Chair and chair frame

Abstract

A chair includes a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an open position. The frame includes a front leg and at least one rear leg. The length of each front leg is independently adjustable between a first position and a second position that is longer than the first position. The chair includes a seat bottom held by a frame such that the angle of the seat bottom relative to the horizontal plane can be selectively adjusted between at least two different angles by adjusting the length of at least one front leg.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Portable chairs are well known for providing seating for outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, fishing, viewing events (e.g., sporting events, fireworks, concerts, air shows, fairs, etc.), bird watching, picnicking, etc. For example, folding chairs, commonly referred to as lawn chairs, fold about the length of an axis (e.g., fold approximately in half) to provide a portable chair that can be carried to the event location. Summary of the invention

[0002] The following is a simplified summary of the present disclosure to provide the reader with a basic understanding. This summary is not intended to identify the key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present a series of concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description later.

[0003] According to a first aspect, a chair is provided, comprising a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an unfolded position. The frame comprises front legs and at least one rear leg. The length of each front leg is independently adjustable between a first position and a second position, wherein the second position is longer than the first position. The chair comprises a seat bottom held by the frame such that an angle of the seat bottom relative to a horizontal plane can be selectively adjusted between at least two different angles by adjusting the length of at least one front leg.

[0004] According to a second aspect, a chair is provided, comprising a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an unfolded position. The frame comprises front legs and at least one rear leg. The length of each front leg is independently adjustable between at least two different lengths. The chair comprises a seat bottom held by the frame such that the angle of the seat bottom relative to a horizontal plane can be selectively adjusted between a first angle and a second angle by adjusting the length of at least one front leg. At least one of the first angle or the second angle extends obliquely relative to the horizontal plane.

[0005] According to a third aspect, a chair is provided, comprising a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an open position. The frame comprises front legs and at least one rear leg. The length of each front leg is independently adjustable between a first position and a second position, wherein the second position is longer than the first position. The front legs comprise leg members and feet retained at respective ends of the leg members such that the feet are configured to pivot relative to the respective leg members. The chair comprises a seat bottom retained by the frame such that the angle of the seat bottom relative to a horizontal plane can be selectively adjusted between at least two different angles by adjusting the length of at least one front leg.

[0006] Numerous of the accompanying features will be more readily understood by referring to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The present specification can be better understood by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary chair according to one embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A plan view of a chair is shown showing the chair in an open position according to one embodiment. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A front view of a chair is shown showing the chair in a folded position according to one embodiment. Figure 4 According to one embodiment Figures 1 to 3 An isometric view of the frame of the chair shown. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 An isometric view of the frame is shown illustrating the length of the front legs extended according to one embodiment. Figure 6 According to one embodiment Figure 1 and Figure 2 A front view of the chair shown placed on uneven ground. Figure 7 According to one embodiment Figure 1 and Figure 2 A side view of the chair shown placed on uneven ground. Figure 8 According to one embodiment Figure 1 and Figure 2 A side view of the chair shown placed on uneven ground.

[0008] In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] The detailed description provided below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended as a description of this example and is not intended to represent the only form of constructing or utilizing this example. This description sets forth the functions of the example and the order of operations for constructing and operating the example. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be implemented by different examples.

[0010] Although various spatial and directional terms (e.g., "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "above," "below," "vertical," "upward," etc.) are used to describe implementations of the present application, it should be understood that these terms are used only with respect to the orientations shown in the figures. These orientations can be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed so that the spatial and directional terms apply differently, for example, if the structure is flipped 180°: the top side becomes the bottom side; up becomes down; the left side becomes the right side; vice versa; and / or the like. In addition, for example, when the structure is rotated 90°, vertical can become horizontal.

[0011] Portable chairs are known to provide seating for outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, fishing, viewing events (e.g., sporting events, fireworks, concerts, air shows, fairs, etc.), bird watching, picnicking, etc. For example, folding chairs, commonly referred to as lawn chairs, fold about the length of an axis (e.g., folded approximately in half) to provide a portable chair that can be carried to an event location. However, they have the disadvantage of not being able to accommodate inclined and uneven support surfaces that are often encountered outdoors. For example, it may be difficult for a hunter to maintain a desired orientation of a scope while on uneven ground (e.g., while sitting in the chair for a period of time).

[0012] Certain embodiments provide a chair in which the length of each front leg of the chair is independently adjustable between at least two different lengths. The adjustability of the front legs enables the chair to adapt to uneven ground (e.g., terrain, etc.) (e.g., to be used as a chair, to provide a seat, to support a seated person, etc.). In addition, for example, the adjustability of the front legs enables the angle of the bottom of the seat of the chair to be selectively adjusted between at least two different angles. The length of the front legs can be adjusted to select the orientation of the bottom of the seat to provide a predetermined sitting position. For example, the orientation of the bottom of the seat can be selected to provide a sitting position so that the hunter can more easily keep the sight in a desired orientation (e.g., horizontal, etc.) on uneven ground sections.

[0013] Reference now Figure 1According to one embodiment, the chair 100 includes a frame 102 and a seat 104 supported by the frame 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the frame 102 includes a pair of front legs 106 and a pair of rear legs 108, but the frame 102 may include any number of front legs 106 (e.g., a single front leg 106, three front legs 106, etc.) and may include any number of rear legs 108 (e.g., a single rear leg 108, three rear legs 108, etc.). The seat 104 of the chair 100 includes a seat bottom 110 and an optional seat back 112. In an exemplary embodiment, the seat 104 of the chair 100 is flexible (i.e., includes at least one flexible section). For example, the seat 104 may include a flexible fabric, sheet, and / or similar material. Additionally or alternatively, the seat 104 may include one or more non-flexible (e.g., hard, rigid, etc.) sections. In an alternative example, the seat 104 is comprised of non-flexible panels (not shown) that are configured to fold together when the chair 100 is moved between the open position and the folded position as described below.

[0014] As described below, the length of each front leg 106 can be independently adjusted between at least two different lengths (e.g., a first length and a second length that is longer than the first length, etc.). For example, the adjustability of the front legs 106 enables the chair 100 to adapt (e.g., to be used as a seat, to provide a seat, to support a seated person, etc.) to uneven ground (e.g., terrain, etc.). In addition, for example, the adjustability of the front legs 106 enables the seat bottom 110 to be adjusted relative to a horizontal plane 200 ( Figures 6 to 8 ) is angled to selectively adjust between at least two different angles, such as to maintain the seat bottom 110 at an oblique angle relative to a horizontal plane 200 when the chair is supported on an uneven surface.

[0015] Reference now Figures 1 to 3 , the frame 102 of the chair 100 is configured to be in the open position 114 (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 2 etc.) and a folded position 116 (e.g., in Figure 3 For example, the frame 102 extends a length along the central longitudinal axis 118. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Starting from the open position 114 shown in FIG. 1 , as shown by arrow 120, the frame 102 is configured to be retracted radially inwardly relative to the central longitudinal axis 118 and into Figure 3 Folded position shown in . Figure 3 Starting from the collapsed position 116 shown in FIG. 1 , as indicated by arrows 122, the frame 102 is configured to expand radially outward relative to the central longitudinal axis 118 and into Figure 1 and Figure 2In the open position 114 of the frame 102, the chair 100 provides a stable platform capable of supporting a seated person. In the closed position 116, the size, footprint, form factor, etc. of the frame 102 is reduced, making the chair 100 easier to move, carry, store, etc. (e.g., for transportation to an event, etc.).

[0016] Reference now Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the frame 102 includes frame members 124 connected to each other at respective joints 126. The joints 126 enable the frame members 124 to be folded relative to each other so that the frame 102 can be in the open position 114 and the folded position 116 ( Figure 3 ) between the rear legs 108. In an exemplary embodiment, the rear legs 108 are formed by corresponding frame members 124a. An exemplary embodiment of the front legs 106 is formed by corresponding frame members 124b. In other embodiments, one or more front legs 106 and / or one or more rear legs 108 are formed by discrete structures in addition to or in place of frame members 124b or 124a, respectively. Each frame member 124a and / or 124b may be referred to herein as a "leg member."

[0017] The frame 102 includes one or more armrests 128. Exemplary embodiments of the armrests 128 are formed from respective frame members 124b. In other embodiments, the one or more armrests 128 are formed from separate structures in addition to or in place of the frame members 124b. Although shown as being fixed in position, in some other embodiments, the one or more armrests 128 are adjustable in one or more directions (e.g., height, width, left-right, front-back, etc.). Optionally, for example, Figures 1 to 3 As shown, one or more armrests 128 are padded.

[0018] In addition to the frame member 124b, the front leg 106 also includes a leg member 130. In this exemplary embodiment, the frame member 124b and the leg member 130 cooperate so that the length of the front leg 106 can be adjusted. Although any other arrangements, geometries, structures, devices and / or the like may be used, exemplary embodiments include a telescoping arrangement between the frame member 124b and the leg member 130. For example, the end 132 of the leg member 130 is received in the open end 134 of the frame member 124b so that the leg member 130 is configured to telescope inwardly and outwardly along the central longitudinal axis 136 of the front leg 106 between at least two different lengths (e.g., axially slide, move, etc. relative to the frame member 124b). In some other embodiments, the end 134 of the frame member 124b is received in the end 132 of the leg member 130.

[0019] Although only two different lengths for each front leg 106 are shown herein, each front leg 106 can be independently adjusted between any number of different lengths and / or positions (e.g., three different lengths, four different lengths, continuous and / or full range of adjustment along a limited length, etc.). Figure 4 A first length (ie, position) L1 of the front leg 106 is shown, Figure 5 A second length (i.e., position) L2 of the front leg 106 is shown. Figure 4 and Figure 5 It can be seen from the comparison that the size of the second length L2 is greater than the size of the first length L1, so that the second length L2 is longer than the first length L1 (that is, the first length L1 is shorter than the second length L2). The first length L1 may be referred to as the "first position" herein. The second length L2 may be referred to as the "second position" herein.

[0020] Each front leg 106 is selectively adjustable between a first length L1 and a second length L2. An exemplary embodiment of the front leg 106 includes a corresponding latch pin 138 that holds the front leg 106 at a position of the first length L1 and a position of the second length L2. The latch pin 138 is a spring pin that extends outward from the leg member 130 and cooperates with a corresponding opening 140 in the frame member 124b to hold the front leg 106 at the corresponding first length L1 and second length L2. The latch pin 138 is biased to extend through the corresponding opening 140 of the frame member 124b to hold the front leg 106 at the first length L1 or the second length L2. Each latch pin 138 can be pushed back through the opening 140, so that the front leg 106 can be adjusted to a position corresponding to a different length. In addition to or as an alternative to the latch pin 138 and / or the opening 140, any other arrangement, geometry, structure, device and / or the like can be used. For example, a clamp (not shown) can be used to hold the front leg 106 at the first length L1 and the second length L2. In some examples, the clamp and / or other mechanism can hold the front leg 106 at any position along its length between the first length L1 and the second length L2 (e.g., enabling continuous and / or full range adjustment from the first length L1 to the second length L2, vice versa, etc.).

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the length of each rear leg 108 is fixed. In other words, the length of the exemplary rear legs 108 is not selectively adjustable. In other embodiments, the length of one or more rear legs 108 is independently adjustable between at least two different lengths (e.g., a first length and a second length that is longer than the first length, etc.). By adjusting the length of one or more rear legs 108, the chair 100 can be adapted to particularly uneven ground (e.g., rocky terrain, etc.).

[0022] The front legs 106 and rear legs 108 of the frame 102 include corresponding feet 142. For example, the feet 142 are located at respective ends 144 and 146 of the front legs 106 and rear legs 108. The leg member 130 of the front leg 106 includes the end 144 and, therefore, the foot 142. The foot 142 is configured to pivot relative to the respective legs 106 and 108. For example, the foot 142 of the front leg 106 is configured to pivot relative to the leg member 130 of the respective front leg 106 about at least one axis. In an exemplary embodiment, the foot 142 of the front leg 106 pivots about the axis 148. An exemplary embodiment of the foot 142 of the rear leg 108 pivots about the axis 154. In other embodiments, the foot 142 of one or more of the front legs 106 and / or the foot 142 of one or more of the rear legs 108 pivots about at least two different axes (e.g., two axes, three axes, four axes, etc.).

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the pivoting motion of the feet 142 is provided by a respective hinge 160. For example, the hinge 160 extends along the respective axis 148 or 154, such that the hinge 160 enables each foot 142 to pivot about the respective axis 148 or 154. Any other arrangement, geometry, structure, device, and / or the like may additionally or alternatively be used to provide the pivoting motion of the feet 142, such as, but not limited to, a clevis, a pin, a spherical rod end, a ball joint, and / or the like.

[0024] Reference now Figure 6 , and as briefly described above, the adjustability of the front legs 106 enables the chair 100 to adapt (e.g., to serve as a seat, to provide a seat, to support a seated person, etc.) to uneven ground. For example, Figure 6 The chair 100 is shown resting on a section 162 of uneven ground that is tilted (e.g., angled, etc.) relative to a horizontal plane 200. The foot 142 of the front leg 106a rests on the ground section 162 at a first position 164, and the foot 142 of the front leg 106b rests on the ground section 162 at a second position 166. Figure 6 As shown, the height of the second position 166 is lower than the height of the first position 164. The front leg 106a is located at the first length L1, and the front leg 106b is located at the second length L2. The different sizes of the first length L1 and the second length L2 of the front legs 106a and 106b accommodate the different heights of the first position 164 and the second position 166, respectively.

[0025] Thus, the front legs 106a and 106b support and hold the seat bottom 110 in a stable orientation (e.g., relative to a horizontal plane 200, etc.) to support a person seated on the floor segment 162. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the different lengths of the front legs 106a and 106b enable the chair 100 to be supported on the floor segment 162 with the seat bottom 110 extending generally horizontally from side to side. In other words, as Figure 6 As shown, the transverse axis 152 of the seat bottom 110 extends generally parallel to the horizontal plane 200. However, the lengths of the front legs 106a and 106b of the chair 100 may be selected to provide the seat bottom 110 with any other orientation, such as, but not limited to, an inclined orientation, an orientation in which the transverse axis 152 of the seat bottom 110 extends between about 1° and about 15° relative to the horizontal plane 200, and / or the like. Figure 6 As shown, the feet 142 of the front legs 106a and 106b have been pivoted to accommodate the slope of the floor segment 162 .

[0026] The length of the front legs 106a and 106b can be adjusted to select the orientation of the seat bottom 110 to provide a predetermined seating position. For example, the orientation of the seat bottom 110 can be selected to provide a seating position that enables the hunter to more easily maintain the sight in a desired orientation (e.g., horizontal, etc.) on an uneven ground section 162.

[0027] Reference now Figure 7 and Figure 8 The adjustability of the front legs 106 allows the angle of the seat bottom 110 relative to the horizontal plane 200 to be selectively adjusted between at least two different angles, such as maintaining the seat bottom 110 at an oblique angle relative to the horizontal plane 200 on uneven ground. Figure 7 In FIG. 1 , the chair 100 rests on a section 168 of uneven ground that is inclined (e.g., angled, etc.) relative to a horizontal plane 200. The feet 142 of the front legs 106 rest on the ground section 168 at a position 170, and the feet 142 of the rear legs 108 rest on the ground section 168 at a position 172. Figure 7 As shown, the height of position 170 is lower than the height of position 172. The front legs 106 are respectively located at their first length L1. Relative to the fixed length of the rear legs 108, the front legs 106 are adapted to the different heights of the respective positions 170 and 172 at the position of the first length L1. Therefore, the front legs 106 support the seat bottom 110 and maintain it in a stable orientation (e.g., relative to the horizontal plane 200, etc.), so as to be able to support a person sitting on the ground surface section 168. Figure 7 As shown, the feet 142 of the front legs 106 and the feet 142 of the rear legs 108 have been pivoted to accommodate the slope of the floor segment 168 .

[0028] exist Figure 8 In FIG. 1 , the chair 100 rests on a section 182 of uneven ground that is tilted (e.g., angled, etc.) relative to a horizontal plane 200. The feet 142 of the front legs 106 rest on the ground section 182 at a position 184, and the feet 142 of the rear legs 108 rest on the ground section 182 at a position 186. Figure 8 As shown, the height of position 184 is lower than the height of position 186. The front legs 106 are respectively located at their second length L2. Relative to the fixed length of the rear legs 108, the front legs 106 accommodate the different heights of the respective positions 184 and 186 at the position of the second length L2. Therefore, the front legs 106 support the seat bottom 110 and maintain it in a stable orientation (e.g., relative to the horizontal plane 200, etc.), so as to be able to support a person sitting on the ground section 182. Figure 8 As shown, the feet 142 of the front legs 106 and the feet 142 of the rear legs 108 have been pivoted to accommodate the slope of the ground segment 182 .

[0029] The adjustability of the front legs 106 between the first length L1 and the second length L2 enables the angle of the seat bottom 110 relative to the horizontal plane 200 to be adjusted between the first angle A1 (eg, Figure 7 as shown) and a second angle A2 (as shown Figure 8 In other words, Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the longitudinal axis 176 of the seat bottom 110 extends at angles A1 and A2, respectively, relative to the horizontal plane 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the angles A1 and A2 are both inclined relative to the horizontal plane 200. In other words, when the seat bottom 110 is at the angles A1 and A2, its longitudinal axis 176 extends obliquely relative to the horizontal plane 200. However, the length of the front legs 106 can be selected to allow the seat bottom 110 to have any other orientation, such as, but not limited to, an orientation in which the longitudinal axis 176 of the seat bottom extends substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 200, an orientation in which the longitudinal axis 176 of the seat bottom 110 extends between about 5° and about 50° relative to the horizontal plane 200, and / or the like. Although only two angles A1 and A2 are shown herein, the seat bottom 110 can be adjusted between any number of different angles (e.g., three different angles, four angles, etc.).

[0030] The angle of the seat bottom 110 relative to the horizontal plane 200 can be selected to provide an orientation of the seat bottom 110 that provides a predetermined seated position. For example, the orientation of the seat bottom 110 can be selected to provide a seated position that enables the hunter to more easily maintain the sight in a desired orientation (e.g., horizontal, etc.) on an uneven ground segment 168.

[0031] Optionally, the length of the front leg 106 extends obliquely relative to the horizontal plane 200. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the length of the front leg 106 extends obliquely at an oblique angle A3 of about 60° relative to the horizontal plane 200. However, the length of the front leg 106 may extend at any other angle relative to the horizontal plane 200, such as, but not limited to, between about 30° and about 80° relative to the horizontal plane 200, approximately perpendicular to the horizontal plane 200, etc. In some embodiments, the oblique angle of the length of the front leg 106 relative to the horizontal plane 200 can expand the adjustment range of the angle of the seat bottom 110 relative to the horizontal plane 200.

[0032] Reference again Figure 1 Optionally, the seat bottom 110 and / or the seat back 112 include a mesh segment 178, for example to allow air to flow through the seat 104. In an exemplary embodiment, the mesh segment 178 extends along a portion of the seat bottom 110 and the seat back 112. However, in other embodiments, the mesh segment 178 may extend only along the seat bottom 110, or only along the seat back 112. In addition to or in lieu of what is shown herein, the mesh segment 178 may have any size, geometry, etc. Although only one is shown, the chair 100 may include any number of mesh segments 178.

[0033] The chair 100 optionally includes a strap 180 that enables a user to carry the chair 100 on the person, such as by wrapping the strap 180 around the user's shoulders. In the exemplary embodiment, the strap 180 is suspended from the frame member 124b, but additionally or alternatively, the strap 180 may be connected to the chair 100 at any other location along the frame 102, the seat 104, and / or the like. Although only one is shown, the chair 100 may include any number of straps 180.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, the chair 100 is provided with an optional cover pocket 188. For example, the cover pocket 188 is suspended from the front of the seat bottom 110 and is connected to the frame members 124c and 124d of the frame 102. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the cover pocket 188 is located at the front of the chair 100. However, the cover pocket 188 can be located anywhere else on the chair 100 in addition to or as an alternative to the front. The chair 100 can include any number of cover pockets 188, although only one is shown herein.

[0035] The following clauses describe further aspects: Clause Set A: A1. A chair, comprising: a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an unfolded position, the frame comprising front legs and at least one rear leg, the length of each front leg being independently adjustable between a first position and a second position longer than the first position; and A seat bottom is supported by the frame so that the angle of the seat bottom relative to a horizontal plane is selectively adjustable between at least two different angles by adjusting the length of at least one front leg. A2. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one rear leg is of fixed length. A3. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the at least two different angles of the seat bottom is between about 5° and about 50° relative to the horizontal plane. A4. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of the front legs extends obliquely relative to the horizontal plane. A5. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of the front legs is at an angle between about 30° and about 80° relative to the horizontal plane. A6. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each front leg is configured to telescope inwardly and outwardly along a central longitudinal axis of the front leg between a first position and a second position. A7. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the at least two different angles of the seat bottom extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane. A8. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of at least two different angles of the seat bottom extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane, and when the frame is supported by an uneven ground, the frame is configured to maintain the seat bottom at at least two different angles. A9. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the front legs include leg members and feet retained at respective ends of the leg members such that the feet are configured to pivot relative to the respective leg members. A10. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the front legs include a leg member and a foot mounted to the leg member at a corresponding joint, the joint comprising at least one of a hinge, a U-clamp, a pin, a spherical rod end or a ball and socket joint. A11. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the front legs includes a leg member defining at least a portion of the length of the front leg, the leg member including an armrest of the frame. A12. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the seat bottom includes a flexible section. A13. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising at least one of a mesh section, a shoulder strap, a cover pocket, or a padded armrest of at least one of the seat bottom or the seat back. Clause Set B: B1. A chair, comprising: a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an unfolded position, the frame comprising front legs and at least one rear leg, wherein the length of each front leg is independently adjustable between at least two different lengths; and A seat bottom is supported by the frame so that the angle of the seat bottom relative to a horizontal plane can be selectively adjusted between a first angle and a second angle by adjusting the length of at least one front leg, wherein at least one of the first angle or the second angle extends obliquely relative to the horizontal plane. B2. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first angle or the second angle of the seat bottom is between about 5° and about 50° relative to a horizontal plane. B3. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of the front legs extends obliquely relative to the horizontal plane. B4. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of the front legs is at an angle between about 30° and about 80° relative to the horizontal plane. B5. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of each front leg is adjustable between a first position and a second position longer than the first position. B6. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each front leg is configured to telescope inwardly and outwardly between at least two different lengths along a central longitudinal axis of the front leg. B7. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first angle extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane, and the frame is configured to maintain the seat bottom at the first angle when the frame is supported by an uneven ground. B8. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the frame is configured to maintain the bottom of the seat at a first angle when the frame is supported by an uneven ground, and the frame is further configured to maintain the bottom of the seat at a second angle when the frame is supported by an uneven ground. B9. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one rear leg is of fixed length. B10. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the front legs include leg members and feet retained at respective ends of the leg members such that the feet are configured to pivot relative to the respective leg members. B11. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the front legs include a leg member and a foot mounted to the leg member at a corresponding joint, the joint comprising at least one of a hinge, a U-clamp, a pin, a spherical rod end or a ball and socket joint. B12. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the front legs includes a leg member defining at least a portion of the length of the front leg, the leg member including an armrest of the frame. B13. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the seat bottom includes a flexible section. B14. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising at least one of a mesh section, a shoulder strap, a cover pocket or a padded armrest of at least one of the seat bottom or the seat back. Clause Set C: C1. A chair, comprising: a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an unfolded position, the frame comprising front legs and at least one rear leg, the length of each front leg being independently adjustable between a first position and a second position longer than the first position, wherein the front legs include leg members and feet retained at respective ends of the leg members such that the feet are configured to pivot relative to the respective leg members; and A seat bottom is supported by the frame so that the angle of the seat bottom relative to a horizontal plane is selectively adjustable between at least two different angles by adjusting the length of at least one front leg. C2. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the feet are mounted to the ends of the leg members at corresponding joints, the joints comprising at least one of a hinge, a U-clamp, a pin, a spherical rod end or a ball and socket joint. C3. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one rear leg is of fixed length. C4. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the at least two different angles of the seat bottom is between about 5° and about 50° relative to the horizontal plane. C5. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of the front legs extends obliquely relative to the horizontal plane. C6. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of the front legs is at an angle between about 30° and about 80° relative to the horizontal plane. C7. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each front leg is configured to telescope inwardly and outwardly along a central longitudinal axis of the front leg between a first position and a second position. C8. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the at least two different angles of the seat bottom extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane. C9. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of at least two different angles of the seat bottom extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane, and when the frame is supported by an uneven ground, the frame is configured to maintain the seat bottom at at least two different angles. C10. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the front legs comprises a leg member defining at least a portion of the length of the front leg, the leg member comprising an armrest of the frame. C11. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the seat bottom includes a flexible section. C12. A chair according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising at least one of a mesh section, a shoulder strap, a cover pocket, or a padded armrest of at least one of the seat bottom or the seat back. Clause Set D: D1. A method for configuring a seating position of a chair, the method comprising: expanding the frame of the chair radially outwardly relative to a central longitudinal axis of the chair to an open position of the chair; and The angle of the seat bottom of the chair relative to the horizontal plane is adjusted by adjusting the length of at least one front leg of the chair, so that the angle of the seat bottom extends obliquely to the horizontal plane. D2. A method according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein adjusting the angle of the seat bottom includes adjusting the length of at least one front leg of the chair so that the angle of the seat bottom extends obliquely to the horizontal plane when the chair is supported on uneven ground.

[0036] As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element that is "configured to" perform a task or operation is structurally formed, constructed, or adjusted specifically in a manner corresponding to the task or operation. For clarity and avoidance of doubt, an object that can merely be modified to perform a task or operation is not "configured to" perform a task or operation as used herein.

[0037] It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that any range or value given herein may be expanded or altered without losing the effect sought.

[0038] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0039] It should be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to embodiments that solve any or all of the problems described, or embodiments that have any or all of the benefits and advantages described. It should also be understood that reference to "an" item refers to one or more of these items.

[0040] Unless otherwise specified, the execution or order of execution of the operations in the examples of the present application shown and described herein is not essential. That is, unless otherwise specified, the operations can be performed in any order and the examples of the present application may include more or less operations than the operations disclosed herein. For example, it is conceivable that performing or executing a specific operation before, at the same time, or after another operation (e.g., different steps, etc.) is within the scope of aspects and embodiments of the present application.

[0041] The term "comprising" as used in this specification refers to including subsequent features or actions, but does not exclude the presence of one or more additional features or actions. The terms "comprising", "including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to the listed elements. In other words, the use of "comprising", "including", "having", "containing", "involving" and their variations is intended to cover the items listed thereafter and additional items. Thus, for example, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, an implementation that "comprising" or "having" one or more elements with a particular attribute may include additional elements that do not have that attribute. In addition, references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" should not be interpreted as excluding the presence of additional embodiments that also include the features. The term "exemplary" is intended to mean "an example".

[0042] When introducing elements of aspects of the present application or examples thereof, the articles "a", "an", "the" and "said" are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements. In other words, the indefinite articles "a", "an", "the" and "said" used in the specification and claims should be understood to mean "at least one" unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, for example, as used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood to not necessarily exclude a plural number of the element or step.

[0043] The phrase "one or more of the following A, B, and C:" means "at least one of A and / or at least one of B and / or at least one of C". The phrase "and / or" used in the specification and claims should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so combined, that is, the elements are present in combination in some cases and separately in other cases. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" should be interpreted in the same manner, that is, "one or more" of the elements so combined. In addition to the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, other elements may optionally be present, whether related or unrelated to the specifically identified elements. Thus, as a non-limiting example, when used in conjunction with open language (such as "comprising"), a reference to "A and / or B" may refer to only A (optionally including elements other than B) in one embodiment; to only B (optionally including elements other than A) in another embodiment; to both A and B (optionally including other elements) in yet another embodiment; and so on.

[0044] As used in the specification and claims, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and / or" above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or "and / or" should be interpreted as inclusive, that is, including at least one, but also including multiple or a plurality of a group of elements, and optional other items not listed. Only terms that clearly indicate the opposite, such as "only one" or "exactly one", or "consisting of..." when used in the claims, refer to containing exactly one element in a list of multiple or elements. In general, when the word "or" is preceded by an exclusive term, such as "any one", "one of", "only one of", or "exactly one of", its use should only be interpreted as indicating an exclusive choice (i.e., "one or the other, but not both"). "Mainly consisting of...", when used in the claims, should have the usual meaning in the field of patent law.

[0045] As used in the specification and claims, the phrase "at least one" when referring to a list of one or more elements should be understood to refer to at least one element selected from any one or more elements in the list of elements, but does not necessarily include at least one of each element specifically listed in the list of elements, nor does it exclude any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that in addition to the elements explicitly identified in the list of elements referred to by the phrase "at least one", other elements may optionally be present, whether or not they are related to the explicitly identified elements. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or equivalently, "at least one of A or B", or equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") may refer to at least one, optionally including more than one A, without B (and optionally including elements other than B) in one embodiment; in another embodiment, may refer to at least one, optionally including more than one B, without A (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, may refer to at least one, optionally including more than one A, and at least one, optionally including more than one B (and optionally including other elements); and so on.

[0046] In the claims, the use of ordinal numbers such as "first", "second", "third", etc. to modify claim elements does not itself indicate the priority, precedence or order of one claim element relative to another claim element, nor does it indicate the temporal order of the acts of performing the method. Ordinal numbers are used only as labels to distinguish one claim element with a certain name from another element with the same name (but using an ordinal number), thereby distinguishing the claim elements.

[0047] Having described in detail various aspects of the present application, it will be apparent that modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the various aspects of the present application as defined in the appended claims. As various changes may be made to the above structures, products and methods without departing from the scope of the aspects of the present application, all content contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0048] It should be understood that the above description is for illustration only and not for limitation. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt specific situations or materials to the teachings of various embodiments of the present application without departing from its scope. Although the size and type of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of various embodiments of the present application, these embodiments are by no means restrictive and are only exemplary embodiments. After reading the above description, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand many other embodiments. Therefore, the scope of various embodiments of the present application should be determined with reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalent schemes enjoyed by these claims. In the appended claims, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the colloquial English equivalents of the corresponding terms "comprising" and "wherein". In addition, the terms "first", "second" and "third" are used only as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. In addition, the limitations of the following claims are not written in the form of means plus function, and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. §112 (f), unless and until such claim limitations explicitly use the phrase "means" without further structural functional statements.

[0049] This specification uses examples to disclose various embodiments of the present application, including the best mode, and also enables any person of ordinary skill in the art to practice the various embodiments of the present application, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined method. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the present application is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to a person of ordinary skill in the art. If the examples have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if the examples include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims, these other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A chair, comprising: a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an unfolded position, the frame comprising front legs and at least one rear leg, the length of each front leg being independently adjustable between a first position and a second position, wherein the second position is longer than the first position; as well as A seat bottom is supported by the frame such that an angle of the seat bottom relative to a horizontal plane is selectively adjustable between at least two different angles by adjusting the length of at least one front leg.

2. The chair of claim 1, wherein the length of the at least one rear leg is fixed.

3. The chair of claim 1, wherein the length of the front legs extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane.

4. The chair of claim 1, wherein the length of the front legs is at an angle between about 30° and about 80° relative to a horizontal plane.

5. The chair of claim 1, wherein each front leg is configured to telescope inwardly and outwardly along a central longitudinal axis of the front leg between a first position and a second position.

6. The chair of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the at least two different angles of the seat bottom extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane, the frame being configured to hold the seat bottom at the at least two different angles when the frame is supported by an uneven ground surface.

7. The chair of claim 1, wherein the front legs include leg members and feet retained at respective ends of the leg members such that the feet are configured to pivot relative to the respective leg members.

8. The chair of claim 1, wherein the at least one front leg includes a leg member defining at least a portion of the length of the front leg, the leg member comprising an armrest of the frame.

9. The chair of claim 1 wherein the seat bottom includes a flexible section.

10. The chair of claim 1 further comprising at least one of a mesh section, a back strap, a cover pocket, or a padded armrest of at least one of the seat bottom or seat back.

11. A chair, comprising: a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an unfolded position, the frame comprising front legs and at least one rear leg, wherein the length of each front leg is independently adjustable between at least two different lengths; as well as A seat bottom is supported by the frame so that the angle of the seat bottom relative to the horizontal plane can be selectively adjusted between a first angle and a second angle by adjusting the length of at least one front leg, wherein at least one of the first angle or the second angle extends obliquely relative to the horizontal plane.

12. The chair of claim 11, wherein at least one of the first angle or the second angle of the seat bottom is between about 5° and about 50° relative to a horizontal plane.

13. The chair of claim 11, wherein the length of the front legs extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane.

14. The chair of claim 11, wherein the first angle extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane, the frame being configured to hold the seat bottom at the first angle when the frame is supported by an uneven ground surface.

15. The chair of claim 11, wherein the frame is configured to hold the seat bottom at a first angle when the frame is supported by uneven ground, and the frame is further configured to hold the seat bottom at a second angle when the frame is supported by uneven ground.

16. A chair, comprising: a frame configured to expand radially outward and contract radially inward relative to a central longitudinal axis between a folded position and an unfolded position, the frame comprising front legs and at least one rear leg, the length of each front leg being independently adjustable between a first position and a second position, wherein the second position is longer than the first position, wherein the front legs include leg members and feet retained at respective ends of the leg members such that the feet are configured to pivot relative to the respective leg members; as well as A seat bottom is supported by the frame so that the angle of the seat bottom relative to a horizontal plane can be selectively adjusted between at least two different angles by adjusting the length of at least one front leg.

17. The chair of claim 16, wherein the feet are mounted to the ends of the leg members at respective joints, the joints comprising at least one of a hinge, a clevis, a pin, a spherical rod end, or a ball and socket joint.

18. The chair of claim 16, wherein the at least one rear leg is fixed in length.

19. The chair of claim 16, wherein the length of the front legs extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane.

20. The chair of claim 16, wherein at least one of the at least two different angles of the seat bottom extends obliquely relative to a horizontal plane, the frame being configured to hold the seat bottom at the at least two different angles when the frame is supported by an uneven ground surface.

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