Abstract:
A compressive member (140) is used to bias a seat backrest (132) into a predetermined position, generally upright as illustrated, relative to a seat base (128) with the compressive member deforming to enable the seat to be pivoted by the application of force to the backrest. When used on a materials handling vehicle (100) for which it is particularly applicable, the resiliently biased backrest attenuates forces that are transferred to the back of an operator occupying the seat (124) when the vehicle is driven over irregularities in a floor supporting the vehicle.
Abstract:
Seat repositioning systems for vehicles comprise a seat release element (104) that is operable to cause an operator's seat (32) to be temporarily released from a locked position such that the operator's seat may be adjusted to a new position. By optionally positioning the seat release element proximate to an operator's working position, a vehicle operator may reposition the seat while simultaneously performing another task. Moreover, a control module (152) may be provided that is capable of deciding whether or not to allow the operator's seat to be released based upon vehicle parameters such as vehicle speed or load handling conditions. Still further, the control module may temporarily disable select features of the vehicle depending upon the position of the seat.
Abstract:
An operator’s seat (32) for a vehicle (10) includes a base structure (46) that allows the operator’s seat to be rotated with respect to a platform floor (31) of an operator’s compartment (30) within the vehicle. The operator’s seat may further include a swivel structure (87) that allows an operator support (48) to swivel independently of the rotation of the base structure. At least one presence sensing device (98) may be provided to detect the presence of an operator. The presence sensing device(s), and rotational position of the operator support may provide input signals to a control module (106, 152, 156, 158, 160, 162) that controls the vehicle travel, load handling features, and/or other features of the vehicle that may be selectively enabled, limited or otherwise controlled.