Hybrid composite-metal energy absorbing seat

A hybrid composite-metal energy absorbing aircraft seat comprising:

• a seat base assembly comprising a plurality of rigid metal seat base side frame elements joined by a seat pan formed of sheet metal and a molded composite seat cover, the plurality of rigid metal seat base side frame elements to absorb forward crash load energy by permanently deforming during a severe forward crash load, the seat pan configured to hold a lightweight energy absorber for absorbing downloads, the molded composite seat cover having sides extending across the plurality of seat base side frame elements to also provide energy absorption capability in a download;
• a seat back assembly attached to the seat base assembly, the seat back assembly comprising a plurality of rigid metal seat back side frame elements joined together with a plurality of composite molded shells, including an outer shell and an inner shell between which a shoulder belt harness system is housed and anchored to the plurality of rigid metal seat back side frame elements to transfer shoulder belt crash loads to the plurality of rigid metal seat back side fame elements and down into the plurality of rigid metal seat base side frame elements causing the plurality of rigid metal seat base side frame elements and the plurality of seat back side frame elements to deform and dissipate a portion of forces acting upon the seat;
• and
• wherein the molded composite seat cover sides provide energy absorption capability in a download by deforming up and over the plurality of rigid metal seat base side frame elements and allowing a center portion of the molded composite seat cover to deflect downwards.