US20200138192A1

US20200138192A1 - Multi-functional seating and resting device

Info

Publication number: US20200138192A1
Application number: US16/674,586
Authority: US
Inventors: James Roger Browning Trowell
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-11-06
Filing date: 2019-11-05
Publication date: 2020-05-07

Abstract

Described herein is a multi-functional seating and resting device. The device is generally comprised of a pair of hemispheres forming a hexagonal shape and movable between a first position and a second position. The first position generally forms the hexagonal structure defining an interior core with a cavity for the placement of items. In the second position, the hemispheres are generally placed in an adjacent position next to each other to form a surface for seating on by a user. The device is preferably constructed from a foam material for comfort and durability.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This U.S. Patent Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/756,112 filed Nov. 6, 2018 to the above-named inventor, the disclosure of which is considered part of the disclosure of this application and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM

Not Applicable

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to a multi-functional device in the form of a resting apparatus with an interior space for the storage of objects. In an alternate embodiment, the device relates to a multi-functional device having a plurality of individual storage compartments within the resting apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Often when attending various events or participating in activities, an individual is required to sit for an extended period of time and generally transports a variety of items into the event, such as, but not limited to, keys, personal electronic devices, sunglasses, wallet, binoculars, and other similar personal items. Frequently, the surfaces offered to this user can be very hard and uncomfortable over this extended period, wherein the individual is forced to stand, stretch, move, or leave the event. Accordingly, to alleviate this discomfort several alternate types and styles of chairs exist within the prior art specifically configured for placement onto an existing seating surface.
Generally, these existing chairs comprise a padded or cushioned surface that is secured to the seating surface. Typically, this padded surface is a low to medium density foam or suspended fabric secured to hardened surface that includes a backrest in a folded assembly. Frequently, these chairs are referred to as stadium seats, stadium chairs, and stadium cushions. Although these chairs provide additional comfort to a user, they lack additional helpful and useful features.
Currently within the prior art there are a number of solutions that allow for the holding, securing, and carrying of a user's belongings. Typically, the most common solution is some type of bag, such as a purse, backpack, or tote bag, or basket. Although useful, the carrying of an additional item can be cumbersome and undesirable. Therefore, there currently exists a need within the marketplace for a multipurpose apparatus that combines the features of a cushioned seating device with a carrying device. Preferably, this apparatus is provided in an assembly that is portable, easy to use, and adaptable to a multitude of situations, surfaces, and uses.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, this disclosure is related to multifunctional seating and resting apparatus movable between a first position in a generally closed position defining an interior cavity for the placement of items and a second position generally configured to provide resting support of a user.
In another aspect, this disclosure is related to a multifunctional seating and resting device having an assembly that provides a storage pocket and additional storage features for a user of the device.
In yet another aspect, this disclosure is related to a multifunctional seating and resting device capable of transition into a completed chair assembly having legs and/or a backrest.
The multi-functional seating device generally comprised of a foam structure forming an inner core and defining the shape and features of the device. The shape being hexagonal in a first position and comprised of pair of identical hemispheres in a hinged coupling, wherein the coupling allows for movement between the second position, wherein each hemisphere of the pair of hemispheres is positioned along the same plane in an adjacency and the first position wherein each hemisphere of the pair of hemispheres is coupled together to form a contiguous hexagonal shape.
The foam structure of the inner core wrapped in fabric to improve durability and appearance. The hinged coupling of the pair of hemispheres comprising a fabric web generally extending at least an entire depth of the structure. In the preferred assembly of the present disclosure, the fabric web coupled to an extended strap with fasteners to enable the device to be secured to structure it is placed upon.
The inner core of the device generally hollow and defining a cavity within an interior of the device allowing for the storage and transport of items when the device is in the first position. The inner core further allowing for the placement of a pouch member. The pouch member having an attached end and a free end, wherein the free end is configured to hang downward from the attached end when the device is in the second position for providing a pocket for the placement of items while a user is seated on the device in the second position.
The hexagonal shape of the device is specifically selected to offer a benefit to a user of the device while the device is placed in the second position and sat upon. Accordingly, the hinged assembly and hexagonal shape creates a valley between the pair of hemispheres, wherein this valley provides orthopedic support by properly aligning the hip and knees and encouraging good posture. Further, the valley offers relief to pressure applied on the coccyx bone of a user during sitting while using the device.
The invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are intended to be read in conjunction with both this summary, the detailed description and any preferred and/or particular embodiments specifically discussed or otherwise disclosed. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of illustration only and so that this disclosure will be thorough, complete and will fully convey the full scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the device in a first position, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the device in a second position, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a front side view of the device in the second position, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is top side view of the device in the second position, according to the present disclosure; and

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of the interior of the device, according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which forms a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments, which are also referred to herein as “examples,” are described in enough detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. The embodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be utilized, or structural, and logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
Before the present invention of this disclosure is described in such detail, however, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular variations set forth and may, of course, vary. Various changes may be made to the invention described and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s), to the objective(s), spirit or scope of the present invention. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure made herein.
Unless otherwise indicated, the words and phrases presented in this document have their ordinary meanings to one of skill in the art. Such ordinary meanings can be obtained by reference to their use in the art and by reference to general and scientific dictionaries.
References in the specification to “one embodiment” indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.
The following explanations of certain terms are meant to be illustrative rather than exhaustive. These terms have their ordinary meanings given by usage in the art and in addition include the following explanations.
As used herein, the term “and/or” refers to any one of the items, any combination of the items, or all of the items with which this term is associated.
As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
As used herein, the terms “include,” “for example,” “such as,” and the like are used illustratively and are not intended to limit the present invention.
As used herein, the terms “preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances.
Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the invention.
As used herein, the terms “front,” “back,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “right,” and “left” in this description are merely used to identify the various elements as they are oriented in the FIGS, with “front,” “back,” and “rear” being relative to the apparatus. These terms are not meant to limit the elements that they describe, as the various elements may be oriented differently in various applications.
As used herein, the term “coupled” means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. Similarly, coupled can refer to a two member or elements being in communicatively coupled, wherein the two elements may be electronically, through various means, such as a metallic wire, wireless network, optical fiber, or other medium and methods.
It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.
Referring now to FIGS. 1-5 of the multi-functional seating device of the present disclosure, generally referred to as device 10. The multi-functional aspects of the device 10 are found in the structure of the device 10 enabling movement between a first position 1 and a second position 2. The first position is a generally closed position defining an interior cavity for the placement and securing of items within the interior cavity. The second position is a generally open position configured to provide resting support for a user when sitting.
The device 10 comprising a housing 100 defining the size and shape of a first embodiment. The housing 100 preferably constructed from a foam material, such as, but not limited to, a high-density polyurethane, medium density polyurethane, closed cell foam, or their equivalents defining an interior core portion and an exterior surface that is wrapped in fabric. The fabric allows for customization of colors and provides an improved hand feel to the exterior surface during use of the device 10.
The device 10 housing 100 shape being hexagonal when viewed from the first position side view, wherein this housing 100 shape is created from the combination of a pair of identical hemispheres 101, 102 in a hinged coupling 103 along a side, wherein the coupling allows for movement between the first position and the second position. In the second position, the hemispheres 101, 102 of the pair of hemispheres are positioned along the same plane in an adjacency to form cushioned seating device, wherein a first side 110, 120 of the hemispheres 101, 102 provides a flat surface for placement onto an existing seating device.
In the first position, the housing 100 pair of hemispheres 101, 102 first sides 110, 120 are stacked in an adjacent placement and coupled together to form the contiguous hexagonal shape of the device 10.
The hinged coupling 103 of the pair of hemispheres 101, 102 comprising a resilient member cable of flexible movement. In the preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinged coupling 103 is a fabric web extending at least an entire depth of the hemispheres 101, 102. In the preferred assembly of the present disclosure, the fabric web of the hinged coupling 103 is coupled to an extended strap 130 with fasteners to enable the device 10 to be secured to structure it is placed upon. The preferred assembly, the fasteners are a D-ring and hook and loop materials to enable the extended strap 130 to be secured upon the coupling 103.
The housing 100 pair of hemispheres 101, 102 having an inner core portion at an interior. The inner core of the hemispheres 101, 102 hollow and defining a cavity 111, 121 of the device 10 allowing for the storage and transport of items when the device is in the first position forming a generally enclosed structure. The inner core interior space further allowing for the attachment and stowing of a pouch member 104. The pouch member 104 having an attached end 140 and a free end 141 and generally configured to form a pouch or pocket for the receipt of items, wherein the free end 141 is configured to hang downward from the attached end 140 when the device is in the second position. Accordingly, the pouch member 104 providing a pocket for the placement of items while a user is seated on the device in the second position.
The hexagonal shape of the device 10 is specifically selected to offer a benefit to a user of the device 10 while the device is placed in the second position and sat upon. Accordingly, the hinged assembly with the hinged coupling 103 and exterior hexagonal shape creates a valley between the pair of hemispheres 101, 102, wherein this valley provides orthopedic support by properly aligning the hip and knees and encouraging good posture. Further, the valley offers relief to pressure applied on the coccyx bone of a user during sitting while using the device 10.
In alternate embodiments of the device 10, the device 10 is configured with several alternate cavity 111, 121 shapes and sizes to accommodate specific devices in a protective assembly. Accordingly, the cavities 111, 121 configured of a specific shape to secure a multitude of items, including, but not limited to, smart phones, keys, wallets, jewelry, sunglasses, and other essential travel items. In further alternate embodiments of the device 10, the device includes a plurality of exterior pockets for the storage of items while the device 10 is placed into the second position. Accordingly, the most logical placement for this plurality of pockets will be on opposed ends of the device 10.
In another alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, the device 10 assembly includes a structure that is adaptable to a plurality of situations and movable for alternate uses. Accordingly, in a first adaptation, the device 10 is configured to receive a backrest for supporting the torso of a user while seated on the device 10 in the second position. Preferably this backrest is provided in an assembly that is telescopic.
In another alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, the device 10 assembly includes a structure that is adaptable for use as a stand-alone chair. Accordingly, the device 10 is configured to receive a plurality of legs for supporting the device 10 and a user when in the second position. It is preferred that the plurality of legs are provided in a collapsible assembly, wherein the plurality of legs are foldable between a collapsed position and an extended position. Preferably, this foldable assembly of the plurality of legs is in a scissor-like assembly.
While the invention has been described above in terms of specific embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Upon reading the teachings of this disclosure many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind of those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, and which are intended to be and are covered by both this disclosure and the appended claims. It is indeed intended that the scope of the invention should be determined by proper interpretation and construction of the appended claims and their legal equivalents, as understood by those of skill in the art relying upon the disclosure in this specification and the attached drawings.

Claims

1. A multi-functional seating and resting device, the device comprising:

a first hemisphere;

a second hemisphere; and

a hinged coupling coupled to the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere along a side, wherein the device is movable between a first position with the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere are stacked on top of each other and a second position wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere are positioned adjacent to each other.

2. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 1, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere form a hexagonal shape in the first position.

3. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 1, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere have an interior portion, the interior portion having a pouch.

4. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 1, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere interior portion includes a cavity.

5. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 1, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere are comprised of a foam material.

6. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 5, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere having an exterior side covered in fabric.

7. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 1, wherein the hinged coupling is a fabric web.

8. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 7, wherein the hinged coupling includes an extension configured for fastening to the hinged coupling to secure the device to a surface in the second position.

9. A multi-functional seating and resting device, the device comprising:

a housing having a hexagonal shape, the housing comprising:

a first hemisphere having a first side;

a second hemisphere identical to the first hemisphere and having a first side; and

a hinged coupling, the hinged coupling coupled to the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere along the first sides, wherein the device is movable between a first position with the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere positioned with the first sides in an adjacent stacked position and a second position wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere first sides are positioned adjacent and next to each other.

10. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 9, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere have an interior portion, the interior portion having a pouch.

11. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 9, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere interior portion includes a cavity.

12. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 9, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere are comprised of a foam material.

13. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 9, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere having an exterior side covered in fabric.

14. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 9, wherein the hinged coupling is a fabric web.

15. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 14, wherein the hinged coupling includes an extension configured for fastening to the hinged coupling to secure the device to a surface in the second position.

16. A multi-functional seating and resting device, the device comprising:

a housing having a hexagonal shape, the housing comprising:

a first hemisphere having a first side and a cavity within the first side;

a second hemisphere identical to the first hemisphere and having a first side and a cavity within the first side; and

17. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 16, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere have a pouch.

18. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 16, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere are comprised of a foam material.

19. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 16, wherein the first hemisphere and the second hemisphere having an exterior side covered in fabric.

20. The multi-functional seating and resting device of claim 16, wherein the hinged coupling is a fabric web including an extension configured for fastening to the hinged coupling to secure the device to a surface in the second position.