DE102020213445A1 - CHAIR AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING IT - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a chair, in particular an office chair or conference chair, with a frame and with a seat, which has a seat support and a seat structure, the seat support having a seat shell and a backrest which are connected to one another in one piece, the seat support and the frame are connected to one another via a first connecting device, the seat structure and the seat support being connected to one another via a second connecting device, the first and second connecting devices having respective first and second connecting means which are designed and arranged in relation to one another to form a first and a second to form a connection that can be connected and released without tools. The present invention also relates to a method for its production.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a chair and a method of assembling the same.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

The mail order business has grown steadily over the last few years, so that recently seating furniture, such as office chairs, is increasingly being ordered and purchased through mail order. For larger pieces of furniture, it is advisable to pack them in individual parts in order to reduce the package size. However, the buyer then has to assemble the piece of furniture from the individual parts sent upon receipt. Since complex assembly cannot generally be assumed by the buyer, assembly should be carried out using simple and robust mechanical connections, in particular without the use of tools. Among other things, snap connections are particularly suitable for this.

WO 1987/005479 A1 describes a chair in which a seat is clamped into a frame, with an additional clamp securing the connection. Upholstery is then secured to the seat by placing the outer edge of the cover in a groove underneath the seat and then securing it with a long elastic band.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, the object of the present invention is to provide a chair that is easy to assemble.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a chair having the features of patent claim 1 and/or by a method having the features of patent claim 14 .

• - Ein Stuhl, insbesondere Bürostuhl oder Konferenzstuhl, mit einem Gestell, und mit einem Sitz, der einen Sitzträger und einen Sitzaufbau aufweist, wobei der Sitzträger eine Sitzschale und eine Rückenlehne aufweist, die einteilig miteinander verbunden sind, wobei der Sitzträger und das Gestell über eine erste Verbindungsvorrichtung miteinander verbunden sind, wobei der Sitzaufbau und der Sitzträger über eine zweite Verbindungsvorrichtung miteinander verbunden sind, wobei die erste und zweite Verbindungsvorrichtung jeweilige erste und zweite Verbindungsmittel aufweisen, die derart ausgebildet und zueinander angeordnet sind, um eine erste und eine zweite werkzeugfrei verbindbare und werkzeugfrei lösbare Verbindung zu bilden.
• - Ein Verfahren zur Montage eines Stuhls, insbesondere eines erfindungsgemäßen Stuhls, mit den Schritten: Bereitstellen eines Gestells, eines Sitzträgers und eines Sitzaufbaus, wobei der Sitzträger eine Rückenlehne aufweist, die einteilig mit einer Sitzschale verbunden ist; werkzeugfreies Verbinden des Gestells mit dem Sitzträger unter Verwendung einer ersten Verbindungsvorrichtung; werkzeugfreies Verbinden des Sitzaufbaus mit dem Sitzträger unter Verwendung einer zweiten Verbindungsvorrichtung zur Bildung eines Sitzes; wobei die erste und zweite Verbindungsvorrichtung jeweilige erste und zweite Verbindungsmittel aufweisen, die derart ausgebildet und zueinander angeordnet sind, um eine erste und eine zweite werkzeugfrei verbindbare und werkzeugfrei lösbare Verbindung zu bilden.

Accordingly, it is provided:

• - A chair, in particular an office chair or conference chair, with a frame and with a seat which has a seat support and a seat structure, the seat support having a seat shell and a backrest which are connected to one another in one piece, the seat support and the frame having a first connecting device are connected to one another, with the seat structure and the seat support being connected to one another via a second connecting device, with the first and second connecting devices having respective first and second connecting means which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in such a way as to form a first and a second tool-free connectable and to form a connection that can be released without tools.
• - A method for assembling a chair, in particular a chair according to the invention, with the steps: providing a frame, a seat support and a seat structure, the seat support having a backrest which is integrally connected to a seat shell; tool-free connection of the frame to the seat support using a first connection device; tool-free connection of the seat assembly to the seat support using a second connection device to form a seat; wherein the first and second connecting devices have respective first and second connecting means which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in such a way as to form a first and a second connection which can be connected without tools and which can be disconnected without tools.

The finding on which the present invention is based is that a chair with a modular structure made of individual parts can be packaged much more compactly, which means that costs can be saved and, associated with this, the price for such a chair can also be drastically reduced, especially in online retail can.

The idea underlying the present invention is to use simple attachable and detachable connections between the individual parts of the chair, so that the recipient, who is generally a final customer, can easily assemble the chair without resorting to the use of tools to have to.

At least a frame, a seat support and a seat structure are provided as individual parts of the chair according to the invention. These three individual parts can be connected without tools using appropriate connecting devices and can also be released again without tools. In the detached state, these individual parts can be suitably arranged in such a way that the packaging of a disassembled chair can advantageously be made significantly smaller. All mechanical connection types that meet the requirements for tool-free connection and disconnection can be used as connection devices.

The seat support and the seat structure form a seat of the chair. The seat support is designed in one piece and contains a seat shell that is generally more horizontally oriented and a backrest that is usually more vertically oriented. Optionally, other chair components, such as armrests, can also be designed in one piece on the seat support. The seat assembly includes a Seat of the chair, which is intended for a person to sit down comfortably. The seat can be shaped appropriately shell-shaped.

The frame of the chair is designed to support the weight of a person sitting on the chair. This can be any form of frame suitable for the task. The frame can be made of metal, wood or plastic. For its part, it can have a modular structure and can be broken down into further elements. The frame can have first connecting means of the first connecting device for forming the first connection with the seat support. Alternatively, the first connecting means can themselves be connected to the frame. The frame basically has support elements such as chair legs for transferring the weight of the person sitting on the chair to the floor.

The first connection means on the frame are designed to form the first connection between the frame and seat support with corresponding first connection means on the seat support. The connecting means of the seat support that correspond to the connecting means of the frame are preferably formed on an underside of the seat shell. However, they can also be formed at a different point, for example on a rear side of the backrest.

The seat support is connected to the seat structure via a second connection to form a seat. The seat support and the seat structure are also designed to absorb the weight of a seated person. The seat thus has a seat surface and a backrest and is preferably used as an office chair. The seat support can be made from wood or plastic, in particular from an injection mold. Special types of wood for an attractive design can also be used.

The first and second connections can be made without tools and are designed to be detachable. A “tool-free” connectable and detachable connection is to be understood here and throughout the patent application as meaning that no tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, Allen keys and the like are required to establish the connection. It is usually sufficient to form the connection to bring the corresponding individual parts together by hand. Also, releasing is done solely by using one person's hands. In principle, the first and second connecting devices can be structurally identical devices or structurally different devices.

To form the connection, connection means are used, which are fastened and/or formed on the individual parts to be connected. Thus, first connecting means are formed (or fastened) on the frame and seat support, and second connecting means are formed on the seat support and seat structure. The connecting means correspond to one another in such a way that a secure connection is formed between the frame and the seat support and between the seat support and the seat structure.

Advantageous refinements and developments result from the further dependent claims and from the description with reference to the figures of the drawing.

According to one embodiment, the first and second connecting devices are designed to form a positive connection in each case. A form fit is generally preferable to a force fit due to its lower wear and tear and the lower effort required to form the connection. However, the connecting devices can also be designed to form a non-positive connection. The first and second connecting device can in particular be designed to form a snap connection, tongue and groove connection, feather key connection or dovetail connection. Such connections are reliable and easy to form with appropriate components. A snap closure is particularly preferred here due to its simple and intuitive connection technology. A snap connection is generally formed in such a way that a joining part deforms elastically when it moves into a counterpart and then then releasably hooks into the counterpart.

According to a further embodiment, an armrest support is provided which has at least one armrest. Armrests increase comfort and the user experience and are therefore particularly used in office chairs where a person is expected to sit for a long time. The at least one armrest is designed in one piece with the armrest support. The armrest support and the seat support are connected to one another via a third connecting device. In this way, an armrest can be integrally connected to the seat in a modular manner.

According to a further embodiment, the third connection device has third connection means, which are designed and arranged relative to one another in such a way as to form a third connection that can be connected and released without tools. This means that the armrest can also be easily attached to the chair.

According to a further embodiment, the third connection device is designed to form a positive connection. In particular, the third connection device is designed to form a snap connection, tongue and groove connection, feather key connection or dovetail connection. In this case, the third connection device can be structurally identical to or different from the first and second connection device. Armrests can be reliably and easily connected to the seat with such a connection.

According to a further embodiment, the seat support is designed for connection to the armrest support at a transition area between the seat shell and the backrest. The transition area is typically a rounded area of the seat support, which connects the more vertically oriented backrest with the more horizontally oriented seat shell. By connecting the armrest to the transition area of the seat support, a simple integration of the armrest support on the seat support and an attractive and modern shape of the armrest can be achieved.

According to a further embodiment, the armrest support has a first and second armrest, which are arranged on both sides and are connected to one another via an assembly section of the armrest support. In this way, the number of components for connecting the armrests can be reduced. The seat support and the mounting portion of the armrest support are connected to each other via the third connecting device. Both armrests can be connected to the seat support with just a single connection device, which simplifies assembly.

According to a further embodiment, the seat structure has a seat cushion, which is provided as a seat surface. The seat pad is designed to increase the comfort of a person sitting on the chair. To further increase comfort, the seat cushion can in particular have an elastic material, with the degree of elasticity also being able to be adjusted according to the user's wishes.

According to a further embodiment, the frame is designed as a cantilever frame. A cantilever chair is particularly popular with office chairs because of its appealing design and comfortable seating experience.

According to a further embodiment, the frame is designed as a tubular frame and has tubular elements. The tube elements can be round tubes or tubes with a rectangular cross-section or other cross-section. Combinations of different tube types can also be provided. The dimensioning and material design of each tube element of the tubes can be adapted to an expected weight load on the corresponding tube element. The frame has a seat base on which the seat support is accommodated. The seat is thus securely held on the frame, so that a weight force can be reliably transmitted from the seat support to the frame. Optionally, the frame can also have a backrest base for accommodating the backrest of the seat carrier. Transverse tubes, into which corresponding connecting means of the seat support can be accommodated, are suitable as the first connecting means on a frame designed as a tubular frame. Tubes aligned differently from transverse tubes are also conceivable as connecting means.

According to a further embodiment, the first connection device is designed as a first snap connection. A snap connection represents a connection which is easy to form and which is therefore well suited for the chair according to the invention. For this purpose, the seat support has receiving areas on an underside of the seat support, which are designed to be fastened to the frame in a translatory manner along a predetermined direction in order to form the first snap connection. The connecting means of the frame, for example transverse tubes, engage in the receiving areas on the underside of the seat support during assembly. In this way, a simple translational movement is sufficient to form the first connection, which simplifies the assembly of the chair.

According to another embodiment, the predetermined direction for forming the first snap connection is inclined downwardly and rearwardly relative to the seat and frame. “Down” is to be understood as a rule in a more vertical direction to the floor, while “to the rear” is to be understood in a generally more horizontal direction from the seat surface or the seat structure or the seat shell towards the backrest. “Oblique” is to be understood as meaning a mixture of the two directions, i.e. a direction that usually contains horizontal and vertical components. It may be, but is not limited to, a 45° downward direction. The direction "diagonally downwards and backwards" is to be understood as meaning the direction that usually also describes the "sitting direction" when a user sits on the chair. Thus, this training achieves a simple and intuitive assembly of the seat support on the frame.

According to a further embodiment, the seat support is designed to accommodate a backrest structure on the backrest. In this way, the seat can be flexibly equipped, for example with a back pad, which can be designed to be soft or hard as required to give a desired shape. The seat support and the backrest structure are connected to one another via a fourth connecting device. The fourth connecting device has connecting means which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in such a way as to form a fourth connection which can be connected and released without tools. In this way, the backrest structure, like the seat structure, for example, can be modularly integrated into the chair.

According to a further embodiment of the method for manufacturing the chair, the additional step of connecting an armrest support to the seat support via a third connection is provided. The armrest support has at least one armrest, but preferably two armrests connected via a mounting section. The armrest support is connected to a transition area of the seat support between the backrest and the seat pan. As already described above, armrests can easily be connected to the chair in this way. In addition, this connection enables an attractive and modern design of the armrests, which is particularly advantageous for use as an office chair.

The above configurations and developments can be combined with one another as desired, insofar as this makes sense. In particular, all the features of the chair can be transferred to the method for manufacturing the chair, and vice versa. Further possible configurations, developments and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention described above or below with regard to the exemplary embodiments that are not explicitly mentioned. In particular, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention.

character list

• 1a-1b schematische Querschnittsdarstellungen eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Stuhls;
• 2a-2b schematische Querschnittsdarstellungen eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Stuhls;
• 3a-3b schematische Querschnittsdarstellungen eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Stuhls;
• 4 eine perspektivische Explosionsansicht eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Stuhls;
• 5 eine schematische Querschnittsdarstellung eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Stuhls;
• 6 eine schematische Querschnittsdarstellung eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Stuhls;
• 7 eine schematische Querschnittsdarstellung eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Stuhls;
• 8 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Stuhls;
• 9 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels eines Stuhls; und
• 10 eine schematische Darstellung eines Verfahrens zur Herstellung eines Stuhls.

The present invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments given in the schematic figures of the drawings. They show:

• 1a-1b schematic cross-sectional representations of an embodiment of a chair;
• 2a-2b schematic cross-sectional representations of a further embodiment of a chair;
• 3a-3b schematic cross-sectional representations of a further embodiment of a chair;
• 4 an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a chair;
• 5 a schematic cross-sectional representation of a further embodiment of a chair;
• 6 a schematic cross-sectional representation of a further embodiment of a chair;
• 7 a schematic cross-sectional representation of a further embodiment of a chair;
• 8th a perspective view of another embodiment of a chair;
• 9 a perspective view of another embodiment of a chair; and
• 10 a schematic representation of a method for manufacturing a chair.

The accompanying drawings are provided to provide a further understanding of embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the foregoing advantages will become apparent by reference to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale with respect to one another.

In the figures of the drawings, elements, features and components that are the same in function and have the same effect are provided with the same reference symbols unless otherwise stated.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

1a-1b show schematic cross-sectional views of an embodiment of a chair 1.

That in the 1a and 1b shown embodiment of a chair 1 is suitable for use as an office chair or conference chair. 1a shows schematically individual components before assembling the chair 1, while 1b shows the chair 1 in assembled form.

The chair 1 comprises a frame 2 and a seat 3. The frame 2 has support elements 31, like in this embodiment chair legs 31, for contact with the floor and can therefore be regarded as a connecting piece between the seat 3 and the (floor) floor.

The seat 3 has a seat structure 5 and a seat support 4, which in turn has a seat shell 6 and a backrest 7, the seat shell 6 and the backrest 7 being connected to one another in one piece.

In the 1a and 1b It can be seen that the seat support 4 and the frame 2 are to be connected to one another via a first connecting device 8 (by the arrow drawn in 1a indicated) or connected ( 1b) . In addition, ( 1a) or are ( 1b) the seat structure 5 and the seat support 4 are connected to one another via a second connecting device 9 . In this embodiment, the latter connection forms the seat 3 of the chair 1.

The first connecting device 8 and the second connecting device 9 each have first connecting means 10 and second connecting means 11, which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in such a way as to form a first connection 12 that can be connected and released without tools and a second connection 13 that can be connected and released without tools . Here the connecting means 10, 11 are shown schematically as projections or recesses in the corresponding components which are arranged at a distance from one another and correspond in size.

The first connecting device 8 and the second connecting device 9 are designed to form a positive connection in each case. In further exemplary embodiments, the first connecting device 8 and the second connecting device 9 are designed to form a non-positive connection in each case.

However, a form fit is generally preferable to a force fit due to its lower wear and tear and the lower effort required to form the connection 12,13. In this exemplary embodiment, the first connecting device 8 and the second connecting device 9 are both designed to form a snap connection. In further exemplary embodiments, the first connecting device 8 and the second connecting device 9 are designed as a tongue and groove connection, feather key connection or dovetail connection. In further embodiments, the first connecting device 8 and the second connecting device 9 are formed from different positive connections 12, 13 mentioned above. Combinations of positive and non-positive connections are also possible, for example in the form of a positive first connection 12 and a non-positive second connection 13, or vice versa, and also within a connection 12, 13 formed from non-positive and positive locking.

2a-2b show schematic cross-sectional views of a further exemplary embodiment of a chair 1.

The chair 1 of the 2a and 2 B embodiment shown is based on the previously in the 1a and 1b Chair 1 shown 2a and 2 B shown chair 1, however, an armrest support 14 is also provided. 2a shows schematically the individual components before assembling the chair 1, and 2 B Fig. 12 shows the chair 1 of this embodiment in assembled form.

The armrest support 14 has at least one armrest 15, 16. In the exemplary embodiment of the chair 1, the armrest support 14 has a first armrest 15 and a second armrest 16 (in the view in FIG 2a and 2 B hidden behind the first armrest 15), which are arranged on both sides and are connected to one another via a mounting section 21 of the armrest support 14. The armrest support 14 enables the armrests 15, 16 to be integrated into the seat 3 in a modular manner. Armrests 15 and 16 considerably increase the comfort and user experience of the chair 1 and are therefore particularly suitable for use with the office chair 1.

The armrest support 14 and the seat support 4 are connected to one another via a third connecting device 17 . In this exemplary embodiment of the chair 1 , the seat support 4 and the mounting section 21 of the armrest support 14 are connected to one another via the third connecting device 17 . For connection to the seat support 4, the third connection device 17 has third connection means 18 which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in such a way as to form a third connection 19 which can be connected and released without tools. Analogously to the first connecting device 8 and the second connecting device 9, the connecting means 18 form a form-fitting snap connection. In other embodiments, the third connection means 18 are designed to form a positive tongue and groove connection, feather key connection, dovetail connection, or to form a non-positive connection 19 . With the third connecting device 17, the armrests 15, 16 can also be connected to the chair 1 in a simple manner.

It can also be seen that the seat support 4 is designed to be connected to the armrest support 14 at a transition area 20 between the seat shell 6 and the backrest 7 . In this exemplary embodiment, the transition area forms a section of the seat support 4 that is inclined at approximately 45° to the horizontal or vertical direction, or to the backrest 7 and seat shell 6. By connecting the armrest support 14 to the transition area of the seat support 4, the armrest support can be easily integrated 14 to the seat support 4. In addition, the armrests 15 have an attractive and modern shape.

In this exemplary embodiment, the first connection device 8 is designed as a first snap connection 8 . For this purpose, the seat support 4 has receiving areas 26 on an underside 4a of the seat support 4, which is designed to be fastened to the frame 2 translationally along a predetermined direction T in order to form the first snap connection. A simple translational movement is sufficient to form the first connection 12, which simplifies the assembly of the chair 1.

In addition, the frame 2 is designed as a cantilever frame in that the frame 2 has vertical elements only on one side (the front) of the chair 1, so that the chair 1 can “swing” backwards. A cantilever chair is particularly popular with office chairs because of its appealing design and comfortable seating experience.

3a-3b show schematic cross-sectional views of a further exemplary embodiment of a chair 1.

The chair 1 of the 3a and 3b embodiment shown is based on the previously in the 1a and 1b respectively. 2a and 2 B chairs shown 1. In the case of the 3a and 3b However, the chair 1 shown has an additional backrest support 27, but no armrest support 14 is provided for this. In other exemplary embodiments, both a backrest support 27 and an armrest support 14 are provided. 3a shows schematically the individual components before assembling the chair 1, and 3b Fig. 12 shows the chair 1 of this embodiment in assembled form.

In the in the 3a and 3b In the exemplary embodiment of the chair 1 shown, the seat support 4 is designed to accommodate a backrest structure 17 on the backrest 7 . The backrest structure 17 is provided with a back pad, which can be made soft or hard to a desired shape as needed. The seat support 4 and the backrest structure 17 are connected to one another via a fourth connecting device 28 . The fourth connecting device 28 has fourth connecting means 29 which are designed and arranged relative to one another in such a way as to form a fourth connection 30 which can be connected and released without tools. Analogously to the first and second connecting means 10, 11, the third connecting means 18 are also drawn in and indicated here as spaced-apart projections and recesses. In this way, the backrest structure 27 can be integrated into the chair 1 in a modular manner, analogously to the seat structure 5 and the seat support 4 .

4 shows a perspective exploded view of another embodiment of a chair 1.

The Indian 4 The chair 1 shown is structurally based on that in the previous ones 1a until 3b , especially the one in the 2a and 2 B , shown chair 1.

In the embodiment of the chair 1 of 4 the seat structure 5 has a seat cushion 22 which is provided as a seat surface 23 . The seat cushion 22 is intended to increase the comfort for a user of the chair 1 and can be easily adjusted due to the easy interchangeability of the seat structure 5 . The seat pad 22 includes an elastic material, and the degree of elasticity can be adjusted according to the user's preference.

In 4 it can be seen that the frame 2 is designed as a tubular frame 2 and has a multiplicity of tubular elements 24 . The tube elements 24 are designed here as round tubes. In further embodiments, the tubes are formed with a rectangular cross-section or other cross-section, or as a combination of different types of tubes. It can also be seen that the frame 2 has a seat base 25 on which the seat support 4 is accommodated. The seat base contains transverse tubes 10 which serve as first connecting means 10 . The frame 2 and its tubular elements 24 are designed in terms of material and dimensioning to absorb the weight of a person sitting on the chair 1 . Also in this embodiment of the chair 1, the frame 2 is designed as a cantilever frame.

As in the above embodiments is also in the embodiment shown 4 the first connecting device 8 is designed as a first snap connection 8 . For this purpose, the seat support 4 has on an underside 4a of the seat support 4 (shown in FIG 5 ) Recording areas 26, which form the first Snap connection is formed in a translatory manner along a predetermined direction T to the frame 2 fastened. The connecting means 11 of the frame 2, i.e. in this case the in 4 cross tubes 11 shown, engage in the in 5 recognizable receiving areas 26 on the underside 4a of the seat support 4.

In 4 an arrow is drawn in, which shows the predetermined direction T for forming the first snap connection. It can be seen that the arrow points “diagonally down and to the rear” relative to the seat 3 and frame 2 of the chair 1. “Down” is to be understood as meaning a more vertical direction to the floor, while “to the rear” is to be understood as meaning a more horizontal direction from the seat surface or the seat structure 5 or the seat shell 6 to the backrest 7 . "Oblique" is to be understood as meaning a mixture of the two directions, i.e. a direction that usually contains horizontal and vertical components. In this exemplary embodiment, it is a direction T pointing downwards at approximately 45°. In other embodiments, the direction T can deviate from the value 45°, ie have larger and thus steeper angles of more than 45°, which means that the Seat support 4 corresponds to the frame 2, or even shallower angles of less than 45 °. Furthermore, the first connecting device 8 can be provided, in which the first connection 12 can be formed by a movement T over a very large angular range. Rotatory movements can also be used for this purpose, or a translatory movement T can also be superimposed.

The predetermined direction T “diagonally downwards and backwards” shown here is the direction which usually also describes the “sitting direction” which is described by a person when sitting down on the chair 1 . In this way, this exemplary embodiment achieves a simple and intuitive assembly of the seat support 4 on the frame 2.

5 shows a schematic cross-sectional representation of a further exemplary embodiment of a chair 1.

In this representation, the seat support 4 is already connected to the frame 2 . The receiving areas 26 are shaped in such a way that the seat support 4 can be moved with a translatory movement according to the 4 already shown predetermined direction T "obliquely backwards and downwards" can be connected to the frame 2. The receiving areas 26 have round recesses with a diameter smaller than or equal to that of the transverse tubes 10 for receiving the transverse tubes. In front of these recesses there can be a projection which deforms elastically when the transverse tube 10 is inserted and returns to its original shape when the tube passes the projection. This creates a “snap”, which indicates the formation of the first connection 12 in a simple manner during assembly. Of course, those skilled in the art know other forms of a snap connection that can be used here or in the other connections 12, 13, 19, 30 shown.

The armrest support 14 is not yet connected to the seat support 4 in this illustration. However, the third connecting means 18 can be seen, which are arranged on the mounting section 21 of the armrest support 14 and the transition area 20 of the seat support 4 . As in the above embodiment of the chair 1 of 2a and 2 B the third connecting device 7 is designed to form a positive snap connection. In further embodiments, the third connection device 17 is designed to form other positive or non-positive third connections 19 .

6 shows a schematic cross-sectional representation of a further exemplary embodiment of a chair 1.

in the in 6 The chair 1 shown is connected to the armrest support 14 with the seat support 4. In a next step, the seat structure 5 with the seat cushion 22 is connected to the seat shell 6 of the seat support 4 .

As in the above embodiment of the chair 1 of 1a and 1b the second connecting means 11 of the second connecting device 9 are designed in such a way as to form a snap connection between the seat structure 5 and the seat shell 6 of the seat support 4 . This is shown schematically here by corresponding projections on the underside of the seat structure 5 and receptacles on the seat support 4 .

7 shows a schematic cross-sectional representation of a further exemplary embodiment of a chair 1. 8th shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a chair 1.

the 7 and 8th each show exemplary embodiments of a fully assembled chair 1 according to the invention, which can be used as an office chair. Like the chairs in the 2a until 6 illustrated embodiments is designed chair 1 as a cantilever.

9 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a chair 1.

In this embodiment, the frame 2 chair legs 31 is otherwise structurally the same as in the 4 until 8th chairs shown 1.

10 shows a schematic representation of a method for manufacturing a chair 1.

The method for producing a chair 1 initially comprises the step of (mechanically) connecting S1 a frame 2 to a seat support 4 via a first connecting device 8. The seat support 4 has a backrest 7 which is connected in one piece to a seat shell 6. The first connecting device 8 has first connecting means 10 which are designed and arranged relative to one another in such a way as to form a first connection 12 which can be connected and released without tools.

The following step includes connecting S2 a seat assembly 5 to the seat support 4 via a second connecting device 9 to form a seat 3. The second connecting device 9 has second connecting means 11 which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in such a way that a second connection means can be connected without tools and without tools to form a detachable connection 13 . The seat structure 5 is preferably connected to the seat shell 6 of the seat support 4 .

Optionally, the method includes the additional step of connecting S3 an armrest support 14 to the seat support 4 via a third connection 19. The armrest support 14 has at least one armrest 15,16, but preferably two armrests 15, 16 connected via a mounting section 21. The armrest support 14 is preferably connected to a transition area 20 of the seat support 4 between the backrest 7 and the seat shell 6 .

It should be noted that steps S1 to S3 are not necessarily in the in 10 shown order (S1 before S2 before S3). Especially in the embodiments of 4 until 9 the step of connecting S3 of the armrest support 14 to the seat support 4 takes place before the step of connecting S2 of the seat structure 5 to the seat support 4. With the principle according to the invention of assembling the chair 1 in modular fashion, each permutation of steps S1, S2 and S3 is basically Order for the production of the chair 1 conceivable and realizable. Of course, the simultaneous execution of two of the steps S1 to S3, or all of the steps S1 to S3, is also conceivable.

Although the present invention has been fully described above on the basis of preferred exemplary embodiments, it is not restricted to them, but rather can be modified in a variety of ways. For example, the armrest support 14 can also be connected directly to the seat shell 6 or the backrest 7 of the seat support 4, the frame 2 or the seat structure 5 via a third connection device.

Reference List

1

chair

2

frame

3

Seat

4

seat carrier

4a

underside of the seat support

5

seat assembly

6

seat shell

7

backrest

8th

first connection device

9

second connection device

10

first means of connection

11

second means of connection

12

first connection

13

second connection

14

armrest support

15

first armrest

16

second armrest

17

third connection device

18

third means of connection

19

third connection

20

transition area

21

assembly section

22

seat pad

23

seat

24

pipe elements

25

seat base (of frame)

26

recording area

27

backrest structure

28

fourth connection device

29

fourth means of connection

30

fourth connection

31

chair legs

S1

process step

S2

process step

S3

process step

T

predetermined snapping direction

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• WO 1987/005479 A1 [0003]

Claims (15)

Chair (1), in particular an office chair or conference chair, with a frame (2) and with a seat (3) which has a seat support (4) and a seat structure (5), - the seat support (4) having a seat shell (6) and a backrest (7) which are connected to one another in one piece, - wherein the seat support (4) and the frame (2) are connected to one another via a first connecting device (8), - wherein the seat structure (5) and the seat support (4) are connected to one another via a second connecting device (9), - wherein the first and second connecting devices (8, 9) have respective first and second connecting means (10,11) which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in order to form a first and a second connection (12, 13) which can be connected and disconnected without tools . chair after claim 1 , characterized in that the first and/or the second connecting device (8, 9) is/are designed to form a positive connection (12, 13), in particular a snap connection, tongue and groove connection, feather key connection or dovetail connection. Chair according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an armrest support (14) is provided which has at least one armrest (15, 16) which is formed in one piece with the armrest support (14), the armrest support (14) and the seat support (4) are connected to one another via a third connecting device (17). chair after claim 3 , characterized in that the third connection device (17) has third connection means (18) which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in order to form a third connection (19) which can be connected and released without tools. chair after claim 3 or 4 , characterized in that the third connecting device (17) is designed to form a positive connection, in particular a snap connection, tongue and groove connection, feather key connection or dovetail connection. chair after one of claims 3 until 5 , characterized in that the seat support (4) for connection to the armrest support (14) is formed at a transition area (20) between the seat shell (6) and the backrest (7). chair after one of claims 3 until 6 , characterized in that the armrest support (14) has a first and second armrest (15, 16) which are arranged on both sides and are connected to one another via a mounting section (21) of the armrest support (14), the seat support (4) and the Mounting portion (21) of the armrest support (14) via the third connecting device (17) are connected to each other. Chair according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the seat structure (5) has a seat cushion (22) which is provided as a seat surface (23), the seat cushion (22) in particular having an elastic material. Chair according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame (2) is designed as a cantilever frame. Chair according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame (2) is designed as a tubular frame and has, preferably round, tubular elements (24), the frame (2) having a seat base (25) on which the seat support ( 4) is included. Chair according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first connecting device (8) is designed as a first snap connection (8), the seat support (4) having receiving areas (26) on an underside (4a) of the seat support (4), which is designed to be fastened to the frame (2) in a translatory manner along a predetermined direction (T) in order to form the first snap connection (8). chair after claim 11 , characterized in that the predetermined direction (T) for forming the first snap connection (8) relative to the seat (3) and frame (2) is inclined downwards and backwards. Chair according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the seat support (4) is designed to accommodate a backrest structure (27) on the backrest (7), the seat support (4) and the backrest structure (27) being connected via a fourth connecting device (28 ) are connected to one another, the fourth connecting device (28) having fourth connecting means (29) which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in order to form a fourth connection (30) which can be connected and released without tools. Method for assembling a chair (1), in particular a chair (1) according to one of patent claims 1 until 13 , having the steps: providing a frame (2), a seat support (4) and a seat structure (5), the seat support (4) has a backrest (7) which is connected in one piece to a seat shell (6), tool-free connection of the frame (2) to the seat support (4) using a first connection device (8); tool-free connection of the seat structure (5) to the seat support (4) using a second connection device (9) to form a seat (3); the first and second connecting devices (8, 9) having respective first and second connecting means (10, 11) which are designed and arranged in relation to one another in order to form a first and a second connection (12, 13) which can be connected and disconnected without tools . procedure after Claim 14 , characterized by connecting an armrest support (14) to the seat support (4) via a third connection (19), the armrest support (14) having at least one armrest (15, 16), the armrest support (14) being attached to a transition area (20 ) of the seat support (4) is connected between the backrest (7) and the seat shell (6).

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