GM Files Patent For Seat Headrest Grab Handles

GM has filed a patent application for a seat headrest with integrated grab handles. The application was assigned patent number US 2024/0391373 A1 with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and was published on November 28^th, 2024. The GM patent filing was originally submitted on May 25^th, 2023, and lists several Michigan-based engineers as the inventors, including James Logan, Jr., Stefano A. Moraccini, Jeff E. Nasca, and Michael Apone.

The design described in the GM patent application is intended to address challenges with current grab handle designs by making them more practical and accessible, improving passenger convenience and safety.

Grab handles are typically mounted along a vehicle door frame or ceiling, which can make them difficult to access for some passengers. By contrast, the design described in the GM patent application integrates the handles directly into the headrest of the seat, thus providing a more ergonomic and accessible solution for those individuals who may find conventional handles difficult to reach or use.

The patent describes a headrest with a recess on either side, into which the grab handles are securely mounted. These recesses are structured to provide a positive gripping area for passengers’ hands or fingers. The design also includes a support structure within the headrest to help it withstand the forces applied when the handles are used. The handles can either be fixed in place or designed to pivot between stowed and deployed positions, depending on the specific application.

Additionally, the design reduces wear and tear on the headrest and provides a sturdy, integrated alternative to relying on aftermarket or external handles.

Current vehicle grab handles are often fixed to the vehicle’s interior in locations that may not be optimal for all users, especially for individuals with mobility challenges. This patent provides a possible solution that places the grab handles in a more intuitive and user-friendly location, while also eliminating the need for separate mounting points. The design also minimizes strain on the seat back and ensures the handles are robust enough for regular use.