EP3490409A1 - Chaise à positionnement et support variables - Google Patents

Chaise à positionnement et support variables

Info

Publication number
EP3490409A1
EP3490409A1 EP17837544.0A EP17837544A EP3490409A1 EP 3490409 A1 EP3490409 A1 EP 3490409A1 EP 17837544 A EP17837544 A EP 17837544A EP 3490409 A1 EP3490409 A1 EP 3490409A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
chair
support
headrest
occupant
canopy
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP17837544.0A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP3490409A4 (fr
Inventor
Thomas STROMAN
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US15/225,708 external-priority patent/US10123624B2/en
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of EP3490409A1 publication Critical patent/EP3490409A1/fr
Publication of EP3490409A4 publication Critical patent/EP3490409A4/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
    • A47C7/36—Support for the head or the back
    • A47C7/38—Support for the head or the back for the head
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C1/00—Chairs adapted for special purposes
    • A47C1/12—Theatre, auditorium, or similar chairs
    • A47C1/13—Indicators; Devices for reserving or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C1/00—Chairs adapted for special purposes
    • A47C1/14—Beach chairs ; Chairs for outdoor use, e.g. chairs for relaxation or sun-tanning
    • A47C1/143—Chaise lounges
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C1/00—Chairs adapted for special purposes
    • A47C1/14—Beach chairs ; Chairs for outdoor use, e.g. chairs for relaxation or sun-tanning
    • A47C1/146—Beach chairs ; Chairs for outdoor use, e.g. chairs for relaxation or sun-tanning of legless type
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C3/00—Chairs characterised by structural features; Chairs or stools with rotatable or vertically-adjustable seats
    • A47C3/16—Chairs characterised by structural features; Chairs or stools with rotatable or vertically-adjustable seats of legless type, e.g. with seat directly resting on the floor; Hassocks; Pouffes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C4/00—Foldable, collapsible or dismountable chairs
    • A47C4/54—Inflatable chairs
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
    • A47C7/02—Seat parts
    • A47C7/22—Straps or the like for direct user support or for carrying upholstery

Definitions

  • a chair with seating surfaces that can flex to conform to the shape and weight of an occupant, and in particular to a chair capable of providing an occupant the ability to achieve a recumbent position that disperses their weight to reduce point loading on certain areas or body parts of an occupant.
  • Typical chairs are configured to contort an occupant into positions that put pressure on the spine or specific portions of the spine. This can cause discomfort or pain and over time lead to chronic conditions.
  • designers have introduced ergonomic chairs that purport to provide support for the lower back and promote good posture.
  • ergonomic chairs do not evenly distribute body weight resulting in point loading on a body of an occupant. There therefore exists a need for a chair that conforms to an occupant's body shape and weight, with a form that reduces point loading on an occupant's body and minimizes internal stresses and compressions on body parts of the occupant, such as the spine and neck.
  • a chair including a frame that can be adjusted to meet ergonomic needs of occupants.
  • a chair can include a seating surface or combination of seating surfaces capable of flexing or otherwise deforming to conform to a weight and shape of an occupants body and specific parts of the occupant's body.
  • a chair can be configured to provide an occupant the ability to achieve recumbent positions while dispersing a weight of the occupant or specific body parts of an occupant to reduce point loading.
  • a chair can be configured to allow an occupant to achieve a recumbent position while reducing physiological stresses and compressions on body parts of the occupant, such as the occupants neck, back, or spine.
  • a chair includes a structural frame.
  • the structural frame of the chair can be of a shape or design to allow an occupant to achieve a recumbent position.
  • a structural frame of the chair can include front and rear frame elements.
  • the structural frame of the chair can include a support assembly structurally coupling the front and rear frame elements to each other,
  • the support assembly can include one or a plurality of support sub frames and support wheels.
  • the chair can also include a back support, one or a plurality of seating surfaces, a rotating headrest, and a rotating footrest.
  • the various elements previously described can include mechanical and/or electrical connections coupling the elements and components together for allowing the elements and components to displace or rotate through ranges of motion. By allowing the components and elements to displace or rotate through ranges of motion, the connections allow for the form of the chair to be adjusted, providing more customized support for individual occupants, thereby potentially leading to reductions in point loading on a occupant.
  • a chair can include frame elements as part of a structural frame.
  • a force generating mechanism such as a mechanized ring rotation assembly
  • a force generating mechanism can be integrated or physical coupled to the structural frame to cause displacement or rotation of elements of the structural frame, thereby allowing adjustment of the positions of components of the chair.
  • either or both the front and read frame elements may be rotated along various axes or displaced along planes to provide adjustment of a seat angle, a seat height, or an overall length of a chair.
  • adjustments to elements of the structural frame e.g. the front and rear frame element, can be made manually by an operator absent use of a motor assembly or other force generating mechanism.
  • a chair can have one or more bladders .
  • Bladders of a chair can be configured to provide structural support and are configured to be filled or defiled with a suitable gas.
  • chairs can be coupled to a canopy and canopy support arms to provide shade or protection from the elements for an occupant.
  • a canopy and canopy support arms can be coupled to the chair and used to private varying degrees of privacy to an occupant.
  • chairs can be coupled to a display tray and display support arms. Further, in various implementations, chairs can include one or a plurality of utility shelfs or storage compartments.
  • Figure 1 provides a side view of a chair.
  • Figure 2 provides another side view of a chair.
  • Figure 3A provides a side perspective view of a utility shelf.
  • Figure 3B provides a top view of parts of a utility shelf.
  • Figure 3C shows a side view of a chair with an integrated utility shelf configured at three different positions.
  • Figure 4 provides an exploded perspective view of a headrest and headrest cushion assembly.
  • Figure 5 provides a side perspective view of a chair.
  • Figure 6 provides a top perspective view of a chair. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
  • Figures 1 and 2 provide depictions of a chair configured to allow an occupant to achieve a recumbent position while reducing point loading of an occupant of the chair.
  • the chair comprises a structural frame, a back surface, and a seating surface.
  • the chair frame along with a back and seating surfaces capable of flexing according to characteristics of an occupant, e.g. a height of an occupant, a weight of an occupant, movements of an occupant, shape of an occupant.
  • elements of the chair e.g.
  • a rear frame element (91) and a front frame element (92) can rotate to allow an occupant to achieve a recumbent position.
  • a rear bladder (170) can deform under the weight of an occupant to to reduce physiological point loading to reduce internal physiological stresses such as neck/back vertebral compression.
  • the structural frame includes a rear frame element (91) and a front frame element
  • the rear frame element (91) and the front frame element (92) can be comprised of an applicable material to provide structural integrity to the structural frame and allow the structural frame to support an occupant of the chair.
  • the rear frame element (91) and the front frame element (92) can be comprised of a metal, such as steel, carbon fiber, or an applicable composite material.
  • the structural frame can include one or an applicable combination of a support assembly (94), support sub frames (95), support wheels (96), bottom support structures (97) cross support structures (98), axial cross support structure (100), and side support structures (102).
  • the support sub frames (95) can be rigidly secured or configured to displace.
  • the support sub frames (95) can be of an applicable material or design to allow for deformation or rotational movement of frame elements of the structural frame.
  • the axial cross support structure (100) can function to support other components and allow the other components to be fixed and/or displace or rotate.
  • a chair can include a rear frame element support (99) ( Figure 2).
  • a rear frame element support (99) provides support for rear element frame pivoting support arms and/or springs (e.g. headrest supports, utility shelf supports and canopy supports).
  • the rear frame element support (99) can be rigidly coupled to the rear frame element coupled to a canopy support to cause or allow the canopy support to rotate or displace with the rear frame element support (99).
  • Frame coupling mechanisms (101)( Figure 2) are employed as connectors for the various structural elements of the frame elements of the chair.
  • the frame coupling mechanisms (101) are of an applicable type to allow frame elements coupled by the frame coupling mechanism to rotate or otherwise displace with respect to each other.
  • the frame coupling mechanisms (101) are of an applicable type to rigidly secure frame elements together in a fixed manner.
  • the frame elements can be tubular, flat, and/or curved angled members which may utilize standard or custom punch hole patterns.
  • an example punch hole pattern (39) is shown along a portion of the rear element frame which can provide for necessary material connections along with anchoring sites for applicable frame elements of the structural frame.
  • punch holes in the punch hole pattern (39) can be used to couple a display support arm to the rear element frame (91).
  • the side support structures (102) function to couple the rear frame element (91) and the front frame element (92).
  • the side support structures (102) can help in structurally solidifying the structural frame of the chair to support an occupant of the chair.
  • the side support structures (102) can prevent unwanted displacement of the rear frame element (91) away from the front frame element (92).
  • the side support structures (102) can provide structural rigidity and/or overall support to the structural frame.
  • the side support structures (102) can provide the structural frame strength to support a weight of an occupant.
  • the side support structures (102) can be comprised of an applicable material or combination of materials to provide structural integrity to the structural frame, such as wood, plastic, metal, or any other applicable material or combination of materials.
  • the front (92) and rear (91) frame elements can be coupled to each other, at least in part, through the bottom support structures (97), as is shown in Figure 1.
  • Cross support structures (98) can couple corresponding rear frame elements (91), front frame elements (92), and side support structures (102) on opposing sides of the frame structure of the chair.
  • a structural perimeter or portions of the structural perimeter of rear frame elements (91), front frame elements (92), and side support structures (102) can be lined in the vertical and/or long axis with a rail (89).
  • the rail 89 can function as arm rests ( Figure 2).
  • the rail 89 can function to protect an occupant from the structural frame and provide overall comfort to the occupant.
  • the rail (89) can be comprised of an applicable material capable of conforming to geometric shapes of the structural frame, while meeting performance requirements of the chair in allowing an occupant to achieve a recumbent position.
  • the rail (89) can be comprised of a flexible padded material.
  • the chair may utilize adjustable connections, such as eccentric connections, that may be provided to connect various chair elements and chair structural elements.
  • adjustable connections such as eccentric connections
  • the connected elements can move relative to one another, and to the rest of the chair, through a range of motion.
  • using the adjustable connections enables variations to the seat angle, seat length, and seat height (variations in adjustability may be based on the eccentricity of one specific bolt length and subject to customization) and the seat's relation to both the back and forward leg support surfaces.
  • the frame coupling mechanisms can be applicable mechanism for structurally coupling frame elements to each other, such as eccentric bolt connections.
  • the frame structure includes bottom support structures (97) can be configured to extend between opposing sides of the chair or structural frame.
  • the frame structure can include bottom support structures (97) extending parallel to a traverse axis of the frame structure.
  • the bottom support structures (97) can be connected via a structural plate on each side of the chair or integrated with a structural plate to form a rail plate component coupling the rear frame element (91) to the front frame element (92).
  • the bottom support structures (97) can be connected to a structural plate integrated as part of the side support structures (102).
  • the frame elements (91) and (92) of the frame structure are configured to directly contact a surface supporting the chair.
  • two rear element frames (91) and two front element frames (92) can sit directly on a surface supporting the chair or on bottom rails, potentially integrated as part of the chair and sitting directly on the surface supporting the chair
  • one or an applicable combination of frame elements (91) and (92) can engage or otherwise contact smaller support wheels (96).
  • the support wheels (96) capable of engaging the frame elements (91) and (92) can be fixed or rotatable. Additionally, the support wheels (96) can be affixed to structural support rails included as part of the structural frame on respective sides of the structural frame.
  • the support wheels may act as bearings, and assist in providing smooth and easy rotation of the frame elements (91) and (92). This can lead to a reduction in force required to rotate or otherwise displace the frame elements (91) and (92).
  • the frame elements (91) and (92) may be connected to a structural rail at the bottom of each ring with rotating frame coupling mechanisms.
  • the frame elements (91) and (92) can be rotated along a rotational angle of the frame elements (91) and (92) around a central axis of one or a plurality of the frame elements (91) and (92).
  • the frame elements can be rotated in response to mechanical energy provided by mechanical motors.
  • (91) and (92) can have a single mechanical motor only dedicated to each corresponding frame elements (91) and (92), or share mechanical motors amongst a combination of frame elements
  • mechanical motors can move in unison or independently to provide a wide range of automated or programmable synchronized and non-synchronized movement patterns of the corresponding frame elements (91) and (92) the corresponding mechanical motors control.
  • Motor activation of the mechanical motors can be controlled by a programmable and repositionable remote control.
  • Each frame element (91) and (92) may be connected to the motor with a motor gear arm
  • one or more manual levers or drive arms may be provided instead of the mechanical motors, to allow an occupant of the chair to manually change the seat angle, height, and length, as well as adjust the positioning of other components of the chair or structural frame, e.g. the rear and front element frames (91) and (92).
  • the chair includes back support and seating surfaces configured to receive an occupant of the chair and support an occupant of the chair as the occupant utilizes the chair.
  • Back support and seating surfaces can be comprised of a cushioned layer housed within a fabric cover and a supported by a a seating support structure (190) as shown in Figure 1.
  • the seating support structure can include a back support surface (191) and a seating surface (192).
  • the seating support structure (190) can be comprised of one of a plurality of flexible materials, such as bungees or flexible fabrics.
  • the seating support structure (190) can be anchored to the frame elements (91) and (92).
  • the seating support structure (190) can also be anchored to the side support structures (102), or other structural supports provided with the structural frame.
  • the back support surface (191) and seating surface (192) can be located between the side support structures (102) and run from near the top of the rear frame element (91) to the front midpoint of the front frame element (92).
  • a middle section of the seating support structure (190) can be structurally supported by ("seat stays") which are independent structural members that are attached on each side to the top interior of the front frame element (92) and the forward midpoint of the rear frame element (91).
  • the independent structural members can be affixed to the frame elements (91) and (92) with adjustable connections, such as rotating frame coupling mechanisms.
  • the chair includes a headrest.
  • a headrest included as part of the chair can be a rotating headrest.
  • a headrest can rotate about a central axis of the headrest as an occupant reclines into a recumbent position.
  • the headrest is supported by a headrest support.
  • the headrest support can include headrest support arms (35).
  • the headrest support arms (35) can include stepped notches (32).
  • the stepped notches (32) can provide for radial and/or height adjustments of the headrest. For example, an occupant can adjust the height of the headrest with respect to the chair such that the headrest adequately supports the head of the occupant.
  • the stepped notches (32) can be used to displace a headrest support rod (202) through a shared channel (33) within each support arm (35) to cause the headrest to displace.
  • a headrest support rod (202) can be moved away from the chair within the shared channel (33) to cause the headrest to be raised to accommodate a height of an occupant.
  • the headrest support arms (35) can include a plurality of discontinuous individual apertures that are not connected through a channel.
  • the headrest can be disconnected from the headrest support arms (35) and subsequently recoupled to at least one of the plurality of discontinuous individual apertures to displace the headrest and subsequently adjust the height of the headrest with respect to the chair.
  • the headrest can be coupled to the headrest support arms (35) through spring loaded mechanisms.
  • the headrest support rod (202) can be coupled to the stepped notches (32) through a spring loaded mechanism, thereby allowing the headrest support rod (202) and subsequently the headrest to be displaced more easily within the shared channel (33).
  • the headrest includes a headrest sub-assembly.
  • the headrest sub-assembly can include a spring-tensioned assembly including radial spring cap plates on either side and radial spring anchoring disks, specifically 207, 206, 204, 211.
  • the previously described components, as part of the headrest sub-assembly can be implemented with the headrest support rod (202) and functions to provide support of the headrest. Additionally, the previously described components alone in combination with the headrest support rod (202) can function to secure the headrest to the headrest support arm or arms (35).
  • tensioning the headrest assembly can be increased or decreased to accommodate varying levels of pre-tensioning to resist specific or range of head or neck pressures. This provides an occupant of the chair with the ability to incrementally reposition the headrest, dynamically reposition the headrest, and/or reposition the headrest without using their hands, potentially when seated in the chair.
  • adjustments of the tensioning of the headrest sub-assembly can be executed by rotating the headrest to provide for incremental increases or decreases in the spring tensioning.
  • the headrest sub-assembly includes one or an applicable combination of friction, pre-tensioned spring, spring pin, mechanical, eccentric connection elements configured to allow the headrest cushion and immediate substrate supports to move independent of the fixed support on which they are housed.
  • the headrest cushion, and potentially other components of the headrest sub-assembly can move independently of the headrest support rod (202) while it is affixed to the headrest support arms (35).
  • the previously described components can allow the headrest cushion to move in a limited range of motion in specific directions.
  • the headrest cushion can be displaced in a range of motion that is primarily co-planar with the long axis of the chair or along other axes.
  • Figure 4 provides an exploded view of a headrest.
  • the headrest includes a headrest cushion, a fabric enclosed cushion (201), a headrest support rod (202), and a headrest sub-assembly.
  • the spring-tensioned assembly (207), (206), (204), (211), (201) is a rotationally adjustable spring-tensioned system that can be configured to allow the headrest cushion to move independently of the headrest support arms (35).
  • the spring-tensioned assembly can be configured to allow the headrest cushion to move in a direction that is co-planar to the longitudinal axis of the chair.
  • the radial springs (205) can be anchored to a disk (206) that is fixed to the headrest support rod (202) within the radially stepped spring tensioning disks (206). These components can be enclosed by cap plates (204 and 207).
  • the radial spring cap plates (204 and 207) can be coupled to the structural headrest cushion core (211).
  • the radial spring cap plates (204 and 207) can be configured to move in a range of motion within the headrest. As the headrest is rotated, the radial springs can be tensioned to produce a range of force resistance that resets and repeats in sequential steps sequentially.
  • the spring-tensioned assembly includes plates (208) at opposing ends. The plates (208) can functions to secure the various components of the spring-tensioned assembly together and prevent foreign substances from entering the spring-tensioned assembly.
  • the headrest support arms (35) includes the spring pin plungers (209).
  • the spring pin plungers 209 can be configured to allow for radial repositioning of the headrest support arms (35) in relation to the rear frame element (91).
  • the extended spring pin plungers (209) can allow for adjustments of the headrest by an occupant.
  • the spring-tensioned assembly can include a spacer or one way bearing which can be used in conjunction with application coupling mechanisms to couple the headrest to the headrest support arms (35).
  • the headrest support arms (35) are anchored to and pivot at, around, or through a rear frame element support (99) that connects to and spans a midpoint of the rear structural frame.
  • the support arms (35) can rotate from this centered pivoting connection to allow the headrest assembly to also rotate in unison along the radius of the rear frame element and/or along the longitudinal axis of the chair.
  • a headrest coupling mechanism (31) couples the headrest to the headrest support arms (35).
  • the headrest coupling mechanism (31) can be an applicable mechanism that allows the headrest assembly to rotate in unison in a forward/rear motion and/or independently from the rotation of the headrest support arms (35).
  • a plunger (34) can be configured to allow for quick radial adjustment of the headrest support arms (35).
  • Figures 1 and 2 provide a depiction of a leg and foot support elements integrated with the chair.
  • the leg and foot support elements are integrated at the front of the chair and may provide additional leg cushioning and footrest support.
  • the leg and foot support elements can be fixed or adjustable.
  • the foot support element can be adjusted to accommodate occupants of varying heights.
  • the supports may be comprised of a solid, cushioned, inflatable material or any combination of surfaces that adjust uniformly or independently in any direction.
  • the foot and leg supports may be configured to be adjustable to allow for storing or stowing within the frame structure of the chair.
  • the foot and leg supports can be coupled to the chair through an applicable coupling mechanism.
  • the foot and leg supports can be coupled to the chair through adjustable pivoting connections that provide adjustability of the leg and foot supports while an occupant is either in a seated or standing position.
  • the leg and foot supports can be coupled to the chair through one or an applicable combination of spring tensioned, spring pinned, ratcheting, mechanical, hook, bungee or eccentric connections.
  • the lower body support element can serve as a leg support and/or a foot support in operation of the chair.
  • a connector such as a nested footrest pin is attached to the sides of the footrest cushion/support and allows the support arms (72) to nest into the support arms (73), thereby displacing the lower body support element (70)
  • the chair includes a removable storage container
  • the removable storage container 74 can be integrated as part of the chair and allows for an occupant to store items within the chair.
  • the interior of the chair may comprise inflatable bladders, along with mechanisms for inflating and deflating the bladders.
  • the interior of the chair can include an air pump and hose assemblies to selectively inflate or deflate the bladders to an occupant's preferences.
  • an air pump and hose assembly can be, at least in part, integrated externally from the chair.
  • the bladders can include sealable connections thereon for attaching air hoses and other devices to inflate or deflate the bladders.
  • Each bladder can be formed of one large bladder, or can be comprised of a series of smaller bladders formed together in compartments.
  • gas hose connections can be made to each bladder, or series of compartments making up the bladders.
  • the bladders can include connections for attachment of external hoses for use in inflating and deflating the bladders.
  • a series of bladders may be integrated within the structural frame, and below the back and seating surfaces.
  • the chair can include a rear bladder (170) housed within a cavity of the rear frame element (91).
  • the chair can include a front bladder housed within a cavity of the front frame element (92).
  • the chair can include bladders between the area of the rear and front support elements (91 and 92).
  • the chair can include a bladder underneath the back support surface (191).
  • gas pressure within the bladders can be regulated manually or by a pump and/or regulator assembly.
  • the ability to control gas pressure within the bladders allows an occupant to inflate and deflate different bladders to different pressure levels according to the desired comforts of the occupant.
  • gas pressure levels of the bladders can be controlled manually or according to customizable and/or programmable pressure variations. For example, smaller bladders lining the back and seat surface cushions can be configured to provide more targeted pressurization variations. In providing targeted pressurization variations, fatal infections from the development of undetected sores as a result of paraplegia can be prevented.
  • hoses (173) can be contained within the interior of the chair frame structure.
  • the chair includes a motor assembly (14) and a motor gear arm (175).
  • the motor gear arm (175) can regulate displacement or rotation of the rear and front frame elements (91 and 92) in response to energy provided by the motor assembly (14). Additionally, the motor gear arm (175) can regulate movement of the structural seat stays and seating surfaces through a range of motion in providing various seating positions for occupants.
  • Utility shelf
  • a chair can include a utility shelf (40). Examples of a chair integrated with a utility shelf are shown in Figures 1, 3A, 3B, and 3C.
  • the utility shelf (40) can be adjustable. Depending upon implementation-specific or other considerations, the utility shelf (40) can be fixed to, nested within, or independent of fixed components of the chair.
  • the utility shelf (40) can be used to provide task specific surface areas and storage for the user while in both the seated and standing position. Further depending upon implementation-specific or other considerations, the shelf (40) can be detachable from the chair.
  • Figures 1 and 3c show a utility shelf in 3 different positions: behind the headrest in a rear non-rotated position (44); positioned for use as a lower body support element (42); and nested in a rotated seat position (40).
  • a utility shelf can be coupled to the chair through fixed utility shelf support arms (46).
  • a utility shelf can be coupled to the chair through rotating utility shelf support arms (47), to allow for the utility shelf to be rotated into various positions.
  • a shelf may be comprised of a surface that acts as support legs on each side and incorporates radial edges (54)( Figure 3a). This can facilitate the rotation of a task surface provided by the shelf. Additionally, this can provide customizable task surface angles while in the fixed, nested or independent configuration.
  • the utility shelf can include radial notches (45)( Figure 3a) along the radial edges (54). The radial notches (45) can be used to lock the shelf at predetermined angles. The radial notches (45) can also include an additional slot along a smaller diameter in which the utility shelf can be rotated. The shelf can be locked in a position by an applicable mechanical mechanism, e.g.
  • the utility shelf can be used independently to carry or stow accessories or for use while the user is seated on any surface.
  • the shelf includes flat edges (53)( Figure 3a).
  • the flat edges (53) can allow the shelf to be stowed on a side edge or placed on the floor from a seated position in conjunction with a single hand grip.
  • the shelf includes a flat surface (52) on the bottom.
  • the flat surface (52) can be used place and balance the shelf on a flat surface independently.
  • the shelf includes recesses and/or embossed surfaces.
  • the recesses and/or embossed surface can be configured for providing anchoring connections, hand and/or finger grips or used for the nesting of task specific accessories (beverage, keyboard, mouse, remote controls, etc.). These recesses and/or embossed surfaces may be on an applicable surface of the shelf and utilize magnetic or mechanically fastened connections. Side openings (51) on sides of the shelf provide grips for use in carrying or otherwise displacing the shelf. . Additional surfaces or containers may be attached to the tray to expand the task specific surface area of the shelf or to provide additional storage.
  • Non-slip surface textures may also be fabricated as part of the shelf or affixed to the shelf in the form of a non-slip coating or veneer to any shelf surface.
  • the utility shelf can include a top opening (49). Through the top opening (49), an operator can carry the shelf. Additionally, in a specific implementation, the utility shelf can include through holes (50) for anchoring the shelf to utility shelf support arms. [0058] Display tray and display supports
  • Figures 1 and 5 illustrate a display tray (20) with display support arm assemblies that allow adjustable connection to the chair.
  • the display tray (20) can be a physical surface for supporting or resting an item such as a lap top, note pad, book or what not.
  • the display tray (20) can be integrated as or include a visual computer display, e.g. a computer monitor.
  • the display tray (20) can be an actual electronic pad, e.g. an iPad®.
  • the display tray is integrated with a tray support assembly that can provides a wide range of independent height and rotational angle configurations for both the display tray to accommodate preferences of an occupant.
  • the display tray can be integrated with display support arms (22).
  • the display support arms can be displaceable or rotatable to provide fixed or adjustable positioning of the display tray to suit the preferences of an occupant.
  • the display supports arms (22) can be configured to extend from the chair structural frame. Alternatively, the display support arms (22) can be configured to pivot from fixed connections on the chair. Depending upon implementation-specific or other considerations, the display support arms (22) can be configured to operate with display support arm guide wheels (27)( Figure 5).
  • the display support arm guide wheels (55) can be coupled to the display support arms (22) in a configuration including a flange that can function to stabilize lateral and rotational movement of the display support arms (22). Further depending upon implantation- specific or other considerations, the display support arm guide wheels (22) can move over small protrusions on the interior of the rear frame element (91).
  • the small protrusions function to prevent rolling of the display support arm guide wheels (22) and subsequent displacement of the display support arms (22) and the display tray (20).
  • One or a combination of the display support arms (22) the display support arm guide wheels can be housed within a covering that extends out from the sides of the chair.
  • display support arms (22) are coupled to the chair through applicable pivoting coupling mechanisms, e.g. a rotating pin.
  • a pivoting coupling mechanism e.g. a rotating pin.
  • Figures 1 and 5 show the display tray (20) range of motion (24) provided by the display support arms (22).
  • the display support arms (22) may be in an angled position (23), or in a vertical position (25).
  • the display tray support arms (22) may also be set to any other position within their range of motion.
  • the tray support assembly includes display support arm connector (21).
  • the display support arm connector (21) can couple the display tray (20) to the display support arms (22).
  • the display support arm connector (21) can be a pivoting connection, e.g. a pin, which allows the display tray (20) to be rotated/tilted.
  • the display support arms (22) and display support connector arm (21) can include spring tensioning, spring tensioned pins, counterweights, mechanical fastening, magnetic connections, friction connections or any combination thereof to assist in positioning and repositioning of the display tray (20) and display support arms (22).
  • the tray support assembly can include display mounting plates that comprise the display bracket assembly may also be fixed, removable, slide, slip-lock, lock, pivot, rotate, clamp or of any combination in how they connect to the display support arms. These connections can allow the display bracket support arms (22) to be adjusted to provide the ability to adjust and set the display tray at various rotated positions.
  • a base of the display support arms (22) are weighted with a counterweight (28) to counterbalance the weight of the display tray or for example, the weight of a computer/monitor, or other device or item placed on the display tray. This can ensure that the display tray 20 be easily moved to a desired a position and help to keep the display tray at the desired position.
  • the display support arms (22) can be centered and fixed to torsion springs
  • tensioned wheel assembly (104) can be generated by an applicable mechanism for generating energy, such as a spring.
  • the tensioned wheel assembly (104) can be adjusted to a range of tension to help regulate the rotation of the display support arms in conjunction with and nesting between the small protrusions along the interior of the frame element (91). This can be used to provides rotational reposition of the display tray (20) and the display support arms (22) from both a standing or seated position.
  • a torsion spring (103) provides rotational resistance of the display tray and display support arms. It is connected to the rear frame element support (99) and the display support arm on either side of the chair and can be configured to perform in either rotational direction.
  • the chair includes a canopy enclosure supported by a canopy support structure.
  • the chair can include a canopy enclosure having a canopy shade (5) and canopy support arms (1) included as part of the canopy support structure as is shown in Figure 1.
  • a canopy enclosure can be included on the chair to provide shelter from environmental impacts when the chair is in use outdoors or for varying levels of privacy.
  • the canopy shade (5) can be comprised of an applicable material or combination of materials.
  • the canopy shade (5) can be comprised on an applicable materials or combination of materials that assist in mitigating environmental impacts such as sun, rain, wind, sound or insects.
  • the canopy support arms (1) may provide fixed or adjustable positions for the canopy shade (5) to suit the comfort preferences of each occupant. Not shown are independent vertical canopy support arms. Depending upon implementation- specific or other considerations, as shown in Figures 1 and 5, the display support arms (22) can function as vertical canopy support arms.
  • the chair can include canopy support arms (1) separate from the display support arms (22).
  • the independent canopy support arms (1) can be fixed to the chair frame or alternatively, pivot from fixed connections on the chair similar to the display support arms (22).
  • the display tray and display support arms can rotate freely within the canopy enclosure to accommodate seated and standing positions.
  • the canopy support arms (1) can be coupled to the chair through a pivoting connection to provide for a range of adjustments that include positioning for both a seated and standing configuration independent of the pivoting display support arms (22).
  • the canopy support arms (1) can include or be coupled to spring tensioning, spring tensioned pins, counterweights, mechanical fastening, magnetic, friction connections or any combination to assist in the positioning and repositioning of the canopy enclosure.
  • the chair includes canopy support brackets (2) to aid in supporting the canopy support arms(l).
  • the canopy support brackets can be coupled to the canopy support arms (1) through an applicable coupling mechanism, e.g. a fixed or pivoting coupling mechanism.
  • the canopy and associated canopy support structure can be removable from the chair.
  • the chair can include a spring pined /plunger (6) to allow for quick releases of connections of either or both the canopy support arms (1) from the chair and/or the canopy brackets (5) to decouple the various components of the canopy and the canopy support structure.
  • the canopy support brackets (2) may be hinged and pinned so they can be stowed with the canopy support arms (1).
  • the canopy support structure can also include a canopy structural cross support (4).
  • a plurality of canopy structural cross supports may be included as part of the canopy support structure.
  • a material forming the canopy can be attached to the canopy cross support (4) and can be spring-loaded and deployed or stored in place with a pull release or pull locking mechanism.
  • the chair includes compartments (150 and 151)
  • the compartments (150 and 151) can provide storage options of varying size and means of access.
  • the compartments (150 and 151) can be configured as fixed, removable, nested volumes or any combination.
  • the compartments (150 and 151) and their enclosures may also be configured to slide, extend, retract, be hinged, rotate, pivot, lock, be spring-tensioned, and include magnetic, snap-on or mechanical fastening or any combination.
  • Front frame element 92 1
  • Ring rotation support wheel 93 1 support assembly 94 1 support sub frames 95 1
  • Cross support structures 98 1 rear frame element support e.g. headrest, utility shelf and canopy 99 2 supports

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Dentistry (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Chair Legs, Seat Parts, And Backrests (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne une armature de chaise ajustable dotée de surfaces de dossier et d'assise qui fléchissent afin de s'adapter à la forme, au poids et au mouvement d'un occupant. La forme et les proportions de la chaise permettent une position allongée qui répartit le poids de l'occupant plus uniformément, ce qui réduit la charge ponctuelle physiologique externe et interne. La forme permet également une articulation ergonomique permettant de réduire au minimum les contraintes physiologiques internes telles que le tassement vertébral du cou/du dos. Des liaisons excentriques entraînées par un ensemble moteur permettent un ajustement de la position des éléments de la chaise. En outre, un ensemble pompe à air peut être inclus pour ajuster automatiquement une ou plusieurs poches d'air placées sur l'intérieur de l'armature de chaise.
EP17837544.0A 2016-08-01 2017-08-01 Chaise à positionnement et support variables Withdrawn EP3490409A4 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US15/225,708 US10123624B2 (en) 2015-01-30 2016-08-01 Chair with variable positioning and support
PCT/US2017/044911 WO2018026821A1 (fr) 2016-08-01 2017-08-01 Chaise à positionnement et support variables

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3490409A1 true EP3490409A1 (fr) 2019-06-05
EP3490409A4 EP3490409A4 (fr) 2019-12-18

Family

ID=57516285

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP17837544.0A Withdrawn EP3490409A4 (fr) 2016-08-01 2017-08-01 Chaise à positionnement et support variables

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3490409A4 (fr)
WO (1) WO2018026821A1 (fr)

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4092041A (en) * 1977-01-21 1978-05-30 Alexander C. Daswick Chair universally adjustable by occupant reclining therein, and method
US4234226A (en) * 1978-10-02 1980-11-18 Scott Paper Company Adjustable and collapsible seating piece
US4324414A (en) * 1978-10-23 1982-04-13 Atlantic Richfield Company Wheelchair
US5979976A (en) * 1998-04-10 1999-11-09 Ferencik; Mark J. Foldable support structure
DE202005004828U1 (de) * 2005-03-23 2005-11-03 Beier, Matthias Liegesitz
CN202698411U (zh) * 2012-09-02 2013-01-30 吴晨昱 竹躺椅
US9603457B2 (en) * 2013-05-31 2017-03-28 Steelcase Inc. Lounge assemblies for supporting portable electronics devices
USD754451S1 (en) * 2015-01-30 2016-04-26 Thomas Stroman Chair

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3490409A4 (fr) 2019-12-18
WO2018026821A1 (fr) 2018-02-08

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