Patent Publication Number: US-9845026-B2

Title: Adjustable seat assembly

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Various embodiments relate to adjustable seat assemblies. 
     BACKGROUND 
     An adjustable seat assembly is illustrated and described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,758,924, which issued on Jun. 2, 1998 to Lear Corporation. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to at least one embodiment, a seat assembly is provided with a seat cushion adapted to be mounted for translation. A seat back is adapted to be pivotally mounted adjacent the seat cushion. At least one actuator is operably connected to at least one of the seat cushion and the seat back for adjustment of at least one of a plurality of settings of the seat assembly. A controller is in electrical communication with the at least one actuator and configured to: receive a data input indicative of occupant anthropometry data, receive a mode selection input indicative of a selected seat positioning mode, compare the data input with predetermined data ranges for the selected seat positioning mode, and adjust at least one of the plurality of settings of the at least one actuator to a predetermined setting based on the predetermined data range. 
     According to at least another embodiment, a seat assembly is provided with a seat cushion and a seat back adapted to be mounted adjacent the seat cushion. A plurality of sensors is operably connected to the seat back to detect a seating position of an occupant. At least one actuator is operably connected to at least one of the seat back lower region and the seat back upper region for adjustment of at least one of a plurality of settings of the seat assembly. A controller is in electrical communication with the plurality of sensors and the at least one actuator. The controller is configured to: receive detection data from the plurality of sensors, compare the detection data to predetermined wellness positioning ranges preselected for posture alignment of ranges of occupant anthropometry data to determine if the occupant is seated according to a prescribed wellness position, and adjust the at least one actuator to adjust an occupant seating position to the prescribed wellness position. 
     According to at least another embodiment, a seat assembly is provided with a seat cushion adapted to be mounted for translation. A seat back is adapted to be pivotally mounted adjacent the seat cushion. A plurality of sensors is operably connected to at least one of the seat cushion and the seat back to detect a seating position of an occupant. At least one actuator is operably connected to at least one of the seat cushion and the seat back for adjustment of at least one of a plurality of settings of the seat assembly. A controller is in electrical communication with the plurality of sensors and the at least one actuator. The controller is configured to: receive an occupant data input indicative of occupant anthropometry data, receive a mode selection input indicative of a selected wellness seat positioning mode, compare the occupant data input with predetermined wellness positioning ranges preselected for posture alignment of ranges of occupant anthropometry data for the selected seat positioning mode, adjust at least one of the plurality of settings of the at least one actuator to a predetermined setting for a prescribed seating position based on the predetermined wellness positioning range, receive occupant position data from the plurality of sensors, compare the occupant position data to determine if the occupant is seated according to the prescribed seating position, and adjust the at least one actuator to modify the occupant seating position. 
     According to at least one embodiment, a computer-program product is embodied in a non-transitory computer readable medium that is programmed for automatically adjusting a seat assembly. The computer-program product is provided with instructions for: receiving a data input indicative of occupant anthropometry data, receiving a mode selection input indicative of a selected seat positioning mode, comparing the data input with predetermined data ranges for the selected seat positioning mode, and adjusting at least one of a plurality of settings of the at least one actuator to a predetermined setting based on the predetermined data range. 
     According to at least another embodiment, a computer-program product is embodied in a non-transitory computer readable medium that is programmed for automatically adjusting a seat assembly. The computer-program product is provided with instructions for: receiving detection data from a plurality of sensors of a seat back of a seat assembly to detect a seating position of an occupant, comparing the detection data to predetermined wellness positioning ranges preselected for posture alignment of ranges of occupant anthropometry data to determine if the occupant is seated according to a prescribed wellness position, and adjusting at least one actuator of a seat back for adjustment of at least one of a plurality of settings of the seat assembly to adjust an occupant seating position to the prescribed wellness position. 
     According to at least another embodiment, a computer-program product is embodied in a non-transitory computer readable medium that is programmed for automatically adjusting a seat assembly. The computer-program product is provided with instructions for: receiving an occupant data input indicative of occupant anthropometry data, receiving a mode selection input indicative of a selected wellness seat positioning mode, comparing the occupant data input with predetermined wellness positioning ranges preselected for posture alignment of ranges of occupant anthropometry data for the selected seat positioning mode, adjusting at least one of a plurality of settings of at least one seat actuator to a predetermined setting for a prescribed seating position based on the predetermined wellness positioning range, receiving occupant position data from a plurality of sensors of a seat back of a seat assembly to detect a seating position of an occupant, comparing the occupant position data to determine if the occupant is seated according to a prescribed wellness position, and adjusting the at least one actuator to modify the occupant seating position. 
     According to at least one embodiment, a method for adjusting a seat assembly is provided with a step of receiving a data input indicative of occupant anthropometry data. A mode selection input indicative of a selected seat positioning mode is received. The data input is compared with predetermined data ranges for the selected seat positioning mode. At least one of a plurality of settings of the at least one actuator is adjusted to a predetermined setting based on the predetermined data range. 
     According to at least another embodiment, a method for adjusting a seat assembly is provided with a step of receiving detection data from a plurality of sensors of a seat back of a seat assembly to detect a seating position of an occupant. The detection data is compared to predetermined wellness positioning ranges preselected for posture alignment of ranges of occupant anthropometry data to determine if the occupant is seated according to a prescribed wellness position. At least one actuator of a seat back is adjusted for adjustment of at least one of a plurality of settings of the seat assembly to adjust an occupant seating position to the prescribed wellness position. 
     According to at least another embodiment, a method for adjusting a seat assembly is provided with a step of receiving an occupant data input indicative of occupant anthropometry data. A mode selection input indicative of a selected wellness seat positioning mode is received. The occupant data input is compared with predetermined wellness positioning ranges preselected for posture alignment of ranges of occupant anthropometry data for the selected seat positioning mode. At least one of a plurality of settings of at least one seat actuator is adjusted to a predetermined setting for a prescribed seating position based on the predetermined data range. Occupant position data from a plurality of sensors of a seat back of a seat assembly is received to detect a seating position of an occupant. The occupant position data is compared to determine if the occupant is seated according to a prescribed wellness position. The at least one actuator is adjusted to modify the occupant seating position. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a flowchart of a method for determining various adjustment positions of a vehicle seat assembly for various users, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a graph of data collected in the method of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a front perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly, illustrated partially disassembled, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  is a display image for a vehicle seating system according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is another display image for the vehicle seating system of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is another display image for the vehicle seating system of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 7  is another display image for the vehicle seating system of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 8  is another display image for the vehicle seating system of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 9  is another display image for the vehicle seating system of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a flowchart of a portion of an overall method for adjusting a vehicle seat assembly according to an embodiment; and 
         FIG. 11  is a flowchart of another portion of an overall method for adjusting a vehicle seat assembly according to another embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention. 
     A comfort, posture and wellness seating system for vehicle seat assemblies, provides a visual interface with adjustment hardware organically or inorganically. The system may be employed to properly configure any new or existing seating system. The system can also address specific comfort, posture and wellness needs or preferences, such as thoracic support. The seating system objectifies comfort data and biomechanical knowledge to make the data transferable. 
     The comfort, posture and wellness seating system integrates anthropometry, bio-mechanics, and historical seating comfort data. The seating system can be employed in original equipment for vehicles or in aftermarket products. Applicable markets include automotive, mass transit, airlines, etc., as well as non-vehicular seating such as office, home, commercial, and public venue seating. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a flowchart of a method for determining various adjustment positions of a vehicle seat assembly for various users is illustrated, according to an embodiment. Data collection may occur at block  20 . The data collection  20  may include expert positioning of a suitable sample of occupants for optimal comfort, posture and/or wellness by a doctor or chiropractor. The data collection  20  can be used at specific sites on an ongoing basis if required. The expert input provides a high level of expert comfort, posture and wellness fitting. 
     The data  22  may be based on anthropometry, body pressure distribution (BPD), status of actuators (such as pressure of inflatable air bladders, status of valves or the like), or other data that provides a comfort, posture and wellness position of an adjustable vehicle seat assembly. The data is collected in a knowledge base  24  or table for setting adjustments based on categories of data. The knowledge base  24  may be compiled from the expert positioned data  20  and the occupant specific data  22 . The setting adjustments from the knowledge base  24  are utilized for pre-set options  26  in a vehicle seat assembly  28 . The setting adjustments  24  can be customized by a user at a controller or display  30 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , input data  20 ,  22  can be plotted versus adjustment settings  20 ,  24  for high level categorization. The settings  20 ,  24  can be categorized by topology clustering for setting the pre-set options  26 . Various setting options  26  may be provided for various types of driving. For example a touring setting may provide per package settings and basic comfort, posture and wellness recommendations. The touring setting may also provide optimal visibility, use of features and controls, and the like. A performance setting may be provided for active drivers to provide a more erect position with firmer seating. Additionally, a luxury setting may be more reclined with softer seating. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates the vehicle seat assembly  28  with a cover removed. The seat assembly  28  includes a seat cushion  32  adapted to be mounted for motor-driven adjustable translation in a fore and aft direction and in an up and down direction of a vehicle. The seat assembly  28  includes a seat back  34  pivotally connected to the seat cushion  32  to extend generally upright relative to the seat cushion  32  for motor-driven pivotal adjustment relative to the seat cushion  32 . A head restraint (not shown) is mounted for motor-driven adjustable translation to the seat back  34 . 
     At least one compressor  36  provides a source of air to the seat assembly  28 . A plurality of valves  38  receive the compressed air and are controlled by a controller  39  for regulating compressed air into and out of the seat assembly  28 . The seat cushion  32  includes a forward left air bladder  40 , a forward right air bladder  42 , a rear left air bladder  44 , a rear right air bladder  46 , a left side bolster air bladder  48 , and a right side bolster air bladder  50 . The seatback  34  includes a plurality of lumbar air bladders  52 , a plurality of thoracic air bladders  54 , a left side bolster air bladder  56 , and a right side bolster air bladder  58 . The valves  38  may be provided as a common valve bank that is housed in the seat back  34  or under the seat cushion  32 ; or the valves  38  may each be provided on each of the air bladders  40 ,  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50 ,  52 ,  54 ,  56 ,  58 . The compressor  36  may be provided in the seat back  34 , the seat cushion  32  or concealed within the vehicle body. The controller  39  may be provided in a module under the seat cushion  32 , and may be a multifunction controller that also controls other functions in the vehicle. 
     It is believed that supporting the thoracic region of the spine can reduce forces and support as much as one-third of the upper body mass. By increasing support of the upper body mass, loads are reduced on the muscles, ligaments, vertebrae and discs in the spine and pelvic regions. Decreased load reduces fatigue on these areas of the body. The thoracic air bladders  54  are adjustable to provide the right degree of support in the correct location necessary to reduce such loading. 
     The controller  39  receives the adjustment settings  24  from pre-set data  26  or from customized data  30 . The data may be input from an interface that is provided in the vehicle. The interface may be integrated into the vehicle, such as an instrument panel display that is in suitable wired or wireless communication with the controller  39 . The interface may be remote, such as a personal digital assistant (PDA) including phones, tablets and the like. The interface may be provided as a smart phone application, wherein users enter relevant information about themselves. The smart phone interface may not require on-site expertise or seat properties. The remote interface permits a user to transport settings to each vehicle, such as personal passenger vehicles, airline seating, rental cars, and the like. 
       FIGS. 4-9  illustrate display images from an interface, such as a tablet.  FIG. 4  illustrates a welcome screen wherein a data collection process is initiated.  FIGS. 5 and 6  illustrate input screens wherein biometric, personal health and personal preference data, such as height and wellness, is collected. This data is utilized to adjust the seat to the pre-set options  26 , based on prior-collected data  22  in knowledge base  24 . 
     Each of the air bladders  40 ,  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50 ,  52 ,  54 ,  56 ,  58  may include a pressure sensor to detect air pressure in the respective bladder  40 ,  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50 ,  52 ,  54 ,  56 ,  58 . Any pressure sensor is contemplated, such as a pneumatic pressure sensor at the outlet valve of each respective air bladder  40 ,  42 ,  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50 ,  52 ,  54 ,  56 ,  58 . Pressure can also be sensed by contact pressure sensors disposed in front of or behind some or all of the respective air bladders, including on a front or rear surface thereof. The contact pressure sensors may include pressure-sensing mats, such as those available by Tekscan®, Inc. of 307 West First Street. South Boston, Mass. 02127-1309, USA.  FIG. 7  illustrates a depiction of the vehicle seat assembly  28  with zones ranging in color to depict a distribution of pressure upon the seat. This visualization may assist an occupant in positioning upon the seat assembly  28  with live visual feedback. 
     A dynamic comfort, posture and wellness option is offered. Selection of the dynamic comfort option measures the pressure in the sensors at  FIG. 8 , and displays a live view as in  FIG. 9 . The controller  39  compares the sensor values, and if the controller  39  determines that the occupant is not seated evenly, the controller  39  balances the air pressure in opposing air bladders to balance the occupant seating position. 
       FIG. 10  depicts a flowchart for a method for adjusting the seat assembly  28  according to an embodiment. At block  100 , a questionnaire, such as that illustrated and described above in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , is completed by the occupant. At block  102 , the seat assembly  28  is adjusted to a comfort position. The comfort position is obtained in a comfort mode, as selected by a “comfort position” button at block  104 . The “comfort position” button may be selected by default to obtain the comfort position. A collection of individuals were surveyed for comfort preferences and the data is tabulated into comfort seating positions for ranges of anthropometry data. The data received in the questionnaire at block  100  is compared with the predetermined anthropometry data ranges, and the seat assembly  28  is adjusted to a comfort position associated with the corresponding anthropometry data ranges. At block  106 , a live view, such as  FIG. 7  is generated and displayed. 
     Upon occupant selection of a “prescribed position” button and block  108 , a wellness mode of the seat assembly  28  is obtained. At block  110 , the data received in the questionnaire at block  100  is compared with predetermined anthropometry data ranges. A table of predetermined wellness positions is prescribed by a health professional for optimal posture and wellness of various anthropometry ranges and stored in the controller. A prescribed wellness position is selected associated with the corresponding anthropometry data range for the data received by the occupant at block  110 . Then, at block  112 , a live view, such as  FIG. 9  is displayed. A dynamic comfort mode may be on at this stage, as selected at button  108 . 
       FIG. 11  illustrates dynamic comfort adjustment of the seat assembly  28  according to an embodiment. At block  200  the dynamic comfort mode is selected. A detect time, three seconds for example, takes measurements at the sensors or sensor mat. At blocks  204  and  206 , the sensor values are compared to determine if the occupant is out of the prescribed position from left to right. If so, a popup is provided on the display at block  208  or  210  and the appropriate bladders are adjusted. For example, if the occupant is leaning too far to the left, the additional pressure is detected at block  204 , then the message is displayed at block  208  and the left bladders are additionally inflated at block  208 . During the left lean, if it is detected that a pressure decrease has occurred in the right bladders at block  206 , the message will be displayed at block  210  and the right bladders may be deflated at block  210  to further adjust the left-leaning passenger back to a centered prescribed position. Likewise, these options can work in the opposite order for a passenger leaning to the right. 
     At blocks  212  and  214 , the pressure of the bladders is compared to determine to measure flexure and extension of the center bladders of thoracic, lumbar and sacrum regions. If it is determined that the occupant is slouching relative to the prescribed position at block  212 , then a message indicating adjustment is provided in a popup of the display at block  216 , and the appropriate bladders are at least partially inflated at block  216 . If it is determined that the occupant is hunching relative to the prescribed position at block  214 , then the message is provided at block  218  and the central bladders are at least partially deflated at block  218  to return the occupant to the prescribed wellness position. 
     At block  220 , the occupant is returned back to the prescribed or wellness position. To avoid continuous adjustment, a hold position such as five seconds occurs before repeating the sensor detection at block  202 . 
     While various embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, the features of various implementing embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the invention.