Mechanism for a seat, in particular for an office chair

Abstract

This invention relates to a mechanism for seating, particularly for office chairs. Furthermore, this invention relates to a seating, particularly an office chair, having such a mechanism. To provide a seating, particularly an office chair, with particularly simple adjustment and relatively simple construction, featuring pivot resistance, a mechanism (10) is proposed, having a plurality of mechanism components, said mechanism components including at least: a base support (1); a seat support (3) arranged on the base support (1) and movable relative to the base support (1); and a backrest support (4) coupled to the seat support (3), wherein pivoting of the backrest support (4) causes movement of the seat support (3) relative to the base support (1), and said mechanism has a spring system (30) to load the seat support (3) against the movement of the backrest support (4), wherein the spring system (30) has two spring assemblies (31, 32) connected in series.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a mechanism for seating, particularly for office chairs. Furthermore, this invention relates to a seating, particularly an office chair, having such a mechanism. Background Technology

[0002] Synchronization mechanisms are known as mechanisms used in office chairs. The term "synchronization mechanism" can be understood here as a component in the substructure of the office chair that realizes kinematics that are mutually coupled, resulting in specific relative movements of the seat and backrest relative to each other. An office chair typically has a seat with a padded seat surface mounted on a seat support. A backrest support (which typically extends rearward from the actual synchronization mechanism) carries the backrest of the office chair at an upwardly extending arm. The seat support and backrest support are typically hingedly coupled in such a way that a rearward pivoting movement of the backrest (e.g., caused by the user leaning against the backrest) results in a subsequent movement of the seat. A spring mechanism is used to load the seat support against the movement of the backrest support. The spring mechanism prevents the backrest from tilting uncontrollably backward and ensures that once the user of the office chair no longer loads the backrest, the backrest reliably returns to its initial position from the rearward pivoted position. This spring mechanism typically consists of a centrally arranged tension spring. With the aid of this spring mechanism, the pivoting resistance of the backrest support can be adjusted or influenced. Therefore, spring mechanisms typically have adjustment devices.

[0003] As can be directly deduced from the description of the operating principle, such mechanisms are typically composed of many components and / or have a very complex structure and are therefore expensive to manufacture. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The objective of this invention is to provide a seating arrangement, particularly an office chair, that features a particularly simple adjustment of pivot resistance and, despite this, a relatively simple construction. The advantages and design principles described below, in conjunction with the aforementioned mechanism, also apply to seating arrangements according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0005] The present invention is based on a conventional mechanism, particularly an office chair mechanism, which includes multiple mechanism components, namely, at least one base support member that can be placed on a chair support, a seat support member arranged on the base support member and movable relative to the base support member, and a backrest support member coupled to the seat support member, wherein a rearward pivoting of the backrest support member causes subsequent movement of the seat support member relative to the base support member.

[0006] The core concept of this invention is to use a spring system instead of a conventional spring mechanism to resist the movement of the backrest support member on the seat support member. This spring system has two spring assemblies connected in series, i.e., arranged sequentially. Since each spring assembly has at least one spring element, the spring system includes at least two spring elements. In this way, the pivoting resistance can be adjusted particularly easily. At the same time, the spring behavior of the mechanism can be influenced by particularly simple means, thereby reducing the total number of components required for the mechanism compared to conventional mechanisms. In particular, by using a spring system instead of a single spring, the structure of the mechanism can be simplified, because the spring elements and / or spring assemblies of the spring system can be selectively engaged or selectively influenced in terms of their functional characteristics particularly easily.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the spring element of one spring assembly differs from the spring element of another spring assembly in its structure and / or mode of operation. In this way, the spring characteristics of the spring system can be modified particularly easily.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the invention, the spring system preferably functions between the base support and the seat support, i.e., acts on both the base support and the seat support. It is particularly advantageous if the two spring assemblies are connected to each other at the connection point, with the first spring assembly functioning between the base support and the connection point, and the second spring assembly functioning between the connection point and the seat support.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the invention, the number of components used is preferably reduced by the following manner: the first spring assembly is constructed as an integral part of the base support and / or the second spring assembly is constructed as an integral part of the seat support.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the two spring assemblies has a spring element configured as a one-piece, elastically deformable element integrated into a mechanism component, which serves as an energy storage element. Preferably, the spring assembly acting between the base support and the coupling element has such a one-piece integrated, elastically deformable spring element.

[0011] One embodiment of the invention has proven particularly advantageous in that the position of the connecting portion relative to at least one of the mechanism components, especially relative to the seat support, can be changed. For example, this positional change of the connecting portion occurs by the loading of a spring system when the backrest support is pivoted by the user of the office chair.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the invention, the movement area is adjustable, the position of the connecting portion can be changed within the movement area, and / or the position of the connecting portion relative to at least one of the mechanism components, particularly relative to the seat support component, can be fixed. Preferably, the movement area can be adjusted such that multiple defined movement areas of different sizes are adjustable. Preferably, the position of the connecting portion can be fixed such that multiple defined positions of mutually different connecting portions can be fixed.

[0013] Therefore, the spring characteristics of the spring system can be changed particularly easily, simply by manipulating or influencing the connecting parts. In other words, only a suitable device for adjusting the spring system needs to be provided at a single point in the mechanism.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the connection is defined by a common spring assembly coupling element, on which two spring assemblies act. Here, the coupling element may be provided to one of the two spring assemblies, to both spring assemblies, or neither spring assembly may have a coupling element. Preferably, the sequentially arranged spring elements act on the common coupling element toward their mutually pointing (inward) connection ends.

[0015] If such a coupling element is used, according to one embodiment of the invention, the coupling element is guided in a guide portion of the mechanism. Here, the guide portion is preferably provided by a seat support member. Due to this integrated structural form, no additional guide member is required. Preferably, the guide portion is constructed in the form of a pair of elongated holes, preferably formed by two elongated holes provided on both sides of the seat support member, and more preferably by an elongated hole in the front region of the seat support member.

[0016] Preferably, the coupling element is constructed as a rod arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the chair (the longitudinal direction of the seat), which is also referred to below as the coupling rod. The rod is preferably inserted into elongated holes on the seat support at its two ends.

[0017] Advantageously, the coupling element can be fixed within the guide when using an actuating mechanism. Fixing the coupling element can be understood as reducing the travel distance within the guide to zero during changes in the coupling element's position. The coupling element is then in a locked state, in which it cannot move relative to the guide.

[0018] A particular advantage is that the travel distance of the coupling element within the guide can be selectively changed during a change in the position of the coupling element. According to one embodiment of the invention, the actuating mechanism for fixing the coupling element also includes a device for determining the travel distance within the guide during a change in the position of the coupling element. If the travel distance is variable when using an actuating mechanism that can be used to fix the coupling element, no additional components are required for this purpose.

[0019] An eccentric member, pivotable about the axis of a coupling rod and arranged on the coupling rod according to one embodiment of the invention, is used to fix the coupling element, and according to another embodiment, it also serves as a device for changing the travelable distance within the guide portion. The pivoting position of the eccentric member can be changed by means of an operating element disposed at the eccentric member, preferably in the form of a pivot lever.

[0020] Preferably, the operating element, or handle, is configured such that the actuating element and the eccentric element together form an operating mechanism, through which the coupling element can be fixed in the elongated guide portion. Preferably, the eccentric element has multiple, preferably two, three, or four contact surfaces spaced at different intervals from the pivot axis, and the eccentric element can stop against a stop portion on the seat support member with said contact surfaces. Preferably, this operating mechanism not only serves to fix the coupling element in the guide portion, but also, depending on the position of the eccentric element, to change the travel distance within the guide portion. In this way, the entire adjustment of the spring system can be achieved using a single component.

[0021] In this embodiment with an eccentric member, the length of the guide portion remains constant regardless of the position of the eccentric member. In another embodiment, the operating mechanism does not have an eccentric member. Instead, the length of the guide portion can be changed by means of an alternative operating mechanism. In other words, the available free length of the guide portion and therefore the travel that the coupling element can pass through within the guide portion can be changed. For this purpose, the operating mechanism according to this other embodiment includes a limiting member for limiting the free length of the guide portion. Unlike the eccentric member, the limiting member is not located at the coupling rod. However, the limiting member can also be used as a device for changing the travel that can pass through the guide portion and simultaneously for securing the coupling element in the guide portion. The limiting member can be selectively introduced into the guide portion. The position of the limiting member in the guide portion is preferably changeable by means of an operating element that is operatively connected to the limiting member. The operating element together with the limiting member constitutes the operating mechanism by means of which the coupling element can be secured in the guide portion. Preferably, the limiting member provides an alternative front end of the guide portion when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the seat, while the rear end of the guide portion remains unchanged. Preferably, the limiting member includes a plurality of (preferably at least two) limiting surfaces that form stops for coupling elements when the limiting member is introduced into the guide. Preferably, these limiting surfaces are constructed such that varying free lengths within the guide are obtained depending on the extent to which the limiting member is introduced into the guide. Preferably, when the limiting member is in its functionally installed state, the limiting surfaces are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the seat. This operating mechanism serves not only to secure the coupling element in the guide but also, depending on the position of the limiting member, to change the travel distance within the guide. In this way, even in this embodiment, the entire adjustment of the spring system can be performed using a single component. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Two embodiments of the present invention will now be explained in more detail with the aid of the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 The unpivoted mechanism in a "hard" setting is shown in a side view (first embodiment).

[0024] Figure 2 The unpivoted mechanism in a "rigid" configuration (first embodiment) is shown in longitudinal section.

[0025] Figure 3 The unpivoted mechanism in a "hard" setting (first embodiment) is shown in a top view.

[0026] Figure 4 A side view shows the pivoted mechanism in a "hard" setting (first embodiment).

[0027] Figure 5The pivoted mechanism in a "rigid" configuration is shown in longitudinal section (first embodiment).

[0028] Figure 6 A top view shows the pivoted mechanism in a "hard" setting (first embodiment).

[0029] Figure 7 The unpivoted mechanism in a "soft" setting (first embodiment) is shown in a side view.

[0030] Figure 8 The unpivoted mechanism in a "soft" setting (first embodiment) is shown in longitudinal section.

[0031] Figure 9 The unpivoted mechanism in a "soft" setting (first embodiment) is shown in a top view.

[0032] Figure 10 A side view shows the pivoted mechanism in a "soft" setting (first embodiment).

[0033] Figure 11 The pivoted mechanism in a "soft" setting (first embodiment) is shown in longitudinal section.

[0034] Figure 12 A top view shows the pivoted mechanism in a "soft" setting (first embodiment).

[0035] Figure 13 The unpivoted mechanism (first embodiment) is shown in a side view in the "middle" setting.

[0036] Figure 14 The non-pivoted mechanism (first embodiment) in the "middle" setting is shown in longitudinal section.

[0037] Figure 15 The non-pivoted mechanism (first embodiment) is shown in a top view in the "middle" setting.

[0038] Figure 16 The pivoted mechanism (first embodiment) is shown in a side view in the “middle” setting.

[0039] Figure 17 The pivoted mechanism (first embodiment) in the "middle" setting is shown in longitudinal section.

[0040] Figure 18 A top view shows the pivoted mechanism (first embodiment) in the "middle" setting.

[0041] Figure 19 A top view shows the unpivoted mechanism in a "hard" setting (partial view) (second embodiment).

[0042] Figure 20 A side view shows the unpivoted mechanism in a "hard" setting (partial view) (second embodiment).

[0043] Figure 21 Along Figure 19 The cross-section of line AA in the figure shows the unpivoted mechanism in a "hard" setting (second embodiment).

[0044] Figure 22 A top view shows the unpivoted mechanism in the "middle" setting (partial view) (second embodiment).

[0045] Figure 23 A side view shows the unpivoted mechanism in the "middle" setting (partial view) (second embodiment).

[0046] Figure 24 Along Figure 22 The cross-section of line AA in the figure shows the unpivoted mechanism in the “middle” setting (second embodiment).

[0047] Figure 25 A top view shows the unpivoted mechanism in a "soft" setting (partial view) (second embodiment).

[0048] Figure 26 A side view shows the unpivoted mechanism in a "soft" setting (partial view) (second embodiment).

[0049] Figure 27 Along Figure 25 The cross-section of line AA in the figure shows the unpivoted mechanism in a “soft” setting (second embodiment).

[0050] Figure 28 A detailed view of the free end with restraints is shown (without coupling elements). Detailed Implementation

[0051] All accompanying drawings are not to scale and are merely illustrative, including only the essential components. The same reference numerals correspond to elements with the same or similar functions.

[0052] Here, "front" or "frontal" means that a component is arranged at the front in the longitudinal direction of the seat, or refers to a component extending toward or pointing in that direction towards the front edge of the seat. "Rear" or "rear" means that a component is arranged at the rear in the longitudinal direction of the seat, or refers to a component extending toward or pointing in that direction towards the backrest, backrest support, or rear edge of the seat. The terms "upper" or "higher" and "lower" or "deeper" refer to the prescribed usage configuration of the office chair or office chair mechanism.

[0053] Unless otherwise stated, the following refers to the first embodiment ( Figures 1 to 18 The descriptions in the second embodiment are either identical or correspondingly applicable. Figures 19 to 28 ).

[0054] Synchronization mechanism 10 has a base support member 1, which is supported by a conical receiving portion 2 (in Figure 1 (As shown) It is placed on the upper end of the chair support 20. In addition, the synchronization mechanism 10 includes a generally frame-shaped seat support 3 and a backrest support 4 that is forked in top view, with cheeks 5 of the backrest support arranged on both sides of the base support 1.

[0055] The seat support 3 is configured to receive or mount a cushioned seat surface. This mounting is achieved in a common manner using fastening elements not shown in detail. A backrest (not shown in detail) is mounted on the backrest support 4, and in the case of modern office chairs, the backrest is height-adjustable. The backrest can also be integrally connected to the backrest support 4.

[0056] The entire synchronization mechanism 10 is constructed in a mirror-symmetric manner with respect to its central longitudinal plane (which involves actual kinematics). In this respect, the following description of this embodiment and other embodiments of the invention must always start from the structural elements of the actual pivoting mechanism that exist in pairs on both sides.

[0057] In the non-pivoted basic position of the synchronization mechanism 10, the seat support 3 occupies a basically horizontal position, such as... Figures 1 to 3 , Figures 7 to 9 and Figures 13 to 15 as well as Figures 19 to 27 As shown. Figures 4 to 6 , Figures 10 to 12 and Figures 16 to 18 The synchronization mechanism 10 is shown in the position where the backrest support 4 is pivoted to the maximum extent.

[0058] The backrest support 4, which is pivotable in the pivot direction 7, is directly hinged to the base support 1 via a first lateral axis 11, with the cheek portion 5 extending toward the front region of the mechanism 10. This lateral axis defines the main pivot axis 11 of the synchronization mechanism 10. Here, the main pivot axis 11 is located behind the tapered receiving portion 2 when viewed in the longitudinal direction 14 of the seat.

[0059] In the rear region of the mechanism 10 viewed in the longitudinal direction 14 of the seat, the backrest support 4 is connected to the rear region of the seat support 3 via the upwardly extending drive member 6 of the cheek 5 through the second pivot 22. Here, the main pivot 11 is arranged behind the transverse axis 12 formed by the second pivot 22 when viewed in the longitudinal direction 14 of the seat.

[0060] In the front region of the mechanism, the front region of the base support 1 and the front region of the seat support 3 are directly hinged together via a third pivot 23, forming a third transverse axis 13. The positions of this third pivot 23 and therefore the third transverse axis 13, as explained in more detail below, are not fixed but are movable relative to the seat support 3. The relative movement of the seat support 3 and the backrest support 4 relative to each other is substantially determined by the relative positions of the three transverse axes 11, 12, and 13.

[0061] The backrest support 4 is connected to the seat support 3 only once (i.e., via the second transverse axis 12). Furthermore, the base support 1 is connected to the seat support 3 only once (i.e., via the third transverse axis 13). The backrest support 4 and the base support 1 have only one connection, namely, a connection via the main pivot axis 11.

[0062] Spring system 30 is used to resist the movement of the backrest support 4 onto the seat support 3. Spring system 30 has two spring assemblies 31 and 32 arranged in series and acting between the base support 1 and the seat support 3, i.e., acting on both the base support 1 and the seat support 3. Each of these spring assemblies 31 and 32 has spring elements 8 and 9, which are interconnected at connection point 15.

[0063] The spring element 8 of the first spring assembly 31 (hereinafter also referred to as the first spring element 8) is constructed as an integral part of the base support 1 and functions between the base support 1 and the connection portion 15. This first spring element 8 differs structurally from the spring element 9 of the second spring assembly 32 (hereinafter also referred to as the second spring element 9), which is constructed as an integral part of the seat support 3 and functions between the connection portion 15 and the seat support 3. Both spring elements 8 and 9 are constructed as elastically deformable elements, each integrally integrated into the mechanism components, and serve as energy storage elements. Both spring assemblies 31 and 32 are preloaded in the unpivoted initial position of the mechanism 10.

[0064] The position of the connecting part 15 is variable relative to at least one of the aforementioned mechanism components, and in the embodiment described herein, it is variable relative to the seat support 3. This change in position of the connecting part 15 is achieved by the loading of the spring system 31, 32 when the user of the office chair pivots on the backrest support 4.

[0065] The movement area (the position of the connecting part 15 can be changed within this movement area) can be selectively adjusted. Furthermore, the position of the connecting part 15 relative to at least one of the mechanism components, and in this case, relative to the seat support 3, can be fixed.

[0066] The connection portion 15 is defined by a common spring assembly-coupler element 16, on which two spring elements 8 and 9 act. Here, the coupling element 16 is not coupled to either of the two spring assemblies 31 and 32. Instead, the coupling element 16 is configured as a rod arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 14 of the seat, at which the two spring elements 8 and 9 act with their (inner) connecting ends pointing towards each other.

[0067] Here, the first spring element 8 is implemented according to the type of leaf spring, such as the deformable or storage element described in DE102020110707A1 with reference numeral 8 therein. The first spring element is integrally formed on the base support 1 and extends forward and upward along the seat longitudinal direction 14, where the first spring element is connected to the coupling element 16. The second spring element 9, implemented as a tension spring, is formed by a plurality of spring plates 17 arranged in a parallel configuration and forming its own spring system in such a way that it extends forward from the rear transverse element 18 of the seat support 3 along the seat longitudinal direction 14, where the spring plates are connected to the coupling element 16 with their free spring ends. The spring plates 17 (which, like the seat support 3, are made of plastic material) are integrally connected to the rear transverse element 18 in such a way that the spring plates are integrally formed onto the rear transverse element. The rear transverse element 18 extends transversely to the seat longitudinal direction 14 after the tapered receiving portion 2.

[0068] The described embodiment of the second spring assembly 32 is particularly advantageous because the entire spring assembly 32 can be fully housed within the structural space where the seat support 3 exists. In this way, the spring assembly 32 can also be arranged in the relatively flat seat support 3, as desired in its open structural form as shown here in mechanism 10.

[0069] The coupling element 16 is guided in the guide portion 24, which is provided via the seat support 3 in the form of a pair of elongated holes, formed by two elongated holes 25 provided in the front region of the seat support 3 and in the two lateral frame members of the seat support 3. The coupling element 16 is thus inserted into the elongated holes 25 at the seat support 3 at its two ends.

[0070] The position of the connecting part 15, defined by the coupling element 16 guided in the guide part 24, simultaneously obtains the position of the third rotating joint 23 of the mechanism 10 and thus the position of the third transverse axis 13.

[0071] The coupling element 16 and therefore the third transverse axis 13 of the mechanism 10 can be fixed in the guide 24 when the operating mechanism 33 is used. The operating mechanism 33 includes a device for changing the travel of the coupling element 16 within the guide 24 during a change in the position of the coupling element 16.

[0072] exist Figures 1 to 18 In the first embodiment shown, this is an eccentric member 27 arranged on the coupling rod 16, anti-rotatably connected to the coupling rod 16, and pivotable about the longitudinal axis 26 of the rod. The pivoting position of the eccentric member can be changed by means of a pivot lever 28 disposed on the eccentric member 27, which serves as an actuating element. The position of the pivot lever 28 is... Figure 1 , Figure 7 , Figure 13 As shown in the diagram, the eccentric member 27 has three contact surfaces 34, 35, and 36 that are not at different distances from the pivot axis 26. The eccentric member 27 can stop on the stop portion 29 provided at the seat support member 3 with said contact surfaces. The seat support member-stop portion 29 is formed by a transverse element 19 at the front of the seat support member 3, which serves as the end of the front of the frame-shaped seat support member 3. The transverse element 19 at the front also extends transversely to the longitudinal direction 14 of the seat.

[0073] In the first pivot position of eccentric component 27 (operational state "open", see...), Figures 7 to 12 The eccentric member 27 is arranged on the rod 16 such that when the mechanism 10 pivots, only the first stop surface 34, which is closest to the axis of rotation 26, can abut against the seat support member - stop portion 29, while the second and third stop surfaces 35, 36 of the eccentric member 27 remain inactive.

[0074] In the second position of the eccentric component 27 (operational state "locked", see...), see... Figures 1 to 6 The third stop surface 36, which is furthest from the rotation axis 26, is permanently attached to the seat support member - stop portion 29 at a pivot position independent of the mechanism 10.

[0075] In the third pivot position of eccentric component 27 (operating state "half-open" or "half-locked", see...) Figures 13 to 18 The second stop surface 35 of the eccentric member 27 (which is smaller in distance from the pivot axis 26 than the third stop surface 36 of the eccentric member 27) is arranged such that the eccentric member 27 abuts against the seat support member - stop portion 29 with the second stop surface 35 when the mechanism 10 pivots.

[0076] In summary, an embodiment of mechanism 10 is described in which a spring element 8, such as a leaf spring or similar, mounted on a fixed base support 1, is preferably integrally, especially as a single piece, connected to a movable seat support 3 via a second spring element 9, such as a tension spring, mounted on the seat support 3. The resulting spring system 30 comprises, in other words, two spring elements arranged sequentially (“in series”). The connection portion 15 (where the two spring elements 8 and 9 are connected to each other) is free to move relative to the seat support 3.

[0077] The free movement of the connecting part 15 can be locked. For this purpose, the coupling element of the connecting part 15, which is in the form of a rod 16, is fixed to the seat support 3 by reducing the travel of the rod 16 within the seat support-elongated hole 25 (where the rod 16 is inserted into the seat support-elongated hole and can move along the longitudinal direction 14 of the seat) to zero. See [reference needed]. Figures 1 to 6 Therefore, once the mechanism 10 pivots backward along the pivot direction 7 from its initial, unpivoted position, i.e., the backrest support 4 pivots, the coupling element 16 is already against the rear end of the elongated hole 25 or the coupling element immediately impacts the rear end of the elongated hole 25. This prevents relative movement of the coupling element 16 relative to the seat support 3. Consequently, the spacing between the spring ends of the second spring element (tension spring) 9 can no longer increase, and therefore the tension spring 9 can no longer be loaded. It also prevents the spacing between the spring ends of the tension spring 9 from decreasing. As a result, the second spring assembly 32 does not function, and the spring element 9 connected to the seat support 3 does not function. Only the first spring assembly 31 functions, i.e., the spring element 8 connected to the base support 3 functions. The pivoting resistance of the backrest support 3 is only related to the first spring assembly 31, resulting in a large pivoting resistance (mechanism setup "stiff").

[0078] The second spring assembly 32, which is locked in this manner, can now be selectively engaged, i.e., engaged when needed, by opening the locking structure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 7 to 12 The pivoting resistance of the backrest support 4 is determined by the combined action of the two spring assemblies 31 and 32. In other words, with the locking mechanism open, the pivoting resistance of the backrest support 4 is related to the total spring system 30. In this way, the pivoting resistance of the backrest support 4 can be easily adjusted. By fully opening the locking mechanism (switching to the "soft" mechanism setting), the coupling element (rod) 16 is allowed to move in the elongated hole 25, or more precisely, the coupling element (rod) is allowed to move in the elongated hole while making full use of the entire travel provided through the elongated hole 25.

[0079] Unlike when the guide 24 is locked (locking elongated hole 25), when the seat support 3 also moves backward as the backrest support 4 pivots backward, the coupling element 16 can move relative to the seat support 3. The ratio of the backrest support-pivoting movement to the coupling element-movement movement is determined here by the strength of the spring elements 8 and 9 of the two spring assemblies 31 and 32.

[0080] If the seat support 3 is moved backward by the backrest support 4, the elongated hole 25 disposed in the seat support 3 also moves backward. Simultaneously, the coupling element (rod) 16 moves backward by the second spring assembly 32; the coupling element moves relative to the elongated hole 25 or the seat support 3. As a result, the coupling element 16 and therefore the third transverse axis 13 of the mechanism 10 move less due to the action of the two spring assemblies 31, 32, i.e., a smaller stroke than the backward movement of the elongated hole 25 or the seat support 3. In other words, the elongated hole 25 moves backward "over the coupling element," wherein the coupling element 16 also moves backward. Here, the rearward movement of the coupling element 16 is less than the backward movement of the seat support 3. Due to this relative movement, i.e., the different movements of the coupling element 16 and the seat support 3, the eccentric member 27 stops on the seat support-stop portion 29 from a specific pivot point of the backrest support 4 with the first stop surface 34. From this point onward, the second spring assembly 32 ceases to function, even if the backrest support 4 pivots further backward.

[0081] By altering the travel distance within the elongated orifice 25 that the coupling element 16 can traverse, the timing—that is, after which of the seat support 3 and the coupling element 16 has traveled—is the coupling element 16 stopped on the seat support-stop portion 29 by its eccentric part 27. With the elongated orifice 25 fully open, this stop only occurs at very large pivot angles of the backrest support 4. In other words, the travel limitation and therefore the elimination of the function of the second spring assembly 32 occur very late, until that point both spring assemblies 31, 32 are in operation, resulting in low pivoting resistance (a "soft" mechanism) on the backrest support 4.

[0082] If the travel that can pass through the elongated hole 25 is restricted, that is, there exists a setting that is between the two extremes of "elongated hole locked" and "elongated hole fully open" (see...). Figures 13 to 18 The eccentric member 27 of the coupling element 16 stops on the seat support member - stop portion 29 and thus, more precisely, a travel limitation occurs. In this way, an additional mechanism setting "intermediate" can be provided for adjusting the pivoting resistance to the center of the backrest support member 4. According to an embodiment with additional eccentric members with stop surfaces 34, 35, 36 arranged at different distances from the pivot axis 26, multiple intermediate positions can also be provided between the two end positions of opening / locking.

[0083] exist Figures 19 to 28In the second embodiment shown, the spring characteristics of the spring system are configured differently from those in the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the actuating mechanism 33 also includes a device for changing the travel distance of the coupling element 16 within the guide portion 24 during a change in the position of the coupling element 16. However, in the second embodiment, this is not an eccentric member 27, but rather a limiting member 37 for restricting the free length of the guide portion 24.

[0084] The limiting member 37 includes two arms 38 and 39 extending transversely to the longitudinal direction 14 of the seat. Each arm is interconnected via a reversing lever 40 rotatably mounted on the seat support 3, such that movement of one arm 38 in one direction causes movement of the other arm 39 in the opposite direction. The arms 38 and 39 of the limiting member 37 are arranged such that their free ends 41 can be simultaneously inserted into two elongated holes 25. The arms 38 and 39 are guided in guide portions provided for them on the seat support 3.

[0085] The arms 38 and 39 of the limiting member 37 are provided with limiting surfaces 42 and 43 at their free ends 41. These limiting surfaces change the free length of the elongated hole 25 when the limiting member 37 is introduced into it and form a stop for the coupling element 16. The limiting surfaces 42 and 43 are spaced apart from each other, so that different lengths of free travel 44, 45, and 46 are obtained within the elongated hole 25 depending on the extent to which the free end 41 is introduced into it. In other words, the elongated hole 25 is shortened by moving the two ends of the limiting member 37 along the axial direction of the coupling rod.

[0086] The positions of the arms 38, 38 of the limiting member 37 can be changed by means of an operating element that is operatively connected to the limiting member 37. In the example shown, a sliding member 47, located at the end side of the seat support 3, serves as the operating element. The sliding member 47 acts on the arm 38 of the limiting member 37. When the position of the sliding member 47 changes along the end side of the seat support 3, the arm 38 is directly driven in the lateral direction 48. The second arm 39 is driven in the opposite direction simultaneously due to the coupling of the two arms 38, 39 through the reversing lever 40.

[0087] As in the first embodiment, to restrict the free movement of the locking connection 15, the rod 16 is fixed to the seat support 3 by reducing the travel 46 of the rod 16 through the elongated hole 25 in the seat support to zero. See [reference needed] Figures 19 to 21To this end, the limiting member 37 is moved into the elongated hole 25, fixing the coupling element 16, which rests against the rear end of the elongated hole 25, in that position. The coupling element 16 is positioned between the rear end of the elongated hole 25 and the first limiting surface 42 of the limiting member 37, thus preventing relative movement between the coupling element 16 and the elongated hole 25. Therefore, the second spring assembly 32 is inactive, and the spring element 9 connected to the seat support 3 is inactive, resulting in large pivoting resistance (mechanical setup "stiff").

[0088] The second spring assembly 32, which is locked in this manner, can now be selectively engaged, i.e., engaged when needed, by opening the locking structure, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 25 to 27 Therefore, the limiting member 37 moves to the open position via the sliding member 47, in which the free ends 41 of the two arms 38, 39 of the limiting member 37 are completely removed from the elongated hole 25 (switching to the mechanism setting "soft"). The limiting surfaces 42, 43 without the limiting member are then located within the elongated hole 25. The limiting member 37 is non-functional in this state. The elongated hole 25 is fully usable. The free travel 44 provided by the elongated hole 25 is obtained through the front and rear ends of the hole. The pivoting resistance of the backrest support member 4 is determined by the combined action of the two spring assemblies 31, 32.

[0089] If there exists a setting between the two extremes of "elongated hole locked" and "elongated hole fully open" on the one hand, then the fully open elongated hole 25 is no longer available, and only a portion of the elongated hole 25 is available (see [link]). Figures 22 to 24 The travel 45 within the elongated hole 25 that the coupling element 16 can pass through is restricted to provide an additional "intermediate" mechanism for adjusting the pivoting resistance to the center of the backrest support 4. For this purpose, the restrictor 37 is arranged in the elongated hole 25 such that the elongated hole 25 is partially closed. The coupling element 16 can then move restrictedly between the rear end of the elongated hole and the second restricting surface 43 of the restrictor 37. Also, as in the first embodiment with the arrangement of the abutment surface of the eccentric member 27, in the second embodiment, a specific free travel length within the guide is defined by arranging the restricting surfaces 42, 43 at the free end 41 of the restrictor 37, thereby creating a defined strength of pivoting resistance in the "intermediate" mechanism.

[0090] Alternatively, other actuating elements may be used instead of the sliding member 47 at the end side of the seat carrier 3, such as an actuating part that is operatively connected to the restraint member 37 and extends laterally from the seat carrier, the actuating part acting on one of the arms 38, 39 of the restraint member 37.

[0091] The difference in pivot resistance between the "hard" and "soft" mechanism settings can be adjusted by appropriately selecting the spring assembly 32 to be connected to the seat support 3. If the second spring assembly 32 to be connected is not integrally constructed with the seat support 3, but is instead implemented as a separate component, the spring characteristics of the mechanism 10 can be affected during assembly by installing the appropriately selected second spring assembly 32.

[0092] All the features shown in the specification and drawings are important to the invention not only individually but also in any combination of each other.

[0093] These features or combinations of features can each constitute an independent inventive basis, and their claims are explicitly reserved.

[0094] Where the combination of features defining the invention is given, a single feature from the description of an embodiment is not necessarily required to be combined with one or more or all other features given in the description of that embodiment; in this respect, each sub-combination of features of one or more embodiments is explicitly disclosed together.

[0095] Furthermore, the features of the technical solution constituting the device can be rewritten as method features, and the method features can be rewritten as features of the technical solution constituting the device. Features rewritten in this way are disclosed implicitly together.

[0096] List of reference numerals

[0097] 1. Basic load-bearing components

[0098] 2 conical receiving parts

[0099] 3 Seat support components

[0100] 4 Backrest support components

[0101] 5. Cheeks

[0102] 6 drive components

[0103] 7 Pivot Direction

[0104] 8 First Spring Element

[0105] 9 Second spring element

[0106] 10 Synchronization Mechanisms

[0107] 11 First transverse axis

[0108] 12 Second Horizontal Axis

[0109] 13 Third Horizontal Axis

[0110] 14 seats longitudinal direction

[0111] 15 Connection parts

[0112] 16 coupling elements

[0113] 17 Spring Plate

[0114] 18 Lateral elements at the rear of the seat support

[0115] 19. Transverse element at the front of the seat support

[0116] 20 chair supports

[0117] 21 First Rotating Joint

[0118] 22 Second Rotating Joint

[0119] 23 Third Rotating Joint

[0120] 24 Guidance Department

[0121] 25 long holes

[0122] 26 Longitudinal axis

[0123] 27 eccentric parts

[0124] 28 Pivot levers

[0125] 29 Stop section

[0126] 30 Spring System

[0127] 31 First Spring Assembly

[0128] 32 Second Spring Assembly

[0129] 33 Control mechanism

[0130] 34 First backing

[0131] 35 Second backing

[0132] 36 Third backing

[0133] 37 Restricted Items

[0134] 38 First limiting arm

[0135] 39 Second Restriction Arm

[0136] 40 reversing lever

[0137] 41 Free end

[0138] 42 First limiting surface (“hard”)

[0139] 43 Second limiting surface (“middle”)

[0140] 44. First Free Trip (Total Length)

[0141] 45. Second Free Route (Partial Length)

[0142] 46. ​​Third free travel length (zero)

[0143] 47 Operating elements, sliding parts

[0144] 48 Horizontal direction

Claims

1. A mechanism (10) for seating. - The mechanism has multiple mechanism components, and the mechanism components include at least: Basic load-bearing component (1) A seat support (3) that is movable relative to the base support (1) and is arranged on the base support (1). and a backrest support (4) coupled to the seat support (3), wherein the pivoting of the backrest support (4) causes the seat support (3) to move relative to the base support (1). - And the mechanism has a spring system (30) to load the seat support (3) against the movement of the backrest support (4), wherein the spring system (30) has two spring assemblies (31, 32) connected in series, at least one of the two spring assemblies having a spring element constructed as an elastically deformable element integrated into the mechanism component in one piece, the elastically deformable element serving as an energy storage element.

2. The mechanism (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The two spring assemblies (31, 32) have spring elements (8, 9), each spring element being different from the others in terms of its structure and / or its mode of operation.

3. The mechanism (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The two spring assemblies (31, 32) are connected to each other at a connection point (15), wherein the position of the connection point (15) relative to at least one of the mechanism components is changeable.

4. The mechanism (10) according to claim 3. in, The first spring assembly (31) functions between the base support (1) and the connection (15), and The second spring assembly (32) functions between the connection part (15) and the seat support (3).

5. The mechanism (10) according to claim 3. in, The following movement area is adjustable, and the position of the connecting part (15) can be changed within the movement area. and / or The position of the connecting part (15) relative to at least one of the mechanism components can be fixed.

6. The mechanism (10) according to claim 3, wherein, The connection point (15) is defined by a common coupling element (16), on which the two spring assemblies (31, 32) act.

7. The mechanism (10) according to claim 6, wherein, The coupling element (16) is guided in the guide (24) provided by the mechanism component.

8. The mechanism (10) according to claim 7, wherein, The coupling element (16) can be fixed in the guide (24) using the operating mechanism (33).

9. The mechanism (10) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The travel distance within the guide (24) during a change in the position of the coupling element (16) can be selectively changed.

10. The mechanism (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The seating is an office chair.

11. The mechanism (10) according to claim 3, wherein, The position of the connecting part (15) relative to the seat support (3) can be changed.

12. The mechanism (10) according to claim 4, wherein, The first spring assembly (31) is constructed as an integral part of the basic support member (1).

13. The mechanism (10) according to claim 4, wherein, The second spring assembly (32) is constructed as an integral part of the seat support (3).

14. The mechanism (10) according to claim 7, wherein, The coupling element (16) is configured as a coupling rod extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (14) of the seat.

15. The mechanism (10) according to claim 9, wherein, When using an operating mechanism (33) that can be used to fix the coupling element (16), the stroke that can be passed through the guide (24) during the change of position of the coupling element (16) can be selectively changed.

16. A seating device comprising the mechanism (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. The seating according to claim 16, wherein, The seating is an office chair.

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