Ford has recently filed two patent applications that reveal their plans for reconfigurable seating arrangements for child car seats. These patent applications, published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on October 3rd, outline the use of actuators to rearrange seats as needed.
According to the patent applications, the seats would be mounted on rails similar to those used in sliding seats found in some current production vehicles. This would enable the seats to move forwards and backwards, allowing for easier access. In addition, the bottom cushion of the seats could pivot up, creating the ability to stack seats closer together at one end of the cabin. This would free up space without the need to completely remove the seats.
Furthermore, Ford’s patent applications also discuss the concept of swiveling seats that can be turned to face the door, making it easier for caregivers to install a car seat. Once the seat is installed, it can then be swiveled to face rearward, which is the correct position for infants.
While it’s important to note that not all patented ideas reach production, reconfigurable seating has been a recurring theme in Ford’s recent patent filings. In September, several patent applications were discovered that covered swivel seating, in-bed seating, a retractable steering wheel, and an in-cab work station. Another patent application for a movable in-vehicle table also surfaced earlier this year.
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Some of these ideas, such as in-bed seating and in-cab work stations, are clearly aimed at pickup trucks. Conversely, the reconfigurable seating detailed in these patent applications seems to be better suited for SUVs or other family vehicles. Ford has plans to launch an electric three-row SUV in 2025, which will be designed from scratch as an electric vehicle. This clean-sheet design could provide more flexibility in incorporating innovative features such as these swiveling seats.
The concept of reconfigurable seating for child car seats has the potential to greatly enhance the functionality and convenience of family vehicles. With the ability to easily adjust the seating arrangement, caregivers can optimize space, making it easier to accommodate additional passengers or cargo as needed. The ability to swivel seats not only simplifies the installation of car seats but also ensures that infants are positioned correctly for safety.
Car manufacturers continue to innovate in order to meet the ever-evolving needs of families and improve the overall experience of owning and using a vehicle. Ford’s patent applications for reconfigurable seating demonstrate their commitment to creating vehicles that prioritize convenience and versatility for families.
While it remains to be seen if these specific concepts will be implemented in future Ford vehicles, it’s clear that the company is exploring new ways to enhance the functionality and flexibility of seats in their vehicles. As technology advances and consumer preferences evolve, it’s exciting to see how car manufacturers like Ford are pushing the boundaries to create innovative solutions that meet the diverse needs of their customers.
