Reconfigurable rear seat for van or station wagon

Abstract

A bench type rear seat has three sections independently movable about a common laterally extending pivot axis. The rear seat is positioned in a van or station wagon behind the front seat or seats where the driver sits. The sections include a pair of cushions that may function either as upright back rests, as posterior supports, or as bed cushions. The third section comprises a wrap around control bar that is used to establish the upright position of one of the cushions. By moving the sections, the seat can be configured so that passengers can face forwardly or rearwardly. The sections can also be moved to provide a flat bed. The wrap around control bar includes headrests and locking mechanisms for fixing the position of the upright back rest section. Adjustable headrests and arm rests are also provided. Shoulder type seat belts are connected to the control bar so that they may be used whether the seat is arranged for forward or rearward sitting. An integral lumbar support cushion may be folded down in both the forward and rearward facing configurations. The mounting position of the rear seat in the van or station wagon may be adjusted infinitely by sliding forward and back on tracks. The seat may be folded up and moved to a stowed position, e.g. directly behind the front seat.