High dining chair

Abstract

A child dining chair includes at least one leg, a dining chair member supported by the at least one leg, and an armrest connected to the dining chair member. A tray can be directly coupled to and supported by the armrest.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63 / 422,644, filed on November 4, 2022, U.S. Application No. 63 / 486,595, filed on February 23, 2023, and U.S. Application No. 63 / 583,064, filed on September 15, 2023, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] Exemplary embodiments relate to the field of high chairs. Background Art

[0004] High chairs provide a convenient and safe place for infants and children to eat and spend time together. Most high chairs are designed for children around six months old, when they can sit up unassisted and eat solid foods. It would be desirable to provide a high chair that can be used by children for several years and / or for children of all ages. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to an embodiment, a children's high chair includes at least one leg, a high chair member supported by the at least one leg, and an armrest connected to the high chair member. A tray can be directly coupled to and supported by the armrest.

[0006] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest extends across a front portion of the dining chair component when the armrest is connected to the dining chair component.

[0007] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest includes an impact bar member and a crotch member extending from the impact bar member.

[0008] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, only the impact bar component may be directly connected to the dining chair component.

[0009] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the dining chair component further comprises a dining chair portion, a first upright sidewall, and a second upright sidewall. A first leg opening is formed between the crotch member and the first upright sidewall, and a second leg opening is formed between the crotch member and the second upright sidewall.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest is directly connected to the first and second upright side walls.

[0011] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray may be positioned in an overlapping arrangement with the armrest.

[0012] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray further comprises at least one latch operable to couple directly to the armrest.

[0013] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one latch is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and in the extended position, the at least one latch is operable to engage the armrest.

[0014] In addition to or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray has a channel formed therein and the armrest is at least partially receivable within the channel, wherein in the extended position, the at least one latch extends across the channel.

[0015] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray further comprises at least one engagement tab extending across a portion of the channel, the at least one engagement tab being operable to contact the armrest.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one latch and the at least one engagement tab are aligned about the channel.

[0017] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrests are permanently connected to the dining chair component.

[0018] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest is removably connected to the dining chair component.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray is supported by the armrest without any coupling to the dining chair component.

[0020] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray further comprises at least one rib supported by the dining chair component.

[0021] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest further comprises at least one slot, the at least one rib being receivable within the at least one slot to position the tray about the armrest.

[0022] According to an embodiment, a children's high chair includes at least one leg, a high chair component supported by the at least one leg, and a coupling mechanism for connecting the at least one leg to the high chair component without the use of external tools.

[0023] In addition or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in another embodiment, the coupling mechanism further comprises a first portion fixed to the at least one leg and a second portion fixed to the dining chair component, the first portion comprising an engagement member, and the second portion comprising a recess for receiving the engagement member.

[0024] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the first portion further comprises a support member mounted to the at least one leg. The support member is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. A biasing member is operably coupled to the support member to bias the support member into the engaged position.

[0025] In addition to or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, in the engaged position, the engagement member extends beyond the surface of the at least one leg, and in the disengaged position, the engagement member does not extend beyond the surface of the at least one leg.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the support member is rotatable about an axis between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

[0027] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in another embodiment, the dining chair component further comprises a horizontal dining chair portion, a dining chair back, and at least one upright side wall. Each of the dining chair back and the at least one upright side wall extends from the horizontal dining chair portion. The at least one leg can be connected to at least one of the dining chair back and the at least one upright side wall.

[0028] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one leg is detachable from the dining chair component without the external tool.

[0029] According to an embodiment, a children's dining chair includes at least one leg, a dining chair component supported by the at least one leg, and a footrest. The footrest is connectable to the at least one leg, wherein the footrest includes at least one actuator operable to adjust a position of the footrest relative to the at least one leg.

[0030] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in another embodiment, the footrest further comprises a footrest body and at least one footrest mounting member, wherein the at least one footrest mounting member is movable relative to the footrest body.

[0031] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one footrest mount further includes a latch movable relative to the at least one footrest mount in response to operation of the at least one actuator.

[0032] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one footrest mount is translatable from an extended position to a retracted position. The at least one footrest mount further includes a biasing mechanism operable to bias the at least one footrest mount into the extended position.

[0033] In addition to or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one footrest mount is movable relative to the footrest body to releasably couple the footrest to the at least one leg in response to operation of the at least one actuator.

[0034] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one footrest mount comprises a plurality of footrest mounts, and the at least one actuator is a single actuator, each of the plurality of footrest mounts being operably coupled to the single actuator.

[0035] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one footrest mount further comprises a plurality of footrest mounts, and the at least one actuator further comprises a plurality of actuators, each of the plurality of footrest mounts being operably coupled to a respective actuator of the plurality of actuators.

[0036] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in another embodiment, a bracket is included that is mounted to the at least one leg, the bracket having at least one opening for receiving a portion of the footrest to couple the footrest to the at least one leg.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one footrest mount further includes an engagement member receivable within the at least one opening.

[0038] In addition or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one opening includes a first portion and a second portion, and the footrest is movable between the first portion and the second portion to couple the footrest to the at least one leg.

[0039] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the footrest may be connected to the at least one leg at a plurality of vertical positions.

[0040] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in another embodiment, the at least one leg further comprises a first leg and a second leg separated by a gap, wherein the first leg is arranged at an angle to the second leg such that the gap varies with the height of the children's high chair.

[0041] According to an embodiment, a children's dining chair includes at least one leg, a dining chair component supported by the at least one leg, the dining chair component including a dining chair portion and a dining chair backrest, and a dining chair backrest extension component connectable to the dining chair component at a position above the dining chair backrest.

[0042] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the dining chair component includes a recess, and the dining chair back extension member is receivable within the recess.

[0043] In addition or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, at least one clip is associated with the dining chair back extension member. The at least one clip is connectable to the dining chair member.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one clip is permanently secured to the dining chair back extension member.

[0045] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one clip is removably coupled to the dining chair back extension member.

[0046] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one clip further includes an opening, and the dining chair component further includes a feature receivable within the opening when the dining chair back extension member is connected to the dining chair component.

[0047] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one clip is formed from a resilient material such that the at least one clip is flexible to separate the feature from the opening.

[0048] According to an embodiment, a children's high chair includes at least one leg and a high chair component supported by the at least one leg. A safety belt assembly can be directly and detachably connected to the high chair component without using external tools.

[0049] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the seat belt assembly further comprises a main member comprising a buckle and at least one support member connectable to the main member.

[0050] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the primary component further comprises a clip connectable to the dining chair component; and a length of webbing secured at a first end to the clip and at a second end to the buckle.

[0051] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the clamp includes at least one prong that is insertable into an opening formed in the dining chair component and includes an outwardly extending protrusion.

[0052] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one prong is formed of a resilient material having an outward bias.

[0053] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in another embodiment, the at least one support member further comprises a waist belt comprising a first buckle clip disposed at a first end thereof and a second buckle clip disposed at a second end thereof. The first buckle clip and the second buckle clip are connectable to the buckle. An anchor coupled to the waist belt is connectable to the dining chair member.

[0054] In addition or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the anchor comprises at least one prong that is insertable into an opening formed in the dining chair component and comprises an outwardly extending protrusion.

[0055] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one prong is formed of a resilient material having an outward bias.

[0056] A children's dining chair comprises at least one leg, a dining chair component supported by the at least one leg, an armrest connectable to the dining chair component, and a tray coupleable to the armrest. When the armrest is detached from the dining chair component, the tray cannot be coupled to the dining chair component.

[0057] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, when the tray is coupled to the dining chair component, the tray is translatable relative to the dining chair component.

[0058] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray may be directly connected to the armrest.

[0059] In addition or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest includes a plurality of adjustment ribs, and the tray includes a latch having a plurality of slots, wherein at least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs is receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots.

[0060] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest includes at least one armrest mount configured to couple the armrest to the dining chair component.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one armrest mount includes a protrusion and the dining chair component includes an opening, and the protrusion is receivable within the opening.

[0062] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the dining chair component includes at least one sidewall, and the at least one armrest mount includes an engagement feature configured to abut a lower surface of the sidewall.

[0063] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest may be slidably received about the dining chair component.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest extends across a front portion of the dining chair component when the armrest is connected to the dining chair component.

[0065] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest includes an impact bar member and a crotch member extending from the impact bar member.

[0066] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, only the impact bar component may be directly connected to the dining chair component.

[0067] According to an embodiment, a children's dining chair includes at least one leg, a dining chair component supported by the at least one leg, an armrest connectable to the dining chair component, and a tray connectable to the armrest. The tray, when connected to the armrest, is movable relative to the armrest between a first position and a second position.

[0068] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray is translatable between the first position and the second position.

[0069] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the tray may be directly connected to the armrest.

[0070] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest includes a lower surface and the tray includes a latch having an engagement feature positionable in contact with the lower surface to couple the tray to the armrest.

[0071] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and the latch has a plurality of slots, wherein at least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs is receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots in at least one of the first position and the second position.

[0072] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in another embodiment, the armrest includes an impact bar component and a crotch component extending from the impact bar component. The impact bar component includes a side surface and the plurality of adjustment ribs are formed at the side surface.

[0073] In addition or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest is slidably received at the front of the dining chair component.

[0074] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the armrest includes at least one armrest mount configured to couple the armrest to the dining chair component.

[0075] Additionally or alternatively to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the at least one armrest mount includes a protrusion and the dining chair component includes an opening, and the protrusion is receivable within the opening.

[0076] In addition or as an alternative to one or more features described herein, in further embodiments, the dining chair component includes at least one side wall. The at least one armrest mount includes an engagement feature positionable to contact a lower surface of the at least one side wall. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0077] The following description should not be considered limiting in any way. Referring to the accompanying drawings, similar elements are numbered the same:

[0078] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a children's dining chair according to an embodiment;

[0079] Figure 2 According to the embodiment Figure 1 Exploded view of a children's high chair;

[0080] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a children's dining chair including armrests according to an embodiment;

[0081] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a children's dining chair including armrests according to an embodiment;

[0082] Figure 5A According to the embodiment Figure 3 A side view of a children's dining chair;

[0083] Figure 5B According to the embodiment Figure 3 Detailed side view of the children's dining chair;

[0084] Figure 6 is a bottom perspective view of a tray connected to an armrest of a children's high chair according to an embodiment;

[0085] Figure 7A According to the embodiment Figure 6 Bottom view of the tray in the unlatched position;

[0086] Figure 7B According to the embodiment Figure 6 A bottom view of the tray in the latched position;

[0087] Figure 8 is a side view of a children's high chair during tray installation according to an embodiment;

[0088] Figure 9 is a bottom perspective view of an interface between a tray and an armrest of a children's high chair according to an embodiment;

[0089] Figure 10A is a bottom view of a tray connected to an armrest in a latched position according to an embodiment;

[0090] Figure 10BAccording to the embodiment Figure 10A Bottom view of the tray in the unlatched position;

[0091] Figure 11A According to the embodiment Figure 10A A transparent bottom view of the tray in the latched position;

[0092] Figure 11B According to the embodiment Figure 10B A transparent bottom view of the tray in the unlatched position;

[0093] Figure 11C According to the embodiment Figure 10A A transparent perspective view of the tray in the latched position;

[0094] Figure 12A is a perspective view of a pallet during installation of the pallet according to an embodiment;

[0095] Figure 12B is a perspective view of an armrest during installation of a tray according to an embodiment;

[0096] Figure 13 is a side view of a children's high chair during tray installation according to an embodiment;

[0097] Figure 14 is an exploded view of a dining chair member and a dining chair back extension member of a children's dining chair according to an embodiment;

[0098] Figure 15 is a bottom perspective view of a children's dining chair according to an embodiment;

[0099] Figure 16 is a bottom perspective view of a dining chair backrest of a dining chair component according to an embodiment;

[0100] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of a dining chair backrest of a dining chair component according to an embodiment;

[0101] Figure 18A is an exploded perspective view of a leg and a dining chair component of a children's dining chair according to an embodiment;

[0102] Figure 18B According to the embodiment Figure 18A Another exploded perspective view of the legs and dining chair components;

[0103] Figure 19A is a cross-sectional view of a leg of a children's high chair attached to a high chair member according to an embodiment;

[0104] Figure 19B According to the embodiment Figure 19A A detailed view of the coupling mechanism connecting the legs to the dining chair member;

[0105] Figure 20A is a perspective view of a leg as it is being connected to a dining chair component according to an embodiment;

[0106] Figure 20B is a perspective view of a leg according to an embodiment;

[0107] Figure 20C is a perspective view of a leg engaged with a dining chair component and connected to the dining chair component via a coupling mechanism according to an embodiment;

[0108] Figure 21A is a front perspective view of a children's dining chair including a safety belt assembly according to an embodiment;

[0109] Figure 21B According to the embodiment Figure 21A Rear perspective view of a children's dining chair;

[0110] Figure 22 According to the embodiment Figure 21A A detailed perspective view of a seat belt assembly;

[0111] Figure 23 is a perspective view of the main components of a seat belt assembly according to an embodiment;

[0112] Figure 24 is a perspective view of a clip of a seat belt assembly according to an embodiment;

[0113] Figure 25A is a perspective view of a children's dining chair with a footrest in a first position according to an embodiment;

[0114] Figure 25B is a perspective view of a children's dining chair with a footrest in a second position according to an embodiment;

[0115] Figure 26 is a front view of a children's dining chair having a footrest movable between a first position and a second position according to an embodiment;

[0116] Figure 27 is a bottom perspective view of a footrest according to an embodiment;

[0117] Figure 28 is a bottom perspective view of a footrest according to another embodiment;

[0118] Figure 29 is an exploded perspective view of a footrest and legs of a children's dining chair according to an embodiment;

[0119] Figure 30 is another exploded perspective view of the footrest and legs of FIG. 18 according to an embodiment;

[0120] Figure 31is a bottom perspective view of a footrest mounted to a leg of a children's dining chair according to an embodiment;

[0121] Figure 32 is a side perspective view of a footrest of a children's dining chair according to an embodiment;

[0122] Figure 33 is a top perspective view of a footrest according to another embodiment;

[0123] Figure 34 According to the embodiment Figure 33 Bottom perspective view of the footrest;

[0124] Figure 35 According to the embodiment Figure 33 Exploded perspective view of the footrest;

[0125] Figure 36 is a perspective view of a leg including a height adjustment channel according to an embodiment;

[0126] Figure 37 According to the embodiment Figure 36 A detailed perspective view of the height adjustment channel;

[0127] Figure 38 According to the embodiment Figure 37 An exploded perspective view of the height adjustment channel;

[0128] Figure 39 According to the embodiment Figure 37 a cross-sectional perspective view of a height adjustment channel;

[0129] Figure 40 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a footrest engaged with a height adjustment channel according to an embodiment;

[0130] Figure 41 shows a process of connecting a footrest mount to a height adjustment channel according to an embodiment;

[0131] Figure 42 is a plan view of the interior of a footrest body according to an embodiment;

[0132] Figure 43 is a perspective view of a footrest mounting member according to an embodiment;

[0133] Figure 44 is an exploded perspective view of a footrest body according to an embodiment;

[0134] Figure 45 is a detailed perspective view of a mechanism for moving a footrest mount relative to a footrest body according to an embodiment;

[0135] Figure 46 According to the embodiment Figure 45 A perspective view of the slider;

[0136] Figure 47 illustrates a process for disconnecting a footrest mount from a height adjustment channel according to an embodiment;

[0137] Figure 48 is a perspective view of a children's dining chair according to another embodiment;

[0138] Figure 49 is a perspective view of a rear leg connected to a dining chair member according to an embodiment;

[0139] Figure 50A and 50B yes Figure 49 An exploded perspective view of the rear legs and dining chair components shown;

[0140] Figure 51 is an exploded view of a coupling mechanism according to an embodiment;

[0141] Figure 52A and 52B is a bottom perspective view of the rear legs connected to the dining chair member;

[0142] Figure 53A and 53B They are Figure 52A and 52B a cross-sectional view of the rear legs and dining chair components shown;

[0143] Figure 54 is a perspective partially exploded view of a children's dining chair according to another embodiment;

[0144] Figure 55 According to the embodiment Figure 54 Exploded view of the handrail;

[0145] Figure 56 is a perspective view of a children's dining chair during armrest installation according to an embodiment;

[0146] Figure 57 is a perspective view of a children's dining chair and an armrest before the armrest is mounted to the children's dining chair according to an embodiment;

[0147] Figure 58 According to the embodiment Figure 57 A detailed view of the interface between the armrest of the children's high chair and the high chair component;

[0148] Figure 59 is a rear perspective view of a children's dining chair having armrests connected thereto according to an embodiment;

[0149] Figure 60is a detailed perspective view of an interface between an armrest of a children's high chair and a high chair component according to an embodiment;

[0150] Figure 61 is a plan view of a children's high chair having armrests connected to a high chair member according to an embodiment;

[0151] Figure 62A According to the embodiment Figure 61 A cross-sectional view of the handrail;

[0152] Figure 62B According to the embodiment Figure 61 A cross-sectional view of an armrest mounted to a dining chair component;

[0153] Figure 63 is a partially exploded view of a children's dining chair according to an embodiment;

[0154] Figure 64 According to the embodiment Figure 63 A detailed perspective view of the interface between the tray and the armrest of a children's dining chair;

[0155] Figure 65A is a side view of a high chair with a tray installed in a first position according to an embodiment;

[0156] Figure 65B is a side view of a high chair with a tray installed in a second position according to an embodiment;

[0157] Figure 66A is an example of a children's high chair configured as a booster chair; and

[0158] Figure 66B is an example of a children's high chair that is configured as a youth high chair. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0159] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and methods is provided herein by way of example and not limitation with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0160] refer to Figure 1, shows an example of a children's high chair 20. As shown, the children's high chair 20 has a chair member 22 and at least one leg 24 for resting the children's high chair 20 on a support surface, such as a floor. The chair member 22 includes a generally horizontally oriented chair portion 26 and at least one upright sidewall, such as first and second upright sidewalls 28, disposed on opposing lateral sides of the chair portion. A chair back 30 can be connected to at least one of the horizontal chair portion 26 and the upright sidewall 28. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the vertical height of the chair back 30 is the same as the vertical height of one or both of the first and second upright sidewalls 28. However, embodiments in which the chair back 30 extends vertically beyond the first and second upright sidewalls 28 are also contemplated herein. In one embodiment, the chair member 22, including the chair portion 26, the chair back 30, and the upright sidewalls 28, is formed as a single, unitary component, such as molded from a plastic or composite material. However, embodiments in which at least a portion of the dining chair component 22 is formed as a separate component that is permanently or removably connected to the remainder of the dining chair component 22 are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0161] The high chair portion 26, upright sidewalls 28, and high chair backrest 30 of the high chair member 22 cooperate to define a generally hollow interior 32. Furthermore, a front portion 34 of the high chair member 22 is open to accommodate the child's legs when the child is seated within the hollow interior 32. In an embodiment, the high chair member 22 is intended for use by a toddler or infant who is capable of supporting themselves in an upright position, such as a child who is typically six months or older. Thus, the high chair member 22 is adapted to receive a child seated in contact with the high chair portion 26, with the child's back at least partially supported by the high chair backrest 30.

[0162] Continue to refer Figure 1 and Figure 2 The high chair component 22 is supported by a plurality of legs 24 spaced apart from one another. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the legs 24 are arranged substantially adjacent to each corner of the high chair component 22. Thus, as shown, the children's high chair 20 includes a first right front leg 24a, a second left front leg 24b, a third right rear leg 24c, and a fourth left rear leg 24d. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of legs 24 may be substantially identical. However, in other embodiments, the configuration of the legs 24 may vary. For example, the rear legs 24c, 24d may have a first configuration, and the front legs 24a, 24b may have a second configuration that is different from the first configuration. For example, although the overall cross-sectional shape and size of the front legs 24a, 24b and the rear legs 24c, 24d appear to be the same, the axial length of the rear legs 24c, 24d is greater than the axial length of the front legs 24a, 24b.

[0163] A first end 36 of each of the front legs 24a, 24b and the rear legs 24c, 24d is configured to contact a support surface, such as a floor, to support the high chair 20 in the upright configuration. As shown, an opposing second end 38 of each of the legs 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d is secured to a corresponding portion of the high chair member 22.

[0164] In an embodiment, the children's dining chair 20 is configured as a high chair. Figure 3-5B In an embodiment where the high chair 20 is a high chair, the armrests 40 can be connected to the high chair 20, for example, to the high chair member 22. In an embodiment, the armrests 40 are permanently connected to the armrests 40. As used herein, "permanently connected" is intended to refer to an embodiment where the armrests 40 are not intended to be removed from the high chair member 22 by the user. Such a connection can be formed by rivets, molding, or other suitable connection mechanisms. In another embodiment, the armrests 40 are removably connected to the high chair member 22. In such an embodiment, the user can connect the armrests 40 to the high chair 20 when the high chair is used by a smaller infant, and remove the armrests from the high chair when the high chair member 22 is used by an older toddler or child. Such a connection between the armrests and the high chair member 22 can be formed by fasteners, a snap-fit connection, or other suitable connection mechanisms, which will be described in more detail below.

[0165] As shown, the armrest 40 is intended to form a barrier that extends across at least a portion of the high chair component 22, and in some embodiments, across the entire front portion 34 of the high chair component, thereby limiting the movement of a child through the front portion 34 of the high chair component 22. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the armrest 40 includes an integrally formed anti-collision bar member 42 and a crotch member 44 extending downwardly from the anti-collision bar member 42. However, embodiments in which the anti-collision bar member 42 and the crotch member 44 are separable from each other are also contemplated herein. The armrest 40 can cooperate with the front portion 34 of the high chair component 22 to define a first leg opening 46a and a separate or substantially separate second leg opening 46b disposed on opposite sides of the crotch member 44.

[0166] The armrest 40 may be connected to the dining chair component 22 via at least one armrest mount 48. Figure 4As best shown in FIG. , in an embodiment, a first armrest mount 48 is disposed at a first end 50 of the impact bar member 42, and a second armrest mount 48 is disposed at a second end 52 of the impact bar member 42. Although the first and second armrest mounts 48 are shown as separate portions connectable to the armrest 40 via one or more fasteners or other couplers, embodiments in which the armrest mounts 48 are permanently affixed to or integrally formed with the armrest 40 are also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the armrest mounts may be injection-molded portions that are insert-molded into the armrest 40. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the crotch member 44 of the armrest 40 is not itself configured to couple to the dining chair member 22. Instead, the crotch member 44 is positioned in a desired location due to the connection between the impact bar member 42 and the dining chair member 22 via one or more armrest mounts 48. However, embodiments in which a portion of the crotch member 44 is also connectable to the dining chair member 22 are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0167] At least one armrest mount 48 can be received within a corresponding opening or cavity formed in a portion of the dining chair component. For example, a first armrest mount 48 can be slidably and / or rotatably received within a first opening 54a formed at a front surface of the first upright sidewall 28, and a second armrest mount 48 can be slidably and / or rotatably received within a second opening 54b formed at a front surface of the second upright sidewall 28.

[0168] exist Figure 5A-5B , an example of an armrest mount 48 mounted within a corresponding opening is shown in FIG. As shown, each armrest mount 48 can include a body 56 having a first end 58 connectable to the armrest 40 and a second end 60 connectable to the dining chair component 22. A gap 62 extends over a portion of the length of the body 56, such that the body 56 includes a primary finger 64 and a secondary finger 66 at its second end 60. The primary finger 64 and the secondary finger 66 are connected to each other at the first end 58 of the body 56, but are separated from each other over the length of the gap 62. The gap 62 can have a non-linear configuration, or alternatively, can have a linear configuration. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the gap 62 includes a first linear portion and a second arcuate or curved portion disposed at the second end 60 of the body 56. However, gaps 62 having any suitable configuration are contemplated herein. Accordingly, the resulting primary finger 64 and secondary finger 66 can have any suitable configuration. In an embodiment, the secondary fingers 66 are flexible or bendable relative to the primary fingers 64 , such as during installation or removal of the armrest mount 48 from the dining chair component 22 .

[0169] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the primary fingers 64 extend axially beyond the secondary fingers 66. Thus, when the armrest mount 48 is installed within the openings 54a, 54b, the second ends of the primary fingers 64 are configured to engage and rest on shelves 68 formed in the openings 54a, 54b. This engagement between the primary fingers 64 and the shelves 68 is configured to resist rotation of the armrest 40 and relieve stress on the secondary fingers 66. For example, referring to Figure 5A With the orientation of the armrest 40 in FIG, an upward force applied to the armrest 40 may be transferred to the junction of the primary fingers 64 and the shelf 68 rather than to the secondary fingers 66.

[0170] To connect the armrest 40 to the dining chair component 22, at least one armrest mount 48 is inserted into at least one opening 54a, 54b formed around the dining chair component 22. When the armrest mount 48 is slidably inserted into the opening 54a, 54b, the secondary finger 66 is configured to bend toward the primary finger 64. When the armrest mount 48 reaches the fully inserted position, as shown in FIG. Figure 5B As shown, a portion of the secondary finger 66 can be arranged outside the dining chair component 22. Outside the dining chair component 22, the secondary finger 66 is no longer constrained by the total height of the openings 54a, 54b and can therefore be biased to its original position. In an embodiment, the secondary finger 66 includes a notch 70 that is configured to cooperate with the surface of the dining chair component 22 to limit the lateral movement of the armrest 40 away from the dining chair component 22. In order to separate the armrest 40 from the dining chair component 22, an upward force indicated by F1 is applied to the exposed portion of the secondary finger 66. This force causes the secondary finger 66 to bend toward the main finger 64, thereby aligning both the main finger 64 and the secondary finger 66 of the armrest mount 48 with the openings 54a, 54b for removal through the openings. The armrest mount 48 may include a flexible material, such as an engineering resin or a thermoplastic material.

[0171] A tray 80 can be mounted to a portion of the high chair 20. The tray 80 can have a generally planar upper surface 82 configured to support items, such as food, at a location readily accessible to an occupant of the high chair member 22. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the tray 80 can be positioned in an arrangement that overlaps the upper surface 72 of the armrest 40. Although a portion of the tray 80 can contact or abut an adjacent surface of the high chair member 22, such as the front portion of the upright sidewall 28, the tray 80 is not configured to be coupled to or supported by any portion of the high chair member 22. As used herein, the term "coupled" is intended to identify a mechanical connection or fastening that restricts relative movement of two or more components in at least one direction. In contrast, in embodiments, the tray 80 is configured only to be directly coupled or secured to the armrest 40. Thus, in embodiments, the tray 80 cannot be connected to the high chair 20 without the armrest 40 being connected to the tray.

[0172] like Figure 7A-7B As best shown, a groove or channel 84 having a shape complementary to the contour of a portion of the armrest 40 (e.g., the upper surface of the impact bar member 42) can be formed in the underside 86 of the tray 80. Thus, when the tray 80 is connected to the children's high chair 20, at least a portion of the armrest 40 is disposed within the channel 84. Figure 7A-7B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, one or more engagement tabs 88 project from the rear edge 90 of the channel 84 and extend over a portion of the width of the channel 84. Although two engagement tabs 88 are shown, it should be understood that embodiments including a single tab or more than two tabs are also contemplated herein. However, in other embodiments, for example Figures 10A-11C As shown, the tray 80 need not include engagement tabs positioned adjacent to the channels 84 .

[0173] The tray 80 includes at least one latch 92 configured to connect the tray 80 to a portion of the armrest 40. As shown, the at least one latch 92 is positioned adjacent a front edge 94 of the channel 84 and is arranged to extend over a portion of the width of the channel 84. The at least one latch 92 can, but need not, be aligned with the at least one engagement tab 88. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the at least one latch 92 includes a first latch and a second latch configured to engage the impact bar member 42 of the armrest 40 to couple the tray 80 thereto.

[0174] At least one latch 92 can be moved relative to the tray 80 in response to operation of an actuator 96. In an embodiment, a single actuator 96 can be operably coupled to multiple latches 92. As shown, when the actuator 96 is depressed or operated, for example, via a force indicated by arrow F2, both the first and second latches 92 are configured to extend about respective axes from a first, extended position ( Figure 7A ) is rotated to a second retracted position where the latch 92 minimally overlaps the channel 84 ( Figure 7B ).exist Figure 7A and Figure 7B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first and second latches 92 are configured to rotate inwardly. Figures 10A-11C In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 92 is configured to rotate outward in response to operation of the actuator 96 .

[0175] Continue to refer Figures 10A-11C In an embodiment, the actuator 96 is part of an actuation assembly including a drive gear 97. Figures 11A-11CAs shown, the drive gear 97 includes a plurality of first teeth 99, and the edge of the actuator 96 facing the drive gear 97 includes a plurality of second teeth 101. The first teeth 99 can intermesh with the second teeth 101 so that linear translation of the actuator 96 causes the drive gear 97 to rotate about an axis, similar to a rack and pinion configuration. A driven gear 103 including a plurality of third teeth 105 also meshes with the second teeth 101 of the drive gear 97. Although the driven gear 103 is shown as a separate component mounted coaxially with the latch 92, in other embodiments, the plurality of third teeth 105 can be formed directly into the body of the latch 92, so that the latch itself serves as the driven gear 103.

[0176] Also contemplated herein are embodiments in which each of the latches 92 is independently movable relative to the tray 80, for example, via a respective actuator. Furthermore, while the latches 92 are shown and described herein as rotating between an extended position and a retracted position, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the latches 92 may alternatively or additionally be configured to translate or slide relative to the tray 80.

[0177] In an embodiment, a biasing member 98 such as a torsion spring (see Figure 7A and Figures 11A-11C ) is coupled to each latch 92 and is operable to bias at least one latch 92 to the extended position to facilitate engagement with the armrest 40. In such embodiments, upon release of the at least one actuator 96, the at least one latch 92 associated with the at least one actuator 96 will be biased back to the extended position by the corresponding biasing member 98.

[0178] During installation of the tray 80, the user will operate at least one actuator 96 associated with one or more latches 92, such as by applying a force F2 to the actuator 96 to retract the latch 92. While the actuator 96 is held in the actuated position, the tray 80 can then be positioned on the upper surface 72 of the armrest 40. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As best shown, in an embodiment, when positioned about the armrest 40, the front portion 100 of the tray 80 is lowered relative to the rear portion 102 of the tray 80 to facilitate positioning the engagement tab 88 at the underside 74 of the impact bar member 42. Once engaged, the front portion 100 of the tray 80 can be rotated upward to a generally horizontal configuration, and the actuator 96 can be released. When the actuator 96 is released, the latches 92 will be biased to the extended position such that a portion of each latch 92 overlaps the underside 74 of the impact bar member 42. This overlapping engagement between the underside 74 of the impact bar member 42 and at least one latch 92 and the at least one engagement tab 88 extending from the tray 80 limits movement of the tray 80 relative to the armrest 40, and therefore, limits movement of the dining chair member 22.

[0179] Reference again Figures 11A-11CAnd further reference Figure 12A-Figure 13 The tray 80 may include, for example, at least one rib 107 extending from its underside 86. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the tray 80 includes a first rib 107 disposed at the rear portion 102 of the tray 80 proximate a first lateral side and a second rib 107 disposed at the rear portion 102 of the tray 80 proximate a second lateral side. The ribs 107 may have a profile that is generally complementary to an adjacent surface of the dining chair component 22, such as the adjacent surface of the upright sidewall 28. In an embodiment, at least one slot 109 corresponding to each rib 107 may be formed in the impact bar component 42 of the armrest 40 to guide the tray 80 into a resting position along the front of the left and right upright sidewalls 28 of the dining chair component 22. In such an embodiment, during installation of the tray 80, the user will first raise the front portion 100 of the tray 80 above the rear portion 102 of the tray 80 to facilitate receiving the ribs 107 within the slots 109. Once engaged, the front portion 100 of the tray 80 can be rotated downward to seat the armrest 40 within the channel 84. The actuator 96 can then be released to allow the latch 92 to rotate into overlapping engagement with the underside 74 of the impact bar member 42. Positioning the ribs 107 of the tray 80 within the slots 109 of the armrest 40 can help align the tray with the dining chair member 22 and secure the tray 80 to the armrest 40.

[0180] Now refer to Figures 54-61 , another example of an armrest 500 that can be connected to the chair member 22 of the children's high chair 20 is shown. Similar to the previous embodiment, the armrest 500 includes an impact bar member 502 and a crotch member 504 extending downwardly from the impact bar member 502. The armrest 500 can cooperate with the front portion 34 of the chair member 22 to define a first leg opening 46a and a separate or substantially separate second leg opening 46b disposed on opposite sides of the crotch member 44.

[0181] The armrest 500 may be formed as a single unitary body. In other embodiments, for example Figure 49As shown, the armrest 500 can be an assembly. As shown, the first piece 503 can include a crotch member 504 and also form a portion of the anti-collision bar member 502, such as the bottom and sides. The second piece 505 can be positioned on the upper surface of the first piece 503 to form the upper surface of the anti-collision bar member 502. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first piece 503 and the second piece 505 can be connected via, for example, one or more fasteners. However, armrest assemblies having any suitable configuration are within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, armrest assemblies in which the first piece 503 includes some or all of the anti-collision bar member 502 and the second piece 505 includes some or all of the crotch member 504 are covered herein. In addition, although the various pieces of the described assembly are fastened together, it should be understood that any suitable connection, such as a snap fit, adhesive or other quick connection mechanism, can be used to couple the various pieces together.

[0182] The armrest 500 may be connected to the dining chair component 22 via at least one armrest mounting member. Figures 56-58 As best shown, in an embodiment, at least one first armrest mounting member is associated with the impact bar member 502. For example, the first armrest mounting member 508 (see Figure 57 and Figure 58 ) can be disposed at opposite ends 510 of the impact bar member 502. Each first armrest mount 508 can include a tab or protrusion that can be received within a corresponding opening 512 formed in an adjacent portion of the dining chair member 22 (e.g., a portion of a sidewall of the dining chair member). When the first armrest mount 508 is disposed within the opening 512, the end 510 of the impact bar member 502 can be positioned proximate to, and in some embodiments, contact, the raised edge of the sidewall 28.

[0183] The armrest 500 may alternatively or additionally include at least one second armrest mount 514 operable to selectively couple the armrest 500 to the dining chair component 22. In an embodiment, the at least one second armrest mount 514 includes a tab or clip operable to selectively couple to a portion of the dining chair component 22 (see FIG. Figure 56 、 Figure 59 、 Figure 60 As shown, each second armrest mount 514 can be inserted into a corresponding opening 516 formed in the protrusion 29 of the side wall 28 of the dining chair component 22. A hook or other engagement feature 518 (see Figure 60) can be formed at a distal end 520 of the second armrest mount 514. When the armrest 500 is mounted about the dining chair component 22, for example, by inserting the second armrest mount 514 into the corresponding opening 516, the engagement feature 518 is configured to abut a bottom surface 522 of the sidewall 28 located near the opening 516. The engagement between the bottom surface 522 of the protrusion 29 of the sidewall 28 and the engagement feature 518 limits vertical movement of the armrest 500 away from the dining chair component 22.

[0184] By forming the second armrest mount 514 from a resilient material, at least a portion of the second armrest mount 514, such as a distal end 520 thereof, can be configured to flex relative to the armrest 500 to decouple the engagement feature 518 from the surface 522 of the sidewall 28. Figure 59 and Figure 60 To remove the armrest 500 from the dining chair component 22, the user applies a force, for example, in an outward direction away from the sidewall, to the distal end 520 of the second armrest mount 514, as indicated by arrow F6. It will be appreciated that the direction of the force will vary depending on the position of the engagement feature 518 about the second armrest mount 514. As shown, the end 520 of the second armrest mount 514 can be positioned adjacent to an exposed surface of the sidewall 28 that is easily accessible to the user. This force F6 causes the distal end 520 of the second armrest mount 514 to bend or rotate, thereby moving the engagement feature 518 out of contact with the adjacent surface 522 and into alignment with the opening 516. When the engagement feature 518 is in this bent position, the second armrest mount 514 can be removed from the opening 516, thereby separating the armrest 500 from the dining chair component 22. It should be understood that the clips shown in the non-limiting embodiment as used to couple the armrest 500 to the second armrest mount 514 of the dining chair component 22 are by way of example only and that any suitable connector or coupling mechanism, such as a snap-fit connection, is within the scope of this disclosure.

[0185] Now refer to Figure 61 and Figure 62A-Figure 62B In another embodiment, the armrest 500 can be slidably connected to the dining chair component 22. Figure 62A and Figure 62BAs shown in the cross-sectional view of , the side 524 of the anti-collision bar member 502 of the armrest 500 can be contoured to define a recess 525 within which a portion of the side wall 28 of the dining chair member 22 can be received. Thus, the armrest 500 can be connected to and removed from the dining chair member 22 via the front portion 34 of the dining chair member 22. In an embodiment, one or both sides of the anti-collision bar member 502 include at least one rib 526 protruding therefrom, and a corresponding portion of the side wall 28 includes a recess or undercut 528 within which the rib 526 is slidably received. This engagement between the rib 526 of the armrest 500 and the undercut 528 of the side wall 28 limits the vertical movement of the armrest 500 relative to the dining chair member 22.

[0186] Similar to Figure 3 - The embodiment of FIG5, Figures 54-60 In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the crotch member 504 of the armrest 500 is not itself configured to couple to the dining chair member 22. Instead, the crotch member 504 is positioned in a desired location due to the connection between the impact bar member 502 and the dining chair member 22 via one or more armrest mounts 508. However, embodiments in which a portion of the crotch member 504 is also connectable to the dining chair member 22 are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0187] Regardless of the mechanism used to connect the armrest 500 to the dining chair component 22, a portion of the armrest 500 can form a portion of at least one of the side walls 28 of the dining chair component 22, such as a portion of an upper surface thereof. As shown, a portion of the side wall 28 near the front 34 of the dining chair component 22 has an undercut or otherwise contoured area 530 having one or more reduced dimensions compared to the remainder of the side wall 28 (see FIG. Figure 54 A portion of the armrest 500, such as the side 524 of the impact bar member 502, can be positioned in an arrangement that overlaps the undercut region 530. In an embodiment, when the armrest 500 is mounted to the dining chair member 22, the side 524 of the impact bar member 502 is substantially flush with one or more adjacent surfaces of the sidewall 28.

[0188] As previously described, a tray 540 for supporting one or more items can be mounted to a portion of the high chair 20, such as the upper portion or armrest 400. Referring now to Figures 63-65B, the tray 540 is shown only as being directly coupled or secured to the armrest 400. In such embodiments, the tray 540 may not be coupled to the chair component 22 when the armrest 500 is disengaged from the chair component 22. However, embodiments in which the tray 540 is alternatively or additionally coupled to the chair component 22 are also contemplated herein. As shown, the tray 540 may include one or more latches operable to engage a portion of the armrest 500 to couple the tray 540 to the chair component 22. At least one latch may be positioned proximate a rear edge 544 of the tray 540. For example, a first latch 542a may be positioned around the tray 540 such that the first latch 542a is positioned substantially adjacent to a first sidewall 28 of the chair component 22, and a second latch 542b may be positioned around the tray 540 such that the second latch 542b is positioned substantially adjacent to an opposing second sidewall 28 of the chair component 22.

[0189] In an embodiment, the first latch 542a and the second latch 542b can engage a portion of the armrest 500 disposed at an outward-facing surface of the sidewall 28. As shown, the latches 542a and 542b can engage an outward-facing surface of the side 524 of the impact bar member 502. A recess 550 can be formed in the outward-facing surface to define a lower surface 552 of the side 524. A portion of each of the latches 542a and 542b, such as an end 554 thereof, can be positioned to contact the lower surface 552 to limit movement of the tray 540 relative to the dining chair member 22.

[0190] The latches 542a and 542b can move between a first engaged position and a second disengaged position. In an embodiment, a biasing member 556 is operably coupled to the latches 542a and 542b. The biasing force of the biasing member 556 is configured to bias each corresponding latch toward the first engaged position. When a user applies a force to any one of the latches 542a and 542b, this force is opposite to the biasing force of the biasing member 556, thereby causing the latch to transition (e.g., translate) from the engaged position to the disengaged position. When the latches 542a and / or 542b move toward the disengaged position, the end 554 of the latch moves out of engagement with the lower surface 552. In this retracted position, the tray 540 can be separated from the dining chair component 22, particularly from the armrest 500. In order to connect the tray 540 to the armrest 500, when the force is removed, the biasing member 556 returns the biasing latches 542a and 542b to the first engaged position and contacts the lower surface 552.

[0191] refer to Figure 64 and Figures 65A-65B, the tray 540 can be connected to the armrest 500 at a plurality of positions. In an embodiment, one or more adjustment ribs 560 are formed within the groove 550 of the armrest 500 and extend outwardly from the groove. The ends 554 of the latches 542a and 542b that engage the armrest 500 can include one or more slots 562 that are complementary to the plurality of adjustment ribs 560. Thus, when the latches 542a and 542b are in the first engaged position, one or more of the adjustment ribs 560 can be received within corresponding slots 562 of the latches 542a and 542b. In other embodiments, the adjustment ribs 560 can be formed in the latches 542a and 542b, and the slots 562 can be formed in the armrest 500. When the tray 540 is coupled to the armrest 500, the slots 562 and the adjustment ribs 560 cooperate to position the tray 540 relative to the armrest 500. For example, in Figure 65A , the tray 540 is shown disposed in a forward-most position relative to the dining chair member 22, such as adjacent the front portion 34 of the dining chair member 22, and in Figure 65B , the tray 540 is shown in a rearmost position relative to the dining chair member 22. It should be understood that the tray 540 may also be arranged in one or more positions between the forward-most position and the rearmost position shown.

[0192] In an embodiment, the tray 540 does not need to be separated from the armrest 500 to adjust its position relative to the high chair component 22. Instead, the tray 540 can remain positioned in an overlapping arrangement with the armrest 500 during its translational movement between multiple positions. The latches 542a and 542b are operated to decouple the ribs 560 from the slots 562, but the tray 540 does not lift or move vertically relative to the high chair component 22. Once in the desired position, the force from the latches 542a and 542b is removed, causing the slots 562 to be biased into engagement with one or more adjustment ribs 560. Thus, depending on the position of the tray 540 relative to the armrest 500 and, therefore, the high chair component 22, different adjustment ribs 560 can be received within different slots 562 of the latches 542. By allowing the tray 540 to be installed in one of multiple positions around the high chair component 22, the position of the tray 540 can be adjusted based on the size of the child seated in the high chair 20.

[0193] refer to Figure 14-17Alternatively or in addition to the armrests 40 and tray 80, a chair back extension member 110 can be removably connected to the chair member 22 to increase the vertical height of the chair back 30. When connected, the chair back 30 and the chair back extension member 110, in combination, extend vertically beyond the upright sidewall 28. In such embodiments, the profile of the chair back extension member 110 can, but need not, be substantially complementary to or identical to the profile of the chair back 30. The chair back extension member 110 can be formed of the same material as the chair member 22, or alternatively, of a different material. In an embodiment, the first portion 112 of the chair back extension member 110 is receivable within a corresponding recess 114 formed in the chair back 30 of the chair member 22.

[0194] In an embodiment, Figure 14 、 Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, one or more clips 116 can be used to selectively couple the dining chair back extension member 110 to the dining chair member 22. As shown, each of the clips 116 can be inserted into a corresponding opening 118 ( Figure 14 ), for example, can be inserted into a corresponding opening formed in the first portion 112 of the dining chair back extension member 110 that can be received within the recess 114. The shape of each clip 116 can be selected to prevent the clip 116 from separating from the dining chair back extension member 110 due to gravity. For example, the clip 116 can include a head 120 extending in a first direction and a connector 122 extending from the head 120 in a second direction and having a reduced size relative to the head 120 in the first direction.

[0195] like Figure 17 As shown, an undercut or other feature 124 can be formed in a portion of the chair component 22 that is located adjacent to the chair back extension member 110. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the feature 124 is formed at the sidewall 126 of the recess 114; however, embodiments in which the feature 124 is formed at another suitable location around the chair component 22 are also contemplated herein. A portion of the clip 116, such as the connector 122, can include a through hole 128 (see FIG. Figure 14 ), the through-hole is configured to cooperate with the feature 124 to couple the chair back extension member 110 to the chair component 22. When the chair back extension member 110 is installed about the chair component 22 (e.g., the first portion 112 of the chair back extension member 110, which includes at least one clip 116, is inserted into the recess 114), the undercut or feature 124 can be received within the through-hole 128 of the clip 116. The engagement between the through-hole 128 and the feature 124 limits vertical movement of the chair back extension member 110 from the chair component 22.

[0196] By forming the clip 116 from a resilient material, the connector 122 can be configured to flex relative to the head 120 of the clip 116 to decouple the feature 124 from the through-hole 128. Figure 17 To remove the dining chair back extension member 110 from the dining chair member 22, the user applies force to the exposed end of the connector 122 in a direction away from the feature 124 as indicated by arrow F3. As shown, the end of the connector 122 may be adjacent to an exposed surface 130 ( Figure 15 and Figure 16 ) arrangement. This force F3 causes the connector 122 to bend or rotate, thereby moving the through hole 128 away from and out of the undercut or feature 124. When the connector 122 is in this bent position, the dining chair back extension member 110 can be removed from the recess 114. It should be understood that the clip 116 used to couple the dining chair back extension member 110 to the dining chair member 22 is merely an example, and any suitable connector or coupling mechanism is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0197] In an embodiment, the second end 38 of at least one of the legs 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d is detachably connected to a corresponding portion of the dining chair member 22. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, at least one of the plurality of legs, such as the rear legs 24c, 24d, is detachably connected via a quick connect coupling mechanism 140 ( Figure 1 ) is connected to the dining chair component 22, and the quick connection coupling mechanism does not require the use of any additional or external tools such as screwdrivers.

[0198] refer to Figures 18A-19B , an example of such a quick connect coupling mechanism 140 is shown in greater detail. As shown, a first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism 140 is mounted proximate the second end 38 of a leg (e.g., the left rear leg 24d). The first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism 140 includes a housing 144 and a support member 146 associated with the housing 144 and movably mounted to the left rear leg 24d. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the support member 146 is rotatable relative to the left rear leg 24d about a pivot axis X( Figure 19B ) rotates between an engaged position and a disengaged position (not shown). The pivot axis X can be defined at a central portion of the support member 146 or near an end of the support member 146. A biasing member 148, such as a coil spring or a torsion spring, is configured to exert a biasing force on the support member 146 to maintain the support member in the engaged position. In an embodiment, the torsion spring 148 is coaxially mounted with the support member 146 about the pivot axis X. However, in other embodiments, the biasing member 148 can be connected to another portion of the support member 146.

[0199] Continue to refer Figure 19B , the engagement member 150 protrudes from a surface 152 of the support member 146. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the engagement member 150 is generally conical or frusto-conical in shape. However, it should be understood that engagement members 150 having any suitable shape are contemplated herein. When the support member 146 is in the engaged position, the engagement member 150 extends beyond the housing 144 and an adjacent surface 154 of the left rear leg 24d.

[0200] A second portion 156 of the quick-connect coupling mechanism 140, which is complementary to the first portion 142, is located at a surface of the chair component 22, such as an outer surface thereof. In an embodiment, the second portion 156 is secured to the chair component 22 via one or more fasteners, such as screws. The second portion 156 of the quick-connect coupling mechanism 140 includes a body 158 having at least one recess 160 configured to receive a portion of the engagement member 150 therein to couple or lock the left rear leg 24d to the chair component 22. In an embodiment, the shape of the at least one recess 160 is selected such that an engagement area defined between the engagement member 150 and the recess 160 limits movement of the left rear leg 24d relative to the chair component 22.

[0201] Continue to refer Figure 19B To couple a leg, such as the left rear leg 24d, to the dining chair component 22, the user applies a force, indicated by arrow F4, to a portion of the support member 146 distal from the engagement member 150, such as at or near end 162. The force F4 applied by the user opposes the biasing force of the biasing member 148, thereby rotating the support member 146 about the pivot axis X in a first direction. In this rotated position, the engagement member 150 is normally retracted within the housing 144 and does not extend beyond the surface 154 of the left rear leg 24d. The user then positions the left rear leg 24d such that the first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism 140 is adjacent to the second portion 156 of the coupling mechanism 140. The engagement member 150 can be substantially aligned with the recess 160 formed in the second portion 156. Once aligned, the user can remove the force F4 from the support member 146. The biasing force of the biasing member 148 will rotate the support member 146 about the pivot axis X in a second direction toward the engaged position. When the support member 146 is rotated toward the engaged position, the distal end of the engagement member 150 is received within the recess 160, thereby coupling the left rear leg 24 d to the high chair member 22. A similar process can be used to decouple the left rear leg 24 d from the high chair member 22. It should be understood that the coupling mechanism 140 shown and described herein is intended to be exemplary only, and that coupling mechanisms having any suitable configuration that allows any leg of the children's high chair 20 to be easily coupled to and decoupled from the high chair member 22 without the use of external tools are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0202] Now refer to Figures 20A-20C , the leg 24d may include, for example, a protrusion 164 that extends beyond the end 38 of the leg 24d. Figure 20B ), the protrusion 164 can be integrally formed with the first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism, such as integrally formed with the housing 144. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the protrusion 164 is generally frustoconical in shape. However, it should be understood that protrusions 164 having any suitable shape are contemplated herein. In such embodiments, a recess 166 is also formed in the surface that the ends 38 of the legs of the dining chair component 22 are configured to abut. In embodiments, as Figure 20A As best shown, the outer surface of the sidewall 28 can be partially concave, forming a flange or lip at or near the top of the dining chair member 22. A recess 166 can be formed in the underside 168 of this lip. However, the recess 166 can be formed at any surface adjacent a corresponding portion of the leg 24.

[0203] The size and shape of the recess 166 can be substantially the same as the size and shape of the protrusion 164. Due to these substantially identical shapes and sizes, when the leg 24d is properly connected to the dining chair component 22, the sidewalls of the protrusion 164 are arranged to contact one or more of the sidewalls defining the recess 166. This contact between the sidewalls of the protrusion 164 and the sidewalls of the recess 166 resists rotation of the leg 24d in the front-to-back direction and the left-to-right direction. In addition, this engagement can relieve some of the load acting on the one or more fasteners connecting the second portion 156 to the dining chair component 22.

[0204] Although the legs 24a-24d of the high chair 20 are generally shown and described as a single unitary body, Figure 54In the illustrated embodiment, one or more of the legs 24a-24d can be formed from a leg assembly having multiple parts or components, which can be selectively included or omitted to provide the various configurations disclosed herein. In embodiments where the legs 24a-24d are formed as a multi-piece assembly, the high chair 20 can be transformed into additional configurations not possible when the legs 24a-24d are formed from a single body. In embodiments, each of the legs 24a-24d is a leg assembly comprising an upper leg section and a lower leg section. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the legs 24 may additionally include an intermediate leg or leg extension positionable between the upper and lower leg sections. It should be understood that embodiments in which at least one of the legs 24a-24d is a multi-piece leg assembly and at least one of the legs 24a-24d is a unitary leg are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that in embodiments in which multiple legs 24a-24d are formed from a leg assembly, the components of each leg 24 may be different. In embodiments where one or more of the legs 24 are formed as a leg assembly, the high chair 20 may be positioned in, for example, the first high chair mode ( Figure 54 ), Second booster seat mode ( Figure 66A ) and the third youth chair mode ( Figure 66B ) to switch between multiple modes.

[0205] Now refer to Figures 21A-24 In order to selectively restrain a child seated within the hollow interior 32 of the dining chair component 22, the children's dining chair 20 may include a safety belt assembly 170 associated with the dining chair component 22. The safety belt assembly 170 may be removably mounted to the dining chair component 22, or its portion may be mounted so as to be removable from the dining chair component without the use of external tools. The safety belt assembly 170 includes a main component 172 ( Figure 23 ) and one or more support members 174 connectable to the main member 172. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the main member 172 includes a buckle 176 and a retaining clip 178 connected to opposite ends of a length or length of soft webbing 180. As shown, the one or more support members 174 may include at least one waist belt. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the safety belt assembly 170 includes a single support member 174 including a waist belt 182 formed from a length of webbing having a first buckle clip 184 disposed at a first end 186 thereof and a second buckle clip 188 disposed at an opposite second end 190 thereof. The first buckle clip 184 and the second buckle clip 188 are both releasably connected to the buckle 176 of the main member 172 to form a continuous belt that encircles the torso of the child.

[0206] In embodiments that include a single lap belt 182, to prevent the child from moving relative to the high chair portion 26 of the high chair member 22, the safety belt assembly 170 may additionally include an anchor 192 that is connected to the lap belt 182 and is removably mounted to the high chair member 22 via a retaining clip 194. The anchor 192 is shown as being mounted to the high chair portion 26 and / or the high chair back 30 at a location rearward of the buckle 176. However, embodiments in which the anchor 192 is positioned at another location around the high chair member 22, such as at the upright sidewall 28, are also contemplated herein. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the lap belt 182 extends through a slot (not shown) formed in the anchor 192. However, it should be understood that the lap belt 182 and the anchor 192 may be coupled via any suitable means.

[0207] In other embodiments, one or more support members 174 may include, for example, different first and second waist belts that are disposed laterally of the child. In such embodiments, first and second buckle clips 184, 188 may be disposed at respective first ends of the waist belts, and a retaining clip similar to retaining clips 178 or 194 for securing the waist belt to the dining chair member 22 may be disposed at the opposite second end of each of the waist belts. Furthermore, it should be understood that, although not shown and described herein, the harness assembly 170 may include an alternative or additional support belt that can be connected to the buckle 176, such as a support belt configured to wrap around the child's shoulders.

[0208] Buckle 176, buckle clips 184, 188 and / or retaining clips 178 and 194 may be made of any suitable material, such as injection molded plastic, such as polypropylene or styrene. Figure 23 The buckle 176 includes a buckle housing 195 having a plurality of openings 196 for receiving one or more buckle clips 184, 188 attached to one or more support members 174 of the safety belt assembly 170. A button 198 is disposed in the center of the buckle housing 195 and is configured to cooperate with each of the buckle clips 184, 188 to selectively release the buckle clips 184, 188 from the buckle housing 195. Any suitable releasable engagement between the buckle clips 184, 188 and the buckle 176 is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, each of the buckle clips 184, 188 may include a flexible snap (not shown) configured to engage a rib when inserted into a corresponding opening 196 formed in the buckle housing 195. When the button 198 is depressed, the flexible snap flexes, disengaging the snap from the rib, thereby allowing the buckle clips 184, 188 to be separated from the interior of the buckle housing 195.

[0209] For example, the retaining clips 178 or 194 associated with the primary member 172, the anchor 192, and / or the one or more support members 174 may be removably connected to a portion of the dining chair member 22, such as via a snap-fit connection. Figure 24 As best shown in FIG, an example of a retaining clip 194 is shown, such as an example of an anchor 192. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the retaining clip 194 includes at least one fork, such as two forks 200, which can be received within an opening 202 formed in the dining chair component 22. Each fork 200 is formed of a flexible or resilient material, has an outward bias, and has a protrusion or rib 204 that is configured to abut an adjacent surface 206 of the dining chair component 22 to limit separation of the retaining clip 194 therefrom. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, to separate the retaining clip 194 from the dining chair component 22, the user simply bends or squeezes the forks 200 toward each other so that the ribs 204 are fully aligned with the opening 202. In this squeezed configuration, the retaining clip 194 including the ribs 204 is configured to slide through the opening 202. It should be understood that although the retaining clip 194 is shown and described with respect to the anchor 192, the retaining clip 178 associated with the main member 172 and / or the retaining clip associated with one or more support members 174 can have a similar configuration. Moreover, the retaining clip 194 shown and described herein is intended to be exemplary only, and it should be understood that retaining clips 178, 194 having any suitable configuration that allows for easy installation and removal relative to the dining chair member 22 (e.g., without the use of additional tools) are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0210] Continue to refer Figure 1 And further reference Figures 25A-47 In an embodiment, the children's high chair 20 includes a footrest 210 that can be connected to one or more legs 24 at a position vertically offset from the front 34 of the high chair member 22. The position of the footrest 210 can be fixed or can be adjustable relative to the high chair portion 26 of the high chair member 22. Figures 25A-31 In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the footrest 210 can be positioned in a first position ( Figure 24 A) or second position ( Figure 24 B) and Figures 32-47 In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the footrest 210 can be positioned in a first, second, or third position. However, it should be understood that embodiments in which the footrest 210 is positionable in only a single position or in more than three positions are also contemplated herein. Furthermore, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the footrest 210 can be removable from the high chair 20, and thus the high chair 20 can be used without the footrest 210 attached.

[0211] Now refer to Figure 27, shows an example of a footrest 210 according to an embodiment. As shown, the footrest 210 includes a footrest body 212 having a generally planar upper surface 214 on which a child may place one or more feet. The footrest body 212 is supported relative to the high chair 20 by at least one footrest mount 216. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a first footrest mount 216 is attached to a lower surface 218 of the footrest body 212 near a first lateral side 220 of the footrest body 212, and a substantially identical second footrest mount 216 is attached to the lower surface 218 of the footrest body 212 near an opposite second lateral side 222 of the footrest body 212. However, embodiments in which only a single footrest mount or more than two footrest mounts are used to mount the footrest body 212 and / or embodiments in which one or more footrest mounts 216 are attached to another portion of the footrest body 212 are also contemplated herein.

[0212] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, each footrest mount 216 has a generally L-shaped configuration including a base 224 connectable to the footrest body 212 and a connector 226 extending at an angle from the base 224. As shown, the base 224 of the footrest mount 216 can be oriented generally parallel to the lower surface 218 of the footrest body 212, and the connector 226 can extend generally vertically, such as parallel to one of the front legs 24a, 24b.

[0213] At least one footrest mount 216 may be connected to a corresponding front leg 24a, 24b to couple the footrest 210 to the leg. Figure 29 As shown, at least one footrest mount 216 can include an engagement member 228, for example, disposed at an outer surface of the connector 226 that faces the inner surface of the corresponding front leg 24a, 24b. A bracket 230 having one or more openings 232 for receiving a portion of the at least one footrest mount 216 (e.g., the engagement member 228) can be mounted to an inner-facing surface 233 of each of the front legs 24a, 24b.

[0214] refer to Figure 24 A- Figure 31In the non-limiting embodiment shown in , the bracket 230 can be positioned so that at least one opening 232 is mounted in an arrangement that overlaps with a recess (not shown) formed in the front legs 24a, 24b. As shown, the bracket 230 includes a first opening 232a arranged at a first vertical position, and a separate second opening 232b arranged at a second vertical position vertically offset from the first vertical position. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the footrest 210 is separated from the children's high chair 20 to allow the footrest 210 to transition between the first position (first opening 232a) and the second position (second opening 232b). However, it should be understood that embodiments are also encompassed herein in which the footrest 210 remains connected to one or more of the front legs 24a, 24b of the children's high chair 20 when the footrest 210 transitions between multiple vertical positions.

[0215] In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the engagement member 228 (see Figure 29 ) includes an elongated protrusion or rib 234 having a flange 236 formed at the distal end of the rib 234, giving the cross-section of the engaging member 228 a generally T-shape. However, engaging members 228 having any suitable configuration are within the scope of the present disclosure. Similarly, each opening 232a, 232b formed in the bracket 230 can be a keyway or slot having a first portion 238 and a second portion 240 connected thereto. The size and shape of the first portion 238 of the opening 232a, 232b are selected so that both the rib 234 and the flange 236 of the engaging member 228 can be received therein and can extend therethrough into adjacent recesses formed in the front legs 24a, 24b. The size and shape of the second portion 240 of the opening 232a, 232b are narrower relative to the first portion 238 of the opening. The rib 234 can be received within the second portion 240 of the opening 232a, 232b, but the flange 236 cannot. Thus, when the engagement member 228 is disposed within the second portion 240 of the openings 232a, 232b, the flange 236 of the engagement member 228 remains positioned between the front legs 24a, 24b and the bracket 230, thereby restricting separation of the footrest mount 216 from the front legs 24a, 24b.

[0216] To install the footrest 210 in one of the multiple positions, the engagement member 228 is inserted through the first portion 238 of the openings 232a, 232b and into the adjacent recess. The user then manually manipulates the engagement member 228, causing it to translate from the first portion 238 of the openings 232a, 232b to its second portion 240. As described above, during this translation, only the rib 234 of the engagement member 228 is receivable within the second portion 240 of the opening, thereby coupling the engagement member 228 to the front legs 24a, 24b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the engagement member 228 of the footrest 210 is configured to slide vertically downward when transitioning from the first portion 238 of the openings 232a, 232b to the second portion 240. However, in other embodiments, the engagement member 228 can be configured to translate within a horizontal plane, or alternatively, to rotate about an axis between the first portion 238 and the second portion 240 of the openings 232a, 232b. Removing the footrest 210 from its position about the high chair 20 can be accomplished by performing these same steps in reverse.

[0217] In an embodiment, Figure 26 As shown, the front legs 24a, 24b of the children's dining chair 20 are arranged at an angle that is not parallel to each other. Therefore, the horizontal gap defined between the front legs 24a, 24b changes, for example, gradually decreases, from the support surface toward the dining chair member 22. Therefore, in such embodiments, the horizontal gap associated with the first position of the footrest 210 is different from the horizontal gap associated with the second position of the footrest 210. To accommodate this difference, in an embodiment, at least one footrest mount 216 is movably coupled to the footrest body 212. For example, the at least one footrest mount 216 can be movably coupled to the footrest body 212 in the first extended position ( Figure 26 and Figure 27 ) and a second retracted position (not shown). Figure 30 and 31 In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a channel 242 is formed in the base 224 of the footrest mount 216, and a corresponding member 244, such as a T-shaped member, extending from the lower surface 218 of the footrest body 212 is receivable within the channel 242. However, any suitable interface that allows at least one footrest mount 216 to move relative to the footrest body 212 is contemplated herein.

[0218] The one or more footrest mounts 216 can move relative to the footrest body 212 in response to operation of the actuator 246. Figure 27In an embodiment, each of the plurality of footrest mounts 216 is independently movable. As shown, each of the footrest mounts 216 includes a corresponding button or actuator 246 that, when pressed or operated, causes the footrest mount 216 to move relative to the footrest body 212, such as from an extended position to a retracted position. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 28 As best shown, a single actuator 246 can be operably coupled to multiple footrest mounts 216. As shown, when the actuator 246 is operated, for example, by applying a force as indicated by arrow F5, both the first and second footrest mounts 216 are configured to translate inwardly toward a retracted position. It should be understood that, regardless of whether the footrest mounts 216 are independently operable or operate in unison, when the engagement member 228 is disposed within the second portion 240 of the openings 232a, 232b, the footrest mounts may not move relative to the footrest body 212 in response to operation of the actuator 246. Rather, such movement is only possible when the engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 is separated from the front legs 24a, 24b or disposed within the first portion 238 of the openings 232a, 232b.

[0219] In an embodiment, a biasing member (not shown), such as a coil spring, is operable to bias at least one footrest mount 216 outwardly to an extended position to facilitate engagement with the front legs 24a, 24b. In such an embodiment, upon releasing the at least one actuator 246, the one or more footrest mounts 216 associated with the at least one actuator 246 are biased back to the extended position by a corresponding biasing mechanism. Thus, during installation of the footrest 210 in a desired position, a user operates the at least one actuator 246 associated with the one or more footrest mounts 216, causing the footrest mounts 216 to move inwardly to the retracted position. The user then aligns the engagement member 228 of each footrest mount 216 with the corresponding opening 232a, 232b and, once aligned, releases the at least one actuator 246. The biasing force moves the footrest mounts 216 outwardly to the extended position, causing the engagement member 228 to be received within the corresponding opening 232a, 232b. In embodiments where the openings 232a, 232b are keyways having a first portion 238 and a second portion 240, the user may then transition the engagement member 228 within the openings 232a and 232b as previously described.

[0220] Reference Figures 33-47, shows a footrest 210 according to another embodiment. As previously described, the footrest body 212 is supported by at least one footrest mount 216, which can be connected to the corresponding front leg 24a, 24b to couple the footrest 210 to the leg. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 includes an elongated protrusion or rib 234 having a flange 236 formed only at a portion of the distal end of the rib 234.

[0221] refer to Figures 36-40 The bracket 230, also referred to herein as the height adjustment channel, is embedded or mounted in a groove formed at the inwardly facing surface 233 of each of the front legs 24a, 24b. Figure 38 and 39 As best shown, the height adjustment channel 230 includes a generally hollow housing 300 having a front wall 302, a left side 304, and a right side 306. The ends of the left side 304 and the right side 306 can be configured to abut each other to substantially seal the ends of the housing 300. The front wall 302 of the housing 300 can include an elongated slot 308 that extends over at least a portion of the front wall 302, and in some embodiments, over a majority of the front wall. An opening 310 is also formed in the front wall 302 of the housing 300, for example, near an end 312 thereof, and connects to the slot 308. The width or diameter of the opening 310 is substantially greater than the width of the slot 308. The opening and slot 308 can be considered, in combination, to be a single opening, with the opening 310 forming a first portion thereof and the slot 308 forming a second portion thereof.

[0222] The height adjustment plate 314 is connected to the housing 300 to form a back or rear wall opposite the front wall 302. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the left and right walls 304, 306 of the housing 300 have a plurality of recesses 316 formed therein, and the height adjustment plate 314 is formed to include a plurality of tabs 318 located on opposite sides thereof. Each of the plurality of tabs 318 is receivable within a corresponding recess 316 in one of the left and right walls 304, 306 to secure the height adjustment plate 314 to the housing 300. The height adjustment plate 314 may have a plurality of substantially identical latch holes 320 formed therein. As shown, the latch holes 320 are spaced apart across the height of the height adjustment plate and are generally aligned with the slots 308 when the height adjustment plate 314 is connected to the housing 300.

[0223] The button 322 is disposed within the opening 310 and is biased by a biasing member 324, such as a coil spring, to a first, extended position substantially flush with the front wall 302 of the housing 300. However, when a force opposing the biasing force of the biasing member 324 is applied, the button 322 can be transitioned to a second, recessed position.

[0224] Continue to refer Figures 36-40 And further reference Figure 40 To couple the footrest to the high chair 20, a portion of the footrest mount 216 can be received within the opening 310 and the slot 308. In an embodiment, the size and shape of the opening 310 are substantially the same as the size and shape of the flange 236 of the engagement member 228. Therefore, to install the footrest 210, the footrest mount 216 can be positioned such that the flange 236 applies a force to the button 322, causing it to compress. Therefore, the flange 236 is configured to extend through the opening 310. The elongated slot 308 is sized to receive the rib 234, but not the flange 236. Therefore, once the flange 236 is positioned within the hollow interior of the housing 300, the vertical position of the footrest mount 216 can be adjusted by sliding the rib 234 along the length of the elongated slot 308. Once the engagement member 228 has moved out of engagement with the button 322, the biasing member 324 biases the button 322 back into the extended position.

[0225] In an embodiment, the footrest mount 216 includes a latch 330 having an end 332 operable to selectively engage a corresponding latch hole 320 formed in the height adjustment plate 314 to lock the footrest mount 216 in position relative to the height adjustment channel 230. Thus, each of the latch holes 320 formed in the height adjustment plate 314 defines a different vertical position of the footrest 210 relative to the legs 24a, 24b of the children's high chair 20. The latch 330 can be moved between the extended position and the retracted position manually or via one or more actuators 246. In the extended position, as shown in FIG. Figure 34 and Figure 42 As shown, an end 332 of the latch 330 protrudes from the footrest mount 216, for example, beyond the engagement member 228. The latch 330 can be biased to the extended position by a biasing mechanism 334. In an embodiment, a cable 336 is operably coupled to the actuator 246 and the latch 330. Thus, when a force F5 is applied to the actuator 246 to operate the actuator, the force can be transmitted to the latch 330 via the cable 336. When applied, the force can oppose the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 334, causing the latch 330 to retract inwardly into the footrest mount 216. When the actuator 246 is released, the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 334 will return the latch 330 to the extended position. In an embodiment, a sheath 337 can be coupled between the actuator 246 and the latch 330. The cable 336 can extend through the sheath 337 from the actuator 246 to the latch 330.

[0226] When the user moves the footrest mount 216 within the housing 300 of the height adjustment channel 230, and thereby moves the engagement member 228, the latch 330 is received within one of the latch holes 320. To adjust the height of the footrest 210, the user operates the actuator 246 and moves the footrest mount 216, while the latch 330 retracts and thereby disengages from the current latch hole 320. Once disengaged, the user can release the actuator 246 and move the footrest mount 216 to the desired position. Alternatively, the user can hold the actuator 246 in the operative position until the footrest mount 216 reaches the desired position, and then release the actuator 246.

[0227] As previously described, the front legs 24a, 24b can be arranged at an angle such that the horizontal gap between the legs 24a, 24b varies between each respective position of the footrest 210. To accommodate this variation, in an embodiment, at least one footrest mount 216 is movably coupled to the footrest body 212. Figure 44-45 , a generally hollow tube or channel 340 is centrally disposed within the interior 342 of the footrest body 212 in an arrangement that overlaps an opening 344 associated with each footrest mount 216. A slider 346 is disposed within the interior of the hollow channel 340 and is coupled to a corresponding footrest mount 216. As shown, in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, a snap finger 348 formed at a first end 350 of the slider 346 is rigidly coupled to the footrest mount 216. A second, opposite end of the slider 346 includes a pivot point 352 that is operably coupled to a member 354 that is rotatable about a pivot axis P (see FIG. 2 ). Figure 45 ), such as a bell crank. A biasing mechanism (not shown), such as a coil spring, can be operably coupled to the bell crank 354 to bias the slider 346, and therefore the footrest mount 216 coupled to the slider 346 via the snap fingers 348, to an extended position relative to the footrest body 212. It should be understood that the footrest mount 216 may not include a biasing member to bias the footrest mount 216 to the extended position, such that the footrest mount 216 can move between the extended position and the retracted position without a biasing force.

[0228] Continue to refer Figures 44-46 And further reference Figure 47In operation, as the footrest mount 216 translates vertically upward within the elongated slot 308, the height adjustment channel 230 applies a force to the footrest mount 216, for example, via the flange 236 of the engagement member 228. This force causes the bell crank 354 to rotate about its axis P, causing the footrest mount 216 to translate inward as desired. To disengage the footrest mount 216 from the height adjustment channel 230, the user can apply a force to the button 322, causing it to retract and simultaneously lift the footrest mount 216. The engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 will align with the opening 310, allowing the engagement member 228 to move horizontally out of engagement with the leg 24a.

[0229] Figures 48-53B Another embodiment of a children's dining chair 420, such as a high chair, is shown that includes a quick-connect coupling mechanism 440 configured to couple a rear leg 424d to a dining chair component 422. Although only the rear leg 424d is shown, it should be understood that other legs may be included in the high chair 420, and that the other legs may include portions of the quick-connect coupling mechanism 440 to couple the corresponding legs to the dining chair component 422. As shown, a first portion 442 of the coupling mechanism 440 is mounted proximate the second end 438 of the rear leg 424d. The first portion 442 of the coupling mechanism 440 includes a housing 444 and a support member 446. The housing 444 is positioned on the inside of the rear leg 424d. The housing 444 extends from the outer surface of the rear leg 424d. In one aspect, the housing 444 forms a T-shape that extends along the length of the outer surface of the rear leg 424d. The housing 444 is configured to removably connect the rear leg 424d to the dining chair component 422, as further described below. The housing 444 can include a locking element 445. In one aspect, the locking element 445 comprises a recess defined by an outer surface of the housing 444. The housing 444 can be connected to the support member 446 via at least one fastening element 447 extending through the rear leg 424d between the support member 446 and the housing 444, such as a bolt, adhesive, or other fastening element.

[0230] Figure 51An exploded view of the coupling mechanism 440 is shown. The coupling mechanism 440 further includes a dining chair coupling assembly 450 connected to the dining chair component 422. The dining chair coupling assembly 450 includes a first mounting member 452, a second mounting member 454, a locking actuator 456, and a locking member 458. The first mounting member 452 can be connected to the dining chair component 422 by at least one fastening element 459, such as a bolt, a screw, an adhesive, a combination thereof, or other fastening element. The second mounting member 454 can be connected to the first mounting member 452 by a snap-fit connection. It should be understood that the second mounting member 454 can be connected to the first mounting member 452 by other fastening devices, be formed together with the first mounting member 452 to form an integral single unitary part, or can be directly connected to the dining chair component 422. The first mounting member 452 defines a receiving portion 460. In one aspect, the receiving portion 460 includes a track extending along the outer surface of the first mounting member 452. The receiving portion 460 can be sized to receive a portion of the housing 444 therein to connect the rear leg 424d to the dining chair member 422. In one aspect, the track defines a T-shaped channel.

[0231] The locking member 458 can be positioned within one or both of the first mounting member 452 and the second mounting member 454. The locking member 458 is sized and positioned to transition between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking member 458 extends at least partially into the receiving portion 460. In the unlocked position, the locking member 458 is removed from the receiving portion 460. The dining chair coupling assembly 450 can further include a biasing element 462. The biasing element can be connected to the locking member 458 to bias the locking member 458 toward the locked position. The locking actuator 456 is operably connected to the locking member 458. The locking actuator 456 is accessible to a user on the exterior of the dining chair coupling assembly 450. The locking actuator 456 can be actuated to transition the locking member 458 from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0232] Figure 52A and Figure 52B A bottom perspective view of the rear leg 424d connected to the dining chair member 422 is shown. Figure 52A The locking actuator 456 is shown unactuated, whereby the locking member 458 is in the locked position. Figure 52B The locking actuator 456 is shown actuated, whereby the locking member 458 is in the unlocked position.

[0233] Figure 53A and Figure 53B Shown separately Figure 52A and Figure 52B Cross-sectional view of . Figure 53AThe locking member 458 is shown in a locked position in which it is positioned within the receiving portion 460 of the first mount member 452 and engaged with the locking element 445. The engagement between the locking member 458 and the locking element 445 can prevent the rear leg 424d from being removed from the dining chair member 422. Figure 53B The locking member 458 is shown in an unlocked position in which the locking member 458 is removed from the receiving portion 460 and out of engagement with the locking element 445. In the unlocked position, the rear leg 424d can be removed from the dining chair member 422.

[0234] In embodiments including a biasing mechanism, once the engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 is disengaged from the height adjustment channel 230, the biasing force of the biasing mechanism will cause the footrest mount 216 to translate outwardly toward the first lateral side 220 and the second lateral side 222 of the footrest body 212. In embodiments including a first footrest mount 216 disposed at the first lateral side 220 of the footrest body 212 and a second footrest mount 216 disposed at the second lateral side 222 of the footrest body 212, the sliders 346 associated with both footrest mounts 216 can be simultaneously operated via the same rotatable member 354. Thus, as the bell crank 354 rotates, the distance between each footrest mount 216 and the pivot axis P remains equal.

[0235] The term "about" is intended to encompass the degree of error associated with the measurement of the particular quantity based on the equipment available at the time the application was filed.

[0236] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or parts, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts, and / or groups thereof.

[0237] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for its elements without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt specific circumstances or materials to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the basic scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed as the best mode for carrying out the present disclosure, but rather the present disclosure will encompass all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A children's dining chair, comprising: at least one outrigger; a dining chair member supported by the at least one leg; an armrest connected to the dining chair member; as well as A tray can be directly coupled to and supported by the armrest.

2. The children's high chair of claim 1, wherein the armrest extends across a front portion of the high chair component when the armrest is connected to the high chair component. 3 . The children's dining chair of claim 1 , wherein the armrest comprises an impact bar member and a crotch member extending from the impact bar member.

4. The children's high chair of claim 3, wherein only the impact bar member is directly connectable to the high chair member.

5. The children's dining chair of claim 3, wherein the dining chair member further comprises a dining chair portion, a first upright side wall, and a second upright side wall, and a first leg opening is formed between the crotch member and the first upright side wall, and a second leg opening is formed between the crotch member and the second upright side wall.

6. The children's dining chair of claim 5, wherein the armrests are directly connected to the first and second upright side walls.

7. The high chair of claim 1, wherein the tray is positionable in an arrangement overlapping the armrests.

8. The high chair of claim 1, wherein the tray further comprises at least one latch operable to couple directly to the armrest.

9. The high chair of claim 8, wherein the at least one latch is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and wherein in the extended position the at least one latch is operable to engage the armrest.

10. The high chair of claim 9, wherein the tray has a channel formed therein and the armrest is at least partially receivable within the channel, wherein in the extended position the at least one latch extends across the channel.

11. The high chair of claim 10, wherein the tray further comprises at least one engagement tab extending across a portion of the channel, the at least one engagement tab being operable to contact the armrest.

12. The high chair of claim 11, wherein the at least one latch and the at least one engagement tab are aligned about the channel.

13. The children's high chair of claim 1, wherein the armrests are permanently connected to the high chair member.

14. The children's high chair of claim 1, wherein the armrest is removably connected to the high chair member.

15. The children's high chair of claim 1, wherein the tray is supported by the armrests without any coupling to the high chair components.

16. The children's high chair of claim 1, wherein the tray further comprises at least one rib, the at least one rib being supported by the high chair member.

17. The high chair of claim 16, wherein the armrest further comprises at least one slot, the at least one rib being receivable within the at least one slot to position the tray about the armrest.

18. A children's dining chair, comprising: at least one outrigger; a dining chair member supported by the at least one leg; as well as A coupling mechanism is provided for connecting the at least one leg to the dining chair component without the use of external tools.

19. The children's dining chair according to claim 18, wherein the coupling mechanism further comprises: a first portion secured to the at least one leg, the first portion comprising an engagement member; as well as A second portion is secured to the dining chair component, the second portion including a recess for receiving the engagement member.

20. The children's dining chair of claim 19, wherein the first portion further comprises: a support member mounted to the at least one leg, the support member being movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position; as well as A biasing member is operably coupled to the support member to bias the support member into the engaged position.

21. The high chair of claim 20, wherein in the engaged position, the engagement member extends beyond a surface of the at least one leg, and in the disengaged position, the engagement member does not extend beyond the surface of the at least one leg.

22. The high chair of claim 20, wherein the support member is rotatable about an axis between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

23. The children's dining chair of claim 18, wherein the dining chair component further comprises: horizontal dining chair section; as well as A dining chair back and at least one upright side wall each extend from the horizontal dining chair portion, wherein the at least one leg is connectable to at least one of the dining chair back and the at least one upright side wall.

24. The children's high chair of claim 18, wherein the at least one leg is detachable from the high chair member without the external tool.

25. A children's dining chair, comprising: at least one outrigger; a dining chair member supported by the at least one leg; as well as A footrest is connectable to the at least one leg, wherein the footrest includes at least one actuator operable to adjust a position of the footrest relative to the at least one leg.

26. The children's dining chair of claim 25, wherein the footrest further comprises: Footrest body; At least one footrest mount, wherein the at least one footrest mount is movable relative to the footrest body.

27. The high chair of claim 26, wherein the at least one footrest mount further comprises a latch movable relative to the at least one footrest mount in response to operation of the at least one actuator.

28. The children's dining chair of claim 26, wherein the at least one footrest mount is translatable from an extended position to a retracted position, the at least one footrest mount further comprising a biasing mechanism operable to bias the at least one footrest mount into the extended position.

29. The high chair of claim 26, wherein the at least one footrest mount is movable relative to the footrest body to releasably couple the footrest to the at least one leg in response to operation of the at least one actuator.

30. The high chair of claim 29, wherein the at least one footrest mount comprises a plurality of footrest mounts, and the at least one actuator is a single actuator, each of the plurality of footrest mounts being operatively coupled to the single actuator.

31. The children's dining chair of claim 29, wherein the at least one footrest mount further comprises a plurality of footrest mounts, and the at least one actuator further comprises a plurality of actuators, each of the plurality of footrest mounts being operably coupled to a respective actuator of the plurality of actuators.

32. The children's dining chair of claim 26, further comprising a bracket mounted to the at least one leg, the bracket having at least one opening for receiving a portion of the footrest to couple the footrest to the at least one leg.

33. The high chair of claim 32, wherein the at least one footrest mount further comprises an engagement member receivable within the at least one opening.

34. The high chair of claim 32, wherein the at least one opening comprises a first portion and a second portion, the footrest being movable between the first portion and the second portion to couple the footrest to the at least one leg.

35. The high chair of claim 25, wherein the footrest is connectable to the at least one leg in a plurality of vertical positions.

36. The children's high chair of claim 25, wherein the at least one leg further comprises a first leg and a second leg separated by a gap, wherein the first leg is arranged at an angle to the second leg such that the gap varies with the height of the children's high chair.

37. A children's dining chair, comprising: at least one outrigger; a dining chair component supported by the at least one leg, the dining chair component comprising a dining chair portion and a dining chair back; as well as A dining chair back extension member is connectable to the dining chair member at a position above the dining chair back.

38. The children's high chair of claim 37, wherein the high chair member includes a recess, and the high chair back extension member is receivable within the recess.

39. The children's high chair of claim 37, further comprising at least one clip associated with the high chair back extension member, the at least one clip being connectable to the high chair member.

40. The high chair of claim 39, wherein the at least one clip is permanently secured to the high chair back extension member.

41. The children's high chair of claim 39, wherein the at least one clip is removably coupled to the high chair back extension member.

42. The children's high chair of claim 39, wherein the at least one clip further comprises an opening, and the high chair component further comprises a feature receivable within the opening when the high chair back extension member is coupled to the high chair component.

43. The high chair of claim 42, wherein the at least one clip is formed from a resilient material such that the at least one clip is flexible to separate the feature from the opening.

44. A children's dining chair, comprising: at least one outrigger; a dining chair member supported by the at least one leg; as well as A safety belt assembly is detachably connected directly to the dining chair component without the use of external tools.

45. The children's dining chair of claim 44, wherein the safety belt assembly further comprises: Contains the main components of the buckle; as well as At least one support member connectable to the primary member.

46. The children's dining chair of claim 45, wherein the primary component further comprises: a clip connectable to the dining chair component; as well as A length of webbing is secured to the clip at a first end and to the buckle at a second end.

47. The children's high chair of claim 46, wherein the clamp comprises at least one prong insertable into an opening formed in the high chair component and comprising an outwardly extending protrusion.

48. The children's dining chair of claim 47, wherein the at least one prong is formed of a resilient material and has an outward bias.

49. The children's dining chair of claim 45, wherein the at least one support member further comprises: a waist belt comprising a first buckle clip disposed at a first end portion thereof and a second buckle clip disposed at a second end portion thereof, the first buckle clip and the second buckle clip being connectable to the buckle; and An anchor is coupled to the waist belt and connectable to the dining chair member.

50. The children's high chair of claim 49, wherein the anchor comprises at least one prong insertable into an opening formed in the high chair component and comprising an outwardly extending protrusion.

51. The children's dining chair of claim 50, wherein the at least one prong is formed of a resilient material and has an outward bias.

52. A children's dining chair, comprising: at least one outrigger; a dining chair member supported by the at least one leg; an armrest connectable to the dining chair member; a tray couplable to the armrest; Wherein when the armrest is detached from the dining chair component, the tray cannot be coupled to the dining chair component.

53. The children's high chair of claim 52, wherein when the tray is coupled to the high chair component, the tray is translatable relative to the high chair component.

54. The high chair of claim 52, wherein the tray is directly connectable to the armrest.

55. The children's dining chair of claim 54, wherein the armrest includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and the tray includes a latch having a plurality of slots, at least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs being receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots.

56. The children's high chair of claim 55, wherein the armrest includes at least one armrest mount configured to couple the armrest to the high chair component.

57. The children's high chair of claim 56, wherein the at least one armrest mount includes a protrusion and the high chair component includes an opening, the protrusion being receivable within the opening.

58. The children's high chair of claim 56, wherein the high chair component includes at least one side wall, the at least one armrest mount including an engagement feature configured to abut a lower surface of the side wall.

59. The children's high chair of claim 55, wherein the armrest is slidably receivable about the high chair member.

60. The children's high chair of claim 52, wherein the armrest extends across a front portion of the high chair component when the armrest is connected to the high chair component.

61. The children's dining chair of claim 52, wherein the armrest comprises a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member.

62. The high chair of claim 61, wherein only the impact rail member is directly connectable to the high chair member.

63. A children's dining chair, comprising: at least one outrigger; a dining chair member supported by the at least one leg; an armrest connectable to the dining chair member; as well as A tray is connectable to the armrest, the tray being movable relative to the armrest between a first position and a second position when connected to the armrest.

64. The high chair of claim 63, wherein the tray is translatable between the first position and the second position.

65. The high chair of claim 63, wherein the tray is directly connectable to the armrest.

66. The children's dining chair of claim 65, wherein the armrest includes a lower surface and the tray includes a latch having an engagement feature positionable in contact with the lower surface to couple the tray to the armrest.

67. The children's dining chair of claim 66, wherein the armrest includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and the latch has a plurality of slots, at least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs being receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots in at least one of the first position and the second position.

68. The children's dining chair of claim 67, wherein the armrest includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member, the bumper member includes a side surface, and the plurality of adjustment ribs are formed at the side surface.

69. The children's high chair of claim 63, wherein the armrest is slidably receivable at the front of the high chair member.

70. The children's high chair of claim 63, wherein the armrest comprises at least one armrest mount configured to couple the armrest to the high chair component.

71. The children's high chair of claim 70, wherein the at least one armrest mount includes a protrusion and the high chair component includes an opening, the protrusion being receivable within the opening.

72. The children's high chair of claim 70, wherein the high chair component includes at least one side wall, the at least one armrest mount including an engagement feature positionable in contact with a lower surface of the at least one side wall.

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