U.S. patent application number 15/975339 was filed with the patent office on 2019-03-21 for collapsible and portable chair.
This patent application is currently assigned to GCI Outdoor, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Daniel R. Grace. Invention is credited to Daniel R. Grace.
Application Number | 20190082846 15/975339 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 65719629 |
Filed Date | 2019-03-21 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190082846 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Grace; Daniel R. |
March 21, 2019 |
COLLAPSIBLE AND PORTABLE CHAIR
Abstract
A collapsible and portable chair comprises an articulated chair
frame that includes a plurality of pivotally interconnected
elongated frame members, as well as a plurality of pivots and
joints that define mutually parallel axes about which the chair can
be folded from a set-up configuration to a flattened and collapsed
configuration. The chair frame includes a front leg assembly, a
rear leg assembly, a backrest frame assembly and two independent
laterally spaced seat frame members. A fabric panel extends between
members of the chair frame to define a seating panel and a backrest
panel for receiving a seated user in the set-up condition of the
chair. Straps can be provided to facilitate transport of the chair
in its folded condition, notable as backpack straps that free up
the user's hands so that other objects can be carried along with
the folded chair.
Inventors: |
Grace; Daniel R.; (Old
Saybrook, CT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Grace; Daniel R. |
Old Saybrook |
CT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GCI Outdoor, Inc.
Higganum
CT
|
Family ID: |
65719629 |
Appl. No.: |
15/975339 |
Filed: |
May 9, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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62503419 |
May 9, 2017 |
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62536664 |
Jul 25, 2017 |
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62550729 |
Aug 28, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 4/30 20130101; A47C
4/12 20130101; A47C 4/52 20130101; A47C 1/0265 20130101; A47C 7/622
20180801; A47C 4/283 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47C 4/28 20060101
A47C004/28; A47C 4/30 20060101 A47C004/30 |
Claims
1. A collapsible and portable chair comprising: an articulated
chair frame comprising a front leg assembly, a rear leg assembly, a
backrest frame assembly, two independent laterally spaced apart
seat frame members, and two laterally disposed armrests; a seat
defined by a seating panel mounted to the seat frame members; and a
backrest defined by a backrest panel whereby the backrest is
angularly disposed relative to the seat when the chair is in a
set-up condition; wherein the front leg assembly comprises a left
front leg member and a right front leg interconnected by a lateral
cross-connector; wherein the rear leg assembly comprises a left
rear leg member and a right rear leg member interconnected by a
lateral cross-connecter; wherein the upper ends of the left and
right front leg members are pivotally connected to the upper ends
of the respective left and right rear leg members; wherein the seat
frame members are each pivotally connected to respective front and
rear leg members; wherein the backrest frame assembly comprises a
left backrest frame member and a right backrest frame member
interconnected by a lateral cross-connector; wherein each armrest
is pivotally attached at a rear end thereof to a respective one of
the left and right backrest frame members and mounted at an
opposing end thereof on the pivotally connected upper ends of the
front and rear leg members; and wherein the front leg assembly, the
rear leg assembly, the backrest frame assembly, the seat frame
members and the armrests are pivotable relative to one another so
that the chair is movable between the set-up condition and a folded
condition.
2. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 1, wherein
the front leg assembly is reinforced.
3. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 2, wherein
the front leg assembly is reinforced by a laterally extending
cross-support member connected between the left and right front leg
members and vertically upwardly spaced from the cross-connector of
the front leg assembly, whereby said cross-support member is
further vertically downwardly spaced from the seat frame members so
as not to interfere with the seating panel.
4. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 2, wherein
the front leg assembly is reinforced by left and right truss braces
attached to the left and right sides of the front leg assembly.
5. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 1, wherein
the angular position of the backrest relative to the seat is
adjustable by moving the armrests relative to the pivotally
connected upper ends of the front leg assembly and the rear leg
assembly.
6. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 5, wherein
the upper ends of the left and right front leg members are
pivotally connected to the upper ends of the respective left and
right rear leg members via respective left and right hinge
fittings, and wherein said hinge fitting are received within guides
provided on the armrests having portions associated with various
reclined positions of the backrest such that the hinge fittings can
be set in one of said portions for use and moved therebetween to
adjust the reclined position of the backrest.
7. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 1, further
comprising at least one strap for carrying the chair in its folded
condition.
8. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 7, wherein
the at least one strap comprises two shoulder straps.
9. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 7, wherein
the at least one strap comprises two strap assemblies disposed on
each lateral side of the chair, each said strap assembly
comprising: a horizontal belt portion attached at a first end to
one of the rear side of the backrest panel and the backrest frame
assembly, and having a second unattached end; and a vertical strap
portion having a first end attached to a respective horizontal belt
portion and a second end attached to the chair frame, whereby, when
the chair is in its folded condition, the second unattached ends of
the two horizontal belt portions can be connected together adjacent
the front side of the folded chair.
10. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 1,
further comprising central pivot joints on the lateral
cross-connectors of the front leg assembly, the rear leg assembly,
and the backrest assembly, whereby the chair can be folded from its
folded condition about the central pivot joints to a second folded
condition that generally has a footprint half the size of the
footprint of the chair in its folded condition.
11. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 1,
wherein the seat and the backrest are collectively defined by a
single fabric panel mounted to the chair frame which comprises the
seating panel and the backrest panel.
12. A collapsible and portable chair comprising: an articulated
chair frame comprising a front leg assembly, a rear leg assembly, a
backrest frame assembly, two independent laterally spaced apart
seat frame members, and two laterally disposed armrests, all
pivotable relative to one another so that the chair is movable
between a set-up condition and a folded condition; a seat defined
by a seating panel mounted to the seat frame members; a backrest
defined by a backrest panel whereby the backrest is angularly
disposed relative to the seat when the chair is in the set-up
condition; and at least one strap for carrying the chair in the
folded condition; wherein the front leg assembly comprises a left
front leg member and a right front leg interconnected by a lateral
cross-connector, and wherein said front leg assembly is laterally
reinforced; wherein the rear leg assembly comprises a left rear leg
member and a right rear leg member interconnected by a lateral
cross-connecter; wherein the seat frame members are each pivotally
connected to respective front and rear leg members; wherein the
backrest frame assembly comprises a left backrest frame member and
a right backrest frame member interconnected by a lateral
cross-connector; and wherein each armrest is pivotally attached at
a rear end thereof to a respective one of the left and right
backrest frame members and mounted on the upper ends of the front
and rear leg assemblies.
13. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 12,
wherein the front leg assembly is reinforced by a laterally
extending cross-support member connected between the left and right
front leg members and vertically upwardly spaced from the
cross-connector of the front leg assembly, whereby said
cross-support member is further vertically downwardly spaced from
the seat frame members so as not to interfere with the seating
panel.
14. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 12,
wherein the front leg assembly is reinforced by left and right
truss braces attached to the left and right sides of the front leg
assembly.
15. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 12,
wherein the upper ends of the left and right front leg members are
pivotally connected to the upper ends of the respective left and
right rear leg members via respective left and right hinge
fittings.
16. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 15,
wherein the angular position of the backrest relative to the seat
is adjustable by moving the armrests relative to the hinge
fittings.
17. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 12,
wherein the at least one strap comprises two shoulder straps.
18. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 12,
wherein the at least one strap comprises two strap assemblies
disposed on each lateral side of the chair, each said strap
assembly comprising: a horizontal belt portion attached at a first
end to one of the rear side of the backrest panel and the backrest
frame assembly, and having a second unattached end; and a vertical
strap portion having a first end attached to a respective
horizontal belt portion and a second end attached to the chair
frame, whereby, when the chair is in its folded condition, the
second unattached ends of the two horizontal belt portions can be
connected together adjacent the front side of the folded chair.
19. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 12,
further comprising central pivot joints on the lateral
cross-connectors of the front leg assembly, the rear leg assembly,
and the backrest assembly, whereby the chair can be folded from its
folded condition about the central pivot joints to a second folded
condition that generally has a footprint half the size of the
footprint of the chair in its folded condition.
20. The collapsible and portable chair according to claim 12,
wherein the seat and the backrest are collectively defined by a
single fabric panel mounted to the chair frame which comprises the
seating panel and the backrest panel.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/503,419, filed on May
9, 2017; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/536,664, filed Jul.
25, 2017; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/550,729, filed
Aug. 28, 2017, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to collapsible and
portable furnishings--namely, lawn or beach chairs, and the like,
and more particularly to a collapsible and portable chair with a
new frame design.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Folding and collapsible furniture, generally, is well known
and has been used a long time. Popularity of the mini van, the
sport utility vehicle and the recreational vehicle has resulted in
increased demand for improved collapsible furniture and
particularly collapsible portable furniture of the outdoor type
which may be readily stowed in a vehicle and conveniently manually
transported to a picnic area or the site of a spectator event, such
as, for example, an outdoor concert, a sporting event, a golf
tournament, or an air show, where the general rule is to bring your
own seating accommodations. Accordingly, the general intent of
folding furniture is ease of storage and portability, i.e., the
furniture can be set-up for use and then folded down for transport
and/or storage in a space of smaller volume than what the furniture
occupies in its set-up condition. It also has been noted that it
would be desirable to have the furniture fold down to fit within a
space of minimum possible perimeter and/or volume, i.e., for
purposes of shipping the furniture at a minimal rate when the
shipping rate is based in part on the volume and perimeter of the
package to be shipped. However, the collapsibility of known folding
furniture has been limited by certain design features, for example,
the mutual arrangement of members to fold against each other
without needing to disassemble and re-assemble the article.
[0004] Some existing folding furniture designs also tend to be
uncomfortable for the user. That is, the frame designs utilize
frame members that interfere with the user's comfort when seated in
the set-up chair. For example, the chair frame may use rigid seat
frames or cross-members to hold the seat fabric taut when the chair
is in the set-up condition. However, such a rigid frame or
cross-member interferes with the flexing and give of the seat
fabric and also presses against the underside of the seated user's
legs.
[0005] Further, it is desirable to have means to easily transport a
collapsed chair, such as by using straps, so that the chair can be
carried while keeping the user's hands free for carrying other
objects. Preferably, such straps would not interfere with the
set-up condition of the chair, or with the collapsing of the chair,
or affect use of the chair when so set up.
[0006] Additionally, it would be desirable to have a foldable
furnishing that does not easily or unintentionally collapse from
its set-up condition, especially when in use, and that likewise
tends to remain in its folded condition, for example, during
storage and/or transport.
[0007] Still further, it is desirable to reduce the components of
the frame, to reduce weight and manufacturing costs without
compromising the stability and strength of the chair.
[0008] In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a chair that
can be easily collapsed in order to reduce the space occupied by
the chair in a folded condition but have a frame that does not
interfere with the comfort of the seated user. Further, there is a
need for such a chair that can be folded with minimal effort,
without limiting or compromising the structural features of the
chair. Further, there is a need for a chair frame that reduces the
components of the frame to reduce weight and manufacturing costs
without compromising the folding and transport or the chair, and
without affecting the safety and structural integrity of the chair,
especially on all types of surfaces, including soft ground and
sand. Accordingly, it is a general object of the present invention
to provide a foldable and portable chair design that overcomes the
problems and drawbacks associated with folding chairs, and
therefore significantly improves the utility of such a chair in the
set-up condition while permitting easy transportation and/or
storage in a collapsed condition.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] According to embodiments of the present invention, in a
set-up configuration of a collapsible and portable chair, an
articulated chair frame includes a plurality of pivotally
interconnected elongated frame members, as well as a plurality of
pivots or joints that define mutually parallel axes about which the
chair can be folded in a single motion from the set-up
configuration to a flattened or collapsed configuration.
[0010] The chair of the present invention utilizes a frame
generally comprising a plurality of interconnected elongated
members and a fabric panel extending between such frame members to
define at least a seating panel and a backrest panel for receiving
a seated user in a set-up condition of the chair. The frame members
are collectively movable between the set-up condition of the chair,
whereby a user can sit in the chair, and a folded condition,
whereby transport and storage of the chair is facilitated.
[0011] The frame of the general chair in accordance with the
present invention comprises a front leg assembly, a rear leg
assembly, a backrest frame assembly, two laterally spaced apart
seat frame members and armrests. The front leg assembly comprises
left and right front leg members connected by a lateral
cross-connector so that the front leg assembly generally takes the
form of a U-shaped part, though it can also have other non-U-shaped
forms without departing from the spirit and principles of the
present invention. Similarly, the rear leg assembly comprises left
and right rear leg members connected by a lateral cross-connector
so that the rear leg assembly generally takes the form of a
U-shaped part, though it can also have other non-U-shaped forms
without departing from the spirit and principles of the present
invention.
[0012] The front leg assembly and the rear leg assembly are
pivotally connected to each other at the top ends of the respective
left and right leg members. An armrest sits atop the pivotal
connection--the pivotal connection may be received within an
adjustment bracket or channel on the underside of the armrests
permitting adjustment of the armrests relative to the pivotal leg
connection, which in turn can affect reclining of the backrest to
which the end of the armrests are pivotally connected. For example,
the adjustment bracket may include a scalloped shaped opening, or
the channel can include recessed guides with location stops so that
the armrests can be adjusted to various positions, each associated
with a different reclined position of the backrest assembly.
[0013] In an aspect of the present invention, the seat frame
members are generally parallel, laterally spaced apart, independent
and unconnected to each other. In use, a fabric seating panel is
stretched between the seat frame members to receive a seated user.
As shown above, there are no cross-connectors on the seat frame,
and as a result, nothing to interfere with the flex or give of the
fabric seating panel when a user is sitting in the set-up chair.
Moreover, by not using any type of cross-connector or lateral frame
member extending between the seat frame members, there is nothing
to press against the user's legs when seated in the chair, as is
common with prior art designs on the market.
[0014] The backrest frame assembly comprises laterally spaced apart
left and right backrest frame members connected at an upper end
thereof by a lateral cross-connector so that the backrest frame
assembly generally takes the form of a U-shaped part, though it can
also have other non-U-shaped forms. In use, a fabric backrest panel
is stretched between the left and right backrest frame members so
that a seated user can lean back on the backrest of the chair in
its set-up condition.
[0015] In accordance with the present invention, the fabric seat
panel and the fabric backrest panel can be made as a one-piece
fabric panel. In alternate embodiments, separate panels can be used
for the seat panel and the backrest panel.
[0016] In embodiments of the present invention, the front leg
assembly can be strengthened and reinforced using an additional
cross-support member that laterally extends between the left and
right front leg members to add support at the front end of the
chair in its set-up condition and when the chair frame is taking
the load of a seated user. Such a cross-support member is located
well below the seat frame members so that it does not interfere
with the flexibility of the seating panel--that is, the seating
panel can flex below the level of the seating frame members when a
user is seated on the set-up chair, and the chair can be easily
folded between a set-up and a folded condition, providing a marked
improvement over prior art chair frames.
[0017] Depending on the shape, size, and specifically, the height
of the chair frame, a similar cross-support member can be provided
on the rear leg assembly as well without departing from the spirit
and principles of the present invention.
[0018] In other embodiments of the present invention, the front leg
assembly can be strengthened and reinforced using truss braces that
add support and strength at the front end of the chair in its
set-up condition and when the chair frame is taking the load of a
seated user. Variations of such truss braces are possible for the
front leg assembly, as well as the rear leg assembly, depending on
the shape, size and height of the chair frame and the desired
weight capacity for the chair frame. For example, the truss braces
can be angular in shape and design, or curved and concentrically
aligned with the shape of the leg assembly to which they are
secured. In preferred embodiments, two separate truss braces are
provided on each side of the leg assembly to add stability to the
set-up chair. In alternate embodiments, a single truss brace that
spans the width of the leg assembly and is essentially nested
thereon may be provided to strengthen and reinforce the leg
assembly's ability to handle the weight of the seated user and
prevent inward buckling of the chair frame.
[0019] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the
truss braces are located well below the seat frame members so that
they do not interfere with the flexibility of the seating panel or
affect any part of the seat frame during use, set-up or collapse of
the chair--that is, the seating panel can flex below the level of
the seating frame members when a user is seated on the set-up
chair, and the chair can be easily folded between a set-up
condition and a collapsed condition, providing a marked improvement
over prior art chair frames.
[0020] The chair frame embodiments in accordance with the present
invention can also be used in a bi-fold chair frame, whereby the
chair, after being folded to a flattened condition, can be folded
upon itself (like a book) to an even smaller footprint for easy
transportation and/or storage, such as embodiments shown and
described in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 14/991,054, filed
Jan. 8, 2016, entitled "Bi-Fold Furniture," which shares a common
inventor and assignee with the present application, and which is
incorporated herein by reference.
[0021] Embodiments of the present invention further include one or
more straps for carrying the collapsed and folded chair. The straps
can be secured to the chair or chair frame for transport using
known attachment means, including but not limited to stitches,
rivets, bolts, screws, buckles, clasps, and the like.
[0022] In embodiments of the present invention, each strap can
comprise a generally horizontal belt portion (when attached for
backpack transport) connected at one end to the back side of the
fabric backrest panel or directly to the backrest frame assembly,
and having an opposing end with a connection means adapted for
connecting the left horizontal belt portion with the right
horizontal belt portion. Each strap also includes a generally
vertical strap portion that is attached to a respective horizontal
belt portion and hangs down therefrom to define backpack straps
when the chair is in its folded condition. When the user carries
the chair like a backpack, the user's arms are inserted through the
vertical strap portions, which sit on the user's shoulders. The
horizontal belt portions are positioned behind the user's shoulders
and back. The vertical strap portions can include padding for
comfort. Additionally adjustment clasps can be provided to adjust
the length of the vertical strap portions to accommodate users of
different sizes.
[0023] In other embodiments of the present invention, one end of
each vertical strap is attached to or near the rear leg assembly
and the other end is sewn to the back of the fabric backrest panel
or directly to the backrest frame assembly.
[0024] In still other embodiments of the present invention, one end
of a strap is attached to the seat frame or the fabric seating
panel and the other end is attached to or near the rear leg members
on each side of the chair frame.
[0025] Additional features of the chair of the present invention
may include a pillow at the top of the backrest, a cup holder
and/or storage pouch hanging from one or both of the armrests, a
storage pouch located on the back-side of the backrest, straps
designed to maintain the collapsed chair in its folded condition,
and a carrying handle provided on one or both of the armrests.
[0026] These and other features of the present invention are
described with reference to the drawings of preferred embodiments
of a collapsible and portable chair. The illustrated embodiments of
features of the present invention are intended to illustrate, but
not limit the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a collapsible
and portable chair in accordance with a first embodiment of the
present invention in a set-up condition.
[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates a side planar view of the chair of FIG.
1.
[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates a front planar view of the chair of FIG.
1.
[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates a rear planar view of the chair of FIG.
1.
[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates a front perspective view of a chair frame
for the chair of FIG.
[0032] FIG. 6 illustrates a side perspective view of the chair
frame of FIG. 5.
[0033] FIG. 7 illustrates a front perspective view of the chair
frame of FIG. 5.
[0034] FIG. 8 illustrates a rear perspective view of the chair
frame of FIG. 5.
[0035] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the chair of FIG. 1
in a folded condition.
[0036] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate perspective top and bottom
views, respectively, of an armrest for use on the chair of FIG.
1.
[0037] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an alternate chair
frame for the chair of FIG. 1.
[0038] FIG. 12 illustrates a rear perspective view of a collapsible
and portable chair in accordance with a second embodiment of the
present invention in a set-up condition.
[0039] FIG. 13 illustrates a rear planar view of the chair of FIG.
12.
[0040] FIG. 14 illustrates a side planar view of the chair of FIG.
12.
[0041] FIG. 15 illustrates a front planar view of the chair of FIG.
12 in a folded condition.
[0042] FIG. 16 also illustrates a front planar view of the chair of
FIG. 12 in a folded condition.
[0043] FIG. 17 illustrates a side planar view of the chair of FIG.
12 in a folded condition.
[0044] FIG. 18 illustrates a planar view of an embodiment of a
front leg assembly for use in the chair of FIG. 12.
[0045] FIG. 19 illustrates a planar view of another embodiment of a
front leg assembly for use in the chair of FIG. 12.
[0046] FIG. 20 illustrates a rear perspective view of a collapsible
and portable chair in accordance with a third embodiment of the
present invention in a set-up condition.
[0047] FIG. 21 illustrates a side planar view of the chair of FIG.
20.
[0048] FIG. 22 illustrates a front planar view of the chair of FIG.
20 in a folded condition.
[0049] FIG. 23 also illustrates a front planar view of the chair of
FIG. 20 in a folded condition.
[0050] FIG. 24 illustrates a side planar view of the chair of FIG.
20 in a folded condition.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0051] In the drawings and in the description that follows, the
present invention is illustrated and described with reference to
embodiments of a collapsible and portable reclining chair embodying
the invention.
[0052] Referring to FIGS. 1-9, a first embodiment of a collapsible
and portable chair is illustrated and indicated generally as
reference numeral 10. The illustrated chair 10 essentially
comprises a beach or lawn chair having an articulated foldable
frame, indicated generally as reference numeral 12, and a flexible
material mounted on the frame 12 and defining a chair seat 14 and a
chair backrest 16 for receiving a seated user. In FIGS. 1-4, the
chair 10 is shown in its set-up condition, wherein the chair 10 is
adapted to rest on a generally horizontally-oriented supporting
surface for accommodating a seated, or even reclined, chair
occupant (not shown). In accordance with the present invention,
when the chair 10 is not in use, it may be folded or collapsed for
transportation and/or storage, as generally illustrated in FIG. 9,
and more particularly, transported like a backpack using shoulder
straps 18 attached to the chair frame 12.
[0053] Considering now the chair frame 12 in further detail, as
shown in FIGS. 5-8 in its set-up condition, the frame 12 generally
comprises a plurality of axially elongated structural members
preferably fabricated from durable lightweight tubular metal or
polymeric material. In preferred embodiments, the frame members can
be aluminum tubing or circular or non-circular cross-section, such
as extruded oval or elliptical tubing. According to embodiments of
the present invention, in the set-up configuration of the chair 10,
the structural frame members of the chair frame 12 are pivotally
interconnected by a plurality of pivots or joints that define
mutually parallel axes about which the chair frame 12 can be folded
in a single motion from the set-up configuration to a flattened or
collapsed configuration, as shown in FIG. 9.
[0054] The frame 12 of the general chair 10 in accordance with the
present invention comprises a front leg assembly 20, a rear leg
assembly 22, a backrest frame assembly 24, laterally spaced apart
left and right seat frame members 26, and armrests 28. The front
leg assembly 22 comprises left and right front leg members 30L and
30R connected by a lateral cross-connector 32 so that the front leg
assembly 20, as illustrated, generally takes the form of a U-shaped
part, though it can also have other non-U-shaped forms without
departing from the spirit and principles of the present invention.
Similarly, the rear leg assembly 22 comprises left and right rear
leg members 34L and 34R connected by a lateral cross-connector 36
so that the rear leg assembly 22, as illustrated, generally takes
the form of a U-shaped part, though it too can also have other
non-U-shaped forms without departing from the spirit and principles
of the present invention.
[0055] In embodiments of the present invention, the front leg
assembly 20 can be strengthened and reinforced using an additional
cross-support member 38 that laterally extends between the left and
right front leg members 30L and 30R to add support at the front end
of the chair 10 in its set-up condition and when the chair frame 12
is taking the load of a seated user. Such a cross-support member 38
is located well below the seat frame members 26L and 26R so that it
does not interfere with the flexibility of a seating panel defining
the seat 14--that is, the seating panel can flex below the level of
the seat frame members 26L and 26R when a user is seated on the
set-up chair 10, and the chair 10 can be easily folded between a
set-up and a folded condition, providing a marked improvement over
prior art chair frames. As illustrated, the cross-support member 38
is vertically upwardly spaced from the cross-connector 32 of the
front leg assembly 20. Additionally, the cross-support member 38 is
vertically downwardly spaced from the seat frame members 26L and
26R so as not to interfere with the fabric seating panel, as
noted.
[0056] Depending on the shape, size, and specifically, the height
of the chair frame 12, a similar cross-support member can be
provided on the rear leg assembly 22 as well without departing from
the spirit and principles of the present invention.
[0057] The chair frame 12 essentially has a pair of side assemblies
of substantially identical and mirrored construction, disposed in
laterally spaced apart and generally parallel relation to each
other when the chair 10 is in its set-up condition. Such side
assemblies are disposed within longitudinally extending generally
parallel vertical planes with the afore-mentioned members connected
each to another for pivotal movement relative to each other about
transversely extending parallel pivotal axes extending normal to
the longitudinal axes of the side assembly members. For example, as
illustrated in FIG. 6, the front leg member 30L and 30R on each
side has an upward and slightly rearward incline to the vertical
when the chair 10 is in its set-up condition. These front leg
members 30L and 30R are pivotally connected at their upper ends to
respective rear leg members 34L and 34R on each side of the chair
frame 12, preferably by a hinge fitting 40, which maintains the
front and rear leg members within a common horizontally extending
vertically disposed axial plane for pivotal movement relative to
each other. As a result, the rear leg member 34L and 34R on each
side has an upward and forward incline to connect with the
respective front leg member 30L and 30R.
[0058] As noted, the front leg assembly 20 and the rear leg
assembly 22 are pivotally connected to each other at the top ends
of the respective left and right leg members. An armrest 28 sits
atop each of the pivotal hinge fittings 40, which may be received
within respective adjustment brackets or channels 42 on the
underside of the armrests 28, as illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B,
permitting adjustment of the armrests 28 relative to the pivotal
leg connection. The rear end of each armrest 28 is pivotally
connected to a side of the backrest frame assembly 24, whereby
movement of the armrests 28 back and forth can adjust the reclined
position of the backrest 16. For example, the adjustment bracket or
channel 42 may include either a grooved opening or recessed guides
44 formed therein with a scalloped shape or angled stops
corresponding to various armrest positions relative to the hinge
fitting 40, each associated with a different reclined position of
the backrest 16. The armrest 28 can be adjusted to one of said
positions by lifting it out of engagement with the hinge fitting
40, sliding it to a desired location, and pressing it back down to
lock it in place by re-engaging the grooved opening or recessed
guide 44 at one of the stops.
[0059] Referring again to FIGS. 5 and 7, the left and right seat
frame members 26L and 26R are generally parallel to one another and
laterally spaced apart defining a space therebetween. Such members
26L and 26R are independent of one another and unconnected, meaning
that there is no structural member, such as a cross-connector or
other part of the chair frame 12 connecting the seat frame members
26L and 26R together. In use, a fabric seating panel 48 is
stretched between the seat frame members 26L and 26R to receive a
seated user. As illustrated and discussed, there are no
cross-connectors on the seat frame, and as a result, nothing to
interfere with the flex or give of the fabric seating panel 48 when
a user is sitting on the set-up chair 10. Moreover, by not using
any type of cross-connector or laterally extending frame member at
the level of the seat frame 14, there is nothing to press against
the user's legs when seated in the chair 10, as is common with
prior art designs on the market, such as described in United States
Reissue Patent No. RE39,022, which uses a standard and
uncomfortable U-shaped seat frame.
[0060] The backrest frame assembly 24 comprises laterally spaced
apart left and right backrest frame members 52L and 52R connected
at upper ends thereof by a cross-connector 54 so that the backrest
frame assembly 24 generally takes the form of a U-shaped part,
though it can also have other non-U-shaped forms without departing
from the spirit and principles of the present invention. In use, a
fabric backrest panel 50 is stretched between the left and right
backrest frame members 52L and 52R so that a seated user can lean
back on the backrest of the chair 10 in its set-up condition.
[0061] Referring to FIGS. 5-8, the front leg members are pivotally
connected on the lateral outer sides of each respective seat frame
member 26L and 26R at a location intermediate the top and bottom of
each front leg member 22L and 22R. The lower end of the backrest
frame member 52L and 52R of each side assembly is pivotally
connected in upwardly offset relation to the rear end portion of a
respective seat frame member 26L and 26R by a U-shaped upwardly
open pivot fitting 56 mounted in fixed position on and at the seat
frame member 26L, 26R and via a pivot pin 58 extending through the
fitting 56 and the backrest frame member 52L, 52R. As illustrated
more clearly in FIG. 8, the pivot pin 58 also pivotally connects
the backrest frame member 52L or 52R to an upper end of an
over-the-center linkage 60 mounted in side-by-side relation to the
pivot fitting 56. The lower end of the linkage 60 straddles the
rear portion of the rear leg member 34L or 34R and is pivotally
connected to the rear leg member 34L or 34R by another axially
transverse pivot pin 62. Thus, the pivotally connected backrest
frame assembly 24 and seat frame members 26L and 26R are connected
and supported as an assembled unit on the rear leg assembly 22 to
pivot as a unit and on and relative to the rear leg assembly
22.
[0062] It is noted that lateral sides of the backrest frame
assembly 24 and the seat frame members 26L and 26R are supported to
pivot relative to each other within a common plane parallel to the
pivotal plane where the upper ends of the front leg assembly 20 and
rear leg assembly 22 are connected so as to facilitate simultaneous
articulated movement of the chair frame members that enables
relatively rapid movement of the chair 10 between its set-up and
folded conditions.
[0063] In general, the chair 10 includes at least one fabric panel
46 extending between the laterally spaced frame members to define
at least a seating panel 48 and a backrest panel 50 for receiving a
seated user in the set-up condition of the chair 10. The fabric
panel 46 can be a one-piece panel, defining both the seat and
backrest portions of the chair 10, as illustrated in the
embodiments of FIGS. 12 and 20. Alternatively, separate panels can
be provided for each of the seat 14 and the backrest 16, as
illustrated in FIG. 1. Preferably, the fabric material is stretched
taut across the frame 12, but is sufficiently flexible to provide
ample give, optimally for the seated user's comfort during use of
the chair 10. Alternate materials other than fabric panels can be
used to define the seat 14 and backrest 16 of the chair 10 in
accordance with the present invention, including but not limited to
rigid panels, a slatted seat and/or backrest, plastic webbing,
mesh, aluminum sheeting, wood, or the like.
[0064] An alternate frame design is illustrated in FIGS. 13-19. In
the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like features of
chairs in accordance with the present invention. Accordingly,
although certain descriptions may refer only to certain figures and
reference numerals, it should be understood that such descriptions
might be equally applicable to like reference numerals in other
figures.
[0065] As shown in FIGS. 16 and 18, the front leg assembly 20 can
be strengthened and reinforced using truss braces 64 that add
support at the front end of the chair 10 in its set-up condition
and when the chair frame 12 is taking the load of a seated user.
Variations of such truss braces 64 are illustrated in the FIGS. 18
and 19. In one embodiment shown in FIG. 18, an angular truss brace
64 is provided on each side of the front leg assembly 20. In an
alternate embodiment, shown in FIG. 19, separate curved braces 64
can be provided on each side of the front leg assembly 20 that are
concentrically aligned with the shape of the front leg assembly
20--for example, following the contour of the side leg members 30L
and 30R and the cross-connector 32 to add stability to the set-up
chair 10. In further embodiments, a single truss brace 64 can
extend the lateral length of the front leg assembly 20 and simply
be nested inside the cross-connector 32 to strengthen the front leg
assembly 20. Depending on the shape, size, and specifically, the
height of the chair frame 12, similar truss braces can be provided
on the rear leg assembly 22 as well without departing from the
spirit and principles of the present invention.
[0066] As illustrated, the truss braces 64 are located well below
seat frame members 26L and 26R assembly so that they do not
interfere with the flexibility of the fabric seating panel 48 or
affect any part of the seat 14 during use, set-up, or collapsing of
the chair 10--that is, the fabric seating panel 48 can flex below
the level of the seating frame members 26L and 26R when a user is
seated on the set-up chair 10, and the chair 10 can be folded
between its set-up and folded conditions, providing a marked
improvement over prior art chair frames. As illustrated, the truss
braces 64 are vertically downwardly spaced from the seat frame
members 26L and 26R so as not to interfere with the fabric seating
panel 48, as noted.
[0067] The tendency for a beach chair of the design shown herein,
when receiving a seated user or other weight on the seating panel,
is to buckle inwardly under the weight. The amount of buckling
varies with varying weights of seated users. Moreover, the stress
on the chair frame 12 also varies with movement and shifting by the
seated user. To counter the buckling stress and forces imparted by
the seated user, the chair frame 12 of the present invention is
reinforced by either the cross-support member 38 or the truss
braces 64, in accordance with the present invention as described
herein. However, as noted herein, such reinforcing structural
members are specifically located on the chair frame 12 so that they
do not interfere with the use and comfort of the chair 10.
Additionally, the material used for the leg assemblies 20 and 22
can be selected to retain optimal shape and structure of the chair
frame 12. In this regard, extra structural support is not needed on
the seat 14 itself (e.g., in the form of a cross-connector forming
a U-shaped frame as is common in the prior art), so that the
separate and laterally-spaced seat frame members 26L and 26R of the
present invention can adequately define the seat 14 and permit the
fabric seating panel 48 to flex and give without requiring any
obtrusive structure under the seated user's legs.
[0068] The present invention can also be used in with a bi-fold
chair design, as generally illustrated in FIG. 11, whereby the
chair frame 112, after being folded to a flattened condition, can
be folded upon itself to an even smaller footprint for easy
transportation and/or storage, such as described in co-pending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/991,054, filed Jan. 8, 2016,
entitled "Bi-Fold Furniture," which shares a common inventor and
assignee with the present application and which is incorporated
herein by reference.
[0069] In a bi-fold version of the chair frame 112, central pivot
joints, generally designated herein by reference numeral 113, are
provided on all the lateral members, such as the cross-connectors
132, 136 and 154 for the front leg assembly 120, the rear leg
assembly 122, the backrest assembly 124, and the cross-support
member 138 (if used), so that the chair frame 112, after being
collapsed from its set-up condition, can be further folded to a
more compact condition (second folded condition) for transport and
storage. The use of truss braces 64 in accordance with embodiments
of the present invention that do not connect to each other obviates
the need for additional joints in the truss braces of such a
design.
[0070] Embodiments of the present invention further include one or
more straps 18 to facilitate carrying the collapsed and folded
chair 10. The straps 18 can be secured to the chair 10 or chair
frame 12 for transport using known attachment means, including but
not limited to stitches, rivets, bolts, screws, buckles, clasps,
and the like.
[0071] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the chair 10 is provided with two
shoulder straps 18 whereby the folded chair 10 can be worn by the
user like a backpack, freeing up the user's hands for carrying
other objects. In such embodiments, one end 66 of a strap 18 is
attached to the seat frame members 26L and 26R or the fabric
seating panel 48 and the other end 68 is attached to or near the
rear leg members 34L and 34R on each side of the chair frame 12.
More particularly, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, a first end 66
of each strap 18 is sewn to the underside of the fabric seating
panel 48. The second end 68 of each strap 18 is held in place on
the rear leg assembly 22 by a pivot pin 70 connecting the
over-the-center linkage 60 to the rear leg member 34L or 34R. When
the chair 10 is in its set-up condition, the straps 18 can hang
down underneath the set-up chair 10, as shown in FIG. 2. When the
chair 10 is collapsed, the straps 18 are positioned on one side of
the folded assembly so that the user can easily slip her arms
through the straps 18 to wear the folded chair 10 on her back like
a backpack.
[0072] In alternate embodiments of the present invention, as
illustrated in FIGS. 12-17 and 20-24, each strap 18 can comprise
two portions--a generally horizontal belt portion 72 and a
generally vertical strap portion 74. The generally horizontal belt
portion 72 (when attached for backpack transport) has a first end
76 connected to the back side of the fabric backrest panel 50 or
directly to the backrest frame member 52L or 52R, and an opposing
second end 78 with a connection means 80 adapted for connecting the
left horizontal belt portion 72 with the right horizontal belt
portion 72. Preferably, the connection means 80 comprise a buckle
and clasp pairing for easy engagement and disengagement. Each
generally vertical strap portion 74 is attached at a first end 82
to a respective horizontal belt portion 72 and hangs down therefrom
to define backpack straps when the chair 10 is in its folded
condition. The second end 84 of the vertical strap portion 74 is
connected to the chair frame 12. When the user carries the chair 10
like a backpack, the user's arms are inserted through the vertical
strap portions 74, which sit on the user's shoulders. The
horizontal belt portions 72 are positioned behind the user's
shoulders and back. The vertical strap portions 74 can also include
padding for comfort. Additionally, adjustment clasps 86 can be
provided to adjust the length of the vertical strap portions 74 to
accommodate users of different sizes.
[0073] Referring to FIG. 21, the second end 84 of each vertical
strap 74 is attached to the front leg frame assembly 20, preferably
towards the lower end of the U-shaped front leg just above the
horizontal. As noted, the first end 82 of the vertical strap
portion 74 is attached to the horizontal belt portion 72, which in
turn is sewn to the back side of the fabric backrest panel 50 or
attached to the backrest frame member 52L or 52R, preferably about
mid-way up the backrest 16, as better illustrated in FIGS. 20 and
21. The vertical strap portion 74 can be stitched to the horizontal
belt portion 72, as shown, or alternatively may be horizontally
adjustable to accommodate different users.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 12, an alternate strap arrangement is
illustrated. As shown in FIGS. 12-14, for example, the second end
84 of each vertical strap portion 74 is attached to the rear leg
frame assembly 22, preferably to the over-the-center linkage 60 or
alternatively, wrapped around the rear leg member 34L or 34R or the
backrest frame member 52L or 52R in the vicinity of the
over-the-center linkage 60. The first end 82 of each vertical strap
portion 74 is attached to the respective horizontal belt portion
72, which, in turn, sewn to the back side of the fabric backrest
panel 50 or attached to the backrest frame member 52L or 52R.
[0075] In each of these embodiments of the carrying straps 18, when
the chair 10 is in its set-up condition, the straps 18 can hang off
the backrest 16. Advantageously, in the set-up condition of the
chair 10, the straps 18 fall adjacent to the sides of the chair 10
and are generally suspended off the ground so they are less apt to
get dirty or muddy than is customary with prior art designs. When
the chair 10 is collapsed, the straps 18 can be pulled around the
sides of the folded chair 10 and connected to each other using the
buckle and clasp arrangement 80 to defined backpack straps whereby
the user can carry the folded chair 10 on his or her back like a
backpack, freeing up the user's hands for carrying other objects.
The location and arrangement of the straps 18 and the buckle and
clasp arrangement 80 to connect them together also acts to keep the
chair 10 in its folded condition during transport, even if the
straps 18 are not being used as for carrying, by having the straps
18 wrap around the frame 12 from the back-side of the backrest
support to the front side of the folded chair 10, as shown in FIGS.
17 and 24.
[0076] The backpack straps 18 described and shown herein can be
used with different chair frame designs without departing from the
spirit and principles of the present invention. For example, the
straps 18 of the present invention may be used in a bi-fold chair
design, as described above, whereby the chair frame 112, after
being folded to a flattened condition, can be folded upon itself to
a second folded condition having an even smaller footprint (about
half the footprint of the chair in the first folded condition) for
easy transportation and/or storage. Such a bi-fold chair design
could also use just one carrying strap, whereby the folded chair
could be transported like a messenger bag.
[0077] Additional features may be provided with the chair 10 to
improve its functionality. For example, referring to FIG. 1, a
pillow 88 can be provided at the top of the backrest 16. A storage
pouch 90 can be located on the back-side of the backrest 16 for
storing items, both when the chair 10 is set-up and when the chair
10 is folded and carried on the user's back using the provided
backpack straps 18, as shown in FIGS. 4 (set-up condition) and 9
(folded condition). When the folded chair 10 is carried like a
backpack, the pouch 90 extends off the back of the chair 10,
essentially creating a backpack. A flap 92 can be provided to
enclose the pouch 90 to secure items within the pouch 90.
Additionally, the flap 92 can be kept closed by known fastening
means such as the buckles 94 illustrated, or by hook-and-loop
fasteners, snaps, buttons, zippers and the like.
[0078] Additional features that can be provided with the chair
designs of the present invention, include a cup holder 96 hanging
from one or both of the armrests 28; an additional storage pouch 98
hanging from one or both of the armrests 28; and a carrying handle
99 provided on one or both of the armrests 28 providing another
means for transporting the folded chair 10.
[0079] The foregoing description of embodiments of the invention
has been presented for the purpose of illustration and description.
It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to
the form disclosed. Obvious modifications and variations are
possible in light of the above disclosure. The embodiments
described were chosen to best illustrate the principles of the
invention and practical applications thereof to enable one of
ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various
embodiments and with various modifications as suited to the
particular use contemplated.
* * * * *