Fisher Dynamics Corporation

Tyrone R Secord

Robert L Bell

A power seat recliner mechanism particularly adapted for motor vehicle applications. The recliner mechanism includes an electric drive motor meshing with a series of reduction gears. Rotation of the drive motor causes the reclined position of the seat back cushion. Forward and rearward reclining movement of the seat back is provided through reversing the direction of rotation of the drive motor. For enhanced structural characteristics, the drive motor is affixed to the lower recliner structure at both its axial ends. A rotationally compliant drive shaft for the motor can be used to absorb shock loads acting through the drive system.

Power seat recliner

An improved inertia sensitive seat hinge mechanism which enables the seat back to be normally folded forwardly to permit access to a motor vehicle rear compartment area which locks when exposed to a predetermined acceleration load. The inertia sensitive actuator is in the form of a generally straight lever which is mounted for rotation to the upper hinge structure. A projecting finger of the inertia sensitive pendulum interacts with a cam surface associated with the lower recliner structure to maintain the inertia device in an engaged position when the seat back is in its rearmost folded position. This positioning improves reliability of the hinge device. The configuration of components according to this invention eliminates the objectionable rearward projection presented by many present seat hinge designs which can interfere with free access to the rear compartment area. The configuration further permits the mounting of an emergency release lever which is located close to the junction between the upper and lower hinge structures, thus simplifying trimming of the seat. The hinge mechanism according to this invention is further extremely simple in configuration and operation.

Inertia sensitive seat hinge mechanism

A recliner mechanism particularly adapted for motor vehicle seats is described. In accordance with this invention, the adjusted position of the seat back is controlled by using a recliner mechanism which includes a coil spring clutch which is selectively tightened or loosened around an actuator clutch drum surface to fix the reclined position or to permit it to be varied. The upper recliner structure has a toothed quadrant surface which meshes with a recliner gear which communicates preferably through an intermediate gear to the rotating actuator clutch drum. A lever is employed to cause relative rotation between a pair of actuator cam plates which are connected to extending ends of a coil clutch spring. Movement of the actuator lever selectively causes the coil clutch spring to tighten or loosen around the actuator clutch drum. In accordance with another feature of this invention, a redundant positioning pawl is provided which prevents unrestrained motion of the upper recliner structure in the event of a failure or improper operation of the coil spring clutch actuator.

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Sterling Heights, MI, United States of America

Tyrone R Secord