KR20240027564A - Adjustable bench - Google Patents

Abstract

An adjustable bench includes a bench frame, a seat support pivotally coupled to the bench frame at a pivot, and an adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism includes an adjustment frame coupled to the seat support and defining a plurality of openings. The seat plate of the mechanism is coupled to the seat cushion. The adjustment pin is coupled to the seat plate and is selectively engageable with a plurality of openings. The bearing is coupled to the seat plate and is slidably engaged with a rail coupled to the adjustment frame.

Description

ADJUSTABLE BENCH}

Cross-reference to related applications

This application relates to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/448,808, filed February 28, 2023, entitled "Adjustable Bench"; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/400,285, entitled “Adjustable Bench,” filed August 23, 2022, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. It is integrated.

Some exercises are performed while lying down or sitting on a bench. These exercises can be performed while holding or using assistive exercise equipment such as weights, resistance bands, exercise balls, etc. The bench or seat used when performing these exercises may be in a public facility, such as a gym, or in a private facility, such as at home.

In one aspect, the present technology includes: a bench frame; a seat support pivotally coupled to the bench frame at a pivot; and an adjustment mechanism, the adjustment mechanism comprising: an adjustment frame coupled to the seat support, the adjustment frame defining a plurality of openings; a seat plate coupled to the seat cushion; an adjustment pin coupled to the seat plate and selectively engageable with a plurality of openings; Bearing coupled to the seat plate; and a rail coupled to an adjustable frame, wherein the bearing is slidably engaged with the rail. In one example, the adjustable bench includes a pin flange coupled to the seat plate, and the adjustment pin is connected to the pin flange. In another example, the seat plate defines a first plane, the adjustment frame includes a side surface defining a second plane disposed substantially orthogonal to the first plane, and the adjustment pin is disposed substantially orthogonal to the second plane. It forms the axis of the pin on which it is placed. In another example, the pin axis is disposed substantially parallel to the first plane. In another example, the rail includes a plurality of rails, the bearing includes a plurality of bearings, a first bearing of the plurality of bearings is slidably engaged with the first rail of the plurality of bearings, and a first bearing of the plurality of bearings is slidably engaged with the first rail of the plurality of rails. 2 The bearing is slidably engaged with the second bearing among the plurality of rails.

In another example of the above aspect, a plurality of rails are disposed on opposite sides of the seat support. In another example, the adjustment pin is engageable with a first opening of the plurality of openings, such that the seat cushion is disposed proximal to the pivot, and the adjustable pin is engageable with a second opening of the plurality of openings, such that the seat cushion is disposed proximal to the pivot. It is placed distally. In a particular example, an adjustable bench includes a rail flange, the rail including a first end and a second end, the first end being coupled to the adjustment frame, and the second end being coupled to the rail flange. In another example, the rail flange is disposed within a steering frame. In another example, a rail is disposed between the seat support and a portion of the steering frame that defines a plurality of openings. In another example, the steering pin is disposed on the partial side of the steering frame opposite the rail. In another example, the rails form a rail axis; The seat support defines a seat support axis; The adjusting pins form an adjusting pin axis disposed substantially orthogonal to each of the rail axis and the seat support axis.

In another aspect, the present technology includes: a frame; A hinge coupled to the frame; a back support pivotally coupled to the hinge at a first end of the back support; a stand coupled to the second end of the back support, the stand comprising a seating surface; and a back cushion coupled to the back support, wherein a distal end of the back cushion extends a first distance from the hinge, the seating surface extends a second distance from the hinge, the second distance being greater than the first distance. It's about. In one example, the stand at least partially surrounds the distal end of the back cushion. In another example, an adjustable bench includes a plurality of standing surfaces secured to a frame, the plurality of standing surfaces being located at a distal end of the back cushion and an end of the frame adjacent the stand. In another example, the bench is positioned substantially vertically, and the bench is seated on a stand and a plurality of standing surfaces. In another example, the stand is removably coupled to the second end of the back support. In another example, the stand includes: a base including a seating surface; and a pair of tines, each of the pair of tines comprising an opening for receiving a removable fastening element for removably coupling the stand to the second end of the back support; Each of the tines is disposed substantially orthogonal to the base.

In another aspect, the present technology includes: a frame; Front feet fixed to the frame; a rear foot secured to the frame at the end of the frame opposite the front foot; A pair of housings fixed to the rear feet; a back support pivotally coupled to the frame at a first end of the back support; a stand coupled to the second end of the back support; and a back cushion coupled to the back support, wherein the adjustable bench is positionable in a use position, wherein when in the use position, the adjustable bench rests on a surface on the front foot and the back foot, the adjustable bench having: An adjustable bench that is positionable in a storage position and, when in the storage position, is directed to an adjustable bench that rests on a surface on a pair of housings and a stand.

In another aspect, the present technology includes: a frame; A hinge coupled to the frame; a back support pivotally coupled to a hinge at a first end of the back support, the back support adjustable in position in a lowered use position, a horizontal use position, and an elevated use position; a back cushion coupled to the back support; and a telescoping support including a proximal end and a distal end, the telescoping support being secured to the frame at the proximal end, the telescoping support being adjustable in position to a first height and a second height greater than the first height. , when the back support is positioned in the lowered use position, the telescoping support is positioned at the first height, the distal end of the telescoping support is in contact with the back support, and when the back support is positioned in the horizontal use position, the telescoping support is positioned at the first height. is positioned at the second height, the distal end of the telescoping support is in contact with the back support, and when the back support is positioned in the elevated use position, the telescoping support is positioned at at least one of the first height and the second height, The distal end of the telescoping support relates to an adjustable bench that is separate from the back support.

Details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the detailed description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of these embodiments will become apparent from the detailed description, drawings, and claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing inventive content and the following detailed description of the present disclosure are exemplary and are intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

The following drawings, which form a part of this application, are illustrative of the technology described and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed disclosure in any way, which scope should be based on the claims appended hereto.
1A shows a top rear perspective view of an adjustable bench.
Figure 1B shows a lower rear perspective view of the adjustable bench of Figure 1A.
Figure 1C shows a side view of the adjustable bench of Figure 1A.
Figure 2 shows a partially exploded perspective view of an end of an adjustable bench.
3A, 3B, and 3C show the adjustable bench in a use position, a transport position, and a storage position, respectively.
Figure 4 shows the adjustable bench in a lowered use position.
5 and 6 show other examples of adjustable benches.
Figures 7a-7c show partial enlarged views of an adjustable bench with adjustable support posts.
Figures 8a and 8b show a perspective and exploded perspective view, respectively, of a sliding seat adjustment mechanism for an adjustable bench.
9A-9C show partial side views of a sliding seat adjustment mechanism for an adjustable bench.

An example of current technology concerns an adjustable bench with an integrated stand. The stand positions the bench substantially vertically in a storage or standing position. This allows the bench to take up less floor space in a gym or other space. The stand may be removable, permanently fixed, or secured to the back support of the bench, allowing the adjustable bench to be placed in a wide range of use positions, including a lowered use position, without interference from the stand.

1A-1C show various views of the adjustable bench 100. The drawings are illustrated simultaneously and not all components are depicted or shown in all drawings. Adjustable bench 100 includes a frame 102, a seat support 104, and a back support 106. The seat support 104 is connected to the frame 102 via a pivotable element 108 coupled to the frame 102 . Pivotable element 108 may be in the form of roller or ball bearings, hinges, or other structures. Similarly, back support 106 is coupled to pivotable element 108 at first end 109, or to a different pivotable element separate from pivotable element 108. Typically, the adjustable bench 100 is used during or to facilitate exercise. Other benches may include more or fewer components (e.g., a frame comprised of more or fewer individual components joined together). Frame 102 provides stability to adjustable bench 100. The frame 102 also provides a structure through which the seat support 104 and the back support 106 are connected.

Generally, frame 102 includes a middle portion 114 connected to two leg portions 110 and 112. For example, leg portions 110, 112 may be connected to middle portion 114 via welding, bolted members, rigid chemical adhesives, or the like. In this configuration, the pivotable element 108 is secured to the middle portion 114 of the frame 102. Frame 102 also defines seat aperture 116. Additionally, an adjustment ladder 118 is fixed to the frame 102. Preferably, the seat hole 116 is formed by the front end of the frame 102, such as the leg portion 110. The control ladder 118 is fixed to the second leg portion 112. Seat support 104 allows independent pivot adjustment of seat cushion 120 relative to frame 102. The back support 106 allows independent pivot adjustment of the back cushion 122 relative to the frame 102.

In general, back cushion 122 provides a support surface for the user's torso in a sitting or lying position. Back cushion 122 is a relatively larger component of adjustable bench 100 than seat cushion 120. The possibility of adjusting the positions of both cushions 120 and 122 may be as described later. The back support 106 pivots relative to the frame 102 about the pivot axis PA of the pivotable element 108. Adjustment of the position of the back support 106 is provided by a brace 124 pivotally coupled thereto. The brace 124 terminates in a pin 126 that can selectively engage a gap 128 between the teeth of the steering ladder 118. Adjusting the position of braces 124 along adjustment ladder 118 adjusts the position of back support 106 relative to frame 102. Adjustment ladder 118 may also include markings that can assist the user in positioning pins 126 in preferred gaps 128 for desired movement. Back cushion 122 provides a cushioned surface for the user and may be connected to back support 106 at one or more brackets 129 with fasteners or other elements.

In general, seat cushion 120 provides a support surface for the user in a sitting and/or lying position. As described above, the seat support 104 pivots relative to the frame 102 about the pivot axis PA. The seat support 104 is connected to the seat arch member 130 and passes through the seat hole 116. The seat arch member 130 defines a plurality of seat arch member holes 132 . As shown, the holes 132 are not equi-spaced from each other. However, in some cases, the holes 132 may be equally spaced along the seat arch member 130, or the arch members may have a different curvature than shown. Seat cushion 120 provides a cushioned surface for the user and may be connected to seat support 104 at one or more brackets with fasteners or other elements. Seat adjustment pins 134 may be positioned on frame 102 such that seat adjustment pins 134 may be selectively connected to seat arch members 130 passing through seat holes 116 . Seat adjustment pins 134 engage a plurality of seat arch member holes 132 formed by seat arch member 130 to enable selectable pivoting and positioning of seat support 104. In an example, the seat support 104 may be configured to slide the seat cushion 120 relative to the hinge 108, as described, for example, in numerous examples in U.S. Pat. No. 10,589,144, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. May include structures that enable movement.

The back support 106 is pivotably adjustable over a range of motion relative to the frame 102. The pivot motion of the back support 106 is independent of the pivot motion of the seat support 104. The pivoting angle of the back support 106 is shown as angle θ with respect to the horizontal (H). Pivoting up H is a positive value of θ, and pivoting down H is a negative value of θ. In the example, the pivot range of the back support is at least 0 degrees (i.e. horizontal) and no greater than about 90 degrees (vertical). In some examples, the pivot range of motion of back support 106 is no greater than about 80 degrees. Relative to the horizontal, back support 106 may be positioned at approximately 0° to 90°. In another example, back support 106 may be positioned between approximately 0° and 85°. In another example, pins 124 may be positioned in gap 128a to position back support 104 in a so-called lowered use position, which is desirable for a particular exercise. This may be a descent angle of up to about 5 degrees, up to about 8 degrees, or up to about 10 degrees.

The pivoting angle of the seat support 104 is shown as angle α relative to the horizontal (H). Pivoting above H is a positive value of α, and pivoting below H is a negative value of α. In the example, the pivot range of motion of the seat support 104 is at least 0 degrees (i.e., horizontal) and is no greater than about 90 degrees (vertical). In some examples, the pivot range of motion of seat support 104 is no greater than about 75 degrees. Relative to horizontal, the seat support 104 may be capable of pivoting from about 0° to -25° or more.

A front foot 136 is disposed at an end of the leg portion 110, proximal to the seat cushion 120. In the example shown, the feet 136 have sufficient width to prevent the bench 100 from shaking when used for exercise. Foot 136 may also include an integrated handle 138 that can be used to lift an end of bench 100 proximal to seat cushion 120. Frame 102 may also include lateral supports 140 distal to feet 136 and at an end of frame 102 proximal to back cushion 122. The lateral support 140 provides stability to the bench 100 when in use. A rear foot 142 is disposed at each end of the lateral support 140. Two housings 144 also extend from the lateral supports 140. Each housing 144 accommodates one or more rollers 146 to enable easy rolling movement of bench 100, as described in more detail below. Each housing 144 also includes a standing surface 148, described in more detail below. Finally, the bench 100 includes a stand 150 coupled to the second end 149 of the back support 106, which is described in more detail below. The surface of the stand 150 is disposed at a distance D2 from the hinge 108, which is greater than the distance D1 of the distal end 152 of the back cushion 122 from the hinge 108. This allows the back cushion 122 to be protected when the stand 150 is in a standing or storage position, as explained in more detail below.

Figure 2 shows a partially exploded perspective view of an end of the adjustable bench 200. In relevant part, Figure 2 shows a stand 202 removably coupled to or mounted on an adjustable bench 200. The stand 202 may be secured to the back support 204 of the bench 200, either directly or through a bracket 206 secured thereto, where the bracket 206 provides additional support to the back cushion 208. to provide. In the depicted configuration, stand 202 may be rotatable, for example via a tool such as a hex wrench, screw driver, or ratchet; Or, in another example, it is removably coupled to or mounted on the bracket 206 via a pair of manually rotatable screws 210, such as thumb screws or thumb screws. Stand 202 includes a base 212 that includes seating surfaces 214 on its sides. Base 212 is disposed substantially at right angles to a pair of tines 216, each forming an opening to receive one of the screws 210. Each tine 216 includes an offset 218 to accommodate the thickness of the bracket 206, keeping the components of the stand 202 closely spaced against the back cushion 208. This helps minimize interference between the user and the stand 202 when the bench 200 is used for a specific exercise. Similarly, base 212 is disposed closely adjacent to distal end 220 of back cushion 208, at least partially surrounding distal end 220. The width (W) of the stand base 212 may be adjusted to completely or substantially cover the distal end 220 of the back cushion 208 to protect the back cushion 208 from wear when the bench is placed in a particular position as described herein. It may be enough to completely cover it. The stand 202 is made of a sturdy material, such as steel, which is significantly stronger than the material forming the back cushion 208, forming a component capable of supporting the weight of the bench 200 in a specific location.

Different configurations of stand 202 are considered. In the configuration shown, tines 216 are disposed on either side of back support 204. In another example, the tines may be positioned at an angle of substantially 90 degrees as shown and may be secured to either side of the back support 204 itself as opposed to the bracket 206 as shown. In another example, the stand 202 may be configured with an end that can be inserted and secured to the end 222 of the back support 204. This may be particularly advantageous since the back support 204 may be formed from hollow tube steel with a square profile; Similar shaped coupling configurations extending from base 212 may be readily contemplated by those skilled in the art.

3A, 3B, and 3C show the adjustable bench 300 in a use position, a transport position, and a storage position, respectively. This position is described relative to a surface S, such as a gymnasium floor. In the use position of FIG. 3A , bench 300 is positioned in a substantially horizontal position (e.g., on the upper surface of seat cushion 302 or back cushion 304 substantially parallel to surface S). formed by) and can be positioned as shown. In the use position, bench 300 is supported on front feet 306 and rear feet 308. In one example, these feet 306, 308 may correspond to feet 136, 142, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C. In the context of an adjustable bench, such as the type shown and described herein, multiple use positions are considered. For example, any position in which the adjustable bench 300 can be used for exercise may be considered a use position. In a use position, the seat cushion 302 and/or back cushion 304 may be raised, lowered, or held substantially horizontal. In each use position, the stand 316 remains coupled to the back support supporting the back cushion 304 unless the stand 316 is removed by the user. Accordingly, a user can place the adjustable bench 300 in a lowered use position, as shown and described in greater detail in FIG. 4 , without interference from the stand 316 .

In the mobile position shown in FIG. 3B , the bench 300 is positioned such that the seat end of the bench 300 is lifted off the surface S, for example, by a user grasping the handle 310 and lifting, as shown. It can be positioned down. When the end is lifted, the front foot 306 is raised relative to the surface S so that the bench 300 is supported on rollers 312 and can be easily moved around the space. In one example, this roller 312 may correspond to roller 146 as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C.

In the storage or standing position shown in FIG. 3C , bench 300 is positioned in a substantially vertical position (e.g., the upper surface or back of seat cushion 302 substantially perpendicular to surface S). formed by a cushion 304), and may be positioned as shown. In the storage position, bench 300 is supported on the surfaces of standing surface 314 and stand 316. In one example, standing surface 314 and stand 316 may correspond to standing surface 148 and stand 150 (more specifically, their seating surfaces), as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C. there is. In the storage position, the adjustable bench 300 stands vertically, reducing the footprint of the adjustable bench 300 during periods of non-use.

Figure 4 shows the adjustable bench 400 in a lowered use position. Certain elements of Figure 4 are described elsewhere herein but are not necessarily further described or indicated. Components of bench 400 that are not described in detail will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the present disclosure. In this position, the pin 402 is placed in the lowering gap 404 of the steering ladder 406. Pin 402 is connected to the distal end of brace 408 that is pivotally coupled to back support 410. In this position, the back cushion 412 is in a lowered use position. In connection with the present technology, the stand 414 is maintained in a fixed position relative to the back cushion 412. In this way, by securing stand 414 relative to back support 410 and back cushion 412, greater versatility of bench 400 (and other similar benches described herein) is increased. A known adjustable bench that can be positioned in a standing position (as shown in Figure 3C) has a bench that extends upwardly from a portion of the bench (e.g., from a frame or lateral support, shown in Figures 1A-1C). Use a stand that is fixed to a post or other protrusion. This post or support is often used to provide additional support to the distal end of the back support where the post is positioned distally from the hinge, thereby preventing the known bench from being placed in a lowered use position. As such, the technology described here represents a significant improvement over existing solutions.

Although stands described herein as being fixed to a back support enhance the versatility of benches that can be placed in lowered use positions, stands fixed to a back support may nonetheless improve adjustable benches that do not include such lowering features. there is. 5 and 6 show another example of a non-lowering adjustable bench 500, 600 with an integrated stand 514, 614. FIG. 5 shows an adjustable bench 500 that is adjusted by selectively engaging one or more openings 504 on the arch members 506 with pins 502 . A similar pin-and-arch member adjustment system 522 is used to move the seat 524. However, despite this adjustability, the adjustable bench 500 includes a frame or base 520 that prevents the back support 510 from being lowered to a below-horizontal position. Base 520 provides support to the distal end of back cushion 512 during use. Adjustable bench 500 also includes several handles and wheels to increase the maneuverability of bench 500 in potentially limited spaces in a playground or gym. For example, front handle 526 may be grasped by a user to raise the front end of bench 500, thereby engaging one or more rear wheels 528 with the floor, allowing the user to lift bench 500. Allows you to roll it around. Alternatively or additionally, the bench 500 may include a rear handle 530 that can be grasped by a user so that the rear end of the bench 500 can be raised and thus positioned on one or more front wheels 532. By engaging the floor, the user can roll the bench 500 around the room. Additional accessories are also shown on the bench in Figure 5. For example, the rear corner portion of the frame or base 520 is strengthened by braces 534. One or more band pegs 536 may extend from either or both sides of the brace 534 to enable engagement of the elastic band with the bench 500, thereby allowing the elastic band to engage the bench 500. It provides another means of resistance training that users can utilize.

6 shows an adjustable bench 600 that is adjusted by selectively engaging pins 602 in one or more gaps 604 on an adjustment ladder 506. A similar ladder steering system 622 is used to move the sheets 624. However, despite this adjustability, the adjustable bench 600 includes a post 620 that prevents the back support 610 from being lowered to a below-horizontal position. Post 620 provides support to the distal end of back cushion 612 during use. In both configurations of the adjustable benches 500, 600, securing the stands 514, 614 to the back supports 510, 610 is subject to wear and tear due to inadvertent contact with walls or equipment in confined spaces of a gym or other space. Alternatively, it helps protect the distal ends of the back cushions 512, 612 from puncture. Post 620 shown in FIG. 6 may be fixed or at an adjustable height. A bench with adjustable height posts is shown in FIGS. 7A-7C.

7A-7C show partial enlarged views of an adjustable bench 700 having adjustable support posts 702. Figures 7A to 7C are explained simultaneously. Like other adjustable benches shown herein, adjustable bench 700 includes a back support 704 pivotally coupled to a frame 706. The back support 704 has a stand 710 as well as a back cushion 708 secured thereto, as shown elsewhere herein. The position of the back cushion 708 can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the brace 712 relative to the adjustment ladder 714. As described elsewhere herein, brace 712 is pivotally coupled to back support 704. Although an adjustment mechanism including braces 712 and adjustment ladder 714 is shown, other adjustment mechanisms (as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 ) may also utilize pins that are selectively positionable in openings in the arch members. It is contemplated for use with the adjustable bench 700 shown. Adjustable bench 700 also includes feet 716. Secured to either or both feet 716 and frame 706 is the proximal end 718 of the adjustable support post 702. The distal end 720 is telescopingly slid in and out of the proximal end 718 and its position is adjusted by selectively engaging the pin 722 therewith (e.g., with the opening 724 of the distal end 720). It can be adjusted. In the depicted configuration, the proximal end 718 is an external housing into which the distal end 720 in the form of a post is slidably disposed.

In FIG. 7A , the adjustable bench 700 is shown in a horizontal use position where the back cushion 708 is positioned substantially horizontal to the floor on which the adjustable bench 700 rests. In a horizontal use position, the adjustable support 702 contacts the back support 704 to provide support thereto. In this position, the adjustable support 702 may be at its maximum height, which is higher than the height shown in FIG. 7B. When the distal end 720 of the adjustable support 702 is lowered, the brace 712 can be adjusted relative to the adjustable ladder 714 and the adjustable bench 700 positioned in the lowered use position, with the distal end 720 is in contact with the back support 704 to provide support. Multiple lowering use positions are contemplated depending on the number of openings 724 in the distal end 720. In FIG. 7C , the adjustable bench 700 is shown in an elevated use position with a brace 712 positioned on an adjustment ladder 714 to include a back support 704 and a back cushion 708 . In the elevated use position, the distal end 720 is at its maximum height, but is separated from the back support. In all three positions shown in FIGS. 7A-7C , stand 710 remains adjacent to back cushion 708 to minimize damage from impacts with walls or other surfaces and equipment.

8A and 8B show a perspective and exploded perspective view, respectively, of a sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800 for an adjustable bench. Benches such as those shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, 3A-3C, and 5 may utilize this sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800. The sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800 changes (e.g., increases or decreases or eliminates) the size of the gap that may exist between the seat cushion and the back cushion of the adjustable bench depending on the various relative positions of the seat and back cushion with respect to each other. ) allows you to do so. This gap as well as its adjustment are shown in Figures 9a-9c. 8A and 8B are described simultaneously, and not all components described are shown in both figures. The sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800 can be configured to move from a pivotable element (e.g., pivotable element 108 of FIGS. 1A and 1B) to a frame of an adjustable bench (e.g., frame 102 of FIGS. 1A and 1B). ) is supported by a seat support 802 of an adjustable bench that can be pivotally connected to the seat. The seat support is also shown in Figure 1 as seat support 104. Typically, the seat support provides basic structural support to a seat cushion, such as seat cushion 830 in FIGS. 8A and 8B. For the sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800 of FIGS. 8A and 8B , the seat support 802 not only enables the adjustable functions described herein, but also supports various components described herein that support both seat cushions 820. Provides basic structural support for. Mechanism 800 includes an adjustment frame 804 coupled to a seat support 802 . In the depicted embodiment, the adjustment frame 804 has a side surface or central portion 806 that defines a plurality of openings 808, a front portion 810 facing the front portion of the bench, and a rear portion 810 facing the rear portion of the bench. Includes portion 812. The adjustment frame 804 provides a rigid connection to the upper seat support and rails 824 along which the seat cushion 820 can slide.

The central portion 806 of the steering frame 804 defines a substantially vertical element defining an opening 808 configured to selectively receive steering pins 814. Adjustment pin 814 is coupled to flat seat plate 818 via pin flange 816. Seat plate 818 supports seat cushion 820 and allows the user to be fully or partially supported during use of the bench. Seat plate 818 is coupled to a pair of bearings 822, although a single bearing may be used in certain instances. Each bearing 822 is slidable with one of two rails 824 connected at a first end to the front portion 810 of the adjustment frame 804 and at a second end to a rail flange 826. Engaged, this in turn is connected to the sheet support 802. At least one of the rail flanges 826 is disposed within the volume defined by the steering frame 804.

The configuration shown supports the user's weight and any weight he or she can hold, from the seat cushion 820 to the flat support plate 818, a pair of bearings 822, and a pair of rails 824. , which is ultimately supported at one end by the rail flange 826 and the front part 810 of the steering frame 804. This distributes the weight across multiple points of contact with the seat support 802. Additionally, the user's weight or the weight held by it is not transmitted to the central portion 806 of the adjustment frame 804 through the adjustment pin 814. This prevents potential twisting of the adjustment frame 804 under load (if any load were to be transmitted by the adjustment pin 814) and, more importantly, of the seat cushion 820 while the user is fully supported by it. Allows you to adjust the position. The adjustment pin 814 is also disposed on the side of the seat adjustment mechanism 800 (as opposed to below), so that the user can easily grasp the adjustment pin 814 while sitting, allowing rapid change of the seat cushion 820 position. . In another example, the second end of the rail 824 may be connected to the rear portion 812 of the adjustment frame 804 instead of the rail flange 826, which provides a longer range of motion of the sliding adjustment mechanism 800. It can be made possible. A greater number of apertures 808, and/or a wider distribution of apertures may also increase the range of motion. Some known adjustable benches include adjustment pins that engage pivoting components that support the seat cushion (e.g., seat support 802). By utilizing the sliding adjustment mechanism 800 shown here (having adjustment pins 814 that engage the adjustment frame 804), the user does not have to reach under and around the rails 824 and thus uses their fingers during adjustment. The possibility of being caught is reduced or eliminated. Additionally, by using a separate adjustment frame 804, there is no need for openings to be formed in the seat support 802 to engage adjustment pins, thereby limiting the deformability of the seat support 802. Other advantages of this arrangement over the prior art will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

As described above, the relative positions of the various components of the sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800 enable convenient use by the user. Mechanism 800 may be adjusted in different ways while a user is sitting on seat cushion 820. Seat cushion 820 is supported on a first or upper plane 828 surface of seat plate 818 . The side surface or central portion 806 also forms, in the example shown, a second or side planar 829 surface substantially orthogonal to the top plane 828. The orthogonal orientation of these two components allows the steering pins 814 to be positioned on the sides of the steering frame 804 so that they can be easily grasped and manipulated (e.g., pulled) by a user, whether the user is seated or not. let it be Additionally, the adjustment pins 814 may be more easily visible to the user (whether seated or not) than adjustment pins disposed under the seat that require downward pulling to adjust the seat position. By placing the adjustment pin 814 on the side of the mechanism 800, the adjustment pin 814 is also easy to grip, especially for users with short arms or arms with a limited range of motion. 8A and 8B where horizontal pull to the side is desired, the axis Ap of the adjustment pin 814 is substantially perpendicular to the second plane 829 of the adjustment frame 804 and the flat seat plate. It is disposed substantially parallel to the first plane 828 of 818.

In addition to providing easy access to the adjustment pins 814, positioning the sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, can be achieved by using a pair of rail/bearing system. , helps balance the load on either side of the seat support 802, with each rail/bearing system being disposed on either side of the seat support 802. Each of the rails 824, the seat support 802, and the central portion 806 of the steering frame 804 is parallel to an axis defined by the length of the associated bench, as well as with respective axes substantially parallel to each other. is formed This axis will be parallel to the horizontal (H) line shown and described in Figure 1C. The steering pins 814 are formed by steering pin axes that are substantially orthogonal to all of these axes and may be partially tilted, for example, depending on the position of the steering pins 814 relative to the axis of each rail 824. there is. Additionally, by positioning the adjustment pins 814 on an outboard position of the adjustment frame 804 relative to at least one rail 824, inadvertent access to that rail 824 and associated bearings 822 is restricted; , this is because these components are placed within the coordination frame 804. If necessary or desired, an additional plate positioned opposite the support structure 802 from the central portion 806 may be secured to the steering frame 804 to prevent access to the nearby rails 824 and bearings 822. there is. Additional plating or rigid metal or plastic mesh may be installed on the underside of mechanism 800, for example under seat support 802, to prevent inadvertent contact with or tampering with components of mechanism 800. .

The sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800 may include a seat support 802, or, for example, the sliding seat adjustment mechanism may include all of the configurations shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B (e.g., a seat support 802 ) Excluding) When sold as a kit, it can be fixed to the sheet support 802. This sliding seat adjustment mechanism can be secured to the existing seat support of the pivoting bench (once the existing seat cushion is removed) with the appropriate bolts, screws, or other fasteners provided with the kit. Thus, an existing adjustable bench without a sliding seat function can be adapted, for example, by the end user to increase its versatility. Because the sliding seat adjustment mechanism described herein does not engage the seat supports of an adjustable bench other than for support, the structure described herein can be utilized on many different types of adjustable benches.

9A-9C show partial side views of the sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800 of FIGS. 8A and 8B used with an adjustable bench 900. Examples of such adjustable benches are shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, 3A-3C, and 5. The depicted configuration includes a pivoting mechanism including a frame 902, a pivot 904, and a seat arch member 906, for purposes of illustration. Adjustable benches utilizing other pivoting mechanisms may similarly incorporate a sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800 as described herein, or may be modified as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, to accommodate different configurations of the pivoting mechanism. You can. Certain components described above in the context of FIGS. 8A and 8B are shown but not necessarily further described in the following figures.

As explained in the context of FIGS. 8A and 8B , the sliding seat adjustment mechanism 800 includes an adjustment frame supported by a seat support 802 and defining a plurality of openings 808 in its central portion 806. 804). Adjustment pins 814 may selectively engage with a plurality of openings 808 as needed to adjust the position of seat cushion 820 relative to back cushion 908. One of the rails 824 is shown in dashed lines, as is a bearing 822 that is slidable along the rail 824. Bearing 822, like pin flange 816, is coupled to flat seat plate 818. Seat cushion 820 is secured to planar seat plate 818 on the opposite side of rail 824. The axis A of the rail is shown as axis A and, as an example, is considered parallel to the axis of the adjustable bench 900 formed by the seat support 802. In Figure 9A, the seat cushion 820 is shown in a position closest to the back cushion 908 with the gap between the seat cushion and the back cushion (shown at 910 in Figures 9B and 9C) reduced or eliminated. In this position, the adjustment pin 814 engages the nearest opening 818 of the pivot 904 to bring the seat cushion 820 to a position closest to the back cushion 908. The sliding adjustment of the sliding seat adjustment mechanism is shown in Figures 9b and 9c. In this view, a pin 814 engages an opening 818 further along (and away from the pivot 904) along the adjustment frame 804 where the seat support 802 connects to the frame 902, thereby forming a seat cushion. The size of the gap 910 between 820 and the back cushion 908 increases.

example

Illustrative examples of the systems and methods described herein are provided below. Embodiments of the systems or methods described herein may include one or more of the provisions described below and in any combination.

Article 1. As an adjustable bench: frame; A hinge coupled to the frame; a back support pivotally coupled to the hinge at a first end of the back support; a stand coupled to the second end of the back support, the stand comprising a seating surface; and a back cushion coupled to the back support, wherein a distal end of the back cushion extends a first distance from the hinge, and the seating surface extends a second distance from the hinge, the second distance being greater than the first distance. .

Article 2. The adjustable bench of claim 1 , wherein the stand at least partially surrounds a distal end of the back cushion.

Article 3. The adjustable bench of claim 1 , wherein the stand at least partially covers the distal end of the back cushion.

Article 4. The adjustable bench of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of standing surfaces secured to the frame, the plurality of standing surfaces being located at a distal end of the back cushion and an end of the frame adjacent the stand.

Article 5. 5. The adjustable bench of claim 4, wherein when the bench is positioned substantially vertically, the bench is seated on a stand and a plurality of standing surfaces.

Article 6. The adjustable bench of claim 1 , wherein the stand is removably coupled to the second end of the back support.

Article 7. 7. The stand of claim 6, wherein the stand includes: a base comprising a seating surface; and a pair of tines, each of the pair of tines including an opening for receiving a removable fastening element for removably coupling the stand to the second end of the back support, An adjustable bench, each of a pair of tines being disposed substantially orthogonal to the base.

Article 8. 8. The adjustable bench of claim 7, wherein when the stand is secured to the back support, a pair of tines are disposed on either side of the back support.

Article 9. 8. The adjustable bench of claim 7, further comprising a plurality of removable fastening elements for removably coupling the stand to the second end of the back support.

Article 10. 10. The adjustable bench of claim 9, wherein the plurality of removable fastening elements comprise screws.

Article 11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: an adjustment ladder fixed to the frame; and a brace extending from the back support and pivotally connected, wherein the distal end of the brace is selectively engageable with the adjustment ladder, wherein positioning the brace along the adjustment ladder adjusts the position of the back support relative to the frame. Adjustable, adjustable bench.

Article 12. As an adjustable bench: frame; Front feet fixed to the frame; a rear foot secured to the frame at the end of the frame opposite the front foot; A pair of housings fixed to the rear feet; a back support pivotally coupled to the frame at a first end of the back support; a stand coupled to the second end of the back support; and a back cushion coupled to the back support, wherein the adjustable bench is positionable in a use position, wherein when in the use position, the adjustable bench rests on a surface on the front foot and the back foot, the adjustable bench having: An adjustable bench adjustable into a storage position, wherein the adjustable bench rests on a surface on a pair of housings and a stand.

Article 13. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the use position includes a plurality of use positions, each use position of the plurality of use positions includes a different pivoted position of the back support, and the stand is provided in each use position of the plurality of use positions. An adjustable bench coupled to the second end of the back support.

Article 14. 13. The adjustable bench of claim 12, further comprising a seat support pivotally coupled to the frame.

Article 15. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising: an adjustment ladder fixed to the frame; and a brace extending from the back support and pivotally connected, wherein a distal end of the brace is selectively engageable with the adjustment ladder, wherein adjusting the position of the brace along the adjustment ladder adjusts the position of the back support relative to the frame. Adjustable bench.

Article 16. 13. The adjustable bench of claim 12, further comprising a roller disposed in each of the pair of housings.

Article 17. 17. The adjustable bench of claim 16, wherein the adjustable bench is positionable in a mobile position, wherein the front feet are raised and lowered relative to the surface and the adjustable bench contacts the surface at a pair of rollers.

Article 18. 13. The adjustable bench of claim 12, further comprising a back cushion secured to the back support, the stand at least partially covering a distal end of the back cushion.

Article 19. 13. The adjustable bench of claim 12, further comprising a pair of removable fastening elements for removably coupling the stand to the back support.

Article 20. 20. The adjustable bench of claim 19, wherein the pair of removable fastening elements comprise screws.

Article 21. As an adjustable bench: frame; A hinge coupled to the frame; a back support pivotally coupled to a hinge at a first end of the back support, the back support adjustable in position in a lowered use position, a horizontal use position, and an elevated use position; a back cushion coupled to the back support; and a telescoping support including a proximal end and a distal end, the telescoping support being secured to the frame at the proximal end, the telescoping support being adjustable in position to a first height and a second height greater than the first height. , when the back support is positioned in the lowered use position, the telescoping support is positioned at the first height, the distal end of the telescoping support is in contact with the back support, and when the back support is positioned in the horizontal use position, the telescoping support is positioned at the first height. is positioned at the second height, the distal end of the telescoping support is in contact with the back support, and when the back support is positioned in the elevated use position, the telescoping support is positioned at at least one of the first height and the second height, An adjustable bench, wherein the distal end of the telescoping support is separate from the back support.

Article 22. 22. The adjustable bench of claim 21, further comprising a stand coupled to the second end of the back support, the stand comprising a seating surface.

Article 23. 22. The adjustable bench of claim 21, wherein the distal end of the telescoping support contacts the second end of the back support when the back support is in the lowered use position and the horizontal use position.

Article 24. 22. The adjustable bench of claim 21, further comprising a seat support pivotally coupled to the frame.

Article 25. 22. The system of claim 21, further comprising: an adjustment ladder secured to the frame; and a brace extending from the back support and pivotally connected, wherein a distal end of the brace is selectively engageable with an adjustment ladder, wherein positioning of the brace along the adjustment ladder includes: a lowered use position, a horizontal use position and an elevated use position. An adjustable bench that adjusts the position of the back support relative to the frame in position.

Article 26. 22. The device of claim 21, wherein the telescoping support comprises: an outer housing comprising a proximal end; an inner post slidably disposed within the outer housing, the inner post comprising a distal end and defining a plurality of openings; and an adjustment pin secured to the outer housing, the adjustment pin being selectively engageable with the plurality of openings.

Article 27. As a rowing bench: Bench frame; a seat support pivotally coupled to the bench frame at a pivot; and an adjustment mechanism, the adjustment mechanism comprising: an adjustment frame coupled to the seat support, the adjustment frame defining a plurality of openings; a seat plate coupled to the seat cushion; an adjustment pin coupled to the plate and selectively engageable with a plurality of openings; Bearing coupled to the seat plate; and a rail coupled to the adjustment frame, wherein the bearing is slidably engaged with the rail.

Article 28. 28. The adjustable bench of claim 27, further comprising a pin flange coupled to the seat plate, wherein the adjustment pin is connected to the pin flange.

Article 29. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the seat plate defines a first plane, the steering frame includes a side surface defining a second plane disposed substantially orthogonal to the first plane, and the steering pins substantially lie in the second plane. An adjustable bench forming orthogonally positioned pin axes.

Article 30. 30. The adjustable bench of claim 29, wherein the pin axis is disposed substantially parallel to the first plane.

Article 31. The method of claim 27, wherein the rail includes a plurality of rails, the bearing includes a plurality of bearings, a first bearing of the plurality of bearings is slidably engaged with the first rail of the plurality of rails, and one of the plurality of bearings is The second bearing is an adjustable bench that is slidably engaged with the second bearing among the plurality of rails.

Article 32. 32. The adjustable bench of claim 31, wherein the plurality of rails are disposed on opposite sides of the seat support.

Article 33. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the adjustment pin is engageable with a first opening of the plurality of openings, such that the seat cushion is disposed proximal to the pivot, and the adjustable pin is engageable with a second opening of the plurality of openings, wherein the seat cushion is disposed proximal to the pivot. An adjustable bench positioned distal to the pivot.

Article 34. 28. The adjustable bench of claim 27, further comprising a rail flange, the rail comprising a first end and a second end, the first end being coupled to the adjustment frame and the second end being coupled to the rail flange.

Article 35. 35. The adjustable bench of claim 34, wherein the rail flanges are disposed within an adjustment frame.

Article 36. 28. The adjustable bench of claim 27, wherein the rail is disposed between the seat support and the portion of the adjustment frame defining the plurality of openings.

Article 37. 37. The adjustable bench of claim 36, wherein the adjustment pins are disposed on the portion of the adjustment frame opposite the rail.

Article 38. 27. The system of claim 26, wherein the rails form a rail axis; The seat support defines a seat support axis; An adjustable bench, wherein the adjustment pins form an adjustment pin axis disposed substantially orthogonally to each of the rail axis and the seat support axis.

It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but extends to equivalents that may be recognized by those skilled in the art. Additionally, it should be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific examples only and is not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural forms unless the context dictates otherwise.

It will be apparent that the systems and methods described herein are well adapted to achieve the stated purposes and advantages as well as the purposes and advantages inherent therein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods and systems herein can be implemented in a variety of ways and are not limited by the examples and illustrations described above. In this regard, any of the features of the various examples described herein may be combined into a single example, and alternative examples having fewer or more features than all of the features described herein are also possible.

Although various examples have been described for the purposes of the present disclosure, various changes and modifications may be made within the scope contemplated by the present disclosure. Numerous other modifications may be made that may readily be suggested to those skilled in the art and are included in the spirit of disclosure.

Claims (20)

As an adjustable bench,
bench frame;
a seat support pivotably coupled to the bench frame at a pivot; and
Contains a coordination mechanism,
The coordination mechanism is:
an adjustment frame coupled to the seat support, the adjustment frame forming a plurality of openings;
a seat plate coupled to the seat cushion;
an adjustment pin coupled to the seat plate and capable of selectively engaging the plurality of openings;
a bearing coupled to the seat plate; and
An adjustable bench comprising a rail coupled to the adjustment frame, wherein the bearing is slidably engaged with the rail. In claim 1,
Further comprising a pin flange coupled to the seat plate,
An adjustable bench, wherein the adjustment pin is connected to the pin flange. In claim 1,
the sheet plate defines a first plane,
the steering frame includes a side surface defining a second plane disposed substantially orthogonal to the first plane;
wherein the adjustment pins define a pin axis disposed substantially perpendicular to the second plane. In claim 3,
Wherein the pin axis is disposed substantially parallel to the first plane. In claim 1,
The rail includes a plurality of rails,
The bearing includes a plurality of bearings,
A first bearing among the plurality of bearings is slidably engaged with a first rail among the plurality of rails, and a second bearing among the plurality of bearings is slidably engaged with a second rail among the plurality of rails. Bench. In claim 5,
An adjustable bench, wherein the plurality of rails are disposed on opposite sides of the seat support. In claim 1,
wherein the adjustment pin is engageable with a first opening of the plurality of openings, so that the seat cushion is disposed proximal to the pivot,
and wherein the adjustable pin is engageable with a second one of the plurality of openings such that the seat cushion is disposed distal to the pivot. In claim 1,
further comprising a rail flange,
the rail includes a first end and a second end,
An adjustable bench, wherein the first end is coupled to the adjustment frame and the second end is coupled to the rail flange. In claim 8,
An adjustable bench, wherein the rail flange is disposed within the adjustment frame. In claim 1,
The adjustable bench, wherein the rail is disposed between the seat support and the portion of the adjustment frame defining the plurality of openings. In claim 10,
An adjustable bench, wherein the adjustment pin is disposed on a side of the portion of the adjustment frame opposite the rail. In claim 10,
The rails form a rail axis;
The seat support defines a seat support axis;
The adjustment pin defines an adjustment pin axis disposed substantially orthogonal to each of the rail axis and the seat support axis. As an adjustable bench,
frame;
A hinge coupled to the frame;
a back support pivotally coupled to the hinge at a first end of the back support;
a stand coupled to the second end of the back support, the stand comprising a seating surface; and
Includes a back cushion coupled to the back support,
a distal portion of the back cushion extends a first distance from the hinge, and the seating surface extends a second distance from the hinge,
An adjustable bench, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance. In claim 13,
An adjustable bench, wherein the stand at least partially surrounds the distal end of the back cushion. In claim 13,
further comprising a plurality of standing surfaces secured to the frame,
wherein the plurality of standing surfaces are located at the distal end of the back cushion and at an end of the frame adjacent the stand. In claim 4,
An adjustable bench, wherein when the bench is positioned substantially vertically, the bench is seated on the stand and the plurality of standing surfaces. In claim 1,
and wherein the stand is removably coupled to the second end of the back support. In claim 6,
The stand:
a base comprising the seating surface; and
It further includes a pair of tines,
each of the pair of tines includes an opening for receiving a removable fastening element for removably coupling the stand to the second end of the back support,
An adjustable bench, wherein each of the pair of tines is disposed substantially orthogonal to the base. As an adjustable bench,
frame;
a front foot fixed to the frame;
a rear foot secured to the frame at an end of the frame opposite the front foot;
a pair of housings fixed to the rear foot;
a back support pivotally coupled to the frame at a first end of the back support;
a stand coupled to the second end of the back support portion; and
Includes a back cushion coupled to the back support,
the adjustable bench is positionable in a use position, and when in the use position, the adjustable bench rests on a surface on the front foot and the rear foot,
wherein the adjustable bench is positionable into a storage position, wherein the adjustable bench rests on a surface on the pair of housings and the stand. As an adjustable bench,
frame;
A hinge coupled to the frame;
a back support pivotally coupled to the hinge at a first end of the back support, the back support adjustable in position in a lowered use position, a horizontal use position, and an elevated use position;
a back cushion coupled to the back support unit; and
comprising a telescoping support including a proximal end and a distal end,
the telescoping support is secured to the frame at the proximal end, the telescoping support being adjustable in position to a first height and a second height above the first height,
When the back support is positioned in the lowered use position, the telescoping support is positioned at the first height, the distal end of the telescoping support is in contact with the back support, and
When the back support is positioned in the horizontal use position, the telescoping support is positioned at the second height, the distal end of the telescoping support contacts the back support, and
When the back support is positioned in the elevated use position, the telescoping support is positioned at at least one of the first height and the second height, and the distal end of the telescoping support is separate from the back support. Adjustable bench.