Arm assembly for a chair

Abstract

An arm assembly 100 for a chair having a column 1, a first member 2, and an armrest 4. The first member 2 is angularly adjustable about a first axis 3 between first angular movement limits relative to the column 1, wherein the first member 2 has a non-limiting number of angular adjustment positions relative to the column 1. The armrest 4 is operably connected to the first member 2 to slide generally forwardly and rearwardly in translation between first translational movement limits relative to the first member 2, wherein the armrest 4 has a non-limiting number of translational adjustment positions relative to the first member 2. The armrest 4 is angularly adjustable about a second substantially vertical axis 5 between second angular movement limits relative to the first member 2, wherein the armrest 4 has a non-limiting number of angular adjustment positions relative to the first member 2.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to New Zealand Patent Application No. 766466, filed on July 22, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to an arm assembly for a chair. Background Technology

[0003] Chairs with fixed arms are known in the art and typically do not offer sufficient adjustability to accommodate a range of body sizes, types, and posture preferences of chair users. Adjustable arm assemblies, which have been developed to do so, typically offer adjustability in a variety of directions. However, increased adjustability often results in more complex and bulkier internal mechanisms.

[0004] Adjustable handrails often require the release of actuators to adjust them, complicating the adjustment process. Some adjustable handrails have graduated or discrete adjustment positions, resulting in abrupt, sharp, or clumsy adjustment actions.

[0005] In this specification, which has already referenced patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally to provide context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless otherwise specifically stated, references to such external documents or sources of information should not be construed as an admission that such documents or sources are part of the prior art or common general knowledge in the art within any jurisdiction.

[0006] The object of at least the preferred embodiments of the present invention is to provide an arm assembly including a handrail that is substantially freely adjustable between limits of movement in the width and depth directions. Additional or alternative objects of the at least preferred embodiments of the present invention are to at least provide useful alternatives to the public. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In a first aspect of the invention, an arm assembly for a chair is provided, the arm assembly comprising: a post for mounting to the chair, the post including a substantially vertical inner post member; a first member operably connected to the post, the first member including a housing slidably mounted on and receiving the inner post member in a telescopic arrangement, wherein the first member is angularly adjustable relative to the post about a first substantially vertical axis between first angular movement limits, the arm assembly including an angularly adjustable position of the first member relative to the post between the first angular movement limits of an unlimited number; and an armrest operably connected to the first member. The arm assembly allows the armrest to slide substantially forward and backward relative to the first member between first translational movement limits. It includes a non-limited number of translational adjustment positions of the armrest relative to the first member between the first translational movement limits, and wherein the armrest is angularly adjustable relative to the first member about a second fundamental vertical axis between second angular movement limits. The arm assembly also includes a non-limited number of angular adjustment positions of the armrest relative to the first member between the second angular movement limits. The armrest includes a sliding plate with a groove, wherein the second fundamental vertical axis extends through the groove to enable the armrest to slide and be angularly adjusted relative to the first member.

[0008] In one embodiment, the inward angle adjustment of the first member relative to the column and the outward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member together provide lateral inward width adjustment of the handrail.

[0009] In one embodiment, the outward angle adjustment of the first member relative to the column and the inward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member together provide lateral outward width adjustment of the handrail.

[0010] In one embodiment, the outer casing is angularly adjustable relative to the inner column member about the first fundamental vertical axis within the first angular movement limits.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first component includes an upper angle stop located at a second fundamental vertical axis.

[0012] In one embodiment, the slot is configured to receive the upper angle stop.

[0013] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes a first friction device associated with an upper angle stop, wherein the first friction device is configured to provide a first frictional force that must be overcome by a user to slide translationally and angularly adjust the armrest relative to a first member.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first friction device includes a biasing device that biases the sliding plate into contact with the upper angle stop to provide the first frictional force.

[0015] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes an adjuster to adjust a first frictional force provided by a first friction device.

[0016] In one embodiment, the front and rear edges of the groove and the front and rear edges of the upper angle stop are configured to define the first translational movement limit, such that the handrail can slide translationally relative to the first member in a generally forward direction until the rear edge of the groove contacts the rear edge of the upper angle stop, and the handrail can slide translationally relative to the first member in a generally rearward direction until the front edge of the groove contacts the front edge of the upper angle stop.

[0017] In one embodiment, the rear edge of the upper angle stop of the rear edge of the contact groove defines the foremost translational position of the handrail relative to the first member, and the front edge of the upper angle stop of the front edge of the contact groove defines the final translational position of the handrail relative to the first member.

[0018] In one embodiment, the slot is configured such that the handrail moves laterally when the handrail moves generally forward and backward over at least a portion of its movement.

[0019] In one embodiment, the rear portion of the groove path is non-linear, such that the handrail slides in a generally forward direction relative to the first member from the last translation position, causing the handrail to move laterally outward relative to the first member, and the handrail slides in a generally rearward direction relative to the first member toward the last translation position, causing the handrail to move laterally inward relative to the first member.

[0020] In one embodiment, the periphery of the upper angle stop and the sidewall of the groove are configured to limit the second angle movement limit.

[0021] In one embodiment, the periphery of the upper angle stop includes: an outer side having a front wall portion and a rear wall portion oriented relative to each other at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees; and an inner side having a front wall portion and a rear wall portion oriented relative to each other at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees, wherein the outer front wall portion is substantially parallel to the inner rear wall portion, and wherein the outer rear wall portion is substantially parallel to the inner front wall portion.

[0022] In one embodiment, the outer front wall portion is configured to engage with the outer side wall of the groove, and the inner rear wall portion is configured to engage with the inner side wall of the groove to define an inward angle adjustment limit of the second angle movement limit; and the outer rear wall portion is configured to engage with the outer side wall of the groove, and the inner front wall portion is configured to engage with the inner side wall of the groove to define an outward angle adjustment limit of the second angle movement limit.

[0023] In one embodiment, the periphery of the upper angle stop is configured such that the maximum outward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member is approximately 21 degrees from the midpoint of the handrail relative to the first member.

[0024] In one embodiment, the periphery of the upper angle stop is configured such that the maximum inward angle of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member is adjusted to approximately 10 degrees from the midpoint of the handrail relative to the first member.

[0025] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes a second friction device configured to provide a second frictional force that must be overcome by the user to adjust the first member in an inclined position relative to the column.

[0026] In one embodiment, the second friction device includes a biasing device to bias a portion of the first member into contact with the post, thereby providing a second frictional force.

[0027] In one embodiment, the component keyed to the first member and mounted on the post includes a lower angle stop positioned at the first substantially vertical axis, wherein the lower angle stop is configured to limit the first angular movement limit.

[0028] In one embodiment, the component keyed to the first member and mounted to the post includes a locking housing, and a portion of the locking housing provides a lower angle stop that is engageable with a complementary engagement surface on the inner post member to limit the first angle movement limit.

[0029] In one embodiment, the lower angle stop is configured such that the maximum outward angle of the first member relative to the post is adjusted to approximately 10 degrees from the midpoint of the first member relative to the post.

[0030] In one embodiment, the lower angle stop is configured such that the maximum inward angle of the first member relative to the post is adjusted to approximately 45 degrees from the midpoint of the first member relative to the post.

[0031] In one embodiment, the housing is telescopically arranged to slidably receive the column, such that the height of the first member is adjustable relative to the column.

[0032] In one embodiment, the housing includes a plurality of recesses disposed within the interior of the housing and provided along its length; the inner pillar member includes a locking member biased to engage with one of the plurality of recesses of the housing to lock the position of the housing relative to the inner pillar member; and the housing includes a release member operatively connected to an actuator and having a plurality of recesses with a plurality of raised surfaces between the recesses, wherein the release member is slidably movable relative to the housing between a first position in which at least one recess of the release member is aligned with at least one recess of the housing and the locking member engages at least one recess of the housing to inhibit telescopic movement of the housing relative to the inner pillar member; and a second position in which one or more raised surfaces of the release member are aligned with one or more recesses of the housing to remove the locking member from engagement with the one or more recesses and to provide a surface on which the locking member can slide to enable relative movement between the housing and the inner pillar member.

[0033] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes a locking housing that carries the locking member, the locking housing being rotatably mounted to the inner post member and keyed to the outer housing to suppress relative rotation between the locking housing and the outer housing, such that when the first member is angularly adjusted relative to the post, the locking housing is angularly adjusted relative to the post accordingly.

[0034] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes a damping device between the outer housing and the inner column member, the damping device being configured to suppress lateral movement of the first member relative to the column.

[0035] In one embodiment, the damping device includes at least one first biasing member extending between the locking housing and the inner wall of the outer housing, and at least one second biasing member extending between the inner pillar member and the inner wall of the outer housing, the at least one first biasing member and the at least one second biasing member being spaced apart in a vertical direction.

[0036] In one embodiment, the damping device includes at least one first biasing member extending between the locking housing and the inner wall of the outer housing, and at least one rib extending between the inner pillar member and the inner wall of the outer housing, the at least one first biasing member and the at least one rib being spaced apart in a vertical direction.

[0037] In one embodiment, the at least one first biasing member is integrally formed with the locking housing.

[0038] In a second aspect of the invention, a chair is provided that includes two arm assemblies as described above with respect to the first aspect.

[0039] As used in this specification and claims, the term "comprising" means "consisting of at least a portion of...". When interpreting statements in this specification and claims that include the term "comprising", other features may be present besides those beginning with that term in each statement. Related terms "comprise" and "comprised" will be interpreted in a similar manner.

[0040] The numerical ranges disclosed herein (e.g., 1 to 10) also include all rational numbers mentioned in that range (e.g., 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9, and 10) and any range of rational numbers within that range (e.g., 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5, and 3.1 to 4.7). Therefore, all subranges of all ranges explicitly disclosed herein are hereby explicitly disclosed. These are merely examples of specific intentions, and all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the enumerated minimum and maximum values ​​are considered to be explicitly stated in this application in a similar manner.

[0041] The invention can also be broadly described as including the parts, elements, and features individually or jointly mentioned or indicated in the specification of this application, as well as any or all combinations of any two or more of the said parts, elements, or features.

[0042] For those skilled in the art, numerous changes can be made to the construction and a wide variety of embodiments and applications of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. The disclosure and description herein are purely illustrative and not intended to be limiting in any sense. When specific integers having known equivalents in the field to which this invention pertain are referred to herein, such known equivalents are considered to be incorporated herein as if separately stated.

[0043] As used in this article, the term “(s)” following a noun refers to the plural and / or singular form of that noun.

[0044] As used herein, the term “and / or” means “and” or “or”, or the context allows for both.

[0045] The present invention includes the foregoing, and also contemplates the following constructions, which are given as examples only. Attached Figure Description

[0046] The invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0047] Figure 1A front view of a chair with an arm assembly is shown;

[0048] Figure 2 A side view of the arm assembly is shown;

[0049] Figure 3 A plan view of the arm assembly in its default position is shown;

[0050] Figure 4 A plan view of the arm assembly and its first angular movement limit is shown;

[0051] Figure 5 A plan view of the arm assembly and its second angular movement limit is shown;

[0052] Figure 6 A plan view showing the arm assembly and its lateral inward position is shown;

[0053] Figure 7 A plan view showing the arm assembly and its lateral outward position is provided.

[0054] Figure 8 A plan view of the arm assembly, its upper angle stop, and the sliding plate is shown.

[0055] Figure 9 A plan view of the arm assembly and its first translational movement limit is shown;

[0056] Figure 10 A plan view of the arm assembly and its first translational movement limit is shown;

[0057] Figure 11A A plan view of the arm assembly and its second angular movement limit is shown;

[0058] Figure 11B A plan view of the arm assembly and its first angular movement limit is shown;

[0059] Figure 12 A plan view of the arm assembly and its final inward angle adjustment position is shown;

[0060] Figure 13A A plan view showing the arm assembly in its most forward translational position and its final outward angle adjustment position is shown;

[0061] Figure 13B A plan view showing an alternative configuration of the arm assembly at the foremost translational position of the handrail;

[0062] Figure 14 A cross-sectional side view of the arm assembly is shown, with the release member in its first position;

[0063] Figure 15 A cross-sectional side view of the arm assembly is shown, with the release member in its second position;

[0064] Figure 16 A cross-sectional perspective view of the housing of the arm assembly is shown;

[0065] Figure 17 A perspective view of the locking housing of the arm assembly is shown, with the locking member in its engaged position;

[0066] Figure 18 A perspective view of the locking housing of the arm assembly is shown, with the locking member in its disengaged position.

[0067] Figure 19 A cross-sectional side view of the first friction device of the arm assembly is shown;

[0068] Figure 20 A cross-sectional side view of the second friction device of the arm assembly is shown;

[0069] Figure 21 An exploded perspective view of the housing of the arm assembly is shown;

[0070] Figure 22 A cross-sectional perspective view of the housing of an alternative form of the arm assembly is shown;

[0071] Figure 23 An exploded perspective view of the housing, actuator, and release member of an alternative form of the arm assembly is shown;

[0072] Figure 24 A perspective view of an alternative form of the locking housing of the arm assembly is shown, with the locking member in its engaged position;

[0073] Figure 25 A perspective view of an alternative form of the locking housing of the arm assembly is shown, with the locking member in its disengaged position.

[0074] Figure 26 A cross-sectional side view of an alternative form of the arm assembly is shown, with the release member in its first position;

[0075] Figure 27 An exploded perspective view of a second friction device, an alternative form of the arm assembly, is shown;

[0076] Figure 28 A cross-sectional side view of a second friction device in an alternative form of the arm assembly is shown;

[0077] Figure 29 A perspective view of an alternative form of the locking housing of the arm assembly is shown, revealing a boss beneath the locking housing;

[0078] Figure 30The upper end of the arm column in an alternative form of the arm assembly is shown, illustrating the engagement surface for engagement with the boss;

[0079] Figure 31A A boss and engagement feature are shown in the first member at a midpoint relative to the arm post;

[0080] Figure 31B The boss and engagement surface are shown in the first member at its maximum outward angle adjustment position relative to the arm post;

[0081] Figure 31C The boss and engagement surface are shown in the first member at the maximum inward angle adjustment position relative to the arm post;

[0082] Figure 32 A perspective view of an alternative form of the arm assembly, showing the locking housing and its biasing features;

[0083] Figure 33 A top view of the offset feature of the locking housing in an alternative form of the arm assembly that engages with the arm post is shown; and

[0084] Figure 34 A cross-sectional perspective view of the housing body in an alternative form of the arm assembly is shown, revealing one of these ribs adjacent to the bottom of the housing. Detailed Implementation

[0085] Figure 1 The arm assemblies 100 of the chair 200 are shown, positioned on both sides of the chair 200. The chair 200 shown is an office chair, but it could also be another type of chair as described below.

[0086] Figure 2 A detailed view of the arm assembly 100 is shown. The arm assembly 100 includes a post 1 for mounting to a chair and a first member 2 operably connected to the post 1. The first member 2 is angularly adjustable relative to the post 1 about a first fundamental vertical axis 3 between first angular movement limits. The arm assembly 100 includes a non-limited number of angular adjustment positions of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 between the first angular movement limits. The non-limited number of angular adjustment positions allows the first member 2 to be freely angularly adjusted relative to the post 1 about the first fundamental vertical axis 3, such that the movement therein is smooth, non-disengaging, and non-rotating between the first angular movement limits.

[0087] Figure 2Also shown is an armrest 4 operably connected to a first member 2 to slide generally forward and backward relative to the first member 2 between first translational movement limits. The arm assembly 100 includes a non-limited number of translational adjustment positions of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 between the first translational movement limits. The non-limited number of translational adjustment positions allows the armrest 4 to be freely translationally adjusted relative to the first member 2, such that the movement therein is smooth, non-disengaging, and non-rotating between the first translational movement limits.

[0088] The handrail 4 shown has the following about Figure 8 The described armrest slide plate 16, however, the armrest 4 is typically an assembly of the slide plate 16 and a pad or other supporting surface. The pad... Figure 1 The moving features of the arm assembly 100 are shown in the figure but not in other figures, thus making the moving features of the arm assembly 100 clearly visible.

[0089] The armrest 4 is also angularly adjustable relative to the first member 2 about a second fundamental vertical axis 5 between second angular movement limits. The arm assembly 100 includes a non-limited number of angularly adjustable positions of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 between the second angular movement limits. The non-limited number of angularly adjustable positions allow the armrest 4 to be freely angularly adjusted relative to the first member 2 about the second fundamental vertical axis 5, such that the movement therein is smooth, non-separating, and non-rotating between the second angular movement limits.

[0090] The non-limited number of angle adjustment positions and non-limited number of translation adjustment positions described herein can be considered as an indeterminate and / or infinite number of adjustment positions.

[0091] Within each of the aforementioned movement limits, the transition from one adjustment position to the next adjustment position is smooth, non-disjointed, and / or non-rotational.

[0092] Figure 3-1 3 shows the arm assembly 100 in some of its various adjustable positions; however, reference is made below. Figure 14-21 Exemplary features or components that provide the functionality of arm assembly 100 are described in more detail.

[0093] Figure 3 A top-down or plan view of the arm assembly 100 in its default position is shown. The first member 2 is shown in a mid-position relative to the column 1, wherein the angular position of the first member 2 about the first fundamental vertical axis 3 has not changed, and therefore the angular position of the first member 2 relative to the column 1 is 0 degrees. Similarly, the handrail 4 is shown in a mid-position relative to the first member 2 because the angular position of the handrail 4 about the second fundamental vertical axis 5 has not changed, and therefore the angular position of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2 is 0 degrees.

[0094] refer to Figure 1 and 2 The column 1 is also shown having a mounting portion 1A extending laterally inward from its lower end, and a mounting end 1B for securing the column 1 to the chair 200. The mounting end 1B may include any suitable means for connecting the column 1 to the chair 200, such as a flange and fastener or clip means. The flange may have any suitable means. For example, the flange may extend any one or more of the following: upward, downward, forward, or backward from the inner end of the column.

[0095] Figure 2-1 Arm assemblies 100 of 3 and 21 will be suitably connected to the right side of chair 200. Embodiments in all the figures described herein are also shown in this "right-side" configuration; however, the device would simply need to be mirrored about the vertical plane to fit a "left-side" configuration. Therefore, any description of the function and features of the arm assemblies disclosed herein applies equally to arm assemblies taking a "left-side" configuration.

[0096] Figure 1 A mounting portion 1A is shown attached to the crossbeam 210 of the chair 200; however, the mounting portion 1A may have any suitable length and may be attached to any suitable component of the chair 200 at any angle. For example, the mounting portion 1A may be attached to the underside 220 of the seat, a different part of the seat 230, or the backrest 240 of the chair 200.

[0097] Furthermore, the terms 'inward' and 'outward' as used in this specification and claims should be interpreted as 'inward' and 'outward' relative to chair 200, respectively. Inward movement of any part of the arm assembly 100 described herein brings the part closer to chair 200, and outward movement of any part of the arm assembly 100 described herein moves the part further away from chair 200.

[0098] Finally, the position of the first fundamental vertical axis 3 relative to the second fundamental vertical axis 5 defines the references to "front" and "rear" as used in this specification and claims, since the first fundamental vertical axis 3 is rearward relative to the second fundamental vertical axis 5. Similar terms such as "forward," "rearward," "front end / part," and "rear end / part" will be interpreted in a similar manner. In some embodiments, the first fundamental vertical axis 3 is offset from the second fundamental vertical axis 5 in the horizontal plane.

[0099] Figure 4 The arm assembly 100 and its first angular movement limit are shown. In this embodiment, the handrail 4 is shown held in a central position relative to the first member 2, which is shown located at either end of the first angular movement limit relative to the column 1.

[0100] The first component 2 is shown in its maximum outward angle adjustment position 6 relative to the column 1. In this maximum outward angle adjustment position 6, the first component 2 has moved outward by an angular displacement A6 of approximately 10 degrees from its midpoint position relative to the column 1. The first component 2 is also shown in its maximum inward angle adjustment position 7 relative to the column 1. In this maximum inward angle adjustment position 7, the first component 2 has moved inward by an angular displacement A7 of approximately 45 degrees from its midpoint position relative to the column 1.

[0101] Figure 5 The arm assembly 100 and its second angular movement limit are shown. In this embodiment, the first member 2 is held in a central position relative to the post 1, while the handrail 4 is shown at either end of the second angular movement limit of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0102] The handrail 4 is shown in its maximum outward angle adjustment position 8 relative to the first member 2. In this maximum outward angle adjustment position 8, the tip of the handrail 4 has moved outward by an angular displacement A8 of approximately 21 degrees from its midpoint relative to the first member 2. The handrail 4 is also shown in its maximum inward angle adjustment position 9 relative to the first member 2. In this maximum inward angle adjustment position 9, the tip of the handrail 4 has moved inward by an angular displacement A9 of approximately 10 degrees from its midpoint relative to the first member 2.

[0103] It should be noted that the front end of armrest 4 is used here as a reference for the angular direction of movement inward or outward relative to chair 200. The entire armrest 4 moves as a unit, therefore any movement of the front end of armrest 4 described herein also applies to the entire armrest 4.

[0104] Figure 6 and Figure 7 This illustrates how the combination of angular adjustment of the first component 2 about a first fundamental vertical axis 3 and angular adjustment of the armrest 4 about a second fundamental vertical axis 5 can advantageously provide inward and outward width adjustment of the armrest 4 relative to the chair 200, while maintaining the armrest 4 substantially parallel to the chair 200. Therefore, the distance between the armrests on both sides of the chair 200 is arranged to accommodate different body sizes, types, and seating preferences of users, while maintaining the armrests oriented substantially parallel to the chair 200.

[0105] exist Figure 6In this configuration, the inward angle adjustment of the first component 2 relative to the column 1 and the outward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail 4 relative to the first component 2 together provide lateral inward width adjustment of the handrail 4. In this lateral inward position 10, the front end of the handrail 4 moves outward from the midpoint of the handrail 4 relative to the first component 2 by an angular displacement A10 of approximately 21 degrees, and the first component 2 moves inward from the midpoint of the first component 2 relative to the column 1 by an angular displacement A10 of approximately 21 degrees. As a result, the handrail 4 has moved inward by approximately 34 mm from the midpoint of the first component 2 relative to the column 1 and the midpoint of the handrail 4 relative to the first component 2, as shown by the lateral inward displacement A11.

[0106] exist Figure 7 In this configuration, the outward angle adjustment of the first component 2 relative to the column 1 and the inward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail 4 relative to the first component 2 together provide lateral outward width adjustment of the handrail 4. At this lateral outward position 12, the front end of the handrail 4 moves inward from its midpoint relative to the first component 2 by an angular displacement A12 of approximately 10 degrees, and the first component 2 moves outward from its midpoint relative to the column 1 by an angular displacement A12 of approximately 10 degrees. As a result, the handrail 4 moves outward by approximately 16 millimeters from both its midpoint relative to the column 1 and its midpoint relative to the first component 2, as indicated by the lateral outward displacement A13.

[0107] like Figure 8 As shown, the first component 2 includes an upper angle stop 15 positioned at a second fundamental vertical axis 5 such that the center of the upper angle stop 15 is aligned with the second fundamental vertical axis 5. The handrail 4 shown includes a sliding plate 16 with a groove 17 having an upper recess for receiving the upper angle stop 15, and the groove 17 also having a lower slit 17F for a portion of the upper angle stop 15 to pass through it.

[0108] In the form shown, the shank of mounting bolt 44 extends through slit 17F, as described below. Figure 19 As stated above.

[0109] The front edges 17A and rear edges 17B of the groove 17 and the front edges 15A and rear edges 15B of the upper angle stop 15 are configured to limit a first translational movement limit, allowing the armrest 4 to slide relative to the first member 2 in a generally forward direction until the rear edge of the groove 17B contacts the rear edge of the upper angle stop 15B (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 12(as shown in the diagram), and allows the handrail 4 to slide relative to the first member 2 in a generally rearward direction until the front edge of the groove 17A contacts the front edge of the upper angle stop 15A. The front edge 17A and rear edge 17B of the groove 17 and the periphery of the lower slit 17F may be formed by, for example, walls, protrusions or stops.

[0110] exist Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the first translational movement limit, where the rear edge 15B of the upper angle stop 15 of the rear edge of the contact groove 17B defines the foremost translational position 19 of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2, and the front edge of the upper angle stop 15A of the front edge of the contact groove 17A defines the final translational position 20 of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2. Thus, when moving from the foremost translational position 19 or the final translational position 20 to the other of the two positions, the handrail 4 moves forward or backward by approximately 80 mm, as shown by translational displacement A21.

[0111] Figure 10 This illustrates how the direction of translation of the handrail 4 corresponds to the angular position of the first member 2 relative to the column 1 when the angular position of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2 is 0 degrees. However, it should be noted that if the angular position of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2 changes, the translation of the handrail 4 can occur in the direction corresponding to the angular position of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2. However, as described above, the approximately 80 mm forward or backward translation of the handrail 4 remains the same, regardless of the angular position of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2, as shown in translation displacement A21.

[0112] In some embodiments, slot 17 is configured such that the armrest 4 moves laterally when the armrest 4 moves generally forward and backward over at least a portion of its movement. For example, the rear portion 17C of the path of slot 17 may be non-linear, or as... Figure 9 The handrail is curved, causing the handrail 4 to slide relative to the first member 2 in a generally forward direction from its final translation position 20, resulting in a laterally outward movement of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2. Therefore, the handrail 4 slides relative to the first member 2 in a generally rearward direction toward its final translation position 20, resulting in a laterally inward movement of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0113] This can be done Figure 9 As can be seen, the lateral position of the handrail 4 is further outward at the foremost translation position 19 than at the last translation position 20. The handrail 4 moves from the last translation position 20 to the foremost translation position 19, thus moving outward by approximately 7 millimeters from the last translation position 20, as shown by the lateral translation displacement A22.

[0114] Alternatively, the path of the slot 17 can take any other shape or curvature to cause lateral movement of the armrest 4 as it moves generally forward and backward during at least a portion of its translational movement. Thus, the path of the slot 17 can be configured to cause any desired inward or outward lateral movement of the armrest 4 during its translational movement relative to the first member 2, for example, to suit different seating preferences of the user.

[0115] In some embodiments, the path of the groove 17 may be linear or substantially straight, such that the handrail 4 does not move laterally during the translational sliding of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0116] In some embodiments, the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 and the sidewall of the groove 17 are configured to define a second angular movement limit. In other words, the interface between the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 and the sidewall of the groove 17 defines the extent to which the armrest 4 can be angularly adjusted relative to the first member 2.

[0117] This is Figure 11A and 11B As shown, the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 includes an outer side having a front wall portion 15C and a rear wall portion 15D, the front wall portion 15C and the rear wall portion 15D being oriented relative to each other at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. The periphery of the upper angle stop 15 also includes an inner side having a front wall portion 15E and a rear wall portion 15F, the front wall portion 15E and the rear wall portion 15F being oriented relative to each other at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0118] In various exemplary configurations, the angle between the front wall portion 15C and the rear wall portion 15D can be greater than 90 degrees, greater than 95 degrees, greater than 100 degrees, greater than 105 degrees, greater than 110 degrees, greater than 115 degrees, greater than 120 degrees, greater than 125 degrees, greater than 130 degrees, greater than 135 degrees, greater than 140 degrees, greater than 145 degrees, or can be approximately 150 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, the angle can be less than 180 degrees, less than 175 degrees, less than 170 degrees, less than 165 degrees, less than 160 degrees, less than 155 degrees, or can be approximately 150 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, the angle may be approximately 91 degrees, approximately 92 degrees, approximately 93 degrees, approximately 94 degrees, approximately 95 degrees, approximately 96 degrees, approximately 97 degrees, approximately 98 degrees, approximately 99 degrees, approximately 100 degrees, approximately 101 degrees, approximately 102 degrees, approximately 103 degrees, approximately 104 degrees, approximately 105 degrees, approximately 106 degrees, approximately 107 degrees, approximately 108 degrees, approximately 109 degrees, approximately 110 degrees, approximately 111 degrees, approximately 112 degrees, etc. Approximately 113 degrees, approximately 114 degrees, approximately 115 degrees, approximately 116 degrees, approximately 117 degrees, approximately 118 degrees, approximately 119 degrees, approximately 120 degrees, approximately 121 degrees, approximately 122 degrees, approximately 123 degrees, approximately 124 degrees, approximately 125 degrees, approximately 126 degrees, approximately 127 degrees, approximately 128 degrees, approximately 129 degrees, approximately 130 degrees, approximately 131 degrees, approximately 132 degrees, approximately 133 degrees, approximately 134 degrees, approximately 135 degrees, approximately... 136 degrees, approximately 137 degrees, approximately 138 degrees, approximately 139 degrees, approximately 140 degrees, approximately 141 degrees, approximately 142 degrees, approximately 143 degrees, approximately 144 degrees, approximately 145 degrees, approximately 146 degrees, approximately 147 degrees, approximately 148 degrees, approximately 149 degrees, approximately 150 degrees, approximately 151 degrees, approximately 152 degrees, approximately 153 degrees, approximately 154 degrees, approximately 155 degrees, approximately 156 degrees, approximately 157 degrees, approximately 158 degrees, approximately 159 degrees, approximately 160 degrees, approximately 161 degrees, approximately 162 degrees, approximately 163 degrees, approximately 164 degrees, approximately 165 degrees, approximately 166 degrees, approximately 167 degrees, approximately 168 degrees, approximately 169 degrees, approximately 170 degrees, approximately 171 degrees, approximately 172 degrees, approximately 173 degrees, approximately 174 degrees, approximately 175 degrees, approximately 176 degrees, approximately 177 degrees, approximately 178 degrees, approximately 179 degrees, or between any two of these values.

[0119] In various exemplary configurations, the angle between the front wall portion 15E and the rear wall portion 15F can be greater than 90 degrees, greater than 95 degrees, greater than 100 degrees, greater than 105 degrees, greater than 110 degrees, greater than 115 degrees, greater than 120 degrees, greater than 125 degrees, greater than 130 degrees, greater than 135 degrees, greater than 140 degrees, greater than 145 degrees, or can be approximately 150 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, this angle can be less than 180 degrees, less than 175 degrees, less than 170 degrees, less than 165 degrees, less than 160 degrees, less than 155 degrees, or can be approximately 150 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, the angle may be approximately 91 degrees, approximately 92 degrees, approximately 93 degrees, approximately 94 degrees, approximately 95 degrees, approximately 96 degrees, approximately 97 degrees, approximately 98 degrees, approximately 99 degrees, approximately 100 degrees, approximately 101 degrees, approximately 102 degrees, approximately 103 degrees, approximately 104 degrees, approximately 105 degrees, approximately 106 degrees, approximately 107 degrees, approximately 108 degrees, approximately 109 degrees, approximately 110 degrees, approximately 111 degrees, approximately 112 degrees, etc. Approximately 113 degrees, approximately 114 degrees, approximately 115 degrees, approximately 116 degrees, approximately 117 degrees, approximately 118 degrees, approximately 119 degrees, approximately 120 degrees, approximately 121 degrees, approximately 122 degrees, approximately 123 degrees, approximately 124 degrees, approximately 125 degrees, approximately 126 degrees, approximately 127 degrees, approximately 128 degrees, approximately 129 degrees, approximately 130 degrees, approximately 131 degrees, approximately 132 degrees, approximately 133 degrees, approximately 134 degrees, approximately 135 degrees, approximately... 136 degrees, approximately 137 degrees, approximately 138 degrees, approximately 139 degrees, approximately 140 degrees, approximately 141 degrees, approximately 142 degrees, approximately 143 degrees, approximately 144 degrees, approximately 145 degrees, approximately 146 degrees, approximately 147 degrees, approximately 148 degrees, approximately 149 degrees, approximately 150 degrees, approximately 151 degrees, approximately 152 degrees, approximately 153 degrees, approximately 154 degrees, approximately 155 degrees, approximately 156 degrees, approximately 157 degrees, approximately 158 degrees, approximately 159 degrees, approximately 160 degrees, approximately 161 degrees, approximately 162 degrees, approximately 163 degrees, approximately 164 degrees, approximately 165 degrees, approximately 166 degrees, approximately 167 degrees, approximately 168 degrees, approximately 169 degrees, approximately 170 degrees, approximately 171 degrees, approximately 172 degrees, approximately 173 degrees, approximately 174 degrees, approximately 175 degrees, approximately 176 degrees, approximately 177 degrees, approximately 178 degrees, approximately 179 degrees, or between any two of these values.

[0120] In some embodiments, the outer front wall portion 15C is substantially parallel to the inner rear wall portion 15F, and the outer rear wall portion 15D is substantially parallel to the inner front wall portion 15E.

[0121] In some embodiments, the outer front wall portion 15C is configured to engage with the outer side wall 17D of the groove 17, and the inner rear wall portion 15F is configured to engage with the inner side wall 17E of the groove 17, thereby defining the inward angle adjustment limit of the second angle movement limit.

[0122] This is Figure 11AAs shown, the handrail 4 is in its maximum inward angle adjustment position 9 relative to the first component 2. In this maximum inward angle adjustment position 9, the front end of the handrail 4 has moved inward by approximately 10 degrees from its midpoint relative to the first component 2, as described above. Figure 5 As described in A9. Therefore... Figure 11A It becomes apparent how the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 can be configured to limit the maximum inward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0123] In some embodiments, the outer rear wall portion 15D is configured to engage with the outer side wall 17D of the groove 17, and the inner front wall portion 15E is configured to engage with the inner side wall 17E of the groove 17 to define the outward angle adjustment limit of the second angle movement limit.

[0124] This is Figure 11B As shown, the handrail 4 is in its maximum outward angle adjustment position 8 relative to the first component 2. In this maximum outward angle adjustment position 8, the front end of the handrail 4 has moved outward by approximately 21 degrees from its midpoint relative to the first component 2, as described above. Figure 5 As described in A8 of the document. Therefore... Figure 11B It becomes apparent how the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 can be configured to limit the maximum outward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0125] Figure 12 The adjusted position of the arm assembly 100 is shown, with the first member 2 in its maximum inward angle adjustment position 7, the armrest 4 in its forward translational position 19, and the rear portion 15F of the inner side of the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 fully engaged with the inner sidewall 17E of the groove 17. This defines the final inward angle adjustment position 24 of the armrest 4, where the front end of the armrest 4 has been moved inward by an angular displacement A24 of approximately 55 degrees from the midpoint of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2. Although a gap is shown between the rear portion 15D of the outer side of the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 and the outer sidewall 17D of the groove 17, the outer sidewall 17D of the groove can be shaped to fully contact and engage with the rear portion 15D.

[0126] Figure 13AThe adjusted positions of the arm assembly 100 are shown, with the first member 2 in its maximum outward angle adjustment position 6, the handrail 4 in its forward translational position 19, and the rear portion 15D of the outer periphery of the upper angle stop 15 fully engaged with the outer wall 17D of the groove 17. Thus, when the handrail 4 is in its forward translational position 19, this defines the final outward angle adjustment position 25 of the handrail 4, where the front end of the handrail 4 has moved outward by an angular displacement A25 of approximately 10 degrees from its midpoint relative to the post 1. In the illustrated configuration, the angular displacement of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2 remains unchanged.

[0127] Although a gap is shown between the rear portion 15F on the inner side of the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 and the inner wall 17E of the groove 17, the inner wall 17E of the groove can be formed to fully contact and engage with the rear portion 15F. This configuration is as follows... Figure 13B As shown. In the configuration shown, in the foremost translational position 19, the armrest 4 cannot be adjusted outward at an angle relative to the first member 2 about the second basic vertical axis 5 because the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 is essentially surrounded and engaged with the inner sidewall 17D and outer sidewall 17E of the groove 17 and the rear edge 17B, so that there is no gap available for the armrest 4 to be adjusted outward at an angle about the periphery of the upper angle stop 15.

[0128] This increases the stability of armrest 4 when it is in its forwardmost lateral position 19. However, in Figure 13A In the configuration, when in the forward translation position 19, the handrail 4 can still be adjusted inward at an angle relative to the first component 2 around the second basic vertical axis 5.

[0129] Alternatively, the rear portions of the inner wall 17D and the outer wall 17E, as well as the rear edge 17B of the groove 17, can be configured to allow the first member 2 to adjust its angle around the second basic vertical axis 5 when the first member 2 is in its foremost translational position 19.

[0130] exist Figure 13A In one configuration, the angle of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2 does not change even when the handrail 4 moves to its foremost position. In another structure, the angle of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2 can change even when the handrail moves to its foremost position. For example, in... Figure 13B In the configuration, the front end of the handrail 4 has moved inward from the middle position of the handrail 4 relative to the first component 2 by an angular displacement of about 10 degrees A26.

[0131] In some configurations, the inward angular displacement A26 can be the same as the outward angular displacement A25. In other configurations, the inward angular displacement A26 can be less than the outward angular displacement A25.

[0132] In some embodiments, the features, functions, and operating principles of the groove 17 and the upper angle stop 15 described above regarding the translational adjustment of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2 are interchanged or reversed, such that the groove 17 is instead provided within the upper surface of the first member 2, and the upper angle stop 15 instead extends from the lower surface of the handrail 4 into the groove 17. In such embodiments, the features, functions, and operating principles described above regarding the translational adjustment of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2 remain substantially the same.

[0133] exist Figure 14-21 In the structure shown, column 1 includes a generally vertical inner column member 26, and first member 2 includes an outer shell 27, which is slidably mounted on and receives the inner column member 26 in a telescopic arrangement, such that the height of the outer shell 27 is adjustable relative to the inner column member 26. The outer shell 27 is also angularly adjustable relative to the inner column member 26 about a first generally vertical axis 3 within a first angular movement limit.

[0134] The height adjustability of the handrail 4 relative to the inner column member 26 is therefore provided by the device of the outer shell 27 and the inner column member 26 described below.

[0135] like Figure 16 and 21 As shown, the housing 27 includes a plurality of recesses 29 disposed within the interior 28 of the housing 27 and arranged along its length. The recesses 29 also have raised surfaces 30 flush with the interior 28 of the housing 27. The housing 27 may include a single row of recesses 29 and raised surfaces 30, or may have two or more rows of spaced-apart recesses 29 and raised surfaces 30.

[0136] The recess 29 may be integrally formed with the housing 27, or it may be provided on the liner member 51 assembled with the housing member to form the housing 27. In this configuration, the liner member 51 is assembled such that the raised surface 30 remains flush with the interior 28 of the housing 27.

[0137] Figure 14 and Figure 15 An inner pillar member 26 including a locking member 31 is shown, which is biased to engage with one of a plurality of recesses 29 of the outer casing 27 in order to lock the position of the outer casing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26.

[0138] The housing 27 includes a release member 32 operably connected to the actuator 33. The release member 32 is an elongated member having a plurality of recesses 34 with raised surfaces 35 between the recesses 34, and is located within the interior 28 of the housing 27. The housing 27 may have an elongated cavity to receive the release member 32. The elongated cavity may be adjacent to a row of recesses 29. The release member 32 may be positioned relative to the housing 27. Figure 14The first position shown and Figure 15 It slides between the second positions shown.

[0139] Figure 14 The first position shows at least one recess 34 in the release member 32 aligned with at least one recess 29 in the housing 27, and the locking member 31 engages at least one recess 29 in the housing 27 to inhibit telescopic movement of the housing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26. Therefore, in this first position, height adjustment of the housing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26 is suppressed.

[0140] Figure 15 The second position shows one or more raised surfaces 35 of the release member 32 aligned with one or more recesses 29 of the housing 27 to remove the locking member 31 from engagement with the one or more recesses 29, and provides a surface on which the locking member 31 can slide to allow relative movement between the housing 27 and the inner pillar member 26. Therefore, in this second position, height adjustment of the housing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26 is permitted.

[0141] Actuator 33 in Figure 14 and Figure 15 The actuator 33 is shown as a component integral with the release member 32. In some configurations, the actuator 33 may not be an integral component with the release member 32, but may be a separate component operatively coupled to or connected to the release member 32.

[0142] The housing 27 shown has an opening on its lower surface, and the actuator 33 is disposed within this opening. Therefore, the user can press the actuator 33 upwards to cause the release member 32 to move upwards. Figure 1 , 2 An opening for actuator 33 is shown in Figures 14-16. This opening is located on the lower surface of housing 27 and has a generally circular shape; however, it may also be located on any other surface of housing 27 and may have any suitable shape to provide easy and intuitive access and operation of chair 200 to the user.

[0143] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the recess 34 of the release member 32 has an inclined lower surface 36, which corresponds to... Figure 17 and 18 The inclined lower surface 37 of the locking member 31 is shown. Therefore, the upward movement of the release member 32 triggered by the operation of the actuator 33 causes the inclined lower surface 36 of the recess 34 to slide along the inclined lower surface 37, and thus the locking member 31 is moved inward closer to the inner post member 26 according to the second position of the release member 32 and thus disengages from the engagement with the recesses 29, 34.

[0144] Figure 17 and Figure 18 A locking member 31 with rectangular or square protrusions 38 is also shown, which correspond to the general outline 39 of the recess 29 of the housing 27. Thus, different portions of the locking member 31 engage with the recess 29 of the housing 27 and the recess 34 of the release member 32. Figure 17 and Figure 18 The positions of the locking member 31 when it engages or disengages according to the first and second positions of the release member 32 are shown.

[0145] When there are two rows of spaced-apart recesses 29 and raised surfaces 30, the locking member will have two spaced-apart protrusions 38.

[0146] The travel of the release member 32 from the first position to the second position, and the dimensions of the recess 29, the raised surface 30, the recess 34, and the raised surface 35, are appropriately configured such that in the second position, the raised surface 30 is aligned with the recess 34 and the raised surface 35 is aligned with the recess 29. Thus, during the sliding of the housing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26, when the locking member 31 slides on the raised surface 35 of the release member 32 or the raised surface 30 of the housing 27, the locking member 31 remains disengaged. Therefore, when the release member 32 is in the second position, the sliding movement of the housing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26 is smooth, seamless, and uninterrupted.

[0147] The locking member 31 can be biased toward engagement with the recesses 29, 34 by any suitable means (e.g., a spring member). Similarly, the actuator 33 and thus the release member 32 are biased toward a first position by any suitable means such as a spring member. Thus, when the user releases the actuator 33, the release member 32 returns to its first position; however, the locking member 31 will not re-engage with the recesses 29, 34 until the height of the housing 27 is adjusted to the position where the recesses 29, 34 are aligned.

[0148] Figure 14 , 15 17 and 18 also show a locking housing 40 that carries the locking member 31. The locking housing 40 is rotatably mounted to the inner post member 26 and keyed to the outer housing 27 to suppress relative rotation between the locking housing and the outer housing, so that when the angle of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 is adjusted, and therefore the angle of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26 is adjusted, the locking housing 40 is angularly adjusted relative to the post 1 and the inner post member 26 accordingly. As a result, all the aforementioned components that provide the height-adjustable function of the arm assembly 100 rotate equally about a first substantially vertical axis 3 while remaining aligned, thereby allowing height adjustability regardless of the angular position or adjustment of the components.

[0149] During height adjustment of the outer casing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26, and in any vertical translational position of the outer casing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26, the outer casing 27 slides substantially along the inner pillar member 26 and the locking housing 40; however, the bottom of the outer casing 27 always remains in contact with the inner pillar member 26.

[0150] Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of a first friction device 300 associated with the upper angle stop 15 is shown. The first friction device 300 is configured to provide a first frictional force that must be overcome by the user to slide translationally and adjust the armrest 4 angularly relative to the first member 2. This means that the position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 will not be disrupted unless the user intentionally applies a force to overcome the first frictional force.

[0151] In some embodiments, the first friction device 300 includes a biasing device to bias the sliding plate 16 into contact with the upper angle stop 15, thereby providing a first frictional force.

[0152] like Figure 19 As shown, the biasing device includes a spring member 41 that acts on the upper surface 42 of the first member 2 and on a spring plate 43 disposed below the spring member 41. Inherently, this generates a reaction force that causes the upper angle stop 15 to push or "clamp" the sliding plate 16 downward onto the upper surface 42 of the first member 2, thereby providing friction for the translational sliding and angle adjustment of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0153] Spring member 41 may be a leaf spring or any other suitable spring or elastic member.

[0154] In some embodiments, an adjuster is provided to allow adjustment of the first frictional force provided by the first friction device 300. For example, Figure 19 Mounting bolts 44 are shown, operably connected to the first friction device 300 via locking nuts 44a. The torque set on these locking nuts 44a determines the extent to which the mounting bolts 44 are pushed downwards onto the first friction device 300. These mounting bolts 44 extend through the lower slit 17F of the groove 17. Therefore, the overall shape or path of the lower slit 17F can correspond to or match the overall shape or path of the groove 17, such that the mounting bolts 44 do not contact the periphery of the lower slit 17F at any position of the handrail 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0155] Therefore, the torque applied to these locking nuts 44a determines the magnitude of the biasing force of the spring member 41, and the combined reaction force that causes the upper angle stop 15 to push or "clamp" the sliding plate 16 downward onto the upper surface 42 of the first member 2. Consequently, these locking nuts 44a generally control the amount of the first frictional force provided by the first friction device 300. The torque applied by these locking nuts 44a can be set during the assembly of the arm assembly 100.

[0156] Figure 20 A cross-sectional view of the arm assembly 100 with a second friction device 400 is shown. The second friction device 400 is configured to provide a second frictional force that the user must overcome to adjust the first member 2 angularly relative to the post 1. This ensures that the position of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 is not disrupted unless the user intentionally applies a force to overcome the second frictional force.

[0157] In some embodiments, the second friction device 400 includes a biasing device to bias a portion of the first member 2 into contact with the post 1, thereby providing a second frictional force.

[0158] In some embodiments, this portion of the first member 2 may be the aforementioned locking housing 40, such as... Figure 20 As shown. Figure 20 The biasing device of the second friction device 400 is shown to include a spring member 46 acting on an upper member 45 disposed on top of the spring member 46. Inherently, this generates a reaction force that pushes or "clamps" the locking housing 40 downward onto a bearing member 48 at the top where the locking housing 40 is mounted. The bearing member 48 is rotatably mounted to the inner pillar member 26, thus providing friction for angular adjustment of the locking housing 40, and therefore friction for angular adjustment relative to the inner pillar member 26 and the outer housing 27 of the pillar 1.

[0159] In some embodiments, an adjuster is provided to allow adjustment of the second frictional force provided by the second friction device 400. For example, Figure 20 A star-shaped locking washer 49 is shown, which is operatively connected to the second friction device 400 and disposed on top of the upper member 45. Therefore, the compression applied by the star-shaped locking washer 49 determines the extent to which the upper member 45 is pushed downward onto the second friction device 400.

[0160] Therefore, the compression applied by the star-shaped locking washer 49 determines the magnitude of the biasing force of the spring member 46, and the combined reaction force that causes the locking housing 40 to push downward or "clamp" against the bearing member 48 on top of which the locking housing 40 is mounted. Thus, the star-shaped locking washer 49 generally controls the amount of the second frictional force provided by the second friction device 400. The compression applied by the star-shaped locking washer 49 can be set during the assembly of the arm assembly 100.

[0161] In the above embodiment, the arm assembly can be height-adjustable and is provided with a locking member 31, thereby providing a locking housing 40 required for height adjustment. Therefore, as described above, part of the first member 2 is the locking housing 40.

[0162] However, in an alternative embodiment, the arm assembly may not be height-adjustable, and therefore the locking member 31 and locking housing 40 are not provided. In this configuration, a portion of the first member 2 may be a component keyed to the first member 2, allowing the first member 2 and housing 27 to be angularly adjusted relative to the column 1 and inner column member 26 about a first substantially vertical axis 3. This component may also operate in substantially the same manner as the locking housing 40 to provide, for example... Figure 20 The second friction device 400 shown is a component disposed therein.

[0163] In some embodiments, the component keyed to the first member 2 and mounted to the post 1 and / or locking housing 40 according to the above configuration includes a lower angle stop 47 positioned at the first substantially vertical axis 3. In any case, the upper member 45 described above with respect to the second friction device 400 includes the lower angle stop 47.

[0164] The lower angle stop 47 is configured to limit the first angle movement limit, and thus limit the maximum outward angle adjustment of the first member 2 relative to the column 1 and the maximum inward angle adjustment of the first member 2 relative to the column 1, as described above. Figure 4 As stated above.

[0165] In other words, the interface between the lower angle stop 47 and the post 1, as well as the inner post member 26, defines the extent to which the first member 2 and the outer casing 27 can be angularly adjusted relative to the post 1 and the inner post member 26.

[0166] This is Figure 17 and Figure 18As best shown, the lower angle stop 47 engages with the post 1 and thus with the inner post member 26, preventing it from being angularly adjusted relative to the post 1 and the inner post member 26. Therefore, when angular adjustments are made to the components bonded to the first member 2 and mounted on the post 1, and / or to the locking housing 40, both correspond to angular adjustments of the first member 2 and the housing 27 about a first substantially vertical axis 3. The sidewall of the recess 50 of the component bonded to the first member 2 and / or the locking housing 40 will abut the protrusion 52 of the lower angle stop 47 to prevent further angular adjustments of the first member 2 and the housing 27 relative to the post 1 and the inner post member 26.

[0167] Figure 21 An embodiment of the arm assembly is shown, wherein the housing 27 is shown in an exploded view. A damping device is provided between the housing 27 and the inner column member 26, the damping device being configured to suppress lateral movement of the first member 2 relative to the column 1.

[0168] In one embodiment, the damping device includes at least one first biasing member 53 extending between the locking housing 40 and the inner wall 51 of the outer housing, and at least one second biasing member 54 extending between the inner pillar member 26 and the inner wall 51 of the outer housing 27, the at least one first biasing member 53 and the second biasing member 54 being spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0169] As described above regarding the height adjustment component, the outer casing 27 may be integrally formed such that at least one first biasing member 53 extends between the locking housing 40 and the inner wall 51 of the outer casing 27, and at least one second biasing member 54 extends between the inner pillar member 26 and the inner wall 51 of the outer casing 27.

[0170] However, if the housing 27 alternatively includes a padding member 51 assembled with the housing members to form the housing 27, then at least one first biasing member 53 alternatively extends from the locking housing 40 to the inner wall of the linear member 51, and at least one second biasing member 54 alternatively extends from the inner wall of the padding member 51 forming the inner wall of the housing 27 to the inner pillar member 26, as... Figure 21 As shown in the image.

[0171] At least one of the first and second biasing members 53, 54 may comprise any suitable biasing device, such as a spring or elastic member. During translational sliding or height adjustment of the housing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26, and during angular adjustment of the first element 2 and the housing 27 relative to the pillar 1 and the inner pillar member 26, the damping device helps to reduce any play or wobble between the housing 27 and the inner pillar member 26. Therefore, the sliding movement of the housing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26 during height adjustment and the rotational movement of the housing 27 relative to the inner pillar member 26 during angular adjustment are smooth and seamless, with minimal to no lateral translational movement.

[0172] In some embodiments, the outer casing 27 slidably receives the column 1 in a telescopic arrangement, such that the height of the first member 2 is adjustable relative to the column 1. In such an embodiment, with Figure 14-18 The aforementioned features, functions, and working principles of the inner column member 26 associated with the height adjustment device, second friction device, locking housing device, and damping device described in 20 are similarly applied to column 1.

[0173] In some embodiments, the first component 2 may not include the outer housing 27, but may instead include a first housing and a second housing, wherein the first housing is fixedly or non-rotatably mounted to the post 1 and includes the features, functions, and operating principles of the outer housing 27 associated with the height adjustment device, locking housing device, and damping device described above; and wherein the second housing is rotatably mounted to the first housing so as to be angularly adjustable about the first fundamental vertical axis 3 between first movement limits and may also include at least some of the features, functions, and operating principles of the outer housing 27 relative to the locking housing device described above. Therefore, angular and height adjustments of the first component 2 relative to the post 1 can be provided by separate housings, thereby allowing for easier or more modular assembly of the arm assembly.

[0174] In some embodiments, the housing 27 may be an integrally formed or integral component, or may include sub-assemblies of housing members and lining members assembled together to form the housing 27.

[0175] In any of the above embodiments of the first component 2, the damping device is disposed between the interior of the first component 2 and the outer surface of the column 1 so as to engage with the first component 2 and the column 1, without necessarily being connected to or formed together with any of these components.

[0176] The arm assemblies described herein are particularly suitable for chairs with work or office applications, such as task chairs or office chairs with a base-type height-adjustable base and / or a swivel base. The arm assemblies described herein can also be used in any other suitable chair applications, including but not limited to dining chairs, multi-purpose chairs, buffet chairs, restaurant chairs, lounge chairs, and meeting environment chairs.

[0177] The arm assembly described herein allows for adjustability in multiple directions or planes, such as relative to the height, width, and depth of the chair. The width and depth adjustment of the armrests are achieved through a combination of angular adjustments about multiple axes in a generally horizontal plane and translational adjustments in a generally horizontal plane. The height adjustment of the armrests is achieved through translational adjustments in a generally vertical direction or plane.

[0178] The arm assembly described herein also provides substantially free adjustment between the limits of movement in each of the width and depth directions. As a result, the user can smoothly adjust the lateral and longitudinal position of the armrest relative to the chair without the abrupt, sharp, or clumsy movements typical of indexed or discrete adjustable mechanisms that do not have an indeterminate or undefined number of adjustment positions.

[0179] The friction mechanisms described herein can be provided so that lateral and longitudinal adjustments of the armrests do not occur without force applied by the user. This allows the user to set the position of the armrests relative to the chair to suit their posture preferences, ensuring that the armrest position will not be disrupted unless the user intentionally applies force against these friction mechanisms. This is particularly useful if the chair has arm assemblies on both sides, allowing the user to mirror and match the positions of the two armrests to suit their posture preferences. The friction mechanisms also help improve the smoothness of armrest adjustment in the width and depth directions. In some configurations, one or more friction mechanisms can be adjusted to provide increased or decreased resistance to movement.

[0180] The friction mechanism also simplifies the adjustment of the armrest's width and depth without requiring the user to release the actuator.

[0181] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described by way of example only, and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0182] For example, the specific values ​​of displacements A6-A26 described in this specification with reference to the movement of components of arm assembly 100 represent only one exemplary configuration of arm assembly 100. The specific values ​​of the displacements are determined in part by the magnitudes of the first and second angular movement limits and the first translational movement limit. Therefore, in other exemplary configurations of arm assembly 100, the magnitudes of the first and second angular movement limits and the first translational movement limit may differ from those described in this specification and claims. This also applies to the physical configuration and geometry of any component of arm assembly 100 that determines, defines, or influences the magnitudes of these movement limits.

[0183] For example, Table 1 below lists possible exemplary value ranges for each displacement A6-A26 when the magnitudes of the first and second angular movement limits are increased or decreased by different degrees and the magnitude of the first translational movement limit is increased or decreased by different millimeters.

[0184] The “lower” value represents the lowest possible value of each corresponding displacement when the movement limits are adjusted in this way; the “upper” value represents the highest possible value of the corresponding displacement when the movement limits are adjusted in this way; and the “default” value represents the nominal value as described above in this specification and claims.

[0185] Any value within these ranges is possible, and in fact, different values ​​outside these ranges are also possible for different configurations of the arm assembly.

[0186] Table 1:

[0187]

[0188] In various exemplary configurations, the displacement A11 may be at least about 0 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 25 mm, or at least about 30 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A11 may be at most about 94 mm, at most about 90 mm, at most about 85 mm, at most about 80 mm, at most about 75 mm, at most about 70 mm, at most about 65 mm, at most about 60 mm, at most about 55 mm, at most about 50 mm, at most about 45 mm, at most about 40 mm, or at most about 35 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A11 may be approximately 0 mm, approximately 1 mm, approximately 2 mm, approximately 3 mm, approximately 4 mm, approximately 5 mm, approximately 6 mm, approximately 7 mm, approximately 8 mm, approximately 9 mm, approximately 10 mm, approximately 11 mm, approximately 12 mm, approximately 13 mm, approximately 14 mm, approximately 15 mm, approximately 16 mm, approximately 17 mm, approximately 18 mm, approximately 19 mm, approximately 20 mm, approximately 21 mm, approximately 22 mm, approximately 23 mm, approximately 24 mm, approximately 25 mm, approximately 26 mm, approximately 27 mm, approximately 28 mm, approximately 29 mm, approximately 30 mm, approximately 31 mm, approximately 32 mm, approximately 33 mm, approximately 34 mm, approximately 35 mm, approximately 36 mm, approximately 37 mm, approximately 38 mm, approximately 39 mm, approximately 40 mm, approximately 41 mm, approximately 42 mm, approximately 43 mm, approximately 44 mm, approximately 45 mm, approximately 46 mm, approximately 47 mm, approximately... 48mm, approximately 49mm, approximately 50mm, approximately 51mm, approximately 52mm, approximately 53mm, approximately 54mm, approximately 55mm, approximately 56mm, approximately 57mm, approximately 58mm, approximately 59mm, approximately 60mm, approximately 61mm, approximately 62mm, approximately 63mm, approximately 64mm, approximately 65mm, approximately 66mm, approximately 67mm, approximately 68mm, approximately 69mm, approximately 70mm, approximately 71mm, approximately 72mm, approximately 73mm, approximately 74mm, approximately 75mm, approximately 76mm, approximately 77mm, approximately 78mm, approximately 79mm, approximately 80mm, approximately 81mm, approximately 82mm, approximately 83mm, approximately 84mm, approximately 85mm, approximately 86mm, approximately 87mm, approximately 88mm, approximately 89mm, approximately 90mm, approximately 91mm, approximately 92mm, approximately 93mm, approximately 94mm, or between any two of these values.

[0189] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A13 may be at least about 0 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 10 mm, or at least about 15 mm. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A13 may be at most about 66 mm, at most about 65 mm, at most about 60 mm, at most about 55 mm, at most about 50 mm, at most about 45 mm, at most about 40 mm, at most about 35 mm, at most about 30 mm, at most about 25 mm, or at most about 20 mm. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A13 may be approximately 0 mm, approximately 1 mm, approximately 2 mm, approximately 3 mm, approximately 4 mm, approximately 5 mm, approximately 6 mm, approximately 7 mm, approximately 8 mm, approximately 9 mm, approximately 10 mm, approximately 11 mm, approximately 12 mm, approximately 13 mm, approximately 14 mm, approximately 15 mm, approximately 16 mm, approximately 17 mm, approximately 18 mm, approximately 19 mm, approximately 20 mm, approximately 21 mm, approximately 22 mm, approximately 23 mm, approximately 24 mm, approximately 25 mm, approximately 26 mm, approximately 27 mm, approximately 28 mm, approximately 29 mm, approximately 30 mm, approximately 31 mm, approximately 32 mm, or approximately 33 mm. Approximately 34mm, 35mm, 36mm, 37mm, 38mm, 39mm, 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 43mm, 44mm, 45mm, 46mm, 47mm, 48mm, 49mm, 50mm, 51mm, 52mm, 53mm, 54mm, 55mm, 56mm, 57mm, 58mm, 59mm, 60mm, 61mm, 62mm, 63mm, 64mm, 65mm, 66mm, or between any two of these values.

[0190] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A21 may be at least about 40 mm, at least about 45 mm, at least about 50 mm, at least about 55 mm, at least about 60 mm, at least about 65 mm, at least about 70 mm, at least about 75 mm, or at least about 80 mm. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A21 may be at most about 120 mm, at most about 115 mm, at most about 110 mm, at most about 105 mm, at most about 100 mm, at most about 95 mm, at most about 90 mm, at most about 85 mm, or at most about 80 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A21 may be approximately 40 mm, approximately 41 mm, approximately 42 mm, approximately 43 mm, approximately 44 mm, approximately 45 mm, approximately 46 mm, approximately 47 mm, approximately 48 mm, approximately 49 mm, approximately 50 mm, approximately 51 mm, approximately 52 mm, approximately 53 mm, approximately 54 mm, approximately 55 mm, approximately 56 mm, approximately 57 mm, approximately 58 mm, approximately 59 mm, approximately 60 mm, approximately 61 mm, approximately 62 mm, approximately 63 mm, approximately 64 mm, approximately 65 mm, approximately 66 mm, approximately 67 mm, approximately 68 mm, approximately 69 mm, approximately 70 mm, approximately 71 mm, approximately 72 mm, approximately 73 mm, approximately 74 mm, approximately 75 mm, approximately 76 mm, approximately 77 mm, approximately 78 mm, approximately 79 mm, approximately 80 mm, or approximately 81 mm. Approximately 82mm, approximately 83mm, approximately 84mm, approximately 85mm, approximately 86mm, approximately 87mm, approximately 88mm, approximately 89mm, approximately 90mm, approximately 91mm, approximately 92mm, approximately 93mm, approximately 94mm, approximately 95mm, approximately 96mm, approximately 97mm, approximately 98mm, approximately 99mm, approximately 100mm, approximately 101mm, approximately 102mm, approximately 103mm, approximately 104mm, approximately 105mm, approximately 106mm, approximately 107mm, approximately 108mm, approximately 109mm, approximately 110mm, approximately 111mm, approximately 112mm, approximately 113mm, approximately 114mm, approximately 115mm, approximately 116mm, approximately 117mm, approximately 118mm, approximately 119mm, approximately 120mm, or between any two of these values.

[0191] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A22 may be at least about 0 mm, at least about 0.5 mm, at least about 1 mm, at least about 1.5 mm, at least about 2 mm, at least about 2.5 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 3.5 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 4.5 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 5.5 mm, at least about 6 mm, or at least about 6.5 mm. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A22 may be at most about 21.8 mm, at most about 21.5 mm, at most about 21 mm, at most about 20.5 mm, at most about 20 mm, at most about 19.5 mm, at most about 19 mm, at most about 18.5 mm, at most about 18 mm, at most about 17.5 mm, at most about 17 mm, at most about 16.5 mm, at most about 16 mm, at most about 15.5 mm. Up to about 15mm, up to about 14.5mm, up to about 14mm, up to about 13.5mm, up to about 13mm, up to about 12.5mm, up to about 12mm, up to about 11.5mm, up to about 11mm, up to about 10.5mm, up to about 10mm, up to about 9.5mm, up to about 9mm, up to about 8.5mm, up to about 8mm, up to about 7.5mm or up to about 7mm.Additionally or alternatively, displacement A22 may be approximately 0 mm, approximately 0.2 mm, approximately 0.4 mm, approximately 0.6 mm, approximately 0.8 mm, approximately 1 mm, approximately 1.2 mm, approximately 1.4 mm, approximately 1.6 mm, approximately 1.8 mm, approximately 2 mm, approximately 2.2 mm, approximately 2.4 mm, approximately 2.6 mm, approximately 2.8 mm, approximately 3 mm, approximately 3.2 mm, approximately 3.4 mm, approximately 3.6 mm, approximately 3.8 mm, approximately 4 mm, etc. mm, approximately 4.2mm, approximately 4.4mm, approximately 4.6mm, approximately 4.8mm, approximately 5mm, approximately 5.2mm, approximately 5.4mm, approximately 5.6mm, approximately 5.8mm, approximately 6mm, approximately 6.2mm, approximately 6.4mm, approximately 6.6mm, approximately 6.8mm, approximately 7mm, approximately 7.2mm, approximately 7.4mm, approximately 7.6mm, approximately 7.8mm, approximately 8mm, approximately 8.2mm, approximately 8.4, about 8.6mm, approx. 8.8mm, approx. 9mm, approx. 9.2mm, approx. 9.4mm, approx. 9.6mm, approx. 9.8mm, approx. 10mm, approx. 10.2mm, approx. 10.4mm, approx. 10.6mm, approx. 10.8mm, approx. 11mm, approx. 11.2mm, approx. 11.4mm, approx. 11.6mm, approx. 11.8mm, approx. 12mm, approx. 12.2mm, approx. 12.4mm, approx. 12.6mm, approx. 12.8mm, approx. 13mm, approx. 13.2mm, approx. 13.4mm, approx. 13.6mm, approx. 13.8mm, approx. 14mm, approx. 14.2mm, approx. 14.4mm, approx. 14.6mm, approx. 14.8mm, approx. 15mm, approx. 15.2mm, approx. 15.4mm Approximately 15.6mm, approximately 15.8mm, approximately 16mm, approximately 16.2mm, approximately 16.4mm, approximately 16.6mm, approximately 16.8mm, approximately 17mm, approximately 17.2mm, approximately 17.4mm, approximately 17.6mm, approximately 17.8mm, approximately 18mm, approximately 18.2mm, approximately 18.4mm, approximately 18.6mm, approximately 18.8mm, approximately 19mm, approximately 19.2mm, approximately 19.4mm, approximately 19.6mm, approximately 19.8mm, approximately 20mm, approximately 20.2mm, approximately 20.4mm, approximately 20.6mm, approximately 20.8mm, approximately 21mm, approximately 21.2mm, approximately 21.4mm, approximately 21.6mm, approximately 21.8mm, or between any two of these values.

[0192] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A6 may be at least about 0 degrees, at least about 2 degrees, at least about 4 degrees, at least about 6 degrees, at least about 8 degrees, or at least about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A6 may be at most about 40 degrees, at most about 35 degrees, at most about 30 degrees, at most about 25 degrees, at most about 20 degrees, at most about 15 degrees, or at most about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A6 may be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 6 degrees, approximately 7 degrees, approximately 8 degrees, approximately 9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 11 degrees, approximately 12 degrees, approximately 13 degrees, approximately 14 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 16 degrees, approximately 17 degrees, approximately 18 degrees, approximately 19 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 21 degrees, approximately 22 degrees, approximately 23 degrees, approximately 24 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 26 degrees, approximately 27 degrees, approximately 28 degrees, approximately 29 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 31 degrees, approximately 32 degrees, approximately 33 degrees, approximately 34 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 36 degrees, approximately 37 degrees, approximately 38 degrees, approximately 39 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, or any two of these values.

[0193] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A7 can be at least about 0 degrees, at least about 5 degrees, at least about 10 degrees, at least about 15 degrees, at least about 20 degrees, at least about 25 degrees, at least about 30 degrees, at least about 35 degrees, at least about 40 degrees, or at least about 45 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A7 can be at most about 90 degrees, at most about 85 degrees, at most about 80 degrees, at most about 75 degrees, at most about 70 degrees, at most about 65 degrees, at most about 60 degrees, at most about 55 degrees, at most about 50 degrees, or at most about 45 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A7 can be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 6 degrees, approximately 7 degrees, approximately 8 degrees, approximately 9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 11 degrees, approximately 12 degrees, approximately 13 degrees, approximately 14 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 16 degrees, approximately 17 degrees, approximately 18 degrees, approximately 19 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 21 degrees, approximately 22 degrees, approximately 23 degrees, approximately 24 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 26 degrees, approximately 27 degrees, approximately 28 degrees, approximately 29 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 31 degrees, approximately 32 degrees, approximately 33 degrees, approximately 34 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 36 degrees, approximately 37 degrees, approximately 38 degrees, approximately 39 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 41 degrees, approximately 42 degrees, approximately 43 degrees, approximately 44 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, approximately... 46 degrees, approximately 47 degrees, approximately 48 degrees, approximately 49 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 51 degrees, approximately 52 degrees, approximately 53 degrees, approximately 54 degrees, approximately 55 degrees, approximately 56 degrees, approximately 57 degrees, approximately 58 degrees, approximately 59 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 61 degrees, approximately 62 degrees, approximately 63 degrees, approximately 64 degrees, approximately 65 degrees, approximately 66 degrees, approximately 67 degrees, approximately 68 degrees, approximately 69 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, approximately 71 degrees, approximately 72 degrees, approximately 73 degrees, approximately 74 degrees, approximately 75 degrees, approximately 76 degrees, approximately 77 degrees, approximately 78 degrees, approximately 79 degrees, approximately 80 degrees, approximately 81 degrees, approximately 82 degrees, approximately 83 degrees, approximately 84 degrees, approximately 85 degrees, approximately 86 degrees, approximately 87 degrees, approximately 88 degrees, approximately 89 degrees, approximately 90 degrees, or between any two of these values.

[0194] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A8 can be at least about 0 degrees, at least about 2 degrees, at least about 4 degrees, at least about 6 degrees, at least about 8 degrees, at least about 10 degrees, at least about 12 degrees, at least about 14 degrees, at least about 16 degrees, at least about 18 degrees, or at least about 20 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A8 can be at most about 45 degrees, at most about 40 degrees, at most about 35 degrees, at most about 30 degrees, or at most about 25 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A8 may be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 6 degrees, approximately 7 degrees, approximately 8 degrees, approximately 9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 11 degrees, approximately 12 degrees, approximately 13 degrees, approximately 14 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 16 degrees, approximately 17 degrees, approximately 18 degrees, approximately 19 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 21 degrees, approximately 22 degrees, approximately 23 degrees, approximately 24 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 26 degrees, approximately 27 degrees, approximately 28 degrees, approximately 29 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 31 degrees, approximately 32 degrees, approximately 33 degrees, approximately 34 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 36 degrees, approximately 37 degrees, approximately 38 degrees, approximately 39 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 41 degrees, approximately 42 degrees, approximately 43 degrees, approximately 44 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, or any two of these values.

[0195] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A9 can be at least about 0 degrees, at least about 2 degrees, at least about 4 degrees, at least about 6 degrees, at least about 8 degrees, or at least about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A9 can be at most about 40 degrees, at most about 35 degrees, at most about 30 degrees, at most about 25 degrees, at most about 20 degrees, at most about 15 degrees, or at most about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A9 may be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 6 degrees, approximately 7 degrees, approximately 8 degrees, approximately 9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 11 degrees, approximately 12 degrees, approximately 13 degrees, approximately 14 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 16 degrees, approximately 17 degrees, approximately 18 degrees, approximately 19 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 21 degrees, approximately 22 degrees, approximately 23 degrees, approximately 24 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 26 degrees, approximately 27 degrees, approximately 28 degrees, approximately 29 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 31 degrees, approximately 32 degrees, approximately 33 degrees, approximately 34 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 36 degrees, approximately 37 degrees, approximately 38 degrees, approximately 39 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, or any two of these values.

[0196] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A10 can be at least about 0 degrees, at least about 2 degrees, at least about 4 degrees, at least about 6 degrees, at least about 8 degrees, at least about 10 degrees, at least about 12 degrees, at least about 14 degrees, at least about 16 degrees, at least about 18 degrees, or at least about 20 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A10 can be at most about 45 degrees, at most about 40 degrees, at most about 35 degrees, at most about 30 degrees, or at most about 25 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A10 may be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 6 degrees, approximately 7 degrees, approximately 8 degrees, approximately 9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 11 degrees, approximately 12 degrees, approximately 13 degrees, approximately 14 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 16 degrees, approximately 17 degrees, approximately 18 degrees, approximately 19 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 21 degrees, approximately 22 degrees, approximately 23 degrees, approximately 24 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 26 degrees, approximately 27 degrees, approximately 28 degrees, approximately 29 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 31 degrees, approximately 32 degrees, approximately 33 degrees, approximately 34 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 36 degrees, approximately 37 degrees, approximately 38 degrees, approximately 39 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 41 degrees, approximately 42 degrees, approximately 43 degrees, approximately 44 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, or any two of these values.

[0197] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A12 may be at least about 0 degrees, at least about 2 degrees, at least about 4 degrees, at least about 6 degrees, at least about 8 degrees, or at least about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A12 may be at most about 40 degrees, at most about 35 degrees, at most about 30 degrees, at most about 25 degrees, at most about 20 degrees, at most about 15 degrees, or at most about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A12 may be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 6 degrees, approximately 7 degrees, approximately 8 degrees, approximately 9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 11 degrees, approximately 12 degrees, approximately 13 degrees, approximately 14 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 16 degrees, approximately 17 degrees, approximately 18 degrees, approximately 19 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 21 degrees, approximately 22 degrees, approximately 23 degrees, approximately 24 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 26 degrees, approximately 27 degrees, approximately 28 degrees, approximately 29 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 31 degrees, approximately 32 degrees, approximately 33 degrees, approximately 34 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 36 degrees, approximately 37 degrees, approximately 38 degrees, approximately 39 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, or any two of these values.

[0198] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A24 may be at least about 0 degrees, at least about 5 degrees, at least about 10 degrees, at least about 15 degrees, at least about 20 degrees, at least about 25 degrees, at least about 30 degrees, at least about 35 degrees, at least about 40 degrees, at least about 45 degrees, at least about 50 degrees, or at least about 55 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A24 may be at most about 90 degrees, at most about 85 degrees, at most about 80 degrees, at most about 75 degrees, at most about 70 degrees, at most about 65 degrees, at most about 60 degrees, or at most about 55 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A24 may be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 6 degrees, approximately 7 degrees, approximately 8 degrees, approximately 9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 11 degrees, approximately 12 degrees, approximately 13 degrees, approximately 14 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 16 degrees, approximately 17 degrees, approximately 18 degrees, approximately 19 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 21 degrees, approximately 22 degrees, approximately 23 degrees, approximately 24 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 26 degrees, approximately 27 degrees, approximately 28 degrees, approximately 29 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 31 degrees, approximately 32 degrees, approximately 33 degrees, approximately 34 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 36 degrees, approximately 37 degrees, approximately 38 degrees, approximately 39 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 41 degrees, approximately 42 degrees, approximately 43 degrees, approximately 44 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, approximately... 46 degrees, approximately 47 degrees, approximately 48 degrees, approximately 49 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 51 degrees, approximately 52 degrees, approximately 53 degrees, approximately 54 degrees, approximately 55 degrees, approximately 56 degrees, approximately 57 degrees, approximately 58 degrees, approximately 59 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 61 degrees, approximately 62 degrees, approximately 63 degrees, approximately 64 degrees, approximately 65 degrees, approximately 66 degrees, approximately 67 degrees, approximately 68 degrees, approximately 69 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, approximately 71 degrees, approximately 72 degrees, approximately 73 degrees, approximately 74 degrees, approximately 75 degrees, approximately 76 degrees, approximately 77 degrees, approximately 78 degrees, approximately 79 degrees, approximately 80 degrees, approximately 81 degrees, approximately 82 degrees, approximately 83 degrees, approximately 84 degrees, approximately 85 degrees, approximately 86 degrees, approximately 87 degrees, approximately 88 degrees, approximately 89 degrees, approximately 90 degrees, or between any two of these values.

[0199] In various exemplary configurations, displacement A25 may be at least about 0 degrees, at least about 2 degrees, at least about 4 degrees, at least about 6 degrees, at least about 8 degrees, or at least about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A25 may be at most about 40 degrees, at most about 35 degrees, at most about 30 degrees, at most about 25 degrees, at most about 20 degrees, at most about 15 degrees, or at most about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A25 may be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 6 degrees, approximately 7 degrees, approximately 8 degrees, approximately 9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 11 degrees, approximately 12 degrees, approximately 13 degrees, approximately 14 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 16 degrees, approximately 17 degrees, approximately 18 degrees, approximately 19 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 21 degrees, approximately 22 degrees, approximately 23 degrees, approximately 24 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 26 degrees, approximately 27 degrees, approximately 28 degrees, approximately 29 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 31 degrees, approximately 32 degrees, approximately 33 degrees, approximately 34 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 36 degrees, approximately 37 degrees, approximately 38 degrees, approximately 39 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, or any two of these values.

[0200] In various exemplary configurations, the inward displacement A26 may be at least about 0 degrees, at least about 2 degrees, at least about 4 degrees, at least about 6 degrees, at least about 8 degrees, or at least about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, the inward displacement A26 may be at most about 40 degrees, at most about 35 degrees, at most about 30 degrees, at most about 25 degrees, at most about 20 degrees, at most about 15 degrees, or at most about 10 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, the inward displacement A26 may be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 6 degrees, approximately 7 degrees, approximately 8 degrees, approximately 9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 11 degrees, approximately 12 degrees, approximately 13 degrees, approximately 14 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 16 degrees, approximately 17 degrees, approximately 18 degrees, approximately 19 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 21 degrees, approximately 22 degrees, approximately 23 degrees, approximately 24 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 26 degrees, approximately 27 degrees, approximately 28 degrees, approximately 29 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 31 degrees, approximately 32 degrees, approximately 33 degrees, approximately 34 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 36 degrees, approximately 37 degrees, approximately 38 degrees, approximately 39 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, or any two of these values.

[0201] Figure 22-34 Alternative forms of the arm assembly are shown. Unless otherwise described below, the features, functionality, and options are the same as those outlined herein with respect to arm assembly 100. The same reference numerals denote the same parts plus 1000.

[0202] It should be understood that any one or more features of the arm assembly 1100 can be used in conjunction with any one or more features of the arm assembly 100.

[0203] like Figure 22As shown, the housing 1027 includes a plurality of recesses 1029 disposed within an interior 1028 of the housing 1027 and arranged along its length. The recesses 1029 also have raised surfaces 1030 flush with the interior 1028 of the housing 1027. The housing 1027 may include a single row of recesses 1029 and raised surfaces 1030, or it may have two rows of spaced-apart recesses 1029 and raised surfaces 1030.

[0204] The recess 1029 is integrally formed with the outer casing 1027. No lining component is provided in this embodiment.

[0205] The recess 1029 is shown to have a circular outline 1039.

[0206] like Figure 23 As shown, the actuator 1033 is formed as a separate component connected to the release member 1032. This allows the release member 1032 to be inserted into the first member 1002 from above, and the actuator 1033 to be inserted into the first member 1002 from below.

[0207] Actuator 1033 can be connected to release member 1032 via any suitable connection feature. For example, actuator 1033 and release member 1032 may include complementary engagement features, such as snaps, clips, protrusions, and recesses. Additionally or alternatively, actuator 1033 and release member 1032 can be connected via suitable fastener 1034 (e.g., Figure 26 The fasteners shown are connected to each other.

[0208] like Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the locking member 1031 has a circular protrusion 1038, which corresponds to the general outline 1039 of the recess 1029 of the outer casing 1027.

[0209] When there are two rows of spaced-apart recesses 1029 and raised surfaces 1030, the locking member will have two spaced-apart protrusions 1038.

[0210] like Figure 26 As shown, the first friction device 1300 includes a biasing device to bias a sliding plate 1016 between the upper angle stop 1015 and the top cover 1042, thereby providing a first frictional force.

[0211] The biasing device includes a spring member 1041 that acts on the upper surface 1042 of the first member 2 and the head 1043 of the fastener 1044. The head 1043 is located below the spring member 1041. Inherently, this generates a reaction force that causes the upper angle stop 1015 to push or "clamp" the sliding plate 1016 downward onto the upper surface 1042 of the first member 1002, thereby providing friction for the translational sliding and angle adjustment of the handrail 1004 relative to the first member 1002.

[0212] In some embodiments, an adjuster is provided to allow adjustment of the first frictional force provided by the first friction device 1300. For example, Figure 26 Fastener 1044 is shown, which is operably connected to the first friction device 1300 through a threaded hole in the upper angle stop 1015. The fastener 1044 of the arm assembly 1100 is inverted compared to the fastener 44 of the arm assembly 100.

[0213] The extent to which the fastener 1044 passes through the hole in the upper angle stop 1015 will adjust the magnitude of the biasing force of the spring member 1041. The desired position of the fastener 1044 relative to the upper angle stop 1015 can be locked by the nut 1044a.

[0214] Fastener 1044 can be any suitable type, such as an end bolt, bolt, or screw.

[0215] Figure 27 and Figure 28 A second friction device 1400 is shown, which includes a biasing device to bias a portion of a first member 1002 into contact with a post 1001, thereby providing a second frictional force. This portion of the first member 1002 is a locking housing 1040.

[0216] The biasing device of the second friction device 1400 includes a spring device 1046, which, in the illustrated form, is provided by a plurality of washers, which may be Bainck washers or disc spring washers. A flat washer 1046a is disposed between the base of the spring device 1046 and the surface 1040a of the locking housing 1040.

[0217] Fastener 1045 is screwed into threaded hole 1026a in inner column member 1026, and spring device 1046 is clamped between head 1045a of fastener and surface 1040a of locking housing 1400.

[0218] Fastener 1045 can be any suitable type, such as an end bolt, bolt, or screw. In the configuration shown, fastener 1045 is a shoulder bolt.

[0219] Spring device 1046 acts on the head 1045a of the fastener. Inherently, this generates a reaction force that pushes or "clamps" the locking housing 1040 downward onto the bearing member 1048 at the top where the locking housing 1040 is mounted. The bearing member 1048 is rotatably mounted onto the inner post member 1026, thus providing friction for angular adjustment of the locking housing 1040, and therefore providing friction for angular adjustment relative to the inner post member 1026 and the outer housing 1027 of the post 1001.

[0220] The extent to which the fastener 1045 is screwed into the threaded hole 1026a, and the height of the head 1045a of the fastener 1045 therefrom, determines the magnitude of the biasing force of the spring device 1046, and the reaction force that causes the locking housing 1040 to push downward or "clamp" against the bearing member 1048 on which the locking housing 1040 is mounted. Therefore, the fastener 1045 generally controls the amount of the second frictional force provided by the second friction device 1400. The compression applied by the fastener 1045 can be set during the assembly of the arm assembly 1100.

[0221] Surface 1040a is provided at the base of a recess in the top of the locking housing 1040. The head 1045a of the fastener, the spring device 1046, and the washer 1046a are located in this recess during use.

[0222] See Figure 29-31C In this form of arm assembly 1001, the lower angle stop 1047 is provided by a portion of locking housing 1040, which engages with a complementary engagement surface on inner column member 1026 to define a first angular movement limit.

[0223] The lower end of the locking housing 1040 includes a boss 1040b. The boss has a shape that extends in a direction transverse to the first substantially vertical axis 1003. In the form shown, the boss 1040b has a generally rectangular shape, having parallel elongated sidewalls including an outer wall 1040b' and an inner wall 1060b"", and a rounded end 1040b"'. Other shapes may be used.

[0224] The mating surfaces are provided by opposing mating members 1026c, which protrude from the inner wall of the recess 1026b in the upper end of the inner column member 1026 toward the first substantially vertical axis 1003. In the form shown, the mating members 1026c are wedge-shaped. Other shapes may be used.

[0225] The joining member 1026c defines the front outer joining surface 1026d', the rear outer joining surface 1026d', the front inner joining surface 1026e', and the rear inner joining surface 1026e'.

[0226] The lower angle stop 1047 is configured to limit the first angle movement limit, and thus limit the maximum outward angle adjustment A6 of the first member 1002 relative to the column 1001 and the maximum inward angle adjustment A7 of the first member 1002 relative to the column 1001, as described above. Figure 4 As stated above.

[0227] like Figure 31B As shown, the contact between the outer wall 1040b' of the boss 1040 and the front outer mating surface 1026d' and / or the contact between the inner wall 1040b” of the boss 1040 and the rear inner mating surface 1026e” defines the maximum outward angle adjustment A6 of the first member 1002 relative to the post 1001. Figure 31C As shown, the contact between the inner wall 1040b” of the boss 1040 and the front inner engagement surface 1026e’ and / or the contact between the outer wall 1040b’ of the boss 1040 and the rear outer engagement surface 1026d” defines the maximum outward angle adjustment A6 of the first member 1002 relative to the post 1001.

[0228] Figure 32 and Figure 33 An alternative configuration of at least one first biasing member 1053 of a damping device is shown, the damping device being configured to suppress lateral movement of the first member 1002 relative to the column 1001.

[0229] In this configuration, the at least one first biasing member 1053 extending between the inner wall 1051 of the locking housing 1040 and the outer housing 1027 is integrally formed with the locking housing 1040. That is, the entire portion of the locking housing 1040 provides at least one first biasing member 1053.

[0230] The at least one first biasing member 1053 includes a resilient cantilever flange of the locking housing 1040, the resilient cantilever flange being configured to contact the inner wall 1051 of the housing 1027. The flange 1053 has a convex outer surface that engages with the concave inner wall 1051. The shape and configuration of the flange 1053 necessitate that it be compressed or bent to fit within the inner wall 1051. This compression or bending serves to provide a biasing force between the first member 1002 and the post 1001.

[0231] In the illustrated configuration, two circumferentially spaced biasing members 1053 are present on the locking housing 1040. In another alternative configuration, there may be one, three, or more biasing members 1053.

[0232] See Figure 34The damping device includes at least one rib 1054 extending between the inner column member 1026 and the inner wall 1051 of the outer casing 1027, rather than having at least one second biasing member. The at least one first biasing member 1053 and the at least one rib 1054 are spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0233] In the form shown, at least one rib 1054 is integrally formed with the outer shell 1027.

[0234] Rib 1054 is slender in the longitudinal direction of the arm column, which corresponds to the first basic vertical axis 1003.

[0235] Despite Figure 34 Only one rib 1054 is shown, but the inner wall 1051 surrounding the outer casing 1027 may have one, two, three, or more circumferentially spaced ribs. The ribs are provided with tight tolerances to the inner column member 1026. In some configurations, there may be three or more ribs to help keep the axis of the column and the outer casing aligned.

[0236] In an alternative configuration, one or more ribs 1054 may be provided on the outer surface of the inner column member 1026 to contact the inner wall 1051 of the outer casing 1027.

Claims

1. An arm assembly for a chair, the arm assembly comprising: A column for mounting to the chair, the column comprising a generally vertical inner column member; A first component, operably connected to the column, includes a housing that is slidably mounted on and accommodates an inner column component in a telescopic arrangement, wherein the first component is angularly adjustable relative to the column about a first substantially vertical axis between first angular movement limits, and the arm assembly includes an unlimited number of angularly adjustable positions of the first component relative to the column between the first angular movement limits; and An armrest operably connected to the first member for sliding substantially forward and backward relative to the first member between first translational movement limits, the arm assembly including a non-limited number of translational adjustable positions of the armrest relative to the first member between the first translational movement limits, and The armrest is angularly adjustable relative to the first member within a second angular movement limit about a second fundamental vertical axis, and the arm assembly includes an adjustable angular position of the armrest relative to the first member within a non-limited number of the second angular movement limits. The armrest includes a sliding plate with a groove, wherein a second fundamental vertical axis extends through the groove to allow the armrest to translate and slide relative to the first member and to be angularly adjustable. The first component includes an upper angle stop positioned at the second basic vertical axis. The slot is configured to receive the upper angle stop. The front and rear edges of the groove and the front and rear edges of the upper angle stop are configured to limit the first translational movement limit, allowing the handrail to slide translationally relative to the first member in a generally forward direction until the rear edge of the groove contacts the rear edge of the upper angle stop, and allowing the handrail to slide translationally relative to the first member in a generally rearward direction until the front edge of the groove contacts the front edge of the upper angle stop. The rear edge of the upper angle stop at the rear edge of the contact groove defines the foremost translational position of the handrail relative to the first member, and the front edge of the upper angle stop at the front edge of the contact groove defines the final translational position of the handrail relative to the first member. The latter part of the path of the groove is non-linear, such that the handrail slides in a generally forward direction relative to the first member from the last translation position, causing the handrail to move laterally outward relative to the first member, and the handrail slides in a generally rearward direction relative to the first member toward the last translation position, causing the handrail to move laterally inward relative to the first member.

2. The arm assembly of claim 1, wherein the inward angle adjustment of the first member relative to the post and the outward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member together provide lateral inward width adjustment of the handrail.

3. The arm assembly of claim 1, wherein the outward angle adjustment of the first member relative to the post and the inward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member together provide lateral outward width adjustment of the handrail.

4. The arm assembly of claim 1, wherein the outer housing is angularly adjustable relative to the inner column member about the first substantially vertical axis within the first angular movement limits.

5. The arm assembly of claim 1, comprising a first friction device associated with the upper angle stop, wherein the first friction device is configured to provide a first frictional force that must be overcome by a user to slide translationally and angularly adjust the armrest relative to the first member.

6. The arm assembly of claim 5, wherein the first friction device includes a biasing device that biases the sliding plate into contact with the upper angle stop to provide the first frictional force.

7. The arm assembly of claim 6, further comprising an adjuster for adjusting the first frictional force provided by the first friction device.

8. The arm assembly of claim 1, wherein the periphery of the upper angle stop is configured such that the maximum outward angle of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member is adjusted to approximately 21 degrees from the midpoint of the handrail relative to the first member.

9. The arm assembly of claim 1, wherein the periphery of the upper angle stop is configured such that the maximum inward angle of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member is adjusted to approximately 10 degrees from the midpoint of the handrail relative to the first member.

10. The arm assembly according to any one of claims 1-7, comprising a second friction device configured to provide a second frictional force that must be overcome by a user to adjust the first member at an angle relative to the column.

11. The arm assembly of claim 10, wherein the second friction device includes a biasing device to bias a portion of the first member into contact with the post, thereby providing the second frictional force.

12. The arm assembly of claim 1, wherein the component keyed to the first member and mounted on the column includes a lower angle stop positioned at the first substantially vertical axis, wherein the lower angle stop is configured to limit the first angular movement limit.

13. The arm assembly of claim 12, wherein the lower angle stop is configured such that the maximum outward angle of the first member relative to the post is adjusted to approximately 10 degrees from the midpoint of the first member relative to the post.

14. The arm assembly of claim 12 or 13, wherein the lower angle stop is configured such that the maximum inward angle of the first member relative to the post is adjusted to approximately 45 degrees from the midpoint of the first member relative to the post.

15. The arm assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing is telescopically arranged to slidably receive the column, such that the height of the first member is adjustable relative to the column.

16. The arm assembly of claim 15, wherein: The housing includes a plurality of recesses arranged inside the housing and provided along its length; The inner pillar member includes a locking member biased to engage with one of the plurality of recesses of the outer casing to lock the position of the outer casing relative to the inner pillar member; and The housing includes a release member operably connected to an actuator and having a plurality of recesses with a plurality of raised surfaces between the recesses. The release member is slidably movable relative to the housing body between a first position and a second position. In the first position, at least one recess in the release member is aligned with at least one recess in the housing body, and the locking member engages at least one recess in the housing body to inhibit telescopic movement of the housing body relative to the inner pillar member. In the second position, one or more raised surfaces of the release member are aligned with the one or more recesses of the housing body to remove the locking member from engagement with the one or more recesses and to provide a surface on which the locking member can slide to enable relative movement between the housing body and the inner pillar member.

17. The arm assembly of claim 16, further comprising a locking housing carrying the locking member, the locking housing being rotatably mounted to the inner post member and keyed to the outer housing to suppress relative rotation between the locking housing and the outer housing, such that when the first member is angled relative to the post, the locking housing is angled accordingly relative to the post.

18. The arm assembly of claim 17, further comprising a damping device located between the outer housing and the inner column member, the damping device being configured to suppress lateral movement of the first member relative to the column.

19. The arm assembly of claim 18, wherein the damping device includes at least one first biasing member and at least one second biasing member, the first biasing member extending between the inner walls of the locking housing and the outer housing, the second biasing member extending between the inner pillar member and the inner wall of the outer housing, the at least one and the first biasing members being spaced apart in a vertical direction.

20. An arm assembly for a chair, the arm assembly comprising: A column for mounting to the chair, the column comprising a generally vertical inner column member; A first component, operably connected to the column, includes a housing that is slidably mounted on and accommodates an inner column component in a telescopic arrangement, wherein the first component is angularly adjustable relative to the column about a first substantially vertical axis between first angular movement limits, and the arm assembly includes an unlimited number of angularly adjustable positions of the first component relative to the column between the first angular movement limits; and An armrest operably connected to the first member for sliding substantially forward and backward relative to the first member between first translational movement limits, the arm assembly including a non-limited number of translational adjustable positions of the armrest relative to the first member between the first translational movement limits, and The handrail, relative to the first member, is angularly adjustable within a second angular movement limit about a second fundamental vertical axis. The arm assembly includes an adjustable angular position of the handrail relative to the first member within a non-limited number of angular movement limits. The handrail includes a sliding plate with a groove, wherein a second fundamental vertical axis extends through the groove to allow the handrail to translate and slide relative to the first member and to adjust its angle. The first component includes an upper angle stop positioned at the second basic vertical axis. The slot is configured to receive the upper angle stop. The periphery of the upper angle stop and the sidewall of the groove are configured to limit the second angle movement limit. The periphery of the upper angle stop includes: an outer side having a front wall portion and a rear wall portion oriented relative to each other at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees; and an inner side having a front wall portion and a rear wall portion oriented relative to each other at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees, wherein the outer front wall portion is substantially parallel to the inner rear wall portion, and wherein the outer rear wall portion is substantially parallel to the inner front wall portion. Wherein, the outer front wall portion is configured to engage with the outer side wall of the groove and the inner rear wall portion is configured to engage with the inner side wall of the groove to define the inward angle adjustment limit of the second angle movement limit; and the outer rear wall portion is configured to engage with the outer side wall of the groove and the inner front wall portion is configured to engage with the inner side wall of the groove to define the outward angle adjustment limit of the second angle movement limit.

21. The arm assembly of claim 20, wherein the inward angle adjustment of the first member relative to the post and the outward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member together provide lateral inward width adjustment of the handrail.

22. The arm assembly of claim 20, wherein the outward angle adjustment of the first member relative to the post and the inward angle adjustment of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member together provide lateral outward width adjustment of the handrail.

23. The arm assembly of claim 20, wherein the outer housing is angularly adjustable relative to the inner column member about the first substantially vertical axis within the first angular movement limits.

24. The arm assembly of claim 20, comprising a first friction device associated with the upper angle stop, wherein the first friction device is configured to provide a first frictional force that must be overcome by a user to slide translationally and angularly adjust the armrest relative to the first member.

25. The arm assembly of claim 24, wherein the first friction device includes a biasing device that biases the sliding plate into contact with the upper angle stop to provide the first frictional force.

26. The arm assembly of claim 25, further comprising an adjuster for adjusting the first frictional force provided by the first friction device.

27. The arm assembly of claim 20, wherein the periphery of the upper angle stop is configured such that the maximum outward angle of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member is adjusted to approximately 21 degrees from the midpoint of the handrail relative to the first member.

28. The arm assembly of claim 20, wherein the periphery of the upper angle stop is configured such that the maximum inward angle of the front end of the handrail relative to the first member is adjusted to approximately 10 degrees from the midpoint of the handrail relative to the first member.

29. The arm assembly according to any one of claims 20-28, comprising a second friction device configured to provide a second frictional force that must be overcome by a user to adjust the first member at an angle relative to the column.

30. The arm assembly of claim 29, wherein the second friction device includes a biasing device to bias a portion of the first member into contact with the post, thereby providing the second frictional force.

31. The arm assembly of claim 20, wherein the component keyed to the first member and mounted on the post includes a lower angle stop positioned at the first substantially vertical axis, wherein the lower angle stop is configured to limit the first angular movement limit.

32. The arm assembly of claim 31, wherein the lower angle stop is configured such that the maximum outward angle of the first member relative to the post is adjusted to approximately 10 degrees from the midpoint of the first member relative to the post.

33. The arm assembly of claim 31 or 32, wherein the lower angle stop is configured such that the maximum inward angle of the first member relative to the post is adjusted to approximately 45 degrees from the midpoint of the first member relative to the post.

34. The arm assembly of claim 20, wherein the housing is telescopically arranged to slidably receive the column, such that the height of the first member is adjustable relative to the column.

35. The arm assembly of claim 34, wherein: The housing includes a plurality of recesses arranged inside the housing and provided along its length; The inner pillar member includes a locking member biased to engage with one of the plurality of recesses of the outer casing to lock the position of the outer casing relative to the inner pillar member; and The housing includes a release member operably connected to an actuator and having a plurality of recesses with a plurality of raised surfaces between the recesses. The release member is slidably movable relative to the housing body between a first position and a second position. In the first position, at least one recess in the release member is aligned with at least one recess in the housing body, and the locking member engages at least one recess in the housing body to inhibit telescopic movement of the housing body relative to the inner pillar member. In the second position, one or more raised surfaces of the release member are aligned with the one or more recesses of the housing body to remove the locking member from engagement with the one or more recesses and to provide a surface on which the locking member can slide to enable relative movement between the housing body and the inner pillar member.

36. The arm assembly of claim 35, comprising a locking housing carrying the locking member, the locking housing being rotatably mounted to the inner post member and keyed to the outer housing to suppress relative rotation between the locking housing and the outer housing, such that when the first member is angled relative to the post, the locking housing is angled accordingly relative to the post.

37. The arm assembly of claim 36, further comprising a damping device located between the outer housing and the inner column member, the damping device being configured to suppress lateral movement of the first member relative to the column.

38. The arm assembly of claim 37, wherein the damping device includes at least one first biasing member and at least one second biasing member, the first biasing member extending between the inner walls of the locking housing and the outer housing, the second biasing member extending between the inner pillar member and the inner wall of the outer housing, the at least one and the first biasing members being spaced apart in a vertical direction.

39. A chair comprising the arm assemblies of any one of claims 1-38.

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