Telescopic backrest for seats

Abstract

A seat unit includes a seat portion and a telescopic backrest. The telescopic backrest is hingedly coupled to the seat portion and extendible along a length of the telescopic backrest to adjust the length of the telescopic backrest. The telescopic backrest includes one or more sections movable relative to each other, and a telescopic assembly coupled to a moveable section so that the backrest can be adjusted to a specified length.

Description

PATENTAttorney Docket No.: 038398-1458477Client Reference No.: B-030664PCT01TELESCOPIC BACKREST FOR SEATSBACKGROUND

[0001] In aircraft seat design, safety of a passenger, comfort of the passenger, and weight of a seat are among the important factors. For example, the seat should protect the passenger against injury during an impact event, should be comfortable and adjustable, and should meet ergonomic requirements for passengers on long flights. Additionally, due to space constraints, designing seats to accommodate passengers of different sizes for comfort can be particularly challenging. Due to space constraints, existing adjustment mechanisms for allowing passengers to recline or change positions may not be sufficient for passengers of different sizes. As such improved adjustable seats are needed to improve passenger comfort.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the description, explain these embodiments. The accompanying drawings have not necessarily been drawn to scale. Any values dimensions illustrated in the accompanying graphs and figures are for illustration purposes only and can or cannot represent actual or preferred values or dimensions. Where applicable, some or all features cannot be illustrated to assist in the description of underlying features. In the drawings:

[0003] FIG. 1 (a) through (e) illustrate an existing seat accommodating passengers of different sizes.

[0004] FIG. 2 (a) illustrates a telescopic seat in an initial position, and (b) illustrates the telescopic seat in an extended position, according to various embodiments.

[0005] FIG. 3 shows a first seat unit with seat cover in an initial position, and a second seat unit without a seat cover exposing a seat structure having a telescopic backrest, according to various embodiments.

[0006] FIG. 4 shows the second seat unit of FIG. 3 in an extended configuration.1US2008 30415861 1

[0007] FIGS. 5 (a) and (b) illustrate a nested screw in an extended state and a nested state, respectively, according to various embodiments.

[0008] FIG. 6 (a) and (b) a pulley and cable system in an initial position and an extended state, respectively, according to various embodiments.

[0009] FIG. 7 illustrates a nested bar as another example of a telescopic assembly for the seat units of FIGS. 2-4, according to various embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 8 illustrates an endless screw as another example of a telescopic assembly for the seat units of FIGS. 2-4, according to various embodiments.SUMMARY

[0011] According to certain aspect of the present disclosure embodiments, a seat unit can include a telescopic backrest and a seat portion. The telescopic backrest is hingedly coupled to the seat portion and extendible along a length of the telescopic backrest to adjust the length of the telescopic backrest, the telescopic backrest comprising: at least two movable sections movable relative to each other to a specified length, and a telescopic assembly configured to move the at least two movable sections.

[0012] In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly comprises: a nested rotatory screw comprising a plurality of screw section, wherein a first screw section is receivable within a second screw section. The first screw section is coupled to a first moveable section of the at least two movable sections of the backrest, and the second screw section is coupled to a second movable section of the at least two movable sections of the backrest. The at least two movable section further comprises a third movable section, and the nested rotatory screw further comprises a third screw section configured to receive the second screw section, the third screw section being coupled to the third movable section of the telescopic backrest. The nested rotatory screw is drivably coupled to a motor to move the plurality of screw section relative to each other.

[0013] In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly comprises: a pulley and cable system coupled to a moveable section of the at least two movable sections. The pulley and cable system comprises a first pulley, a second pulley and a cable coupled between the first pulley and the second pulley, wherein the first pulley is coupled to a stationary section of the telescopic backrest, and the second pulley is connected to a movable section of the at least two movable section.

[0014] In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly comprises: nested telescopic bar comprising a plurality of bars, wherein a first telescopic bar is receivable within a first2US2008 30415861 1telescopic bar, each bar comprising a pin and hole for adjusting the nestable telescopic bar to a specified length, and locking the nestable telescopic bar at the specified length. The first telescopic bar is coupled to a first movable section, and the second telescopic bar is coupled to a second movable section of the at least two movable sections of the telescopic backrest.

[0015] In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly comprises: an endless screw comprising a screw fixed relative to the seat coupled to a movable part along the screw, therein the movable part is coupled to the at least two movable sections of the telescopic backrest. The endless screw is motor driven causing the movable part to translate linearly along the screw.

[0016] In some embodiments, the seat unit further includes an actuator configured to receive an input to adjust a length of the telescopic backrest, and actuate the telescopic backrest to the specified length. In some embodiments, the actuator is disposed within an arm rest of the seat unit. In some embodiments, the actuator is disposed along a side of the telescopic backrest and accessible through a seat cover. In some embodiments, the actuator is electrically coupled to the telescopic assembly. In some embodiments, the actuator is mechanical coupled to the telescopic assembly.

[0017] In some embodiments, the seat unit further includes a seat cover configured to cover the telescopic backrest, the seat cover comprising an expandable cover section configured to extend when the telescopic backrest is in an extended state and fold when the telescopic backrest is retracted.

[0018] In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly is disposed along a center of the backrest.

[0019] In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly is disposed along a side of the backrest.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a seat unit comprising: a telescopic backrest extendible along a length of the telescopic backrest to adjust the length of the telescopic backrest, the telescopic backrest comprising: at least two movable sections movable relative to each other to a specified length, and a telescopic assembly configured to move the at least two movable sections.

[0021] In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly comprises: a nested rotatory screw comprising a plurality of screw section, wherein a first screw section is receivable within a second screw section.

[0022] In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly comprises: nested telescopic bar comprising a plurality of bars, wherein a first telescopic bar is receivable within a first telescopic bar, each bar comprising a pin and hole for adjusting the3US2008 30415861 1nestable telescopic bar to a specified length, and locking the nestable telescopic bar at the specified length.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] In the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described. The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Similar identifiers refer to similar elements

[0024] FIG. 1 (a) through (e) illustrate an existing seat 100 of an aircraft. The seat unit 100 can include a seat portion 101, a backrest 105 and a headrest 101 attached to the backrest 105. The backrest 105 can be fixedly or pivotably coupled to the seat portion 101. The backrest 105 can have a fixed length L. A passenger sitting the seat 100 can have different height, as such the fixed length L of the backrest 105 may not be comfortable for passenger who are above a certain height. For example, the headrest 101 may be below the head of the passenger. Seat units with various conventional components are illustrated in PCT application WO20 19229511 and U.S. patent 8931847, which are incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. For example, a conventional seat can include cushions, arm rests, a tray, entertainment related components, or other components.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 1(b) and 1(c), passengers Pl and P2, respectively, can be comfortably seated. The passenger P3 can be taller than P2, but shorter than passenger P4. FIGS. 1(b) and 1(c) show the existing seats can accommodate passengers Pl, P2 comfortably so that his / her head can rest on the headrest 101 and the back can rest on the backrest 105.

[0026] FIGS. 1(d) and 1(e) show taller passengers P3 and P4 for whom the fixed length L of the backrest 105 may not be sufficient. For example, the passengers P3 and P4 when sitting upright may have their shoulder bumping against the headrest 101. Their head may be located above the head rest 101. Their backs may not be comfortably supported by the backrest 105. This can be uncomfortable to the passengers P3 and P4, especially when sitting upright for a long time. The present disclosure provides a seat unit with telescopic backrest configured to adjust the length of the back rest.

[0027] FIGS. 2(a) and (b) illustrate a seat unit 200 configured to adjust a length of a backrest to a desired length. The seat unit 200 can include a seat portion 201, a telescopic4US2008 30415861 1backrest 205, and a headrest 203. The seat unit 200 can include an arm rest 202 coupled to one side of the telescopic backrest 205. In various embodiments, the telescopic backrest 205 can include a plurality of sections (e.g., 205a, 205b, 205c, 205d), in which at least two sections (e.g., 205b, 205c) movable relative to each other. Each movable sections (e.g., 205b, 205c) of the backrest 205 can be moved relative to another to extend the telescopic backrest 205 to a specified length (e.g., LI, L2). In some embodiments, the movable sections (e.g., 205b, 205c) can be moved independently of each other. Accordingly, a passenger can extend the telescopic backrest 205 by moving one movable section (e.g., 205b) or both the movable sections (205b, 205c) to a desired length. Thereby, a passenger can experience an improved back support and comfort. Although, the illustrated embodiments show two movable sections (see FIG. 2(a)) and three movable sections (see FIG. 2(b)), there can be more than three movable sections without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0028] Referring to FIG. 2(a), the telescopic backrest 205 can include a first section or a lower section 205a, a second section or a middle section 205b, and a third section or a top section 205c. The lower section 205a can be a fixed or stationary portion i.e., not extendable along the length of the backrest 205. The second and third sections 205b, 205c can be moveable relative to each other or the first section 205a. The first section 205a can be hingedly coupled to the seat portion 201. The second portion 205b can be moved relative to the first section 205a and independently of the third section 205c. The third portion 205c can be moved relative to the second portion 205b. In some embodiments, 205c can be moved only after the second potion 205b is extended.

[0029] As illustrated, the telescopic backrest 205 can be adjusted to a first length LI to accommodate the passenger P3 (which is taller than the passengers Pl, P2) by moving the second and third second section 205b, 205c. Moving the second section 205b relative to the first section 205a can create a first gap G1 therebetween. Similarly, moving the third section 205c relative to the second section 205b can create as second gap G2 therebetween. In various embodiments, the backrest 205 includes a backrest cover (e.g., see 330 in FIG. 3) configured to expand when extending the telescopic backrest 205 thereby covering any gaps Gl, G2 and maintain continuity in back support of the passenger.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 2(b), the telescopic backrest 215 can include three moveable sections. The telescopic backrest 215 is substantially similar to the telescopic backrest 205, and simply includes and additional movable section. As shown, the telescopic backrest 215 includes a first section or a lower section 215a, a second section 215b, a third section 215c, and a fourth section or top section 215d. Similar to the backrest 205, the lower section 215a can be a fixed or stationary portion i.e., not extendable along the length of the backrest 215.5US2008 30415861 1The moveable sections 215b, 215c, and 215d of the telescopic backrest 215 can be configured to move in a similar manner as the movable sections 205b, and 205c of the telescopic backrest 205.

[0031] In the illustrated example, each of the sections 215b-215d can be extended to adjust a length of the telescopic backrest 215 to a length L2. This allows the passenger P4 to sit comfortably with back well supported. Furthermore, as the movable sections 215b-215d are extended, gaps Gl, G2, and G3 may be created. These gaps G1-G3 can be covered by a seat cover in a similar manner as the seat cover for the backrest 205.

[0032] In various embodiments, the telescopic backrest 205, 215 may be actuated by a backrest actuator 240. The backrest actuator 240 may be located on a side portion or a side edge portion (e.g., aisle side) of the backrest (e.g., 205, 215) and accessible through a seat cover. In the illustrated embodiments of FIG. 2, the actuator 240 is located along a side of the first section (e.g., 205a, 215a) of telescopic backrest (205, 215). In another embodiment, the backrest actuator 240 may be provided on the arm rest 202 or on a moveable section (e.g., 205b, 215b) of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 215). The actuator 240 may be located in other locations of the seat unit 200, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0033] In various embodiments, the actuator 240 can be configured to receive a length input to adjust a length of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 215). Based on the length input, the actuator 240 can actuate the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 215) to the specified length. In some embodiments, the actuator 240 can be electrically coupled or mechanical coupled to telescoping mechanism (further discussed with respect to FIGS. 5-8) of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 215).

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, the seat unit 200 can include an arm rest 202 coupled to a lower portion (e.g., 205a) of each of the telescopic backrest 205, 215. In various embodiments, a headrest 203 can be attached to a topmost portion of each of the backrest 205, 215. The seat unit 200 can further include cushions, additional arm rests, a tray (not illustrated), entertainment related components (not illustrated) such as a display, buttons, and a remote, or other components. All the components of a seat are not illustrated for brevity without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. One or more components can be added or omitted without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 illustrate a seat assembly 300 including a seat unit in an initial position and an extended position, respectively. A seat assembly can include two or more seat units coupled to each other. In the illustrated embodiments, the seat assembly 300 includes a first seat unit 310 and a second seat unit 320. Each of the seat units 310, 320 can be structurally same and configured to include a telescopic backrest (e.g., similar to 205 or 215).6US2008 30415861 1As shown, the first seat unit 310 is illustrated without a seat cushion and / or a seat cover to expose a seat structure 310A. The second seat unit 320 is illustrated with the seat cover and seat cushion covering its seat structure (similar to 310A). The seat structure 310A can be made of a metal, an alloy, a composite material, or other light weight material.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 3, the first seat unit 310 has the seat structure 310A including a seat portion 301 and a telescopic backrest 305 coupled to the seat portion 301. Furthermore, arm rests 302 can be coupled to the seat portion 301 on either sides (e.g., a left side and a right side). In the illustrated embodiment, the telescopic backrest 305 can include three sections 305a, 305b, and 305c. The first section 305a can be pivotably (e.g., hinged) coupled to the seat portion 301 and may not be extendible. The second and third sections 305b, 305c can be movable sections configured to move relative to each other (e.g., similar the second 205b and 205c). In an initial position or non-extended position, shown in FIG. 3, the telescopic backrest 305 (and 325) of the seat unit 310 (and 320) can have a length L. In an extended position, shown in FIG. 4, the telescopic backrest 305 can be extended to a specified length LI.

[0037] In various embodiments, the movable sections 305b and 305c can be coupled to a telescopic assembly 350 (e.g., shown in FIGS. 5-8) for telescoping of the backrest 305. Components of the telescopic assembly 350 can be coupled to different section 305a-305c. In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly 350 can be deployed at a center portion (as illustrated) of the seat structure 310A. In another embodiment, the telescopic assembly 350 can be deployed on one or both the sides 305, 306 of the seat structure 310A. In various embodiments, the telescopic assembly 350 can be actuated via a backrest actuator that can be provided in an arm rest or a side of the backrest in an easy to access way.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, a backrest actuator 340 can be provided on an arm rest 302. The actuator 340 can be similar to the actuator 240 (in FIG. 2). The actuator 340 can be electrically coupled or mechanical coupled to the telescopic assembly 350 of the telescopic backrest 305. The actuator 340 can be, for example, a button, a dial or other input means for receiving a length adjustment input. For example, the actuator 340 can include a button to extend and another button to retract the backrest 305. Upon receiving a length extension input, the actuator 340 can activate the telescopic assembly 350 causing one or more of the movable sections 305b, 305c to move upward to extend the length of the backrest 305 or vice-versa. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the moveable sections 305b, 305c are extended to increase a length of the backrest 305 from a first length L (e.g., an initial length) to an extended length LI.7US2008 30415861 1

[0039] In various embodiments, the seat units (e.g., 310, 320) can further include a seat cover configured to cover a telescopic backrest. For example, the seat unit 320 includes a seat cover 330 configured to cover a seat portion 321, a telescopic backrest 325, and a headrest 323. Similarly, a seat cover can be configured to cover different portions of the seat unit 310 including the seat portion 301, the telescopic backrest 305, and a headrest 303. In various embodiments, the seat cover 330 can include an expandable cover section 332 configured to extend when the telescopic backrest 320 is in an extended position and fold on itself when the telescopic backrest 320 is retracted back to an initial position.

[0040] FIGS. 5 (a) and (b) illustrate a nested screw 500 in an extended state and a nested state, respectively. The nested screw 500 can be configured as a telescopic assembly (e.g., 350 in FIGS. 3-4) of a telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305), according to some embodiments. The nested screw 500 can be a nested rotatory screw having rotatable sections driven by a motor 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the nested screw 500 includes a plurality of screw section 501, 502, 503. A first screw section 501 is receivable within a second screw section 502. A third screw section 503 is configured to receive the second screw section 503. Each of the screw sections 502 and 503 can include internal threads configured to engage with external threads of a nesting screw section. For example, the second screw section 502 includes internal threads engaged with the external threads of the first screw section 501. Similarly, the third section 503 includes internal threads engaged with external threads of the second screw section 502. The screw sections 501, 502, 503 can be coupled to appropriate backrest sections (e.g., 205a-205c, or 305a-305c) of a backrest (e.g., 205, 305) to cause the telescoping of the backrest, as discussed herein.

[0041] In various embodiments, the first screw section 501 can be coupled to a first moveable section (e.g., 205c or 305c) of the backrest (e.g., 205, 305). In some embodiments, the second screw section 503 can be coupled to a second movable section (e.g., 205b, 305b) of the backrest (e.g., 205, 305). In some embodiments, the second screw section 502 may not directly be coupled to a section of the backrest at all. In various embodiments, the third screw section 503 can be coupled to a third section (e.g., 205a, 305a) of the backrest (e.g., 205, 305).

[0042] An actuator (e.g., 240, 340) can be electrically coupled to the motor 310 to activate the motor 310. When the actuator (e.g., 240, 340) receives a length input, the motor 310 can rotate a screw section (e.g., 503) in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) causing the nested sections 502 and 503 to extend, as shown in FIG. 5(a). On receiving an opposite input, the motor 310 can rotate the screw section (e.g., 503) in an opposite second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) causing the nested sections 502, 503 to nest within each other, as shown in8US2008 30415861 1FIG. 5(b). Accordingly, the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305) can be extended to an extended position of a specified length (e.g., LI) or retracted to an initial position (e.g., having length L).

[0043] FIG. 6 (a) and (b) a pulley and cable system 600 in an initial position and an extended state, respectively. The pulley and cable system 600 can be configured as a telescopic assembly (e.g., 350 in FIGS. 3-4) of a telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305), according to some embodiments. The pulley and cable system 600 can be coupled to one or more movable section of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305) to facilitate extension of the backrest (e.g., 205, 305) to a specified length.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the pulley and cable system 600 can include a first pulley 601, a second pulley 603, and a cable 605 coupled between the first pulley 601 and the second pulley 602. In some embodiments, the first pulley 601 is coupled to a stationary part 611 and the second pulley 602 can be coupled to a moveable part 612. In an initial position, the fixed part 611 and the movable part 612 may be stacked relative to each other so that majority (e.g., more than 70%) other their lengths overlap, as shown in FIG. 6(a). When the cable 305 is pulled in a downward direction, a tension in the cable 305 is created that causes the moveable part 612 to move upwards. This way, the moveable part 612 can achieve an extended position, as shown in FIG. 6(b). In some embodiments, the moveable part 612 can be coupled to a sliding bracket with rollers to easily slide the moveable part 612 in an upward or downward direction. The sliding bracket is not illustrated for simplicity and brevity of explaining the pulley and cable system.

[0045] In some embodiments, the stationary part 611 can be, for example, a first section (e.g., 205a, 305a) of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305). The moveable part 612 can be a movable section (e.g., 205b, 205c, 305, 305c) of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305).

[0046] FIG. 7 illustrates a nested telescopic bar 700, which can be another example of a telescopic assembly for the seat units of FIGS. 2-3, according to the various embodiments, nested telescopic bar 700 can include a plurality of nestable bars 701, 702 with holes 711, 712, 713, and a pin 703 configured to engage with the holes 711-713 to adjust a length of the nested telescopic bar 700. In the illustrated embodiment, a first telescopic bar 701 is receivable within a second telescopic bar 702. Each bar 701, 702 includes one or more holes (e.g., a hole 711 in the bar 701, and holes 712, 713 in the bar 702) for adjusting the nestable telescopic bar 700 to a specified length. The pin 703 can be attached to the first bar 701 and spring loaded such that, the pin 703 snaps into a hole (e.g., 703) when aligned therewith and locks in place. When pushed, the pin 703 can be disengaged from the hole (e.g., 703) and the one of the bars 701, 702 can be moved relative to another.9US2008 30415861 1

[0047] In some embodiments, the first telescopic bar 701 can be coupled to a movable section (e.g., 205c, 305c) of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305), and the second telescopic bar is coupled to a stationary section (e.g., 205a, 305a) or a second movable section (e.g., 205b, 305b) of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205c, 305c). An actuator (e.g., 240) such as a button can be mechanically coupled (e.g., via a rod or linkage assembly) to the pin 703. Accordingly, when a user pushes the actuator, the pin 703 can be disengaged from a hole (e.g., 712) to adjust the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205) to a specified length. When the desired length is reached, the user can release the actuator so that the pin 703 sits within a hole and locks in place.

[0048] FIG. 8 illustrates an endless screw 800 as another example of a telescopic assembly for the seat units, according to the various embodiments. The endless screw 800 can includes a screw 801 and a movable part 803 (e.g., a nut configured to couple with a backrest of a seat unit) threadingly coupled to the screw 801 and configured to move along a length of the screw 801. In some embodiments, the screw 801 can be coupled to a stationary portion (e.g., 205a, 305a) of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305). The length of the screw 801 can extend along a length of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305). The movable part 803 can be coupled to a moveable section (e.g., 205b, 205c) of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205, 305). This way, the screw 801 is fixed or remain stationary, while the movable part 802 can move relative to the seat along a length of the screw.

[0049] In some embodiments, the screw 801 can be driven via a motor 803 or mechanically driven (e.g., a crank or a gear mechanism) causing the movable part 802 to translate linearly along the screw 801. An actuator (e.g., 240) can be coupled to the motor 803. When the actuator is actuated, the motor 803 rotates the screw 801 causing the movable part 802 to move the moveable section (e.g., 205c) of the telescopic backrest (e.g., 205b, 205c) until a desired length (e.g., LI or L2) is achieved.

[0050] The seats discussed herein can include, but not limited to, economy class seats or premium economy class seats of an aircraft. The economy class seats typically have limited size and space compared to business class seats. Seat structures of the economy class and the business class can be substantially different. For example, the economy class seats can include a frame structure (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) with cushions. The business class seats can include a seat pan configured for privacy and a seat structure convertible to a lie flat bed. On the contrary, the economy class seat is configured to tilt back with a limited range and does not include privacy features. The present disclosure is not limited to a particular type of vehicle. The seats herein can be used in many vehicles such as passenger aircraft, buses, trains, ships, automobiles, and the like include seats for bearing passengers.10US2008 30415861 1

[0051] The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the claims.Examples

[0052] A collection of exemplary embodiments, including at least some explicitly enumerated as “Examples” providing additional description of a variety of example types in accordance with the concepts described herein are provided below. These examples are not meant to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or restrictive; and the present disclosure is not limited to these example examples but rather encompasses all possible modifications and variations within the scope of the issued claims and their equivalents.

[0053] Example 1. A seat unit comprising: a seat portion; and a telescopic backrest hingedly coupled to the seat portion and extendible along a length of the telescopic backrest to adjust the length of the telescopic backrest, the telescopic backrest comprising: at least two movable sections movable relative to each other to a specified length, and a telescopic assembly configured to move the at least two movable sections.

[0054] Example 2. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: a nested rotatory screw comprising a plurality of screw section, wherein a first screw section is receivable within a second screw section.

[0055] Example 3. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the first screw section is coupled to a first moveable section of the at least two movable sections of the backrest, and the second screw section is coupled to a second movable section of the at least two movable sections of the backrest.

[0056] Example 4. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the at least two movable section further comprises a third movable section, and the nested rotatory screw further comprises a third screw section configured to receive the second screw section, the third screw section being coupled to the third movable section of the telescopic backrest.

[0057] Example 5. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the nested rotatory screw is drivably coupled to a motor to move the plurality of screw section relative to each other.

[0058] Example 6. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: a pulley and cable system coupled to a moveable section of the at least two movable sections.11US2008 30415861 1

[0059] Example 7. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the pulley and cable system comprises a first pulley, a second pulley and a cable coupled between the first pulley and the second pulley, wherein the first pulley is coupled to a stationary section of the telescopic backrest, and the second pulley is connected to a movable section of the at least two movable section.

[0060] Example 8. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: nested telescopic bar comprising a plurality of bars, wherein a first telescopic bar is receivable within a first telescopic bar, each bar comprising a pin and hole for adjusting the nestable telescopic bar to a specified length, and locking the nestable telescopic bar at the specified length.

[0061] Example 9. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the first telescopic bar is coupled to a first movable section, and the second telescopic bar is coupled to a second movable section of the at least two movable sections of the telescopic backrest.

[0062] Example 10. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: an endless screw comprising a screw fixed relative to the seat coupled to a movable part along the screw, therein the movable part is coupled to the at least two movable sections of the telescopic backrest.

[0063] Example 11. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the endless screw is motor driven causing the movable part to translate linearly along the screw.

[0064] Example 12. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, further comprises an actuator configured to receive an input to adjust a length of the telescopic backrest, and actuate the telescopic backrest to the specified length.

[0065] Example 13. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the actuator is disposed within an arm rest of the seat unit.

[0066] Example 14. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the actuator is disposed along a side of the telescopic backrest and accessible through a seat cover.

[0067] Example 15. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the actuator is electrically coupled to the telescopic assembly.12US2008 30415861 1

[0068] Example 16. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the actuator is mechanical coupled to the telescopic assembly.

[0069] Example 17. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, further comprising a seat cover configured to cover the telescopic backrest, the seat cover comprising an expandable cover section configured to extend when the telescopic backrest is in an extended state and fold when the telescopic backrest is retracted.

[0070] Example 18. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the telescopic assembly is disposed along a center of the backrest.

[0071] Example 19. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the telescopic assembly is disposed along a side of the backrest.

[0072] Example 20. A seat unit comprising: a telescopic backrest extendible along a length of the telescopic backrest to adjust the length of the telescopic backrest, the telescopic backrest comprising: at least two movable sections movable relative to each other to a specified length, and a telescopic assembly configured to move the at least two movable sections.

[0073] Example 21. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: a nested rotatory screw comprising a plurality of screw section, wherein a first screw section is receivable within a second screw section.

[0074] Example 22. The seat unit of any of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination of examples, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: nested telescopic bar comprising a plurality of bars, wherein a first telescopic bar is receivable within a first telescopic bar, each bar comprising a pin and hole for adjusting the nestable telescopic bar to a specified length, and locking the nestable telescopic bar at the specified length.

[0075] Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure. Thus, while the disclosed techniques are susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as defined in the appended claims.13US2008 30415861 1

[0076] The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the disclosed embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

[0077] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is intended to be understood within the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and / or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.14US2008 30415861 1

Claims

PATENT Attorney Docket No.: 038398-1458477 Client Reference No.: B-030664PCT01CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A seat unit comprising: a seat portion; and a telescopic backrest hingedly coupled to the seat portion and extendible along a length of the telescopic backrest to adjust the length of the telescopic backrest, the telescopic backrest comprising: at least two movable sections movable relative to each other to a specified length, and a telescopic assembly configured to move the at least two movable sections.

2. The seat unit of claim 1, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: a nested rotatory screw comprising a plurality of screw section, wherein a first screw section is receivable within a second screw section.

3. The seat unit of claim 2, wherein the first screw section is coupled to a first moveable section of the at least two movable sections of the backrest, and the second screw section is coupled to a second movable section of the at least two movable sections of the backrest.

4. The seat unit of claim 3, wherein the at least two movable section further comprises a third movable section, and the nested rotatory screw further comprises a third screw section configured to receive the second screw section, the third screw section being coupled to the third movable section of the telescopic backrest.

5. The seat unit of any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the nested rotatory screw is drivably coupled to a motor to move the plurality of screw section relative to each other.

6. The seat unit of claim 1, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: a pulley and cable system coupled to a moveable section of the at least two movable sections.

7. The seat unit of claim 6, wherein the pulley and cable system comprises a first pulley, a second pulley and a cable coupled between the first pulley and the second pulley, wherein15US2008 30415861 1PATENT Attorney Docket No.: 038398-1458477 Client Reference No.: B-030664PCT01 the first pulley is coupled to a stationary section of the telescopic backrest, and the second pulley is connected to a movable section of the at least two movable section.

8. The seat unit of claim 1, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: nested telescopic bar comprising a plurality of bars, wherein a first telescopic bar is receivable within a first telescopic bar, each bar comprising a pin and hole for adjusting the nestable telescopic bar to a specified length, and locking the nestable telescopic bar at the specified length.

9. The seat unit of claim 8, wherein the first telescopic bar is coupled to a first movable section, and the second telescopic bar is coupled to a second movable section of the at least two movable sections of the telescopic backrest.

10. The seat unit of claim 1, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: an endless screw comprising a screw fixed relative to the seat coupled to a movable part along the screw, therein the movable part is coupled to the at least two movable sections of the telescopic backrest.

11. The seat unit of claim 10, wherein the endless screw is motor driven causing the movable part to translate linearly along the screw.

12. The seat unit of claim 1, further comprises an actuator configured to receive an input to adjust a length of the telescopic backrest, and actuate the telescopic backrest to the specified length.

13. The seat unit of claim 12, wherein the actuator is disposed within an arm rest of the seat unit.

14. The seat unit of claim 12, wherein the actuator is disposed along a side of the telescopic backrest and accessible through a seat cover.16US2008 30415861 1PATENT Attorney Docket No.: 038398-1458477 Client Reference No.: B-030664PCT0115. The seat unit of claim 12, wherein the actuator is electrically coupled to the telescopic assembly.

16. The seat unit of claim 12, wherein the actuator is mechanical coupled to the telescopic assembly.

17. The seat unit of any one of claims 1 through 16, further comprising a seat cover configured to cover the telescopic backrest, the seat cover comprising an expandable cover section configured to extend when the telescopic backrest is in an extended state and fold when the telescopic backrest is retracted.

18. The seat unit of any one of claims 1 through 17, wherein the telescopic assembly is disposed along a center of the backrest.

19. The seat unit of any one of claims 1 through 17, wherein the telescopic assembly is disposed along a side of the backrest.

20. A seat unit comprising: a telescopic backrest extendible along a length of the telescopic backrest to adjust the length of the telescopic backrest, the telescopic backrest comprising: at least two movable sections movable relative to each other to a specified length, and a telescopic assembly configured to move the at least two movable sections.

21. The seat unit of claim 20, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: a nested rotatory screw comprising a plurality of screw section, wherein a first screw section is receivable within a second screw section.

22. The seat unit of claim 20, wherein the telescopic assembly comprises: nested telescopic bar comprising a plurality of bars, wherein a first telescopic bar is receivable within a first telescopic bar, each bar comprising a pin and hole for adjusting the nestable telescopic bar to a specified length, and locking the nestable telescopic bar at the specified length.17US2008 30415861 1

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