Importance

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Abstract

A latch assembly for use in a vehicle having a movable component such as an upper seat frame member and a fixed component such as a lower seat frame member. The latch assembly is operable to allow selective movement of the movable component relative to the fixed component. The latch assembly includes a first frame member adapted to be fixed to the fixed component of the vehicle seat and a second frame member adapted to be fixed to the movable component of the vehicle. The second frame member is coupled to the first frame member for movement between a first operative position, such as a set position, and a second position such as a titled position. The latch assembly also includes a locking mechanism, a release mechanism, a spring, and a lockout cam. The locking mechanism is coupled to one of the first and second frame members for movement between a locked mode to lock the second frame in its first operative position and an unlocked mode wherein the second frame member is freely movable relative to the first frame member. The release mechanism is operable in a biasing mode to operatively engage the locking mechanism and exert a first biasing force urging the locking mechanism toward its locked mode and a released mode removed from operative engagement with the locking mechanism. The spring exerts a second biasing force that urges the locking mechanism toward its locked mode. The second biasing force is less than the first biasing force so that the locking mechanism is urged towards its locked mode when the release mechanism is in its biasing mode and into its unlocked mode when the release mechanism is in its released mode. The lockout cam is operable in a blocking position to maintain the locking mechanism in its unlocked mode when the second frame member is in its first operative position and a retracted position wherein the locking mechanism is movable from its unlocked mode to its locked mode.

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First Claim