U.S. patent application number 16/103331 was filed with the patent office on 2018-12-27 for stackable furniture system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Bruce William Prock. Invention is credited to Bruce William Prock.
Application Number | 20180368577 16/103331 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 64691195 |
Filed Date | 2018-12-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180368577 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Prock; Bruce William |
December 27, 2018 |
Stackable Furniture System
Abstract
A stackable furniture device, comprises a seat section and a
plurality of legs coupled to the seat section, each leg extending
for a length thereunder, the plurality of legs comprising a front
leg located forwardly of the seat section's center of gravity and a
rear leg located rearwardly of the front leg, wherein there exists
an acute angle between a centerline passing through a majority of
the length of the front leg and a centerline passing through a
majority of the length of the rear leg when measured in a profile
view of the stackable furniture device.
Inventors: |
Prock; Bruce William;
(Rancho Cucamonga, CA) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Prock; Bruce William |
Rancho Cucamonga |
CA |
US |
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Family ID: |
64691195 |
Appl. No.: |
16/103331 |
Filed: |
August 14, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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29579410 |
Sep 29, 2016 |
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16103331 |
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62643723 |
Mar 15, 2018 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 3/04 20130101; A47C
7/002 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47C 3/04 20060101
A47C003/04; A47C 7/00 20060101 A47C007/00 |
Claims
1. A stackable furniture device, comprising: a seat section; a
plurality of legs interconnected to the seat section, each leg
extending for a length thereunder, the plurality of legs comprising
a front leg located forwardly of the stackable furniture device's
center of gravity and a rear leg located rearwardly of the front
leg, wherein the angle between a centerline passing through a
majority of the length of the front leg and a centerline passing
through a majority of the length of the rear leg is an acute angle
less than 50.degree. when measured in a profile view of the
stackable furniture device.
2. The stackable furniture device of claim 1, further comprising a
second front leg opposite the front leg, wherein each of the second
front leg and the front leg are tapered as they extend from under
the seat section.
3. The stackable furniture device of claim 2, further comprising a
second rear leg opposite the rear leg and rearward of the second
front leg, wherein the angle between a centerline passing through a
majority of the length of the second front leg and a centerline
passing through a majority of the length of the second rear leg is
an acute angle less than 50.degree. when measured in a profile view
of the stackable furniture device and wherein each of the second
rear leg and the rear leg are tapered as they extend from under the
seat section.
4. The stackable furniture device of claim 3, further comprising at
least one slat on one of the rear leg and the second rear leg,
wherein the at least one slat extends outwardly from the seat
section.
5. The stackable furniture device of claim 3, further comprising at
least one slat in each of the rear leg and the second rear leg,
wherein the at least one slat extends outwardly from the seat
section.
6. The stackable furniture device of claim 4, wherein the at least
one slat is located in an elbow, the at least one of the rear leg
and the second rear leg being interconnected to the seat section
via the elbow.
7. The stackable furniture device of claim 6, wherein the at least
one slat is located in an elbow, the rear leg or the second rear
leg being interconnected to the seat section via the elbow.
8. The stackable furniture device of claim 5, wherein the at least
one slat comprises a first slat located in a first elbow and a
second slat located in a second elbow, wherein the rear leg is
interconnected to the seat section via the first elbow and the
second rear leg is interconnected to the seat section via the
second elbow.
9. The stackable furniture device of claim 5, wherein the at least
one slat comprises a first slat in the rear leg and a second slat
in the second rear leg, the first slat has a first surface and the
second slat has a second surface, wherein the first surface faces
is oriented opposite the second surface.
10. The stackable furniture device of claim 8, wherein the first
slat has a first surface and the second slat has a second surface,
wherein the first surface is oriented opposite the second
surface.
11. A stacked furniture system, comprising: two to six chairs,
wherein each chair comprises: a seat section; a plurality of legs
coupled to the seat section, each leg extending for a length
thereunder, the plurality of legs comprising a front leg located
forwardly of the seat section's center of gravity and a rear leg
located rearwardly of the front leg, wherein the angle between each
of the following is an acute angle when measured in a profile view
of the stackable furniture device: a centerline passing through a
majority of the front leg's length and a centerline passing through
a majority of the rear leg's length, a centerline passing through
the seat section and the centerline passing through the majority of
the front leg's length, the centerline passing through the seat
section and the centerline passing through the majority of the rear
leg's length, and further wherein the seat section of a first chair
is disposed on top of the seat section of a second chair such that
the center of gravity for the second chair is forward of the center
of gravity for the first chair when measured in the profile view of
the stacked furniture system.
12. The stacked furniture system of claim 11, wherein the rear leg
of the second chair is in contact with the rear leg of the first
chair.
13. The stacked furniture system of claim 11, wherein the rear leg
of the second chair is not in contact with the rear leg of the
first chair.
14. The stacked furniture system of claim 11, further comprising a
plurality of chairs disposed on top of six chairs such that the
center of gravity of each chair on top of the sixth chair is
substantially aligned above one another when viewed in the profile
view of the stacked furniture system.
15. The stacked furniture system of claim 14, wherein the plurality
of chairs when disposed on top of the six chairs create a CG
arc.
16. The stacked furniture system of claim 12, further comprising a
plurality of chairs disposed on top of the six chairs such that the
center of gravity of each chair above the sixth chair is
substantially aligned above one another when viewed in the profile
view of the stacked furniture system.
17. The stacked furniture system of claim 16, wherein the plurality
of chairs when disposed on top of the six chairs create a CG
arc.
18. The stacked furniture system of claim 13, further comprising a
plurality of chairs disposed on top of the six chairs such that the
center of gravity of each chair above the sixth chair is
substantially aligned above one another when viewed in the profile
view of the stacked furniture system.
19. The stacked furniture system of claim 18, wherein the plurality
of chairs when disposed on top of the six chairs create a CG
arc.
20. A stacked furniture system, comprising: at least eight chairs,
wherein each chair comprises: a seat section; a plurality of legs
coupled to the seat section, each leg extending for a length
thereunder, the plurality of legs comprising a front leg located
forwardly of the seat section's center of gravity and a rear leg
located rearwardly of the front leg, wherein the angle between a
centerline passing through a majority of the front leg's length and
a centerline passing through a majority of the rear leg's length is
no greater than about 45.degree. when measured in a profile view of
the stackable furniture device; wherein the at least eight chairs
are stacked one on top of the other and when stacked create a CG
arc.
Description
RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/643,723, filed Mar. 15,
2018, and U.S. Design Patent Application Ser. No. 29/579,410, filed
Sep. 29, 2016, the disclosures of each of which being incorporated
herein by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This present invention relates to a stackable furniture
design and arrangements of the same in a stackable furniture
system.
SUMMARY
[0003] In an exemplary embodiment, a stackable furniture device may
comprise a seat section and two or more legs interconnected to the
seat section, and in particular embodiments, a first front leg
located forward of the stackable furniture device's center of
gravity and a first rear leg located rearward of the first front
leg. According to this exemplary embodiment, each leg may extend
for a length under the seat section and the angle between a
centerline passing through a majority of the length of the first
front leg and a centerline passing through a majority of the length
of the first rear leg is less than 50.degree. when measured in a
profile view of the stackable furniture device.
[0004] In another exemplary embodiment, a stackable furniture
device may comprise a seat section and two or more legs
interconnected to the seat section, and in particular embodiments,
a first front leg located forward of the stackable furniture
device's center of gravity and a first rear leg located rearward of
the front leg. According to this exemplary embodiment, each leg may
extend for a length under the seat section and the angle between a
centerline passing through a majority of the length of the first
front leg and a centerline passing through a majority of the length
of the first rear leg is less than 50.degree. when measured in a
profile view of the stackable furniture device. According to
another aspect of this exemplary embodiment, the stackable
furniture device may further comprise a second front leg opposite
the first front leg, wherein each of the second front leg and the
first front leg are tapered as they extend from under the seat
section.
[0005] In another exemplary embodiment, a stackable furniture
device may comprise a seat section and two or more legs
interconnected to the seat section, and in particular embodiments,
a first front leg located forward of the stackable furniture
device's center of gravity and a first rear leg located rearward of
the first front leg. According to this exemplary embodiment, each
leg may extend for a length under the seat section and the angle
between a centerline passing through a majority of the length of
the first front leg and a centerline passing through a majority of
the length of the first rear leg is less than 50.degree. when
measured in a profile view of the stackable furniture device.
According to another aspect of this exemplary embodiment, the
stackable furniture device may further comprise a second front leg
opposite the first front leg, wherein each of the second front leg
and the first front leg are tapered as they extend from under the
seat section. According to yet another aspect of this exemplary
embodiment, the stackable furniture device may further comprise a
second rear leg opposite the first rear leg and rearward of the
second front leg, wherein the angle between a centerline passing
through a majority of the length of the second front leg and a
centerline passing through a majority of the length of the second
rear leg is less than 50.degree. when measured in a profile view of
the stackable furniture device and each of the second rear leg and
the first rear leg are tapered as they extend from under the seat
section.
[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, a stackable furniture device may
comprise a seat section and two or more legs interconnected to the
seat section, and in particular embodiments, a first front leg
located forward of the stackable furniture device's center of
gravity and a first rear leg located rearward of the first front
leg. According to this exemplary embodiment, each leg may extend
for a length under the seat section and the angle between a
centerline passing through a majority of the length of the first
front leg and a centerline passing through a majority of the length
of the first rear leg is less than 50.degree. when measured in a
profile view of the stackable furniture device. According to
another aspect of this exemplary embodiment, the stackable
furniture device may further comprise a second front leg opposite
the first front leg, wherein each of the second front leg and the
first front leg are tapered as they extend from under the seat
section. According to yet another aspect of this exemplary
embodiment, the stackable furniture device may further comprise a
second rear leg opposite the first rear leg and rearward of the
second front leg, wherein the angle between a centerline passing
through a majority of the length of the second front leg and a
centerline passing through a majority of the length of the second
rear leg is less than 50.degree. when measured in a profile view of
the stackable furniture device and each of the second rear leg and
the first rear leg are tapered as they extend from under the seat
section. According to a still further aspect of this exemplary
embodiment, the stackable furniture device may further comprise at
least one slat on one of the first rear leg and the second rear leg
such that the at least one slat extends outwardly from the seat
section. Alternatively, there may be at least one slat in each of
the first rear leg and second rear leg.
[0007] In another exemplary embodiment, at least one slat on one of
the first rear leg and the second rear leg may extend outwardly
from the seat section and be interconnected to the seat section via
an elbow. In another aspect of this exemplary embodiment, the slat
found in both the first rear leg and the second rear leg may be
located in an elbow interconnecting the seat section to one or more
of the first rear leg and/or the second rear leg. In yet another
embodiment the at least one slat comprises a first slat located in
a first elbow and a second slat located in a second elbow, whereby
the first rear leg is interconnected to the seat section via the
first elbow and the second rear leg is interconnected to the seat
section via the second elbow. In still another embodiment, the at
least one slat may comprise a first slat in the rear leg and a
second slat in the second rear leg, the first slat has a first
surface and the second slat has a second surface, wherein the first
surface faces is oriented opposite the second surface.
[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, a stacked furniture system may
have two to six chairs in which each chair has a seat section and a
plurality of legs coupled to the seat section, each leg extending
for a length thereunder, the plurality of legs comprising a front
leg located forwardly of the seat section's center of gravity and a
rear leg located rearwardly of the front leg, wherein the angle
between each of the following is an acute angle when measured in a
profile view of the stackable furniture device: (i) a centerline
passing through a majority of the front leg's length and a
centerline passing through a majority of the rear leg's length,
(ii) a line in the plane parallel to the seat section and the
centerline passing through the majority of the front leg's length,
(iii) the line in the plane parallel to the seat section and the
centerline passing through the majority of the rear leg's length.
Additionally in this embodiment, the seat section of a first chair
is disposed on top of the seat section of a second chair such that
the center of gravity for the second chair is forward of the center
of gravity for the first chair when measured in the profile view of
the stacked furniture system. In another exemplary embodiment, the
rear leg of the second chair is in contact with the rear leg of the
first chair. In still another exemplary embodiment, the rear leg of
the second chair is not in contact with the rear leg of the first
chair.
[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, a stacked furniture system may
have two to six chairs in which each chair has a seat section and a
plurality of legs coupled to the seat section, each leg extending
for a length thereunder, the plurality of legs comprising a front
leg located forwardly of the seat section's center of gravity and a
rear leg located rearwardly of the front leg, wherein the angle
between each of the following is an acute angle when measured in a
profile view of the stackable furniture device: (i) a centerline
passing through a majority of the front leg's length and a
centerline passing through a majority of the rear leg's length,
(ii) a line in a plane parallel to the seat section and the
centerline passing through the majority of the front leg's length,
(iii) the line in the plane parallel to the seat section and the
centerline passing through the majority of the rear leg's length.
Additionally in this embodiment, the seat section of a first chair
is disposed on top of the seat section of a second chair such that
the center of gravity for the second chair is forward of the center
of gravity for the first chair when measured in the profile view of
the stacked furniture system. In this exemplary embodiment, the
stacked furniture system may further comprise a plurality of chairs
disposed on top of six chairs such that the center of gravity of
each chair on top of the sixth chair is substantially aligned above
one another when viewed in the profile view of the stacked
furniture system. In yet another aspect of this exemplary
embodiment, the plurality of chairs when disposed on top of the six
chairs creates a CG arc.
[0010] In another exemplary embodiment, a stacked furniture system
may have two to six chairs in which each chair has a seat section
and a plurality of legs coupled to the seat section, each leg
extending for a length thereunder, the plurality of legs comprising
a front leg located forwardly of the seat section's center of
gravity and a rear leg located rearwardly of the front leg, wherein
the angle between each of the following is an acute angle when
measured in a profile view of the stackable furniture device: (i) a
centerline passing through a majority of the front leg's length and
a centerline passing through a majority of the rear leg's length,
(ii) a line in the plane that is parallel to the seat section and
the centerline passing through the majority of the front leg's
length, (iii) the line in the plane that is parallel to the seat
section and the centerline passing through the majority of the rear
leg's length. Additionally in this embodiment, the seat section of
a first chair is disposed on top of the seat section of a second
chair such that the center of gravity for the second chair is
forward of the center of gravity for the first chair when measured
in the profile view of the stacked furniture system. In this
exemplary embodiment, a plurality of chairs disposed on top of the
six chairs is such that the center of gravity of each chair above
the sixth chair is substantially aligned above one another when
viewed in the profile view of the stacked furniture system. In a
further aspect of this exemplary embodiment, the plurality of
chairs when disposed on top of the six chairs create a CG arc.
[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, a stacked furniture system may
comprise at least eight chairs, wherein each chair comprises a seat
section, a plurality of legs coupled to the seat section, each leg
extending for a length thereunder, the plurality of legs comprising
a front leg located forwardly of the seat section's center of
gravity and a rear leg located rearwardly of the front leg, wherein
the angle between a centerline passing through a majority of the
front leg's length and a centerline passing through a majority of
the rear leg's length is no greater than about 45.degree. when
measured in a profile view of the stackable furniture device and
the at least eight chairs are stacked one on top of the other and
when stacked create a (CG) arc.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a first
stackable furniture design.
[0013] FIG. 1B illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a first
stackable furniture design in an exploded view.
[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a second
stackable furniture design.
[0015] FIG. 3A illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a second
stackable furniture design. FIG. 3B illustrates the aforementioned
exemplary embodiment of a second stackable furniture design in a
profile view.
[0016] FIGS. 4A-E illustrate exemplary embodiments of ganging
features of a first stackable furniture design.
[0017] FIGS. 4F-G illustrate exemplary embodiments of nesting
features for exemplary front and rear legs for a first stackable
furniture design.
[0018] FIGS. 5A-B illustrate other exemplary embodiments of a first
stackable furniture design in profile views.
[0019] FIG. 5C illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a first
stackable furniture design when viewed from the rear.
[0020] FIG. 6A illustrates yet another exemplary embodiment of a
first stackable furniture design.
[0021] FIG. 6B illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a rear leg
assembly.
[0022] FIG. 6C illustrates an exemplary rear leg brace in use in an
exemplary first stackable furniture design.
[0023] Each of FIGS. 6D-H illustrates a different view of an
exemplary rear leg brace.
[0024] FIGS. 6I-K illustrate exemplary embodiments of front and
rear backings in separate and assembled forms, each in a profile
view.
[0025] FIG. 6L illustrates an exemplary seat rest from its
underside.
[0026] FIG. 6M illustrates an exemplary seat rest in a profile
view.
[0027] FIG. 7A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a stacked
arrangement comprised of an exemplary first stackable furniture
design.
[0028] FIG. 7B illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a stacked
arrangement comprised of an exemplary second stackable furniture
design.
[0029] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a first
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary first stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0030] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a second
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary first stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0031] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a third
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary first stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0032] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fourth
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary first stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0033] FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fifth
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary first stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0034] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a sixth
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary first stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0035] FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a seventh
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary first stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0036] FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an eighth
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary first stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0037] FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of another
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary second stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0038] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of yet another
stacked arrangement comprised of an exemplary second stackable
furniture design in a profile view.
[0039] In the drawings like characters of reference indicate
corresponding parts in the different and interchangeable and
interrelated figures. Parts and components of each figure may be
substitutes for other components in other figures to achieve the
various designs, products, systems, methods, and embodiments
disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] With reference to FIG. 1A, an exemplary stackable chair 1
may be comprised of a seat section 10 and a plurality of legs, such
as, for example, legs 5x, 5y, 6x, and 6y. In another embodiment, an
exemplary stackable chair 1 may be comprised of a seat section 10,
a backing section 20, and a plurality of legs, such as, for
example, legs 5x, 5y, 6x, and 6y. In a further embodiment, an
exemplary stackable chair 1 may be comprised of a seat section 10,
a backing section 20, a back rest section 30, and a plurality of
legs, such as, for example, legs 5x, 5y, 6x, and 6y. Each of the
foregoing embodiments may be illustratively depicted in FIG.
1A.
[0041] With further reference to FIG. 1A, a stackable chair 1 may
be oriented so that it is viewed from the front and left sides. In
this exemplary orientation, front left leg 5x is in a closer view
than front right leg 5y and rear left leg 6x is in a closer view
than rear right leg 6y. A front apron brace 11 may couple front
legs 5x/y together to form a front portion of seat section 10 while
central apron brace 13 may couple together rear legs 6x/y to form a
rear portion of seat section 10. In an exemplary embodiment the
front portion of seat section 10 may be coupled to the rear portion
of seat section 10 via one or more transverse brackets 12x/y, with
12x being a left transverse bracket and 12y being a right
transverse bracket as illustrated in FIG. 1A. Additionally and
alternatively, a rear apron brace 15 may couple any portion of
backing section 20 to seat section 10 via an array of structures,
such as, for example one or more rear transverse brackets 14x/y or
one or more lumbar supports 17x/y, with 17x being the left lumbar
support and 17y, the right lumbar support. And while the various
braces 11/13/15, brackets 12/14, lumbar supports 17, and legs 5x,
5y, 6x, and/or 6y may be assembled to one another and vis-a-vis one
another about seat section 10, their number and arrangement may be
any suitable one that accomplishes one or more purposes described,
such as, for example, enabling chair 1 to stand, enabling chair 1
to support the type and number of objects it is specifically
designed to hold (e.g., a 400-lb North American Adult male, a 50th
Percentile North American Adult male). In a preferred embodiment,
the chair 1 may be designed to satisfy Business And Institutional
Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) standards for stackable
office furniture. In an exemplary embodiment, each of braces
11/13/15, brackets 12/14, lumbar supports 17, and legs 5x, 5y, 6x,
and/or 6y may be one or more of a combination of solid bars and/or
tubes of circular, rectangular, or other polygonal shapes.
[0042] As illustratively provided for in FIG. 1A, chair 1 may
comprise a left shoulder 7x and a right shoulder 7y (riot shown)
coupling each of left and right rear legs, 6x and 6y, respectively,
to the remainder of chair 1. Shoulders 7x/y may be integral with
central apron brace 13 or may be mechanically attached thereto
using known techniques in the art, e.g., welding, screws, bolts.
Consequently, shoulders 7x/y may be made of the same or different
material from any other component comprising chair 1, including
rear legs 6x/y.
[0043] As illustratively provided for in FIG. 1A, chair 1 may also
have one or more backing braces 21-25. Each of these may work with
lumbar supports 17x/y to enable seating in chair 1. And while seat
section 10 and backing section 20 may be illustrated as
substantially rectangular in shape, those skilled in the art may
recognize that any number of shapes may be utilized and are
suitable for the purposes of an exemplary chair 1, including
circular, ovular, square, and other types of polygons/polyhedron
structures.
[0044] As illustratively provided for in FIG. 1A, chair 1 may also
have openings for reception of material to enhance the seating
experience, e.g., seat openings 16A-B, backing opening 30, lumbar
openings 31-33. Such materials may take the form of various
fabrics, foams, upholstery, plastic panels, or other seat materials
known to those skilled in the art. In another embodiment, such
openings 16A-B/30-33 may not exist and chair 1 may be constructed
from the same or similar materials making up any of the other of
its components (e.g., braces 11/13/15, brackets 12/14, legs 5x, 5y,
6x, and/or 6y). In a preferred embodiment, front legs 5x/y and rear
legs 6x/y connected to chair section 10 at the front brace 11 and
rear brace 13, respectively, may together form a structure that has
a yield strength that may be on average 7,900 pounds per square
inch (psi) when a uniform force is applied to the constituents of
seat section 10.
[0045] As illustratively provided for in FIG. 1B, chair 1 may be
shown in exploded view with many of the same features
illustratively depicted in FIG. 1A at the same vantage point.
However, in addition to the aforementioned features, FIG. 1B may
also feature a seat rest 40 which may be disposed substantially on
top of seat section 10, an undercarriage 41 disposed substantially
below seat section 10, a front backing 20A disposed substantially
in front of chair backing section 20, a rear backing 20B
substantially behind chair backing section 20, and an array of
mount points 20C.sub.1, 20C.sub.2, 20C.sub.3, and 20C.sub.4,
disposed about the frame of chair backing section 20. An assembled
embodiment of chair 1 as illustratively provided for in FIG. 1B may
be provided for in an illustrative embodiment as shown in FIG. 6A.
In one embodiment, front backing 20A and rear backing 20B are
connected to one another via one or more of mount points 20C.sub.1,
20C.sub.2, 20C.sub.3, and 20C.sub.4. In another embodiment, fabric
or cushion material may be placed inside and/or behind front
backing 20A and be sealed thereto once attached to mount points
20C.sub.1, 20C.sub.2, 20C.sub.3, and 20C.sub.4, rear backing 20B,
or a combination of the same. In yet another embodiment, seat rest
40 may interconnect to undercarriage 41 via one or more parts of
seat section 10, including, for example, braces 12x/y, 13, 14x/y,
and 15. According to this embodiment, undercarriage 41 and seat
rest 40 may have connections to one another that go through one or
more parts of seat section 10 and/or connections to one another
that go about one or more parts of seat section 10.
[0046] In an alternative embodiment illustratively provided via
FIG. 2, an exemplary chair 2 may have left and right front legs 5x
and 5y, respectively, left and right rear legs 6x and 6y,
respectively, left and right shoulders 7x/y, left and right lumbar
braces 17x and 17y, respectively, chair backing section 20, gap 30,
and backing brace 21. In contrast with the chair 1 of FIG. 1A,
chair 2 may be illustratively shown with seat rest 40 disposed on
seat section 10 (not shown). In further contrast, chair 2 may be
shown with an integrated shoulder 7x and leg 6x, In an exemplary
embodiment, legs 6x and 6y of chair 2 taper as they emerge from
shoulder section 7x and 7y (not shown) and terminate at the floor
position. The taper of rear legs 6x and 6y may be illustratively
shown in their profile and topographical views such that the sides
of each of the rear legs converge downwardly towards a smaller
cross-section located most distally from the seat section 10 and
which is in contact with the ground. The tapering of the rear legs
may be further illustratively depicted in the front/rear views of
FIG. 3A.
[0047] As further illustratively provided for in FIGS. 3A and 3B,
an exemplary rear leg 6x/y may also deviate from the alignment of
front leg 5x/y at an angle relative to shoulder 7x/y. In a
preferred embodiment, when viewed from the front and/or rear, right
rear leg 6y may be angled more to the right than right front leg
5y. In a further preferred embodiment, when viewed from the front
and/or rear, left rear leg 6x may be angled more to the left than
left front leg 5x. In yet another preferred embodiment, when viewed
from the front and/or rear, right rear leg 6y may be angled more to
the right than right front leg 5y and left rear leg 6x may be
angled more to the left than left front leg 5x. As may be further
illustrated by FIG. 3B, seat section 10 may be bounded above by
seat rest 40 and an under carriage 41, which may be made out of the
same or different material as seat rest 40. Alternatively, under
carriage 41 may be an extension of seat rest 40 such that
undercarriage 41 attaches seat rest 40 to seat section 10, e.g.,
via buttons, Velcro, buckles, snaps, hooks, adhesives, screws,
threading. In a preferred embodiment, undercarriage 41 may be
comprised of a formed polymer.
[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, seat section 10 may be an
internal S-shaped saddle seat foundation for a cold-molded foam
cushion 40. In another exemplary embodiment, the seat section 10
may be an ergonomic blow-molded or injected design comprised of
metals, composites, or plastics. Additionally, an exemplary seat
foam cushion 40 may be an ergonomic cold-molded design, a CNC-cut
contoured slab cushion, a slab cushion with contoured upholstery
treatment, and/or may further include a gel-memory topper.
[0049] Additionally and alternatively, an exemplary chair 1 or 2
may also include a flex-back structure known to those skilled in
the art, for example, spring-L(s) or flex-spine comprised of
hardened steel alloys or composites, for example, a flex-back with
internal webbing that may curve slightly back as it rises to create
a comfortable and relaxed feel and/or also provides lumbar
support.
[0050] An exemplary composition for a chair 1 or 2 may include
lightweight alloys for the seat and backing frame components (e.g.,
5x/y, 6x/y, 7x/y, 10-11, 12x/y, 13, 14x/y, 15-16A/B, 17x/y, 20-25,
31-33), polymers for any seat and back foundations, and cold-molded
polyurethane and Commercial Grade Fabric for seat rest 40.
[0051] With respect to the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 4A, an
exemplary chair 1 may be shown again from the vantage point of its
underside. In this view, each of front legs 5x and 5y may be shown
tapering as they descend from seat section 10 to their respective
terminus that comes in contact with the ground. In an exemplary
embodiment, front legs 5x and/or 5y may have a taper at an angle of
about 2.00.degree. with a deviation of 0.5.degree.. Also in this
view, each of rear legs 6x and 6y may be shown tapering from their
respective shoulders 7x and 7y to each of their terminus that comes
in contact with the ground. In an exemplary embodiment, rear legs
6x and/or 6y may have a taper at an angle of 1.90.degree. with a
deviation of 0.5.degree.. In accordance with both of the
aforementioned exemplary embodiments of tapered legs, such angles
and ranges of the same are critical for assuring the optimized
stacking arrangements described herein.
[0052] With respect to the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 4B, a
closer view of a portion of the left underside of chair 1 may be
depicted. As illustrated, rear left leg 6x couples to seat section
10 of chair 1 via right shoulder 7x and joint 12z. An exemplary
joint 12z may comprise a bracket, hearing, channel, or other
structure or combination of structures to permit rotation of
shoulder 7x or its connecting structures (e.g., central transverse
cross brace 13) within chair 1. Alternatively, an exemplary joint
12z may fix shoulder 7x to the remainder of chair 1 by way of
mechanical connections (e.g., bolts, screws, interlocking
mechanisms, snap-fit channels) or integrated connections (e.g.,
welding, extrusion, chemical adhesives)
[0053] With further reference to the illustrative embodiment of
FIG. 4B, a downward slat 9x may be formed in or attached to a
periphery of shoulder 7x. In an exemplary embodiment, downward slat
9x may have the same cross-section as shoulder 7x, provided it is
capable of receiving another structure within its surfaces to
interlock shoulder 7x to another structure or otherwise permit
attachments, i.e., ganging. In one embodiment, the other structure
may be another chair 1. In another embodiment, the other structure
may be an accessory for chair 1, such as, for example, a tray
table, beverage or food holder, media holder, basket, compartment,
umbrella, or bag holding apparatus. In a preferred embodiment,
downward slat 9x may be circular in cross-section with a space
between its outer surface and rear leg 6x/6y, depending on which
side it appears on chair 1. Additionally, while one slat 9x may be
illustrated in FIG. 4B, it may be that multiple slats and/or
interlocking combinations may exist to maximize interactivity
between the downward slat 9x.
[0054] Referring now to FIG. 4C, an illustrative right side view of
chair 1 may be depicted showing a shoulder 7y and an upward slat 9y
extending outwardly from rear right leg 6y. In a preferred
embodiment, upward slat 9y may be configured to interlock with
downward slat 9x, for example, as may be illustratively provided
for in FIGS. 4D-E. In yet another preferred embodiment, upward slat
9y may be of similar shape and cross-section to downward slat 9x.
An exemplary upward slat 9y may be configured to extend from
shoulder 7y and rear leg 6y in the same or similar fashion as
downward slat 9x. Similarly, upward slat 9y may also be used to
hold accessories (both permanent and removable) to chair 1, such
as, for example, a tray table, beverage or food holder, media
holder, basket, compartment, umbrella, or bag holding apparatus
(e.g., IV bags, heart monitors, and other health diagnostic
equipment), or cup holders.
[0055] As illustratively provided for in FIGS. 4D and 4E, an
exemplary plurality of chair 1 may comprise slats 9x and 9y that
engage one another to hold each of the plurality of chair 1 to one
another, i.e., ganging. As previously described, slats 9x and 9y
extend from shoulders 7x and 7y, respectively, which themselves
extend outwardly from set section 10 of chair 1. And while slats
9x/y may be shown running parallel to the cross-section of shoulder
7x/y, they may be any other angular orientation with respect to
such a cross-section to implement a particular assembly of chair 1
in a space, e.g., slats 9x/y may be at acute angles relative to the
cross section of their respective shoulders 7x/7y to allow for
angled chair 1 coupling formations (e.g., jagged, diagonal,
circular, ovular) so long as they are oriented to receive one
another on an adjoining chair (e.g., having opposite
configurations, interlocking arrangements, mating joints, recesses,
brackets). In an alternative embodiment, slats 9x/y may be
comprised of glass, which can hide finish welds on brace 13, for
example. In another alternative embodiment, slats 9x/y may be able
to pivot forward/backward and/or 180 degrees to the floor to allow
for chair-chair coupling at multiple angles.
[0056] As illustratively provided for in FIGS. 4F and 4G, an
exemplary chair 1/2 may further comprise a variation of front legs
5x/5y and/or rear legs 6x/6y that differ from those illustratively
shown in other figures. With reference to the illustrative
embodiment of FIG. 4F, front legs 5x/5y may have an arcuate
cross-section from the part of the leg that attaches to seat
section 10 (e.g., brace 11 as shown in FIG. 4H) to the part of the
leg in contact with the ground. In an exemplary embodiment, the
front leg 5x/5y may have a "v"-shaped cross-section when viewed
from its seat section 10 contact point (e.g., brace 11). An arcuate
structure such as a v-shaped cross-section may facilitate
overlapping arrangements of front legs 5x/5y so that they may nest
or slidably translate when placed atop one another as shown in
further figures herein described.
[0057] With reference to the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 4G,
rear legs 6x/6y may have an arcuate cross-section from the part of
the leg that attaches to seat section 10 (e.g., shoulders 7x/7y) to
the part of the leg in contact with the ground. In an exemplary
embodiment, the rear leg 6x/6y may have a "v"-shaped cross-section
when viewed from its seat section 10 (e.g., shoulders 7x/7y)
contact point. An arcuate structure such as a v-shaped
cross-section may facilitate overlapping arrangements of rear legs
6x/6y so that they may nest and or slidably translate when placed
atop one another as shown in further figures herein described. With
respect to the illustrative rear legs 6x/6y of FIG. 4G, the portion
of the rear legs 6x/6y that comes into contact with the ground G
may be at an angle A sufficient to satisfy the preferred ranges
illustrated and described with respect to FIGS. 5A-C.
Alternatively, the angle .lamda. of the ground-contact portion of
rear legs 6x/6y may be between 36.degree. and about 24.degree., and
preferably about 39.degree.. In an exemplary embodiment, each of
the arcuate legs 5x/5y/6x/6y may be made pursuant to monocoque and
pseudo-monocoque techniques, stamping, extrusion, or other
manufacturing methods known to those skilled in the art.
[0058] With reference to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 5A and 5B, an exemplary chair 1 may be configured so that its
constituent parts may have certain dimensions and/or may be within
certain positions relative to others and/or reference points. For
example, with reference to FIG. 5A, an exemplary right rear leg 6y
may have a taper .beta. relative to the forward most surface of the
right rear leg. In an exemplary embodiment, taper .beta. may be
between about 2.35.degree. and about 3.15.degree., preferably
2.85.degree.. As will be explained further, these ranges of taper
for .beta. may be especially suitable, and in certain applications
critical, for optimized stacking of a chair 1 with other such
chairs. Similarly, an exemplary right front leg 5y may have a taper
.epsilon. relative to the forward most surface of the right front
leg. In an exemplary embodiment, taper .epsilon. may be between
about 0.9.degree. and about 1.9.degree., preferably 1.4.degree.. As
will be explained further, these ranges of taper for .epsilon. may
be especially suitable, and in certain applications critical, for
optimized stacking of a chair 1 with other such chairs. While the
aforementioned angles and ranges have been described with respect
to the right front and rear legs, 5y and 6y, respectively, these
angles and ranges may be suited for the left front and rear legs,
5x and 6x, respectively, as they may also be especially suitable
and critical for the same or similar applications to which chair 1
would be put.
[0059] With reference to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 5B, an exemplary chair 1 may be characterized by at least
three different axes "L.sub.1," "L.sub.2," and "L.sub.3," and the
ground "G" as may be illustrated. In this configuration, all legs
(5x/y and/or 6x/y) of chair 1 are in contact with ground line G. In
an exemplary embodiment, may be designated the line which best
represents the positional orientation of the rear leg (6x/y). In
one aspect of this exemplary embodiment, L.sub.1 may be the
centerline for a majority of the length of the leg going from the
bottom of the rear leg 6x/y to the part of the rear leg coupling to
shoulder 7x/y. In another aspect of this exemplary embodiment,
L.sub.1 may be the line that passes through the center of the cross
sections of the upper and lower terminus of the rear leg 6x/y,
e.g., those cross sections in contact with ground line G and
shoulder 7x/y. In an exemplary embodiment, L.sub.2 may be
designated the line which best represents the positional
orientation of the front leg (5x/y). In one aspect of this
exemplary embodiment, L.sub.2 may be the centerline for a majority
of the length of the leg going from the bottom of the front leg
5x/y to the part of the front leg coupling to seat portion 10
(e.g., at front apron brace 11). In another aspect of this
exemplary embodiment, L.sub.2 may be the line that passes through
the center of the cross sections of the upper and lower terminus of
the front leg 5x/y, e.g., those cross sections in contact with
ground line G and seat portion 10, those cross sections in contact
with ground line G and front apron brace 11. In an exemplary
embodiment, L.sub.3 may be designated the line which best
represents the plane of the seat portion 10. In one aspect of this
exemplary embodiment, L.sub.3 may be the line connecting the
centers of mass of each of the constituent parts of seat portion
10. Alternatively, L.sub.3 may be the line from chair 1's front to
chair 1's back in the plane parallel to the bottom of seat 40 when
assembled in chair 10. Further alternatively, L.sub.3 may be the
plane that intersects the upper terminus of legs 5x/y and 6x/y.
While the above exemplary methods of determining reference axes
L.sub.1, L.sub.2, and L.sub.3 may be utilized, those skilled in the
art may determine other methods of identifying axes for these
components consistent with the disclosures herein.
[0060] Referring again to the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 5B,
an exemplary chair I may have numerous ranges of angles between
components and/or the ground to effect its operation. In one
embodiment, the angle .alpha. between L.sub.1 and L.sub.2 may be
between about 39.degree. and about 45',and preferably 42.degree..
In another embodiment, the angle .rho. between L.sub.1 and L.sub.3
may be between about 45.degree. and 51.degree., and preferably
48.degree.. In another embodiment, the angle .theta. between
L.sub.3 and ground G may be between about 6.degree. and about
1.degree., and preferably about 3.degree.. In yet another
embodiment, an angle .omega. between L.sub.2 and L.sub.3 may be
between about 87.degree. and about 93.degree., and preferably about
90.degree.. And in still further of another embodiment, an angle
.DELTA. between L1 and ground G may be between about 48.degree. and
about 54.degree., and preferably about 51.degree..
[0061] Referring to the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 5C, an
exemplary chair 1 may also have a particular taper .xi. between
front legs 5x/y that may range from about 1.7.degree. to about
2.3.degree., and preferably about 2.0.degree.. Additionally and/or
alternatively, an exemplary chair 1 may have a particular taper
.pi. between rear legs 6x/y that may range from about 3.5.degree.
to about 4.1.degree., and preferably about 3.8.degree..
[0062] As previously explained, these ranges described with respect
to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C may be especially suitable, and in certain
applications critical, for optimized nesting and stacking of a
chair 1 with other such chairs. For example, without these above
particular angles and measurements, chair 1 may not be able to
suitably nest and stack with additional chairs 1 to maintain a
first balanced furniture arrangement. As an additional example,
without the above particular angles and measurements, chair 2 may
not be able to suitably stack and nest with additional chairs 2 to
maintain a second balanced furniture arrangement.
[0063] With reference to the illustrative embodiment provided for
in FIG. 6B, an exemplary rear leg assembly 90 may be shown in
exploded view. An exemplary rear leg assembly 90 may comprise
transverse brace 13, left and right rear legs 6x and 6y,
respectively, and their respective slatted ends 9x/9y, and left and
right leg brackets 8x and 8y, respectively. Additionally, according
to the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 6B, transvers brace 13 may
include proximal contours 13p and distal contours 13d, which may
be, for example, rectangular cut-outs from a cylindrical brace 13
tube or indentations/channels in brace 13's surface. In an
exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 6B, rear legs 6x/y may
couple to the distal contours 13D of brace 13 via welding, bolts,
screws, interlocking joints, adhesives, or other mechanical and/or
chemical connections known to those skilled in the art.
[0064] In further accordance with that exemplary embodiment
illustratively provided for in FIG. 6B, a leg bracket 8x/8y may be
disposed within brace 13 and within respective rear leg 6x/6y. In
this configuration, bracket 8x/8y spans between openings in brace
13 and the respective rear leg 6x/6y via the distal contour 13D.
Accordingly, bracket 8x/8y may be shaped so as to interlock with
bracket 13 and its respective rear leg 6x/6y through distal contour
13D. In a preferred embodiment, bracket 8x/8y may be configured to
achieve any of the aforementioned angles that may be deemed
critical for applications. A closer view of left leg bracket 8x as
situated within brace 13 and left rear leg 6x may be illustratively
provided for in FIG. 6C. Additionally leg bracket 8x/8y may also
have in its surfaces the slat 9x/9y, respectively, to allow for
ganging, provided enough of bracket 8x/87 protrudes from within
brace 13 when situated therein.
[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 6C, an exemplary rear leg assembly 90
may be attached to left transverse bracket 12x on seat section 10
via proximal contour 13p. In a preferred embodiment, proximal
contour 13p may be dimensioned so that a lower-most surface of
brace 13 is substantially flush with the lower surface of bracket
12x and/or all or substantially all of the other brackets and
braces making up seat section 10. Accordingly, in this preferred
embodiment, contour 13p may allow for a relatively flat underside
of seat section 10 for receipt of undercarriage 41. A benefit of
maintaining a relatively flush underside for seat section 10 may be
to reduce contours and curvatures in undercarriage 41 and/or
streamline chair 1. In an exemplary embodiment of a rear leg
assembly 90 as illustratively provided for in FIG. 6C, left leg
bracket 8C may be shaped so that a portion passes through distal
contour 13d and passes over proximal contour 13p. In a further
exemplary embodiment, the portion of leg bracket 8x that passes
over contour 13p may be in contact with transverse bracket 12x and
either connect to or rest thereon. At its other end, an exemplary
leg bracket 8x may be configured to frictionally engage within the
inside walls of the rear leg 6x. While the portion of bracket 8x
within rear leg 6x may be shown abutting the wall of leg 6x facing
transverse bracket 12x, this portion of bracket 8x (to be described
elsewhere herein) may be configured to contact a plurality of
inside walls of its respective rear leg 6 into which it may be
inserted. Those skilled in the art would readily appreciate that
while FIG. 6C provides a left-hand side vantage point, the same
features would be understood to exist on the right-hand side in
substantially the same fashion.
[0066] With reference to the illustrative embodiments provided for
in FIGS. 6D, 6E, 6F, 6G, and 6H, an exemplary rear leg bracket 8
may be shown. FIGS. 6D and 6E may illustrate an exemplary rear leg
bracket 8 in isometric view, showing stem 81, plank 82, plank bend
83A, plank wing 83B, branch 85, lower rest 84, and upper rest 86.
As may be provided for in FIGS. 6E-6F and 6H, between branch 85 and
plank 82 may be a finger 88 separated from the plank by a gap 89
and separated from the branch 85 by a slot 87. As may be
illustratively provided for in FIG. 6E, a slot 87 may separate
plank wing 83B from upper rest 86 in like manner to slot 87 between
finger 88 and branch 85. In one exemplary embodiment, the
undulating profile of upper rest 86, lower rest 84, and branch 85
may allow for spring-like capabilities for bracket 8 so as to allow
it to apply friction to the walls of its respective rear leg 6x/y
when inserted therein. The degree of springiness in the upper rest
86, lower rest 84, and branch 85 may be a function of the span of
slots 87 and gap 89 in conjunction with the relative lengths of the
upper rest 86, lower rest 84, and branch 85, as well as the
thickness of the connection between branch 85 and plank bend 83A,
which connection thickness may also be affected by the size of
finger 88. An exemplary bracket 8 may be constructed from steel or
hardened alloy and made by die stamping. As previously described,
an exemplary slat 9x/9y may be made in a portion of plank 82, plank
bend 83A, or plank wing 83B to the extent one or all of these
components protrude from inside brace 13 when situated therein. In
other words, leg bracket 8x/8y may take on the form of a "T" shape
as opposed to the illustrative "L." shape depicted in FIGS.
6C-H.
[0067] As illustratively provided for in FIGS. 6I, 6J, and 6K, an
exemplary profile view of a front backing 20A, a rear backing 20B,
and a combination of both front and rear backing 60, may be shown.
In the exemplary embodiment illustratively provided for in FIG. 6I,
an exemplary front backing 20A may comprise an upper hand 61, a
front apron 65 and a lower hand 67. Disposed between the upper hand
61 and the front apron 65, at least one front upper link 63 may be
located. Disposed between the lower hand 67 and the front apron 65,
at least one front lower link 69 may be located. In the exemplary
embodiment illustratively provided for in FIG. 6J, an exemplary
rear backing 20B may comprise an upper hand 62, a rear apron 66 and
a lower rear hand 68. Disposed between the upper hand 62 and the
rear apron 66, at least one rear upper link 64 may be located.
Disposed between the lower rear hand 68 and the rear apron 66, at
least one rear lower link 70 may be located. When combined as
illustratively assembled in FIG. 6K, space 71 formed by the
combination of upper hand 61 and upper hand 62 may allow for
passage of components of seat section 20, e.g., upper extremity of
brace or rail 21 of seat section 20. When combined as
illustratively assembled in FIG. 6K, space 72 formed by the
combination of front apron 65 and rear apron 66 may allow for
passage of components of seat section 20, e.g., backing brace 22.
When combined as illustratively assembled in FIG. 6K, space 73
formed by the combination of lower hand 67 and lower hand 68 may
allow for passage of components of seat section 20, e.g., backing
brace 23. Thus, the hands and aprons of backings 20A and 20B may be
configured to mold around the various backing braces 21-25
comprising seat section 20. An exemplary front backing 20A may be
constructed from semi-flexible polymers and made by injection,
rotary and/or blow molding processes known to those skilled in the
art. An exemplary rear backing 20B may be constructed from
semi-flexible polymers and made by injection, rotary and/or blow
molding processes known to those skilled in the art.
[0068] With reference to the illustrative embodiment provided for
in FIGS. 6L and 6M, an exemplary seat rest 40 may be shown from its
underside (as in FIG. 6L) and in profile view (as in FIG. 6M). As
provided for in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 6L, an
exemplary seat rest 40 may have a right adapter broken into two
discrete portions, front right adapter 42y.sub.1 and rear right
adapter 42y.sub.2. An exemplary seat rest 40 may also have a left
adapter broken into two discrete portions, front right adapter
42x.sub.1 and rear right adapter 42x.sub.2. Collectively, right and
left adapters 42y.sub.1, 42y.sub.2, 42x.sub.1, and 42x.sub.2 may be
referred to as adapters 42. Each of the portions of the right,
central, and left adapters may be separated by a channel 46, which
may be dimensioned to fit around brace 13 of seat section 10.
According to one embodiment, seat rest 40 may have its adapters 42
and/or 45 dimensioned so that seat section 40 can fill openings in
seat section 10, e.g., chair spaces 16A and 16B, and otherwise
further rigidify the frame seat section 10 of chair 1 on either
side of braces 12x/y and 14x/y. According to another embodiment,
adapters 42 and 45 of seat rest 40 may operate to click or friction
fit around braces 12x/y and 14x/y of chair 1. According to yet
another embodiment, channel 46 may friction fit or snap onto brace
13, e.g., where brace 13 possesses corresponding channels for
receiving such friction fittings or snap geometries or possesses
corresponding structures to snap into or friction fit within
channel 46. According to still another embodiment, seat rest 40 may
be designed so that adapters 42 and/or 45 or elsewhere on seat rest
40's underside, receiving surfaces for undercarriage 41 may exist
so that it can snap into or friction fit with seat section 40.
Alternatively, an exemplary undercarriage 41 may snap into,
friction fit, or otherwise attach to seat section 10 and/or seat
rest 40 via bolts, screws, Velcro, magnets, adhesives, or other
forms of attachment known to those skilled in the art. An exemplary
seat rest 40 with one or more adaptors 42 and/or 45 may be
constructed from variety of polymers and polyurethanes and made by
injection, rotary, or blow-molding polymers and cold-molding or
machine forming polyurethanes . An exemplary undercarriage for
coupling to seat rest 40, seat section 10, and/or both may be
constructed from variety of polymers and made by injection, rotary,
blow-molding or vacuum-forming.
[0069] In a first embodiment of a first balanced furniture
arrangement as illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A, a first
chair 1A may be nested with a second chair 1B. In an exemplary
embodiment of nesting as illustrated in FIG. 7A, a first chair 1A
may have a seat rest 40A and left front and rear legs, 5x.sub.1 and
6x.sub.1, respectively, and right front and rear legs, 5y.sub.1 and
6y.sub.1, respectively attached to a seat section 10A, and further
providing for a backing section 20A coupled to the seat section
10A. In further accordance with the aforementioned FIG. 7A
embodiment, a second chair 1B may have an undercarriage 41B and
left front and rear legs, 5x.sub.2 and 6x.sub.2, respectively, and
right front and rear legs, 5y.sub.2 and 6y.sub.2, respectively
attached to a seat section 10B, and further providing for a backing
section 20B coupled to the seat section 10B. According to the
nesting arrangement illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A,
undercarriage 41B may rest atop seat rest 40A so that the following
surfaces may share substantial contact with one another about the
following contacting surface areas: (i) the front of hacking
section 20A and the rear of backing section 20B; (ii) the top of
seat rest 40A and the undercarriage 41B (or if no undercarriage is
used, then seat section 10B); (iii) the top-most surface of left
rear leg 6x.sub.1 and the underside of left rear leg 6x.sub.2;
and/or (iv) the top-most surface of right rear leg 6y.sub.1 and the
underside of right rear leg 6y.sub.2. Among the various surfaces
identified for nesting according to this exemplary embodiment, the
most critical surface-to-surface abutment would be equally (i) the
top-most surface of left rear leg 6x1 and the underside of left
rear leg 6x2; and/or (ii) the top-most surface of right rear leg
6y1 and the underside of right rear leg 6y2, and (iii) the top of
seat rest 40A and the undercarriage 41B (or if no undercarriage is
used, then seat section 10B),
[0070] In a second embodiment of a first balanced furniture
arrangement as illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A, a first
chair 1A may be nested with a second chair 1B so that only the top
of seat rest 40A and the undercarriage 41B (or if no undercarriage
is used, then seat section 10B), the top-most surface of left rear
leg 6x.sub.1 and the underside of left rear leg 6x.sub.2, and the
top-most surface of right rear leg 6y.sub.1 and the underside of
right rear leg 6y.sub.2 are in substantial contact.
[0071] In a third embodiment of a first balanced furniture
arrangement as illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A, a first
chair 1A may be nested with a second chair 1B so that only the top
of seat rest 40A and the undercarriage 41B (or if no undercarriage
is used, then seat section 10B), the top-most surface of left rear
leg 6x.sub.1 and the underside of left rear leg 6x.sub.2, the
top-most surface of right rear leg 6y.sub.1 and the underside of
right rear leg 6y.sub.2, and the front of backing section 20A and
the rear of backing section 20B are in substantial contact.
[0072] In a first embodiment of a second balanced furniture
arrangement as illustratively provided for in FIG. 7B, a first
chair 2A may be nested with a second chair 2B. In an exemplary
embodiment of nesting as illustrated in FIG. 7B, a first chair 2A
may have a seat rest 40A and left front and rear legs, 5x.sub.1 and
6x.sub.1, respectively, and right front and rear legs, 5y.sub.1 and
6y.sub.1, respectively attached to a seat section 10A, and further
providing for a backing section 20A coupled to the seat section
10A. In further accordance with the aforementioned FIG. 7B
embodiment, a second chair 2B may have an undercarriage 41B and
left front and rear legs, 5x.sub.2 and 6x.sub.2, respectively, and
right front and rear legs, 5y.sub.2 and 6y.sub.2, respectively
attached to a seat section 10B, and further providing for a backing
section 20B coupled to the seat section 10B. According to the
nesting arrangement illustratively provided for in FIG. 7B,
undercarriage 41B may rest atop seat rest 40A so that the following
surfaces may share substantial contact with one another about the
following contacting surface areas: (i) the front of backing
section 20A and the rear of backing section 20B; (ii) the top of
seat rest 40A and the undercarriage 41B (or if no undercarriage is
used, then seat section 10B); (iii) the top-most surface of left
rear leg 6x.sub.1 and the underside of left rear leg 6x.sub.2;
and/or (iv) the top-most surface of right rear leg 6y.sub.1 and the
underside of right rear leg 6y.sub.2. Among the various surfaces
identified for nesting according to this exemplary embodiment, the
most critical surface-to-surface abutment would be equally (i) the
top-most surface of left rear leg 6x1 and the underside of left
rear leg 6x2; and/or (ii) the top-most surface of right rear leg
6y1 and the underside of right rear leg 6y2, and (iii) the top of
seat rest 40A and the undercarriage 41B (or if no undercarriage is
used, then seat section 10B).
[0073] In a second embodiment of a second balanced furniture
arrangement as illustratively provided for in FIG. 7B, a first
chair 2A may be nested with a second chair 2B so that only the top
of seat rest 40A and the undercarriage 41B (or if no undercarriage
is used, then seat section 10B), the top-most surface of left rear
leg 6x.sub.1 and the underside of left rear leg 6x.sub.2, and the
top-most surface of right rear leg 6y.sub.1 and the underside of
right rear leg 6y.sub.2 are in substantial contact.
[0074] in a third embodiment of a second balanced furniture
arrangement as illustratively provided for in FIG. 7B, a first
chair 2A may be nested with a second chair 2B so that only the top
of seat rest 40A and the undercarriage 41B (or if no undercarriage
is used, then seat section 10B), the top-most surface of left rear
leg 6x.sub.1 and the underside of left rear leg 6x.sub.2, the
top-most surface of right rear leg 6y.sub.1 and the underside of
right rear leg 6y.sub.2, and the front of backing section 20A and
the rear of backing section 20B are in substantial contact.
[0075] In an exemplary embodiment of a stacked furniture
arrangement when viewed from the right-hand side, as illustratively
provided for in FIG. 8, a first chair 1A and a second chair 1B may
be placed in accordance with one or more of the first balanced.
furniture arrangements illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A. As
such, a rear contact point 35 may be considered the point at which
the rearward-most portion of first chair 1A that is in contact with
ground G. As illustrated in FIG. 8, an exemplary first chair 1A has
a center of mass or center of gravity ("CG") denoted CG.sub.1
located above seat rest 40A. The center of gravity or center of
mass may be the point at which the entire weight of a body may be
considered as concentrated so that if supported at this point the
body would remain in equilibrium in any position. In other words,
CG.sub.1 may be the point at which the entire weight of chair 1A
may be considered as concentrated so that if it is supported at
that point it would be stable in any position. It may also be known
that bodies tend to rotate about their centers of gravity when
impacted by a force.
[0076] With further reference to FIG. 8, a second chair 1B may be
placed on first chair 1A in accordance with one or more of the
first balanced chair arrangements illustratively provided for in
FIG. 7A. When arranged in that manner, the system of first chair 1A
and second chair 1B may have a center of gravity denoted CG.sub.2.
The CG.sub.2 may be located on second chair seat rest 40B and not
in free space as may be the case for CG.sub.1. Thus, where an
exemplary system utilizes chair 1, an exemplary two-chair system
comprising first and second chairs 1A and 1B, respectively, may
have a vertically increased CG (CG.sub.2) that may be closer to the
front of chair 1A from. position 36A to position 36B.
[0077] With reference to FIG. 9, a third chair 1C may be placed on
the second chair 1B in accordance with one or more of the first
balanced chair arrangements illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A.
When arranged in that manner, the system of first chair 1A, second
chair 1B, and third chair 1C may have a center of gravity denoted
CG.sub.3. The CG.sub.3 may be located in third chair seat rest 40C.
Thus, where an exemplary system utilizes chair 1, an exemplary
three-chair system comprising first, second, and third chairs 1A,
1B and 1C, respectively, may have a vertically increased CG
(CG.sub.3) that may be closer to the front of each of chairs 1A and
1B from position 36B to position 36C. As may be further
illustratively provided for in FIG. 9, the location of CG.sub.3 and
prior CG.sub.2 and CG.sub.1 may be substantially aligned with the
rear leg 6y.sub.3 of chair 1C.
[0078] With reference to FIG. 10, a fourth chair ID may be placed
on the third chair 1C in accordance with one or more of the first
balanced chair arrangements illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A.
When arranged in that manner, the system of first chair 1A, second
chair 1B, third chair 1C, and fourth chair 1D may have a center of
gravity denoted CG.sub.4. The CG.sub.4 may be located on top of
third chair seat rest 40C or below fourth chair seat rest 40D.
Thus, where an exemplary system utilizes chair 1, an exemplary
four-chair system comprising first, second, third, and fourth
chairs 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D, respectively, may have a vertically
increased CG (CG.sub.4) that may be closer to the front of each of
chairs 1A, 1B, and 1C from position 36C to position 36D. As may be
further illustratively provided for in FIG. 10, the location of
CG.sub.4 and prior CG.sub.3, CG.sub.2 and CG.sub.1 may be
substantially aligned with the rear leg 6y.sub.4 of chair 1D. As
may also be illustratively provide for in FIG. 10, an exemplary
four-chair system may be seen to arch towards the rear with each
subsequent chair placed on top.
[0079] With reference to FIG. 11, a fifth chair 1E may be placed on
the fourth chair 1D in accordance with one or more of the first
balanced chair arrangements illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A.
When arranged in that manner, the system of first chair 1A, second
chair 1B, third chair 1C, fourth chair 1D, and fifth chair 1E may
have a center of gravity denoted CG.sub.5. The CG.sub.5 may be
located within the fourth chair seat rest 40D or below fifth chair
seat rest 40E. Thus, where an exemplary system utilizes chair 1, an
exemplary five-chair system comprising first, second, third,
fourth, and fifth chairs 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D and 1E, respectively, may
have a vertically increased CG (CG.sub.5) that may be closer to the
front of each of chairs 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D from position 36D to
position 36E, although not as great an increased distance as that
between 36A to 36B, 36B to 36C, and/or 36C to 36D. As may be
further illustratively provided for in FIG. 11, the location of
CG.sub.5 and prior CG.sub.4, CG.sub.3, CG.sub.2 and CG.sub.1 may be
substantially aligned with both of rear leg 6y.sub.4 of chair 1D
and rear leg 6y.sub.5 of chair 1D. As may also be illustratively
provide for in FIG. 11, an exemplary five-chair system may be seen
to arch towards the rear with each subsequent chair placed on
top.
[0080] With reference to FIG. 12, a sixth chair 1F may be placed on
the fifth chair 1E in accordance with one or more of the first
balanced chair arrangements illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A.
When arranged in that manner, the system of first chair 1A, second
chair 1B, third chair 1C, fourth chair 1D, fifth chair 1E and sixth
chair 1F may have a center of gravity denoted CG.sub.6. The
CG.sub.6 may be located on top of the fourth chair seat rest 40D,
which may be below fifth chair seat rest 40E and substantially
below sixth chair seat rest 40F. Thus, where an exemplary system
utilizes chair 1, an exemplary six-chair system comprising first,
second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth chairs 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E
and 1F, respectively, may have a vertically increased CG (CG.sub.6)
that may be closer to the front of each of chairs 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D,
and 1E from position 36E to position 36F, although not as great an
increased distance as that between 36A to 36B, 36B to 36C, 36C to
36D, and/or 36D to 36E. As may be further illustratively provided
for in FIG. 12, the location of CG.sub.6 and prior CG.sub.5,
CG.sub.4, CG.sub.3, CG.sub.2 and CG.sub.1 may be substantially
aligned with both of rear leg 6y.sub.4 of chair 1D and rear leg
6y.sub.5 of chair 1E. As may also he illustratively provide for in
FIG. 12, an exemplary six-chair system may be seen to arch towards
the rear with each subsequent chair placed on top. In a preferred
embodiment, CG.sub.6 may be substantially unchanged from CG.sub.5
in the horizontal (x) direction.
[0081] With reference to FIG. 13, a seventh chair 1G may be placed
on the sixth chair 1F in accordance with one or more of the first
balanced chair arrangements illustratively provided for in FIG. 7A.
When arranged in that manner, the system of first chair 1A, second
chair 1B, third chair 1C, fourth chair 1D, fifth chair 1E, sixth
chair 1F, and seventh chair 1G may have a center of gravity denoted
CG.sub.7. The CG.sub.7 may be located in the fifth chair seat rest
40E, which may be below the sixth chair seat rest 40F and
substantially below seventh chair seat rest 40G. Thus, where an
exemplary system utilizes chair 1, an exemplary six-chair system
comprising first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh
chairs 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F and 1G, respectively, may have a
vertically increased CG (CG.sub.7) that may be closer to the front
of each of chairs 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, and 1F from position 36F to
position 36G, although not as great an increased distance as that
between 36A to 36B, 36B to 36C. 36C to 36D, 36D to 36E and/or 36E
to 36F. In a preferred embodiment, CG.sub.7 may be substantially
unchanged from CG.sub.6 in the horizontal (x) direction, which may
be substantially unchanged from CG.sub.5 in the horizontal (x)
direction.
[0082] As may be further illustratively provided for in FIG. 13,
the location of CG.sub.7 and prior CG.sub.6, CG.sub.5, CG.sub.4,
CG.sub.3, CG.sub.2 and CG.sub.1 may be substantially aligned with
rear leg 6y.sub.5 of chair 1E. As may also be illustratively
provide for in FIG. 13, an exemplary seven-chair system may be seen
to arch towards the rear with each subsequent chair placed on
top.
[0083] According to the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 14, a
stacked arrangement IS comprising a plurality of chairs 1 may have
an arching progression of CGs as additional chairs 1 are added to
the stack 1S. In addition to the previously illustrated CG.sub.1
through CG.sub.7, CG.sub.8 and CG.sub.9 are illustratively shown in
FIG. 14 in positions that tend to be substantially aligned with
CG.sub.4, CG.sub.5, CG.sub.6, and/or CG.sub.7, while also appearing
to follow an arc towards the rear of the stack 1S. The arc of
sequential CGs in an exemplary stack 1S as the number of chairs
increases from 1 to 12 may be illustratively shown in FIG. 15's
depiction of CG arc 37.
[0084] In contrast, FIG. 16 illustratively provides for a stacking
arrangement of chairs 2. As was illustratively provided with
respect to stacking arrangements involving a plurality of chairs 1,
a plurality of chairs 2, comprising chair 2A and 2B, may be
shown.
[0085] As previously explained, the orientations described with
respect to FIGS. 2 and 3 may be especially suitable, and in certain
applications critical, for optimized nesting and stacking of a
chair 2 with other such chairs. For example, without these above
orientations, chair 2 may not be able to suitably nest and stack
with additional chairs 2 to maintain a first balanced furniture
arrangement.
[0086] In an exemplary embodiment of a stacked furniture
arrangement when viewed from the right-hand side, as illustratively
provided for in FIG. 16, a first chair 2A and a second chair 2B may
be placed in accordance with one or more of the second balanced
furniture arrangements illustratively provided for in FIG. 7B. As
such, a rear contact point 35 may be considered the point at which
the rearward-most portion of first chair 2A that may be in contact
with ground G. As illustrated in FIG. 16, an exemplary first chair
2A has a CG denoted CG.sub.A located above seat rest 40A. As
previously explained with respect to chair 1 in FIG. 8, CG.sub.A
may he the point at which the entire weight of chair 2A may be
considered as concentrated so that if it is supported at that point
it would be stable in any position. It may also be known that
bodies tend to rotate about their centers of gravity when impacted
by a force.
[0087] With further reference to FIG. 16, a second chair 2B may be
placed on first chair 2A in accordance with one or more of the
second balanced chair arrangements illustratively provided for in
FIG. 7B. When arranged in that manner, the system of first chair 2A
and second chair 2B may have a center of gravity denoted
CG.sub.A+B. The CG.sub.A+B may be located on second chair seat rest
40B and not in free space as may be the case for CG.sub.A. Thus,
where an exemplary system utilizes chair 2, an exemplary two-chair
system comprising first and second chairs 2A and 2B, respectively,
may have a vertically increased CG (CG.sub.A+B) that may be closer
to the front of chair 2A from position 38A to position 38B.
[0088] As subsequent chair 2 are added to an exemplary second
balanced chair arrangement 2S, each subsequent CG may be
substantially aligned in a vector 39 that may itself be oriented at
substantially the same angle as the majority of the length of a
majority of the rear legs 6x/y of all the chairs 2 in chair
arrangement 2S.
[0089] As illustratively provided for in FIGS. 7A and 713, chair 1
and/or 2 may function as a banquet chair, despite lacking a
traditional banquet chair appearance. In one aspect of the
disclosed embodiments, an exemplary stackable furniture system may
be ergonomically enhanced and compact to enable nesting. In another
aspect as illustratively provided for in FIGS. 7A-B and 8-17, an
exemplary stacking functionality may utilize leg-on-leg nesting in
the rear, seat-on-seat nesting with an integrated angled nesting
pan that locks the seat above onto the seat below. An additional
aspect of an exemplary stacking furniture system may also include
integrated stacking buttons, integrated stacking glides, and nested
seat-pan on seat arrangement. In certain embodiments, a "smile"
shape of the seat and nesting pan along with the rear leg-on-leg
nesting may create a compact nesting stacked chair arrangement 1S
and/or 2S for tight, secure stack configurations.
* * * * *