Movable base for child car seat

Abstract

A child restraint system for use in a vehicle includes a support base mountable to a vehicle seat. The support base includes a first base portion and a second base portion, the first base portion being rotatable relative to the second base portion. A child seat is removably connected to the first base portion. Rotation of the first base portion is defined by a translation of two pivot points during the rotation of the first base portion.

Description

MOVABLE BASE FOR CHILD CAR SEATCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONSThis application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63 / 685,516, filed on August 21, 2024, U.S. Application No. 63 / 689,380, filed on August 30, 2024, U.S. Application No. 63 / 772,946, filed on March 17, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 786,617, filed on April 10, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 824,574, filed on June 16, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 861,614, filed on August 11, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 861,649, filed on August 11, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 861,661, filed August 11, 2025, and U.S. Application No. 63 / 861,689, filed on August 11, 2025, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the art of child restraint systems for use in a vehicle, and more particularly to child / infant car seats on a base being able to rotate and / or translate toward a vehicle door.BACKGROUND

[0002] Some child car seats currently available on the market are designed for infants, for example from approximately 0-24 months and / or weighing 0-40 pounds. For example, such an infant car seat (“ICS”) is used in a rear facing, generally reclined configuration. A conventional ICS may be removable from a base that is fixedly mounted to the vehicle seat, but is cumbersome for a caregiver to remove from the base, carry, and re-install on the base. As another example, a convertible car seat (“CCS”) may be used in rear or forward-facing configurations. A conventional CCS may be cumbersome for a caregiver to access for buckling / unbuckling the child occupant.

[0003] Some rotatable child car seats may be difficult to move, or obstructed by the other seats of the vehicle (e.g., the seatback of a seat in the row in front of a child seat may block rotating movement).BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0004] According to an embodiment, a child restraint system for use in a vehicle includes a support base mountable to a vehicle seat. The support base includes a first base portion and a second base portion, the first base portion being rotatable relative to the second base portion. A child seat is removably connected to the first base portion. Rotation of the firstbase portion is defined by a translation of two pivot points during the rotation of the first base portion.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments each of the two pivot points is translatable along a separate path of translation during the rotation of the first base portion.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments two positioning slots are formed at the support base. Each of the two positioning slots defines the path of translation of a respective one of the two pivot points.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a positioning slot is formed at the support base and defines the path of translation of each of the two pivot points.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments one of the two pivot points is translatable linearly during the rotation of the first base portion.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the support base has a central longitudinal base axis extending between a front end and a back end of the support base. The pivot point is translatable linearly along the central longitudinal base axis during the rotation of the first base portion.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the support base has a central longitudinal base axis extending between a front end and a back end of the support base. One of the two pivot points translates within a positioning slot centered relative to the central longitudinal base axis.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the positioning slot has a non-uniform curvature.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a first portion of the positioning slot extending in a first direction from the central longitudinal base axis is associated with the rotation of the first base portion in the first direction and a second portion of the positioning slot extending in an opposite, second direction from the central longitudinal base axis is associated with the rotation of the first base portion in the second direction.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the positioning slot is symmetrical about the central longitudinal base axis.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first base portion has a central longitudinal axis extending between a front end and a back end of the first base portion. The two pivot points are positioned at the central longitudinal axis.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first base portion is rotatable between a travel position and a loading position.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first base portion has a central longitudinal axis extending between a front end and a back end of the first base portion and the support base has a central longitudinal base axis extending between a front end and a back end of the support base. In the travel position, the central longitudinal axis of the first base portion is coaxial with the central longitudinal base axis of the support base.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the loading position, the central longitudinal axis of the first base portion is arranged at an angle to the central longitudinal base axis of the support base.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the loading position, the central longitudinal axis of the first base portion is perpendicular to the central longitudinal base axis of the support base.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the travel position, the two pivot points are aligned with the central longitudinal base axis.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the loading position, only one of the two pivot points is positioned at the central longitudinal axis.

[0021] According to an embodiment, a child restraint system includes a support base mountable to a vehicle seat. The support base includes a first base portion and a second base portion. The first base portion is rotatable relative to the second base portion between a first rotation position and a second rotation position. A child seat is connectable to the first base portion. A lock is transitionable between a locked position, in which the child seat is prevented from removal from the first base portion, and an unlocked position, in which the child seat is free to be removed from the first base portion. Rotation of the first base portion between the first rotation position and the second rotation position transforms the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock is coupled to the first base portion. The lock is rotatable between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments an actuator is operably coupled to the lock to transform the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position. A component of the support base is engaged with the actuator in the second rotation position.

[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a biasing member is operably coupled to the lock. The lock is biased by a biasing force of the biasing member to the locked position.

[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments engagement between the component of the support base and the actuator opposes the biasing force of the biasing member.

[0026] According to an embodiment, a child restraint system for use in a vehicle includes a support base mountable to a vehicle seat. The support base includes a first base portion and a second base portion, the first base portion being rotatable relative to the second base portion. A child seat connected to the first base portion. A lock is transitionable between a locked position, in which the child seat is prevented from removal from the first base portion and an unlocked position, in which the child seat is free to be removed from the first base portion. When the first base portion is at the first rotation position, the lock applies a first force to the child seat, and when the first base portion is rotated to the second rotation position, the lock applies a second force to the child seat.

[0027] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first force is greater than the second force.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first rotation position is a travel position, and the second rotation position is a loading position.

[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first base portion includes a seat mount for receiving a mounting component of the child seat and the lock extends into the seat mount when the first base portion is in both the first rotation position and the second rotation position.

[0030] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments, in the second rotation position, the lock is transitionable to the unlocked position in response to application of an upward force to the child seat.

[0031] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments an actuator is operably coupled to the lock to transform the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0032] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator is operable to transform the lock to the unlocked position when the first base portion is in both the first rotation position and the second rotation position.

[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a ramp arranged the second base portion proximate the first base portion. The lock includes a pivoting arm pivotally mounted to the first base portion. The pivoting arm is engageable with the ramp in response to rotation of the first base portion relative to the second base portion.

[0034] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the first rotation position, the pivoting arm is engaged with an apex of the ramp and in the second rotation position, the pivoting arm is separated from the ramp.

[0035] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock includes a locking plate and a connector. The locking plate is pivotally coupled to the pivoting arm by the connector and the locking plate is engageable with the child seat.

[0036] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a biasing member is operably coupled to the locking plate to bias the locking plate toward the locked position.

[0037] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock is in the locked position when the first base portion is in the first rotation position and the lock is in a partially unlocked position when the second base portion is in the second rotation position.

[0038] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock automatically transforms between the locked position and the partially unlocked position in response to the rotation of the first base portion between the first rotation position and the second rotation position.

[0039] According to an embodiment, a child restraint system for use in a vehicle includes a support base mountable to a vehicle seat. The support base includes a first base portion and a second base portion, the first base portion being rotatable relative to the second base portion. A spin lock is arranged at the first base portion and is transformable between a locked position, in which the first base portion is prevented from rotating about the supportbase, and at least one unlocked position, in which the first base portion is free to rotate about the support base. A child seat is connectable to the first base portion. An actuator is operably connected to the spin lock. The actuator is configured to transform the spin lock from the locked position to the at least one unlocked position. The spin lock is transformable to the at least one unlocked position in response to application of a first force to the actuator in a first direction, and the spin lock is transitionable to the at least one unlocked position in response to application of a second force to the actuator in a second direction. The first direction being offset from the second direction.

[0040] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second direction is opposite the first direction.

[0041] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat is removably connectable to the first base portion.

[0042] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator includes a handle arranged at an exterior of the first base portion. The first force and the second force are applicable to the handle to transition the spin lock to the unlocked position.

[0043] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first base portion includes a front end and a back end. The front end is spaced away from the child seat in both a travel position and a loading position, the handle being arranged at the front end.

[0044] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the handle is pivotally mounted to the first base portion.

[0045] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator includes a tension member extending between and operably coupling the handle to the spin lock.

[0046] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the handle is directly connected to the spin lock via the tension member.

[0047] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator includes a pinion pivotally mounted proximate the handle. The tension member is directly connected to the pinion.

[0048] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the handle and the pinion are engageable via a plurality of interleaved teeth.

[0049] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one unlocked position includes a first unlocked position and a second unlocked position. The spin lock is transitionable to the first unlocked position in response to application of the first force to the actuator, and the spin lock is transitionable to the second unlocked position in response to application of the second force to the actuator.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0051] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a child restraint system mounted to a vehicle seat according to an embodiment;

[0052] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the support base of the child restraint system of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment;

[0053] FIG. 3A is a plan view of a child restraint system in a first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0054] FIG. 3B is a plan view of the child restraint system of FIG. 3 A during rotation towards a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0055] FIG. 3C is a plan view of a child restraint system of FIG. 3A in a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0056] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the child seat connected to the first base portion according to an embodiment;

[0057] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of a child restraint system in a first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0058] FIG. 5B is a plan view of the child restraint system of FIG. 5 A during rotation towards a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0059] FIG. 5C is a plan view of the child restraint system of FIG. 5B rotated further towards a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0060] FIG. 5D is a schematic diagram of the child restraint system of FIG. 5A in a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0061] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a support base of child restraint system according to another embodiment;

[0062] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the support base of FIG. 6A with the movable first base portion removed according to an embodiment;

[0063] FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram of the support base of FIG. 6A in a first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0064] FIG. 7B is a plan view of the child restraint system of FIG. 7A during rotation towards a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0065] FIG. 7C is a plan view of the child restraint system of FIG. 7A rotated further towards a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0066] FIG. 7D is a schematic diagram of the child restraint system of FIG. 7A in a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0067] FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram of the support base of FIG. 7A with the movable first base portion transparent according to an embodiment;

[0068] FIG. 8B is a schematic diagram of the support base of FIG.7B with the movable first base portion transparent according to an embodiment;

[0069] FIG. 8C is a schematic diagram of the support base of FIG. 7C with the movable first base portion transparent according to an embodiment;

[0070] FIG. 8D is a schematic diagram of the support base of FIG. 7D with the movable first base portion transparent according to an embodiment;

[0071] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a support base of a child restraint system having a movable first base portion in a first rotational position according to another embodiment;

[0072] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the support base of FIG. 9A with the movable first base portion in a second rotational position according to embodiment;

[0073] FIG. 10 is a plane view of the support base of FIG. 9A with the movable first portion removed according to an embodiment;

[0074] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a positioning assembly arranged between the movable first base portion and the fixed second base portion of the support base of FIGS. 9A- 9B an embodiment;

[0075] FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 9A according to an embodiment;

[0076] FIG. 12B is a detailed view of a portion of positioning assembly of the support base of FIG. 12A according to an embodiment;

[0077] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of the support base of FIG. 9A according to an embodiment;

[0078] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the positioning assembly of the support base of FIG. 9A in the first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0079] FIG. 14B is a perspective view of the positioning assembly of FIG. 14A during rotation of the movable first base portion toward a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0080] FIG. 14C is a perspective view of the positioning assembly of FIG. 14A in the second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0081] FIG. 15A is a schematic diagram of a child restraint system in a first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0082] FIG. 15B is a schematic diagram of the child restraint system of FIG. 15A in a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0083] FIG. 16A is a front view of a support base having a child seat connected thereto according to an embodiment;

[0084] FIG. 16B is a detailed view of a spin actuator of FIG. 16A arranged at an unactuated position relative to the support base according to an embodiment;

[0085] FIG. 17A is a front view of a support base having a partially rotated child seat connected thereto according to an embodiment;

[0086] FIG. 17B is a detailed view of the spin actuator of FIG. 17A arranged at a first, actuated position relative to the support base according to an embodiment;

[0087] FIG. 18A is a front view of a support base having a partially rotated child seat connected thereto according to an embodiment;

[0088] FIG. 18B is a detailed view of the spin actuator of FIG. 18A arranged at a second, actuated position relative to the support base according to an embodiment;

[0089] FIG. 19A is a cross-sectional view of a spin actuator of FIGS. 16A-16B according to another embodiment;

[0090] FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional view of the spin lock actuator of FIGS. 17A-17B according to another embodiment;

[0091] FIG. 19C is a cross-sectional view of the spin actuator of FIGS. 18A-18B according to another embodiment;

[0092] FIG. 20A is a cross-sectional view of a spin actuator of the support base in an unactuated position according to another embodiment;

[0093] FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view of the spin actuator of FIG. 20A in a first, actuated position according to another embodiment;

[0094] FIG. 20C is a cross-sectional view of the spin actuator of FIG. 20A in a second, actuated position according to another embodiment;

[0095] FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a support base of a child restraint system having a spin locking mechanism according to an embodiment;

[0096] FIG. 2 IB is a detailed perspective view of the spin locking mechanism of FIG. 21 A in a locked position;

[0097] FIG. 22A is a perspective view of the support base of FIG. 21A with a spin locking mechanism in an unlocked position according to an embodiment;

[0098] FIG. 22B is a detailed perspective view of the spin locking mechanism of FIG. 22A in an unlocked locked position;

[0099] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a spin actuator associated with the spin locking mechanism of FIGS. 21A-22B according to an embodiment;

[0100] FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a child restraint system having a child seat in a first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0101] FIG. 24B is a detailed view of a seat retention assembly of the support base of FIG. 24A according to an embodiment;

[0102] FIG. 25A is a perspective view of the child restraint system of FIG. 24A in a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0103] FIG. 25B is a detailed view of a seat retention assembly of the support base of FIG. 25 A according to an embodiment;

[0104] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a movable first base portion of a support base including a seat retention assembly according to an embodiment;

[0105] FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a child restraint system having a child seat in a first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0106] FIG. 27B is a detailed view of a seat retention assembly of the support base of FIG. 27A according to an embodiment;

[0107] FIG. 28A is a perspective view of the child restraint system of FIG. 27A in a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0108] FIG. 28B is a detailed view of a seat retention assembly of the support base of FIG. 28A according to an embodiment;

[0109] FIG. 29A is a perspective view of a support base having a movable first base portion including a seat retention assembly arranged at a first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0110] FIG. 29B is a perspective view of the support base of FIG. 29A with the movable first base portion including a seat retention assembly arranged at a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0111] FIG. 30A is perspective view of the support base of FIG. 29A with the movable first base portion removed according to an embodiment;

[0112] FIG. 30B is side view of the support base of FIG. 30A according to an embodiment;

[0113] FIG. 31 is a detailed perspective view of the seat retention assembly of the movable first base portion according to an embodiment;

[0114] FIG. 32A is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 31 with the movable first base portion in the first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0115] FIG. 32B is a detailed view of a portion of the seat retention assembly of FIG. 32A according to an embodiment;

[0116] FIG. 33 is a plan view of the seat retention assembly of the movable first base portion of FIG. 31 as it turns towards a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0117] FIG. 34A is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 33 with the movable first base portion in the first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0118] FIG. 34B is a detailed view of a portion of the seat retention assembly of FIG. 34A according to an embodiment;

[0119] FIG. 35 is a plan view of the seat retention assembly of the movable first base portion of FIG. 31 at a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0120] FIG. 36A is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 35 with the movable first base portion in the first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0121] FIG. 36B is a detailed view of a portion of the seat retention assembly of FIG. 36A according to an embodiment;

[0122] FIG. 37A is a side view of a support base of a child restraint system at a first recline position according to an embodiment;

[0123] FIG. 37B is a side view of the support base of FIG. 37A at a second recline position according to an embodiment;

[0124] FIG. 38A is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 37A including a recline lock mechanism in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0125] FIG. 38B is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 37A including a recline lock mechanism in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0126] FIG. 39A is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIGS. 38A-38B in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0127] FIG. 39B is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIGS. 38A-38B in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0128] FIG. 40A is a detailed view of a support base at a first recline position and having a recline lock mechanism in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0129] FIG. 40B is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 40A with the recline lock mechanism in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0130] FIG. 41 A is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 40A at a second recline position and having a recline lock mechanism in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0131] FIG. 41B is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 41 A with the recline lock mechanism in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0132] FIG. 42A is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIGS. 40A-41B in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0133] FIG. 42B is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIGS. 40A-41B in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0134] FIG. 43 is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIG. 42A according to an embodiment;

[0135] FIG. 44 is a partially exploded perspective view of a support base of a child restraint system according to an embodiment;

[0136] FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a lock-off member of the support base of FIG. 44 according to an embodiment;

[0137] FIG. 46A is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 44 with a belt lock-off member locking assembly in a locked position according to an embodiment;

[0138] FIG. 46B is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 46A with the belt lock-off member locking assembly in a partially unlocked position according to an embodiment;

[0139] FIG. 46C is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 46A with the belt lock-off member locking assembly in a unlocked position according to an embodiment;

[0140] FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a support base of a child restrain system according to another embodiment;

[0141] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the movable base portion of the support base of FIG. 47 according to an embodiment;

[0142] FIG. 49A is a perspective view of a seat retention assembly of the movable base portion of FIG. 48 in a first, locked position according to an embodiment;

[0143] FIG. 49B is a perspective view of the seat retention assembly of FIG. 49A in second, unlocked position according to an embodiment;

[0144] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the movable base portion of the support base of FIG. 47 including a plurality of actuators associated with the seat retention assembly according to an embodiment; and

[0145] FIG. 51 is a plane view of the support base of FIG. 50 with the movable base portion shown in transparent according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0146] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

[0147] With reference now to FIG. 1, an exemplary child restraint system 20 is illustrated. The child restraint system 20 may be installed about a vehicle seat 10. As shown, the child restraint system 20 includes a support base 22 detachably affixable to a vehicle seat 10, such as via a latch or anchor mechanism 24. This latch or anchor system often used is sometimes referred to as a “lower anchor and tether for children” e.g., LATCH system, and includes one or more anchors 26 connectable to a vehicle anchor (not shown) of the vehicle seat. Alternatively, or in addition, the support base 22 may be detachably fixed to a vehicle seat 10 via a vehicle belt associated with the vehicle seat. In some embodiments, the support base 22 includes a base body 28 having a base seat portion 30 and a base back portion 32 extending upward therefrom. However, other embodiments of a support base 22 having only a base seat portion are also within the scope of the disclosure. A front end 34 of the support base 22 is positionable near an edge of the vehicle seat and a back end 36 of the support base, such as at the base back portion 32 for example, is positionable adjacent to a seat back 12 of the vehicle seat 10. The support base 22 has a longitudinal axis Lib (see FIGS. 5A-5D) extending between the front end 34 and the back end 36 of the support base 22. In an embodiment, the longitudinal axis Lib is a central longitudinal axis equidistantly positioned between opposing lateral sides 38, 39 of the support base 22.

[0148] The child restraint system 20 additionally includes a child seat 40 associated with the support base 22. In an embodiment, the child seat 40 is detachably connectable to the support base 22, thereby allowing the child seat 40 to be separated from the support base. Alternatively, the support base 22 and at least a portion of the child seat 40 may be permanently connected or affixed together. As used herein the term “permanently connected” identifies embodiments where the child seat 40 or a portion thereof is not intended to be disassembledfrom the support base 22 by a user. The child seat 40 includes a seat back portion 42 and a seat pan portion 44 arranged at an angle relative to the seat back portion 42.

[0149] As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the child seat 40 is an infant car seat. In such embodiments, the infant car seat 40 is connectable to the support base 22 in a rear-facing orientation. As shown, a front end 46 of the infant car seat 40 faces the vehicle seat back 12 and a back end 48 of the infant car seat 40 is spaced away from the vehicle seat back 12. As such, when a child is seated in the infant car seat 40, the child’s feet will be at the front end 46 of the infant car seat 40 and the child’s head will be at the back end 48 of the infant car seat 40. Accordingly, the infant car seat 40 is a rear-facing child car seat.

[0150] When loading a child into a vehicle, or removing a child from a vehicle, caregivers (e.g., provider, parent, guardian, etc. generally referred to as “caregiver”) may find it difficult to get children into and out of the child restraint system while the child seat is installed in a vehicle. This may be especially true for rearward-facing configurations. For example, it may be difficult for the caregiver to bend over and reach into the vehicle to position and buckle the child into the seat. The space between the sides of the child restraint system and the roof / doors of the vehicle can create a limited space for the caregiver to maneuver. The same difficulty arises when removing the child from the car seat while it is installed in a vehicle. As the child grows, the increased weight of the child increases the difficulty of lifting a seat out of the vehicle. Because of this difficulty the caregiver may need to bend and reach into the vehicle to properly secure the child. In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure seek to bring the child toward the caregiver, thus limiting the bending and reaching that is required to move the child in and out of the car seat.

[0151] With continued reference to FIG. 1, and further reference to FIGS. 2-5D, the support base 22 of the child restraint system 20 is illustrated in more detail. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the base seat portion 30 of the support base 22 has a first base portion 50 and a second base portion 52, the first base portion being movable, for example rotatable, relative to the second base portion 52. As shown, in some embodiments, the first base portion 50 may be positioned vertically above the second base portion 52 such that the first base portion 50 may be considered an upper base portion and the second base portion 52 may be considered a lower base portion. In an embodiment, the first base portion 50 is arranged at and / or defines at least a portion of an upper surface 54 of the support base 22. The child seat 40 may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 50 and is movable with the first base portion 50 relative to the second base portion 52.

[0152] In an embodiment, the child restraint system 20 has a positioning assembly 60 (see FIGS. 5A-5D) that connects the first base portion 50 to the second base portion 52 of the support base 22 and defines the allowable relative movement therebetween. The positioning assembly 60 may define a path of rotation of the first base portion 50 relative to the second base portion 52. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, one of the first base portion 50 and the second base portion 52 of the support base 22 includes at least one positioning element and the other of the first base portion 50 and the second base portion 52 of the support base 22 defines at least one opening or positioning slot within which the at least one positioning element is arranged. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the at least one positioning slot includes a first positioning slot 64a and a second positioning slot 64b formed at an upper surface 56 of the second base portion 52. In such embodiments, the at least one positioning element includes a first positioning element 62a, such as a pin or post for example, movably arranged within the first positioning slot 64a, and a second positioning element 62b, such as a pin or post, movably arranged within the second positioning slot 64b.

[0153] As shown, the first base portion 50 has a central longitudinal axis Liu extending between a front end 55 and the back end 57 of the first base portion 50 and equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 58, 59 of the first base portion 50. In an embodiment, both the first positioning element 62a and the second positioning element 62b are aligned with the central longitudinal axis Liu of the first base portion 50. However, embodiments where one or more positioning elements are arranged at another position, such as laterally offset from the central longitudinal axis Liu are also contemplated herein. A centerline Clu of the first base portion 50 extends between the opposing lateral sides 58, 59 of the first base portion 50 perpendicularly to longitudinal axis Liu and is equidistantly spaced from the front end 55 and the back end 57 of the first base portion 50. As shown, at least one of the first positioning element 62a and the second positioning element 62b may be offset from a centerline Clu of the first base portion 50 In an embodiment, the first positioning element 62a is located between the centerline Clu of the first base portion 50 and the back end 57 of the first base portion 50 and the second positioning element 62b is located between the centerline Clu of the first base portion 50 and the front end 55 of the first base portion 50.

[0154] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first positioning slot 64a is arranged at the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base 22. The first positioning slot 64a may have a linear configuration and in some embodiments, extends parallel to the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base 22. In embodiments having this configuration of thefirst positioning slot, a configuration, the first positioning element 62a movably arranged within the first positioning slot 64a is also arranged at the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where one or both of the first positioning element 62a and the first positioning slot 64a are offset from the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base 22 are also contemplated herein. The centerline Clb of the support base 22 extends between the opposing lateral sides 38, 39 of the support base 22 perpendicularly to longitudinal axis Lib and is equidistantly spaced from the front end 34 and the back end 36 of the support base 22. In an embodiment, the first positioning slot 64a intersects the centerline Clb of the support base. As shown, the first positioning slot 64a may extend both forward and back of the centerline Clb of the support base 22.

[0155] The second positioning slot 64b may be located generally between the centerline Clb of the support base 22 and the front end 34 of the support base 22. However, embodiments where the second positioning slot 64b is alternatively or additionally arranged between the extends between centerline Clb of the support base 22 and the back end 36 of the support base 22 are also contemplated herein. In an embodiment, a center of the second positioning slot 64b is aligned with the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base 22 and is spaced from an end of the first positioning slot 64a. The second positioning slot 64b may include a first portion 64b 1 extending from the central longitudinal axis Lib in a first direction and a second portion 64b2 extending from the central longitudinal axis Lib in a second opposite direction. The first portion 64b 1 and the second portion 64b2 of the second positioning slot 64b may be symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis Lib.

[0156] The first positioning slot 64a and the first portion 64b 1 of the second positioning slot 64b may define a path of rotation of the first base portion 50 between a first rotational position (FIGS. 3 A and 5A) and a second rotational position (FIG. 3C and 5D). It should be appreciated that FIGS. 5B and 5C, as will be described in further detail below, illustrate the first base portion 50 as it rotates in a first direction from the first rotational position to the second rotational position. Similarly, the first positioning slot 64a and the second portion 64b2 of the second positioning slot 64b may define a path of rotation of the first base portion 50 from the first rotational position in an opposite, second direction. As shown, each of the first portion 64b 1 and the second portion 64b2 of the second positioning slot 64b may define a non-uniform path of movement. It is the translation of the two positioning elements 62a, 62b relative to the positioning slots 64a, 64b that results in the rotation of the first base portion 50 relative to the second base portion 52. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the second rotational position is rotated 90 degrees from the firstrotational position. Although not shown, a locking mechanism may be operable to selectively lock the child seat 40 directly, or via the first base portion 50 of the support base 22, at one or more positions relative to the support base 22.

[0157] The first rotational position (FIG. 5 A) is also referred to herein as a “travel position.” In an embodiment, the child seat arranged in the travel position during operation of the vehicle. When the first base portion 50 is in the first rotational position, the central longitudinal axis Liu of the first base portion 50 may be parallel to, and in some embodiments, coaxial with the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base 22. In an embodiment, the centerline Clu of the first base portion 50 is coaxial with the centerline Clb of the support base 22 when the first base portion 50, and therefore the child seat 40 connected thereto, is in the first rotational position.

[0158] The second rotational position (FIG. 5D) may be considered a “loading position” in which it is easier for a caregiver to install or remove a child from a child seat mounted to the support base 22. In the second rotational position, the central longitudinal axis Liu of the first base portion 50 is arranged at an angle to the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base 22. Further, the central longitudinal axis Liu of the first base portion 50 may be parallel to and / or longitudinally offset from the centerline Clb of the support base 22 and the centerline of Clu of the first base portion 50 may be oriented parallel to and / or laterally offset from the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base 22.

[0159] Although not shown in the FIGS., it should be appreciated that the first base portion 50 may also be rotatable in a second, opposite direction from the first rotational position (FIG. 5 A) to one or more other positions, such as to a second loading position for example. In an embodiment, the first positioning slot 64a and the second portion 64b2 of the second positioning slot 64b define a path of rotation of the first base portion 50 from the first rotational position to the second loading position. The second loading position may but need not be rotated 90 degrees from the first rotational position, and in an embodiment, the second loading position is rotated 180 degrees from the first loading position (second rotational position FIG. 5D).

[0160] It should be appreciated that the direction of rotation of the first base portion 50, and therefore the child seat 40 connected thereto, may be selected based on a location of the support base 22 relative to a vehicle seat 10, such as whether the child restraint system 20 is located near the driver side or the passenger side of the vehicle for example. For example, when the support base 22 is mounted near a driver side of a vehicle, the child seat 40 connected to the first base portion 50 in the second rotational position (see FIG. 5D) may facethe adjacent driver side vehicle door. In the second rotational position or “first loading position”, the front end 46 of the child seat 40 may be arranged at a first side of the central longitudinal axis Lib and / or the support base 22, such as near lateral edge 39, proximate the vehicle door. Similarly, when the support base 22 is mounted near a passenger side of a vehicle, rotation of the first base portion 50, and therefore the child seat 40 connected thereto, to the second loading position (not shown) will arrange the front end 46 of the child seat 40 adjacent to the passenger side vehicle door. In the second loading position, the front end 46 of the child seat 40 may be arranged at a second side of the central longitudinal axis Lib and / or the support base 22, such as near lateral edge 38.

[0161] To transform the child seat 40 between the first rotational position, such as associated with a travelling position, to a second rotational position, a user may disengage a locking mechanism associated with the first base portion 50 of the support base 22. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at the first rotational position, the first positioning element 62a is arranged at a first end of the first positioning slot 64a, furthest from the second positioning slot 64b and the second positioning element 62b is arranged at the center of the second positioning slot 64b. As the first base portion 50 starts to rotate in a first direction (FIG. 5B), the first positioning element 62a slides within the first positioning slot 64a to allow the second positioning element 62b to move along the path defined by the first portion 64b 1 of the second positioning slot 64b. As shown, during rotation, the first positioning element 62a may abut against a second, opposite end of the first positioning slot 64a to allow the second positioning element 62b to traverse a turn formed in the path of the second positioning slot 64b (FIG. 5C). Once the second positioning element 62b has moved beyond this turn, the second positioning element 62b may translate to a first end of the second positioning slot 64b and the first positioning element 62a may translate within the first positioning slot 64a back toward the first end thereof to reach the first loading position, as shown in FIG. 5D.

[0162] It should be appreciated that the child seat 40 may not move relative to the first base portion 50 of the support base 22 during this transformation between the first rotational position and the second rotational position. Although not shown, it should be appreciated that rotation of the first base portion 50 from the first rotational position in a second opposite direction causes a similar action, with the second positioning element 62b translating along the path defined by the second portion 64b2. The second positioning element 62b will continue to move through the second portion 64b2 of the second positioning slot 64b until reaching a second opposite end thereof.

[0163] With reference now to FIGS. 6A-8D, another embodiment of a support base 122 of a child restraint system is illustrated. The support base 122 has a front end 134, and back end 136, and a longitudinal axis L2b (see FIGS. 7A, 8A) extends between the front end 134 and the back end 136. In an embodiment, the longitudinal axis L2b is a central longitudinal axis equidistantly positioned between opposing lateral sides 138, 139 of the support base 122. As in the previous embodiment described with respect to FIGS. 2-5D, the support base 122 may include a first base portion 150 and a second base portion 152, the first base portion 150 being movable, for example rotatable, relative to the second base portion 152. The first base portion 150 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 154 of the support base 122. As shown, in some embodiments, the first base portion 150 may be positioned vertically above the second base portion 152 such that the first base portion 150 may be considered an upper base portion and the second base portion 152 may be considered a lower base portion. A child seat of the child restraint system (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 150, and in some embodiments, is movable with the first base portion 150 relative to the second base portion 152.

[0164] The support base 122 includes a positioning assembly 160 (see FIGS. 8A-8D) that couples the first base portion 150 to the second base portion 152 of the support base 122 and defines the relative movement therebetween. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly 160 defines a path of rotation of the first base portion 150 relative to the second base portion 152. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, one of the first base portion 150 and the second base portion 152 of the support base 122 includes at least one positioning element and the other of the first base portion 150 and the second base portion 152 of the support base 122 defines at least one opening or positioning slot within which the at least one positioning element is arranged. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the at least one positioning slot includes a first positioning slot 164a and a second positioning slot 164b formed at an upper surface 154 of the second base portion 152. In such embodiments, the at least one positioning element includes a first positioning element 162a, such as a pin or post for example, movably arranged within the first positioning slot 164a, and a second positioning element 162b, such as a pin or post, movably arranged within the second positioning slot 164b.

[0165] As shown, the first base portion 150 has a central longitudinal axis L2u extending between a front end 155 and the back end 157 of the first base portion 150 and equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 158, 159 of the first base portion50. In an embodiment, both the first positioning element 162a and the second positioning element 162b are aligned with the central longitudinal axis L2u of the first base portion 150. However, embodiments where one or more positioning elements are arranged at another position, such as laterally offset from the central longitudinal axis L2u are also contemplated herein. A centerline C2u of the first base portion 150 extends between the opposing lateral sides 158, 159 of the first base portion 150 perpendicularly to longitudinal axis L2u and is equidistantly spaced from the front end 155 and the back end 157 of the first base portion 150. As shown, at least one of the first positioning element 162a and the second positioning element 162b may be offset from a centerline C2u of the first base portion 150 In an embodiment, the first positioning element 162a is located between the centerline C2u and the front end 155 of the first base portion 150 and the second positioning element 162b is located between the centerline C2u and the back end 157 of the first base portion 150.

[0166] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first positioning slot 164a is arranged at the central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122. The first positioning slot 164a may have a linear configuration and in some embodiments, extends parallel to the central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122. In embodiments having such a configuration, the first positioning element 162a movably arranged within the first positioning slot 164a is also arranged at the central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where one or both of the first positioning element 162a and the first positioning slot 164a are offset from the central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122 are also contemplated herein. A centerline C2b of the support base 122 extends between the opposing lateral sides 138, 139 of the support base 122 perpendicularly to longitudinal axis L2b and is equidistantly spaced from the front end 134 and the back end 136 of the support base 122. In an embodiment, the first positioning slot 164a is disposed at one side of the centerline C2b, such as between the centerline C2b and the front end 134 of the support base.

[0167] The second positioning slot 164b may also be located generally between the centerline C2b of the support base 122 and the front end 134 of the support base 122. However, embodiments where the second positioning slot 164b alternatively, or additionally extends between centerline C2b of the support base 122 and the back end 136 of the support base 122 are also contemplated herein. In an embodiment, a center of the second positioning slot 164b is aligned with the central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122 and is spaced from an end of the first positioning slot 164a. The second positioning slot 164b may include a first portion 164b 1 extending from the central longitudinal axis L2b in a firstdirection, such as toward lateral side 139 and a second portion 164b2 extending from the central longitudinal axis L2b in a second opposite direction, such as toward lateral side 138. The first portion 164b 1 and the second portion 164b2 of the second positioning slot 164b may be symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis L2b.

[0168] The first portion 164b 1 of the second positioning slot 164b may define a first path of first rotation of the first base portion 150 and the second portion 164b2 of the second positioning slot 164b may define a second path of rotation of the first base portion 150. For example, the first base portion 150 is rotatable between a first rotational position (FIGS. 7A and 8A) and a second rotational position (FIG. 7D and 8D) via the first path of rotation associated with the first portion 164b 1 of the second positioning slot 164b. As shown, each of the first portion 164b 1 and the second portion 164b2 of the second positioning slot 164b may define a non-uniform path of rotation of the first base portion 150. In the illustrated, nonlimiting embodiment, the second rotational position is rotated 90 degrees from the first rotational position in a first direction. Although not shown, it should be appreciated that a locking mechanism may be operable to selectively lock the first base portion 150 of the support base 122, at one or more rotational positions relative to the support base 122.

[0169] The first rotational position may be considered a travel position and the second rotational position may be considered a loading position. When the first base portion 150 is in the first rotational position, the central longitudinal axis L2u of the first base portion 150 may be parallel to, and in some embodiments, is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122. In an embodiment, the centerline C2u of the first base portion 250 is parallel to but axially offset from the centerline C2b of the support base 22 when the first base portion 150, is in the first rotational position. In the second rotational position, the central longitudinal axis L2u of the first base portion 150 is arranged at an angle to the central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122. Further, the central longitudinal axis L2u of the first base portion 50 may be parallel to and / or longitudinally offset from the centerline Clb of the support base 22 and the centerline of Clu of the first base portion 50 may be oriented parallel to and / or laterally offset from the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base 22.

[0170] Although not shown in the FIGS., it should be appreciated that the first base portion 150 may also be rotatable in a second, opposite direction from the first rotational position (FIG. 7A, 8A) to one or more other positions, such as to a second loading position for example. The second path of rotation defined by the first positioning slot 164a and the first portion 164b 1 of the second positioning slot 164b may extend between the firstrotational position and a second loading position. The second loading position may, but need not be rotated 90 degrees from the first rotational position, and in an embodiment, the second loading position is rotated 180 degrees from the first loading position (second rotational position FIG. 7D, 8D).

[0171] With reference to FIGS. 7A-8D, transformation of the first base portion 150 between the first rotational position and the second rotational position, including intermediate positions during said transformation, is shown. It should be appreciated that FIGS. 8A-8D are substantially similar to FIGS. 7A-7D; however, the elements of the positioning assembly 160 are visible in FIGS. 8A-8D. To transform the child seat 140 between the first rotational position (FIG. 7A, 8 A), such as associated with a travelling position, to another rotational position, such as the second rotational position (FIGS. 7D, 8D) as shown, a user may disengage a locking mechanism associated with the first base portion 150 of the support base 122. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at the first rotational position, the first positioning element 162a is arranged at a first end of the first positioning slot 164a, furthest from the second positioning slot 164b and the second positioning element 162b is arranged at the center of the second positioning slot 164b. As the first base portion 150 starts to rotate in a first direction (FIG. 7B, 8B), the first positioning element 162a slides within the first positioning slot 164a to allow the second positioning element 162b to move along the path defined by the first portion 164b 1 of the second positioning slot 164b. Accordingly, in the second rotational position, the first positioning element 162a is arranged at the second end of the first positioning slot 164a, and the second positioning element 164b is arranged at a second end of the second positioning slot 164b. In an embodiment, the locking mechanism, previously referred to herein engages the first base portion 150 once in the second rotational position. However, embodiments where the first base portion 150 is not locked in the second rotational position are within the scope of the disclosure.

[0172] Although not shown, it should be appreciated that rotation of the first base portion 150 relative to the second base portion 152 from the first rotational position in an opposite direction causes a similar action, with the second positioning element 162b translating along the path defined by the second portion 164b2. The second positioning element 162b will continue to move through the second portion 164b2 of the second positioning slot 164b until reaching the first opposite end thereof.

[0173] With reference now to FIGS. 9A-15B, another embodiment of a support base 222 and of a child restraint system 220 is illustrated. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the support base 222 includes a body and has a front end 234, and back end236, and a longitudinal axis L3b (see FIGS. 9 and 10) extending between the front end 234 and the back end 236. As shown, the longitudinal axis L3b may be a central longitudinal axis equidistantly positioned between opposing lateral sides 238, 239 of the support base 222. The support base 222 includes a first base portion 250 and a second base portion 252, the first base portion 250 being movable, for example rotatable, relative to the second base portion 252 between a plurality of rotational positions. The first base portion 250 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 256 of the support base 222. As shown, in some embodiments, the first base portion 250 may be positioned vertically above the second base portion 252 such that the first base portion 250 may be considered an upper base portion and the second base portion 152 may be considered a lower base portion. A child seat of the child restraint system (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 250, and in some embodiments, is movable with the first base portion 250 relative to the second base portion 252 between the plurality of positions.

[0174] The first base portion 250 is movably coupled to the second base portion 252 of the support base 222 via a positioning assembly 260. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly 260 defines a path of rotation of the first base portion 250 relative to the second base portion 252. The positioning assembly 260 may include a first positioning element 262a, a second positioning element 262b, and at least one positioning track or slot 264. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the at least one positioning slot 264 is a T-shaped slot having a first portion 266 and a second portion 268, the second portion 268 being arranged at an angle relative to the first portion 266. As shown, the first portion 266 and the second portion 268 may be arranged generally perpendicular to one another.

[0175] The first and second positioning elements 262a, 262b may be any suitable component engageable with the positioning slot 264. As shown, the first positioning element 262a may include a first shaft of fastener 270a (FIGS. 12A-12B) connected to a first sliding block 272a and the second positioning element 262b may be a second shaft or fastener 270b (FIGS. 12A-12B) connected to a second sliding block 272b. Each of the first and second positioning elements 262a, 262b is slidably arranged within the track defined by the at least one positioning slot 264. In an embodiment, the second base portion 252 includes a base frame 274 having the positioning slot 264 formed therein. Arranging the sliding blocks 272a, 272b within such a base frame 274 restricts separation of the positioning elements 262a, 262b, and therefore the first base portion 250 from the second base portion 252 during movement of the positioning elements 262a, 262b within the positioning slot 264.

[0176] With reference to FIG. 11, as shown a pad 276 may be arranged between a bottom surface 278 of the first base portion 250 and the upper surface 256 of the second base portion 252. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the pad 276 is affixed to the second base portion 252 and has a contour corresponding to an outline of the positioning slot 264. Inclusion of such a pad 276 is intended to improve fit, alignment, and crash performed, while also prevent galling and / or grinding of the first and second base portions 250, 252 during movement of the first base portion 250. In an embodiment, the pad 276 is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer material.

[0177] In an embodiment, the first portion 266 of the positioning slot 264 is aligned with the central longitudinal axis L3b of the support base 222. Further, all or at least a portion of the positioning slot 264 may be offset from a centerline C3b of the support base 222. The centerline C3b of the support base 222 extends between the opposing lateral sides 238, 239 of the support base 222 perpendicularly to longitudinal axis L3b and is equidistantly spaced from the front end 234 and the back end 236 of the support base 222. In an embodiment, the entirety of the positioning slot 264 is arranged between the centerline C3b and the front end 234 of the support base 222. However, embodiments where only the first portion 266 of the positioning slot 264 is arranged between the centerline C3b and the front end 234 of the support base 222 are also contemplated herein.

[0178] A central longitudinal axis L3u (see FIGS. 9B and 14) of the first base portion 250 extends between a front end 255 and the rear end 257 of the first base portion 250 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 258, 259 of the first base portion 250. In an embodiment, both the first positioning element 262a and the second positioning element 262b are aligned with the central longitudinal axis L3u of the first base portion 250. One or both of the first positioning element 262a and the second positioning element 262b may be offset from a centerline C3u of the first base portion 250. The centerline C3u of the first base portion 250 extends between the opposing lateral sides 258, 259 of the first base portion 250 perpendicularly to longitudinal axis L3u and is equidistantly spaced from the front end 255 and the back end 257 of the first base portion 250. In an embodiment, both the first positioning element 262a and the second positioning element are arranged between the centerline C3u and a front end 255 of the first base portion 250. However, embodiments where the first positioning element 262a is arranged at the centerline C3u or between the centerline C3u and the back end 257 of the first base portion 250 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0179] In an embodiment, the first base portion 250 is rotatable from a first rotational position (FIG. 9A) or travel position, associated with use or during movement of a vehicle, to a second rotational position (FIG. 9B) in which the back end 257 of the first base portion 250 is arranged at a first lateral side 238 of the central longitudinal axis L3b and the support base 222. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the second rotational position is rotated 90 degrees from the first rotational position. It may be desirable to rotate the first base portion 250, and therefore the child seat connected thereto, to the second rotational position to load or unload a child therefrom based on the location of the support base 222 relative to a vehicle seat.

[0180] Transformation of the first base portion 250 from the first rotational position (FIG. 9A, 13, 14A) to the second rotational position (FIG. 9B, 14C), is illustrated in more detail in FIGS. 13-14C. It should be appreciated that in FIGS. 13-14C, only a portion of the first base portion 250, such as a bottom plate 280 that defines the bottom surface 278 of the first base portion 250 for example is shown, and only a portion of base frame 274 embedded within the second base portion 252 is shown. In some embodiments, an operator must first disengage a locking mechanism (not shown) from the first base portion 250 to allow the first base portion 250 to move freely relative to the second base portion 252 via the positioning assembly 260. In the first rotational position, the first positioning element 262a is arranged at an end of the positioning slot 264 proximate the front end of the support base 222 and the second positioning element 262b is arranged at the interface between the first portion and the second portion of the positioning slot 264.

[0181] Application of a rotational force to the first base portion 250, causes the first positioning element 262a translates away from the end 282 of the first portion 266 of the positioning slot 264 toward the second portion 268. At the same time, the second positioning element 262b will translate laterally relative to the support base 222 within the second portion 268 of the positioning slot 264. As shown, the second positioning element 262b may translate toward an end 284 of the positioning slot 264. In an embodiment, when the first base portion 250 is in the second rotational position, the second positioning element 262b is arranged at an end 284 of the positioning slot 264 proximate the lateral side 238 of the support base 222 and the first positioning element 262a is arranged at the interface between the first and second portions 266, 268 of the positioning slot 264.

[0182] Although not shown in the FIGS., it should be appreciated that the first base portion 250 may be rotatable in a second, opposite direction from the first rotational position (FIG. 9A) to one or more other positions, such as to a second loading position for example.Such rotation may occur by translating the second sliding block 272b toward the end 286 of the second portion 268 of the positioning slot 264. The second loading position may, but need not be rotated 90 degrees from the first rotational position, and in an embodiment, the second loading position is rotated 180 degrees from the first loading position. It should be appreciated that the first base portion 250 is rotatable to the second loading position from the first rotational position by application of a force that causes the second positioning element 262b to translate laterally relative to the support base 222 within the second portion 268 of the positioning slot 264, toward the lateral side 239 of the support base 222.

[0183] Yet another embodiment of a support base 322 of a child restraint system is illustrated in FIGS. 15A-15B. As in the previous embodiments, the support base 322 may include a first base portion 150 and a second base portion 352, the first base portion 350 being movable, for example rotatable, relative to the second base portion 352. The first base portion 350 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 354 of the support base 322. As shown, in some embodiments, the first base portion 350 may be positioned vertically above the second base portion 352 such that the first base portion 350 may be considered an upper base portion and the second base portion 352 may be considered a lower base portion. A child seat of the child restraint system (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 350, and in some embodiments, is movable with the first base portion 350 relative to the second base portion 352.

[0184] A positioning assembly 360 couples the first base portion 350 to the second base portion 352 of the support base 322 and defines the relative movement therebetween. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly 360 defines an axis of rotation R of the first base portion 350 and / or a path of rotation of the first base portion 350 relative to the second base portion 352. For simplicity, the positioning assembly 360 is illustrated as including a hole and a pin or post arranged within the hole. However, it should be understood that a positioning assembly having any suitable configuration is contemplated herein.

[0185] A central longitudinal axis L4b of the support base 322 extends between a front end 334 and the back end 336 of the support base 322 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 338, 339 of the support base 322. In the illustrated, nonlimiting embodiment, the positioning assembly 360 is arranged at or aligned with the central longitudinal axis L3b of the support base 322. A central longitudinal axis L3u of the first base portion 350 extends between a front end 355 and the back end 357 of the first base portion 350 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 358, 359 of the firstbase portion 350. Alternatively, or in addition to being aligned with the central longitudinal axis L3b of the support base 322, the positioning assembly 360 may be aligned with the central longitudinal axis L3u of the first base portion 350.

[0186] In an embodiment, the positioning assembly 360 is offset from a centerline of at least one of the support base 322 and the first base portion 350. As shown, a centerline C3u of the first base portion 350 extends between the opposing lateral sides 358, 359 of the first base portion 350 perpendicularly to longitudinal axis L3u and is equidistantly spaced from the front end 355 and the back end 357 of the first base portion 350. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly 360 is located between the centerline C3u of the first base portion 350 and the back end 357 of the first base portion 350. As shown, the axis of rotation R of the first base portion 350 relative to the second base portion 352 defined by the positioning assembly 360 is located at or proximate the back end 357 of the first base portion 350. The centerline C3b of the support base 322 extends between opposing lateral sides 338, 339 of the support base 322 perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis L3b. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly 360 is located between the centerline C3b of the support base 322 and the back end 336 of the support base 322.

[0187] The first base portion 350, and therefore a child seat connected thereto, may be rotatable about the axis R between a travel position and one or more loading positions. In the travel position, shown in FIG. 15 A, the central longitudinal axis L3u of the first base portion 350 is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis L3b of the support base 322. In a loading position, such as illustrated in FIG. 15B, the first base portion 350 is rotated relative to the second base portion 352, such as by 90 degrees for example. In the loading position, the central longitudinal axis L3u of the first base portion 350 is arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the central longitudinal axis L3b of the support base 322.

[0188] As described, each of the first base portions 50, 150, 250, 350 may be locked at one or more rotation positions relative to their respective support bases 22, 122, 222, 322, such as a corresponding second base portion 52, 152, 252, 352 for example, by a locking mechanism (not shown). In an embodiment, each first base portion 50, 150, 250, 350 is lockable at a first rotation position relative to a corresponding second base portion 52, 152, 252, 352, the first rotation position being associated with a travel position of a child seat connectable to the first base portions 50, 150, 250, 350. A locking mechanism having any suitable configuration is within the scope of the disclosure. As will be described in more detail below, a spin actuator may be selectively operated to disengage the locking mechanism, thereby allowing rotation of the first base portions 50, 150, 250, 350.

[0189] With reference to FIGS. 16 A- 20C, an example of child seat system 420 having a child seat 440 rotatable relative to the support base 422 between a plurality of rotation positions is illustrated. The support base 422 may include a first base portion 450 and a second base portion 452, the first base portion 450 being movable, for example rotatable, relative to the second base portion 452 between a plurality of rotational positions. The first base portion 450 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 454 of the support base 422. As shown, in some embodiments, the first base portion 450 may be positioned vertically above the second base portion 452 such that the first base portion 450 may be considered an upper base portion and the second base portion 452 may be considered a lower base portion.

[0190] The child seat 440 may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 450. In an embodiment, the child seat 440 is movable with the first base portion 450 relative to the second base portion 452 between the plurality of rotation positions. It should be appreciated that the relative movement between the first and second base portions 450, 452 may be defined by a positioning assembly (not shown) having a configuration similar to or different from any of the positioning assemblies 60, 160, 260, 360 described in the previous embodiments.

[0191] In the illustrated embodiment, the child seat system 420 includes a spin actuator 460 operable to unlock the first base portion 450 from the second base portion 452 to allow movement of the first base portion 450 and the child seat 440 connected thereto relative to the fixed second base portion 452 of the support base 422. In an embodiment, the spin actuator 460 is operably coupled to a lock mechanism, such as a spin lock illustrated schematically at 462. For example, the lock mechanism 462, may include an engagement member that extends into and blocks a pathway defined by one or more positioning slots of the positioning assembly. The spin actuator 460 may include a handle, knob, or other turn mechanism 464 arranged at an exterior of the support base 422. Although the handle 464 is illustrated as being arranged proximate a front end 455 of the first base portion 450, embodiments where the handle 464 is arranged at another position about the first base portion 450, or alternatively, at a location about the second base portion 452 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0192] In the non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 19A-19C, a tension member 466 is connected to the handle 464 and to a portion of the lock mechanism 462. The handle 464 of the spin actuator 460 may be pivotably mounted to the s first base portion 450 such that the handle 464 is rotatable between a first, neutral position (FIGS. 19A, 20A), a second, rotatedposition (FIGS. 19B, 20B), and a third rotated position (FIGS. 19C, 20C). The first, neutral position may be associated with a locked state of the lock mechanism 462. In such embodiments, when the handle 464 is in the first position, the first base portion 450 is not movable relative to the second base portion 452. In the first position, the handle 464 does not exert a force on the tension member 466.

[0193] To transform the handle 464 to the second position, a user applies a rotational force to the handle 464 in order to pivot the handle 464 in a first direction about its axis relative to the support base 422. As the handle 464 is rotated in the first direction, a first force is applied to the tension member 466. In response to application of the first force, at least a portion of the lock mechanism 462 is disengaged to allow rotation of the first base portion 450 relative to the second base portion 452. Accordingly, the second position of the handle 464 may be considered a first unlocked position. In an embodiment, the first base portion 450 is only rotatable in a first direction relative to the second base portion 452 in response to movement of the handle 464 to the second position and application of the first force to the lock mechanism 462.

[0194] Similarly, to transform the handle 464 to the third position, a user applies a rotational force to the handle 464 in order to pivot the handle 464 in a second direction about its axis relative to the support base 422. As the handle 464 rotates in the second direction, a second force is applied to the tension member 466. Application of the second force causes at least a portion of the lock mechanism 462 to disengage such that the first base portion 450 is rotatable relative to the second base portion 452. Accordingly, the third position of the handle 464 may be considered a second unlocked position. In an embodiment, the first base portion 450 is only rotatable in a second direction relative to the second base portion 452 in response to movement of the handle 464 to the third position and application of the second force to the lock mechanism 462.

[0195] In the embodiment of FIGS. 19A-19C, the tension member 466 is directly connected to the handle 464. However, in other embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 20A- 20C, the tension member 466 of the spin actuator 460 may be indirectly coupled to the handle 464. For example, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the spin actuator 460 includes a pinion 468 rotatably mounted proximate a bottom of the handle 464. The pinion 468 has a plurality of teeth 470 and the bottom of the handle 464 may have a plurality of complementary teeth 472 interleaved with the teeth 470 of the pinion 468. The handle 464 and pinion 468 operate as a rack and pinion such that rotation of the handle 464 in a first direction, drives a corresponding rotation of the pinion 468 in an opposite direction. Asshown, the tension member 466 is connected to the pinion 468, and rotation of the pinion 468 in response to movement of the handle 464 in either the first direction or the second direction applies a corresponding first force or second force to the tension member 466 as previously described.

[0196] With reference now to FIGS. 21A-23, another example of a support base 522 of a child seat system is illustrated. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the support base 522 includes a first base portion 550 and a second base portion 552, the first base portion 550 being movable, for example rotatable, relative to the second base portion 552 between a plurality of rotational positions. The first base portion 550 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 554 of the support base 522. As shown, in some embodiments, the first base portion 550 may be positioned vertically above the second base portion 552 such that the first base portion 550 may be considered an upper base portion and the second base portion 552 may be considered a lower base portion.

[0197] A child seat (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 550. In an embodiment, the child seat is movable with the first base portion 550 relative to the second base portion 552 between the plurality of rotation positions. It should be appreciated that the relative movement between the first and second base portions 550, 552 may be defined by a positioning assembly (not shown) having a configuration similar to or different from any of the positioning assemblies 60, 160, 260, 360 described in the previous embodiments.

[0198] The support base 522 may include a locking mechanism 560 operable to restrict rotation of the first base portion 550 relative to the second base portion 552. As shown, the locking mechanism 560 may include a plunger 562 extending upwardly from the second base portion 552 into engagement with the first base portion 520. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the plunger 562 is arranged near a lateral side 539 of the second base portion 552. Although only a single plunger 562 is illustrated in the FIGS, it should be appreciated that a substantially identical plunger may be arranged at another location about the support base 522, such as at an opposite side thereof. As shown, the plunger 562 may be attached to the second base portion 552, such as to a spin frame 564 arranged at the second base portion 552 for example, via an angled slot 566.

[0199] The plunger 562 is translatable along a pathway defined by the slot 566 between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, a distal end 563 of the plunger 562 may contact the first base portion 550, thereby restricting rotation of the first base portion 550 relative to the second base portion 552. In the disengaged position,the plunger 562 translates within the slot 566 such that the distal end 563 of the plunger 562 is lowered out of engagement with the first base portion 550. In this lowered position, the first base portion 550 is able to freely rotate in at least one direction relative to the support base 522. Although not shown, a biasing member operably coupled to the plunger 562 may be operable to bias the plunger toward a first end of the slot 566, and to the engaged position.

[0200] A spin actuator 570 associated with the locking mechanism 560 is operable to transform the plunger 562 to the disengaged position. As shown, the spin actuator 570 includes a handle 572 arranged at an exterior of the support base 522, such as at an exterior of the second base portion 552 for example. The handle 572 may be rotatably mounted to the support base 522 about an axis R2. The handle 572 includes an engagement surface 574, such as at an underside thereof, configured to cooperate with the plunger 562. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the engagement surface 574 is a sloped surface that contacts and applies a force to the plunger 562 in a direction opposing the biasing member as the handle 572 rotates about its axis R2. As the handle 572 rotates in a first direction, such as into the support base 522 for example, the sloped engagement surface 574 increases the force acting on the plunger 562 causing the plunger 562 to slide relative to the slot 566. As the plunger 562 translates within the slot 566, the vertical distance between the distal end 563 of the plunger 562 and the spin frame 564 decreases, and the plunger 562 moves out of engagement with the first base portion 550. With the handle 572 rotated and the plunger 562 depressed, the first base portion 550 is rotatable relative to the second base portion 552.

[0201] A child seat may be connectable to the movable first base portion of a support base, such as any of first base portions 50, 150, 250, 350, 450, and 550 previously described herein. In such embodiments, the movable first base portion may include a seat retention assembly used to retain the child seat connected to the support base. With reference to FIGS. 24A-26, an example of another child restraint system 620 is illustrated. The child restraint system 620 includes a support base 622 and a child seat 640 removably connectable to the support base 622. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the child seat 640 is an infant car seat; however, embodiments where the child seat 640 has another configuration are also within the scope of the disclosure. The support base 622 includes a first base portion 650 and a second base portion 652, the first base portion 650 being movable, for example rotatable, relative to the second base portion 652 between a plurality of rotation positions. The first base portion 650 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 654 of the support base 622. As shown, in some embodiments, the first base portion 650 may be positioned vertically above the second base portion 652 such that the first base portion 650may be considered an upper base portion and the second base portion 652 may be considered a lower base portion.

[0202] A central longitudinal axis L5b (see FIGS. 24A, 25A) of the support base 622 extends between a front end 634 and the back end 636 of the support base 622 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides (not shown) of the support base 622. A central longitudinal axis L5u (see FIGS. 24A, 25A) of the first base portion 650 extends between a front end 655 and the rear end 657 of the first base portion 650 and is equidistantly positioned between opposing lateral sides of the first base portion 650.

[0203] In an embodiment, the child seat 640 is movable with the first base portion 650 relative to the second base portion 652. As in the previous embodiments, a positioning assembly (not shown), similar to any of positioning assemblies 60, 160, 260, 360 for example, couples the first base portion 650 to the second base portion 652 of the support base 622 and defines the relative movement therebetween. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly defines a path of rotation of the first base portion 650 relative to the lower base portion. The first base portion 650 of the support base 622 may be rotatable relative to the second base portion 652 of the support base 622 between a travel position (FIGS. 24A-24B) and at least one loading position (FIGS. 25A-25B). In an embodiment, in the travel position, the central longitudinal axis L5u of the first base portion 650 is parallel to, and in some embodiments, coaxial with the central longitudinal axis L5b of the support base 622. Further, in a loading position, the central longitudinal axis L5u of the first base portion 650 is arranged at a non-parallel angle to the central longitudinal axis L5b of the support base 622. In an embodiment, the central longitudinal axis L5u of the first base portion 650 is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis L5b of the support base 622 when in the loading position. However, it should be understood that embodiments where the central longitudinal axis L5u of the first base portion 650 is arranged at another angle relative to the central longitudinal axis L5b of the support base are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0204] The child seat 640 is connectable to the first base portion 650 of the support base 622. In an embodiment, the first base portion 650 includes a seat retention assembly 660 operable to selectively secure or release the child seat 640 from the support base 622. With reference to FIGS. 24B, 25B, and 26, the seat retention assembly 660 may include a contoured casing or shell 662 and one or more seat mounts may be formed in the shell 662. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first base portion 650 includes a first seat mount 664a and a second seat mount 664b transversally spaced apart from one another. Each seat mount 664a, 664b may be a laterally extending recess or groove and configured to receive amounting component (see 642 in FIGS. 24B and 25B), such as a bar for example, arranged at a bottom of the child seat 640 therein.

[0205] The seat retention assembly 660 includes at least one receiving component arranged within the shell 662 of the first base portion 650, proximate the at least one seat mount 664a, 664b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment to FIG. 26, the seat retention assembly 660 includes four receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d, such as two positioned proximate laterally opposite sides of each seat mount 664a, 664b. Each receiving component 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d may be a lock transformable between a locked position and an unlocked position. As shown, the receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d may be shaped to capture and securely retain a mounting connector 642 of the child seat when in the locked position. In an embodiment, a biasing member such as 668 (shown by way of example with receiving component 666a) is operably coupled to each respective receiving component 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d to bias the receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d toward the locked position.

[0206] In an embodiment, the receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d of the seat retention assembly 660 are automatically transformable between the locked position and the unlocked position in response to rotation of the first base portion 650 relative to the second base portion 650. For example, the receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d may be automatically transformed to an unlocked state in response to rotation of the first base portion 650 from a travel position to a loading position. Alternatively, or in addition, the receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d of the seat retention assembly 660 may be automatically transformed to a locked state in response to rotation of the first base portion 650 relative to the support base 622 from a loading position to a travel position.

[0207] In an embodiment, as the first base portion 650 rotates away from the travel position toward a loading position, a force is transmitted to the one or more receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d in a direction opposing the biasing forces acting thereon. The force may be generated by a component arranged at the first base portion 650 and / or by a component arranged at the second base portion 652 and causes the receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d to rotate about their respective axes toward the unlocked position. When the first base portion 650 is rotated toward the travel position, this force is removed, and the biasing force of the biasing members rotates the receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d back to the locked position.

[0208] In another embodiment, a force applied by the locks of the seat retention assembly, such as receiving components 666a, 666b, 666c, 666d for example, to the child seatvaries based on a rotation position of the child seat. With reference now to FIGS. 27A-36B, the illustrated child restraint system 720 is similar to the child restraint system 620 of FIGS. 24A-25B. The child restraint system 720 includes a support base 722 and a child seat 740, such as an infant car seat for example, removably connectable to the support base 722. The support base 722 includes a first base portion 750 and a second base portion 752, the first base portion 750 being movable, for example rotatable, relative to the second base portion 752 between a plurality of rotation positions. The first base portion 750 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 754 of the support base 722. As shown, in some embodiments, the first base portion 750 may be positioned vertically above the second base portion 752 such that the first base portion 750 may be considered an upper base portion and the second base portion 752 may be considered a lower base portion.

[0209] A central longitudinal axis L6b of the support base 722 extends between a front end 734 and the back end 736 of the support base 722 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides (not shown) of the support base 622. A central longitudinal axis L6u of the first base portion 750 extends between a front end 755 and the rear end 757 of the first base portion 750 and is equidistantly positioned between opposing lateral sides of the first base portion 750.

[0210] In an embodiment, the child seat 740 is movable with the first base portion 750 relative to the second base portion 752. As in the previous embodiments, a positioning assembly (not shown), similar to any of positioning assemblies 60, 160, 260, 360 for example, couples the first base portion 750 to the second base portion 752 of the support base 722 and defines the relative movement therebetween. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly defines a path of rotation of the first base portion 750 relative to the lower base portion. The first base portion 750 of the support base 722 may be rotatable relative to the second base portion 752 of the support base 722 between a travel position (FIGS. 27A-27B) and at least one loading position (FIGS. 28A-28B). In an embodiment, in the travel position, the central longitudinal axis L6u of the first base portion 750 is parallel to, and in some embodiments, coaxial with the central longitudinal axis L6b of the support base 722. Further, in a loading position, the central longitudinal axis L6u of the first base portion 750 is arranged at a non-parallel angle to the central longitudinal axis L6b of the support base 722. In an embodiment, the central longitudinal axis L6u of the first base portion 750 is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis L6b of the support base 722 when in the loading position. However, it should be understood that embodiments where the central longitudinalaxis L6u of the first base portion 750 is arranged at another angle relative to the central longitudinal axis L6b of the support base are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0211] The first base portion 750 of the support base 722 includes a seat retention assembly 760 operable to selectively secure or release the child seat 740 from the support base 722. With reference to FIGS. 27B and 28B, the seat retention assembly 760 may include a contoured casing or shell 762 and one or more seat mounts 764 may be formed in the shell 762. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first base portion 750 includes a first seat mount 764 and a second seat mount (not shown) transversally spaced apart from one another. Both the first seat mount 764 and the second seat mount may be a laterally extending recess or groove and configured to receive a mounting component (see 742 in FIGS. 27B and 28B), such as a bar for example, arranged at a bottom of the child seat 740 therein.

[0212] As in the embodiment described with respect to FIGS. 24B and 25B, the seat retention assembly 760 includes at least one receiving component arranged within the shell 762 of the first base portion 750, proximate a seat mount. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 29A-36B, the seat retention assembly 760 includes four receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d, such as two positioned proximate laterally opposite sides of each of the first seat mount 764 and the second seat mount (not shown). Each receiving component 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d may be a lock transformable between a locked position and an unlocked position. As shown, each receiving component 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d may be shaped to capture and securely retain a mounting connector 742 of the child seat 740 when in the locked position. In an embodiment, a biasing member 768 (shown by way of example with receiving component 766a) is operably coupled to a respective receiving component 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d to bias the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d toward the locked position.

[0213] In an embodiment, each receiving component 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d has a connector and a pivoting arm associated therewith. In some embodiments, as shown in the FIGS., a single connector 772a, 772b and pivoting arm 774a, 774b is associated with two receiving components, such the two receiving components associated with the same seat mount. For example, the receiving components 766a and 766c are attached to opposite sides of a first connector 772a pivotally connected to a first pivoting arm 774a, and the receiving components 766b and 766d are attached to opposite sides of a second connector 772b and the connector 772b is pivotally connected to a second pivoting arm 774b. Although the connectors and pivoting arms are illustrated and described herein as being connected to multiple receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d, it should be appreciated thatembodiments where a separate connector and pivoting arm are associated with each receiving component 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0214] Each connector 772a, 772b is pivotally coupled to a first end 776a, 776b of a respective pivoting arm 774a, 774b. Each pivoting arm 774a, 774b may be pivotally coupled to the shell 762 of the first base portion 750, the shell being represented by a base plate 751 thereof in FIGS. 29A, 29B and 31-36B. In an embodiment, the pivoting arms 774a, 774b are arranged at an underside of the first base portion 750, proximate an upper surface 756 of the second base portion 752. As shown, the second end 778a, 778b of each pivoting arm 774a, 774b may have an increased thickness relative to the remainder of the pivoting arm 774, 774b such that a foot is formed, the foot protruding toward the second base portion 752. As shown, a ramp 780a, 780b corresponding to each pivoting arm 774, 774b may be formed at the upper surface 756 of the second base portion 752.

[0215] When the first pivoting arm 774a is in contact with the apex of the first ramp 780a, and the second pivoting arm 774b is in contact with the apex of the second ramp 780b, the first end 776a, 776b of each pivoting arm 774a, 774b is raised, causing the second end 778a, 778b of each pivoting arm, and the corresponding connector 772a, 772b coupled thereto to move downwardly. Each connector 772a, 772b transmits this movement to the one or more receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d coupled thereto, causing the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d to pivot about an axis R3a, R3b relative the corresponding connector 772a, 772b. In an embodiment, the downward movement of the connectors 772a, 772b causes the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d to rotate forward, toward the second end 778a, 778b of the pivoting arm 774a, 774b. When the first base portion 750 is rotated relative to the second base portion 752, thereby moving the end 782a, 782b of each pivoting arm 774a, 774b out of engagement with the corresponding ramp 780a, 780b, the resulting rotation of the pivoting arm 774a, 774b moves each connector 772a, 772b upwardly. This upward movement causes the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d coupled to the connectors 772a, 772b to rotate backward slightly, about a respective axis R3a, R3b away from the second end 782a, 782b of a respective the pivoting arm 774a, 774b.

[0216] In an embodiment, the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d of the seat retention assembly 760 are automatically transformable between a first, locked position when each pivoting arm 774a, 774b associated with the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d is engaged with a corresponding ramp 780a, 780b and a second position when the pivoting arms 774a, 774b associated with the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766dare separate from the corresponding ramp 780a, 780b. It should be appreciated that when in the second position, the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d may not be fully locked or fully unlocked. Rather, the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d may be considered partially unlocked. In an embodiment, a force applied by the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d to a corresponding mounting component is reduced in the second position compared to the first position.

[0217] An operator may be able to forcibly remove a mounting component 742 from a seat mount, such as first seat mount 764 for example, when the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d are in the second position. In other embodiments, operation of an actuator (not shown) configured to transform the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d to an unlocked position may be necessary to decouple the child seat 740 from the support base 722. Further, it should be appreciated that the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d are transformable to the unlocked position via the actuator regardless of whether the first base portion 750 is in a travel position or a loading position.

[0218] As previously noted, when the first base portion 750 is in a travel position, the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d are in the first, locked position, to prevent separation of one or more mounting components 742 from the seat retention assembly 760. As the first base portion 750 is rotated relative to the second base portion 752, such as away from the travel position and towards a load position, the second end 778a, 778b of each pivoting arm 774a, 774b moves out of engagement with a respective ramp 780a, 780b, causing rotation of the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d about the axes R3a, R3b away from the second end 778a, 778b of the pivoting arm 774, 774b. This rotation of the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d reduces the force of the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d on the mounting component 742. Similarly, rotation of the first base portion 750 from a loading position toward the travel position moves the second end 778a, 778b of each pivoting arm 774a, 774b into engagement with a respective ramp 780a, 78b, causing rotation of the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d about their axes R3a, R3b toward the second ends 778a, 778b of the pivoting arms 774, 774b, respectively. Rotation of the receiving components 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d in this direction reduces the tolerances between each receiving component 766a, 766b, 766c, 766d and a corresponding seat mount 764, thereby creating a more secure connection between the locks and the child seat 740.

[0219] With reference to FIGS. 37A-43, a support base 822 of a child restraint system 820 according to an embodiment is illustrated. As shown, the support base 822 may include afirst base portion 850 and a second base portion 852. The first base portion 850 is movable, for example rotatable and / or translatable, relative to the second base portion 852 between a travel position and a loading position for example. The first base portion 850 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 854 of the support base 822. A child seat (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 850 and is movable with the first base portion 850 relative to the second base portion 852. Although not illustrated, it should be appreciated that the support base 822 may include at least one positioning assembly that defines the allowable movement between the first base portion 850 and the second base portion 852. The support base 822 may include a positioning assembly as described in any of the other embodiments herein.

[0220] The support base 822 includes a front end 834 and a rear end 836, and a central longitudinal axis L8b of the support base 822 extends between the front end 824 and the rear end 826 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 828, 829 of the support base 822. As shown, the first base portion 850 similarly includes a front end 855 and a rear end 857 and has a central longitudinal axis L8u that extends between the front end 855 and the rear end 857and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 858, 859 of the first base portion 850. When the first base portion 850 is in the travel position, the central longitudinal axis L8u of the first base portion 850 is parallel to, and in some embodiments coaxial with the central longitudinal axis L8b of the support base 822. Further, the front end 855 of the first base portion 850 may be arranged proximate the front end 834 of the support base 822 and the rear end 857 of the first base portion 850 may be located at the rear end 836 of the support base 822. In a loading position, the central longitudinal axis L8u of the first base portion 850 is arranged at a non-parallel relative to the central longitudinal axis L8b of the support base 822. In some embodiments, the first base portion 850 is rotated about 90 degrees between the travel position and the loading position. However, embodiments where the support base 822 does not include a movable first base portion 850 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0221] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first base portion 850 includes a trolley 860 and a carriage 862 movable relative to the trolley 860 to adjust a recline of a child seat (not shown) connectable thereto. As shown, the carriage 862 may be pivotable about an axis relative to the trolley 860. The carriage 862 may include a seat retention assembly 870 operable to selectively secure or release the child seat from the support base. In an embodiment, the seat retention assembly includes a contoured casing or shell 872 and one or more seat mounts 856a, 856b formed in the shell 872. In the illustrated, non-limitingembodiment, the first base portion 850 includes a first seat mount 856a and a second seat mount 856b spaced apart from one another along the central longitudinal axis L8u of the first base portion 850. In an embodiment, each seat mount 856a, 856b is a laterally extending recess or groove and is sized to receive a seat connector (not shown), such as a bar for example, arranged at a bottom of the child seat therein. Further, the seat retention assembly 870 may include one or more receiving components (not shown) movably mounted proximate the seat mounts 856a, 856b. The receiving components are movable to capture a seat connector within a seat mount, thereby limiting movement of the child seat relative to the seat retention assembly 870.

[0222] The carriage 862 may be movable along an incline path between a first position (FIGS. 37A, 38A, 38B) and a second position (FIGS. 37B 40A, 40B), the first position and the second position having varying degrees of incline. Further, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the carriage 862 is arrangeable at any of a plurality of positions between the first position and the second position. A recline lock mechanism 880 may be arranged at the carriage 862, such as underneath the shell 872. With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 38A-39B, the recline lock mechanism 880 includes a recline rack 882 positioned proximate one of the seat mounts, such as the seat mount 856b located closest to the front end 855 of the first base portion 850. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the recline rack 882 has a recess 884 complementary to and positioned directly underneath the adjacent seat mount 856b. A surface 886 of the recline rack 882, such as the surface facing toward the front end 855 of the first base portion 850 for example, has a plurality of receiving slots, such as receiving slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d...888n for example, formed therein. The surface 886 of the recline rack 882 having the receiving slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d formed therein may but need not be angled. In the illustrated, nonlimiting embodiment, the recline rack 882 is formed as a U-shaped member having a first portion arranged at a first side of a central axis and a second portion arranged at a second side of the central axis. In such embodiments, each side of the recline rack 882 may include a surface 886 having receiving slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d formed therein.

[0223] A recline lock 890 is mounted underneath the shell 872, proximate the surface 886 of the recline rack 882. In an embodiment, the recline lock 890 is pivotable about an axis P, such as defined by a connecting bar 892 for example. The recline lock 890 has a body 894 including one or more pins 896a, 896b engageable with one or more of the corresponding receiving slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d of the recline rack 882 to lock the recline lock 890 andthe carriage 862 at a position relative to the trolley 860. As shown, an axis of the pins 896a, 896b may be oriented parallel to the axis of each receiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d.

[0224] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the recline lock includes a first pin 896a and a second pin 896b. However, embodiments including only a single pin or more than two pins are also within the scope of the disclosure. The first pin 896a and the second pin 896b are located at different positions about the housing 894 to engage different slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d of the recline rack 882. As shown, the first pin 896a may be located a first axial distance from the pivot axis P and a second pin 896b may be arranged a second axial distance from the pivot axis P. In an embodiment, both the first pin 896a and the second pin 896b are vertically aligned with the pivot axis P and the first pin 896a is closer to the pivot axis than the second pin. However, embodiments where one or both of the first pin 896a and the second pin 896b is axially offset form the pivot axis P are also contemplated herein. Further, in instances where the recline rack 882 is U-shaped and has substantially identical first and second portions arranged at opposite sides of a central axis, the same pins 896a, 896b may engage the receiving slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d at both the first side and the second side of the recline rack 882, or alternatively, different pins may be associated with the first and second sides, respectively.

[0225] The recline lock 890 is pivotable about the pivot axis P between and an engaged position (FIG. 39A) and a disengaged position (FIG. 39B) relative to the recline rack 882. In the engaged position, the one or more pins 896a, 896b of the recline lock 890 are arranged within a corresponding receiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d of the recline rack 882. It should be appreciated that in embodiments where the recline lock 890 includes multiple pins 896a, 896b, each of the plurality of pins 896a, 896b may be engaged with a corresponding receiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d when in the engaged position. However, embodiments where one of the pins 896a, 896b of the recline lock 890 in the engaged position is arranged within a corresponding receiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d and another of the pins 896a, 896b is not arranged within a receiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d are also within the scope of the disclosure. Although not shown, a biasing member, such as a torsion spring for example, may be operably coupled to the recline lock 890 and is operable to bias the recline lock 890 to rotate about the pivot axis P to the engaged position. It should be appreciated that the biasing member may bias the recline lock 890 via the connecting bar 892.

[0226] An actuator 898 is operably coupled to the recline lock 890. As shown, the actuator 898 includes a handle 900 arranged at an exterior of the support base 822, such as at an exterior of the trolley 960 for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, thehandle 900 is arranged at a front end 861 of the trolley 860. For example, the handle 900 may be centrally located relative to the recline rack 882; however, embodiments where the handle 900 is arranged at another location about the first base portion 850 are also contemplated herein.

[0227] As shown, the handle 900 is operably coupled to the connecting bar and is operable to rotate the connecting bar 892, and therefore the recline lock 890 about the pivot axis P. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a lever 902 is rotationally fixed to and protrudes radially from the connecting bar 892. The lever 902 may but need not be arranged at a central position relative to the connecting bar 892. The handle 900 of the actuator 898 may be operable to directly or indirectly apply a force to the lever 902 to rotate the connecting bar 892 and the recline lock 890. As shown, a protrusion 904 may extend from the handle 900 and may be positioned vertically above the lever 902 for engagement therewith. When a force is applied to the handle 900, such as a downward force for example, the protrusion 904 is moved into engagement with and applies a force to the lever 902 at a location offset from the pivot axis P. This force opposes the biasing force of the biasing member and drives rotation of the connecting bar 892 and the recline lock 890 away from the recline rack 882 to the disengaged position.

[0228] In this disengaged position, the one or more pins 896a, 896b of the recline lock 890 are located remotely from the receiving slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d of the recline rack 882. Accordingly, while the recline lock 890 is disengaged, a user may adjust a position of the carriage 862 relative to the trolley 860, such as by pivoting the carriage 862. When the force is removed from the handle 900, the biasing force of the biasing member causes the lever 902, the connecting bar 892, and the recline lock 890 to rotate about the pivot axis P to the engaged position. The one or more pins 896a, 896b of the recline lock 890 are configured to engage at least one receiving slot 888 of the recline rack 882 based on the recline position of the carriage 862. With the pins 896a, 896b arranged within at least one receiving slot 888, the carriage 862 is restricted from pivoting relative to the trolley 860.

[0229] Another example of a recline lock mechanism 880 suitable for use with the first base portion 850 of the support base 822 is illustrated in FIGS. 40A-43. Similar to the recline lock mechanism 880 of the previous embodiment, the recline lock mechanism 880 includes a recline rack 882 positioned proximate one of the seat mounts, such as the seat mount 856b located closest to the front end 855 of the first base portion 850. The recline rack 882 may have a recess 884 complementary to the seat mount 856b and is positioned directly underneath the seat mount 856b. A surface 886 of the recline rack 882 has a plurality ofreceiving slots 888 formed therein. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the surface 886 of the recline rack 882 is positioned between the first seat mount 856a and the second seat mount 856b. Accordingly, the recline rack 882 may have an opposite orientation relative to the recline rack 882 of FIGS. 38A-39B.

[0230] A recline lock 890 may be mounted underneath the shell 872 at a location proximate the surface 886 of the recline rack 882. In an embodiment, the recline lock 890 is pivotable about an axis P, defined by a connecting bar 892 for example. The recline lock 890 has a body 894 and includes one or more pins 896a, 896b engageable with one or more of the corresponding receiving slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d of the recline rack 882 to lock the carriage 862 at a position relative to the trolley 860. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the recline lock 890 includes a first pin 896a and a second pin 896b. However, embodiments including only a single pin or more than two pins are also within the scope of the disclosure. The first pin 896a and the second pin 896b are located at different positions about the body 894 to engage different slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d of the recline rack 882. As shown, the first pin 896a may be located a first axial distance from the pivot axis P and the second pin 896b may be arranged a second axis distance from the pivot axis P. In an embodiment, the first pin 896a is closer to the pivot axis P than the second pin 896b. Further, the first pin 896a and the second pin 896b may be horizontally offset from one another. In an embodiment, the first pin 896a is located closer to the end of the body 894 facing the recline rack 882 than the second pin 896b.

[0231] The recline lock 890 is pivotable about the pivot axis P between and an engaged position (FIGS. 40A, 41A, 42A) and a disengaged position (FIGS. 40B, 41B, 42B) relative to the recline rack 882. In the engaged position, at least one pin 896a, 896b of the recline lock 890 is arranged within a corresponding receiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d of the recline rack 882. It should be appreciated that in embodiments where the recline lock 890 includes multiple pins 896a, 896b each of the plurality of pins may be engaged with a corresponding receiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d when in the engaged position. However, embodiments where one of the pins 896a, 896b of the recline lock 890 in the engaged position is arranged within a corresponding receiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d and another of the pins 896a, 896b is not arranged within a receiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d are also within the scope of the disclosure. Although not shown, a biasing member, such as a torsion spring for example, may be operably coupled to the recline lock 890 and is operable to bias the recline lock 890 to rotate about the pivot axis P to the engaged position. It should beappreciated that the biasing member may bias the recline lock 890 via the connecting bar 892 or via another suitable component operably coupled thereto.

[0232] An actuator 898 is operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism 880. As shown, the actuator 898 includes a handle 900 arranged at an exterior of the support base 822, such as at the exterior of the trolley 860 for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the handle 900 is arranged at a lateral side 910 of the trolley 860; however, embodiments where the handle 900 is arranged at another location about the first base portion 850 are also contemplated herein. Further, it should be appreciated that although a single handle 900 is illustrated in the FIGS., the actuator 895 may include another handle, such as arranged at the opposite lateral side (not shown) of the trolley 860 for example.

[0233] As shown, the handle 900 is operably coupled to the connecting bar 892 and is operable to rotate the connecting bar 892, and therefore the recline lock 890 rotationally fixed to the connecting bar 892, about the pivot axis P. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a lever 902 is rotationally fixed to and protrudes radially from the connecting bar 892, such as near an end thereof. As shown, the lever 902 may be spaced laterally outward of the recline lock 890. The handle 900 of the actuator 898 may be operable to directly or indirectly apply a force to the lever 902 to rotate the connecting bar 892 and the recline lock 890. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the handle 900 has a slot 912 formed therein, and an end of the lever 902 is arranged within the slot 912. When a force is applied to the handle 900, such as a downward force for example, the handle 900 transmits the downward force to a distal end of the lever 902. This force opposes the biasing force of the biasing member and drives rotation of the connecting bar 892 and the recline lock 890 away from the recline rack 882 to the disengaged position.

[0234] In the disengaged position, the one or more pins 896a, 896b of the recline lock 882 are separated from the receiving slots 888 of the recline rack 882 such that the carriage 862 is free to pivot relative to the trolley 860. When the force is removed from the handle 900, the biasing force of the biasing member causes the lever 902, the connecting bar 892, and the recline lock 890 to rotate about the pivot axis P to the engaged position. With the engagement between the lever 902 and the handle 900, it should be appreciated that the biasing force may similarly return the handle 900 to the unactuated position The one or more pins 896a, 896b of the recline lock 890 are configured to engage different receiving slots 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d of the recline rack 882 based on the recline position of the carriage 862 relative to the trolley 860. With the pins 896a, 896b arranged within at least onereceiving slot 888a, 888b, 888c, 888d, the carriage 862 is restricted from pivoting relative to the trolley 860.

[0235] With reference to FIGS. 44-46C, a support base 1022 of another child restraint system 1020 according to another embodiment is illustrated. As shown, the support base 1022 may include a first base portion 1050 and a second base portion 1052. The first base portion 1050 is movable, for example rotatable and / or translatable, relative to the second base portion 1052 between a travel position and a loading position for example. The first base portion 1050 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 1054 of the support base 1022. A child seat (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 1050 and is movable with the first base portion 1050 relative to the second base portion 1052. Although not illustrated, it should be appreciated that the support base 1022 may include at least one positioning assembly that defines the allowable movement between the first base portion 1050 and the second base portion 1052. The support base 1022 may include a positioning assembly as described in any of the other embodiments herein.

[0236] The support base 1022 includes a front end 1034 and a rear end 1036, and a central longitudinal axis L9b of the support base 1022 extends between the front end 1024 and the rear end 1026 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 1028, 1029 of the support base 1022. As shown, the first base portion 1050 similarly includes a front end 1055 and a rear end 1057 and has a central longitudinal axis L9u that extends between the front end 1055 and the rear end 1057 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 1058, 1059 of the first base portion 1050. When the first base portion 1050 is in the travel position, the central longitudinal axis L9u of the first base portion 1050 is parallel to, and in some embodiments coaxial with the central longitudinal axis L9b of the support base 1022. Further, the front end 1055 of the first base portion 1050 may be arranged proximate the front end 1034 of the support base 1022 and the rear end 1057 of the first base portion 1050 may be located at the rear end 1036 of the support base 1022. In a loading position, the central longitudinal axis L9u of the first base portion 1050 is arranged at a nonparallel relative to the central longitudinal axis L9b of the support base 1022. In some embodiments, the first base portion 1050 is rotated about 90 degrees between the travel position and the loading position. However, embodiments where the support base 1022 does not include a movable first base portion 1050 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0237] As shown, the second base portion 1052 may include a base seat 1060 and a base back 1062 extending from an end of the base seat 1060 at an angle. In the illustrated,non-limiting embodiment, a seat belt lock-off assembly 1070 is positioned at the second base portion 1052, such as at the base back 1062 for example. However, embodiments where the seat belt lock-off assembly 1070 is arranged at the base seat 1060 are also within the scope of the disclosure. The seat belt lock-off assembly 1070 is operable to secure a vehicle belt of the vehicle seat to the support base.

[0238] The seat belt lock-off assembly 1070 may include a belt lock-off member 1072. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an opening 1074 is formed at a front surface 1063 of the base back 1062, and the belt lock-off member 1072 is receivable within the opening 1074. A contour of the interior surface of the opening 1074 may be complementary to a contour of the belt lock-off member 1072 such that the substantial entirety of the belt lock-off member 1072 is receivable within the opening 1074. A vehicle belt (not shown) associated with a vehicle seat is positionable along a belt receiving path defined between the base back 1062 of the support base 1022 and the belt lock-off member 1072.

[0239] In an embodiment, the belt lock-off member 1072 is selectively movable relative to the front 1063 of the base back 1062 to adjust the tension applied to the vehicle belt along the vehicle belt receiving path. For example, the belt lock-off member 1072 may be configured to pivot about at least one axis X between an open position and a closed position to selectively tension the portion of the vehicle belt sandwiched between the belt lock-off member 1072 and the opening 1074. When a vehicle belt extends across the front surface of the base back 1062, over the opening 1074, rotation of the belt lock-off member 1072 to the closed position presses the vehicle belt into the opening 1074, thereby tensioning the vehicle belt. This tension couples the support base 1022 to the vehicle belt, thereby restricting movement of the child seat (not shown) and the support base 1022 relative to the vehicle seat.

[0240] In an embodiment, one or more pieces of material 1076a, 1076b, 1076c, 1076d, such as a thermoplastic material for example, are arranged at a surface of the belt lock-off member 1072 positionable in contact with the vehicle belt. As shown, the pieces of material 1076a, 1076b, 1076c, 1076d are arranged at a back surface 1078 of the belt lock-off member 1072 and are oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis L10 of the belt lock-off member 1072. The pieces of material 1076a, 1076b, 1076c, 1076d are intended to improve the retention of the vehicle belt. It should be appreciated that any suitable friction material that enhances the grip between the belt lock-off member 1072 and the vehicle belt is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0241] The seat belt lock-off assembly 1070 may additionally include a belt lock-off member locking assembly 1080 operable to retain the belt lock-off member 1072 in the closed position. The belt lock-off member locking assembly 1080 is transitionable between a locked configuration (FIG. 46A) and an unlocked configuration (FIG. 46C). When the belt lock-off member locking assembly 1080 is in the locked configuration, the belt lock-off member 1072 is retained in a closed position generally within the opening 1074, and when the belt lock-off member locking assembly 1080 is in the unlocked configuration, the belt lock-off member 1072 is freely movable between the closed position and the open position.

[0242] The belt lock-off member locking assembly 1080 includes a pin or shaft 1082 and at least one locking pawl 1084 configured to receive the shaft 1082. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the belt lock-off member locking assembly 1080 includes two locking pawls 1084a, 1084b (see FIG. 44) spaced apart from one another and rotatable about the same axis. In such embodiments, the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b may but need not be operably coupled such that they move in unison. In an embodiment, the two locking pawls 1084a, 1084b are integrally formed. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the shaft 1082 is fixedly mounted to the belt lock-off member 1072 and the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b is arranged within the opening 1074. However, embodiments where the shaft 1082 is fixedly mounted within the opening 1074 and the at least one locking pawl 1084a, 1084b is mounted to the movable belt lock-off member 1072 are also contemplated herein. In either instance, the shaft 1082 and the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b are positioned such that the shaft 1082 is receivable within locking pawls 1084a, 1084b as the belt lock-off member 1072 moves along its path of rotation.

[0243] As shown, each locking pawl 1084a, 1084b has a throat 1086a, 1086b for receiving the shaft 1082 therein. In an embodiment, the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b are rotatable about an axis between an engaged position and a disengaged position. Further, the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b may be biased by a biasing mechanism (not shown) toward the engaged position. As the belt lock-off member 1072 is rotated towards the opening 1074, the shaft 1082 may engage a surface of the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b. In the illustrated, nonlimiting embodiment, the surface of each locking pawl 1084a, 1084b is contoured, for example sloped, such that the engagement between the shaft 1082 and the surface opposes the biasing force of the biasing mechanism. Accordingly, this engagement may rotate the locking pawl 1084a, 1084b from the engaged position toward the disengaged position. Once the shaft 1082 reaches a specific location, such as once the shaft 1082 is received within the respective throats 1086a, 1086b of the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b for example, the shaft 1082 no longer opposesthe biasing force of the biasing mechanism. As a result, the bias acting on the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b causes the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b to rotate into the engaged position. Accordingly, when the shaft 1082 is arranged within the respective throats 1086a, 1086b of each locking pawl 1084a, 1084b and each locking pawl 1084a, 1084b is in the engaged position, the belt lock-off member locking assembly 1080 is in a locked configuration. In an embodiment, each locking pawl 1084a, 1084b is receivable within a corresponding slot 1088a, 1088b formed at the surface 1078 of the belt lock-off member 1072 to engage the shaft 1082 and transform to the locked configuration.

[0244] A lock-off release actuator 1090 may be operable to transition the belt lock-off member locking assembly 1080 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. For example, the lock-off release actuator 1090 may be operably coupled to the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b to rotate the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b to the disengaged position. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an actuation hook 1092 is connected to the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b. The actuation hook 1092 may be located near an end of locking pawls 1084a, 1084b mounted to the base back 1062 and extends generally parallel to the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b. In embodiments including an integrally formed first locking pawl 1084a and second locking pawl 1054b rotatable in unison, the actuation hook 1092 may be arranged at a position between the first and second locking pawls 1084a, 1084b. The lock-off release actuator 1090 may be operably coupled to the actuation hook 1092. In an embodiment, the lock-off release actuator 1090 includes a body having a contoured surface aligned with and movable into engagement with the actuation hook 1092. However, embodiments where the lock-off release actuator 1090 is indirectly couplable to the actuation hook 1092 are also contemplated herein.

[0245] The lock-off release actuator 1090 includes an actuation surface 1094 engageable by a user to operate the lock-off release actuator 1090. The lock-off release actuator 1090 may be arranged at the belt lock-off member 1072 with the actuation surface 1094 being exposed at a front surface 1077 of the belt lock-off member 1072. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the lock-off release actuator 1090 and / or the actuation surface 1094 of the lock-off release actuator 1090 are located at another location, such as at the base back 1062 of the support base 1022 for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0246] The lock-off release actuator 1090 is movably mounted to the belt lock-off member 1072. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the lock-off release actuator 1090 is translatable relative to the belt lock-off member 1072 in response to application of adownward force to the actuation surface 1094. When a force is applied to the actuation surface 1094 of the lock-off release actuator 1090, such as when the lock-off release actuator 1090 is translated downwardly relative to the belt lock-off member 1072 for example, the force is transmitted to the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b via engagement between the body of the actuator 1090 and the actuation hook 1092. The force transmitted to the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b opposes the bias of the biasing mechanism, thereby driving rotation of the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b toward the disengaged position. Once the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b are in the disengaged position, the belt lock-off member 1072 may be moved away from the opening 1074. When the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b are in the disengaged position and / or when the shaft 1082 is not arranged within the respective throats 1086a, 1086b of the locking pawls 1084a, 1084b, the belt lock-off member locking assembly 1080 is in the unlocked configuration.

[0247] Yet another support base 1122 of a child restraint system is illustrated in FIGS. 47-49B. As shown, the support base 1122 may include a first base portion 1150 and a second base portion 1152. The first base portion 1150 is movable, for example rotatable and / or translatable, relative to the second base portion 1152 between a travel position and a loading position for example. The first base portion 1150 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 1154 of the support base 1122. A child seat (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 1150 and is movable with the first base portion 1150 relative to the second base portion 1152. Although not illustrated, it should be appreciated that the support base 1122 may include at least one positioning assembly that defines the allowable movement between the first base portion 1150 and the second base portion 1152. The support base 1122 may include a positioning assembly as described in any of the other embodiments herein.

[0248] The support base 1122 includes a front end 1134 and a rear end 1136, and a central longitudinal axis LI lb of the support base 1122 extends between the front end 1124 and the rear end 1126 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 1128, 1129 of the support base 1122. As shown, the first base portion 1150 similarly includes a front end 1155 and a rear end 1157 and has a central longitudinal axis Ll lu that extends between the front end 1155 and the rear end 1157and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 1158, 1159 of the first base portion 1150. When the first base portion 1150 is in the travel position, the central longitudinal axis Lllu of the first base portion 1150 is parallel to, and in some embodiments coaxial with the central longitudinal axis LI lb of the support base 1122. Further, the front end 1155 of the first base portion 1150 may be arrangedproximate the front end 1134 of the support base 1122 and the rear end 1157 of the first base portion 1150 may be located at the rear end 1136 of the support base 1122. In a loading position, the central longitudinal axis Lllu of the first base portion 1150 is arranged at a nonparallel relative to the central longitudinal axis LI lb of the support base 1122. In some embodiments, the first base portion 1150 is rotated about 90 degrees between the travel position and the loading position. However, embodiments where the support base 1122 does not include a movable first base portion 1150 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0249] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first base portion 1150 includes a trolley 1160 and a carriage 1162 movable relative to the trolley 1160 to adjust a recline of a child seat (not shown) connectable thereto. As shown, the carriage 1162 may be pivotable about an axis relative to the trolley 1160. The carriage 1162 may include a seat retention assembly 1170 operable to selectively secure or release the child seat from the support base. In an embodiment, the seat retention assembly 1170 includes a contoured casing or shell 1172 and one or more seat mounts 1156a, 1156b formed in the shell 1172. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the seat retention assembly 1170 includes a first seat mount 1156a and a second seat mount 1156b spaced apart from one another along the central longitudinal axis Ll lu of the first base portion 150. In an embodiment, each seat mount 1156a, 1156b is a laterally extending recess or groove and is sized to receive a seat connector (not shown), such as a bar for example, arranged at a bottom of the child seat therein.

[0250] Further, the seat retention assembly 1170 may include one or more receiving components (see FIGS. 49A-49B) movably mounted proximate the seat mounts 1156a, 1156b. The receiving components are movable to capture a seat connector within a seat mount, thereby limiting movement of the child seat relative to the seat retention assembly 1170. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the seat retention assembly 1170 includes four receiving components 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d. Two of the receiving components, such as 1174a and 1174c for example, may be positioned proximate the first seat mount 1162a, and the remaining two receiving components 1174b, 1174d may be located proximate the second seat mount 1162b. The first receiving component 1174a and third receiving component 1174c may be spaced apart from one another along an axis of the first seat mount 1156a. Similarly, the second receiving component 1174b and the fourth receiving component 1174d may be spaced apart from one another along an axis of the second seat mount 1156b. Accordingly, one of the receiving components 1174a, 1174c associated with the first seat mount 1156a and one of the receiving components 1174b, 1174d associated with the secondseat mount 1156b may be positioned near the lateral side 1158 of the first base portion 1150, and the other of the receiving components 1174a, 1174c associated with the first seat mount 1156a and the receiving components 1174b, 1174d associated with the second seat mount 1156b may be arranged near an opposite lateral side 1159 of the first base portion 1150.

[0251] An actuator 1179 associated with the plurality of receiving components 1174a, 1174b, 1174c 1174d includes a release connector 1180 positioned within the first base portion 1150 and operably coupled to each of the plurality of receiving components 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d of the seat retention assembly 1170. A first end 1182 of the release connector 1180 may be operably coupled to a first actuator handle 1186 and a second, opposite end 1184 of the release connector 1180 may be operably coupled to a second actuator handle 1188. In an embodiment, the first actuator handle 1186 is located near the front end 1155 of the first base portion 1150 and the second actuator handle 1188 is located near the second end 1157 of the first base portion 1150. The release connector 1180 may be directly connected to one or both of the first actuator handle 1186 and the second actuator handle 1188 or may be indirectly connected to at least one of the first actuator handle 1186 and the second actuator handle 1188, such as via one or more release connector links 1190 for example.

[0252] The release connector 1180 may include a plurality of engagement members, such as engagement members 1192a, 1192b (not shown), 1192c, 1192d, protruding from the release connector 1180. As shown, an engagement member 1192a, 1192b, 1192c, 1192d is located at the release connector 1180 proximate each of the plurality of receiving components 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, each of the receiving components 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d includes a release member 1194a, 1194b (not shown), 1194c, 1194d extending therefrom. Each engagement member 1192a, 1192b, 1192c, 1192d of the release connector 1180 is movable to engage a corresponding release member 1194a, 1194b, 1194c, 1194d of a respective receiving component 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d. The force transmitted to each release member 1194a, 1194b, 1194c, 1194d via a corresponding engagement member 1192a, 1192b, 1192c, 1192d causes each receiving component 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d to rotate about its axis, such as from a locked position (FIG. 49A) to an unlocked position (FIG. 49B).

[0253] Operation of both actuator handles 1186, 1188 causes a translation of the release connector 1180 in a first direction. In an embodiment, the first actuator handle 1186 is operated by applying a pushing force thereto, causing the release connector 1180 to translate in a first direction relative to the first base portion 1150. The pushing force may be an upward force or may be applied in the first direction. The second actuator handle 1188 may beoperated via an upward force, or via application of a pulling force in the first direction. This movement of the second actuator handle 1188 causes a similar translation of the release connector 1180 in the first direction to drive rotation of the receiving components 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d to the unlocked position.

[0254] Another configuration of such an actuator is illustrated in FIGS. 50-51. As in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 49A-49B, the actuator 1179 may include a release connector 1180 positioned within the first base portion 1150 and operably coupled to each of the plurality of receiving components 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d of the seat retention assembly 1170. Although not shown, the release connector 1180 may similarly have a plurality of engagement members 1192a, 1192b, 1192c, 1192d protruding from the release connector 1180 and movable into engagement with a corresponding release member 1194a, 1194b, 1194c, 1194d located at a respective receiving component 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d. The force transmitted to each release member 1194a, 1194b, 1194c, 1194d via a corresponding engagement member 1192a, 1192b, 1192c, 1192d causes each receiving component 1174a, 1174b, 1174c, 1174d to rotate about its axis, between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0255] A first primary link 1200 and a second primary link 1202 form part of the release connector 1180. In an embodiment, the actuator 1179 includes a first actuator handle 1186 that is directly connected to the release connector 1180. As shown, the first actuator handle 1186 may be directly connected to one of the primary links 1200, 1202, such as the first primary link 1200 for example. Accordingly, the movement of the first actuator handle 1186, when operated, directly drives a corresponding movement of the release connector 1180, such as in a first direction for example. The actuator 1179 may alternatively or additionally include a second actuator handle 1188 operably coupled to the release connector 1180. In an embodiment, the second actuator handle 1188 is indirectly connected to the release connector. For example, a secondary link 1204 may be connected to both the second primary link and the second actuator handle 1188. When the second actuator handle 1188 is operated, the movement is transmitted to the secondary link, which in turn drives the release connector 1180 in the first direction. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where both actuator handles are connected to the same primary link 1200, 1202 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0001] The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement 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 ofsimilar 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.

[0002] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments 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, unless 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.

[0003] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment 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

What is claimed is:

1. A child restraint system for use in a vehicle, the child restraint system comprising: a support base mountable to a vehicle seat, the support base including a first base portion and a second base portion, the first base portion being rotatable relative to the second base portion; and a child seat removably connected to the first base portion, a rotation of the first base portion being defined by a translation of two pivot points during the rotation of the first base portion.

2. The child restraint system of claim 1, wherein each of the two pivot points is translatable along a separate path of translation during the rotation of the first base portion.

3. The child restraint system of claim 2, further comprising two positioning slots formed at the support base, each of the two positioning slots defining the path of translation of a respective one of the two pivot points.

4. The child restraint system of claim 2, further comprising a positioning slot formed at the support base, the positioning slot defining the path of translation of each of the two pivot points.

5. The child restraint system of claim 1, wherein one of the two pivot points is translatable linearly during the rotation of the first base portion.

6. The child restraint system of claim 5, wherein the support base has a central longitudinal base axis extending between a front end and a back end of the support base, the pivot point being translatable linearly along the central longitudinal base axis during the rotation of the first base portion.

7. The child restraint system of claim 5, wherein the support base has a central longitudinal base axis extending between a front end and a back end of the support base and one of the two pivot points translates within a positioning slot, the positioning slot being centered relative to the central longitudinal base axis.

8. The child restraint system of claim 7, wherein the positioning slot has a non-uniform curvature.

9. The child restraint system of claim 7, wherein a first portion of the positioning slot extending in a first direction from the central longitudinal base axis is associated with the rotation of the first base portion in the first direction and a second portion of the positioning slot extending in an opposite, second direction from the central longitudinal base axis is associated with the rotation of the first base portion in the second direction.

10. The child restraint system of claim 7, wherein the positioning slot is symmetrical about the central longitudinal base axis.

11. The child restraint system of claim 1, wherein the first base portion has a central longitudinal axis extending between a front end and a back end of the first base portion, the two pivot points being positioned at the central longitudinal axis.

12. The child restraint system of claim 1, wherein the first base portion is rotatable between a travel position and a loading position.

13. The child restraint system of claim 12, wherein the first base portion has a central longitudinal axis extending between a front end and a back end of the first base portion and the support base has a central longitudinal base axis extending between a front end and a back end of the support base, in the travel position, the central longitudinal axis of the first base portion is coaxial with the central longitudinal base axis of the support base.

14. The child restraint system of claim 13, wherein in the loading position, the central longitudinal axis of the first base portion is arranged at an angle to the central longitudinal base axis of the support base.

15. The child restraint system of claim 13, wherein in the loading position, the central longitudinal axis of the first base portion is perpendicular to the central longitudinal base axis of the support base.

16. The child restraint system of claim 13, wherein in the travel position, the two pivot points are aligned with the central longitudinal base axis.

17. The child restraint system of claim 13, wherein in the loading position, only one of the two pivot points is positioned at the central longitudinal axis.

18. A child restraint system comprising: a support base mountable to a vehicle seat, the support base including a first base portion and a second base portion, the first base portion being rotatable relative to the second base portion between a first rotation position and a second rotation position; a child seat connectable to the first base portion; and a lock transitionable between a locked position, in which the child seat is prevented from removal from the first base portion, and an unlocked position, in which the child seat is free to be removed from the first base portion, wherein rotation of the first base portion between the first rotation position and the second rotation position transforms the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position.

19. The child restraint system of claim 18, wherein the lock is coupled to the first base portion, the lock being rotatable between the locked position and the unlocked position.

20. The child restraint system of claim 18, further comprising an actuator operably coupled to the lock to transform the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position, wherein a component of the support base is engaged with the actuator in the second rotation position.

21. The child restraint system of claim 20, further comprising a biasing member operably coupled to the lock, the lock being biased by a biasing force of the biasing member to the locked position.

22. The child restraint system of claim 21, wherein engagement between the component of the support base and the actuator opposes the biasing force of the biasing member.

23. A child restraint system comprising: a support base mountable to a vehicle seat, the support base including a first base portion and a second base portion, the first base portion being rotatable relative to the second base portion between a first rotation position and a second rotation position; a child seat connectable to the first base portion; and a lock transitionable between a locked position, in which the child seat is prevented from removal from the first base portion and an unlocked position, in which the child seat is free to be removed from the first base portion, wherein when the first base portion is at the first rotation position, the lock applies a first force to the child seat, and when the first base portion is rotated to the second rotation position, the lock applies a second force to the child seat.

24. The child restraint system of claim 23, wherein the first force is greater than the second force.

25. The child restraint system of claim 24, wherein the first rotation position is a travel position, and the second rotation position is a loading position.

26. The child restraint system of claim 23, wherein the first base portion includes a seat mount for receiving a mounting component of the child seat and the lock extends into the seat mount when the first base portion is in both the first rotation position and the second rotation position.

27. The child restraint system of claim 23, wherein in the second rotation position, the lock is transitionable to the unlocked position in response to application of an upward force to the child seat.

28. The child restraint system of claim 23, further comprising an actuator operably coupled to the lock to transform the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position.

29. The child restraint system of claim 28, wherein the actuator is operable to transform the lock to the unlocked position when the first base portion is in both the first rotation position and the second rotation position.

30. The child restraint system of claim 23, further comprising a ramp arranged the second base portion proximate the first base portion, and the lock includes a pivoting arm pivotally mounted to the first base portion, the pivoting arm being engageable with the ramp in response to rotation of the first base portion relative to the second base portion.

31. The child restraint system of claim 30, wherein in the first rotation position, the pivoting arm is engaged with an apex of the ramp and in the second rotation position, the pivoting arm is separated from the ramp.

32. The child restraint system of claim 30, wherein the lock further comprises a locking plate and a connector, the locking plate is pivotally coupled to the pivoting arm by the connector and the locking plate is engageable with the child seat.

33. The child restraint system of claim 32, further comprising a biasing member, the biasing member being operably coupled to the locking plate to bias the locking plate toward the locked position.

34. The child restraint system of claim 32, wherein the lock is in the locked position when the first base portion is in the first rotation position and the lock is in a partially unlocked position when the second base portion is in the second rotation position.

35. The child restraint system of claim 34, wherein the lock automatically transforms between the locked position and the partially unlocked position in response to the rotation of the first base portion between the first rotation position and the second rotation position.

36. A child restraint system comprising: a support base mountable to a vehicle seat, the support base including a first base portion and a second base portion, the first base portion being rotatable relative to the second base portion between a first rotation position and a second rotation position; a spin lock arranged at the first base portion, the spin lock being transformable between a locked position, in which the first base portion is prevented from rotating about the support base, and at least one unlocked position, in which the first base portion is free to rotate about the support base; a child seat connectable to the first base portion; an actuator operably connected to the spin lock, wherein the actuator is configured to transform the spin lock from the locked position to the at least one unlocked position; andwherein the spin lock is transformable to the at least one unlocked position in response to application of a first force to the actuator in a first direction, and the spin lock is transitionable to the at least one unlocked position in response to application of a second force to the actuator in a second direction, the first direction being offset from the second direction.

37. The child restraint system of claim 36, wherein the second direction is opposite the first direction.

38. The child restraint system of claim 36, wherein the child seat is removably connectable to the first base portion.

39. The child restraint system of claim 36, wherein the actuator includes a handle arranged at an exterior of the first base portion, the first force and the second force being applicable to the handle to transition the spin lock to the unlocked position.

40. The child restraint system of claim 39, wherein the first base portion includes a front end and a back end, the front end being spaced away from the child seat in both a travel position and a loading position, the handle being arranged at the front end.

41. The child restraint system of claim 39, wherein the handle is pivotally mounted to the first base portion.

42. The child restraint system of claim 39, wherein the actuator further comprises a tension member, the tension member extending between and operably coupling the handle to the spin lock.

43. The child restraint system of claim 42, wherein the handle is directly connected to the spin lock via the tension member.

44. The child restraint system of claim 42, wherein the actuator further comprises a pinion pivotally mounted proximate the handle, the tension member being directly connected to the pinion.

45. The child restraint system of claim 44, wherein the handle and the pinion are engageable via a plurality of interleaved teeth.

46. The child restraint system of claim 44, wherein the at least one unlocked position includes a first unlocked position and a second unlocked position, the spin lock being transitionable to the first unlocked position in response to application of the first force to the actuator, and the spin lock being transitionable to the second unlocked position in response to application of the second force to the actuator.

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