Seat and chair

Abstract

A seat and chair are described. The seat includes a base, a chassis attached to the base, a seat frame, a seat, and a backrest. The seat is pivotably attached to the seat frame. The backrest is pivotably attached to the seat frame. A first swing arm has a top end pivotably attached to the chassis at a first fixed pivot joint and a bottom end pivotably attached to the seat frame at a first floating pivot joint. A second swing arm has a top end pivotably attached to the chassis at a second fixed pivot joint and a bottom end pivotably attached to the seat frame at a second floating pivot joint. The seat frame is capable of swinging relative to the chassis in a fore-aft direction of the seat.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the applicant’s patent application No. 201910292771.5 entitled “Sports Chair”, filed on April 12, 2019. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to furniture, particularly to seating, and more particularly to upholstered chairs for home or hospitality purposes, which are movable between multiple positions. Background Technology

[0003] When looking for upholstered seating, there are traditionally three main options for home furnishing. The first is fixed seating. Fixed chairs have been around for centuries, with diverse designs to suit different homeowners' aesthetic preferences. However, fixed chairs often fail to meet more modern comfort requirements when used continuously for extended periods.

[0004] The second and third types of upholstered chairs, rocking sofas, and recliners can be combined to form the category of exercise seating, designed to allow for at least two different positions. Rocking sofas, which may include rocking chairs, are designed to receive the user and are capable of rocking forward and backward. Typically, in rocking sofas or rocking chairs, the angle between the seat cushion and the backrest is fixed. Rocking motion has been shown to provide several physical and mental health benefits, including increased balance, improved muscle tone, and pain management / relief. Rocking is also known to help relieve colic in infants.

[0005] On the other hand, reclining furniture allows for adjustment of the angle between the seat and back cushions, enabling users to assume a tilted position, typically through a footrest extending from beneath the recliner. Reclining reduces the load on the spine and surrounding muscles, allowing for rest and promoting relaxation. However, recliners generally do not offer the swaying motion achievable with swinging sofas. Furthermore, while powered recliners typically offer stepless adjustment of the tilt angle, these seats do not naturally adapt to the user as they move within the chair.

[0006] There is a need for a type of seating, particularly an upholstered chair for home or reception settings, that can naturally adapt to the user’s position without complex motors or actuators, while combining the benefits of reclining furniture and swing armchairs. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In an embodiment of the invention, the seat includes a base frame, a seat frame, a seat cushion, a backrest, a first swing arm, and a second swing arm. The seat cushion is pivotally attached to the seat frame, and the backrest is pivotally attached to the seat frame. The first swing arm has a top end and a bottom end. The top end is pivotally attached to the base frame at a first fixed pivot joint, and the bottom end is pivotally attached to the seat frame at a first floating pivot joint. The second swing arm has a top end and a bottom end. The top end is pivotally attached to the base frame at a second fixed pivot joint, and the bottom end is pivotally attached to the seat frame at a second floating pivot joint, such that the seat frame can swing relative to the base frame along the fore-and-aft direction of the seat.

[0008] In one embodiment, the first swing arm is located in front of the second swing arm. The distance between the first fixed pivot joint and the first floating pivot joint may be greater than the distance between the second pivot point and the second floating pivot joint. A predetermined distance between the first and second fixed pivot points may be greater than a predetermined distance between the first and second floating pivot joints.

[0009] In some embodiments, the seat frame has foremost and rearmost positions relative to the base frame. The seat frame may be biased toward the foremost position. The seat may include a spring configured to bias the seat frame toward the foremost position.

[0010] In some embodiments, the seat includes a damper configured to limit the oscillating movement of the seat frame relative to the base in at least one direction. The damper may include a stop and a cushioning member. The cushioning member may be formed of an elastic material and may include a hollow portion having a convex outer wall. The convex outer wall may be configured to be reversed by the stop to slow the movement of the seat frame in at least one direction. The cushioning member may define an aperture configured to receive bolts for attaching the cushioning member to the base. This aperture may be offset from the centerline of the cushioning member. The centerline may be parallel to the fore-aft direction of the seat. The cushioning member may be mounted to the base such that its peripheral wall, which does not contact the stop, can deform to further absorb energy from the stop.

[0011] In a specific embodiment, the backrest is pivotally attached to the seat frame via a pivot assembly. The pivot assembly can be biased toward an upright position.

[0012] In one embodiment, the seat includes a resilient hinge formed as a single piece from a resilient polymer. The seat cushion can be pivotally attached to a seat frame via the resilient hinge. The resilient hinge may have a neutral position and may include a first pair of abutting surfaces configured to control a range of motion relative to the neutral position in a first direction. The resilient hinge may include a second pair of abutting surfaces configured to control a range of motion relative to the neutral position in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The resilient hinge may be attached to the seat frame such that the first direction is a rearward direction and the second direction is a forward direction. The range of motion relative to the neutral position in the rearward direction may be smaller than the range of motion relative to the neutral position in the forward direction.

[0013] In some embodiments, the resilient hinge may include an upper surface attached to the seat frame and a lower surface attached to the seat cushion. In the neutral position, the upper surface may form an angle between 5 and 15 degrees with the lower surface.

[0014] In a particular embodiment, the seat includes a base to which a frame is attached. The base may be configured to allow the frame to rotate relative to the base about a vertical axis. The seat cushion may be movable relative to the seat frame, the backrest may be movable relative to the seat frame, and / or the seat frame may be movable relative to the frame without a motor.

[0015] In another embodiment of the invention, the seat includes a base frame, a seat frame, a seat cushion, a backrest, and a resilient hinge. The seat frame is attached to the base frame, and the seat cushion and backrest are each attached to the seat frame. The resilient hinge is formed as a single piece from an elastic polymer. The seat cushion and / or backrest are pivotally attached to the seat frame via the resilient hinge.

[0016] In one embodiment, the seat cushion is pivotally attached to the seat frame via a resilient hinge, and the backrest is pivotally attached to the seat frame via another resilient hinge.

[0017] In some embodiments, the resilient hinge has a neutral position and includes a first pair and a second pair of abutting surfaces. The first pair of abutting surfaces can be configured to control a range of motion relative to the neutral position in a first direction. The second pair of abutting surfaces can be configured to control a range of motion relative to the neutral position in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The resilient hinge can connect a seat frame and a seat cushion such that the first direction is a rearward direction and the second direction is a forward direction. The range of motion relative to the neutral position in the rearward direction can be smaller than the range of motion relative to the neutral position in the forward direction.

[0018] In some embodiments, the seat frame is connected to the base frame via a front joint and a rear joint. Each of the front and rear joints may be selected from the group consisting of a combination of swing arms, rollers, and tracks. The seat frame may be able to swing relative to the base frame in the fore-and-aft direction of the seat. The front joint may include a front swing arm, and the rear joint may include a rear swing arm. The front swing arm may have a top end pivotally attached to the base frame at a first fixed pivot joint and a bottom end pivotally attached to the seat frame at a first floating pivot joint. The rear swing arm may have a top end pivotally attached to the base frame at a second fixed pivot joint and a bottom end pivotally attached to the seat frame at a second floating pivot joint.

[0019] In another embodiment, the seat includes a base frame, a seat frame, a seat cushion, a backrest, and a damper. The seat frame is engaged with the base frame and is capable of swinging relative to the base frame along the fore-and-aft direction of the seat. The seat cushion is attached to the seat frame, and the backrest is attached to the seat frame. The damper is configured to limit the swinging motion of the seat frame relative to the base frame in at least one direction. The damper includes a stop and a cushion. The cushion is formed of an elastic material and includes a hollow portion with a convex outer wall configured to be reversed by the stop to slow the movement of the seat frame in at least one direction.

[0020] In one embodiment, the cushioning member includes a defined aperture through which a bolt is configured to receive a bolt for attaching the cushioning member to the base frame. This aperture may be offset from the centerline of the cushioning member. The centerline may be parallel to the fore-aft direction of the seat. The cushioning member may be mounted to the base frame such that its outer peripheral wall, which does not contact the stop member, can deform to further absorb energy from the stop member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the seat frame has a foremost position and a rearmost position relative to the base frame. The seat may include a spring that biases the seat frame toward the foremost position. In the rearmost position, a stop may engage a cushioning member. The seat may be pivotally attached to the seat via a resilient hinge. The resilient hinge may be formed as a single piece from a resilient polymer.

[0022] In some embodiments, the seat frame is connected to the base frame via a front joint and a rear joint, the front and rear joints being configured to facilitate swinging motion. Each of the front and rear joints is selectable from the group comprising a swing arm, rollers, and a track assembly. The seat frame may be capable of swinging motion relative to the base frame in the fore-and-aft direction of the seat. The front joint may include a front swing arm, and the rear joint may include a rear swing arm. The front swing arm may have a top end pivotally attached to the base frame at a first fixed pivot joint and a bottom end pivotally attached to the seat frame at a first floating pivot joint. The rear swing arm may have a top end pivotally attached to the base frame at a second fixed pivot joint and a bottom end pivotally attached to the seat frame at a second floating pivot joint.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, a seat is provided, comprising:

[0024] Base frame;

[0025] Seat frame;

[0026] A seat cushion that is pivotally attached to the seat frame;

[0027] A backrest, which is pivotally attached to the seat frame;

[0028] A first swing arm has a top end and a bottom end, the top end being pivotally attached to the base frame at a first fixed pivot joint, and the bottom end being pivotally attached to the seat frame at a first floating pivot joint; and

[0029] The second swing arm has a top end and a bottom end, the top end being pivotally attached to the base frame at a second fixed pivot joint, and the bottom end being pivotally connected to the seat frame at a second floating pivot joint, such that the seat frame can swing relative to the base frame in the fore-and-aft direction of the seat.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first swing arm is located in front of the second swing arm, and the distance between the first fixed pivot joint and the first floating pivot joint is greater than the distance between the second fixed pivot joint and the second floating pivot joint.

[0031] In some embodiments, the predetermined distance between the first and second fixed pivot joints is greater than the predetermined distance between the first and second floating pivot joints.

[0032] In some embodiments, the seat frame has a foremost and a rearmost position relative to the base frame, and the seat frame is offset toward the foremost position.

[0033] In some embodiments, the seat further includes a spring configured to bias the seat frame to the foremost position.

[0034] In some embodiments, the seat further includes a damper configured to limit the swing motion of the seat frame relative to the base in at least one direction. The damper includes: a stop; and a buffer formed of an elastic material and including a hollow portion having a convex outer wall configured to be reversed by the stop to slow the movement of the seat frame in that at least one direction.

[0035] In some embodiments, the buffer member defines an aperture configured to receive bolts for attaching the buffer member to the base frame.

[0036] The aperture is offset from the centerline of the cushion, which is parallel to the fore-aft direction of the seat.

[0037] In some embodiments, the buffer is mounted to the base frame such that its outer peripheral wall, which does not contact the stop, can deform to further absorb energy from the stop.

[0038] In some embodiments, the backrest is pivotally attached to the seat frame via a pivot assembly, wherein the pivot assembly is biased toward an upright position.

[0039] In some embodiments, the seat further includes a resilient hinge formed from a resilient polymer as a single piece, through which the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the seat frame.

[0040] In some embodiments, the resilient hinge has a neutral position, wherein the resilient hinge includes a first pair of abutting surfaces configured to control a range of motion relative to the neutral position in a first direction, and wherein the resilient hinge includes a second pair of abutting surfaces configured to control a range of motion relative to the neutral position in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0041] In some embodiments, the resilient hinge is attached to the seat frame such that the first direction is a rearward direction and the second direction is a forward direction, wherein the range of motion in the rearward direction relative to the neutral position is smaller than the range of motion in the forward direction relative to the neutral position.

[0042] In some embodiments, the resilient hinge includes an upper surface attached to the seat frame and a lower surface attached to the seat cushion, wherein in the neutral position, the upper surface and the lower surface form an angle between 5 and 15 degrees.

[0043] In some embodiments, the seat further includes a base to which the base frame is attached.

[0044] In some embodiments, the base is configured to allow the frame to rotate about a vertical axis relative to the base.

[0045] In some embodiments, the seat cushion is movable relative to the seat frame, the backrest is movable relative to the seat frame, and the seat frame is movable relative to the base frame, without the need for a motor.

[0046] According to another aspect of the present invention, a seat is provided, comprising:

[0047] Base frame;

[0048] Seat frame, which is attached to the base frame;

[0049] A seat cushion, which is attached to the seat frame;

[0050] Backrest, which is attached to the seat frame; and

[0051] An elastic hinge, formed from an elastic polymer as a single piece, allows at least one of the seat cushions or backrests to be pivotally attached to the seat frame via the elastic hinge.

[0052] In some embodiments, the resilient hinge has a neutral position.

[0053] The resilient hinge includes a first pair of abutting surfaces configured to control the range of motion in a first direction relative to the neutral position.

[0054] The elastic hinge includes a second pair of adjacent surfaces configured to control the range of motion relative to the neutral position in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0055] In some embodiments, the resilient hinge is attached between the seat frame and the seat cushion such that the first direction is rearward and the second direction is forward.

[0056] The range of motion in the backward direction relative to the neutral position is smaller than the range of motion in the forward direction relative to the neutral position.

[0057] In some embodiments, the seat frame is connected to the base frame via a front connector and a rear connector.

[0058] Each of the aforementioned front and rear joints is selected from a group consisting of a swing arm, rollers, and a track.

[0059] The seat frame is capable of swinging relative to the base frame in the fore-and-aft direction of the seat.

[0060] In some embodiments, the front connector includes a front control arm, and the rear connector includes a rear control arm.

[0061] The front swing arm has a first fixed pivot joint pivotally attached to the top of the base frame and a first floating pivot joint pivotally attached to the bottom of the seat frame, and the rear swing arm has a second fixed pivot joint pivotally attached to the top of the base frame and a second floating pivot joint pivotally attached to the bottom of the seat frame.

[0062] According to another aspect of the present invention, a seat is provided, comprising:

[0063] Base frame;

[0064] A seat frame that engages with the base frame and is capable of swinging relative to the base frame in the fore-and-aft direction of the seat;

[0065] Seat cushion, which is attached to the seat frame; and

[0066] Backrest, which is attached to the seat frame; and

[0067] A damper, configured to limit the swing motion of the seat frame relative to the base frame in at least one direction, includes:

[0068] Stops; and

[0069] A cushioning element, formed of an elastic material and comprising a hollow portion having a convex outer wall configured to be reversed by a stop to slow the movement of the seat frame in at least one direction.

[0070] In some embodiments, the buffer includes a defined aperture therethrough, the aperture being configured to receive a bolt for attaching the buffer to the base frame.

[0071] The aperture is offset from the centerline of the cushion, which is parallel to the fore-aft direction of the seat.

[0072] In some embodiments, the buffer is mounted to the base frame such that its outer peripheral wall, which does not contact the stop, can deform to further absorb energy from the stop.

[0073] In some embodiments, the seat frame has foremost and rearmost positions relative to the base frame.

[0074] The springs bias the seat frame toward its forwardmost position, and

[0075] The stop member at the last position engages with the buffer member.

[0076] In some embodiments, the seat is pivotally attached to the seat frame via a resilient hinge formed as a single piece from a resilient polymer.

[0077] In some embodiments, the seat frame is connected to the base frame via a front joint and a rear joint, the front joint and the rear joint being configured to facilitate swinging motion.

[0078] Each joint is selected from a combination of a swing arm, rollers, and a track.

[0079] The seat frame is capable of swinging relative to the base frame in the fore-and-aft direction of the seat.

[0080] In some embodiments, the front connector includes a front control arm, and the rear connector includes a rear control arm.

[0081] The front swing arm has a first fixed pivot joint pivotally attached to the top of the base frame and a first floating pivot joint pivotally attached to the bottom of the seat frame, and the rear swing arm has a second fixed pivot joint pivotally attached to the top of the base frame and a second floating pivot joint pivotally attached to the bottom of the seat frame.

[0082] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the following description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. Attached Figure Description

[0083] Figure 1 This is a chair according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the interior components of the chair.

[0085] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Detailed perspective view of the selected component.

[0086] Figure 4 This is a schematic side view of the chair in a neutral position according to the present invention.

[0087] Figure 5 This is a schematic side view of a chair in an inclined position according to the present invention.

[0088] Figure 6A , 6B Figures 6C and 6C show the successive positions of the damper.

[0089] Figure 7 This is a side view of an elastic hinge according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Figure 8 This is a schematic side view of the chair in the unfolded position according to the present invention.

[0091] Figure 9 This is a schematic side view of a chair in a neutral position according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Figure 10 This is a schematic side view of a chair in a neutral position according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Figure 11 This is a detailed side view of the base frame of the chair according to the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0094] The following description and accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention, wherein the same numerals refer to the same parts in several views. The described embodiments are provided as examples and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Other embodiments of the described embodiments, as well as the modifications and improvements described, will be conceived by those skilled in the art, and all such other embodiments, modifications, and improvements are within the scope of the invention. Features from one embodiment or aspect can be combined with features from any other embodiment or aspect in any suitable combination. For example, any individual or collective feature of a method aspect or embodiment can be applied to an apparatus, product, or component aspect or embodiment, and vice versa.

[0095] Figure 1 A seat or chair 10 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. As further described below, the chair 10 is designed to provide micro and macro levels of motion generated by the movement of the user's body. The chair 10 can then facilitate the user's movement to partially counteract the negative effects of sitting still. In one embodiment, the chair 10 is characterized by passive movement, i.e., the chair does not require a control interface to adjust the chair. The control interface may include a switch connected to a motor element. In other embodiments, the control interface may include a mechanical lever or latch associated with conventional reclining furniture. Alternatively, the chair 10 can be moved by the body mass of the seated person, the leverage from hand to armrest, and subtle variations in foot / leg thrust as input to the seated person.

[0096] Chair 10 may be of the type typically covered entirely or partially with leather or fabric seat covers, intended for use in home or reception environments, such as hotel or business reception areas. Chair 10 is shown supported by an optional swivel base 14, which allows chair 10 to rotate about a vertical axis perpendicular to the ground on which the chair rests. The vertical axis is... Figure 1 The Z-axis is shown in the figure. For clarity, the movement permitted by the optional rotating base 14 will be ignored for the remainder of the invention. Alternatively, a fixed base (not shown), such as a pedestal or multiple legs, may be provided to support the chair 10 on the ground.

[0097] By omitting the optional rotating base 14, the chair 10 can be described as having a fixed assembly 20 that is stationary relative to the ground. The fixed assembly 20 may include a base fixed to the frame 28. Figure 2 The chair 10 also includes a pair of arms 24. The chair 10 further includes a motion component 30 capable of moving relative to the fixed component 20, and therefore capable of moving relative to the ground. The motion component 30 includes a seat cushion 32 and a backrest 34.

[0098] The base 28 may include a base plate for mounting to an optional rotating base 14, and a pair of side flanges formed together with or attached to the base plate. In cases where the flanges are separate from the base plate or attached to the base plate, for example by multiple bolts, thin gaskets made of rubber or even paper may be provided to prevent metal-to-metal contact.

[0099] As discussed in further detail below, the motion component 30 is configured to allow one or more types of movement relative to the ground and the fixed component 20. Allowed movement may include a swaying motion of one or both of the seat cushion 32 and the backrest 34. As used herein, "swaying motion" is a movement that provides at least some translational amount along the fore-and-aft direction of the chair 10. The fore-and-aft direction corresponds to the X-axis, such as... Figure 1 As shown.

[0100] Permitted movements may also include rotational movement of one or both of the seat cushion 32 and backrest 34 relative to the fixed component 20 or relative to each other. As used herein, “rotational movement” is a movement that provides angular movement about an axis of rotation, as if about a pin. Rotational movement itself does not provide translation. In the embodiments shown herein, each axis of rotation is substantially perpendicular to the front-back direction and arranged along a plane parallel to the ground. The axes of rotation generally extend parallel to the Y-axis, such as... Figure 1 As shown. In other embodiments, additional degrees of freedom may be provided to one or both of the seat cushion 32 and backrest 34 relative to the fixed component 20 or to each other by rotational movement about a rotational axis having a component in the front-back direction of the chair.

[0101] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to one embodiment of the invention, a selection of internal components of a chair 10 is shown. For the purpose of illustrating the chair 10 ( Figure 1 The purpose of the moving parts has been... Figure 2 and 3 Some components are omitted, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, the rotating base 14, seat cushion 32, backrest 34, and arm 24 are each omitted. Those skilled in the art will understand that the arm 24, seat cushion 32, and backrest 34 can be attached directly or indirectly to the illustrated components by support rods, bolts, and other conventional methods. In the example shown, essentially the entire motion assembly 30 is enclosed under the seat and within the periphery of the backrest 34. In the example shown, when viewed from above, no moving parts are positioned outside the periphery of the seat cushion 32 and backrest 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the moving parts are not enclosed within the thickness of the arm 24 (…). Figure 1 In other embodiments, the thickness of arm 24 can be used to conceal moving parts, such as parts provided to facilitate swinging, as described below.

[0102] The motion component 30 includes a seat cushion 32 and a backrest 34. Figure 1 This component can be independently attached to the seat or chair frame 40. The chair frame 40 may include a pair of main links 44 located on either side (each side) of the base frame 28. A front spanner bar 48 may be connected to the pair of main links 44 near the front, and a rear spanner bar 52 may be connected to the pair of main links near the rear. The chair frame 40 may also include a backrest support portion 56 configured to support the backrest 34 ( Figure 1 ).exist Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the backrest support portion 56 is separable from the main link 44, allowing the backrest 34 to be detached from the chair 10 for transport. In other embodiments, the main link 44 may be integrally formed with the backrest support portion 56.

[0103] The chair frame 40 is attached to the base frame 28 and configured to allow the chair frame 40 to swing relative to the base frame, and thus allow swinging between the fixed component 20 and the moving component 30. Figure 1 ).

[0104] refer to Figure 4 The swing motion between the base frame 28 and the chair frame 40 can be facilitated by the front swing arm 60 and the rear swing arm 64 on each main link 44. The tip of the front swing arm 60 is pivotally attached to the base frame 28 at a front fixed pivot joint 68, and the bottom end of the front swing arm is pivotally attached to the main link 44 at a front floating pivot joint 72. The tip of the rear swing arm 64 is pivotally attached to the base frame 28 at a rear fixed pivot joint 76, and the bottom end of the rear swing arm is pivotally attached to the main link 44 at a rear floating pivot joint 80. The configuration shown results in the chair frame 40 being suspended relative to the base frame 28, which allows gravity-assisted swing motion of the chair frame.

[0105] from Figure 2 and 3 It should be understood that there can be two sets of swing arms 60 and 64, one set for each main link 44. To help maintain the timing of the swing of the two main links 44, a tension rod 84 can be used to connect the two front swing arms 60. The tension rod 84 increases the rigidity of the structure and prevents torsional or shearing motion, known as racking, between the pair of main links 44.

[0106] return Figure 4 The front and rear swing arms 60 and 64, together with the main link 44 and the base frame 28, form a four-bar system 90. The lengths of each swing arm 60 and 64 between its respective fixed and floating pivot joints, the predetermined interval between the fixed pivot joints 68 and 76, and the predetermined interval between the floating pivot joints 72 and 80 are all combined to limit the swinging motion of the chair frame 40 relative to the base frame 28.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, the front swing arm 60 is approximately 8.7 cm long, the rear swing arm 64 is approximately 6 cm long, the fixed pivot joints 68 and 76 are spaced approximately 19 cm apart, and the floating pivot joints 72 and 80 are spaced approximately 14 cm apart. The exemplary embodiment can be more generally represented as follows: the front swing arm 60 is longer than the rear swing arm 64 when measured between the pivot joints, and the distance between the fixed pivot joints 68 and 76 is greater than the distance between the floating pivot joints 72 and 80. The exemplary embodiment can be further generalized as swing arms of different lengths that are not parallel to each other, as defined by the segments of the pivot joints that respectively connect the swing arms.

[0108] It has been found that the example geometry provides favorable swaying motion of the chair frame 40 relative to the base frame 28. The swaying motion of the illustrated embodiment is designed to provide a significant rocking component, wherein the angle between the seat cushion 32 and the backrest 34 remains constant, while the front end of the seat is raised and the top of the backrest 34 is lowered. Thus, although the four-bar system 90 is described herein as providing swaying motion, a seated person can experience a much stronger sensation associated with rocking backward on the back legs of a conventional fixed chair compared to the clearly perceived forward and backward translational motion.

[0109] Figure 4 A chair frame 40 in a neutral position is shown. The neutral position can also be referred to as the upright position. The neutral position is the position of the chair frame 40 relative to the base frame 28 when the user is not seated in the chair 10. In the neutral position, the chair frame 40 may be in its foremost position or near its foremost position relative to the base frame 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the foremost position of the chair frame 40 relative to the base frame 28 is limited by contact between the front swing arm 60 and a front stop 92 attached to or formed together with the base frame 28. The front stop 92 may include a rubber damper or other structures known in the field of motion furniture to reduce noise and absorb shock while restricting the movement of moving parts. When moving backward, the chair frame 40 can be repositioned by a return spring 94 (…). Figure 2 It is biased toward a neutral position.

[0110] Chair 10 is designed to maintain balance in a neutral position with and without a user. This balance occurs because chair 10 is designed to position the seated person's center of gravity CG substantially vertically aligned with the balance point B of the motion mechanism 30 when the seated person assumes an active upright posture. The four-bar system 90 is also designed to maintain the substantial vertical alignment of the center of gravity CG and the balance point B during the first portion of the backward swing of the four-bar system 90, even as the front of the seat cushion 32 rises and the top of the backrest 34 lowers.

[0111] Figure 5The chair frame 40 is shown in an inclined position. The inclined position shown corresponds to the rearmost position of the chair frame 40 relative to the base frame 28. Although the first part of the four-bar system 90 swinging backward from the neutral position may be unstable, biasing the motion mechanism 30 back to the neutral position, the rearmost position of the chair frame 40 shown provides a stable eccentric position for the chair frame 40, in which a seated person can comfortably remain in the position shown. In the eccentric position, the seated person's raised pelvis and lowered limbs significantly shift the center of gravity CG behind the balance point B. The chair frame 40 can gently reach the rearmost position by means of a damper 100 including a stop 104 connected to the main link 44 and a buffer 108 attached to the base frame 28.

[0112] Figures 6A-6C Top views of the damper 100 in the separated position, the first damped position, and the second damped position are shown respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, the stop 104 is a rigid member, such as aluminum. The stop 104 includes an actuating portion 112, and the rear distal end 116 of the stop has a rounded convex surface profile configured to contact the buffer 108. The curved shape of the distal end 116 helps to prevent wear on the buffer 108. The geometry of the distal end 116 is also chosen to be substantially consistent with the configuration adopted by the buffer 108 when it contacts the stop 104.

[0113] The cushioning element 108 can be a monolithic component formed of a highly elastic material, such as an elastomer polymer, for example, available from DuPont. 5556. The single component may have an attachment portion 120 configured to connect the buffer 108 to the base 28. The attachment portion 120 may include a bore 124 for receiving bolts. In one embodiment, the bore 124 is offset from the central axis C of the buffer 108. The central axis C of the buffer 108 may bisect the surface of the distal end 116 of the stop 104. The single component may also have a head portion 130. The head portion 130 is designed to be hollow. The head portion 130 is oval or elliptical, providing an initially raised outer receiving wall 134.

[0114] like Figure 6B As shown, the rear distal end 116 of the stop 104 is arranged to press against the receiving wall 134. The force applied by the stop 104 is designed to invert the receiving wall 134 into a concave shape corresponding to the shape of the rear distal end 116 of the stop. The inversion of the receiving wall 134 absorbs energy and prolongs the impact time, thus more slowly limiting the rearward movement of the chair frame 40 relative to the base frame 28. Figure 5 ).

[0115] like Figure 6CAs shown, the damper 100 provides a second stage, namely a soft stop to the movement of the chair frame 40, because the buffer 108 is elastic. Even after the receiving wall 134 reverses, the buffer 108 can further absorb energy through further deformation. The buffer 108 is mounted to the base frame 28 in a manner that allows at least one peripheral wall 138 of the attachment portion 120 to deform as the stop 104 continues to impact the buffer.

[0116] When the chair frame 40 is released in the forward direction, the elastic properties of the material forming the receiving wall 134 tend to cause the receiving wall to return to its natural convex shape.

[0117] In order to move the seated person from Figure 5 The tilt position returns Figure 4 In a neutral position, a seated person can shift their center of mass by lifting their lower legs, as indicated by arrow L. This movement of the seated person's body allows the motion mechanism 30 to respond by pivoting in the forward direction. Similarly, a seated person can use their core muscles or by pulling forward on the arm of chair 10 to lift their head and torso, as indicated by arrow T. This movement of the seated person's body can also generate the necessary mass movement to utilize leverage to cause the mechanism to respond by pivoting in the forward direction.

[0118] return Figure 2 and 3 According to an embodiment of the invention, the chair 10 can be configured for relative movement other than the relative movement provided between the chair frame 40 and the base 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat cushion 32 is attached to the chair frame 40 by one or more resilient hinges 150, which allow rotational movement between the seat cushion 32 and the chair frame 40. The movement of the seat cushion 32 relative to the chair frame 40 can be relatively independent of the movement between the chair frame and the base 28. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of resilient hinges 150 are mounted on the front lever 48 for supporting the seat cushion 32. Figure 1 ).

[0119] like Figure 4 As shown, the rotation axis R of the elastic hinge 150 is positioned in front of the center of gravity CG of the person sitting in the chair 10 in a neutral position.

[0120] Figure 7A detailed side view of the resilient hinge 150 in its neutral position is shown. The neutral position is defined by the natural state of the resilient hinge 150 when not subjected to external forces on the chair. The resilient hinge 150 may have a bottom surface 154 attached to the chair frame 40 to allow it to follow its swinging motion. The resilient hinge 150 also includes a top surface 158 opposite to the bottom surface 154 and configured to directly or indirectly support the seat cushion 32. In the neutral position, an angle α is defined between the top surface 154 and the bottom surface 158. When the user is not in the chair, angle α may define the angle of the seat cushion 32 relative to the ground, either wholly or partially. When the chair 10 is upright, the seat cushion 32 may be advantageously positioned such that the front of the seat is higher than the rear of the seat by an angle between approximately 5 and approximately 15 degrees relative to the ground. Therefore, the angle α between the top surface 154 and the bottom surface 158 of the resilient hinge 150 may also be configured to be between approximately five and approximately fifteen degrees in the neutral position.

[0121] The resilient hinge 150 is configured as a solid hinge, designed as a single piece to replace multiple component assemblies. The resilient hinge 150 is made of an elastic material capable of bending under external force and returning to its initial position when the force is removed. In one embodiment, the resilient hinge 150 is made of a hyperelastic material, such as an elastomeric polymer, for example, available from DuPont. 7246. It may be preferred because it has superelasticity and creep resistance, which allows the elastic hinge 150 to continue to return to the neutral position after a large number of use cycles.

[0122] The flexible hinge 150 can be formed from a single-piece structure using processes such as injection molding or additive manufacturing.

[0123] Figure 7 The resilient hinge 150 includes an upper mass 162 and a lower mass 166 integrally connected by a web 170. The web 170 extends along the thickness direction of the resilient hinge 150 and defines a rotation axis R extending along the web, such that the upper mass 162 can pivot about the rotation axis R relative to the lower mass 166 when the material of the web bends. The resilient material forming the web 170 stores energy as it bends under the action of an external force. Therefore, the web 170 acts like a spring, returning the resilient hinge 150 to a neutral position after the external force is reduced or removed. The resilient material of the web 170 also provides substantially rotational motion without rigid pins, contributing to softer, smoother movement.

[0124] To control the amplitude of the pivoting motion between the upper mass block 162 and the lower mass block 166, each mass block is provided with a front adjacent surface 174U, 174L and a rear adjacent surface 178U, 178L. Relative to... Figure 7 In the neutral position shown, rearward pivoting is restricted when the rear abutment surfaces 178U and 178L contact each other. Forward pivoting is restricted relative to the neutral position by contact between the front abutment surfaces 174U and 174L. In one embodiment, the permissible amount of rearward pivoting relative to the neutral position is less than the permissible amount of forward pivoting. In one example, the rear abutment surfaces 178U and 178L are spaced approximately 0.06 inches apart in the neutral position, allowing the seat cushion 32 to rotate approximately 1 degree rearward beyond the neutral position. In one embodiment, the front abutment surfaces 174U and 174L are spaced approximately 0.3 inches apart in the neutral position, allowing the seat cushion 32 to rotate approximately 20 degrees forward relative to the neutral position. In one embodiment, the permissible amount of forward pivoting of the seat cushion 32 is configured such that the seat can achieve a position substantially parallel to the ground. In another embodiment, the seat cushion 32 may be allowed to tilt forward relative to the ground.

[0125] return Figure 2 Further movement of the chair 10 can be provided using the pivot assembly 200 that attaches the backrest 34 to the chair frame 40. In some embodiments (see...) Figure 9 The pivot assembly 200 may be replaced by a resilient hinge 150. The pivot assembly 200 may be configured to allow rotational movement between the backrest 34 and the chair frame 40. The pivot axis P of the pivot assembly 200 is configured to be positioned approximately near the T10 and T11 vertebrae of the spine when an adult male is sitting upright in the chair 10.

[0126] In one embodiment, the pivot assembly 200 is a spring-biased pivot assembly that includes one or more torsion springs 204. The torsion springs 204 are configured to bias the backrest 34 to... Figure 4 The neutral, upright position is shown. The pivot assembly 200 may include a guide 208. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide 208 is configured to rotate with the backrest 34 and control the range of motion of the pivot assembly 200. The guide 208 includes a front pillar 212 and a rear pillar 216, each potentially equipped with a rubber bushing for damping and noise reduction. Pillars 212, 216 may be configured to contact the backrest support portion 56 to limit rotational movement of the backrest 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the neutral position of the pivot assembly 200 corresponds to the most upright position of the backrest 34, where the front pillar 212 engages with the backrest support portion 56.

[0127] Figure 8A chair 10 in its extended position is shown, including a backrest 34. In the extended position, a resilient hinge 150 can pivot forward as shown. In the extended position, a pivot assembly 200 can pivot rearward, wherein a rear support 216 engages with a backrest support portion 56. In one embodiment, a guide 208 is configured such that the pivot assembly 200 provides approximately twenty degrees of range of motion. This range is chosen because it allows the seated person to engage a wide range of backrest positions, from upright to reclined. These postures support activities that people frequently engage in while seated, from conversation, watching television, reading, and resting. The extended position can be achieved by the seated person opening their core muscles and stretching the distance between the seated person's knees and shoulders. The seated person can also press their hands back against arm 24 ( Figure 1 To help their core muscles.

[0128] Besides comparison Figure 4 , 5 In addition to the macroscopic posture adjustments shown in Figure 8, the pivot assembly 200 and the resilient hinge 150 also provide subtle microscopic posture changes to help continuously adjust the seat cushion 32 and backrest 34 to the posture of a seated person. For example, inhalation and exhalation can cause the chest to expand and contract, which can cause the pivot assembly 200 to pivot.

[0129] The user's ability to make the necessary macroscopic and microscopic postural adjustments is influenced by the center of gravity of the chair 10 and the user's center of gravity. The user's ability to exert pressure on the chair 10, as well as the user's overall height and weight, can lead to slight differences in the user's experience when sitting in the chair. For this reason, various aspects of the chair 10 can be adjusted to provide a chair 10 that meets the user's needs. For example, a user who is approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall may benefit more from a different sized chair than a user who is 6 inches tall or taller. Modifying the chair to fit a shorter user in a smaller chair may include reducing the height of the backrest 34, reducing the depth of the seat cushion 32, and reducing the height of the base frame 28 on the ground. Additionally, the armrests ( Figure 1 They can be mounted more tightly together to provide a narrower chair. In one embodiment, a weighted plate can be attached to the seat cushion 32 of the chair to provide greater personal balance to the chair 10 and help the chair return to a proper neutral position after the user leaves the chair.

[0130] Many of the aforementioned components and assemblies can be used individually in various chair embodiments to provide improved form and function compared to the prior art in terms of simplicity, manufacturability, durability, and cost. Using these individual components and assemblies, the perceived quality is improved due to lower noise, reduced swaying, and soft stopping. Examples of advantageous individual components and assemblies include a four-bar system 90, a damper 100, a resilient hinge 150, and a pivot assembly 200.

[0131] In addition, the aforementioned components and parts are combined, either wholly or partially, to form a motion chair 10 that allows the user to achieve a wide range of seating positions configured to be associated with human form as a result of the user’s actions and force, without the need for motors or other power mechanisms.

[0132] Figure 9 Another embodiment of chair 300 is shown, which has substantially the same function and form of movement as chair 10 described above. Chair 300 includes a resilient hinge 350, which replaces the pivoting mechanism 200. Figure 2 The seat cushion 32 and backrest 34 are supported. A front lever (not shown) of the chair 300 can be adjustably attached to the main link 344 of the chair frame 340. This adjustability allows the axis of rotation R of the seat cushion 32 to move relative to the user. This adjustment allows the chair to be finely adjusted to fit the user's body.

[0133] The chair 300 is most obviously different from... Figure 4 Chair 10, because the rear swing arm 64 in chair 300 is replaced by a track mechanism ( Figure 4 The main link 344 may include a roller 364 rotatably attached thereto. The base 328 is provided with a track 366 for slidably receiving the roller 364 therein. The track 366 may be a groove configured such that the roller 364 travels along a single fixed path along the track. The shape of the track 366 can be selected, with the intention that the path of the roller 364 will follow the same path as the rear floating pivot joint 80 of the chair 10. Figure 4 ).

[0134] Figure 10 A chair 400 according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown. Chair 400 uses a track mechanism instead of chair 10. Figure 4 The two swing arms 60, 64 are provided. The base frame 428 includes a front track 460 and a rear track 464. Each track may include a groove for receiving a respective roller 468 extending from the main link 444. Each roller 468 is slidably engaged within its respective track 460, 464 to follow a single fixed path of motion along the track.

[0135] like Figure 11 As may be best illustrated, the curves defined by the front track 460 and the rear track 464 can be intentionally different. The curve defined by each track can be specifically designed to mirror the curve defined by the chair 10. Figure 4 The oscillating motion generated by the floating pivot joints 72 and 80. Specifically, the two tracks 460 and 464 can define an arc, the radius of which and the center of curvature are selected to replicate the base frame 28. Figure 1 The relative positions of the fixed pivot joints 68 and 76. Furthermore, in Figure 11 In the diagram, the left side corresponds to the forward position, and the right side corresponds to the backward position. Therefore, tracks 460 and 464 show the chair frame 440 ( Figure 11 The backward movement of ) will cause the roller 468 to move upward. Figure 11 Then, those skilled in the art will understand that gravity will help to bias the rollers and thus cause the chair frame to return downward and forward toward the neutral position.

[0136] In chair 10 ( Figure 4 Another difference between ) and chair 400 is as follows Figure 10 As shown, the chair 400 can also replace the elastic hinge joints between the chair frame 440 and the seat cushion 32 and the backrest 34 with a pivot assembly 200 based on springs as discussed above with respect to the chair 10.

[0137] Although the above disclosure has been presented in the context of exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that modifications and variations may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope and range of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A seat, comprising: A base frame, the base frame including a pair of support members, each of the pair of support members having a flat surface opposite to the flat surface of the other support member of the pair of support members; A seat frame attached to the base frame, the seat frame including a pair of links located on each side of the base frame; A seat cushion, which is attached to the seat frame; A backrest, which is attached to the seat frame; A resilient hinge, formed as a single piece, pivotally connects the seat cushion or the backrest to the seat frame via the resilient hinge, the resilient hinge having a neutral position, wherein the resilient hinge includes a first pair of abutting surfaces configured to control a range of motion relative to the neutral position in a first direction, and the resilient hinge includes a second pair of abutting surfaces configured to control a range of motion relative to the neutral position in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

2. The seat according to claim 1, wherein the seat cushion and the backrest are attached to the base frame via a seat frame.

3. The seat according to claim 1, wherein each link of the pair of links has a flat surface opposite to the flat surface of the other link of the pair of links.

4. The seat according to claim 1, wherein the resilient hinge is formed of a resilient polymer.

5. The seat of claim 1, wherein the resilient hinge is attached between the seat frame and the seat cushion such that the first direction is a rearward direction and the second direction is a forward direction, wherein... The range of motion in the backward direction relative to the neutral position is smaller than the range of motion in the forward direction relative to the neutral position.

6. A seat, comprising: Base frame; A seat frame, the seat frame including a pair of links located on each side of the base frame, the pair of links being connected by a wrench lever extending between the pair of links; A seat cushion, which is attached to the seat frame; A backrest, which is attached to the seat frame; A flexible hinge, formed as a single piece, is provided, through which the seat cushion or the backrest is pivotally connected to the seat frame. The flexible hinge is directly fixed to the wrench lever. The flexible hinge includes a first pair of abutment surfaces and a second pair of abutment surfaces. The first pair of abutment surfaces is configured to control the range of motion of the seat cushion or the backrest relative to the seat frame in a first direction, and the second pair of abutment surfaces is configured to control the range of motion of the seat cushion or the backrest relative to the seat frame in a second direction.

7. A seat, comprising: Base frame; A seat frame including a pair of links on each side of the base frame, the seat frame being connected to the base frame via a front joint and a rear joint, wherein each of the front joint and the rear joint is selected from a group consisting of a swing arm, rollers and rails, and the seat frame is capable of swinging relative to the base frame in the fore-and-aft direction of the seat. A seat cushion, which is attached to the seat frame; A backrest, which is attached to the seat frame; A flexible hinge, wherein the flexible hinge is formed as a single piece, the flexible hinge comprising: A first mass block, the first mass block having a first pair of adjacent surfaces; A second mass block, the second mass block having a second pair of adjacent surfaces; and A web plate connects the first mass block and the second mass block, such that the first mass block and the second mass block are movable relative to each other. The seat cushion or the backrest is pivotally connected to the seat frame via the resilient hinge, and the pivoting of the seat cushion or the backrest is constrained by the engagement between the respective adjacent surfaces of the first mass block and the second mass block.

8. The seat of claim 7, wherein the front joint includes a front swing arm and the rear joint includes a rear swing arm, the front swing arm having a top end pivotally attached to the base frame at a first fixed pivot joint and a bottom end pivotally attached to the seat frame at a first floating pivot joint, and the rear swing arm having a top end pivotally attached to the base frame at a second fixed pivot joint and a bottom end pivotally attached to the seat frame at a second floating pivot joint.

9. A seat, comprising: Base frame; A seat frame attached to a base frame, the seat frame including a first link on a first side of the base frame and a second link on a second side of the base frame, such that the base frame is located between the first link and the second link, the seat frame including a wrench lever extending between the first link and the second link; A seat cushion, which is attached to the seat frame; A backrest, which is attached to the seat frame; and A flexible hinge, formed as a single piece, includes a lower mass block, an upper mass block, and a web, the web connecting the upper mass block to the lower mass block such that the upper and lower mass blocks are movable relative to each other, the seat cushion or the backrest being pivotally connected to the seat frame via the flexible hinge, the lower mass block of the flexible hinge being directly attached to the wrench lever.

10. The seat of claim 9, wherein the seat cushion and the backrest are attached to the base frame via a seat frame.

11. The seat of claim 9, wherein the first link has a first flat surface facing the base and the second link has a second flat surface facing the base and the first flat surface, and the wrench lever extends between the first flat surface and the second flat surface.

12. A seat, comprising: Base frame; frame; Seat cushion; and A first elastic hinge, wherein the first elastic hinge is formed as a solid hinge, comprising: A lower mass block, which is connected to the frame; Upper mass block; and A web plate connects the upper mass block to the lower mass block, such that the upper mass block and the lower mass block are movable relative to each other. The seat cushion is operably connected to the base frame via the first resilient hinge, such that the seat cushion is movable relative to the base frame.

13. The seat according to claim 12, wherein, The upper mass block includes a front adjacent surface and a rear adjacent surface, which are configured to constrain the movement of the seat cushion relative to the base frame.

14. The seat of claim 13, wherein the web is connected to the upper mass block between the front abutment surface and the rear abutment surface.

15. The seat of claim 13, wherein when the seat cushion moves rearward relative to the base frame, the web bends toward the rear adjacent surface, and in, As the seat cushion moves forward relative to the base frame, the web plate bends toward the front adjacent surface.

16. A seat, comprising: Base frame; frame; Seat cushion; and A first elastic hinge, wherein the first elastic hinge is formed as a solid hinge, comprising: Lower mass block; Upper mass block; and A web plate connects the upper mass block to the lower mass block, such that the upper mass block and the lower mass block are movable relative to each other. A backrest, which is attached to the frame via a second elastic hinge formed as a solid hinge. The seat cushion is operably connected to the base frame via the first resilient hinge, such that the seat cushion is movable relative to the base frame.

17. The seat of claim 16, wherein the frame includes a pair of planar links, and the first resilient hinge is attached to the frame between the pair of planar links.

18. A chair, comprising: Base frame; frame; A seat, the seat including a backrest, the seat or backrest being attached to the frame via a resilient hinge; and A first elastic hinge, the first elastic hinge being formed as a single piece, comprising: A first mass block, the first mass block having a front adjacent surface and a rear adjacent surface; A second mass block that is movable relative to the first mass block; and A web plate that connects the first mass block to the second mass block. The seat is operably connected to the base frame via the first elastic hinge, such that the seat is movable relative to the base frame, and the movement of the seat relative to the base frame is constrained by the front and rear adjacent surfaces of the first mass block.

19. The chair of claim 18, further comprising a second resilient hinge, wherein the seat or backrest is attached to the frame via the second resilient hinge, such that the seat and backrest move independently of each other relative to the base frame.

20. The chair of claim 18, wherein the seat is movable relative to the base frame between a neutral position, a forward position, and a rearward position. The movement of the seat toward the final position is constrained by the rear adjacent surface of the first elastic hinge, and The movement of the seat toward the foremost position is constrained by the front adjacent surface of the first elastic hinge.

21. The chair according to claim 18, wherein, The second mass block of the first elastic hinge is attached to the frame.

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