ComfortThin seats

Thinner is better

Johnson Controls is challenging the idea that a thicker automotive seat is a more comfortable one by forging a new relationship with a mattress company.

A global leader in automotive seating, overhead systems, door and instrument panels, and interior electronics, Johnson Controls has formed a development relationship with luxury mattress manufacturer Harrison Spinks to integrate pocketed coil spring mattress technology into an automotive seat concept called ComfortThin.

“As part of our innovation process, Johnson Controls looks to apply technology from other industries into automotive applications,” said Andreas Eppinger, group vice president, technology management for Johnson Controls Automotive Experience. “Leveraging the Harrison Spinks pocketed coil spring mat technology allows us to offer a seating concept with an unrivalled level of support that contours to the vehicle occupant’s body for short- and long-term comfort.”

The thin profile seats would replace conventional urethane foam pads, reducing mass by 20% in the centre of the seat and 35% in the bolsters. Because of the individually pocketed springs, it would provide improved support and, therefore, comfort. It would also reportedly reduce weight by as little as 5% to as much as 20%, aiding improved fuel economy, and they would be 100% recyclable at the end of the vehicle’s life span.

The technology could be applied to all seats in a vehicle, also interior room for all occupants due to the reduced space the seats would take up. Or they could help design smaller vehicle sizes without impacting cabin room and comfort.

“We are delighted to have signed this agreement with the industry leader Johnson Controls so that we can bring this sustainable alternative to traditional foam technology to the automotive industry,” said Simon Spinks, Managing Director of Harrison Spinks.

Johnson hopes to have the technology available for 2015 model year vehicles.

Tags: ComfortThin, Johnson Controls, seats