US20200405058A1

US20200405058A1 - Recliner support system

Info

Publication number: US20200405058A1
Application number: US16/741,284
Authority: US
Inventors: James T. Bergeron; Christopher Sadler; Alberto F. Gallelli
Original assignee: Flocast LLC
Current assignee: Flocast LLC
Priority date: 2019-06-25
Filing date: 2020-01-13
Publication date: 2020-12-31

Abstract

A recliner support system (RSS) configured to provide support for individuals having poor posture control. The RSS may include a base assembly configured to move with reclinable furniture between upright and reclined positions. The RSS may include one or more straps configured to secure the base assembly to the reclinable furniture. The RSS may include one or more harnesses attached to the base assembly and configured to maintain a stable and well-aligned body position. The RSS may include one or more supports attached to the base assembly and configured to provide body support. The RSS may include a seat cushion including a bottom portion, a rear portion, and a flexible hinge portion connecting the bottom and rear portion and configured to move with and support a body in an upright sitting position, in a reclined position, and while moving between the upright sitting position and the reclined position.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/866,404, filed on Jun. 25, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to a recliner support system (RSS) configured to provide support for individuals having poor posture control. The present invention also relates to a seat cushion configured to move with and support the body of an individual in an upright sitting position, in a reclined position, and while moving between the upright sitting position and the reclined position.

Discussion of the Background

Reclinable furniture is furniture (e.g., an armchair or sofa) that is capable of moving between upright and reclined positions. Reclinable furniture may be referred to as a recliner, reclining chair, easy chair, or lounger. Reclinable furniture may include a footrest that extends forward and raises when the reclinable furniture moves into the reclined position. Reclinable furniture generally provide relaxing and comfortable resting experience. However, this experience can be unsafe or lack therapeutic benefit for individuals who have poor postural control. For example, individuals with abnormal muscle tone, significant strength deficits, and/or poorly balanced movement patterns may not be able to maintain a well aligned position of their body when sitting in reclinable furniture. Extra pillows and blanket rolls are sometimes employed, but they do not provide adequate support to maintain the alignment that promotes rest and relaxation.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present invention address the insufficient support provided by reclinable furniture for individuals who have poor postural control. Aspects of the present invention relate to a recliner support system (RSS) that adds portable and customizable/adjustable postural support to reclinable furniture. In some embodiments, the RSS attaches easily and securely to most brands of reclining furniture without damaging the reclining furniture. In some embodiments, the RSS may be easy to clean and may be secured to the reclinable furniture with one or more straps, which may be padded to protect the furniture. In some embodiments, the RSS may offer a firm yet comfortable platform for positioning the hips and pelvis, which is the foundation of proper body alignment. In some embodiments, the RSS may include an adjustable chest harness and/or adjustable pelvic harness, and the harnesses may safely maintain a stable well aligned position of the trunk and pelvis. In some embodiments, the RSS may include an adjustable height headrest, and the headrest may promote a midline position of the head. In some embodiments, the RSS may include leg supports that discourage excessive adduction/abduction and rotation of the hips and hyperextension of the knees. In some embodiments, the RSS may be appropriate for individuals with moderate to significant physical involvement. In some non-limiting embodiments, the RSS may be adjustable such that it is appropriate for preschool age children through adults (e.g., for people 35 inches tall to 74 inches tall).
One aspect of the present invention relates to a recliner support system (RSS) including a base assembly, one or more straps, one or more harnesses, and one or more supports. The base assembly may be configured to move with reclinable furniture between upright and reclined positions. The one or more straps may be configured to secure the base assembly to the reclinable furniture. The one or more harnesses may be attached to the base assembly and configured to maintain a stable and well-aligned body position of a person on the RSS. The one or more supports may be attached to the base assembly and configured to provide support for the body of the person on the RSS.
In some embodiments, the base assembly may include a central panel. In some embodiments, the RSS may further include a liner pad configured to attach to the central panel of the base assembly. In some embodiments, the liner pad may include one or more slits, and the central panel of the base assembly may include one or more anchors. In some embodiments, the one or more harnesses may be attached removably and adjustably to the base assembly using one or more of the one or more slits and one or more of the one or more anchors.
In some embodiments, the one or more supports may include leg supports attached to the base assembly and configured to provide support for legs of the person on the RSS. In some embodiments, the height at which the leg supports are attached to the base assembly may be adjustable. In some embodiments, the lateral position of the leg supports may be adjustable. In some embodiments, the leg supports may be configured to discourage one or more of excessive adduction, abduction, and rotation of hips of a person on the RSS. In some embodiments, the leg supports may be configured to discourage hyperextension of knees of a person on the RSS. In some embodiments, the base assembly may further include: first and second lower side panels attached to the central panel of the base assembly, a first plurality of openings between the first lower side panel and the central panel, and a second plurality of openings between the second lower side panel and the central panel. In some embodiments, the one or more straps may include one or more leg support straps connected to the leg supports and configured to attach the leg supports to the central panel at one of a plurality of heights by passing through one of the first plurality of openings between the first lower side panel and the central panel and one of the second plurality of openings between the second lower side panel and the central panel.
In some embodiments, the one or more supports may include a headrest attached to the base assembly and configured to promote a midline position of a head of the person on the RSS. In some embodiments, the height at which the headrest is attached to the base assembly may be adjustable. In some embodiments, the base assembly may further include: first and second upper side panels attached to the central panel of the base assembly, a first plurality of openings between the first upper side panel and the central panel, and a second plurality of openings between the second upper side panel and the central panel. In some embodiments, the RSS may further include one or more headrest straps connected to the headrest and configured to attach the headrest to the base assembly at one of a plurality of heights by passing through one of the first plurality of openings between the first upper side panel and the central panel and one of the second plurality of openings between the second upper side panel and the central panel. In some embodiments, the one or more straps may include one or more straps configured to wrap around a back of the reclinable furniture and connect the first and second upper side panels.
In some embodiments, the one or more harnesses may include a chest harness configured to maintain proper position of a trunk of the person on the RSS. In some embodiments, the one or more harnesses may include a pelvic harness configured to maintain a proper position of a pelvis of the person on the RSS. In some embodiments, the one or more harnesses may include a chest harness and a pelvic harness, and the chest and pelvic harnesses may be configured to maintain a stable position in which a trunk and a pelvis of the person on the RSS are aligned. In some embodiments, the one or more straps may be padded straps configured to protect the reclinable furniture.
In some embodiments, the RSS may further include one or more cushions configured to promote good posture while sitting or reclining. In some embodiments, the one or more cushions may include a back cushion. In some embodiments, the RSS may further include one or more back cushion straps configured to attach the back cushion to the base assembly. In some embodiments, the RSS may further include: first and second upper side panels attached to the central panel of the base assembly, a first plurality of openings between the first upper side panel and the central panel, and a second plurality of openings between the second upper side panel and the central panel. In some embodiments, the one or more back cushion straps are configured to attach the back cushion to the base assembly at one of a plurality of heights by passing through one of the first plurality of openings between the first upper side panel and the central panel and one of the second plurality of openings between the second upper side panel and the central panel
In some embodiments, the one or more cushions may include a seat cushion. In some embodiments, the seat cushion may include: a bottom portion, a rear portion, and a flexible hinge portion connecting the bottom and rear portion and configured to move with and support a body in an upright sitting position, in a reclined position, and while moving between the upright sitting position and the reclined position. In some embodiments, the seat cushion may include one or more holes, and the one or more harnesses may include a pelvic harness configured to (i) maintain a proper position of a pelvis of the person on the RSS and (ii) attach to the base assembly through the one or more holes.
In some embodiments, the one or more cushions may be made of a seamless, latex-free, anti-microbial material. In some embodiments, the one or more cushions may include foam and a fabric upholstery over the foam. In some embodiments, the RSS may further include a drape connected to the base assembly.
Another aspect of the invention relates to a seat cushion including a bottom portion, a rear portion, and a flexible hinge portion connecting the bottom and rear portion and configured to move with and support a body in an upright sitting position, in a reclined position, and while moving between the upright sitting position and the reclined position.
In some embodiments, the seat cushion may be made of a seamless, latex-free, anti-microbial material. In some embodiments, the seat cushion may be made of foam and a fabric upholstery over the foam. In some embodiments, the seat cushion may further include one or more holes. In some embodiments, the one or more holes may include a front hole and first and second rear holes configured for use with a three-point pelvic harness.
Further variations encompassed within the systems and methods are described in the detailed description of the invention below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form part of the specification, illustrate various, non-limiting embodiments of the present invention. In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements.

FIG. 1A is a front view of a recliner support system (RSS) embodying aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 1B is an exploded view of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a front view of a base assembly of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 2B is an exploded view of a base assembly of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 2C is a left side view of a base assembly of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention.

FIGS. 2D-2F are cross-sectional views of a base assembly of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 2G is a rear view of a central panel of a base assembly of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the front, top, and right side of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention on reclinable furniture in an upright position.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the front and right side of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention on reclinable furniture in an upright position.

FIG. 3C is a rear view of a base assembly of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention on reclinable furniture in an upright position.

FIG. 3D is a pespective view of a base assembly of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention on reclinable furniture in a reclined position.

FIG. 3E is a pespective view of a base assembly and liner pad of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention on reclinable furniture in a reclined position.

FIG. 3F is a bottom view of a central panel of a base assembly of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention on reclinable furniture in a reclined position.

FIG. 3G is a rear view of a central panel of a base assembly of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention on reclinable furniture in a reclined position.

FIG. 4A illustrates examples of back and seat cushions with various sizes that may be used with an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the front, top, and right side of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention on reclinable furniture in an upright position.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are perspective views of the rear, top, and right side of seat cushions embodying aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the front and right side of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention on reclinable furniture in a reclined position.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the front and right side of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention in use on reclinable furniture in an upright position.

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the front and right side of an RSS embodying aspects of the present invention in use on reclinable furniture in a reclined position.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the front and right side of a folded RSS embodying aspects of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1A and 1B are front and exploded views, respectively, of a recliner support system (RSS) 100 embodying aspects of the present invention. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the RSS 100 may include one or more of a base assembly 101, a headrest 108, one or more leg supports 120, a drape 134, a liner pad 135, a chest harness 144, and a pelvic harness 157. FIGS. 2A and 2B are front and exploded views, respectively, of the base assembly 101 of the RSS 100 according to some non-limiting embodiments. FIGS. 3A-3G, 4B, and 6 show the RSS 100 on reclinable furniture 300 according to some non-limiting embodiments. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 3B, 4B, and 6, the RSS 100 may include one or more of a chest harness 144 and a pelvic harness 157. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 6, the RSS 100 may include one or more of a back cushion 442 and a seat cushion 446. FIGS. 5A and 5B show alternative embodiments of the seat cushion 446 of the RSS 100. FIGS. 7A and 7B show the RSS 100 in use on the reclinable furniture 300 according to some non-limiting embodiments.
In some embodiments, the base assembly 101 may be configured to be supported by the reclinable furniture 300 and move with the reclinable furniture 300 as it moves between upright and reclined positions. In some embodiments, the RSS 100 may include one or more straps (e.g., straps 104, 106, and/or 132) configured to secure the base assembly 101 to the reclinable furniture 300. In some embodiments, one or more of the straps may be padded straps configured to protect the reclinable furniture 300.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the one or more straps of the RSS 100 may include one or more straps 104. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3C, the one or more straps 104 may be configured to wrap around the reclinable furniture 300 and hold the base assembly 101 in place on the reclinable furniture 300. In some embodiments, the one or more straps 104 may have male and female connectors at its ends, which allow the ends of the one or more straps 104 to connect. In some embodiments, the length of the one or more straps 104 may be adjustable so that the one or more straps 104 can work on reclinable furniture of varying sizes. In some embodiments, the one or more straps 104 may include one or more seat bight straps configured to removably attach the base assembly 101 to the reclinable furniture 300 at the bight of the reclinable furniture 300, which is at the intersection of the back and seat of the reclinable furniture 300.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the one or more straps of the RSS 100 may include one or more footrest straps 132. The one or more footrest straps 132 may be configured to wrap around a footrest of the reclinable furniture 300 and hold the bottom portion of the base assembly 101 in place on the footrest of the reclinable furniture 300.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1B, 2A, and 2B, the base assembly 101 may include a central panel 102. In some embodiments, the one or more straps 104 may be configured to be removably attached to the central panel 102. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1B, 2A, and 2B, the central panel 102 may include one or more strap attachment areas 145. In some non-limiting embodiments, the one or more strap attachment areas 145 of the central panel 102 may include one of hooks and loops, the one or more straps 104 may include one or more areas including the other of hooks and loops, and the central panel 102 and the one or more straps 104 may be configured to attach using hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., velcro). In some alternative embodiments, the one or more straps 104 may be attached permanently (e.g., sewn) to the central panel 102.
In some embodiments, the base assembly 101 may include a first upper side panel 112 attached to the central panel 102 on a side of the central panel 102 and a second upper side panel 114 attached to the central panel 102 on an opposite side of the central panel. In some non-limiting embodiments, the base assembly 101 may include a first plurality of openings 116 between the first upper side panel 112 and the central panel 102 and a second plurality of openings 118 between the second upper side panel 114 and the central panel 102.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, the one or more straps of the RSS 100 may include one or more side straps 106. In some embodiments, the one or more side straps 106 may be attached to the one of the first and second upper side panels 112 or 114 at one end and may have a male or female connector at its other end. The connectors may allow the side straps 106 to removably attach to one another. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3C, the one or more side straps 106 may be configured to wrap around a back of the reclinable furniture 300 and hold the base assembly 101 in place on the reclinable furniture 300 by connecting the first and second upper side panels 112 and 114. In some embodiments, the length of the one or more side straps 106 may be adjustable so that the one or more side straps 106 can work on reclinable furniture of varying sizes.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, the base assembly 101 may include a first lower side panel 124 attached to the central panel 102 on a side of the central panel 102 and a second lower side panel 126 attached to the central panel 102 on an opposite side of the central panel. In some non-limiting embodiments, the base assembly 101 may include a first plurality of openings 128 between the first lower side panel 124 and the central panel 102 and a second plurality of openings 130 between the second lower side panel 126 and the central panel 102.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4B, and 6, the drape 134 may be configured to drape across the seat and arms of recliner furniture 300. In some embodiments, the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101 may be configured to be removably attached to the drape 134. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1B, the drape 134 may include one or more panel attachment areas 133. In some non-limiting embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2G, the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101 may include one or more drape attachment areas 272 that correspond to the one or more panel attachment areas 133 of the drape 134. In some non-limiting embodiments, the one or more panel attachment areas 133 of the drape 134 may include one of hooks and loops, the one or more drape attachment areas 272 of the central panel 102 may include the other of hooks and loops, and the central panel 102 and the drape 134 may configured to be attached using hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., velcro). In some embodiments, the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101 may be attached permanently (e.g., sewn) to the drape 134.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1B and 2A-2F, the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101 may include one or more chest anchors 138, one or more lap anchors 140, one or more crotch anchors 142, and/or one or more footrest anchors 143. In some non-limiting embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2F, the anchors 138, 140, and 142 may be loops of fabric (e.g., nylon). In some non-limiting embodiments, one or more of the chest anchors 138, lap anchors 140, and crotch anchors 142 may be, for example and without limitation, nylon webbing. In some non-limiting embodiments, the central panel 102 may include left and right vertical columns of chest anchors 138. In some non-limiting embodiments, the central panel 102 may include one row of left, central, and right lap anchors 140. In some non-limiting embodiments, the central panel 102 may include one vertical column of crotch anchors 142.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2B, the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101 may include one or more of an internal back insert 266, an internal leg insert 268, and a zipper assembly 270 for inserting one or more of the back insert 266 and leg insert 268.
In some embodiments, the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101 may include one or more liner pad attachment areas configured for attaching removably the liner pad 135 to the base assembly 101. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1B, 2A, and 2B, the liner pad attachment areas of the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101 may include one or more upper attachment areas 146, one or more central attachment areas 148, and/or one or more lower attachment areas 150. In some embodiments, the liner pad 135 may include one or more attachment areas that correspond to the one or more liner pad attachment areas of the central panel 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the one or more liner pad attachment areas of the central panel 102 may include one of hooks and loops, the one or more attachment areas of the liner pad 135 may include the other of hooks and loops, and the central panel 102 and the liner pad 135 may configured to be attached using hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., velcro).
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the liner pad 135 may include one or more slits 136. In some embodiments, the locations of the slits 136 of the liner pad 135 may correspond to the locations of the anchors of the chest anchors 138, lap anchors 140, and/or crotch anchors 142 of the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101.
In some embodiments, the RSS 100 may include one or more supports attached adjustably and removably to the base assembly 101 and configured to provide support for the body of a person on the RSS 100. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the one or more supports of the RSS 100 may include a headrest 108. In some embodiments, the headrest 108 may be configured to promote a midline position of a head of a person on the RSS 100. In some embodiments, the height at which the headrest 108 is attached to the base assembly 101 may be adjustable. In some non-limiting embodiments, the headrest 108 may be configured to be attached to the liner pad 135 and base assembly 101.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 3B, the RSS 100 may include one or more headrest straps 110 connected to the headrest 108 and configured to attach the headrest 108 to the base assembly 101. In some non-limiting embodiments, the one or more headrest straps 110 may be removably connected to the headrest 108 (e.g., either removably connected, such as by using hook and loop fasteners or by passing the one or more headrest straps 110 through one or more fabric loops on the headrest 108, or permanently connected by sewing the one or more headrest straps 110 to the headrest 108). In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 3B, the one or more headrest straps 110 may have male and female connectors at their ends, which may allow the ends of the one or more headrest straps 110 to connect at their ends. In some embodiments, the length of the one or more headrest straps 110 may be adjustable. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3B, 3C, 4B, and 6, the one or more headrest straps 110 may wrap around the liner pad 135 and the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3B, 4B, and 6, the one or more headrest straps 110 may attach the headrest 108 to the base assembly 101 at one of a plurality of heights by passing through one of the first plurality of openings 116 between the first upper side panel 112 and the central panel 102 and one of the second plurality of openings 118 between the second upper side panel 114 and the central panel 102. In this way, the openings 116 and 118 through which the one or more headrest straps 110 pass define the height of the headrest 108 relative to the base assembly 101, and the height of the headrest 108 may be adjusted/selected by selecting the openings 116 and 118 through which the one or more headrest straps 110 pass.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the one or more supports of the RSS 100 may include one or more leg supports 120. In some embodiments, the one or more leg supports 120 may be configured to provide support for legs of a person on the RSS 100. In some embodiments, the height at which the one or more leg supports 120 are attached to the base assembly 101 is adjustable. In some embodiments, the lateral position of the one or more leg supports 120 may be adjustable. In some embodiments, the one or more leg supports 120 may be configured to discourage one or more of excessive adduction, abduction, and rotation of hips of a person on the RSS 100. In some embodiments, the one or more leg supports 120 may be configured to discourage hyperextension of knees of a person on the RSS 100.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the RSS 100 may include one or more leg support straps 122 connected to the one or more leg supports 120 and configured to attach the one or more leg supports 120 to the base assembly 101. In some non-limiting embodiments, the one or more leg support straps 122 may be removably connected to the leg supports 120 (e.g., either removably connected, such as by using hook and loop fasteners or by passing the one or more leg support straps 122 through one or more fabric loops on the one or more leg supports 120, or permanently connected by sewing the one or more leg support straps 122 to the one or more leg supports 120). In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the one or more leg support straps 122 may have male and female connectors at their ends, which may allow the ends of the one or more leg support straps 122 to connect at their ends. In some embodiments, the length of the one or more leg support straps 122 may be adjustable. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3B, 4B, and 6, the one or more leg support straps 122 may wrap around the liner pad 135 and the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3B, 4B, and 6, the one or more leg support straps 122 may attach the one or more leg supports 120 to the base assembly 101 at one of a plurality of heights by passing through one of the first plurality of openings 128 between the first lower side panel 124 and the central panel 102 and one of the second plurality of openings 130 between the second lower side panel 126 and the central panel 102. In this way, the openings 128 and 130 through which the one or more leg support straps 122 pass define the height of the one or more leg supports 120 relative to the base assembly 101, and the height of the one or more leg supports 120 may be adjusted/selected by selecting the openings 128 and 130 through which the one or more leg support straps 122 pass. In some embodiments, the lateral position of the one or more leg supports 120 may be adjusted by sliding the one or more leg supports 120 along the one or more leg support straps 122.
In some embodiments, the RSS 100 may include one or more harnesses attached removably and adjustably to the base assembly 101 and configured to maintain a stable and well-aligned body position of a person on the RSS 100. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 3A, 3B, 4B, and 6, the one or more harnesses of the RSS 100 may include a chest harness 144. In some embodiments, the chest harness 144 may be configured to maintain proper position of a trunk of the person on the RSS 100. In some embodiments, the RSS 100 may be configured to work with chest harnesses of different sizes, such as, for example and without limitation, the large chest harness 144 a and the small chest harness 144 b shown in FIG. 1B.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1B, 3B, and 4B, the chest harness 144 may include a chest pad 156. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1B, 3D, 3E, and 4B, the chest harness 144 may include one or more straps. In some embodiments, the one or more straps of the chest harness 144 may include a shoulder strap 152 and a midsection strap 154. In some non-limiting embodiments, at least the shoulder strap 152 may include one or more pads (e.g., to make the straps comfortable during use). In some embodiments, the shoulder strap 152 and midsection strap 154 may be attached removably to the base assembly 101 and may be attached removably to the chest pad 156.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3D, the shoulder strap 152 may be attached removably to the base assembly 101 by passing the shoulder strap 152 through one or more of the chest anchors 138 of the central panel 102. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3D, the shoulder strap 152 may pass through one or more chest anchors 138 of the left column of chest anchors 138 and through one or more chest anchors 138 of the right column of chest anchors 138. In some embodiments, chest anchors 138 through which the shoulder strap 152 passes may define the height of the chest harness 144 relative to the base assembly 101, and the height of the chest harness 144 may be adjusted/selected by selecting the chest anchors 138 through which the shoulder strap 152 passes. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3E, the shoulder strap 152 may pass through one or more slits 136 (e.g., two slits 136) of the liner pad 135. In some embodiments, the one or more slits 136 through which the shoulder strap 152 passes may depend on the height of the chest harness 144 relative to the base assembly 101. In this way, in some embodiments, the shoulder strap 152 of the chest harness 144 may be attached removably and adjustably to the base assembly 101 using one or more of the slits 136 of the liner pad 135 and one or more of the chest anchors 138 of the base assembly 101.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3D, the midsection strap 154 may be attached removably to the base assembly 101 by passing the midsection strap 154 through one or more of the lap anchors 140 of the central panel 102. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3D, the midsection strap 154 may pass through the left and right lap anchors 140. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3E, the midsection strap 154 may pass through one or more slits 136 (e.g., two slits 136) of the liner pad 135. In this way, in some embodiments, the midsection strap 154 of the chest harness 144 may be attached removably and adjustably to the base assembly 101 using one or more of the slits 136 of the liner pad 135 and one or more of the lap anchors 140 of the base assembly 101.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3B, the shoulder strap 152 may be configured to attach to the chest pad 156 at two upper locations, and the midsection strap 154 may be configured to attach to the chest harness 144 at two lower locations. In some embodiments, the shoulder strap 152, midsection strap 154, and chest pad 156 may include male and female connectors configured to attach removably the straps 152 and 154 to the chest pad 156. In some embodiments, the lengths of the straps 152 and 154 may be adjustable so that the size of the chest harness 144 may be adjustable.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 3A, 3B, 4B, and 6, the one or more harnesses of the RSS 100 may include a pelvic harness 157. In some embodiments, the pelvic harness 157 may be configured to maintain a proper position of a pelvis of a person on the RSS 100. In some embodiments, the RSS 100 may be configured to work with pelvic harnesses of different sizes, such as, for example and without limitation, the large pelvic harness 157 a and the small pelvic harness 157 b shown in FIG. 1B. In some non-limiting embodiments, the pelvic harness 157 may be, for example, a three-point pelvic harness. In embodiments in which the RSS 100 has a chest harness 144 and a pelvic harness 157, the chest and pelvic harnesses 144, 157 may be configured to maintain a stable position in which a trunk and a pelvis of a person on the RSS 100 are aligned.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1B, 3B, 3D, 3E, and 4B, the pelvic harness 157 may include one or more straps. In some embodiments, the one or more straps of the pelvic harness 157 may include a crotch strap 158 and a waist strap 160. In some non-limiting embodiments, one or more of the crotch and waist straps 158 and 160 may include one or more pads (e.g., to make the straps comfortable during use). In some embodiments, the crotch strap 158 and waist strap 160 may be attached removably to the base assembly 101 and may be attached removably to each other.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3D, the crotch strap 158 may be attached removably to the base assembly 101 using one or more of anchors of the central panel 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the crotch strap 158 may be attached (e.g., tied) to the central lap anchor 140 of the central panel 102. In some embodiments, the crotch strap 158 may additionally be passed through one or more of the crotch anchors 142. In some non-limiting embodiments, the size of the pelvic harness 157 may depend on the number of crotch anchors 142 through which the crotch strap 158 passes, with more crotch anchors 142 passed through resulting in a larger pelvic harness 157. That is, in some embodiments, the size of the pelvic harness 157 may be adjusted/selected by selecting the number of crotch anchors 142 through which the crotch strap 158 passes. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3E, the crotch strap 158 may pass through a slit 136 of the liner pad 135. In some embodiments, the slit 136 through which the crotch strap 158 passes may depend on the size of the pelvic harness 157. In this way, in some embodiments, the crotch strap 158 of the pelvic harness 157 may be attached removably and adjustably to the base assembly 101 using a slit 136 of the liner pad 135, a central lap anchor 140, and one or more of crotch anchors 142.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3D, the waist strap 160 may be attached removably to the base assembly 101 by passing the waist strap 160 through the one or more of the lap anchors 140 of the central panel 102. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3D, the waist strap 160 may pass through the left and right lap anchors 140. In some embodiments, the waist strap 160 and the midsection strap 154 may pass through the same lap anchors 140. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3E, the waist strap 160 may pass through one or more slits 136 (e.g., two slits 136) of the liner pad 135. In some embodiments, the waist strap 160 may pass through the same slits 136 through which the midsection strap 154 passes. In this way, in some embodiments, the waist strap 160 of the pelvic harness 157 may be attached removably and adjustably to the base assembly 101 using one or more of the slits 136 of the liner pad 135 and one or more of the lap anchors 140 of the base assembly 101.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3B and 4B, the crotch strap 158 may be configured to attach to the ends of the waist strap 160. In some embodiments, the lengths of the straps 158 and 160 may be adjustable so that the size of the pelvic harness 157 may be adjustable.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3G, the one or more footrest anchors 143 may be attached (e.g., sewn) to the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3F and 3G, the one or more footrest anchors 143 may each include two rings 341. In some non-limiting embodiments, the rings 341 may be, for example, plastic or metal rings. In some non-limiting embodiments, the rings 341 may be, for example, D-shaped rings, oval-shaped rings, or rectangle-shaped rings.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3F, the footrest strap 132 may hold the bottom portion of the base assembly 101 in place on the footrest of the reclinable furniture 300 by attaching to one of the footrest anchors 143. In some embodiments, the footrest strap 132 may be attached to a footrest anchor 143 by passing one end of the footrest strap 132 through one ring 341 of the footrest anchor 143, wrapping the footrest strap 132 around the back of the footrest, and passing the other end of the footrest strap 132 through the other ring 341 of the footrest anchor 143. In some embodiments, the footrest strap 132 may be held in place by attaching the ends of the footrest strap 132 to the remainder of the footrest strap 132 (e.g., using hooks and loops such as, for example, hooks on the ends of the footrest strap 132 and loops on all or a portion of the remainder of the footrest strap 132).
In some embodiments, the RSS 100 may include multiple (e.g., three or more) footrest anchors 143. In some embodiments, the multiple footrest anchors 143 may enable the RSS 100 to be compatible with different types of reclinable furniture, which may have reclining mechanisms in different locations. In some embodiments, the multiple footrest anchors 143 may enable the end-user to select the best placement of footrest strap 132 to avoid interference with the reclining mechanism of the reclinable furniture, which could cause the footrest strap 132 to shear after repeated use.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3F and 3G, the one or more footrest anchors 143 may include protective pads 343. In some non-limiting embodiments, the protective pads 343 may be attached (e.g., sewn) to the footrest anchors 143. In some embodiments, the protective pads 343 may be configured to protect the footrest of the reclinable furniture 300 from damage from the rings 341 of the footrest anchors 143.
In some embodiments, the RSS 100 may include one or more cushions configured to promote good posture while sitting or reclining. In some embodiments, the one or more cushions may enhance lateral support and improve comfort. In some non-limiting embodiments, the one or more cushions may be made of a material that is one or more of seamless, latex-free, and anti-microbial. In some non-limiting alternative embodiments, the one or more cushions may include foam (e.g., fabricated and cut foam or molded foam) and fabric upholstery over the foam. FIG. 4A illustrates examples of back and seat cushions with various sizes that may be used with and accommodated by the RSS 100 according to some non-limiting embodiments.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 6, the one or more cushions of the RSS 100 may include a back cushion 442. In some embodiments, the RSS 100 may include one or more back cushion straps 444 configured to attach removably the back cushion 442 to the base assembly 101. In some embodiments, the back cushion 442 may include first and second openings, and the one or more back cushion straps 444 may attach removably the back cushion 442 to the base assembly 101 using the first and second openings. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 6, the one or more back cushion straps 444 may wrap around the liner pad 135 and the central panel 102 of the base assembly 101. In some embodiments, the height at which the back cushion 442 is attached to the base assembly 101 may be adjustable. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 6, the one or more back cushion straps 444 may attach the back cushion 442 to the base assembly 101 at one of a plurality of heights by passing through one of the first plurality of openings 116 between the first upper side panel 112 and the central panel 102 and one of the second plurality of openings 118 between the second upper side panel 114 and the central panel 102.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 6, the one or more cushions of the RSS 100 may include a seat cushion 446. FIG. 5A illustrates a seat cushion 446 a according to one non-limiting embodiment. FIG. 5B illustrates a seat cushion 446 b according to a non-limiting alternative embodiment. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the seat cushion 446 may include one or more holes (e.g., one or more of holes 502, 504, and 506). In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 6, the one or more holes of the seat cushion 446 may accommodate the straps 158 and 160 of the pelvic harness 157, and the pelvic harness 157 may attach removably the seat cushion 446 to the base assembly 101 and/or liner pad 135. In some non-limiting embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 6, the pelvic harness 340 may be a three-point pelvic harness, and, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the seat cushion 446 may include a front hole 502 and first and second rear holes 504 and 506 configured for use with the straps of the pelvic harness 340 (e.g., crotch strap 158 and first and second ends of the waist strap 160, respectively).
In the non-limiting alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 5B, the seat cushion 446 b may include a bottom portion 508, a rear portion 510, and a flexible hinge portion 512 connecting the bottom portion 508 and rear portion 510. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge portion 512 may be configured to move with and support a body in an upright sitting position, in a reclined position, and while moving between the upright sitting position and the reclined position. In some embodiments, the seat cushion 446 b with the flexible hinge portion 512 may comfortably move with and support the body as it reclines.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 2B, 2C, 2G, and 8, the base assembly 101 of the RSS 100 may include a hanger strap 137. In some non-limiting embodiments, the RSS 100 may be portable and easy to store. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 8, the RSS 100 may be foldable and may clip like a suit bag. In some embodiments, the hanger strap 137 may be used to hang the RSS 100 from a standard coat hook on the back of a closet door or wall. In some non-limiting embodiments, the RSS 100 may weigh 10 pounds or less.
In some embodiments, the components of the RSS 100 may easy to clean (e.g., easy wipe clean and/or machine washable).
Embodiments of the present invention have been fully described above with reference to the drawing figures. Although the invention has been described based upon these preferred embodiments, it would be apparent to those of skill in the art that certain modifications, variations, and alternative constructions could be made to the described embodiments within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A recliner support system (RSS) comprising:

a base assembly configured to move with reclinable furniture between upright and reclined positions;

one or more straps configured to secure the base assembly to the reclinable furniture;

one or more harnesses attached to the base assembly and configured to maintain a stable and well-aligned body position of a person on the RSS; and

one or more supports attached to the base assembly and configured to provide support for the body of the person on the RSS.

2. The RSS of claim 1, wherein the base assembly comprises a central panel.

3. The RSS of claim 2, further comprising a liner pad configured to attach to the central panel of the base assembly.

4. The RSS of claim 3, wherein the liner pad includes one or more slits, and the central panel of the base assembly includes one or more anchors.

5. The RSS of claim 4, wherein the one or more harnesses are attached removably and adjustably to the base assembly using one or more of the one or more slits and one or more of the one or more anchors.

6. The RSS of any claim 1, wherein the one or more supports include leg supports attached to the base assembly and configured to provide support for legs of the person on the RSS.

7. The RSS of claim 6, wherein the height at which the leg supports are attached to the base assembly is adjustable.

8. The RSS of claim 6, wherein the lateral position of the leg supports is adjustable.

9. The RSS of claim 6, wherein the leg supports are configured to discourage one or more of excessive adduction, abduction, and rotation of hips of a person on the RSS.

10. The RSS of claim 6, wherein the leg supports are configured to discourage hyperextension of knees of a person on the RSS.

11. The RSS of claim 6, wherein the base assembly further comprises:

first and second lower side panels attached to the central panel of the base assembly;

a first plurality of openings between the first lower side panel and the central panel; and

a second plurality of openings between the second lower side panel and the central panel;

wherein the one or more straps include one or more leg support straps connected to the leg supports and configured to attach the leg supports to the central panel at one of a plurality of heights by passing through one of the first plurality of openings between the first lower side panel and the central panel and one of the second plurality of openings between the second lower side panel and the central panel.

12. The RSS of claim 1, wherein the one or more supports include a headrest attached to the base assembly and configured to promote a midline position of a head of the person on the RSS.

13. The RSS of claim 12, wherein the height at which the headrest is attached to the base assembly is adjustable.

14. The RSS of claim 12, wherein the base assembly further comprises:

first and second upper side panels attached to the central panel of the base assembly;

a first plurality of openings between the first upper side panel and the central panel; and

a second plurality of openings between the second upper side panel and the central panel; and

wherein the RSS further comprises one or more headrest straps connected to the headrest and configured to attach the headrest to the base assembly at one of a plurality of heights by passing through one of the first plurality of openings between the first upper side panel and the central panel and one of the second plurality of openings between the second upper side panel and the central panel.

15. The RSS of claim 14, wherein the one or more straps include one or more straps configured to wrap around a back of the reclinable furniture and connect the first and second upper side panels.

16. The RSS of claim 1, wherein the one or more harnesses include a chest harness configured to maintain proper position of a trunk of the person on the RSS.

17. The RSS of claim 1, wherein the one or more harnesses include a pelvic harness configured to maintain a proper position of a pelvis of the person on the RSS.

18. The RSS of claim 1, wherein the one or more harnesses include a chest harness and a pelvic harness, and the chest and pelvic harnesses are configured to maintain a stable position in which a trunk and a pelvis of the person on the RSS are aligned.

19. The RSS of claim 1, wherein the one or more straps are padded straps configured to protect the reclinable furniture.

20. The RSS of claim 1, further comprising one or more cushions configured to promote good posture while sitting or reclining.

21. The RSS of claim 20, wherein the one or more cushions include a back cushion.

22. The RSS of claim 21, further comprising one or more back cushion straps configured to attach the back cushion to the base assembly.

23. The RSS of claim 22, further comprising:

a second plurality of openings between the second upper side panel and the central panel;

wherein the one or more back cushion straps are configured to attach the back cushion to the base assembly at one of a plurality of heights by passing through one of the first plurality of openings between the first upper side panel and the central panel and one of the second plurality of openings between the second upper side panel and the central panel.

24. The RSS of claim 20, wherein the one or more cushions include a seat cushion.

25. The RSS of claim 24, wherein the seat cushion includes:

a bottom portion;

a rear portion; and

a flexible hinge portion connecting the bottom and rear portion and configured to move with and support a body in an upright sitting position, in a reclined position, and while moving between the upright sitting position and the reclined position.

26. The RSS of claim 25, wherein the seat cushion comprises one or more holes, the one or more harnesses include a pelvic harness configured to (i) maintain a proper position of a pelvis of the person on the RSS and (ii) attach to the base assembly through the one or more holes.

27. The RSS of claim 20, wherein the one or more cushions are made of a seamless, latex-free, anti-microbial material.

28. The RSS of claim 20, wherein the one or more cushions comprise foam and a fabric upholstery over the foam.

29. The RSS of claim 1, further comprising a drape connected to the base assembly.

30. A seat cushion comprising:

a bottom portion;

a rear portion; and

31. The seat cushion of claim 30, wherein the seat cushion is made of a seamless, latex-free, anti-microbial material.

32. The seat cushion of claim 30, wherein the seat cushion is made of foam and a fabric upholstery over the foam.

33. The seat cushion of claim 30, further comprising one or more holes.

34. The seat cushion of claim 33, wherein the one or more holes include a front hole and first and second rear holes configured for use with a three-point pelvic harness.