FOR A SEAT OF A VEHICLE

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/342,288, filed on April 12, 2010, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a foldable headrest assembly for a seat of a vehicle.

2. Description of the Related Art

[0003] Foldable headrests are known in the art. One example of a foldable headrest includes a pivot shaft along an axis with a pair of head restraint supports rotatable about the axis between an upright position and a folded position. A metal substrate is provided at the lower ends of the head restraint supports for attaching the head restraint supports to the pivot shaft. A lock abutment is movable transverse to the axis and selectively engages one of the substrates. For example, when the lock abutment and the substrate engage each other, rotation of the head restraint supports to the folded position is prevented. However, the head restraint supports are able to rotate back due to manufacturing tolerance.

[0004] Therefore, there remains an opportunity to develop a foldable headrest assembly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention provides for a foldable headrest assembly for a seat of a vehicle. The foldable headrest assembly includes a housing adapted to be coupled to the seat and a shaft coupled to the housing and defining a central axis. The foldable headrest assembly further includes a bracket coupled to the shaft and the housing. The foldable headrest assembly also includes a cushion coupled to the shaft and rotatable between a use position and a stowed position. In addition, the foldable headrest assembly includes a locking member movable along a longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the central axis between a locked position preventing rotation of the cushion to the stowed position and an unlocked position allowing rotation of the cushion to the stowed position. The foldable headrest assembly further includes a wedge coupled to the housing and rotatable between an engaged position wedged between the housing and the bracket when the locking member is in the locked position for preventing movement of the cushion and a disengaged position spaced from one of the housing and the bracket when the locking member is in the unlocked position.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention provides for a foldable headrest assembly which is more compact and less complex. Having the locking member movable substantially parallel to the central axis allows the locking member to be slimmer and/or allows the locking member to be manufactured from a wider selection of materials. Further, when the locking member is in the locked position and the wedge is in the engaged position, the cushion is secured in the use position such that play or undesirable rotation of the cushion is prevented and/or eliminated. In other words, the wedge compensates for manufacturing tolerances to prevent and/or eliminate play in the cushion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated, as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

[0008] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a foldable headrest assembly coupled to a seat.

[0009] Figure 2 is a plan view of the foldable headrest assembly having a cushion in a use position and a cap substantially covering various components of the assembly.

[0010] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the foldable headrest assembly.

[0001] Figure 4 is a plan view of the housing and the locking member in the locked position.

[0011] Figure 5 is a plan view of the locking member in an unlocked position. [0012] Figure 6 is a plan view of the cushion in the stowed position and the locking member abutting a bracket.

[0013] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the locking member in the locked position and a wedge in an engaged position with the locking member engaging an actuating part of the wedge and the wedge engaging the bracket.

[0014] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the cushion in the stowed position with the wedge in the disengaged position.

[0015] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a cover and a fastener.

[0016] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a foldable headrest assembly of a second embodiment coupled to a seat.

[0017] Figure 11 is a back perspective view of a housing and a locking member in a locked position of the second embodiment.

[0018] Figure 12 is an exploded view of a wedge of the second embodiment.

[0019] Figure 13 is an exploded view of the foldable headrest assembly of the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the housing in a stowed position of the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 15 is a back perspective view of the housing, the locking member in the locked position disposed in the housing, and the wedge in an engaged position of the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 16 is a back perspective view of the housing, the locking member in an unlocked position disposed in the housing, and the wedge in a disengaged position of the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the locking member in the locked position and the wedge in the engaged position of the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the locking member in the unlocked position and the wedge in the disengaged position of the second embodiment.

[0025] Figure 19 is a plan view of the wedge in the disengaged position of the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, a foldable headrest assembly 20 for a seat 22 of a vehicle (not shown) is generally shown in Figures 1-3. It is to be appreciated that the seat 22 can be utilized with any suitable vehicle or non- vehicle. Referring to Figure 1, the seat 22 can include a back portion 24 and a bottom portion 26 transverse to the back portion 24. The back portion 24 can support a user's back and the bottom portion 24, 26 can support a user's legs. It is to be appreciated that the seat 22 can be foldable such that the back portion 24 rotates downwardly toward the bottom portion 26.

[0027] Also referring to Figures 2 and 3, the foldable headrest assembly 20 includes a housing 28 adapted to be coupled to the seat 22. More specifically, the housing 28 is coupled to the back portion 24 of the seat 22. The housing 28 includes a bottom wall 30 and a back wall 32 traverse to the bottom wall 30. The housing 28 further includes a first side wall 34 and a second side wall 36 spaced from each other with the bottom and back walls 30, 32 disposed between the first and second side walls 34, 36. More specifically, the first side wall 34 is coupled to one end of the bottom and back walls 30, 32 and the second side wall 36 is coupled to another end of the bottom and back walls 30, 32. The walls 30, 32, 34, 36 cooperate to define a pocket 38. The housing 28 defines a plurality of holes 40 spaced from each other and more specifically, the first side wall 34 defines one of the holes 40 and the second side wall 36 defines another one of the holes 40.

[0028] A cap 42 can be coupled to the housing 28 and substantially enclose the pocket 38. The cap 42 includes at least one first attachment member 44 for securing the cap 42 to the housing 28, and more specifically includes a plurality of first attachment members 44. The housing 28 includes at least one second attachment member 46 cooperating with the first attachment member 44 for securing the cap 42 to the housing 28, and more specifically includes a plurality of second attachment members 46 cooperating with the first attachment members 44. In one configuration, the first attachment member(s) 44 can further be defined as tab(s) and the second attachment member(s) 46 can further be defined as opening(s). For example, the back and bottom walls 32, 30 of the housing 28 can each define the openings with the cap 42 including tabs corresponding to the openings. Likewise, the first and second side walls 34, 36 can each define the openings with the cap 42 including tabs corresponding to the openings. It is to be appreciated that the first attachment member(s) 44 can further be defined as opening(s) and the second attachment member(s) 46 can further be defined as tab(s). It is to further be appreciated that the first and/or second attachment member(s) 44, 46 can be defined as, for example, fastener(s), snap fit connector(s), tab(s), clip(s), opening(s) and/or any suitable attachment member(s) for coupling the cap 42 to the housing 28.

[0029] The foldable headrest assembly 20 includes a shaft 48 coupled to the housing 28 and defining a central axis C. More specifically, the shaft 48 is disposed through the holes 40 of the housing 28. The shaft 48 is substantially disposed in the pocket 38 with the cap 42 disposed thereover. It is to be appreciated that the shaft 48 can be further defined as a plurality of shafts 48 and optionally include inserts as further disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. filed concurrently with the present application (attorney docket no. 065604.00005), which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0030] The foldable headrest assembly 20 further includes a cushion 50 coupled to the shaft 48 and rotatable between a use position and a stowed position. In certain configurations, the cushion 50 is rotatable about the central axis C and supports a user's head. The cushion 50 is disposed above the back portion 24 of the seat 22 when in the use position. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the cushion 50 in the use position and Figure 8 illustrates the cushion 50 in the stowed position. It is to be appreciated that the cushion 50 can rotate back beyond the use position and then forward to the use position or to the stowed position.

[0031] Turning to Figures 3-6, a support 52 is coupled to the shaft 48 and rotatable with the cushion 50 between the use and stowed positions. More specifically, the cushion 50 is attached to the support 52 such that the cushion 50 and the support 52 concurrently rotate between the use and stowed positions. In other words, the cushion 50 and the support 52 rotate in unison between the use and stowed positions. Hence, the support 52 is illustrated in the use position in Figures 1, 2, 4, 5, and 7 and the support 52 is illustrated in the stowed position in Figures 6 and 8. The cushion 50 can be coupled or attached to the support 52 by any suitable method(s).

[0032] Referring back to Figures 3-6, the support 52 includes a first leg 54 and a second leg 56 spaced from each other with the first and second legs 54, 56 coupled to the shaft 48. The cushion 50 can be disposed over a portion of the first and second legs 54, 56 of the support 52. It is to be appreciated that the cushion 50 can be disposed over the support 52 as desired. It is to further be appreciated when utilizing a plurality of shafts 48, the first leg 54 is coupled to one of the shafts 48 and the second leg 56 is coupled to another one of the shafts 48.

[0033] The foldable headrest assembly 20 includes a bracket 58 coupled to the shaft 48 and the housing 28. More specifically, the bracket 58 is attached to the support 52 for concurrent rotation with the cushion 50 and the support 52 between the use and stowed positions. In one configuration, the bracket 58 is coupled to the shaft 48 and attached to the first leg 54 of the support 52. It is to be appreciated that the bracket 58 can be attached to the second leg 56 of the support 52 instead of the first leg 54 of the support 52.

[0034] The bracket 58 includes a first abutment 60 and more specifically, the first abutment 60 extends outwardly away from the back wall 32 of the housing 28 when in the use position. The first abutment 60 faces the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28 when the cushion 50 is in the use position. In certain configurations, the first abutment 60 presents a flat configuration. It is to be appreciated that the first abutment 60 can be any suitable location and configuration.

[0035] As best shown in Figures 5 and 6, the bracket 58 further includes a second abutment 62 spaced from the first abutment 60. The second abutment 62 faces the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28 when the cushion 50/support 52 is in the use position. The second abutment 62 includes a slope 64 extending away from the first side wall 34 when the cushion 50/support 52 is in the use position. More specifically, the slope 64 extends angularly away from the first side wall 34 when the cushion 50/support 52 is in the use position. Even more specifically, the slope 64 extends angularly away from the first side wall 34 and toward the bottom wall 30 when in the use position. In certain configurations, the second abutment 62 presents a flat configuration. It is to be appreciated that the second abutment 62 can be any suitable location and configuration. For example, the second abutment 62 can eliminate the slope 64 if desired. The first and second abutments 60, 62 will be discussed further below.

[0036] The bracket 58 is further defined as a first bracket 58 and further including a second bracket 66 coupled to the shaft 48 and attached to the support 52 for concurrent rotation with the support 52 and thus the cushion 50 between the use and stowed positions. In one configuration, the first and second brackets 58, 66 are attached to the support 52. In another configuration, the first and second brackets 58, 66 are attached to the first and second legs 54, 56 respectively. The first and second brackets 58, 66 are attached to the support 52, and thus the first and second legs 54, 56, by any suitable methods, such as, for example, welding, press fit, adhesive, fasteners etc. or combinations thereof. It is to be appreciated that the first and/or second brackets 58, 66 can be integral with the support 52. The first bracket 58 includes the first and second abutments 60, 62 as discussed above. The bracket 58 will be referred to as the first bracket 58 in the following discussion.

[0037] In addition, the first and/or second brackets 58, 66 are attached to the shaft 48 such that the first and second brackets 58, 66 concurrently rotate with the shaft 48 about the central axis C. In other words, the shaft 48 is rotatable about the central axis C. The first and second brackets 58, 66 are attached to the shaft 48 by any suitable methods, such as, for example, welding, press fit, adhesive, fasteners etc. or combinations thereof. It is to be appreciated that the first and second brackets 58, 66 can be rotatable about the central axis C independently of the shaft 48. In other words, the shaft 48 can be stationary during movement of the first and second brackets 58, 66 about the central axis C.

[0038] The first and second brackets 58, 66 each include a back side 68 facing the back wall 32 of the housing 28 when the support 52 and the cushion 50 are in the use position. The back side 68 of the first bracket 58 is spaced from the first and second abutments 60, 62. In certain configurations, the back side 68 of the first and second brackets 58, 66 each present a flat configuration. It is to be appreciated that the back side 68 of the first and second brackets 58, 66 can be any suitable location and configuration. The back side 68 of the first and second brackets 58, 66 will be discussed further below.

[0039] Referring to Figures 3-6, optionally, a first biasing component 70 is coupled to the housing 28 and the shaft 48 for continuously biasing the support 52 toward the stowed position. More specifically, the first biasing component 70 continuously biases the support 52 which continuously biases the cushion 50 toward the stowed position. In one configuration, the first biasing component 70 is secured to the shaft 48 and the first side wall 34 of the housing 28. It is to be appreciated that the first biasing component 70 can be secured to any suitable component(s) and any suitable location for biasing the support 52 toward the stowed position. The first biasing component 70 can be further defined as a clock spring, dump spring, torsion spring, or any other suitable biasing component.

[0040] In addition, optionally, a second biasing component 72 is coupled to the housing 28 and the shaft 48 for continuously biasing the support 52 toward the stowed position. More specifically, the second biasing component 72 continuously biases the support 52 which continuously biases the cushion 50 toward the stowed position. In one configuration, the second biasing component 72 is disposed about the shaft 48 and secured to the back wall 32 of the housing 28 and the second bracket 66. It is to be appreciated that the second biasing component 72 can be secured to any suitable component(s) and any suitable location for biasing the support 52 and thus the cushion 50 toward the stowed position. The second biasing component 72 can be further defined as a dump spring, torsion spring or any other suitable biasing component. It is to be appreciated that the first biasing component 70 can be utilized instead of the second biasing component 72. Likewise, it is to be appreciated that the second biasing component 72 can be utilized instead of the first biasing component 70. In addition, it is to be appreciated that the first and second biasing components 70, 72 can both be utilized for biasing the support 52 and thus the cushion 50 toward the stowed position.

[0041] The foldable headrest assembly 20 further includes a locking member 74 movable along a longitudinal axis L substantially parallel to the central axis C. The locking member 74 is movable between a locked position preventing rotation of the cushion 50 to the stowed position and an unlocked position allowing rotation of the cushion 50 to the stowed position. The locking member 74 is coupled to the housing 28 and more specifically, coupled to the bottom wall 30. Further, the locking member 74 is disposed in the pocket 38 of the housing 28. It is to be appreciated that the locking member 74 can be coupled to the housing 28 at any suitable location. Figures 2, 4, and 7 illustrate the locking member 74 in the locked position and Figure 5 illustrates the locking member 74 in the unlocked position. Having the locking member 74 movable substantially parallel to the central axis C allows the locking member 74 to be slimmer and/or allows the locking member 74 to be manufactured from a wider selection of materials. [0042] The locking member 74 is sandwiched between the first bracket 58 and the housing 28 when the locking member 74 is in the locked position for preventing rotation of the support 52 and the cushion 50 to the stowed position. In addition, when the locking member 74 is sandwiched between the first bracket 58 and the housing 28, the locking member 74 is being supported by the housing 28 at the point of contact. As best shown in Figure 4, when the locking member 74 is in the locked position, the locking member 74 is disposed in the rotational path of the first bracket 58; thus, rotation of the support 52 and the cushion 50 from the use position to the stowed position is prevented. Further, as shown in Figure 5, when the locking member 74 is disposed in the unlocked position, the locking member 74 is spaced from the rotational path of the first bracket 58; thus, rotation of the support 52 and the cushion 50 from the use position to the stowed position is allowed.

[0043] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the locking member 74 includes a first end 76 and a second end 78 spaced from the first end 76. In certain configurations, the first and second ends 76, 78 are spaced from each other along the longitudinal axis L. The first abutment 60 of the first bracket 58 engages the first end 76 of the locking member 74 when in the locked position for preventing rotation of the cushion 50 to the stowed position. More specifically, when the locking member 74 is in the locked position, the first abutment 60 engages the first end 76 such that the locking member 74 is sandwiched between the first bracket 58 and the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28 for preventing rotation of the support 52 and thus the cushion 50 to the stowed position.

[0044] The locking member 74 also includes a top side 80 and a bottom side 82 spaced from each other with the bottom side 82 facing the housing 28 and the top side 80 facing the first abutment 60 when in the use position. The locking member 74 further includes a shoulder 84 and more specifically, the bottom side 82 of the locking member 74 includes the shoulder 84. The first end 76 of the locking member 74 terminates at the second shoulder 84 such that the first end 76 defines a head 86. The bottom side 82 of the head 86/first end 76 abuts the housing 28 for supporting the first end 76 when the first bracket 58 engages the locking member 74. A remainder of the bottom side 82 of the locking member 74 is spaced from the housing 28. More specifically, the remainder of the bottom side 82 of the locking member 74 is defined from the second shoulder 84 to the second end 78 of the locking member 74. [0045] Turning to Figures 3, 7, and 8, the foldable headrest assembly 20 also includes a wedge 88 coupled to the housing 28. More specifically, the wedge 88 is coupled to the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28. It is to be appreciated that the wedge 88 can be coupled to the housing 28 at any suitable location. The wedge 88 is rotatable between an engaged position wedged between the housing 28 and the first bracket 58 when the locking member 74 is in the locked position for preventing movement of the cushion 50 and a disengaged position spaced from one of the housing 28 and the first bracket 58 when the locking member 74 is in the unlocked position. In this embodiment, when in the disengaged position, the wedge 88 is spaced from the first bracket 58. Figures 4 and 7 illustrate the wedge 88 in the engaged position and Figures 5 and 8 illustrate the wedge 88 in the disengaged position. It is to be appreciated that the wedge 88 can define a helical shape or any other suitable configuration.

[0046] As best shown in Figures 3, 4, 7, and 8, the wedge 88 includes a ramp 90 engaging one of the housing 28 and the first bracket 58 when the locking member 74 is in the locked position. In this embodiment, the ramp 90 engages the first bracket 58 when the locking member 74 is in the locked position. More specifically, the ramp 90 engages the second abutment 62 of the first bracket 58. The ramp 90 and the slope 64 of the second abutment 62 are configured to complement each other. As such, the ramp 90 slopes 64 downwardly toward the first bracket 58 when in the engaged position. It is to be appreciated that the ramp 90 and the slope 64 do not have to be complementary to each other. The ramp 90 compensates for manufacturing tolerances. Hence, the ramp 90 reduces and/or eliminates play in the support 52 and thus the cushion 50. In other words, the ramp 90 reduces and/or eliminates movement of the support 52 and the cushion 50 while in the use position. The portion of the ramp 90 that engages the first bracket 58 can change depending on manufacturing tolerances while still reducing and/or eliminating play in the support 52 and thus the cushion 50 when in the use position. As such, engagement of the ramp 90 with the first bracket 58 prevent rotation of the support 52 and the cushion 50 back beyond the use position while engagement of the locking member 74 with the first bracket 58 prevents rotation of the support 52 and the cushion 50 to the stowed position. Hence, the wedge 88 and the locking member 74 cooperate for reducing and/or eliminating play in the support 52 and the cushion 50 when in the use position. [0047] The wedge 88 includes an actuating part 92 and a wedging part 94 presenting the ramp 90 with the locking member 74 engaging the actuating part 92 when in the locked position for rotating the wedge 88 to the engaged position. The first end 76 of the locking member 74 engages the actuating part 92 in the locked position for rotating the wedge 88 to the engaged position. Further, the second abutment 62 of the first bracket 58 engages the ramp 90 when the wedge 88 is in the engaged position such that the wedging part 94 is sandwiched between the housing 28 and the first bracket 58 for preventing rotation of the cushion 50. The ramp 90 slopes 64 downwardly with a narrow section of the wedging part 94 facing the second abutment 62 when in the engaged position.

[0048] A pin 96 is attached to the housing 28 and defines a pivot axis P transverse to the longitudinal axis L. In addition, the pivot axis P is transverse to the central axis C. The wedge 88 is rotatably attached to the pin 96 between the engaged and disengaged positions. Further, the wedge 88 is rotatably attached to the pin 96 such that the locking member 74 engages the actuating part 92 when in the locked position to rotate the ramp 90 into engagement with one of the housing 28 and the first bracket 58. In this embodiment, the locking member 74 engages the actuating part 92 when in the locked position to rotate the ramp 90 into engagement with the first bracket 58, and more specifically, to rotate the ramp 90 into engagement with the second abutment 62. Further, the support 52 and the first bracket 58 concurrently rotate with the cushion 50 between the use and stowed positions independently of the housing 28, the locking member 74, the wedge 88, and the pin 96.

[0049] A biasing element 98 is coupled to the wedge 88 and the housing 28 for continuously biasing the wedge 88 to the disengaged position. More specifically, the biasing element 98 is disposed about the pin 96 and engages the first side wall 34 and the wedge 88. The biasing element 98 is further defined as a spring or any other suitable biasing element 98. It is to be appreciated that the biasing element 98 can be secured to any suitable component(s) and any suitable location for biasing the wedge 88 toward the disengaged position.

[0050] Also referring to Figure 9, a cover 100 is attached to the housing 28 and more specifically, attached to the bottom wall 30. The cover 100 is disposed in the pocket 38 of the housing 28. The cover 100 includes a base 102 facing the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28. In one configuration, the base 102 abuts the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28. The base 102 includes at least one extension 104 extending downwardly away from the base 102 toward the housing 28, and more specifically, includes a plurality of extensions 104. The housing 28 defines a slot 106, and more specifically, defines a plurality of slots 106 for receiving the extension(s) 104 to attach the cover 100 to the housing 28. In one configuration, the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28 defines the slot(s) 106 for receiving the extension(s) 104. It is to be appreciated that the slots 106 can be positioned such that the location of the cover 100 can be adjusted if desired.

[0051] Further, the cover 100 includes a tab 108 extending outwardly therefrom for attaching the cover 100 to the housing 28. As such, the tab 108 and the extension(s) 104 cooperate for attaching the cover 100 to the housing 28. A fastener 110 is disposed through the housing 28 and the tab 108 for attaching the cover 100 to the housing 28. More specifically, the fastener 110 extends through the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28 and the tab 108.

[0052] The cover 100 defines a cavity 112 along the longitudinal axis L for receiving the locking member 74. The locking member 74 is movable along the longitudinal axis L independently of the cover 100. The remainder of the bottom side 82 of the locking member 74 is spaced from the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28 for allowing the locking member 74 to move through the cavity 112 without interference from the cover 100. In other words, the remainder of the bottom side 82 is spaced from the bottom wall 30 a distance corresponding to a thickness of the base 102 of the cover 100. Hence, the locking member 74 is capable of moving through the cover 100 until the shoulder 84 of the locking member 74 engages the cover 100.

[0053] The cover 100 includes an end wall 114 such that the cavity 112 extends through the cover 100 to the end wall 114. The end wall 114 defines a slit 116 with a part of the locking member 74 disposed through the slit 116. More specifically, the part of the locking member 74 is movable through the slit 116. In certain configurations, the end wall 114 is disposed between the first and second ends 76, 78 of the locking member 74. Specifically, the slit 116 is configured for receiving the second end 78 of the locking member 74.

[0054] A biasing member 118 engages the locking member 74 and the cover 100 for continuously biasing the locking member 118, 74 toward the locked position. The biasing member 118 can be further defined as a coil spring or any other suitable biasing member 118. The locking member 74 defines a cutout 120 for receiving the biasing member 118. More specifically, the cutout 120 is disposed between the first and second ends 76, 78 of the locking member 74. The cutout 120 extends along the longitudinal axis L to a base wall 122. The biasing member 118 is disposed in the cavity 112 of the cover 100 and the cutout 120 of the locking member 74. More specifically, the biasing member 118 engages the end wall 114 of the cover 100 and the base wall 122 of the locking member 74 for biasing the locking member 118, 74 toward the locked position.

[0055] A cable 124 is coupled to the locking member 74 for moving the locking member 74 to the unlocked position such that the ramp 90 is spaced from the first abutment 60. In certain configurations, the cable 124 is coupled to the second end 78 of the locking member 74 for moving the locking member 74 to the unlocked position. For example, when the cable 124 moves, the locking member 74 correspondingly moves along the longitudinal axis L away from the first bracket 58 toward the unlocked position. The first end 76 of the locking member 74 disengages from the first abutment 60 of the first bracket 58 when the locking member 74 is in the unlocked position. Additionally, the first end 76 of the locking member 74 disengages from the actuating part 92 of the wedge 88 when the locking member 74 is in the unlocked position such that the wedge 88 rotates to the disengaged position due to the biasing element 98 continuously biasing the wedge 88 to the disengaged position. The wedging part 94, and more specifically the ramp 90, of the wedge 88 is spaced from the second abutment 62 of the first bracket 58 when the wedge 88 is in the disengaged position. It is to be appreciated that the cable 124 can be coupled to the locking member 74 at any suitable location. It is to further be appreciated that the locking member 74 can be moved to the unlocked position by any suitable component, such as, for example, linkage, etc.

[0056] The locking member 74 further includes a projection 126 extending therefrom with the cable 124 coupled to the projection 126. More specifically, the top side 80 of the locking member 74 presents a bottom 128 extending from the base wall 122 to the second end 78 of the locking member 74 with the projection 126 extending from the bottom 128. In one configuration, the projection 126 extends upwardly away from the bottom side 82 of the locking member 74. The slit 116 of the cover 100 is complementary in configuration to the projection 126. More specifically, the slit 116 of the cover 100 is complementary in configuration to the projection 126, the bottom 128 of the top side 80 of the locking member 74, and the remainder of the bottom side 82 of the locking member 74.

[0057] Optionally, a first dampener (not shown) can be disposed about the projection 126 for reducing and/or eliminating noise as further disclosed in U.S.

Patent Application No. filed concurrently with the present application (attorney docket no. 065604.00005). More specifically, the first dampener is disposed between the cable 124 and the bottom 128 of the locking member 74. In certain configurations, the first dampener is sandwiched between the cable 124 and the bottom 128 of the locking member 74 for reducing noise. Specifically, the first dampener engages the projection 126 and the cable 124 where the cable 124 attaches to the projection 126 to reduce noise at this attachment point. It is to be appreciated that the first dampener can be at any suitable location, such as, for example, the first dampener can abut the bottom 128 or be spaced from the bottom 128 of the locking member 74, etc. In one configuration, the first dampener can be further defined as a seal, such as an o-ring. It is to be appreciated that the first dampener can be any suitable configuration for reducing and/or eliminating noise.

[0058] In addition, as best shown in Figures 3, 6, and 8, optionally, at least one second dampener or stop 130, and more specifically, a plurality of second dampeners or stops 130 can be coupled to the housing 28 for reducing and/or eliminating noise. The second dampeners 130 are coupled to the back wall 32 of the housing 28 and thus also act as a stop for preventing rotation of the support 52 and the cushion 50. Hence, the support 52 and the cushion 50 can be rotated back beyond the use position such that the second dampeners 130 are engaged or compressed. When the support 52 and thus the cushion 50 rotate forward from beyond the use position to the use position, the first and second brackets 58, 66 can abut the second dampeners 130 for preventing direct contact between the housing 28 and the brackets 58, 66 thus reducing noise. More specifically, when the support 52 and the cushion 50 are in the use position, the back side 68 of the first bracket 58 can abut one of the second dampeners 130 and the back side 68 of the second bracket 66 can abut another one of the second dampeners 130. It is to be appreciated that after the support 52 and the cushion 50 rotate from beyond the use position to the use position, the first and second brackets 58, 66 can disengage from the second dampeners 130 such that the first and second brackets 58, 66 are spaced from the second dampeners 130. In one configuration, the second dampeners 130 can be further defined as rubber bumpers as shown in Figures 3, 6, and 8. It is to be appreciated that the second dampeners 130 can be any suitable configuration for reducing and/or eliminating noise and/or for preventing direct engagement of the housing 28 and the brackets 58, 66.

[0059] Referring back to Figure 1, an actuator 132 is coupled to the seat 22 for rotating the support 52 and the cushion 50 to the stowed position. More specifically, the actuator 132 is coupled to the locking member 74 for moving the locking member 74 to the unlocked position. Even more specifically, the actuator 132 is coupled to the cable 124 for moving the cable 124 which moves the locking member 74 to the unlocked position. Movement of the locking member 74 to the unlocked position allows the support 52 and the cushion 50 to be rotated to the stowed position. For example, in one configuration, the actuator 132 pulls the cable 124 which pulls the locking member 74 along the longitudinal axis L out of engagement with the first bracket 58 thus allowing the support 52 and the cushion 50 to rotate to the stowed position. The actuator 132 can be any suitable configuration and one example of a suitable configuration is a strap as shown in Figure 1. The actuator 132 can be disposed in the back portion 24 of the seat 22 proximal to the cushion 50 or proximal to the bottom portion 26 of the seat 22. Alternatively, the actuator 132 can be disposed in the bottom portion 26 of the seat 22. It is to be appreciated that the actuator 132 can be at any suitable location.

[0060] The operation of the locking member 74 will be discussed below for illustrative purposes only. Referring to Figures 2 and 4, when the cushion 50 is in the use position, the locking member 74 is in the locked position and the wedge 88 is in the engaged position which prevents the cushion 50 from rotation about the central axis C. Specifically, the first abutment 60 of the first bracket 58 engages the head 86/first end 76 of the locking member 74. In addition, the first end 76 of the locking member 74 engages the actuating part 92 of the wedge 88 and the ramp 90 of the wedging part 94 of the wedge 88 engages the second abutment 62 of the first bracket 58. The first and/or second biasing component 70, 72 continuously biases the support 52 and thus the cushion 50 to the stowed position; as such, when the cushion 50 is in the use position, the first and second brackets 58, 66 can, but do not have to, engage the second dampeners 130. [0061] To rotate the cushion 50 to the stowed position, the actuator 132 is actuated to move the locking member 74 along the longitudinal axis L to the unlocked position. For example, when the actuator 132 is pulled, the cable 124 and thus the locking member 74 are correspondingly pulled along the longitudinal axis L. Movement of the locking member 74 along the longitudinal axis L away from the first bracket 58 allows the first end 76 to disengage from the first abutment 60 as shown in Figure 5. During movement of the locking member 74, the wedge 88 also rotates about the pivot axis P such that the ramp 90 of the wedging part 94 disengages from the second abutment 62 of the first bracket 58. Once the locking member 74 is in the unlocked position, the wedge 88 is rotated to the disengaged position. The wedge 88 automatically rotates back to the disengaged position due to the biasing element 98. Further, when the locking member 74 is in the unlocked position, the support 52 and thus the cushion 50 automatically rotate to the stowed position due to the first and/or second biasing component 70, 72 continuously biasing the support 52 and the cushion 50 to the stowed position. The support 52, the first and second brackets 58, 66, and the cushion 50 concurrently rotate about the central axis C to the stowed position independently of the housing 28, the locking member 74, the cover 100, and the wedge 88.

[0062] When the actuator 132 is actuated and the locking member 74 is in the unlocked position, the first end 76 or the head 86 of the locking member 74 is spaced from the first bracket 58. Upon releasing the actuator 132, the locking member 74 moves along the longitudinal axis L toward the locked position such that the first end 76 or the head 86 of the locking member 74 engages the first bracket 58 as shown in Figure 6. In other words, the first end 76 or the head 86 abuts a side of the first bracket 58. Alternatively, upon releasing the actuator 132, the first end 76 or the head 86 of the locking member 74 can remain spaced from the first bracket 58 due to tension in the cable 124 as the seat 22 folds. For this alternative, when the seat 22 unfolds, the tension in the cable 124 is released and the locking member 74 biases back toward the locked position.

[0063] To rotate the cushion 50 back to the use position, a force is applied to the support 52 and/or the cushion 50. As the support 52 and the cushion 50 are rotated about the central axis C back beyond the use position, the first bracket 58 correspondingly rotates such that the first abutment 60 is rotated to a point where the locking member 74 can move under the first abutment 60 and thus back to the locked position. The locking member 74 automatically biases to the locked position due to the biasing member 118 continuously biasing the locking member 118, 74 toward the locked position, and additionally, the first and/or second biasing component 70, 72 automatically biases the cushion 50 toward the stowed position. Once the support 52 and the cushion 50 are back to the use position, the locking member 74 is also back to the locked position with the first abutment 60 engaging the head 86 for preventing rotation of the cushion 50 to the stowed position. Further, the first end 76 engages the actuating part 92 of the wedge 88 which rotates the wedging part 94 and thus the ramp 90 back into engagement with the second abutment 62 of the first bracket 58. As such, engagement of the ramp 90 and the second abutment 62 prevents rotation of the cushion 50 back beyond the use position. The locking member 74 is again sandwiched between the first bracket 58 and the bottom wall 30 of the housing 28, and additionally, the first bracket 58 is sandwiched between the wedging part 94 of the wedge 88 and the first end 76 of the locking member 74 for preventing undesirable movement of the support 52 and thus the cushion 50.

[0064] It is to be appreciated that the locking member 74 and the cover 100 can be mounted to the housing 28 in an opposite direction than illustrated. In other words, instead of the first end 76 or the head 86 of the locking member 74 facing the first side wall 34, the first end 76 or the head 86 of the locking member 74 can face the second side wall 36. In this configuration, the first bracket 58 is attached to the second leg 56 of the support 52 and the second bracket 66 is attached to the first leg 54 of the support 52. Further, in this configuration, the wedge 88 will also be moved. It is to be appreciated that any suitable component of the assembly 20 can be moved to accommodate reversal of the locking member 74 and the cover 100.

[0065] A second embodiment of a foldable headrest assembly 134 for a seat 136 of a vehicle (not shown) is shown in Figures 10-19. It is to be appreciated that the seat 136 can be utilized with any suitable vehicle or non- vehicle. Referring to Figure 10, the seat 136 can include a back portion 138 and a bottom portion 140 transverse to the back portion 138. The back portion 138 can support a user's back and the bottom portion 140 can support a user's legs. It is to be appreciated that the seat 136 can be foldable such that the back portion 138 rotates downwardly toward the bottom portion 140. [0066] Also referring to Figure 11, the foldable headrest assembly 134 includes a housing 142 adapted to be coupled to the seat 136. More specifically, the housing 142 is coupled to the back portion 138 of the seat 136. As shown in Figure 12, the housing 142 defines a pocket 144 therein as discussed further below. It is to be appreciated that the housing 142 can be a single piece defining the pocket 144 or a plurality of pieces coupled to each other with the pieces defining the pocket 144 therebetween. Referring to Figure 13, the housing 142 also defines a plurality of holes 146 spaced from each other. More specifically, the housing 142 includes a first finger 148 and a second finger 150 spaced from each other with the fingers 148, 150 defining the holes 146. The housing 142 further includes an abutment 152 and more specifically, the abutment 152 is adjacent the first finger 148. In certain configurations, the abutment 152 presents a flat configuration. It is to be appreciated that the abutment 152 can be any suitable location and configuration. For example, the abutment 152 can include a slope, etc.

[0067] The foldable headrest assembly 134 includes a shaft 154 coupled to the housing 142 and defining a central axis C. More specifically, the shaft 154 is disposed through the holes 146 of the housing 142. Specifically, the shaft 154 is disposed through the holes 146 in the first and second fingers 148, 150. It is to be appreciated that the shaft 154 can be further defined as a plurality of shafts 154.

[0068] As best shown in Figures 10, 11, 13 and 14, the foldable headrest assembly 134 further includes a cushion 156 coupled to the shaft 154 and rotatable between a use position and a stowed position. In certain configurations, the cushion 156 is rotatable about the central axis C and supports a user's head. The cushion 156 is disposed above the back portion 138 of the seat 136 when in the use position. The cushion 156 is attached to the housing 142 such that the housing 142 concurrently rotates with the cushion 156 between the use and stowed positions. As such, Figures 10, 11, 15, and 16 illustrates the housing 142 and/or the cushion 156 in the use position and Figure 14 illustrate the housing 142 and the cushion 156 in the stowed position. It is to be appreciated that the cushion 156 can rotate back beyond the use position and then forward to the use position or to the stowed position.

[0069] Turning to Figures 11, 13 and 15-18, the foldable headrest assembly 134 includes a bracket 158 coupled to the shaft 154 and the housing 142. More specifically, the bracket 158 is attached to the shaft 154 such that the housing 142 and the cushion 156 rotate independently of the bracket 158. The bracket 158 is further defined as a first bracket 158 and further including a second bracket 160 coupled to the shaft 154 and the housing 142. The first and second brackets 158, 160 each define a slot 162 which will be discussed further below.

[0070] The first and second brackets 158, 160 are spaced from each other with the shaft 154 disposed therebetween. More specifically, the first bracket 158 is attached to one end of the shaft 154 and the second bracket 160 is attached to another end of the shaft 154. As such, the first and second brackets 158, 160 are attached to the shaft 154 such that the housing 142 and the cushion 156 rotate independently of the brackets 158, 160. The first and second brackets 158, 160 are attached to the shaft 154 by any suitable methods, such as, for example, welding, press fit, adhesive, fasteners etc. or combinations thereof. The bracket 158 will be referred to as the first bracket 158 in the following discussion.

[0071] In addition, the first and/or second brackets 158, 160 are attached to the shaft 154 such that the first and second brackets 158, 160 and the shaft 154 remain stationary as the cushion 156 rotates about the central axis C between the use and stowed positions. The first and second brackets 158, 160 are attached to the shaft 154 by any suitable methods, such as, for example, welding, press fit, adhesive, fasteners etc. or combinations thereof. It is to be appreciated that the shaft 154 can be rotatable about the central axis C independently of the first and second brackets 158, 160. In other words, the first and second brackets 158, 160 are stationary during movement of the shaft 154 and the cushion 156 about the central axis C.

[0072] A support 164 is coupled to each of the first and second brackets 158, 160 for supporting the housing 142 and the cushion 156 in the back portion 138 of the seat 136. The supports 164 extend downwardly away from the housing 142 when in the use position. The first and second brackets 158, 160 are attached to the supports 164 by any suitable methods, such as, for example, welding, press fit, adhesive, fasteners etc. or combinations thereof. It is to be appreciated that the first and/or second brackets 158, 160 can be integral with the supports 164.

[0073] A biasing component 166 is coupled to the housing 142 and the shaft 154 for continuously biasing the cushion 156 toward the stowed position. More specifically, the biasing component 166 continuously biases the housing 142 which continuously biases the cushion 156 toward the stowed position. It is to be appreciated that the biasing component 166 can be secured to any suitable component(s) and any suitable location for biasing the cushion 156 toward the stowed position. The biasing component 166 can be further defined as a dump spring or any other suitable biasing component.

[0074] The foldable headrest assembly 134 further includes a locking member 168 movable along a longitudinal axis L substantially parallel to the central axis C. The locking member 168 is movable between a locked position preventing rotation of the cushion 156 to the stowed position and an unlocked position allowing rotation of the cushion 156 to the stowed position. Figures 11, 15, and 17 illustrate the locking member 168 in the locked position and Figures 16, 18, and 19 illustrate the locking member 168 in the unlocked position. The locking member 168 is coupled to the housing 142 and more specifically, disposed in the pocket 144 of the housing 142. In other words, the locking member 168 is movable in the pocket 144 of the housing 142 between the locked and unlocked positions independently of the housing 142. Having the locking member 168 movable substantially parallel to the central axis C allows the locking member 168 to be slimmer and/or allows the locking member 168 to be manufactured from a wider selection of materials.

[0075] As best shown in Figure 11, a biasing member 170 engages the locking member 168 and the housing 142 for continuously biasing the locking member 168 toward the locked position. It is to be appreciated that the locking member 168 can be coupled to the housing 142 at any suitable location. Further, it is to be appreciated that the biasing member 170 can be secured to any suitable component(s) and any suitable location for biasing the locking member 168 toward the locked position. The biasing member 170 can be further defined as a spring or any other suitable biasing member.

[0076] Turning to Figures 13, and 15-18, the locking member 168 includes a first arm 172 and a second arm 174 spaced from the first arm 172 with the first arm 172 engaging the first bracket 158 when the locking member 168 is in the locked position for preventing rotation of the cushion 156 to the stowed position. More specifically, the first arm 172 engages the first bracket 158 and the second arm 174 engages the second bracket 160 when the locking member 168 is in the locked position. Even more specifically, the first arm 172 engages the slot 162 of the first bracket 158 and the second arm 174 engages the slot 162 of the second bracket 160 when the locking member 168 is in the locked position for preventing rotation of the cushion 156 to the stowed position. When the locking member 168 is in the unlocked position, the first arm 172 is spaced from the slot 162 of the first bracket 158 and the second arm 174 is spaced from the slot 162 of the second bracket 160; thus, rotation of the housing 142 and the cushion 156 from the use position to the stowed position is allowed.

[0077] The foldable headrest assembly 134 also includes a wedge 176 coupled to the housing 142. In one configuration, the wedge 176 is coupled to the housing 142 adjacent the first bracket 158. In another configuration, the wedge 176 is coupled to the housing 142 adjacent the second bracket 160. It is to be appreciated that the wedge 176 can be coupled to the housing 142 at any suitable location. It is to further be appreciated that the wedge 176 can be coupled to the first bracket 158, the second bracket 160 or any other suitable component(s). In addition, for moving the wedge 176 to an alternative location, various suitable components can also be moved.

[0078] The wedge 176 is rotatable between an engaged position wedged between the housing 142 and the first bracket 158 when the locking member 168 is in the locked position for preventing movement of the cushion 156 and a disengaged position spaced from one of the housing 142 and the first bracket 158 when the locking member 168 is in the unlocked position. In this embodiment, the wedge 176 sandwiched between the abutment 152 and the first bracket 158 when the wedge 176 is in the engaged position and the wedge 176 is spaced from the housing 142 when in the disengaged position. Figures 11, 15, and 17 illustrate the wedge 176 in the engaged position and Figures 16, 18, and 19 illustrate the wedge 176 in the disengaged position. It is to be appreciated that the wedge 176 can define a helical shape or any other suitable configuration.

[0079] Referring to Figures 12, 13, 16, and 19, the wedge 176 includes a ramp 178 engaging one of the housing 142 and the first bracket 158 when the locking member 168 is in the locked position. In this embodiment, the ramp 178 engages the housing 142 when the locking member 168 is in the locked position. More specifically, the ramp 178 engages the abutment 152 of the housing 142. The ramp 178 compensates for manufacturing tolerances. Hence, the ramp 178 reduces and/or eliminates play in the housing 142 and thus the cushion 156. In other words, the ramp 178 reduces and/or eliminates movement of the housing 142 and the cushion 156 while in the use position. The portion of the ramp 178 that engages the housing 142 can change depending on manufacturing tolerances while still reducing and/or eliminating play in the housing 142 and thus the cushion 156 when in the use position. As such, engagement of the ramp 178 with the housing 142 prevents rotation of the housing 142 and the cushion 156 back beyond the use position while engagement of the locking member 168 with the slots 162 prevents rotation of the housing 142 and the cushion 156 to the stowed position. Hence, the wedge 176 and the locking member 168 cooperate for reducing and/or eliminating play in the housing 142 and the cushion 156 when in the use position. In this embodiment, the abutment 152 is not complementary to the ramp 178. It is to be appreciated that the abutment 152 can be complementary to the ramp 178 if desired.

[0080] The wedge 176 includes an actuating part 180 and a wedging part 182 presenting the ramp 178 with the locking member 168 engaging the actuating part 180 when in the locked position for rotating the wedge 176 to the engaged position. More specifically, the first arm 172 engages the first bracket 158 and the actuating part 180 when the locking member 168 is in the locked position. In other words, the locking member 168 rotates the wedge 176 to the engaged position when in the locked position. As such, the wedging part 182 is sandwiched between the abutment 152 of the housing 142 and the first bracket 158 for preventing rotation of the cushion 156. The ramp 178 slopes 64 downwardly with a narrow section of the wedging part 182 facing the abutment 152 when in the engaged position. It is to be appreciated that the second arm 174 can engage the actuating part 180 when the wedge 176 is coupled adjacent the second bracket 160.

[0081] A pin 184 is attached to the housing 142 and defines a pivot axis P transverse to the longitudinal axis L. In addition, the pivot axis P is transverse to the central axis C. The wedge 176 is rotatably attached to the pin 184 between the engaged and disengaged positions. Further, the wedge 176 is rotatably attached to the pin 184 such that the locking member 168 engages the actuating part 180 when in the locked position to rotate the ramp 178 into engagement with one of the housing 142 and the first bracket 158. In this embodiment, the locking member 168 engages the actuating part 180 when in the locked position to rotate the ramp 178 into engagement with the housing 142, and more specifically, to rotate the ramp 178 into engagement with the abutment 152. Further, the locking member 168, the wedge 176, and the pin 184 are coupled to the housing 142 such that the housing 142, the wedge 176, the locking member 168, and the pin 184 concurrently rotate with the cushion 156 between the use and stowed positions independently of the first bracket 158. More specifically, the housing 142, the wedge 176, the locking member 168, and the cushion 156 concurrently rotate between the use and stowed positions independently of the first and second brackets 158, 160.

[0082] A biasing element 186 is coupled to the wedge 176 and the housing 142 for continuously biasing the wedge 176 to the disengaged position. More specifically, the biasing element 186 is disposed about the pin 184 and engages the housing 142 and the wedge 176. When the wedge 176 is in the disengaged position, the actuating part 180 of the wedge 176 is spaced from a side, such as an outer side, of the first bracket 158 such that the wedge 176, and more specifically the actuating part 180, rotates with the housing 142 about the central axis C without engaging the first bracket 158 during rotation (see Figure 19). The biasing element 186 is further defined as a spring or any other suitable biasing element 186. It is to be appreciated that the biasing element 186 can be secured to any suitable component(s) and any suitable location for biasing the wedge 176 toward the disengaged position.

[0083] In addition, as best shown in Figures 11 and 13, optionally, at least one dampener or stop 188 can be coupled to the housing 142. When the housing 142 and thus the cushion 156 are in the use position, the second bracket 160 can abut the stop 188 for preventing direct contact between the housing 142 and the second bracket 160 thus reducing and/or eliminating noise. In one configuration, the stop 188 can be further defined as a rubber bumper as shown in Figures 11 and 13. It is to be appreciated that the stop 188 can be any suitable configuration and can also space the housing 142 away from the second bracket 160, etc. for reducing and/or eliminating noise and/or for preventing direct engagement between the housing 142 and the second bracket 160. It is to further be appreciated that the stop 188 can be spaced from the second bracket 160 or engaging the second bracket 160 when the cushion 156 is in the use position.

[0084] Referring back to Figure 10, an actuator 190 is coupled to the locking member 168 for moving the locking member 168 to the unlocked position. More specifically, the actuator 190 is coupled to the locking member 168 for moving the locking member 168 to the unlocked position such that the housing 142 and the cushion 156 can rotate to the stowed position. Hence, movement of the locking member 168 to the unlocked position allows the housing 142 and the cushion 156 to be rotated to the stowed position. For example, in one configuration, the actuator 190 pushes the locking member 168 along the longitudinal axis L out of engagement with the slot 162 of the first and second brackets 158, 160 thus allowing the housing 142 and the cushion 156 to rotate to the stowed position. The actuator 190 can be any suitable configuration and one example of a suitable configuration is a button as shown in Figure 10. It is to be appreciated that the actuator 190 can be at any suitable location.

[0085] A cap 192 can be coupled to the housing 142 and substantially covers the shaft 154, the first and second fingers 148, 150 of the housing 142, the first and second brackets 158, 160, and the wedge 176. The cap 192 can protect the shaft 154, the first and second fingers 148, 150 of the housing 142, the first and second brackets 158, 160, and the wedge 176 from the cushion 156, etc.

[0086] The operation of the locking member 168 will be discussed below for illustrative purposes only. Referring to Figures 11, 15, and 17, when the cushion 156 is in the use position, the locking member 168 is in the locked position and the wedge 176 is in the engaged position which prevents the cushion 156 from rotation about the central axis C. Specifically, the first and second arms 172, 174 of the locking member 168 engage the slot 162 of the first and second brackets 158, 160 respectively. In addition, the first arm 172 of the locking member 168 engages the actuating part 180 of the wedge 176 and the ramp 178 of the wedging part 182 of the wedge 176 engages the abutment 152 of the housing 142. The biasing component 166 continuously biases the housing 142 and thus the cushion 156 to the stowed position; as such, when the cushion 156 is in the use position, the stop 188 can, but does not have to, engage the second bracket 160.

[0087] To rotate the cushion 156 to the stowed position, the actuator 190 is actuated to move the locking member 168 along the longitudinal axis L to the unlocked position. For example, when the actuator 190 is pushed, the locking member 168 is correspondingly pushed along the longitudinal axis L. Movement of the locking member 168 along the longitudinal axis L away from the slots 162 of the first and second brackets 158, 160 allow the first and second arms 172, 174 to disengage from the first and second brackets 158, 160 respectively shown in Figures 16, 18, and 19. During movement of the locking member 168, the wedge 176 also rotates about the pivot axis P such that the ramp 178 of the wedging part 182 disengages from the abutment 152 of the housing 142. Once the locking member 168 is in the unlocked position, the wedge 176 is rotated to the disengaged position. The wedge 176 automatically rotates back to the disengaged position due to the biasing element 186. Further, when the locking member 168 is in the unlocked position, the support 164 and thus the cushion 156 automatically rotate to the stowed position due to the biasing component 166 continuously biasing the housing 142 and the cushion 156 to the stowed position. The housing 142, the locking member 168, the wedge 176, and the cushion 156 concurrently rotate about the central axis C to the stowed position independently of the first and second brackets 158, 160.

[0088] When the actuator 190 is actuated and the locking member 168 is in the unlocked position, the first and second arms 172, 174 are spaced from the slots 162 of the first and second brackets 158, 160 respectively. Upon releasing the actuator 190, the locking member 168 moves along the longitudinal axis L toward the locked position such that the first arm 172 abuts the first bracket 158 and the second arm 174 abuts the second bracket 160 of the locking member 168 engages the first bracket 158. In other words, the first arm 172 abuts a side, such as an inner side, of the first bracket 158 and the second arm 174 abuts a side, such as an inner side, of the second bracket 160.

[0089] To rotate the cushion 156 back to the use position, a force is applied to the cushion 156 and thus the housing 142. As the housing 142 and the cushion 156 are rotated about the central axis C back to the use position, the locking member 168 correspondingly rotates such that the first and second arms 172, 174 are rotated to a point where the first and second arms 172, 174 can move into the slot 162 of the first and second brackets 158, 160 respectively. As such, the locking member 168 automatically biases to the locked position due to the biasing member 170 continuously biasing the locking member 168 toward the locked position. As the locking member 168 moves back to the locked position, the first arm 172 engages the actuating part 180 of the wedge 176 to rotate the wedge 176 about the pivot axis P. In other words, the first arm 172 engages the actuating part 180 of the wedge 176 which rotates the wedging part 182 and thus the ramp 178 back into engagement with the abutment 152 of the housing 142. As such, the wedging part 182 is again sandwiched between the first bracket 158 and the abutment 152 of the housing 142, and additionally, the first and second arms 172, 174 are disposed in the slot 162 and engage the first and second brackets 158, 160 respectively for preventing undesirable movement of the housing 142 and thus the cushion 156. In one configuration, the first arm 172 engages the actuating part 180 when the first arm 172 is disposed completely through the slot 162 of the first bracket 158. It is to be appreciated that the first arm 172 can engage the actuating part 180 prior to the first arm 172 being completely through the slot 162 of the first bracket 158.

[0090] It is to be appreciated for the embodiments above, rotation of various components have been exaggerated for illustrative purposes only. In addition, it is to be appreciated that various components have been exaggerated for illustrative purposes only.

[0091] Many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. The foregoing invention has been described in accordance with the relevant legal standards; thus, the description is exemplary rather than limiting in nature. Variations and modifications to the disclosed embodiment can become apparent to those skilled in the art and do come within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of legal protection afforded this invention can only be determined by studying the following claims.