Chair that adapts to multiple sitting positions

Abstract

An adaptable chair with multiple adjustable components that may be configured by the user for various seating positions, particularly to change between conventional and cross-legged seating position. The adaptable chair's seating surface is comprised of a set of separate surface components for each of the user's right and left thighs. In a conventional seating configuration, the seating surface components are in a closed or joined position and the footrest in an unobtrusive position. To configure the chair for cross-legged seating, the seat components for each thigh may be moved apart to allow a user cross-legged seating position and rest the feet and lower legs upon the footrest. The disclosure describes various means of adjustment to the thigh supports and footrest, and mechanisms for actuating the various configurations to maximize comfort and ease of use.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]Not applicable.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED R&D[0002]Not applicable.PARTIES OF JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT[0003]Not applicable.REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, TABLE, OR COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING[0004]Not applicable.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0005]The present invention relates to a chair whose shape can be adapted to support a user in a plurality of seating positions, principally the conventional seating position and the cross-legged seating position. The invention describes a chair that can convert between these seating positions by means of a divided seat support that may be separated or rejoined as desired with various adjustments and interactions with a footrest and armrests that support cross-legged seating positions, thereby allowing the user to change between positions at will.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0006]Conventional chairs have been found to contribute to poor posture, slouching, back pain and other discomfort, especially wh...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a chair that allows the user to adjust the seating position to their liking for maximum comfort. The seating surface separates into two components that pivot about points below the user's hip joints, allowing for cross-legged seating position. The seat components can also be extended to distribute the weight from the buttocks to the knees. The chair can be adjusted for different seating configurations using a single lever or latch, which can also release the footrest, move the knee rest extensions, tilt the seat angle, and move the armrests or backrest. Overall, the chair provides flexibility and customization options for users in the same chair.

Problems solved by technology

Conventional chairs have been found to contribute to poor posture, slouching, back pain and other discomfort, especially when used for long periods consistently such as in an office job, while reading, watching entertainment and other similar sedentary activities.

However, for many people the cross-legged seating position is uncomfortable, difficult and in some cases impossible, especially in conventional chairs.

The geometry and seating area of a conventional chair is not suited to cross-legged seating as there is usually not adequate space on the seat for the feet; the armrests often interfere with the position of the legs when crossed; many people are unable, or find it extremely uncomfortable, to sit cross-legged with their feet in the same plane as their buttocks and legs.

Lastly, remaining in any single seated position for extended duration of time eventually becomes uncomfortable and unhealthy.

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