Harness booster seat

Abstract

A child seat assembly includes a seat shell having a seat bottom and a seat back and a harness assembly. The seat back includes a support surface, a first sidewall, and a second sidewall. The first sidewall and the second sidewall extending forward of the support surface. At least one recess is arranged at the seat shell proximate at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall and at least a portion of the harness assembly is positionable within the at least one recess when not in use.

Description

HARNESS BOOSTER SEATCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONSThis application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63 / 705,287, filed on October 9, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 711,185, filed on October 24, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 733,231, filed on December 12, 2024; U.S. Application No. 63 / 755,670, filed February 7, 2025; and U.S. Application No. 63 / 879,352, filed September 10, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its 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 chi i d car seats having multiple use configurations.BACKGROUND

[0002] Some child car seats currently available on the market have multiple use configurations that allow for the seats to continue to be used as a child grows. For example, some child car seats can be selectively used in any one or more of: (1 ) a rear facing, reclined confi uration for infants, (2) a forward facing, reclined configuration for toddlers, (3) a forward facing, high-back booster configuration for children weighing between, e.g., 40 pounds and 100 pounds, and (4) a forward facing, backless booster confi uration for children weighing between, e.g., 50 pounds and 120 pounds.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0003] According to an embodiment, a child seat assembly includes a seat shell having a seat bottom and a seat back and a harness assembly. The seat back includes a support surface, a first sidewall, and a second sidewall. The first sidewall and the second sidewall extending forward of the support surface. At least one recess is arranged at the seat shell proximate at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall and at least a portion of the harness assembly is positionable within the at least one recess when not in use.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one recess is arranged at the at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall proximate the seat bottom.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one recess is formed in the at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one recess is formed at the support surface.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one recess is always open.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat assembly is a high back booster.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat shell is usable in a first booster seat configuration and a second booster seat configuration. The seat shell includes the seat bottom and the seat back coupled to the seat bottom in the first booster seat configuration, and the seat shell includes only the seat bottom in the second booster seat configuration.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments soft goods are positionable in overlapping arrangement with the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the soft goods include a pocket for storing the harness assembly.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the pocket is aligned with the at least one recess.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the pocket is positioned directly adjacent to the at least one recess.

[0014] According to an embodiment, a child seat assembly includes a seat shell and a harness assembly. Thes seat shell includes a seat bottom and a seat back. The seat back includes a support surface, a first sidewall, and a second sidewall. The first sidewall and the second sidewall extending forward of the support surface. Soft goods covers the seat shell. At least one pocket is arranged at the soft goods proximate at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall and a portion of the harness assembly is positionable within the at least one pocket when not in use.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one pocket is positionable proximate a bottom of at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one pocket includes an elasticized hem.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least one recess is arranged at the seat shell proximate at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The harness assembly is positionable within the at least one recess when not in use.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one recess is arranged at at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall proximate the seat bottom.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one recess is formed in at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one pocket is aligned with the at least one recess.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one pocket is positioned directly adjacent to the at least one recess.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the child seat assembly is a high back booster.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat shell is usable in a first booster seat configuration and a second booster seat configuration. The seat shell includes the seat bottom and the seat back coupled to the seat bottom in the first booster seat configuration and the seat shell including only the seat bottom in the second booster seat configuration.

[0024] According to an embodiment, a booster seat assembly includes a seat pan, a seat back, a headrest movable relative to the seat back between a raised position and a lowered position, and a harness assembly. A rigid frame member extends along the lateral sides of the seat back.

[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the rigid frame member comprises a first stiffener bar arranged at a first lateral side of the seat back and a second stiffener bar arranged at a second lateral side of the seat back. The first stiffener bar is separate from the second stiffener bar.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the rigid frame member is a U-shaped member having a first armarranged at a first lateral side of the seat back and a second arm arranged at a second lateral side of the seat back.

[0027] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the U-shaped member includes a cross-piece and the cross-piece is arranged near a bottom of the seat back.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a cutout is formed at an upper portion of the seat back.

[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the cutout is aligned with the headrest to provide access to a headrest adjustment mechanism arranged at the headrest when the headrest is in the lowered position.

[0030] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a stiffener rib is arranged at a seat bottom.

[0031] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the stiffener rib extends between a front and a rear of the seat bottom.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0033] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a child seat system according to an embodiment;

[0034] FIG. IB is a side view of the child seat system of FIG. 1A positioned on a vehicle seat according to an embodiment;

[0035] FIG. 1C is a front view of the child seat system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment;

[0036] FIG. ID is a rear view of the child seat system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment;

[0037] FIG. IE is a plan view of the child seat system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment;

[0038] FIG. IF is a perspective bottom view of the child seat system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment;

[0039] FIG. 2A is a front view of a child seat system of FIG. 1A according to another embodiment;

[0040] FIG. 2B is a rear view of the child seat system of FIG. 2A according to an embodiment;

[0041] FIG. 3 is a front view of a child seat system according to another embodiment;

[0042] FIG. 4A is a rear perspective view of the child seat system of FIG. 3 with the headrest in a lowered position according to an embodiment;

[0043] FIG. 4B is a rear perspective view of the child seat system of FIG. 3 with the headrest in a raised position according to an embodiment;

[0044] FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of a seat back of the child seat system of FIG. 3 with the soft goods partially removed according to an embodiment;

[0045] FIG. 5B is a detailed view of the upright side member of the seat back of FIG. 5A according to an embodiment;

[0046] FIG. 5C is a front perspective view of a seat back of the child seat system of FIG. 5 A having a portion of a harness assembly stored within a recess formed at the seat back according to an embodiment;

[0047] FIG. 6A is a front perspective view of a seat back of the child seat system of FIG. 3 with the soft goods partially removed according to an embodiment;

[0048] FIG. 6B is a detailed view of the upright side member and the soft goods of the seat back of FIG. 6A according to an embodiment;

[0049] FIG. 6C is a detailed view of the soft goods of the child seat system of FIG. 6A having a portion of a harness assembly stored within a pocket formed at the seat back according to an embodiment;

[0050] FIG. 6D is a side view of the child seat system of FIG. 6C having a portion of a harness assembly stored within a pocket formed at the seat back according to an embodiment;

[0051] FIG. 7 is a side view of a child seat system according to another embodiment; and

[0052] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the upright side member of FIG. 7 taken along line 8-8 according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] 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.

[0054] With reference now to FIGS. 1A-1F, an example of a child seat system 20 is illustrated. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the child seat system 20 includes a child seat 22 that can be detachably fixed to a vehicle seat (see FIG. IB), such as via a latch or anchor mechanism, not shown in the FIGS. This latch or anchor system often used is sometimesreferred to as a “lower anchor and tether for children” e.g., LATCH system. Alternatively, or in addition, the child seat 22 may be detachably fixed to a vehicle seat 10 via a vehicle belt associated with the vehicle seat 10. The child seat 22 as illustrated and described herein is positionable in direct contact with a surface of the vehicle seat, such as in contact with a horizontal seat surface 11 for example. However, it should be understood that embodiments where the child seat 22 is connectable to a support base (not shown) and the child seat 22 is mountable to the vehicle seat 10 via the support base are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0055] The child seat 22 includes a seat shell 23 having a seat back 24 and a seat pan or seat bottom 26 arranged at an angle relative to the seat back 24. The seat bottom 26 may but need not be configured to removably couple to the seat back 24. In an embodiment, the child seat assembly is a booster seat assembly and the child seat 22 is a booster seat. Accordingly, one or more of the seat back 24 and the seat bottom 26 may be configured as a booster portion that is separable from the remainder of the child seat 22. In an embodiment, the child seat is transformable between a plurality of booster configurations. The seat back 24 and the seat bottom 26, in combination, may form a first booster seat configuration, such as a high back booster for example, and the seat bottom 26, with the seat back 24 separated therefrom, may form a second booster seat configuration, such as a low booster for example.

[0056] In the illustrated, nondimiting embodiments, the seat back 24 includes a seat back having an upright support surface 30 generally facing forward and that extends from a first end or top 32 of the seat back 24 to a second, opposite end or bottom 34 of the seat back 24. A first upright side member 36 may be arranged at a first side 38 of the upright support surface 30 and a second upright side member 40 may be arranged at a second, opposite side 42 of the upright support surface 30. The first and second upright side members 36, 40 therefore form the left side and the right side of the seat back 24, respectively. As shown, the first and second upright side members 36, 40 extend forward from the upright support surface 30. The first and second upright side members 36, 40 may extend generally orthogonally to the upright support surface 30 or alternatively, may extend therefrom at another angle, such as an angle greater than 90° for example. Accordingly, the upright support surface 30 and the first and second upright side members 36, 40 define a backrest region or upright support cavity within which an upper body of a child is receivable.

[0057] The upright side members 36, 40 may facilitate the correct positioning of a vehicle belt during one or more modes of operation when the child seat 22 is installed within a vehicle. In some embodiments, each upright side member 36, 40 has an opening formed 44a, 44b therein. The openings 44a, 44b may be configured to receive a vehicle belt (not shown) tosecure the child seat 22 to a vehicle seat 10 in a forward-facing configuration or to secure an upper body of a child located within the cavity.

[0058] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiments, the seat back 24 of the child seat 22 includes a headrest 46. The headrest 46 may be attached to or integral with the seat back 24 or may be removably coupled thereto. The headrest 46 may be stationary, or in some embodiments, may be configured to move relative to the upright support surface 30. For example, the headrest 46 may be configured to translate relative to the upright support surface 30 between a lowered position and a raised position, allowing for adjustment based on the size of the child positioned within the child seat 22. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the seat back 24 does not include a headrest 46 are also contemplated herein.

[0059] The seat bottom 26 of the child seat 22 may include a seat support surface 50 facing generally upwardly and that extends from a first end or front 52 to a second end or back 54 of the seat bottom 26. A first seat side member 56 may be arranged at a first side 58 of the seat support surface 50 and a second seat side member 60 may be arranged at a second, opposite side 62 of the seat support surface 50. The first seat side member 56 and the second seat side member 60 extend upwardly and from the left side and the right side of the seat bottom 26. The seat support surface 50 and the first and second seat side members 56, 60 in combination define a region within which at least part of a lower body of a child may be received.

[0060] As shown, the seat side members 56, 60 extend at an angle from the seat support surface 50. The angle of the first seat side member 56 relative to the seat support surface 50 may but need not be the same as the angle of the first upright side member 36 relative to the upright support surface 30. Similarly, the angle of the second seat side member 60 relative to the seat support surface 50 may but need not be the same as the angle of the second upright side member 40 relative to the upright support surface 30.

[0061] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, each seat side member 56, 60 has a respective slot 66a, 66b formed therein configured to function as a belt guide for the lap portion of a vehicle belt and in some embodiments the shoulder portion of a vehicle belt, during at least one mode of use of the child seat 22. In some modes of operation of the child seat 22, the slots 66a, 66b may be configured to receive and position a lap belt portion of a vehicle restraint or a separate restraint belt to secure a child within the child seat 22. It should be appreciated that the child seat 22 illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1F is a seat shell and soft goods (not shown) are positionable in overlapping arrangement with one or more portions of the seat shell, such asthe upright support surface 30, a portion of the first and second upright side members 36, 40, the seat support surface 50, and a portion of the first and second seat side members 56, 60.

[0062] With reference to FIG. IF, a cavity 70 may be formed at an underside 68 of the seat bottom 28, such as the surface positionable in contact with the horizontal seat surface 11 of the vehicle seat 10. As shown, the cavity 70 may be formed at a substantial portion of the bottom surface 68, such that only a peripheral region of the bottom surface 68 is positionable in contact with a vehicle seat 10. To increase the strength and rigidity of the seat bottom 26, one or more stiffener ribs 72a, 72b may be installed within the cavity 70. For example, stiffener ribs 72a, 72b may extend between two opposing ends of the cavity 70 to increase the stiffness of the seat bottom 26. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a first stiffener rib 72a and a second stiffener rib 72b are arranged within the cavity 70. However, embodiments having a single stiffener rib or more than two stiffener ribs are also within the scope of the disclosure. The first and second stiffener ribs 72a, 72b may be formed from any suitable material, such as metal, plastic, or composite for example. As shown, the first and second stiffener ribs 72a, 72b may be substantially identical and are oriented substantially parallel to one another. In the illustrated embodiment, the stiffener ribs 72a, 72b extend between the front end and the back end of the seat bottom 26; however, embodiments of a child seat 22 including one or more support members having another orientation, such as extending between the left and right sides of the seat bottom across a central axis Cl extending between the front end and the back end of the seat bottom for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0063] The first and second stiffener ribs 72a, 72b are shown arranged near a center of the seat bottom 26. As shown, the first and second stiffener ribs 72a, 72b may be laterally spaced from one another. In an embodiment, the first stiffener rib 72a is arranged at a first side of the central axis Cl, such as between the central axis Cl and the first seat side member 56 and the second stiffener rib 72b is arranged at a second, opposite side of the central axis Cl, such as between the central axis Cl and the second support side member 60. The first and second stiffener ribs 72a, 72b may but need not be equidistantly spaced from the central axis Cl. In other embodiments, the first and second stiffener ribs 72a, 72b may be arranged at a same side of the central axis Cl. Alternatively, or in addition, in other embodiments, the first and second stiffener ribs 72a, 72b may be positioned directly adjacent to one another with minimal spacing therebetween.

[0064] With continued reference to FIGS. 1A-1F, and further reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, in an embodiment, the seat back 24 of the child seat 22 includes one or more structural or rigid frame elements, such as a stiffener bar for example, intended to increase the strengthand rigidity of the seat back 24. The one or more rigid frame elements 74a, 74b may be formed from any suitable material, including but not limited to metal, plastic, and composite for example. The rigid frame elements 74a, 74b may combine to be part or all of a rigid frame member. In an embodiment, a first stiffener bar 74a is arranged within the seat back 24, such as proximate the first lateral side 38 of the upright support surface 30. Alternatively, or in addition, a second stiffener bar 74b may be arranged within the seat back 24 proximate the second lateral side 42 of the upright support surface 30. The first and second stiffener bars 74a, 74b may be separate elements. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2A, the first and second stiffener bars 74a, 74b are integrally formed as a single U-shaped member (e.g. a support member) arranged within the seat back 24. The first and second stiffener bars 74a, 74b may form a parallel first arm and second arm of the U-shaped rigid frame member and may be connected via a cross-piece 76 extending laterally between the first and second sides 38, 42 of the upright support surface 30. The cross-piece 76 of the U-shaped frame member may be positioned proximate the second end 34 of the seat back 24, or may be arranged at another suitable location relative to the upright support surface 30. Although the first and second stiffener bars 74a, 74b are illustrated and described herein as being integrally formed with the cross-piece 76, it should be understood that embodiments including a first stiffener bar 74a and / or second stiffener bar 74b separate from the cross-piece 76 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0065] With reference now to FIGS. 3-4B, another example of a child seat system 120 having a child seat 122 is illustrated. Similar to the child seat 22 illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1F, the child seat 122 includes a seat back 124 and a seat bottom 126, the seat back 124 being permanently connected or removably connected to the seat bottom 126. The illustrated child seat 122 has soft goods positioned in overlapping arrangement with a structural seat shell 123.

[0066] The seat back 124 of the child seat 122 includes an upright support surface 130 generally facing forward and extending from a first end or top 132 of the seat back 124 to a second, opposite end or bottom 134 of the seat back 124. A first upright side member 136 and a second upright side member 140 may be arranged opposite sides of the upright support surface 130. The first and second upright side members 136, 140 extend forward at an angle from the upright support surface 130 such that upright support surface 130 and the first and second upright side members 136, 140 define a backrest region or upright support cavity within which an upper body of a child is receivable.

[0067] The seat back 124 may include a headrest 146, permanently affixed or removably coupled thereto. The headrest 146 may be stationary, or in some embodiments, maybe configured to move relative to the upright support surface 130. For example, the headrest 146 may be configured to translate relative to the upright support surface 130 between a retracted position (FIGS. 3 and 4 A) and an extended position (FIG. 4B), allowing for adjustment based on the size of the child positioned within the child seat 122. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the seat back 124 does not include a headrest 146 are also contemplated herein.

[0068] The seat bottom 126 of the child seat 122 may include a seat support surface 150 facing generally upwardly and that extends from a first end or front 152 to a second end or back 154 of the seat bottom 126. A first seat side member 156 and a second seat side member 160 may be arranged at opposite sides of the seat support surface 150. The first seat side member 156 and the second seat side member 160 extend upwardly and from the left side and the right side of the seat bottom 26. The seat support surface 150 and the first and second seat side members 156, 160 in combination define a region within which at least part of a lower body of a child may be received.

[0069] In an embodiment, the child seat system 120 additionally includes a harness assembly 162 arranged at the child seat 122 to limit movement of a child relative to the child seat 22, such as during a crash event for example. The harness assembly 162 includes a crotch strap (not shown), at least one shoulder strap 166a, 166b, and / or at least one waist strap 168a, 168b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the harness assembly 162 is a five-point harness including a crotch strap, a first shoulder strap 166a, a second shoulder strap 166b, a first waist strap 168a and a second waist strap 168b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first shoulder strap 166a and the first waist strap 168a are integrally formed via a first piece of webbing and the second shoulder strap 166b and the second waist strap 168b are integrally formed via a second piece of webbing. In such embodiments, opposing ends of each piece of webbing are mounted to the child seat 122, such as at an interior or a backside of the child seat 122.

[0070] A buckle 164 may be arranged at a distal end of the crotch strap (not shown) and the shoulder straps 166a, 166b and waist straps 168a, 168b may be connected to one another and to the crotch strap via the buckle 164. In an embodiment, a first connector 172a engageable with the buckle 164 is arranged at the first piece of webbing and a second connector 172b engageable with the buckle 164 is arranged at the second piece of webbing. In such embodiments, the upper portion of each piece of webbing extending from a connector 172a, 172b may be considered the shoulder strap 166a, 166b, and the lower portion of each piece of webbing may be considered the waist strap 168a, 168b. In some embodiments, the first andsecond shoulder strap 166a, 166b may be connectable to one another at a location remote from the connector 172a, 172b. For example, a first buckle portion 174a may be arranged at one of the first shoulder strap 166a and the second shoulder strap 166b, and a second buckle portion 174b removably couplable to the first buckle portion 174a is arranged at the other of the first shoulder strap 166a and the second shoulder strap 166b. Although not shown, it should be appreciated that the child seat system 20 illustrated in FIGS. 1 A-2B, may have a similar harness assembly 162 as described with respect to the child seat 122.

[0071] With further reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, a notch or cutout 180 may be formed at the top 132 of the seat back 124 of the child seat 122. As shown, the cutout 180 may extend over the entire thickness or depth of the seat shell 123 at the seat back 124, between the upright support surface 130 and a rear surface 131 thereof. However, in other embodiments, the cutout 180 may extend over only a portion of the depth of the seat back 124. For example, the cutout 180 may not be formed at the upright support surface 130. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the cutout 180 is centered relative to the seat back 124, and has a concave curvature. Alternatively, or in addition, the cutout 180 may be centered relative to the headrest 146 and / or the headrest 146 may be centered relative to the seat back 124. In other embodiments, the cutout 180 may be located at another position about the top 132 of the seat back 124 and / or may have a different shape or contour.

[0072] Although not shown, it should be understood that the headrest 146 includes a headrest adjustment mechanism operable to define a path of movement of the headrest 146 and to lock the headrest 146 at a plurality of positions relative to the child seat 122. An actuator 182 is operably coupled to the headrest adjustment mechanism to selectively transition the headrest adjustment mechanism from a locked position to an unlocked position, thereby allowing movement of the headrest 146 relative to the child seat 122. In an embodiment, the actuator 182 operable to unlock the headrest adjustment mechanism of the headrest 146 is arranged at a back surface 148 of the headrest 146. When the headrest 146 is in an extended position, as shown in FIG. 4B, the headrest 146 is raised relative to the seat back 124, making the actuator 182 easy to access. However, when the headrest 146 is in the retracted position, as shown in FIG. 4 A, or at a position in which the headrest 146 overlaps a portion of the upright support surface 130, accessing to the actuator 182 may be hindered by the seat back 124. Accordingly, inclusion of the cutout 180 at an upper surface 132 of the seat back 124 and at a position aligned with the actuator 182 associated with the headrest adjustment mechanism provides easier access to the actuator 182 when the headrest 146 is lowered relative to the child seat 122.

[0073] With continued reference to FIGS. 3-4B and further reference to FIGS. 5A-7, the child seat 122 may include a seat shell 123 forming the structure of the seat back 124 and the seat bottom 126. Soft goods 200 are positionable in overlapping arrangement with a portion of the seat shell 123, such as the seat back 124 for example. A center of the soft goods 200 may be in overlapping arrangement with the upright support surface 130. A first side portion 202a of the soft goods 200 may overlap an inward facing surface 137, 141 of the first upright side member 136 and a second side portion 202b of the soft goods 200 may overlap an inward facing surface (not shown) of the second upright side member 140. The side portions 202a, 202b of the soft goods 200 may wrap about a distal end 139, 143 of the upright side members 136, 140 to connect the soft goods 200 to the seat back 124.

[0074] It may be desirable to use the child seat 122 without the harness assembly 162, such as when a vehicle seat belt is used to restrain an occupant thereof. Accordingly, the harness assembly 162 may be stowable relative to the child seat 122. The child seat 122 may include at least one pocket or recess for storing a portion of the harness assembly 162, such as the shoulder straps 166a, 166b for example. With reference to FIGS. 5A-5C, at least one recess or cavity for storing a portion of the harness assembly 162 may be arranged at the seat shell 123, such as at the seat back 124 for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a recess 210a, 210b may be formed at each upright side member 136, 140, respectively. As shown, a first recess 210a (FIG. 6 A) may be formed at the inward facing surface 137 of the first upright side member 136, or at a portion of the upright support surface 130 near the first upright side member 136 and a second recess 210b may be formed at the second upright side member 140 of the seat back 124, such as near the bottom end 134 of the upright support surface 130 or near the seat bottom 126 for example. However, embodiments where the first recess 210a or the second recess 210b is formed in the upright support surface 130 of the seat back 124, such as near the first or second upright side member 136, 140, are also within the scope of the disclosure. Each recess 210a, 210b may be sized to receive a connector 172a, 172b associated with a shoulder strap 166a, 166b, and in some embodiments, a portion of a length of a respective shoulder strap 166a, 166b. The recess 210a, 210b may be continuously open, as shown. However, embodiments where a door or cover is movable to selectively seal a recess 210a, 210b are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0075] With continued reference to FIGS. 5A-5C, to stow the second shoulder strap 166b and / or the second connector 172b within the recess 210b, the second side portion 202b of the soft goods 200 is removed from the second upright side member 140 and the second shoulder strap 166b is wrapped or slid to a position adjacent to the backside 204b of the secondside portion 202b. In this storage position, the second shoulder strap 166b is positioned between the backside 204b and the corresponding surface 141 of the second upright side member 140. The second connector 172b, and in some embodiments, a portion of the length of the shoulder strap 166b is positionable within the interior of the recess 210b. With the connector 172b of the shoulder strap 166b installed within the recess 210b (see FIG. 5C), the second side portion 202b of the soft goods 200 may be reattached to the second upright side member 140. The first shoulder strap 166a and first connector 172a may be similarly stowed within the recess 210a formed at the first upright side member 136.

[0076] Alternatively, or in addition to the recess 210a, 210b formed in the seat shell of the seat back 124, a pocket for receiving a portion of the harness assembly 162 may be formed at the soft goods 200. With reference to FIGS.6A-6D, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a hollow pocket 212 is formed at the back side 204a of the first side portion 202a positionable proximate the first upright side member 136. The pocket 212 may be positioned near a bottom of the first upright side member 136 and may but need not include an elasticized hem at the upper end 214 thereof. Although not shown, it should be appreciated that another, substantially identical pocket may be formed at the backside 204b of the second side portion 202b of the soft goods 200.

[0077] To stow the shoulder strap 166a and the first connector 172a attached to the shoulder strap 166a within the pocket 212, the shoulder strap 166a is wrapped about the backside 204a of the first side portion 202a. The first connector 172a, and in some embodiments, a portion of the shoulder strap 166a is positionable within the interior of the pocket 212. With the first connector 172a of the shoulder strap 166a installed within the pocket 212, the first side portion 202a of the soft goods 200 may be reattached to the first upright side member 136. The second shoulder strap 166b and second connector 172b may be similarly stowed within a pocket formed at the backside of the second side portion 202b of the soft goods 200. In such embodiments, a corresponding first recess 210a may be formed at the inward facing surface 137 of the upright side member 136, and a corresponding second recess 210b may be formed at the inward facing surface 141 of the second upright side member 140. When the first side portion 202a of the soft goods 200 is installed about the first upright side member 136, the pocket 212 is aligned with, and in some embodiment is receivable within the first recess 210a. Similarly, when the second side portion 202b of the soft goods 200 is installed about the second upright side member 140, the pocket (not shown) is aligned with, and in some embodiments is receivable within the second recess 210b.

[0078] With continued reference to FIGS. 5A-6D, and further reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, in an embodiment, an opening 144a, 144b may be formed in the seat shell 123 at the first upright side member 136 and the second upright side member 140. The openings 144a, 144b may be through holes configured to receive a vehicle belt (not shown) to secure the child seat 122 to a vehicle seat in a forward-facing configuration or to secure an upper body of a child located within the cavity. With continued reference to FIG. 7, a side view of an upright side member of the child seat 122, such as the first upright side member 136 is illustrated in more detail. As shown, the opening 144a extends between the inward facing surface 137 of the first upright side member 136 and an exterior surface 220 of the first upright side member 136. In an embodiment, a cross-sectional area of the opening 144a (see FIG. 8) is not uniform over the thickness of the seat shell 123. Accordingly, a configuration of the opening 144a at the inward facing surface 137 of the first upright side member 136 may be different than the configuration of the opening 144a at an exterior 220 surface of the first upright side member 136.

[0079] An axis T1 of the first upright side member 136 extends perpendicularly from the exterior surface 220, toward the inward facing surface 137. At least one sidewall extends between the exterior surface 220 and the inward facing surface 137 to define a periphery of the opening 144a. As shown, the one or more sidewalls may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the exterior surface 220, the inward facing surface 137, and / or the axis T1 such that a cross-sectional area of the opening 144a varies over the axis Tl. In the illustrated, nonlimiting embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a first sidewall 222 is arranged at a first angle 01 relative to the axis Tl, and a second sidewall 224 is arranged at a second angle 92 relative to the axis Tl. The first sidewall 222 and the second sidewall 224 may extend in opposite directions relative to the axis Tl. As shown, a distance DI between the sidewalls 222, 224 proximate or at the inward facing surface 137 of the first upright side member 136 is less than the distance D2 between the sidewalls 222, 224 at the exterior surface 220. However, it should be understood that embodiments where the opening 144a has another configuration, such as where the opening 144a has a greater cross-sectional area at the inward facing surface 137 than the exterior surface 220 for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure. Although the opening 144a at the first upright side member 136 is illustrated and described, it should be appreciated that the opening 144b arranged at the second upright side member 140 may have a similar configuration.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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 seat assembly comprising: a seat shell including a seat bottom and a seat back, the seat back includes a support surface, a first sidewall, and a second sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall extending forward of the support surface; a harness assembly; and at least one recess arranged at the seat shell proximate at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall, at least a portion of the harness assembly being positionable within the at least one recess when not in use.

2. The child seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one recess is arranged at the at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall proximate the seat bottom.

3. The child seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one recess is formed in the at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

4. The child seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one recess is formed at the support surface.

5. The child seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one recess is always open.

6. The child seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the child seat assembly is a high back booster.

7. The child seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the seat shell is usable in a first booster seat configuration and a second booster seat configuration, the seat shell including the seat bottom and the seat back coupled to the seat bottom in the first booster seat configuration, and the seat shell including only the seat bottom in the second booster seat configuration.

8. The child seat assembly of claim 1, further comprising soft goods positionable in overlapping arrangement with the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

9. The child seat assembly of claim 8, wherein the soft goods includes a pocket for storing the harness assembly.

10. The child seat assembly of claim 9, wherein the pocket is aligned with the at least one recess.

11. The child seat assembly of claim 9, wherein the pocket is positioned directly adjacent to the at least one recess.

12. A child seat assembly comprising:a seat shell including a seat bottom and a seat back, the seat back includes a support surface, a first sidewall, and a second sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall extending forward of the support surface; soft goods covering the seat shell; a harness assembly; and at least one pocket arranged at the soft goods proximate at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall, wherein a portion of the harness assembly is positionable within the at least one pocket when not in use.

13. The child seat assembly of claim 12, wherein the at least one pocket is positionable proximate a bottom of at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

14. The child seat assembly of claim 12, wherein the at least one pocket includes an elasticized hem.

15. The child seat assembly of claim 12, further comprising at least one recess arranged at the seat shell proximate at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the harness assembly being positionable within the at least one recess when not in use.

16. The child seat assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one recess is arranged at at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall proximate the seat bottom.

17. The child seat assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one recess is formed in at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

18. The child seat assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one pocket is aligned with the at least one recess.

19. The child seat assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one pocket is positioned directly adjacent to the at least one recess.

20. The child seat assembly of claim 12, wherein the child seat assembly is a high back booster.

21. The child seat assembly of claim 12, wherein the seat shell is usable in a first booster seat configuration and a second booster seat configuration, the seat shell including the seat bottom and the seat back coupled to the seat bottom in the first booster seat configuration, and the seat shell including only the seat bottom in the second booster seat configuration.

22. A booster seat assembly, comprising: a seat pan; a seat back; a headrest movable relative to the seat back between a raised position and a lowered position;a harness assembly; and a rigid frame member extending along lateral sides of the seat back.

23. The booster seat assembly of claim 22, wherein the rigid frame member comprises a first stiffener bar arranged at a first lateral side of the seat back and a second stiffener bar arranged at a second lateral side of the seat back, the first stiffener bar being separate from the second stiffener bar.

24. The booster seat assembly of claim 22, wherein the rigid frame member is a U-shaped member having a first arm arranged at a first lateral side of the seat back and a second arm arranged at a second lateral side of the seat back.

25. The booster seat assembly of claim 24, wherein the U-shaped member includes a cross-piece, the cross-piece being arranged near a bottom of the seat back.

26. The booster seat assembly of claim 22, further comprising a cutout formed at an upper portion of the seat back.

27. The booster seat assembly of claim 26, wherein the cutout is aligned with the headrest to provide access to a headrest adjustment mechanism arranged at the headrest when the headrest is in the lowered position.

28. The booster seat assembly of claim 22, further comprising a stiffener rib arranged at a seat bottom.

29. The booster seat assembly of claim 28, wherein the stiffener rib extends between a front and a rear of the seat bottom.

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