U.S. patent application number 13/211129 was filed with the patent office on 2012-05-24 for gliding rocking chair and ottoman.
This patent application is currently assigned to LaJobi, Inc.. Invention is credited to Ronald William Briere, Jay Herr, Marisa Kolarsick, Adam Petrucci, Barbara Rogers, Erwin Villanueva, Steve Wood.
Application Number | 20120126595 13/211129 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45605416 |
Filed Date | 2012-05-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120126595 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Petrucci; Adam ; et
al. |
May 24, 2012 |
GLIDING ROCKING CHAIR AND OTTOMAN
Abstract
A furniture system includes a chair and an ottoman. The chair,
includes a seat, a seatback, first and second armrests, first and
second base structures, and at least one chair linkage system. The
seat moves relative to the first and second base structures
according to the at least one linkage system. The chair includes a
recess that stores the ottoman. The ottoman includes a top
structure and at least one base structure. The top structure
transitions between a first mode and a second mode. In the first
mode, the top structure is positioned at a first angle relative to
the at least one base structure and moves relative to the at least
one base structure. In the second mode, the top structure is
positioned at a second angle relative to the at least one base
structure and remains fixed relative to the at least one base
structure.
Inventors: |
Petrucci; Adam; (East
Brunswick, NJ) ; Rogers; Barbara; (Manalapan, NJ)
; Wood; Steve; (Kutztown, PA) ; Villanueva;
Erwin; (Sayreville, NJ) ; Kolarsick; Marisa;
(Fair Haven, NJ) ; Briere; Ronald William;
(Weaverville, NC) ; Herr; Jay; (Morgantown,
PA) |
Assignee: |
LaJobi, Inc.
Cranbury
NJ
|
Family ID: |
45605416 |
Appl. No.: |
13/211129 |
Filed: |
August 16, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61450118 |
Mar 7, 2011 |
|
|
|
61438971 |
Feb 3, 2011 |
|
|
|
61374203 |
Aug 16, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
297/217.6 ;
297/282; 297/423.41; 297/423.44 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 3/02 20130101; A47C
16/025 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/217.6 ;
297/282; 297/423.41; 297/423.44 |
International
Class: |
A47C 3/02 20060101
A47C003/02; A47C 16/02 20060101 A47C016/02; A47C 3/00 20060101
A47C003/00 |
Claims
1. A chair, comprising: a seat; a seatback; a first armrest
including a first cavity; a second armrest including a second
cavity; a first base structure; a second base structure; a first
linkage system disposed in the first cavity of the first armrest
and coupling the seat to the first base structure; and a second
linkage system disposed in the second cavity of the second armrest
and coupling the seat to the second base structure, wherein the
first base structure and the second base structure provide lower
support for the seat, the seatback, and the first and second
armrests, and the seat, the seatback, and the first and second
armrests move together in a fixed assembly relative to the first
base structure and the second base structure according to the first
linkage system and the second linkage system.
2. The chair according to claim 1, wherein the first linkage system
and the second linkage system each include two non-parallel linkage
arms that are pivotably coupled to the seat.
3. The chair according to claim 2, wherein the first linkage system
and the second linkage system each include a structure that extends
upwardly from the first base structure and the second base
structure, respectively, and the two non-parallel linkage arms of
each of the first linkage system and the second linkage system are
pivotably coupled to an upper part of the respective structure and
extend downwardly to the seat.
4. The chair according to claim 1, wherein the seat, the first
armrest, the second armrest, the first base structure, and the
second base structure define a recess under the seat for storing an
ottoman.
5. The chair according to claim 1, wherein the fixed assembly moves
relative to the first base structure and the second base structure
into at least one releasably locked position.
6. The chair according to claim 5, wherein the at least one
releasably locked position includes at least one of a recline
position and an ingress/egress position.
7. The chair according to claim 5, wherein the fixed assembly
remains in the at least one releasably locked position according to
a locking system that prevents movement by linkage arms of the
first linkage system and second linkage system.
8. The chair according to claim 7, wherein the locking system
includes magnetic elements.
9. The chair according to claim 1, further comprising a path
lighting system disposed in the first base structure and the second
base structure.
10. An ottoman, comprising: a top structure; a body; at least one
base structure; a guide system coupling the top structure to the
body; and at least one linkage system coupling the body to the at
least one base structure, wherein in a first mode, the top
structure and the body move together relative to the at least one
base structure according to the at least one linkage system, the
top structure being positioned at a first angle relative to the
body, and in a second mode, the top structure is moved into a
second angle relative to the body according to the guide
system.
11. The ottoman according to claim 10, further comprising a locking
system that prevents, in the second mode, movement of the top
structure and the body relative to the at least one base
structure.
12. The ottoman according to claim 11, wherein the locking system
includes a bar coupled to the at least one linkage system, and the
top structure engages the bar to prevent movement by the at least
one linkage system when the top structure is in the second position
in the second mode.
13. The ottoman according to claim 10, wherein the top structure
includes a surface that is substantially horizontal when the top
structure is in the first mode, and the surface is angled relative
to the horizontal when the top structure is in the second mode.
14. The ottoman according to claim 10, wherein the guide system
includes pins extending from the top structure into grooves
disposed in the body, the grooves guiding movement of the pins and
the top structure relative to the body.
15. The ottoman according to claim 14, wherein the guide system
includes at least one straight groove and at least one curved
groove.
16. The ottoman according to claim 10, wherein the at least one
linkage system includes non-parallel linkage arms that are
pivotably coupled to the at least one base structure and to the
body.
17. An ottoman, comprising: a top structure; and at least one base
structure, wherein the top structure transitions between a first
mode and a second mode, the top structure, in the first mode, being
positioned at a first angle relative to the at least one base
structure and moving relative to the at least one base structure,
and the top structure, in the second mode, being positioned at a
second angle relative to the at least one base structure and
remaining fixed relative to the at least one base structure.
18. A furniture system, comprising: a chair, including a seat; a
seatback; a first armrest; a second armrest; a first base
structure; a second base structure, wherein the first base
structure and the second base structure providing lower support for
the seat, the seatback, and the first and second armrests; and at
least one linkage system, wherein the seat moves relative to the
first base structure and the second base structure according to the
at least one linkage system; and an ottoman including: a top
structure; and at least one base structure, wherein the top
structure transitions between a first mode and a second mode, the
top structure, in the first mode, being positioned at a first angle
relative to the at least one base structure and moving relative to
the at least one base structure, and the top structure, in the
second mode, being positioned in a second angle relative to the at
least one base structure and remaining fixed relative to the at
least one base structure, wherein the chair includes a recess
dimensioned to receive the ottoman for storage.
19. The furniture system of claim 18, wherein the first armrest
includes a first cavity, the second armrest includes a second
cavity, and the chair further comprises: a first linkage system
disposed in the first cavity of the first armrest and coupling the
seat to the first base structure; and a second linkage system
disposed in the second cavity of the second armrest and coupling
the seat to the second base structure.
20. The furniture system of claim 18, wherein the ottoman further
includes: a body; a guide system coupling the top structure to the
body; and at least one linkage system coupling the body to the at
least one base structure, wherein in a first mode, the top
structure and the body move together relative to the at least one
base structure according to the at least one linkage system, and in
a second mode, the top structure is moved into the second angle
according to the guide system.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/374,203, filed Aug. 16, 2010, U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/438,971, filed Feb. 3, 2011, and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/450,118, filed Mar. 7, 2011,
the contents of these applications being incorporated entirely
herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention relates to chairs and ottomans, and more
particularly, to systems and methods involving gliding rocking
chairs and ottomans that have various operating modes, e.g., to
facilitate nursing activity by the user.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Gliding rocking chairs, also known as glider rockers, are
chairs that allow a user sitting in the chair to rock by gliding
forward and backward. Glider rockers have become particularly
popular among people with infants. In addition to comfortably
supporting a person while holding an infant, glider rockers provide
a smooth rocking motion that sooths the infant. Correspondingly,
glider rockers are used when a person is nursing an infant.
[0006] Glider rockers may also be provided with an accompanying
ottoman to provide leg support for a user seated in the glider
rocker. In some cases, the ottoman is a gliding ottoman that
provides a greater range of gliding movement for the user.
SUMMARY
[0007] Embodiments according to aspects of the present invention
are directed to gliding rocking chairs and ottomans that have
various operating modes. Aspects of the present invention provide
systems and methods for easily and safely changing the operating
modes for gliding rocking chairs and ottomans.
[0008] According to aspects of the present invention, a chair
includes a seat, a seatback, a first armrest including a first
cavity, a second armrest including a second cavity, a first base
structure, and a second base structure. A first linkage system is
disposed in the first cavity of the first armrest and couples the
seat to the first base structure. A second linkage system is
disposed in the second cavity of the second armrest and couples the
seat to the second base structure. The first base structure and the
second base structure provide lower support for the seat, the
seatback, and the first and second armrests. The seat, the
seatback, and the first and second armrests move together in a
fixed assembly relative to the first base structure and the second
base structure according to the first linkage system and the second
linkage system. In some embodiments, the fixed assembly moves
relative to the first base structure and the second base structure
into at least one releasably locked position, which may include a
recline position and/or an ingress/egress position.
[0009] According to additional aspects of the present invention, an
ottoman includes a top structure, a body, and at least one base
structure. A guide system couples the top structure to the body. At
least one linkage system couples the body to the at least one base
structure. In a first mode, the top structure and the body move
together relative to the at least one base structure according to
the at least one linkage system, the top structure being positioned
at a first angle relative to the body. In a second mode, the top
structure is moved into a second angle relative to the body
according to the guide system.
[0010] According to further aspects of the present invention, an
ottoman includes a top structure and at least one base structure.
The top structure transitions between a first mode and a second
mode. In the first mode, the top structure is positioned at a first
angle relative to the at least one base structure and moves
relative to the at least one base structure. In the second mode,
the top structure is positioned at a second angle relative to the
at least one base structure and remains fixed relative to the at
least one base structure.
[0011] According to aspects of the present invention, a furniture
system includes a chair and an ottoman. The chair, includes a seat,
a seatback, a first armrest, a second armrest, a first base
structure, a second base structure, and at least one linkage
system. The first base structure and the second base structure
provide lower support for the seat, the seatback, and the first and
second armrests. The seat moves relative to the first base
structure and the second base structure according to the at least
one linkage system. The ottoman includes a top structure and at
least one base structure. The top structure transitions between a
first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the top structure
is positioned at a first angle relative to the at least one base
structure and moves relative to the at least one base structure. In
the second mode, the top structure is positioned at a second angle
relative to the at least one base structure and remains fixed
relative to the at least one base structure. The chair includes a
recess dimensioned to receive the ottoman for storage.
[0012] Additional aspects of the invention will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed
description of various embodiments, which is made with reference to
the drawings, a brief description of which is provided below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1A illustrates an example chair and ottoman according
to aspects of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 1B illustrates the chair and ottoman of FIG. 1A, where
the ottoman is stored in a recess under the seat of the chair
according to aspects of the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates example structural features of the chair
of FIG. 1A according to aspects of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates an example linkage system for the chair
of FIG. 1A according to aspects of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates an example seat bracket for the chair of
FIG. 1A according to aspects of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 5A illustrates a recline position for the chair of FIG.
1A according to aspects of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 5B illustrates a simplified diagram of an
ingress/egress position for the chair of FIG. 1A according to
aspects of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 6 illustrates a gliding mode for the ottoman of FIG. 1A
according to aspects of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 7 illustrates a nursing mode for the ottoman of FIG. 1A
according to aspects of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 8 illustrates example structural features of the
ottoman of FIG. 1A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0023] FIG. 9 illustrates an example technique for configuring the
ottoman of FIG. 1A to operate in a nursing mode according to
aspects of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 10 illustrates example structural features of the
ottoman of FIG. 1A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0025] FIG. 11 illustrates another example ottoman according to
aspects of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 12 illustrates another example ottoman according to
aspects of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 13 illustrates another example ottoman according to
aspects of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 14A illustrates another example ottoman according to
aspects of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 14B illustrates example structural features of the
ottoman of FIG. 14A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 14C illustrates example structural features of the
ottoman of FIG. 14A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 15A illustrates another example ottoman in gliding mode
according to aspects of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 15B illustrates the ottoman of FIG. 15A in nursing mode
according to aspects of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 16 illustrates example structural features of the
ottoman of FIG. 15A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0034] FIG. 17 illustrates example structural features of the
ottoman of FIG. 15A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0035] FIG. 18 illustrates example structural features of the
ottoman of FIG. 15A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0036] FIG. 19 illustrates example structural features of the
ottoman of FIG. 15A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0037] FIG. 20 illustrates example structural features of the
ottoman of FIG. 15A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0038] FIG. 21A illustrates example optional features for the chair
of FIG. 1A according to aspects of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 21B illustrates example optional features for the chair
of FIG. 1A according to aspects of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 22A illustrates an example lighting system for the
chair of FIG. 1A according to aspects of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 22B illustrates an example technique for operating
lighting system of FIG. 22A according to aspects of the present
invention.
[0042] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way
of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein.
It should be understood, however, that the invention is not
intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather,
the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention
as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a chair 100 and an ottoman 200
according to aspects of the present invention are illustrated. The
chair 100 includes a seat 102, right and left armrests 104a,b, a
seatback 106, and right and left base structures 110a,b. The
ottoman 200 includes a top structure 202, a body 204, and right and
left base structures 206a,b. In FIG. 1A, the ottoman 200 is
positioned relative to the chair 100 so that a person can use the
top structure 202 as a footrest while seated in the chair 100. In
FIG. 1B, the ottoman 200 is stored in a recess 108 under the seat
102 of the chair 100, when the ottoman 200 is not required for leg
support. The chair 100 is structurally configured to provide the
features of a glider rocker while accommodating storage of the
ottoman 200 in the recess 108.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 2, structural features of the chair 100
are illustrated. The chair 100 includes two base structures 110a,b
on right and left sides of the chair 100, respectively. The base
structures 110a,b allow the chair 100 to be stably positioned on a
floor surface and support an assembly 111 of the chair 100. The
assembly 111 includes a seat support 112, right and left armrest
supports 114a,b, and a seatback support 116. The seat support 112,
armrest supports 114a,b, and seatback support 116 provide the
internal structures (no cushion, upholstery, covering, etc.) for
the seat 102, armrest 104a,b, and the seatback 106, respectively.
The internal structures and other aspects of the chair 100 as well
as the ottoman 200 may be formed from any combination of wood,
metal, plastic, composite material, or any other material having
appropriate structural characteristics, e.g., strength, hardness,
durability, etc. Cushions, upholstery, coverings, and the like may
be applied to the internal structures according to any technique.
The structures of the chair 100 as well as the ottoman 200 may be
assembled according to any combination of fastening techniques,
including, but not limited to, the use of screws, nails, pegs,
rods, rivets, bolts, supporting brackets and plates, interlocking
elements, press-fit connections, adhesives, and the like.
[0045] The seat support 112, armrest supports 114a,b, and seatback
support 116 are assembled in a fixed configuration and move
together in gliding/rocking motion relative to the base structures
110a,b. Although the seat support 112, armrest supports 114a,b, and
seatback support 116 may move together relative to the base
structures 110a,b, it is contemplated that the configuration of the
seat support 112, armrest supports 114a,b, and seatback support 116
relative to each other may be adjusted and releasably fixed. For
example, the seatback 106 may be adjusted relative to the seat 102
and the armrest supports 114a,b for custom comfort.
[0046] As shown in FIG. 2, the base structures 110a,b are
transversely coupled by a cross-brace 110c for additional
stability. The cross-brace 110c is positioned so that sufficient
space is provided for the recess 108 and the ottoman 200 can be
stored in the recess 108. In alternative embodiments, the
cross-brace 110c is not employed and the base structures 110a,b
provide sufficient stability for chair 100.
[0047] A user can use his/her body to move the chair 100 forward
and backward in a gliding/rocking mode. To permit relative movement
between the base structures 110a,b and the frame assembly 111, the
seat support 112 is coupled to the base structures 110a,b by a
respective linkage system 120a,b. The linkage systems 120a,b allow
the frame assembly 111 to swing back and forth so that the chair
100 can provide a smooth gliding/rocking motion. The linkage
systems 120a,b are disposed in cavities 115a,b formed in each
respective armrest 104a,b of the chair 100. It is noted that the
armrest supports 114a,b are not directly coupled to the base
structures 110a,b, so that the seat support 112, the armrest
supports 114a,b, and the seatback support 116 can move in fixed
configuration relative to the base structures 110a,b. The cavities
115a,b formed by the armrests 104a,b accommodate the linkage
systems 120a,b while also allowing the armrests 120a,b to move with
the seat 102 and seatback 106 relative to the base structures
110a,b. By locating the linkage systems 120a,b in the cavities
115a,b, a space under the seat 102 is open to provide the recess
108 for receiving the ottoman 200. In addition, keeping the linkage
systems 120a,b hidden within the armrests 104a,b minimizes any risk
of injury from contact with their moving parts.
[0048] FIG. 3 illustrates selected structural features of the chair
100 more clearly by omitting some aspects of the frame assembly
111. As shown in FIG. 3, the linkage systems 120a,b include side
walls 121a,b that are coupled to, and extend upwardly from, the
respective base structures 110a,b. Upper bars 122a,b are disposed
across respective side walls 121a,b. Referring to the right linkage
system 120a shown more clearly in FIG. 3, a front linkage arm 123a
and a rear linkage arm 124a are pivotally coupled to the upper bar
122a and extend downwardly to be pivotally coupled to a seat
bracket 130 coupled to the seat support 112. The linkage arms 123a
and 124a are non-parallel and improve the quality of motion of the
frame assembly 111 by making the motion more linear. The left
linkage system 120b is configured in a manner similar to the right
linkage system 120a.
[0049] The seat bracket 130 coupled to the seat support 112 is
shown further in FIG. 4. The bracket 130 includes two transverse
bars 131a,b that extend along the bottom of the seat support 112.
The two transverse bars 131a,b extend downwardly from each side of
the seat support 112 and are coupled to a right lower bar 132a and
a left lower bar 132b. The right lower bar 132a is pivotably
coupled to the linkage arms 123a and 124a of the right linkage
system 120a. Correspondingly, the left lower bar 132b is pivotably
coupled to the linkage arms 123b and 124b of the left linkage
system 120b.
[0050] In addition to providing a rocking motion, movement of the
frame assembly 111 relative to the base structures 110a,b also
provides various seating positions. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, the
chair 100 provides a recline mode. During operation, when the user
pushes rearwardly against the seatback 106, the seat 102 and seat
bracket 130 move correspondingly with the seatback 130. The linkage
arms 123a,b and 124a,b pivot with the movement of the seat bracket
130, which is coupled to the linkage arms 123a,b and 124a,b. As the
linkage arms 123a,b and 124a,b pivot, the rear linkage arms 123a,b
effectively push the rear of the seat bracket 130 downwardly.
Meanwhile, the front linkage arms 123a,b effectively pull up the
front of the seat bracket 130. The combined action of the
non-parallel linkage arms 123a,b and 124a,b cause the frame
assembly 111 to tilt rearwardly and move into the recline position.
The user achieves the recline position simply by shifting his/her
weight to the rear without employing a supplemental recline
mechanism.
[0051] As further illustrated in FIG. 5A, a magnetic locking system
is employed to keep the chair 100 in the recline position. In the
magnetic locking system, magnetic elements 142a,b are attached to
respective front linkage arms 123a,b, and magnetic elements 144a,b
are attached to the seat bracket 130. The magnetic elements as
described herein may include a combination of magnets (of opposing
polarity) or a combination of magnets and materials, e.g., iron,
that are attracted to magnets. The magnetic elements 142a,b and
144a,b are located so that when the front linkage arms 123a,b pivot
into the recline position, corresponding magnetic elements 142a,b
and 144a,b engage each other. The attraction between the
corresponding magnetic elements 142a,b and 144a,b lock the chair
100 into the recline position by keeping the front linkage arms
123a,b in a releasably fixed position relative to the bracket 130
and thus, the frame assembly 111. The frame assembly 111 can move
relative to the base structures 110a,b only if the linkage arms
123a,b and 124a,b are allowed to pivot relative to the bracket 130.
To exit from the recline position, the user shifts his/her weight
forward and acts sufficiently against the attraction between the
magnetic elements 142a,b and 144a,b, causing the linkage arms
123a,b and 124a,b to pivot in the reverse direction.
[0052] In some embodiments, as generally shown in the simplified
diagram of FIG. 5B, the chair 100 also provides an ingress/egress
position that releasably locks the chair 100 into a position that
allows a user to enter and exit the chair 100 more easily. When the
user shifts his/her weight forward, the seat bracket 130 moves
forward with the seat 102, and the linkage arms 123a,b and 124a,b
pivot with the movement of the seat bracket 130. As the linkage
arms 123a,b and 124a,b pivot in this case, the rear linkage arms
123a,b effectively lift the rear of the seat bracket 130 upwardly.
Meanwhile, the front linkage arms 123a,b effectively push down the
front of the seat bracket 130. The combined action of the
non-parallel linkage arms 123a,b and 124a,b cause the front of the
frame assembly 111 to tilt downwardly. The resulting angle allows
the user to enter or exit the chair 100 more easily. The user
achieves the ingress/egress position simply by shifting his/her
weight forward without employing a supplemental mechanism. A lock
system similar to the magnetic locking system described above may
be employed to lock the chair 100 into the ingress/egress
position.
[0053] Alternative mechanisms may be employed to lock the chair 100
into various positions. For example, some embodiments may employ a
latch that releasably locks one or more of the linkage arms 123a,b
relative to the frame assembly 111. The latch may be released by an
easily accessible release handle. In another example, one or more
of the linkage arms 123a,b may include a locking pin that moves in
a slot along a locking arm and when the seat reaches the desired
position, a spring-loaded nut of the locking pin locks into a
locking ring positioned along the slot. The locking pin is released
when a cable attached to the locking arm is pulled by a release
handle and allows the spring to be compressed and the nut of the
locking pin to move from the locking ring. It is also noted that
when the ottoman 200 is positioned in the recess 108 of the chair
100 as shown in FIG. 1B, the ottoman 200 may block any motion of
the frame assembly 111 relative to the base structures 110a,b,
thereby blocking the chair from any gliding/rocking motion.
[0054] The chair 100 described previous is an example embodiment
illustrating various aspects of the present invention. It is
contemplated that the chair 100 may include additional and/or
alternative features. For example, as shown in FIGS. 21A and B, the
chair 100 is equipped with various optional features located on
various parts of the chair 100. In particular, the armrest 104a
includes a flip-out desk and lamp system 150 as well as a cup
holder 151. The armrest 104b includes a docking station 152 for
receiving a portable audio device, and correspondingly, a plurality
of speakers 153 are disposed in different locations of the chair
100 to provide an integrated audio system. Furthermore, the
seatback 106 includes a heated back massager 154. In addition, the
base structures 110a,b include light sources 155, e.g., LED's
approximately 2 inches above the floor surface, to provide path
lighting in front of the chair 100. The path lighting is
advantageous when the user is attending to a child in a dark room,
e.g., in the middle of the night. The path lighting, for example,
helps the user move through a dark room or operate an ottoman
positioned in front of the chair 100. In some embodiments, the
light sources 155 may include a cluster of red, green, blue (RGB)
LED's that can provide color changing effects, e.g., according to a
relaxing pattern. The armrest 104b also includes a control panel
156 for controlling features, such as the volume to the speakers
153, the massager 154, or the light sources 155. The electrically
powered features may draw power from batteries and/or a
conventional electrical outlet.
[0055] In some embodiments, the light sources 155 are manually
activated, e.g., via the control panel 156. Additionally or
alternatively, control of the light sources 155 may be automated.
For example, the light sources 155 may be turned on/off or
dimmed/brightened in response to a timing system and/or a sensor
system (e.g., pressure sensors, magnetic sensors, light sensors,
etc.). In one embodiment, the user may turn the light sources 155
on manually by operating an ON/OFF switch, and in response, the
light sources 155 provide lighting for a predetermined amount of
time, e.g., 2 minutes, until a timing system turns the light
sources off.
[0056] FIGS. 22A and B illustrate another embodiment for
controlling the light sources 155. As FIG. 22A illustrates, the
chair 100 also includes an ON/OFF switch 157 which may be provided
on the control panel 156, a control device 160, at least one
magnetic sensor 161, and at least one pressure sensor 162. The
control device 160 includes modules for controlling the light
sources 155, e.g., primary and secondary timers. The control device
160 may also include a battery for providing power to the light
sources 155. As FIG. 22B illustrates, when the user comes into
contact with the chair 100, a magnetic sensor 161 disposed on the
chair, e.g., at the linkage system 120b, detects motion by the
chair 100. If the room is sufficiently dark, a primary timer
activates the light sources 155 for a first predetermined amount of
time, e.g., 30 seconds. In some cases, other features such as the
audio system may be also activated. The light sources 155 may
slowly brighten until fully illuminated and/or may provide color
changing effects with RGB LED' s during the first predetermined
amount of time. The primary timer deactivates the light sources 155
after the first predetermined amount of time. The user may manually
control the light sources 155 so that they remain illuminated for a
desired period after the first predetermined amount of time. A
pressure sensor 162 disposed on the seat support 112 senses the
user sitting in the chair 100. Once the user gets up from the chair
100, a secondary timer activates the light sources 155 (if not
already active) for a second predetermined amount of time, e.g., 2
minutes. After the second predetermined amount of time, the light
sources 155 deactivate.
[0057] As described previously, cushions, upholstery, coverings,
and the like may be applied to the internal structures according to
any technique. The chair 100 may be outfitted in an unlimited
variety of upholstery configurations. The upholstery may be
removable slip covers to facilitate cleaning and/or to provide
changeable designs. In some embodiments, the chair 100 is not
completely upholstered and may be a hybrid wood and upholstered
chair. The chair 100 may also include a variety of cushions, such
as a seat cushion or elbow pads. The height, width, and position of
the cushions may vary. Furthermore, the cushions, such as elbow
pads, may be removed according to user preference. Indeed, it is
contemplated that the chair 100 may be shipped as any combination
of sub-assemblies or modules that require final assembly by the
consumer, including the application of separate cushions,
upholstery, coverings, and the like.
[0058] Referring to FIGS. 6-11, structural features of the ottoman
200 are illustrated. The ottoman 200 provides two operating modes:
a gliding mode and a nursing mode. FIG. 6 illustrates the ottoman
200 in the gliding mode. In the gliding mode, the top structure 202
and the body 204 move together relative to base structures 206a,b
in a backward and forward direction. When used with the chair 100,
the ottoman 200 provides a greater range of gliding movement for
the user. The body 204 is coupled to the base structures 206a,b
with linkage systems 210a,b on each side. FIG. 8 illustrates
aspects of the right base structure 206a and the right linkage
system 210a, which are disposed in a cavity 205a defined by the
body 204. The right linkage system 210a includes a side wall 213a
that extends upwardly from base structure 206a which is positioned
on a floor surface. The linkage system 210a includes an upper bar
211a that is positioned along the top of the side wall 213a. A pair
of non-parallel linkage arms 213a and 214a are pivotally coupled to
the upper bar 211a and extend downwardly where they are pivotally
coupled to a wall 216a of the body 204. The left linkage system
210b on the opposite side of the ottoman 200 is configured in a
manner similar to the right linkage system 210a. In the gliding
mode, the linkage arms 212a,b and 214a,b swing to allow the body
204 (and the top structure 202) to glide relative to the base
structures 206a,b. The top surface 202a of the top structure 202
provides a substantially horizontal footrest.
[0059] FIG. 7 illustrates the ottoman 200 in the nursing mode. In
the nursing mode, the top structure 202 is moved relative to the
body 204 to provide an angled footrest. Advantageously, the angled
footrest provides more comfortable and stable support for a user
who is holding or nursing an infant while seated in the chair 100.
It is understood, however, that the ottoman 200 may have more
general uses when it is in the nursing mode. FIG. 9 illustrates an
example technique for configuring the ottoman 200 from the gliding
mode shown in FIG. 6 to the nursing mode shown in FIG. 7. In step
A, the user, e.g., with a foot, pushes upward against a bottom
surface 202b of the top structure 202 at a first end 202c. The
first end 202c of the top structure 202 includes an indentation 221
on the bottom surface 202b to help the user engage the bottom
surface 202b with his/her foot.
[0060] FIGS. 8-10 collectively illustrate a guide system that
guides movement of the top structure 202 relative to the body 204,
from the gliding mode to the nursing mode. In particular, the top
structure 202 includes pins 222a,b on respective sides of the top
structure 202, proximate to the first end 202c. The pins 222a,b
extend respectively from the top structure 202 into curved tracks
223a,b disposed in the body 204. The top structure 202 also
includes pins 224a,b on respective sides of the top structure 202,
proximate to a second end 202d. The pins 224a,b extend respectively
from the top structure 202 into straighter tracks 225a,b disposed
in the body 204. The curved tracks 223a,b guide movement of
corresponding pins 222a,b proximate to the first end 202c, and the
straighter tracks 225a,b guide movement of corresponding pins
224a,b proximate to the second end 202d.
[0061] Generally, the combined movement of the pins 222a,b and
224a,b along the tracks 223a,b and 225a,b causes the top structure
202 to move into an angled position relative to the body 204.
Pushing upward on the first end 202b of the top structure 202 in
step A causes the top structure 202 to pivot upward about the pins
224a,b proximate to the second end 202d. The pins 222a,b proximate
to the first end 202c move upwardly along the corresponding curved
tracks 223a,b.
[0062] In step B, the user pulls the top structure 202 back, as
shown in FIG. 9. Pulling back on the top structure 202 causes the
top structure 202 to move horizontally. The pins 222a,b move back
along the corresponding curved tracks 223a,b, and the pins 224a,b
move back along the corresponding straight tracks 225a,b until the
straight tracks 225a,b end and the pins 224a,b can no longer move.
At this point, the top structure 202 pivots about the pins 224a,b
and the pins 222a,b move downward along the corresponding curved
tracks 223a,b.
[0063] In step C, the user allows the first end 202c to lower until
the pins 222a,b reach the bottom of the corresponding curved tracks
223a,b. Here, the pins 222a,b proximate to the first end 202c are
positioned a distance below the pins 224a,b proximate to the second
end 202d and thus the top structure 202 extending between the pins
222a,b and 224a,b is angled relative to the horizontal.
[0064] As shown in FIG. 10, during the nursing mode, the top
structure 202 is in contact with a linkage arm stabilizer bar 226
that extends transversely between the linkage arms 212a,b. The top
structure 202 prevents any movement by stabilizer bar 226 and thus
the linkage arms 212a,b. As such, there is no gliding motion by the
ottoman 200 when it is in the nursing mode. Alternatively, one or
more of the pins 222a,b proximate to the first end 202c may be
moved directly against one of the linkage arms 212a,b so that the
linkage arms 212a,b and 214a,b cannot swing.
[0065] FIG. 11 illustrates another ottoman 300 which may be
employed, for example, with the chair 100. The ottoman 300 includes
a top structure 302 and a body 304. The top structure 302 moves
relative to the base 304 to provide two operating modes: a gliding
mode and a nursing mode. The top structure 302 is coupled to the
base 304 with linkage systems 310a,b on respective sides of the
ottoman 300. As shown in FIG. 11, each linkage system 310a,b
includes a respective pair of non-parallel linkage arms 312a,b and
314a,b that are pivotally coupled to each of the top structure 302
and the base 304. In the gliding mode, the linkage arms 312a,b and
314a,b of the linkage systems 310a,b swing to allow the top
structure 302 to glide horizontally relative to the base 304.
[0066] To configure the ottoman 300 from the gliding mode to the
nursing mode, the user, e.g., with a foot, pushes against the top
structure 302 until a magnetic element 322 on one of the linkage
arms, e.g., linkage arm 314b, moves into contact with a
corresponding magnetic element 324 on the base 304. A magnetic
locking system for the ottoman 300 includes one or more magnetic
elements 322 disposed on the top structure 302 and one or more
magnetic elements 324 disposed on the base 304. The magnetic
elements 322 and 324 attractively engage each other to lock the top
structure 302 against the base 304 to prevent relative motion
between the top structure 302 and the base 304. With the top
structure 302 locked into place by the magnetic locking system 320,
an angled footrest 326 fixed to the base 304 below the top
structure 302 is uncovered. The angled footrest 326 provides the
nursing mode. The top structure 302 can be released from the base
304 by applying a force to the top structure 302 to overcome the
magnetic locking system and return the ottoman 300 to the first
operating mode.
[0067] FIG. 12 illustrates yet another ottoman 400 which may be
employed, for example, with the chair 100. The ottoman 400 includes
a top structure 402 and a base 404. Like the ottoman 300, the top
structure 402 moves relative to the base 404 to provide two
operating modes: a gliding mode and a nursing mode. The top
structure 402 is coupled to the base 404 with a linkage system 410
on each side. Each linkage system 410 is configured in a manner
similar to the linkage systems 310a,b described above. In
particular, each linkage system 410 includes a pair of non-parallel
linkage arms that are pivotally coupled to each of the top
structure 402 and the base 404. In the gliding mode, the linkage
arms of each linkage system 410 swing to allow the top structure
402 to glide horizontally relative to the base 404.
[0068] To achieve the nursing mode, the user (e.g., with a foot)
pushes against the top structure 402 until an angled footrest 426
fixed to the base 404 is uncovered. The top structure 402 is sized
so that the angled footrest 426 is uncovered by allowing the top
structure 402 to glide to one side without locking the top
structure 402 into place, e.g., without the magnetic locking system
320 described above. A larger top structure 402 would otherwise
require a locking mechanism to move the top structure 402
completely out of the way against the linkage systems 410.
[0069] The ottoman 400 also includes a storage drawer 430. As shown
in FIG. 12, the storage drawer 430 may slide through a passageway
that extends through the body 404, so that the storage drawer 430
is accessible from two opposing sides of the ottoman 400.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 13, another ottoman 500 is illustrated.
Although the ottoman 500 may be similar to the other embodiments
described previously, the ottoman 500 also includes a heel arch
540. The heel arch 540 is an indentation along the top surface 502a
of the top structure 502 that allows a user seated in the chair 100
to engage and position the ottoman 500 with his/her feet. In
particular, the person can move the ottoman into or out of the
recess 108 under the chair 100. The chair 100 may optionally
include a handle 550, as shown in FIG. 13, which operates a
cantilever bar 552 which pushes the ottoman 500 a sufficient
distance outward to allow the user to engage the ottoman 500 using
the heel arch 540.
[0071] Referring to FIGS. 14A-C, yet another ottoman 600 is
illustrated. The ottoman 600 includes a top structure 602 and a
base 604. The top structure 602 moves relative to the base 404 to
provide a gliding mode. The top structure 602 is coupled to the
base 604 with a linkage system 610 on each side. Each linkage
system 610 is configured in a manner similar to the linkage systems
described above. In particular, each linkage system 610 includes a
pair of non-parallel linkage arms that are pivotally coupled to
each of the top structure 602 and the base 604. In the gliding
mode, the linkage arms of each linkage system 610 swing to allow
the top structure 602 to glide horizontally relative to the base
604.
[0072] The top structure 602 of the ottoman 600 acts as a removable
lid that opens to an interior storage area 630. As shown in FIG.
14C, the top structure 602 can be stably positioned on the floor
surface and against the base 604 to provide an angled, e.g.,
approximately 45-degree, surface that provides a nursing mode for
the ottoman 600. A bracket 620 may be employed to position the top
structure 602 stably against the base 604. The cut-away view of
FIG. 14C illustrates an embodiment of the bracket 620, which is
coupled to the bottom surface of the top structure 602 and engages
a wall of the base 604 to position the top structure 602 at a
particular angle. The bracket 620 prevents the top structure 602
from sliding down the side of the base 604.
[0073] FIGS. 15-20 illustrate features of another ottoman 700 that
may be employed, for example, with the chair 100. FIG. 15A
illustrates the ottoman 700 in gliding mode, while FIG. 15B
illustrates the ottoman 700 in nursing mode. As shown in FIG. 16,
the ottoman 700 has a central support structure 710, linkage
systems 720, and a top structure 730. The top structure 730 and the
central support structure 710 are pivotably coupled to the linkage
systems 720 via pivoting hardware.
[0074] In the gliding mode, the linkage systems 720 allow the top
structure 730 to move relative to the central support structure
710, i.e., move substantially laterally in directions A or B as
shown in FIG. 16. As further illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17, the
top structure 730 includes a top platform 731, top supports 732,
side bars 733, and bottom supports 734. The top platform 731 may be
a padded platform. The padded platform, for example, may be wood
covered with padding and a leather, fabric, or synthetic cover. The
top platform 731, for example, may have a platform area of about 20
inches by about 16 inches. Of course, the dimensions of the
ottomans described herein and their structural elements may vary
depending on a number of factors, for example, size of the user,
market preferences, and/or dimensions of the corresponding chair,
e.g., the chair 100.
[0075] The top supports 732 may be elongated structural supports
rigidly coupled to the top platform 731. For example, the top
supports 732 may be wooden bars having a rectangular cross-section
of similar or slightly shorter length than the corresponding
dimension of the top platform 731. Each of the top supports 732,
for example, may be about 13 to 15 inches long. The bottom supports
734 may be elongated wooden bars of similar length to the top
supports 732, having a substantially rectangular cross-section. The
bottom supports 734 are pivotably coupled to linkage systems
720.
[0076] The top of each top support 732 is coupled to the bottom of
the top platform 731. The bottom of each of the top supports 732 is
coupled to the bottom supports 734 via the side bars 733. The side
bars 733, for example, may be wooden rods that connect the top
supports 732 to the bottom supports 734 in a substantially parallel
arrangement. Each of the top supports 732 and the bottom supports
734 may have bores that receive the side bars 733. Alternative
techniques for coupling the side bars 733 to the top support 732
and to the bottom support 734 are also contemplated, however.
[0077] The central support structure 710 includes a pair of base
structures 711 for locating the ottoman 700 on a floor surface and
providing a steady base for the ottoman 700. Each of the base
structures 711 may be an elongated wooden bar having a
substantially rectangular cross section. The base structures 711
are transversely coupled in parallel by rods 712. The central
support structure 710 further includes center foot bars 713 coupled
to, and extending upwardly from, the base structures 711. The
center foot bars 713 are also coupled to top foot supports 714 of
the central support structure 710. The top foot supports 714 may
also be transversely coupled in parallel by the rods 712. The top
foot supports 714 are pivotably coupled to the linkage systems
720.
[0078] In addition to providing the gliding mode, the relative
arrangement of the central support structure 710, the linkage
systems 720, and the top structure 730 also provides a nursing
mode. In the nursing mode, the linkage systems 720 allow the top
platform 731 to pivot relative to the central support structure 710
and provide an angled footrest. The angle of the footrest may be
any angle, for example, between 30-60 degrees. The top portion 730
of the ottoman 700 acts the footrest in both gliding and nursing
modes.
[0079] To lock the ottoman 700 in the nursing mode, the ottoman 700
includes a locking mechanism 740 as illustrated in FIG. 18. For
example, the locking mechanism 740 includes a pin (not shown), a
pair of pin supports 742, and a lever 743. Each of the pin supports
742 is coupled to the bottom surface of top platform 731. The pin
supports 742 are arranged in parallel such that a pin may extend
between pin supports 742.
[0080] Distal ends of a pin may be inserted in bores formed in each
of the pin supports 742 and a central portion of the pin may be
inserted through a bore extending fully through the lever 743. FIG.
19 illustrates an exemplary lever 743. The lever 743 may be an
elongated bar having a substantially rectangular cross-section. A
first end of the lever 743 may have a bore 751 passing configured
to receive the pin such that the lever 743 may pivot about a
bearing formed by the pin. The lever 743 may pivot freely on the
pin such that gravity allows the lever 743 to hang and swing freely
as the top structure 730 moves. An engaging structure 752 of the
lever 743 may be configured to engage with one of the rods 712 to
lock the top structure 730 in the nursing mode.
[0081] A user may configure the ottoman 700 from the gliding mode
shown in FIG. 15A to the nursing mode shown in FIG. 15B by applying
a force to the top of the top platform 731 to draw the top
structure 730 up and back. Such action may be achieved by acting on
the top of the top platform 731 with one foot or both feet. Because
the lever 743 pivots freely on the pin, the lever 743 may hang due
to gravity between the rods 712. As the user pulls the top
structure 730, a surface of the lever 743 may slide along a surface
of a rod 712. Once the user draws the top structure 730 a certain
distance, the engaging structure 752 of the lever 743 engages the
rod 712. By engaging the rod 712, the lever 743 locks the top
structure 730 in position, e.g., lock the height and tilt/angle of
the top structure 730, thus providing a stable angled footrest for
the user. According to an aspect of embodiments, a nursing mode for
an embodiment may be easily and intuitively achieved by configuring
the ottoman with one's foot while already seated in a chair. In
particular, a user may safely and easily transform the nursing
gliding ottoman from a gliding mode to a nursing mode while seated
in the chair 100 and holding an infant.
[0082] Conversely, the user may configure the ottoman 700 from the
nursing mode shown in FIG. 15B to the gliding mode shown in FIG.
15A. In particular, the user may manually disengage the lever 743
from the rod 712 and allow the top structure 730 to move into the
horizontal position for the gliding mode. By requiring a user to
disengage manually the lever 743 from the rod 712, the ottoman 100
remains locked in the nursing mode and will not become accidentally
unlocked. Alternatively, the user may place one or both of his/her
feet under the top platform 731 and may press upward or forward on
the lever 743 to disengage the engaging structure 752 of the lever
743 from the rod 712. Gravity then acts on the top structure 730 to
move the ottoman 700 into the gliding mode.
[0083] While the embodiment may easily be configured between the
gliding mode and the nursing mode by disengaging the lever 743 from
the rod 712, alternative embodiments may include a safety
mechanism, for example, a release control, that requires the user
to move from the chair to operate the ottoman 700. Such a safety
mechanism may, for example, prevent a user from inadvertently
placing his/her foot underneath the top platform 731 in the nursing
mode and disengaging the lever 743 from the rod 712. Alternative
embodiments may include a plurality of locking mechanisms
configured to lock the top structure 730 in a position relative to
the bottom structure 710.
[0084] FIG. 20 illustrates an alternative exemplary locking
mechanism 770 for the ottoman 700. Locking mechanism 770 includes a
spring 771 configured to urge a pin 772 into a lock opening 773. A
handle 774 may be fixed to an end of the pin 772 to allow a user to
urge the pin 772 against the force of spring 771 to disengage
locking mechanism 770.
[0085] While the present invention has been described in connection
with a number of exemplary embodiments, and implementations, the
present inventions are not so limited, but rather cover various
modifications, and equivalent arrangements, which fall within the
purview of prospective claims. For example, although some aspects
of the present invention may be described with reference to
separate elements, it is understood that some elements may be
combined to provide an integrated structure while satisfying the
functions of the elements. In addition, although aspects of the
present invention may be described in separate embodiments, it is
contemplated that the features from more than one embodiment
described herein may be combined into a single embodiment.
Furthermore, it is also understood that aspects of the present
invention are not limited to the particular shapes and dimensions
described or illustrated in this present application.
* * * * *