DE202024105535U1 - Mounting system for attaching an accessory to a piece of furniture - Google Patents

Abstract

Hook mounting system (3100) for attaching an accessory (3190) to a portion of a piece of furniture, comprising:
a mounting frame (102) which is attachable to the portion of the piece of furniture or forms part of the piece of furniture, the mounting frame (102) having a pair of mounting strips (3102), the pair of mounting strips (3102) having a first mounting strip and a second mounting strip;
an accessory (3190) configured to be attached to the mounting frame (102); and
a hook device (1300), the hook device (1300) comprising:
at least one frame retaining device (1302), the at least one frame retaining device (1302) having a base portion and a pair of hooks (1310) extending from the base portion, the pair of hooks (1310) configured to be attached to the mounting frame (102), the base portion being attachable to the accessory;
wherein the pair of mounting strips (3102) are spaced apart from one another by a distance in the order of 190 millimeters to 200 millimeters, and wherein the distance is calculated from a first surface of the first mounting strip to a corresponding first surface of the second mounting strip.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an accessory mounting system suitable for attaching one or more accessories, such as, but not limited to, the footrest device, to a piece of furniture.

BACKGROUND

The following background discussion is intended merely to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure. It should be noted that the discussion does not constitute an affirmation or acknowledgment that any of the material referred to was published, known, or within the common general knowledge of one skilled in the art in any jurisdiction as of the priority date of the disclosure.

There is currently no mounting system for attaching an accessory to a piece of furniture, whereby an accessory, such as a footrest adjustment system, can be freely attached to or detached from a piece of furniture, such as a chair. Nor is there an assembly method for a modular accessory mounting system for chairs, whereby an accessory can be relatively easily hooked onto and secured thereto.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved footrest assembly for attachment to a chair that attempts to address at least one of the aforementioned problems.

OVERVIEW

According to one aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a footrest device for attachment to a chair, the footrest device comprising: a mounting frame configured to be attached to a seat portion of the chair, the mounting frame comprising a pair of retainers; an adjustment frame comprising a first portion configured to be slidably received by the pair of retainers and a second portion configured to hold (e.g., attach thereto) a footrest, the first portion being pivotally connected to the second portion to define an adjustment angle therebetween; and an actuator device configured to enable adjustment of the adjustment angle between the first portion and the second portion, the actuator device comprising a gas spring configured to urge the second portion toward an extended position, the extended position corresponding to a maximum allowable adjustment angle.

In some embodiments, the pair of retainers, the first portion, and the second portion form a six-link mechanical linkage, the six-link mechanical linkage being arranged to move from a retracted state to the extended position upon actuation of the gas spring.

In some embodiments, the second portion comprises a connection system, the connection system having a main connection device, the main connection device configured to provide structural support to the connection system. In some embodiments, the main connection device may comprise two leg portions connected by a cross-member to form an H-shaped structure. The two leg portions may be housings for housing one or more other connection devices of the connection system.

In some embodiments, the second portion includes a fastening device for attaching the footrest to the main linkage when the six-link mechanical linkage is in the retracted state. The fastening device may include at least one magnet.

In some embodiments, the second portion includes a support plate shaped and sized to receive the footrest.

In some embodiments, the second portion has an end portion shaped and dimensioned to receive the footrest.

In some embodiments, the footrest includes: a base formed from or made from a medium density fiberboard (MDF), a cushion comprising memory foam, and a clip for attachment to an end portion.

In some embodiments, the clip is formed from or made from a thermoplastic composite material and fiberglass.

In some embodiments, the clip comprises polyamide and at least 10% glass fiber.

In some embodiments, each retainer of the pair of retainers includes a base portion and a pair of ribs extending from opposite longitudinal sides of the base portion, with the free end of at least one rib of the pair of ribs sloping toward the free end of the other rib.

In some embodiments, each rib of the pair of ribs has at least one slot shaped and dimensioned to receive at least one fastening device.

In some embodiments, the actuator device comprises a compression spring coupled to a piston of the gas spring. The compression spring may be slid onto a piston rod of the gas spring, and an end of the compression spring may be directly or indirectly in contact with the piston of the gas spring. When the gas spring is compressed, the piston of the gas spring may compress the compression spring, thereby storing energy in the compression spring. Upon actuation of the gas spring, the compression spring may extend, thereby providing a counterforce on the piston that amplifies the force generated by the gas spring to overcome stiction and allow the gas spring to extend evenly even after a period of inactivity.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a chair having a seat portion and a footrest device installed on the seat portion, the footrest device comprising: a mounting frame configured to be attached to the seat portion of the chair, the mounting frame comprising a pair of retainers; an adjustment frame comprising a first portion configured to be slidably received by the pair of retainers and a second portion configured to hold a footrest, the first portion being pivotally connected to the second portion to define an adjustment angle; and an actuator device configured to enable adjustment of the adjustment angle between the first portion and the second portion, the actuator device comprising a gas spring configured to urge the second portion toward an extended position, the extended position corresponding to a maximum allowable adjustment angle.

• einen Montagerahmen, welcher an dem Abschnitt des Möbelstücks anbringbar ist; ein Zubehörteil, welches konfiguriert ist, um an dem Montagerahmen angebracht zu sein; und eine Hakeneinrichtung, wobei die Hakeneinrichtung aufweist: mindestens eine Rahmenhaltevorrichtung, wobei die mindestens eine Rahmenhaltevorrichtung einen Basisabschnitt und ein Hakenpaar aufweist, welches sich von dem Basisabschnitt aus erstreckt, wobei das Hakenpaar konfiguriert ist, um an dem Montagerahmen angebracht zu sein, wobei der Basisabschnitt an dem Zubehörteil anbringbar ist; wobei das Montageleistenpaar in einer Größenordnung von 190 Millimetern bis 200 Millimetern voneinander beabstandet ist.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a hook mounting system for attaching an accessory to a portion of a piece of furniture, the hook mounting system comprising:

• a mounting frame attachable to the portion of the furniture; an accessory configured to be attached to the mounting frame; and a hook device, the hook device comprising: at least one frame retaining device, the at least one frame retaining device comprising a base portion and a pair of hooks extending from the base portion, the pair of hooks configured to be attached to the mounting frame, the base portion attachable to the accessory; the pair of mounting strips being spaced apart from one another in a range of 190 millimeters to 200 millimeters.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a hook mounting system for attaching an accessory to a portion of a piece of furniture, the hook mounting system comprising: a mounting frame attachable to the portion of the piece of furniture or forming part of the piece of furniture; an accessory configured to be attached to the mounting frame; and a hook device, the hook device comprising: at least one frame retaining device, the at least one frame retaining device comprising a base portion and a hook pair extending from the base portion, the hook pair configured to be attached to the mounting frame, the base portion attachable to the accessory; and a locking mechanism pivotally connected to the base portion, the locking mechanism comprising a stop device configured to prevent movement of the hook pair along at least one direction when the locking mechanism is in a locked position.

In some embodiments, the frame retainer includes a slot and the stopper includes a projection, the slot being shaped and sized to receive the projection in the locked position.

In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a latch, the latch configured to engage another end of the base portion.

In some embodiments, the mounting frame includes a pair of mounting strips.

In some embodiments, each of the mounting bars includes at least one resilient member, the at least one resilient member arranged to contact the pair of hooks.

In some embodiments, the at least one resilient member comprises at least one rubber clip or polymer-based clip, such as at least one silicone clip, wherein the plurality of silicone clips are arranged to contact the pair of hooks.

In some embodiments, the portion of the furniture is a seat portion of the furniture, and the mounting frame is configured to be attached to a base of the seat portion of the furniture; and the accessory is a footrest adjuster.

In some embodiments, the portion of the furniture is a seat portion of the furniture, and the pair of mounting strips is configured to be attached to a base or a side of the seat portion of the furniture; and the accessory is a cup holder and hanger device.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a piece of furniture having a seat portion and an accessory installed on the seat portion, the piece of furniture comprising: a mounting frame attachable to or forming part of the seat portion of the piece of furniture; an accessory configured to be received by the pair of mounting strips; and a hook device, the hook device comprising: at least one frame retaining device comprising a base portion and a pair of hooks extending from the base portion, the pair of hooks configured to be attached to the mounting frame, the base portion attachable to the accessory; and a locking mechanism pivotally connected to the base portion, the locking mechanism comprising a stop device configured to prevent movement of the pair of hooks along at least one direction when the locking mechanism is in a locked position.

In some embodiments, the accessory is a footrest device, and the footrest device comprises: an adjustment frame having a first portion configured to be slidably received by the pair of retainers and a second portion configured to hold a footrest, the first portion being pivotally connected to the second portion to define an adjustment angle; and an actuator device configured to enable adjustment of the adjustment angle between the first portion and the second portion.

In some embodiments, the actuator device comprises a gas spring configured to urge the second portion toward an extended position, the extended position corresponding to a maximum allowable adjustment angle.

In some embodiments, the pair of retainers, the first portion and the second portion form a six-link mechanical linkage, the six-link mechanical linkage being arranged to move from a retracted position to the extended position upon actuation of the gas spring, and the second portion having means for attaching the footrest directly or indirectly to a main linkage of a linkage system of the second portion when the six-link mechanical linkage is in the retracted state.

In some embodiments, the second portion includes means for attaching the footrest to a main linkage of a linkage system of the second portion when the six-link mechanical linkage is in the retracted state.

In some embodiments, the second portion has an end portion shaped and dimensioned to receive the footrest.

In some embodiments, the footrest includes: a base formed from or made from a medium density fiberboard (MDF), a cushion comprising memory foam, and a clip for attaching to the end portion.

In some embodiments, the pair of mounting strips are spaced apart from each other in a range of 190 millimeters to 200 millimeters.

In some embodiments, each mounting bar of the pair of mounting bars has a width on the order of 27.5 millimeters to 32.5 millimeters.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

• 1 eine Perspektivansicht einer Fußstützeneinrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform ist.
• 2 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Montagerahmens der Fußstützeneinrichtung ist.
• 3 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Haltevorrichtungspaars ist, welches mittels mehrerer Schrauben an einem Sitzabschnitt eines Stuhls befestigt werden soll.
• 4 eine Von-Unten-Ansicht einer Ausführungsform des Stuhls ist, bei welcher das Haltevorrichtungspaar montiert und mittels mehrerer Schrauben an dem Sitzabschnitt des Stuhls befestigt ist.
• 5 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Rahmens eines ersten Abschnitts der Fußstützeneinrichtung ist, welcher konfiguriert ist, um eine Betätigungsvorrichtung zu montieren.
• 6A eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer Hauptverbindungsvorrichtung eines Verbindungssystems eines zweiten Abschnitts der Fußstützeneinrichtung ist.
• 6B eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer langen Verbindungsvorrichtung des Verbindungssystems des zweiten Abschnitts ist.
• 6C eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer mittelgroßen Verbindungsvorrichtung des Verbindungssystems des zweiten Abschnitts ist.
• 6D eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer kurzen Verbindungsvorrichtung des Verbindungssystems des zweiten Abschnitts ist.
• 6E eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer Verbindungsvorrichtung-Abdeckvorrichtung des Verbindungssystems des zweiten Abschnitts ist.
• 7A das Freiliegen von Verbindungsvorrichtungen und Einklemmstellen darstellt, wenn die Verbindungsvorrichtung-Abdeckvorrichtung von dem Verbindungssystem entfernt ist.
• 7B darstellt, dass die Verbindungsvorrichtungen und die Einklemmstellen abgedeckt sind, wenn die Verbindungsvorrichtung-Abdeckvorrichtung an dem Verbindungssystem angebracht ist.
• 8A eine Ausführungsform einer Halteplatte des zweiten Abschnitts darstellt.
• 8B eine Ausführungsform eines Endabschnitts des zweiten Abschnitts darstellt.
• 9 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer Fußstütze ist.
• 10 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer Haltevorrichtung von dem Haltevorrichtungspaar mit einer C-förmigen Biegung ist.
• 11 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Verstell-Rahmens ist, welcher mittels der mehreren Schrauben an dem Montagerahmen befestigt werden soll.
• 12 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Abschnitts des Verstell-Rahmens ist, welcher an einer Haltevorrichtung von dem Haltevorrichtungspaar befestigt ist.
• 13A eine Explosionsansicht einer Ausführungsform einer Hakeneinrichtung von der einen Haltevorrichtung von dem Haltevorrichtungspaar ist.
• 13B eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform der Hakeneinrichtung in einem arretierten Zustand ist.
• 14A eine Seitenansicht einer Ausführungsform der Hakeneinrichtung in einem nicht-arretierten Zustand ist.
• 14B eine Seitenansicht einer Ausführungsform der Hakeneinrichtung in dem arretierten Zustand ist.
• 15A eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer Gasdruckfeder einer Betätigungsvorrichtung-Einrichtung der Fußstützeneinrichtung ist.
• 15B eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer Hebelwelle der Betätigungsvorrichtung-Einrichtung ist.
• 15C eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Seils der Betätigungsvorrichtung-Einrichtung ist.
• 15D eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Arretierungsmechanismus der Betätigungsvorrichtung-Einrichtung ist.
• 15E eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Hebels der Betätigungsvorrichtung-Einrichtung ist.
• 16 eine Seitenansicht einer Ausführungsform der Fußstützeneinrichtung mit einer Kompressionsfeder ist, welche mit einem Kolben der Gasdruckfeder gekoppelt ist.
• 17 eine Seitenansicht einer Ausführungsform einer sechsgliedrigen mechanischen Verbindungsvorrichtung ist
• 18 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform des zweiten Abschnitts ist, wobei ein Magnet an der Halteplatte angebracht ist.
• 19 eine Seitenansicht einer Ausführungsform des zweiten Abschnitts ist, wobei der Magnet die Fußstütze über die Halteplatte an einer Quertraverse der Hauptverbindungsvorrichtung anbringt.
• 20 eine Seitenansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Schubvorrichtung-Mechanismus der Betätigungsvorrichtung-Einrichtung ist.
• 21 eine Seitenansicht einer anderen Ausführungsform der Betätigungsvorrichtung-Einrichtung mit dem Schubvorrichtung-Mechanismus und der einen Haltevorrichtung von dem Haltevorrichtungspaar mit der Hakeneinrichtung ist.
• 22 eine Seitenansicht einer Ausführungsform des Stuhls mit einem Sitzabschnitt und der Fußstützeneinrichtung ist, welche konfiguriert ist, um in verschiebbarer Weise mittels des Montagerahmens, welcher an dem Sitzabschnitt angebracht ist, aufgenommen zu sein.
• 23 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform des Stuhls mit dem Sitzabschnitt und der Fußstützeneinrichtung ist.
• 24 eine andere Perspektivansicht des Stuhls mit dem Sitzabschnitt und der Fußstützeneinrichtung aus 23 ist.
• 25 eine Seitenansicht einer Ausführungsform des Stuhls mit dem Sitzabschnitt und der Fußstützeneinrichtung in einer ausgestreckten Position ist, welche an dem Sitzabschnitt angebracht ist.
• 26 eine Seitenansicht einer anderen Ausführungsform des Stuhls mit dem Sitzabschnitt und der Fußstützeneinrichtung in einer ausgestreckten Position ist, welche an dem Sitzabschnitt angebracht ist.
• 27 eine Seitenansicht einer Ausführungsform des Stuhls mit dem Sitzabschnitt und der Fußstützeneinrichtung in einer zurückgezogenen Position ist, welche an dem Sitzabschnitt angebracht ist.
• 28 eine Von-Unten-Ansicht einer Ausführungsform des Stuhls mit dem Sitzabschnitt und der Fußstützeneinrichtung in einer zurückgezogenen Position ist, welche an dem Sitzabschnitt angebracht ist.
• 29 eine Seitenansicht einer anderen Ausführungsform des Stuhls mit dem Sitzabschnitt und der Fußstützeneinrichtung in einer zurückgezogenen Position ist, welche an dem Sitzabschnitt angebracht ist.
• 30A bis 30F verschiedene Perspektivansichten von einigen Ausführungsformen eines Haken-Montagesystems sind, welches auf der Hakeneinrichtung der 13A, 13B, 14A und 14B basiert, zum Anbringen eines Zubehörteils an einem Abschnitt eines Möbelstücks. 30G ist eine Ausführungsform eines Montagerahmens, welcher ein Montageleistenpaar aufweist, wobei das Montageleistenpaar mit einem Abstand voneinander beabstandet ist, wobei der Abstand von einer ersten Fläche der ersten Montageleiste aus bis hin zu einer korrespondierenden ersten Fläche der zweiten Montageleiste berechnet wird.

The disclosure will be better understood by reference to the detailed description when considered in conjunction with the non-limiting examples and the accompanying drawings, in which:

• 1 is a perspective view of a footrest device according to an embodiment.
• 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a mounting frame of the footrest device.
• 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pair of retaining devices intended to be attached to a seat portion of a chair by means of a plurality of screws.
• 4 is a bottom view of an embodiment of the chair in which the pair of retaining devices is mounted and secured to the seat portion of the chair by means of a plurality of screws.
• 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame of a first portion of the footrest assembly configured to mount an actuator.
• 6A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a main connection device of a connection system of a second portion of the footrest device.
• 6B is a perspective view of an embodiment of a long connecting device of the second section connecting system.
• 6C is a perspective view of an embodiment of a medium sized connector of the second section connector system.
• 6D is a perspective view of an embodiment of a short connecting device of the second section connecting system.
• 6E is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connector cover device of the second section connector system.
• 7A the exposure of connecting devices and pinch points when the connecting device cover device is removed from the connection system.
• 7B represents that the connecting devices and the pinching points are covered when the connecting device covering device is attached to the connecting system.
• 8A an embodiment of a holding plate of the second section.
• 8B represents an embodiment of an end portion of the second portion.
• 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a footrest.
• 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a retainer of the retainer pair having a C-shaped bend.
• 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an adjustment frame to be attached to the mounting frame by means of the plurality of screws.
• 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a portion of the adjustment frame which is attached to one of the pair of holders.
• 13A is an exploded view of an embodiment of a hook device of one of the holding devices.
• 13B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the hook device in a locked state.
• 14A is a side view of an embodiment of the hook device in an unlocked state.
• 14B is a side view of an embodiment of the hook device in the locked state.
• 15A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a gas spring of an actuator device of the footrest device.
• 15B is a perspective view of an embodiment of a lever shaft of the actuator device.
• 15C is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cable of the actuator device.
• 15D is a perspective view of an embodiment of a locking mechanism of the actuator device.
• 15E is a perspective view of an embodiment of a lever of the actuator device.
• 16 is a side view of an embodiment of the footrest device with a compression spring which is coupled to a piston of the gas pressure spring.
• 17 a side view of an embodiment of a six-link mechanical connecting device
• 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the second portion wherein a magnet is attached to the retaining plate.
• 19 is a side view of an embodiment of the second portion wherein the magnet attaches the footrest via the retaining plate to a crossbar of the main connector.
• 20 is a side view of an embodiment of a pusher mechanism of the actuator device.
• 21 is a side view of another embodiment of the actuator device with the pusher mechanism and the one holding device of the holding device pair with the hook device.
• 22 is a side view of an embodiment of the chair having a seat portion and the footrest assembly configured to be slidably received by the mounting frame attached to the seat portion.
• 23 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the chair with the seat portion and the footrest device.
• 24 another perspective view of the chair with the seat section and the footrest device from 23 is.
• 25 is a side view of an embodiment of the chair with the seat portion and the footrest device in an extended position attached to the seat portion.
• 26 is a side view of another embodiment of the chair with the seat portion and the footrest device in an extended position attached to the seat portion.
• 27 is a side view of an embodiment of the chair with the seat portion and the footrest device in a retracted position attached to the seat portion.
• 28 is a bottom view of an embodiment of the chair with the seat portion and the footrest assembly in a retracted position attached to the seat portion.
• 29 is a side view of another embodiment of the chair with the seat portion and the footrest assembly in a retracted position attached to the seat portion.
• 30A until 30F are various perspective views of some embodiments of a hook mounting system which is mounted on the hook device of the 13A , 13B , 14A and 14B based on attaching an accessory to a section of furniture. 30G is an embodiment of a mounting frame having a pair of mounting strips, wherein the pair of mounting strips are spaced apart from one another by a distance, wherein the distance is calculated from a first surface of the first mounting strip to a corresponding first surface of the second mounting strip.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings which show, by way of illustration, specific details and embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural and logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The various embodiments are not necessarily mutually exclusive, as some embodiments may be combined with one or more other embodiments to form new embodiments.

The disclosure illustratively described herein may be suitably practiced in the absence of any one or more elements or limitations not specifically disclosed herein. Thus, for example, the terms "comprising,""including,""including," etc., are intended to be construed broadly and without limitation. The word "comprising" or variations such as "comprising" or "having" will accordingly be understood to imply the inclusion of a specified integer or group of integers, but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. In addition, the terms and expressions used herein are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and the use of such terms and expressions is not intended to exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure. Therefore, it is to be understood that while the present disclosure has been particularly described in exemplary embodiments and optional features, modifications and variations of the disclosure embodied herein may be made by those skilled in the art.

Features described in the context of one embodiment may be correspondingly applicable to the same or similar features in the other embodiments. Features described in the context of one embodiment may be correspondingly applicable to the other embodiments, even if they are not expressly described in those other embodiments. Moreover, additions and/or combinations and/or alternatives as described for a feature in the context of one embodiment may be correspondingly applicable to the same or similar feature in the other embodiments.

In the context of various embodiments, the articles "a" and "the" as used with respect to a feature or element include reference to one or more of the features or elements. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed elements.

Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various elements, such elements are not limited to the terms above. The terms above are used only to distinguish one element from another and do not define the order and/or meaning of the elements unless expressly stated. Without departing from any legal scope of description, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, the second element may be referred to as the first element.

It should be understood that the terms "on", "over", "upper", "lower", "bottom", "side", "rear", "left", "right", "front", "lateral", "side", "upwards", "downwards", etc., when used in the following description, are used for convenience and are used to aid in understanding relative positions or directions, and are not intended to limit the orientation of any device, structure, or any part of any device or structure.

The term "coupled" (or "connected") may be understood herein as being mechanically coupled, for example attached or fixed, or merely being in contact without any fixation, and it will be understood that both direct coupling and indirect coupling (in other words: coupling without direct contact) may be provided.

In order that the disclosure may be readily understood and put into practical application, various embodiments will now be described by way of example and without limitation and with reference to the figures.

Throughout the description, the term "footrest assembly" refers broadly to multiple components of a footrest unit. In some embodiments, the footrest assembly may be assembled by a user.

1 shows a schematic drawing, in perspective view, of a footrest device 100 according to an embodiment. The footrest device 100 comprises a mounting frame 102 which is configured to be removably attached to a piece of furniture. In some embodiments, the piece of furniture may be a chair and the footrest device 100 may be attachable to a seat portion of a chair. The mounting frame 102 comprises a pair of retaining devices 104. 2 shows a perspective view of the mounting frame 102, according to one embodiment. Each retainer of the retainer pair 104 includes a base portion 202 and a pair of ribs 204 extending from opposite longitudinal sides of the base portion 202. A free end of at least one rib of the pair of ribs 204 is tapered toward a free end of the other rib (the opposite side). Additionally, at least one rib of the pair of ribs 204 includes at least one slot 206 shaped and dimensioned to receive at least one fastening device. As an example, the fastening device may include a screw, a piece of wire, and/or a bolt. In some embodiments, the fastening device may include magnetic fastening devices.

The pair of retainers 104 may be secured to a surface, such as a lower surface of a seat portion 302 of a chair 304, for example by means of a plurality of screws 306, as in 3 shown. 4 shows a bottom view of the chair 304 with the retainer pair 104 mounted and secured to the seat portion 302 of the chair 304 by the plurality of screws 306. The retainer pair 104 may be mounted in addition to an existing chair mechanism, such as a tilt mechanism. There may be variations in the size of the slot 208 to accommodate variances in mounting locations across different chairs or chair product lines.

Referring back to 1 the footrest assembly 100 includes an adjustment frame 106, the adjustment frame 106 including a first portion 108 and a second portion 112. The first portion 108 may be configured to be slidably received by the pair of retainers 104. The first portion 108 includes a frame 110 that may be configured to interface with the pair of retainers 104 to mount the adjustment frame 106 in a position that allows for proper use with the chair. In the embodiment shown in 5 As shown, the frame 110 may include a mounting portion 504, where the mounting portion 504 may be configured to have an actuating device (such as a gas spring) mounted thereon. The frame 110 also has at least one mounting location 502 for a connecting device of the second portion 112 to be mounted thereon. The second portion 112 may be attached to the mounting location 502 by one or more fastening devices, such as the fastening device(s) described in other embodiments.

The first portion 108 may be pivotally connected to the second portion 112 to define an angle of adjustment therebetween. In some embodiments, the second portion 112 includes a mechanical connection system 114 that allows attachment to the first portion 108. The connection system 114 includes a main connection device 602. Referring to 6A the main connection device 602 has a crossbar 603 that provides structural support to the overall system. In some embodiments, the main connection device may include two leg sections 601 and a crossbar 603 arranged in an H-shaped configuration. Each of the two leg sections 601 may be configured to house one or more other connection devices from the connection system 114. The leg sections 601 may be attached to a portion of the footrest 116. In some embodiments, each leg section 601 houses a set of connection devices, the set of connection devices configured to move the footrest 116 between the retracted position and the extended position. Each set of connectors housed within each leg portion 601 may be arm-like, and in some embodiments, the two leg portions 601 may be mounted at opposite ends of the footrest 116 to properly hold the footrest 116 when a force is applied to the footrest 116. The crossbar 603 connecting the two leg portions 601 may be used to ensure that the connectors are synchronized in movement between the retracted position and the extended position to avoid uneven extension of the two leg portions 601.

In operation, when the one or more other connectors of the connection system 114 are urged to move from a first position (which may correspond to the retracted position) to a second position (which may correspond to the extended position), the movement causes the main connection device as well as all other connectors of the connection system 114 enclosed within the main connection device 602 to move synchronously due to the at least one crossbar 603. The at least one crossbar 603 may further provide additional contact points between various connectors of the connection system 114 to distribute load and pressure from the footrest and/or legs of a user to the connection system. The connection system 114 also includes at least one of a first connection device (long connection device) 604, a second connection device (medium connection device) 606, or a third connection device (short connection device) 608, embodiments of which are described in 6B to 6D are shown.

The connection system 114 may further comprise a connection device cover device 610 as in 6E The connector cover assembly 610 fits over an exposed moving part of the connector system 114 to provide at least one pinch point around the system, such as a gap that could potentially pinch or crush a human body part. 7A illustrates the exposure of connectors and pinch points when the connector cover device 610 is removed from the connection system 114, and 7B shows that the connectors and pinch points are covered when the connector cover device 610 is attached to the same system. In addition to reducing or eliminating pinch points, the connector cover device 610 minimizes or prevents dust and/or debris from entering the connector system 114, helping to improve the longevity and performance of the system. The connector cover device 610 may be shaped and sized for easy installation and removal, e.g., via a snap-fit configuration, and may be formed or fabricated from polypropylene (PP) to withstand or resist the wear and tear of regular use.

The second portion 112 may be configured to support a footrest 116. The second portion 112 may include a support plate shaped and sized to receive the footrest 116. 8A shows an embodiment of the holding plate 802. In another embodiment, as in 8B As shown, the second portion 112 may have an end portion 804 shaped and dimensioned to receive the footrest 116.

9 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the footrest 116. The footrest 116 includes a base 902 formed from or made of a medium density fiberboard (MDF), a pad 904 comprising memory foam, and a clip 906. The clip 906 provides a hook and snap feature for attachment to the end portion 804. The clip 906 may be formed from or made of a thermoplastic composite material and fiberglass. The thermoplastic composite material may comprise a polyamide, such as polyamide 6. When the thermoplastic composite material is reinforced with fiberglass, the resulting composite material is stiffer and stronger compared to the thermoplastic composite material. The fiberglass reinforcement also reduces the coefficient of thermal expansion, making the resulting composite material more dimensionally stable over a wide temperature range. In particular, a composite material comprising a polyamide and at least 10% glass fiber has greater strength and stiffness than the polyamide, making the composite material more durable and more resistant to wear and tear. In use, the clip will be subjected to both compression and tension. The stable dimensions of the polyamide and glass fiber composite material allow the clip to be precisely hooked to the end portion and minimize wobble when weight is applied to the pad 904. With better durability and resistance to wear and tear, the hook can be subjected to stress and still be able to withstand the stress without breaking.

The adjustment frame 106 may be configured to slidably receive the retainer pair 104. Similarly, the retainer pair 104 may be configured to slidably receive the adjustment frame 106. 10 shows a perspective view of a retainer of the retainer pair 104 having a C-shaped bend 1002 to receive the adjustment frame 106. In some embodiments, each retainer of the retainer pair 104 has a C-shaped bend 1002.

11 shows a perspective view of the adjustment frame 106 attached to the mounting frame 102 by attaching one or more slots 206 to the side of each bracket of the bracket pair 104. The slot 206 may be elongated to accommodate variations in mounting locations across different chairs, thereby providing a wider range of compatibility. The slot 206 provides adjustability by allowing the adjustment frame 106 to slide inward and outward depending on the needs and preferences of the user. Having an elongated slot 206 on the bracket pair 104 also allows for easy installation and removal of components. This can save time and effort during installation or maintenance work, reduce downtime, and increase productivity. In addition, the elongated shape of the slot 206 distributes the load over a larger area, thereby reducing stress concentrations and preventing the retainer pair 104 from becoming damaged and/or deformed. The improvements in durability and strength can extend the life of the retainer pair 104 and reduce the need for repairs or replacements. 12 shows a perspective view of a part of the adjustment frame 106, which is attached to a holding device of the holding device pair 104.

In some embodiments, a hooking feature may be provided to secure the mounting frame 102 and/or the first portion 108 to the mounting frame 102, and in turn to the seat portion 302. 13A shows an exploded view of a hook device 1300 for securing the mounting frame 102 to the seat portion 302. The hook device 1300 may include a frame retainer 1302 and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may include a stop 1304 and a rear plate 1306. In some embodiments, the frame retainer 1302 may include the at least one retainer of the retainer pair 104 or a portion thereof. A portion of the frame retainer 1302 may be shaped and dimensioned as a hook pair 1310, wherein the hooks 1310 enable the hook device 1300 to be attached to at least a portion of the seat portion 302, or the hook device 1300 may facilitate attachment of the recliner frame to the mounting frame 104. In some embodiments, the frame retainer 1302, the stop device 1304, and/or the rear plate 1306 may be attached together using one or more fastening devices, such as the fastening device(s) described in other embodiments.

In some embodiments, the stop device 1304 may include a projection 1322 configured to fit into a slot 1312 of the frame retainer 1302, the slot 1312 being shaped and dimensioned to receive the projection 1322 or a portion thereof. In some embodiments, the projection 1322 may be formed integrally with the stop device 1304, as shown in 13A The profile of the slot 1312 may correspond to a shape of the projection 1322 such that the projection 1322 can fit into the slot 1312. When the projection 1322 is inserted into the slot 1312 as shown in 13B As shown, the slot 1312 may operatively define a frame to prevent the projection 1322 from moving in one or more directions. In some embodiments, the frame support device 1302 may include one or more rods configured to support the stop device 1304. In some embodiments, one or more fasteners attaching the frame support device 1302 to the stop device 1304 and/or the back plate 1306 may also be used to support the stop device 1304. The stop device 1304 may include a latch 1320, the latch 1320 being in the form of a protruding member angled from one end of the stop device 1304 toward the projection 1322 to operatively engage the one or more rods and/or the one or more fasteners. In some embodiments, the stop device 1304 may be rotatable about an axis of a first rod of the one or more rods and/or a first attachment device of the one or more attachment devices to move the latch 1320 in the direction (see arrow labeled “A” in 14A) toward a second rod of the one or more rods and/or a second attachment device of the one or more attachment devices. The user can then urge the latch 1320 against the second rod and/or the second attachment device to cause the latch 1320 to engage the second rod and/or the second attachment device.

13B shows an embodiment of the hook device 1300 in a locked state in which the latch 1320 is engaged with a fastener 1340 (which may be in the form of a screw). Engagement of the latch 1320 with the fastener 1340 allows the user to secure the stop device 1304 to the frame support device 1302 using the fastener 1340. In this configuration, the projection 1322 may be inserted into the slot 1312. Therefore, engagement of the latch 1320 with the fastener 1340 may lock the frame support device 1302 in position with the stop device 1304. When the mounting frame 102 is attached to the seat portion 302, the engagement of the latch 1320 with the fastener 1340 helps secure the mounting frame 102 to the seat portion 302 and prevents the mounting frame 102 from inadvertently/accidentally disengaging from the seat portion 302. That is, the user would need to apply additional force to intentionally disengage the stop device 1304 from the fastener 1340 in order to remove the mounting frame 102 from the seat portion 302.

14A shows a side view of an embodiment of the hook device 1300 in an unlocked state in which the latch 1320 is disengaged from the one or more rods and/or the one or more fastening devices. 14B shows a side view of an embodiment of the hook device 1300 in the locked state in which the latch 1320 is connected to the one rod or the several rods and/or the one fastening device device or the plurality of fastening devices. In this embodiment, the projection 1322 is inserted into the slot 1312.

The footrest device 100 further comprises an actuating device device 118. The actuating device device 118 may be configured to enable adjustment of the adjustment angle between the first section 108 and the second section 112. In some embodiments, the actuating device device 118 is mounted on the frame 110 of the first section 108. According to 15A to 15E the actuator assembly 118 may include a gas spring 1502, a lever shaft 1504, a cable 1506, a locking mechanism 1508, and a lever 1510.

The gas spring 1502 may be configured or biased to urge the second portion 112 toward an extended position, where the extended position corresponds to a maximum allowable angle of adjustment. The gas spring 1502 may be triggered by the user applying a force to a lever 1510, which may be transmitted through the lever shaft 1504 and the cable 1506 to the gas spring 1502. In some embodiments, the cable 1506 may have a ball-shaped attachment at each end. The stroke of the gas spring 1502 allows the range of motion of the footrest 116 to be adjusted to any position between fully extended and fully retracted. Advantageously, the gas spring 1502 may provide a smooth extension and retraction motion. The movement of the footrest 116 can be stopped at precise positions, allowing the user to control the angle of adjustment between the first section 108 and the second section 112. The user can then activate the locking mechanism 1508 to lock the piston position of the gas spring 1502 in one place.

Although the components of the gas spring 1502 may be lubricated, "stiction" or "breakaway friction," which is static friction that must be overcome to allow relative movement of stationary objects that are in contact, may become apparent after a period of inactivity. In some embodiments, lubrication may be provided by one or more lubricating films applied or deposited between two or more surfaces of the gas spring 1502 in a manner such that friction between the two or more surfaces is reduced. For example, stiction may occur due to pressure within the gas spring 1502, which may cause lubrication to migrate away from a seal of the gas spring 1502 and into the tiny cracks and crevices within a rod of the gas spring 1502. This results in additional force being required to clear the seal from the cracks and crevices, which may appear as a momentary "force spike" when the gas spring 1502 is compressed after a period of inactivity. Therefore, the gas spring 1502 may require additional force to activate, i.e., to extend or retract the gas spring 1502, when first actuated after a period of inactivity, which may cause discomfort to the user. In some embodiments, stiction may be minimized through the use of lubricants, low-friction seals, highly polished rods, and/or the addition of a spring to a piston of the gas spring 1502.

In the embodiment shown in 16 As shown, the actuator assembly 118 may include a compression spring 1602 coupled to a piston 1604 of the gas spring 1502. The compression spring 1602 may be slid onto a piston rod 1606 of the gas spring 1502, and an end of the compression spring 1602 may be placed directly or indirectly in contact with the piston 1604 of the gas spring 1502. The compression spring 1602 may be configured or biased to urge the gas spring 1502 toward an extended position. When the footrest 116 is adjusted from an extended position to a retracted position, the gas spring 1502 is compressed, causing the piston 1604 to compress the compression spring 1602 against one end of the gas spring 1502, thereby storing energy in the compression spring 1602. If the gas spring is left unused for a period of inactivity, the stiction problem described in the previous paragraph may arise. The user may trigger the gas spring 1502 to extend the gas spring 1502 when activating the gas spring for the first time after the period of inactivity. This provides room for the compression spring 1602 to extend, thereby providing a reaction force on the piston 1604 that amplifies the force generated by the gas spring 1502 urging the footrest 116 toward the extended position to overcome stiction and allow the gas spring 1502 to extend evenly even after a period of inactivity.

The pair of retainers 104, the first portion 108, and the second portion 112 may together form a six-link mechanical linkage. The six-link mechanical linkage may include six rigid links connected by six pivots. The six-link mechanical linkage may be located at the base of the chair 304 and connected to the frame of the chair 304. 17 shows an embodiment of a six-link mechanical linkage having two first linkages (long linkages) 604, two second linkages (medium linkages) 606, and two third linkages (short linkages) 608. One of the two third linkages 608 may be attached to the support plate 802 and to the two second linkages 606. The two second linkages 606 may each be attached to separate parts from the two first linkages 604. The two first linkages 604 may each be attached to the other third linkage 608, which in turn may be attached to the frame 110 via the mounting location 502. A fastening device to attach these linkages may, for example, be the fastening device as described in other embodiments.

The six-link mechanical linkage may be arranged to move from a retracted position or state to an extended position or state upon actuation of the gas spring 1502. The second portion 112 may rotate about a fixed point, causing the footrest 116 to extend and adjusting the angle of adjustment between the first portion 108 and the second portion 112. In particular, the six-link mechanical linkage may be designed to prevent collision between the footrest 116 and a fixed portion of the chair 304 or a component of the chair 304, such as a chair tilt mechanism, a caster base, and/or a chair hydraulic mechanism. This ensures that the footrest 116 can move freely without affecting the other functions of the chair 304. By optimizing the placement of the connectors and pivot points, the six-link mechanical connector maximizes the available space while still maintaining the maximum possible extension for the footrest 116.

In some embodiments, the second portion 112 may include means for directly or indirectly attaching the footrest 116 to a connector, such as the main connector 602, of the connector system 114 of the second portion 112 when the six-link mechanical connector is in the retracted state. In some embodiments, the means for attaching may include at least one magnet. The magnet may include a permanent magnet, such as a neodymium magnet. The strength of the magnet may correspond to the weight of the footrest 116. In some embodiments, the strength of the magnet may be of various neodymium magnet grades, such as N42, N45, N48, N52, and N55. In other embodiments, the means for attaching may include multiple magnets, and the total strength of the magnets may correspond to the weight of the footrest 116. In some embodiments, the movement of the footrest 116 between the retracted state and the extended state may include an arc formed by the configuration of the footrest 116 pivoting about the frame 110 at the mounting location 502. In the retracted state of the footrest 116, the magnetic force generated by the magnet further urges the footrest 116 toward an enhanced retracted position. In other words, the minimum retracted position of the retractable adjuster may be enhanced by the magnet such that the footrest 116 may be held in place and negative impacts on the user's ergonomics are minimized when the adjuster is retracted downward away from the chair 304.

In some embodiments, the means for attaching may comprise clip-on attachment devices and/or hook-on attachment devices.

18 illustrates an embodiment of a magnet 1802 attached to the support plate 802 with the footrest 116 attached thereto when the six-link mechanical linkage is in the extended state/position. The magnet 1802 may have a surface contoured for alignment with a surface of a linkage of the linkage system 114. The surface of a linkage of the linkage system 114 may be formed or made of ferromagnetic materials and/or composite materials, such as steel. The magnet 1802 may be seated in a frame 1804 and may be allowed to rotate about a Axis to facilitate alignment. Frame 1804 may be constructed of plastic. As the six-link mechanical linkage moves from the extended state/position to the retracted state/position upon actuation of gas spring 1502, the distance between magnet 1802 and a linkage of linkage system 114 would decrease, thereby increasing the magnetic force on linkage system 114 to a point where magnet 1802 provides sufficient attraction to attach retaining plate 802 and footrest 116 to linkage system 114. This provides a "pull-in" effect on footrest 116, keeping it away from the user's legs.

In another embodiment, which in 19 As shown, the six-link mechanical linkage is in the retracted state with the magnet 1802 operatively attracted to the crossbar 603 of the main linkage 602. The footrest 116 may be indirectly attached to the main linkage 602 of the linkage system 114 of the second section 112 via the retaining plate 802 when the six-link mechanical linkage is in the retracted state. The crossbar 603 provides a surface to attract the magnet 1802 to hold the footrest 116 at a desired position away from the user's legs.

In the embodiment shown in 20 , instead of using at least one magnet as a means for attaching the footrest 116 to a connector, the actuator assembly 118 may include a pusher mechanism 2000 to achieve the same function and overcome the problem of stiction as described in earlier sections. The pusher mechanism 2000 may include a latch device 2002, a hook 2004, a biasing member 2006, a carriage 2008, and/or a tilting device 2010. In some embodiments, the latch device 2002 may be attached to the connector cover device 610 and/or to the main connector 602. The latch device 2002 may be configured to engage the hook 2004. A profile of the latch device 2002 may correspond to a profile of the hook 2004 to allow the latch device 2002 and the hook 2004 to engage one another. For example, the profile of the latch device 2002 may be configured to engage a receiving portion, such as an undercut, of the hook 2004. The engagement of the latch device 2002 and the hook 2004 may maintain the six-link mechanical linkage and the footrest attached thereto in the improved retracted position. Referring back to 20 the latch assembly 2002 is shown engaging the hook 2004 to maintain the six-link mechanical link assembly in the improved retracted position.

In some embodiments, the hook 2004 may be coupled to one end of the gas spring 1502. In some embodiments, the hook 2004 may include one or more tracks that guide movement of the carriage 2008. Movement of the carriage 2008 may be initiated by releasing the tilting device 2010, which may be in contact with the carriage 2008. The carriage 2008 may be coupled to the biasing member 2006 such that movement of the carriage 2008 would bring the biasing member 2006 into contact with the hook 2004 to provide a force on the hook 2004 to disengage/release the hook 2004 from the latch device 2002. The force on the hook 2004, in turn, provides a force on the piston 1604 which amplifies the force generated by the gas spring 1502 which urges the footrest 116 toward the extended position to overcome stiction and allow the gas spring 1502 to extend evenly even after a period of inactivity.

In operation, when the user triggers the lever 1510, for example by rotating the lever 1510, the force on the lever 1510 may be transmitted through the lever shaft 1504 and the cable 1506 to the gas spring 1502. Consequently, the force on the lever 1510 may also be transmitted through the cable 1506 to the tilting device 2010. The tilting device 2010 may have a cylindrical pin inserted at one end such that rotation of the lever shaft 1504 is translated into rotation of the tilting device 2010. The rotation of the tilting device 2010 may be defined by a profile of a slot in which the tilting device 2010 is confined. When the tilting device 2010 rotates, the tilting device 2010 can release the carriage 2008 from a fixed position such that the biasing element 2006 can contact the hook 2004. The user is able to actuate the gas spring 1502 and the carriage 2008 simultaneously by actuating the lever 1510.

In some embodiments, the latch device 2002 may be configured or biased to urge the latch device 2002 to engage the hook 2004. In some embodiments, the torsional spring force on the latch device 2002 may be greater than the torsional spring force on the biasing member 2006 such that the latch device 2002 forces the biasing member 2006 to rotate upward to allow the latch device 2002 to catch an undercut of the hook 2004. 21 shows a side view of another embodiment of the actuator device 118 with the pusher mechanism 2000. In this embodiment, the actuator device 118 is attached to the adjustment frame which is mounted on one of the holder pair 104 having the hook device 1300.

22 to 29 show various embodiments of a chair 2202 having a seat portion 2204 and a footrest device 2206. In particular, 25 and 26 the chair 2202 with the seat portion 2204 attached to the footrest device 2206 in an extended position, whereas 27 to 29 show the chair 2202 with the seat portion 2204 attached to the footrest device 2206 in a retracted position. The footrest device 2206 may refer to the footrest device 100, which is described with reference to 1 to 21 described, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

30A to 30F show various embodiments of the hook mounting system 3100, in different views, for attaching an accessory 3190 to a portion of a piece of furniture, such as a seat of a chair. The hook mounting system 3100 may include the mounting frame 102 (see previous embodiments), wherein the mounting frame 102 may include a mounting bar pair 3102 attachable to the portion of the chair, for example, to a base portion of the chair. An accessory 3190 may be configured to be attached to the mounting bar pair 3102 and/or to a hook device. The hook device may be the hook device 1300 as shown in the 13A , 13B , 14A and 14B and may generally include at least one frame retainer 1302 having a base portion and a hook pair 1310 extending from the base portion, the hook pair 1310 configured to be attached to each mounting bar of the mounting bar pair 3102, the frame retainer 1302 attachable to the accessory 3190, and the locking mechanism pivotally connected to the frame retainer 1302 at a portion thereof, the locking mechanism including a stop 1304 configured to prevent movement of the hook pair 1310 along at least one direction when the locking mechanism is in a locked position.

In some embodiments, the frame retainer 1302 includes the slot 1312 and the stop device includes a protrusion 1322, the slot 1312 shaped and sized to receive the protrusion 1322 in the locked position. The locking mechanism may further include the latch 1320, the latch 1320 configured to engage a protruding member/fastener protruding from the base portion 3144.

30A shows a perspective view of a piece of furniture having the seat portion 3104 and the accessory 3190 in the form of an adjustable footrest. The hook device 1300 may be attached to a frame of the adjustable footrest, such as the frame 110. The base portion of the chair may include a base frame 3106.

30B and 30C show the perspective view of an assembled piece of furniture in the form of a chair having the seat portion 3104 and wherein the hook mounting system 3100 is used to connect the adjustable footrest to the seat portion 3104.

30D shows another possible embodiment, wherein the hook device 1300 is first attached to the mounting strip pair 3102, instead of the frame 110. In this embodiment, the hook device 1300 can be attached to the frame 110, whereupon the frame 110 can then be picked up by means of the frame holding device 1302.

In some embodiments, each of the mounting bars 3102 includes at least one resilient member 3170, the at least one resilient member 3170 being positioned to contact the hook pair 1310. The resilient member 3170 may form a protective covering device to avoid direct contact of the mounting bars 3102 and the frame 110. The at least one resilient member 3170 may include at least one rubber clip or polymer-based clip, the at least one rubber clip or polymer-based clip being positioned to contact the hook pair.

30E shows some embodiments in various perspective views, wherein the portion of the furniture is a seat portion of the furniture, and wherein the mounting frame is configured to be attached to a base of the seat portion of the furniture; and wherein the accessory is a cup holder (3120) and hanger (3130) device. It will be appreciated that the hook mounting system 3100 can be used to attach/mount any accessory that can be attached to the front of, underneath, or behind a piece of furniture, such as a chair.

30F shows a table of various possible dimensions associated with the hook device, in millimeters, and the various dimensional considerations for attaching a footrest adjustment system to a chair. Six parameters associated with the hook device were determined, namely a hook face distance parameter, a hook height parameter, a hook to plastic locking device stop face parameter, a retainer slot length parameter, a plastic locking device pivot position to stop face distance parameter, and the dimensions of the at least one rubber clip or polymer base clip. Each parameter is explained in more detail as follows.

The hooking surface spacing, which is dimensioned according to the mounting frame, refers to the distance between the two hooks and may be referred to as a hooking surface that contacts the mounting frame as a mounting contact/attachment location. In some embodiments, the hooking surface spacing may be on the order of 190 mm to 200 mm.

The hook height parameter is an optimal height parameter obtained through testing. The optimal height parameter corresponds to a height parameter that allows preventing the locking mechanism from detaching from the mounting frame and without being too loose, which may cause noise and user experience (UX) problems. In some embodiments, the hook height may be in the range of 15 mm to 22 mm.

The hook to plastic detent stop surface parameter is defined as a plastic detent to hook distance to allow the locking mechanism to lock without disengaging. This may be a distance measurement of the retainer slot length, the plastic detent pivot position to detent surface distance, or the rubber clip dimensions. In some embodiments, the plastic detent to hook distance may be defined as the distance between the edge of the hook 1310 and an edge of the slot 1312 closest to the hook 1310. In some embodiments, the hook to plastic detent stop surface parameter may be on the order of 31 mm to 36 mm.

The fixture slots length parameter is a length parameter associated with slot(s) 206 for controlling a reach for chairs of different sizes. Slots 206 may be positioned to accommodate a factory setting for different chair sizes. In some embodiments, the slot size for a small-sized chair may be 10 mm, and the slot size for a regular-sized chair or an extra-large-sized chair may be 15 mm.

The plastic locking device pivot position to locking surface distance parameter may be defined as a holding position of the latch 1320 with respect to the pivot point of the locking mechanism. This parameter refers to a holding position of the hook with respect to the latch 1320 to facilitate optimal engagement of the latch 1320 with the fastener/protruding member 1340. A shorter distance or a longer distance may affect the locking capability. In some embodiments, the plastic locking device pivot position to locking surface distance parameter may be on the order of 94.8 mm to 101.8 mm.

The elastic element dimensions parameter may be the dimension of the elastic element 3170, such as one of the four of the at least one rubber clip or polymer-based clip as shown in the drawings. In some embodiments, the length of each elastic element may be on the order of 31.9 mm to 36.9 mm. In some embodiments, the width of each elastic element may be on the order of 36 mm to 43 mm. In some embodiments, the height of each elastic element may be on the order of 14.9 mm to 22.9 mm.

In some embodiments, the mounting bar pair comprising a first mounting bar and a second mounting bar is in a range of 190 millimeters (mm) to 200 mm from spaced apart from each other. The corresponding distance between the hooking surface can be 190 mm to 200 mm, and wherein the distance from a first surface 3102A of the first mounting bar to a corresponding first surface 3102A of the second mounting bar can be calculated as in 30G The above dimensions were obtained through various testing and measurements to optimize the spacing of the mounting strip pair and to provide a sufficient contact force of the hooks on the mounting strip pair such that, even if there is no locking mechanism or the locking mechanism does not function, there can be a sufficient contact force of the hook pair on the corresponding mounting strip pair to hold the accessory to the furniture piece, thereby improving safety.

In some embodiments, each mounting bar of the pair of mounting bars has a width on the order of 27.5 millimeters to 32.5 millimeters.

According to some embodiments, there is a piece of furniture having a seat portion and an accessory installed on the seat portion, and wherein the piece of furniture comprises: a mounting frame attachable to the seat portion of the piece of furniture; an accessory configured to be received by the mounting bar pair; and a hook device, wherein the hook device comprises: at least one frame retaining device comprising a base portion and a hook pair extending from the base portion, wherein the hook pair is configured to be attached to the mounting frame, wherein the base portion is attachable to the accessory, and a locking mechanism pivotally connected to the base portion, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a stop device configured to prevent movement of the hook pair along at least one direction when the locking mechanism is in a locked position.

It is intended that the described footrest device 100 is described in the context of attachment to chairs, however, the footrest device 100 may be attached to various types of furniture, including stools and sofas.

It is further intended that the various embodiments of a mounting system comprising a hook mounting system provide a plurality of hooks or hook retainers attachable to a piece of furniture via mounting frames/slats and having a secure mechanical connection device providing sufficient contact force to secure the accessory to the mounting bars, which may be further enhanced with a locking mechanism. The use of resilient elements, such as the at least one rubber clip or polymer-based clip attached to the mounting frame/slats, provides a protective layer between the mounting frame/slats and the hooks and further minimizes "slippage" by providing a frictional force between the mounting bars and the hooks. The hook mounting system (in the situation where the locking mechanism is present) can also be relatively easily attached to a piece of furniture using a three-step process, i.e. Switching the locking devices on the hooks to an “unlocked” mode, sliding the hook mounting system to contact the resilient elements (e.g., at least one rubber clip or polymer-based clip), and engaging the locking mechanism (if present) to lock the hook device in place.

Although the disclosure has been particularly shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. The scope of the disclosure is therefore indicated by the appended claims, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalence of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

Claims (19)

A hook mounting system (3100) for attaching an accessory (3190) to a portion of a piece of furniture, comprising: a mounting frame (102) attachable to the portion of the piece of furniture or forming part of the piece of furniture, the mounting frame (102) having a pair of mounting strips (3102), the pair of mounting strips (3102) having a first mounting strip and a second mounting strip; an accessory (3190) configured to be attached to the mounting frame (102); and a hook device (1300), the hook device (1300) comprising: at least one frame holding device (1302), wherein the at least one frame retaining device (1302) comprises a base portion and a pair of hooks (1310) extending from the base portion, the pair of hooks (1310) configured to be attached to the mounting frame (102), the base portion being attachable to the accessory; wherein the pair of mounting bars (3102) are spaced apart from one another by a distance in the order of 190 millimeters to 200 millimeters, and wherein the distance is calculated from a first surface of the first mounting bar to a corresponding first surface of the second mounting bar. A hook mounting system (3100) for attaching an accessory (3190) to a portion of a piece of furniture, comprising: a mounting frame (102) attachable to the portion of the piece of furniture or forming part of the piece of furniture; an accessory (3190) configured to be attached to the mounting frame (102); and a hook device (1300), the hook device (1300) comprising: at least one frame retaining device (1302), the at least one frame retaining device (1302) comprising a base portion and a pair of hooks (1310) extending from the base portion, the pair of hooks (1310) configured to be attached to the mounting frame (102), the base portion being attachable to the accessory (3190); and a locking mechanism pivotally connected to the base portion, the locking mechanism including a stop device (1304) configured to prevent movement of the hook pair (1310) along at least one direction when the locking mechanism is in a locked position. Hook mounting system (3100) according to claim 2 , wherein the frame retainer (1302) has a slot (1312) and the stopper (1304) has a projection (1322), the slot (1312) being shaped and dimensioned to receive the projection (1322) in the locked position. Hook mounting system (3100) according to claim 3 , wherein the locking mechanism comprises a pawl (1320), the pawl (1320) configured to engage a protruding member/fastener (1340) of the base portion. Hook mounting system (3100) according to claim 2 , wherein the mounting frame (102) has a pair of mounting strips (3102). Hook mounting system (3100) according to claim 5 , wherein each of the mounting strips has at least one elastic element (3170), wherein the at least one elastic element (3170) is arranged to contact the pair of hooks (1310). Hook mounting system (3100) according to claim 6 , wherein the at least one elastic element (3170) comprises at least one rubber clip or polymer-based clip, the plurality of rubber clips or polymer-based clips arranged to contact the pair of hooks (1310). Hook mounting system (3100) according to claim 2 wherein the portion of the furniture is a seat portion (302) of the furniture, and wherein the mounting frame (102) is configured to be attached to a base of the seat portion (302) of the furniture; and wherein the accessory (3190) is a footrest adjuster. Hook mounting system (3100) according to claim 5 wherein the portion of the furniture is a seat portion (302) of the furniture, and wherein the mounting strip pair (3102) is configured to be attached to a base or a side of the seat portion (302) of the furniture; and wherein the accessory (3190) is a cup holder and hanger device. A piece of furniture having a seat portion (302) and an accessory (3190) installed on the seat portion (302), the piece of furniture comprising: a mounting frame (102) attachable to or forming part of the seat portion (302) of the piece of furniture; an accessory (3190) configured to be received by the mounting strip pair (3102); and a hook device (1300), the hook device (1300) comprising: at least one frame holder (1302) having a base portion and a hook pair (1310) extending from the base portion, the hook pair (1310) configured to be attached to the mounting frame (102), the base portion attachable to the accessory (3190); and a locking mechanism pivotally connected to the base portion, the locking mechanism having a stop device (1304) which con configured to prevent movement of the hook pair (1310) along at least one direction when the locking mechanism is in a locked position. piece of furniture according to claim 10 , wherein the accessory (3190) is a footrest device, and wherein the footrest device comprises: an adjustment frame (106) having a first portion (108) configured to be slidably received by the pair of retaining devices (104) and a second portion (112) configured to hold a footrest (116), the first portion (108) being pivotally connected to the second portion (112) to define an adjustment angle; and an actuating device (118) configured to enable adjustment of the adjustment angle between the first portion (108) and the second portion (112). piece of furniture claim 11 , wherein the actuator device (118) comprises a gas spring (1502) configured to urge the second portion (112) toward an extended position, the extended position corresponding to a maximum allowable adjustment angle. piece of furniture according to claim 10 , wherein the pair of retaining devices (104), the first section (108) and the second section (112) form a six-link mechanical connecting device, the six-link mechanical connecting device being arranged to move from a retracted position to the extended position upon actuation of the gas spring, and the second section (112) comprising means for attaching the footrest (116) directly or indirectly to a main connecting device (602) of a connecting system (114) of the second section (112) when the six-link mechanical connecting device is in the retracted state. piece of furniture according to claim 10 wherein the second portion (112) includes means for attaching the footrest (116) to a main linkage (602) of a linkage system (114) of the second portion (112) when the six-link mechanical linkage is in the retracted state. piece of furniture according to claim 14 wherein the second portion (112) has an end portion shaped and dimensioned to receive the footrest (116). piece of furniture according to claim 13 wherein the footrest (116) comprises: a base formed from or made of medium density fiberboard (MDF), a cushion comprising memory foam, and a clip for attaching to the end portion. piece of furniture according to claim 10 , wherein the mounting frame (102) has a pair of mounting strips (3102), wherein each mounting strip of the pair of mounting strips (3102) has a first mounting strip and a second mounting strip, wherein the pair of mounting strips (3102) are spaced apart from one another by a distance in the order of 190 millimeters to 200 millimeters, and wherein the distance is calculated from a first surface of the first mounting strip to a corresponding first surface of the second mounting strip. piece of furniture according to claim 10 , wherein the mounting frame (102) has a pair of mounting strips (3102), wherein each mounting strip of the pair of mounting strips (3102) has a width in the order of 27.5 millimeters to 32.5 millimeters. A hook mounting system (3100) for attaching an accessory (3190) to a portion of a piece of furniture, comprising: a mounting frame (102) attachable to the portion of the piece of furniture or forming part of the piece of furniture; an accessory (3190) configured to be attached to the mounting frame (102); and a hook device (1300), the hook device (1300) comprising: at least one frame retaining device (1302), the at least one frame retaining device (1302) comprising a base portion and a pair of hooks (1310) extending from the base portion, the pair of hooks (1310) configured to be attached to the mounting frame (102), the base portion being attachable to the accessory (3190); and a sliding mechanism provided on the frame support (1302), the sliding mechanism configured to slidably receive the accessory (3190), and the sliding mechanism configured to engage a plurality of slots (1312) on the accessory (3190).

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