Movable base for child car seat

Abstract

A child seat system for use in a vehicle includes a support base mountable to a vehicle seat of the vehicle. The support base includes a first mid-base movable relative to the support base and a second mid-base adjustable relative to the first mid-base between a plurality of recline positions. A child seat is removably connectable to the second mid-base. Transformation of the second mid-base between the plurality of recline positions relative to the first mid-base is independent of a position of the first mid-base relative to the support base.

Description

MOVABLE BASE FOR CHILD CAR SEATCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONSThis application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63 / 772,946, filed on March 17, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 782,939, filed on April 3, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 786,617, filed on April 10, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 824,574, filed on June 16, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 855,066, filed on July 31, 2025, U.S. Application No.63 / 861,614, filed on August 11, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 912,900, filed on November 6, 2025, U.S. Application No. 63 / 979,718, filed on February 10, 2026, and U.S. Application No. 63 / 979,738, filed on February 10, 2026, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.FIELD

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

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

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

[0004] According to an embodiment, a child seat system for use in a vehicle includes a support base mountable to a vehicle seat of the vehicle. The support base includes a first midbase movable relative to the support base and a second mid-base adjustable relative to the firstmid-base between a plurality of recline positions. A child seat is removably connectable to the second mid-base. Transformation of the second mid-base between the plurality of recline positions relative to the first mid-base is independent of a position of the first mid-base relative to the support base.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first mid-base is rotatable relative to the support base between a travel position and a loading position.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first mid-base is translatable relative to the support base between a retracted position and an extended position. In the extended position, the first mid-base is arranged closer to a vehicle door than in the retracted position.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second mid-base is rotatable relative to the first mid-base between the plurality of recline positions.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second mid-base is translatable relative to the first mid-base between the plurality of recline positions.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second mid-base includes a recline lock mechanism that provides a plurality of seat recline positions of the child seat relative to the support base.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism is operable to lock the second mid-base at one of the plurality of recline positions relative to the first mid-base.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a recline actuator is operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism. The recline actuator is arranged at an end of the support base.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline actuator is arranged at the end of the first mid-base.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a recline actuator is operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism. The recline actuator is arranged at a lateral side of the support base.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline actuator is arranged at the lateral side of the first mid-base.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism includes a plurality of slots arranged at the second mid-base and each of the plurality of slots is associated with one of the plurality of recline positions.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism includes a recline lock having at least one pin pivotably engageable with at least one of the plurality of slots at the plurality of recline positions.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism includes a plurality of openings arranged at the second mid-base. Each of the plurality of openings is associated with one of the plurality of recline positions.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism includes a pin slidably engageable with the plurality of openings to selectively lock the second mid-base at the plurality of recline positions relative to the first mid-base.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a recline actuator is operably coupled to the pin via a linkage.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the support base includes a belt lock-off member movable relative to the support base to selectively tension a vehicle belt of the vehicle seat.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least a portion of the belt lock-off member engageable with the vehicle belt includes a friction material. A coefficient of friction of the friction material is greater than a coefficient of friction of the material of the belt lock-off member.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the friction material is thermoplastic elastomer.

[0023] According to an embodiment, a child seat system for use in a vehicle includes a support base mountable to a vehicle seat of the vehicle. The support base has a mid-base including a first portion movable relative to the support base and a second portion adjustable relative to the first portion between a plurality of recline positions. A child seat is removably connected to the second portion of the mid-base. Transformation of the second portion between the plurality of recline positions relative to the first portion is independent of a position of the first portion of the mid-base relative to the support base.

[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first portion of the mid-base is rotatable relative to the support base between a travel position and a loading position.

[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first portion of the mid-base is translatable relative to the support base between a retracted position and an extended position. In the extended position, the first portion of the mid-base is arranged closer to a vehicle door than in the retracted position.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second portion of the mid-base is rotatable relative to the first portion of the mid-base between the plurality of recline positions.

[0027] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second portion of the mid-base is translatable relative to the first portion of the mid-base between the plurality of recline positions.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the support base includes a recline lock mechanism that provides a plurality of seat recline positions of the child seat relative to the support base.

[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism is operable to lock the second portion of the mid-base at one of the plurality of recline positions relative to the first portion of the midbase.

[0030] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a recline actuator arranged at an end of the support base is operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism.

[0031] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline actuator is arranged at an end of the first portion of the midbase.

[0032] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a recline actuator arranged at a lateral side of the support base is operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism.

[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline actuator is arranged at a lateral side of the first portion of the mid-base.

[0034] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism includes a plurality of slots arranged at thesecond portion of the mid-base. Each of the plurality of slots being associated with one of the plurality of recline positions.

[0035] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism includes a recline lock having at least one pin pivotably engageable with at least one of the plurality of slots at the plurality of recline positions.

[0036] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism includes a plurality of openings arranged at the second portion of the mid-base. Each of the plurality of openings is associated with one of the plurality of recline positions.

[0037] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recline lock mechanism includes a pin slidably engageable with the plurality of openings to selectively lock the second mid-base at the plurality of recline positions relative to the first mid-base.

[0038] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a recline actuator operably coupled to the pin via a linkage.

[0039] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the support base includes a belt lock-off member movable relative to the support base to selectively tension a vehicle belt of the vehicle seat.

[0040] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least a portion of the belt lock-off member engageable with the vehicle belt includes a friction material. A coefficient of friction of the friction material is greater than a coefficient of friction of the material of the belt lock-off member.

[0041] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the friction material is thermoplastic elastomer.

[0042] According to an embodiment, a child seat system for use with a vehicle belt includes a child seat and a support base for receiving the child seat. The support base has a cavity and a hook member movably mounted within the cavity. A seat belt lock-off assembly is movable to capture the vehicle belt within the cavity. The seat belt lock-off assembly includes a belt lock-off member having a shaft. The belt lock-off member is movable between an open position for receiving the vehicle belt and a closed position for pressing the vehicle belt into the cavity. The hook member automatically engages the shaft of the belt lock-off member during transformation of the belt lock-off member to the closed position.

[0043] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the hook member is biased by a biasing member to automatically engage the shaft of the belt lock-off member.

[0044] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the hook member includes at least one locking pawl and the at least one locking pawl automatically engages with the shaft during the transformation of the belt lock-off member to the closed position.

[0045] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat belt lock-off assembly includes a lock-off release actuator operably coupled to the hook member. The hook member is disengageable from the shaft in response to operable of the lock-off release actuator.

[0046] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock-off release actuator has an actuation surface arranged at a front surface of the belt lock-off member.

[0047] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock-off release actuator is slidably mounted to the belt lock-off member.

[0048] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the hook member is rotatable away from the belt lock-off member in response to translation of the lock-off release actuator.

[0049] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the hook member includes an actuation hook and when the belt lock-off member is in the closed position, the lock-off release actuator is engageable with the actuation hook.

[0050] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least one receiving slot is formed at a back side of the belt lock-off member and the hook member is receivable within the at least one receiving slot.

[0051] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments an elastomeric material is arranged at a surface of the belt lock-off member engageable with the vehicle belt. Friction between the vehicle belt and the elastomeric material is greater than friction between the vehicle belt and a body of the belt lock-off member.

[0052] According to an embodiment, a child seat system for use with a vehicle belt includes a child seat and a support base for receiving the child seat having a cavity. A seat belt lock-off assembly is movable to capture the vehicle belt within the cavity. The seat belt lock-off assembly includes a belt lock-off member movable between an open position for receiving the vehicle belt and a closed position for pressing the vehicle belt into the cavity. An engagement plunger coupled to the belt lock-off member is extendable from a top of the belt lock-off member to engage a portion of the support base.

[0053] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the engagement plunger is retractable relative to the belt lock-off member such that the engagement plunger does not protrude beyond the top of the belt lock-off member.

[0054] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat belt lock-off assembly includes a biasing member operably coupled to the belt lock-off member. The belt lock-off member is biased by the biasing member to extend from the top of the belt lock-off member.

[0055] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat belt lock-off assembly includes a lock-off release actuator operably coupled to the engagement plunger. The engagement plunger is translatable relative to the belt lock-off member in response to rotation of the lock-off release actuator.

[0056] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock-off release actuator includes a protrusion and a pocket is formed in the engagement plunger. The protrusion is positioned within the pocket proximate an engagement surface of the engagement plunger.

[0057] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments engagement between the protrusion and the engagement surface opposes a biasing force acting on the engagement plunger.

[0058] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock-off release actuator is arranged at a front of the belt lock-off member.

[0059] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock-off release actuator includes an actuation surface engageable by a user and the actuation surface is arranged at an underside of the lock-off release actuator.

[0060] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lock-off release actuator is operated in response to a pulling force.

[0061] According to an embodiment, a child seat system for use with a vehicle belt includes a child seat and a support base for receiving the child seat having a cavity. A seat belt lock-off assembly is movable to capture a vehicle belt within the cavity. The seat belt lock-offassembly includes a belt lock-off member having an inward surface facing the cavity. The belt lock-off member is movable between an open position for receiving the vehicle belt and a closed position for pressing the vehicle belt into the cavity. At least one of the inward surface of the belt lock-off member and a portion of the support base at the cavity includes an elastomeric material.

[0062] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the elastomeric material is a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0063] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments friction between the vehicle belt and the elastomeric material is greater than friction between the vehicle belt and the inward surface.

[0064] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the belt lock-off member includes a rib protruding from the inward surface for engagement with the vehicle belt and the elastomeric material being arranged at the rib.

[0065] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the elastomeric material is positioned about an exterior of the rib.

[0066] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the rib is formed by the elastomeric material.

[0067] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the cavity includes at least one corner engageable by the vehicle belt and the elastomeric material is arranged at the at least one comer.

[0068] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the elastomeric material is a coating positioned in overlapping arrangement with the at least one comer.

[0069] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one corner is formed by the elastomeric material.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0071] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a child seat system mounted to a vehicle seat according to an embodiment;

[0072] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a support base of a child restraint system having a movable first base portion in a first rotational position according to another embodiment;

[0073] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the support base of FIG. 2A with the movable first base portion in a second rotational position according to embodiment;

[0074] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the support base of FIG. 2A with the movable first portion removed according to an embodiment;

[0075] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 2A taken along a longitudinal axis according to an embodiment;

[0076] FIG. 4B is a detailed view of a portion of positioning assembly of the support base of FIG. 4A according to an embodiment;

[0077] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the positioning assembly of the support base of FIG. A in the first rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0078] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the positioning assembly of FIG. 5A during rotation of the movable first base portion toward a second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0079] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the positioning assembly of FIG. 5A in the second rotational position according to an embodiment;

[0080] FIG. 6A is a side view of a support base of a child restraint system at a first recline position according to an embodiment;

[0081] FIG. 6B is a side view of the support base of FIG. 6A at a second recline position according to an embodiment;

[0082] FIG. 7A is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 6A in a first recline position and including a recline lock mechanism in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0083] FIG. 7B is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 6A in a first recline position and including a recline lock mechanism in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0084] FIG. 8 A is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 6A in a second recline position and including a recline lock mechanism in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0085] FIG. 8B is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 6A in a second recline position and including a recline lock mechanism in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0086] FIG. 9A is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIGS. 7A-8B in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0087] FIG. 9B is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIGS. 7A-8B in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0088] FIG. 10A is a side view of a support base of a child restraint system at a first recline position according to an embodiment;

[0089] FIG. 10B is a detailed view of a support base at a first recline position and having a recline lock mechanism in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0090] FIG. 10C is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 10B with the recline lock mechanism in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0091] FIG. 11A is a side view of the support base of FIG. 10A at a second recline position according to an embodiment;

[0092] FIG. 1 IB is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 10B at a second recline position and having a recline lock mechanism in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0093] FIG. 11C is a detailed view of the support base of FIG. 10B with the recline lock mechanism in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0094] FIG. 12A is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIGS. 10A-11C in a locked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0095] FIG. 12B is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIGS. 10A-11C in an unlocked configuration according to an embodiment;

[0096] FIG. 13 is a detailed view of the recline lock mechanism of FIG. 12A according to an embodiment;

[0097] FIG. 14A is a side view of a support base of a child restraint system at a first recline position according to an embodiment;

[0098] FIG. 14B is a side view of the support base of FIG. 14A at a second recline position according to an embodiment;

[0099] FIG. 15 is a plan view of the support base including a recline lock mechanism according to an embodiment;

[0100] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of the first base portion of the support base of FIG. 14A with a recline lock mechanism in a locked position according to an embodiment;

[0101] FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the first base portion of FIG. 16A with the carriage removed according to an embodiment;

[0102] FIG. 16C is a perspective view of the first base portion of the support base of FIG. 14B with a recline lock mechanism in a locked position according to an embodiment;

[0103] FIG. 16D is a perspective view of the first base portion of FIG. 1CA with the carriage removed according to an embodiment;

[0104] FIG. 17 is a partially exploded perspective view of a support base of a child restraint system according to an embodiment;

[0105] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a belt lock-off member of the support base of FIG. 17 according to an embodiment;

[0106] FIG. 19A is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 17 with a belt lock-off member locking assembly in a locked position according to an embodiment;

[0107] FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 19A with the belt lock-off member locking assembly in a partially unlocked position according to an embodiment;

[0108] FIG. 19C is a cross-sectional view of the support base of FIG. 19A with the belt lock-off member locking assembly in an unlocked position according to an embodiment;

[0109] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a support base having a belt lock-off member in an open position according to an embodiment;

[0110] FIG. 21 A is a perspective view of a belt lock-off member of the support base of FIG. 20 according to an embodiment;

[0111] FIG. 2 IB is an exploded perspective view of the belt lock-off member of FIG.21 A according to an embodiment;

[0112] FIG. 22A is a front view of a belt lock-off member of the support base of FIG.20 in an extended position according to an embodiment;

[0113] FIG 22B is a cross-sectional view of the belt lock-off member of FIG. 22A according to an embodiment;

[0114] FIG. 23A is a front view of a belt lock-off member of the support base of FIG.20 in a retracted position according to an embodiment;

[0115] FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view of the belt lock-off member of FIG. 23 A in a retracted position according to an embodiment;

[0116] FIG. 24A is a cross-sectional view of the belt lock-off member of FIG. 20 in a closed and locked position according to an embodiment;

[0117] FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional view of the belt lock-off member of FIG. 20 in a closed and unlocked position according to an embodiment;

[0118] FIG. 24C is a cross-sectional view of the belt lock-off member of FIG. 20 in an open and unlocked position according to an embodiment;

[0119] FIG. 25 A is a cross-sectional view of a seat belt lock-off assembly according to an embodiment;

[0120] FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional view of a seat belt lock-off assembly according to another embodiment; and

[0121] FIG. 25C is a cross-sectional view of a seat belt lock-off assembly according to yet another embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0122] 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.

[0123] With reference now to FIG. 1, an exemplary child seat system 20 is illustrated. The child seat system 20 may be installed about a vehicle seat 10. As shown, the child seat system 20 includes a support base 22 detachably affixable to a vehicle seat 10, such as via a latch or anchor mechanism 24. This latch or anchor system often used is sometimes referred to as a “lower anchor and tether for children” e.g., LATCH system, and includes one or more anchors 26 connectable to a vehicle anchor (not shown) of the vehicle seat. Alternatively, or in addition, the support base 22 may be detachably fixed to a vehicle seat 10 via a vehicle belt associated with the vehicle seat. In some embodiments, the support base 22 includes a base body 28 having a base seat portion 30 and a base back portion 32 extending upward therefrom. However, other embodiments of a support base 22 having only a base seat portion are also within the scope of the disclosure. A front end 34 of the support base 22 is positionable near an edge of the vehicle seat and a back end 36 of the support base, such as at the base back portion 32 for example, is positionable adjacent to a seat back 12 of the vehicle seat 10. The support base 22 has a longitudinal axis Lib (see FIGS. 5A-5D) extending between the front end 34 and the back end 36 of the support base 22. In an embodiment, the longitudinal axis Lib is a central longitudinal axis equidistantly positioned between opposing lateral sides 38, 39 of the support base 22.

[0124] The child seat system 20 additionally includes a child seat 40 associated with the support base 22. In an embodiment, the child seat 40 is detachably connectable to the support base 22, thereby allowing the child seat 40 to be separated from the support base. Alternatively, the support base 22 and at least a portion of the child seat 40 may be permanentlyconnected or affixed together. As used herein the term “permanently connected” identifies embodiments where the child seat 40 or a portion thereof is not intended to be disassembled from the support base 22 by a user. The child seat 40 includes a seat back portion 42 and a seat pan portion 44 arranged at an angle relative to the seat back portion 42.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the child seat 40 is an infant car seat. In such embodiments, the infant car seat 40 is connectable to the support base 22 in a rear-facing orientation. As shown, a front end 46 of the infant car seat 40 faces the vehicle seat back 12 and a back end 48 of the infant car seat 40 is spaced away from the vehicle seat back 12. As such, when a child is seated in the infant car seat 40, the child’s feet will be at the front end 46 of the infant car seat 40 and the child’s head will be at the back end 48 of the infant car seat 40. Accordingly, the infant car seat 40 is a rear-facing child car seat.

[0126] When loading a child into a vehicle, or removing a child from a vehicle, caregivers (e.g., provider, parent, guardian, etc. generally referred to as “caregiver”) may find it difficult to get children into and out of the child seat system while the child seat is installed in a vehicle. This may be especially true for rearward-facing configurations. For example, it may be difficult for the caregiver to bend over and reach into the vehicle to position and buckle the child into the seat. The space between the sides of the child seat system and the roof / doors of the vehicle can create a limited space for the caregiver to maneuver. The same difficulty arises when removing the child from the car seat while it is installed in a vehicle. As the child grows, the increased weight of the child increases the difficulty of lifting a seat out of the vehicle. Because of this difficulty the caregiver may need to bend and reach into the vehicle to properly secure the child. In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure seek to bring the child toward the caregiver, thus limiting the bending and reaching that is required to move the child in and out of the car seat.

[0127] With continued reference to FIG. 1, and further reference to FIGS. 2A-5C, an example of the support base 22 of the child seat system 20 is illustrated in more detail. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the support base 22 includes a body having a front end 34, and back end 36, and a longitudinal axis Lib (see FIGS. 2B and 3) extending between the front end 34 and the back end 36. As shown, the longitudinal axis Lib may be a central longitudinal axis equidistantly positioned between opposing lateral sides 38, 39 of the support base 22. The support base 22 may include a first base portion 50 and a second base portion 52, the first base portion 50 being movable, for example rotatable, relative to the second base portion 52 between a plurality of rotational positions. The first base portion 50 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 56 of the support base 22. Asshown, in some embodiments, the first base portion 50 may be positioned vertically above the second base portion 52 such that the first base portion 50 may be considered an upper base portion and the second base portion 52 may be considered a lower base portion. A child seat of the child seat system (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 50, and in some embodiments, is movable with the first base portion 50 relative to the second base portion 52 between the plurality of positions.

[0128] The first base portion 50 is movably coupled to the second base portion 52 of the support base 22 via a positioning assembly 60. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly 60 defines a path of rotation of the first base portion 50 relative to the second base portion 52. The positioning assembly 60 may include a first positioning element 62a, a second positioning element 62b, and at least one positioning track or slot 64. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the at least one positioning slot 64 is a T-shaped slot having a first portion 66 and a second portion 68, the second portion 68 being arranged at an angle relative to the first portion 66. As shown, the first portion 66 and the second portion 68 may be arranged generally perpendicular to one another.

[0129] The first and second positioning elements 62a, 62b may be any suitable component engageable with the positioning slot 64. As shown, the first positioning element 62a may include a first shaft of fastener 70a (FIGS. 4A-4B) connected to a first sliding block 72a and the second positioning element 62b may be a second shaft or fastener 70b (FIGS. 4A-4B) connected to a second sliding block 72b. Each of the first and second positioning elements 62a, 62b is slidably arranged within the track defined by the at least one positioning slot 64. In an embodiment, the second base portion 52 includes a base frame 74 having the positioning slot 64 formed therein. Arranging the sliding blocks 72a, 72b within such a base frame 74 restricts separation of the positioning elements 62a, 62b, and therefore the first base portion 50 from the second base portion 52 during translational movement of the positioning elements 62a, 62b within the positioning slot 64.

[0130] In an embodiment (see FIGS. 2B and 3), a pad 76 is arranged between a bottom surface 78 of the first base portion 50 and the upper surface 56 of the second base portion 52. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the pad 76 is affixed to the second base portion 52 and has a contour corresponding to an outline of the positioning slot 64. Inclusion of such a pad 76 is intended to improve fit, alignment, and crash performed, while also prevent galling and / or grinding of the first and second base portions 50, 52 during movement of the first base portion 50. In an embodiment, the pad 76 is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer material.

[0131] In an embodiment, the first portion 66 of the positioning slot 64 is aligned with the central longitudinal axis Lib of the support base 22. Further, all or at least a portion of the positioning slot 64 may be offset from a centerline Clb of the support base 22. The centerline Clb of the support base 22 extends between the opposing lateral sides 38, 39 of the support base 22 perpendicularly to longitudinal axis Lib and is equidistantly spaced from the front end 34 and the back end 36 of the support base 22. In an embodiment, the entirety of the positioning slot 64 is arranged between the centerline Clb and the front end 34 of the support base 22. However, embodiments where only the first portion 66 of the positioning slot 64 is arranged between the centerline Clb and the front end 34 of the support base 22 are also contemplated herein.

[0132] A central longitudinal axis Liu (see FIGS. 2B and 5A-5C) of the first base portion 50 extends between a front end 55 and the rear end 57 of the first base portion 50 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 58, 59 of the first base portion 50. In an embodiment, both the first positioning element 62a and the second positioning element 62b are aligned with the central longitudinal axis Liu of the first base portion50. One or both of the first positioning element 62a and the second positioning element 62b may be offset from a centerline Clu of the first base portion 50. The centerline Clu of the first base portion 50 extends between the opposing lateral sides 58, 59 of the first base portion 50 perpendicularly to longitudinal axis Liu and is equidistantly spaced from the front end 55 and the back end 57 of the first base portion 50. In an embodiment, both the first positioning element 62a and the second positioning element are arranged between the centerline Clu and a front end 55 of the first base portion 50. However, embodiments where the first positioning element 62a is arranged at the centerline Clu or between the centerline Clu and the back end 57 of the first base portion 50 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0133] In an embodiment, the first base portion 50 is rotatable from a first rotational position (FIG. 2A) or travel position, associated with use or during movement of a vehicle, to a second rotational position (FIG. 2B) in which the back end 57 of the first base portion 50 is arranged at a first lateral side 38 of the central longitudinal axis Lib and the support base 22. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the second rotational position is rotated 90 degrees from the first rotational position. It may be desirable to rotate the first base portion 50, and therefore the child seat connected thereto, to the second rotational position to load or unload a child therefrom based on the location of the support base 22 relative to a vehicle seat. As will be described in more detail below, the first base portion 50 is rotatable betweenthe first rotational position and the second rotational position via translation of the first base portion 50 relative to the positioning slot 64.

[0134] Transformation of the first base portion 50 from the first rotational position (FIG. 2A) to the second rotational position (FIG. 2B), is illustrated in more detail in FIGS. 5A-5C. It should be appreciated that in FIGS. 5A-5C only a portion of the first base portion 50, such as a bottom plate 80 that defines the bottom surface 78 of the first base portion 50 for example is shown, and only a portion of base frame 74 embedded within the second base portion 52 is shown. In some embodiments, an operator must first disengage a locking mechanism, illustrated schematically at 54 in FIG. 2A, to allow the first base portion 50 to move freely relative to the second base portion 52 via the positioning assembly 60. In the first rotational position, the first positioning element 62a is arranged at an end of the positioning slot 64 proximate the front end 34 of the support base 22 and the second positioning element 62b is arranged at or near the interface between the first portion 66 and the second portion 68 of the positioning slot 64.

[0135] To transform the first base portion 50 to a second rotational position, a force is applied to the first base portion 50, such as a rotational force for example, causing the first positioning element 62a to translates away from the end 82 of the first portion 66 of the positioning slot 64 toward the second portion 68. At the same time, the second positioning element 62b will translate laterally relative to the support base 22 within the second portion 68 of the positioning slot 64. As shown, the second positioning element 62b may translate toward an end 84 of the positioning slot 64. In an embodiment, when the first base portion 50 is in the second rotational position, the second positioning element 62b is arranged at the end 84 of the positioning slot 64 proximate the lateral side 38 of the support base 22 and the first positioning element 62a is arranged at the interface between the first and second portions 66, 68 of the positioning slot 64.

[0136] Although not shown, it should be appreciated that the first base portion 50 may be rotatable in a second, opposite direction from the first rotational position (FIG. 2B) to one or more other positions, such as to a second loading position for example. Such rotation may occur by translating the second sliding block 72b toward the end 86 of the second portion 68 of the positioning slot 64. The second loading position may, but need not be rotated 90 degrees from the first rotational position, and in an embodiment, the second loading position is rotated 180 degrees from the first loading position. It should be appreciated that the first base portion 50 is rotatable to the second loading position from the first rotational position by application of a force that causes the second positioning element62b to translate laterally relative to the support base 22 within the second portion 168 of the positioning slot 64, toward the lateral side 39 of the support base 22. It should be appreciated that the positioning assembly 60 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that a positioning assembly 60 having any configuration suitable to transform the first base portion 50 between a plurality of rotational positions relative to the second base portion 52 is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0137] It should be appreciated that the first base portion 50 may be locked at one or more rotation positions relative to the support base 22, such as corresponding second base portion 52 for example, by the locking mechanism (not shown). In an embodiment, the first base portion 50 is lockable at a first rotation position relative to a corresponding second base portion 52, the first rotation position being associated with a travel position of a child seat connectable to the first base portion 50. A locking mechanism having any suitable configuration is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0138] With reference to FIGS. 6A-9B, a support base 122 of a child seat system 120 according to another embodiment is illustrated. As shown, the support base 122 may include a first base portion 150 and a second base portion 152. The first base portion 150 is movable, for example rotatable and / or translatable, relative to the second base portion 152 between a travel position and a loading position for example. The first base portion 150 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 154 of the support base 122. A child seat (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 150 and is movable with the first base portion 150 relative to the second base portion 152. Although not illustrated, it should be appreciated that the support base 122 may include at least one positioning assembly that defines the allowable movement between the first base portion 150 and the second base portion 152. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly of the support base 122 has a substantially identical configuration to the positioning assembly 60 described with reference to FIGS. 2-5C.

[0139] The support base 122 includes a front end 134 and a rear end 136, and a central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122 extends between the front end 134 and the rear end 136 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 139 of the support base 122. As shown, the first base portion 150 similarly includes a front end 155 and a rear end 157 and has a central longitudinal axis L2u that extends between the front end 155 and the rear end 157 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 158, 159 of the first base portion 150. When the first base portion 150 is in the travel position, the central longitudinal axis L2u of the first base portion 150 is parallel to, and in someembodiments coaxial with the central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122. Further, the front end 155 of the first base portion 150 may be arranged proximate the front end 134 of the support base 122 and the rear end 157 of the first base portion 150 may be located at the rear end 136 of the support base 122. In a loading position, the central longitudinal axis L2u of the first base portion 150 is arranged at a non-parallel relative to the central longitudinal axis L2b of the support base 122. In some embodiments, the first base portion 150 is rotated about 90 degrees between the travel position and the loading position. However, embodiments where the support base 122 does not include a movable first base portion 150 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0140] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first base portion 150 includes a trolley 160 and a carriage 162 movable relative to the trolley 160 to adjust a recline of a child seat (not shown) connectable thereto. As shown, the carriage 162 may be pivotable about an axis relative to the trolley 160. The carriage 162 may include a seat retention assembly 170 operable to selectively secure or release the child seat from the support base. In an embodiment, the seat retention assembly includes a contoured casing or shell 172 and one or more seat mounts 156a, 156b formed in the shell 172. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first base portion 150 includes a first seat mount 156a and a second seat mount 156b spaced apart from one another along the central longitudinal axis L2u of the first base portion 150. In an embodiment, each seat mount 156a, 156b is a laterally extending recess or groove and is sized to receive a seat connector 149a , 149b (see FIGS. 6A and 6B), such as a bar for example, arranged at a bottom of the child seat therein. Further, the seat retention assembly 170 may include one or more receiving components (not shown) movably mounted proximate the seat mounts 156a, 156b. The receiving components are movable to capture a seat connector within a seat mount, thereby limiting movement of the child seat relative to the seat retention assembly 170.

[0141] The carriage 162 may be movable along an incline path between a first position (FIGS.6A, 7A, 7B) and a second position (FIGS. 6B 8A, 8B), the first position and the second position having varying degrees of incline. Further, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the carriage 162 is arrangeable at any of a plurality of positions between the first position and the second position. A recline lock mechanism 180 may be arranged at the carriage 162, such as underneath the shell 172. With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7A-9B, the recline lock mechanism 180 may include a recline rack 182 positioned proximate one of the seat mounts, such as the seat mount 156b located closest to the front end 155 of the first base portion 150. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment,the recline rack 182 has a recess 184 formed therein that is complementary to and is positioned directly adjacent and in alignment with the adjacent seat mount 156b.

[0142] A surface 186 of the recline rack 182, such as the surface facing toward the front end 155 of the first base portion 150 for example, has a plurality of receiving slots formed therein, such as receiving slots 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d for example (though the figures only specifically show receiving slots 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d, it should be appreciated that any desirable number of receiving slots may be present). The surface 186 of the recline rack 182 having the receiving slots 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d formed therein may but need not be angled. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the recline rack 182 is formed as a U-shaped member having a first portion arranged at a first side of a central axis and a second portion arranged at a second side of the central axis. In such embodiments, each side of the recline rack 182 may include a surface 186 having receiving slots 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d formed therein.

[0143] A recline lock 190 may be mounted underneath the shell 172, proximate the surface 186 of the recline rack 182. In an embodiment, the recline lock 190 is pivotable about an axis P, such as defined by a connecting bar 192 for example. The recline lock 190 has a body 194 including one or more pins 196a, 196b engageable with one or more of the corresponding receiving slots 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d of the recline rack 182 to lock the recline lock 190 and the carriage 162 at a position relative to the trolley 160. As shown, an axis of the pins 196a, 196b may be oriented parallel to the axis of each receiving slot 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d.

[0144] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the recline lock includes a first pin 196a and a second pin 196b. However, embodiments including only a single pin or more than two pins are also within the scope of the disclosure. The first pin 196a and the second pin 196b are located at different positions about the body 194 to engage different slots 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d of the recline rack 182. As shown, the first pin 196a may be located a first axial distance from the pivot axis Pl and a second pin 196b may be arranged a second axial distance from the pivot axis Pl. In an embodiment, both the first pin 196a and the second pin 196b are vertically aligned with the pivot axis Pl and the first pin 196a is closer to the pivot axis than the second pin. However, embodiments where one or both of the first pin 196a and the second pin 196b is axially offset form the pivot axis Pl are also contemplated herein. Further, in instances where the recline rack 182 is U-shaped and has substantially identical first and second portions arranged at opposite sides of a central axis, the same pins 196a, 196b may engage the receiving slots 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d at both the first side and thesecond side of the recline rack 182, or alternatively, different pins may be associated with the first and second sides, respectively.

[0145] The recline lock 190 is pivotable about the pivot axis Pl between and an engaged position (FIGS. 7Aand 8A) and a disengaged position (FIGS. 7B and 8B) relative to the recline rack 182. In the engaged position, the one or more pins 196a, 196b of the recline lock 190 are arranged within a corresponding receiving slot 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d of the recline rack 182. It should be appreciated that in embodiments where the recline lock 190 includes multiple pins 196a, 196b, each of the plurality of pins 196a, 196b may be engaged with a corresponding receiving slot 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d when in the engaged position. However, embodiments where one of the pins 196a, 196b of the recline lock 190 in the engaged position is arranged within a corresponding receiving slot 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d and another of the pins 196a, 196b is not arranged within a receiving slot 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d are also within the scope of the disclosure. Although not shown, a biasing member, such as a torsion spring for example, may be operably coupled to the recline lock 190 and is operable to bias the recline lock 190 to rotate about the pivot axis Pl to the engaged position. It should be appreciated that the biasing member may bias the recline lock 190 via the connecting bar 192.

[0146] An actuator 198 (see FIGS. 9A and 9B) is operably coupled to the recline lock 190. As shown, the actuator 198 includes a handle 200 arranged at an exterior of the support base 122, such as at an exterior of the trolley 160 for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the handle 200 is arranged at a front end 161 of the trolley 160. For example, the handle 200 may be centrally located relative to the recline rack 182; however, embodiments where the handle 200 is arranged at another location about the first base portion 150 are also contemplated herein.

[0147] As shown, the handle 200 is operably coupled to the connecting bar and is operable to rotate the connecting bar 192, and therefore the recline lock 190 about the pivot axis Pl. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a lever 202 is rotationally fixed to and protrudes radially from the connecting bar 192. The lever 202 may but need not be arranged at a central position relative to the connecting bar 192. The handle 200 of the actuator 198 may be operable to directly or indirectly apply a force to the lever 202 to rotate the connecting bar 192 and the recline lock 190. As shown, a protrusion 204 may extend from the handle 200 and may be positioned vertically above the lever 202 for engagement therewith. When a force is applied to the handle 200, such as a downward force for example, the protrusion 204 is moved into engagement with and applies a force to the lever 202 at alocation offset from the pivot axis P. This force opposes the biasing force of the biasing member and drives rotation of the connecting bar 192 and the recline lock 190 away from the recline rack 182 to the disengaged position.

[0148] In this disengaged position, the one or more pins 196a, 196b of the recline lock 190 are located remotely from the receiving slots 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d of the recline rack 182. Accordingly, while the recline lock 190 is disengaged, a user may adjust a position of the carriage 162 relative to the trolley 160, such as by pivoting the carriage 162. When the force is removed from the handle 200, the biasing force of the biasing member causes the lever 202, the connecting bar 192, and the recline lock 190 to rotate about the pivot axis Pl to the engaged position. The one or more pins 196a, 196b of the recline lock 190 are configured to engage at least one receiving slot 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d of the recline rack 182 based on the recline position of the carriage 162. With the pins 196a, 196b arranged within at least one receiving slot 188, the carriage 162 is restricted from pivoting relative to the trolley 160.

[0149] With reference now to FIGS. 10A-13, another example of a support base 222 of a child seat system is illustrated. As shown, the support base 222 may have a front end 234 and a rear end 236, and a central longitudinal axis L3b of the support base 222 extends between the front end 234 and the rear end 236 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides of the support base 222. The support base 222 may include a first base portion 250 movable, for example rotatable and / or translatable, relative to a fixed second base portion 252 between a travel position and a loading position for example. A child seat (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 250 and is movable with the first base portion 250 relative to the second base portion 252. It should be appreciated that the support base 222 may include at least one positioning assembly that defines the allowable movement between the first base portion 150 and the second base portion 152. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly of the support base 222 has a substantially identical configuration to the positioning assembly 60 described with reference to FIGS. 2-5C.

[0150] The first base portion 250 may include a front end 255 and a rear end 257 and has a central longitudinal axis L3u that extends between the front end 255 and the rear end 257 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 259 of the first base portion 250. When the first base portion 250 is in the travel position, the central longitudinal axis L3u of the first base portion 250 is parallel to, and in some embodiments coaxial with the central longitudinal axis L3b of the support base 222. Further, the front end 255 of the first base portion 250 may be arranged proximate the front end 234 of the support base 222 andthe rear end 257 of the first base portion 250 may be located at the rear end 236 of the support base 222. In a loading position, the central longitudinal axis L3u of the first base portion 250 is arranged at a non-parallel relative to the central longitudinal axis L3b of the support base 222. In some embodiments, the first base portion 250 is rotatable about 90 degrees between the travel position and the loading position. However, embodiments where the first base portion 150 is not movable relative to the second base portion 252 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0151] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first base portion 250 includes a trolley 260 and a carriage 262. The carriage 262 may be movable relative to the trolley 160 to adjust a recline of a child seat (not shown) connectable thereto. The carriage 262 may be pivotable about an axis relative to the trolley 260. A seat retention assembly 270 of the carriage 262 may be operable to selectively secure or release the child seat from the support base 222. In an embodiment, the seat retention assembly 270 includes a contoured casing or shell 272 having a first seat mount 256a and a second seat mount 256b spaced apart from one another along the central longitudinal axis L3u of the first base portion 250. In an embodiment, each seat mount 256a, 256b is a laterally extending recess or groove and is sized to receive a seat connector 249a, 249b (see FIGS. lOAand 11 A), such as a bar for example, arranged at a bottom of the child seat therein. Further, the seat connectors 249a, 249b may be captured within the seat mounts 256a, 256b by one or more receiving components (not shown).

[0152] The carriage 262 may be movable along an incline path between a first position (FIGS. 10A, 10BA, 10CB) and a second position (FIGS. 11 A, 11B, 11C), the first position and the second position having varying degrees of incline. Further, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the carriage 262 is arrangeable at any of a plurality of positions between the first position and the second position. A recline lock mechanism 280 suitable for use with the first base portion 250 of the support base 222 is illustrated in more detail in FIGS. 10B-10C and 11B-11C. Similar to the recline lock mechanism 180 of the previous embodiment, the recline lock mechanism 280 includes a recline rack 282 positioned proximate one of the seat mounts, such as the seat mount 256b located closest to the front end 255 of the first base portion 250. The recline rack 282 may have a recess 284 complementary to the seat mount 256b and is positioned directly underneath the seat mount 256b. A surface 286 of the recline rack 282 has a plurality of receiving slots 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d formed therein. Although four receiving slots 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d are shown, it should be appreciated that any number of receiving slots is within the scope of the disclosure. In theillustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the surface 286 of the recline rack 282 is positioned between the first seat mount 256a and the second seat mount 256b. Accordingly, the recline rack 282 may have an opposite orientation relative to the recline rack 282 of FIGS. 7A-9B.

[0153] A recline lock 290 may be mounted underneath the shell 272 at a location proximate the surface 286 of the recline rack 282. In an embodiment, the recline lock 290 is pivotable about an axis P2, defined by a connecting bar 292 for example. The recline lock 290 has a body 294 and includes one or more pins 296a, 296b engageable with one or more of the corresponding receiving slots 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d of the recline rack to lock the carriage 262 at a position relative to the trolley 260. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the recline lock 290 includes a first pin 296a and a second pin 296b. However, embodiments including only a single pin or more than two pins are also within the scope of the disclosure. The first pin 296a and the second pin 296b are located at different positions about the body 294 to engage different slots 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d of the recline rack 282. As shown, the first pin 296a may be located a first axial distance from the pivot axis P2 and the second pin 296b may be arranged a second axis distance from the pivot axis P2. In an embodiment, the first pin 296a is closer to the pivot axis P2 than the second pin 296b.Further, the first pin 296a and the second pin 296b may be horizontally offset from one another. In an embodiment, the first pin 296a is located closer to the end of the body 294 facing the recline rack 282 than the second pin 296b.

[0154] The recline lock 290 is pivotable about the pivot axis P2 between and an engaged position (FIGS. 10B and 11B) and a disengaged position (FIGS. 10C and 11C) relative to the recline rack 282. In the engaged position, at least one pin 296a, 296b of the recline lock 290 is arranged within a corresponding receiving slot 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d of the recline rack 282. It should be appreciated that in embodiments where the recline lock 290 includes multiple pins 296a, 296b, each of the plurality of pins may be engaged with a corresponding receiving slot 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d when in the engaged position. However, embodiments where one of the pins 296a, 296b of the recline lock 290 in the engaged position is arranged within a corresponding receiving slot 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d and another of the pins 296a, 296b is not arranged within a receiving slot 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d are also within the scope of the disclosure. Although not shown, a biasing member, such as a torsion spring for example, may be operably coupled to the recline lock 290 and is operable to bias the recline lock 290 to rotate about the pivot axis P2 to the engaged position. It should be appreciated that the biasing member may bias the recline lock 290 via the connecting bar 292 or via another suitable component operably coupled thereto.

[0155] An actuator 298 (see FIGS. 12A and 12B) is operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism 280. As shown, the actuator 298 includes a handle 300 arranged at an exterior of the support base 222, such as at the exterior of the trolley 260 for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the handle 200 is arranged at a lateral side 310 of the trolley 260; however, embodiments where the handle 300 is arranged at another location about the first base portion 250 are also contemplated herein. Further, it should be appreciated that although a single handle 300 is illustrated in the FIGS., the actuator 295 may include another handle, such as arranged at the opposite lateral side (not shown) of the trolley 260 for example.

[0156] As shown, the handle 300 is operably coupled to the connecting bar 292 and is operable to rotate the connecting bar 292, and therefore the recline lock 290 rotationally fixed to the connecting bar 292, about the pivot axis P2. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a lever 302 is rotationally fixed to and protrudes radially from the connecting bar 292, such as near an end thereof. As shown, the lever 302 may be spaced laterally outward of the recline lock 290. The handle 300 of the actuator 298 may be operable to directly or indirectly apply a force to the lever 302 to rotate the connecting bar 292 and the recline lock 290. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the handle 300 has a slot 312 formed therein, and an end of the lever 302 is arranged within the slot 312. When a force is applied to the handle 300, such as a downward force for example, the handle 300 transmits the downward force to a distal end of the lever 302. This force opposes the biasing force of the biasing member and drives rotation of the connecting bar 292 and the recline lock 290 away from the recline rack 282 to the disengaged position.

[0157] In the disengaged position, the one or more pins 296a, 296b of the recline lock 290 are separated from the receiving slots 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d of the recline rack 282 such that the carriage 262 is free to pivot relative to the trolley 260. When the force is removed from the handle 300, the biasing force of the biasing member causes the lever 302, the connecting bar 292, and the recline lock 290 to rotate about the pivot axis P2 to the engaged position. With the engagement between the lever 302 and the handle 300, it should be appreciated that the biasing force may similarly return the handle 300 to the unactuated position The one or more pins 296a, 296b of the recline lock 290 are configured to engage different receiving slots 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d of the recline rack 282 based on the recline position of the carriage 262 relative to the trolley 260. With the pins 296a, 296b arranged within at least one receiving slot 288a, 288b, 288c, 288d, the carriage 262 is restricted from pivoting relative to the trolley 260.

[0158] Another example of a support base 322 of a child seat system 320 including a recline lock mechanism is illustrated in more detail in FIGS. 14A-16D. The support base 322 may include a first base portion 250 and a second base portion 352, the first base portion 350 being movable, for example rotatable and / or translatable, relative to the second base portion 352 between a travel position and a loading position for example. The first base portion 350 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 354 of the support base 322. A child seat (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 350 and is movable with the first base portion 150 relative to the second base portion 352. In such embodiments, it should be appreciated that the support base 322 may include at least one positioning assembly that defines the allowable movement between the first base portion 350 and the second base portion 352. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly of the support base 322 has a substantially identical configuration to the positioning assembly 60 described with reference to FIGS. 2-5C. Although the first base portion 350 is described herein as being rotatable and / or translatable relative to the second base portion 352, embodiments where the first base portion 350 is fixed relative to the second base portion 352 are also contemplated herein.

[0159] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first base portion 350 includes a trolley 360 and a carriage 362 movable relative to the trolley 360 to adjust a recline of a child seat (not shown) connectable thereto. The trolley 360 may be considered a “first midbase” and the carriage 362 may be considered a “second mid-base.” Alternatively, the first base portion 350 of the support base 322 as whole may be considered a mid-base, and trolley 360 may be a first portion of the mid-base and the carriage may be a second portion of the mid-base. As shown, the carriage 362 may be movable, for example translatable and / or pivotable relative to the trolley 360. The carriage 362 may include a seat retention assembly 370 operable to selectively secure or release the child seat from the support base 322. In an embodiment, the seat retention assembly 370 includes a contoured casing or shell 372 and one or more seat mounts 374a, 374b formed in the shell 372. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first base portion 350 includes a first seat mount 374a and a second seat mount 374b spaced apart from one another along a central longitudinal axis L4u (see FIGS.14A and 14B) of the first base portion 350. In an embodiment, each seat mount 374a, 374b is a laterally extending recess or groove and is sized to receive a seat connector (not shown), such as a bar for example, arranged at a bottom of the child seat therein.

[0160] Further, the seat retention assembly 370 may include one or more receiving components movably mounted proximate the seat mounts 374a, 374b. For example, a firstpair of receiving components 378a, 378b is arranged proximate a first lateral side 377 of the seat retention assembly 370 and a second pair of receiving components 378c, 378d may be arranged proximate an opposite, second lateral side 379 of the seat retention assembly 370. Receiving components 378a, 378c may be associated with the first seat mount 376a and receiving components 378b and 378d may be associated with and second seat mount 376b. The receiving components 378a, 378b, 378c, 378d are movable to capture a seat connector within the seat mounts 376a, 376b, thereby limiting movement of the child seat relative to the seat retention assembly 370.

[0161] The carriage 362 may be movable along an incline path between a first recline position (FIGS. 14A) and a second recline position (FIGS. 14B), the first recline position and the second recline position having varying degrees of recline. Further, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the carriage 362 is arrangeable at any of a plurality of recline positions between the first recline position and the second recline position. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the carriage 362 is translatable relative to the trolley 360 via a first pin 384a extending from a first side plate 382a of the seat retention assembly 370 slidably engaged with a slot 386a formed at a bracket 385 fixed to the trolley 360 and a second pin 384b extending from a second side plate 382b of the seat retention assembly 370 slidably engaged with a second slot, shown schematically at 386b in FIGS. 16A and 16C) formed at an opposite side of the bracket 385.

[0162] The support base 322 may include a recline lock mechanism 388 operable to lock the carriage 362 at each of the plurality of recline positions. The recline lock mechanism 388 may be positioned underneath the shell 372. The recline lock mechanism 388 may include a plurality of openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d (see FIGS. 16A-16D) formed at the carriage 362. The plurality of openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d may be substantially identical in configuration. A first opening 394a, a second opening 394b, a third opening 394c, and a fourth opening 394d may be formed in each side plate 382a, 382b of the seat retention assembly 370, movable with the carriage 362. Each opening 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d may define a respective recline position of the carriage 362. Although only the openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d at the second side plate 382b are shown in detail, the openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d of the second side plate 382b, illustrated schematically in FIGS. 16Aand 16C, may be substantially identical to the openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d of the first side plate 382a. In such embodiments, each opening 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d formed at the first side plate 382a may be coaxial with a corresponding opening formed at the second side plate 382b. Further, although four openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d are described at each side plate382a, 382b, it should be appreciated that embodiments having any number of openings, such as two openings, three openings, or more than four openings are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0163] The recline lock mechanism 388 may additionally include a mounting plate 390 affixed to the trolley 360, such as to the bracket 385 for example, and at least one pin 392a, 392b engageable with one or more of the corresponding openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d formed at the seat retention assembly 370 of the carriage 362 to lock the carriage 362 at a recline position relative to the trolley 360. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the at least one pin includes a first pin 392a engageable with one of the openings (not shown) formed in the first side plate 382a and a second pin 392b engageable with one of the plurality of openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d formed in the second side plate 382b. However, embodiments including only a single pin or more than two pins are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0164] The first pin 392a may be located proximate a first side of the mounting plate 390, and the second pin 392b may be located proximate a second opposite side of the mounting plate 390. The first pin 392a and the second pin 392b may but need not be coaxially mounted relative to the mounting plate 390. As shown, a longitudinal axis of the pins 392a, 392b may be oriented parallel to the axis of each opening 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d formed in the carriage 362. Although the mounting plate 390 and pins 392a, 392b are illustrated as being positioned proximate a rear end 357 of the first base portion 350, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the recline lock mechanism 388 is arranged at another suitable position about the first base portion 350 are also contemplated herein.

[0165] The first pin 392a and the second pin 392b are translatable along an axis between an engaged position and a retracted position. In the engaged position, the first pin 392a is received within one of the plurality of openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d formed in the first side plate 382a and the second pin 392b is received within one of the plurality of openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d formed in the second side plate 382b. In the retracted position, the first pin 392a is translated inwardly toward a center of the trolley 360, out of engagement with the first side plate 382a and the second pin 392b is similarly translated inwardly toward a center of the trolley 360, out of engagement with the second side plate 382b. When the pins 392a, 392b are in the extended position, engagement between the first pin 392a and one of the openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d at the first side plate 382a and engagement between the second pin 392b and a corresponding opening 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d of the second side plate 382b restrict movement of the carriage 362 relative to thetrolley 360. When the pins 392a, 392b are in the retracted position, the carriage 362 is movable relative to the trolley 360 between a plurality of recline positions to adjust a recline of the carriage 362. With the pins 392a, 392b in the retracted position, the carriage 362 is translatable relative to the bracket 385 of the trolley 360. In response to this movement of the carriage 362, a different opening of the plurality of openings 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d is positionable in alignment with the first pin 392a and the second pin 292b, respectively.

[0166] A recline actuator 400 may be operably coupled to the first pin 392a and the second pin 392b to transform the pins 392a, 392b from the extended position to the retracted position. The recline actuator 298 includes a recline handle or button, illustrated schematical in FIGS. 15-16D at 402, arranged at an exterior of the support base 322. In an embodiment, the recline button 402 is arranged at an exterior surface of the trolley 360, such as proximate a front 355 of the first base portion 350. The pins 392a, 392b may be indirectly connected to the recline button 402 via one or more recline linkages 410a, 410b for example. For example, a first recline linkage 410a having one or more links may be pivotally coupled to the mounting plate 390 and to the first pin 392a and a second recline linkage 410b having one or more links may be pivotally coupled to the mounting plate 390 and to the second pin 392a. A tension member 404 extending from the recline button 402 may be operably coupled to both the first recline linkage 410a and the second recline linkage 410b. The first and second recline linkages 410a, 410b may be independently connected to the tension member 404. In other embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 15-16D, the first and second recline linkages 410a, 410b may be operably coupled to one another and have a single interface with the tension member 404. However, embodiments where the recline linkages 410a, 410b are directly connected to the recline button 402 are also contemplated herein.

[0167] The recline actuator 400 may be operated via application of a force, to the recline button 402. The force is transmitted from the recline button 402 to each recline linkage 410a, 410b, such as via the tension member 404, causing the recline linkages 410a, 410b to pivot about their respective axes. This rotation of the recline linkages 410a, 410b translates the first pin 392a inwardly out of engagement with the first side plate 382a and translates the second pin 392b inwardly, out of engagement with the second side plate 382b. With the pins 392a, 392b in the retracted position, the recline lock mechanism 388 is an unlocked configuration. One or more biasing members (not shown) may be operably coupled to the pins 392a, 392b or to the recline linkages 410a, 410b to bias each pin 392a, 392b outwardly. In an embodiment, upon removal of the force from the recline button 402, the pins 392a, 392b are biased outwardly, into engagement with a corresponding opening formed in anadjacent side plate 382. With the pins 392a, 392b engaged with a respective opening 394a, 394b, 394c, 394d formed in the adjacent side plates 382a, 382b, the recline lock mechanism 388 is in a locked configuration.

[0168] With reference to FIGS. 17-19C, a support base 422 of another child seat system 420 according to another embodiment is illustrated. As shown, the support base 422 may include a first base portion 450 and a second base portion 452. The first base portion 450 is movable, for example rotatable and / or translatable, relative to the second base portion 452 between a travel position and a loading position for example. The first base portion 450 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 454 of the support base 422. A child seat (not shown) may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 450 and is movable with the first base portion 450 relative to the second base portion 452. Although not illustrated, it should be appreciated that the support base 422 may include at least one positioning assembly that defines the allowable movement between the first base portion 450 and the second base portion 452. The support base 422 may include a positioning assembly as described in any of the other embodiments herein.

[0169] The support base 422 includes a front end 434 and a rear end 436, and a central longitudinal axis L5b of the support base 422 extends between the front end 424 and the rear end 426 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 428, 429 of the support base 422. As shown, the first base portion 450 similarly includes a front end 455 and a rear end 457 and has a central longitudinal axis L5u that extends between the front end 455 and the rear end 457 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 458, 459 of the first base portion 450. When the first base portion 450 is in the travel position, the central longitudinal axis L5u of the first base portion 450 is parallel to, and in some embodiments coaxial with the central longitudinal axis L5b of the support base 422. Further, the front end 455 of the first base portion 450 may be arranged proximate the front end 434 of the support base 422 and the rear end 457 of the first base portion 450 may be located at the rear end 436 of the support base 422. In a loading position, the central longitudinal axis L5u of the first base portion 450 is arranged at a non-parallel relative to the central longitudinal axis L5b of the support base 422. In some embodiments, the first base portion 450 is rotated about 90 degrees between the travel position and the loading position. However, embodiments where the support base 422 does not include a movable first base portion 450 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0170] As shown, the second base portion 452 may include a base seat 460 and a base back 462 extending from an end of the base seat 460 at an angle. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a seat belt lock-off assembly 470 is positioned at the second base portion 452, such as at the base back 462 for example. However, embodiments where the seat belt lock-off assembly 470 is arranged at the base seat 460 are also within the scope of the disclosure. The seat belt lock-off assembly 470 is operable to secure a vehicle belt of the vehicle seat to the support base 422.

[0171] The seat belt lock-off assembly 470 may include a belt lock-off member 472. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an opening or cavity 474 is formed at a front surface 464 of the base back 462, and the belt lock-off member 472 is receivable within the cavity 474. A contour of the interior surface of the cavity 474 may be complementary to a contour of the belt lock-off member 472 such that the substantial entirety of the belt lock-off member 472 is receivable within the cavity 474. A vehicle belt 11 (see FIGS. 19A-19C) associated with a vehicle seat is positionable along a belt receiving path defined between the base back 462 of the support base 422 and the belt lock-off member 472.

[0172] In an embodiment, the belt lock-off member 472 is selectively movable relative to the front surface 463 of the base back 462 to adjust the tension applied to the vehicle belt along the vehicle belt receiving path. For example, the belt lock-off member 472 may be configured to pivot about at least one axis X between an open position and a closed position to selectively tension the portion of the vehicle belt sandwiched between the belt lock-off member 472 and the cavity 474. When a vehicle belt extends across the front surface of the base back 462, over the cavity 474, rotation of the belt lock-off member 472 to the closed position presses the vehicle belt into the cavity 474, thereby tensioning the vehicle belt. This tension couples the support base 422 to the vehicle belt, thereby restricting movement of the child seat (not shown) and the support base 422 relative to the vehicle seat.

[0173] In an embodiment, one or more pieces of material 476a, 476b, 476c, 476d, such as a friction material like a thermoplastic material or an elastomeric material for example, are arranged at a surface of the belt lock-off member 472 positionable in contact with the vehicle belt. As shown, the pieces of material 476a, 476b, 476c, 476d are arranged at a back surface 478 of the belt lock-off member 472 and are oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis L6 (see FIG. 18) of the belt lock-off member 472. The pieces of material 476a, 476b, 476c, 476d are intended to improve the retention of the vehicle belt. A coefficient of friction of the material pieces of material 476a, 476b, 476c, 476d may be greater than a coefficient of friction of a surface of the belt lock-off member 472. It should be appreciated that any suitable friction material that enhances the grip between the belt lock-off member 472 and the vehicle belt is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0174] The seat belt lock-off assembly 470 may additionally include a belt lock-off member locking assembly 480 operable to retain the belt lock-off member 472 in the closed position. The belt lock-off member locking assembly 480 is transitionable between a locked configuration (FIG. 19 A) and an unlocked configuration (FIG. 19C). When the belt lock-off member locking assembly 480 is in the locked configuration, the belt lock-off member 472 is retained in a closed position generally within the cavity 474, and when the belt lock-off member locking assembly 480 is in the unlocked configuration, the belt lock-off member 472 is freely movable between the closed position and the open position.

[0175] The belt lock-off member locking assembly 480 includes a pin or shaft 482 and at least one locking pawl or hook member 484a, 484b configured to engage the shaft 482. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the belt lock-off member locking assembly 480 includes two locking pawls 484a, 484b (see FIG. 17) spaced apart from one another and rotatable about the same axis. In such embodiments, the locking pawls 484a, 484b may but need not be operably coupled such that they move in unison. In an embodiment, the two locking pawls 484a, 484b are integrally formed. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the shaft 482 is fixedly mounted to the belt lock-off member 472 and the locking pawls 484a, 484b is arranged within the cavity 474. However, embodiments where the shaft 482 is fixedly mounted within the cavity 474 and the at least one locking pawl 484a, 484b is mounted to the movable belt lock-off member 472 are also contemplated herein. In either instance, the shaft 482 and the locking pawls 484a, 484b are positioned such that the shaft 482 is receivable within locking pawls 484a, 484b as the belt lock-off member 472 moves along its path of rotation.

[0176] As shown, each locking pawl 484a, 484b has a throat 486a, 486b for receiving the shaft 482 therein. In an embodiment, the locking pawls 484a, 484b are rotatable about their axis between an engaged position and a disengaged position. Further, the locking pawls 484a, 484b may be biased by a biasing member 487 (see FIGS. 19A-19C) toward the engaged position. As the belt lock-off member 472 is rotated towards the cavity 474, the shaft 482 may engage a surface of the locking pawls 484a, 484b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the surface of each locking pawl 484a, 484b is contoured, for example sloped, such that the engagement between the shaft 482 and the surface opposes the biasing force of the biasing member 487. Accordingly, this engagement may rotate the locking pawl 484a, 484b from the engaged position toward the disengaged position.

[0177] Once the shaft 482 reaches a specific location, such as once the shaft 482 is received within the respective throats 486a, 486b of the locking pawls 484a, 484b for example,the shaft 482 no longer opposes the biasing force of the biasing member 487. As a result, the bias acting on the locking pawls 484a, 484b causes the locking pawls 484a, 484b to rotate into the engaged position. The locking pawls 484a, 484b therefore may be considered to automatically engage the shaft 482 of the belt lock-off member 472 as the belt lock-off member 472 transitions toward the closed position due to the biasing force acting on the locking pawls 484a, 484b. When the shaft 482 is arranged within the respective throats 486a, 486b of each locking pawl 484a, 484b and each locking pawl 484a, 484b is in the engaged position, the belt lock-off member locking assembly 480 is in a locked configuration. In an embodiment, each locking pawl 484a, 484b is receivable within a corresponding slot 488a, 488b formed at the back surface 478 of the belt lock-off member 472 to engage the shaft 482 and transform to the locked configuration.

[0178] A lock-off release actuator 490 may be operable to transition the belt lock-off member locking assembly 480 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. For example, the lock-off release actuator 490 may be operably coupled to the locking pawls 484a, 484b to rotate the locking pawls 484a, 484b to the disengaged position. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an actuation hook 492 is connected to the locking pawls 484a, 484b. The actuation hook 492 may be located near an end of locking pawls 484a, 484b mounted to the base back 462 and extends generally parallel to the locking pawls 484a, 484b. In embodiments including an integrally formed first locking pawl 484a and second locking pawl 484b rotatable in unison, the actuation hook 492 may be arranged at a position between the first and second locking pawls 484a, 484b. The actuation hook 492 integrally formed with the first and second locking pawls 484a, 484b may be referred to herein as a “hook member.” The lock-off release actuator 490 may be operably coupled to the actuation hook 492. In an embodiment, the lock-off release actuator 490 includes a body having a contoured surface aligned with and movable into engagement with the actuation hook 492. However, embodiments where the lock-off release actuator 490 is indirectly couplable to the actuation hook 492 are also contemplated herein.

[0179] The lock-off release actuator 490 includes an actuation surface 494 engageable by a user to operate the lock-off release actuator 490. The lock-off release actuator 490 may be arranged at the belt lock-off member 472 with the actuation surface 494 being exposed at a front surface 477 of the belt lock-off member 472. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the lock-off release actuator 490 and / or the actuation surface 494 of the lock-off release actuator 490 are located at another location, such as at the base back 462 of the support base 422 for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0180] The lock-off release actuator 490 is movably mounted to the belt lock-off member 472. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the lock-off release actuator 490 is translatable relative to the belt lock-off member 472 in response to application of a downward force to the actuation surface 494. When a force is applied to the actuation surface 494 of the lock-off release actuator 490, such as when the lock-off release actuator 490 is translated downwardly relative to the belt lock-off member 472 for example, the force is transmitted to the locking pawls 484a, 484b via engagement between the body of the lock-off release actuator 490 and the actuation hook 492. The force transmitted to the locking pawls 484a, 484b opposes the bias of the biasing member 487, thereby driving rotation of the locking pawls 484a, 484b toward the disengaged position. Once the locking pawls 484a, 484b are in the disengaged position, the belt lock-off member 472 may be moved away from the cavity 474. When the locking pawls 484a, 484b are in the disengaged position and / or when the shaft 482 is not arranged within the respective throats 486a, 486b of the locking pawls 484a, 484b, the belt lock-off member locking assembly 480 is in the unlocked configuration.

[0181] With reference now to FIGS. 20-24C, another example of a support base 522 having a seat belt lock-off assembly 570 operable to secure a vehicle belt 11 of the vehicle seat to the support base 522 is illustrated according to an embodiment. As shown, the support base 522 may include a first base portion 550 and a second base portion 552. In an embodiment, the first base portion 550 is movable, for example rotatable and / or translatable, relative to the second base portion 552 between a travel position and a loading position for example. The first base portion 550 may be arranged at and / or define at least a portion of an upper surface 554 of the support base 522. Although not shown, a child seat may be permanently or removably connectable to the first base portion 550 and is movable with the first base portion 550 relative to the second base portion 552. It should be appreciated that the support base 522 may include at least one positioning assembly (not shown) that defines the allowable movement between the first base portion 550 and the second base portion 552. In an embodiment, the positioning assembly of the support base 522 has a substantially identical configuration to the positioning assembly 60 described with reference to FIGS. 2-5C.However, embodiments where the first base portion 550 is fixed in position relative to the second base portion 552 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0182] The support base 522 includes a front end 534 and a rear end 536. A central longitudinal axis (not shown) of the support base 522 extends between the front end 524 and the rear end 526 and is equidistantly positioned between opposing lateral sides 528, 529 of the support base 522. The movable first base portion 550 may similarly include a front end555 and a rear end 557 and has a central longitudinal axis (not shown) that extends between the front end 555 and the rear end 557 and is equidistantly positioned between the opposing lateral sides 558, 559 of the first base portion 550. When the first base portion 550 is in the travel position, the front end 555 of the first base portion 550 may be arranged proximate the front end 534 of the support base 522 and the rear end 557 of the first base portion 550 may be located at the rear end 536 of the support base 522. In an embodiment, the central longitudinal axis of the first base portion 550 is parallel to, and in some embodiments coaxial with, the central longitudinal axis of the support base 522 when the first base portion 550 is in the travel position. When the first base portion 550 is in a loading position, the central longitudinal axis of the first base portion 550 is arranged at a non-parallel relative to the central longitudinal axis of the support base 522. In some embodiments, the first base portion 550 is rotated about 90 degrees between the travel position and the loading position.

[0183] As shown, the second base portion 552 may include a base seat 560 and a base back 562 extending at an angle from an end of the base seat 560. In the illustrated, nonlimiting embodiment, a seat belt lock-off assembly 570 operable to secure a vehicle belt 11 of a vehicle seat to the support base 522 is positioned at the second base portion 552, such as at the base back 562 for example. However, embodiments where the seat belt lock-off assembly 570 is arranged at the base seat 560 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0184] The seat belt lock-off assembly 570 includes a belt lock-off member 572. An opening or cavity 574 may be formed at a front surface 563 of the base back 562, and the belt lock-off member 572 may be positionable within the cavity 574. As shown, a contour of the interior surface of the cavity 574 may be complementary to a contour of the belt lock-off member 572 such that the substantial entirety of the belt lock-off member 572 is receivable within the cavity 574. The vehicle belt 11 is positionable along a belt receiving path defined between the base back 562 of the support base 522 and the belt lock-off member 572.

[0185] In an embodiment, the belt lock-off member 572 is selectively movable relative to the front surface 563 of the base back 562 to adjust the tension applied to the vehicle belt 11. For example, the belt lock-off member 572 may be configured to pivot about at least one axis X2 (see FIGS. 21B) between an open position (FIGS. 20 and 24C) and a closed position (see FIG. 24A) to selectively tension the portion of the vehicle belt 11 sandwiched between the belt lock-off member 572 and the cavity 574. When a vehicle belt 11 extends across the front surface 563 of the base back 562, over the cavity 574, rotation of the belt lock-off member 572 to the closed position presses the vehicle belt 11 into the cavity 574, thereby clamping the vehicle belt 11. This tension applied to the vehicle belt 11 via thisclamping couples the support base 522 to the vehicle belt 11, thereby restricting movement of the child seat (not shown) and the support base 522 relative to the vehicle seat 10.

[0186] With reference to FIGS. 21A-24C, the seat belt lock-off assembly 570 is illustrated in more detail. As shown, the seat belt lock-off assembly 570 may include a belt lock-off member locking assembly 580 operable to retain the belt lock-off member 572 in the closed position. The belt lock-off member locking assembly 580 is transitionable between a locked configuration (FIGS. 22A and 22B) and an unlocked configuration (FIGS. 23A and 23B). When the belt lock-off member locking assembly 580 is in the locked configuration, the belt lock-off member 572 is retained in a closed position, such as generally within the cavity 574, and when the belt lock-off member locking assembly 580 is in the unlocked configuration, the belt lock-off member 572 is freely movable between the closed position and the open position.

[0187] The belt lock-off member locking assembly 580 includes an engagement plunger 582 movably mounted to the belt lock-off member 572. In an embodiment, a retaining member 584 is arranged at an interior of the belt lock-off member 572 and the engagement plunger 582 is slidably mounted to the retaining member 584. As shown, a first slot 586a may be arranged at a first side of the retaining member 584 and a second slot 586b may be arranged at a second side of the retaining member 584. A configuration of the first and second slots 586a, 586b may be substantially identical and the first and second slots 586a, 586b may be aligned along a horizontal axis. A pin 588 protruding laterally from the engagement plunger 582 is arranged within the first slot 586a and the second slot 586b, respectively. This engagement between the pin 588 and the slots 586a, 586b defines a path of movement of the engagement plunger 582 relative to the belt lock-off member 572.

[0188] The engagement plunger 582 is therefore movable between a first extended position (FIGS. 22B and 24A) and a second retracted position (FIGS. 23B, 24B, and 24C). In the extended position, a first end 585 of the engagement plunger 582 protrudes beyond an end 587 of the retaining member 584. The first end 585 may be engageable with a corresponding surface of the support base 522 when in the extended position. In an embodiment, the first end 585 of the engagement plunger 582 is receivable within a recess 523 formed at an interior of the cavity 574 when extended and the belt lock-off member 572 is arranged within the cavity 574. When the engagement plunger 582 is in the retracted position, the end 585 of engagement plunger 582 may not protrude beyond the end 587 of the retaining member 584 and therefore is not engageable with the support base 522. In an embodiment, a biasing member 590 is operably coupled to the engagement plunger 582. In such embodiments, abiasing force of the biasing member 590 is configured to bias the engagement plunger 582 toward the extended position.

[0189] A lock-off release actuator 592 may be operable to transition the belt lock-off member locking assembly 580 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. For example, the lock-off release actuator 592 may be operably coupled to the engagement plunger 582 to translate the engagement plunger 582 to the retracted position. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the lock-off release actuator 592 has a body 594 including a protrusion 596. The lock-off release actuator 592 may be mounted proximate a front 573 of the belt lock-off member 572 such that the protrusion 596 is arranged within a pocket 598 formed at the front 583 of the engagement plunger 582. The protrusion 596 may be positioned directly adjacent to, and in some embodiments movable into contact with a corresponding engagement surface 600 of the pocket 598. However, embodiments where the lock-off release actuator 592 is indirectly couplable to the engagement plunger 582 are also contemplated herein.

[0190] The lock-off release actuator 592 includes an actuation surface 602 engageable by a user to operate the lock-off release actuator 592. The lock-off release actuator 592 may be arranged at the belt lock-off member 572, and in an embodiment, the actuation surface 602 is arranged at an underside of the lock-off release actuator 592. In such embodiments, the lock-off release actuator 592 is operable by applying a pulling force to the actuation surface 602, causing the lock-off release actuator 592 to rotate upwardly relative to the belt lock-off member 572. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the lock-off release actuator 592 and / or the actuation surface 602 of the lock-off release actuator 592 are located at another location, such as remote from the belt lock-off member 572 at the base back 562 of the support base 522 for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0191] The lock-off release actuator 592 is movably mounted to the belt lock-off member 572. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the lock-off release actuator 592 is pivotable about an axis relative to the belt lock-off member 572 in response to application of a force to the actuation surface 602. For example, when the belt lock-off member locking assembly 580 is in a locked configuration, an upward force may be applied to the actuation surface 602. In an embodiment, the axis of the lock-off release actuator 592 is parallel to the axis X2 of the belt lock-off member 572. When such a force is applied to the actuation surface 602 of the lock-off release actuator 592, the protrusion 596 of the lock-off release actuator 592 is rotated into engagement with and therefore transmits the force to the surface of the engagement plunger 582. The force transmitted to the engagement plunger 582 opposes the bias of the biasing member 590, causing the engagement plunger 582 to translate downwardlyrelative to the retaining member 584 toward the retracted position. Once the engagement plunger 582 is moved to a position where the first end thereof is offset from a corresponding surface of the support base 522, the belt lock-off member 572 may be moved, for example rotated, away from the cavity 574. When the engagement plunger 582 is in the retracted position, the belt lock-off member locking assembly 580 is in the unlocked configuration.

[0192] With reference now to FIGS. 25A-25C, cross-sectional views of a belt lock-off member 682 of a belt lock-off assembly 670 engaged with a vehicle belt 11 are illustrated. In each of the non-limiting embodiments, a rib 686 is arranged at the inward surface 683 of the belt lock-off member 682, facing toward the interior of a cavity 684 formed in a support base 622. The rib 686 may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the belt lock-off member 682 and is configured to engage and apply a tension to the vehicle belt 11 when the belt lock-off member 682 is in a closed position, such as partially received within the cavity 684. A length of the rib 686, measured parallel to the longitudinal axis of the belt lock-off member 682 may be equal to a portion of a length of the belt lock-off member 682 engageable with the vehicle belt 11 or may be substantially equal to the length of the belt lock-off member 682 engageable with the vehicle belt 11. The rib 686 may be integrally formed with the belt lock-off member 682, or alternatively, may be a separate component fixedly attached to the inward surface 683 of the belt lock-off member 682. With reference to FIG. 25C, one or more complementary protrusions 690a, 690b may extend from a surface of the cavity. As shown, a first protrusion 690a and a second protrusion 690b are arranged at aback surface 685 of the cavity 684 arranged proximate the inward surface 683 of the belt lock-off member 682 when the belt lock-off member 682 is in the closed position. The first protrusion 690a and the second protrusion 690b are spaced apart from one another such that a gap is defined therebetween. In an embodiment, the rib 686 extending from the inward surface 683 of the belt lock-off member 682 is receivable within the gap between the first and second protrusions 690a, 690b. Accordingly, the vehicle belt 11 is pushed into the gap between the two protrusions 690a, 690b by the rib 686.

[0193] In an embodiment, a material, such as an elastomeric material for example, is arranged a portion of the belt lock-off member 682 facing the cavity 684. A friction between the vehicle belt 11 and the elastomeric material may be greater than the friction between the vehicle belt 11 and the inward surface 683 of the belt lock-off member 682. With reference to FIG. 25 A, the elastomeric material 692 may be positioned in overlapping arrangement with the exterior surface of the rib 686. For example, a layer of thermoplastic elastomer 692 may be formed about the body of the rib 686. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 25B, the rib 686 itself may be formed from the elastomeric material 692.

[0194] Alternatively, or in addition, the support base 622 may include the elastomeric material 692. With reference to FIG. 25C, at least one corner of the cavity 685 arranged proximate a forward-facing surface 623 of the support base 622, identified generally at 694, may be configured to prevent damage to the vehicle belt. In an embodiment, the elastomeric material 692 may be arranged at each comer 694. The elastomeric material 692 may be positionable in overlapping arrangement with the surface of the support base 622 at the corner 694, or in some embodiments, a recess may be formed at the corner 694 and the elastomeric material 692 may be arranged within the recess to define the comers 694. Inclusion of elastomeric material 692 as described herein is intended to improve the retention of the vehicle belt 11 by the belt lock-off member 682 or within the cavity 684. It should be appreciated that any suitable friction material that enhances the grip relative to the vehicle belt 11 is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0195] 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 of similar 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.

[0196] 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.

[0197] 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 disclosurenot 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 system for use in a vehicle, the child seat system comprising:a support base mountable to a vehicle seat of the vehicle, the support base including:a first mid-base movable relative to the support base;a second mid-base adjustable relative to the first mid-base between a plurality of recline positions; anda child seat removably connectable to the second mid-base;wherein transformation of the second mid-base between the plurality of recline positions relative to the first mid-base is independent of a position of the first mid-base relative to the support base.

2. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the first mid-base is rotatable relative to the support base between a travel position and a loading position.

3. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the first mid-base is translatable relative to the support base between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the extended position, the first mid-base is arranged closer to a vehicle door than in the retracted position.

4. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the second mid-base is rotatable relative to the first mid-base between the plurality of recline positions.

5. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the second mid-base is translatable relative to the first mid-base between the plurality of recline positions.

6. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the second mid-base includes a recline lock mechanism that provides a plurality of seat recline positions of the child seat relative to the support base.

7. The child seat system of claim 6, wherein the recline lock mechanism is operable to lock the second mid-base at one of the plurality of recline positions relative to the first midbase.

8. The child seat system of claim 6, further comprising a recline actuator operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism, the recline actuator being arranged at an end of the support base.

9. The child seat system of claim 8, wherein the recline actuator is arranged at the end of the first mid-base.

10. The child seat system of claim 6, further comprising a recline actuator operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism, the recline actuator being arranged at a lateral side of the support base.

11. The child seat system of claim 10, wherein the recline actuator is arranged at the lateral side of the first mid-base.

12. The child seat system of claim 6, wherein the recline lock mechanism includes a plurality of slots arranged at the second mid-base, each of the plurality of slots being associated with one of the plurality of recline positions.

13. The child seat system of claim 12, wherein the recline lock mechanism includes a recline lock having at least one pin pivotably engageable with at least one of the plurality of slots at the plurality of recline positions.

14. The child seat system of claim 6, wherein the recline lock mechanism includes a plurality of openings arranged at the second mid-base, each of the plurality of openings being associated with one of the plurality of recline positions.

15. The child seat system of claim 14, wherein the recline lock mechanism includes a pin slidably engageable with the plurality of openings to selectively lock the second mid-base at the plurality of recline positions relative to the first mid-base.

16. The child seat system of claim 15, further comprising a recline actuator operably coupled to the pin via a linkage.

17. The child seat system of claim 1, wherein the support base further comprises a belt lock-off member movable relative to the support base to selectively tension a vehicle belt of the vehicle seat.

18. The child seat system of claim 17, wherein at least a portion of the belt lock-off member engageable with the vehicle belt includes a friction material, wherein a coefficient of friction of the friction material is greater than a coefficient of friction of the material of the belt lock-off member.

19. The child seat system of claim 18, wherein the friction material is thermoplastic elastomer.

20. A child seat system for use in a vehicle, the child seat system comprising:a support base mountable to a vehicle seat of the vehicle, the support base having a midbase including:a first portion movable relative to the support base;a second portion adjustable relative to the first portion between a plurality of recline positions; anda child seat removably connected to the second portion of the mid-base;wherein transformation of the second portion between the plurality of recline positions relative to the first portion is independent of a position of the first portion of the mid-base relative to the support base.

21. The child seat system of claim 20, wherein the first portion of the mid-base is rotatable relative to the support base between a travel position and a loading position.

22. The child seat system of claim 20, wherein the first portion of the mid-base is translatable relative to the support base between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the extended position, the first portion of the mid-base is arranged closer to a vehicle door than in the retracted position.

23. The child seat system of claim 20, wherein the second portion of the mid-base is rotatable relative to the first portion of the mid-base between the plurality of recline positions.

24. The child seat system of claim 20, wherein the second portion of the mid-base is translatable relative to the first portion of the mid-base between the plurality of recline positions.

25. The child seat system of claim 20, wherein the support base includes a recline lock mechanism that provides a plurality of seat recline positions of the child seat relative to the support base.

26. The child seat system of claim 25, wherein the recline lock mechanism is operable to lock the second portion of the mid-base at one of the plurality of recline positions relative to the first portion of the mid-base.

27. The child seat system of claim 26, further comprising a recline actuator operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism, the recline actuator being arranged at an end of the support base.

28. The child seat system of claim 27, wherein the recline actuator is arranged at an end of the first portion of the mid-base.

29. The child seat system of claim 26, further comprising a recline actuator operably coupled to the recline lock mechanism, the recline actuator being arranged at a lateral side of the support base.

30. The child seat system of claim 29, wherein the recline actuator is arranged at a lateral side of the first portion of the mid-base.

31. The child seat system of claim 25, wherein the recline lock mechanism includes a plurality of slots arranged at the second portion of the mid-base, each of the plurality of slots being associated with one of the plurality of recline positions.

32. The child seat system of claim 31, wherein the recline lock mechanism includes a recline lock having at least one pin pivotably engageable with at least one of the plurality of slots at the plurality of recline positions.

33. The child seat system of claim 25, wherein the recline lock mechanism includes a plurality of openings arranged at the second portion of the mid-base, each of the plurality of openings being associated with one of the plurality of recline positions.

34. The child seat system of claim 33, wherein the recline lock mechanism includes a pin slidably engageable with the plurality of openings to selectively lock the second mid-base at the plurality of recline positions relative to the first mid-base.

35. The child seat system of claim 34, further comprising a recline actuator operably coupled to the pin via a linkage.

36. The child seat system of claim 21, wherein the support base further comprises a belt lock-off member movable relative to the support base to selectively tension a vehicle belt of the vehicle seat.

37. The child seat system of claim 36, wherein at least a portion of the belt lock-off member engageable with the vehicle belt includes a friction material, wherein a coefficient of friction of the friction material is greater than a coefficient of friction of the material of the belt lock-off member.

38. The child seat system of claim 37, wherein the friction material is thermoplastic elastomer.

39. A child seat system for use with a vehicle belt, the child seat system comprising: a child seat;a support base for receiving the child seat, the support base having a cavity, a hook member movably mounted within the cavity;a seat belt lock-off assembly movable to capture the vehicle belt within the cavity, the seat belt lock-off assembly including a belt lock-off member having a shaft, the belt lock-off member being movable between an open position for receiving the vehicle belt and a closed position for pressing the vehicle belt into the cavity; andwherein the hook member automatically engages the shaft of the belt lock-off member during transformation of the belt lock-off member to the closed position.

40. The child seat system of claim 39, wherein the hook member is biased by a biasing member to automatically engage the shaft of the belt lock-off member.

41. The child seat system of claim 39, wherein the hook member includes at least one locking pawl and the at least one locking pawl automatically engages with the shaft during the transformation of the belt lock-off member to the closed position.

42. The child seat system of claim 39, wherein the seat belt lock-off assembly includes a lock-off release actuator operably coupled to the hook member, the hook member being disengageable from the shaft in response to operable of the lock-off release actuator.

43. The child seat system of claim 42, wherein the lock-off release actuator has an actuation surface arranged at a front surface of the belt lock-off member.

44. The child seat system of claim 42, wherein the lock-off release actuator is slidably mounted to the belt lock-off member.

45. The child seat system of claim 44, wherein the hook member is rotatable away from the belt lock-off member in response to translation of the lock-off release actuator.

46. The child seat system of claim 44, wherein the hook member includes an actuation hook and when the belt lock-off member is in the closed position, the lock-off release actuator is engageable with the actuation hook.

47. The child seat system of claim 39, wherein at least one receiving slot is formed at a back side of the belt lock-off member and the hook member is receivable within the at least one receiving slot.

48. The child seat system of claim 39, wherein an elastomeric material is arranged at a surface of the belt lock-off member engageable with the vehicle belt, wherein friction between the vehicle belt and the elastomeric material is greater than friction between the vehicle belt and a body of the belt lock-off member.

49. A child seat system for use with a vehicle belt, the child seat system comprising: a child seat;a support base for receiving the child seat, the support base having a cavity;a seat belt lock-off assembly movable to capture the vehicle belt within the cavity, the seat belt lock-off assembly including:a belt lock-off member movable between an open position for receiving the vehicle belt and a closed position for pressing the vehicle belt into the cavity; and an engagement plunger coupled to the belt lock-off member, the engagement plunger being extendable from a top of the belt lock-off member to engage a portion of the support base.

50. The child seat system of claim 49, wherein the engagement plunger is retractable relative to the belt lock-off member such that the engagement plunger does not protrude beyond the top of the belt lock-off member.

51. The child seat system of claim 49, wherein the seat belt lock-off assembly includes a biasing member operably coupled to the belt lock-off member, the belt lock-off member being biased by the biasing member to extend from the top of the belt lock-off member.

52. The child seat system of claim 49, wherein the seat belt lock-off assembly includes a lock-off release actuator operably coupled to the engagement plunger, the engagement plunger being translatable relative to the belt lock-off member in response to rotation of the lock-off release actuator.

53. The child seat system of claim 52, wherein the lock-off release actuator includes a protrusion and a pocket is formed in the engagement plunger, the protrusion being positioned within the pocket proximate an engagement surface of the engagement plunger.

54. The child seat system of claim 53, wherein engagement between the protrusion and the engagement surface opposes a biasing force acting on the engagement plunger.

55. The child seat system of claim 52, wherein the lock-off release actuator is arranged at a front of the belt lock-off member.

56. The child seat system of claim 52, wherein the lock-off release actuator includes an actuation surface engageable by a user, the actuation surface being arranged at an underside of the lock-off release actuator.

57. The child seat system of claim 52, wherein the lock-off release actuator is operated in response to a pulling force.

58. A child seat system for use with a vehicle belt, the child seat system comprising: a child seat;a support base for receiving the child seat, the support base having a cavity;a seat belt lock-off assembly movable to capture a vehicle belt within the cavity, the seat belt lock-off assembly including a belt lock-off member having an inward surface facing the cavity, the belt lock-off member being movable between an open position for receiving the vehicle belt and a closed position for pressing the vehicle belt into the cavity; and wherein at least one of the inward surface of the belt lock-off member and a portion of the support base at the cavity includes an elastomeric material.

59. The child seat system of claim 58, wherein the elastomeric material is a thermoplastic elastomer.

60. The child seat system of claim 58, wherein friction between the vehicle belt and the elastomeric material is greater than friction between the vehicle belt and the inward surface.

61. The child seat system of claim 58, wherein the belt lock-off member includes a rib protruding from the inward surface for engagement with the vehicle belt, the elastomeric material being arranged at the rib.

62. The child seat system of claim 61, wherein the elastomeric material is positioned about an exterior of the rib.

63. The child seat system of claim 61, wherein the rib is formed by the elastomeric material.

64. The child seat system of claim 58, wherein the cavity includes at least one comer engageable by the vehicle belt, the elastomeric material being arranged at the at least one corner.

65. The child seat system of claim 64, wherein the elastomeric material is a coating positioned in overlapping arrangement with the at least one comer.

66. The child seat system of claim 64, wherein the at least one corner is formed by the elastomeric material.

Images