Patent Publication Number: US-6990920-B2

Title: Adjustable seating system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present invention claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/290,425 titled “Adjustable Seating System” filed May 11, 2001, the full disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to seating systems. In particular, the present invention relates to seating systems that are adjustable to accommodate different anatomies. Even more particular, the present invention relates to adjustment seating systems for use in kayaks or other similar watercraft. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Sit-in kayaks typically include a hull having a bottom, sides and a top with an opening allowing a kayaker to sit inside the kayak. Such kayaks are typically provided with a seat disposed within the opening inside the kayak and a pair of thigh pads or braces secured to an inside surface of the top of the kayak. The seat typically includes a seat pan upon which a user&#39;s buttock rests, a back rest disposed behind the seat pan, and hip pads located on opposite sides of the seat pan. To accommodate different anatomies, the back rest is typically provided with an adjustable height by an adjustment mechanism typically located behind the back rest. Because the adjustment mechanism is located behind the back rest, any such adjustment must be performed while the kayaker is not seated within the kayak. As a result, attaining a proper back rest height requires that a kayaker repeatedly exit and adjust the seat back rest. The hip pads are typically not adjustable in that such pads are usually cut and customized for one particular kayaker&#39;s anatomy. Once customized, such hip pads may not be usable with other kayakers having different anatomies. 
     The thigh pads or braces typically extend along an inside surface of a top of the kayak forward the opening and underlying cockpit. Such thigh pads are provided as a bearing surface against which the kayaker may brace his or her thighs when positioned within the kayak. Although stabilizing the kayaker within the hull of the kayak, such thigh pads are typically excessively spaced from the internal bottom of seat pan, requiring the kayaker to bend his or her knees and to possibly assume an unnatural and uncomfortable posture within the kayak. Alternatively, the thigh pads or braces may be too closely spaced to the internal bottom of the kayak or the seat pan which results in the brace pads or braces excessively and uncomfortably pinching the kayaker&#39;s legs. 
     Thus, there is a continuing need for a seating system for a kayak that accommodates different anatomies. In particular, there is a continuing need for a kayak seating system having an easily adjustable back rest. There is also a continuing need for a kayak seating system having easily adjustable hip pads which may be adjusted for multiple kayakers having different anatomies. Furthermore, there is a continuing need for a kayak seating system that enables a kayaker to assume a natural or comfortable posture within the kayak while attaining sufficient bracing. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a seating system for use in a watercraft and configured to provide an adjustable seating position for a user of the watercraft. The seating system comprises a seat pan adapted to be mounted to the watercraft, a pad coupled to the seat pan and adapted to provide a seating surface for the user, and a back rest coupled to the seat pan. The seating system further comprises a first adjustment mechanism configured to provide for and aft adjustment of the seating position, a second adjustment mechanism configured to provide adjustment of the back rest without having to exit the watercraft, and a third adjustment mechanism configured to provide adjustment of the seating surface. 
     The present invention also relates to a seating system for use in a watercraft and configured to provide a seating position for a user of the watercraft. The seating system comprises a seat pan adapted to be mounted to the watercraft, a pad coupled to the seat pan and adapted to provide a seating surface for a user of the watercraft, a back rest coupled to the seat pan, and an adjustment mechanism configured to provide height adjustment to the back rest. The first adjustment mechanism comprises a first member coupled to the back rest and a second member pivotally coupled to the seat pan. The back rest, first member and second member pivot between a first position where the back rest is retained in place and a second position where the first member and back rest are slidably movable relative to the second member. 
     The present invention further relates to a seating system for use in a watercraft and configured to provide an adjustable seating position for a user of the watercraft. The seating system comprises a seat pan adapted to be mounted to the watercraft, a pad coupled to the seat pan and adapted to provide a seating surface for a user of the watercraft, a back rest coupled to the seat pan, an adjustment mechanism configured to provide fore and aft adjustment of the seating position, a rope coupling the back rest to the adjustment device. The adjustment mechanism comprises a strap and a locking device. The strap has a first end coupled to the rope and a second end releasably retained by the locking device. 
     The present invention further relates to a seating system for use in a watercraft and configured to provide a seating position for a user of the watercraft. The seating system comprises a seat pan adapted to be mounted to the watercraft, a pad coupled to the seat pan and adapted to provide a seating surface for a user of the watercraft, a back rest coupled to the seat pan, and an adjustment mechanism configured to provide adjustment of the seating surface. The seating surface is movable between a first position and a second position. 
     The present invention further relates to a seating system for use in a watercraft and configured to provide a seating position for a user of the watercraft. The seating system comprises a seat pan adapted to be mounted to the watercraft, a pad coupled to the seat pan and adapted to provide a seating surface for a user of the watercraft, a back rest coupled to the seat pan, a means for adjusting the height of the back rest, means for adjusting the fore and aft sitting position; and means for adjusting the support provided by the cushion. 
     The present invention further relates to a method of adjusting a seating position provided by a seating system for use in a watercraft. The method comprises providing a seat pan adapted to be mounted to the watercraft, a pad adapted to provide a seating surface for a user, a back rest coupled to the seat pan, and a first adjustment mechanism, operating the first adjustment mechanism to adjust the seating position of the user without the user having to exit the watercraft. 
     The present invention further relates to various features and combinations of features shown and described in the disclosed embodiments. Other ways in which the objects and features of the disclosed embodiments are accomplished will be described in the following specification or will become apparent to those skilled in the art after they have read this specification. Such other ways are deemed to fall within the scope of the disclosed embodiments if they fall within the scope of the claims which follow. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIG. 1  is a fragmentary perspective view of a kayak with a seating system according to a preferred embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a top perspective view of the seating system of FIG.  1 . 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  are bottom perspective views of seating systems according to exemplary embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view the seating system of FIG.  2 . 
         FIG. 5  is a fragmentary perspective view of a seat pan and seat pad for the seating system. 
         FIG. 6  is a fragmentary perspective view of a console and controls for an adjustment mechanism for the seating system. 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of the seating system. 
         FIG. 8  is a sectional view of the seating system taken along the line  2 — 2 . 
         FIG. 9  is a seating system according to an alternative embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  is a seating system according to another alternative embodiment. 
         FIG. 11  is a seating system according to another alternative embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  is a seating system according to another alternative embodiment. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a seating system according to a preferred embodiment. 
         FIG. 14  is an exploded view of the seating system of FIG.  13 . 
         FIG. 15  is a bottom view of the seating system of FIG.  13 . 
         FIG. 16  is a rear elevation view of the seating system of FIG.  13 . 
         FIG. 17  is a fragmentary perspective view of a console and controls for adjustment mechanisms. 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a back rest of the seating system pivoted to disengage the back rest adjustment mechanism. 
       Before explaining a number preferred, exemplary, and alternative embodiments of the invention in detail it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or being practiced or carried out in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED AND OTHER EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
       FIGS. 1 and 2  are top perspective views of an exemplary embodiment of an adjustable seating system  10 , seating system  10  generally includes seat pan  12 , back rest  14 , seat pad  16 , hip adjusters  17 , thigh braces  18 , and tilt adjustment mechanism  20 . Seat pan  12  generally serves as a base structure to which back rest  14  and pad  16  are mounted. Seat pan  12  further interacts with tilt adjustment mechanism  20  to vary the positioning of the kayaker&#39;s thighs against thigh braces  18 . Seat pan  12  is best shown in  FIGS. 4 and 3A , and  3 B. Seat pan  12  generally includes central portion  24 , back portion  26 , side portions  28 ,  30 , and front portion  32 . In the embodiment illustrated, central portion  24 , rear portion  26 , side portions  28 ,  30 , and front portion  32  are integrally formed as part of a single unitary body. Portions  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  and  32  are preferably thermoformed from a rigid material such as polyethylene. Alternatively, portions  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  and  32  may be individually formed and glued, fastened, welded or otherwise secured to one another or may be formed from a variety of alternative materials using a variety of alternative molding or fabrication techniques. Central portion  24  extends between portions  26 ,  28 ,  30  and  32  and forms a basin for supporting the kayaker&#39;s buttock. Central portion  24  preferably includes a pair of openings  34  adjacent side portions  28 ,  30 . As will be described in greater detail thereafter, openings  34  receive portions of pad  16  to facilitate the retention of pad  16  relative to seat pan  12  above central portion  24  and to further permit pad  16  to extend below central portion  24  and seat pan  12  between seat pan  12  and the inner hull of the watercraft or other structure in which seating system  10  is employed. Alternatively, openings  34  may be omitted wherein pad  16  is merely glued, bonded, fastened or otherwise secured to seat pan  12  and wherein an additional pad is preferably secured to an underside of pan  12  between pan  12  and the watercraft. 
     Back portion or rear portion  26  extends opposite front portion  32  and extends upwardly from central portion  24 . Back portion  26  provides a rear terminal point for seat pan  12  while providing the kayaker with some back support. 
     Side portions  28  and  30  extend on opposite sides of central portion  24  and are generally configured to be mounted to the hull of the kayak or watercraft in which seating system  10  is employed. Side portions  28  and  30  further serve as side terminal portions to seat pan  12 . As further shown by  FIG. 4 , side portions  28  and  30  include openings  36 . Openings  36  facilitate the adjustment of pad  16  to accommodate kayakers having different anatomies proximate the kayaker&#39;s hips and upper thighs. As will be appreciated, the exact size and shape of openings  34 , as well as openings  36 , may vary depending upon the exact configuration of the seating system. 
     Front portion  32  extends forwardly from central portion  24  and is configured to support a portion of pad  16  as well the kayaker&#39;s middle to lower thighs. Front portion  32  includes console  40  and tilt slots  42 . Console  40  generally comprises a recess or cavity preferably centrally located between opposite sides of seat pan  12  along a frontward-most portion of seat pan  12 . Console  40  is preferably configured and located so as to be positioned between the kayaker&#39;s legs when the kayaker is seated in seating system  10 . Console  40  receives adjustment controls for back rest  14 . Because console  40  is recessed, such controls may be covered by a hatch cap. Alternatively, console  40  may not be recessed. 
     Tilt slots  42  comprise cuts or slits formed between front portion  32  and side portions  28 ,  30 . Slots  42  facilitate pivotal movement of front portion  32  relative to central portion  24  and side portions  28 ,  30 . In particular, slots  42  enable front portion to pivot about an integral or living hinge. As a result, front portion  32  may be pivoted upward and downward by tilt adjustment mechanism  20  to adjust the spacing between the upper surface of pad  16  and thigh braces  18 . Alternatively, in lieu of pivoting about a living hinge, front portion  32  may be pivotably coupled to the remainder of seat pan  12  per various other pivoting mechanisms or structures such as hinges, pins and the like. 
     Once again referring to  FIGS. 4 and 7 , back rest  14  mounts to and generally extends rearwardly from seat pan  12 . Back rest  14  includes back plate  46 , pad  48 , cable or rope  50 , adjustment mechanism  52 , tongue  54 , and adjustment mechanism  56 . Back plate  46  and pad  48  are joined or secured to one another to form an upper back support  58 .  FIG. 4  illustrates back support  58  in greater detail. Back plate  46  of back support  58  is a generally rigid member affixed to tongue  54 . Back plate  46  includes scallops  60  and recess  62 . Scallops  60  and recess  62  provide areas for facilitating gripping of back support  58 . Recess  62  forms a handle area. As a result, back support  58  may be easily raised and lowered for adjustment. Pad  48  comprises a soft, compressible padding against which a seated kayaker&#39;s back rests. 
     Rope  50  comprises a flexible member coupled to back support  58 , threaded through portions of seat pan  12  and coupled to adjustment mechanism  52 . In the exemplary embodiment, one end of rope  50  is affixed to seat pan  12  and the other end of rope  50  is secured to adjustment mechanism  52 . In the exemplary embodiment, rope  50  is preferably threaded through back plate  46  as shown in FIG.  7 . Alternatively, rope  50  may be coupled to back support  58  and further coupled to adjustment mechanism  52  by various other means and at or along various other locations. 
     Adjustment mechanism  52  is coupled to rope  50  and is located in console  40  of seat pan  12 . Adjustment mechanism  52  is configured to adjust the length of rope  50  extending between back support  58  and seat pan  12  to adjust the tension of rope  50  and to adjust the fore and aft positioning of back support  58  relative to seat pan  12 . Because adjustment mechanism  52  is located in console  40  of seat pan  12 , this adjustment may be easily achieved by the kayaker while seated by simply reaching between his or her legs and accessing mechanism  52 . Adjustment mechanism  52  preferably comprises a conventionally known straight cam-ratchet oriet consisting of a toothed belt secured to rope  50  and a cam pivotably coupled to seat pan  12 . Alternatively, various other presently known or future developed mechanisms may be employed to adjust the length or tension of rope  50 . 
     Tongue  54  extends between back support  58  and seat pan  12  to elevate back support  58  above seat pan  12 . Tongue  54  is coupled to back support  58  comprises a strip of material having sufficient rigidity so as to support back support  58  in position above seat pan  12  while being borne against by a kayaker&#39;s back, yet flexible enough to enable tongue  54  to be slidably adjusted along seat pan  12 . In the exemplary embodiment, tongue  54  is formed from a strip of polyethylene having a thickness of approximately 3/16ths of an inch. As will be appreciated, the thickness and material of tongue  54  may be varied depending upon the application. As further shown by  FIG. 4 , tongue  54  includes an elongate slot  66  sized for the reception of adjustment mechanism  56 . 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  illustrate the securement of tongue  54  and back support  58  to seat pan  12 . Seat pan  12  additionally includes straps  68  which are fastened to a bottom side of seat pan  12  so as to form aligned sleeves or guide ways for the slidable reception of tongue  54 . Seat pan  12  additionally includes opening  70  extending through back portion  26  of seat pan  12 . Tongue  54  slidably extends through opening  70  and the sleeves or guide ways provided by straps  68  such that slots  66  is positioned adjacent to and below console  40  of seat pan  12 . Although tongue  54  is illustrated as being slidably supported and positioned by means of opening  70  and straps  68 , various other structures or mechanisms may be used to slidably guide movement of tongue  54  relative to seat pan  12 . For example, the underside of seat pan  12  may alternatively include integrally formed or molded guide ways. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates control mechanism  56  in greater detail. As shown by  FIG. 6 , control mechanism  56  comprises a member such as a thumb screw or knob  74  threadably engaging a bolt  76  passing through slot  66  and through seat pan  12 . The rotation of knob  74  tightens or loosens bolt  76  against tongue  54  and against the underside of seat pan  12 . To adjust a height of back support  58 , the kayaker simply reaches down between his or her legs to console  40 , turns knob  74  to loosen bolt  76 , grasps back support  58  to slide tongue  54  along slot  66  to a desired height, and rotates knob  74  to re-tighten bolt  76  against tongue  54  and seat pan  12 . As a result, the height of support  58  of back rest  14  may be easily adjusted to accommodate kayakers having different anatomies. This adjustment may be performed while the kayaker is generally seated within the kayak. 
     Although back rest  14  is illustrated as utilizing a bolt and knob received through a slot in tongue  54  to retain tongue  54  in any one of a plurality of positions along the axial length of slot  66  to provide back support  58  with a plurality of heights, various alternative mechanisms, presently known or future developed, may also be employed for allowing movement of tongue  54  and back support  58  between a plurality of positions and heights and for selectively retaining tongue  54  and back support  58  in one of a plurality of different positions and heights, respectively. For example, tongue  54  may alternatively be configured to ratchet between various positions wherein actuation of a knob located on control console  40  either releases the ratchet to enable tongue  54  to be slid or incrementally moves tongue  54 . Various other adjustment and retention mechanisms may also be employed. 
       FIGS. 2 and 4  illustrate pad  16  in greater detail. Pad  16  preferably consists of a single unitary body of compressible material such as foam. Pad  16  preferably has a thickness sufficient so as to provide adequate cushioning so that a kayaker is seated upon pad  16  and seat pan  12 . Pad  16  generally includes central portion  84 , front portions  86 ,  88 , and side or hip portions  90 ,  92 . Central portion  84  generally comprises a portion of pad  16  configured to overlie central portion  24  of seat pan  12 . Central portion  84  has a top surface configured to contact the kayaker and an opposite bottom surface bearing against seat pan  12 . As best shown by  FIG. 4 , the bottom surface of central portion  84  includes projections  94 . Projections  94  are sized and configured to extend through openings  34  (shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 ) of seat pan  12  and extend below seat pan  12 . As shown by  FIG. 5 , each projection  94  preferably includes a groove or undercut  96  configured to receive the edge of seat pan  12  about a respective opening  34 . Projections  94  engage seat pan  12  about openings  34  to retain pad  16  in place relative to seat pan  12 . Although less desirable, undercuts  96  may be omitted. Projections  94  further extend below seat pan  12  to provide a cushioning layer between seat pan  12  and the inside surface of the hull of the watercraft in which system  10  is located. To further retain pad  16  relative to pan  12 , adhesive, fasteners, welds, fusion bonds or other means may be additionally employed between pad  16  and pan  12 . Moreover, in particular embodiments, pad  16  may be co-molded as part of seat pan  12 . In alternative embodiments, projections  94  may be omitted wherein the lower surface of central portion  84  is simply secured to a bottom side of central portion  24 . 
     Front portions  86  and  88  of pad  16  are configured to overlie front portion  32  of seat pan  12 . Front portions  86  and  88  extend on opposite sides of a central opening  98  formed therein which allows access to control console  40 . Front portions  86  and  88  are also configured to pivot relative to central portion  84  enabling the top surfaces of front portions  86  and  88  to be adjustably spaced from side braces  18  (shown in FIG.  1 ). Although front portions  86  and  88  preferably pivot relative to central portion  84  about a natural living hinge created by the materials chosen for pad  16  and the relative thickness at the juncture of front portions  86 ,  88  and central portion  84 , pivotal movement of front portions  86  and  88  may alternatively be enabled by other pivoting pins, hinges or similar structures. As shown by  FIG. 9 , pad  16  additionally includes a concealment panel or door  100  which removably fills or covers opening  98  and console  40  to prevent accidental actuation of mechanisms  52  and  56 , to protect mechanisms  52  and  56  and to provide a padded surface for the kayaker to rest upon. 
     Side portions  90  and  92  extend upwardly from central portion  84  and are configured as well as located so as to engage the kayaker&#39;s hips and upper thighs when the kayaker is seated upon central portion  84 . Although side portions  90  and  92  are described as generally flat planar surfaces, side portions  90  and  92  may be specifically contoured or shaped. Side portions  90  and  92  are preferably pivotable about one or more axes extending in a general fore and aft direction so as to conform to different anatomies of kayakers having different sized or shaped hips and upper thighs. In the particular embodiment illustrated, side portions  90  and  92  pivot and flex about a plurality of axes by means of a natural living hinge formed between side portions  90 ,  92  and central portion  84 . Alternatively, side portions  90  and  92  may pivot about one or more such axes provided by other pivotal structures such as hinges and the like. 
     To facilitate movement and retention of side portions  90  and  92  between one of a plurality of different hip conforming positions, side portions  90  and  92  include side projections  104  which cooperate with hip adjusters  17  (shown in FIGS.  1  and  2 ). Side projections  104  generally comprise a portion extending outward from the remainder of pad  16 . In the particular embodiment illustrated, projections  104  are preferably wedge-shaped and are configured to extend through openings  36  in seat pan  12 . Although projections  104  are illustrated as being integrally formed with the remainder of pad  16 , projections  104  may alternatively be glued, welded, fused, fastened or otherwise secured to the remainder of pad  16 . Moreover, although projections  104  are illustrated as being formed of the same somewhat compressible material as that of pad  16 , projections  104  may alternatively be formed from rigid, uncompressible and inflexible material. Although illustrated as being wedge shaped, projections  104  may alternatively have other configurations such that actuation of hip adjuster  17  causes inward movement or allows outward movement of the inner hip engaging surface portions of side portions  90  and  92 . 
       FIGS. 2 and 7  illustrate pad  16  mounted to seat pan  12 . In particular,  FIG. 5  illustrates the underside of seat pan  12  with projections  94  extending through openings  34 . As discussed above, projections  94  retain pad  16  relative to seat pan  12  and provide a cushioning layer below seat pan  12 , between seat pan  12  and the inner surface of the hull in which seating system  10  is employed. 
       FIGS. 2 and 7  illustrate hip adjusters  17  and their interaction with projections  104 . As best shown by  FIG. 7 , each of hip adjusters  17  generally includes strap  106  and buckle  108 . Strap  106  generally comprises an elongate flexible member formed out of flexible material such as nylon. Strap  106  has a first end  107  secured to seat pan  12  generally below projection  104  and a second end  109  extending through buckle  108 . Strap  106  further extends through a slot or opening  112  in seat pan  12  such that buckle  108  is positioned on an opposite side of seat pan  12 . Buckle  108  comprises a conventionally known buckle receiving strap  106  and positioned on either an upper or interior surface of seat pan  12 . Buckle  108  is preferably sized and configured so as to engage seat pan  12  in at least one orientation such that buckle  108  cannot pass through slot  112 . 
     As shown by  FIG. 8 , the hip conforming positioning of side portions  90  and  92  is adjusted by the kayaker pulling up or loosening straps  106  and adjusting the length of straps  106  between end  107  and slot  112  by means of buckle  108 . In particular, to reduce the spacing between portions  90  and  92 , a kayaker would simply pull up on straps  106  in the direction indicated by arrows  116  shown in FIG.  8 . As a result, straps  106  would exert an inward force upon projections  104  in the directions indicated by arrows  118 . This inward force would cause portions  90  and  92  to “squeeze in” about the kayaker as shown in FIG.  8 . Once a comfortable hip-conforming position was attained, strap  106  is pulled through buckle  108  until buckle  108  abuts seat pan  12  adjacent slot  112  to retain portions  90  and  92  in place. 
     To enlarge or increase the spacing between portions  90  and  92 , the reverse operation would be necessary. In particular, the kayaker would first pull strap  106  through buckle  108  to increase the length of strap  106  extending between slot  112  and end  107 . This relaxation of strap  106  would allow portions  90  and  92  to move outward away from one another as the kayaker presses against portions  90  and  92 . 
     Although hip adjusters  17  are illustrated as including a strap  106 , buckle  108  and slot  112 , hip adjusters  17  may comprise a variety of alternative mechanisms or structures which cause inward or outward movement of portions  90  and  92 . For example, in lieu of utilizing buckle  108 , hip adjusters  17  may use structures integrally formed with seat pan  12  to releasably retain strap  106  in one of a multitude of positions. In lieu of strap  106 , a belt having teeth or more detent structures could be employed wherein the detent structures engage a male projection mounted to or integrally formed as part of seat pan  12 , thus enabling releasable securement of the belt in a variety of positions. In yet another alternative embodiment, strap  106  and buckle  108  may be omitted wherein inflatable bags or bellows are positioned adjacent projections  104  outside seat pan  12  between projections  104  and either an additional structure coupled to pan  12  or between pan  12  and the outer hull of the watercraft such that inflation and deflation of the bag causes inward and outward movement of portion  90  or  92 . In another alternative embodiment, openings  36  may be omitted such that seat pan  12  is generally imperforate, wherein the airbag or other linear actuators could be disposed between the inner surface of seat pan  12  and portions  90  and  92  of pad  16  to actuate portions  90  and  92  inwardly or outwardly as desired. Although each of the aforementioned alternatives performs the same advantageous functions, such alternative embodiments are less preferred due to possible complexity. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates an alternative pad  16 ′ for use in seating system  110 . Pad  16 ′ is identical to pad  16  except that pad  16 ′ additionally includes contoured portions  122 . Contour portions  122  better conform to the shape of the kayaker&#39;s hips and upper thighs. Portions  122  are preferably inserts which are releasably attached to the remainder of pad  16 ′. Alternatively, portions  122  may be integrally formed with the remainder of pad  16 ′ or otherwise permanently attached to the remainder of pad  16 ′. For example, yet another alternative pad may be provided in which portions  122  are integrally formed with the remainder of pad  16 ″. 
       FIGS. 1 and 4  illustrate adjustment mechanism  20  in greater detail. As shown by  FIG. 4 , adjustment mechanism  20  generally comprises an inflatable bag  130  and an inflation/deflation mechanism  132 . Inflatable bag  130  is configured to be located below front portion  32  of seat pan  12  and such that controls for an inflation/deflation mechanism  132  are accessible. Bag  130  preferably is dimensioned such that when fully or at least partially inflated, bag  130  lifts or elevates front portion  32  sufficiently close to thigh braces  18  such that different kayakers, regardless of their individual and distinct thigh dimensions, are snugly positioned against thigh braces  18  by appropriate inflation of bag  130 . Deflation of bag  130  further allows the kayaker to easily exit the kayak or other watercraft. 
     FIG  4 . illustrates one preferred embodiment of mechanism  20 . In particular,  FIG. 4  illustrates bladder or bag  130 . As shown by  FIG. 14 , bag  130  includes mounting portions  134  which facilitate securement of bag  130  to seat pan  12 . Mounting portions  134  may be secured to seat pan  12  by fasteners such as rivets, welds, adhesives, stitches or fusion joints. Moreover, mounting portions may alternatively be secured to the hull or other watercraft below front portion  32  of seat pan  12 . 
     Inflation/deflation mechanism  132  preferably comprises a hand-held pump  136  pneumatically connected to bag  130  by means of tube  138 . As will be appreciated, a variety of presently known or future developed alternative inflation and/or deflation mechanisms may be employed to selectively at least partially inflate or at least partially deflate bag  130 . Such mechanisms may be manually operated or operated by a power source. In alternative embodiments, bag  130  may be inflated or deflated by other gases other than air or by various fluids. Furthermore, in lieu of utilizing an inflatable or deflatable bag, various other actuators, whether hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical or the like may be employed to selectively raise and lower front portion  32  of seat pan  12  or alternatively to directly raise or lower the front portion of pad  16 . 
       FIG. 1  illustrates seating system  10  deployed within watercraft  140  (shown as a conventionally known sit-in kayak). As shown by  FIG. 1 , thigh braces  18  are secured to watercraft  140  slightly forward and above seat pan  12  and pad  16 . Thigh braces  18  are configured to brace the kayaker&#39;s thighs and upper legs. As shown by  FIG. 1 , inflation of bag  130  pivots front portion  32  of seat pan  12  and overlying pad  16  to elevate the kayaker&#39;s thighs towards thigh braces  18 . Likewise, deflation of bag  130  allows front portion  32  to fall away from the lower surface of thigh braces  18 . Consequently, selective inflation and deflation of bag  130  enables seating system  10  to accommodate different kayakers having different anatomies and to allow the kayaker&#39;s thighs to be snugly and securely positioned between seat pan  12  or pad  16  and thigh braces  18  while the kayaker assumes a comfortable, relaxed posture within the watercraft  140 . In the exemplary embodiment, the controls of inflation/deflation mechanism  132  extend above pad  16  are easily accessible to the kayaker while the kayaker is seated. In alternative embodiments, the controls of inflation/deflation mechanism  132  may alternatively be integrally formed or mounted to portions of seating system  10  or portions of watercraft  140 . Likewise, if other mechanisms are used to selectively raise and lower the front portion of pad  16  and seat pan  12 , controls for such actuation mechanisms may also be integrally formed with or mounted to portions of seating system  10  or watercraft  140 . In lieu of utilizing an airbag, other pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical actuators may be employed to selectively move portions  90  and  92  inward and outward. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates seating system  310 , a first alternative embodiment of seating system  10  mounted to a watercraft  140  (shown as a conventional sit-in kayak). Seating system  310  is substantially identical to seating system  10  except that seating system  310  includes adjustment mechanism  320  in lieu of adjustment mechanism  20 . Adjustment mechanism  320  generally comprises an elongate strap  323  mounted to opposite sides of seat pan  12  (shown with certain portions omitted or as being incomplete) and extending through guides (not shown) below front portion  32  of seat pan  12 . Strap  323  is composed of one or more segments configured so as to have an adjustable length. In the particular embodiment illustrated, strap  323  includes two portions joined together by buckle  325 . By pulling or releasing strap  323  through buckle  325 , front portion  32  of seat pan  12  may be pivoted upward or downward to raise pad  16 . As a result, the kayaker can assure himself or herself a snug comfortable fit of his or her thighs against thigh braces  18  by adjusting the length of strap  323 . 
       FIG. 12  illustrates seating system  410 , a second alternative embodiment of seating system  10 . Seating system  410  is substantially identical to seating system  10  except that seating system  410  includes seat pan  412 , pad  416  and hip adjusters  417  in lieu of seat pan  12 , pad  16  and hip adjusters  17 , respectively. The remaining components of seating system  410 , which are substantially similar to corresponding components of seating system  10 , are numbered similarly. 
     In addition to illustrating the distinctions between seating system  410  and seating system  10 ,  FIG. 12  further illustrates the connection of rope  50  and adjustment mechanism  52  in greater detail. In particular,  FIG. 12  illustrates rope  50  secured to back support  58 . Rope  50  extends from back support  58  to adjustment mechanism  52 . As shown by  FIG. 12 , rope  50  extends through guides  55  along the exterior of seat pan  412  (seat pan  12  when employed in system  10 ) prior to being tied to belt  57  of adjustment mechanism  52 . Belt  57  extends through an opening in the seat pan and in releasable engagement with the cam ratchet oriet located in console  40 . 
     As best shown by  FIG. 3A , seat pan  412  is similar to seat pan  12  (positioned beside seat pan  412  in  FIG. 3A ) except that central portion  24  omits openings  36  and is generally imperforate. As a result, in seating system  410 , pad  416  is glued, bonded, fastened or otherwise secured to the upper surface of central portion  24  of seat pan  412 . In addition, a separate pad member is also secured to an underside of seat pan  412 . 
     In contrast to seat pan  12 , seat pan  412  has side portions  28 ,  30  that include partially severed flaps  436  in lieu of openings  36 . As shown by  FIG. 12 , flaps  436  are configured to pivot relative to side portions  28  and  30  about a generally fore and aft extending axis to facilitate movement of pad  416  inward and outward to accommodate differently sized hips. In the particular embodiment illustrated, flaps  436  pivot by means of a living flexible hinge  439  formed at the base of each of flaps  436 . This hinge is the result of the particular material chosen for seat pan  12 , the relative thickness of the material of seat pan  12  adjacent flaps  436  and the cuts forming flap  436 . Alternatively, flap  436  may be formed by other materials distinct from the remaining material forming seat pan  412  to provide the living hinge. Moreover, flaps  436  may alternatively be pivotally supported adjacent to the remainder of seat pan  412  by other pivoting structures such as hinges and the like. 
     Pad  416  is similar to pad  16  except that pad  416  includes side portions  90  and  92  which include side projections  504  in lieu of side projections  104 . Side projections  504  are configured to at least partially contact or be supported by flaps  436  such that side portions  504  pivot about hinge  439  inward and outward beyond the remainder of side portions  28  and  30  of seat pan  412  as flaps  436  are being pivoted by hip adjusters  417 . In the particular embodiment illustrated, portions  504  are affixed to flaps  436  by adhesives. Alternatively, fasteners, welds, fusion bonds or other affixing means may be employed to secure portions  504  to flaps  436 . 
       FIG. 12  best illustrates hip adjusters  417 . As shown by  FIG. 12 , each hip adjuster  417  generally comprises a flexible member  506  (shown as a cable or rope) having a first end  507  coupled to seat pan  412  on a first rearward side of flap  436 , having an intermediate length threaded through flap  436  and having a second end  509  threaded through seat pan  412  and releasably engaging gripper  508 . Gripper  508  is mounted to seat pan  412  along a forward portion of side portions  28 ,  30  of pan  412 . Each gripper  508  includes a central channel having cleats configured to releasably engage and retain rope  506  in place. To reduce the spacing between side portions  90  and  92  of pad  416 , the kayaker either pulls rope  506  further through gripper  508  or lifts rope  506  from gripper  508  and pulls rope  506  such that flap  436  and projections  504  pivot inwardly. Once a desired location is attained for side portions  90  and  92 , rope  506  is reinserted in gripper  508  if initially withdrawn. Alternatively, to increase the spacing between side portions  90  and  92 , the kayaker withdraws rope  506  from gripper  508  and exerts an outward force against side portions  90  and  92  such that flaps  436  and projections  504  pivot outwardly to a desired position. Once the desired position is attained, the kayaker reinserts rope  506  in gripper  508 . 
     Although gripper  508  is illustrated as an elastomeric member having a channel including one-way teeth or cleats configured to allow movement of rope  506  in a single direction while rope  506  is within the channel and also configured to allow rope  506  to be moved perpendicularly to the teeth such that rope  506  can be lifted from the channel, gripper  508  may alternatively comprise any of a variety of alternative presently known or future developed structures or mechanisms mounted to seat pan  12  or integrally formed as part of seat pan  12  which are configured to releasably retain a flexible member, such as a rope, cable or belt. 
       FIG. 11  illustrate seating system  610 , a third alternative embodiment of seating system  10 . Seating system  610  is similar to seating system  410  except that seating system  610  includes seat pan  612  in lieu of seat pan  412 . Seat pan  612  is similar to seat pan  412  except that seat pan  612  includes pivoting actuation members  636  in lieu of flaps  436 . Members  636  comprise three-dimensional structures mounted to seat pan  612  adjacent to openings  36  and coupled to rope  606 . Like flaps  436 , members  636  are configured to pivot inwardly and outwardly relative to the adjacent seat pan so as to contact and move portions of the pad inwardly and outwardly to accommodate different kayaker hip sizes. Although members  636  are illustrated as being generally triangular in shape, members  636  may have a variety of alternative shapes or configurations. Moreover, although members  636  are illustrated as being mounted to seat pan  612 , members  636  may alternatively be integrally formed as part of seat pan  612  or mounted to seat pan  612  by various other methods. In lieu of relying upon a living hinge to enable each member  636  to pivot, members  636  may alternatively pivot about other means such as hinges and the like. As will further be appreciated, structures  636  may alternatively be solid three-dimensional structures, hollow three-dimensional structures, single walled three-dimensional structures and may be formed from materials distinct from the material chosen for seat pan  612 . 
     Seating systems  10 ,  310 ,  410  and  610  illustrate but a few examples of potential feature combinations. In particular, systems  10 ,  310 ,  410  and  610  illustrate seating structures or arrangements that (1) have a back support or back rest having a height and a fore and aft position that are both adjustable by means of control mechanisms located in one or more consoles or locations that are easily accessible to the kayaker while the kayaker is seated, (2) have padded side portions which are sideways adjustable to accommodate kayakers having different hip sizes, wherein such adjustment is achieved by manipulation of easily accessible controls or mechanisms, and (3) have a seat with a front portion (whether padded or not padded) that pivots to ensure a snug, yet comfortable fit of the kayaker&#39;s thighs against thigh braces regardless of the particular anatomy of the kayaker&#39;s thighs. Each of these features may be employed in alternative embodiments independent of one another or in differing combinations with one another. Furthermore, such features may have a variety of alternative looks, dimensions and configurations depending upon the particular application. Moreover, although each of the aforementioned features is specifically disclosed in combination with one another as part of a seating system for use with a kayak or watercraft, it is contemplated that such features, alone or in combination with one another, may alternatively be employed as part of other seating arrangements or as part of other products that may require the seat to securely yet comfortably retain a seated person or child in place. For example, it is contemplated that such features may have particular uses in child restraining vehicle or car seats, amusement park rides and other similar articles of manufacture. Although the particular embodiments illustrated are currently viewed as the present best mode for such a seating system for a sit-in kayak, minor modifications may be required for other such applications. 
       FIG. 13  is a top perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an adjustable seating system  700 . Seating system  700  generally includes a seat pan  702 , a back rest  704 , a seat pad  706 , a back rest adjustment mechanism  708 , a fore/aft adjustment mechanism  710 , and a seat pad adjustment mechanism  712 . 
     Seat pan  702  generally serves as a base structure to which back rest  704 , seat pad  706 , and adjustment mechanisms  708 ,  710 ,  712  are mounted. Seat pan  702  generally includes a central portion  714 , a back portion  716 , side portions  718 ,  720 , and a front portion  722 . Central portion  714  extends between portions  716 ,  718 ,  720 , and  722  and forms a basin for supporting the kayaker&#39;s buttocks. In the embodiment illustrated, central portion  714 , back portion  716 , side portions  718 ,  720 , and front portion  722  are integrally formed as part of a single unitary body. Portions  714 ,  716 ,  718 ,  720  and  722  are preferably thermoformed from a rigid material such as polyethylene. Alternatively, portions  714 ,  716 ,  718 ,  720  and  722  may be individually formed and glued, fastened, welded or otherwise secured to one another or may be formed from a variety of alternative materials using a variety of alternative molding or fabrication techniques. 
     According to a preferred embodiment, one or more pads  725  are secured to an underside of seat pan  702  (glued, bonded, fastened or otherwise secured to bottom of seat pan  702 ) between seat pan  702  and the watercraft. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 14 ,  16 , and  18 , back rest  704  mounts to and generally extends upwardly from seat pan  702 . Back rest  704  includes a back plate  726 , a pad  728 , a rope  730  (e.g., cable or cord) and adjustment mechanism  708 . Back plate  726  and pad  728  are joined or secured to one another to form an upper back support  732 . Back plate  726  is a generally rigid member affixed to back rest adjustment mechanism  708 . Back plate  726  includes scallops  734  and recess  736 . Scallops  734  and recess  736  provide areas for facilitating gripping of back support  732  (e.g., during egress or ingress of watercraft, during adjustment of back rest  704  position, leverage, etc.). Recess  736 , for example, forms a handle area. Pad  728  comprises a soft, compressible padding against which a seated kayaker&#39;s back rests. 
     Back support  732  may be quickly and easily adjusted (i.e., raised and lowered) by operation of back rest adjustment mechanism  708 . Adjustment mechanism  708  includes an upper member  738  (shown as a “C”-shaped channel), a lower member  740  (shown as a “C”-shaped channel), a locking pin  742 , and a biasing member  744 . 
     Upper member  738  is coupled to back plate  726 . Preferably, upper member  738  is coupled to back plate  726  by a pair of fasteners engaging a bar or plate (not shown) disposed between back plate  726  and pad  728 . (Alternatively, upper member  738  is glued, bonded, fastened or otherwise secured to back plate  726 .) 
     Lower member  740  is pivotally coupled to seat pan  702  by a bracket  746  and a pivot pin  748 . Bracket  746  is coupled to a major side of lower member  740  by a pair of fasteners  750  (e.g., screws, rivets, bolts, pins, etc.). Pivot pin  748  extends through apertures in brackets  746  and openings in a protrusion  756  extending from rear side of seat pan  702 . Protrusion  756  further includes openings or recesses  758  adjacent fasteners  750  to prevent interference when back rest  726  is pivoting. Preferably, protrusion  756  is integrally formed with seat pan  702 , but may be provided by a separate component (e.g., a bracket) attached to seat pan  702 . The lower portion of lower member  740  is disposed in a recess  760  formed in seat pan  702  when lower member is in the generally vertical position. 
     Referring to  FIG. 18 , upper member  738  and lower member  740  are preferably both “C”-shaped and include flange portions  762 ,  764  that provide opposed channels along their sides. Flange portions  762  of upper member  738  is sized and configured to engage (e.g., “capture”) flange portions  764  of lower member  740 . As such, upper member  738  can slide within and relative to lower member  740 . 
     Locking pin  742  extends from seat pan  702 , through an opening  766  in lower member  740 . Locking pin  742  engages an aperture  768  in upper member  738  so that upper member  738  is prevented from sliding within lower member  740 . Locking pin  742  is mounted to a rear side of seat pan  702  in recess  760 . Preferably, locking pin  742  is coupled to a plate  770  that is attached to an inside surface of seat pan  702 . According to a particularly preferred embodiment, rivets are used to secure locking pin  742  and plate  770  to seat pan  702 . Alternatively, any of a variety of fasteners (e.g., nuts and bolts or screws), clips, or the like may be used. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, upper and lower members  738 ,  740  and plate  770  are made from aluminum, and locking pin  742  is made from stainless steel. Alternatively, any of a variety of metals or plastics may be used. 
     A strap  772  couples back support  732  and seat pan  702  so that upper member  738  does not inadvertently disengage lower member  740  during adjustment. 
     Biasing member  744  (shown as a “shock” or “bungee” cord) biases lower member  740  against rear surface within recess  760  of seat pan  702 . Preferably, biasing member  744  passes through apertures in rear of seat pan  702  on either side of recess  760  and held in place by knots in ends of the bungee cord (though fasteners, clamps, and other devices may be used). 
     To adjust the height of back support  732 , the kayaker simply pivots back rest  704  about pivot pin  748  (e.g., by gripping and urging back support  732  towards the front of the seat) until upper member  738  is pivoted far enough so that locking pin  742  disengages upper member  738  (i.e., would not prevent upper member  738  from sliding within lower member  740  (see FIG.  18 ). After aperture  768  “clears” locking pin  742 , the upper member  738  can then be adjusted so that locking pin  742  engages a different aperture  768  in upper member  738 . As shown in the FIGURES, there are four height adjustment positions provided by the three apertures  768  and the bottom edge of upper member  738 . As a result, the height of back support  732  of back rest  704  may be easily adjusted to accommodate kayakers having different anatomies. This adjustment may be performed while the kayaker is generally seated within the kayak. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13 ,  15 , and  17 , fore/aft adjustment mechanism  710  includes a strap  776  (shown as a two-inch web material) and a control mechanism  778 . Adjustment mechanism  710  is configured to provide fore and aft seating position adjustment by pivoting back rest  704  towards or away from the front of the seat. When back rest  704  is pivoted towards the front of the seat, the user&#39;s natural seating position is located forward. 
     A rope  730  (e.g., cable, cord, etc.) comprises a flexible member coupled to back support  732 , thread through portions of seat pan  702  and coupled to fore/aft adjustment mechanism  710 . In an exemplary embodiment, one end of rope  730  is affixed to an end of back plate  726  of back rest  704 , and the other end of rope  730  is secured to the other end of back plate  726  of back rest  704 . Rope  730  is also threaded through a loop  779  formed in strap  776  (e.g., sewn, adhesive, welded, bonded, fasteners, etc.). According to a preferred embodiment, rope  730  passes through a tube located to within loop  779  (e.g., to reduce wear on strap  776  and reduce friction between the rope and strap interface). Alternatively, rope  730  may be coupled to back support  732  and further coupled to adjustment mechanism  710  by various other means and at or along various other locations. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, rope  730  is commercially available as Spectra rope or cord. 
     To adjust the fore/aft seating position, the length of rope  730  extending between back support  732  and seat pan  702  is adjusted (e.g., by applying or releasing tension of rope  730 ). Adjustment of the length of rope adjusts the fore and aft positioning of back support  732  relative to seat pan  702 . Because end of strap  776  and control device  778  of adjustment mechanism  710  is located in a console  780  of seat pan  702 , this adjustment is quickly and easily achieved by the kayaker while seated by simply reaching between his or her legs and accessing adjustment mechanism  710 . 
     Control mechanism  778  comprises a device such as a conventionally known as a cam-lock buckle or device configured to releasably engage strap  776 . The cam-lock device includes a ribbed or toothed cam portion  782  and a lever  784  pivotally coupled to a base plate  786  mounted to seat pan  702  in console  780 . (Alternatively, various other presently known or future developed mechanisms may be employed to adjust the length or tension of rope  730 .) Strap  776  passes through seat pan  702  and between base plate  786  and cam portion  782  of the cam-lock device. Cam portion  782  engages strap  776  when lever  784  is in a generally horizontal position. To release or disengage strap  778 , lever is pivoted until cam portion  782  releases strap. 
     Although adjustment mechanism  710  is illustrated as utilizing a cam-lock device to releasably engage or retain strap  776  in any one of a plurality of positions along the axial length of strap to provide back support  732  with a plurality of fore and aft positions, various alternative mechanisms, presently known or future developed, may also be employed for allowing movement of strap  776  and back support  732  between a plurality of positions and heights and for selectively retaining strap  776  and back support  732  in one of a plurality of different positions. For example, strap  776  may alternatively be configured to ratchet between various positions wherein actuation of a knob located on console  780  either releases the ratchet to enable strap  776  to be slid or incrementally moves strap  780 . Various other adjustment and retention mechanisms may also be employed. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13-15  and  17 , seat pad adjustment mechanism  712  is shown according to a preferred embodiment. Seat pad adjustment mechanism  712  is configured to vary the positioning of the kayaker&#39;s thighs against thigh braces  788  and comprises an inflatable bag  790  and an inflation/deflation mechanism  792 . Inflatable bag is configured to fill voids between kayaker and seat pad  706  (e.g., reduce pressure points by increasing area the weight is distributed across), and to provide more comfortable support to kayaker, regardless of their individual and distinct buttock and thigh dimensions. Also, inflation of bag  790  is configured to lift or elevates seat pad  706  so that the kayaker&#39;s thighs are snugly positioned against thigh braces  788 . Deflation of bag  790  further allows the kayaker to easily exit the kayak or other watercraft. 
     Seat pad  706  preferably comprises a single unitary body of compressible material such as foam. Seat pad  706  preferably has a thickness sufficient so as to provide adequate cushioning so that a kayaker is seated upon seat pad  706  and seat pan  702 . Seat pad  706  generally includes a central portion  794 , front portions  796 ,  798 , and side or hip portions  800 ,  802 . Central portion  794  generally is configured to overlie central portion  714  of seat pan  702 . Central portion  794  has a top surface configured to contact the kayaker and an opposite bottom surface bearing against bag  790 . 
     Seat pad  706  is coupled to seat pan  702  by fasteners  724  (preferably by push-in or “Christmas tree” fasteners but may be any of a variety of fastener or joining device). Alternatively, seat pad  706  is merely glued, bonded, fastened or otherwise secured to seat pan  702 . Alternatively, seat pad  706  is retained relative to seat pan  702  by any of a variety of methods, e.g., adhesive, fasteners, welds, fusion bonds or other means may be additionally employed between seat pad  706  and seat pan  702 . In alternative embodiments, seat pad  706  may include projections extending from the lower surface of central portion  794  and through openings in seat pan  702 . 
     Inflatable bag  790  is configured to be located below seat pad  706 , and dimensioned substantially the same as seat pad  706 . As will be appreciated, a variety of presently known or future developed alternative inflation and/or deflation mechanisms may be employed to selectively at least partially inflate or at least partially deflate bag  790 . Such mechanisms may be manually operated or operated by a power source. In alternative embodiments, bag  790  may be inflated or deflated by other gases other than air or by various fluids. Furthermore, in lieu of utilizing an inflatable or deflatable bag, various other actuators, whether hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical or the like may be employed to selectively raise and lower front portion of seat pan or alternatively to directly raise or lower the front portion of pad. 
     Inflation/deflation mechanism  792  preferably comprises a hand pump  804  pneumatically connected to bag  790  by means of a tube  806  coupled to an exhaust port  808  of pump  804 . According to an exemplary embodiment, another tube  810  is coupled at one end to intake port  812 . The other end (not shown) of tube  810  is located so that if the seating space is filled with water, water is not pumped into bag  790  (e.g., to provide a snorkel effect). Preferably, the other end of tube  810  is disposed on the side of the seat above seat pan  702 . According to an exemplary embodiment, the other end is attached to a kayak cockpit covering. Alternatively the other end extends outside of the watercraft. Inflation/deflation mechanism  792  is retained by a harness  814  coupled to seat pan  702 . Preferably, harness  814  is made from a urethane coated nylon such as Hypalon material, but other materials can be used (which are preferably UV resistant, strong, and flexible). As will be appreciated, a variety of presently known or future developed alternative inflation and/or deflation mechanisms  792  may be employed to selectively at least partially inflate or at least partially deflate bag  790 . Such mechanisms may be manually operated or operated by a power source. In alternative embodiments, bag  790  may be inflated or deflated by other gases other than air or by various fluids. Furthermore, in lieu of utilizing an inflatable or deflatable bag, various other actuators, whether hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical or the like may be employed to selectively raise and lower front portions  796 ,  798  of seat pan  702  or alternatively to directly raise or lower the front portion of seat pad  706 . 
     Seating system  700  is configured to be deployed within watercraft (such as a conventionally known sit-in kayak). As shown by  FIG. 1 , thigh braces  788  are secured to watercraft slightly forward and above seat pan  702  and seat pad  706 . Thigh braces  788  are configured to brace the kayaker&#39;s thighs and upper legs. Inflation of bag  790  lifts and elevates seat pad  706  to fill voids between kayaker and seat pad  706  and to elevate the kayaker&#39;s thighs towards thigh braces  788 . Consequently, selective inflation and deflation of bag  790  enables seating system  700  to accommodate different kayakers having different anatomies and to allow the kayaker&#39;s thighs to be snugly and securely positioned between seat pad  706  and thigh braces  788  while the kayaker assumes a comfortable, relaxed posture within the watercraft. In the exemplary embodiment, the controls of inflation/deflation mechanism  792  extend above seat pad  706  are easily accessible to the kayaker while the kayaker is seated. In alternative embodiments, the controls of inflation/deflation mechanism  792  may alternatively be integrally formed or mounted to portions of seating system  700  or portions of watercraft. In lieu of utilizing an airbag, other pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical actuators may be employed to selectively move portions  794 ,  796 ,  798 ,  800 ,  802  inward and outward. 
     It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the adjustable seating system as shown in the preferred and other exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the claims. For example, while the components of the disclosed embodiments will be illustrated as an adjustable seat designed for a kayak, the features of the disclosed embodiments have a much wider applicability. For example, the adjustable seat design is adaptable for other watercraft and recreational products. Further, the size of the various components and the size of the containers can be widely varied. Also, the particular materials used to construct the exemplary embodiments are also illustrative. For example, injection molded high density polyethylene is the preferred method and material for making the top and base, but other materials can be used, including other thermoplastic resins such as polypropylene, other polyethylenes, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (“ABS”), polyurethane nylon, any of a variety of homopolymer plastics, copolymer plastics, plastics with special additives, filled plastics, etc. Also, other molding operations may be used to form these components, such as blow molding, rotational molding, etc. Some components of the adjustable seat system can also be manufactured from stamped alloy materials such as steel or aluminum. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. In the claims, any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and/or omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention as expressed in the appended claims.