Child restraint system with locking mechanism

Abstract

A child seat (100) configured to be secured to a car seat is provided. The child seat includes a seat (104) pivotably coupled to a base (102). The seat is adjustable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the base receives a portion of the belt. In the second position, the seat is configured to apply tension to the portion of the belt. The child seat may further include a locking mechanism (120) adjustable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking mechanism may prevent the seat from adjusting between the first position and the second position.

Description

TITLECHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM WITH LOCKING MECHANISMPRIORITY CLAIM AND CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to and benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 778,927 filed March 27, 2025, titled “CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM WITH LOCKING MECHANISM,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety and relied upon.BACKGROUND

[0002] Child restraint systems, also commonly called child safety seats, child seats, car seats, or booster seats, among others, are designed to protect children in vehicles from the effects of impacts or sudden changes in motion (e.g., sudden acceleration, sudden deceleration, and the like). Child restraint systems, referred to hereinafter as child seats, may be used in a variety of vehicles with different seat types and / or seating configurations. It is important for a child seat to be properly secured to the vehicle (e.g., car) seat to protect the occupant, but it is not uncommon for child seats to be installed or used improperly. For example, some child seats are secured to a car seat with a seat belt of the car; however, securing the child seat may be awkward and difficult to maintain a proper amount of tension. In such situations, an improper amount of belt tension is undesirable and may negatively affect the safety of the occupant within the child seat. Further, a user may be required to secure the child seat to a vehicle seat with limited space, making it difficult to maneuver the child seat to assure proper securement.SUMMARY

[0003] The present disclosure relates to child restraint systems and, more particularly, to child restraint systems with a locking mechanism.

[0004] Aspects of the subject matter described herein may be useful alone or in combination with one or more other aspects described herein. In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a child seat is configured to be secured to a car seat. The child seat includes a seat pivotably coupled to a base. The seat is adjustable between a first positionand a second position. In the first position, the base receives a portion of the belt. Tn the second position, the seat applies tension to the portion of the belt.

[0005] The child seat further includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is adjustable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking mechanism prevents the seat from adjusting between the first position and the second position. In the unlocked position, the seat is adjustable between the first position and the second position.

[0006] In a second aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the locking mechanism includes a handle rotatably coupled to the child seat and a hook operably coupled to the handle. The hook engages a latch disposed on the seat when the locking mechanism is in the locked position.

[0007] In a third aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, in response to rotating the handle, the hook disengages the latch, adjusting the locking mechanism to the unlocked position.

[0008] In a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the locking mechanism further includes a shaft having a first end and a second end, and a spring configured to bias the shaft into a first position. The first end of the shaft is coupled to the handle and the second end of the shaft is coupled to the hook.

[0009] In a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the base includes a receptacle, and the seat includes a protrusion. The protrusion engages the receptacle when the seat is in the second position.

[0010] In a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, when the seat is in the second position, the protrusion deforms the portion of the belt into the receptacle, securing the base to the car seat.

[0011] In a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the base includes a seat belt guide configured to receive the portion of the seat belt.

[0012] In an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the locking mechanism includes a first handle and a second handle. The first handle adjusts the locking mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position, and the second handle adjusts the locking mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0013] In a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the seat further includes a rotating portion and a stationary portion. The stationary portion is fixed to the base, and wherein the rotating portion is configured to rotate in relation to the base.

[0014] In a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, actuation of a side handle allows the rotating portion to rotate in relation to the base.

[0015] In an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, a child seat configured to be secured to a car seat is provided. The child seat includes a seat coupled to a base. The base includes a seat portion and a bottom portion, and the base includes a tilt mechanism to adjust the seat portion in relation to the bottom portion.

[0016] The child set further includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is adjustable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking mechanism prevents the seat from adjusting between a first position and a second position. In the unlocked position, the seat is adjustable between the first position and the second position.

[0017] In a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the tilt mechanism includes a locked position and an adjustable position.

[0018] In a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the tilt mechanism includes a handle coupled to a bar. The bar engages at least one of a plurality of pockets when the tilt mechanism is in the locked position.

[0019] In a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, actuating the handle causes the barto disengage the at least one of the plurality of pockets thereby adjusting the tilt mechanism from the locked position to the adjustable position.

[0020] In a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the tilt mechanism includes a spring to bias the tilt mechanism to the locked position.

[0021] In a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the locking mechanism includes a handle rotatably coupled to the child seat and a hook operably coupled to the handle. The hook engages a latch disposed on the seat when the locking mechanism is in the locked position.

[0022] In a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, in response to rotating the handle, the hook disengages the latch, adjusting the locking mechanism to the unlocked position.

[0023] In an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the locking mechanism further includes a shaft having a first end and a second end and a spring to bias the shaft into a first position. The first end of the shaft is coupled to the handle and the second end of the shaft is coupled to the hook.

[0024] In a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the base includes a receptacle, and the seat includes a protrusion. The protrusion engages the receptacle when the seat is in the second position.

[0025] In a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, the seat is in the second position, the protrusion deforms the portion of the belt into the receptacle, securing the base to the car seat.

[0026] Various implementations described herein may include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which cannot necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems,methods, features, and advantages be included within the present disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0027] The specification makes reference to the following appended figures, in which use of like reference numerals in different figures is intended to illustrate like or analogous components.

[0028] Figure 1 illustrates a front perspective view of an example child seat in a front facing configuration, according to various embodiments.

[0029] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of an example child seat in a front facing configuration while in a closed position, according to various embodiments.

[0030] Figure 3 illustrates an example pivot locking mechanism of a child seat, according to various embodiments.

[0031] Figure 4 illustrates a zoomed in view of an example pivot locking mechanism of a child seat of Figure 3, according to various embodiments.

[0032] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of an example child seat having a first handle and a second handle, according to various embodiments.

[0033] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of an example child seat in a loading position, according to various embodiments.

[0034] Figure 7 illustrates a rear perspective view of an example child seat in a front facing configuration while in a closed position, according to various embodiments.

[0035] Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example child seat having a tilt mechanism, according to various embodiments.

[0036] Figure 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example child seat having a tilt mechanism, according to various embodiments.

[0037] Figure 10 illustrates a zoomed in view of an example pivot locking mechanism of a child seat of Figure 3, according to various embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The subject matter of embodiments is described herein with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scopeof the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described. Directional references such as “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “front,” and “back,” among others, are intended to refer to the orientation as illustrated and described in the figure (or figures) to which the components and directions are referencing. Throughout this disclosure, a reference numeral with a letter refers to a specific instance of an element and the reference numeral without an accompanying letter refers to the element generically or collectively. Thus, as an example (not shown in the drawings), device “12A” refers to an instance of a device class, which may be referred to collectively as devices “12” and any one of which may be referred to generically as a device “12.” In the figures and the description, like numerals are intended to represent like elements.

[0039] A child seat may be configured for installation based on the height and weight of a child and according to various guidelines and standards, such as those of the United States National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. To ensure maximum protection for an occupant of the child seat, the child seat must be secured to a fixed location in a vehicle, such as using a seat belt of the car seat or Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (“LATCH”) attachments. When seat belts are used to secure the child seat, the seat belt is often positioned around the child seat and then engaged with a buckle attached to the car seat. However, slack in the seat belt may often occur, even when the seat belt is tightly fastened, and such slack causes the child seat to be loosely secured to the vehicle, which presents an unsafe condition for the occupant of the child seat. Moreover, a user is often required to install the child seat in a vehicle with limited space, making it difficult to maneuver the child seat and properly position a seat belt around the child seat. With additional space, the chances of proper installment may increase, providing safer conditions for the occupant of the child seat during transport.

[0040] Described herein are locking mechanisms for child seats that provide easy securing of the child seat using a seat belt. In certain aspects, the locking mechanism described herein may allow a user to easily apply tension to a buckled seat belt duringinstallation of the child seat, and may optionally allow for a one-handed operation of the locking mechanism by the user. The locking mechanism may secure the child seat to the car seat in a fully secured or tensioned configuration, which may provide increased safety for an occupant of the child seat. The locking mechanism may be configured to provide the user with a mechanical advantage, to ensure significant tensioning with minimal required effort. Additionally, the locking mechanism described herein in certain aspects may automatically adjust the child seat, providing additional space for the user to properly install the child seat. Various other advantages and benefits may be realized with the locking mechanism described herein, and the aforementioned benefits and advantages should not be considered limiting.

[0041] Figure 1 illustrates a front perspective view of an example child seat in a front facing configuration, according to various embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the child seat 100 is an infant car seat in a front facing configuration. The child seat 100 includes a base 102 and a seat 104. The seat 104 further includes a rotating portion 106 and a stationary portion 108 that interface at a seam 110. Specifically, the rotating portion 106 is located above the seam 110 while the stationary portion 108 is located below the seam 110. The stationary portion 108 is fixed to the base 102, and the rotating portion 106 is configured to rotate in relation to the stationary portion 108. As further described in reference to Figure 2, the seat 104, including the rotating portion 106 and the stationary portion 108, may be configured to rotate away from the base 102 about a pivot. Thus, while the stationary portion 108 is fixed to the base 102, the stationary portion 108 may be configured to tilt, rotating away from the base in various embodiments.

[0042] Because the rotating portion 106 rotates in relation to the stationary portion 108, the user may adjust the child seat 100 to various positions. For example, the user may rotate the child seat 100 into a rear facing configuration. The user may also rotate the child seat 100 into a side facing configuration. The side facing configuration provides ease of access for the user to load or unload an occupant into the seat 104. Once the occupant is secured to the seat 104, the user may then rotate the seat 104 to the front facing configuration or the rear facing configuration during transport. In other embodiments, the seat 104 may be fixed to the base 102, and the base 102 may be provided with other types of child seats, including a convertible car seat or a three-in-one car seat.

[0043] The seat 104 may further include a rotation locking mechanism 112 disposed on the rotating portion 106. The rotation locking mechanism 112 includes a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the rotating portion 106 is unable to rotate about the stationary portion 108 of the seat 104. The locked position may be used during transport to prevent the rotating portion 108 from rotating about the stationary portion 108. In the unlocked position, the rotating portion 106 can rotate about the stationary portion 108 of the seat 104. Thus, the user may adjust the child seat 100 to various positions when the rotation locking mechanism 112 is in the unlocked position. In an example, the rotation locking mechanism 112 includes a side handle 114 configured to adjust the rotation locking mechanism 112 between the locked position and the unlocked position. It should be appreciated that the side handle 114 may be in any number of positions. Further, the child seat 100 may include more than one side handle 114, providing the user with more options to adjust the rotating portion 106.

[0044] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of an example child seat in a front facing configuration while in a closed position, according to various embodiments. The child seat 100 can be adjusted between a loading position and a closed position. In Figure 2, the child seat 100 is in the closed position. When the child seat 100 is adjusted from the closed position to the loading position, the seat 104, including the rotating portion 106 and the stationary portion 108, rotates away from the base 102 about a pivot 116 in a pivot direction 117. By rotating about the pivot 116, additional space is provided between the seat 104 and the base 102, allowing the user to more easily secure the base 102 to the vehicle seat during installation and access the belt path for proper securement. Once the base 102 is properly installed, the user adjusts the child seat 100 to the closed position by pivoting the rotating portion 106 and the stationary portion 108 back against base 102. Namely, adjusting the child seat 100 to the closed position applies tension to a seat belt (not shown in Figure 2) disposed along a belt path on base 102, to more securely attach the base 102 to the vehicle seat. The user can adjust the child seat 100 between the closed position and the loading position via a pivot locking mechanism that permits / restricts movement about pivot 116.

[0045] Figure 3 illustrates an example pivot locking mechanism of a child seat, according to various embodiments. For illustrative purposes, the shell of base 102 has been removed in Figure 3. Continuing on, the pivot locking mechanism 120 includes a handle122 rotatably secured to a frame 124 of the child seat 100. The pivot locking mechanism 120 further includes a shaft 126. A first end 128 of the shaft 126 is coupled to the handle 122 while a second end 129 of the shaft 126 is coupled to both a spring 130 and a hook 132. The hook 132 is configured to engage a latch (shown more clearly in Figure 4). The latch is disposed on the stationary portion 108 of the seat 104. When the hook 132 engages the latch, the pivot locking mechanism 120 is a locked position. When the hook 132 is disengaged from the latch 134, the pivot locking mechanism 120 is in an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the user can adjust the child seat 100 between the loading position and closed position by pivoting the seat 104 about the pivot 116 as described in reference to Figure 2. In the locked position, the user is unable to adjust the child seat 100 between the closed position and the loading position.

[0046] Figure 4 illustrates a zoomed in view of an example pivot locking mechanism of a child seat of Figure 3, according to various embodiments. As introduced in reference to Figure 3, the pivot locking mechanism 120 includes a handle 122 rotatably secured to a frame 124 of the child seat 100. The pivot locking mechanism 120 further includes a shaft 126 having a first end 128 coupled to the handle 122 and a second end 129 coupled to a spring 130 and a hook 132. The hook 132 is configured to engage a latch 134. The latch 134 is disposed on the stationary portion 108 of the seat 104. When the hook 132 engages the latch 134, the pivot locking mechanism 120 is in the locked position.

[0047] In an illustrative example, the user adjusts the pivot locking mechanism 120 from the locked position (as shown in Figure 4) to the unlocked position. The user may actuate the handle 122 in a direction 136, thereby rotating the handle 122 about a rotation point 138. The rotation point 138 is provided by securing the handle 122 to the frame 124 of the child seat 100. Rotation of the handle 122 provides a rotational force, which is converted to a translation force, translating the shaft 126 downward against the force of the spring 130. Thus, when the user rotates the handle 122, the force of the spring 130 is overcome, allowing the shaft 126 to translate downward. This downward translation causes the hook 132 to rotate, disengaging the latch 134. As introduced above, the pivot locking mechanism 120 is in the unlocked position when the hook 132 is disengaged from the latch 134, allowing the user to pivot the seat 104 about the pivot point 116. It should beappreciated that additional mechanical linkages could be implemented between handle 122 and hook 132.

[0048] In various embodiments, the pivot locking mechanism 120 is symmetric. For example, Figure 4 illustrates a first side of the pivot locking mechanism 120. Such pivot locking mechanism 120 may include a second side, allowing the user to adjust the pivot locking mechanism 120 from either side of the child seat 100. The second side of the pivot locking mechanism 120 may include the same components, which function in a manner identical to those described in reference to Figure 4. As shown in Figure 4, the pivot locking mechanism 120 only includes a second hook 133 and a second latch 135 but omits several of the other components required for a symmetrical pivot locking mechanism 120. For this illustration, the pivot locking mechanism 120 is assumed to have two of each required component on each side of the pivot locking mechanism 120.

[0049] Further, to facilitate a symmetric pivot locking mechanism 120, the pivot locking mechanism 120 includes a cross bar 140. The cross bar 140 extends through each hook 132, 133 and is fixedly coupled to each hook 132, 133. Thus, in response to the hook 132 rotating from the user actuating the handle 122, the cross bar 140 likewise causes the second hook 133 to rotate and disengage the second latch 135. With such design, the user can actuate either handle 122 (as shown in Figure 5) causing both hooks 132, 133 to rotate and disengage respective latches 134, 135. In other words, the user is only required to actuate one of the two handles 122 to adjust the pivot locking mechanism 120 from the locked position to the unlocked position. This allows the user to adjust the child seat from either side, increasing the ease of installation and adjustment.

[0050] In an embodiment, each terminal end of cross bar 140 includes a visual indicator. For example, each terminal end of cross bar 140 may include a colored disc; a portion of the colored disc is green, another portion of the colored disc is red. The colored disc is partially viewable through the shell of base 102, such that the colored disc can visually indicate, to the user, the rotational orientation of the cross bar 140. Knowing the rotation orientation of the cross bar 140, one can determine the status of latches 134, 135 (i.e., engaged or disengaged). For example, if the user sees the red portion of the colored disc, the user knows that the latches 134, 135 are disengaged; if the user sees the green portion of the colored disc, the user knows that the latches 134, 135 are engaged and the seat is secure.

[0051] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of an example child seat in a loading position, according to various embodiments. As described in reference to Figures 2 to 5, the user may adjust the child seat 100 into a loading position. When transitioning to the loading position, the seat 104 rotates away from the base 102 about a pivot (not shown in Figure 6). By rotating about the pivot, additional space is provided between the seat 104 and the base 102, allowing the user to more easily secure the base 102 and access the related belt path.

[0052] The base 102 of the child seat 100 includes a receptacle 142 and a seat belt guide 146. While not shown in Figure 6, it should be appreciated that the base 102 may include a seat belt guide 146 disposed on each side of the base 102. The seat belt guide 146 includes an elongated receiver 148 configured to receive a portion of the seat belt. When properly positioned, the seat belt engages a seat belt guide 146 on each side of the base 102 and extends over the receptacle 142. As the seat 104 rotates about the pivot and is adjusted to the closed position, the seat 104 engages a portion of the seat belt, thereby forcing the seat belt into the receptacle 142 of the base 102. Specifically, the seat 104 may include a protrusion configured to mate with receptacle 142. The seat 104 mechanically engages with, and subsequently tightens, the seat belt within the base 102 as it is depressed into receptacle 142, removing slack of the seat belt and securing the base 102 (and thereby the child seat 100) to the vehicle seat. The structure of the seat 104 provides added tension to the seat belt, exerting a greater amount of tensioning force on the seat belt with an equal amount of user force. Accordingly, the seat belt is tightened within the base 102 to a greater degree, providing added security in attaching the child seat 100 to the vehicle seat.

[0053] Referring to Figure 4, the pivot locking mechanism 120 automatically adjusts from the loading position to the closed position as the user rotates the seat 104 to engage and provide tension to the seat belt. In an illustrative example starting from the loading position, the user rotates the seat 104 to the locked position. As the seat 104 rotates back, the latch 134 contacts the hook 132, forcing the hook 132 upward against the force of the spring 130. Once the latch 134 fully engages the hook 132, the spring 130 rotatably biases the hook 132 to the locked position.

[0054] Figure 7 illustrates a rear perspective view of an example child seat in a front facing configuration while in a closed position, according to various embodiments. The child seat 100 includes the protrusion 144. The protrusion 144, which extends from thestationary portion 108 of the seat 104, is configured to provide tension to the seat belt when the child seat 100 is in the closed position. As introduced in reference to Figure 6, the base 102 of the child seat 100 includes a receptacle 142. When properly oriented during installation, the seat belt extends over the receptacle 142. The protrusion 144 of Figure 7 extends into and engages the receptacle 142 when the child seat 100 is in the closed position. As a result of the seat 104 rotating into the closed position, the protrusion 144 engages the seat belt 116. Specifically, the protrusion 144 deforms the seat belt into the receptable 142. By deforming the seat belt, the seat 104 forces the seat belt into the receptacle 142, removing slack of the seat belt and securing the base 102 to the vehicle seat. When the user adjusts the seat 104 back to the loading position, the protrusion 144 disengages the seat belt and the seat belt returns to its non-deformed, original position.

[0055] It should be appreciated that the structure of the protrusion 144 and the receptable 142 can be adjusted to deform the seat belt a desired amount (and thereby provide a desired amount of securing force). For example, one may increase the distance that the protrusion 144 extends into the receptacle 142. This further extension will deform the seat belt to a greater degree, creating a greater force securing the base 102 to the vehicle seat. Likewise, one may decrease the distance that the protrusion 144 extends into the receptacle 142. This decreased distance of extension will deform the seat belt to a lesser degree, creating a smaller force securing the base 102 to the vehicle seat.

[0056] In reference to Figure 2, the base 102 further includes a seat portion 162 and a bottom portion 164. In various embodiments, the seat portion 162 may be adjustable in relation to the bottom portion 164. Specifically, in relation to the bottom portion 164, the seat potion 162 is titled at an angle 166. The base 102 may be adjusted by altering the angle 166 at which the seat portion 162 meets the bottom portion 164. For example, as the angle 166 increases, the seat portion 162 pivots further away from the bottom portion 164. As the angle 166 decreases, the seat portion 162 pivots towards the bottom portion 164.

[0057] With an adjustable base 102, the use may customize the angle of the base 102 (and thereby the seat 104) to better fit the needs of the occupant. Further, the base 102 is often secured to the vehicle seat. However, the angle of a vehicle seat varies depending on the type of vehicle. With an adjustable base 102, the user can adjust the angle 166 corresponding to the angle of the vehicle seat. In other words, the occupant can be kept at aconstant angle regardless of whether the angle of the vehicle seat changes across vehicles. This may provide additional comfort and safety for the occupant during transport. Moreover, the base 102 may provide an easier installation and loading process.

[0058] Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example child seat having a tilt mechanism, according to various embodiments. The tilt mechanism 150 is configured to adjust the angle 166 of the bottom portion 164 in relation to the seat portion 162 of the base 102. The tilt mechanism 150 includes a locked position and an adjustable position. In the locked position, the user is unable to adjust the tilt mechanism 150. In the adjustable position, the user can adjust the tilt mechanism 150; tilt mechanism 150 is only accessible to the user for adjustment (via handle 152) when the child seat 100 is disposed in the loading position (i.e., the seat 104, the rotating portion 106, and the stationary portion 108, are rotated away from the base 102 about a pivot 116).

[0059] The tilt mechanism 150 includes a handle 152 fixedly coupled to a bar 154. In the locked position, each end of the bar 154 engages a pocket of a plurality of pockets 156. Each of the plurality of pockets correspond to various height positions of the base 102. The tilt mechanism 150 also includes a spring 158 configured to bias the handle 152 into the closed position. To adjust the base 102, the user actuates the handle 152, overcoming the force of the spring 158 to disengage the bar 154 from the respective pocket. Once the bar 154 is disengaged from the respective pocket, the user can adjust the tilt mechanism 150 by allowing bar 154 to engage with any pocket of the plurality of pockets 156.

[0060] In Figure 8, the tilt mechanism 150 is in the closed position. Thus, the bar 154 is engaged with the plurality of pockets 156 and the user cannot adjust the position of the base 102. In an illustrative example, the user adjusts the tilt mechanism 150 from the locked position to the adjustable position. Namely, the user actuates the handle 152 in a vertically downward direction 160. Once the user overcomes the force of the spring 158, the handle 152 translates in a lateral direction 163. Because the bar 154 is fixedly coupled to the handle 152, the lateral translation of the handle 152 causes the bar 154 to also translate laterally. This lateral translation causes the bar 154 to disengage its respective pocket, thereby adjusting the tilt mechanism 150 to the adjustable position.

[0061] When the tilt mechanism 150 is in the adjustable position, the user can adjust the base 102 to a desired position corresponding to the plurality of pockets 156. Once at thedesired position, the user releases the handle 152. The force of the spring 158 causes the handle 152 to laterally translate opposite of direction 163 and to vertically translate opposite of direction 160. Without user force, the spring 158 provides the vertical force. Further, a sloped curve 168 in the seat 104 translates the vertical force of the spring 158 to a lateral force, causing the bar 154 to engage the plurality of pockets 156. In response, the tilt mechanism 150 returns to the locked position.

[0062] As more clearly shown in Figure 6, the handle 152 of the tilt mechanism 150 is disposed on the seat portion 162 of the base 102. Further, the handle 152 of the tilt mechanism 150 is only accessible when the child seat 100 is in the loading position of the Figure 6. When the child seat 100 is in the closed position, handle 152 of the tilt mechanism 150 in inaccessible, and thus the user is unable to adjust the base 102. Such design may provide added safety benefits. For example, during transport, the child seat 100 is in the closed position and the occupant is unable to adjust the base 102. This is especially advantageous when the occupant of the child seat 100 is a child, who may be prone unintentionally adjust the child seat 100, negatively impacting safety. Further, the position of the handle 152 of the tilt mechanism 150 may be advantageous during the installation process. For example, the child seat 100 must be in the loading position to properly orient the seat belt within the seat belt guide 146. During this process, the user may concurrently adjust the tilt mechanism 150 to the desired position.

[0063] It should be appreciated that the tilt mechanism 150 can be varied to correspond to any number of user inputs. For example, Figure 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example child seat having a tilt mechanism, according to various embodiments. The tilt mechanism in Figure 9 functions substantially similar to the tilt mechanism in Figure 8, and like reference numerals illustrate like components. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the tilt mechanism 150 includes a handle 152 fixedly coupled to a bar 154. To adjust the base 102, the user actuates the handle 152 by pulling the handle 152 in an upward direction. In turn, the upward force causes the handle 152 to rotate. Because the bar 154 is fixedly coupled to the handle 152, the rotation of the handle 152 causes the bar 154 to translate laterally. When translating laterally, the bar 154 disengages its respective pocket, thereby allowing the user to adjust the tilt mechanism 150 to a desired position. Once at the desiredposition, the user releases the handle 152, causing the bar 154 to engage one of the plurality of pockets 156, thereby returning the tilt mechanism 150 to the locked position.

[0064] Figure 10 illustrates a zoomed in view of an example pivot locking mechanism of a child seat of Figure 3, according to various embodiments. The pivot locking mechanism 120 in Figure 10 includes similar components to the pivot locking mechanism 120 of Figure 4. Like reference numerals illustrate like components. As shown in Figure 10 and introduced in reference to Figure 4, the pivot locking mechanism 120 includes a handle 122 rotatably secured to a frame 124 of the child seat 100. In the embodiment of Figure 10, the pivot locking mechanism 120 includes a first shaft 126 and a second shaft 170. The first shaft 126 and the second shaft 170 are joined via a cross plate 172. Thus, when the first shaft 126 and the second shaft 170 concurrently translate, the first hook 132 and the second hook (not shown in Figure 10) simultaneously rotate. With such design, the user can actuate either handle 122 (as shown in Figure 5) causing both hooks 132, 133 to rotate and disengage respective latches 134, 135 as described in reference to Figure 3 and 4.

[0065] The embodiment of the pivot locking mechanism 120 in Figure 10 is further configured to remain in the unlocked position (or open position) when the child seat 100 is in the loading position. Once a user adjusts the child seat 100 from the loading position to the closed position by pivoting the seat 104 about the pivot 116 (shown in Figure 2), the first hook 132 and the second hook 133 of the pivot locking mechanism 120 engage respective latches 134, thereby adjusting the pivot locking mechanism 120 to the locked position. In the locked position, the user is unable to adjust the child seat 100 between the closed position and the loading position. To adjust the pivot locking mechanism 120 back to the loading position, a user may actuate the handle 122 as described in reference to Figure 3 and 4. Again, the pivot locking mechanism 120 will then remain in the unlocked position until the user adjusts the child seat 100 to the closed position.

[0066] The many features and advantages of the present disclosure are apparent from the written description, and thus, the appended claims are intended to cover all such features and advantages of the disclosure. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the present disclosure is not limited to the exact construction and operation as illustrated and described. Therefore, the describedembodiments should be taken as illustrative and not restrictive, and the disclosure should not be limited to the details given herein but should be defined by the following claims and their full scope of equivalents, whether foreseeable or unforeseeable now or in the future.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMSreceived by the International Bureau on 06 August 2026 (06.08.2026)Claim 1 : A child seat configured to be secured to a car seat, the child seat comprising:a seat pivotably coupled to a base, wherein the seat is adjustable between a first position and a second position, wherein, in the first position, the base is configured to receive a portion of the belt, and wherein, in the second position, the seat is configured to apply tension to the portion of the belt; anda locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism is adjustable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein, in the locked position, the locking mechanism prevents the seat from adjusting between the first position and the second position, and wherein, in the unlocked position, the seat is adjustable between the first position and the second position.Claim 2 : The child seat of Claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises: a handle rotatably coupled to the child seat; anda hook operably coupled to the handle, wherein the hook engages a latch disposed on the seat when the locking mechanism is in the locked position.Claim 3 : The child seat of Claim 2, wherein, in response to rotating the handle, the hook disengages the latch, adjusting the locking mechanism to the unlocked position.Claim 4 : The child seat of Claim 3, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises:a shaft having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to the handle and the second end is coupled to the hook; anda spring configured to bias the shaft into a first position.Claim 5 : The child seat of Claim 1, wherein the base comprises a receptacle and the seat comprises a protrusion, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage the receptacle when the seat is in the second position.Claim 6 : The child seat of Claim 5, wherein, when the seat is in the second position, the protrusion deforms the portion of the belt into the receptacle, securing the base to the car seat.Claim 7 : The child seat of Claim 1, wherein the base comprises a seat belt guide configured to receive the portion of the seat belt.Claim 8 : The child seat of Claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises: a first handle and a second handle, wherein the first handle is configured to adjust the locking mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position, and wherein the second handle is configured to adjust the locking mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position.Claim 9 : The child seat of Claim 1, wherein the seat further comprises a rotating portion and a stationary portion, wherein the stationary portion is fixed to the base, and wherein the rotating portion is configured to rotate in relation to the base.Claim 10 : The child seat of Claim 9, wherein actuation of a side handle allows the rotating portion to rotate in relation to the base.Claim 11: A child seat configured to be secured to a car seat, the child seat comprising:a seat coupled to a base, wherein the base comprises a seat portion and a bottom portion, wherein the base further comprises a tilt mechanism configured to adjust the seat portion in relation to the bottom portion; anda locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism is adjustable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein, in the locked position, the locking mechanism prevents the seat from adjusting between a first position and a second position, and wherein, in the unlocked position, the seat is adjustable between the first position and the second position,wherein the base comprises a receptacle and the seat comprises a protrusion, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage the receptacle when the seat is in the second position, andwherein, when the seat is in the second position, the protrusion deforms the portion of the belt into the receptacle, securing the base to the car seat.Claim 12 : The child seat of Claim 11, wherein the tilt mechanism comprises a locked position and an adjustable position.Claim 13 : The child seat of Claim 12, wherein the tilt mechanism comprises a handle coupled to a bar, wherein the bar engages at least one of a plurality of pockets when the tilt mechanism is in the locked position.Claim 14 : The child seat of Claim 13, wherein actuating the handle causes the bar to disengage the at least one of the plurality of pockets thereby adjusting the tilt mechanism from the locked position to the adjustable position.Claim 15 : The child seat of Claim 14, wherein the tilt mechanism comprises a spring, wherein the spring is configured to bias the tilt mechanism to the locked position.Claim 16 : The child seat of Claim 11, wherein the locking mechanism comprises: a handle rotatably coupled to the child seat; anda hook operably coupled to the handle, wherein the hook engages a latch disposed on the seat when the locking mechanism is in the locked position.Claim 17 : The child seat of Claim 16, wherein, in response to rotating the handle, the hook disengages the latch, adjusting the locking mechanism to the unlocked position.Claim 18 : The child seat of Claim 17, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises:a shaft having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to the handle and the second end is coupled to the hook; anda spring configured to bias the shaft into a first position.

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