U.S. patent application number 14/529999 was filed with the patent office on 2015-05-07 for computing device tray for folding attachment to a chair.
The applicant listed for this patent is Mustafa A. Ergun. Invention is credited to Mustafa A. Ergun.
Application Number | 20150123431 14/529999 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51904276 |
Filed Date | 2015-05-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150123431 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ergun; Mustafa A. |
May 7, 2015 |
COMPUTING DEVICE TRAY FOR FOLDING ATTACHMENT TO A CHAIR
Abstract
A platform assembly mountable on a back rest of the chair with a
mounting feature and including a platform rotatable connected to a
frame member engaged to the back rest of the chair by the mounting
feature. The frame member can extend above the mounting feature to
position the platform at a useful height, while extending below the
mounting feature to engage the back rest to stabilize the platform.
The platform can be rotated into a deployed position such that the
platform extends outward from the rear of the chair to provide a
writing surface or a support surface for an electronic device.
Inventors: |
Ergun; Mustafa A.;
(Plymouth, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ergun; Mustafa A. |
Plymouth |
MN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51904276 |
Appl. No.: |
14/529999 |
Filed: |
October 31, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61898897 |
Nov 1, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
297/173 ;
108/42 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 7/70 20130101; A47B
83/00 20130101; A47C 7/705 20180801 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/173 ;
108/42 |
International
Class: |
A47C 7/70 20060101
A47C007/70; A47C 7/00 20060101 A47C007/00; A47C 7/40 20060101
A47C007/40; A47B 83/02 20060101 A47B083/02 |
Claims
1. A platform assembly mountable on a chair having a back rest,
comprising: a frame element; a mounting feature operably engaged to
the frame element, the mounting feature engagable to the back rest
to position the frame element adjacent the back rest; and a
platform having at least one support hinge rotatably connected to
the frame element such that the platform is rotatable relative to
the frame element between at least a deployed position and a
retracted position, wherein the platform extends transversely from
the frame element in the deployed position and the platform is
generally aligned with the frame element in the retracted position;
wherein the mounting feature is operably engaged to the frame
element such that a portion of the frame element extends above the
mounting feature such that the platform is positioned above the
frame element when the platform is positioned in the deployed
position.
2. The platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the mounting feature
further comprises: a guide bracket defining a slot for slidably
receiving the frame element; wherein the frame element is slidable
within the slot to move the platform vertically.
3. The platform assembly of claim 2, wherein the mounting feature
further comprises: a locking element releasably engagable to the
frame element to prevent the frame element from sliding within the
track to fix the vertical position of the platform.
4. The platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the platform further
includes a support bracket for receiving the support hinge and
mountable to a bottom surface of the platform; wherein support
bracket elevates the platform above the mounting feature when the
platform is positioned in the deployed position.
5. The platform assembly of claim 4, wherein the support bracket is
positioned on the bottom surface of the platform such that a
portion of the platform extends over the back rest when the
platform is positioned the deployed position.
6. The platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame element
further comprises a support pad for engaging the back rest.
7. The platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the platform further
comprises: a support member; and a secondary hinge rotatably
connecting the support member to the platform; wherein the support
member is rotatable to extend transversely from the platform.
8. The platform assembly of claim 7, wherein the support member is
positioned to engage the back rest to prevent rotation of the
platform from the deployed position.
9. The platform assembly of claim 8, wherein the support member
further includes a support pad positioned to engage the back rest
when the platform is rotated into the deployed position.
10. The platform assembly of claim 7, wherein the support member is
engagable to the frame member to prevent rotation of the platform
from the deployed position.
11. A chair, comprising: a leg assembly; a seat positioned on the
leg assembly; a back rest mounted on the leg assembly offset from
the seat and further including: a guide rail; a platform having at
least one support hinge rotatably connected to the guide rail such
that the platform is rotatable relative to the guide rail between
at least a deployed position and a retracted position, wherein the
platform extends transversely from the guide rail in the deployed
position and the platform is generally aligned with the guide rail
in the retracted position.
12. The chair in claim 11, wherein the guide rail defines a track
for slidably receiving the support hinge such that the support
hinge is slidable between at least an elevated position and a
lowered position.
13. The chair in claim 12, wherein the support hinge is positioned
in the lowered position when the platform is rotated into the
retracted position and positioned in the elevated position when the
platform is rotated into the deployed position.
14. The chair in claim 11, wherein the support hinge is positioned
at an end of the guide rail such that the platform can be rotated
into at least one substantially horizontal deployed position.
15. The chair in claim 14, wherein the platform is positioned over
the seat when rotated into the substantially horizontal deployed
position.
16. The chair in claim 11, wherein the back rest defines a recess
for receiving the platform when the platform is rotated into the
retracted position.
17. A chair, comprising: a leg assembly; a seat positioned on the
leg assembly; a rear support assembly mounted on the leg assembly
offset from the seat and further including: a pair of frame
members; a platform having at least one support hinge rotatably
connected to each frame member such that the platform is rotatable
relative to the guide rail between at least a deployed position and
a retracted position, wherein the platform extends transversely
from the frame members in the deployed position and the platform is
generally aligned with the frame members in the retracted position;
wherein the frame members and platform cooperate to define a back
rest when the platform is positioned in the deployed position.
18. The chair in claim 17, wherein at least one of the frame member
from the pair of frame members includes at least one support
bracket engagable to the platform when the platform is rotated into
the deployed position to maintain the platform in the deployed
position.
19. The chair in claim 17, wherein each support hinge is positioned
on the platform such that portion of the platform is positioned
over the seat when the platform is rotated into the deployed
position.
20. The chair of claim 17, wherein the platform further comprises:
a support member; and a secondary hinge rotatably connecting the
support member to the platform; wherein the support member is
rotatable to extend transversely from the platform to releasably
engage at least one of the frame members.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/898,897, titled
"COMPUTING DEVICE TRAY FOR FOLDING ATTACHMENT TO A CHAIR," to
Mustafa A. Ergun and filed on Nov. 1, 2013 (Attorney Docket No.
5983.001PRV), which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This document pertains generally, but not by way of
limitation, to deployable platforms attachable to or integrated
with a chair to provide a writing surface or a support surface for
electronic devices.
BACKGROUND
[0003] In many work settings or other meeting settings, meetings
are often conducted in conference rooms having a single large table
with chairs arranged the table to allow seating of a group of
people around the table. The table is typically positioned at a
height appropriate for people seated at the table to use the table
as a writing surface or a support surface for a personal computer,
a table computer, phone or other electronic device. This
arrangement allows groups of seated people to meet and work around
the table. However, sitting for extended periods of time is often
uncomfortable, promotes adverse health effects or aggravates
existing health conditions. As a result, people seated at tables
for extended periods of time often stand to take breaks or
alleviate physical discomfort from being seated. While standing can
generally be more comfortable, the relatively low height of the
table prevents users from using the table while standing without
bending over. The bent over posture can similarly be physically
tiring or uncomfortable, which often requires people to alternate
between standing and sitting.
[0004] Certain chairs for use in conference rooms having integrated
platforms that can be deployed to provide a surface for writing or
electronic devices that is elevated relative to the table. The
integrated platforms are typically received within the back rest
and folded down to provide a substantially horizontal surface
protruding from the back rest. Similarly, certain platforms have
attachment mechanisms for attaching the platform to the back rest
such that the platform extends from the back rest. In these
configurations, the platforms rely on the balance of the chair to
provide a stable platform surface when a downward force is applied
to the platform surface. While chairs can ordinarily remain upright
without external structural support, chairs are designed to receive
the majority of the downward force applied to the chair on a seat
portion centered on the chair legs. The centered seat portion and
downforce operate to improve the stability of the chair. In
contrast, the back rest is typically configured to provide a
generally horizontal force to support a person seated on the seat
portion. Accordingly, the back rest is positioned offset from the
central vertical axis of the chair. However, a downward force
applied to the integrated platform or attached platform protruding
from the offset back rest or the weight of the platform itself can
unbalance the chair. As a result, the height of the platforms is
frequently positioned at a lower than optimal height to avoid
unbalancing the chair. The lowered height can require a user to
bend further than what is comfortable to use the platform as a
writing surface or operate an electronic device on the
platform.
OVERVIEW
[0005] The present inventors have recognized, among other things,
that a problem to be solved can include providing a stable platform
surface at an elevated height comfortably used by a standing
person. In an example, the present subject matter can provide a
solution to this problem, such as by a platform assembly mountable
on a back rest of the chair with a mounting feature. The platform
assembly can include a platform rotatable connected to a frame
member engagable to the back rest of the chair by the mounting
feature. The frame member can extend above the mounting feature to
position the platform at a useful height, while extending below the
mounting feature to engage the back rest to stabilize the
platform.
[0006] In an example, the mounting feature can include a guide
bracket defining a slot for slidably receiving the frame member.
The frame member can be slid within the slot to adjust the vertical
position of the platform. The slot can be oriented to maintain
contact between the frame member and the back rest as the frame
member is moved vertically to prevent rotation of the platform
assembly relative to the back rest. The frame member can include a
support pad to prevent marring of the back rest when the frame
member is engaged to the back rest.
[0007] A platform assembly mountable on a chair having a back rest,
according to an example, can include a frame element, a mounting
feature and a platform. The mounting feature can be engaged to
frame element. The mounting feature can be engaged to the back rest
to position the frame element adjacent the back rest. The platform
can have at least one support hinge rotatable connected to the
frame element such that the platform is rotatable relative to the
frame element between at least a deployed position and a retracted
position. In the deployed position, the platform can extend
transversely from the frame element. In the retracted position, the
platform can be generally aligned with the frame element. The
mounting feature can be positioned on the frame element such that a
portion of the frame element extends above the mounting feature
such that the platform is positioned above the frame element when
the platform is positioned in the deployed position.
[0008] A chair, according to an example, can include a leg
assembly, a seat and a back rest. The seat can positioned on the
leg assembly and the back rest can be mounted on the offset from
the seat. The back rest can further include a guide rail and a
platform. The platform can include at least one support hinge
rotatable connected to the guide rail such that the platform is
rotatable relative to the guide rail between at least a deployed
position and a retracted position. In the deployed position, the
platform extends transversely from the guide rail. In the retracted
position, the platform is generally aligned with the guide
rail.
[0009] A chair, according to an example, can include a leg
assembly, a seat and a rear support assembly. The seat can be
positioned on the leg assembly and the rear support assembly
mounted on the leg assembly offset from the seat. The rear support
can further include a pair of frame members and a platform. The
platform can have at least one support hinge rotatable connected to
each frame member such that the platform is rotatable relative to
the guide rail between at least a deployed position and a retracted
position. In the deployed position, the platform extends
transversely from the frame members. In the retracted position, the
platform is generally aligned with the frame members in the
retracted position. The frame members and platform can cooperate to
define a back rest when the platform is positioned in the deployed
position.
[0010] This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject
matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to
provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the present
subject matter. The detailed description is included to provide
further information about the present patent application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale,
like numerals may describe similar components in different views.
Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent
different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate
generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various
embodiments discussed in the present document.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a side view of a platform assembly mountable on a
back rest of a chair according to an example of the present
disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a side view of the platform assembly depicted in
FIG. 2 having a platform positioned in a deployed position.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a side view of a platform assembly mountable on a
back rest of a chair having a platform positioned in a deployed
position such that the platform extends over a seat of the chair,
according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a side view of a platform assembly mountable on a
back rest of a chair having a platform positioned in a deployed
position and a support member engaging a frame member to maintain
the platform in the deployed position, according to an example of
the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a side view of a platform assembly mountable on a
back rest of a chair having a platform positioned in a deployed
position and a support member engaging the back rest to maintain
the platform in the deployed position, according to an example of
the present disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a side view of a platform assembly having mounting
features for mounting the platform assembly on a back rest of a
chair, the mounting features slidably coupled to a frame member for
vertical adjustment of a platform according to an example of the
present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a side view of a platform assembly depicted in
FIG. 6, wherein the platform is positioned in a deployed position,
according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a side view of a platform assembly depicted in
FIG. 6, wherein the platform is positioned in an elevated, deployed
position, according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a side view of a chair having a back rest having
an integrated platform that can be deployed to provide a writing or
support surface according to an example of the present
disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a side view of the chair depicted in FIG. 9,
wherein the platform is deployed to provide a writing or support
surface according to an example.
[0022] FIG. 11 is a side view of a chair having a back rest having
an integrated platform that can be deployed to extend over a seat
of the chair provide a writing or support surface according to an
example of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 12 is a side view of a chair having a back rest having
an integrated platform that can be deployed to provide a writing or
support surface and having a support member to support the platform
according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 13 is a side view of a chair having a back rest having
an integrated platform that can be deployed to extend over a seat
of the chair to provide a writing or support surface and having a
support member to support the platform according to an example of
the present disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of a chair having a back
rest having an integrated platform that can be deployed to provide
a writing or support surface according to an example of the present
disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 15 is a side view of the chair depicted in FIG. 14.
[0027] FIG. 16 is a side view of the chair depicted in FIG. 14
wherein the platform is deployed to provide a writing or support
surface according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 17 is a side view of a chair having an integrated
platform that can be deployed to provide a writing or support
surface and having a support member to maintain the platform in the
deployed position according to an example of the present
disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 18 is a side view of a chair having an integrated
platform that can be deployed to provide a writing or support
surface and having a support member engagable to a forward portion
of the platform to maintain the platform in the deployed position
according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 19 is a side view of a chair having an integrated
platform that can be deployed to provide a writing or support
surface and having a support member engagable to a forward portion
of the platform to maintain the platform in the deployed position,
wherein the platform is substantially positioned over a seat of the
chair according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 20 is a chair having a back rest having an integrated
platform that can be deployed to provide a writing or support
surface according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 21 is a side view of the chair depicted in FIG. 20,
wherein the platform is rotated toward a seat of the chair to
position the platform in the deployed position.
[0033] FIG. 22 is a chair having a back rest having an integrated
platform that can be deployed to provide a writing or support
surface according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 23 is a side view of the chair depicted in FIG. 20,
wherein the platform is rotated way from a seat of the chair to
position the platform in the deployed position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0035] As generally depicted in FIGS. 1-5, a platform assembly 20,
according to an example, can include a platform 22 mountable on a
back rest of a chair such that the platform 22 can be extended from
the back rest to provide a writing surface or a support surface for
an electronic device. The platform assembly 20 can include the
platform 22, a support hinge 24, at least one frame member 26 and
at least one mounting feature 28 for mounting the platform 22 on
the back rest. The frame member 26 can extend above the mounting
feature 28 to position the platform 22 above the mounting feature
28 when the platform 22 is positioned to provide a writing surface
or a support surface, wherein the frame member 26 stabilizes the
elevated platform 22 to allow the platform 22 to be positioned
vertically higher.
[0036] As depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, the support hinge 24 can
rotatably connect the platform 22 to the frame member 26 such that
the platform 22 is rotatable relative to the frame member 26
between a retracted position and a deployed position. As
illustrated in FIG. 1, in the retracted position, the platform 22
can be rotated to generally align with the frame member 26. In at
least one example, the platform assembly 20 can include at least
two frame members 26 each rotatably connected to an edge of the
platform 22 by a corresponding support hinge 24 such that the
platform 22 can be rotated between the frame members 26 when
rotated into the retracted position. As depicted in FIG. 2, in the
deployed position, the platform 22 can be rotated to extend
transversely from the frame member 26. In at least one example, the
platform 22 can be rotated into a substantially horizontal
orientation when rotated into the deployed position to provide a
surface for writing or receiving an electronic device.
[0037] As depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, in an example, the mounting
feature 28 can be mounted to the back rest of the chair such that
the platform 22 extends outward from the back rest of the chair
when positioned in the deployed position and substantially parallel
to the back rest when positioned in the retracted position. In at
least one example, the mounting feature 28 can comprise releasable
features for gripping the back rest including, but not limited to a
fixed hook (as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2), a hook adjustable to
the thickness of the back rest, an adjustable claw, at least one
strap and combinations thereof. In at least one example, the
mounting feature 28 can comprise features for engaging features
integrated into the back rest of the chair including, but not
limited to mounting features 28 comprising posts insertable into
corresponding receptacles integrated into the back rest.
[0038] In at least one example, the mounting feature 28 can be
configured to mount the back rest such that the platform 22 extends
rearward from the back rest as depicted in FIG. 2. In at least one
example, the mounting feature 28 can be configured to mount the
back rest such that the platform 22 extends forward from the back
rest over the seat rest as depicted in FIG. 3. In at least one
example, the mounting feature 28 can be configured to allow the
platform 22 to be swapped between the forward mounted position and
the rear mounted position.
[0039] As depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, in an example, the platform 22
can define a top surface 38 and a bottom surface 40. The top
surface 38 can provide a planar writing surface or support surface
for receiving an electronic device when the platform 22 is rotated
into the deployed position as depicted in FIG. 2. In an example,
the top surface 38 can include integrated features including, but
not limited to, non-slip coatings, mouse pad, recesses, or elevated
features for receiving an electronic device and combinations
thereof. In certain examples, the top surface can include a
resilient, durable, or hard material, such as can be configured for
use as a work surface or as a electronic device support
surface.
[0040] As depicted in FIG. 2, in at least one example, the mounting
feature 28 can be configured to mount on the back rest such that
the platform 22 extends rearward from the chair. As depicted in
FIG. 3, in at least one example, the mounting feature 28 can be
configured to mount on the back rest such that the platform 22
extends forward from the back rest of the chair such that the
platform 22 is positioned over a seat rest of the chair.
[0041] As depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, in an example, the frame
member 26 can be mounted to the mounting feature 28 such that the
frame member 26 engages the back rest to prevent rotation of the
platform assembly 20 about the mounting feature 28. The frame
member 26 can also cooperate with the mounting feature 28 to
translate a downward force applied to the platform 22 to a
horizontal force supported by the back rest. In at least one
example, the frame member 26 can include a support pad 30
positioned to engage the back rest. The support pad 30 can comprise
a rubber, foam, elastomer, plastic or other material for releasably
engaging the back rest without damaging the material of the back
rest.
[0042] As depicted in FIG. 4, in an example, the platform 22 can
further include at least one support member 32 and a corresponding
secondary hinge 34. The secondary hinge 34 can rotatably connect
the support member 32 to the platform 22 such that the support
member 32 can be rotated relative to the platform 22 between a
support position and a retracted position. In the support position,
the support member 32 extends transversely from the platform 22 to
engage the frame member 26 or the back rest of the chair to
maintain the platform 22 in the deployed position, as illustrated
in FIG. 4. In an example, the support member 32 can be releasably
engaged to the frame member 26 to maintain the platform 22 in the
desired rotational position. The support member 32 and frame member
26 can be releasably secured with a hook and pin configuration,
removable pin and hook or opening configuration, a spring loaded
pin and detent configuration or other releasable engagement
configuration. In the retracted position, the support member 32 can
be rotated into alignment with the platform 22 permitting rotation
of the platform 22 into the retracted position. In at least one
example, the platform 22 defines a recess for receiving the support
member 32 when the support member 32 is rotated into the retracted
position. In at least one example, when the platform 22 is
positioned in the retracted position, the support member 32 can be
disengaged from the platform 22 and stored within the recess or
removed from the assembly. The secondary hinge 34 can include a
removable feature that can be removed by a tool or incorporates a
quick release feature.
[0043] As depicted in FIG. 5, in an example, the support member 32
can support the platform 22 without a frame member 22. In this
configuration, the support hinge 24 can be mounted to the mounting
feature 28 such that the platform 22 rotates about the mounting
feature 28. In at least one example, the support member 32 can
further include a support pad 36 positioned to engage the back
rest. The support pad 36 can comprise a rubber, foam, elastomer,
plastic or other material for releasably engaging the back rest
without damaging the material of the back rest.
[0044] As depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7, in an example, the platform 22
can include a support bracket 42 mountable to the bottom surface 40
of the platform 22. The support bracket 42 can be rotatably engaged
to the support hinge 24 to mount the platform 22 to the support
hinge 24. In at least one example, the support bracket 24 can be
sized to position the platform 22 above the mounting feature 28
when the platform 22 is rotated into the deployed position. In an
example, the support bracket 42 can be positioned on the bottom
surface 40 adjacent an edge of the platform 22. In another example,
the support bracket 42 can be positioned inward from an edge of the
platform 22. In this configuration, a portion of the platform 22
extends over the back rest of the chair, as depicted in FIG. 7. The
more centered position of the support bracket 42 and
correspondingly the support hinge 24 improves stability of the
platform 22 when the platform 22 is rotated into the deployed
position and elevated above the mounting feature 28.
[0045] As depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8, in an example, the mounting
feature 28 can include a guide bracket 44 defining a slot 46 for
slidably receiving the frame member 26. In this configuration, the
frame member 26 is within the slot 46 between at least a lowered
position, as depicted in FIG. 7, and an elevated position, as
depicted in FIG. 8, to position the platform 22 at different
vertical heights. In at least one example, the slot 46 can be
oriented such that the platform 22 moves horizontally as the
platform 22 is moved vertically on the frame member 26. In at least
one example, the slot 46 can be oriented such that the platform 22
only moves vertically on the frame member 26.
[0046] As depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8, in an example, the frame
member 26 can be guided by the slot 46 of the guide bracket 44 such
that the frame member 26 engages the back rest to prevent rotation
of the platform assembly 20 about the mounting feature 28 as the
frame member 26 is slid in the slot 46 and when the platform 22 is
being elevated or lowered vertically. In at least one example, the
slot 46 is oriented to maintain engagement of the frame member 26
with the back rest as the frame member 26 is slid within the slot
46. The frame member 26 can also cooperate with the mounting
feature 28 to translate a downward force applied to the platform 22
to a horizontal force supported by the back rest. The engagement of
the frame member 26 to the back rest permits elevation of the
platform 22 substantially above the mounting feature 28 in part by
translating the offset downward force applied to the platform 22 to
the back rest.
[0047] As depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8, in an example, the guide
bracket 44 can further include a locking element 48 for releasably
engaging the frame member 26 to fix the position of the frame
member 26. The locking element 48 can be configured to engage the
locking element 48 to prevent vertical adjustment of the height of
the platform 22. In at least one example, the locking element 48
can include a threaded stopper rotated by knob. In this
configuration, the knob can be manually rotated to rotate the
threaded stopper into engagement with the frame member 26 to apply
a frictional force preventing movement of the frame member 26 or
out of engagement with the frame member 26 to permit sliding of the
frame member 26. In other examples, the locking element 36 can
include, but is not limited to, a spring biased pin, removable
locking pin and other releasable locking element for releasably
engaging the frame member 26.
[0048] As generally depicted in FIG. 9-12, a chair 50, according to
an example, can include a platform 52 integrated into a back rest
54 of the chair 50 such that the platform 52 can be deployed from
the back rest 54 to provide a writing surface or a support surface
for an electronic device. In an example, the chair 50 can include
the platform 52, the back rest 54, a seat 56 and a leg assembly 58.
As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the leg assembly 58 can be
mounted to the underside of the seat 56 and the back rest 54 can be
mounted to the leg assembly 58 such that the back rest 54 is offset
from the seat 56. In at least one example, the leg assembly 58 can
include a height adjustment assembly (e.g., a pneumatic mechanism)
such that height of the leg assembly 58 can be adjusted to change
the vertical height of the platform 52. In at least one example,
the back rest 54 can be configured to have a standard specified
height corresponding to a height for an average person. The
description and depiction of the seat 56 and the leg assembly 58 is
not intended to be limiting, but rather to assist in the
description of the integrated platform 52 according to the present
example.
[0049] As depicted in FIGS. 9-10, according to an example, the back
rest 54 further includes at least one guide rail 60. The platform
52 further includes a support hinge 62 rotatably mounted to the
guide rail 60 such that the platform 52 is rotatable relative to
the guide rail 60 between a deployed position and a retracted
position. As illustrated in FIG. 9, in the retracted position, the
platform 52 can be rotated to generally align with the guide rail
60. In at least one example, the back rest 54 can include at least
two guide rail 60 each rotatably connected to an edge of the
platform 52 by a corresponding support hinge 62 such that the
platform 52 can be rotated between the guide rail 60 when rotated
into the retracted position. In at least one example, each guide
rail 60 is positioned within a platform housing receptacle with the
back rest 54 such that the platform 52 is received within the
platform housing receptacle when rotated into the retracted
position. The platform housing receptacle can conceal or hide the
platform 52 when the platform 52 is not in use. As depicted in FIG.
10, in the deployed position, the platform 22 can be rotated to
extend transversely from the guide rail 60 and correspondingly the
back rest 54. In at least one example, the platform 52 can be
rotated into a substantially horizontal orientation when rotated
into the deployed position to provide a surface for writing or
receiving an electronic device such that an electronic device can
be rested or positioned on top of the platform.
[0050] As depicted in FIGS. 10 and 11, in at least one example, the
support hinge 62 can be configured to permit rotation of the
platform 52 such that the platform 52 extends rearward from the
back rest 54 as depicted in FIG. 10 In at least one example, the
support hinge 62 can be configured to permit rotation of the
platform 52 such that the platform 52 extends forward from the back
rest 54 to extend over the seat 56 as depicted in FIG. 11. The
forward orientation can improve the stability of the platform 52 by
centering the weight of the platform 52 and objects thereon over
the leg assembly 58. The forward orientation can also reduce the
overall footprint of the chair 50 when the platform 52 is
positioned in the deployed position. The support hinge 62 can have
a releasable locking feature for fixing the platform 52 at the
reward orientation or the forward orientation as the platform 52 is
rotated from the retracted position to either the forward or
rearward deployed position.
[0051] As depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10, in an example, the guide rail
60 defines a track for slidably receiving the support hinge 62. The
support hinge 62 can be slid within the track to elevate or lower
the platform 52. In at least one example, the support hinge 62 can
be slid within the track to lower the front edge of the platform 52
as the platform 52 is folded into the retracted position as
illustrated in FIG. 9. Similarly, the support hinge 62 can be slid
within the track to elevate the front edge of the platform 52 as
the platform 52 is rotated into the deployed position as
illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0052] As depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14, in an example, the platform
52 can further include at least one support member 64 and a
corresponding secondary hinge 66. The secondary hinge 66 can
rotatably connect the support member 64 to the platform 52 such
that the support member 64 can be rotated relative to the platform
52 between a support position and a retracted position. In the
support position, the support member 64 extends transversely from
the platform 52 to engage the guide rail 60 or the back rest 54 of
the chair 50 to maintain the platform 52 in the deployed position,
as illustrated in FIG. 13. In an example, the platform 52 can
include a support pad 68 for engaging the back rest 54 without
marring the back rest 54. When the platform 52 is positioned in a
forward deployed position, the support member 64 can be extended to
engage the front side of the back rest 54. In an example, the
support member 64 can be releasably engaged to the guide rail 60 to
maintain the platform 52 in the desired rotational position. The
support member 64 and guide rail 60 can be releasably secured with
a hook and pin configuration, removable pin and hook or opening
configuration, a spring loaded pin and detent configuration or
other releasable engagement configuration. In the retracted
position, the support member 64 can be rotated into alignment with
the platform 52 permitting rotation of the platform 52 into the
retracted position. In at least one example, the platform 52
defines a recess for receiving the support member 64 when the
support member 64 is rotated into the retracted position. In at
least one example, when the platform 52 is positioned in the
retracted position, the support member 64 can be disengaged from
the platform 52 and stored within the recess or removed from the
assembly.
[0053] As generally depicted in FIGS. 14-22, a chair 70, according
to an example, can include a platform 72 that can be positioned to
operate as a back rest and repositioned to operate as a writing
surface or a support surface for an electronic device. In an
example, the chair 70 can include a platform 72, a rear support
assembly 74, a seat 76 and a leg assembly 78. As illustrated in at
least FIGS. 14 and 15, the leg assembly 78 can be mounted to the
underside of the seat 76 and the rear support assembly 74 can be
mounted to the leg assembly 78 such that the rear support 74 is
offset from the seat 76. The description and depiction of the seat
76 and the leg assembly 78 is not intended to be limiting, but
rather to assist in the description of the integrated platform 72
according to the present example.
[0054] As depicted in FIGS. 14 and 15, the rear support assembly 74
includes a rear support 80, a first frame member 82A and a second
frame member 82B. The platform 72 includes a first support hinge
84A rotatably engagable to the first frame member 82A and a second
support hinge 84B rotatably engagable to the second frame member
84B such that the platform 72 is rotatable with respect to the
first and second frame members 82A, 82B.
[0055] As depicted in FIGS. 14-16, the platform 72 is rotatable
with respect to the first and second frame members 82A, 82B between
a deployed position and a retracted position. As illustrated in
FIGS. 14 and 15, in the retracted position, the platform 72 can be
rotated to generally align with the first and second frame members
82A, 82B. In at least one example, the first frame member 82A
further includes a first support bracket 86A for engaging the
platform 72 when the platform 52 is rotated into the retracted
position. The second frame member 82B can also further include a
second support bracket 86B for engaging the platform 52 when the
platform 52 is rotated into the retracted position. Each support
bracket 86A, 86B can be engaged to the platform 72 to prevent
rotation of the platform 72 past the retracted position such that
the platform 72 can provide back support for a person seated on the
seat 76. As depicted in FIG. 16, in the deployed position, the
platform 72 can be rotated to extend transversely from the frame
members 82A, 82B. In at least one example, the deployed position
can have a substantially horizontal orientation to provide a
surface for writing or receiving an electronic device.
[0056] As depicted in FIG. 17-19, in at least one example, the
support hinges 84A, 84B can be configured to permit rotation of the
platform 72 such that the platform 72 extends rearward from the
frame members 82A, 82B as illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18. In at
least one example, the support hinges 84A, 84B can be positioned
such that at least a portion of the platform 72 is positioned
forward of the frame members 82A, 82B. The forward portion of the
platform 72 balances the portion of the platform 72 that extends
rearward of the frame members 82A, 82B. In at least one example,
the support hinges 84A, 84B can be configured to permit rotation of
the platform 72 such that the platform 72 extends forward from the
frame members 82A, 82B as illustrated in FIG. 19. In this
configuration, the platform 72 is positioned over the seat 76.
[0057] As depicted in FIGS. 18 and 19, in an example, the platform
72 can further include at least one front support member 88 and a
corresponding front hinge 90. The front hinge 90 can rotatably
connect the front support member 90 to a portion of the platform 72
forward of the frame members 82A, 82B and at least one of frame
members 82A, 82B to maintain the platform 52 in the deployed
position, as illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19. In at least one
example, the front hinge 90 allows the front support member 88 to
rotate relative to the platform 72 between a support position and a
retracted position. In the support position, the front support
member 88 extends transversely from the platform 72 to engage the
frame members 82A, 82B in the deployed position. The front support
member 88 and frame members 82A, 82B can be releasably secured with
a hook and pin configuration, removable pin and hook or opening
configuration, a spring loaded pin and detent configuration or
other releasable engagement configuration. In the retracted
position, the front support member 88 can be rotated into alignment
with the platform 72 permitting rotation of the platform 72 into
the retracted position. In at least one example, the platform 72
defines a recess for receiving the front support member 88 when the
front support member 88 is rotated into the retracted position. In
at least one example, when the platform 72 is positioned in the
retracted position, the front support member 88 can be disengaged
from the platform 52 and stored within the recess or removed from
the assembly.
[0058] As depicted in FIGS. 20 and 21, in an example, the platform
72 can further include at least one rear support member 92 and a
corresponding rear hinge 94. The rear hinge 94 can rotatably
connect the front support member 90 to a portion of the platform 72
rearward of the frame members 82A, 82B and at least one of frame
members 82A, 82B to maintain the platform 52 in the deployed
position, as illustrated in FIG. 21. In at least one example, the
rear hinge 94 allows the rear support member 92 to rotate relative
to the platform 72 between a support position and a retracted
position. In at least one example, the rear hinge 94 can be
disengaged allowing the rear support member 92 to be separated from
the platform 72.
[0059] As depicted in FIGS. 22 and 23, in at least one example, the
first and second support brackets 86A, 86B can be oriented such
that the platform 72 can be rotated forward toward the seat 76
until positioned in the deployed position. As depicted in FIG. 23,
the first and second support brackets 86A, 86B can be oriented such
that the platform 72 can be rotated rearward away from the seat 76
until positioned in the deployed position. In either configuration,
the deployed position can position the platform 72 in a
substantially horizontal orientation to provide a surface for
writing or receiving an electronic device.
[0060] As depicted in FIG. 23, in an example, the platform 72 can
further include at least one support member 88 and a corresponding
secondary hinge 90. The secondary hinge 90 can rotatably connect
the support member 88 to the platform 72 such that the support
member 88 can be rotated relative to the platform 72 between a
support position and a retracted position. In the support position,
the support member 88 extends transversely from the platform 72 to
engage the frame members 82A, 82B. In an example, the support
member 88 can be releasably engaged to the frame members 82A, 82B
to maintain the platform 72 in the desired rotational position. The
support member 88 and frame members 82A, 82B can be releasably
secured with a hook and pin configuration, removable pin and hook
or opening configuration, a spring loaded pin and detent
configuration or other releasable engagement configuration. In the
retracted position, the support member 88 can be rotated into
alignment with the platform 72 permitting rotation of the platform
72 into the retracted position. In at least one example, the
platform 72 defines a recess for receiving the support member 88
when the support member 88 is rotated into the retracted position.
In at least one example, when the platform 72 is positioned in the
retracted position, the support member 88 can be disengaged from
the platform 72 and stored within the recess or removed from the
assembly. The secondary hinge 90 can include a removable feature
that can be removed by a tool or incorporates a quick release
feature.
[0061] Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or
can be combined in any permutation or combination with any one or
more of the other examples.
[0062] The above detailed description includes references to the
accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed
description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific
embodiments in which the present subject matter can be practiced.
These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such
examples can include elements in addition to those shown or
described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples
in which only those elements shown or described are provided.
Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any
combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or
one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular
example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other
examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described
herein.
[0063] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document
and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this
document controls.
[0064] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is
common in patent documents, to include one or more than one,
independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or
"one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to
a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B
but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this
document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and
"wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and
"comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article,
composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in
addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still
deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the
following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc.
are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects.
[0065] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and
not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one
or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each
other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary
skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract
is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. .sctn.1.72(b), to allow the
reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure.
It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to
interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the
above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped
together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be
interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is
essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in
less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus,
the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed
Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on
its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such
embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations
or permutations. The scope of the present subject matter should be
determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the
full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
* * * * *