U.S. patent application number 11/683424 was filed with the patent office on 2007-10-11 for ground based portable seat.
Invention is credited to Theodore J. Gausman.
Application Number | 20070236055 11/683424 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38574472 |
Filed Date | 2007-10-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070236055 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gausman; Theodore J. |
October 11, 2007 |
GROUND BASED PORTABLE SEAT
Abstract
A ground based portable seat which is capable of elevating the
user up and off the ground and provides for a variable seating
position independently or in combination with an object on terrain
of varying slopes and undulating surfaces. A frame structure
includes first and second generally U-shaped frame members
pivotally attached to each other at their open ends and with a
sling member suspended between the distal lateral closed ends. The
sling member is shorter than a length that allows the pivotal
connections to be opened to a pivot angle of 180 degrees magnitude.
Placing the two pivotal connections on the ground for use of the
seat, makes two point contact with the ground as a base. A third,
stabilizing point of ground contact is provided by the user's
foot.
Inventors: |
Gausman; Theodore J.;
(Concord, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Theodore J. Gausman
11516 Girdled Road
Concord
OH
44077
US
|
Family ID: |
38574472 |
Appl. No.: |
11/683424 |
Filed: |
March 7, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60779976 |
Mar 7, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
297/129 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 1/146 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/129 |
International
Class: |
A47C 13/00 20060101
A47C013/00 |
Claims
1. A ground based portable seat comprising: a first frame member
and a second frame member, wherein each frame member is formed in a
generally "U"-shaped configuration having an open end and a closed
end, and having first and second generally parallel and equal
length longitudinal side sections joined at the closed end by a
lateral end section that is longitudinally opposite to first and
second frame ends that are at the open end of the frame member; a
pivotal connection of the first frame end of the first frame member
to the first frame end of the second frame member; a pivotal
connection of the second frame end of the first frame member to the
second frame end of the second frame member; and a seat comprising
a flexible sling member that extends from an attachment near the
closed end of the first frame member to an attachment near the
closed end of the second frame member, wherein the length of the
sling member is less than a length that allows the pivotal
connections to be opened to a pivot angle alpha of 180 degrees
magnitude.
2. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
the first frame member is greater in length than the second frame
member.
3. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further
comprising: a support strap that extends from an attachment on the
first side section to an attachment on the second side section of a
one of the first and second frame members.
4. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
the support strap is configured to prevent spreading apart of the
first and second side sections between which it extends.
5. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
the support strap is affixed to the sling member.
6. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
the support strap is attached on the first and second side sections
near the pivotal connections; and the support strap is
flexible.
7. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further
comprising: a transport strap loosely extending from an attachment
near the closed end of a frame member to an attachment near the
open end of the same frame member.
8. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 7, wherein:
the transport strap can be moved to a position on either side of
the plane within which the respective frame member lies.
9. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further
comprising: a retaining strap extending from an attachment on the
first frame member to an attachment on the second frame member.
10. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 9, wherein:
at least one of the attachments is removable.
11. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 9, wherein:
the retaining strap has two portions that are separably connected
by a joint member.
12. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further
comprising: a vest that is integral with the sling member, wherein
the sling member has a side panel with an arm hole
therethrough.
13. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 12, wherein:
the side panel is detachable.
14. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 12, further
comprising: a storage compartment attached to the sling member.
15. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 14, wherein:
the storage compartment is removable.
16. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further
comprising: a storage compartment attached to the sling member.
17. A method for supporting a sitting person's buttocks above
ground level using a portable seat, the method comprising the steps
of: creating a buttocks-supporting seat portion by attaching a
flexible sling member between two distal lateral ends of a
longitudinally extended oblong support frame that has two
longitudinal side frame sections and two distal lateral ends;
providing a pivotal connection in each of the longitudinal sides;
making the sling member shorter than a length that allows the
pivotal connections to be opened to a pivot angle alpha of 180
degrees magnitude; placing the two pivotal connections on the
ground for use of the seat, thereby making two point contact with
the ground as a base.
18. The method of claim 17 further comprising the steps of: the
sitting person using a foot as a stabilizing third point of ground
contact; and the sitting person controlling the pivot angle by
positioning a thigh at a desired angle with respect to the ground
and by positioning his/her back at a desired angle with respect to
the thigh.
19. The method of claim 17 further comprising the steps of: the
sitting person leaning the frame against a stationary object that
extends above the elevation of the pivotal connections on the
ground; and the sitting person controlling the pivot angle by
positioning a thigh at a desired angle with respect to the
ground.
20. The method of claim 17 further comprising the step of:
providing a support member that prevents lateral movement of the
longitudinal sides with respect to the sling member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 60/779,976, filed Mar. 7, 2006 by
Gausman.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to a ground based
portable seat. In particular, the invention relates to a ground
based portable seat that is adapted for use independently or in
combination with an object. In particular, the invention relates to
a ground based portable seat that is adapted for use independently
or in combination with an object on terrain of varying profile and
slope.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0003] In sporting activities such as hunting, bird watching, field
studies or the like it is desirable for a person to find a location
to sit and observe their surroundings. While observing the
surroundings it is important to blend in with the surroundings and
not stand out. In particular, the outline or silhouette of the body
should be broken up or minimized. One way this is achieved is by
standing or sitting in close proximal relation to an object such as
a tree, rock, fence post, hay bale or the like. Specific to the
activity of hunting, this close proximal relation to an object
provides for the additional safety benefit of protecting the hunter
from an errant shot or a shot at unidentified game from behind.
[0004] Specific to the activity of hunting, there are essentially
two main observation perspectives, namely elevated structures such
as a tree stand or from the ground. In the past, a variety of types
of tree stands have been available to and used by hunters. Hunters
may choose not to utilize such tree stands for a number of reasons,
including the hunter's physical condition, the cumbersome weight of
tree stands, the hunter's fear of heights, the potential for
accidental falls, or the hunter's age. Ground-based hunters are
faced with problems such as finding a suitable place to sit and the
weight of ground based seats. Although portable ground-based seats
exist, none are capable of providing the hunter with the ability to
sit comfortably in close proximal relationship to an object such as
a tree, rock, fence post, wall or the like due to the fixed
relationship between the seat surface and the ground. Further, in
the past many portable ground-based seats have been unnecessarily
heavy and/or otherwise difficult to carry and required separate
support structures to maintain the hunter in a fixed seated
position.
[0005] In particular to the close proximal relationship to a tree
the variability of the "root radius" has not been overcome. Root
radius is defined as the geometry created by the relationship of
ground and a tree that is adjacent and contiguous to where the two
meet. This geometry contains the ground segment, the tree segment
and the radius of the root there between. The combinations that
result are numerous and range from acute to obtuse angles between
the ground and tree segments with large and small root radius.
Additionally, the ground located in the root radius region is
capable of being undulated and not conducive to a line contact as
required by prior seats for stability.
[0006] Prior seats required a separate structural member attached
to both the seat portion and back portion to prevent rotation of
the back portion away from the seat portion. This structure limited
the seat to a single angle between the seat portion and back
portion and thus limited the ability of the user to adjust their
position.
[0007] Further to the activity of hunting is the transportation of
gear into the field. In particular, on route to the final
destination it is advantageous to carry gear such as additional
clothing items that are to be worn once arriving at the final
destination. This enables the hunter to maintain a lower body
temperature and perspire less. Once at the final destination the
gear that was carried is dry and free of perspiration.
[0008] Further to the activity of hunting is the safe
transportation of game out of the field. In particular, game can be
a turkey, coyote, or similar sized harvested game animal.
[0009] Separate to the act of hunting are activities where sitting
on the ground or other surface with or without the aid of a support
structure. In particular these activities can take place outdoors
and include such spectator events as watching a concert, baseball
game, soccer game, and the like. Additionally these activities can
take place indoors as well and include such events as watching TV,
playing board games, and the like.
[0010] Accordingly, it is desirable and advantageous to provide a
portable ground-based seat which is adapted for use in close
proximal relation to an object. It also is desirable and
advantageous to provide a portable ground-based seat which is
lightweight and easily carried.
[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide a portable
ground-based seat which may be utilized in close proximal relation
to an object which may itself be on terrain that is flat or steep
sloped, as well as terrains having slopes there between.
[0012] Another objective of the invention is to provide a portable
ground-based seat which may be utilized independent of an object on
substantially flat terrain.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
portable ground-based seat which includes a sling structure and
support means for enabling the user to adjust their position in the
seat.
[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
portable ground-based seat which is convenient to carry and can be
set up in a short amount of time.
[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
portable ground-based seat which is convenient to carry and can be
used to haul other items such as game or gear.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] The present invention contemplates an apparatus that
provides for a comfortable ground based seat for use in close
proximal relation to a stationary object, is light weight, sets up
quickly and can be used as a means for hauling gear and game.
[0017] The invention provides in one aspect a ground-based seat.
The seat structure comprises a first and second rigid frame member,
the first and second frame members being formed in generally a
"U"-shaped configuration and joined in pivotal relationship near
their two open ends. The first frame member is preferably greater
in length than the second frame member. The frame members support a
sling member.
[0018] Another aspect of the invention provides means for hauling
gear or game. The seat structure comprises a first and second rigid
frame member, the first and second frame members being formed in
generally a "U"-shaped configuration and joined in pivotal
relationship near their two open ends. The first frame member is
preferably greater in length than the second frame member. The
frame members support a sling member. The sling member attaches to
the lateral end regions of the frame members. The sling member
includes a strap member for holding the game. A strap member
connects and holds in position the two frame members while game or
gear is supported by the sling member.
[0019] The present invention contemplates an apparatus that
provides for a comfortable ground based seat for use independently
to a stationary object, is light weight, sets up quickly.
[0020] The present invention contemplates an apparatus that
provides for a comfortable ground based seat that is integral with
a vest worn by the user.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a view of a prior art portable seat.
[0022] FIG. 2 is an environmental view depicting the "root radius"
of a tree.
[0023] FIG. 3 an isometric view of an embodiment of the
invention.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of the
invention.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a front view of an embodiment of the
invention.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a view of an embodiment of the invention in a
stored or carried condition.
[0027] FIG. 7 is a view of an embodiment of the invention in use in
a first position.
[0028] FIG. 8 is a view of an embodiment of the invention in use in
a second position.
[0029] FIG. 9 is a view of an embodiment of the invention hauling
game or gear.
[0030] FIG. 10A is a view of a simple embodiment of a sling member
of the invention.
[0031] FIG. 10B is a view of a vest embodiment of a sling member of
the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0032] While the prior art has contemplated in some degree a ground
based portable seat, said prior art known to the inventor has been
limited in achieving the optimum seating position, contains
additional and un-needed structure or is limited in where it can be
used.
[0033] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,783 issued to Black, U.S.
Pat. No. 1,625,106 issued to Sullivan, U.S. Pat. No. 1,963,708
issued to Marvin and U.S. Pat. No. 5,385,390 issued to Freeman all
contemplate a portable ground based seat that places the occupant
in a fixed relation to the ground, places the seat in line contact
with the ground and includes additional structure not required in
the present invention. The additional structure further limits the
seating position of the user.
[0034] Further, another example of the prior art, depicted in FIG.
1, is limited in where it can be used based upon suitability of the
ground upon which it is placed. Prior art seat 10 is comprised of a
lower seat portion 12 and an upper seat portion 14 connected in
pivotal relation by hinge 16. Lower and upper seat portions require
seat support means 20, which place the lower and upper seat
portions in a fixed relationship. Seat 10 may optionally be held in
constant contact to a stationary object 19 by either straps or
hooks 18.
[0035] FIG. 2 depicts the "root radius" of a tree that may be part
of the environment in which the invention is used. In the instance
of utilizing a tree 50 as a stationary object to conceal an
individual's silhouette it is advantageous to get within close
proximal relation to the tree. Root radius 52 is defined as the
region where the lower portion of the tree trunk 54 enters the
ground 56. Depending upon the angle of the ground 56 and the shape
of the tree trunk 54 a variety of geometries can result.
[0036] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention. Seat 100 includes a long frame member 102 and a short
frame member 104. The long and short frame members 102 and 104 are
formed in generally a "U"-shaped configuration. Whereas the long
frame member 102 contains generally parallel sections 102a and
102b, which are joined by a long frame lateral end region 102c.
Short frame member 104 contains generally parallel sections 104a
and 104b, which are joined by a short frame lateral end region
104c. Long and short frame members 102 and 104 are joined in
pivotal relationship near their open ends 102' and 104' by hinges
106. Thus the long frame lateral end region 102c is distal to the
short frame lateral end region 104c.
[0037] The long frame member 102 length is greater than or equal to
the short frame member 104 length. In the instance the long frame
member 102 is greater than the short frame member 104 the long
frame member 102 is roughly the length of the torso on an average
adult male while the short frame member 104 is roughly the length
of thigh of an adult male. In the instance the long frame member
102 is equal in length to the short frame member 104 the long and
short frame members 102 and 104 are roughly the length of thigh of
an adult male. Long and short frame members 102 and 104 are
preferably metallic with the metals of choice being aluminum for
its lightweight or of galvanized steel such as electrical conduit
for greater strength although heavier than the aluminum. As well,
the preferred shape of first and second frame members is tubular,
however, it can be appreciated that a variety of materials and
shapes are possible in order to achieve the necessary support.
[0038] Supported by the frame members is a sling member 108. The
sling member 108 is comprised of a sling lower region 110, a sling
upper region 112 and a sling central region 114. The sling lower
region 110 attaches to the short frame lateral end region 104c. The
sling upper region 112 attaches to the long frame lateral end
region 102c. The sling 108 is made of a flexible material such as
fabric (e.g. canvas, cordura, cotton duck, nylon). The invention is
functional and usable in this condition. The additional components
now described enhance the practicality and durability of the
invention.
[0039] Attached to the sling upper region 112 is an optional upper
support strap 116. Optional upper support strap 116 attaches to the
sling upper region 112 by sewing, gluing or the like. Optional
upper support strap 116 is at its ends attached to the long frame
member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b. Optional upper
support strap 116 provides for centering the sling upper region
112, as well as supporting the long frame member generally parallel
sections 102a and 102b by preventing outward displacement
(spreading apart) when the user is seated.
[0040] Attached to the sling central region 114 is an optional
central support strap 120. Optional central support strap 120
attaches to the sling member central region 114 by sewing, gluing
or the like. Optional central support strap 120 is at its ends
attached to the long frame member generally parallel sections 102a
and 102b. Optional central support strap 120 provides for centering
the sling central region 114, as well as supporting the long frame
member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b by preventing
outward displacement (spreading apart) when the user is seated.
[0041] Attached to the sling lower region 110 is an optional lower
support strap 118. Optional lower support strap 118 attaches to the
sling lower region 110 by sewing, gluing or the like. Optional
lower support strap 118 is at its ends attached to the short frame
member parallel sections 104a and 104b. Optional lower support
strap 118 provides for centering the sling lower region 110, as
well as supporting short frame member parallel sections 104a and
104b preventing outward displacement (spreading apart) when the
user is seated.
[0042] It can be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the
practical aspects of optional support straps 116, 118 and 120 are
to keep the sling 108 centered on the long and short frame members
102 and 104, as well as supporting frame member generally parallel
sections 102a and 102b, 104a and 104b by preventing outward
displacement (spreading apart) when the user is seated. Of course,
if a support strap 116, 118, 120 is rigid, then it would also
prevent inward displacement of the frame member generally parallel
sections 102a and 102b, 104a and 104b. As a result of using one or
more flexible or rigid support straps 116, 118, 120, a heavier load
can be supported by a light weight seat. As such, integrating these
straps directly into the sling 108 is anticipated.
[0043] Located between hinges 106 is an optional ground strap 122.
Optional ground strap 122 provides for the practical aspect of
preventing the open ends 102', 104' at the pivotal connections 106
from being driven into soft ground under the weight of the user.
All straps 116, 118, 120 and 122 are preferably made of a flexible
material (e.g. nylon webbing, rope, canvas).
[0044] Located and affixed to sling upper region 112 is a transport
strap 124. Transport strap 124 is attached at one end to the sling
upper region 112 by sewing, gluing or the like. Transport strap 124
is attached at the opposite end to hinges 106. The practical
aspects of this transport strap are to carry the seat and game or
gear as appropriate.
[0045] FIGS. 4 and 5 depict a side and front elevation view
respectively of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 4
illustrates pivot angle .alpha. (alpha) resulting between the long
and short frame members 102 and 104. Angle .alpha. (alpha) is
variable and can range from 0 (zero) to less than 180 degrees;
preferable ranging from 60 to 120 degrees, most preferably ranging
from 80 to 100 degrees. The practical aspects of this variability
is allowing the user to change their body position all the while
being supported by the sling 108 as the long and short frame
members 102 and 104 pivot about hinges 106. The length of sling 108
with respect to the lengths of the long and short frame members 102
and 104 controls the maximum angle .alpha. (alpha). In practice,
the length of sling 108 is less than the distance between the
lateral end regions 102c and 104c of the long and short frame
members 102 and 104 when the pivotal connections at hinge 106 are
opened to a pivot angle of 180 degrees.
[0046] FIG. 6 is a view of the invention in the stored or carried
condition. Of particular interest is the location of the stored
position of short frame member 104. In this view the short frame
member 104 is stored between the transport strap 124 and the long
frame member 102. Such a position enables the user to quickly
prepare the seat for use even while it is still being transported
by the user. This is possible by rotating the short frame member
104 (as viewed) counterclockwise opening the sling for the user to
sit. It can be appreciated that by changing the location of where
the ends of optional central support strap 120 contact the long
frame member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b the short
frame member 104 can be rotated either counterclockwise (in this
use) or clockwise (as used in FIG. 9). Transport strap 124 is
reversible enabling the seat 100 to be carried with the short frame
section 104 either facing towards or away from the user.
[0047] FIG. 7 is a view of the invention in use in a first
position. This position depicts the invention in close proximal
relation to a stationary object, in this instance the stationary
object is a tree 50. As can be seen, the "root radius" 52 has been
avoided and does not compromise the comfort of the user 80. In this
position the seat 100 is contacting the ground twice (at the
pivotal connections 106) and once where the long frame lateral end
region 102c contacts the stationary object (tree trunk 54). The
resulting 3-point-contact is inherently stable. The user 80, is
elevated up and off the ground 56 and the degree to which the user
80 is up and off the ground depends upon the pivot angle .alpha.
(alpha) (not shown) which is controlled by the user's body
position. The further away the user's feet are from his/her body,
the more the angle .alpha. (alpha) increases as his/her thigh tilts
down toward the ground and thereby increases an angle measured
between thigh and back. The closer the user's feet are to his/her
body the more the angle .alpha. (alpha) decreases.
[0048] FIG. 8 is a view of the invention in use in the second
position. This position depicts the invention independent of an
object on substantially flat terrain. The ability for the user 80
to "lean backwards" is controlled by placement of the users foot on
the ground and using their legs as a counterbalance. The users foot
is the 3.sup.rd point of contact for stability. In this manner, it
is possible to sit with minimal effort in a position where the
short frame member 104 is either parallel with the ground or
creates an angle with respect to the ground.
[0049] FIG. 9 is a view of the invention hauling game or gear. This
depicts the present invention as a convenient means to carry or
haul other items such as game or gear. In this view the user 80 is
transporting the seat 100 via transport straps 124. Contained on
the seat 100 is a package 130 such as game (example is a harvested
wild turkey or a coyote) or gear (example is a coat or ground blind
material). The package 130 is supported by sling 108 and is
prevented from falling out by a retaining strap 132, which is
attached to long and short frame members 102 and 104. Retaining
strap 132 can be made of more than one piece and secured by a
variety of methods. In this instance, retaining strap 132 is made
up of two pieces 132a and 132b. Retaining strap section 132a is
attached to short frame member 104 and retaining strap section 132b
is attached to long frame member 102. Retaining strap section 132a
and retaining strap section 132b are then joined by joint member
134. Joint member 134 can be a knot, a clip, Velcro, etc. As such,
once the package 130 is placed in the sling 108 the retaining strap
sections 132a and 132b will draw and hold the long and short frame
members 102 and 104 in position to retain the package 130. It can
be appreciated that a variety of anchor positions for the retaining
strap 132 can be contemplated to serve the purpose of securing the
package.
[0050] FIGS. 10A and B contemplate two different sling options for
the seat 100. In FIG. 10A the sling 108 shown is in the unassembled
state that once assembled is depicted in FIGS. 3 through 9. In this
configuration the sling 108 provides support for either the user 80
or a package 130. Sling 108 optionally contains a storage
compartment 109. Storage compartment 109 is either permanently
attached to sling 108 or is removable. In FIG. 10B a vest sling 208
is shown in the unassembled state that, once assembled similar to
sling 108, can similarly be depicted in FIGS. 3 thru 9 with the
following additions. Vest sling 208 contains either integral or
detachable panels 212, and contained within panels 212 are arm
holes 214. Panels 212 may be of similar material to the rest of the
sling 208 and serve to create the functionality of a vest. As such,
when the vest sling 208 is assembled to the long and short frame
members 102 and 104, the vest panels 212 with arm holes 214 replace
the transport strap(s) 124. Contained on the vest sling 208 are
storage compartments 216. Storage compartments 216 are either
permanently attached to vest sling 208 or are removable (e.g., a
pocket removably affixed by snaps or hook and loop fabric). In the
instance of hunting, storage compartments 109 and 216 function to
carry game calls, food or ammo; and in the instance of a spectator
sport it could be to carry binoculars, camera or food. Panels 212
can be either integral or detachable. To be detachable a zipper
(for example) can be located along the lines 210. As such, the vest
sling 208 can be flexible and expandable. An example of flexible
and expandable is the basic seat can be provided at a cost X and
include a sling 108 with only half a zipper located at 210 and
panels 212 can be sold separately. Alternatively, the seat can be
provided at a cost X+Y and include a vest sling 208 with panels 212
attached at zippers 210 which can be removed when not needed.
* * * * *