Manipulable lumbar support utilizing active material actuation

US7905547B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC · US

Inventors

• Jennifer P. Lawall · Waterford, US
• Diane K. McQueen · Leonard, US
• Steven E. Morris · Fair Haven, US
• Nancy L. Johnson · Northville, US
• Alan L. Browne · Grosse Pointe, US
• Paul W. Alexander · Ypsilanti, US
• Gary L. Jones · Farmington Hills, US
• Nilesh D. Mankame · Ann Arbor, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 9, 2009
• Grant date: Mar 15, 2011
• Expiry date: Jun 2, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60N2210/40
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A manipulable lumbar support adapted for use with a seat upright defining a first surface condition, includes a structure disposed within the upright and presenting a first configuration, and an actuator employing an active material element configured to cause the structure to achieve a second configuration when activated.