| Mechanical seat recline lock mechanism with integrated damping -> Monitor Keywords |
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Mechanical seat recline lock mechanism with integrated dampingMechanical seat recline lock mechanism with integrated damping description/claimsThe Patent Description & Claims data below is from USPTO Patent Application 20070210633, Mechanical seat recline lock mechanism with integrated damping. Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] Not applicable. COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL [0002] Not applicable. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] 1. Field of the Invention [0004] The present invention relates to a lock mechanism for controlling seat recline function for passenger comfort. More specifically, the invention relates to a lock mechanism for controlling seat recline function that provides nearly infinite position options and incorporates integrated damping. [0005] 2. Related Art [0006] The recline function for seat backs in the aircraft and automotive industry has been a standard for many years. The two industries have approached the solution from different perspectives. The automotive industry has traditionally used a mechanical locking device that positively locks the seat back into a position by means of a spring and gear type engagement. This arrangement is adequate for the normal automotive application where the seat back is not adjusted very many times over the life of the product. However, it does not allow for positive engagement until the teeth are properly aligned, and therefore, results in substantial wear due to the high forces encountered when the teeth are forced to engage. [0007] The aircraft industry has a different need due to a different use profile. An aircraft seat recline function is activated at least twice per flight (take-off and landing) and potentially several times in flight with meals, reading, sleeping, etc. The solution implemented approximately 40 years ago was a hydraulic cylinder with a bypass port controlled by a lever. The cylinder piston separates two oil-filled chambers connected by a valve that allows oil to pass when activated, thereby allowing motion of the piston shaft. This arrangement has many attractive features, including nearly infinite hold power, motion damping, and a small package. However, it also has disadvantages such as a propensity for leaks (internal and external), relatively heavy weight, and high cost. Aircraft-type hydraulic systems tend to leak because they are based on pressurized hydraulic fluid with tight tolerances (typical of hydraulic systems) on the internal dimensions to operate properly. Once these tolerances begin to wear, the performance of the device deteriorates rapidly. [0008] It is to the solution of these and other problems that the present invention is directed. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0009] It is accordingly a primary object of the present invention to provide a seat recline lock mechanism that is mechanical and has infinite adjustability. [0010] It is another object of the present invention to provide a seat recline lock mechanism that is mechanical and has integral damping. [0011] It is another object of the present invention to provide a seat recline lock mechanism that is mechanical and has a long life. [0012] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a seat recline lock mechanism is mechanical and that does not leak. [0013] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a seat recline lock mechanism is mechanical and light in weight. [0014] These and other objects are achieved by a mechanical seat recline lock mechanism that employs a lead screw device to backdrive a nut and disk. The disk is held in place by a spring-loaded friction pin when motion needs to be constrained. The rotating disk can be oiled or greased to provide damping action. [0015] Unlike prior art mechanical devices, the mechanical seat recline lock mechanism in accordance with the present invention is its infinite adjustability, integral damping, and longer life. In contrast to prior art hydraulic systems, the mechanical seat recline lock mechanism in accordance with the present invention does not leak and has a lighter weight. [0016] Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading of this specification including the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0017] The invention is better understood by reading the following Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout, and in which: [0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a seat recline lock mechanism in accordance with the present invention. [0019] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the seat recline lock mechanism of FIG. 1. Continue reading about Mechanical seat recline lock mechanism with integrated damping... Full patent description for Mechanical seat recline lock mechanism with integrated damping Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims Click on the above for other options relating to this Mechanical seat recline lock mechanism with integrated damping patent application. ###  How KEYWORD MONITOR works... a FREE service from FreshPatents1. Sign up (takes 30 seconds). 2. Fill in the keywords to be monitored. 3. Each week you receive an email with patent applications related to your keywords. Start now! - Receive info on patent apps like Mechanical seat recline lock mechanism with integrated damping or other areas of interest. ### Previous Patent Application: Latching means for a safety seat Next Patent Application: Ergonomic chair Industry Class: Chairs and seats ### FreshPatents.com Support Thank you for viewing the Mechanical seat recline lock mechanism with integrated damping patent info. 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