The present invention is a seat bottom suspension system adapted to provide a varying spring constant. An embodiment includes a first plurality of generally flat elongated biasing members in communication with an axle adapted to translate in a direction generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the biasing members. An embodiment may include a second set of flat elongated biasing members set at a lower height than the first plurality of flat elongated biasing members to provide a progressive increase in the spring constant as the down force seen on the seat increases.

A load bearing surface assembly includes a molded component of oriented elastomeric material and an attachment loop connected to the molded component, the attachment loop configured to receive a frame member supporting the assembly.

An elastomeric load hearing surface with different load support characteristics in different directions. In one embodiment, the surface includes an elastomeric membrane that is oriented in only a single direction, for example, by compression or stretching. In another embodiment, the surface includes mechanical structures, such as connectors and variations in thickness that vary the load support characteristics in different directions. In another embodiment, a surface is both oriented and includes mechanical structures.

A vehicle seat that can reduce manufacturing costs while increasing assembling rigidity of an elastic spring for supporting an occupant is described. A vehicle seat includes an elastic spring bridged between a front frame and a rear frame to support an occupant. A hook member is attached to a rear end portion of the elastic spring to be hooked to the rear frame. The hook member includes a hook body extending along an outer periphery of the rear frame and a projection projecting from a front edge of the hook body toward the rear frame and formed to have a width smaller than a width of the hook body. A through-hole is formed in a portion of the hook body, which is opposed to the projection. The through-hole has a width larger than a width of the projection and a length larger than a projecting length of the projection.

A vehicle seat that can reduce manufacturing costs while increasing assembling rigidity of an elastic spring for supporting an occupant is described. A vehicle seat includes an elastic spring bridged between a front frame and a rear frame to support an occupant. A hook member is attached to a rear end portion of the elastic spring to be hooked to the rear frame. The hook member includes a hook body extending along an outer periphery of the rear frame and a projection projecting from a front edge of the hook body toward the rear frame and formed to have a width smaller than a width of the hook body. A through-hole is formed in a portion of the hook body, which is opposed to the projection. The through-hole has a width larger than a width of the projection and a length larger than a projecting length of the projection.

A method for manufacturing a multi-layered support structure provides ergonomic, adaptable seating support. The method providing multiple cooperative layers to maximize global comfort and support while enhancing adaptation to localized variations in a load, such as in the load applied when a person sits in a chair. The cooperative layers each include elements such as pixels, springs, support rails, and other elements to provide this adaptable comfort and support. The method for manufacturing the multi-layered support structure uses aligned material to provide a flexible yet durable support structure. Accordingly, the method provides a multi-layered support structure, which provides maximum comfort for a wide range of body shapes and sizes.