CHAPTER 9: SEAT SAFETY PATENTS

This Chapter reviews the history of seat safety patents and includes examples of concepts specific to rear crash protection. It also covers seat concepts for front, side and rollover protection where the technology may have application to rear crashes. The first page from 63 USPTO patents is included to show information on seat concepts and technologies considered for crash safety. Ideas for swinging, tilting and movable seat cushions/seats have a rich history with early patents from the 1930s and many following patents through today. There are variations that include load limiting, energy absorbing and rotating structures to limit and control occupant motion. These approaches were later merged with various seat belt systems to further enhance occupant protection. Finally, a series of patents is included with wrap-around wings, barriers and panels to constrain occupant motion in a variety of crashes; and, other seat approaches with padding and energy absorption, which address rear seat occupant impacts on the seat frame and trim. The patent history and example concepts for seat safety show a rich history of ideas for occupant protection and containment in the seat.