Seat mount with integrated slider and adjustment mechanism support

Abstract

A seat mount integrates slider functionality and actuator attachment into a single component. The seat mount includes a first structure with a first portion configured to attach to a support structure for the seat and a second portion configured to attach to an actuator. First and second projections on opposing sides of the first structure are sized to be inserted into tracks on a second structure that is mounted to a seat pan. This integrated system reduces mounting points, enhances modularity, and maintains structural integrity while reducing overall weight.

Description

Attnv Dkt No. 104394.0002PCTSEAT MOUNT WITH INTEGRATED SLIDER AND ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM SUPPORTField of the Invention

[0001] The field of the invention is vehicle seating systems, and in particular, seat assemblies configured to allow a seat to be mounted to a support structure installed in a vehicle.Background

[0002] The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] Vehicle seats, especially those disposed in aircraft, generally have specific weight, size, and regulatory requirements due to the potential forces acting upon the seats. In addition, such vehicles often comprise a large number of seats, typically arranged in seat rows. Aircraft seats in particular are typically mounted to a floor of the vehicle using one or more seat leg assemblies. An exemplary seat leg assembly in shown and described in WIPO publication number 2024 / 162947 assigned to Safran Seats USA LLC. In some embodiments, these assemblies are secured to tracks disposed along the floor of the vehicle.

[0004] The mounting and disposition of seats within aircraft or other vehicles may present several challenges. For example, a large number of seats is often needed to be securely mounted within the limited space of the cabin of the vehicle. The mounting assemblies may need to accommodate various seat configurations and allow for some adjustability in seat positioning. Additionally, the mounting assemblies may need to withstand the forces and loads experienced during flight while still allowing for seat movement between upright and reclined positions.

[0005] Figure 1 illustrates one embodiment of a prior art seat assembly having one or more seat tubes 102A, 102B that can extend through adjacent seat leg assemblies 100 to provide a structure or framework to which one or more seats can be mounted and supported. Often, the one or more seat tubes 102A, 102B extend across a seat row to thereby support two or more seats. Although seat tube 102A is shown as transparent in the middle portion, this is only to show how theAttny Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT mechanism is mounted to the rod, and in use, the rod comprises a solid, typically opaque, configuration.

[0006] In general, separate mounting holes are required in the seat tube 102A for each of the two separate sliders 104A, 104B and the separate mount 106 for the adjustment mechanism 114.These holes must be drilled into the seat tube 102A. The requirement to drill holes for and mount these components for each seat collectively reduces the structural integrity of the seat tube 102A, often necessitating an increase in wall thickness and, consequently, weight of the seat tube 102A.

[0007] The sliders 104A, 104B are inserted into respective tracks 108A, 108B attached to the seat pan 110, which allow the seat pan 110 to move relative to the seat tube 102A. As shown, the seat pan 110 can be coupled to a seat back 112 which define the seat. The seat pan is the primary moving component of the seat. When a user wishes to recline, the seat pan will move, causing the seat back to recline. For example, the seat may comprise pivot points that allow the seat back to rotate or recline. When the seat pan moves, these pivot points enable the seat back to change its angle relative to the seat bottom. The pivot points could be simple hinges or more complex joints, depending on the desired motion and comfort level.

[0008] In addition, because the width of a seat can vary throughout a vehicle due to restraints in the cabin, the location where the sliders 104A, 104B are mounted relative to the seat tubes 102A, 102B changes. As a result, the necessary holes in the seat tubes 102A, 102B are drilled in various manners, leading to issues with modularity across different cabin configurations. This variability may also lead to difficulties in standardizing installation or maintenance protocols. Because three different components must be attached to the front seat tube, there is often a lack of modularity due to varying passenger seat widths across cabin configurations and compromised structural integrity of the front seat tube from drilling holes for sliders, necessitating thicker and heavier tubes.

[0009] Given the high volume of seats in aircraft and other passenger vehicles, it becomes crucial to implement a standardized and straightforward installation process for the seats to ensure efficiency and consistency in configuration.Attnv Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT

[0010] All publications identified herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0011] There is still a need for an improved aircraft seat mounts and assemblies that reduce the number of mounting points, enhance modularity, and maintain structural integrity while reducing overall weight.Summary of the Invention

[0012] The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems, and methods in which a seat mount integrates slider functionality and adjustment mechanism attachment into a single component. In preferred embodiments, the inventive subject matter relates to an economy class seat kinematic and mounting points, which reduces the number of mounting points from five to three by combining the function of the sliders and mount into an integral piece.

[0013] In some embodiments, a seat mount comprises a first structure comprising a first portion and a second portion. Though not necessarily required, it is preferred that the first portion be disposed beneath the second portion. The first portion is configured to be attached to a seat tube and may comprise one or more apertures through which a bolt or other fastener may be inserted to secure the first portion to the seat tube. It is also contemplated that the first portion could be welded to the seat tube.

[0014] The second portion is configured to be attached to an adjustment mechanism. Exemplary adjustment mechanisms can facilitate movement of the seat pan and / or seat back as the seat is reclined or brought back to the upright position. Exemplary adjustment mechanisms can include, for example, seat locks, gas struts, and pneumatic adjusters that allow for smooth adjustment of the seat as the seat moves back and forth between an upright position and a reclined position.

[0015] The seat mount also comprises a first projection and a second projection, which are disposed on opposing sides of the first structure. Advantageously, the first and second projections are sized and dimensioned to be inserted into first and second tracks, respectively.Attny Dkt No. 104394.0002PCTThe tracks are preferably disposed on ta second structure attached to a seat pan such that the seat pan can move with respect to the seat tube, for example. As the seat pan moves, the first and second projections move relative to the respective track.

[0016] Advantageously, the seat mount preferably comprises an integral piece that combines the functions of the sliders and center mount into one modular part that can be attached to the center, bottom surface of the seat pan.

[0017] In other embodiments, aircraft seats are contemplated comprising a seat pan mechanically coupled to a seat back, such that the seat pan and seat back can move together from an upright position to a reclined position.

[0018] A second structure (seat pan mount) can be attached to a bottom surface of the seat pan and preferably comprises first and second tracks. In some embodiments, the first and second tracks are formed as part of the second structure. Because of the single structure having the tracks that is attached to the seat pan, the second structure can be located in the center of the seat pan every time, regardless of the seating configuration.

[0019] A first structure can be used to interface with the second structure. Preferably, the first structure comprises first and second portions. The first portion is configured to be attached to a seat tube and may comprise one or more apertures through which a bolt or other fastener may be inserted to secure the first portion to the seat tube. It is also contemplated that the first portion could be welded to the seat tube.

[0020] The second portion is configured to be attached to an adjustment mechanism. Exemplary adjustment mechanisms can facilitate movement of the seat pan and / or seat back and are described above.

[0021] The first structure further comprises first and second projections disposed on opposing sides of the first structure. Advantageously, the first and second projections are sized and dimensioned to be inserted into the first and second tracks, respectively, of the second structure.Attny Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT

[0022] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.Brief Description of The Drawings

[0023] Figure 1 illustrates a seat assembly of the prior art having multiple components with separate assemblies and mounts.

[0024] Figure 2 illustrates one embodiment of a first structure of a seat mount.

[0025] Figures 3A-3B illustrate various views of a second structure of the seat mount.

[0026] Figures 4A-4C illustrate various views of the first and second structures coupled together.

[0027] Figure 5A illustrates a seat that includes a support structure, the first structure, and the second structure.

[0028] Figure 5B illustrates an enlarged view of the hatched portion of Figure 5A.

[0029] Figure 5C illustrates the view of Figure 5B with the seat tube and support structure hidden from view.

[0030] Figure 6 illustrates a front view of the seat of Figure 5 A.Detailed Description

[0031] The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0032] The described embodiments of the invention provide a simplified mounting structure to secure a seat to a seat tube while allowing for recline of the seat. While the discussion belowAttny Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT focuses on seats in aircraft, it is contemplated that the inventive subject matter could be used with other types of vehicles including, for example, boats, trains, busses, and so forth.

[0033] As discussed above, assemblies for seats for aircraft or other vehicles or applications generally comprise a support structure or framework that is secured to a floor of the aircraft or other vehicle. The framework of the seat can include a plurality of leg assemblies configured to be attached to a vehicle’s floor. In some embodiments, multiple seat backs and seat pans can be coupled to the same framework to define a seat assembly having multiple, adjacent seats. The seat assembly can include a seat pan coupled to a seat back that forms the seat. A seat mount assembly can be used to secure the seat assembly to the support structure or framework while also allowing for movement of the seat pan and the seat back between an upright position and a reclined position.

[0034] Figures 2-6 illustrates one embodiment of a seat mount 200 comprising a first structure 202 having a first portion 204 and a second portion 206. The first portion 204 is configured to attach to a seat tube 240, such as shown in Figures 5A-5B and 6, for example. To attach the first portion 204 to the seat tube 240, bolts or other commercially suitable fasteners can be inserted through the apertures 205 in the first portion 204 and into the seat tube 240.

[0035] The second portion 206 of the first structure 202 is configured to be attached to an adjustment mechanism 250, such as shown in Figures 5B-5C, for example. The second portion 206 may comprise one or more apertures 207 to allow connection of the second portion 206 to the adjustment mechanism 250, such as by using one or more fasteners.

[0036] The first structure 202 may further comprise a middle portion 210 disposed between and connecting the first portion 204 with the second portion 206. Preferably, the middle portion 210 comprises a curved surface that is sized and dimensioned to match a curve of the seat tube 240, such that the curved surface can rest on the curved surface of the seat tube 240 as shown in Figure 5B.

[0037] Advantageously, the first structure 202 further comprises a first projection 208A and a second projection 208B. Preferably, the first and second projections 208A, 208B are disposed on opposing sides of the first structure 202. To eliminate the need for separate projections orAttnv Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT sliders such as shown in Figure 1, the first and second projections 208A, 208B are preferably sized and dimensioned to be inserted into first and second tracks 222, 224, respectively, of a second structure 220.

[0038] In operation, the first and second projections 208A, 208B are constrained to move within the first and second tracks 222, 224, respectively, and can generally slide in a first, forward direction and a second, rearward direction. Movement in the first direction correspondingly causes the seat pan 260 to slide forward while movement in the second direction causes the seat pan 260 to slide rearward. In some embodiments, the length of the first and second tracks 222, 224 can be selected to provide a desired maximum amount of forward movement of the seat pan 260. For example, one or both of the tracks 222, 224can have a length that permits the seat pan 260 to slide forward as desired.

[0039] As shown in Figure 2, it is preferred that the first structure 202 comprises a single, integral piece.

[0040] The first structure 202 may be configured to distribute loads between the seat tube 240 and the seat pan 260. In some embodiments, the first structure 202 may be designed with a shape and material composition that allows for efficient load transfer and distribution. The first structure 202 may comprise a rigid material, such as a metal alloy or a high-strength polymer, capable of withstanding the forces and stresses typically encountered in aircraft seating applications or other applications depending on where the seat mount 200 is installed.

[0041] Figures 3A-3B illustrate one embodiment of a second structure 220 comprising the first track 222 and a second track 224 disposed on opposing sides of the second structure 220. Preferably, the second structure 220 comprises one or more mounting points 226 such that the second structure 220 can be mounted to a seat pan 260, such as shown in Figures 5A-6. To permit mounting of the second structure 220 to the seat pan 260, the second structure 220 may comprise a flat or contoured plate with the mounting points 226 or fasteners for secure attachment to the seat pan 260. It is contemplated that the second structure 220 may be made of a durable, lightweight material such as aluminum or a high-strength composite.Attny Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT

[0042] The first and second tracks 222, 224 of the second structure 220 may be formed as integral features of the second structure 220 or may be separate components attached to the second structure 220. The tracks 222, 224 may be sized and dimensioned with a specific cross- sectional profile to securely retain and guide the first and second projections 208A, 208B of the first structure 202 within the tracks 222, 224.

[0043] It is contemplated that each of the first track 222 and the second track 224 may comprise a raised portion 228A, 228B, respectively, between opposing ends of the track, for example.

[0044] It is further contemplated that the first track 222 could have one or more notches or openings (e. ., notch 230A and notch 232A) to allow the first projection 208A to be inserted into the first track 222. Similarly, the second track 224 could also have one or more notches or openings (e.g., notch 230B and notch 232B) to allow the second projection 208B to be inserted into the second track 224. Preferably, the first and second tracks 222, 224 are configured such that the projections 208A, 208B cannot be removed from the first and second tracks 222, 224 except at one of the notches or openings 230A, 230B, 232A, 232B.

[0045] As shown in Figures 4A-4C, the first and second projections 208A, 208B are configured to move within the first and second tracks 222, 224, respectively, such that the seat pan 260 can move from a first position to a second position to allow the seat to recline or be placed in an upright position. Preferably, the first and second projections 208A, 208B are configured to slide along the first and second tracks 222, 224, respectively, to enable linear movement of the seat pan 260 relative to the seat tube 240.

[0046] It is contemplated that the first and second projections 208A, 208B may have a complementary shape to the tracks 222, 224, allowing for a secure fit while permitting smooth sliding motion. The first and second projections 208A, 208B may be made of a wear-resistant material or may have a low-friction coating to reduce wear and ensure smooth operation over time.

[0047] As shown in Figures 5A-5C, the second structure 220 is attached to a bottom surface of the seat pan 260 via one or more fasteners. An adjustment mechanism 250 can be attached to the second portion 206 of first structure 202 at a first end. The adjustment mechanism 250 may beAttny Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT positioned between the first and second projections 208A, 208B on the seat tube 240, acting as a power source for the reclining motion of the seat 258. When activated, the adjustment mechanism 250 can extend or retract, thereby pushing or pulling the seat pan 260 and causing the seat pan 260 to move. The adjustment mechanism 250 provides a smooth and controlled motion of the seat pan 260, ensuring comfort of a the passenger. The adjustment mechanism 250 also serves as a locking mechanism, holding the seat 258 in a desired reclined position until released.

[0048] A second end of the adjustment mechanism 250 can be attached to the bottom surface of the seat pan 260 via a second mount 252.

[0049] In operation, when a passenger wishes to recline the seat 258, the passenger may activate a button or lever to release the adjustment mechanism 250 and allowing it to extend. Such button or lever could be disposed on a button on an armrest of the seat assembly, for example. Because the seat back is pivotally coupled to the seat pan, a single actuator is needed to allow movement of both the seat back and the seat pan.

[0050] As the adjustment mechanism 250 extends, the adjustment mechanism 250 pushes the seat pan 260 forward. The movement of the seat pan 260 causes the seat back 262 to recline due to the pivot connections. The first and second projections 208A, 208B attached to the seat tube 240 via the first structure 202 ensure that the movement is smooth and linear.

[0051] To return the seat 258 to its upright position, the passenger may activate the button or lever again, causing the adjustment mechanism 250 to retract. This movement pulls the seat pan 260 backward, bringing the seat 258 back to its upright position.

[0052] The use of the adjustment mechanism 250 ensures that the reclining motion is smooth and controlled, preventing any sudden jerks that might discomfort the passenger or the person seated behind the seat 258. The multiple connection points distribute the load and stresses, ensuring that the seat 258 is stable and safe during all phases of its movement.

[0053] It is contemplated that the adjustment mechanism 250 may comprise various components and subsystems designed to control or limit the movement of the seat pan 260. In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism 250 may include a pneumatic device, such as a gasAttnv Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT spring or pneumatic cylinder. In such embodiments, the pneumatic device of the adjustment mechanism 250 may be configured to provide controlled resistance to movement, allowing for smooth and controlled seat adjustments. In this manner, the adjustment mechanism 250 can limit a rate of movement of the first and second projections 208A, 208B along the first and second tracks 222, 224, respectively.

[0054] The pneumatic device may be pressurized with a gas, such as nitrogen, and may include valves or other flow control elements to regulate the movement of the gas within the device.

[0055] Figures 5A and 6 illustrate an aircraft seat 258 comprising the seat pan 260 coupled to a seat back 262, such that the seat pan 260 and seat back 262 can move together from an upright position to a reclined position, and back to the upright position.

[0056] A first structure 202 can be provided comprising a first portion 204 and a second portion 206. The first portion 204 is configured to be attached to a seat tube 240 and the second portion 206 is configured to be attached to an adjustment mechanism 250, such as described above. As shown, the seat tube 240 may comprise a cylindrical rod extending at least partially across a seat row. In some implementations, the seat tube 240 may be made of a strong, lightweight material such as aluminum or titanium alloy. The seat tube 240 may be securely anchored to the aircraft floor or other structural components of the aircraft cabin such as via a support structure 264.

[0057] The first structure 202 further comprises first and second projections 208A, 208B disposed on opposing sides of the first structure, such as shown in Figure 2. Preferably, and as discussed above, the first and second projections 208A, 208B are sized and dimensioned to be inserted into first and second tracks 222, 224, respectively, of a second structure 220. The second structure 220 is attached to the seat pan 260.

[0058] Preferably, the first structure 202 and the second structure 220 comprise the only point of attachment of the seat pan 260 to the seat tube 240. The seat pan 260 can be attached to the seat 258 via seat pan rollers 270. In other embodiments, instead of seat rollers 270, it is contemplated that the seat pan 260 could be attached to the seat 258 via seat quadrants 272, with the first structure 202 and the second structure 220 being the only point of attachment of the seat pan 260 to the seat tube 240.Attnv Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT

[0059] As shown in the Figures, the first structure 202 is configured to distribute loads between the seat tube 240 and the seat pan 260.

[0060] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term "coupled to" is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously.

[0061] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0062] Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary.

[0063] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.Attnv Dkt No. 104394.0002PCT

[0064] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value with a range 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 with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0065] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0066] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C .... and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A seat mount, comprising: a first structure comprising a first portion and a second portion; wherein the first portion is configured to be attached to a seat tube; wherein the second portion is configured to be attached to an adjustment mechanism; and first and second projections disposed on opposing sides of the first structure, wherein the projections are sized and dimensioned to be inserted into first and second tracks, respectively.

2. The seat mount of claim 1, further comprising: a second structure comprising the first and second tracks; and wherein the second structure is configured to mount to a seat pan.

3. The seat mount of claim 2, wherein the first and second projections are configured to slide along the first and second tracks, respectively, such that the seat pan can move from a first position to a second position.

4. The seat mount of claim 2, wherein the first and second structures comprise the only point of attachment of the seat pan to the seat tube.

5. The seat mount of claim 2, wherein the first and second projections are configured to slide along the first and second tracks, respectively, to enable linear movement of the seat pan relative to the seat tube.

6. The seat mount of claim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism limits a rate of movement of the first and second projections along the first and second tracks, respectively.

7. The seat mount of claim 1, wherein the first structure comprises a single, integral piece.

8. The seat mount of claim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises a pneumatic device.

9. The seat mount of claim 1, wherein the first structure is configured to distribute loads between the seat tube and the seat pan.

10. The seat mount of claim 1, wherein the seat tube comprises a cylindrical rod extending at least partially across a seat row.

11. An aircraft seat, comprising: a seat pan mechanically coupled to a seat back, such that the seat pan and seat back can move together from an upright position to a reclined position; a second structure attached to the seat pan and comprising first and second tracks; a first structure comprising a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is configured to be attached to a seat tube, and wherein the second portion is configured to be attached to an adjustment mechanism; first and second projections disposed on opposing sides of the first structure, wherein the projections are sized and dimensioned to be inserted into the first and second tracks, respectively, of the second structure.

12. The aircraft seat of claim 11, wherein the first and second projections are configured to move along the first and second tracks, respectively, such that the seat can move from the upright position to the reclined position as the first and second projections move along the first and second tracks.

13. The aircraft seat of claim 11, wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises a pneumatic device.

14. The aircraft seat of claim 11, wherein the adjustment mechanism limits a rate of movement of the first and second projections along the first and second tracks, respectively.

15. The aircraft seat of claim 11, wherein the first structure comprises a single, integral piece.

16. The aircraft seat of claim 11, wherein the seat tube comprises a cylindrical rod extending at least partially across a seat row.

17. The aircraft seat of claim 11, wherein the first and second projections are configured to slide along the first and second tracks, respectively, such that the seat pan can move from a first position to a second position.

18. The aircraft seat of claim 11, wherein the first structure and the second structure comprise the only point of attachment of the seat pan to the seat tube.

19. The aircraft seat of claim 11, wherein the second structure is configured to be attached to a bottom surface of the seat pan.

20. The aircraft seat of claim 11, wherein the first structure is configured to distribute loads between the seat tube and the seat pan.

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