Linear recliner with memory seatback dump mechanism

摘要

A seat recliner having a linear recliner mechanism and a dump mechanism is disclosed. The linear retractor device is provided for adjusting the reclined position of the seatback. The dump mechanism includes a bracket mounted to the seat bottom which has a pair of elongated guide slots formed in two sidewall portions thereof. A carriage is slidably mounted in the elongated guide slots of the bracket and is coupled to the linear retractor mechanism for permitting sliding movement thereof between a memory position and a free position relative to the bracket. A latch device is provided for releasably securing the linear retractor mechanism in the memory position. When secured in its memory position, linear recliner mechanism can be selectively actuated to adjust the reclined position of the seatback between upright and fully-reclined positions. When the latch device is actuated, the linear retractor mechanism can be slid toward its free position in response to movement of the seatback toward its dumped position. Return of seatback from its dumped position causes linear recliner mechanism to again be secured in its memory position so as to locate and retain the seatback in its previously reclined position.