The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Aug. 07, 2012
Filed:
Dec. 15, 2009
Thomas A. Jones, Macomb, MI (US);
Therese A. Tant, Royal Oak, MI (US);
James T. Embach, Rochester Hills, MI (US);
Kurt D. Zeile, Lake Orion, MI (US);
Michael J. Richardson, Azle, TX (US);
Thomas A. Jones, Macomb, MI (US);
Therese A. Tant, Royal Oak, MI (US);
James T. Embach, Rochester Hills, MI (US);
Kurt D. Zeile, Lake Orion, MI (US);
Michael J. Richardson, Azle, TX (US);
GM Global Technology Operations LLC, Detroit, MI (US);
Abstract
A vehicle is provided with on-demand seating to allow maximum cargo space in the passenger compartment when the seats are not needed. The seating is lightweight and compact, maximizing available cargo space and minimizing mass and fuel economy impact. The flexible seat may be stowed within body structure defining the passenger compartment, such as side trim panels or a vehicle floor. The body structure supports the flexible seat in a deployed position in which the flexible seat extends from the body structure into the passenger compartment. Roller mechanisms mounted within the body structure allow the seat to extend and retract from the passenger compartment. The seats may be inflatable, and may include pneumatic foam.