A connection mechanism for seating unit
The slot pin and groove system addresses the limitations of conventional seating assemblies by providing a flexible, durable, and tool-free connection mechanism that ensures secure and adjustable attachments, enhancing stability and reducing maintenance.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- AU · AU
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SEATING SPECTRUM SDN BHD
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-05
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-23
AI Technical Summary
Conventional seating frame assemblies rely on rigid connections that limit flexibility and adaptability, leading to structural instability, increased maintenance needs, and difficulty in replacing components due to mechanical weaknesses and loosening over time.
A connection mechanism using a slot pin and groove system that allows for secure, tool-free assembly and disassembly, enabling adjustable and customizable attachments between seating components, eliminating the need for traditional fasteners like bolts or pivots.
Facilitates easy assembly and reconfiguration, enhances structural stability, and reduces maintenance by preventing loosening, while ensuring secure connections under variable loads and frequent use.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention generally relates to a connection mechanism for seating structures or units, specifically designed for adjustable seating units used in applications such as theatres, cinemas, auditoriums, halls and etc. More specifically, the present invention is specifically designed for connecting different seating components and facilitating flexible and efficient assembly, disassembly, and durability through a configurable connection mechanism, while addressing common issues with conventional seating mechanisms. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Traditional seating frame assemblies often utilize fixed connections that limit flexibility and adaptability. These conventional systems rely on rigid attachment methods, such as bolts or fixed joints for pivotal connections, which are not designed for easy disassembly or modification. As a result, once assembled, seating units cannot easily be reconfigured, and replacing damaged components can be time-consuming and costly. Moreover, traditional systems often suffer from mechanical weaknesses, where connections may loosen over time due to wear and repeated use, or fail due to stress at critical points, particularly in high-use environments like public seating, resulting in structural instability, increased maintenance needs, and difficulty in replacing individual components. The conventional attachment systems also involve numerous components and tools, complicating assembly and extending the time required for setup. The present invention seeks to overcome these limitations by introducing a connection mechanism for seating units with a flexible and configurable connection mechanism. The present invention introduces a connection mechanism that offers a secure, durable, and tool-free connection, and allows for various shapes, enabling a secure and customizable connection between seating member and backrest frame; or backrest frame and supporting base; or backrest frame and headrest frame, of which is being utilized at theatres, cinemas, auditoriums, 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 halls and etc. This approach facilitates easy assembly and reconfiguration while maintaining structural stability. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, the primary aim of the present invention is to provide a connection mechanism for seating units that comprises a connection mechanism allowing for a secure and adaptable attachment between the seating frame and backrest frame; or backrest frame and supporting base; or backrest frame and headrest frame. The present invention is designed to address the limitations of conventional seating assemblies, offering improved flexibility, durability, and ease of assembly. It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a connection mechanism for seating units that incorporates a groove and a slot pin, which can have various shapes like linear, curved, or polygonal. This flexibility ensures a strong connection between the parts while allowing for different design possibilities. It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a a connection mechanism for seating units that allows for easy assembly and disassembly without specialized tools. This makes it simple to reconfigure or replace parts, reducing the time and effort needed for maintenance. It is yet another objective of the present invention to handle wear and tear from frequent use, especially in high-traffic environments. The connection remains secure over time, preventing the loosening or failure that often happens in conventional designs. It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a seating assembly with improved structural stability, ensuring a stable and durable connection between the seating components, even under variable loads and frequent use. It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a connection mechanism for seating units that can be applied to various types of furniture structures, offering customizable configurations. This connection mechanism enables adjustable pin-and-groove placements, or equivalent fastening elements, that can be positioned according to specific structural needs. It 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 ensures precise alignment and secure attachment between components, such as the backrest frame and supporting base, while maintaining stability under different load conditions. The system's flexibility allows for easy modification of the assembly configuration, accommodating various dimensional requirements, design preferences, and functional demands. Additional objects of the invention will become apparent with an understanding of the following detailed description of the invention or upon employment of the invention in actual practice. According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention the following is provided: A connection mechanism for seating unit, characterized in that, said connection mechanism comprising: a slot pin; a corresponding groove for receiving the slot pin; wherein the connection mechanism is provided between a backrest frame and a supporting base or a seating frame (8). In another embodiment of the present invention the following is provided: A seating unit assembly, comprising: a supporting base; a backrest frame; a seating frame connected to the backrest frame; at least one connection mechanism configured to connect the supporting base to the backrest frame; characterized in that the seating unit assembly (2) further comprises a sliding means (9) connecting the seating frame (8) with the supporting base (6). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Other aspect of the present invention and their advantages will be discerned after studying the Detailed Description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 FIG. 1-A illustrates a perspective view of the connection mechanism in the seating unit, featuring the slot pin and the corresponding groove for receiving said slot pin, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1-B illustrates a side view of the groove according to FIG. 1-A, showing a locking socket and a sliding track, the locking socket secures the slot pin, while the sliding track permits positional adjustments of connected components. FIG. 2-A illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of the pin, showing its non-circular of the pin body with parallel sides and curved top and bottom edges, enabling a secure fit within the groove. FIG. 2-B illustrates a perspective view of the slot pin, highlighting its two sections: a pin head that engages with the locking socket and a pin body shaped to align with the sliding track. FIG. 3 illustrates the slot pin entering the groove. The groove’s rounded lower section aligns the slot pin for guided entry, while the narrower upper track ensures precise placement. FIG. 4-A illustrates a perspective view of the connection mechanism with the slot pin fully inserted, interfacing securely within the groove to restrict movement. FIG.S 4-B and FIG. 4-C illustrate side views of the slot pin rotated into a secure position within the groove, limiting unintended displacement and providing stability under load. FIG. 5 illustrates a backrest frame of a seating unit or structure, consisting of two vertical side members connected by a crossbar, with the slot pins showing on both side members. FIG 6 illustrates a side view showing the backrest frame connected to the supporting base using the slot pin and groove connection mechanism. FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the backrest frame according to FIG. 5. FIGURES 8-A and 8-B illustrate a front view and side view of the seating unit with the cushion installed onto the seating unit. 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 FIGURES 9-A to 9-D illustrate a perspective view, side view, and front view of the seating unit without the cushion installed onto the seating unit. FIGS. 10-A to 10-D illustrate various configurations of the slot pin placement on different portions of the side members, both inner and outer. FIGS. 11-A and 11-B illustrate a backrest frame with a single side member, with the slot pin positioned either on the left or right portion of the single side member, engaging a corresponding groove on the supporting base. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by the person having ordinary skill in the art that the invention may be practised without these specific details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures and / or components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of the embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not drawn to scale. As used in this disclosure and the appended claims herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates or denotes otherwise. Throughout the disclosure and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment, “such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes. The term "seating unit," as used throughout this specification, is intended to encompass a broad range of components and structures associated with seating systems. This includes, but is not limited to, seat frames, supporting bases, backrest structures, headrest assemblies, and other structural elements commonly found in furniture and seating designs. By defining "seating 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 unit" in this expansive manner, the invention ensures applicability across various configurations and types of seating, whether intended for public venues such as theatres and auditoriums or for private, ergonomic furniture solutions. This comprehensive interpretation underscores the versatile nature of the described connection mechanism. Generally, the present invention focuses on a connection mechanism for seating units which allows attachments between seating member and backrest frame; or backrest frame and supporting base; or backrest frame and headrest, of which is being utilize at theatres, cinemas, auditoriums, halls and etc. By eliminating the need for traditional fasteners like pivots, bolts, or nuts, this invention simplifies the assembly process, reduces potential points of failure, and minimizes maintenance requirements. The connection mechanism simplifies the assembly process, allowing components to be securely engaged with fewer assembly steps and without additional tools. This reduction in moving and separate parts minimizes frictional wear points and mechanical backlash, enhancing the reliability and longevity of the seating assembly. Additionally, the absence of bolts or pivots reduces the risk of component loosening over time, which is a common issue in seating mechanisms subjected to frequent adjustments and dynamic loads. FIG. 1-A illustrates a preferred embodiment of the connection mechanism (1) for seating unit. The connection mechanism (1) is configured with at least one slot pin (3) and at least a corresponding groove (5) for receiving said slot pin (3), wherein the groove (5) comprises a locking socket (51) and a sliding track (52) positioned adjacent to the locking socket (51). Although the figure illustrates the slot pin (3) with a round geometric shape, the design is not limited to this configuration. Other geometric configurations, such as polygonal, round-shaped, star-shaped, curvilinear, or combinations thereof, can also be utilized. These alternative configurations allow the slot pin (3) to securely engage within the locking socket (51) of the groove (5), providing stable positioning and enabling controlled sliding for adjustment. FIG. 1-B illustrates a side view of the groove (5) comprises the locking socket (51) and sliding track (52). The locking socket (51) is designed to securely receive the slot pin (3), ensuring a fixed attachment between seating components—whether between the supporting base (6) and backrest frame (4), the backrest frame (4) and headrest, or the backrest frame (4) and seating frame (8). The sliding track (52) facilitates guided movement of the slot pin (3), allowing the 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 slot pin (3) to enter in to the sliding track (52) in an unobstructed manner, and eventually into the locking socket (51). FIG. 2-A and 2-B illustrates an enlarged view of the slot pin (3), which comprises of two sections, namely a pin head (31) and a pin body (32). While the pin head (31) is depicted as circular in the illustration, it is understood that alternative shapes may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention. The pin body (32), on the other hand, is not circular but rather has two parallel straight edges on opposite sides (32a, 32b) and curved top and bottom sections (32c, 32d). This shape allows the slot pin (3) to fit precisely within the groove (5), minimizing unintended rotation while permitting sliding movement. This design is intended for smooth engagement within the groove (5), wherein the pin’s body (32) straight edges interface securely with the groove (5) walls. Furthermore, the pin head (31) is specifically shaped to engage securely within the locking socket (51) in the groove (5), while the pin body (32) interfaces with the sliding track (52), allowing for guided movement within the groove (5). FIG. 3 illustrates the slot pin (3), particularly the pin body (32) entering the groove (5). The groove (5) features a rounded lower section (locking socket) that fits the shape of the pin head (31), while the narrower upper track (sliding track) guides the pin body (32) into place. This design allows the slot pin (3) to slide smoothly into the groove (5), securing the connection between the seating units, while enabling controlled tilting or rotational movement within the groove. FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of the connection mechanism, showing the slot pin (3) fully inserted into the groove (5). The pin’s body (32), characterized by a non-circular shape with two parallel straight edges and curved top and bottom sections, is designed to interface with the groove’s (5) internal locking features. While the pin body (32) in this embodiment has curved top and bottom surfaces, these surfaces are not limited to a curved configuration and may adopt various shapes, including concave, convex, round shape or flat surfaces, depending on specific design requirements. Once fully inserted, the pin body (32) engages with and rotates against the locking socket (51) at the base of the groove (5), restricting both axial and lateral movement to prevent unintentional detachment. Notably, only the pin body (32) interacts with the locking socket 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 (51), while the pin head (31) remains exposed outside the groove (5). Consequently, the shape of the pin head (31) is not critical to the function of the connection mechanism and can be of any configuration, such as cylindrical, rectangular, tapered, rounded, or even asymmetrical without compromising the assembly’s stability or operation. FIG. 4B and 4C illustrates a side view of the connection mechanism (1), showing the slot pin (3) rotated into a secure position within the groove (5). When rotated, the pin body (32) aligns with a locking socket (51) within the groove (5), engaging tightly with the surrounding surfaces. This rotation restricts axial and lateral movement of the pin, effectively locking it into place. The non-circular geometry of the slot pin (3), coupled with the groove’s internal configuration including a sliding track (52) and locking socket (51), prevents unintentional detachment and provides a secure attachment point. This secure engagement also enables controlled angular adjustment of the backrest, allowing it to tilt to different reclining positions without risk of disengagement. In another embodiment of the connection mechanism, comprising the slot pin (3) and the groove (5), allows its placement at various structural points within the seating assembly to support diverse configurations. Specifically, this mechanism can be located between the backrest frame (4) and supporting base (6), between the backrest frame (4) and headrest, or between the backrest frame (4) and seating frame (8). These combinations allow for several secure and adjustable configurations. For example, positioning the slot pin (3) at the backrest frame (4) with the corresponding groove (5) located at the supporting base (6) enables a direct connection that stabilizes the backrest frame (4) while allowing for controlled tilting or sliding adjustments along the supporting base (6). Alternatively, placing the slot (3) pin at the supporting base (6) and the corresponding groove (5) at the backrest frame allows the backrest frame (4) to be securely fixed to the supporting base (6), optimizing stability during recline adjustments and loadbearing usage. In another configuration, the slot pin (3) can be located at the headrest, with the corresponding groove (5) positioned at the backrest frame (4) or vice versa. This configuration eliminates the drawbacks of conventional designs, such as the reliance on fasteners like bolts, screws, rivets, or clamps, which often complicate assembly and are prone to loosening over time. Therefore, 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 this configuration provides easy assembly without using pivot connections, simplifying the structure and maintaining a secure connection. Furthermore, this combination facilitates a rotational or sliding engagement for the headrest, allowing it to be adjusted independently while securely locked to the backrest frame (4). Conversely, placing the slot pin (3) at the backrest frame (4) and the corresponding groove (5) at the headrest provides the same adjustment while optimizing the distribution of load during recline. In configurations involving the backrest frame (4) and seating frame (8), the slot pin (3) can be positioned at the backrest frame (4), while the corresponding groove (5) is located at the seating frame (8). This design allows the backrest frame (4) to securely interface with the seating frame (8), facilitating movement along the groove (5) for adjustable reclining angles. Alternatively, when the slot pin (3) is located at the seating frame (8) and the corresponding groove (5) at the backrest frame (4), the backrest frame (4) gains a fixed connection that can support tilt adjustments without compromising lateral stability. This positioning also aids in distributing force evenly across the seating frame, minimizing wear on individual components. In another embodiment of the present invention comprises a seating unit assembly (2) having two side members (41a, 41b) with crossbar (42) and the connection mechanism (1) provided on at least a side member. FIG. 5 illustrates a backrest frame (4) of the seating unit assembly (2), comprises two side members (41a, 41b) that extend vertically from the supporting base (6), supporting the backrest frame (4). A crossbar (42) reinforces the structure, connecting the side members (41a, 41b) and enhancing the overall stability. The backrest frame (4) is designed to interface with the supporting base (6) through a slot pin (3) that engages with a corresponding groove (5) located at the supporting base (6). FIG. 6 illustrates a side view showing the backrest frame (4) connected to the supporting base (6) or seating frame (8) using the slot pin (3) and groove (5) connection mechanism. In this configuration, the slot pin (3) is positioned at the backrest frame (4), while the groove (5) is located at the supporting base (6). The design eliminates the need for additional fasteners, such as bolts or pivots, and simplifying the assembly. 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the backrest frame (4), showing the configuration of the side member (41a). The slot pin (3), used to engage with the groove (5) at the supporting base (6), is positioned at the lower portion of the backrest frame (4). The side view emphasizes the structural arrangement of the components and their function in providing supports for the backrest frame (4). FIGURES 8-A and 8-B illustrate a front view and side view of the seating unit with the cushion installed onto the seating unit. In this configuration, the cushion is positioned securely atop the seating unit and attached by the connection mechanism. The slot pin (3) and groove (5) connection mechanism ensure that the backrest frame (4) and seating frame (8) are held firmly in place, while the cushion rests in place on the seating unit. FIGURES 9-A to 9-D illustrate a perspective view, side view, and front view of the seating unit without the cushion installed. The seating frame (8) is connected to the backrest frame (4) via the connection mechanism or any other pivotal connection. In this configuration, a sliding means (9) is incorporated to hold the seating frame (8) securely at the lower section of the seating unit. The sliding means (9) has its first end attached to said supporting base (6) and has its second end attached to said seating frame (8). The sliding means (9) further comprising a resilient member (not shown) to provide a relative or correlated motion between backrest frame (4) and seating frame (8). When the seating unit is in use, the seating frame (8) works concomitantly with the backrest frame (4), whereby the seating frame (8) is shifted forwardly by said sliding means (9) as the backrest frame (4) reclines or tilts rearwardly wherein the resilient member of the sliding means (9) is compressed as the backrest frame (4) reclines and thereby shifting the seating frame (8) forwardly and hence, prompting or producing the relative or correlated motion between the seating frame (8) and the backrest frame (4), as they move at once, altogether. Conversely, when the seating unit is not in use whereby the seat occupant left the seating unit, by having the sliding means (9), the seating unit will return or restore or realign back to its upright position automatically, without direct human control, wherein the resilient member of the sliding means (9) from the compressed state will return to its released or extended state, hence retracting the seating frame (8) from its forwarded or extended position back to its retracted position and retracting the backrest frame (4) from its reclined position back to its upright position. The sliding means (9) ensures that the backrest frame (4) remains properly aligned and connected to the seating frame (8) while allowing for controlled movement to adjust the position of the backrest frame (4). 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 Unlike conventional seating units that rely on bolt-and-nut pivotal connections, which tend to loosen over time, the disclosed connection mechanism ensures that even with high-traffic use, particularly the rotational movement of the backrest frame's (4) connection with the supporting base (6), the pivotal connection remains secure, thereby eliminating the need for frequent maintenance. FIGS. 10-A to 10-D illustrate various configurations of the slot pin (3) placement within the seating assembly. In FIG. 10-A, the assembly comprises two side members (41a, 41b) and a crossbar (42), with the slot pin (3) positioned on at least one outer portion of the side member, typically on the lateral face or edge of the first side of the side member. FIG. 10-B shows the slot pin (3) located on the inner portion of the side member, typically along the interior face or edge of the first side of the side member. FIG.S 10-C and FIG. 10-D illustrate alternative configurations where the slot pin (3) is located on the opposite side of the side members. FIG. 10-C shows the slot pin (3) is positioned on the outer portion of the second side of the side member, while FIG. 10-D shows the slot pin (3) is located on the inner portion of the second side of the side member. FIGS. 11-A and 11-B illustrate a configuration where the backrest frame (4) includes only one side member. FIG. 11-A shows the slot pin (3) is positioned at the left portion of the single side member, while FIG. 11-B shows the slot pin (3) is positioned at the right portion of the side member. In both embodiments, the corresponding groove (5) is placed at the supporting base (6) or vice versa, depending on the required configuration. FIGS. 10-11 illustrate exemplary applications of the connection mechanism (1) within a seating unit. However, it is envisioned that the connection mechanism may also be applied to other areas, components, or mechanical parts beyond those depicted in the drawings, providing flexibility for various structural and functional implementations. While the present invention has been shown and described herein in what are considered to be the preferred embodiments thereof, illustrating the results and advantages over the prior art obtained through the present invention, the invention is not limited to those specific embodiments. Thus, the forms of the invention shown and described herein are to be taken as illustrative only and other embodiments may be selected without departing from the scope of 2026200032 05 Jan 2026 the present invention, as set forth in the claims appended hereto. The scope of the invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications and the equivalents. Of necessity, there are many alternative ways of configuring and implementing the invention to suit particular installations and environments while providing biological outcomes of differing design
Claims
1. A connection mechanism (1) for seating unit, characterized in that, said connection mechanism comprising:a slot pin (3);a groove (5) for receiving the slot pin (3);wherein the connection mechanism (1) is provided betweena backrest frame (4) and a supporting base (6) or a seating frame (8).
2. The connection mechanism (1) for seating unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein the groove (5) further comprises a locking socket (51) and a sliding track (52), the sliding track (52) being connected to the locking socket (51) and configured to guide the slot pin (3) into the groove (5), and the locking socket (51) being adapted to receive and secure the slot pin (3).
3. The connection mechanism (1) for seating unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein the slot pin (3) comprises a pin head (31) and a pin body (32); wherein, the pin body (32) have an elongated shape with parallel sides (32a, 32b) and the top and bottom edges (32c, 32d) have a concave, convex or flat surfaces; and wherein, the pin head (31) is a polygons.
4. The connection mechanism (1) for seating unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein the slot pin (3) positioned at the backrest frame (4) and the corresponding groove (5) positioned at the supporting base (6).
5. The connection mechanism (1) for seating unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein the slot pin (3) positioned at the supporting base (6) and the corresponding groove (5) positioned at the backrest frame (4).
6. A seating unit assembly (2), comprising:a supporting base (6);a backrest frame (4);a seating frame (8) connected to the backrest frame (4);at least one connection mechanism (1) configured to connect the supporting base (6) to the backrest frame (4);2026200032 05 Jan 2026characterized in thatthe seating unit assembly (2) further comprises a sliding means (9) connecting the seating frame (8) with the supporting base (6).
7. The seating unit assembly (2) as claimed in Claim 6, wherein said connection mechanism (1) comprising a slot pin (3) positioned at the backrest frame (4) and a corresponding groove (5) positioned at the supporting base (6).
8. The seating unit assembly (2) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the seating unit assembly (2) further comprises a headrest connected to the backrest frame (4).
9. The seating unit assembly (2) as claimed in claim 6 or 7, wherein the sliding means (9) further comprises a resilient member to provide a relative or correlated motion between backrest frame (4) and seating frame (8).
10. The seating unit assembly (2) as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the seating frame (8) is connected to the backrest frame (4) via the connection mechanism (1) or any other pivotal connection.