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WO2024158850A1 - Seat system for vehicle - Google Patents

Seat system for vehicle Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2024158850A1
WO2024158850A1 PCT/US2024/012666 US2024012666W WO2024158850A1 WO 2024158850 A1 WO2024158850 A1 WO 2024158850A1 US 2024012666 W US2024012666 W US 2024012666W WO 2024158850 A1 WO2024158850 A1 WO 2024158850A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
vehicle
seat
frame
base
component
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2024/012666
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Danny Brian LARSEN
Kurt Seibold
David John Mccarthy
James Bradley Price
Thomas Scott Hodgson
Original Assignee
Yanfeng International Automotive Technology Co., Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Yanfeng International Automotive Technology Co., Ltd. filed Critical Yanfeng International Automotive Technology Co., Ltd.
Publication of WO2024158850A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024158850A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/005—Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles, e.g. dismountable auxiliary seats
    • B60N2/015—Attaching seats directly to vehicle chassis
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/68—Seat frames

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a seat for a vehicle.
  • the present invention relates to a seat system configured for a vehicle occupant and configured for installation in a vehicle providing a vehicle structure comprising a seat module comprising (a) a seat frame comprising a base structure configured to be coupled to the vehicle structure to install the seat module into the vehicle; and (b) a back assembly coupled to the base structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to provide support for a set of seats.
  • the base structure may be configured to be attached at a frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to at least one pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise an end configured to be supported by a cradle of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise a member; the member may comprise a beam; the beam may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam.
  • the base structure may comprise a cross beam.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be installed at a frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be attached at a bracket at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise a beam and a frame configured to installed to a frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be attached at a cradle at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may comprise a main tube extending from a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube; the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube.
  • the cross beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the base structure to the pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the cross beam.
  • the base structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat module to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot.
  • the base structure may be configured to be cantilevered from a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to be cradled in a cradle of a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise a leg assembly comprising a foot; the foot may be configured to couple the base structure to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the base structure may comprise a cross-car beam, a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam.
  • the front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the base structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket.
  • the back assembly may comprise a set of seat backs.
  • the base structure may comprise a seat suspension.
  • the system may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover.
  • the system may comprise a console assembly; the console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the base structure.
  • the console assembly may comprise a seat console.
  • the console assembly may comprise a seat console and a component configured to provide a user interface.
  • the system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to provide a user interface.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may comprise an input device and/or an output device.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device comprising an operator control; (b) an output device comprising a display panel; (c) a movable component.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may be movable relative to the seat module.
  • the system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle comprising (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm; the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the system may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state; the first angle may be greater than the second angle.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state; the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance.
  • the input device may comprise a display screen.
  • the arm may be pivotably fixed to the base structure.
  • the component may comprise an operator control; the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may be configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device; (b) an output device.
  • the output device may comprise a display; the display may comprise a display panel.
  • the system may comprise a console.
  • the console may comprise the component.
  • the console may be coupled to the base structure.
  • the base structure may comprise an interface to the vehicle; the interface may comprise a mechanical interface and/or an electrical interface.
  • the vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the vehicle structure may comprise a base; the base of the vehicle structure may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base of the vehicle structure; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle structure may comprise a base, a floor, a vehicle frame, and at least one pillar.
  • the seat frame may comprise a back frame and a cushion frame and the base structure; the base structure may be configured to be attached to the vehicle structure.
  • the present invention relates to an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the vehicle frame may comprise a vehicle interior frame; the vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the interface may comprise a bracket and a cradle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure, a cross beam, a cushion frame, a backrest frame and an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the interface may comprise a connector and an end for a cross beam.
  • the interface may comprise an end on a member of the seat frame configured to attach to a bracket of the vehicle frame.
  • the system may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and the interface.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and a component; the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
  • the seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component; the component may be configured to be movable relative to the console assembly.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame; the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle frame at an interface.
  • the present invention relates to a seat system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the system may comprise the seat module and the seat frame and a component; the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
  • the vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle frame.
  • the system may comprise an interface for connecting the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a cross beam; the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle frame at an interface.
  • the vehicle may comprise a floor and the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the base structure may comprise a footing configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to the vehicle frame at a mechanical interface; the mechanical interface may comprise a bracket and/or cradle at the vehicle frame.
  • the vehicle frame may comprise a pillar frame.
  • the present invention relates to a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle comprising (a) a seat structure; and (b) a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state.
  • the component may comprise (1) a base; (2) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and (3) a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
  • the present invention relates to a method of assembling a seat module configured for installation to a vehicle structure in a vehicle comprising (a) providing a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly comprising a base structure; and (b) assembling a back assembly to the base structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the vehicle structure.
  • the method may comprise the step of fastening the seat module to the vehicle structure.
  • the present invention relates to an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle interior frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the structure of the seat frame may comprise a cross beam.
  • the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle interior frame at an interface.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and seat frame.
  • the seat system may comprise an interface.
  • the interface may be configured to mechanically attach the seat module to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the interface may comprise a gear system.
  • the interface may be configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the seat system may comprise a component.
  • the component may be attached by an arm.
  • the component may be movable relative to the seat module.
  • the component may comprise a user interface system.
  • the component may comprise an operator control.
  • the seat system may comprise an interface configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the seat system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise an operator control for the vehicle.
  • the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise an input device.
  • the user interface system may comprise an output device.
  • the output device may comprise a display.
  • the display may comprise a display panel.
  • the seat module may comprise a console.
  • the console may comprise a seat console.
  • the console may comprise a component comprising a user interface system.
  • the component may be attached by an arm; the component may be movable relative to the seat console.
  • the component may comprise an operator control movable relative to the seat module.
  • the seat module may be configured to be rotated into position for attachment in the vehicle interior frame.
  • the seat module may comprise two seats.
  • the vehicle interior frame may comprise a structure attached to a base frame of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface; the seat frame may comprise an interface; the interface of the seat frame may be configured to be engaged with the interface of the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module.
  • the system may comprise an instrument panel.
  • the vehicle may comprise an autonomous vehicle.
  • the vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle.
  • the present invention relates to a seating system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle interior frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat; a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame; and a component configured to provide a user interface system.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system.
  • the component may be configured to be movable relative to the seat module.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the system may comprise a seat console configured to provide the component.
  • the present invention relates to a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar comprising a support structure configured to mount the seat to the vehicle; and a back assembly coupled to the support structure.
  • the support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the support structure may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam.
  • the cross-car beam may be configured to be cradled by at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a tubular structure.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a hollow structure.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a generally round cross section.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a main tube extending from the left pillar to the right pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be concentric with the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may be welded to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise an aperture configured for a fastener to fasten the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the crosscar beam.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a generally flat flange transverse to an axis of the cross-car beam.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a collar concentric with the main tube.
  • the support structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot.
  • the riser may comprise a bent tube.
  • the bent tube may comprise a bend configured to contact the floor of the vehicle.
  • the bent tube may comprise a set of bent tubes. The set of bent tubes may be coupled by the foot.
  • the foot may be configured to couple the support structure to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the support structure may comprise a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam.
  • the front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket comprising an arcuate portion configured to fit on the cross-car beam.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the support structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket.
  • the seat may comprise a seat belt buckle configured to clamp the pivot bracket between the support structure and the seat belt buckle.
  • the seat may comprise a seat belt buckle coupled to the support structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a left back assembly and a right back assembly.
  • At least one of the left back assembly and the right back assembly may comprise a seat belt retractor.
  • the support structure may comprise a seat suspension.
  • the seat may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover.
  • the seat may comprise a console assembly.
  • the console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the support structure.
  • the support structure may be configured to be cantilevered from at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the support structure may be configured to be cradled in at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the present invention relates to a method of assembling a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar comprising coupling a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure; and assembling a back assembly to the support structure.
  • the support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the method may comprise assembling cushion suspension to the support structure.
  • the method may comprise assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure.
  • the method may comprise assembling a back assembly to the support structure.
  • the present invention relates to a method of installing a seat in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar comprising mounting the seat onto the right pillar and the left pillar; fastening the seat to the left pillar; and fastening the seat to the right pillar.
  • the method may comprise the step of fastening the seat to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the present invention relates to a component configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle comprising a base; an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose gravity in movement of the input device toward the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose movement of the input device toward the stowed state.
  • the component may comprise a bearing configured to facilitate movement of the arm relative to the base.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state.
  • the first angle may be greater than the second angle.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state.
  • the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance.
  • the input device may comprise a display screen.
  • the display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and a second mode when the input device is in the use state.
  • the display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state.
  • the display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state.
  • the arm may be pivotably fixed to the base.
  • the base may be configured to be fixed to a seat structure.
  • the base may be configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the input device may be configured for a second use state.
  • the arm may comprise a first structure and a second structure configured to rotate about the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
  • the second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
  • the component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the use state to the stowed state.
  • the component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the stowed state to the use state.
  • the present invention relates to a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle comprising a seat structure; and a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state.
  • the component may comprise a base; an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the base may be coupled to the seat structure.
  • the seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the use state.
  • the seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the stowed state.
  • the seat structure may be configured to couple the seat to the vehicle.
  • the seat structure may be configured to support the vehicle occupant.
  • the present invention relates to a seat system configured for installation in an interior of a vehicle providing a floor and a vehicle interior frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat and (a) a structure configured to mount at least one the seat to the vehicle and (b) a back assembly coupled to the structure.
  • the structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the vehicle interior frame may comprise a left pillar and a right pillar; the structure may comprise a support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the structure may comprise a frame.
  • the structure may comprise a beam.
  • the beam may comprise a cross beam.
  • the seat module may be configured to be installed in the vehicle by translation into the interior and engagement of an interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame. Engagement of the interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame may comprise rotation of the seat module relative to the vehicle interior frame.
  • FIGURE 1 A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE IB is a schematic perspective view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 2A is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle and a seat system for the vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 2B is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 2C is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 2D is a schematic block diagram of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 2E is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 3 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 3 A through 3E are schematic perspective views of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 4A is a schematic perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 4B is a schematic perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 4C and 4D are schematic perspective views of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 5A is a schematic perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 5B and 5C are schematic perspective views of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 6A is a schematic exploded perspective view of a seat module for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 6B is a schematic perspective view of a seat frame for a seat module for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 7 is a schematic perspective view of a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 8 is a schematic perspective view of a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 9A is a schematic perspective view of a seat frame for a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 9B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a seat frame and a seat cover for a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 9C is a schematic exploded perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 9D is a schematic exploded perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 9E is a schematic perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 10A through 10E are schematic perspective views of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 11 A and 1 IB are schematic partial perspective views of a seat frame for a seat system and a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 12A is a schematic partial perspective view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 12B is a schematic cutaway view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 12C is a schematic partial perspective view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 12D is a schematic cutaway view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 13 A is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat frame for a seat system according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 13B is a schematic partial exploded perspective view of a seat frame for a seat system according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 14A and 14B are schematic partial cutaway perspective views of a seat frame for a seat system and a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 15A and 15B are schematic partial perspective views of a seat frame for a seat system and a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 16A is a schematic partial front view of a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 16B is a schematic partial front view of a seat frame for a seat system and a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 17 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat and a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 18 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 19 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 20 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 21 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat and a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 22 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat and a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 23 is a schematic partial perspective view of a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 24A and 24B are schematic perspective cut-away views of a vehicle showing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 25 A and 25B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 26A and 26B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 27A and 27B are schematic top views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 28A and 28B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 29 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 30A and 30B are schematic partial perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 31 A and 3 IB are schematic partial perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 32A and 32B are schematic perspective cut-away views of a vehicle showing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 33A and 33B are schematic top views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 34A through 34C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 35 A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 35B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 36A and 36B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 36C is a schematic cutaway perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURES 37A and 37B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 37C is a schematic cutaway perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 38A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 38B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 39A is a schematic side view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 39B is a schematic side view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 40 is a schematic side view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 41 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 41 A is a schematic partial perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 4 IB is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle with a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 41C is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle and a seat system according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 4 ID is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 42A is a schematic flow diagram of a method of assembling a seat in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 42B is a schematic flow diagram of a method of assembling a seat in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 43 is a schematic flow diagram of a method of manufacturing a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • FIGURE 44 is a schematic flow diagram of a method of manufacturing a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • a vehicle V with a base VB and a vehicle interior VI is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment; a seat system SST for vehicle interior VI is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment; seat system SST may comprise a seat module comprising a seat ST and a frame/structure SF/SR configured to be installed/assembled in vehicle base VB such as on a frame/structure VF in vehicle interior VI; seat system SST may comprise a component C configured to provide a user interface system UIS (with an input device and/or output device) configured to be connected to vehicle systems and/or networks, devices, etc.; seat system SST with seat module may comprise a user interface system/component C/UIS such as an operator control for vehicle systems and/or the vehicle; the seat module of seat system SST may comprise a set of seats ST and an interface N for connecting/coupling into vehicle interior VI.
  • a vehicle V with a base VB and a vehicle interior VI is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment; a seat system SST for vehicle interior VUI is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment; seat system SST may comprise a seat module SM comprising a seat ST and a frame/structure SF/SR configured to be installed/assembled in vehicle base VB such as on a frame/structure VF in vehicle interior VI with a floor FL.
  • vehicle V may comprise an electric vehicle EV and/or an autonomous vehicle AV.
  • seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise a component C configured to provide a user interface system UIS (with an input device ID and/or output device OD) configured to be connected to vehicle systems and/or networks, devices, etc.; seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise a user interface system/component UIS/C such as an operator control for vehicle systems and/or the vehicle. See also FIGURES 2A- 2E.
  • seat module SM of seat system SST may comprise a set of seats ST and an interface N for connecting/coupling into vehicle interior VI/I (e.g. by positioning the module for installation and locating/translating the module into assembly position and coupling/connecting mechanically at a set of brackets/connectors at the interface/ support to retain the seat module/frame/support to the vehicle frame/floor). See also FIGURES 11A-11B, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23.
  • an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame VF may comprise a seat system SST with seat module SM comprising at least one seat ST and a seat frame SF comprising a structure configured to be attached to vehicle frame VF; seat frame SF may be configured to be attached to vehicle frame VF to install seat module SM into the vehicle. See also FIGURES 41A-41D.
  • vehicle frame VF may comprise a vehicle interior frame; the vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface N for attachment of seat frame SF to vehicle frame VF; interface N may comprise a bracket and a cradle CD.
  • Seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP and a cross beam CB; seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP, a cross beam CB, a cushion frame, a backrest frame and an interface N for attachment of seat frame SF to vehicle frame VF; interface N may comprise a connector and an end for cross beam CB; interface N may comprise an end on a member of seat frame SF configured to attach to a bracket of vehicle frame VF; the system may comprise an interface N for attachment of seat frame SF to vehicle frame VF; the system may comprise a seat system SST comprising seat module SM and seat frame SF and interface N.
  • the interior system may comprise a seat system SST comprising seat module SM and seat frame SF and a component C;
  • component C may comprise a user interface system UIS comprising an input device ID and/or an output device OD;
  • user interface system UIS may be configured to be connected to vehicle systems and/or networks (including the internet);
  • seat system SST may comprise a console assembly SC/CL for component C;
  • component C may be configured to be movable relative to console assembly SC/CL;
  • the system may comprise a seat system SST comprising seat module SM and seat frame SF;
  • seat frame SF may be attached to vehicle frame VF at an interface N.
  • the interior system for interior VEI may include an instrument panel and a display panel DPx with seating system SST with seat module SM with seats ST and console SC with component C/UIS.
  • a seat system SST for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame VF may comprise a seat module SM comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame SF comprising a structure configured to be installed and attached to vehicle frame VF; seat frame SF may be configured to be attached to vehicle frame VF to install seat module SM into the vehicle (e.g. at a connector/interface).
  • the system may comprise seat module SM and seat frame SF and a component C; component C may comprise a user interface system UIS comprising an input device and/or an output device; the vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; user interface system UIS may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system.
  • seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise an interface N configured to couple component C to at least one vehicle system. See also FIGURES 2C-2E.
  • seat system SST may comprise an interface N configured to connect seat module SM to vehicle frame VF; seat system SST may comprise an interface N for connecting seat frame SF to vehicle frame VF; seat system SST may comprise a console assembly SC/CL for component C; seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP comprising a cross beam CB; seat frame SF may be attached to vehicle frame VF at an interface N; the vehicle may comprise a floor and seat frame SF may be configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle; seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP configured to be attached to a floor of the vehicle; base structure SP may comprise a footing configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle; seat frame SF may comprise a
  • a seat system SST with a seat ST configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise a seat structure shown as seat module SM and a component C coupled to seat structure/module SM; component C/UIS may be configured for a use state for use as an input device such as by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and for a stowed state; component C may comprise a base and an arm AR configured to rotate relative to the base of component C a user interface system UIS comprising an input device ID and/or an output device OD such as a display panel/system DS.
  • seat system SST configured for a vehicle occupant and configured for installation in a vehicle providing a vehicle structure
  • a vehicle structure may comprise a seat module SM comprising a seat frame SF comprising a base structure SP (with cover T) configured to be coupled to the vehicle structure to install seat module SM into the vehicle and a back assembly coupled to base structure SP;
  • base structure SP may be configured to provide support for a set of seats ST;
  • base structure SP may be configured to be attached at a frame of the vehicle structure;
  • base structure SP may be configured to mount seat module SM to at least one pillar PR of the vehicle structure;
  • base structure SP may comprise an end configured to be supported by a cradle CD of the vehicle structure;
  • base structure SP may comprise
  • seat system SST with seat module SM for seat ST may comprise a base structure SP; base structure/support structure SP for seat frame SF may comprise a cross beam CB; cross beam CB may be configured to be installed at a frame of the vehicle structure; cross beam CB may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame PR of the vehicle structure; cross beam CB may be configured to be cradled at a pillar PR of the vehicle structure; cross beam CB may be configured to be attached at a bracket at a pillar frame PR of the vehicle structure; seat frame SF and base structure SP may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame PR of the vehicle structure.
  • cross beam CB of seat frame SF of seat module SM may be provided with an interface N shown as end ND that may be configured to be moved adjacent to and secured into an interface N shown as a bracket/cradle CD of vehicle frame VF/pillar PR.
  • seat module SM may be supported/secured by seat frame SF at interface N and supported/secured on base/ support structure SP on floor FL of vehicle base VB within vehicle interior VEI during installation.
  • seat system SST with seat module SM for seat ST may comprise a base structure SP; base structure/support structure SP may comprise a beam CB with a frame SF configured to installed to a frame VF/PR of the vehicle structure.
  • Cross beam CB may be configured to be attached at a cradle CD at a pillar frame PR of the vehicle structure.
  • Cross beam CB may be configured to be cradled at a pillar PR of the vehicle structure.
  • Cross beam CB may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in a pillar PR of the vehicle structure.
  • Cross beam CB may comprise a main tube extending from a pillar PR of the vehicle structure.
  • Cross beam CB may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube; the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube.
  • Cross beam CB may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount base structure SP to pillar PR of the vehicle structure.
  • the mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from cross beam CB.
  • Base structure SP may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount seat module SM to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot.
  • Base structure SP may be configured to be cantilevered from a pillar PR of the vehicle structure.
  • Base structure SP may be configured to be cradled at an end ND in a cradle CD of a pillar PR of the vehicle structure.
  • Base structure SP may comprise a leg assembly comprising a foot; the foot may be configured to couple base structure SP to a floor of the vehicle.
  • Base structure SP may comprise a cross-car beam, a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam.
  • the front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to base structure SP.
  • the back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket.
  • the back assembly may comprise a set of seat backs.
  • Base structure SP may comprise a seat suspension.
  • the system may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover.
  • seat ST of seat module SM with seat frame SF and base structure/support SP may comprise a seat back/pad SBx and a seat cushion/assembly SNx and a seat cover STx.
  • the vehicle structure for vehicle VZEV may comprise a base VB, a floor, and a vehicle frame VF with at least one pillar PR; seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise a base structure SP with a seat frame SF; seat frame SF may comprise a back frame and a cushion frame and base structure SP; base structure SP may be configured to be attached to vehicle structure VF/PR.
  • seat system SST may comprise a console assembly SC/CL; console assembly SC/CL may be configured to be assembled to base structure SP.
  • Console assembly SC/CL may comprise a seat console SC.
  • Console assembly SC/CL may comprise a seat console SC and a component C configured to provide a user interface N.
  • seat system SST may comprise a component C comprising a user interface system UIS configured to provide a user interface N.
  • Component C comprising user interface system UIS may comprise an input device and/or an output device.
  • Component C comprising user interface system UIS may comprise at least one of an input device comprising an operator control or an output device comprising a display panel or a movable component C.
  • Component C comprising user interface system UIS may be movable relative to seat module SM.
  • the system may comprise a component C comprising a user interface system UIS configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle comprising a base and an arm AR configured to rotate relative to the base of component C and an input device coupled to arm AR; the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state.
  • arm AR may be configured to rotate relative to the base of component C about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • Arm AR may be configured to rotate relative to the base of component C about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the system may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state.
  • Arm AR may be configured to position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state and to position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state; the first angle may be greater than the second angle.
  • Arm AR may be configured to position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state and to position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state; the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance.
  • the input device may comprise a display screen. Arm AR may be pivotably fixed to base structure SP.
  • component C may comprise an operator control; the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle.
  • User interface system UIS may be configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • User interface system UIS may comprise at least one of an input device and/or an output device.
  • the output device may comprise a display; the display may comprise a display panel.
  • seat system SST may comprise a console SC; console SC may comprise component C; console SC may be coupled to base structure SP.
  • seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise a base structure SP and an interface N to connect/attach to the vehicle; interface N may comprise a mechanical interface N and/or an electrical interface N.
  • the vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle EV; the vehicle structure may comprise a base VB; the base of the vehicle structure may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base of the vehicle structure; seat module SM may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle.
  • a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise a seat structure shown as comprising a seat frame SF and a component C coupled to seat structure SP configured for a stowed state (e.g. in a console assembly) and for a use state (e.g. to provide a user interface system, input device and/or output device, with operator control, etc.) for use by the vehicle occupant.
  • Component C may be provided with a base shown as base structure SP and an arm AR configured to rotate component C relative to base structure/base SP and a user interface system UIS comprising an input device ID and/or an output device OD.
  • a method of assembling a seat module SM configured for installation to a vehicle structure VF/PR in a vehicle base VB of a vehicle V may comprise providing a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly comprising a base structure SP and assembling a back assembly to base structure SP; base structure SP may be configured to mount seat module SM to the vehicle structure; the method may comprise the step of fastening seat module SM to vehicle structure VF/PR. See also FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3A-3E and 10A-10E.
  • the base structure may be configured to provide support for a set of seats.
  • the base structure may be configured to be attached at a frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to at least one pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise an end configured to be supported by a cradle of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise a member; the member may comprise a beam; the beam may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam.
  • the base structure may comprise a cross beam.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be installed at a frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be attached at a bracket at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise a beam and a frame configured to installed to a frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be attached at a cradle at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may comprise a main tube extending from a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube; the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube.
  • the cross beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the base structure to the pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the cross beam.
  • the base structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat module to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot.
  • the base structure may be configured to be cantilevered from a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to be cradled in a cradle of a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise a leg assembly comprising a foot; the foot may be configured to couple the base structure to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the base structure may comprise a cross-car beam, a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam.
  • the front support may comprise an antisubmarine cross member.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the base structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket.
  • the back assembly may comprise a set of seat backs.
  • the base structure may comprise a seat suspension.
  • the system may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover.
  • the system may comprise a console assembly; the console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the base structure.
  • the console assembly may comprise a seat console.
  • the console assembly may comprise a seat console and a component configured to provide a user interface.
  • the system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to provide a user interface.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may comprise an input device and/or an output device.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device comprising an operator control; (b) an output device comprising a display panel; (c) a movable component.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may be movable relative to the seat module.
  • the system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle comprising (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm; the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the system may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state; the first angle may be greater than the second angle.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state; the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance.
  • the input device may comprise a display screen.
  • the arm may be pivotably fixed to the base structure.
  • the component may comprise an operator control; the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may be configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device; (b) an output device.
  • the output device may comprise a display; the display may comprise a display panel.
  • the system may comprise a console.
  • the console may comprise the component.
  • the console may be coupled to the base structure.
  • the base structure may comprise an interface to the vehicle; the interface may comprise a mechanical interface and/or an electrical interface.
  • the vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the vehicle structure may comprise a base; the base of the vehicle structure may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base of the vehicle structure; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle structure may comprise a base, a floor, a vehicle frame, and at least one pillar.
  • the seat frame may comprise a back frame and a cushion frame and the base structure; the base structure may be configured to be attached to the vehicle structure.
  • an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the vehicle frame may comprise a vehicle interior frame; the vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the interface may comprise a bracket and a cradle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure, a cross beam, a cushion frame, a backrest frame and an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the interface may comprise a connector and an end for a cross beam.
  • the interface may comprise an end on a member of the seat frame configured to attach to a bracket of the vehicle frame.
  • the system may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and the interface.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and a component; the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
  • the seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component; the component may be configured to be movable relative to the console assembly.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame; the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle frame at an interface.
  • a seat system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the system may comprise the seat module and the seat frame and a component; the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
  • the vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle frame.
  • the system may comprise an interface for connecting the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a cross beam; the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle frame at an interface.
  • the vehicle may comprise a floor and the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the base structure may comprise a footing configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to the vehicle frame at a mechanical interface; the mechanical interface may comprise a bracket and/or cradle at the vehicle frame.
  • the vehicle frame may comprise a pillar frame.
  • a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise (a) a seat structure; and (b) a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state.
  • the component may comprise (1) a base; (2) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and (3) a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
  • a method of assembling a seat module configured for installation to a vehicle structure in a vehicle may comprise (a) providing a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly comprising a base structure; and (b) assembling a back assembly to the base structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the
  • the method may comprise the step of fastening the seat module to the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to provide support for a set of seats.
  • the base structure may be configured to be attached at a frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to at least one pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise an end configured to be supported by a cradle of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise a member; the member may comprise a beam; the beam may comprise a cross-car beam.
  • the beam may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam.
  • the base structure may comprise a member; the member may comprise a cross beam.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be installed at a frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be installed at a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be attached at a bracket at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may comprise a beam and a frame configured to installed to a frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be attached at a cradle at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross beam may comprise a tubular structure.
  • the cross beam may comprise a hollow structure.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a generally round cross section.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a main tube extending from a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be concentric with the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the base structure to the pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may be welded to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise an aperture configured for a fastener to fasten the base structure to the pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the cross-car beam.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a generally flat flange transverse to an axis of the crosscar beam.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a collar concentric with the main tube.
  • the base structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat module to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot.
  • the riser may comprise a bent tube.
  • the bent tube may comprise a bend configured to contact the floor of the vehicle.
  • the bent tube may comprise a set of bent tubes.
  • the set of bent tubes may be coupled by the foot.
  • the base structure may be configured to be cantilevered from a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to be cradled in a cradle of a pillar of the vehicle structure.
  • the foot may be configured to couple the base structure to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the base structure may comprise a cross-car beam, a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam.
  • the front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket comprising an arcuate portion configured to fit on the cross-car beam.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the base structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket.
  • the system may comprise a seat belt buckle configured to clamp the pivot bracket between the base structure and the seat belt buckle.
  • the system may comprise a seat belt buckle coupled to the base structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a set of seat backs; the set of seat backs may comprise a left back assembly and a right back assembly.
  • the back assembly may comprise a seat belt retractor.
  • the base structure may comprise a seat suspension.
  • the system may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover.
  • the system may comprise a console assembly.
  • the console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the base structure.
  • the console assembly may comprise a seat console.
  • the console assembly may comprise a seat console and a component.
  • the console assembly may comprise a seat console and a component configured to provide a user interface.
  • the system may comprise a component configured to provide a user interface.
  • the system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to provide a user interface.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may comprise an input device and/or an output device.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may comprise an input device comprising an operator control.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may comprise an output device comprising a display panel.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may comprise a movable component.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may be movable relative to the seat module.
  • the component comprising the user interface system may be movable relative to a seat console for the seat module.
  • the system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle comprising (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the system may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state.
  • the system may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state.
  • the system may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose gravity in movement of the input device toward the use state.
  • the system may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose movement of the input device toward the stowed state.
  • the system may comprise a bearing configured to facilitate movement of the arm relative to the base.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state.
  • the first angle may be greater than the second angle.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state.
  • the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance.
  • the input device may comprise a display screen.
  • the display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and a second mode when the input device is in the use state.
  • the display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state.
  • the display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state.
  • the arm may be pivotably fixed to the base.
  • the base may be configured to be fixed to the seat frame.
  • the base may be configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the input device may be configured for a second use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate about the base to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
  • the second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the base to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
  • the component may comprise an operator control.
  • the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may be configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise an operator control for the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device; (b) an output device.
  • the output device may comprise a display.
  • the display may comprise a display panel.
  • the system may comprise a console.
  • the console may comprise a seat console.
  • the console may comprise the component.
  • the console may comprise a center console between a first seat back and a second seat back.
  • the console may be coupled to the base structure.
  • the base structure may comprise an interface to the vehicle.
  • the interface may comprise a mechanical interface.
  • the interface may comprise an electrical interface.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to electrically couple the seat module to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle may comprise an autonomous vehicle.
  • the vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the vehicle structure may comprise a base; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the battery system in the floor of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle structure may comprise a base, a floor, a vehicle frame, and at least one pillar.
  • the seat frame may comprise a back frame and a cushion frame and the base structure.
  • the base structure may comprise a support structure.
  • the support structure may comprise a base frame.
  • the base structure may be configured to
  • an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the vehicle frame may comprise a vehicle interior frame.
  • the vehicle frame may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the interface may comprise a bracket.
  • the interface may comprise a cradle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam and a cushion frame and a backrest frame.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam and a cushion frame and a backrest frame and an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the interface may comprise a connector.
  • the interface may comprise an end for a cross beam.
  • the interface may comprise an end on a member of the seat frame configured to attach to a bracket of the vehicle frame.
  • the system may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the interface may comprise a mechanical interface.
  • the interface may comprise an electrical interface.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and the interface.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and a component.
  • the component may comprise a user interface system.
  • the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
  • the seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component.
  • the component may comprise a movable component.
  • the component may be configured to be movable relative to the console assembly.
  • the structure of the seat frame may comprise a cross beam.
  • the seat frame may comprise a cross beam.
  • the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle interior frame at an interface.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and seat frame.
  • the seat system may comprise an interface.
  • the interface may be configured to mechanically attach the seat module to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the interface may comprise a gear system.
  • the interface may be configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the seat system may comprise a component.
  • the component may be attached by an arm.
  • the component may be movable relative to the seat module.
  • the component may comprise a user interface system.
  • the component may comprise an operator control.
  • the seat system may comprise an interface configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the seat system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise an operator control for the vehicle.
  • the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise an input device.
  • the user interface system may comprise an output device.
  • the output device may comprise a display.
  • the display may comprise a display panel.
  • the seat module may comprise a console.
  • the console may comprise a seat console.
  • the console may comprise a component comprising a user interface system.
  • the component may be attached by an arm; the component may be movable relative to the seat console.
  • the component may comprise an operator control movable relative to the seat module.
  • the seat module may be configured to be rotated into position for attachment in the vehicle interior frame.
  • the seat module may comprise two seats.
  • the vehicle interior frame may comprise a structure attached to a base frame of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface; the seat frame may comprise an interface; the interface of the seat frame may be configured to be engaged with the interface of the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module.
  • the system may comprise an instrument panel.
  • the vehicle may comprise an autonomous vehicle.
  • the vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle.
  • a seat system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system.
  • the component may be configured to be movable relative to the seat module.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the system may comprise a seat console configured to provide the component.
  • the vehicle frame may comprise a vehicle interior frame.
  • the system may comprise an interface for connecting the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
  • the interface may comprise a mechanical interface.
  • the interface may comprise an electrical interface.
  • the system may comprise the seat module and the seat frame and a component.
  • the component may comprise a user interface system.
  • the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
  • the seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component.
  • the component may comprise a movable component.
  • the component may be configured to be movable relative to the console assembly.
  • the structure of the seat frame may comprise a cross beam.
  • the seat frame may comprise a cross beam.
  • the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle interior frame at an interface.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure.
  • the vehicle may comprise a floor and the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the base structure may comprise a footing configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the base structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle.
  • the seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to the vehicle frame at a mechanical interface.
  • the mechanical interface may comprise a bracket and/or cradle at the vehicle frame.
  • the vehicle frame may comprise a pillar frame.
  • a seat system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame; and a component configured to provide a user interface system.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise (a) a seat structure; and (b) a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state.
  • the component may comprise (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the base may be coupled to the seat structure.
  • the seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the use state.
  • the seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the stowed state.
  • the seat structure may be configured to couple the seat to the vehicle.
  • the seat structure may be configured to support the vehicle occupant.
  • the structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the vehicle interior frame may comprise a left pillar and a right pillar; the structure may comprise a base structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the structure may comprise a frame.
  • the structure may comprise a beam.
  • the beam may comprise a cross beam.
  • the seat module may be configured to be installed in the vehicle by translation into the interior and engagement of an interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame. Engagement of the interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame may comprise rotation of the seat module relative to the vehicle interior frame.
  • a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) a base structure configured to mount the seat to the vehicle; and (b) a back assembly coupled to the base structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • a component configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle may comprise (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state.
  • a method of assembling a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) coupling a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly to provide a base structure; and (b) assembling a back assembly to the base structure.
  • the base structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the method may comprise assembling cushion suspension to the base structure.
  • the method may comprise assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the base structure.
  • the method may comprise assembling a back assembly to the base structure.
  • a method of installing a seat in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) mounting the seat onto the right pillar and the left pillar; (b) fastening the seat to the left pillar; and (c) fastening the seat to the right pillar.
  • the method may comprise the step of fastening the seat to the floor of the vehicle.
  • an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle interior frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the structure of the seat frame may comprise a cross beam.
  • the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle interior frame at an interface.
  • the system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and seat frame.
  • the seat system may comprise an interface.
  • the interface may be configured to mechanically attach the seat module to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the interface may comprise a gear system.
  • the interface may be configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the seat system may comprise a component.
  • the component may be attached by an arm.
  • the component may be movable relative to the seat module.
  • the component may comprise a user interface system.
  • the component may comprise an operator control.
  • the seat system may comprise an interface configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the seat system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise an operator control for the vehicle.
  • the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle.
  • the user interface system may comprise an input device.
  • the user interface system may comprise an output device.
  • the output device may comprise a display.
  • the display may comprise a display panel.
  • the seat module may comprise a console.
  • the console may comprise a seat console.
  • the console may comprise a component comprising a user interface system.
  • the component may be attached by an arm; the component may be movable relative to the seat console.
  • the component may comprise an operator control movable relative to the seat module.
  • the seat module may be configured to be rotated into position for attachment in the vehicle interior frame.
  • the seat module may comprise two seats.
  • the vehicle interior frame may comprise a structure attached to a base frame of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface; the seat frame may comprise an interface; the interface of the seat frame may be configured to be engaged with the interface of the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module.
  • the system may comprise an instrument panel.
  • the vehicle may comprise an autonomous vehicle.
  • the vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the battery system in the floor of the vehicle.
  • a seating system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle interior frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame; and a component configured to provide a user interface system.
  • the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
  • the vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system.
  • the component may be configured to be movable relative to the seat module.
  • the system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the system may comprise a seat console configured to provide the component.
  • the present invention relates to a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar comprising a support structure configured to mount the seat to the vehicle; and a back assembly coupled to the support structure.
  • the support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the support structure may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam.
  • the cross-car beam may be configured to be cradled by at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a tubular structure.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a hollow structure.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a generally round cross section.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a main tube extending from the left pillar to the right pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be concentric with the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may be welded to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise an aperture configured for a fastener to fasten the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the crosscar beam.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a generally flat flange transverse to an axis of the cross-car beam.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a collar concentric with the main tube.
  • the support structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot.
  • the riser may comprise a bent tube.
  • the bent tube may comprise a bend configured to contact the floor of the vehicle.
  • the bent tube may comprise a set of bent tubes. The set of bent tubes may be coupled by the foot.
  • the foot may be configured to couple the support structure to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the support structure may comprise a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam.
  • the front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket comprising an arcuate portion configured to fit on the cross-car beam.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the support structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket.
  • the seat may comprise a seat belt buckle configured to clamp the pivot bracket between the support structure and the seat belt buckle.
  • the seat may comprise a seat belt buckle coupled to the support structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a left back assembly and a right back assembly.
  • At least one of the left back assembly and the right back assembly may comprise a seat belt retractor.
  • the support structure may comprise a seat suspension.
  • the seat may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover.
  • the seat may comprise a console assembly.
  • the console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the support structure.
  • the support structure may be configured to be cantilevered from at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the support structure may be configured to be cradled in at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • a method of assembling a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise coupling a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure; and assembling a back assembly to the support structure.
  • the support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the method may comprise assembling cushion suspension to the support structure.
  • the method may comprise assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure.
  • the method may comprise assembling a back assembly to the support structure.
  • a method of installing a seat in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise mounting the seat onto the right pillar and the left pillar; fastening the seat to the left pillar; and fastening the seat to the right pillar.
  • the method may comprise the step of fastening the seat to the floor of the vehicle.
  • a component configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle may comprise a base; an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose gravity in movement of the input device toward the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose movement of the input device toward the stowed state.
  • the component may comprise a bearing configured to facilitate movement of the arm relative to the base.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state.
  • the first angle may be greater than the second angle.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state.
  • the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance.
  • the input device may comprise a display screen.
  • the display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and a second mode when the input device is in the use state.
  • the display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state.
  • the display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state.
  • the arm may be pivotably fixed to the base.
  • the base may be configured to be fixed to a seat structure.
  • the base may be configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the input device may be configured for a second use state.
  • the arm may comprise a first structure and a second structure configured to rotate about the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
  • the second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
  • the component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the use state to the stowed state.
  • the component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the stowed state to the use state.
  • a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise a seat structure; and a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state.
  • the component may comprise a base; an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the base may be coupled to the seat structure.
  • the seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the use state.
  • the seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the stowed state.
  • the seat structure may be configured to couple the seat to the vehicle.
  • the seat structure may be configured to support the vehicle occupant.
  • a seat system configured for installation in an interior of a vehicle providing a floor and a vehicle interior frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat and (a) a structure configured to mount at least one the seat to the vehicle and (b) a back assembly coupled to the structure.
  • the structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the vehicle interior frame.
  • the vehicle interior frame may comprise a left pillar and a right pillar; the structure may comprise a support structure that may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the structure may comprise a frame.
  • the structure may comprise a beam.
  • the beam may comprise a cross beam.
  • the seat module may be configured to be installed in the vehicle by translation into the interior and engagement of an interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame.
  • Engagement of the interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame may comprise rotation of the seat module relative to the vehicle interior frame.
  • a method of installing a seat module in an interior of a vehicle may comprise translating the seat module through an opening in a vehicle frame into the interior; translating the seat module within the interior; mounting the seat module on a left pillar and a right pillar of the vehicle, engaging the seat module with a floor of the vehicle; fastening the seat module to the vehicle floor; and fastening the seat module to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the seat module may comprise two seats and a console.
  • the seat module may comprise a user interface system/component C/UIS such as an operator control for vehicle systems and/or the vehicle.
  • a seat system for a vehicle interior may comprise a seat module with a set of seats and a seat frame with a base structure configured to be coupled to a vehicle structure.
  • the base structure for the seat module may be configured to mount to a pillar/frame of the vehicle structure; the base structure may comprise a member such as a crossbeam that may be coupled at an interface/within a cradle at the pillar of the vehicle structure for installation in the vehicle interior.
  • the seat system/module may comprise a console assembly.
  • the system may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device; the user interface system may be connected to vehicle systems and/or networks; the user interface system may be provided on an arm and may be movable from a stowed state for use; the user interface system may comprise an information/data display and/or an operator control such for a vehicle steering system.
  • the seat system may be configured for electric vehicles and/or autonomous vehicles.
  • a seat ST configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) a support structure SP configured to mount the seat to the vehicle and (b) a back assembly BK coupled to the support structure.
  • the support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the support structure may comprise a cross-car beam CB.
  • the cross-car beam may be configured to be cradled by at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a tubular structure.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a hollow structure.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a generally round cross section.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a main tube MT extending from the left pillar to the right pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a reinforcement tube RT adjoining the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be concentric with the main tube.
  • the reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a mounting bracket MB configured to mount the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may be welded to the main tube.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise an aperture configured for a fastener to fasten the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a flange FG extending from the cross-car beam.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a generally flat flange transverse to an axis of the cross-car beam.
  • the mounting bracket may comprise a collar CR concentric with the main tube.
  • the support structure may comprise a leg assembly LG configured to mount the seat to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the leg assembly may comprise a riser RR and a foot FT.
  • the riser may comprise a bent tube.
  • the bent tube may comprise a bend configured to contact the floor of the vehicle.
  • the bent tube may comprise a set of bent tubes. The set of bent tubes may be coupled by the foot.
  • the foot may be configured to couple the support structure to the floor of the vehicle.
  • the support structure may comprise a front support FS and a connector CR configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam.
  • the front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket PB comprising an arcuate portion configured to fit on the cross-car beam.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the support structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism RM coupled to the pivot bracket.
  • the seat may comprise a seat belt buckle BL configured to clamp the pivot bracket between the support structure and the seat belt buckle.
  • the seat may comprise a seat belt buckle coupled to the support structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a left back assembly and a right back assembly.
  • At least one of the left back assembly and the right back assembly may comprise a seat belt retractor BR.
  • the support structure may comprise a seat suspension SN.
  • the seat may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover.
  • the seat may comprise a console assembly CL.
  • the console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the support structure.
  • the support structure may be configured to be cantilevered from at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the support structure may be configured to be cradled in at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • a method of assembling a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) coupling a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure and (b) assembling a back assembly to the support structure.
  • the support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the mounting bracket may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • the method may comprise assembling cushion suspension to the support structure.
  • the method may comprise assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure.
  • the method may comprise assembling a back assembly to the support structure.
  • a method of installing a seat in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) mounting the seat onto the right pillar and the left pillar; (b) fastening the seat to the left pillar; and (c) fastening the seat to the right pillar.
  • the method may comprise the step of fastening the seat to the floor of the vehicle.
  • a method of assembling a seat in a vehicle interior is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 42A.
  • the method comprises mounting a seat module onto a vehicle frame, fastening the seat module to a vehicle floor, and fastening the seat module to the vehicle frame.
  • a method of assembling a seat in a vehicle interior is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 42B.
  • the method comprises mounting a seat module onto a left pillar and a right pillar, fastening the seat module to a vehicle floor, and fastening the seat module to the left pillar and the right pillar.
  • a method of manufacturing a seat for a vehicle interior is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 43.
  • the method comprises welding mounting bracket(s), a main tube, connector(s), a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure.
  • the method comprises assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure; providing/assembling a center console; assembling the center console to the support structure; providing/assembling a back assembly; assembling the back assembly to the support structure; and assembling a buckle to the support structure.
  • a method of manufacturing a seat for a vehicle interior is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 44.
  • the method comprises coupling mounting bracket(s) and a main tube to provide a cross-car beam.
  • the method comprises coupling the cross-car beam, connector(s), a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure.
  • the method comprises assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure; providing/assembling a center console; assembling the center console to the support structure; providing/assembling a back assembly; assembling the back assembly to the support structure; and assembling a buckle to the support structure.
  • a seat may comprise a support structure to mount the seat to a left pillar and a right pillar of a vehicle.
  • the seat may comprise a back assembly coupled to the support structure.
  • the support structure may comprise a cross-car beam configured to be cradled by a pillar.
  • the cross-car beam may comprise a hollow, tubular structure to extend from pillar to pillar and a mounting bracket to mount the support structure to a pillar.
  • the support structure may comprise a leg assembly to mount the seat to the vehicle floor.
  • the support structure may comprise a connector coupling an anti-submarine cross member to the cross-car beam.
  • the back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the support structure.
  • the back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket.
  • the seat may comprise a console assembled to the support structure.
  • a component C for a vehicle interior may be configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle.
  • component C may be configured to be stowed when not in use by the vehicle occupant to steer the vehicle (e.g. when the vehicle is in an autonomous driving mode).
  • component C may be configured for use by a second vehicle occupant (e.g. as a display).
  • a component configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle may comprise (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; (c) an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose gravity in movement of the input device toward the use state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose movement of the input device toward the stowed state.
  • the component may comprise a bearing configured to facilitate movement of the arm relative to the base.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state.
  • the first angle may be greater than the second angle.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state.
  • the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance.
  • the input device may comprise a display screen.
  • the display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and a second mode when the input device is in the use state.
  • the display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state.
  • the display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state.
  • the arm may be pivotably fixed to the base.
  • the base may be configured to be fixed to a seat structure.
  • the base may be configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle.
  • the input device may be configured for a second use state.
  • the arm may comprise a first structure and a second structure configured to rotate about the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
  • the second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
  • the component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the use state to the stowed state.
  • the component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the stowed state to the use state.
  • a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise (a) a seat structure; and (b) a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state.
  • the component may comprise (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; (c) an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the base may be coupled to the seat structure.
  • the seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the use state.
  • the seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the stowed state.
  • the seat structure may be configured to couple the seat to the vehicle.
  • the seat structure may be configured to support the vehicle occupant.
  • a component C configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle may comprise a base B; an arm AR configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device ID coupled to the arm.
  • the input device may be configured for a stowed state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 24A, 25A, 26A, 27B, 28B, 30A, 31 A, 32A, 33 A, 34A, 34B and 36A-36C) and a use state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 24B, 25B, 26B, 27A, 28A, 30B, 3 IB, 32B, 33B, 34C, 37A-37C and 38A).
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 36A-36C) and the use state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 37A-37C).
  • the arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
  • the component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the stowed state to the use state.
  • the component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the use state to the stowed state.
  • the component may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state.
  • the arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 24A, 25A and 32A); and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 24B, 25B and 32B).
  • the first angle may be greater than the second angle.
  • the input device may comprise a display screen DS.
  • the display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and second mode when the input device is in the use state.
  • the display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant.
  • the arm may be pivotably fixed to the base.
  • the base may be configured to be fixed to at least one of (a) a seat structure; (b) a floor of the vehicle.
  • the input device may be configured for a second use state.
  • the arm may comprise a first structure and a second structure configured to rotate about the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state (as shown schematically in FIGURE 38 A).
  • the second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the first structure about a single axis to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
  • a component to steer a vehicle may comprise an arm configured to rotate relative to a base and an input device coupled to the arm.
  • the input device may be configured for stowed and use states.
  • the arm may rotate relative to the base about a single axis/pivot to transition the input device between the stowed and use states.
  • the arm may position the input device at a first angle when the input device is stowed and a second angle less than the first when the input device is in the use state.
  • the input device may comprise a display screen configured for a first mode when the input device is stowed and a second mode when the input device is in the use state.
  • the display screen may accept touch inputs.
  • the base may be fixed to a seat structure or the vehicle floor.
  • the present inventions may comprise conventional technology (e.g. as implemented and/or integrated in exemplary embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) or may comprise any other applicable technology (present and/or future) with suitability and/or capability to perform the functions and processes/operations described in the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES. All such technology (e.g. as implemented in embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is considered to be within the scope of the present inventions of the present patent document.

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  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Seats For Vehicles (AREA)

Abstract

A seat system may comprise a seat module with a set of seats and a seat frame with a base structure to be coupled to a vehicle structure. The base structure may mount to a pillar/frame of the vehicle structure; the base structure may comprise a member/crossbeam that may be coupled at an interface/within a cradle at the pillar/frame for installation in a vehicle interior. The system may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device; the user interface system may be connected to vehicle systems and/or networks; the user interface system may be provided on an arm and movable from a stowed state for use; the user interface system may comprise an information/data display and/or an operator control such for a vehicle steering system. The seat system may be configured for electric and/or autonomous vehicles.

Description

SEAT SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to and incorporates by reference in full the following patent applications: (a) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/440,779 titled “SEAT FOR VEHICLE” filed January 24, 2023; (b) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/605,069 titled “COMPONENT FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR” filed December 1, 2023; (c) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/618,458 titled “INTERIOR SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE” filed January 8, 2024.
FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to a seat for a vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0003] It is known to provide a seat system for a vehicle interior of a vehicle.
[0004] It would be advantageous to provide an improved seat system for a vehicle interior of a vehicle.
[0005] It would be advantageous to provide an improved seat system with a seat module for a vehicle interior of a vehicle.
[0006] It would be advantageous to provide an improved seat system with a seat module and a user interface system/component for a vehicle interior of a vehicle.
[0007] It would be advantageous to provide an improved seat system with a seat module and a user interface system/component such as an operator control for a vehicle interior of a vehicle.
SUMMARY
[0008] The present invention relates to a seat system configured for a vehicle occupant and configured for installation in a vehicle providing a vehicle structure comprising a seat module comprising (a) a seat frame comprising a base structure configured to be coupled to the vehicle structure to install the seat module into the vehicle; and (b) a back assembly coupled to the base structure. The base structure may be configured to provide support for a set of seats. The base structure may be configured to be attached at a frame of the vehicle structure. The base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to at least one pillar of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise an end configured to be supported by a cradle of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise a member; the member may comprise a beam; the beam may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam. The base structure may comprise a cross beam. The cross beam may be configured to be installed at a frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be attached at a bracket at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The base structure may be configured to installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise a beam and a frame configured to installed to a frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be attached at a cradle at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may comprise a main tube extending from a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube; the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube. The cross beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the base structure to the pillar of the vehicle structure. The mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube. The mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the cross beam. The base structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat module to a floor of the vehicle. The leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot. The base structure may be configured to be cantilevered from a pillar of the vehicle structure. The base structure may be configured to be cradled in a cradle of a pillar of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise a leg assembly comprising a foot; the foot may be configured to couple the base structure to a floor of the vehicle. The base structure may comprise a cross-car beam, a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam. The front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the base structure. The back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket. The back assembly may comprise a set of seat backs. The base structure may comprise a seat suspension. The system may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover. The system may comprise a console assembly; the console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the base structure. The console assembly may comprise a seat console. The console assembly may comprise a seat console and a component configured to provide a user interface. The system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to provide a user interface. The component comprising the user interface system may comprise an input device and/or an output device. The component comprising the user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device comprising an operator control; (b) an output device comprising a display panel; (c) a movable component. The component comprising the user interface system may be movable relative to the seat module. The system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle comprising (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm; the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The system may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state; the first angle may be greater than the second angle. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state; the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance. The input device may comprise a display screen. The arm may be pivotably fixed to the base structure. The component may comprise an operator control; the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle. The user interface system may be configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device; (b) an output device. The output device may comprise a display; the display may comprise a display panel. The system may comprise a console. The console may comprise the component. The console may be coupled to the base structure. The base structure may comprise an interface to the vehicle; the interface may comprise a mechanical interface and/or an electrical interface. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the vehicle structure may comprise a base; the base of the vehicle structure may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base of the vehicle structure; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle. The vehicle structure may comprise a base, a floor, a vehicle frame, and at least one pillar. The seat frame may comprise a back frame and a cushion frame and the base structure; the base structure may be configured to be attached to the vehicle structure.
[0009] The present invention relates to an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The vehicle frame may comprise a vehicle interior frame; the vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The interface may comprise a bracket and a cradle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam. The seat frame may comprise a base structure, a cross beam, a cushion frame, a backrest frame and an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The interface may comprise a connector and an end for a cross beam. The interface may comprise an end on a member of the seat frame configured to attach to a bracket of the vehicle frame. The system may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and the interface. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and a component; the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device. The seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component; the component may be configured to be movable relative to the console assembly. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame; the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle frame at an interface.
[0010] The present invention relates to a seat system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The system may comprise the seat module and the seat frame and a component; the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device. The vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system. The system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system. The system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle frame. The system may comprise an interface for connecting the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component. The seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a cross beam; the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle frame at an interface. The vehicle may comprise a floor and the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a floor of the vehicle. The base structure may comprise a footing configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to the vehicle frame at a mechanical interface; the mechanical interface may comprise a bracket and/or cradle at the vehicle frame. The vehicle frame may comprise a pillar frame.
[0011] The present invention relates to a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle comprising (a) a seat structure; and (b) a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state. The component may comprise (1) a base; (2) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and (3) a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
[0012] The present invention relates to a method of assembling a seat module configured for installation to a vehicle structure in a vehicle comprising (a) providing a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly comprising a base structure; and (b) assembling a back assembly to the base structure. The base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the vehicle structure. The method may comprise the step of fastening the seat module to the vehicle structure. [0013] The present invention relates to an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle interior frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The structure of the seat frame may comprise a cross beam. The seat frame may be attached to the vehicle interior frame at an interface. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and seat frame. The seat system may comprise an interface. The interface may be configured to mechanically attach the seat module to the vehicle interior frame. The interface may comprise a gear system. The interface may be configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The seat system may comprise a component. The component may be attached by an arm. The component may be movable relative to the seat module. The component may comprise a user interface system. The component may comprise an operator control. The seat system may comprise an interface configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The seat system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise an operator control for the vehicle. The operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise an input device. The user interface system may comprise an output device. The output device may comprise a display. The display may comprise a display panel. The seat module may comprise a console. The console may comprise a seat console. The console may comprise a component comprising a user interface system. The component may be attached by an arm; the component may be movable relative to the seat console. The component may comprise an operator control movable relative to the seat module. The seat module may be configured to be rotated into position for attachment in the vehicle interior frame. The seat module may comprise two seats. The vehicle interior frame may comprise a structure attached to a base frame of the vehicle. The vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface; the seat frame may comprise an interface; the interface of the seat frame may be configured to be engaged with the interface of the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module. The system may comprise an instrument panel. The vehicle may comprise an autonomous vehicle. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the battery system in the floor of the vehicle.
[0014] The present invention relates to a seating system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle interior frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat; a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame; and a component configured to provide a user interface system. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system. The system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system. The component may be configured to be movable relative to the seat module. The system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle interior frame. The system may comprise a seat console configured to provide the component.
[0015] The present invention relates to a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar comprising a support structure configured to mount the seat to the vehicle; and a back assembly coupled to the support structure. The support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The support structure may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam. The cross-car beam may be configured to be cradled by at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar. The cross-car beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar. The cross-car beam may comprise a tubular structure. The cross-car beam may comprise a hollow structure. The cross-car beam may comprise a generally round cross section. The cross-car beam may comprise a main tube extending from the left pillar to the right pillar. The cross-car beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be concentric with the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube. The cross-car beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube. The mounting bracket may be welded to the main tube. The mounting bracket may comprise an aperture configured for a fastener to fasten the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the crosscar beam. The mounting bracket may comprise a generally flat flange transverse to an axis of the cross-car beam. The mounting bracket may comprise a collar concentric with the main tube. The support structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat to the floor of the vehicle. The leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot. The riser may comprise a bent tube. The bent tube may comprise a bend configured to contact the floor of the vehicle. The bent tube may comprise a set of bent tubes. The set of bent tubes may be coupled by the foot. The foot may be configured to couple the support structure to the floor of the vehicle. The support structure may comprise a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam. The front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket comprising an arcuate portion configured to fit on the cross-car beam. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the support structure. The back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket. The seat may comprise a seat belt buckle configured to clamp the pivot bracket between the support structure and the seat belt buckle. The seat may comprise a seat belt buckle coupled to the support structure. The back assembly may comprise a left back assembly and a right back assembly. At least one of the left back assembly and the right back assembly may comprise a seat belt retractor. The support structure may comprise a seat suspension. The seat may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover. The seat may comprise a console assembly. The console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the support structure. The support structure may be configured to be cantilevered from at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar. The support structure may be configured to be cradled in at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
[0016] The present invention relates to a method of assembling a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar comprising coupling a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure; and assembling a back assembly to the support structure. The support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The method may comprise assembling cushion suspension to the support structure. The method may comprise assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure. The method may comprise assembling a back assembly to the support structure.
[0017] The present invention relates to a method of installing a seat in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar comprising mounting the seat onto the right pillar and the left pillar; fastening the seat to the left pillar; and fastening the seat to the right pillar. The method may comprise the step of fastening the seat to the floor of the vehicle. [0018] The present invention relates to a component configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle comprising a base; an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device coupled to the arm. The input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose gravity in movement of the input device toward the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose movement of the input device toward the stowed state. The component may comprise a bearing configured to facilitate movement of the arm relative to the base. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state. The first angle may be greater than the second angle. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state. The first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance. The input device may comprise a display screen. The display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and a second mode when the input device is in the use state. The display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state. The display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state. The arm may be pivotably fixed to the base. The base may be configured to be fixed to a seat structure. The base may be configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle. The input device may be configured for a second use state. The arm may comprise a first structure and a second structure configured to rotate about the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state. The second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state. The component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the use state to the stowed state. The component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the stowed state to the use state.
[0019] The present invention relates to a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle comprising a seat structure; and a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state. The component may comprise a base; an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device coupled to the arm. The base may be coupled to the seat structure. The seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the use state. The seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the stowed state. The seat structure may be configured to couple the seat to the vehicle. The seat structure may be configured to support the vehicle occupant.
[0020] The present invention relates to a seat system configured for installation in an interior of a vehicle providing a floor and a vehicle interior frame comprising a seat module comprising at least one seat and (a) a structure configured to mount at least one the seat to the vehicle and (b) a back assembly coupled to the structure. The structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the vehicle interior frame. The vehicle interior frame may comprise a left pillar and a right pillar; the structure may comprise a support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The structure may comprise a frame. The structure may comprise a beam. The beam may comprise a cross beam. The seat module may be configured to be installed in the vehicle by translation into the interior and engagement of an interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame. Engagement of the interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame may comprise rotation of the seat module relative to the vehicle interior frame.
FIGURES
[0021] FIGURE 1 A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0022] FIGURE IB is a schematic perspective view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0023] FIGURE 2A is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle and a seat system for the vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0024] FIGURE 2B is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0025] FIGURE 2C is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0026] FIGURE 2D is a schematic block diagram of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0027] FIGURE 2E is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0028] FIGURE 3 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0029] FIGURES 3 A through 3E are schematic perspective views of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0030] FIGURE 4A is a schematic perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0031] FIGURE 4B is a schematic perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0032] FIGURES 4C and 4D are schematic perspective views of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0033] FIGURE 5A is a schematic perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0034] FIGURES 5B and 5C are schematic perspective views of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0035] FIGURE 6A is a schematic exploded perspective view of a seat module for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0036] FIGURE 6B is a schematic perspective view of a seat frame for a seat module for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment. [0037] FIGURE 7 is a schematic perspective view of a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0038] FIGURE 8 is a schematic perspective view of a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0039] FIGURE 9A is a schematic perspective view of a seat frame for a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0040] FIGURE 9B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a seat frame and a seat cover for a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0041] FIGURE 9C is a schematic exploded perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0042] FIGURE 9D is a schematic exploded perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0043] FIGURE 9E is a schematic perspective view of a seat system for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0044] FIGURES 10A through 10E are schematic perspective views of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0045] FIGURES 11 A and 1 IB are schematic partial perspective views of a seat frame for a seat system and a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0046] FIGURE 12A is a schematic partial perspective view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0047] FIGURE 12B is a schematic cutaway view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0048] FIGURE 12C is a schematic partial perspective view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0049] FIGURE 12D is a schematic cutaway view of a method of assembling a seat system in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0050] FIGURE 13 A is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat frame for a seat system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0051] FIGURE 13B is a schematic partial exploded perspective view of a seat frame for a seat system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0052] FIGURES 14A and 14B are schematic partial cutaway perspective views of a seat frame for a seat system and a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0053] FIGURES 15A and 15B are schematic partial perspective views of a seat frame for a seat system and a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment. [0054] FIGURE 16A is a schematic partial front view of a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0055] FIGURE 16B is a schematic partial front view of a seat frame for a seat system and a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0056] FIGURE 17 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat and a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0057] FIGURE 18 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0058] FIGURE 19 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0059] FIGURE 20 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0060] FIGURE 21 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat and a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0061] FIGURE 22 is a schematic partial perspective view of a seat and a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0062] FIGURE 23 is a schematic partial perspective view of a vehicle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0063] FIGURES 24A and 24B are schematic perspective cut-away views of a vehicle showing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0064] FIGURES 25 A and 25B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0065] FIGURES 26A and 26B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0066] FIGURES 27A and 27B are schematic top views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0067] FIGURES 28A and 28B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0068] FIGURE 29 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0069] FIGURES 30A and 30B are schematic partial perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0070] FIGURES 31 A and 3 IB are schematic partial perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment. [0071] FIGURES 32A and 32B are schematic perspective cut-away views of a vehicle showing a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0072] FIGURES 33A and 33B are schematic top views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0073] FIGURES 34A through 34C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0074] FIGURE 35 A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0075] FIGURE 35B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0076] FIGURES 36A and 36B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0077] FIGURE 36C is a schematic cutaway perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0078] FIGURES 37A and 37B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0079] FIGURE 37C is a schematic cutaway perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0080] FIGURE 38A is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0081] FIGURE 38B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0082] FIGURE 39A is a schematic side view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0083] FIGURE 39B is a schematic side view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0084] FIGURE 40 is a schematic side view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0085] FIGURE 41 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0086] FIGURE 41 A is a schematic partial perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0087] FIGURE 4 IB is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle with a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment. [0088] FIGURE 41C is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle and a seat system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0089] FIGURE 4 ID is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0090] FIGURE 42A is a schematic flow diagram of a method of assembling a seat in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0091] FIGURE 42B is a schematic flow diagram of a method of assembling a seat in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0092] FIGURE 43 is a schematic flow diagram of a method of manufacturing a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0093] FIGURE 44 is a schematic flow diagram of a method of manufacturing a seat for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.
DESCRIPTION
[0094] Referring to the FIGURES, a vehicle V with a base VB and a vehicle interior VI is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment; a seat system SST for vehicle interior VI is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment; seat system SST may comprise a seat module comprising a seat ST and a frame/structure SF/SR configured to be installed/assembled in vehicle base VB such as on a frame/structure VF in vehicle interior VI; seat system SST may comprise a component C configured to provide a user interface system UIS (with an input device and/or output device) configured to be connected to vehicle systems and/or networks, devices, etc.; seat system SST with seat module may comprise a user interface system/component C/UIS such as an operator control for vehicle systems and/or the vehicle; the seat module of seat system SST may comprise a set of seats ST and an interface N for connecting/coupling into vehicle interior VI.
[0095] Referring to FIGURES 1 A-1B, 41 and 41 A-41D, a vehicle V with a base VB and a vehicle interior VI is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment; a seat system SST for vehicle interior VUI is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment; seat system SST may comprise a seat module SM comprising a seat ST and a frame/structure SF/SR configured to be installed/assembled in vehicle base VB such as on a frame/structure VF in vehicle interior VI with a floor FL. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 41 and 41 A-41D, vehicle V may comprise an electric vehicle EV and/or an autonomous vehicle AV.
[0096] As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 3, 3A-3E, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7, 8, 9A-9E and 10A-10E, seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise a component C configured to provide a user interface system UIS (with an input device ID and/or output device OD) configured to be connected to vehicle systems and/or networks, devices, etc.; seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise a user interface system/component UIS/C such as an operator control for vehicle systems and/or the vehicle. See also FIGURES 2A- 2E.
[0097] As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3, 3A-3E, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A- 6B, 7, 8, 9A-9E and 10A-10E, seat module SM of seat system SST may comprise a set of seats ST and an interface N for connecting/coupling into vehicle interior VI/I (e.g. by positioning the module for installation and locating/translating the module into assembly position and coupling/connecting mechanically at a set of brackets/connectors at the interface/ support to retain the seat module/frame/support to the vehicle frame/floor). See also FIGURES 11A-11B, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23.
[0098] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3, 3A-3E, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7, 8, 9A-9E and 10A-10E, an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame VF may comprise a seat system SST with seat module SM comprising at least one seat ST and a seat frame SF comprising a structure configured to be attached to vehicle frame VF; seat frame SF may be configured to be attached to vehicle frame VF to install seat module SM into the vehicle. See also FIGURES 41A-41D.
[0099] As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3, 3A-3E, 6A-6B, 7, 8, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11A-11B, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, vehicle frame VF may comprise a vehicle interior frame; the vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface N for attachment of seat frame SF to vehicle frame VF; interface N may comprise a bracket and a cradle CD. Seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP and a cross beam CB; seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP, a cross beam CB, a cushion frame, a backrest frame and an interface N for attachment of seat frame SF to vehicle frame VF; interface N may comprise a connector and an end for cross beam CB; interface N may comprise an end on a member of seat frame SF configured to attach to a bracket of vehicle frame VF; the system may comprise an interface N for attachment of seat frame SF to vehicle frame VF; the system may comprise a seat system SST comprising seat module SM and seat frame SF and interface N.
[0100] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2E, 3 A-3E, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A, 7, 8, 9A- 9E, 10A-10E, 24A-24B, 25A-25B, 26A-26B, 27A-27B and 28A-28B, the interior system may comprise a seat system SST comprising seat module SM and seat frame SF and a component C; component C may comprise a user interface system UIS comprising an input device ID and/or an output device OD; user interface system UIS may be configured to be connected to vehicle systems and/or networks (including the internet); seat system SST may comprise a console assembly SC/CL for component C; component C may be configured to be movable relative to console assembly SC/CL; the system may comprise a seat system SST comprising seat module SM and seat frame SF; seat frame SF may be attached to vehicle frame VF at an interface N. See also FIGURES IB and 41 A-41D. As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 7 and 8, the interior system for interior VEI may include an instrument panel and a display panel DPx with seating system SST with seat module SM with seats ST and console SC with component C/UIS. [0101] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3A-3E and 10A-10E, a seat system SST for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame VF may comprise a seat module SM comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame SF comprising a structure configured to be installed and attached to vehicle frame VF; seat frame SF may be configured to be attached to vehicle frame VF to install seat module SM into the vehicle (e.g. at a connector/interface). See also FIGURES 11 A-l IB, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23. As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2E, 3A-3E and 10A-10E, the system may comprise seat module SM and seat frame SF and a component C; component C may comprise a user interface system UIS comprising an input device and/or an output device; the vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; user interface system UIS may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system.
[0102] As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3, 3A-3E, 6A-6B, 7, 8, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11 A-l IB, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise an interface N configured to couple component C to at least one vehicle system. See also FIGURES 2C-2E.
[0103] As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3, 3A-3E, 6A-6B, 7, 8, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11 A-l IB, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, seat system SST may comprise an interface N configured to connect seat module SM to vehicle frame VF; seat system SST may comprise an interface N for connecting seat frame SF to vehicle frame VF; seat system SST may comprise a console assembly SC/CL for component C; seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP comprising a cross beam CB; seat frame SF may be attached to vehicle frame VF at an interface N; the vehicle may comprise a floor and seat frame SF may be configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle; seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP configured to be attached to a floor of the vehicle; base structure SP may comprise a footing configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle; seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP configured to be attached to a pillar frame PR of the vehicle; seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP comprising a member configured to be attached to a pillar frame PR of the vehicle; seat frame SF may comprise a base structure SP comprising a member configured to be attached to vehicle frame VF at a mechanical interface N; mechanical interface N may comprise a bracket and/or cradle CD at vehicle frame VF; vehicle frame VF may comprise a pillar frame PR. See also FIGURES 41 A-41D. [0104] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2E, 3A-3E, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7, 8, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 24A-24B, 25A-25B, 26A-26B, 27A- 27B and 28A-28B, a seat system SST with a seat ST configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise a seat structure shown as seat module SM and a component C coupled to seat structure/module SM; component C/UIS may be configured for a use state for use as an input device such as by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and for a stowed state; component C may comprise a base and an arm AR configured to rotate relative to the base of component C a user interface system UIS comprising an input device ID and/or an output device OD such as a display panel/system DS.
[0105] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3, 3A-3E, 6A-6B, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11A-11B, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A- 15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, seat system SST configured for a vehicle occupant and configured for installation in a vehicle providing a vehicle structure may comprise a seat module SM comprising a seat frame SF comprising a base structure SP (with cover T) configured to be coupled to the vehicle structure to install seat module SM into the vehicle and a back assembly coupled to base structure SP; base structure SP may be configured to provide support for a set of seats ST; base structure SP may be configured to be attached at a frame of the vehicle structure; base structure SP may be configured to mount seat module SM to at least one pillar PR of the vehicle structure; base structure SP may comprise an end configured to be supported by a cradle CD of the vehicle structure; base structure SP may comprise a member such as a beam shown as a cross beam CB; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam. See also FIGURES 41 A-41D.
[0106] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3, 3A-3E, 6A-6B, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11A- 11B, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, seat system SST with seat module SM for seat ST may comprise a base structure SP; base structure/support structure SP for seat frame SF may comprise a cross beam CB; cross beam CB may be configured to be installed at a frame of the vehicle structure; cross beam CB may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame PR of the vehicle structure; cross beam CB may be configured to be cradled at a pillar PR of the vehicle structure; cross beam CB may be configured to be attached at a bracket at a pillar frame PR of the vehicle structure; seat frame SF and base structure SP may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame PR of the vehicle structure. See also FIGURES 41A-41D. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 12A-12B, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B and 17, cross beam CB of seat frame SF of seat module SM may be provided with an interface N shown as end ND that may be configured to be moved adjacent to and secured into an interface N shown as a bracket/cradle CD of vehicle frame VF/pillar PR. As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 3A-3E, 10A-10E and 41 A-41D, seat module SM may be supported/secured by seat frame SF at interface N and supported/secured on base/ support structure SP on floor FL of vehicle base VB within vehicle interior VEI during installation.
[0107] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3E, 6A-6B, 11A-11B, 12A-12D, BABB, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, seat system SST with seat module SM for seat ST may comprise a base structure SP; base structure/support structure SP may comprise a beam CB with a frame SF configured to installed to a frame VF/PR of the vehicle structure. Cross beam CB may be configured to be attached at a cradle CD at a pillar frame PR of the vehicle structure. Cross beam CB may be configured to be cradled at a pillar PR of the vehicle structure. Cross beam CB may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in a pillar PR of the vehicle structure. Cross beam CB may comprise a main tube extending from a pillar PR of the vehicle structure. Cross beam CB may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube; the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube. Cross beam CB may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount base structure SP to pillar PR of the vehicle structure. The mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube. The mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from cross beam CB. Base structure SP may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount seat module SM to a floor of the vehicle. The leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot. Base structure SP may be configured to be cantilevered from a pillar PR of the vehicle structure. Base structure SP may be configured to be cradled at an end ND in a cradle CD of a pillar PR of the vehicle structure. Base structure SP may comprise a leg assembly comprising a foot; the foot may be configured to couple base structure SP to a floor of the vehicle. Base structure SP may comprise a cross-car beam, a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam. The front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to base structure SP. The back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket. The back assembly may comprise a set of seat backs. Base structure SP may comprise a seat suspension. The system may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover. [0108] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 6A-6B and 9A-9E, seat ST of seat module SM with seat frame SF and base structure/support SP may comprise a seat back/pad SBx and a seat cushion/assembly SNx and a seat cover STx.
[0109] As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 3A-3E and 41 A-41D, the vehicle structure for vehicle VZEV may comprise a base VB, a floor, and a vehicle frame VF with at least one pillar PR; seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise a base structure SP with a seat frame SF; seat frame SF may comprise a back frame and a cushion frame and base structure SP; base structure SP may be configured to be attached to vehicle structure VF/PR. [0110] As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 3A-3E, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7, 8, 9A- 9E and 10A-10E, seat system SST may comprise a console assembly SC/CL; console assembly SC/CL may be configured to be assembled to base structure SP. Console assembly SC/CL may comprise a seat console SC. Console assembly SC/CL may comprise a seat console SC and a component C configured to provide a user interface N.
[0111] As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 3A-3E, 4A-4D, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7, 8, 9A- 9E, 10A-10E, 24A-24B, 25A-25B, 26A-26B, 27A-27B and 28A-28B, seat system SST may comprise a component C comprising a user interface system UIS configured to provide a user interface N. Component C comprising user interface system UIS may comprise an input device and/or an output device. Component C comprising user interface system UIS may comprise at least one of an input device comprising an operator control or an output device comprising a display panel or a movable component C. Component C comprising user interface system UIS may be movable relative to seat module SM. The system may comprise a component C comprising a user interface system UIS configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle comprising a base and an arm AR configured to rotate relative to the base of component C and an input device coupled to arm AR; the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state. As indicated schematically, arm AR may be configured to rotate relative to the base of component C about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. Arm AR may be configured to rotate relative to the base of component C about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The system may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state. Arm AR may be configured to position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state and to position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state; the first angle may be greater than the second angle. Arm AR may be configured to position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state and to position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state; the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance. The input device may comprise a display screen. Arm AR may be pivotably fixed to base structure SP. As indicated schematically, component C may comprise an operator control; the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle. User interface system UIS may be configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle. User interface system UIS may comprise at least one of an input device and/or an output device. The output device may comprise a display; the display may comprise a display panel.
[0112] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 4A-4D, 5A-5C and 10A-10E, seat system SST may comprise a console SC; console SC may comprise component C; console SC may be coupled to base structure SP.
[0113] As indicated schematically in FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3, 3A-3E, 6A-6B, 7, 8, 9A-9E, 10A-10E, 11A-11B, 12A-12D, 13A-13B, 14A-14B, 15A-15B, 16A-16B, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, seat system SST with seat module SM may comprise a base structure SP and an interface N to connect/attach to the vehicle; interface N may comprise a mechanical interface N and/or an electrical interface N.
[0114] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 41 and 41A-41D, the vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle EV; the vehicle structure may comprise a base VB; the base of the vehicle structure may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base of the vehicle structure; seat module SM may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle.
[0115] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise a seat structure shown as comprising a seat frame SF and a component C coupled to seat structure SP configured for a stowed state (e.g. in a console assembly) and for a use state (e.g. to provide a user interface system, input device and/or output device, with operator control, etc.) for use by the vehicle occupant. Component C may be provided with a base shown as base structure SP and an arm AR configured to rotate component C relative to base structure/base SP and a user interface system UIS comprising an input device ID and/or an output device OD.
[0116] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 42A- 42B, 43 and 44, a method of assembling a seat module SM configured for installation to a vehicle structure VF/PR in a vehicle base VB of a vehicle V may comprise providing a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly comprising a base structure SP and assembling a back assembly to base structure SP; base structure SP may be configured to mount seat module SM to the vehicle structure; the method may comprise the step of fastening seat module SM to vehicle structure VF/PR. See also FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3A-3E and 10A-10E.
Exemplary Embodiments
[0117] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat system configured for a vehicle occupant and configured for installation in a vehicle providing a vehicle structure may comprise a seat module comprising (a) a seat frame comprising a base structure configured to be coupled to the vehicle structure to install the seat module into the vehicle; and (b) a back assembly coupled to the base structure. The base structure may be configured to provide support for a set of seats. The base structure may be configured to be attached at a frame of the vehicle structure. The base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to at least one pillar of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise an end configured to be supported by a cradle of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise a member; the member may comprise a beam; the beam may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam. The base structure may comprise a cross beam. The cross beam may be configured to be installed at a frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be attached at a bracket at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The base structure may be configured to installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise a beam and a frame configured to installed to a frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be attached at a cradle at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may comprise a main tube extending from a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube; the reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube. The cross beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the base structure to the pillar of the vehicle structure. The mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube. The mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the cross beam. The base structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat module to a floor of the vehicle. The leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot. The base structure may be configured to be cantilevered from a pillar of the vehicle structure. The base structure may be configured to be cradled in a cradle of a pillar of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise a leg assembly comprising a foot; the foot may be configured to couple the base structure to a floor of the vehicle. The base structure may comprise a cross-car beam, a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam. The front support may comprise an antisubmarine cross member. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the base structure. The back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket. The back assembly may comprise a set of seat backs. The base structure may comprise a seat suspension. The system may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover. The system may comprise a console assembly; the console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the base structure. The console assembly may comprise a seat console. The console assembly may comprise a seat console and a component configured to provide a user interface. The system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to provide a user interface. The component comprising the user interface system may comprise an input device and/or an output device. The component comprising the user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device comprising an operator control; (b) an output device comprising a display panel; (c) a movable component. The component comprising the user interface system may be movable relative to the seat module. The system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle comprising (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm; the input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The system may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state; the first angle may be greater than the second angle. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state; the first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance. The input device may comprise a display screen. The arm may be pivotably fixed to the base structure. The component may comprise an operator control; the operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle. The user interface system may be configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device; (b) an output device. The output device may comprise a display; the display may comprise a display panel. The system may comprise a console. The console may comprise the component. The console may be coupled to the base structure. The base structure may comprise an interface to the vehicle; the interface may comprise a mechanical interface and/or an electrical interface. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the vehicle structure may comprise a base; the base of the vehicle structure may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base of the vehicle structure; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle. The vehicle structure may comprise a base, a floor, a vehicle frame, and at least one pillar. The seat frame may comprise a back frame and a cushion frame and the base structure; the base structure may be configured to be attached to the vehicle structure.
[0118] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The vehicle frame may comprise a vehicle interior frame; the vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The interface may comprise a bracket and a cradle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam. The seat frame may comprise a base structure, a cross beam, a cushion frame, a backrest frame and an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The interface may comprise a connector and an end for a cross beam. The interface may comprise an end on a member of the seat frame configured to attach to a bracket of the vehicle frame. The system may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and the interface. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and a component; the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
The seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component; the component may be configured to be movable relative to the console assembly. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame; the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle frame at an interface. [0119] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The system may comprise the seat module and the seat frame and a component; the component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device. The vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system. The system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system. The system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle frame. The system may comprise an interface for connecting the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component. The seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a cross beam; the seat frame may be attached to the vehicle frame at an interface. The vehicle may comprise a floor and the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a floor of the vehicle. The base structure may comprise a footing configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to the vehicle frame at a mechanical interface; the mechanical interface may comprise a bracket and/or cradle at the vehicle frame. The vehicle frame may comprise a pillar frame.
[0120] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise (a) a seat structure; and (b) a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state. The component may comprise (1) a base; (2) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and (3) a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
[0121] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of assembling a seat module configured for installation to a vehicle structure in a vehicle may comprise (a) providing a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly comprising a base structure; and (b) assembling a back assembly to the base structure. The base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the
T1 vehicle structure. The method may comprise the step of fastening the seat module to the vehicle structure.
Exemplary Embodiments - A
[0122] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat system configured for a vehicle occupant and configured for installation in a vehicle providing a vehicle structure may comprise a seat module comprising (a) a seat frame comprising a base structure configured to be coupled to the vehicle structure to install the seat module into the vehicle; and (b) a back assembly coupled to the base structure. The base structure may be configured to provide support for a set of seats. The base structure may be configured to be attached at a frame of the vehicle structure. The base structure may be configured to mount the seat module to at least one pillar of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise an end configured to be supported by a cradle of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise a member; the member may comprise a beam; the beam may comprise a cross-car beam. The beam may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam. The base structure may comprise a member; the member may comprise a cross beam. The cross beam may be configured to be installed at a frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be installed at a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be attached at a bracket at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The base structure may be configured to installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The base structure may comprise a beam and a frame configured to installed to a frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be attached at a cradle at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross beam may comprise a tubular structure. The cross beam may comprise a hollow structure. The cross-car beam may comprise a generally round cross section. The cross-car beam may comprise a main tube extending from a pillar of the vehicle structure. The cross-car beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be concentric with the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube. The cross-car beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the base structure to the pillar of the vehicle structure. The mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube. The mounting bracket may be welded to the main tube. The mounting bracket may comprise an aperture configured for a fastener to fasten the base structure to the pillar of the vehicle structure. The mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the cross-car beam. The mounting bracket may comprise a generally flat flange transverse to an axis of the crosscar beam. The mounting bracket may comprise a collar concentric with the main tube. The base structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat module to a floor of the vehicle. The leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot. The riser may comprise a bent tube. The bent tube may comprise a bend configured to contact the floor of the vehicle. The bent tube may comprise a set of bent tubes. The set of bent tubes may be coupled by the foot. The base structure may be configured to be cantilevered from a pillar of the vehicle structure. The base structure may be configured to be cradled in a cradle of a pillar of the vehicle structure. The foot may be configured to couple the base structure to the floor of the vehicle. The base structure may comprise a cross-car beam, a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam. The front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket comprising an arcuate portion configured to fit on the cross-car beam. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the base structure. The back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket. The system may comprise a seat belt buckle configured to clamp the pivot bracket between the base structure and the seat belt buckle. The system may comprise a seat belt buckle coupled to the base structure. The back assembly may comprise a set of seat backs; the set of seat backs may comprise a left back assembly and a right back assembly. The back assembly may comprise a seat belt retractor. The base structure may comprise a seat suspension. The system may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover. The system may comprise a console assembly. The console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the base structure. The console assembly may comprise a seat console. The console assembly may comprise a seat console and a component. The console assembly may comprise a seat console and a component configured to provide a user interface. The system may comprise a component configured to provide a user interface. The system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to provide a user interface. The component comprising the user interface system may comprise an input device and/or an output device. The component comprising the user interface system may comprise an input device comprising an operator control. The component comprising the user interface system may comprise an output device comprising a display panel. The component comprising the user interface system may comprise a movable component. The component comprising the user interface system may be movable relative to the seat module. The component comprising the user interface system may be movable relative to a seat console for the seat module. The system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle comprising (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm. The input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The system may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state. The system may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state. The system may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose gravity in movement of the input device toward the use state. The system may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose movement of the input device toward the stowed state. The system may comprise a bearing configured to facilitate movement of the arm relative to the base. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state. The first angle may be greater than the second angle. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state. The first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance. The input device may comprise a display screen. The display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and a second mode when the input device is in the use state. The display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state. The display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state. The arm may be pivotably fixed to the base. The base may be configured to be fixed to the seat frame. The base may be configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle. The input device may be configured for a second use state. The arm may be configured to rotate about the base to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state. The second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the base to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state. The component may comprise an operator control. The operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle. The user interface system may be configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise an operator control for the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise at least one of (a) an input device; (b) an output device. The output device may comprise a display. The display may comprise a display panel. The system may comprise a console. The console may comprise a seat console. The console may comprise the component. The console may comprise a center console between a first seat back and a second seat back. The console may be coupled to the base structure. The base structure may comprise an interface to the vehicle. The interface may comprise a mechanical interface. The interface may comprise an electrical interface. The system may comprise an interface configured to electrically couple the seat module to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The vehicle may comprise an autonomous vehicle. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the vehicle structure may comprise a base; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the vehicle structure may comprise a base; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the battery system in the floor of the vehicle. The vehicle structure may comprise a base, a floor, a vehicle frame, and at least one pillar. The seat frame may comprise a back frame and a cushion frame and the base structure. The base structure may comprise a support structure. The support structure may comprise a base frame. The base structure may be configured to be attached to the vehicle structure.
[0123] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The vehicle frame may comprise a vehicle interior frame. The vehicle frame may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The interface may comprise a bracket. The interface may comprise a cradle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure. The seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam. The seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam and a cushion frame and a backrest frame. The seat frame may comprise a base structure and a cross beam and a cushion frame and a backrest frame and an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The interface may comprise a connector. The interface may comprise an end for a cross beam. The interface may comprise an end on a member of the seat frame configured to attach to a bracket of the vehicle frame. The system may comprise an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The interface may comprise a mechanical interface. The interface may comprise an electrical interface. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and the interface. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and a component. The component may comprise a user interface system. The component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device. The seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component. The component may comprise a movable component. The component may be configured to be movable relative to the console assembly. The structure of the seat frame may comprise a cross beam. The seat frame may comprise a cross beam. The seat frame may be attached to the vehicle interior frame at an interface. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and seat frame. The seat system may comprise an interface. The interface may be configured to mechanically attach the seat module to the vehicle interior frame. The interface may comprise a gear system. The interface may be configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The seat system may comprise a component. The component may be attached by an arm. The component may be movable relative to the seat module. The component may comprise a user interface system. The component may comprise an operator control. The seat system may comprise an interface configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The seat system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise an operator control for the vehicle. The operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise an input device. The user interface system may comprise an output device. The output device may comprise a display. The display may comprise a display panel. The seat module may comprise a console. The console may comprise a seat console. The console may comprise a component comprising a user interface system. The component may be attached by an arm; the component may be movable relative to the seat console. The component may comprise an operator control movable relative to the seat module. The seat module may be configured to be rotated into position for attachment in the vehicle interior frame. The seat module may comprise two seats. The vehicle interior frame may comprise a structure attached to a base frame of the vehicle. The vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface; the seat frame may comprise an interface; the interface of the seat frame may be configured to be engaged with the interface of the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module. The system may comprise an instrument panel. The vehicle may comprise an autonomous vehicle. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the battery system in the floor of the vehicle.
[0124] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system. The system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system. The component may be configured to be movable relative to the seat module. The system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle interior frame. The system may comprise a seat console configured to provide the component. The vehicle frame may comprise a vehicle interior frame. The system may comprise an interface for connecting the seat frame to the vehicle frame. The interface may comprise a mechanical interface. The interface may comprise an electrical interface. The system may comprise the seat module and the seat frame and a component. The component may comprise a user interface system. The component may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device. The seat system may comprise a console assembly for the component. The component may comprise a movable component. The component may be configured to be movable relative to the console assembly. The structure of the seat frame may comprise a cross beam. The seat frame may comprise a cross beam. The seat frame may be attached to the vehicle interior frame at an interface. The seat frame may comprise a base structure. The vehicle may comprise a floor and the seat frame may be configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle. The base structure may comprise a footing configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle. The base structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle. The seat frame may comprise a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to the vehicle frame at a mechanical interface. The mechanical interface may comprise a bracket and/or cradle at the vehicle frame. The vehicle frame may comprise a pillar frame.
[0125] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame; and a component configured to provide a user interface system. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
[0126] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise (a) a seat structure; and (b) a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state. The component may comprise (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm. The base may be coupled to the seat structure. The seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the use state. The seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the stowed state. The seat structure may be configured to couple the seat to the vehicle. The seat structure may be configured to support the vehicle occupant.
[0127] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat system configured for installation in an interior of a vehicle providing a vehicle structure may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat and (a) a structure configured to mount at least one the seat to the vehicle and (b) a back assembly coupled to the structure. The structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the vehicle interior frame. The vehicle interior frame may comprise a left pillar and a right pillar; the structure may comprise a base structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The structure may comprise a frame. The structure may comprise a beam. The beam may comprise a cross beam. The seat module may be configured to be installed in the vehicle by translation into the interior and engagement of an interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame. Engagement of the interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame may comprise rotation of the seat module relative to the vehicle interior frame.
[0128] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) a base structure configured to mount the seat to the vehicle; and (b) a back assembly coupled to the base structure. The base structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar.
[0129] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle may comprise (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm. The input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state.
[0130] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of assembling a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) coupling a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly to provide a base structure; and (b) assembling a back assembly to the base structure. The base structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The method may comprise assembling cushion suspension to the base structure. The method may comprise assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the base structure. The method may comprise assembling a back assembly to the base structure.
[0131] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of installing a seat in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) mounting the seat onto the right pillar and the left pillar; (b) fastening the seat to the left pillar; and (c) fastening the seat to the right pillar. The method may comprise the step of fastening the seat to the floor of the vehicle.
Exemplary Embodiments - B
[0132] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, an interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle interior frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; and a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The structure of the seat frame may comprise a cross beam. The seat frame may be attached to the vehicle interior frame at an interface. The system may comprise a seat system comprising the seat module and seat frame. The seat system may comprise an interface. The interface may be configured to mechanically attach the seat module to the vehicle interior frame. The interface may comprise a gear system. The interface may be configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The seat system may comprise a component. The component may be attached by an arm. The component may be movable relative to the seat module. The component may comprise a user interface system. The component may comprise an operator control. The seat system may comprise an interface configured to electrically couple the seat system to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The seat system may comprise a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise an operator control for the vehicle. The operator control may comprise a steering system for the vehicle. The user interface system may comprise an input device. The user interface system may comprise an output device. The output device may comprise a display. The display may comprise a display panel. The seat module may comprise a console. The console may comprise a seat console. The console may comprise a component comprising a user interface system. The component may be attached by an arm; the component may be movable relative to the seat console. The component may comprise an operator control movable relative to the seat module. The seat module may be configured to be rotated into position for attachment in the vehicle interior frame. The seat module may comprise two seats. The vehicle interior frame may comprise a structure attached to a base frame of the vehicle. The vehicle interior frame may comprise an interface; the seat frame may comprise an interface; the interface of the seat frame may be configured to be engaged with the interface of the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module. The system may comprise an instrument panel. The vehicle may comprise an autonomous vehicle. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle. The vehicle may comprise an electric vehicle; the base may comprise a floor of the vehicle; the vehicle may comprise a battery system at the base; the seat module may be configured to be installed above the battery system in the floor of the vehicle.
[0133] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seating system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle interior frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat; a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame; and a component configured to provide a user interface system. The seat frame may be configured to be attached to the vehicle interior frame to install the seat module into the vehicle. The vehicle may comprise at least one vehicle system; the user interface system may be configured to connect to at least one vehicle system. The system may comprise an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system. The component may be configured to be movable relative to the seat module. The system may comprise an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle interior frame. The system may comprise a seat console configured to provide the component.
[0134] The present invention relates to a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar comprising a support structure configured to mount the seat to the vehicle; and a back assembly coupled to the support structure. The support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The support structure may comprise a cross beam; the cross beam may comprise a cross-car beam. The cross-car beam may be configured to be cradled by at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar. The cross-car beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar. The cross-car beam may comprise a tubular structure. The cross-car beam may comprise a hollow structure. The cross-car beam may comprise a generally round cross section. The cross-car beam may comprise a main tube extending from the left pillar to the right pillar. The cross-car beam may comprise a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be concentric with the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube. The cross-car beam may comprise a mounting bracket configured to mount the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube. The mounting bracket may be welded to the main tube. The mounting bracket may comprise an aperture configured for a fastener to fasten the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may comprise a flange extending from the crosscar beam. The mounting bracket may comprise a generally flat flange transverse to an axis of the cross-car beam. The mounting bracket may comprise a collar concentric with the main tube. The support structure may comprise a leg assembly configured to mount the seat to the floor of the vehicle. The leg assembly may comprise a riser and a foot. The riser may comprise a bent tube. The bent tube may comprise a bend configured to contact the floor of the vehicle. The bent tube may comprise a set of bent tubes. The set of bent tubes may be coupled by the foot. The foot may be configured to couple the support structure to the floor of the vehicle. The support structure may comprise a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam. The front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket comprising an arcuate portion configured to fit on the cross-car beam. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the support structure. The back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket. The seat may comprise a seat belt buckle configured to clamp the pivot bracket between the support structure and the seat belt buckle. The seat may comprise a seat belt buckle coupled to the support structure. The back assembly may comprise a left back assembly and a right back assembly. At least one of the left back assembly and the right back assembly may comprise a seat belt retractor. The support structure may comprise a seat suspension. The seat may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover. The seat may comprise a console assembly. The console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the support structure. The support structure may be configured to be cantilevered from at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar. The support structure may be configured to be cradled in at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
[0135] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of assembling a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise coupling a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure; and assembling a back assembly to the support structure. The support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The method may comprise assembling cushion suspension to the support structure. The method may comprise assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure. The method may comprise assembling a back assembly to the support structure.
[0136] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of installing a seat in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise mounting the seat onto the right pillar and the left pillar; fastening the seat to the left pillar; and fastening the seat to the right pillar. The method may comprise the step of fastening the seat to the floor of the vehicle. [0137] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle may comprise a base; an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device coupled to the arm. The input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose gravity in movement of the input device toward the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose movement of the input device toward the stowed state. The component may comprise a bearing configured to facilitate movement of the arm relative to the base. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state. The first angle may be greater than the second angle. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state. The first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance. The input device may comprise a display screen. The display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and a second mode when the input device is in the use state. The display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state. The display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state. The arm may be pivotably fixed to the base. The base may be configured to be fixed to a seat structure. The base may be configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle. The input device may be configured for a second use state. The arm may comprise a first structure and a second structure configured to rotate about the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state. The second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state. The component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the use state to the stowed state. The component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the stowed state to the use state.
[0138] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise a seat structure; and a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state. The component may comprise a base; an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device coupled to the arm. The base may be coupled to the seat structure. The seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the use state. The seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the stowed state. The seat structure may be configured to couple the seat to the vehicle. The seat structure may be configured to support the vehicle occupant. [0139] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat system configured for installation in an interior of a vehicle providing a floor and a vehicle interior frame may comprise a seat module comprising at least one seat and (a) a structure configured to mount at least one the seat to the vehicle and (b) a back assembly coupled to the structure. The structure may be configured to mount the seat module to the vehicle interior frame. The vehicle interior frame may comprise a left pillar and a right pillar; the structure may comprise a support structure that may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The structure may comprise a frame. The structure may comprise a beam. The beam may comprise a cross beam. The seat module may be configured to be installed in the vehicle by translation into the interior and engagement of an interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame.
Engagement of the interface between the structure of the seat module and the vehicle interior frame may comprise rotation of the seat module relative to the vehicle interior frame.
[0140] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 10A- 10E, a method of installing a seat module in an interior of a vehicle may comprise translating the seat module through an opening in a vehicle frame into the interior; translating the seat module within the interior; mounting the seat module on a left pillar and a right pillar of the vehicle, engaging the seat module with a floor of the vehicle; fastening the seat module to the vehicle floor; and fastening the seat module to the left pillar and the right pillar. The seat module may comprise two seats and a console. The seat module may comprise a user interface system/component C/UIS such as an operator control for vehicle systems and/or the vehicle. The user interface system/component C/UIS may extend from the console and move between a stowed state and a use state. [0141] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES, a seat system for a vehicle interior may comprise a seat module with a set of seats and a seat frame with a base structure configured to be coupled to a vehicle structure. The base structure for the seat module may be configured to mount to a pillar/frame of the vehicle structure; the base structure may comprise a member such as a crossbeam that may be coupled at an interface/within a cradle at the pillar of the vehicle structure for installation in the vehicle interior. The seat system/module may comprise a console assembly. The system may comprise a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device; the user interface system may be connected to vehicle systems and/or networks; the user interface system may be provided on an arm and may be movable from a stowed state for use; the user interface system may comprise an information/data display and/or an operator control such for a vehicle steering system. The seat system may be configured for electric vehicles and/or autonomous vehicles.
Exemplary Embodiments - C
[0142] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat ST configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) a support structure SP configured to mount the seat to the vehicle and (b) a back assembly BK coupled to the support structure. The support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The support structure may comprise a cross-car beam CB. The cross-car beam may be configured to be cradled by at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar. The cross-car beam may be configured to fit in an arcuate structure in at least one of the right pillar and/or the left pillar. The cross-car beam may comprise a tubular structure. The cross-car beam may comprise a hollow structure. The cross-car beam may comprise a generally round cross section. The cross-car beam may comprise a main tube MT extending from the left pillar to the right pillar. The cross-car beam may comprise a reinforcement tube RT adjoining the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to reinforce the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be concentric with the main tube. The reinforcement tube may be configured to surround a portion of the main tube. The cross-car beam may comprise a mounting bracket MB configured to mount the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may be coupled to the main tube. The mounting bracket may be welded to the main tube. The mounting bracket may comprise an aperture configured for a fastener to fasten the support structure to one of the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may comprise a flange FG extending from the cross-car beam. The mounting bracket may comprise a generally flat flange transverse to an axis of the cross-car beam. The mounting bracket may comprise a collar CR concentric with the main tube. The support structure may comprise a leg assembly LG configured to mount the seat to the floor of the vehicle. The leg assembly may comprise a riser RR and a foot FT. The riser may comprise a bent tube. The bent tube may comprise a bend configured to contact the floor of the vehicle. The bent tube may comprise a set of bent tubes. The set of bent tubes may be coupled by the foot. The foot may be configured to couple the support structure to the floor of the vehicle. The support structure may comprise a front support FS and a connector CR configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam. The front support may comprise an anti-submarine cross member. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket PB comprising an arcuate portion configured to fit on the cross-car beam. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the support structure. The back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism RM coupled to the pivot bracket. The seat may comprise a seat belt buckle BL configured to clamp the pivot bracket between the support structure and the seat belt buckle. The seat may comprise a seat belt buckle coupled to the support structure. The back assembly may comprise a left back assembly and a right back assembly. At least one of the left back assembly and the right back assembly may comprise a seat belt retractor BR. The support structure may comprise a seat suspension SN. The seat may comprise a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover. The seat may comprise a console assembly CL. The console assembly may be configured to be assembled to the support structure. The support structure may be configured to be cantilevered from at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar. The support structure may be configured to be cradled in at least one of the left pillar and the right pillar.
[0143] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of assembling a seat configured for installation in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) coupling a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure and (b) assembling a back assembly to the support structure. The support structure may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The mounting bracket may be configured to mount the seat to the left pillar and the right pillar. The method may comprise assembling cushion suspension to the support structure. The method may comprise assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure. The method may comprise assembling a back assembly to the support structure. [0144] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a method of installing a seat in a vehicle providing a floor, a left pillar and a right pillar may comprise (a) mounting the seat onto the right pillar and the left pillar; (b) fastening the seat to the left pillar; and (c) fastening the seat to the right pillar. The method may comprise the step of fastening the seat to the floor of the vehicle.
[0145] A method of assembling a seat in a vehicle interior is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 42A. The method comprises mounting a seat module onto a vehicle frame, fastening the seat module to a vehicle floor, and fastening the seat module to the vehicle frame.
[0146] A method of assembling a seat in a vehicle interior is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 42B. The method comprises mounting a seat module onto a left pillar and a right pillar, fastening the seat module to a vehicle floor, and fastening the seat module to the left pillar and the right pillar.
[0147] A method of manufacturing a seat for a vehicle interior is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 43. The method comprises welding mounting bracket(s), a main tube, connector(s), a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure. The method comprises assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure; providing/assembling a center console; assembling the center console to the support structure; providing/assembling a back assembly; assembling the back assembly to the support structure; and assembling a buckle to the support structure.
[0148] A method of manufacturing a seat for a vehicle interior is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 44. The method comprises coupling mounting bracket(s) and a main tube to provide a cross-car beam. The method comprises coupling the cross-car beam, connector(s), a front support and a leg assembly to provide a support structure. The method comprises assembling cushion foam and cushion trim to the support structure; providing/assembling a center console; assembling the center console to the support structure; providing/assembling a back assembly; assembling the back assembly to the support structure; and assembling a buckle to the support structure.
[0149] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat may comprise a support structure to mount the seat to a left pillar and a right pillar of a vehicle. The seat may comprise a back assembly coupled to the support structure. The support structure may comprise a cross-car beam configured to be cradled by a pillar. The cross-car beam may comprise a hollow, tubular structure to extend from pillar to pillar and a mounting bracket to mount the support structure to a pillar. The support structure may comprise a leg assembly to mount the seat to the vehicle floor. The support structure may comprise a connector coupling an anti-submarine cross member to the cross-car beam. The back assembly may comprise a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the support structure. The back assembly may comprise a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket. The seat may comprise a console assembled to the support structure.
Exemplary Embodiments - D
[0150] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURE 24B, a component C for a vehicle interior may be configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle. According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURE 24A, component C may be configured to be stowed when not in use by the vehicle occupant to steer the vehicle (e.g. when the vehicle is in an autonomous driving mode). When stowed, component C may be configured for use by a second vehicle occupant (e.g. as a display). [0151] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle may comprise (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; (c) an input device coupled to the arm. The input device may be configured for a stowed state and a use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose gravity in movement of the input device toward the use state. The component may comprise a spring configured to apply a force to oppose movement of the input device toward the stowed state. The component may comprise a bearing configured to facilitate movement of the arm relative to the base. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state. The first angle may be greater than the second angle. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state. The first for/aft distance may be greater than the second for/aft distance. The input device may comprise a display screen. The display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and a second mode when the input device is in the use state. The display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state. The display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state.
The arm may be pivotably fixed to the base. The base may be configured to be fixed to a seat structure. The base may be configured to be fixed to a floor of the vehicle. The input device may be configured for a second use state. The arm may comprise a first structure and a second structure configured to rotate about the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state. The second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state. The component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the use state to the stowed state. The component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the stowed state to the use state.
[0152] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle may comprise (a) a seat structure; and (b) a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state. The component may comprise (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base; (c) an input device coupled to the arm. The base may be coupled to the seat structure. The seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the use state. The seat structure may comprise a stop configured to position the component in the stowed state. The seat structure may be configured to couple the seat to the vehicle. The seat structure may be configured to support the vehicle occupant.
[0153] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURE 29, a component C configured for use by a vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle may comprise a base B; an arm AR configured to rotate relative to the base; and an input device ID coupled to the arm. The input device may be configured for a stowed state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 24A, 25A, 26A, 27B, 28B, 30A, 31 A, 32A, 33 A, 34A, 34B and 36A-36C) and a use state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 24B, 25B, 26B, 27A, 28A, 30B, 3 IB, 32B, 33B, 34C, 37A-37C and 38A). The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 36A-36C) and the use state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 37A-37C). The arm may be configured to rotate relative to the base about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state. The component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the stowed state to the use state. The component may comprise a motor configured to transition the input device from the use state to the stowed state. The component may comprise a spring configured to bias the input device in the use state. The arm may be configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 24A, 25A and 32A); and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state (as shown schematically in FIGURES 24B, 25B and 32B). The first angle may be greater than the second angle. The input device may comprise a display screen DS. The display screen may be configured for a first mode when the input device is the stowed state and second mode when the input device is in the use state. The display screen may be configured to accept touch inputs from the vehicle occupant. The arm may be pivotably fixed to the base. The base may be configured to be fixed to at least one of (a) a seat structure; (b) a floor of the vehicle. The input device may be configured for a second use state. The arm may comprise a first structure and a second structure configured to rotate about the first structure to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state (as shown schematically in FIGURE 38 A). The second structure may be configured to rotate relative to the first structure about a single axis to transition the input device between the use state and the second use state.
[0154] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in the FIGURES, a component to steer a vehicle may comprise an arm configured to rotate relative to a base and an input device coupled to the arm. The input device may be configured for stowed and use states. The arm may rotate relative to the base about a single axis/pivot to transition the input device between the stowed and use states. The arm may position the input device at a first angle when the input device is stowed and a second angle less than the first when the input device is in the use state. The input device may comprise a display screen configured for a first mode when the input device is stowed and a second mode when the input device is in the use state. The display screen may accept touch inputs. The base may be fixed to a seat structure or the vehicle floor.
Figure imgf000049_0001
Figure imgf000050_0001
* * *
[0155] It is important to note that the present inventions (e.g. inventive concepts, etc.) have been described in the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES of the present patent document according to exemplary embodiments; the embodiments of the present inventions are presented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present inventions. The construction and/or arrangement of the elements of the inventive concepts embodied in the present inventions as described in the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES is illustrative only. Although exemplary embodiments of the present inventions have been described in detail in the present patent document, a person of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that equivalents, modifications, variations, etc. of the subject matter of the exemplary embodiments and alternative embodiments are possible and contemplated as being within the scope of the present inventions; all such subject matter (e.g. modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is intended to be included within the scope of the present inventions. It should also be noted that various/other modifications, variations, substitutions, equivalents, changes, omissions, etc. may be made in the configuration and/or arrangement of the exemplary embodiments (e.g. in concept, design, structure, apparatus, form, assembly, construction, means, function, system, process/method, steps, sequence of process/method steps, operation, operating conditions, performance, materials, composition, combination, etc.) without departing from the scope of the present inventions; all such subject matter (e.g. modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is intended to be included within the scope of the present inventions. The scope of the present inventions is not intended to be limited to the subject matter (e.g. details, structure, functions, materials, acts, steps, sequence, system, result, etc.) described in the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES of the present patent document. It is contemplated that the claims of the present patent document will be construed properly to cover the complete scope of the subject matter of the present inventions (e.g. including any and all such modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.); it is to be understood that the terminology used in the present patent document is for the purpose of providing a description of the subject matter of the exemplary embodiments rather than as a limitation on the scope of the present inventions.
[0156] It is also important to note that according to exemplary embodiments the present inventions may comprise conventional technology (e.g. as implemented and/or integrated in exemplary embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) or may comprise any other applicable technology (present and/or future) with suitability and/or capability to perform the functions and processes/operations described in the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES. All such technology (e.g. as implemented in embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is considered to be within the scope of the present inventions of the present patent document.

Claims

CLAIMS The invention claimed is:
1. A seat system configured for a vehicle occupant and configured for installation in a vehicle providing a vehicle structure comprising: a seat module comprising:
(a) a seat frame comprising a base structure configured to be coupled to the vehicle structure to install the seat module into the vehicle; and
(b) a back assembly coupled to the base structure; wherein the base structure is configured to provide support for a set of seats.
2. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure is configured to be attached at a frame of the vehicle structure.
3. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure is configured to mount the seat module to at least one pillar of the vehicle structure.
4. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure comprises an end configured to be supported by a cradle of the vehicle structure.
5. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure comprises a member; wherein the member comprises a beam; wherein the beam comprises a cross beam; wherein the cross beam comprises a cross-car beam.
6. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure comprises a cross beam.
7. The system of Claim 6 wherein the cross beam is configured to be installed at a frame of the vehicle structure.
8. The system of Claim 6 wherein the cross beam is configured to be installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
9. The system of Claim 6 wherein the cross beam is configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure.
10. The system of Claim 6 wherein the cross beam is configured to be attached at a bracket at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
11. The system of Claim 6 wherein the base structure is configured to installed at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
12. The system of Claim 6 wherein the base structure comprises a beam and a frame configured to installed to a frame of the vehicle structure.
13. The system of Claim 6 wherein the cross beam is configured to be attached at a cradle at a pillar frame of the vehicle structure.
14. The system of Claim 6 wherein the cross beam is configured to be cradled at a pillar of the vehicle structure.
15. The system of Claim 6 wherein the cross beam is configured to fit in an arcuate structure in a pillar of the vehicle structure.
16. The system of Claim 6 wherein the cross beam comprises a main tube extending from a pillar of the vehicle structure.
17. The system of Claim 16 wherein the cross beam comprises a reinforcement tube adjoining the main tube; wherein the reinforcement tube is configured to reinforce the main tube.
18. The system of Claim 17 wherein the reinforcement tube is configured to surround a portion of the main tube.
19. The system of Claim 16 wherein the cross beam comprises a mounting bracket configured to mount the base structure to the pillar of the vehicle structure.
20. The system of Claim 19 wherein the mounting bracket is coupled to the main tube.
21. The system of Claim 19 wherein the mounting bracket comprises a flange extending from the cross beam.
22. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure comprises a leg assembly configured to mount the seat module to a floor of the vehicle.
23. The system of Claim 22 wherein the leg assembly comprises a riser and a foot.
24. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure is configured to be cantilevered from a pillar of the vehicle structure.
25. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure is configured to be cradled in a cradle of a pillar of the vehicle structure.
26. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure comprises a leg assembly comprising a foot; wherein the foot is configured to couple the base structure to a floor of the vehicle.
27. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure comprises a cross-car beam, a front support and a connector configured to couple the front support to the cross-car beam.
28. The system of Claim 27 wherein the front support comprises an antisubmarine cross member.
29. The system of Claim 1 wherein the back assembly comprises a pivot bracket configured to couple the back assembly to the base structure.
30. The system of Claim 29 wherein the back assembly comprises a recliner mechanism coupled to the pivot bracket.
31. The system of Claim 1 wherein the back assembly comprises a set of seat backs.
32. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure comprises a seat suspension.
33. The system of Claim 1 further comprising a cushion assembly comprising a pad and a cover.
34. The system of Claim 1 further comprising a console assembly; wherein the console assembly is configured to be assembled to the base structure.
35. The system of Claim 34 wherein the console assembly comprises a seat console.
36. The system of Claim 34 wherein the console assembly comprises a seat console and a component configured to provide a user interface.
37. The system of Claim 1 further comprising a component comprising a user interface system configured to provide a user interface.
38. The system of Claim 37 wherein the component comprising the user interface system comprises an input device and/or an output device.
39. The system of Claim 37 wherein the component comprising the user interface system comprises at least one of (a) an input device comprising an operator control; (b) an output device comprising a display panel; (c) a movable component.
40. The system of Claim 37 wherein the component comprising the user interface system is movable relative to the seat module.
41. The system of Claim 1 further comprising a component comprising a user interface system configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle comprising: (a) a base; (b) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and (c) an input device coupled to the arm; wherein the input device is configured for a stowed state and a use state.
42. The system of Claim 41 wherein the arm is configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single axis to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
43. The system of Claim 41 wherein the arm is configured to rotate relative to the base of the component about a single pivot to transition the input device between the stowed state and the use state.
44. The system of Claim 41 further comprising a spring configured to provide a force to move the input device toward the use state.
45. The system of Claim 41 wherein the arm is configured to (a) position the input device at a first angle from a vertical plane when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second angle from the vertical plane when the input device is in the use state; wherein the first angle is greater than the second angle.
46. The system of Claim 41 wherein the arm is configured to (a) position the input device at a first for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the stowed state; and (b) position the input device at a second for/aft distance from the vehicle occupant when the input device is in the use state; wherein the first for/aft distance is greater than the second for/aft distance.
47. The system of Claim 41 wherein the input device comprises a display screen.
48. The system of Claim 41 wherein the arm is pivotably fixed to the base structure.
49. The system of Claim 41 wherein the component comprises an operator control; wherein the operator control comprises a steering system for the vehicle.
50. The system of Claim 41 wherein the user interface system is configured to be coupled to vehicle systems of the vehicle.
51. The system of Claim 41 wherein the user interface system comprises at least one of (a) an input device; (b) an output device.
52. The system of Claim 51 wherein the output device comprises a display; wherein the display comprises a display panel.
53. The system of Claim 41 further comprising a console.
54. The system of Claim 53 wherein the console comprises the component.
55. The system of Claim 53 wherein the console is coupled to the base structure.
56. The system of Claim 1 wherein the base structure comprises an interface to the vehicle; wherein the interface comprises a mechanical interface and/or an electrical interface.
57. The system of Claim 1 wherein the vehicle comprises an electric vehicle; wherein the vehicle structure comprises a base; wherein the base of the vehicle structure comprises a floor of the vehicle; wherein the vehicle comprises a battery system at the base of the vehicle structure; wherein the seat module is configured to be installed above the floor of the vehicle.
58. The system of Claim 1 wherein the vehicle structure comprises a base, a floor, a vehicle frame, and at least one pillar.
59. The system of Claim 1 wherein the seat frame comprises a back frame and a cushion frame and the base structure; wherein the base structure is configured to be attached to the vehicle structure.
60. An interior system for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame comprising: a seat module comprising at least one seat; a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame; wherein the seat frame is configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
61. The system of Claim 60 wherein the vehicle frame comprises a vehicle interior frame; wherein the vehicle interior frame comprises an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
62. The system of Claim 61 wherein the interface comprises a bracket and a cradle.
63. The system of Claim 60 wherein the seat frame comprises a base structure and a cross beam.
64. The system of Claim 1 wherein the seat frame comprises a base structure, a cross beam, a cushion frame, a backrest frame and an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
65. The system of Claim 64 wherein the interface comprises a connector and an end for a cross beam.
66. The system of Claim 64 wherein the interface comprises an end on a member of the seat frame configured to attach to a bracket of the vehicle frame.
67. The system of Claim 60 further comprising an interface for attachment of the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
68. The system of Claim 67 further comprising a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and the interface.
69. The system of Claim 60 further comprising a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame and a component; wherein the component comprises a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
70. The system of Claim 69 wherein the seat system comprises a console assembly for the component; wherein the component is configured to be movable relative to the console assembly.
71. The system of Claim 60 further comprising a seat system comprising the seat module and the seat frame; wherein the seat frame is attached to the vehicle frame at an interface.
72. A seat system for an interior for a vehicle comprising a base and a vehicle frame comprising: a seat module comprising at least one seat; a seat frame comprising a structure configured to be attached to the vehicle frame; wherein the seat frame is configured to be attached to the vehicle frame to install the seat module into the vehicle.
73. The system of Claim 72 comprising the seat module and the seat frame and a component; wherein the component comprises a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
74. The system of Claim 73 wherein the vehicle comprises at least one vehicle system; wherein the user interface system is configured to connect to at least one vehicle system.
75. The system of Claim 73 further comprising an interface configured to couple the component to at least one vehicle system.
76. The system of Claim 72 further comprising an interface configured to connect the seat module to the vehicle frame.
77. The system of Claim 72 further comprising an interface for connecting the seat frame to the vehicle frame.
78. The system of Claim 72 wherein the seat system comprises a console assembly for the component.
79. The system of Claim 72 wherein the seat frame comprises a base structure comprising a cross beam; wherein the seat frame is attached to the vehicle frame at an interface.
80. The system of Claim 72 wherein the vehicle comprises a floor and the seat frame is configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
81. The system of Claim 72 wherein the seat frame comprises a base structure configured to be attached to a floor of the vehicle.
82. The system of Claim 81 wherein the base structure comprises a footing configured to be attached to the floor of the vehicle.
83. The system of Claim 72 wherein the seat frame comprises a base structure configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle.
84. The system of Claim 72 wherein the seat frame comprises a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to a pillar frame of the vehicle.
85. The system of Claim 72 wherein the seat frame comprises a base structure comprising a member configured to be attached to the vehicle frame at a mechanical interface; wherein the mechanical interface comprises a bracket and/or cradle at the vehicle frame.
86. The system of Claim 72 wherein the vehicle frame comprises a pillar frame.
87. A seat configured for use by a vehicle occupant in a vehicle comprising:
(a) a seat structure; and
(b) a component coupled to the seat structure configured for a use state for use by the vehicle occupant to steer a vehicle and a stowed state; wherein the component comprises:
(1) a base;
(2) an arm configured to rotate relative to the base of the component; and
(3) a user interface system comprising an input device and/or an output device.
88. A method of assembling a seat module configured for installation to a vehicle structure in a vehicle comprising:
(a) providing a mounting bracket, a main tube, a connector, a front support and a leg assembly comprising a base structure; and
(b) assembling a back assembly to the base structure; wherein the base structure is configured to mount the seat module to the vehicle structure.
89. The method of Claim 88 further comprising the step of fastening the seat module to the vehicle structure.
PCT/US2024/012666 2023-01-24 2024-01-23 Seat system for vehicle WO2024158850A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US202363440779P 2023-01-24 2023-01-24
US63/440,779 2023-01-24
US202363605069P 2023-12-01 2023-12-01
US63/605,069 2023-12-01
US202463618458P 2024-01-08 2024-01-08
US63/618,458 2024-01-08

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
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US6199252B1 (en) * 1995-11-27 2001-03-13 Lear Corporation Modular seat assembly and method of installing the same within a vehicle
US20050017564A1 (en) * 2003-06-30 2005-01-27 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Electric vehicle seat stowing structure
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US20190152360A1 (en) * 2017-11-22 2019-05-23 Cnh Industrial America Llc Operator Seat System With An Armrest Control Center For Integrated Control Of Agricultural Machine Functions
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