031] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the shoulder contact portion is positionable in contact with an upper surface of the shoulder of the child.

[0032] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments a distal end of the shoulder contact portion has a contour complementary to the shoulder of the child.

[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the shoulder contact portion includes a frontal impact protection (FIP) device.

[0034] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the FIP device is integrally formed with the headrest.

[0035] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments a side impact portion is positioned between the back portion and the front portion. The side impact portion defines a radially inward most location spaced from the back portion.WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000)

[0036] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the shoulder contact portion extends downward from the side impact portion.

[0037] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the side impact portion includes a first head side impact protection (SIP) device and a second head SIP device and the shoulder contact portion includes a first shoulder SIP device and a second shoulder SIP device. The first shoulder SIP device is aligned with the first head SIP device and the second shoulder SIP device is aligned with the second head SIP device.

[0038] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the first head SIP device and the second head SIP device extend to a bottom of the side impact portion.

[0039] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the headrest comprises a single unitary part.

[0040] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative,in further embodiments the headrest includes a foam material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. Withreference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0042] FIG. 1 is a front view of a child seat system according to an embodiment;

[0043] FIG. 2 is a detailed front view of a seat back portion of a child seat of the childseat system of FIG.1 according to an embodiment;

[0044] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the seat back portion of the child seat of FIG. 2with the soft goods partially separated from the child seat according to an embodiment;

[0045] FIG.4A is a front view of upper soft goods associated with a seat back of a childseat according to an embodiment;

[0046] FIG. 4B is a perspective side view of the upper soft goods of FIG. 4A accordingto an embodiment;

[0047] FIG. 5 is an end view of a shoulder pad associated with a restraint harnessaccording to an embodiment;

[0048] FIG. 6A is a perspective back view of the upper soft goods of FIG. 4A and 4Baccording to an embodiment;WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000)

[0049] FIG. 6B is a perspective side view of the back of the upper soft goods of FIG.4A and4B according to an embodiment;

[0050] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of a headrest of the child seat of FIG. 1according to an embodiment;

[0051] FIG. 8A is a front view of a portion of the headrest of FIG. 7 according to anembodiment;

[0052] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of a back of the headrest of FIG. 8A according toan embodiment;

[0053] FIG. 8C is a perspective side view of the back of the headrest of FIG. 8Aaccording to an embodiment;

[0054] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a child seat system according to anotherembodiment;

[0055] FIG. 9B is a rear view of the child seat system of FIG. 9A according to anembodiment;

[0056] FIG. 9C is a plan view of the child seat system of FIG. 9A according to anembodiment;

[0057] FIG. 9D is a front view of the child seat system of FIG. 9A according to anembodiment;

[0058] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a portion of the headrest of FIGS. 9A-9Daccording to an embodiment;

[0059] FIG. 10B is a front view of the headrest of FIG. 10A according to anembodiment;

[0060] FIG. 10C is a rear view of the headrest of FIG. 10A according to anembodiment; and

[0061] FIG. 10D is a bottom view of the headrest of FIG. 10A according to anembodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatusand method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

[0063] With reference now to FIG.1, an example of a child seat system 20 is illustrated.As shown, the child seat system 20 includes a support base 22 that can be detachably fixed to a vehicle seat (not shown), such as via a latch or anchor mechanism, not shown in the FIGS.WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) This latch or anchor system often used is sometimes referred to as a “lower anchor and tether for children” e.g., LATCH system. Alternatively, or in addition, the support base 22 may be detachably fixed to a vehicle seat via a vehicle belt associated with the vehicle seat 10.

[0064] The child seat system 20 additionally includes a child seat 24 associated withthe support base 22. In an embodiment, the child seat 24 is detachably coupled to the support base 22, thereby allowing the child seat 24 to be separated from the support base 22. Alternatively, the support base 22 and at least a portion of the child seat 24 may be permanently connected or affixed together, as will be described in more detail below. As used herein the term “permanently connected” identifies embodiments where the child seat 24 or a portion thereof is not intended to be disassembled from the support base 22 by a user.

[0065] The child seat 24 includes a seat shell 25 having a seat back portion 26 and aseat pan portion 28 arranged at an angle relative to the seat back portion 26. The seat pan portion 28 may but need not be configured to removably couple to the seat back portion 26. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiments, the seat back portion 26 includes a seat back having an upright support surface 30 generally facing forward and that extends from a first end or top 32 of the seat back portion 26 to a second, opposite end or bottom 34 of the seat back portion 26. A first upright side member 36 may be arranged at a first side 38 of the upright support surface 30 and a second upright side member 40 may be arranged at a second, opposite side 42 of the upright support surface 30. The first and second upright side members 36, 40 therefore form the left side and the right side of the seat back portion 26, respectively. As shown, the first and second upright side members 36, 40 extend forward from the upright support surface 30. The first and second upright side members 36, 40 may extend generally orthogonally to the upright support surface 30 or alternatively, may extend therefrom at another angle, such as an angle greater than 90° for example. Accordingly, the upright support surface 30 and the first and second upright side members 36, 40 define a backrest region or upright support cavity within which an upper body of a child is received.

[0066] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiments, the seat back portion 26 of thechild seat 24 includes a headrest 46. The headrest 46 may be attached to or integral with the seat back portion 26 or may be removably coupled thereto. The headrest 46 may be stationary, or in some embodiments, may be configured to move relative to the upright support surface 30. For example, the headrest 46 may be configured to translate relative to the upright support surface 30 between a retracted position and an extended position, allowing for adjustment based on the size of the child positioned within the child seat 24. However, it should be appreciatedWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) that embodiments here the seat back portion 26 does not include a headrest 46 are also contemplated herein.

[0067] The seat pan portion 28 of the child seat 24 may include a seat support surface50 facing generally upwardly and that extends from a first end or front 52 to a second end or back 54 of the seat pan portion 28. A first seat side member 56 may be arranged at a first side 58 of the seat support surface 50 and a second seat side member 60 may be arranged at a second, opposite side 62 of the seat support surface 50. The first seat side member 56 and the second seat side member 60 respectively extend upwardly and from the left side and the right side of the seat pan portion. The seat support surface 50 and the first and second seat side members 56, 60 combine to define a region within which at least part of a lower body of a child may be received.

[0068] As shown, the seat side members 56 and 60 extend at an angle from the seatsupport surface 50. The angle of the first seat side member 56 relative to the seat support surface 50 may but need not be the same as the angle of the first upright side member 36 relative to the upright support surface 30. Similarly, the angle of the second seat side member 60 relative to the seat support surface 50 may but need not be the same as the angle of the second upright side member 40 relative to the upright support surface 30. Soft goods may be positioned about or in overlapping arrangement with some or all of the forward-facing surfaces of the back portion 26 and the seat portion 28 of the seat shell 25, and over the forward-facing surfaces of the headrest 46.

[0069] The child seat 24 may be movable relative to the support base 22 while the childseat 24 is coupled to the support base 22. In an embodiment, the child seat 24 is rotatable relative to the support base 22 between a plurality of configurations. For example, the child seat 24 may be rotatable between a first rotational configuration, such as a configuration in which the child seat 24 is in a facing-forward position, and a second rotational configuration, such as a configuration in which the child seat 24 is in a rearward-facing position. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the child seat 24 is positionable in one or more additional configurations between the first rotational configuration and a second rotational configuration are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, embodiments where the child seat 24 is not rotatable relative to the support base 22 are also contemplated herein.

[0070] Alternatively, or in addition, the child seat 24 may be movable relative to thesupport base 22 to adjust an incline of the child seat 24. The child seat 24 may be movable along an incline path between a first position, such as an upright position, and a second position, such as a reclined position. However, it should be appreciated that the first positionWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) and the second position may both be positions arranged at an incline, the positions having varying degrees of incline. Embodiments where the child seat 24 may be arranged in any of a plurality of positions between the upright position and the reclined position, as well as embodiments where the incline of the child seat 24 is not adjustable relative to the support base 22, are also contemplated herein. It should be appreciated that a child seat system 20 as illustrated and described herein with reference to FIG.1, is intended as an example only, and that a child seat system 20 having other configurations are also within the scope of the disclosure. For example, although the child seat 24 of the child seat system 20 is illustrated and described as a toddler seat, in other embodiments, the child seat may be an infant car seat for use by a child less than 2 years old, having a height less than or equal to than 35 inches and / or a weight less or equal to 40 pounds.

[0071] With continued reference to FIG. 1 and further reference to FIG. 2, in anembodiment, the child seat 24 includes a restraint harness 63 to limit movement of the child relative to the child seat 24, such as during a crash event for example. The restraint harness 63 includes a crotch strap 64, at least one shoulder strap 66a, 66b, and at least one waist strap 68a, 68b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the restraint harness 63 is a five-point harness including a crotch strap 64, a first shoulder strap 66a, a second shoulder strap 66b, a first waist strap 68a and a second waist strap 68b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first shoulder strap 66a and the first waist strap 68a are integrally formed via a first piece of webbing and the second shoulder strap 66b and the second waist strap 68b are integrally formed via a second piece of webbing. In such embodiments, opposing ends of each piece of webbing are mounted to the child seat 24, such as at an interior or a backside of the seat shell 25.

[0072] A buckle 65 may be arranged at a distal end of the crotch strap 64 and theshoulder and waist straps 66a, 66b, 68a, 68b may be connected to one another and to the crotch strap 64 via the buckle 65. In an embodiment, a first connector 72a engageable with the buckle 65 is arranged at the first piece of webbing and a second connector 72b engageable with the buckle 65 is arranged at the second piece of webbing. In such embodiments, the upper portion of each piece of webbing extending from a connector 72a, 72b may be considered the shoulder strap 66a, 66b, and the lower portion of each piece of webbing may be considered the waist strap 68a, 68b. In some embodiments, the first and second shoulder strap 66a, 66b may be connectable to one another at a location remote from the connector 72a, 72b. For example, a first buckle portion 74 may be arranged at one of the first shoulder strap 66a and the second shoulder strap 66b, and a second buckle portion 76 removably couplable to the first buckleWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) portion 74 is arranged at the other of the first shoulder strap 66a and the second shoulder strap 66b.

[0073] The restraint harness 63 may include a first shoulder pad 80a associated withthe first shoulder strap 66a and a second shoulder pad 80b associated with the second shoulder strap 66b. A configuration of the first and second shoulder pads 80a, 80b may be substantially identical. As shown, each shoulder pad 80a, 80b includes a body 82a, 82b formed from a rigid or semi rigid component (not shown) surrounded by soft goods. In an embodiment, the rigid or semi-rigid component is formed from expanded polypropylene (EPP) foam. The body 82a, 82b is transformable between a first, open configuration (FIGS. 2 and 5) in which the opposing ends of the body 82a, 82b are separated from one another, and a second, closed configuration (FIGS.4A and 4B) in which the body 82a, 82b is folded about a fold axis F (see FIG.5). The opposing ends of the body 82a,82b are located directly adjacent to one another when in the closed or folded configuration. The fold 84a, 84b may be arranged at a center of the body 82a, 82b and each portion of the body 82a, 82b arranged on opposite sides of the fold 84a, 84b may be similar or identical in size and shape. In an embodiment, a width of the shoulder pad 80a, 80b, measured substantially perpendicular to the fold axis, is more than twice a width of the shoulder strap 66a, 66b.

[0074] Each shoulder pad 80a, 80b includes a coupling mechanism 90 operable toretain the shoulder pad 80a, 80b in the folded configuration. In an embodiment, the coupling mechanism 90 includes a first portion 92 near a first end 94 of the body 82a, 82b and a second portion 96 arranged near a second, opposite end 98 of the body 82a, 82b, with both portions 92, 96 of the coupling mechanism 90 being arranged at the same surface of the body 82a, 82b. When the body 82a, 82b is folded, the first portion 92 may be in overlapping arrangement with the second portion 96. The coupling mechanism 90 illustrated in FIGS.2 and 5 is a hook and loop fastener; however, it should be understood that any suitable coupling mechanism 90, such as snaps or buttons for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure. A distance between the fold axis F and each portion 92, 96 of the coupling mechanism 90 is approximately equal to a width of the shoulder strap 66a, 66b. Accordingly, the shoulder strap 66a, 66b may be located between the folded sides of the body 82a, 82b, at a position between the fold and the coupling mechanism 90. The engaged portions 92, 96 of the coupling mechanism 90 therefore restrict separation of the shoulder strap 66a, 66b from the shoulder pad 80a, 80b.

[0075] When a shoulder strap 66a, 66b is coupled to each shoulder pad 80a, 80b by thecoupling mechanism 90, at least a portion of the body 82a, 82b is positioned between the shoulder strap 66a, 66b and the occupant. During a frontal impact crash event, the occupantWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) will move forward against the shoulder straps 66a, 66b of the harness. By positioning the body 82a, 82b of the shoulder pad 80a,80b closer to the occupant than the shoulder strap 66a, 66b, some of the impact forces of the occupant are absorbed by the bodies 82a, 82b of the shoulder pads 80a, 80b embedded within the soft goods.

[0076] Unlike existing child seats where the shoulder pads may be slidable along thelength of the shoulder straps, the shoulder pads 80a, 80b are fixed in position relative to the child seat. Indeed, the shoulder pads 80a, 80b may be affixed to the soft goods 98 of the child seat 24. The soft goods of the child seat 24 may include upper soft goods 100 associated with the back portion 26 and / or the headrest 46 of the child seat 24. As shown, the upper soft goods 100 may include a backrest portion 102 positionable in overlapping arrangement with the upright support surface 30 of the back portion 26. Alternatively, or in addition, the upper soft goods 100 may include a headrest portion 104 positionable about the portion of the headrest 46 engageable by the head of the seat occupant. With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, and further reference to FIGS.3-6B, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the shoulder pads 80a, 80b are affixed to the upper soft goods 100. The shoulder pad 80a, 80b may be connected to the upper soft goods 100 such that the shoulder pads 80a, 80b are positioned directly adjacent to an interface between the back portion 102 and the headrest portion 104 of the upper soft goods 100. The body 82a, 82b of each shoulder pad 80a, 80b may be connected to the upper soft goods 100 at only one edge thereof, such that the shoulder pads 80a, 80b are movable relative to the upper soft goods 100 like a flap.

[0077] The shoulder pads 80a, 80b may be permanently connected to the upper softgoods 100, such as via stitching for example, or may be removably connectable to the upper soft goods 100 via any suitable coupling mechanism, such as via snaps or hook and loop fasteners for example. Further, the body 82a, 82b of each shoulder pad 80a, 80b itself may be directly connectable to the upper soft goods 100, or alternatively, may be indirectly connectable to the upper soft goods 100. In instances where the body 82a, 82b of the shoulder pad 80a, 80b is indirectly connectable to the upper soft goods 100, an extension member 110a, 110b may protrude from the body 82a, 82b. The extension member 110a, 110b may be stitched or otherwise permanently attached directly to the upper soft goods 100 or a portion of a coupling mechanism (not shown) may be arranged at the extension member 110a, 110b rather than at the body 82a, 82b itself. In instances where an extension member 110a, 110b is used to couple the shoulder pad 80a, 80b to the upper soft goods 100, the extension member 110a, 110b may engage a front surface 112 of the upper soft goods 100, or alternatively, the extension memberWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) 110a, 110b may extend through an opening in the upper soft goods 100 for connection to a backside 114 of the upper soft goods 100.

[0078] A child seat system, such as child seat system 20 for example, may also includeat least one side impact protection device. The at least one side impact protection (SIP) device may be removably connected to the child seat system 20, such as via double-sided tape, adhesive, or a mechanical fastener for example. Alternatively, the at least one SIP device may be permanently connected to or integral therewith. It should be appreciated that the one or more SIP devices may be mounted at various locations about the support base 22 and / or the child seat 24 of the child seat system 20.

[0079] An SIP device associated with a child seat system, such as child seat system 20for example, may be formed from a material having a hardness less than the hardness of the seat shell 25 or the support base 22. The use of a material having a reduced hardness may facilitate the absorption of energy applied to the child seat system 20 during an accident, such as a side impact collision. In some embodiments, the material of an SIP device of the child seat system 20 also has a hardness greater than the hardness of the soft goods mounted about the seat shell 25 and / or the headrest 46 to provide additional energy absorption beyond that of the soft goods. In some embodiments, SIP devices or portions thereof may be formed of foam materials such as expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polystyrene (EPS), and / or expanded polyolefin (EPO) with example densities such as 30 g / l, 45 g / l, and 50 g / l. Various other materials and specifications thereof are contemplated. It should be understood that any of these materials or another material that has a reduced hardness relative to the seat shell of a child seat could be used in any exemplary embodiment of an SIP device described herein.

[0080] With continued reference to FIG. 1 and further reference to FIGS. 7-8C, thechild seat system 20 may include one or more SIP devices operable to restrict or control movement of the head of an occupant of the child seat system 20 during a side impact collision. Such a head SIP device may be arranged at an area of the child seat 24 surrounding or located adjacent to an occupant’s head. In an embodiment, the at least one head SIP device is associated with, and in some embodiments is mounted to or integrally formed with, the headrest 46 of the child seat 24. It should be appreciated that a configuration of a head SIP device as well as its positioning relative to the child seat 24, may vary based on the orientation of the child seat 24, such as relative to a vehicle or a direction of travel.

[0081] A headrest typically includes a rigid body or structure with soft goods, such aspadding, cushioning, fabric, or the like, positioned about one or more surfaces of the rigid body, such as the surfaces of the rigid body that the head of an occupant of the child seat mayWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) contact. As will be described in more detail below, a head SIP device may be positioned adjacent to an inner surface of a headrest or within a head receiving region of a headrest. Unless another arrangement is noted, any embodiment described herein that includes a head SIP device locatable at such an inner surface region should be understood to position the head SIP device generally between a structural body or shell of the headrest (e.g., the relatively rigid portion of the headrest) and the soft goods that cover the headrest. Such a head SIP device may be attached to the structural body of the headrest or to the soft goods positionable thereabout.

[0082] With continued reference to FIGS. 7-8C, the headrest 46 of the child seat 24includes a structural shell 120 and a head SIP assembly 130. The headrest shell 120 may include a shell back portion 122 and at least one headrest shell side member, such as a first headrest shell side member 124 and a second headrest shell side member 126 disposed at opposite sides of the back portion 122 and extending toward a front of the headrest shell 120. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP assembly 130 includes a connector member 132 having a central body portion 134, a first wing or side portion 136 extending from a first side of the central body portion 134, and a second wing or side portion 138 extending from a second opposite side of the central body portion 134. The connector member 132 may be removably connectable or may be permanently connectable to the structural shell 120 of a headrest 46.

[0083] The connector member 132 may be positionable directly adjacent to an innersurface of the headrest shell 120. For example, the central body portion 134 of the connector member 132 is positionable adjacent to the back portion 122 of the headrest shell 120, the first side portion 136 of the connector member 132 may be positionable adjacent to the first headrest shell side member 124 of the headrest shell 120 (the first side portion 136 being in direct contact with the first headrest shell side member 120), and the second side portion 138 of the connector member 132 may be positionable adjacent to the second headrest shell side member 126 (the second side portion 138 being in direct contact with the second headrest shell side member 126). At least a portion of the back or outer surface 133 of the connector member 132 may have a contour complementary to a contour of the inner surface of the shell back portion 122 and the headrest shell side members 124, 126 to facilitate engagement therebetween.

[0084] With the head SIP assembly 130 coupled to the headrest shell 120, an inwardlyfacing surface of the central body portion 134, the first side portion 136, and the second side portion 138 of the connector member 132 may define a head receiving region 139.When an occupant is seated within the child seat 24, an occupant’s head is arranged within the head receiving region 139 between the first and second side portions 136, 138 and the central bodyWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) portion 134 and a back of the occupant’s head is typically arranged proximate to or in contact with a surface 135 of the central body portion 134.

[0085] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the headrest 46 includes a first headSIP device 140a and a second head SIP device 140b. As shown, the first head SIP device 140a and the second head SIP device 140b may be part of the head SIP assembly 130, such as integrally formed with the connector member 132 for example. The first head SIP device 140a may be located at or adjacent to the first side portion 136 of the connector member 132 and the second head SIP device 140b may be arranged at or adjacent to the second side portion 138 of the connector member 132. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 140a, 140b are mounted near a back or rear of the head SIP assembly 130, such as at an interface between the central body portion 134 and the respective side portions 136, 138 of the connector member 132 for example. However, embodiments where at least one of the head SIP devices 140a, 140b is arranged at another part of the connector member 132 are also contemplated herein.

[0086] A configuration of the first head SIP device 140a and the second head SIPdevice 140b may but need not be substantially identical. The first head SIP device 140a may extend over an entire length, or over only a portion of a length of the first side portion 136 of the connector member 132 and the second head SIP device 140b may extend over an entire length, or over only a portion of a length of the second side portion 138 of the connector member 132. Each head SIP device 140a, 140b includes an inwardly facing surface 142a, 142b. Although the inwardly facing surfaces of the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment have only a single side impact protection area 144a, 144b, respectively, it should be appreciated that embodiments including multiple side impact protection areas are within the scope of the disclosure. As shown, the side impact protection areas 144a, 144b may be arranged at an angle to the surface 135 of the central body portion 134 of the connector member 132 and to the adjacent side portions 136, 138.

[0087] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first head SIP device 140aforms a first recess 148a within the head receiving region 139 of the head SIP assembly 130, and the second head SIP device 140b forms a second recess 148b within the head receiving region 139 of the head SIP assembly 130 (see FIG.7). The side impact protection areas 144a, 144b may abut the surface 135 of the central body portion 134 of the connector member 132 at a generally vertical line of intersection represented by L1a and L1b, respectively. The first recess 148a is partially defined by the side impact protection area 144a and a plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front ends 150a, 150b of the side portions 136, 138 of theWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) connector member 132. A surface 152 of the first side portion 136 extending between the side impact protection area 144a and the front end 150a may also partly define the first recess 148a. The recess 148a is further defined by a plane P1a extending from the line of intersection L1a to the plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front ends 150a, 150b of the side portions 136, 138 of the connector member 132. Similarly, the second recess 148b is partially defined by the side impact protection area 144b, and in some embodiments, by a portion of an inwardly facing surface 154 of the of the second side portion 138 extending between the side impact protection area 144b and the front end 150b of the second side portion 138. The recess 148b further extends from the line of intersection L1b toward the plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the side portions 136, 138 of the connector member 132.

[0088] It should be appreciated that the head SIP devices 140a, 140b illustrated anddescribed herein are intended as examples only and that a head SIP device 140a, 140b having any suitable configuration is within the scope of the disclosure. Further, although the head SIP devices 140a, 140b arranged at opposing sides of a head SIP assembly 130 are generally illustrated as being substantially identical, embodiments where a configuration of the head SIP devices 140a, 140b varies from one side of the headrest 46 to the other is also contemplated herein.

[0089] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiments, the headrest SIP assembly 130includes at least one area of removed material 160a, 160b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an area of material 160a, 160b is removed from the outer surface 162 of the second side portion 138 of the connector member 132, resulting in the formation of a hollowed region or pocket 164a, 164b. The term “area of removed material” is intended to identify an area of the connector member 132 having a reduced thickness compared to the surrounding areas. These areas of removed material 160a, 160b may extend through only a small portion of the thickness of the connector member 132, or alternatively, may extend over substantially the entire thickness of the connector member 132 while leaving a solid opposing surface thereat.

[0090] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a plurality of areas of removedmaterial 160a, 160b are arranged at the second wing or side portion 138 of the connector member 132. The thickness of the second side portion 138 at these areas of removed material 160a, 160b may be the same or may vary. Further, the areas of removed material 160a, 160b may be similar shapes or different shapes and may be arranged at any suitable position about the second side portion 138. It should be appreciated that while not shown, similar areas of removed material 160a, 160b may be formed at the backside of the first wing or side portion 136 of the connector member 132 as well. It should also be understood that in someWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) embodiments, only a single area of removed material 160a, 160b may be arranged at a side portion 136, 138 of the connector member 132.

[0091] In the non-limiting embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8C, a first area ofmaterial 160a is removed from the outer surface 162 of the second side portion 138 of the connector member 132, resulting in the formation of at least one hollow pocket 164a at the second side portion 138. As shown, this first hollow pocket 164a may be formed near the front end 150b of the second side portion 138, such as between the head SIP device 140b and the front end 150b for example. Alternatively, or in addition, at least one area of material 160b is removed from the outer surface 162 of the second side portion 138 of the connector member 132 at a location offset from the front end 150b and the first hollow pocket 164a. These additional areas of removed material 160 result in the formation of at least one second hollow pocket 164b. In an embodiment, one or more second hollow pockets 164b are formed at a location about the side portion 138 proximate an adjacent shoulder strap 66a, 66b of the restraint harness 63. As shown, the second hollow pockets 164b are positioned near the interface between the second side portion 138 and the central body portion 134, such as at a location between the first hollow pocket 164a and this interface. In an embodiment, the second hollow pockets 164b are located at a lower region, such as between a central height and a bottom surface of the head SIP assembly 130.

[0092] In an embodiment, the areas of removed material 160b and the resulting secondhollow pockets 164b may be aligned with or arranged at the same location about the side portion 138 as the adjacent head SIP device 140b. As previously noted, the head SIP device 140b may extend over only a portion of the length of the side portion 138 such that a surface of the second side portion 168 extends between the front end 150b and the distal end of the side impact protection area 144b of the second head SIP device 140b. In an embodiment, the second hollow pockets 164a are not arranged at the portion of the side portion 138 extending between the front end 150b and the distal end of the side impact protection area 146b.

[0093] One or more hollow regions or pockets 164a, 164b may define one or morecollapsible zones 166 of the connector member 132. As used herein the term “collapsible zone” refers to a region of the headrest 46 configured to deform to absorb energy applied thereto during a crash event. A collapsible zone 166 may be permanently deformable or may be elastically deformable. In an embodiment, the plurality of areas of removed material 160a and the resulting first hollow pockets 164a, in combination, define a collapsible zone 166a of the second side portion 138. In an embodiment, this collapsible zone 166a is located proximate the front end 150b of the second side portion 138. Although only the second side portion 138 ofWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) the connector member 132 is illustrated, it should be appreciated that a similar collapsible zone (not shown) may be arranged at the first side portion 136 of the connector member 132, for example, proximate the front end 150a thereof.

[0094] During a side impact crash event, an occupant’s head may engage a side portion136, 138 of the headrest 130 and transmit side impact forces thereto. In an embodiment, the headrest 130 is designed such that the headrest will flex, deform, break away, or the like at the collapsible zone 166a in response to the side impact forces transmitted thereto by the occupant’s head. This deformation of the headrest 130 reduces the forces acting on the occupant.

[0095] In an embodiment, the plurality of areas of removed material 160b and theresulting second hollow pockets 164b, in combination, define a collapsible zone 166b of the second side portion 138. In an embodiment, this second collapsible zone 166b is located at the lower region of the second side portion 138. The collapsible zone 166b may be proximate the adjacent second shoulder strap 66b, such as in general alignment therewith along a vertical axis. Although only the second side portion 138 of the connector member 132 is illustrated, it should be appreciated that another collapsible zone (not shown) may be arranged at the first side portion 136 of the connector member 132, for example, proximate the first shoulder strap 66a. In such embodiments, the plurality of collapsible zones, may but need not have substantially identical configurations.

[0096] As shown, the second hollow pockets 164b may be generally aligned about avertical axis extending over a height of the second side portion 138. Further, in some embodiments, the plurality of second hollow pockets 164 abut one another or are positioned generally adjacent to one another. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the collapsible zone 166 defined by the plurality of second hollow pockets 164b extends over a substantial entirety of the height of the second side portion 138. However, it should be appreciated that each second pocket 164b or only a portion of the second pockets 164b may also form a respective collapsible zone at the second side portion 138.

[0097] During a frontal impact crash event, an occupant of the seat may be projectednot only forwardly, but also upwardly, such that the shoulders of the occupant contact the headrest. By including a collapsible region or zone at a location proximate the occupant’s shoulders, the headrest will flex, deform, break away, or the like at the collapsible zone in response to impact forces transmitted thereto by the occupant’s shoulders. This deformation of the headrest at the collapsible zones, such as arranged at the opposite side portions 136, 138 will absorb and / or dissipate these impact forces, rather than transferring them to the occupant.WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000)

[0098] With reference now to FIGS.9A-9D another example of a child seat system 220is illustrated. Similar to the child seat system 20, the child seat system 220 includes a support base 222 and a child seat 224 connectable to the support base 222. As in the previous embodiment, the child seat 224 may include a seat shell 225 having a seat back portion 226 and a seat pan portion 228 arranged at an angle relative to the seat back portion 226. The seat pan portion 228 may be integrally formed with the seat back portion 226 or may be configured to removably couple to the seat back portion 226. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiments, the seat back portion 226 is formed by a seat shell 225 of the child seat 224 and includes a seat back having an upright support surface 230 generally facing forward and that extends between a first end or top 232 of the seat back portion 226 and a second, opposite end or bottom 234 of the seat back portion 226.

[0099] A first upright side member 236 may be arranged at a first side 238 of the uprightsupport surface 230 and a second upright side member 240 may be arranged at a second, opposite side 242 of the upright support surface 230. The first and second upright side members 236, 240 therefore form the left side and the right side of the seat back portion 226, respectively. As shown, the first and second upright side members 236, 240 extend forward from the upright support surface 230. The first and second upright side members 236, 240 may extend generally orthogonally to the upright support surface 230 or alternatively, may extend therefrom at another angle, such as an angle greater than 90° for example. Accordingly, the upright support surface 230 and the first and second upright side members 236, 240 define a backrest region or upright support cavity within which an upper body of a child is received.

[0100] As in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the seat back portion 226 of the child seat 224may additionally include a headrest 246. The headrest 246 may be attached to or integral with the seat back portion 226 or may be removably coupled thereto. The headrest 246 may be configured to move relative to the upright support surface 230. For example, the headrest 246 may be configured to translate relative to the upright support surface 230 between a retracted position and an extended position, allowing for adjustment based on the size of the child positioned within the child seat 224. Although not shown, it should be appreciated that the child seat 224 may include a restraint harness substantially identical to the restraint harness described above with reference to FIGS.1-2.

[0101] With continued reference to FIGS. 9A-9D and further reference to FIGS.reference now to FIGS. 10A-10D, the headrest 246 associated with the child seat 224 is illustrated in more detail. Similar to the previous embodiment, the headrest 246 includes a structural shell 252 and a head SIP assembly 260 (see FIG.10D). The headrest shell 252 mayWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) include a shell back portion 254 and at least one headrest shell side member, such as a first headrest shell side member 256 and a second headrest shell side member 258 disposed at opposite sides of the shell back portion 254 and extending toward a front of the headrest shell 252. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP assembly 260 includes a connector member 262 having a central body portion 264, a first side portion 266 extending from a first side of the central body portion 264, and a second side portion 268 extending from a second opposite side of the central body portion 264. The head SIP assembly 260 may be formed from a rigid foam material, such as expanded polypropylene foam for example. However, other suitable materials are also contemplated herein.

[0102] The connector member 262 may be removably connectable or may bepermanently connectable to the structural shell 252 of a headrest 246. The connector member 262 may be positionable directly adjacent to an inner surface of the headrest shell 252. For example, the central body portion 264 of the connector member 262 is positionable adjacent to the back portion 254 of the headrest shell 252, the first side portion 266 of the connector member 262 may be positionable adjacent to the first headrest shell side member 256 of the headrest shell 222 (the first side portion 266 being in direct contact with the first headrest shell side member 256), and the second side portion 268 of the connector member 262 may be positionable adjacent to the second headrest shell side member 258 (the second side portion 268 being in direct contact with the second headrest shell side member 258). At least a portion of the back or outer surface 270 of the connector member 262 may have a contour complementary to a contour of the inner surface of the shell back portion 254 and the headrest shell side members 256, 258 to facilitate engagement therebetween.

[0103] With the head SIP assembly 260 coupled to the headrest shell 252, a forward-facing surface 274 of the central body portion 264, the first side portion 266, and the second side portion 268 of the connector member 262 may define a head receiving region 272. When an occupant is seated within a child seat 224 including the headrest 246, an occupant’s head is arranged within the head receiving region 272 and a back of the occupant’s head is typically arranged proximate to or in contact with a surface 274 of the central body portion 264. The surface 274 of the central body portion 264 may define a back portion of the head SIP assembly 260 and the distal ends 269a, 269b of the side portions 266, 268 may define a front or front portion of the head SIP assembly 260.

[0104] The connector member 262 includes a side impact portion positioned betweenthe front and the back of the head SIP assembly 260. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the side impact portion of the head SIP assembly 260 includes a first head SIPWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) device 280a and a second head SIP device 280b. The first head SIP device 280a may be located at or adjacent to the first side portion 266 of the connector member 262 and the second head SIP device 280b may be arranged at or adjacent to the second side portion 268 of the connector member 262. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the head SIP devices 280a, 280b are mounted near a rear of the head SIP assembly 260, such as at an interface between the central body portion 264 and the respective side portions 266, 268 of the connector member 262 for example. However, embodiments where at least one of the head SIP devices 280a, 280b is arranged at another part of the connector member 262 are also contemplated herein.

[0105] A configuration of the first head SIP device 280a and the second head SIPdevice 280b may but need not be substantially identical. The first head SIP device 280a may extend over an entire length, or over only a portion of a length of the first side portion 266 of the connector member 262 and the second head SIP device 280b may extend over an entire length, or over only a portion of a length of the second side portion 268 of the connector member 262. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, each head SIP device 280a, 280b extends to a bottom surface 278 of the connector member 262. Each head SIP device 280a, 280b includes an inwardly facing surface 282a, 282b having one or more side impact protection areas. As shown, the side impact protection areas 284a, 284b may be arranged at an angle to the surface 274 of the central body portion 264 of the connector member 262. In an embodiment, the side impact protection areas 284a, 284b abut the surface 274 of the central body portion 264 at a generally vertical line of intersection represented by L2a and L2b, respectively. Alternatively, or in addition, the side impact protection areas 284a, 284b may be arranged at an angle to the inward facing surfaces 290, 292 of the side portions 266, 268, respectively. Accordingly, the head SIP devices 280a, 280b may define a radially inward most location spaced from the back 264 of the connector member 262.

[0106] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first head SIP device 280aforms a first recess 286a within the head receiving region 272 of the head SIP assembly 260, and the second head SIP device 280b forms a second recess 286b within the head receiving region 272 of the head SIP assembly 260. The first recess 286a is partially defined by the side impact protection area 284a and a plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front ends 269a, 269b of the side portions 266, 268 of the connector member 262. A surface 290 of the first side portion 266 extending between the side impact protection area 284a and the front end 269a may also partly define the first recess 286a. The recess 286a is further defined by a plane P2a extending from the line of intersection L2a to the plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front ends 269a, 269b of the side portions 266, 268 of the connector member 262.WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) Similarly, the second recess 286b is partially defined by the side impact protection area 284b, and in some embodiments, by a portion of an inwardly facing surface 292 of the of the second side portion 268 extending between the side impact protection area 284b and the front end 269b of the second side portion 268. The recess 286b further extends from the line of intersection L2b toward the plane extending laterally from an inner edge of the front ends 269a, 269b of the side portions 266, 268 of the connector member 262.

[0107] Alternatively, or in addition to a head SIP device 280a, 280b as illustrated anddescribed herein, the child seat system 220, may include a shoulder contact portion operable to restrict or control movement of a shoulder of an occupant of the child seat system. The shoulder contact portion may include one or more frontal impact devices also referred to herein as “FIP devices” and may be arranged about the child seat 220 at areas generally aligned with and configured to contact an occupant’s shoulder. In an embodiment, the connector member 262, the head SIP devices 280a, 280b, and the FIP devices 300a, 300b are integrally formed. In such embodiments, the head SIP assembly 260 may be formed as a single unitary part such as from rigid foam for example.

[0108] In an embodiment, an FIP device 300a, 300b is positionable proximate an uppersurface of an occupant’s shoulder, such as the portion of an occupant’s shoulder extending between the acromion and the neck. For example, the FIP device 300a, 300b may be aligned with the portion of an occupant’s trapezius muscle located above the clavicle. At such a position, an upward movement of the occupant’s shoulders, such as resulting from a collision or other crash event, would engage the FIP device. The FIP device 300a, 300b may be configured to absorb energy from this movement of the occupant’s shoulder.

[0109] In an embodiment, a FIP device 300a, 300b as described herein may be arrangedat the headrest 246 of the child seat 220. In such embodiments, if the headrest 246 is movably connected to a seat shell 225 of the child seat 220, the FIP devices 300a, 300b are movable with the headrest 246 relative to the seat shell 225. The FIP devices 300a, 300b may be attached to the structure of the headrest 246, such as the structural shell 252 or to head SIP assembly 260 mounted thereto for example, or may be attached to soft goods (not shown) positionable about the headrest 246. In embodiments where the FIP device 300a, 300b is arranged at the body of the headrest 246, the FIP devices 300a, 300b may, but need not be covered by soft goods.

[0110] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A-10D, theheadrest 246 includes a first FIP device 300a configured to engage the top surface of one of an occupant’s shoulders, such as a right shoulder for example, and a second FIP device 300bWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) configured to engage the top surface of the other of the occupant’s shoulder, such as a left shoulder for example. As shown, the first FIP device 300a and the second FIP device 300b may be coupled to and extend downwardly from the headrest 246, such as from the bottom surface 276 of the head SIP assembly 260. In an embodiment, the FIP devices 300a, 300b define a bottom of the headrest 246. Although the first and second FIP devices 300a, 300b are illustrated as being integrally formed with the head SIP assembly 260, in other embodiments the FIP devices 300a, 300b may be separate elements permanently or removably connectable to the head SIP assembly 260.

[0111] The first FIP device 300a may be located proximate an interface between thefirst side portion 266 and the central body portion 264 of the connector member 262 and the second shoulder SIP device 300b is located proximate an interface between the second side portion 268 and the central body portion 264 of the connector member 262. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first FIP device is generally axially aligned with the first head SIP device 280a and the second FIP device is generally axially aligned with the second head SIP device 280b.

[0112] As shown, each FIP device 300a, 300b includes a respective inner edge 302a,302b, outer edge 304a, 304b, and distal end 306a, 306b. The inner edge 302a of the first FIP device 300a may be generally aligned with an axis I1a defined at the interface between an edge of the first side impact protection area 284a of the first head SIP device 280a and the front surface 274 of the central body portion 264. Similarly, the inner edge 302b of the second FIP device 300b may be generally aligned with an axis I1b defined at the interface between an edge of the first side impact protection area 284b of the second head SIP device 280b and the front surface 274 of the central body portion 264. The outer edges 304a, 304b of the first FIP device 300a and the second FIP device 300b, respectively, may be aligned with, or may be offset from an axis I2a, I2b defined at the interface between an edge of the side impact protection area 284a, 284b and the surface 290, 292 of a corresponding side portion 266, 268 in a direction toward a central longitudinal axis CLA of the head SIP assembly 260. Accordingly, in an embodiment, an axial width of each FIP device 300a, 300b, measured along an axis, such as defined by the back 254 of the headrest shell 252 for example, may be equal to or than a corresponding width of an adjacent head SIP device 280a, 280b, respectively.

[0113] The distal end 306a, 306b of each shoulder SIP device 300a, 300b at its inneredge 302a, 302b is a first axial distance from the bottom surface 276 of the head SIP assembly 260. Similarly, the distal end 306a, 306b of each FIP device 300a, 300b at its outer edge 304a, 304b is a second axial distance from the bottom surface 276 of the headrest SIP assembly 260.WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) The first axial distance and the second axial distance may be the same or alternatively may be different. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the second axial distance is greater than the first axial distance. This variation in the axial distance between the distal end 306a, 306b of FIP devices 300a, 300b and the bottom surface 276 over a width of the FIP devices 300a, 300b, which may also be referred to herein as a height of the FIP devices 300a, 300b, may form a contour at the distal end 306a, 306b complementary to an occupant’s shoulder.

[0114] As can be seen in FIG.10D, in an embodiment, the first and second FIP devices300a, 300b may be arranged proximate the back, such as at the central body portion 264, of the head SIP assembly 260. For example, the distal end 306a, 306b of each of the first and second FIP devices 300a, 300b may be generally coplanar with the central body portion 264 of the connector member 262. A thickness defined between a front 308a, 308b and a back 310a, 310b of each FIP device 300a, 300b may vary over the axial height of the FIP devices 300a, 300b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the thickness of the FIP devices 300a, 300b increases in a direction toward the bottom surface 276 of the headrest SIP assembly 260. As shown, the front surface 308a, 308b of the FIP devices 300a, 300b may have a generally concave curvature to form a smooth transition between the FIP devices 300a, 300b and the bottom surface 276 of the headrest SIP assembly 260.

[0115] During a frontal crash event, an occupant of a child seat may move not onlyforwardly but also upwardly. By locating the FIP devices 300a, 300b in line with an upper surface of the occupant’s shoulders, frontal impact forces will be transmitted to the FIP devices 300a, 300b. Because the FIP devices 300a, 300b are formed from a material having a hardness less than the hardness of the headrest shell or the seat shell, the FIP devices 300a, 300b will absorb some of the impact forces transmitted thereto by the occupant’s shoulders.

[0116] The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated withmeasurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application. As used herein, the term “substantially” and derivatives thereof, and words of similar import, when used to describe a size, shape, orientation, distance, spatial relationship, or other parameter includes the stated size, shape, orientation, distance, spatial relationship, or other parameter, and can also include a range up to 10% more and up to 10% less than the stated parameter, including 5% more and 5% less, including 3% more and 3% less, including 1% more and 1% less.

[0117] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unlessWIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and / or groups thereof.

[0118] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplaryembodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) What is claimed is:

1. A child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat, the child seat system comprising:a seat body including a seat back portion and a seat portion; a restraint harness coupled to the seat body; soft goods arranged at the seat body; a pad associated with the restraint harness, the pad including a rigid or semi-rigid component; and wherein the pad is anchored to the soft goods.

2. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the soft goods include upper soft goodsarranged at the seat back portion, and the pad is anchored to the upper soft goods.

3. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the pad is permanently anchored to theupper soft goods.

4. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the pad is stitched to the upper soft goods.

5. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the pad is removably anchored to the uppersoft goods.

6. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the upper soft goods includes a frontsurface and the pad is anchored to the front surface.

7. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the upper soft goods includes a backsideand the pad is anchored to the backside.

8. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the rigid or semi-rigid component includesexpanded polypropylene foam.

9. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the restraint harness includes at least oneshoulder strap, and the pad is a shoulder pad, the shoulder pad being positionable about a portion of the at least one shoulder strap.

10. The child seat system of claim 9, wherein the shoulder pad is foldable about a fold axis between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

11. The child seat system of claim 10, wherein the shoulder pad includes a coupling mechanism operable to retain the shoulder pad in the closed configuration.

12. The child seat system of claim 11, wherein a width between the fold axis and the coupling mechanism is equal to or greater than a width of the at least one shoulder strap.

13. A child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat, the child seat system comprising: a seat body including a seat back portion and a seat portion, wherein an occupant is receivable by the seat body;WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) a headrest coupled to the seat body, the headrest having a plurality of collapsible zones, wherein the headrest is deformable at at least one of the plurality of collapsible zones in response to frontal impact forces.

14. The child seat system of claim 13, wherein each of the plurality of collapsible zones is defined by at least one hollow pocket formed in the headrest.

15. The child seat system of claim 14, wherein the at least one hollow pocket is formed by an area of material removed from the headrest.

16. The child seat system of claim 14, wherein the at least one hollow pocket is formed at an outer surface of the headrest.

17. The child seat system of claim 13, wherein the headrest is formed from a rigid foam.

18. The child seat system of claim 13, wherein the plurality of zones includes a first collapsible zone arranged at a first side of the headrest and a second collapsible zone arranged at a second side of the headrest, both the first collapsible zone and the second collapsible zone being deformable in response to frontal impact forces.

19. The child seat system of claim 18, wherein the first collapsible zone is arranged at a lower region of the first side of the headrest proximate a first shoulder of the occupant and the second collapsible zone is arranged at a lower region of the second side of the headrest proximate a second shoulder of the occupant.

20. The child seat system of claim 18, further comprising a restraint harness coupled to the seat body, the restraint harness including a first shoulder strap and a second shoulder strap, the first collapsible zone being aligned with the first shoulder strap and the second collapsible zone being aligned with the second shoulder strap.

21. The child seat system of claim 18, wherein the headrest further includes a first head side impact protection (SIP) device and a second head SIP device.

22. The child seat system of claim 21, wherein the first head SIP device and the second head SIP device are integrally formed with the headrest.

23. The child seat system of claim 22, wherein the first collapsible zone is formed at the headrest in alignment with the first head SIP device and the second collapsible zone is formed at the headrest in alignment with the second head SIP device.

24. The child seat system of claim 13, wherein the headrest is deformable at another collapsible zone of the plurality of collapsible zones in response to side impact forces.

25. The child seat system of claim 21, wherein the another collapsible zone of the plurality of collapsible zones deformable in response to side impact forces is arranged forward of the at least one collapsible zone deformable in response to frontal impact forces.WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) 26. The child seat system of claim 21, wherein the another collapsible zone includes a third collapsible zone arranged at the first side of the headrest and a fourth collapsible zone arranged at the second side of the headrest.

27. The child seat system of claim 23, wherein the third collapsible zone is located proximate a front end of the first side portion and the fourth collapsible zone is located proximate a front end of the second side portion.

28. A child seat system positionable on a vehicle seat, the child seat system comprising: a seat body including a seat back portion and a seat portion; a headrest connected to the seat body and having a head receiving area sized to receive a head of a child therein, the headrest comprising: a back portion positioned at a back of the headrest, a front portion positioned at a front of the headrest; a shoulder contact portion extending from the back portion of the headrest to define a bottom of the headrest; and wherein the headrest is movable such that the shoulder contact portion can contact a shoulder of the child.

29. The child seat system of claim 28, wherein the shoulder contact portion is positionable in contact with an upper surface of the shoulder of the child.

30. The child seat system of claim 28, wherein a distal end of the shoulder contact portion has a contour complementary to the shoulder of the child.

31. The child seat system of claim 28, wherein the shoulder contact portion includes a frontal impact protection (FIP) device.

32. The child seat system of claim 31, wherein the FIP device is integrally formed with the headrest.

33. The child seat system of claim 28, further comprising a side impact portion positioned between the back portion and the front portion, wherein the side impact portion defines a radially inward most location spaced from the back portion.

34. The child seat system of claim 33, wherein the shoulder contact portion extends downward from the side impact portion.

35. The child seat system of claim 33, wherein the side impact portion includes a first head side impact protection (SIP) device and a second head SIP device, and the shoulder contact portion includes a first shoulder SIP device and a second shoulder SIP device, the first shoulder SIP device being aligned with the first head SIP device, and the second shoulder SIP device being aligned with the second head SIP device.WIA0324PCT (AP-24129-3520-WO000) 36. The child seat system of claim 33, wherein the first head SIP device and the second head SIP device extend to a bottom of the side impact portion.

37. The child seat system of claim 28, wherein the headrest comprises a single unitary part.

38. The child seat system of claim 28, wherein the headrest includes a foam material.

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