초록 ▼

A seat suspension method in one approach involves applying a dampening force over less than the full range over which a seat may be raised and lowered by a seat height adjuster. The step of applying a dampening force may comprise applying such a force which varies non-linearly, depending upon the ex

A seat suspension method in one approach involves applying a dampening force over less than the full range over which a seat may be raised and lowered by a seat height adjuster. The step of applying a dampening force may comprise applying such a force which varies non-linearly, depending upon the extent a seat moves as a result of seat vibration. In several specific approaches, unlatching of the dampening mechanism may be accomplished to permit relative movement of the seat and seat support mechanism during seat height adjustment. Relatching of the vibration damper may be accomplished to again apply a dampening force. The seat may automatically be returned toward a desired elevation in the event loading on the seat is varied, for example if a seat occupant leaves the seat.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A method of suspending a seat above the floor of a vehicle comprising:positioning a seat at a first elevation relative to the floor of the vehicle; allowing the seat to move in response to vibrations; applying a dampening force which varies non-linearly over at least certain ranges of seat moveme

1. A method of suspending a seat above the floor of a vehicle comprising:positioning a seat at a first elevation relative to the floor of the vehicle; allowing the seat to move in response to vibrations; applying a dampening force which varies non-linearly over at least certain ranges of seat movement in response to vibration so as to dampen the vibrations; and in which the act of allowing the seat to move in response to vibrations comprises the act of allowing the seat to move between first and second extremes of motion in response to vibrations, the method also comprising the act of biasing the seat to a central or home position between the first and second extremes of motion, the dampening, force varying non-linearly over at least predetermined ranges of scat movement from the central position.