Folding chair with removable container

Abstract

A portable chair includes a detachable container. The container can be insulated to keep beverages and food cool for extended periods. The folding chair is preferably designed and constructed for outdoor needs. Various detachable, reconfigurable, and / or interchangeable features include the container, a carrying strap, and a cup holder. The container can be easily and conveniently attached and detached from the folding chair. The container can have an external pocket that is welded and sealed to protect items contained therein. The strap can have multiple different attachment points that allow for multiple different carrying modes and reconfigurations, including, for example, a backpack carrying configuration, a shoulder tote carrying configuration, and a cross-body sling configuration. The cup holder is interchangeable from each side of the folding chair and can be designed to accommodate different types of beverage containers, including, for example, cups with handles, cans, and water bottles.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This patent application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 930,775, filed on November 5, 2019. This patent application also claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 021,074, filed on May 6, 2020. The contents of both provisional patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

[0003] background

[0004] In the portable seating industry, there's a market for high-performance folding chairs that can efficiently and effectively withstand heavy use and serve large audiences. These seating situations are common in gyms, stadiums, auditoriums, schools, and churches, as well as outdoor events such as picnics and concerts. Due to the public nature of these events, the performance requirements for these chairs can be quite demanding. For example, they must be able to withstand the kind of heavy use common to sports fans and concertgoers, while also providing comfort for extended periods of seating.

[0005] Many folding chairs can be uncomfortable, especially when used for extended periods. For example, the seats are often made of rigid materials such as metal, plastic, and / or wood. These materials can become more uncomfortable over time as their surfaces degrade and weather. Sometimes, these rigid seats are covered with a layer of padding, such as foam, which may be insufficient in thickness, resilience, and / or quality.

[0006] Furthermore, these seating structures often ignore the contours of the human body. For example, the seating surface is typically one-dimensional, while the human body is clearly not that simple.

[0007] Folding chairs also often do not provide adequate back support. One reason is that back support is typically minimized for folding operation and minimal storage space. For example, the backrest portion is often much smaller than a person's back. The backrest is also typically made of rigid materials such as metal, plastic or wood, which, as mentioned earlier, can become uncomfortable over time and ignore the contours of the human body. Like the seat, the backrest is sometimes covered with a layer of padding, such as foam, which may be insufficient in thickness, resilience and / or quality. In addition, the backrest is often one-dimensional compared to the human body. Therefore, there is a need for a folding chair that has a seat and backrest that provide enhanced comfort, particularly for high-performance folding chairs used in preferred seating areas, and also provides the necessary durability for heavy-duty and rugged use.

[0008] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages or that function only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is provided merely to illustrate one exemplary technology area in which some implementations described herein may be practiced. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0010] The present invention relates to a folding chair having detachable, reconfigurable, and / or interchangeable features, including a detachable, reconfigurable, and / or interchangeable container, carrying straps, and / or cup holders. The container can be insulated and can be easily and conveniently attached and detached from the folding chair. Although reference is made herein to specific container embodiments as being insulated, it should be understood in each instance that the same disclosure pertains to embodiments where the container is not insulated. Therefore, references to an insulated container should be understood to also refer to the same embodiments, discussions, and illustrations where the container is not insulated.

[0011] The insulated container can be welded, insulated, and sealed with an exterior pocket that is also welded and sealed to protect the contents. The straps can have multiple different attachment points that allow for a variety of different carrying styles and reconfigurations, including, for example, a backpack-style carry configuration, a shoulder-carry handbag-style carry configuration, and a cross-body shoulder bag-style carry configuration. The cup holders can be interchangeable from each side of the folding chair and can be designed to accommodate a variety of different types of beverage containers, including, for example, cups with handles, cans, and water bottles.

[0012] A folding chair includes a chair frame. The chair frame may include a left front leg frame element, a right front leg frame element, a left rear leg frame element, a right rear leg frame element, and a seat frame including two or more seat frame elements. The seat frame elements may include a first seat frame element and a second seat frame element. The folding chair may include an insulating container that is connectable and disconnectable to the chair frame such that when the insulating container is connected to the chair frame, the insulating container is disposed beneath a seat of the folding chair. The seat may include seat material extending between the first seat frame element and the second seat frame element. A first side of the seat material at least partially provides a seat for a person to sit on. When the insulating container is connected to the chair frame, a second side of the seat material extends over the insulating container.

[0013] The folding chair frame may further include a left arm support frame element and a right arm support frame element. The folding chair frame may further include a left back support frame element pivotally connected to the left arm support frame element. The folding chair may further include a right back support frame element pivotally connected to the right arm support frame element. The folding chair may further include an upper back support frame element connecting the left back support frame element to the right back support frame element. The first seat frame element may include a left seat frame element, and the second seat frame element may include a right seat frame element.

[0014] The chair frame may further include a left front joint coupling the left front leg frame element to the left seat frame element. The folding chair may further include a right front joint coupling the right front leg frame element to the right seat frame element.

[0015] The folding chair may further include a left rear joint coupling the left rear leg frame element to the left seat frame element. The folding chair may further include a right rear joint coupling the right rear leg frame element to the right seat frame element.

[0016] The left front connector may include a left front connector insulating container connector for connecting the left front connector to the insulating container. The right front connector may include a right front connector insulating container connector for connecting the right front connector to the insulating container. The left rear connector may include a left rear connector insulating container connector for connecting the left rear connector to the insulating container. The right rear connector may include a right rear connector insulating container connector for connecting the right rear connector to the insulating container.

[0017] The left front joint may include a left front joint cup holder connector for selectively connecting the left front joint to the cup holder. The right front joint may also include a right front joint cup holder connector for selectively connecting the right front joint to the cup holder.

[0018] The left rear joint may further include a left rear joint belt connector.The right rear joint may further include a right rear joint belt connector.

[0019] The folding chair may include a handle. The handle may be connected to two loops. The loops may be disposed around the upper back support frame member. The loops may be connected to first ends of two carrying straps. Second ends of the two carrying straps may be connected to left and right rear joint strap connectors for carrying the folding chair in a backpack configuration.

[0020] The folding chair may include a left armrest made of wood and connected to the upper side of the left arm support frame element. A right armrest made of wood and connected to the upper side of the right arm support frame element.

[0021] The second side of the seat material may extend over and be directly adjacent to the insulating container when the insulating container is coupled to the chair frame.

[0022] The left front leg frame element may be connected to the right front leg frame element via the front leg ground surface frame element.The front leg frame element may be an integrated U-shaped front leg frame element.

[0023] The left rear leg frame element may be connected to the right rear leg frame element via the rear leg ground contact surface element.The rear leg frame element may be an integrated U-shaped rear leg frame element.

[0024] The seat frame may further comprise a front seat frame element, the first seat frame element and the second seat frame element being connected by the front seat frame element.The seat frame element may be an integrated U-shaped seat frame element.

[0025] The back frame may also include an integrated U-shaped seat frame element.

[0026] The insulating container may include a plurality of straps sewn thereto and have connectors disposed proximate opposing ends of the plurality of straps for connection to the front and rear couplings of the folding chair.

[0027] The front and rear couplings may each include a clip connector for releasably connecting to a strap connector of the insulating container. The rear coupling may be connected via a horizontal support bracket. The horizontal support bracket may be connected to the rear leg frame member via a rear support bracket.

[0028] One or more of the pivotable front couplings may include a connector for securing a cupholder thereto.

[0029] A method of configuring a foldable chair may include connecting a first strap in a shoulder bag carrying configuration, reconfiguring the first strap in a handbag carrying configuration, and / or reconfiguring the first strap in a backpack carrying configuration. The method of configuring a foldable chair may include connecting a second strap in a backpack carrying configuration.

[0030] The insulating container may include one or more connectors extending from an upper surface of the insulating container for selectively connecting the insulating container to the bottom of the chair frame.

[0031] A pivotable front coupling for a folding chair may include a first coupling element for connecting to a side of a seat support frame member, a second coupling element for connecting to a front leg frame member, and a connector for connecting to an insulating container. The pivotable front coupling may include a cupholder connector disposed around a perimeter of the pivotable front coupling and configured to connect to an attachable cupholder.

[0032] A pivotable front coupling for a folding chair may include a first coupling element for connecting to a side of a seat support frame member, a second coupling element for connecting to a front leg frame member, and a connector that selectively connects and disconnects with a cup holder.

[0033] A pivotable rear coupling for a folding chair may include a first coupling element for connecting to an end of a seat support frame member, a second coupling element for connecting to a back support frame member, and a connector for connecting to an insulating container. The pivotable rear coupling may also include a third coupling element for pivotally coupling to a horizontal bracket. The third coupling element may also be configured to couple the pivotable rear bracket to a pivotable bracket. The bracket may pivotally couple the pivotable rear coupling to the rear leg frame member.

[0034] The folding chair may also include one or more cup holders connected to the one or more pivotable front couplings.

[0035] The folding chair may further include an armrest connected to the left arm support frame element and the right arm support frame element. The armrest may be made of wood. The armrest may be made of bamboo.

[0036] The folding chair frame may comprise aluminum. The front leg support frame element, the rear leg frame element, the back support frame element, and the seat support frame element may be made of aluminum. The front leg support frame element, the rear leg frame element, the back support frame element, and the seat support frame element may have a diameter of at least one inch.

[0037] Folding chairs may have fabric webbing connected to the seat and back support frame elements.

[0038] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following description, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The features and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by practice of the invention as set forth below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] To further illustrate the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to specific embodiments of the invention shown in the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present invention and, therefore, should not be considered to limit the scope thereof. The present invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] Figure 1A folding chair having an insulating container connected to a seat frame is shown;

[0041] Figure 2 A folding chair with an insulating container connected to a seat frame is shown from front, left and right views.

[0042] Figure 3 A person carrying a folding chair with an insulating container and a person sitting on the folding chair with an insulating container are shown.

[0043] Figure 4 People are shown carrying folding chairs with insulated containers and carrying straps in backpack, shoulder bag, and handbag configurations;

[0044] Figure 5 Interchangeable cup holder connector and insulating container with welded exterior pocket shown in greater detail;

[0045] Figure 6 A front coupling connector is shown having an interchangeable cup holder connector and connectors for connecting to an insulating container and a carrying strap;

[0046] Figure 7 A rear coupler having an integrated connector for connecting to an insulating container and a carrying strap is shown;

[0047] Figure 8 Additional examples and views of front and rear couplers and examples of closure retention elements are shown;

[0048] Figure 9 Additional features of a folding chair with a removable and independently usable insulating container are shown;

[0049] Figure 10 Additional features of the cupholder connector and examples of closure retention elements are shown;

[0050] Figure 11 are exploded views of various examples of components of a folding chair;

[0051] Figure 12 、 Figure 13 and Figure 14 Other examples of closure retention elements are shown;

[0052] Figure 15 An example of a handle connected to a back support frame member is shown; and

[0053] Figure 16 An example of a handle that can be used as a connector for a carrying strap in a backpack carrying configuration is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a portable chair with superior craftsmanship and improved functionality. According to certain embodiments, the portable chair includes a removable container that can be insulated to keep drinks and food cool for extended periods of time. The chair is preferably designed and constructed for outdoor use. According to some preferred embodiments, the chair can be constructed of improved materials including a frame made of aircraft-grade aluminum. The chair can include a seat and back made of fabric webbing that is soft to the touch and wraps around a nylon webbing core to maintain strength and "like new" comfort. The fabric webbing can include a woven polyester fabric that can be made waterproof. The chair can have armrests made of wood that can be laminated and sealed for basic protection. The armrests can also be lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendly bamboo armrests.

[0055] Other improvements and features that present unique advantages include various detachable, reconfigurable, and / or interchangeable features, including an insulated container, carrying straps, and cup holders. The insulated container can be easily and conveniently attached and detached from the folding chair. The insulated container can be welded, insulated, and sealed with an exterior pocket that is also welded and sealed to protect the items contained therein. The straps can have multiple different attachment points that allow for a variety of different carrying styles and reconfigurations, including, for example, a backpack-style carry configuration, a shoulder-slung handbag-style carry configuration, and a cross-body shoulder bag-style carry configuration. The cup holder can be interchangeable from each side of the folding chair and can be designed to accommodate a variety of different types of beverage containers, including, for example, cups with handles, cans, and water bottles. Additional interchangeable accessory attachment tools can accommodate umbrellas, tables, fishing rod holders, and the like, as will be understood from the teachings disclosed below.

[0056] According to some preferred embodiments, the removable insulated container can be designed to keep ice frozen for more than eight hours. The removable insulated container can have soft or hard sidewalls and structures, or a mixture of soft and hard sidewalls and structures. The folding chair and the insulated container can include external pockets to safely carry and protect additional items. Such external pockets can be welded rather than sewn to ensure waterproof seams and a streamlined appearance. According to certain preferred embodiments, the multiple carrying options provide a hands-free carrying experience that is also ergonomically designed for comfort. Such multiple different carrying configurations can also provide for a variety of different carrying situations depending on the environment and the user's expectations.

[0057] According to certain preferred embodiments, the detachable container can be securely fastened to the underside of the chair's seat base frame via a carabiner-like clip. This convenient connection allows easy access to the contents of the insulating container. Furthermore, the insulating container can be easily removed from the foldable chair's seat frame for additional mobility, standalone use, or as may be otherwise desired in different situations.

[0058] The hands-free carrying strap is configured to be carried across the chest to allow the user's hands to be free to carry additional equipment and items. According to various embodiments, the folding chair can be used to secure additional items such as snorkels, flippers, and other items within the folding chair for any particular use.

[0059] The interchangeable cup holder can include cutouts designed for cans, insulated water bottles, mugs, and coffee cups. Advantageously, the interchangeable cup holder can be detachably connected to the novel frame element joint instead of being located on or formed in the arm rest to provide improved ergonomics, versatility, parts reduction, and a multi-purpose joint for rotatable frame elements other than the interchangeable cup holder to be supported.

[0060] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , an embodiment of a folding chair 100 including an insulated container 140 is shown. The folding chair 100 includes a folding chair frame. The folding chair frame can include a left arm support frame element 125A and a right arm support frame element 125B.

[0061] The folding chair frame can also include a front leg support frame element 105 pivotably connected to the left arm support frame element 125A. The front leg support frame element 105 is also pivotably connected to the right arm support frame element 125B.

[0062] The folding chair frame can also include a rear leg frame element 110. The rear leg frame element 110 is pivotably connected to the left arm support frame element 125A. The rear leg frame element 110 is also pivotably connected to the right arm support frame element 125B.

[0063] The folding chair frame can also include a back support frame element 115 pivotably connected to the left arm support frame element 125A. The back support frame element 115 is also pivotably connected to the right arm support frame element 125B.

[0064] The folding chair frame can also include a seat support frame element 120. The seat support frame element 120 can be pivotably coupled to the rear leg frame element 110. The seat support frame element 120 can also be pivotably coupled to the front leg support frame element 105.

[0065] The folding chair 100 may also include a seat support material 155 and a back support material 150. The back support material 150 may extend from the sides of the back support frame member 115. The seat support material 155 may extend from the sides of the seat support frame member 120. The seat support material 155 and / or the back support material 150 may include webbing of the seat support material and the back support material. The webbing material may include horizontal webbing interwoven with vertical horizontal seat support material 155 or vertical back support material 150, such as Figure 1 The seat support material 155 and / or the back support material 150 may also be a sheet material, a strap material, or other configurations of material to support the seat and the back of a person sitting in the folding chair 100 .

[0066] The folding chair 100 may also include a left armrest 160A connected to the left arm support frame element 125A. The folding chair 100 may also include a right armrest 160B connected to the right arm support frame element 125B. The armrest 160 may be made of any material. However, according to embodiments disclosed herein, the armrest 160 may be made of wood, preferably for a particularly ergonomic design. For example, according to some preferred embodiments, the armrest 160 may be made of bamboo.

[0067] The folding chair 100 may include a cupholder 130. The cupholder 130 can be easily swapped between the left and right sides of the folding chair 100. The cupholder 130 may include a cutout 131 to accommodate the handle of a mug or cup. The cupholder 130 can be connected and disconnected from a cupholder connector 132. The folding chair 100 may include two cupholder connectors 132: one cupholder connector 132A on the left side of the folding chair 100 and one cupholder connector 132B on the right side of the folding chair 100. The cupholder 130 can be connected and disconnected from the cupholder connectors 132 on both sides of the folding chair 100, depending on the preferences of the person sitting in the folding chair 100. Advantageously, the cupholder connector 132 may be coupled, attachable, or attached to the front leg support frame element 105 and to the seat support frame element 120. For example, the cupholder connector 132 may include interlocking or mating grooves corresponding to interlocking or mating keys or protrusions provided on the cupholder 130 .

[0068] refer to Figure 3 , shows a folding chair 100 including an insulating container 140, wherein Figure 3 The person on the left is sitting on a chair. Figure 3 The person on the right carries a folded folding chair 100. Figure 3As shown, the insulating container 140 is easily accessible to a person in the seated position and easily carried via the attachable and reconfigurable strap 165 in the folded position.

[0069] refer to Figure 4 , shows a folding chair 100 having one or more attachable and detachable carrying straps 165 in three different configurations. In a first configuration, on the left, the straps 165 are configured in a backpack configuration. In a second configuration, in the center, the straps 165 are in a handbag carrying configuration on a woman's shoulders. And, in a third configuration, on the right, the reconfigurable straps 165 are in a shoulder bag configuration on a man's shoulders and across his chest.

[0070] refer to Figure 5 , shows additional optional and advantageous features of the insulating container 140. The insulating container 140 includes a handle 141. The handle 141 can be used to carry the insulating container 140 when disconnected from the frame of the folding chair 100.

[0071] The insulating container 140 can be connected and disconnected via a front connector 144 and a rear connector 145 of the insulating container 140. For example, the front connector 144 and the rear connector 145 can be in the form of rings, clips, or hooks that attach, couple, or connect to the insulating container 140.

[0072] The insulating container 140 may also include one or more external pockets 142. For example, Figure 5 As shown, the insulating container 140 may include a pocket 142 having a closure such as a zipper. Figure 5 As shown, the insulating container 140 can include one or more bottom pockets 142 and / or one or more side pockets (not shown). In some embodiments, the pockets 142 can be welded rather than sewn to ensure a waterproof seam between the pockets 142 and the insulating container 140.

[0073] The folding chair 100 is shown as having a generally U-shaped front leg support frame member 105, a U-shaped seat support frame member 120, a U-shaped rear leg frame member 110, and a U-shaped back support frame member 115 interconnected by a plurality of couplings, folding joints, and / or pivotable joints. However, separate or distinct portions of the back support frame member 115, the leg frame members 105 and 110, and the seat support frame member 120 may be implemented. As discovered by the inventors of the present patent application, the use of the U-shaped frame members 105, 120, 110, and 115 provides various improvements, functional strengths, and ergonomic benefits.

[0074] For example, still referring to Figure 5, the folding chair 100 may include a chair frame having a left front leg frame element 105A and a right front leg frame element 105B. The left front leg frame element 105A may, but need not be, connected to the right front leg frame element 105B via an interconnected front leg frame element 105C. Depending on the embodiment not specifically shown, the elements in the front leg support frame element 105 may be a U-shaped single integrated support frame element or may be separate individual parts. Any of the frame elements may be made from a single frame element that can be bent to perform a structural support function, or may be a plurality of separate support frame elements that can be connected or coupled together or designed for different configurations or separate functions.

[0075] Similarly, the rear leg frame member 110 can include a left rear leg frame member 110A and a right rear leg frame member 110B. The left rear leg frame member 110A can, but need not be, connected to the right rear leg frame member 110B via interconnected rear leg frame members 110C. As shown, the elements of the rear leg frame member 110 can be a single piece as shown or, in some embodiments, can be separate pieces (not shown) that can be coupled together.

[0076] Similarly, the seat support frame member 120 may include two or more seat frame member portions. Figure 5 As shown, the seat support frame element 120 may include a first seat frame element 120A and a second seat frame element 120B. The first seat frame element 120A may be a left seat frame element, and the second seat frame element 120B may be a right seat frame element 120B. The first seat frame element 120A may be connected to the right seat frame element 120B via an interconnected rear leg frame element 110C. As shown, the elements of the seat support frame element 120 may be a single piece or separate pieces. Similar teachings may be understood with reference to the back support frame element 115, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing teachings.

[0077] refer to Figures 6 to 10 The folding chair may also include a plurality of couplings and connectors adjacent to two or more of the front leg support frame member 105, the rear leg frame member 110, the back support frame member 115, the seat support frame member 120, and the cup holder connector 132. The couplings and connectors may also include, and in some embodiments, be integrated with, connectors for connecting the coupling connectors to one or more carrying straps 165 and the insulating container 140.

[0078] For example, the folding chair 100 may include two front couplings 170 and two rear couplings 180. The front couplings 170 may have a first front coupling connection 170A for connecting to the front leg support frame member 105 and a second front coupling connection 170B for connecting to the seat support frame member 120. The first front coupling connection 170A is rotatably connected to the second front coupling connection 170B, so that the seat support frame member 120 is rotatably coupled to the front leg support frame member 105.

[0079] like Figure 7 As shown, the front coupling 170 (also referred to as a coupling joint) can include a pivot rod 173 that extends through the first front coupling joint 170A and the second front coupling joint 170B, providing rotation of the first front coupling joint 170A relative to the second front coupling joint 170B while providing support for a person sitting on the seat of the folding chair 100.

[0080] The front coupling 170 may also include a first front coupling connector 171 for connecting the second front coupling connector 170B of each front coupling 170 to the insulating container 140. For example, as shown, the first front coupling connector 171 may include an integrated clip, such as a carabiner, for connecting to the front connector 144 of the insulating container 140. Figure 7 As shown, the front connector 144 of the insulating container 140 can be secured to the top side of the insulating container 140 by a strap 146 sewn or otherwise attached to the upper side of the insulating container 140. The front coupling 170 can also include Figure 6 A second front coupling connector 172 is shown, which is used to connect and disconnect the front coupling 170 to the end of a carrying strap (not shown).

[0081] The folding chair frame may also include two rotatable and foldable rear couplings 180. The rear couplings 180 may foldably couple the ends of the back support frame member 115 to the ends of the seat support frame member 120. The rear couplings 180 may also rotatably couple the back support frame member 115 and the seat support frame member 120 relative to the rear leg frame member 110.

[0082] More specifically, if Figure 7As shown, a right rear coupling 180 is shown and includes two foldable rear couplings 180A and 180B. The first foldable rear coupling 180A is connected to the back support frame member 115. The second foldable rear coupling 180B is connected to the seat support frame member 120. When in a folded position (not shown), the back support frame member 115 is folded onto the seat support frame member 120. Furthermore, due to the rotational connection of the rear leg frame member 110 with the rear coupling 180, the rear leg frame member 110 can be rotated to a folded position adjacent to and generally parallel to the seat support frame member 120, the back support frame member 115, and the front leg support frame member 105. Rotation and support of the seat support frame member 120 is achieved by a pivotable support rod 183, which is coupled to the rear leg frame member 110 via a rotating support frame arm 184.

[0083] The rear coupling 180 may further include a first rear coupling connector 181 for connecting the rear coupling 180 to the insulating container 140. The first rear coupling connector 181 may be integrally formed with the second foldable rear coupling 180B. The first rear coupling connector 181 may function similarly to a carabiner having a metal clip that is biased to a closed position.

[0084] The rear coupling 180 may also include a second rear coupling connector 182 for connecting and disconnecting with a carrying strap (not shown). Thus, the foldable chair may include one, two, three, or four front and rear coupling connections for connecting the foldable chair to the rear of the chair. Figure 7 The second rear coupling connector 182 shown and the Figure 6 The second front coupling connector 172 is shown to selectively connect one or more carrying straps (see, for example, Figure 4 ) are connected to both sides of the front and / or rear of the seat of the folding chair 100.

[0085] The folding chair 100 may also include a seat support material 155 and a back support material 150. The fabric of the seat support material 155 and the back support material 150 may include fabric webbing. The fabric webbing may include longitudinal webbing material extending from the top of the back support element 125 to the end of the seat support frame element 120. The transverse webbing of the seat support material 155 and the back support material 150 may extend transversely to the sides of the back support element 125 and the sides of the seat support frame element 120 and connect to the opposing sides thereof. The fabric design of the seat support material 155 and the back support material 150 of the folding chair 100 may be customized to match the fabric or wall pattern design of the insulating container 140. The webbing of the seat support material 155 and the back support material 150 of the folding chair 100 may be interwoven or may be a single piece of fabric or multiple pieces of fabric.

[0086] The folding chair frame can include two pivotable front couplings 170. The pivotable front couplings 170 rotatably couple the ends of the seat support frame element 120 to the front leg support frame element 105. The folding chair frame can also include two pivotable and foldable rear couplings 180 that rotatably couple the ends of the back support frame element 115 and the seat support frame element 120 to the rear leg frame element 110.

[0087] The insulated container 140 can be connected to the two pivotable front couplings 170 and the two pivotable and foldable rear couplings 180. Also, the insulated container 140 can have a handle 141 (not shown) attached thereto for carrying the insulated container 140 when it is disconnected from the pivotable front couplings 170 and the pivotable and foldable rear couplings 180.

[0088] The folding chair 100 also includes an arm rest 160 connected to the left arm support frame element 125A and the right arm support frame element 125B. The arm rest 160 can be made of wood, such as bamboo.

[0089] The folding chair 100 can also include various different releasable closure retention mechanisms. For example, referring to Figure 5 and Figures 7 to 12 , a first embodiment of a folding chair closure retention element 190 is shown. According to this embodiment, the folding chair closure retention element 190 includes a rotatable clip that is rotatably connected to the front leg support frame element 105. When the folding chair 100 is placed in the folded position, the folding chair closure retention element 190 rotates about the central axis of the front leg support frame element 105 and clips onto the rear leg frame element 110, as shown in Figure 12 .

[0090] Referring to Figure 13 , a second embodiment of a folding chair closure retention element 191 is shown. According to this embodiment, the folding chair closure retention element 190 includes a rotatable clip that is rotatably connected to the side of the front leg support frame element 105. When the folding chair 100 is placed in the folded position, the second folding chair closure retention element 191 rotates perpendicular to the central axis of the front leg support frame element 105 and clips onto a post connected to the rear leg frame element 110, as shown in Figure 13 .

[0091] Referring to Figure 13, a second embodiment of a folding chair closure retaining element 191 is shown. According to this embodiment, the folding chair closure retaining element 190 comprises a rotatable clip that is rotatably connected to one side of the front leg support frame element 105. When the folding chair 100 is placed in the folded position, the second folding chair closure retaining element 191 is rotated perpendicular to the central axis of the front leg support frame element 105 and clipped onto the post connected to the rear leg frame element 110, as shown in Figure 13 .

[0092] Referring to Figure 14 , a third embodiment of a folding chair closure retaining element 192 is shown. According to this embodiment, the folding chair closure retaining element 190 comprises a strap that is connected to the side of the front leg support frame element 105. When the folding chair 100 is placed in the folded position, the third folding chair closure retaining element 192 is wrapped around the rear leg frame element 110, as shown in Figure 14 . The third chair closure retaining element 192 comprises a snap, VELCRO, or other connecting element for releasably holding the strap of the third folding chair closure retaining element 192 in place and securing the folding chair 100 in the folded position.

[0093] Referring to Figure 15 , the folding chair 100 can also comprise a handle 199 that is connected to the top of the rear back support frame element 115 and spans the back support material 150 for carrying the folding chair.

[0094] Referring to Figure 16 , another example of a folding chair 100 handle 194 is shown. The handle 194 is connected to two loops 196 of a rope that are disposed around the upper back support frame element 115. The loops are connectable to the first ends of two carrying straps 165. The second ends of the two carrying straps 165 are connected to the left and right rear junction strap connectors 182 (not shown) for carrying the folding chair in a backpack configuration.

[0095] The application can take other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The described implementations are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the application is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A folding chair, comprising: A chair frame, comprising: left front leg frame element; right front leg frame element; left hind leg frame element; right hind leg frame element; A seat frame comprising two or more seat frame elements, the two or more seat frame elements comprising: left seat frame member; and right seat frame element; The left arm supports the frame element; The right arm supports the frame element; a left back support frame member pivotally connected to the left arm support frame member; a right back support frame member pivotally connected to the right arm support frame member; and an upper back support frame element connecting the left back support frame element to the right back support frame element; Insulated containers; a left front joint pivotally coupling the left front leg frame member to the left seat frame member, the left front joint including a left front joint insulating container connector for connecting the left front joint to the insulating container; a right front joint pivotally coupling the right front leg frame member to the right seat frame member, the right front joint comprising a right front joint insulating container connector for connecting the right front joint to the insulating container; a left rear joint pivotally coupling the left rear leg frame member to the left seat frame member, the left rear joint including a left rear joint insulating container connector for connecting the left rear joint to the insulating container; and a right rear joint pivotally coupling the right rear leg frame member to the right seat frame member, the right rear joint including a right rear joint insulating container connector for connecting the right rear joint to the insulating container; The insulating container is connectable and disconnectable to the chair frame such that when the insulating container is connected to the chair frame, the insulating container is disposed below the seat of the folding chair; and The seat includes seat material extending between the left seat frame member and the right seat frame member, wherein: The first side of the seat material at least partially provides the seat for a person to sit on; and The second side of the seating material extends over the insulating container when the insulating container is coupled to the chair frame.

2. The folding chair according to claim 1, wherein: The left front joint further includes a left front joint cup holder connector for selectively connecting the left front joint to a cup holder; and The right front joint further includes a right front joint cup holder connector for selectively connecting the right front joint to the cup holder.

3. The folding chair according to claim 1, wherein: The left rear joint further includes a left rear joint strap connector; and The right rear joint also includes a right rear joint belt connector.

4. The folding chair of claim 3 , further comprising a handle connected to two loops disposed about the upper back support frame member, the loops being connectable to first ends of two carrying straps, second ends of the two carrying straps being connected to the left rear joint strap connector and the right rear joint strap connector for carrying the folding chair in a backpack configuration.

5. The folding chair of claim 1 further comprising a metal handle connected to the upper back support frame member of the folding chair.

6. The folding chair of claim 5, wherein the metal handle is further configured to connect to one or more carrying strap connectors.

7. The folding chair according to claim 1, further comprising: a left arm rest, the left arm rest being made of wood and the left arm rest being connected to an upper side of the left arm supporting frame member; as well as A right arm rest is made of wood and is connected to an upper side of the right arm supporting frame element.

8. The folding chair according to claim 1, wherein: The second side of the seating material extends over and is directly adjacent to the insulating container when the insulating container is coupled to the chair frame.

9. The folding chair according to claim 1, wherein: the left front leg frame member being connected to the right front leg frame member via a front leg ground surface frame member; and The left rear leg frame member is connected to the right rear leg frame member via a rear leg ground surface member.

10. The folding chair of claim 1, wherein the seat frame further comprises a front seat frame member, the left seat frame member and the right seat frame member being connected by the front seat frame member.

11. The folding chair of claim 1 , the insulating container comprising a plurality of straps sewn thereto, and the insulating container having connectors disposed proximate opposite ends of the plurality of straps for connection to the front and rear couplings of the folding chair.

12. The folding chair of claim 11, the front coupling and the rear coupling each comprising a clip connector for releasably connecting to the connector of the insulating container.

13. The folding chair of claim 1, further comprising one or more cup holders connected to one or more pivotable front couplings of the folding chair.

14. The folding chair of claim 1 further comprising an arm rest connected to the left arm support frame member and the right arm support frame member.

15. The folding chair of claim 14, wherein the armrest is made of wood.

16. The folding chair according to claim 15, wherein: The armrest is made of bamboo.

17. The folding chair of claim 1 further comprising a handle coupled to the upper back support frame member.

18. The folding chair according to claim 17, wherein: The handle includes a portion for connecting a carrying strap to the handle.

19. The folding chair of claim 1, further comprising one or more exterior pockets welded and sealed to the exterior of the insulating container to protect items contained within the one or more exterior pockets.

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