US 10,471,870 B2 · Multi-zone seat suspension

Abstract

A suspension member for a seat assembly includes a plurality of zones which define spatially varying properties of the suspension member. Each of the zones produces a response to an occupant load imposed on the seat assembly by a seated occupant, where the response includes one or more of a stiffness response, an energy dissipation response, and a thermal response. The response produced by each zone is different from the response produced from any other of the zones. The suspension member can be made of a homogenous material or made of a combination of materials such that each zone is made of a different material. The suspension member can include a textile material formed by weaving, knitting or crocheting. At least one zone of the suspension member can include one or more apertures.

Claims19

Dependent claims

A seat assembly for seating an occupant, wherein the seated occupant exerts an occupant load on the seat assembly, the seat assembly comprising:

a cushion;
a frame;
and
a suspension member;
wherein the suspension member is positioned intermediate the cushion and the frame;
wherein the suspension member comprises:
a first zone configured to provide a first response to the occupant load;
wherein the first response is a first contact pressure exerted on the seated occupant in the first zone;
a second zone configured to provide a second response to the occupant load;
wherein the second response is a second contact pressure exerted on the seated occupant in the second zone;
wherein the first response is different than the second response;
and
wherein:
the first zone is made of a first material;
the second zone is made of a second material;
and
the first material is different than the second material.

14 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Multi-zone seat suspension

Life of this patent

Multi-zone seat suspension

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims19