Patent Publication Number: US-2019168640-A1

Title: Seat system

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application 62/367,903 filed Jul. 28, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a seat system, in particular a vehicle slouch seat system. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Vehicle seats known as slouch seats have been used in vehicles, particularly as second row or rear row seats. These may be used for example with pickup trucks that have a fixed rear wall of the cab or potentially even with sedans which have a fixed bulkhead, separating the passenger compartment from the rear trunk. Such a rear wall of the truck cab or the rear bulkhead of a vehicle prevents a backrest (seat back) of the vehicle seat from reclining relative to a fixed pivot point of the seat base (cushion). Slouch seats may also be used in airlines and in mass transportation such as in trams and trains. Such a slouch seat may include two separate back frames, a moving frame and a fixed frame. Relative movement between these two frames occurs during positioning of the slouch seat from an upright to a semi-reclined position. The fixed frame may be a part of or attached to the vehicle, such as being a part of the rear wall of a truck. 
     Although there are various configurations to provide a slouch seat, many slouch seat configurations provide for a backrest with a lower portion that slides forward as the upper portion slides downwardly. This typically also includes a forward movement of the seat base. However, the movement of the backrest and the seat base may generate relative movement with respect to the seat occupant. This relative movement is sometimes termed shirt sheer, a sliding movement of the front surface of the backrest relative to the occupant. In a conventional seat, the recliner (pivot fitting) would be placed at the bottom of the backrest (seat back) and the backrest rotates rearward about the pivot fitting. As the seatback rotates rearward, there is relative motion between the seatback surface and the back of the occupant which can cause the shirt shear. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is an object of the invention to provide a vehicle slouch seat that allows a full range of adjustment including allowing an occupant to recline (slouch) in a fluid motion that does not cause any type of shirt shear. 
     It is further an object of the invention to provide a vehicle seat which allows a recline (slouch) adjustment based on a configuration which is robust, stable and simple to manufacture. 
     According to the present invention, a vehicle seat system comprises a vehicle seat comprising a seat base, a backrest, a seat base track arrangement, a backrest track arrangement comprising a backrest fixed track and a backrest moveable track that is moveable along the backrest fixed track, a link arm, a seat base pivot connection between the link arm and the seat base and a link arm and backrest pivot connection between the link arm and the backrest and the backrest movable track. The seat base track arrangement comprises a seat base fixed track and a seat base moveable track that is moveable along the seat base fixed track. The seat base fixed track is connected to a vehicle seat support and the seat base moveable track is connected to the seat base. The backrest fixed track is connected to a vehicle backrest support. A locking device is connected to the vehicle seat. A release/lock mechanism is connected to the locking device for releasing and locking the locking device. 
     The present invention provides a vehicle seat system that provides a comfort posture alignment slide system. The system uses a linear locking device. The locking device offers infinite adjustment because it uses the forces created from two torsional springs working in tandem with two bushings to lock on a solid shaft. Another linear locking device may be used for this system. 
     The vehicle seat system includes a horizontally mounted seat track arrangement, which advantageously provides a lower profile to provide a compact seat track arrangement to meet space requirements under a vehicle seat. Instead of a horizontally mounted seat track arrangement, the vehicle seat system may include a vertically mounted seat track arrangement. 
     The vehicle seat system is a slide system with infinite adjustment that allows an occupant to recline (slouch) in a fluid motion that does not cause any type of shirt shear. There are tracks in two areas in the vehicle seat to achieve this motion: two tracks are below the seat base (cushion) and one track is in the backrest (seatback). A linear locking device may be next to each cushion track so the linear locking devices can be locked into the exact position that the occupant desires. The design offers low release and sliding efforts with infinite adjustment. 
     A link arm between the cushion track and the seatback track provides a desired kinematic motion. The system is balanced enough between the tracks that no return springs are required. A travel ratio between the cushion track and seatback track is roughly 1.8:1 to 2.2:1 and no pulley system is required to maintain this ratio. The link arm provides this connection. A link arm pivot at the cushion is placed below a hip-point or H-point of the occupant to help provide a fluid motion for the body in this range of recline (slouch) travel. 
     A linear locking device may be mounted above the cushion tracks to lock each side of a cushion assembly to provide two linear locking devices. The linear locking devices may be released at the same time using a single release handle and cable system so the cushion tracks stay synchronized. A single linear locking device that is capable of larger strength could also be used rather than two locking devices. 
     An outer track of the seat track arrangement may deflect to create preload in ball bearings to keep the ball bearings in the track assembly and in a consistent position as the track moves. 
     The linear locking device may be attached to an upper bracket, which may be done with a roll pin or any other suitable fastener, such as a shoulder bolt. A part of the locking device may move with the upper bracket. The upper bracket attaches to the cushion of the seat system and the movable track (inner track) in the track assembly. This provides a moving part of the seat system. 
     The locking device may be attached to a base of a seat. This provides a static portion of the linear locking device. The fixed (outer) track in the track assembly is also static. 
     Ball bearings and straws are positioned in a track so they do not contact ball stops during specified track movement. For every 1 mm. the track moves, the ball bearings move 0.5 mm. The straws keep the ball bearing spacing consistent but does not keep the balls/straws synchronized between the two sides of the single track assembly. 
     Ball cages are an alternative option for keeping the ball bearing spacing consistent not only on one side of the track assembly but both sides since it is connected. 
     A linear locking device may be mounted separate from the track assemblies under the cushion assembly (closer to a centerline of the seat). The track assemblies may be mounted further apart (closer to the sides of the cushion assembly), which increases stability. The low track profile (mounted horizontally) allows the track assemblies to be mounted so there can be a thinner seat package in these areas. The track assemblies may be mounted vertically if a thinner package space laterally is needed. 
     A movable track of a track assembly shifts the cushion assembly in the seat system. The link arm connection moves the seatback track simultaneously and keeps the two track systems synchronized during the recliner (slouch) motion. 
     The moving portion of the linear locking device allows the cushion assembly to shift and also locks the cushion assembly into an exact desired position of the occupant in the seat system since the locking device allows for infinite adjustment. 
     A seatback track assembly connects to the seatback and link arm. The seatback track assembly shifts the seatback slightly so there is a fluid motion as the occupant reclines/slouches the seat system. The seatback track assembly is mounted almost vertically compared to the cushion track assembly which is mounted almost horizontally. 
     Two cable assemblies may be provided. Each cable assembly may be connected to one linear locking device such that the locking devices are released simultaneously using a release handle assembly that is mounted on the side of the seat system. A single cable assembly may be used if a single linear locking device is provided. 
     Plastic bushings may be provided for rotating a drive rod. The plastic bushings reduce free play in handle while maintaining a low, consistent release effort. 
     Both cable assemblies may be attached to a release arm in a recliner handle housing assembly so both linear locking devices release at the same time. Cable ends of the two cable may be provided separately. The ends of the cable assemblies may be connected to make a loop around the release arm or a splitter may be used to make the two cables become one cable so there is less package space required in the housing assembly. This is one way to release the linear locking devices. Other means could be used to release the linear locking devices, including but not limited to using a button or buttons, a smaller lever, actuators and any other suitable means for releasing the linear locking devices. 
     It is apparent that the above-described features, which will also be explained below, can be used not only in the particular combination described, but also in other combinations or alone, without going beyond the scope of the present invention. 
     Preferred exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown in the drawings and will be explained in more detail in the following description, where identical reference numbers designate identical or similar or functionally identical components. The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its uses, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a vehicle seat system; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a front view of the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is an enlarged view of the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a locking device connected to a seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 6  is a sectional view of the seat track arrangement along line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a front view of the locking device connected to the seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 8  is a side view of the locking device and the seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the locking device connected to a seat base movable track; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of two ball bearing arrangements; 
         FIG. 11  is an enlarged front view of the seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 12  is an enlarged front view of the seat track arrangement with a ball bearing arrangement; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the ball bearing arrangement shown in  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the ball bearing arrangement shown in  FIG. 12  with ball bearings removed; 
         FIG. 15  is a side view of another embodiment of a vehicle seat system; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a front view of the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 18  is an enlarged view of the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a seat track arrangement associated with the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 20  is another perspective view of the seat track arrangement of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 21  is another perspective view of the seat track arrangement of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a sectional view of the seat track arrangement along line  22 ′- 22 ′ of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 23  is a front view of the seat track arrangement of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a side view of the seat track arrangement of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of the locking device; 
         FIG. 26  is another perspective view of the locking device; 
         FIG. 27  is another perspective view of the locking device; 
         FIG. 28  is a cross sectional view of the locking device; 
         FIG. 29  is a partial cross sectional view of the locking device; 
         FIG. 30  is an enlarged perspective view of the locking device; 
         FIG. 31  is an enlarged perspective view of the locking device; 
         FIG. 32  is a perspective view of a release/lock assembly associated with the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 1  and the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 33  is another perspective view of the release/lock assembly associated with the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 1  and the vehicle seat system of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 34  is a perspective view of a housing assembly associated with the release/lock assembly of  FIG. 32 ; 
         FIG. 35  is a top perspective view of the housing assembly of  FIG. 34 ; 
         FIG. 36  is a bottom perspective view of the housing assembly of  FIG. 34 ; 
         FIG. 37  is a bottom perspective view of the housing assembly of  FIG. 34 ; 
         FIG. 38  is another bottom perspective view of the housing assembly of  FIG. 34 ; 
         FIG. 39  is a sectional view of an embodiment of a seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 40  is a sectional view of an embodiment of a seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 41  is a sectional view of an embodiment of a seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 42  is a sectional view of an embodiment of a seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 43  is a sectional view of an embodiment of a seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 44  is a sectional view of an embodiment of a seat track arrangement; 
         FIG. 45  is a sectional view of an embodiment of a seat track arrangement; and 
         FIG. 46  is a sectional view of an embodiment of a seat track arrangement. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Referring to the drawings in particular,  FIG. 1  is a side view of a vehicle seat system  1 . The vehicle seat system  1  includes a vehicle seat  10 . The vehicle seat  10  is shown comprising a backrest (seat back)  12  and a seat base (cushion)  14 . A link arm  16  connects the backrest  12  and the seat base  14 . The backrest  12  and the seat base  14  are supported on a support frame  20 . The support frame  20  may be fixed to a vehicle floor  5 . The support frame  20  may also be fixed on a movable track such that the support frame  20  itself may be fixed in a position (such as in a longitudinal set position—along a direction of travel) and displaced along a track, that is fixed in the vehicle floor  5 , to change a longitudinal position setting. The seat base  14  comprises a seat base frame  18  with a cushion upper part  19 . The seat base  14  may have other configurations including a seat base frame that is formed of side brackets and cross members. The backrest  12  is a so called live back seat back. Such a live back seat back comprises a plastic panel that flexes with back movement of the occupant. The backrest  12  may instead comprise a shell supporting one or more foam pieces covered by trim or may comprise a frame supporting one or more foam pieces covered by trim. 
     The support frame  20  includes a vehicle backrest support  22  and a connected vehicle seat base support  24 . The support frame  20  may include the backrest support  22  separate from the seat base support  24 . The backrest support  22  may also be formed as part of the vehicle, such as the rear wall of the cabin of a pickup truck or such as the bulkhead separating the passenger compartment from trunk space. The vehicle seat base support  24  may be formed as part of the vehicle floor  5  or may be a separate support part connected to the vehicle floor  5 . The link arm  16  is connected to the seat base  14  by a seat base pivot  26 . The seat base pivot  26  is formed at a lower portion  17  of the link arm  16 . The link arm  16  and the backrest  12  are connected to the vehicle backrest support  22  by a link arm and backrest pivot connection  28 . A backrest fixed track  32  forms part of a backrest track arrangement that also includes a backrest movable track  30 , which is movable relative to the backrest fixed track  32 . 
     A locking arrangement  34  is connected to the vehicle seat  10 . The locking arrangement  34  includes a locking device  36 . The locking device  36  forms part of a longitudinal adjustor. The locking device  36  is connected to a locking device support  38  via a locking device support connection  40 . The locking device support  38  is connected to the support frame  20 . The locking device support  38  may be formed as an integral part of the support frame  20 . A seat track arrangement  42  is connected to the seat base support  24  and the seat base  14 . 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the vehicle seat system  1 . The locking arrangement  34  includes a locking device  44 . The locking device  44  is connected to a locking device support  50 . The locking device  44  forms part of a longitudinal adjustor. The locking device support  50  is connected to the support frame  20 . The locking device support  50  may be formed as an integral part of the support frame  20 . A seat track arrangement  46  is connected to a seat base support  48  and the seat base  14 . 
       FIG. 3  is a front view of the vehicle seat system  1 . Although the locking arrangement  34  is shown with the locking device  36  and the locking device  44  to provide two locking devices, it is possible that only one locking device may be provided. 
       FIG. 4  is an enlarged view of the seat  10  in an area of the seat base  14 . The track arrangement  42  includes a seat base fixed track (outer track)  52  and a seat base movable track (inner track)  54 . The seat base fixed track  52  is fixed on an upper surface of the seat base support  24  via at least fastener  56  and fastener  58 . The locking device  36  is connected to the seat base  18  and the seat base movable track  54 . The seat track arrangement  46  includes a seat base fixed track (outer track)  60  and a seat base movable track (inner track)  62 . The seat base fixed track  60  is fixed on an upper surface of the seat base support  48  via at least fastener  64  and fastener  66 . A bracket  68  is connected to the locking device  44  via a fastener  70 . The fastener  70  may be any suitable fastener including but not limited to a pin, a screw and rivet. The bracket  68  is connected to the seat base  18  via a fastener  72  and a fastener  74 . The bracket  68  is connected to the seat base movable track  62  via at least a fastener  75 . The fastener  72 , the fastener  74  and the fastener  75  are shown as a screw and a threaded nut, but the fastener  72 , the fastener  74  and the fastener  75  may be any suitable fastener including but not limited to a pin and rivet. In another embodiment, the bracket  68  may be welded to the locking device  44 , the seat base movable track  62  and the seat base  18 . The locking device  44  is connected to a release/lock mechanism via a cable (see  FIG. 32 ). The locking device  44  is connected to the locking device support  50  via a fastener  76 . In the example shown in  FIG. 4 , the fastener  76  is a pin, but it is understood that the fastener  76  may be any suitable fastener including but not limited to a threaded screw and threaded nut connector or a rivet. 
     Actuation of the locking device  36  and actuation of the locking device  44  allows a locking and release of the seat base  14  with movement of the seat base moveable track  54  relative to the seat base fixed track  52  and movement of the seat base movable track  62  relative to the seat base fixed track  60 . When the locking device  36  is released, the locking device  36  and the seat base movable track  54  move relative to the seat base fixed track  52 . When the locking device  44  is released, the locking device  44  and the seat base movable track  62  move relative to the seat base fixed track  60 . As the link arm  16  connects the seat base  14  and the backrest  12 , the actuation of the locking device  36  and the locking device  44  allows a locking and release of the backrest  12  with movement of the backrest moveable track  30  relative to the backrest fixed track  32 . 
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the locking device  44  connected to the seat track arrangement  46 . The locking device  44  is substantially identical to the locking device  36 . The seat track arrangement  46  is substantially identical to the seat track arrangement  42 . The seat track arrangement  42  is connected to the locking device  36  in the same manner as the seat track arrangement  46  is connected to the locking device  44 . The locking device  36  is connected to the seat base  18  in the same manner as the locking device  44  is connected to the seat base  18 . Accordingly, in order to avoid repetition, a description will be provided for the locking device  44  and the seat track arrangement  42  as it is understood that the locking device  36  is similar to the locking device  44  and the seat track arrangement  42  is similar to the seat track arrangement  46  and the manner of connecting the locking device  36  and the seat track arrangement  42  is similar to the manner of connecting the locking device  44  and the seat track arrangement  46 . Ball stops  78 ,  80 ,  82  are connected to the seat base fixed track  52 . 
       FIG. 6  is a sectional view of the seat track arrangement  42  along line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 . The seat base movable track  54  is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  52  via ball bearings  84 ,  86 . 
       FIG. 7  is a front view of the locking device  44  connected to the seat track arrangement  46 . Balls stops  88 ,  90  are connected to the movable track  62 . Ball stops  78 ,  80 ,  82 ,  88 ,  90  ensure that the ball bearings  84 ,  86  remain between the seat base movable track  62  and the seat base fixed track  60 . 
       FIG. 8  is a side view of the locking device  44  and the seat track arrangement  46 . A fastener  92  is provided to fasten the seat base fixed track  60  to the upper surface of the seat base support  48 . Four fasteners may be used to fix the fixed track  60  to the upper surface of the seat base support  48 , however it is understood that any number of fasteners may be used to connect the seat base fixed track to the upper surface of the seat base support  48 . In another embodiment, the seat base fixed track  60  may be welded to the upper surface of the seat base support  48 . 
       FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the locking device  44  connected to the seat base movable track  62 . A ball bearing arrangement  100  is provided between the seat base movable track  62  and the seat base fixed track  60 . The ball bearing arrangement  100  includes ball bearings  86 ,  94 ,  96 ,  98  and a ball bearing spacer element (straw spacer)  102 . The ball bearing spacer element  102  maintains the ball bearings  86 ,  94  at a spaced location from the ball bearings  96 ,  98 . It is understood that another ball bearing arrangement  104  (see  FIG. 10 ) is provided opposite the ball bearing arrangement  100  on the other side of the seat base movable track  62 . 
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the ball bearing arrangement  100  and the ball bearing arrangement  104 . The ball bearing arrangement  104  includes ball bearings  84 ,  106 ,  108 ,  110  and a ball bearing spacer element (straw spacer)  112 . The ball bearing spacer element  112  maintains the ball bearings  84 ,  106  at a spaced location from the ball bearings  108 ,  110 . Such ball arrangements  100 ,  104  may also be used with the backrest movable track  30  and the backrest fixed track  32 . 
       FIG. 11  is an enlarged front view of the seat track arrangement  46  with the seat base movable track  62  connected to the bracket  68  via the fastener  75 . 
       FIG. 12  is an enlarged front view of the seat track arrangement  46  in which the seat base movable track  62  is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  60  via a ball bearing arrangement  114 . 
       FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the ball bearing arrangement  114 . The ball bearings  84 ,  86 ,  94 ,  96 ,  98 ,  106 ,  108 ,  110  are positioned via a ball cage  116  to form the ball bearing arrangement  114 . Such a ball cage  116  may also be used with the backrest movable track  30  and the backrest fixed track  32 . 
       FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the ball bearing arrangement  114  with the ball bearings  84 ,  86 ,  94 ,  96 ,  98 ,  106 ,  108 ,  110  removed. The ball cage  116  includes spaces  118 ,  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126 ,  128 ,  130 ,  132  with each space for receiving a ball bearing. Although eight spaces are shown for eight ball bearings, it is understood that any number of spaces may be provided so that the ball cage  116  may be provided with any number of ball bearings. 
       FIG. 15  is a side view of a vehicle seat system P. The vehicle seat system  1 ′ comprises a vehicle seat  10 ′. The vehicle seat  10 ′ is shown comprising a backrest (seat back)  12 ′ and a seat base (cushion)  14 ′. A link arm  16 ′ connects the backrest  12 ′ and the seat base  14 ′. The backrest  12 ′ and the seat base  14 ′ are supported on a support frame  20 ′. The support frame  20 ′ may be fixed to a vehicle floor  5 ′. The support frame  20 ′ may also be fixed on a movable track such that the support frame  20 ′ itself may be fixed in a position (such as in a longitudinal set position—along a direction of travel) and displaced along a track, that is fixed in the vehicle floor  5 ′, to change a longitudinal position setting. The seat base  14 ′ comprises a seat base frame  18 ′ with a cushion upper part  19 ′. The seat base  14 ′ may have other configurations including a seat base frame that is formed of side brackets and cross members. The backrest  12 ′ is a so called live back seat back. Such a live back seat back comprises a plastic panel that flexes with back movement of the occupant. The backrest  12 ′ may instead comprise a shell supporting one or more foam pieces covered by trim or may comprise a frame supporting one or more foam pieces covered by trim. 
     The support frame  20 ′ includes vehicle backrest support  22 ′ and a connected vehicle seat base support  24 ′. The support frame  20 ′ may include the backrest support  22 ′ separate from the seat base support  24 ′. The backrest support  22 ′ may also be formed as part of the vehicle, such as the rear wall of the cabin of a pickup truck or such as the bulkhead separating the passenger compartment from trunk space. The vehicle seat base support  24 ′ may be formed as part of the vehicle floor  5 ′ or may be a separate support part connected to the vehicle floor  5 ′. The link arm  16 ′ is connected to the seat base  14 ′ by a seat base pivot  26 ′. The seat base pivot  26 ′ is formed at a lower portion  17 ′ of the link arm  16 ′. The link arm  16 ′ and the backrest  12 ′ are connected to the vehicle backrest support  22 ′ by a link arm and backrest pivot connection  28 ′. A backrest fixed track  32 ′ forms part of a backrest track arrangement that also includes a backrest movable track  30 ′, which is movable relative to the backrest fixed track  32 ′. 
     A locking arrangement  34 ′ is connected to the vehicle seat  10 ′. The locking arrangement  34 ′ includes a locking device  36 ′. The locking device  36 ′ forms part of a longitudinal adjustor. The locking device  36 ′ is connected to a locking device support  38 ′ via a locking device support connection  40 ′. The locking device support  38 ′ is connected to the support frame  20 ′. The locking device support  38 ′ may be formed as an integral part of the support frame  20 ′. A seat track arrangement  42 ′ is connected to the seat base support  24 ′ and the seat base  14 ′. 
       FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the vehicle seat system P. The locking arrangement  34 ′ includes a locking device  44 ′. The locking device  44 ′ is connected to a locking device support  50 ′. The locking device  44 ′ forms part of a longitudinal adjustor. The locking device support  50 ′ is connected to the support frame  20 ′. The locking device support  50 ′ may be formed as an integral part of the support frame  20 ′. A seat track arrangement  46 ′ is connected to a seat base support  48 ′ and the seat base  14 ′. The locking device  44 ′ is connected to the seat base frame  18 ′ via a connector  47 ′. The connector  47 ′ is shown in the form of a bracket, but it is understood that any type of connector may be used to connect the locking device  44 ′ to the seat base frame  18 ′. A release/lock assembly  49 ′ is connected to the locking device  36 ′ and the locking device  44 ′. The release/lock assembly  49 ′ can be actuated to actuate the locking device  36 ′ and the locking device  44 ′ to release the locking device  36 ′ and the locking device  44 ′ and to lock the locking device  36 ′ and the locking device  44 ′. 
       FIG. 17  is a front view of the vehicle seat system P. Although the locking arrangement  34 ′ is shown with the locking device  36 ′ and the locking device  44 ′ to provide two locking devices, it is possible that only one locking device may be provided. The locking device  36 ′ is connected to the seat base frame  18 ′ via a connector  45 ′. The connector  45 ′ is shown in the form of a bracket, but it is understood that any type of connector may be used to connect the locking device  44 ′ to the seat base frame  18 ′. The release/lock assembly includes a cable  51 ′ and a cable  53 ′. The cable  51 ′ is connected to the locking device  44 ′. The cable  53 ′ is connected to the locking device  36 ′. A single cable may be provided if only a single locking device is used. 
       FIG. 18  is an enlarged view of the vehicle seat system  1 ′ in an area of the seat base  14 ′. The track arrangement  42 ′ includes a seat base fixed track  52 ′ and a seat base movable track  54 ′. The seat base fixed track  52 ′ is fixed on an upper surface of the seat base support  24 ′ via at least a fastener  56 ′ and fastener  58 ′. A seat base track connector  55 ′ connects the seat base movable track  54 ′ to the seat base frame  18 ′. The seat track arrangement  46 ′ includes a seat base fixed track  60 ′ and a seat base movable track  62 ′. The seat base fixed track  60 ′ is fixed on an upper surface of the seat base support  48 ′ via at least fastener  64 ′ and fastener  66 ′. A seat base track connector  43 ′ connects the seat base movable track  62 ′ to the seat base frame  18 ′. The locking device  44 ′ is connected to the connector  47 ′ via a fastener  70 ′. The fastener  70 ′ is shown as a pin or shaft, but it is understood that any suitable fastener may used, including but not limited to a screw and nut fastener or a rivet. In another embodiment, the locking device  44 ′ may be welded to the connector  47 ′. The locking device  36 ′ is connected to the connector  45 ′ via a fastener in the same way in which the locking device  44 ′ is connected to the connector  47 ′. The locking device  44 ′ is connected to the locking device support  50 ′ via a fastener  76 ′. In the example shown in  FIG. 18 , the fastener  76 ′ is a pin, but it is understood that the fastener  76 ′ may be any suitable fastener including but not limited to a threaded screw and threaded nut connector or a rivet. 
     Actuation of the locking device  36 ′ and actuation of the locking device  44 ′ allows a locking and release of the seat base  14 ′ with movement of the seat base moveable track  54 ′ relative to the seat base fixed track  52 ′ and movement of the seat base movable track  62 ′ relative to the seat base fixed track  60 ′. When the locking device  36 ′ is released, the seat base movable track  54 ′ moves relative to the seat base fixed track  52 ′. When the locking device  44 ′ is released, the seat base movable track  62 ′ moves relative to the seat base fixed track  60 ′. As the link arm  16 ′ connects the seat base  14 ′ and the backrest  12 ′, the actuation of the locking device  36 ′ and the locking device  44 ′ allows a locking and release of the backrest  12 ′ with movement of the backrest moveable track  30 ′ relative to the backrest fixed track  32 ′. 
       FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the seat track arrangement  42 ′. The seat track arrangement  42 ′ is substantially identical to the seat track arrangement  46 ′. The seat track arrangement  46 ′ is connected to the seat base frame  18 ′ in the same manner as the seat track arrangement  42 ′ is connected to the seat base frame  18 ′. Accordingly, in order to avoid repetition, a description is provided for the seat track arrangement  42 ′ as it is understood that the seat track arrangement  42 ′ is similar to the seat track arrangement  46 ′ and the manner of connecting the seat track arrangement  42 ′ is similar to the manner of connecting the seat track arrangement  46 ′ to the seat base frame  18 ′. Ball stops  78 ′,  80 ′,  82 ′ are connected to the seat base fixed track  52 ′. The seat base track connector  55 ′ is fixed to an upper surface of the seat base movable track  54 ′ via fasteners  57 ′,  59 ′,  61 ′. Although three fasteners are shown in the example of  FIG. 19 , it is understood that any number of fasteners may be used. In  FIG. 19 , the fasteners are shown as screw and nut fasteners, but it is understood that any suitable type of fastener may be used. The seat base track connector  55 ′ includes openings  63 ′,  65 ′,  67 ′. Each of the openings  63 ′,  65 ′,  67 ′ receives a fastener to fix the seat base track connector  55 ′ to the seat base frame  18 ′. Although three openings are shown in the example of  FIG. 19 , it is understood that any number of openings may be provided. The opening  63 ′ is defined by a raised portion  81 ′ of the seat base track connector  55 ′. The openings  65 ′,  67 ′ are defined by a raised portion  83 ′ of the seat base track connector  55 ′. The raised portions  81 ′,  83 ′ are located at a position that is greater than a height of the seat base fixed track  52 ′. The seat base movable track  54 ′ is movable along the seat base fixed track  52 ′ to position the seat base  14 ′ in a seat base design position as shown in  FIG. 19 . 
       FIG. 20  is a perspective view of the seat track arrangement  42 ′. The seat base movable track  54 ′ is movable along the seat base fixed track  52 ′ in the direction of arrow  69 ′ to position the seat base  14 ′ in a seat base full recline position. 
       FIG. 21  is a perspective view of the seat track arrangement  42 ′. The seat base movable track  54 ′ is movable along the seat base fixed track  52 ′ in the direction of arrow  71 ′ to position the seat base  14 ′ in a seat base full upright position. 
       FIG. 22  is a sectional view of the seat track arrangement  42 ′ along line  22 - 22  of  FIG. 19 . The seat base movable track  54 ′ is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  52 ′ via ball bearings  84 ′,  86 ′. The bearing arrangements  100 ,  104  as shown in  FIG. 10  may be used to arrange the ball bearings  84 ′,  86 ′ between the seat base movable track  54 ′ and the seat base fixed track  52 ′. In an alternative embodiment, the bearing arrangement  114  as shown in  FIG. 13  may be used to arrange the ball bearings  84 ′,  86 ′ between the seat base movable track  54 ′ and the seat base fixed track  52 ′. 
       FIG. 23  is a front view of the seat track arrangement  42 ′ with the seat base track connector  55 ′ connected to the seat base movable track  54 ′. Ball stops  78 ′,  82 ′ are connected to the seat base fixed track  52 ′. Balls stops  88 ′,  90 ′ are connected to the movable track  62 . Ball stops  78 ′,  82 ′,  88 ′,  90 ′ ensure that the ball bearings  84 ′,  86 ′ remain between the seat base movable track  54 ′ and the seat base fixed track  52 ′. 
       FIG. 24  is a side view of the seat track arrangement  42 ′. The raised portions  81 ′,  83 ′ are provided at a position that is outside of the seat base fixed track  52 ′. A fastener element  87 ′ is provided at a position below the raised portion  81 ′. Fastener elements  89 ′,  91 ′ are provided at a position located below the raised portion  83 ′. In the example shown in  FIG. 24 , the fastener elements are formed as threaded nuts with each nut receiving a threaded screw to connect the seat base track connector  55 ′ to the seat base frame  18 ′, but it is understood that any other suitable fastener may be used. 
       FIG. 25  is a perspective view of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′. Each of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ is identical to each other and has the same structure. Each locking device  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ has a movable portion  133  and a fixed element  135 . In the example shown in  FIG. 25 , the fixed element  135  is a rod. The movable portion  133  is movable along the fixed element  135  in a seat base design position to position the seat base  14 ,  14 ′ in a seat base design position as shown in  FIG. 25 . 
       FIG. 26  is a perspective view of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′. The movable portion  133  is movable in the direction of arrow  134  along the fixed element  135  to position the seat base  14 , 14 ′ in a seat base full recline position. 
       FIG. 27  is a perspective view of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′. The movable portion  133  is movable in the direction of arrow  136  along the fixed element  135  to position the seat base  14 ,  14 ′ in a seat base full upright position. 
       FIG. 28  is a cross sectional view of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ and  FIG. 29  is a partial cross-sectional view of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′. Each of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ has an arm (handle)  138  and a wedge bushing  140 . The arm  138  forms a handle and has a slot  139  for receiving a cable. The arm  138  can be actuated to lock and release the movable portion  133 . The features of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,794,470, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The example of the locking devices shown in  FIGS. 28 and 29  is one example of the locking devices that are provided to lock and release the seat base  14 ,  14 ′. In other embodiments, each of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ may have the features disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,157,826, 8,038,220, 5,441,129, 5,219,045, 5,150,771, 4,880,084, 4,577,730, 4,457,406, 4,425,987, 4,411,339, 3,874,480 and 5,568,843. The entire contents of each of U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,157,826, 8,038,220, 5,794,470, 5,441,129, 5,219,045, 5,150,771, 4,880,084, 4,577,730, 4,457,406, 4,425,987, 4,411,339, 3,874,480 and 5,568,843 are incorporated herein by reference. 
       FIG. 30  is an enlarged perspective view of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′. Each of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ includes a housing  142 . The housing  142  has a housing projection  144  and an upper housing portion  146  with an upward extending portion  147  and an upward extending portion  149 . An opening  151  is provided between the upward extending portion  147  and the upward extending portion  149 . The housing  142  has a housing projection  145  and an upper housing portion  143  with an upward extending portion  141  and an upward extending portion  137 . An opening  153  is provided between the upward extending portion  141  and the upward extending portion  137 . The arm  138  is in a locked position in  FIG. 30  such that the movable portion  133  is locked to the fixed element  135  so that the movable portion  133  does not move relative to the fixed element  135 . 
       FIG. 31  is an enlarged perspective view of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′. The arm  138  is in a released position in  FIG. 31  such that the movable portion  133  moves relative to the fixed element  135 . 
       FIG. 32  is a perspective view of the release/lock assembly  49 ′. The release/lock assembly  49 ′ actuates the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ to lock and release the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′. The release/lock assembly  49 ′ includes an actuator  148 . In the example shown in  FIG. 32 , the actuator  148  is in the form of a handle, however it is understood that the actuator  148  may be any suitable actuator, including but not limited to a button or a lever. A cable connecting structure  150  is connected to the cable connector  51 ′. The cable connecting structure  150  may be in the form of a clip. The cable connecting structure  150  includes a lip (projection)  158 , a housing connector portion  156 , a slot  160 , a slot  162  and an opening  164 . The cable connector  51 ′ comprises a cable  152 . The cable  152  has a cable end portion  154  that has a width that is greater than a width of an opening  157  in the housing connector portion  156  such that the cable end portion  154  cannot pass through the opening  157 . 
     A cable connecting structure  166  is connected to the cable connector  53 ′. The cable connecting structure  166  may be in the form of a clip. The cable connector  53 ′ comprises a cable  168 . The cable connecting structure  166  includes a lip (projection)  174  provided on an outer surface of the cable connecting structure  166 , a housing connector portion  172 , a slot  176 , a slot  178  and an opening  180 . The cable  168  has a cable end portion  170  that has a width that is greater than a width of an opening in the housing connector portion  172  such that the cable end portion  170  cannot pass through the opening. The release/lock mechanism  49 ′ includes a housing assembly  182 . The actuator  148  is connected to a lever arm  188 . The lever arm  188  includes an opening  183 . The housing assembly  182  includes a housing projection  186 . The housing projection  186  extends in an upward direction. The housing projection  186  includes an opening  181 . A spring  184  is connected to the lever arm  183  and the housing projection  186 . A portion of the spring  184  is inserted in the opening  181  and another portion of the spring  184  is inserted in the opening  183 . The actuator  148  is pivotable about a pivot axis  190 . The release/lock mechanism  49 ′ is shown in a locked position in  FIG. 32 . 
     The cable connecting structure  150  is connected to the housing  142  of one of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ (see  FIGS. 5, 9 and 18 ) by moving the cable connecting structure  150  from a position above the housing  142  downward in a direction of the opening  151  and the upper housing portion  146  such that a snap in retaining connection is generated as the lip  158  passes over the projection  144  to connect the lip  158  to the projection  144 . A portion of the cable connecting structure  150  is arranged in the opening  151  and is provided between the upward extending portion  147  and the upward extending portion  149  (see  FIGS. 5, 9 and 18 ). A surface  158   a  of the lip  158  engages an outer surface  144   a  of the projection  144  to fix the lip  158  to the projection  144 . A portion of the upward extending portion  149  is provided in the slot  162  and a portion of the upward extending portion  147  is arranged in the slot  160  when the cable connecting structure  150  is connected to the housing  142 . An inner surface  156   a  of the housing connector portion  156  engages (contacts) an inner surface  146   a  of the housing portion  146 . The cable  152  extends through the slot  139  such that a portion of the cable  152  is arranged in the slot  139 . The cable end portion  154  engages a surface  138   a  of the arm  138  to fix the cable  152  to the arm  138 . A portion  138   b  of the arm  138  extends above the cable  152  to prevent the cable  152  from coming out of the slot  139 . 
     The cable connecting structure  166  is connected to the housing  142  of another one of the locking devices  36 ,  36 ′,  44 ,  44 ′ by moving the cable connecting structure  166  from a position above the housing  142  downward in a direction of the opening  153  and the upper housing portion  143  such that a snap in retaining connection is generated as the lip  174  passes over the projection  145  to connect the lip  174  to the projection  145 . A portion of the cable connecting structure  166  is arranged in the opening  153  and is provided between the upward extending portion  137  and the upward extending portion  141 . A surface  174   a  of the lip  174  engages an outer surface  145   a  of the projection  145  to fix the lip  174  to the projection  145 . A portion of the upward extending portion  141  is provided in the slot  176  and a portion of the upward extending portion  137  is arranged in the slot  178  when the cable connecting structure  166  is connected to the housing  142 . An inner surface  172   a  of the housing connector portion  172  engages (contacts) an inner surface  146   a  of the housing portion  146  when the cable connecting structure  166  is connected to the housing  142 . The cable  168  extends through the slot  139  such that a portion of the cable  168  is arranged in the slot  139 . The cable end portion  170  engages a surface  138   c  of the arm  138  to fix the cable  168  to the arm  138 . The portion  138   b  of the arm  138  extends above the cable  168  to prevent the cable  168  from coming out of the slot  139 . 
       FIG. 33  is a perspective view of the release/lock assembly  49 ′. The actuator  148  is pivoted about the pivot axis  190  when the actuator  148  is actuated. Actuating the actuator  148  moves the cable  152  to move the arm  138  of the locking device  36 ,  36 ′ from a locked position to a released position to release the locking device  36 ,  36 ′ and moves the cable  168  to move the arm  138  of the locking device  44 ,  44 ′ from a locked position to a released position to release the locking device  44 ,  44 ′. Actuation of the actuator  148  moves the lever arm  188 , which stretches the spring  184  to tension the spring  188 . The release/lock mechanism  49 ′ is shown in a released position in  FIG. 33  in which the actuator  148  has been actuated. 
       FIG. 34  is a perspective view of the housing assembly  182  with the actuator  148  disconnected from the housing assembly  182 . A actuator connecting portion  194  is connected to the housing assembly  182 . 
       FIG. 35  is a top perspective view of the housing assembly  182 . The actuator connecting portion  194  is connected to a drive rod  200 . A bushing  196  and a bushing  198  are connected to the drive rod  200 . The bushing  196  and the bushing  198  may be formed of plastic, but any material may be used to form the bushing  196  and the bushing  198 . The bushing  196  and the bushing  198  are in contact with the housing  182 . The bushing  196  is adjacent to the actuator connecting portion  194 . The bushing  198  is adjacent to the lever arm  188 . The lever arm  188  is connected to the drive rod  200  via a fastener  189 . The drive rod  200  is connected to a release arm  202 . The release arm  202  has an opening  204  and an opening  206 . 
       FIG. 36  is a bottom perspective view of the housing assembly  182 . The cable  152  and the cable  168  are connected to the release arm  202 . The cable  152  extends through the opening  206 . The cable  168  extends through the opening  204 . The cable  152  has a cable end portion  208  that has a width that is greater than a width of the opening  206  such that the cable end portion  208  cannot fit through the opening  206 . The cable  168  has a cable end portion  210  that has a width that is greater than a width of the opening  204  such that the cable end portion  210  cannot fit through the opening  204 . In another embodiment, instead of attaching each cable individually to the release arm, the cables may be connected to a splitter to make the two cables become one cable, which is connected to the release arm. 
       FIG. 37  is a bottom perspective view of the housing assembly  182 . The actuating connector portion  194  is in a locked position in  FIG. 37  such that the locking device  36 ,  36 ′ and the locking device  44 ,  44 ′ are in a locked position. 
       FIG. 38  is a bottom perspective view of the housing assembly  182 . The actuating connector portion  194  is actuated from a locked position to a released position such that the release arm  202  is actuated, which actuates the arm  138  of the locking device  36 ,  36 ′ from the locked position to the released position to release the locking device  36 ,  36 ′ and actuates the arm  138  of the locking device  44 ,  44 ′ from the locked position to the released position to release the locking device  44 ,  44 ′.  FIG. 38  shows the actuating connector portion  194  and the release arm  202  in the released position. 
       FIGS. 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 and 46  show different embodiments of a seat track arrangement, which can be used instead of the seat track arrangements  42 ,  42 ′,  46 ,  46 ′.  FIG. 39  shows a sectional view of a seat track arrangement  212  having a seat base fixed track  214  and a seat base movable track  216 . The seat base movable track  216  is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  214  via ball bearings  218 ,  220 . 
       FIG. 40  shows a sectional view of a seat track arrangement  222  having a seat base fixed track  224  and a seat base movable track  226 . The seat base movable track  226  is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  224  via a ball bearing arrangement  228  that includes ball bearing  230 . 
       FIG. 41  shows a sectional view of a seat track arrangement  232  having a seat base fixed track  234  and a seat base movable track  236 . The seat base movable track  236  is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  234  via a ball bearing arrangement  238  that includes ball bearing  240 . 
       FIG. 42  shows a sectional view of a seat track arrangement  242  having a seat base fixed track  244  and a seat base movable track  246 . The seat base movable track  246  is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  244  via a ball bearing arrangement  248  that includes ball bearing  250 . 
       FIG. 43  shows a sectional view of a seat track arrangement  252  having a seat base fixed track  254  and a seat base movable track  256 . The seat base movable track  256  is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  254  via a ball bearing arrangement  258  that includes spaces  260 ,  261 ,  263  for receiving ball bearings. 
       FIG. 44  is a cross sectional view of a seat track arrangement  262 . The seat track arrangement  262  has the features disclosed in U.S. patent publication 2006165321 A1, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
       FIG. 45  is a cross sectional view of a seat track arrangement  264  having a seat base fixed track  266  and a seat base movable track  268 . The seat base movable track  268  is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  266  via ball bearings  270 ,  272 . A portion  269  of the seat base movable track  268  engages the ball bearing  272 . A portion  271  of the seat base movable track  268  engages the ball bearing  270 . 
       FIG. 46  is a cross sectional view of a seat track arrangement  274  having a seat base fixed track  276  and a seat base movable track  278 . The seat base movable track  278  is mounted relative to the seat base fixed track  276  via ball bearings  288 ,  290 ,  292 ,  294 . The seat base movable track  278  has surfaces  280 ,  282 ,  284 ,  286 . Each of the surfaces  280 ,  282 ,  284 ,  286  engages one of the ball bearings  288 ,  290 ,  292 ,  294 . 
     While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown and described in detail to illustrate the application of the principles of the invention, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise without departing from such principles. 
     LIST OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS 
     
         
           1  Vehicle seat system 
           1 ′ Vehicle seat system 
           5  Vehicle floor 
           5 ′ Vehicle floor 
           10  Vehicle seat 
           10 ′ Vehicle seat 
           12  Backrest (seat back) 
           12 ′ Backrest (seat back) 
           14  Seat base (cushion) 
           14 ′ Seat base (cushion) 
           16  Link arm 
           16 ′ Link arm 
           18  Seat base frame 
           18 ′ Seat base frame 
           19  Cushion upper part 
           19 ′ Cushion upper part 
           20  Support frame 
           20 ′ Support frame 
           22  Backrest support 
           22 ′ Backrest support 
           24  Seat base support 
           24 ′ Seat base support 
           26  Seat base pivot 
           26 ′ Seat base pivot 
           28  Link arm and backrest pivot connection 
           28 ′ Link arm and backrest pivot connection 
           30  Backrest movable track 
           30 ′ Backrest movable track 
           32  Backrest fixed track 
           32 ′ Backrest fixed track 
           34  Locking arrangement 
           34 ′ Locking arrangement 
           36  Locking device 
           36 ′ Locking device 
           38  Locking device support 
           38 ′ Locking device support 
           40  Locking device support connection 
           40 ′ Locking device support connection 
           42  Seat track arrangement 
           42 ′ Seat track arrangement 
           43 ′ Seat base track connector 
           44  Locking device 
           44 ′ Locking device 
           45 ′ Connector 
           46  Seat track arrangement 
           46 ′ Seat track arrangement 
           47 ′ Connector 
           48  Seat base support 
           48 ′ Seat base support 
           49 ′ Release/lock assembly 
           50  Locking device support 
           50 ′ Locking device support 
           51 ′ Cable 
           52  Seat base fixed track 
           52 ′ Seat base fixed track 
           53 ′ Cable 
           54  Seat base movable track 
           54 ′ Seat base movable track 
           55 ′ Seat base track connector 
           56  Fastener 
           56 ′ Fastener 
           57 ′ Fastener 
           58  Fastener 
           58 ′ Fastener 
           59 ′ Fastener 
           60  Seat base fixed track 
           61 ′ Fastener 
           62  Seat base movable track (inner track) 
           63 ′ Opening 
           64  Fastener 
           64 ′ Fastener 
           65 ′ Opening 
           66  Fastener 
           66 ′ Fastener 
           67 ′ Opening 
           68  Bracket 
           69 ′ Arrow 
           70  Fastener 
           70 ′ Fastener 
           71 ′ Arrow 
           72  Fastener 
           74  Fastener 
           75  Fastener 
           76  Fastener 
           76 ′ Fastener 
           78  Ball stop 
           78 ′ Ball stop 
           80  Ball stop 
           80 ′ Ball stop 
           81 ′ Raised portion 
           82  Ball stop 
           82 ′ Ball stop 
           83 ′ Raised portion 
           84  Ball bearing 
           84 ′ Ball bearing 
           86  Ball bearing 
           86 ′ Ball bearing 
           87 ′ Fastener element 
           88  Ball stop 
           88 ′ Ball stop 
           89 ′ Fastener element 
           90  Ball stop 
           90 ′ Ball stop 
           91 ′ Fastener element 
           92  Fastener 
           94  Ball bearing 
           96  Ball bearing 
           98  Ball bearing 
           100  Ball bearing arrangement 
           102  Ball bearing spacer element (straw spacer) 
           104  Ball bearing arrangement 
           106  Ball bearing 
           108  Ball bearing 
           110  Ball bearing 
           112  Ball bearing spacer element (straw spacer) 
           114  Ball bearing arrangement 
           116  Ball cage 
           118  Space 
           120  Space 
           122  Space 
           124  Space 
           126  Space 
           128  Space 
           130  Space 
           132  Space 
           133  Movable portion 
           134  Arrow 
           135  Fixed element 
           136  Arrow 
           137  Upward extending portion 
           138  Arm (handle) 
           138   a  Surface of arm 
           138   b  Portion of arm 
           138   c  Surface of arm 
           139  Slot 
           140  Wedge bushing 
           141  Upward extending portion 
           142  Housing 
           143  Upper housing portion 
           144  Projection 
           144   a  Outer surface of projection 
           145  Housing projection 
           145   a  Outer surface of the housing projection 
           146  Upper housing portion 
           146   a  Inner surface of the housing portion 
           147  Upward extending portion 
           148  Actuator 
           149  Upward extending portion 
           150  Cable connecting structure 
           151  Opening 
           152  Cable 
           153  Opening 
           154  Cable end portion 
           156  Housing connector portion 
           156   a  Inner surface of housing connector portion 
           157  Opening 
           158  Lip (projection) 
           158   a  Surface of the lip 
           160  Slot 
           162  Slot 
           164  Opening 
           166  Cable connecting structure 
           168  Cable 
           170  Cable end portion 
           172  Housing connector portion 
           172   a  Inner surface of the housing connector portion 
           174  Lip (projection) 
           174   a  Surface of the lip 
           176  Slot 
           178  Slot 
           180  Opening 
           181  Opening 
           182  Housing assembly 
           183  Lever arm 
           184  Spring 
           186  Housing projection 
           188  Spring 
           189  Fastener 
           190  Pivot axis 
           194  Actuator connecting portion 
           196  Bushing 
           198  Bushing 
           200  Drive rod 
           202  Release arm 
           204  Opening 
           206  Opening 
           208  Cable end portion 
           210  Cable end portion 
           212  Seat track arrangement 
           214  Seat base fixed track (outer track) 
           216  Seat base movable track (inner track) 
           218  Ball bearing 
           220  Ball bearing 
           222  Seat track arrangement 
           224  Seat base fixed track (outer track) 
           226  Seat base movable track (inner track) 
           228  Ball bearing arrangement 
           230  Ball bearing 
           232  Seat track arrangement 
           234  Seat base fixed track (outer track) 
           236  Seat base movable track (inner track) 
           238  Ball bearing arrangement 
           240  Ball bearing 
           242  Seat track arrangement 
           244  Seat base fixed track (outer track) 
           246  Seat base movable track (inner track) 
           248  Ball bearing arrangement 
           250  Ball bearing 
           252  Seat track arrangement 
           254  Seat base fixed track (outer track) 
           256  Seat base movable track (inner track) 
           258  Ball bearing arrangement 
           260  Space for receiving ball bearing 
           261  Space for receiving ball bearing 
           262  Seat track arrangement 
           263  Space for receiving ball bearing 
           264  Seat track arrangement 
           266  Seat base fixed track (outer track) 
           268  Seat base movable track (inner track) 
           269  Portion of seat base movable track 
           270  Ball bearing 
           271  Portion of seat base movable track 
           272  Ball bearing 
           274  Seat track arrangement 
           276  Seat base fixed track (outer track) 
           278  Seat base movable track (inner track) 
           280  Surface of seat base movable track 
           282  Surface of seat base movable track 
           284  Surface of seat base movable track 
           286  Surface of seat base movable track 
           288  Ball bearing 
           290  Ball bearing 
           292  Ball bearing 
           294  Ball bearing