Ford has recently unveiled patent filings that introduce innovative reconfigurable seating arrangements tailored for child car seats. These patent applications, disclosed by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on October 3rd, outline various iterations of a common concept: the utilization of actuators to reposition seats as necessary.
In accordance with the patent applications, the seats would be affixed to rails, akin to those employed in sliding seats found in some of today’s vehicles. This configuration facilitates forward and backward movement, simplifying access. Moreover, the lower cushion can pivot upward, enabling seats to be compactly stacked at one end of the cabin, thereby optimizing space utilization without necessitating their complete removal.
Additionally, Ford explores the concept of swiveling seats that can be rotated to face the car door, streamlining the installation of a child car seat. Subsequently, the entire seat can swivel to a rearward-facing position, the ideal orientation for accommodating infants.
While it’s important to note that not all patented ideas come to fruition, Ford has demonstrated a consistent interest in reconfigurable seating based on its recent patent filings. Earlier in September, Ford presented patent applications encompassing swivel seating, in-bed-seating, a retractable steering wheel, and an in-cab work station. Furthermore, an additional patent application was unveiled earlier this year, focusing on a movable in-vehicle table.
Among these innovations, some are notably suited for pickup trucks, such as in-bed seating and in-cab work stations. In contrast, the reconfigurable seating concept discussed here appears better suited for SUVs or other family-oriented vehicles. Ford’s strategic plans include the launch of an all-new electric three-row SUV in 2025, purposefully designed as an electric vehicle (EV) from the ground up. This blank canvas design may provide ample opportunity to incorporate innovative features like these swiveling seats, enhancing the overall versatility and appeal of their vehicles.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about reconfigurable car seats
What is the main concept behind Ford’s reconfigurable seating patent filings?
Ford’s patent filings introduce the concept of reconfigurable seating, primarily aimed at child car seats. These filings propose using actuators and rail-based designs to allow seats to be easily adjusted and repositioned as needed, enhancing versatility and space utilization.
How do the rail-based seating arrangements work?
Seats in Ford’s reconfigurable seating concept are mounted on rails similar to those used for sliding seats in some vehicles. This design enables seats to move forward and backward, making access more convenient. Additionally, the lower cushion can pivot upward, allowing seats to be stacked efficiently at one end of the cabin.
What other features are mentioned in the patent applications?
Ford’s patent filings also discuss swiveling seats that can be rotated to face the car door, simplifying the installation of child car seats. Furthermore, these seats can be swiveled to a rearward-facing position, which is ideal for accommodating infants.
Is there a guarantee that these patented ideas will be implemented in Ford vehicles?
Not necessarily. While these patent filings showcase innovative ideas, it’s important to remember that not all patented concepts make it to production. The filing of patents is often part of the exploratory and inventive process, and their implementation depends on various factors, including feasibility and market demand.
Which types of vehicles could benefit from this reconfigurable seating concept?
While some of Ford’s recent innovations target pickup trucks, the reconfigurable seating concept appears better suited for SUVs and family-oriented vehicles. Ford’s plans include the launch of an all-new electric three-row SUV in 2025, which may offer an ideal platform for integrating features like swiveling seats to enhance versatility and appeal.
More about reconfigurable car seats
- [Ford Patents Reconfigurable Child Car Seats](Link to the original article)
- United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
- [Ford F-250 Super Duty Overview](Link to the relevant Ford vehicle)
- [Ford’s Plans for an Electric Three-Row SUV](Link to Ford’s future vehicle plans)
5 comments
luv the idea of seats that move by themselves but will they be safe?
trucks need cool features like in-bed seating, that’s awesome!
will these patents make my next car more expensive? hope not!
patents dont always mean they gonna happen, they just ideas for now.
ford always comes up with cool ideas for cars i hope these swivel seats make it to the SUVs