A seat assembly

The seat assembly addresses personalization and adaptability issues by using a patterned body portion with actuators for dynamic adjustments, improving comfort and health through user-centric control.

WO2026154491A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-07-23TVS MOTOR CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
TVS MOTOR CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-06-27
Publication Date
2026-07-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional seat assemblies lack personalization, adaptability, and advanced functionalities, leading to discomfort, fatigue, and inadequate vibration absorption, especially in dynamic environments, failing to meet individual user needs and preferences.

Method used

A seat assembly with a body portion defined by a predetermined pattern, such as Voronoi, Delaunay Triangulation, or Dirichlet Tessellation, integrated with actuators that perform functions like heating, cooling, shape change, and vibration based on user inputs, controlled by a system with input and control units.

Benefits of technology

The seat assembly provides customized support, reduces fatigue, enhances comfort, and improves posture and circulation by dynamically adapting to user contours and preferences, integrating ergonomic and electronic features.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention pertains to a member (102) for a seat assembly (100), comprising a body portion (102a). In an aspect, at least one portion of the body portion (102a) is geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern. In another aspect, the body portion (102a) is configured to operably connected with at least one actuator (700), and the body portion (102a) is configured to perform at least one predetermined function based on at least one user input (730). The member (102) is configured to improve comfort and seating experience for the user.
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Description

TITLE OF INVENTION:A SEAT ASSEMBLY TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates to a seat assembly, more particularly relates to a seat assembly for a multiple industries such as automotive industry, furniture industry and a like.BACKGROUND

[0002] Typically, a seat assembly is a critical component in various industries, serving as the primary interface between a user and a vehicle or equipment. In the context of vehicles, the seat assembly typically consists of several parts, including the base frame, cushioning materials, upholstery, mounting mechanisms, and additional elements such as springs or damping systems. Depending on the application, seats may also incorporate headrests, armrests, adjustable supports, and electronic features to enhance comfort and functionality. These assemblies are designed to provide support, distribute weight evenly, and ensure user stability, especially in dynamic environments such as vehicles.

[0003] Conventional, seat designs have evolved with the changes in material and structures for incorporating cushions and ergonomic shapes. However, these changes has primarily focused on structural integrity and basic comfort, leaving significant gaps in user adaptability and advanced functionality. It is observed that, the growing emphasis on user-centric design in various industries has highlightedthe limitations of conventional seats, particularly in adapting to individual needs and integrating smart technologies.

[0004] Despite their importance, existing seat assemblies face several challenges that limit their effectiveness and user satisfaction. A major drawback is the lack of personalization, as most seats are designed to follow a one-size-fits-all approach, failing to adapt to individual users' body shapes, postures, and preferences. This often results in discomfort, fatigue, and poor ergonomic support, especially during prolonged usage. Additionally, conventional seats lack adequate vibration and shock absorption capabilities, which are crucial for mitigating the impact of rough terrains and ensuring user comfort in vehicles such as two-wheelers and off-road vehicles. Manufacturing challenges, such as the integration of advanced features without significantly increasing weight or cost, further complicate efforts to modernize seat designs.

[0005] These challenges are particularly evident in the vehicles’ seat designs, which are predominantly static and unable to adapt to a rider’s unique body contours or posture. Prolonged exposure to road vibrations and shocks exacerbates discomfort and can lead to health issues such as back pain, numbness, and poor blood circulation. The lack of adaptability to varying rider preferences, weights, or road conditions further limits the usability and comfort of these seats. The absence of smart functionalities, such as electronically controlled cushioning or integrated massage features, underscores the gap between user needs and current seat designs, especially in the context of modern, user-centric vehicles.

[0006] Hence, there is need to solve above mentioned problems and problems which are not listed above.SUMMARY

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to a member for a seat assembly which may include a body portion. In an aspect, at least one portion of the body portion may be geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern. In an aspect, the body portion may be configured to operably connected with at least one actuator, and the body portion may be configured to perform a least one predetermined function based on at least one user input.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to the predetermined pattern which may be selected from group consisting Voronoi pattern, Delaunay Triangulation, Lloyd’s Relaxation (Centroidal Voronoi Tessellation), and Dirichlet Tessellation.

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to at least one predetermined function which may be heating and cooling of the body portion, changing shape of the body portion based on a user profile, vibration in the body portion, and changing shape of the body portion based on pressure of the user.

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to a system for operating a member for a seat assembly which may include at least one input unit which may be adapted to receive at least one user input, at least one control unit may be operably connected with the at least one input unit and at least one actuator and which may be configured to: fetch, the at least one user input from the at least one input unit; and generate, at least one output based on the at least one user input;and transmit, the at least one output to the at least one actuator for operating a body portion of the member to perform a least one predetermined function based on at least one user input, and in an aspect, at least one portion of the body portion may be geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern.

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to at least one input unit may be at least one of an instrument cluster, a user personal gadget, a switch, a safety gear.

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to a seat assembly which may include a top member, a housing member. The housing member may be adapted to detachably connect with the top member. In an aspect, the housing member may be configured to receive a member. In an aspect, the member may include a body portion. In an aspect, at least one portion of the body portion may be geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern. In another aspect, the body portion may be configured to operably connected with at least one actuator, and the body portion may be configured to perform a least one predetermined function based on at least one user input.

[0013] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to a bottom member which may be configured to support the member, and the member may be connected to at least one of the housing member, or the top member and a vehicular component.

[0014] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to the top member may be configured to accommodate at least one actuator for operating the body portionof the member to perform the least one predetermined function based on at least one user input.

[0015] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to the top member may include a cut-out to accommodate at least one of the housing member, or the member.

[0016] An embodiment of the present invention pertains to a vehicle. The vehicle may include a seat assembly which may include a top member, a housing member. The housing member may be adapted to detachably connect with the top member. In an aspect, the housing member may be configured to receive a member. In an aspect, the member may include a body portion. In an aspect, at least one portion of the body portion may be geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern. In another aspect, the body portion may be configured to operably connected with at least one actuator, and the body portion may be configured to perform a least one predetermined function based on at least one user input.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles. The detailed description of the present subject matter is described with reference to the accompanying figures. Same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference features and components. Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present embodiments are described with reference to the following figures, wherein likereference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified

[0018] Fig. 1 illustrates a top view of a seat assembly, in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Fig.2 illustrates an exploded view of a seat assembly, in accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Fig. 3 illustrates a rear perspective view of a top member of a seat assembly, in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Fig.4 illustrates a perspective view of a bottom member, in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Fig. 5 illustrates a bottom view of a seat assembly, in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Fig. 6 illustrates a front view of a member, in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Fig. 7 illustrates a block diagram of a system for operating a member of a seat assembly , in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from thespirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit is indicated by the following claims.

[0026] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to a seat assembly with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the present embodiments. The present subject matter is further described with reference to accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.

[0027] The present invention provides a member for a seat assembly. More particularly the member include a body portion. In an aspect, at least one portion of the body portion is geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern. Further, the body portion is configured to operably connected with at least one actuator and the body portion is configured to perform at least one predetermined function based on at least one user input.

[0028] The object of the present invention is to provide a seat assembly adapted to electronically controlled for multiple user inputs.

[0029] Another object of the present invention is to provide a configuration of a member of the seat assembly for performing multiple functions based on the multiple user inputs.

[0030] Yet another object of the present invention is to improve comfort of a user of the seat assembly.

[0031] Referring to Fig- 1 illustrates a top view of a seat assembly, in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] As illustrated, a seat assembly 100 is provided for a vehicle 100A. In an embodiment, the seat assembly 100 can be for a non-automotive sector such as aerospace industry, furniture industry, public transportation, healthcare industry, entertainment industry and a like. Further, the seat assembly 100 include a top member 104. In an embodiment, the top member 104 is adapted to stay in contact with a user of the vehicle 100A, more particularly the top member 104 forms a outer casing for the seat assembly 100.

[0033] As shown, an imaginary axis XX is passing through the seat assembly 100. In an aspect, the imaginary axis XX divide the seat assembly 100 into two equal parts. Further, the top member 104 of the seat assembly 100 include one or more portions 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e. In an embodiment, the one or more portions 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e include a first portion 104a, a second portion 104b, a third portion 104c, and a fourth portion 104d. The first portion 104a is a rightside portion of the top member 104, the second portion 104b is a left side portion of the top member 104, the third portion 104c is a front portion of the top member104, and the fourth portion 104d is a rear portion of the top member 104. Further, the top member 104 is adapted to accommodate a member 102.

[0034] Referring to Fig.2 in conjunction with Fig. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a seat assembly, in accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] As illustrated in Fig.2, the seat assembly 100 include the top member 104. Further, the seat assembly 100 include a housing member 202. In an embodiment, the housing member 202 is made out of a flexible material such as an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer, a polyurethane foam, a textile-based material or a composite material. Further, the housing member 202 is configured to include a receiving portion (not shown) to receive a member 102. As shown, the seat assembly 100 include a bottom member 204. The bottom member 204 is detachably connected to the at least one of the housing member 202, or the top member 104 and a vehicular component. In an embodiment, the housing member 202 and the member 102 is detachably connected to the top member 104 and the bottom member 204 via a fasteners.

[0036] Further, the top member 104 is manufactured out of a polymer and the bottom member 204 is manufactured out of material selected from a group consisting a metal, a polymer.

[0037] Further, the member 102 include a body portion 102a as shown in fig. 6, the body portion 102a of the member 102 is a total portion of the member 102a. Further, at least one portion of the body portion 102a is geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern. In an embodiment, the shape, structure and configurationis of the predetermined pattern. In yet another embodiment, the body portion 102a is configured with a predetermined pattern.

[0038] In an aspect, the predetermined pattern is selected from group consisting Voronoi pattern, Delaunay Triangulation, Lloyd’s Relaxation (Centroidal Voronoi Tessellation), and Dirichlet Tessellation. In the current embodiment, the predetermined pattern is Voronoi pattern having irregular polygonal cells.

[0039] Referring to Fig. 3 illustrates a rear perspective view of a top member of a seat assembly, in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] The top member 104 include a cut-out 302 to accommodate at least one of the housing member 202, or the member 102. The cutout 302 is at a rear end of the top member 104. In an embodiment, the cut-out 302 is provided between the first portion 104a and the second portion 104b and extending till the fourth end 104d of the top member 104. In an aspect, the top member 104 include a fifth portion 104e extending a circumferentially in a downward direction from the first portion 104a, the second portion 104b, the third portion 104c and the fourth portion 104d. In an aspect, the top member 104, when viewed from bottom forms a holding portion (not shown) to accommodate the member 102, the housing member 102, at least one actuator 720, and the bottom member 204. In an embodiment, the cut-out 302 is configured to have a predetermined shape.

[0041] In a non-limiting embodiment, the cut-out 302 has a “Y” shape, when looked from a top view of the top member 104.

[0042] In another non -limiting embodiment, the cut-out 302 has a “U” shape, when looked from a top view of the top member 104.

[0043] In a non -limiting example, the top member 104 has a tapered profile such that it narrowing shape as it transitions from rear to front.

[0044] Referring to Fig. 4 in conjunction with Fig.5 illustrates a perspective view of a bottom member and a bottom view of the seat assembly, in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] The bottom member 202 of the seat assembly 100 include a top surface 406, a rear surface 404 and a side surface 408. Further, the top surface 406 include a plurality of mounting holes 402a, 402b. The plurality of mounting holes 402a, 402b extends from top to bottom of the bottom surface 202. In an embodiment, the plurality of mounting holes 402a, 402b is capable of receiving a plurality of fasteners to connect the bottom member 202 to the top member 104. In another embodiment, the bottom member 202 is configured to function an outer casing member of the seat assembly 100.

[0046] Referring to Fig. 6 illustrates a front view of a member, in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] The member 102 include the body portion 102a operably connected to the actuator 700 and is configured to perform a least one predetermined function based on at least one user input 730. In an embodiment, the predetermined function include heating or cooling, changing shape based on a user profile, vibrating, and changing shape based on pressure of the user.

[0048] In a non-limiting example, the member 102 is manufactured out of a metal or a non-metal but not polymers or isomers.

[0049] Referring to Fig. 7 illustrates a block diagram of a system for operating a member of a seat assembly , in an accordance with embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] As illustrated, a system 700 include at least one control unit 710, at least one actuator 720, at least one input unit 730, and a member 102 of the seat assembly 100. The control unit 7110 is operability connected to the actuator 720 and the input unit 730. In an embodiment, the control unit 710 is operably connected to the member 102 of the seat assembly 100. Further, the input unit 730 is configured to receive at least one user input 740. In an embodiment, the one input unit 730 can be at least one of an instrument cluster of vehicle or cluster of a component, a user personal gadget, a switch, a safety gear. In a working example, the user of a vehicle 100A is capable of providing at least one input to the input unit 730. In another working example, the seat assembly 100 can be provided for the furniture industry and the user of a furniture is capable of providing at least one input to the input unit 730 which can be a switch attached to the furniture.

[0051] The control unit 710 is configured to receive the at least one user input 740 from the at least one input unit 730. Further, the control unit 710 is configured to generate at least one output based on the at least one user input 740. In an embodiment, the atleast one user input 740 can be a heating or cooling operation activation, a pressure modulation activation, vibrating operation activation, a haptic alert mechanism operation activation, or Shape configuration activation based on the user profile. Furthermore, the control unit 710 is configured to generate the output command to transmit it to the atleast one activator 720.

[0052] The actuator 720 is operability connected to the member 102 the seat assembly 100. In an embodiment, the actuator 720 can be a motor, a Peltier module or thermoelectric actuator, a phase change actuator, a linear valve actuator, a rotary valve actuator, solenoid, lead screw actuator. The control unit 710 is configured to control the actuator 720 for operating the body portion 102a of the member 102 to perform the predetermined function based on the at least one user input 730.

[0053] In a working example, the seat assembly 100 include a thermoelectric actuator present in the vicinity of the member 102a or inside the top portion 104 of the seat assembly 100. When the user of the seat assembly 100 wants to warm the seat assembly 100, the input unit 730 receives the command and the control unit 710 is configured to activate the thermoelectric actuator, and the thermoelectric actuator is configured to transfer the energy to the member 102.

[0054] In another example, the member 102 is made of Voronoi pattern is configured to squeeze to maintain the even pressure in the seat assembly 100.

[0055] The present invention provides the technical advancement over the prior art such as Voronoi -patterned member: The seat assembly features a three-dimensional Voronoi pattern, which uniquely adapts to the user's body contours, providing customized support and pressure relief. This design improves comfort and reduces fatigue, unlike traditional, uniform foam seats. Dynamic adjustability: Integrated electronic actuators, such as massagers, allow the user to adjust the cushioning in real-time, offering a dynamic and personalized seating experience based on individual preferences and riding conditions. Integration of ergonomics and electronics: The combination of a contour-adaptive member withelectronically controlled adjustments enhance comfort, improve posture, and blood circulation during long rides. Enhanced comfort and health benefits: The design not only improves comfort but also promotes better posture, circulation, and overall health, addressing common issues like numbness or stiffness during extended use.

[0056] The terms “an embodiment”, “embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the embodiment”, “the embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments”, and “one embodiment” mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the invention(s)” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including”, “comprising”, “having” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to”, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0057] Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter and is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based here on. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present invention are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention, which is set forth in the following claims.

[0058] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope as indicated by the following claims.

[0059] A person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the system and the method have been illustrated and explained to serve as examples and should not be considered limiting in any manner. It will be further appreciated that the variants of the above disclosed system elements, modules, and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined to create other different systems or applications.

[0060] In light of the above-mentioned advantages and the technical advancements provided by the disclosed method and system, the claimed steps as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art or of common general knowledge, as the claimed steps enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Further, the claimed steps clearly bring an improvement in the functioning of the product itself as the claimed steps provide a technical solution to a technical problem.REFERENCE NUMERALS 100-seat assembly102-member104-top member104a-first portion104b-second portion104c-third portion104d-fourth portion104e-fifth portion202-housing member204-bottom member302-cut-out402a, 402b-mouinting holes404-rear surface406-top surface408-side surfacelOOA-vehicle700-system710-control unit720-actuator730-input unit740-user input

Claims

We claim:

1. A member (102) for a seat assembly (100), comprising:a body portion (102a); wherein at least one portion of the body portion (102a) being geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern, wherein the body portion (102a) being configured to operably connected with at least one actuator (700), and the body portion (102a) being configured to perform at least one predetermined function based on at least one user input (730).

2. The member (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predetermined pattern being selected from group consisting Voronoi pattern, Delaunay Triangulation, Lloyd’s Relaxation (Centroidal Voronoi Tessellation), and Dirichlet Tessellation.

3. The member (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one predetermined function comprises heating or cooling, changing shape of based on a user profile, vibrating, and changing shape based on pressure of the user.

4. A system (700) for operating a member (102) for a seat assembly (100), comprising:at least one input unit (730), the at least one input unit (730) being adapted to receive at least one user input (740);at least one control unit (710), the at least one control unit (710) being operably connected with the at least one input unit (730) and at least one actuator (720), and being configured to:fetch, the at least one user input (740) from the at least one input unit (730); andgenerate, at least one output based on the at least one user input (740);transmit, the at least one output to the at least one actuator (720) for operating a body portion (102a) of the member (102) to perform a least one predetermined function based on at least one user input (730), and wherein at least one portion of the body portion (102a) being geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern.

5. The system (700) as claimed in claim 4, wherein at least one input unit (730) being at least one of an instrument cluster, a user personal gadget, a switch, a safety gear.

6. A seat assembly (100), comprising:a top member (104);a housing member (202), the housing member (202) being adapted to detachably connect with the top member (104), wherein the housing member (202) being configured to receive a member (102),the member (102) comprising: a body portion (102a); wherein at least one portion of the body portion (102a) being geometrically defined by a predetermined pattern, wherein the body portion (102a) being configured to operably connected with at least one actuator (700), and the body portion (102a) being configured to perform a least one predetermined function based on at least one user input (730).

7. The seat assembly (100) as claimed in claim 6, comprising a bottom member (204) being configured to support the member (102), and the member (102) being connected to at least one of the housing member (202), or the top member (104).

8. The seat assembly (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the top member (104) being configured to accommodate at least one actuator (720) for operating the body portion (102a) of the member (102) to perform the least one predetermined function based on at least one user input (730).

9. The seat assembly (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the top member (104) comprises at least one cut-out (302) to accommodate at least one of the housing member (202), or the member (102).

10. A vehicle (100A) comprising:a seat assembly (100), the seat assembly (100) comprising:a top member (104);a housing member (202), the housing member (202) being adapted to detachably connect with the top member (104), wherein the housing member (202) being configured to receive a member (102).