Office Action 1: Non-Final Rejection (2023-12-07)
Rejection types: 102 - Lack of Novelty, Double Patenting

CLAIMS:
CLAIMS:

1\. An aircraft seat (1) comprising:
a seat chassis (4);
a seat assembly (5) comprising a seat pan (6) and a seat back (7);
the seat pan (6) being mounted to the seat chassis (4) by a first pivoting connection (30) defining a seat pan pivot axis (Y1) about which the seat pan (6) pivots, the location of the seat pan pivot axis (Y1) being fixed relative to the seat chassis (4); and
at least one seat pan link (53-1) for controlling pivoting of the seat pan (6) about said
seat pan pivot axis (Y1);wherein the at least one seat pan link (53-1) is coupled to the seat pan (6) in front of the seat pan pivot axis (Y1).
2\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the seat pan pivot axis (Y1) is
located in a central region of the seat pan (6).
3\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the seat chassis (4) comprises:
at least one seat pan track (55-1); and
at least one seat pan follower (54-1) adapted to travel in said at least one seat pan track (55-1), the at least one seat pan follower (54-1) being connected to the at least one seat pan link (53-1).
4\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the seat
back (7) is mounted to said seat pan (6) by a second pivoting connection (36), the second pivoting connection (36) defining a seat back pivot axis (Y2) about which the seat back (7) pivots.
5\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said seat pan pivot axis (Y1) is
located in front of the seat back pivot axis (Y2).
6\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the seat pan pivot axis (Y1) is located between the seat back pivot axis (Y2) and a mid-point of the seat pan (6).

7\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of claims 4, 5 or 6, wherein the seat pan (6) comprises first and second seat pan sidemembers (26-1, 26-2), the seat pan sidemembers (26-1, 26-2) being mounted to the seat chassis (4) by the first pivoting connection (30), wherein 30

the seat back (7) is mounted to the first and second seat pan sidemembers (26-1, 26-2) by the second pivoting connection (36).
8\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 7 comprising at least one
recline link (57-1) coupled to the seat back (7).
9\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 8 when dependent directly or indirectly on

claim 3, wherein the at least one recline link (57-1) is connected to the at least one seat pan link (53-1).

10\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the at least one recline link (57-1) comprises a seat back decoupling mechanism operable selectively to decouple the at least one recline link (57-1) from the seat back (7).

11\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the seat back pivot axis (Y2) is a real pivot axis and the second pivoting connection (136) is configured such that the seat back pivot axis (Y2) undergoes translation relative to the seat pan (106) as the seat back (107) pivots about said seat pivot axis (Y2).

12\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the second pivoting connection (36) comprises a seat pan hinge link (171) and a seat back hinge link (172), the seat pan hinge link (171) and the seat back hinge link (172) being pivotally connected to each other, the seat back pivot axis (Y2) being defined by the pivoting connection of said seat pan hinge link and the seat back hinge link.

13\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the seat pan hinge link (171) comprises a first arm (171A) pivotally connected to the seat pan (106) and a second arm (171B) movably coupled to the seat back (107); and the seat back hinge link (172) comprises a first arm (172A) pivotally connected to the seat back (107) and a second arm (172B) movably
coupled to the seat pan (106).

14\. An aircraft seat (101) comprising:a seat chassis (104);
a seat assembly (105) comprising a seat pan (106) and a seat back (107), the seat
pan (106) being mounted to the seat chassis (104); anda seat back (107) mounted to said seat pan (106) by a pivoting connection (136) defining a seat back pivot axis (Y2);

wherein the seat back pivot axis (Y2) is a real pivot axis and the pivoting connection (136) is configured such that the seat back pivot axis (Y2) undergoes translation relative to the seat pan (106) as the seat back (107) pivots about said seat pivot axis (Y2).

15\. An aircraft seat (101) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the pivoting connection (136) comprises a seat pan hinge link (171) and a seat back hinge link (172), the seat pan hinge link (171) and the seat back hinge link (172) being pivotally connected to each other, the seat back pivot axis (Y2) being defined by the pivoting connection of said seat pan hinge link and the seat back hinge link.

16\. An aircraft seat (101) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the seat pan hinge link (171) comprises a first arm (171A) pivotally connected to the seat pan (106) and a second arm (171B) movably coupled to the seat back (107); and the seat back hinge link (172) comprises a first arm (172A) pivotally connected to the seat back (107) and a second arm (172B) movably
coupled to the seat pan (106).

17\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims comprising a leg rest (9; 70), wherein the leg rest (9; 70) is mounted to said seat pan (6) by a third pivoting connection (46), the third pivoting connection (46) defining a leg rest pivot (Y3) axis about
which the leg rest (9; 70) pivots.

18\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the leg rest (70) is extendible.

19\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 17 or claim 18 comprising at least one leg rest
link (58-1) coupled to the leg rest (9; 70).

20\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 19 comprising:at least one leg rest track (60-1); and
at least one leg rest follower (59-1) adapted to travel in said at least one leg rest track
(60-1), the at least one leg rest follower (59-1) being connected to said at least one leg rest link (58-1).

21\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 19 or claim 20 comprising a leg rest decoupling mechanism operable selectively to decouple the leg rest link (58-1) from the leg rest (9; 70).

22\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of claims 19, 20 or 21 when dependent directly or indirectly on claim 3, wherein the at least one leg rest link (58-1) is connected to the at least one seat pan link (53-1).

23\. An aircraft seat (1) comprising:a seat chassis (4);
a seat assembly (5) comprising a seat pan (6) and a seat back (7), the seat pan (6) being mounted to the seat chassis (4) by a first pivoting connection (30) defining a seat pan pivot axis (Y1) about which the seat pan (6) pivots;
a leg rest (9; 70) pivotally mounted to said seat pan (6);
at least one leg rest link (58-1) coupled to the leg rest (9; 70) to control pivoting of the leg rest (9; 70); and
a leg rest decoupling mechanism operable selectively to decouple the leg rest link (58-1) from the leg rest (9; 70).

24\. An aircraft seat (1) comprising:a seat chassis (4);
a seat assembly (5) comprising a seat pan (6) and a seat back (7), the seat pan (6) being mounted to the seat chassis (4); and
a leg rest (70) pivotally mounted to said seat pan (6);
wherein the leg rest (70) is extendible.

25\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 24, wherein the leg rest (70) comprises a base portion (70A) and an extending portion (70B), the extending portion (70B) being movable
relative to the base portion (70A) to extend the leg rest (70).

26\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 25, wherein the extending portion (70B) is movable to at least one extended position.

27\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the leg rest (70) comprises a cam track (74-1) and a cam follower (86-1) for controlling movement of the extending portion (70B).

28\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 27, wherein the cam follower (86-1) is disposed
on a pivotally mounted arm (87-1).

29\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 27 or claim 28, wherein the cam track (74-1) comprises at least one recess (90-1A, 90-1B, 90-1C, 87-1) for retaining the extending portion (70B) in an extended position.

30\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 29, wherein each recess (90-1A, 90-1B, 90- 1C, 87-1) comprises an aperture (91-1A, 91-1B, 91-1C) for receiving the cam follower (86-1) to retain the extending portion (70B) in the extended position.

31\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 30 comprising cam follower biasing means for
biasing the cam follower (86-1) into the aperture (91-1A, 91-1B, 91-1C).

32\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 31, comprising extending portion biasing means (79-1, 79-2) for biasing the extending portion (70B) towards the base portion (70A).

33\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 32, wherein the extending portion biasing means (79-1, 79-2) comprises at least one tension gas spring 79-1.

34\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 31 comprising at least one
leg rest link (58-1) ,the at least one leg rest link (58-1) being coupled to the leg rest (9; 70) to control extension of the leg rest (9; 70).

35\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims comprising at least one armrest (8-1, 8-2), the at least one armrest (8-1, 8-2) being movable relative to said seat
chassis (4).

36\. An aircraft seat (1) comprising:a seat chassis (4);
a seat assembly (5) comprising a seat pan (6) and a seat back (7), the seat pan (6)
being mounted to the seat chassis (4) by a first pivoting connection (30) defining a seat pan pivot axis (Y1) about which the seat pan (6) pivots; andcomprising at least one armrest (8-1, 8-2), the at least one armrest (8-1, 8-2) being movable relative to said seat chassis (4).

37\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 35 or claim 36, wherein the at least one armrest (8-1, 8-2) is pivotally connected to the seat back (7).

38\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 37 comprising at least one armrest link (52-1,
52-2) pivotally coupled to the at least one armrest (8-1, 8-2) and the seat chassis (4).

39\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein the at least one
armrest (8-1, 8-2) is movable vertically relative to the seat chassis (4).

40\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims comprising a seat base (3) for mounting fixedly to a floor of an aircraft (2), the seat chassis (4) being movably mounted to said seat base (3).

41\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 40, wherein said seat base (3) comprises at least one longitudinal guide to provide longitudinal movement of the seat chassis (4) relative to the seat base (3).

42\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 40 or claim 41, wherein said seat base (3) comprises at least one transverse guide to provide transverse movement of the seat chassis (4) relative to the seat base (3).

43\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of claims 40, 41, or 42, wherein said seat
base (3) comprises a turntable (17) to enable the angular orientation of the seat chassis (4) relative to be adjusted relative to the seat base (3).

44\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said seat pan (6) comprises first and second seat pan sidemembers (26-1, 26-2), the first and second
seat pan sidemembers (26-1, 26-2) being mounted to said seat chassis (4).

45\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 44, wherein a first tension membrane (29) is supported by said first and second seat pan sidemembers (26-1, 26-2).

46\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 44 or claim 45, wherein the seat chassis (4) comprises first and second base sidemembers (21-1, 21-2), the first pivoting connection (30) mounting said first and second seat pan sidemembers (26-1, 26-2) to said first and second base sidemembers (21-1, 21-2).

47\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said seat back (7) comprises first and second seat back sidemembers (32-1, 32-2); and a second

tension membrane (35) is supported by said first and second seat back sidemembers (32-1,
32-2).

48\. An aircraft seat (1; 101; 201) comprising:a seat chassis (4; 104; 204);
a seat assembly (5; 105; 205) comprising a seat pan (6; 106; 206) and a seat back (7; 107; 207);
the seat pan (6; 106; 206) being mounted to the seat chassis (4; 104; 204) by a first pivoting connection (30; 130; 230) defining a seat pan pivot axis (Y1) about which the seat
pan (6; 106; 206) pivots,

49\. An aircraft seat (1; 101; 201) as claimed in claim 48, wherein the aircraft seat (1;
101; 201) is selectively configurable in a berthing configuration and at least first and second seating configurations.

50\. An aircraft seat (1; 101; 201) as claimed in claim 49, wherein the orientation of the seat back (7; 107; 207) relative to the seat pan (6; 106; 206) is at least substantially fixed as the aircraft seat (1; 101; 201) transitions between said first and second seating configurations.

51\. An aircraft seat (1; 101; 201) as claimed in claim 48 or claim 49, wherein the seat back (7; 107; 207) pivots relative to the seat pan (6; 106; 206) as the aircraft seat (1; 101; 201) transitions to or from the berthing configuration.

52\. An aircraft seat (1; 101; 201) as claimed in any one of claims 48 to 51 comprising at
least one armrest (30; 130; 230) fixedly mounted to the seat pan (6; 106; 206).

53\. An aircraft seat (1; 101; 201) as claimed in any one of claims 48 to 52, wherein the seat pan pivot axis (Y1) is positioned at or proximal to a centre of mass of a seat occupant.

54\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aircraft seat (1) is selectively configurable in a berthing configuration and one or more seating configuration.

55\. An aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 54 when dependent directly or indirectly on
claims 1, 5 and 10, wherein the seat pan (6), the leg rest (9; 70) and the seat back (7) are at least substantially aligned with each other when the aircraft seat (1) is in said berthing configuration.

56\. An aircraft comprising first and second aircraft seat (1) as claimed in claim 55, the first and second aircraft seat being arranged to face each other; wherein, when said first aircraft seat (1) is in said berthing configuration and the second aircraft seat (1) is in said seat
configuration, the seat pan (6), the leg rest (9; 70) and the seat back (7) of said first aircraft seat (1) align with the seat pan (6) of the second aircraft seat.

57\. An aircraft as claimed in claim 56, wherein said first and second aircraft seat (1) are spaced apart from each other such that, when said first aircraft seat (1) is in said berthing
configuration and the second aircraft seat (1) is in said seat configuration, the leg rest (9; 70) of the first aircraft seat (1) and the seat pan (6) of the second aircraft seat (1) form a substantially continuous surface.

58\. An aircraft (2) comprising one or more aircraft seat (1) as claimed in any one of claims
1to55. 5 10 15 20 25 30 35

OFFICE ACTION:
DETAILED ACTION
Notice of Pre-AIA  or AIA  Status
The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA .
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 102
The following is a quotation of the appropriate paragraphs of 35 U.S.C. 102 that form the basis for the rejections under this section made in this Office action:
A person shall be entitled to a patent unless –
(a)(1) the claimed invention was patented, described in a printed publication, or in public use, on sale, or otherwise available to the public before the effective filing date of the claimed invention.
Claim 1 is rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) as being anticipated by De La Garza et al. (US 2012/0074751 A1), hereinafter De La Garza.
Regarding claim 1, De La Garza discloses an aircraft seat (passenger seat 100, Fig. 4) comprising:
- a seat chassis (base frame 180, Fig. 4);
- a seat assembly (Examiner notes the assembly in Fig. 4) comprising a seat pan (seat pan assembly 110, Fig. 4) and a seat back (seat back 120, Fig. 4);
- the seat pan being mounted to the seat chassis by a first pivoting connection (fixed pivot 175, Fig. 4; Examiner notes the passenger seat 100 includes a seat pan assembly pivotably connected to a seat back 120 and to a base frame 180 at fixed pivot 175, § [0034]) defining a seat pan pivot axis about which the seat pan pivots (Examiner notes the seat pan pivot axis at fixed pivot 175 about which the seat pan pivots, Fig. 4), the location of the seat pan pivot axis being fixed relative to the seat chassis (Examiner notes 175 is a fixed pivot per § [0035]); and
- at least one seat pan link (main linkage 150, Fig. 4) for controlling pivoting of the seat pan about said seat pan pivot axis (Examiner notes 150 is connected to the seat pan at point 171 and controls pivoting of the seat pan about seat pan pivot axis 175 via secondary linkage 160; § [0035]);
- wherein the at least one seat pan link is coupled to the seat pan in front of the seat pan pivot axis (Examiner notes the seat pan link 150 is coupled at point 171, that is in front of the seat pan pivot axis 175, depicted in Fig. 4, see further § [0035]).
Double Patenting
The nonstatutory double patenting rejection is based on a judicially created doctrine grounded in public policy (a policy reflected in the statute) so as to prevent the unjustified or improper timewise extension of the “right to exclude” granted by a patent and to prevent possible harassment by multiple assignees. A nonstatutory double patenting rejection is appropriate where the conflicting claims are not identical, but at least one examined application claim is not patentably distinct from the reference claim(s) because the examined application claim is either anticipated by, or would have been obvious over, the reference claim(s). See, e.g., In re Berg, 140 F.3d 1428, 46 USPQ2d 1226 (Fed. Cir. 1998); In re Goodman, 11 F.3d 1046, 29 USPQ2d 2010 (Fed. Cir. 1993); In re Longi, 759 F.2d 887, 225 USPQ 645 (Fed. Cir. 1985); In re Van Ornum, 686 F.2d 937, 214 USPQ 761 (CCPA 1982); In re Vogel, 422 F.2d 438, 164 USPQ 619 (CCPA 1970); In re Thorington, 418 F.2d 528, 163 USPQ 644 (CCPA 1969).
A timely filed terminal disclaimer in compliance with 37 CFR 1.321(c) or 1.321(d) may be used to overcome an actual or provisional rejection based on nonstatutory double patenting provided the reference application or patent either is shown to be commonly owned with the examined application, or claims an invention made as a result of activities undertaken within the scope of a joint research agreement. See MPEP § 717.02 for applications subject to examination under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA  as explained in MPEP § 2159. See MPEP § 2146 et seq. for applications not subject to examination under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA . A terminal disclaimer must be signed in compliance with 37 CFR 1.321(b).
The filing of a terminal disclaimer by itself is not a complete reply to a nonstatutory double patenting (NSDP) rejection. A complete reply requires that the terminal disclaimer be accompanied by a reply requesting reconsideration of the prior Office action. Even where the NSDP rejection is provisional the reply must be complete. See MPEP § 804, subsection I.B.1. For a reply to a non-final Office action, see 37 CFR 1.111(a). For a reply to final Office action, see 37 CFR 1.113(c). A request for reconsideration while not provided for in 37 CFR 1.113(c) may be filed after final for consideration. See MPEP §§ 706.07(e) and 714.13.
The USPTO Internet website contains terminal disclaimer forms which may be used. Please visit www.uspto.gov/patent/patents-forms. The actual filing date of the application in which the form is filed determines what form (e.g., PTO/SB/25, PTO/SB/26, PTO/AIA /25, or PTO/AIA /26) should be used. A web-based eTerminal Disclaimer may be filled out completely online using web-screens. An eTerminal Disclaimer that meets all requirements is auto-processed and approved immediately upon submission. For more information about eTerminal Disclaimers, refer to www.uspto.gov/patents/apply/applying-online/eterminal-disclaimer.
Claim 1 is rejected on the ground of nonstatutory double patenting as being unpatentable over claim 1 of U.S. Patent No. 11,673,672. Specifically, claim 1 of the instant application is anticipated by claim 1 of US 11,673,672 (reproduced below).
1. An aircraft seat comprising:
a seat chassis;
a seat assembly comprising a seat pan and a seat back;
the seat pan being mounted to the seat chassis by a first pivoting connection defining a seat pan pivot axis about which the seat pan pivots, the location of the seat pan pivot axis being fixed relative to the seat chassis,
the first pivoting connection being configured such that the seat pan can pivot about the seat pan pivot axis without undergoing a related translational movement;
the seat back being mounted to the seat pan by a second pivoting connection,
the second pivoting connection defining a seat back pivot axis about which the seat back pivots,
the seat pan pivot axis being located in front of the seat back pivot axis; and
at least one seat pan link for controlling pivoting of the seat pan about said seat pan pivot axis;
wherein the at least one seat pan link is coupled to the seat pan in front of the seat pan pivot axis;
at least one recline link connected to the seat back and the at least one seat pan link; and
wherein the seat pan pivot axis is located between the seat back pivot axis and a mid- point of the seat pan.
Conclusion
The prior art made of record and not relied upon is considered pertinent to applicant's disclosure. Perraut et al. (US 8,888,181 B2) teaches a vehicle seat is equipped with a seat tilt mechanism capable of adjusting the amount one seat component is tilted relative to another. The tilt mechanism can couple a seat frame with a seat pan to adjust the relative amount of tilt therebetween. Marais et al. (US 8,579,375 B2) teaches adjustable or convertible seats for use in aircraft and other passenger transport vehicles. The seats are designed to use non-parallel slides and a single actuator for certain movements of the seat.


NEXT OFFICE ACTION: DETAILED ACTION
Notice of Pre-AIA  or AIA  Status
The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA .
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 102
The following is a quotation of the appropriate paragraphs of 35 U.S.C. 102 that form the basis for the rejections under this section made in this Office action:
A person shall be entitled to a patent unless –
(a)(1) the claimed invention was patented, described in a printed publication, or in public use, on sale, or otherwise available to the public before the effective filing date of the claimed invention.
(a)(2) the claimed invention was described in a patent issued under section 151, or in an application for patent published or deemed published under section 122(b), in which the patent or application, as the case may be, names another inventor and was effectively filed before the effective filing date of the claimed invention.
Claims 1, 59-65, 68, 73 and 75-76 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) as being anticipated by Dowty et al. (US 2010/0253129 A1), hereinafter Dowty.
Regarding claim 1, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat (passenger seat 100, Fig. 3) comprising:
- a seat chassis (rigid frame 110, Fig. 3);
- a seat assembly (Examiner notes the assembly in Fig. 3) comprising a seat pan (seat pan 20, Fig. 3), a seat back (seat back 40, Fig. 3), and a leg rest (leg rest 30, Fig. 3);
- the seat pan being mounted to the seat chassis by a first pivoting connection (seat pan link 26, Fig. 3) defining a seat pan pivot axis about which the seat pan pivots (Examiner notes a seat pan pivot axis defined at the bottom pivot pin point of 26, see Fig. 3; §[0022]), the location of the seat pan pivot axis being fixed relative to the seat chassis (Examiner notes the pivot point is defined by a link fixed with respect to the stationary frame 110, see §[0022]);
-the leg rest being mounted to said seat pan by a pivoting connection defining a leg rest pivot axis about which the leg rest pivots (Examiner notes connection at 38, Fig. 3 and associated pivot axis);
- at least one seat pan link (Examiner notes y-shaped leg rest pivot yoke 32 Fig. 3) for controlling pivoting of the seat pan about said seat pan pivot axis (§[0019]); and
-at least one leg rest link (leg support link 36, Fig. 3) connected to the leg rest and the at least one seat pan link (Fig. 3);
- wherein the at least one seat pan link is coupled to the seat pan in front of the seat pan pivot axis (Examiner notes the at least one seat pan link 32 is coupled to the seat pan at pin 122, which is in front of the seat pan pivot axis defined at 26, Fig. 3).
Regarding claim 59, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the seat chassis comprises:
- at least one seat pan track (Examiner notes the lower surface of the seat pan as described in §[0022]; and
- at least one seat pan follower (roller, §[0022]) adapted to travel in said at least one seat pan track (§[0022], Movement of the seat pan 20 is guided by a seat pan link 26 and a roller that bears upon the lower surface of the seat pan. When the actuator 12 extends to recline the seat 100, the seat pan link 26 guides the seat pan 20 forward, by approximately 4 inches in one particular example, with respect to the stationary frame 110. In moving from its TTL position in FIG. 1 to its maximally reclined position in FIG. 3, the seat pan moves forward overall, with its forward end raising and its rearward end lowering for the comfort of a seated passenger),  the at least one seat pan follower being connected to the at least one seat pan link (Examiner notes the follower is connected to seat pan link 32 via the set pan, as depicted in Fig. 3).
Regarding claim 60, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the seat back is mounted to said seat pan by a second pivoting connection (seat back link 44, Fig. 3), the second pivoting connection defining a seat back pivot axis about which the seat back pivots (examiner notes pivot axis defined by 44, Fig. 3).
Regarding claim 61, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 60, wherein said seat pan pivot axis is located in front of the seat back pivot axis (Fig. 3); and
the seat pan pivot axis is located between the seat back pivot axis and a mid-point of the seat pan (Fig. 3).
Regarding claim 62, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 60, comprising at least one recline link coupled to the seat back (lever 42, Fig. 3).
Regarding claim 63, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 62, wherein the at least one recline link is connected to the at least one seat pan link (Examiner notes the recline link 42 is connected to the seat pan link 32 via the seat pan, Fig. 3).
Regarding claim 64, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 63, wherein the at least one aircraft seat pan link, the at least one recline link, and the at least one leg rest link connect the seat pan, the seat back and the leg rest such that adjusting an incline angle of the seat pan changes a recline angle of the seat back and a deployment angle of the leg rest (see recline positions from Fig. 1 through Fig. 3; Examiner notes that adjusting an incline angle of the seat pan changes a recline angle of the seat back and a deployment angle of the leg rest).
Regarding clam 65, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the leg rest is extendible (Examiner note the extendible nature of the leg rest depicted in Fig. 3; § [0021] A deployable footrest 50 is pivotally attached to the distal end of the leg rest 30 for extending the length of the leg rest 30 and supporting the feet of a passenger).
Regarding claim 68, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 65, wherein the leg rest comprises a base portion (30, Fig. 3) and an extending portion (50, Fig. 3), the extending portion being movable relative to the base portion to extend the leg rest (§[0021]).
Regarding claim 73, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 68, comprising extending portion biasing means for biasing the extending portion towards the base portion (Examiner notes per §[0022], 50 may be automatically deployed as the seat is adjusted indicating a biasing means is disclosed).
Regarding claim 75, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 65, wherein the at least one leg rest link coupled to the leg rest controls extension of the leg rest (Fig. 3) .
Regarding claim 76, Dowty discloses an aircraft comprising one or more aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1 (Examiner notes the aircraft disclosed in §[0017], the seat 100 is returned to the upright configuration of FIG. 1, which corresponds to the preferred configuration during the taxi, take-off, and landing (TTL) procedures of an aircraft).
Claims 1 and 66 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(2) as being anticipated Higgins (US 6,412,870 B1).
Regarding claim 1, Higgins discloses an aircraft seat (A seating unit for a passenger vehicle, especially an aircraft, ABSTRACT) comprising:
- a seat chassis (seating unit 70, Fig. 10);
- a seat assembly (Examiner notes the assembly in Fig. 10) comprising a seat pan (seat portion 80, Fig. 10), a seat back (back rest 82, Fig. 10), and a leg rest (leg rest 84, Fig. 10);
- the seat pan being mounted to the seat chassis by a first pivoting connection (strut 100, Fig. 10) defining a seat pan pivot axis about which the seat pan pivots (Examiner notes a seat pan pivot axis defined at pivot pin 101, see Fig. 10), the location of the seat pan pivot axis being fixed relative to the seat chassis (Examiner notes the pivot point is defined by a pin that is  mounted between the side panels of the chassis, see col. 6, ln. 38-45);
-the leg rest being mounted to said seat pan by a pivoting connection defining a leg rest pivot axis about which the leg rest pivots (Examiner notes four-bar link mechanism comprising links 116 and 118 which are pivotally connected to the seat 80 and links 120 and 122 which are pivotally connected to the leg rest 84, defining a pivot point at pin 124, Fig. 10);
- at least one seat pan link for controlling pivoting of the seat pan about said seat pan pivot axis (118, Fig. 10); and
-at least one leg rest link (120, Fig. 10) connected to the leg rest and the at least one seat pan link (Examiner notes 120 is connected to 84 and 116; see Fig. 10);
- wherein the at least one seat pan link is coupled to the seat pan in front of the seat pan pivot axis (Examiner notes the at least one seat pan link 118 is coupled to the seat pan at in front of the seat pan pivot axis defined at 101, Fig. 10).
Regarding claim 66, Higgins discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, comprising:
- at least one leg rest track (slide track 90, Fig. 10); and
- at least one leg rest follower adapted to travel in said at least one leg rest track (slider 88, Fig. 10), the at least one leg rest follower being connected to said at least one leg rest link (Examiner notes the follower 88 is connected to the leg rest link 120 via the seat 80 and the pivoting connection/four-bar linkage; Fig. 10).
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 103
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 103 which forms the basis for all obviousness rejections set forth in this Office action:
A patent for a claimed invention may not be obtained, notwithstanding that the claimed invention is not identically disclosed as set forth in section 102, if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the claimed invention as a whole would have been obvious before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed invention pertains. Patentability shall not be negated by the manner in which the invention was made.
The factual inquiries for establishing a background for determining obviousness under 35 U.S.C. 103 are summarized as follows:
1. Determining the scope and contents of the prior art.
2. Ascertaining the differences between the prior art and the claims at issue.
3. Resolving the level of ordinary skill in the pertinent art.
4. Considering objective evidence present in the application indicating obviousness or nonobviousness.
This application currently names joint inventors. In considering patentability of the claims the examiner presumes that the subject matter of the various claims was commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the claimed invention(s) absent any evidence to the contrary.  Applicant is advised of the obligation under 37 CFR 1.56 to point out the inventor and effective filing dates of each claim that was not commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the later invention in order for the examiner to consider the applicability of 35 U.S.C. 102(b)(2)(C) for any potential 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(2) prior art against the later invention.
Claim 67 is rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Higgins.
Regarding claim 67, Higgins discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, but does not appear to specifically disclose comprising a leg rest decoupling mechanism operable selectively to decouple the leg rest link from the leg rest.
However, it would have been obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to have made the leg rest link disclosed by Higgins operable to selectively decouple form the leg rest, with a reasonable expectation of success, since it has been held that constructing a formerly integral structure in various elements involves only routine skill in the art.  Nerwin v. Erlichman, 168 USPQ 177, 179. The benefit being selectively decoupling the leg rest for maintenance, inspection and general upkeep.
Claims 69-70 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Dowty as applied to claim 1, and further, in view of Higgins.
Regarding claim 69, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 68, but does not appear to specifically disclose wherein the leg rest comprises a cam track and a cam follower for controlling movement of the extending portion.
However, Dowty teaches a leg rest in a similar field of endeavor including a cam track (90, Fig. 10) and a cam follower (respective slider 88, Fig. 10) for controlling movement.
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to have provided the leg rest disclosed by Dowty with the cam track and the cam follower for controlling movement, as taught by Higgins, with a reasonable expectation of success, so that the leg rest comprises a cam track and a cam follower for controlling movement of the extending portion.  The benefit being optional manual extension of the extending portion of the leg rest enhancing user experience.
Regarding claim 70, modified Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 69, but does not appear to specifically disclose wherein the cam follower is disposed on a pivotally mounted arm.
However, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to have disposed the cam follower on the pivotally mounted arm (38, Fig. 1) disclosed by Dowty, with a reasonable expectation of success, so that the cam follower is disposed on the pivotally mounted arm, since it has been held that rearranging parts of an invention involves only routine skill in the art. In re Japikse, 86 USPQ 70. The benefit being an arrangement that allows the extending portion to function best for the seat in the desired aircraft.
Claims 71-72 and 74 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Dowty and Higgins as applied to claim 69, and Dowty as applied to claim 73; And further, in view of Ward (US 2018/0178915 A1).
Regarding claim 71, modified Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 69, but does not appear to specifically disclose wherein the cam track comprises at least one recess for retaining the extending portion in an extended position, wherein each recess comprises an aperture for receiving the cam follower to retain the extending portion in the extended position.
However, Ward teaches a seat footrest in a similar field of endeavor including a cam track comprising at least one recess (arcuate member 132 with a first notch 151, Fig. 10) for retaining an extending portion in an extended position (§[0045]),
wherein each recess comprises an aperture for receiving a cam follower (lock pin 150, Fig. 10) to retain the extending portion in the extended position (Fig. 10); (Examiner notes shape of notch 151 discloses an aperture that is capable of receiving a cam follower to retain).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to have provided the aircraft seat with the cam track and cam follower disclosed by Dowty with the at least one recess for retaining an extending portion in an extended position, wherein each recess comprises the aperture for receiving a cam follower to retain an extending portion in the extended position, as taught by Ward, with a reasonable expectation of success, so that the cam track comprises the at least one recess for retaining the extending portion in an extended position, wherein each recess comprises the aperture for receiving the cam follower to retain the extending portion in the extended position. The benefit being the ability to lock the extending portion in an orientation.
Regarding claim 72, modified Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 71, but does not appear to specifically disclose comprising cam follower biasing means for biasing the cam follower into the aperture.
However, Ward teaches a cam follower biasing means for biasing a cam follower into an aperture (spring biased  via gas spring assembly 148, Fig. 10).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to have provided the aircraft seat disclosed by modified Dowty with the cam follower biasing means for biasing a cam follower into an aperture as taught by Ward, with a reasonable expectation of success, so that the cam follower comprises biasing means for biasing the cam follower into the aperture.  The benefit being the ability for an occupant to select an orientation.
Regarding claim 74, Dowty discloses an aircraft seat as claimed in claim 73, but does not appear to specifically disclose wherein the extending portion biasing means comprises at least one tension gas spring.
However, Ward teaches a seat footrest in a similar field of endeavor wherein an extending portion biasing means comprises at least one tension gas spring (148, Fig. 10).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to have provided the aircraft seat with an extending portion biasing means disclosed by Dowty with at least one tension gas spring, as taught by Ward, with a reasonable expectation of success, so that the extending portion biasing means comprises at least one tension gas spring. The benefit being at least smooth adjustability and compact design.
Response to Arguments
Applicant’s arguments with respect to claim(s) 1 and 59-76 have been considered but are moot because the new ground of rejection does not rely on any reference applied in the prior rejection of record for any teaching or matter specifically challenged in the argument.
Conclusion
Applicant's amendment necessitated the new ground(s) of rejection presented in this Office action.  Accordingly, THIS ACTION IS MADE FINAL.  See MPEP § 706.07(a).  Applicant is reminded of the extension of time policy as set forth in 37 CFR 1.136(a).
A shortened statutory period for reply to this final action is set to expire THREE MONTHS from the mailing date of this action.  In the event a first reply is filed within TWO MONTHS of the mailing date of this final action and the advisory action is not mailed until after the end of the THREE-MONTH shortened statutory period, then the shortened statutory period will expire on the date the advisory action is mailed, and any extension fee pursuant to 37 CFR 1.136(a) will be calculated from the mailing date of the advisory action.  In no event, however, will the statutory period for reply expire later than SIX MONTHS from the date of this final action.

CITED REFERENCE SUMMARIES: Ref US8888181B2: Claims:
A vehicle seat, comprising: a seat base adapted for mounting to a vehicle floor; a seat back coupled to and extending up from the seat base; a seat bottom supported by the seat base, the seat bottom comprising a frame and a seat pan pivotally coupled with the frame; and a seat tilt mechanism, the seat tilt mechanism comprising: a housing having first and second oppositely facing external bearing surfaces; a rod pivotally coupled with the frame and extending through the housing along an axis; an actuator coupled with the rod and adapted to move the rod relative to the housing along said axis when activated; and a bracket that couples the housing with the seat pan so that the second external bearing surface faces away from the seat pan, the bracket having a curved bearing surface in sliding engagement with the second external bearing surface, whereby the seat pan tilts relative to the frame and the housing pivots within the bracket when the actuator moves the rod relative to the housing.
a seat base adapted for mounting to a vehicle floor;
a seat back coupled to and extending up from the seat base;
a seat bottom supported by the seat base, the seat bottom comprising a frame and a seat pan pivotally coupled with the frame; and
a seat tilt mechanism, the seat tilt mechanism comprising: a housing having first and second oppositely facing external bearing surfaces; a rod pivotally coupled with the frame and extending through the housing along an axis; an actuator coupled with the rod and adapted to move the rod relative to the housing along said axis when activated; and a bracket that couples the housing with the seat pan so that the second external bearing surface faces away from the seat pan, the bracket having a curved bearing surface in sliding engagement with the second external bearing surface, whereby the seat pan tilts relative to the frame and the housing pivots within the bracket when the actuator moves the rod relative to the housing.
a housing having first and second oppositely facing external bearing surfaces;
a rod pivotally coupled with the frame and extending through the housing along an axis;
an actuator coupled with the rod and adapted to move the rod relative to the housing along said axis when activated; and
a bracket that couples the housing with the seat pan so that the second external bearing surface faces away from the seat pan, the bracket having a curved bearing surface in sliding engagement with the second external bearing surface, whereby the seat pan tilts relative to the frame and the housing pivots within the bracket when the actuator moves the rod relative to the housing.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a cap located between the housing and the seat pan and having a bearing surface in sliding engagement with said first bearing surface.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 2 , wherein the bearing surface of the cap comprises a polymeric material.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 2 , wherein the cap is adapted for attachment to the bracket so that the housing remains coupled with the bracket when the bracket is uncoupled from the seat pan.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 1 , wherein the bracket is formed from a metallic material.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 1 , wherein the bracket is monolithic.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 1 , wherein the bracket comprises first and second spaced apart side walls extending away from the seat pan on opposite sides of the housing, each of the sidewalls having curved bearing surfaces in sliding engagement with the housing.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 7 , wherein the housing comprises first and second channels that each accommodate one of the bracket side walls, each of the channels having a bearing surface in sliding engagement with one of the curved bearing surfaces.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 1 , wherein the housing comprises a plurality of ribs extending toward the seat pan and a corresponding plurality of bearing surfaces at distal ends of the ribs, the first bearing surface being one of said corresponding plurality of bearing surfaces.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 1 , wherein the rod is a threaded rod and the actuator is coupled with the threaded rod via a gear train having an internally threaded nut intermeshed with the threaded rod so that relative rotational movement between the rod and the nut translates the rod relative to the housing along said axis.
A vehicle seat as defined in claim 1 , wherein the bracket is coupled to the seat pan at a location that causes a front edge of the seat bottom to pivot about a pivot axis.
A seat tilt mechanism for use with a vehicle seat having a frame and a component pivotally attached to the frame, the seat tilt mechanism comprising: a housing having first and second oppositely facing external bearing surfaces; a rod adapted for pivotal attachment to the frame, the rod extending through the housing along an axis; an actuator coupled with the rod and adapted to move the rod relative to the housing along said axis when activated; and a bracket adapted for attachment to the seat component at a fixed location along the seat component so that the bracket couples the housing with the seat component with the second external bearing surface facing away from the seat component, the bracket having a curved bearing surface in sliding engagement with the second external bearing surface to allow the housing to rotate within the bracket.
a rod adapted for pivotal attachment to the frame, the rod extending through the housing along an axis;
a bracket adapted for attachment to the seat component at a fixed location along the seat component so that the bracket couples the housing with the seat component with the second external bearing surface facing away from the seat component, the bracket having a curved bearing surface in sliding engagement with the second external bearing surface to allow the housing to rotate within the bracket.
A seat tilt mechanism as defined in claim 12 , further comprising a cap attached to the bracket that provides a bearing surface in sliding engagement with the first external bearing surface.
A seat tilt mechanism as defined in claim 12 , wherein the housing includes a pair of spaced apart channels, and the bracket includes a pair of spaced apart side walls in sliding engagement with the pair of channels.
A seat tilt mechanism as defined in claim 12 , wherein the rod is a threaded rod and the actuator is coupled with the threaded rod via a gear train having an internally threaded nut intermeshed with the threaded rod so that relative rotational movement between the rod and the nut translates the rod relative to the housing along said axis.
Ref US8579375B2: Claims:
A positionable seat assembly for an aircraft, comprising: (a) a movable seat pan and a movable backrest, (b) a fixed seat base frame having a first slide and a second slide, wherein the first slide and the second slide are generally non-parallel to one another, wherein the movable seat pan is attached to the first slide and wherein the movable backrest is linked to a carriage that guides movement of the backrest along the second slide, and wherein the seat pan and the backrest pivot with respect to one another about a pivot point; and (c) a single linear actuator having one end associated with the seat pan and one end associated with the backrest carriage, such that both ends of the actuator are associated with moving parts;
(a) a movable seat pan and a movable backrest,
(b) a fixed seat base frame having a first slide and a second slide, wherein the first slide and the second slide are generally non-parallel to one another, wherein the movable seat pan is attached to the first slide and wherein the movable backrest is linked to a carriage that guides movement of the backrest along the second slide, and wherein the seat pan and the backrest pivot with respect to one another about a pivot point; and
(c) a single linear actuator having one end associated with the seat pan and one end associated with the backrest carriage, such that both ends of the actuator are associated with moving parts;
wherein any change in the length of the linear actuator will force the seat pan and the backrest carriage to move along the slide which they are respectively attached to, to a unique possible position, modifying the seat pan position and the back rest recline angle.
The seat assembly of claim 1 , wherein the seat assembly is configured to be positionable in an upright position, in a bed-like position, and in any number of positions therebetween.
The seat assembly of claim 1 , wherein the backrest is linked to the carriage about a pivot point.
The seat assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first slide is generally horizontal.
The seat assembly of claim 1 , wherein the second slide has a generally upward incline toward a back of the seat assembly.
The seat assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a footrest that extends when the seat assembly is in a bed-like position.
The seat assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a second actuator associated with the backrest, configured to provide back adjustment independent from the seat pan adjustment.
The seat assembly of claim 1 , wherein the seat is configured to have an angled rake during adjustment between an upright position and a bed-like position.
The seat assembly of claim 1 , wherein the seat assembly is installed in a cabin of an aircraft.
Ref US20120074751A1: Claims:
1. A passenger seat, comprising:
a seat back pivotably connected to a seat pan assembly and an armrest pivotally connected to the seat back, the seat back being movable between an upright seat position and a lie-flat seat position; and a main linkage pivotably connected to the seat pan assembly at a first pivot point defining a first pivot axis, the main linkage being interconnected to the seat back through a secondary linkage and the main linkage being interconnected to the armrest through a guide member that travels within a guide slot carried on the armrest and defining a guide pathway; wherein inclination of the seat back with respect to the seat pan assembly pivots the main linkage about the first pivot axis with respect to the seat pan assembly and causes vertical movement of the armrest with respect to the seat pan assembly; and wherein a top surface of the armrest and the seat pan assembly remain substantially parallel with each other as the armrest vertically moves with respect to the seat pan assembly.
2. The passenger seat of claim 1, wherein the guide member of the main linkage slidably engages the guide slot.
3. The passenger seat of claim 1, wherein the armrest comprises an armrest frame and an armpad connected to a top portion of the armrest frame.
4. The passenger seat of claim 1, wherein the seat pan assembly comprises a seat frame and a seat cushion connected to the seat frame.
5. The passenger seat of claim 1, wherein the seat back comprises a back frame and a back cushion connected to the back frame.
6. The passenger seat of claim 1, wherein a top surface of the seat pan assembly, a front surface of the seat back and a top surface of the armrest are in the same plane when the seat back is in the lie-flat position.
7. The passenger seat of claim 1, wherein:
the armrest comprises an armrest frame, an armpad connected to a top portion of the armrest frame; the seat pan assembly comprises a seat frame and a seat cushion connected to a top portion of the seat frame; the seat back comprises a back frame and a back cushion connected to a front-facing portion of the back frame; and wherein upper surfaces of the arm pad, the seat cushion and the back cushion are substantially in the same plane when the seat back is in the lie-flat position.
8. A passenger seat, comprising:
a seat back pivotably connected to a seat pan assembly and an armrest pivotally connected to the seat back, the seat back being movable between an upright seat position and a lie-flat seat position; and a main linkage pivotably connected to the seat pan assembly at a first pivot point defining a first pivot axis, the main linkage being interconnected to the seat back through a seat back linkage and the main linkage being pivotably connected to the armrest at a second pivot point defining a second pivot axis; wherein inclination of the seat back with respect to the seat pan assembly pivots the main linkage about the first pivot axis with respect to the seat pan assembly and causes vertical movement of the armrest with respect to the seat pan assembly; and wherein a top surface of the armrest and the seat pan assembly remain substantially parallel with each other as the armrest vertically moves with respect to the seat pan assembly.
9. The passenger seat of claim 8, wherein the main linkage comprises a seat pan assembly linkage pivotably connected to the seat pan assembly at the first pivot point and pivotably connected to the secondary linkage at a third pivot point defining a third pivot axis; and
an armrest linkage pivotably connected to the armrest at the second pivot point and pivotably connected to the secondary linkage at the third pivot point.
10. The passenger seat of claim 9, wherein the seat pan assembly link, armrest link, and seat back linkage are all pivotable about the third pivot axis.
11. The passenger seat of claim 8, wherein the armrest comprises an armrest frame and an arm pad connected to a top portion of the armrest frame.
12. The passenger seat of claim 8, wherein the seat pan assembly comprises a seat frame and a seat cushion connected to the seat frame.
13. The passenger seat of claim 8, wherein the seat back comprises a back frame and a back cushion connected to the back frame.
14. The passenger seat of claim 8, wherein a top surface of the seat pan assembly, a front surface of the seat back and a top surface of the armrest are substantially in the same plane when the seat back is in the lie-flat position.
15. The passenger seat of claim 8, wherein:
the armrest comprises an armrest frame, an armpad connected to a top portion of the armrest frame; the seat pan assembly comprises a seat frame and a seat cushion connected to a top portion of the seat frame; the seat back comprises a back frame and a back cushion connected to a front-facing portion of the back frame; and wherein upper surfaces of the arm pad, the seat cushion and the back cushion are substantially in the same plane when the seat back is in the lie-flat position.
Ref US11673672: Claims:
1. An aircraft seat comprising:
a seat chassis;
a seat assembly comprising a seat pan and a seat back;
the seat pan being mounted to the seat chassis by a first pivoting connection defining a seat pan pivot axis about which the seat pan pivots, the location of the seat pan pivot axis being fixed relative to the seat chassis, the first pivoting connection being configured such that the seat pan can pivot about the seat pan pivot axis without undergoing a related translational movement;
the seat back being mounted to the seat pan by a second pivoting connection, the second pivoting connection defining a seat back pivot axis about which the seat back pivots, the seat pan pivot axis being located in front of the seat back pivot axis; and
at least one seat pan link for controlling pivoting of the seat pan about said seat pan pivot axis; wherein the at least one seat pan link is coupled to the seat pan in front of the seat pan pivot axis;
at least one recline link connected to the seat back and the at least one seat pan link; and
wherein the seat pan pivot axis is located between the seat back pivot axis and a mid- point of the seat pan.
2. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the seat pan pivot axis is located coincident with or proximal to a centre of gravity of the seat assembly in a longitudinal direction.
3. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the seat chassis comprises:
at least one seat pan track; and
at least one seat pan follower adapted to travel in said at least one seat pan track, the at least one seat pan follower being connected to the at least one seat pan link.
4. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one seat pan follower is disposed at a pivotal connection between said at least one recline link and the at least one seat pan link.
5. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 3, wherein the seat pan comprises first and second seat pan sidemembers, the seat pan sidemembers being mounted to the seat chassis by the first pivoting connection, wherein the seat back is mounted to the first and second seat pan sidemembers by the second pivoting connection.
6. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one recline link comprises a seat back decoupling mechanism operable selectively to decouple the at least one recline link from the seat back.
7. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, wherein the seat back pivot axis is a real pivot axis and the second pivoting connection is configured such that the seat back pivot axis undergoes translation relative to the seat pan as the seat back pivots about said seat back pivot axis.
8. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 7, wherein the second pivoting connection comprises a seat pan hinge link and a seat back hinge link, the seat pan hinge link and the seat back hinge link being pivotally connected to each other, the seat back pivot axis being defined by the pivoting connection of said seat pan hinge link and the seat back hinge link.
9. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 8, wherein the seat pan hinge link comprises a first arm pivotally connected to the seat pan and a second arm movably coupled to the seat back; and the seat back hinge link comprises a first arm pivotally connected to the seat back and a second arm movably coupled to the seat pan.
10. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, comprising a seat base for mounting fixedly to a floor of an aircraft.
11. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 10, wherein the seat chassis is movably mounted to said seat base.
12. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 10, wherein said seat base comprises at least one longitudinal guide to provide longitudinal movement of the seat chassis relative to the seat base.
13. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 1, comprising a leg rest, wherein the leg rest is mounted to said seat pan by a third pivoting connection, the third pivoting connection defining a leg rest pivot axis about which the leg rest pivots.
14. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 13, comprising at least one leg rest link coupled to the leg rest.
15. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 14, further comprising:
at least one leg rest track; and
at least one leg rest follower adapted to travel in said at least one leg rest track, the at least one leg rest follower being connected to said at least one leg rest link.
16. The aircraft seat as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one leg rest link is connected to the at least one seat pan link.
17. An aircraft comprising one or more aircraft seats as claimed in claim 1.
18. An aircraft seat comprising:
a seat chassis;
a seat assembly comprising a seat pan and a seat back;
the seat pan being mounted to the seat chassis by a first pivoting connection defining a seat pan pivot axis about which the seat pan pivots, the location of the seat pan pivot axis being fixed relative to the seat chassis, the first pivoting connection being configured such that the seat pan can pivot about the seat pan pivot axis without undergoing a related translational movement;
the seat back being mounted to the seat pan by a second pivoting connection, the second pivoting connection defining a seat back pivot axis about which the seat back pivots, the seat pan pivot axis being located in front of the seat back pivot axis;
at least one seat pan link for controlling pivoting of the seat pan about said seat pan pivot axis; where
[Truncated to input limit]