MECHANISM FOR A SEATING AND / OR LCONE OF FURNITURE AS WELL AS A SEATING AND / OR LCONE OF FURNITURE WITH THE MECHANISM AND ITS USE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a mechanism for a seat and / or reclining furniture as well as a seat and / or reclining furniture with the mechanism and its use. Hintergrund

[0002] In practice, seating and / or reclining furniture is known to have a seat that can be moved independently relative to the backrest to adjust the seat depth. This allows the user to switch between a sitting and a reclining position by increasing the seat depth. However, this mechanism proves to be a disadvantage, particularly with seating furniture. If the seating furniture is designed as a corner bench, for example, then adjusting the seat depth necessitates a change from a sitting to a reclining position. But the latter is precisely what is undesirable at a table, as it is impractical. The user can no longer lean back, and relaxed, back-friendly sitting is not possible. Furthermore, such seating furniture, for example benches, is often designed as a multi-seater. These are mounted on a rigid support, allowing the bench function to be implemented accordingly.If only one user of a multi-seat corner bench wants to sit closer to the table, for example, the entire bench or even the entire table has previously had to be moved to achieve the desired distance. This often leads to compromises, as in most cases the users are of significantly different statures. This is particularly problematic when toddlers or children are also sitting at the table.

[0003] US 2011 / 304187 A1 discloses a hunting seat that is both movable and pivotable. The seat comprises a seat base, a backrest, a pair of rails running parallel to the seat base and sharing a common plane with the seat base, and a sliding mechanism that moves along the pair of rails in the plane parallel to the seat base, with the seat base positioned on top of the sliding mechanism. Furthermore, the seat has a pivoting mechanism that allows the seat base to rotate about a pivot point. The pivoting mechanism is located between the seat base and the sliding mechanism. A disadvantage of this design is that, due to its technical specifications, such a seat is only suitable for use by hunters.

[0004] US 3,718,365 A describes a seat assembly for boats. This assembly includes, among other things, a main frame with parallel longitudinal members, a subframe mounted on the main frame, the subframe having parallel, tubular members that fit over the parallel longitudinal members of the main frame and are in frictional engagement with them along their entire length. The seat assembly also includes connectors that join the ends of the tubular members. A seat is mounted on the subframe, connected to and movable with the subframe. The seat can be moved along the length of the spaced-apart, parallel longitudinal members when no weight is applied to the seat. The seat assembly is held in its position by friction when weight is applied to the seat.A disadvantage of this design is that the seat mounting is limited to boats and can only be adjusted when there is no load on it. While a person is sitting on it, the frictional connection prevents any change in the seat's position.

[0005] US Patent 2012 / 200132 A1 describes a swivel unit for a seat or similar object. This swivel unit comprises a pivot joint with an actuator that preloads the pivot joint into a start or neutral position and self-centers it. The pivot joint can be rotated and held from its start or neutral position by applying force. When the force is released, the actuator automatically returns the pivot joint to its initial position. A disadvantage of this swivel unit is that it only allows rotational movements. Another disadvantage is that the swivel unit always exerts a restoring force, so a permanent adjustment to a desired position outside the neutral position is not possible. US Patent 5720462A shows another similar mechanism. Aufgabe

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a mechanism for seating and / or reclining furniture that enables the user to individually adjust the seating position. Furthermore, the present invention aims to be cost-effective to install and particularly easy for the user to operate, thus enabling the multifunctional use of seating and / or reclining furniture equipped with the mechanism and / or locking means. In addition, the present invention aims to provide a mechanism that is easy to manufacture and requires minimal repairs. Finally, the present invention aims to provide a mechanism that allows for the construction of virtually self-supporting, delicate, or fragile seating and / or reclining furniture.Finally, it is also the purpose of the present invention to enable particularly simple and energy-saving twisting and shifting of seating and / or reclining furniture in any spatial direction.

[0007] This problem is solved according to the features of claims 1, 4 and 5.

[0008] The core concept of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for a seating and / or reclining piece of furniture comprising at least one seat element, at least one backrest section articulated to the seat element, and at least one substructure for supporting the seat element. The mechanism includes at least one guide unit, which has at least two spaced-apart, substantially parallel guide rails and at least two complementary guide elements, wherein the guide rails and guide elements are operatively connected to one another, the guide unit being arrangable between the seat element and the substructure, and the guide unit making the at least one seat element with the articulated backrest section displaceable relative to the substructure.so that at least one seat element with a backrest section articulated to it can be moved from a first operating position to a second operating position and vice versa, wherein the second operating position is designed to be positioned forward of the mechanism of the first operating position when the mechanism is installed on a seat and / or reclining furniture, or wherein the second operating position is designed to be positioned backward of the mechanism of the first operating position when the mechanism is installed on a seat and / or reclining furniture. This is advantageous because the entire seating unit, which has at least one seat element and at least one backrest section, can be moved within its operating position. Operating position is understood to mean the position that a user can assume on the seating unit. In the simplest case, this means that the user sits on the seat element itself and leans against the backrest section accordingly.so that a comfortable and ergonomic sitting position can be assumed. For example, to reduce the distance between the seat unit and the table, the entire seat unit can be moved forward, towards the table, by applying force to the mechanism. Once the meal is finished, force can be applied again to move the unit back, increasing the distance to the table and allowing the user to stand up comfortably. Advantageously, at least guide rails and guide elements form a first guide unit. In the simplest case, this is designed to be straight, resulting in a linear guide. This is, of course, not the only option, so it is also conceivable that the guide follows a curve. The mechanism described here is specifically designed for this purpose.to move at least one seat unit from a first operating position to a second operating position. This is advantageous because, unlike seat depth adjustments known from practice with individual movement of the seat surface, the entire seat unit is always moved in the present invention. Furthermore, the headrest and / or armrest section and / or footrest can advantageously be additional components of the seat unit. It is thus possible for the first time to move at least one seat unit from a first operating position to a second operating position and vice versa without decoupling the backrest section and seat element, and without the backrest section being moved relative to the seat element or vice versa. The backrest section is advantageously fixed to the seat element, so that force is always applied to the seat element, regardless of the direction.at the same time, the attached backrest section is also moved along with it. In the simplest case, the backrest section can be pivotally hinged to the seat element in order to change the angle of the backrest section as desired. This allows, for example, a piece of seating furniture to be transformed into a reclining piece of furniture.

[0009] Further advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0010] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one spacer element is arranged below and / or between guide rails and / or guide elements, which separates the guide rails from one another. This is advantageous because the spacer element initially creates a positive coupling between the guide rails and / or guide elements. In the simplest case, the guide rails are designed as profile rails with a forward-opening C-profile. The corresponding guide elements, for example in the form of sliding blocks, rollers, or the like, can be inserted into this C-profile and arranged to be slidably and movably positioned within the guide rails. This allows for easy movement of the guide rails relative to the guide elements and vice versa.The spacer element also advantageously serves, firstly, to provide a fixed distance between guide rails and / or guide elements, and secondly, to increase the stability of the entire mechanism. For example, it is conceivable that the spacer element could be designed in a plate-like form. This is advantageous if the spacer element is designed to accommodate the optionally provided rotary function, and if, for example, the rotary element is arranged on or attached to the spacer element.

[0011] In a further advantageous embodiment, the rotating element is multi-part and has at least one cylindrical body with at least one circumferential recess. Furthermore, the recess interacts with a spring element, so that after each cessation of external force being applied to the rotating element, the recess is returned to its original position, the rotating element being connected directly or indirectly to the spacer element. In the simplest case, the rotating element is arranged directly on the spacer element, for example, screwed to it. However, it is also conceivable that at least one mounting plate is provided between the rotating element and the spacer element, on which the rotating element is already pre-assembled.During assembly, the rotating element, with its pre-attached mounting plate, can be quickly and easily attached to the spacer element, for example, by screwing or riveting it in place. As previously described, the mounting plate is rigidly connected to the spacer element, so that only the cylindrical body with the circumferential recess is rotatably mounted, advantageously on the mounting plate or on the spacer element itself. The cylindrical body's diameter is advantageously greater than or equal to its vertical height. This is beneficial because it creates a large, upward-facing surface on which other parts of the rotating element can be stably mounted. The cylindrical body is mounted in such a way that it can perform rotations of more than 360°. Consequently, there is no rotation limit. The cylindrical body is designed without rotational limitations.The cylindrical body with its circumferential recess interacts with a spring element. When force is applied to the cylindrical body, causing it to rotate, the spring element is initially deflected and tensioned. When the force is removed, the spring element returns the cylindrical body to a predetermined starting or original position. This has the advantage that the seat element, which is later attached to the mechanism, is always returned to its original position, regardless of the degree of rotation. This is particularly important for the visual appearance of seating and / or reclining furniture that incorporates at least the mechanism described here for the first time, ensuring that it remains aligned and neatly arranged when the user stands up and leaves their seat. This prevents the seating units from appearing messy and irregular.The rotating element is advantageously rotatable about an axis of rotation and thus also has a return-to-center function. The return-to-center function is advantageously formed by the cylindrical body with at least one circumferential recess and the spring element interacting with it.

[0012] In a further advantageous embodiment, the rotating element also includes a cover element, which is arranged above the cylindrical body and shares a common axis of rotation with it. Advantageously, the cover element is arranged centrally above the cylindrical body, so that both elements form a common axis of rotation and can be rotated together and simultaneously around this axis when a corresponding force is applied. It is particularly advantageous if the cover element is connected to the cylindrical body, for example by screws or rivets, so that applying a force to the cover element also transmits the force to the cylindrical body, allowing it to rotate out of its original position. In the simplest case, the cover element is also designed as a plate.To optimally position the mechanism on a piece of seating and / or reclining furniture, specifically beneath its seat element, it has proven advantageous for the cover element to have laterally projecting extension struts, with at least two of these struts having a non-horizontal angle. In the simplest case, a total of four extension struts are provided. In this embodiment, two extension struts project from each side of the cover element. To ensure the best possible and most secure fixation of the seat element to be attached to the mechanism, it has proven advantageous to design the two front struts with a non-horizontal angle. Advantageously, the two front struts, which are positioned near the user's legs during use, are designed to slope upwards towards the seat element. This slope can be linear and / or curved in the simplest case.

[0013] In a further advantageous embodiment, the outwardly directed ends of the extension struts are at least partially bounded by cross struts arranged thereon for the arrangement of the seating element of the seating and / or reclining furniture. Both the extension struts and the cover element are complemented by the cross struts, which are also designed for the arrangement or reception of the seating element. This ensures that any geometry of a seating element, more precisely its underside, can be permanently and securely attached to the mechanism described herein.At the same time, the crossbars and extension struts provide leverage, so that even a small force applied to the seat element by the user, for example, by rotating their legs, is transferred from the seat element to the struts, and thus to the cover element and finally to the cylindrical body of the rotating element. This enables, for the first time, a particularly effortless and smooth rotation of the mechanism described here. The same applies to the first guide unit, which can also be easily triggered to adjust the corresponding forward or backward movement. The simultaneous possibility of rotation and linear displacement in the user's line of sight is particularly advantageous.

[0014] According to the invention, the guide unit is arranged below the rotary element. This is advantageous because it ensures that the rotational movements always have sufficient freedom of movement. At the same time, the movement of the guide unit along the guide rails and guide elements can proceed unimpeded. For example, the guide unit can be actuated by applying force. This allows the guide elements to rotate forward, and a corresponding force can then be applied to the cylindrical body. This enables, for the first time, a particularly comfortable, simple, and versatile change in the position of the seat unit. Furthermore, it can be individually adjusted to the user's height.For example, if a piece of seating furniture has several seating units, each equipped with its own mechanism, all seating units can be moved forward, backward, and / or rotated independently. For small children, the seat can be moved forward to the second operating position, whereas for older children, an intermediate position between the first and second operating positions is sufficient for them to sit comfortably and ergonomically at the table. The transition between the two maximum operating positions is advantageously smooth and without any detents. The two maximum operating positions are determined by the length of the guide unit and the resulting stops of the guide elements on the guide rails. It goes without saying that any intermediate position along the guide rails can also be assumed.Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the two maximum operating positions are designed to be lockable, so that at least these two positions can be fixed and held accordingly. For this purpose, locking mechanisms, click mechanisms, or similar devices could be provided.

[0015] In a further advantageous embodiment, the guide rails each have at least one coupling means which is fixedly connected to the guide rails on one side and fixedly connected to the rotating element on the other, thereby positioning the rotating element at a distance from the guide rails. In this further embodiment, it has proven advantageous to provide, in addition to the guide elements, at least one coupling means, and preferably several coupling means per guide rail, which space a further embodiment of a rotating element accordingly from the guide rails and / or guide elements. In the simplest case, the coupling means are designed as bolts or screws which are connected to the guide rails.

[0016] According to the invention, the mechanism further comprises an additional guide unit, which is arranged below the first guide unit and offset from it in its orientation. The second guide unit enables at least one seat element to move transversely to the user's line of sight. This movement is essentially offset by 90° from the first guide unit. This is advantageous because this additional guide unit makes a virtually complete change of position possible for the first time. For example, a seat unit designed with the mechanism described here can be moved simultaneously from right to left, forward to backward, and rotated. Furthermore, in this embodiment, it has proven advantageous if the mechanism, in addition to the first guide unit, includes at least one support plate for mounting the mechanism on a seating and / or reclining furniture substructure.Furthermore, the mechanism comprises at least one intermediate frame, the side of which facing the support plate is operatively connected to the support plate and is movable along the support plate. The mechanism also comprises at least one rotary element, which is arranged above the intermediate frame and at least partially connected to it. This rotary element is advantageously pivotally mounted to the intermediate frame. The rotation of the rotary element is particularly advantageously about an axis that extends vertically upwards. This makes it possible for the first time to provide a mechanism that simultaneously enables three changes of direction through offset travel paths as well as a rotational movement. The support plate initially forms the basis for this embodiment of the mechanism. The support plate carries both the intermediate frame and the rotary element, which is at least partially rotatable on it.For this purpose, the support plate can be arranged on and / or attached to the substructure of a seat and / or lounger during normal use, for example, by screwing, gluing, or by being already embedded and integrated into the substructure. The substructure of a seat and / or lounger is advantageously understood here to be the basic structure of the furniture, which supports the attached seating elements and provides a distance from the floor. Common substructures are implemented in the simplest case as a base frame or, in other cases, as elaborate box constructions. The described substructure is advantageously designed as a plate, so that the entire seat and / or lounger appears to float.In the simplest embodiment, the mounting plate of the mechanism is made of metal, for example aluminum, due to its lighter weight, or stainless steel due to its superior material resistance. Alternatively, the mounting plate can also be made of wood and / or plastic. Furthermore, the mechanism comprises at least one intermediate frame, which is operatively connected to the mounting plate on one side facing the mounting plate. The operative connection is particularly advantageous if it allows the intermediate frame to shift relative to the mounting plate. The intermediate frame itself serves as a link between the mounting plate and the multi-part rotating ring element. It should be understood that at least one mechanism is arranged per seat unit. Finally, the mechanism also comprises at least one rotating element. This element can be rotatably mounted on a section of the intermediate frame.By incorporating a functional connection between the support plate and the intermediate frame, as well as the rotating element attached to the intermediate frame, it is now possible for the first time to provide a mechanism that can be moved or shifted in two different directions and simultaneously rotated around the axis of rotation of the rotating element. Thus, it has surprisingly been possible to provide a mechanism in a particularly simple way that corresponds to the open-plan living space concept and enables, for the first time, the multifunctional use of seating and / or reclining furniture in which this mechanism is integrated. Furthermore, this mechanism allows, for the first time, individual user positions for seating furniture, such as benches, when several users are sitting on them. Each user can thus make their own adjustment independently of their neighbors.

[0017] Multifunctionality is advantageously understood to mean that, in addition to its usual use, the seating and / or reclining furniture can be used for at least one other purpose. For example, if a seating element of a corner bench is equipped with this mechanism, then, for the first time, the seating element can be moved away from the table and / or along the table by sliding and simultaneously rotating it, in addition to the familiar eating position at the table. This allows for a comfortable television viewing position without the user having to leave the seating element of the corner bench. Furthermore, with the mechanism described here, it is possible for the first time for users of different ages and body types, such as adults and small children, to each assume their own individual seating position without inconveniencing other users.

[0018] For example, if a mother and toddler are using a bench, it is now possible for the mother to sit on one seat and place her toddler on the separate, adjacent seat. Since toddlers often still need help feeding, the mother can now use the mechanism to slide the toddler's seat towards the table, thus reducing the distance between the table and the toddler. She can also simultaneously rotate the seat so that the toddler faces her. Finally, she can also pull the toddler's seat towards her, ensuring the child is safely and securely cared for. Another example is a seating element of upholstered furniture, such as a sofa. Such upholstered furniture is often designed as a two-seater or multi-seater, or even as a sectional sofa in an L-shape.Sofas of this type are typically used for watching television. By dividing the seating area of ​​a sofa into individual elements, each with its own mechanism, the static viewing angle of the elements can be changed. The individual elements can be moved relative to each other and / or together as desired, ideally in a straight line, and simultaneously rotated, so that, for example, the backrest can be positioned facing the television while the view is directed towards the fireplace. This eliminates the need for additional armchairs, which usually just take up space and are rarely used. The mechanism for seating and / or reclining furniture is therefore a significant advantage, enabling the multifunctionality of the individual pieces and thus saving space in the living or dining room.Furthermore, the mechanism is concealed during normal use. This is particularly advantageous because it allows, for the first time, the creation of delicate seating and / or reclining furniture substructures that ensure the full functionality of the mechanism. With the mechanism described here, it is now possible for the first time to arrange one or more seating elements on thin steel plates, glass plates, wooden panels, or similar materials. During normal use, the mechanism is spanned by the attached seating element. Consequently, the mechanism is significantly smaller in its geometry than the base of the seating element. Regardless of the two sliding and / or rotating positions of the seating element, the mechanism is invisible from above and concealed by the seating element. This results in an additionally high aesthetic appeal for the seating and / or reclining furniture equipped with this mechanism.

[0019] According to the invention, the rotating element is designed as a multi-part rotating ring element and is at least partially connected to the intermediate frame via a first ring part, which is arranged above the intermediate frame. A second ring part is arranged concentrically to the first ring part and is freely rotatable around or within it. In this embodiment, an intermediate frame is also provided in addition to the rotating ring element. Both ring parts are arranged concentrically to each other and have the same center point. The axis of rotation runs vertically through this center point, around which at least one of the two ring parts can be rotated. Advantageously, the first ring part has a smaller diameter than the second ring part, which is arranged concentrically to it.One ring section is arranged on the intermediate frame, with the other ring section being connected to at least one seating element of the seating and / or reclining furniture during normal use of the fitting. Advantageously, the ring section connected to the at least one seating element is rotatable about the axis of rotation. This allows for rotation and, simultaneously, a change in the viewing angle of the seating element. "Normal use of the fitting" advantageously refers to its application in seating and / or reclining furniture. However, this is not an exhaustive or limiting definition, so other uses are also conceivable. Advantageously, the rotating ring element is arranged above the intermediate frame.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment, the support plate has two opposing recesses. In the simplest case, the support plate is square or rectangular. The dimensions of its geometry always depend on the requirement, for example, whether a piece of seating furniture is to be fitted with the fitting or an upholstered piece of furniture, such as a seat element of a sofa.

[0021] In a further advantageous embodiment, the mechanism further comprises at least one locking means for blocking indeterminate rotational movements, wherein the locking means comprises at least one ring element with at least two recesses for position determination, at least one support for arranging the locking means on seating and / or reclining furniture, at least one lever arm which is pivotably mounted at one end on the at least one support, and at least one actuation element which is articulated to the at least one lever arm, wherein the actuation element is guided in its position by means of at least one guide element which is fixedly arranged on the support, and wherein the lever arm has at least one projection.which is at least partially complementary to the at least two recesses of the ring element and engages with at least one recess of the ring element in a latched position. It has proven particularly advantageous to arrange the ring element on the rotating ring element of the mechanism. It is also particularly advantageous to arrange the ring element on the rotatably mounted ring part. By coupling the corresponding ring part with the seat element, the rotatably mounted ring part can be further coupled to the ring element, causing the latter to rotate along with it.

[0022] A user sits down on a piece of seating and / or reclining furniture, for example, on a sofa or corner bench. The user wants to turn towards the television or simply their conversation partner without having to contort themselves. The user activates the actuating element, for example, by applying a pushing and / or pulling force to its free end. Through the coupling of the actuating element and the lever arm, the lever is deflected from its locked position, and at least one projection on the lever arm releases the recess. Now, the seat element can rotate very smoothly. With the release of the locking element, the rotational function of the seat element is free, allowing the user to turn it as desired. Once the desired position is reached, the user releases the force and lets go of the actuating element.Due to the return mechanism, the projection then engages and is held in the nearest recess. The position is secured against rotation, and the user can maintain a comfortable sitting position. The design of the locking means described here makes it possible for the first time to prevent unwanted rotational movements of rotatably mounted seating and / or reclining furniture. For this purpose, at least one support first forms the connection to the respective seating and / or reclining furniture. In the simplest case, the support can be located, for example, on the frame and / or the underside of the seat of the seating and / or reclining furniture. At least one lever arm is then articulated to the support. Advantageously, one end of the lever arm is pivotably mounted to the support. The lever arm also has at least one projection. This projection serves for locking and position fixation.For this purpose, the projection is advantageously designed to be at least partially complementary to the recesses of the ring element and can engage with at least one recess. To transfer the projection from a first recess to a second recess of the ring element, at least one actuation element is articulated to the lever arm. To provide the greatest possible leverage, the actuation element is advantageously arranged at the second end of the lever arm. Simultaneously, the actuation element is guided and limited in its direction of movement by at least one guide element. The at least one guide element is fixedly arranged on the support. This is advantageous because it allows only linear movement of the actuation element. Unwanted rotations are avoided. The actuation element can be of any length in its longitudinal extent.However, it is necessary that the actuation element be designed to be operated directly and / or indirectly by the user of the seating and / or reclining furniture. The deflection of the actuation element can vary. For example, it is conceivable that the actuation element must be held continuously by the user during operation to allow the desired rotation. However, it is significantly more advantageous and convenient if the actuation element only needs to be actuated once to unlock it, and then remains in the unlocked position, for example, held in the unlocked position by an additional locking mechanism. Only when force is applied to the actuation element again, for example, by pressing it again, is the actuation element released and can be returned to the actual locking position of the ring element.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment, the ring element is designed as a toothed ring. This advantageously ensures that a 360° rotational movement is possible. By additionally providing numerous recesses, advantageously two to 75, even more advantageously four to 64, which the toothed ring has, the corresponding number of individually lockable positions of the seating and / or reclining furniture can be provided, depending on the number of recesses.

[0024] In a further advantageous embodiment, the at least two recesses of the ring element are oriented with their openings extending inwards and / or outwards and / or downwards and / or upwards. In the simplest case, the recesses are U-shaped. This ensures that the projection, which is at least partially complementary to this, is held particularly securely and stably in the desired and locked recess. Depending on the embodiment, it is conceivable that the openings of the recesses extend inwards towards the center of the ring element. The at least one projection of the lever arm is then oriented outwards, i.e., away from the center of the toothed ring, so that the at least one projection can engage appropriately in the recesses.This is not to be understood as a limitation, so it is also conceivable that the openings of the recesses could extend vertically upwards and / or downwards, with at least one projection engaging accordingly. It is also conceivable that the openings of the recesses could extend outwards, i.e., away from the center of the ring element. The projection is always adapted accordingly so that, in the locked positions, it engages with the recesses and is reliably and securely held by them. This prevents unwanted and unpredictable rotational movements of rotatably mounted seating and / or reclining furniture. This is, of course, not to be understood as a limitation, so it is also conceivable that the recesses could be designed as holes in the ring element. At least one projection could then be inserted into these holes for locking and unlocking.

[0025] In a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one lever arm is spring-mounted. When a force is applied to the actuating element, for example, a compressive or tensile force, it can be linearly displaced. Due to its coupling with the at least one lever arm, the latter is also deflected, so that the at least one projection arranged on the lever arm is also deflected. The previously locked recess of the ring element is released for rotation. When the force is removed from the actuating element, the lever arm is advantageously held in place. Only when a new force is applied are the lever arm and the at least one projection guided against the ring element by the spring return force and locked into the nearest recess. A change in the position of the ring element is then blocked.

[0026] In all advantageous embodiments, the ring element, which can advantageously be designed as a toothed ring, is arranged directly and / or indirectly on the respective seating and / or reclining furniture. Direct arrangement can be understood, for example, as the ring element being arranged directly on a rotatable frame part of the seating and / or reclining furniture. Indirect arrangement can be understood, for example, as the ring element being arranged on and / or coupled to another fitting. Only the other fitting itself is then arranged on the seating and / or reclining furniture.

[0027] In a further advantageous embodiment, the actuation element is designed to be operated directly or indirectly. In the simplest case, the actuation element is arranged below the seat of a piece of seating and / or reclining furniture. Depending on the design, the actuation element can protrude from the upholstered area of ​​the seat element, for example, by protruding laterally. The free end, which the user grasps to release the lock, can be designed as a handle, tab, or the like. However, indirect operation has proven to be particularly practical and advantageous. Here, the actuation element is arranged laterally inside the seat element. The free, laterally protruding end of the actuation element is, for example, button-like. From the outside, when viewing the seat element in the usual way, the actuation element is not visible. It is arranged invisibly.When the user sits on the seat, they can simply extend their arm sideways and downwards to press and activate the free end of the actuating element located beneath the seat's upholstery. This concealed arrangement of the actuating element is advantageous when a piece of seating and / or reclining furniture consists of multiple seating elements, as a laterally protruding actuating element would obstruct and disrupt the arrangement of these elements. Thus, for the first time, a very elegant solution for an invisible locking mechanism is provided. The mechanism described here is advantageously integrated with the substructure of the seating and / or reclining furniture. This integration can be achieved in various ways depending on the specific design of the mechanism.In the second embodiment, where the rotating element is designed as a rotating ring element, the support plate has two opposing recesses for improved force transmission and linear displacement of the intermediate frame relative to the support plate. In the simplest case, these recesses are rectangular. The two recesses can advantageously be arranged symmetrically to each other. However, this is not to be understood as a limitation, so that other geometric shapes are also included.

[0028] In a further advantageous embodiment, a vertically upward-projecting pin element can be provided. This pin element serves as a stop. Its additional function is to limit the movement of the intermediate frame relative to the support plate. Advantageously, the intermediate frame is displaceable, preferably linearly or curvedly, until the vertically upward-projecting pin element of the support plate encounters a section of the intermediate frame and stops it. Naturally, it is also conceivable to position the pin element on the intermediate frame so that, upon contact with a section of the support plate, it acts as a limiting element and stops the movement of the intermediate frame.

[0029] In a further advantageous embodiment, the support plate and the intermediate frame each have complementary guide rail sections along which the intermediate frame is linearly displaceable relative to the support plate along a substructure. The guide rail sections of the support plate and intermediate frame are advantageously complementary to each other, thus enabling particularly smooth linear displacement. For this purpose, the support plate advantageously has at least two straight projections extending vertically upwards. These projections can be designed as sliding elements or as sliding blocks. In addition, the intermediate frame has guide rails that are complementary to the sliding blocks, which accommodate the sliding blocks and thus enable linear movement between the support plate and the intermediate frame.Sliding elements and guide rails form the guide rail sections. Once the support plate is firmly fixed to the substructure of a seat and / or reclining furniture during normal use, applying force to the intermediate frame causes it to shift linearly relative to the support plate. This linear shift can occur horizontally to the left or right of its original position. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the shift of the intermediate frame... ge The guide elements are provided opposite the carrier plate. In the simplest case, these guide elements can consist of rails and at least one ball bearing or roller bearing. Lateral mounting is also possible.

[0030] In a further advantageous embodiment, the intermediate frame has at least one additional section that separates the guide rail sections of the intermediate frame from one another. Advantageously, this additional section is arranged transversely to the guide rail sections. Longitudinal extent is advantageously understood to mean the direction in which the intermediate frame has its greatest geometric extent. The additional section is advantageously designed as a transverse connection and advantageously projects laterally beyond the guide rail sections. In the simplest case, the guide rails of the intermediate frame and the section designed as a transverse connection are formed in one piece; however, this is not to be understood as a limitation, so that multi-part designs are also conceivable.The cross-connection section serves to additionally stabilize the intermediate frame and thus the entire mechanism, in order to dissipate applied linear and / or rotational forces and prevent twisting. Furthermore, the cross-connection section acts as a limiting element. Advantageously, two cross-connection sections are provided on the intermediate frame. These are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other and thus define and limit the travel path of the intermediate frame relative to the support plate. The linear movement is particularly advantageously limited by the two cross-connection sections. The pin element of the support plate is advantageously used for this purpose. If the intermediate frame is moved linearly relative to the support plate, for example by manual or electrical force, the travel of the intermediate frame is limited by the pin element.This is achieved by guiding the pivot element along a predetermined path against a cross-connection section and holding it in place. This terminates the linear movement. The distances between the two cross-connection sections can be predetermined depending on the desired linear travel distance. Distances in the range of 5 cm to 120 cm have proven particularly advantageous, and even more so, distances of 25 cm to 50 cm. These distances ensure that, during normal use, the fitting is always positioned below and spanned by the seat element. The fitting is thus concealed. Furthermore, each cross-connection section projects laterally beyond the guide rails. This is advantageous because this projection allows the multi-part swivel ring element to be attached to the projecting cross-connection sections, for example, by screwing, gluing, or riveting.For this purpose, the lateral projections of the cross-connection sections are at least partially curved and / or chamfered. The multi-part rotating ring element can therefore be fixed with exceptional precision and accuracy to the intermediate frame, specifically to the lateral projections of the cross-connection sections. Fixing it to these projections leaves sufficient space for the cross-connection sections themselves and their stabilizing function, without the rotational movement being disruptive. It has proven particularly advantageous that only the first ring section is attached to the cross-connection sections of the intermediate frame, for example, by screws or adhesive. This first ring section is positioned on the surface of the intermediate frame facing away from the support plate.Thus, the intermediate frame, which includes at least the guide rails and the cross-connection sections, is arranged between the support plate and the multi-part rotating ring element. The second ring section, which interacts with the first, is particularly advantageously designed to rotate freely. For this purpose, the second ring section is fixed to the underside of a seat element, for example, by screws. Applying force to the seat element therefore also causes the second ring section to rotate. The first ring section remains stationary and undisplaced during this process. This is not to be understood as a limitation, so it is also conceivable that the force acting on a seat element simultaneously causes rotation and linear displacement of the same. Thus, for the first time, a combination of a static substructure with a movable seat element, advantageously rotatable in a straight line and / or simultaneously rotatable through more than 360°, is created.In addition to the mechanism described herein, the present invention further claims a seating and / or reclining furniture with at least one locking means and / or at least one mechanism, wherein the seating and / or reclining furniture has at least one substructure for supporting at least one seat element arranged thereon, wherein the at least one seat element is movable relative to the substructure, advantageously in a straight line and / or in a curved path, and further advantageously movable and / or rotatable in directions offset from one another. As already described above, the mechanism is fixedly arranged on the substructure of a seating and / or reclining furniture via the support plate, for example by screwing it in place. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the support plate is already integrated into the substructure, for example by being recessed and bonded in place.To enable multifunctional use of the seating and / or reclining furniture, the fitting features an intermediate frame and a multi-part rotating ring element. In an alternative embodiment, where the rotating element is designed as a cylindrical body, it is also conceivable that the first and second guide units are offset from each other but arranged adjacent to one another. The second guide unit, for moving the seating unit along a substructure of the seating and / or reclining furniture, is advantageously connected to and / or embedded in the substructure. Thus, for the first time, it is possible for a seating element of a seating and / or reclining furniture to be movable in two straight lines within a horizontal plane and / or simultaneously rotated by more than 360°.Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the seating and / or reclining furniture comprises at least two seating elements, wherein the two seating elements are individually movable away from each other and towards each other, particularly linearly, and individually rotatable relative to each other and / or to the substructure. This is particularly advantageous because the backrest sections of the seating elements no longer form a static barrier. For the first time, a multifunctional seating element and a multifunctional seating and / or reclining furniture are created, whereby the substructure always remains unchanged and static. Thus, for example, it is possible for the first time with the seating and / or reclining furniture described here, which advantageously comprises at least one or at least two seating elements, to watch television in a first functional direction and to eat dinner or sit in front of the fireplace in a second functional direction, which is, for example, rotated 180° to the first.Therefore, the seating and / or reclining furniture described here is designed to be multifunctional.

[0031] Of course, the number of seating elements is not a limiting factor, so depending on the size of the seating and / or reclining furniture, more than two seating elements may be provided, for example, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or even eight seating elements. Naturally, the seating and / or reclining furniture described here can also refer to a substructure with only one seating element. In that case, it would be, for example, an armchair or a stool. As mentioned above, the substructure of the seating and / or reclining furniture is designed to support it. This substructure can be a single piece or comprise several parts. In the simplest case, the substructure can be a flat panel with legs or feet attached to it.An example of this is a continuous wooden, steel, or glass panel with a thickness ranging from 0.5 cm to 25 cm, preferably from 1.5 cm to 15 cm, and even more advantageous from 2 cm to 7 cm. A thickness of 2, 3, 4, 5, 306, or 7 cm for the panel-shaped substructure is particularly advantageous, as it ensures sufficient load-bearing capacity for the seating elements mounted on the substructure. Furthermore, this thickness allows for particularly delicate-looking substructure panels. Moreover, the fitting described here makes it possible for the first time to use metal, steel, and / or glass panels as the substructure. All the necessary mechanisms for sliding and rotating the substructure are provided for the first time by the fitting described here, which acts as a connecting link between the seating element and the substructure.Complex sliding or rotating mechanisms with spring arrangements, as known from the prior art above, are completely eliminated. This simplifies the production and assembly of the seating and / or reclining furniture. With the mechanism described here, it is possible for the first time to provide multifunctional seating and / or reclining furniture that is mounted on a continuous, flat panel as a substructure. Elaborate guide grooves and dust-collecting recesses in the substructure panel are no longer necessary. Naturally, in addition to the new materials mentioned here, such as metal or glass, the substructure panel can also be made of wood or plastic. The linear displacements made possible by the mechanism allow for variations in the distance between the seating elements as well as in the distance to a dining table. This is particularly advantageous when users desire a certain degree of freedom of movement.Furthermore, the linear, i.e., straight, travel path also creates the necessary space for the required rotation of the seating elements. Adjacent seating elements can also be arranged directly next to each other, depending on the travel path. This makes it possible to add the seating area of ​​the individual elements and increase it many times over. Thus, the original sofa landscape or corner bench configuration can be recreated. It is also conceivable to couple the individual seating elements in their adjacent positions, so that, for example, only a shared, linear movement is possible, but no rotation. Magnets, snap-fit ​​connections, or similar devices can be used as advantageous coupling mechanisms. This is not to be understood as a limitation. It is also conceivable that a multi-seat seating element, for example with two or three seats, could be designed.This multi-seat seating element can then, in turn, only have one mechanism, so that both the movement and rotation described above can be applied to this multi-seat element. The rotation of more than 360° now makes it possible for each seat element to be positioned facing any direction in the room, while the substructure remains in an unchanged, static position. Furthermore, the movement, advantageously linear, as well as the rotation of the individual seating elements relative to the substructure can be performed manually, i.e., by applying force from the user. Both the linear movement and the rotation can be stepless. However, this is not to be understood as a limitation, so it is also conceivable that the movement and / or rotation could be enabled in predetermined size intervals, for example, 5 cm or 310° increments.Furthermore, it is also conceivable to implement the rotation and / or linear displacement of the individual seat elements via a drive unit, for example, an electric motor. At the push of a button, the degree of both rotation and displacement, advantageously linear, can then be determined. It is also conceivable to use the same drive unit or different drive units for both rotation and displacement, particularly linear displacement. Regarding mobility, this is achieved, as already described above, by guide rail sections and / or guide units. The guide elements provided here are designed as sliding elements, which are particularly advantageously designed as sliding blocks or rollers.A dovetail profile has proven advantageous because it ensures secure and smooth guidance of the guide rails on the sliding blocks during the linear movement. Furthermore, the forces acting on the guide rails during movement are also transferred, thus increasing their service life. In addition to the dovetail profile, it is also conceivable that the sliding blocks have at least two opposing, parallel guide grooves into which complementary C-profile guide rails of the intermediate frame can be inserted and guided. It has proven particularly advantageous that the fitting described here allows simultaneous linear and rotational movement of the seat element. Thus, for example, the seat element can be rotated simultaneously during its linear movement.This is a clear advantage, as it allows for quick and easy changes in viewing angle. Furthermore, the rotation is advantageously smooth, i.e., stepless, preventing unwanted locking into individual rotation positions. However, it is also conceivable that the rotation positions could be preset. This has the advantage of allowing certain positions of the seating elements to be fixed, preventing unintentional twisting from that position. However, stepless rotation and / or a stepless adjustment mechanism is particularly preferred, as it offers additional comfort and allows the user to individually adjust their desired seating position. It is also conceivable that the guide rails could have multiple locking positions for the sliding blocks.Thus, even with the linear movement of the seat element, predetermined positions can be assumed and maintained. Furthermore, the locking positions ensure that the individual seat elements are not unintentionally displaced, for example, in the event of a fall, and subsequently slide away, potentially causing serious injury to the user. It is also conceivable that at least one distance-detecting element, such as a sensor, is arranged on the substructure and / or on the seat element itself. This distance-detecting element can be connected to and, for example, coupled with a control unit and / or a drive unit. This ensures that sufficient space is always available for the desired operation during the automatic movement and / or rotation of each seat element.This advantageously ensures trouble-free rotation and linear movement of the entire seating element across the stationary substructure. At the same time, the distance-determining element can also be understood as a protective element. For example, if a seating element with an already pivoted backrest section is moved linearly, the distance-determining element ensures that the projection of the pivoted backrest is taken into account during the linear movement, thus preventing collisions with another seating element or, for example, with other furnishings.In addition to the previously described linear movement of the individual seating elements relative to the substructure via the two offset guide units of the mechanism, it is also conceivable that the respective seating elements can be moved along at least partially curved or circular paths. For these curved paths, all the features described above apply and are combined analogously. Particularly when the seating and / or reclining furniture is designed as a corner bench or sofa arrangement, it is also conceivable that the movement of at least one seating element extends around a corner. This makes the seating and / or reclining furniture even more flexible and particularly multifunctional. Therefore, it is also conceivable that the first guide unit not only allows for forward and backward movement but also enables the raising and / or lowering of the seating element.This can be achieved, for example, by a curved guide rail design. In this case, when actuated, i.e., when force is applied, the seat element is moved forward and upward simultaneously. The operating position is therefore shifted forward and upward. Naturally, appropriate locking mechanisms are provided to securely hold the individual operating positions. Furthermore, for automatic adjustment of the seat element itself (provided a suitable drive is available), and / or for automatic adjustment of the backrest, seat surface, headrest, and / or footrest, operating elements can be provided on the seat element itself and / or on the substructure. In addition, each seat element can advantageously be automatically positioned using a remote control.Automatic positioning encompasses both the linear movement of the seating elements, as well as the rotation of individual elements and the deflection of individual components from, for example, a sitting to a reclining position. This is advantageous because the user no longer needs to get up and manually rotate or move the seating element every time they change position. Automatic adjustment significantly increases seating comfort, as any position change can be made quickly and easily using the corresponding controls. These controls can also be contactless and connected via Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth®. Adjustment can then be performed wirelessly, for example, via a smartphone or tablet.

[0032] The term "essentially" is understood in all cases used here, where this term is used within the scope of the present invention, to mean a deviation in the range of 1% to 30%, in particular 1% to 20%, in particular 1% to 10%, in particular 1% to 5%, in particular 1% to 2% from the specification that would be given without the use of this term.

[0033] Advantages and practical features can be found in the following description in conjunction with the drawing. These show: FIG. 1 a perspective schematic view of a first embodiment of the mechanism; FIG. 2 a schematic top view of the first embodiment made of FIG. 1 FIG. 3 a schematic top view of the first embodiment made of FIG. 1 with a piece of seating furniture; FIG. 4 a perspective view of the FIG. 3 FIG. 5 a schematic side view of the embodiment made of FIG. 1 FIG. 6a,b schematic side views of the FIG. 3 in two different usage positions; FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the first embodiment. FIG. 1 with a seat in a rotated state; FIG. 7 a perspective schematic view of a second embodiment of the mechanism; FIG. 8 a schematic top view of the second embodiment made of FIG. 7 FIG. 9 a schematic side view of the second embodiment made of FIG. 7 FIG. 10 a schematic perspective view of the second embodiment with a seat; FIG. 11 a schematic top view of the FIG. 10 ; FIG. 12a,b schematic side views of the FIG. 10 in two different operating positions; FIG. 13a-c different views of the locking device; FIG. 14a-d different views of the carrier of the locking device; FIG. 15a-d different views of the lever arm of the locking device; FIG. 16a,b views of the locking and unlocking positions; FIG. 17 a locking device with a second embodiment of the mechanism; FIG. 18 another schematic top view with a second embodiment of the mechanism; FIG. 19 a bottom view of FIG. 18 FIG. 21 another schematic perspective with a second embodiment of the mechanism; FIG. 22 another view of a locking device; FIG. 23 another embodiment of the mechanism; FIG. 24 another perspective view of the mechanism from FIG. 23 in a first limiting position; FIG. 25 a further, perspective view of the mechanism from FIG. 23 In a second limit position, FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of a mechanism in a seating and / or reclining furniture; and FIG. 27 shows another perspective view of a mechanism in a seating and / or reclining furniture with a twisted seat unit.

[0034] In the drawings, elements designated with the same reference numerals are essentially equivalent to one another, unless otherwise indicated. Furthermore, components that are not essential for understanding the technical teaching disclosed herein are not shown or described. Additionally, reference numerals are not repeated for all elements already introduced and illustrated, provided that the elements themselves and their function have already been described or are known to a person skilled in the art. Ausführliche Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen

[0035] FIG. 1 Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment 100 of the mechanism 1. In this first embodiment 100, the multi-part mechanism 1 is shown without a seat element. The embodiment 100 initially comprises the first guide unit 102. This guide unit 102 advantageously has two guide rails 104 in this embodiment 100. These guide rails 104 have an opening on the front and / or rear side, with the entire profile advantageously being C-shaped.

[0036] To form the guide unit 102, each of the guide rails 104 is operatively connected to at least one guide element (not shown). The guide elements (not shown) are designed to complement the C-shaped profiles of the guide rails 104, so that the guide rails 104 can be displaced along the guide elements (not shown) in direction M. Direction M corresponds to both forward and backward displacement. The guide rails 104 can thus be displaced linearly forwards and backwards. The guide elements (not shown), which can be designed, for example, as sliding blocks, rollers, or the like, are further arranged on a support 106. Advantageously, this support 106 also serves as a coupling means for the further guide unit 108.This further guide unit 108 also features, for example, two spaced-apart guide rails 110, within which further guide elements 112 are arranged to slide. In the simplest case, the guide elements 112 are designed as sliding blocks that can be moved along the guide rails 110 in the direction L. With the two guide units 102 and 108 described so far, it is thus possible for the first time to move a seat unit (not shown) both in the direction L and simultaneously in the direction M. It is particularly advantageous that the two guide units 102 and 108 are arranged essentially 90° apart from each other. Thus, the directions L and M and the resulting travel paths are also designed to be essentially 90° apart from each other.This is not to be understood as a limitation, so it is also conceivable that directions L and M are arranged at an angle to each other other than 90°. This is individually adjustable, whereby a right-angled offset of the two guide units 102, 108 to each other has proven particularly advantageous. With a corresponding adjustment of essentially 90°, the linear displacement in direction L as well as the forward and backward displacement in direction M can thus be ensured for the first time. Both displacements can occur simultaneously. Furthermore, the embodiment 100 of the mechanism shown here has a spacer element 114, which is designed here by way of example as a U-shape. Furthermore, the spacer element 114 is designed as a plate so that it serves to receive the rotary element 116. The rotary element 116 is advantageously designed in multiple parts and initially has an arrangement plate 118.The rotating element 116 is rigidly connected to the spacer element 114 by means of this mounting plate 118, which can also be considered a base plate, for example by screws. The cylindrical body 120 with the circumferential recess is advantageously arranged centrally on the mounting plate 118. It is particularly advantageous for the cylindrical body 120 to be rotatably mounted about the vertically upward-extending axis of rotation Z. To complete the embodiment 100 of the mechanism 1 shown here, the cylindrical body 120 is covered with a cover element 122, which can also be understood as protecting the entire rotating element 116. In this embodiment 100, the cover element 122 is also designed as a plate. Both the cover element 122 and the cylindrical body 120 have the same axis of rotation Z. Furthermore, the cover element 122 has laterally projecting projections 124a,124b and 126a,126b.These laterally projecting projections 124, 126 extend in the direction of L. The free ends of the two projections 124 and 126 are each closed by crossbars 128. Both the crossbars 128 and the extension bars 124, 126 are to be understood as the levers by means of which even a small force applied to the seat element (not shown) to be attached later is sufficient to deflect the cylindrical body 120, which is advantageously significantly wider than it is tall, from its original position and rotate it about the axis of rotation Z. It has proven particularly advantageous if the extension bars 126a, 126b are inclined upwards and thus have an inclination other than horizontal. By raising the two extension bars 126a, 126b, the orientation in the crossbars 128 is also beveled and raised.This ensures that even particularly complex geometries of seat element undersides can be securely and permanently fixed using the mechanism described here. Consequently, with the embodiment 100 described here, individual repositioning of a complete seat unit is possible for the first time, as the mechanism described here can be moved essentially simultaneously in the L and M directions and also around the Z axis of rotation. This results in a multiaxial mechanism. This enhances the individual comfort of the user.

[0037] In FIG. 2 A schematic top view of embodiment 100 is shown. FIG. 1 shown. The top view shows additionally to FIG. 1 Guide elements 105, which are designed to complement the guide rails 104 and are connected to them. Furthermore, it can be seen in the top view that the crossbars 128, in addition to the actual inclination as described in FIG. 1 As shown, a trapezoidal structure is also formed, such that the rear distance between the crossbars 128 is smaller than the front distance between their free ends, which are furthest apart from the backrest. This also serves to stabilize and improve the support of the seat element to be attached later, and to simplify and improve the force transmission via the seat element to the cylindrical body 120 (not shown), so that the rotation and simultaneous linear displacements are particularly energy-efficient and easy to perform, even for small children.

[0038] In FIG. 3 A schematic top view of an arrangement of the first embodiment 100 in combination with a piece of furniture 130 is now shown. In this embodiment, the seating furniture 130 is fixed to the crossbar 128, for example, by screws. It is also shown that the guide rails 110 are spaced from the floor by means of corresponding foot frames 132. It is conceivable that only the guide rails 110 are provided to create a two-seater seating furniture 134, as shown here. The seating furniture 134 shown here is designed as a bench and has two mechanisms 1 in embodiment 100. The mechanism 100 on the right shows a section view, so that the cylindrical body 120 with the corresponding guide unit 102 is depicted. In the left half of the image, a seat unit 130 is shown, which, as already mentioned, is arranged on the mechanism 1.By applying a corresponding force to this seat unit 130, for example by a user, this unit 130 can be moved along the guide rails 110 in direction L and simultaneously forwards and backwards in direction M. Rotation about the axis of rotation Z is also shown. This is also illustrated in Figure 1. FIG. 4 again the perspective view from FIG. 3 The figure shows that the mechanism 1 of the embodiment 100 shown here is linearly displaceable along the support frame and / or the substructure 136 in the direction L. This allows both units 130 to be positioned next to each other or to be moved further apart. It is particularly advantageous that, as shown, the mechanism 1 in the embodiments 100 is arranged below the seat unit 130. Thus, the mechanism 1 in the embodiments 100 is essentially invisible, as it is located below the seat unit 130 and is spanned and concealed by it. Only the guide rails 110 for the linear movement in the direction L, i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the substructure 136, are perceptible to the user.

[0039] In FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of mechanism 1 from FIG. 1 As shown, the cylindrical body 120 is designed as a spacer element below which the first guide unit 102 is arranged. Below this guide unit 102, the further guide unit 108 is arranged, advantageously offset by approximately 90° to the first guide unit 102. This results in multiaxial mobility of the mechanism described here, which is particularly advantageous for individual user adjustment in the seating and / or reclining furniture used. FIG. 6 A further side view of a seating unit 134 is shown, in which the seating unit 130 has a mechanism 1 of the embodiment 100 described herein. The seating unit 130 is shown here in a forward-positioned position for use. The seating unit 134 is advantageously formed from at least one seating element 144 and a corresponding substructure 136. The seating unit 130 is particularly advantageously formed by a seating element 140 and a backrest 142 rigidly connected to it. The armrest 144 provides a temporal boundary. As can be seen in this schematic side view of the seating unit 134, the mechanism 1 in embodiment 100 is arranged below the seating element 140. If the seating unit 134 is now subjected to a force in any way, for example via the seat surface or the side armrest 144, the entire seating unit 130 can be moved forward and / or backward in direction M. FIG. 6A The forward shift is shown, in FIG. 6B The repositioning of seat unit 130 is shown. Finally, it shows FIG. 6c yet another perspective view of FIG. 4 .

[0040] In FIG. 7 Another embodiment 200 of the mechanism 1 is shown. The embodiment 200 of the mechanism 1 shown here is also advantageously designed for furniture. It has proven particularly advantageous when the furniture is designed as upholstered furniture. In this embodiment 200, a first guide unit 202 is again arranged. The first guide unit 202 again has guide rails 204 that are open to the front or rear and which advantageously have a C-shaped profile. The guide rails 204 are operatively connected to the guide elements 205, which are arranged below the guide rails 204. The guide unit 202 is also designed as a linear guide unit for a linear displacement of the embodiment 200 of the mechanism 1 in the direction M. Thus, the embodiment 200 shown here can also be displaced forwards and backwards when a corresponding force is applied.A multi-part rotary element 206 is arranged above the guide unit 202. The rotary element 206 also includes a multi-part locking device 208. Advantageously, the guide unit 202 is arranged on and / or attached to a frame 210. This intermediate frame 210, in turn, is arranged above the further guide unit 212, with which the embodiment 200 of the mechanism 1 can be displaced in the longitudinal direction L. Due to the design of the rotary element 206 by two concentrically arranged ring parts 232, 233, a corresponding rotation is possible here as well as the two linear displacements in the directions M and L simultaneously. Furthermore, the rotary element 206 can be positioned securely by the locking device 208. Thus, unwanted rotation can be prevented. FIG. 8 a corresponding top view of the second embodiment 200 of the mechanism 1 from FIG. 7 , where here too, the same reference numerals correspond to the same components. The rotating element 206 has a first ring part 232 and a second ring part 233 formed concentrically to it. Furthermore, a ring element 230 is provided, which advantageously has interval divisions. In order to prevent a desired rotation of the rotating element 206 and / or to fix a desired rotational position, the embodiment 200 of the mechanism 1 shown here also has a locking means 208. This locking means 208 is formed in multiple parts and initially has a carrier 214 with an extension 216 thereto. A lever arm 218 is pivotably connected to the carrier 214, with a pivot joint 224 being provided at a front end of the lever arm 218, to which the actuation element 220 is connected.

[0041] In FIG. 8 is a top view of embodiment 220 of the mechanics of a FIG. 7 The same reference symbols are shown for the same components and are not explained again. FIG. 9 Figure 1 shows a schematic sectional view of embodiment 200, including the locking device 208 and the rotary element 206 arranged therein. It is further evident that the rotary element 206 is connected to the first guide unit 202 via coupling means 240 and simultaneously spaced apart from it by the coupling means 240. It is also evident that, in addition to the guide rails 204, the guide elements 205 are arranged below the guide rails 204. Advantageously, the guide elements 205 are fixedly arranged on the intermediate frame 210. This intermediate frame 210, in turn, rests on a support structure 242, which advantageously includes further guide units (not shown). FIG. 10 A further possible embodiment 200 of a seating / or reclining furniture 234 is shown. In the exemplary embodiment 200 shown here, two mechanisms 1 are arranged on a substructure 236. Both mechanisms 1 are connected to the substructure 236 via the support structure 242. The substructure 236 itself is thin and plate-like and is spaced from the floor by means of feet 244. In the bench shown here, the two embodiments 200 of the mechanism 1 are spaced apart from each other and cannot be moved to a stop against each other. The two illustrated embodiments 200 of the mechanism 1 also exhibit the features already described. FIG. 8 and 9 on.

[0042] A seating unit 234 is schematically arranged on the left side of the substructure 236. The unit 234 is positioned above the swivel element 206 and fixed to it. The seating unit 234 shown here differs from the previously described seating unit 134 in that the seating unit 234 is advantageously designed for upholstered furniture, for example, for upholstered seating units. The seating unit 234 shown here also has at least one seat element 238 and a backrest section 239. Here, too, the backrest section 239 is fixedly attached to the seat element 238. Therefore, a change in position by applying an external force to the seat element 238 always results in a complete deflection of the entire seating unit 234 in the desired direction, even in this embodiment 200.The seating unit 234 described here can also be moved longitudinally L along the substructure 236 and / or essentially perpendicular to it forwards and backwards in the direction M. Simultaneously, rotation about the axis of rotation R is also possible. The simultaneous execution of both linear movements L and M, as well as the rotation R, is particularly advantageous. This significantly increases the individual usability of the seating and / or reclining furniture.

[0043] In FIG. 11 is another schematic top view from FIG. 10 As shown, the same reference symbols correspond to the same components and are not explained again.

[0044] Finally, it shows FIG. 12a Another schematic side view of a seat unit 234 in a first operating position. In this example, the first operating position is implemented by positioning the seat unit 234 further back relative to the substructure 236. If an external force is applied, for example by the user, the entire seat unit 234 can be moved forward relative to the substructure 236 in the direction M, as shown in FIG. 12b is shown. FIG. 12 B It is evident that the seating element 238 is significantly shifted forward relative to the fixed substructure 236.

[0045] FIG. 13a-c Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a locking device 208. This locking device 208 has a support 214. This support 214 is fixedly attached to the frame of the seating and / or reclining furniture (not shown here), for example by screws or rivets. The support 214 also has at least one lateral extension 216. At least one lever arm 218 is pivotably mounted on this lateral extension 216. The pivoting occurs about the axis of rotation. X,which advantageously extends vertically. The actuating element 220 is articulated at the opposite end of the lever arm 218. The actuating element 220 is cylindrical here, as this allows for particularly easy position changes without tilting. The actuating element 220 is guided by the guide element 222. If the free end of the actuating element 220 is now actuated with the force F, the guide element 222 causes its linear movement. The applied force F deflects the lever arm 218 via the pivot joint 224. Force F can be a compressive or tensile force. FIG. 13c is an enlarged section of the locking device 208 from FIG. 13a shown. Identical reference numerals correspond to identical components and are not explained again. It is evident that the actuation element 220 is connected to the free end of the lever arm 218 via a pivot joint 224. The actuation element 220 is guided by the guide element 222. The guide element 222 is arranged at an angle on the support 214. In FIG. 13b A locked locking device 208 is shown. Here, the ring element 230, advantageously the toothed ring, is arranged on the first ring part 232. If the ring part 232 is rotated, the ring element 230 rotates with it, and vice versa. The support 214 is fixed to the frame of the seating and / or reclining furniture.

[0046] FIG. 14a,b show different views of carrier 214. In FIG. 14a The protrusion of the guide element 222 is clearly visible. The guide element 222 is designed as a plate section with a continuous opening 226. The actuation element 220 is slidably arranged through this opening 226. To minimize friction, the actuation element 220 or the opening 226 can be modified, for example, to be particularly smooth.

[0047] In FIG. 15a-d Different views of lever arm 218 are shown. FIG. 15a A perspective view of the lever arm 218 is shown. This arm has a laterally projecting projection 228. This projection 228 serves as a locking mechanism. In the simplest case, the projection 228 can at least partially encircle the lever arm 218. FIG. 15b Figures c show side views of lever arm 218. FIG. 15d An enlargement of projection 228 and its geometry is shown.

[0048] In FIG. 16a A high magnification of the locking position is shown. The ring element 230 has a multitude of recesses 231. These are shown here as examples in a U-shape and extend inwards towards the center of the ring element 230. The projection 228 engages with a recess 231. This forms the locking position. Unintentional rotation of the first ring part is thus prevented. This also increases safety for the user. FIG. 16 b The detent position is still shown. The projection 228 is led out of the recess 231, releasing it. This now allows rotation of the ring element 230 and the supported ring part.

[0049] In FIG. 17 The locking means 208 is shown in combination with parts of the mechanism 1 in embodiment 200. The two ring parts 232, 233 are arranged concentrically to each other. The ring element 230 is arranged on the underside of the first ring part 232 and is thus coupled to it. Support 214 and lever arm 218 are arranged above the ring parts 232, 233. The projection 228 is arranged and held in one of the recesses 231.

[0050] In Fig. 19 A top view of a locking device 208 intended for use is shown. For the sake of simplicity, only frame parts of the seating and / or reclining furniture are shown. The other components of the seating and / or reclining furniture have been omitted for clarity. Fig. 18 The locking position of the locking device 208 is shown, whereas in Fig. 19 The unlocked position is shown. The actuation element 220 was moved linearly inwards in the direction of F by applying pressure, and the lever arm 218 was deflected about the axis of rotation X.

[0051] In Fig. 20 This is a bottom view of embodiment 200. It can be seen that the projection 228 engages in a recess 231 and is held in position by its wall. Fig. 21 Finally, a rotated position is shown, which is also locked and secured. Fig. 22 An enlarged section of the locking device 208 is shown again. Identical components correspond to the same reference numerals as before and are not explained again. This figure shows that the lever arm 218 is at least partially chamfered. This is advantageous to ensure optimal rotational linkage of the actuating element 220.

[0052] Fig. 13 Figure 1 shows a further embodiment 300 of the mechanism 1 in a perspective view. The support plate 302 is arranged on the underside of the mechanism 1. The support plate 302 has two opposing recesses 304a, 304b. The rotatable stabilizing element of the intermediate frame 306 (not shown) can be reversibly inserted into these recesses 304a, 304b. Furthermore, the support plate 302 has a pin element 308, which extends vertically upwards. This pin element 308 serves as a limiting element and thus limits the linear travel path of the intermediate frame 306 relative to the support plate 302 shown here. The support plate 302 also has recesses / openings 310 by means of which the support plate 302 can be fixed, for example by screwing, to a substructure (not shown) of a seating and / or reclining furniture. The intermediate frame 306 is arranged above the support plate 302.The intermediate frame 306 is operatively connected to the support plate 302 via guide rail sections 312. For this purpose, the support plate 302 advantageously has vertically extending sliding blocks 314, which can be inserted into the corresponding guide rails 316 of the intermediate frame 306 and moved along them. In addition to the guide rails 316, which are open downwards towards the sliding blocks 314, the intermediate frame 306 also has two transverse connection sections 318. These transverse connection sections 318 are spaced apart from each other and, in the simplest form, are parallel to each other. In particular, the two transverse connection sections 318 are at least partially inclined and advantageously each have a raised section 320. The raised section 320 extends vertically upwards, i.e., away from the support plate 302.The raised section 320 is advantageous because a rotatable stabilizing element (not shown) is arranged on its underside. For this rotatable stabilizing element (not shown), it is necessary that the cross-connecting sections 318 have a corresponding raised section 320. The raised section 320 is formed by two surfaces extending obliquely upwards, which are connected to each other by a further horizontal surface. In addition, the two cross-connecting sections 318 have lateral projections 322, which are at least partially curved or chamfered. A first ring part 324 of the multi-part rotating ring element 326 is fixedly arranged, for example by screws, on these at least partially curved lateral projections 322. The rotating ring element 326 consists of two ring parts 324 and 328 arranged concentrically to each other, both of which have the same center point.Advantageously, the first ring part 324 is fixed to the projections 322. In this case, the second ring part 328 is mounted to the first ring part 324 in such a way that the second ring part 328 is freely rotatable about its center point, through which the axis of rotation R also runs in the vertical direction. This is, of course, not to be understood as a limiting factor, so that it can also be exactly the opposite, namely that the second ring part 28 is fixed to the lateral projections 322, while the first ring part 24 is freely rotatable. In the position shown here, the pin element 308 is arranged centrally, so that the vertical extent of the pin element 308 corresponds to the axis of rotation R of the second ring part 328 and the first ring part 324. In the initial position shown here, the intermediate frame 306 is also linearly displaceable relative to the support plate 302 in the same direction L to the left and right.The first guide unit for forward and / or backward displacement of this embodiment is not shown here. It is concealed below the cross-connection sections 318, arranged essentially parallel to them.

[0053] In FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 The two limit positions of the pin element 308 are shown, which is located in FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 The path is guided against the elevation 320 of the cross-connection sections 318 and blocked by it. Thus, the travel distance is limited.

[0054] In FIG. 19 Finally, an embodiment 300 is shown in a seating and / or reclining furniture 332. The seating and / or reclining furniture 332 is shown here only in its frame construction without any upholstery. It is evident that the mechanism 1 with its support plate 302 is fixedly arranged on the substructure 334 of the seating and / or reclining furniture. The substructure 334 is designed as a continuous plate. The substructure 334 has no recesses in the sense of guide grooves or openings in the sense of slots. The seating and / or reclining furniture 332 shown here has a headrest 336 and a backrest section 338 arranged on the headrest 336. The headrest 336 is variably adjustable in height via corresponding fittings. In addition, the backrest section 338 is also flexibly adjustable in its inclination relative to the seat surface 342 via a rotation joint 340.Depending on the force applied and the desired position, the seating and / or reclining furniture 332 shown here can now, for the first time, be linearly moved along the substructure 334 in the direction L, whereby rotation about the axis of rotation R is also possible simultaneously and / or before and / or after the linear movement in the direction L. Thus, for the first time, a multifunctional seating and / or reclining furniture 332 is provided on a continuous substructure 334, which is also statically designed. Of course, this is not to be understood as a limitation, so it is also conceivable that the substructure 334 is mounted on rollers and is itself mobile. [Further details are shown below.] FIG. 27 another schematic perspective view of a seating and / or reclining furniture 332 with a swiveled seating element on a static substructure 334.

[0055] Although the invention is illustrated and described in detail by the advantageous embodiments described herein, the invention is not limited to the disclosed examples and other variations can be derived by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of protection of the invention. In particular, the present invention is not limited to the following combination of features, but other combinations and partial combinations of the disclosed features that are obviously executable can also be formed by a person skilled in the art. Bezugszeichenliste

[0056] 1 Mechanism 100 First embodiment of the mechanism 102 First guide unit 104 Guide rail 105 Guide element 106 Support 108 Further guide unit 110 Further guide rail 112 Guide element 114 Spacer element 116 Swivel element 118 Mounting plate 120 Cylindrical body 122 Cover element 124 Extension struts 126 Further extension struts 128 Cross struts 130 Seat unit 132 Base frame 134 Seating and / or reclining furniture 136 Substructure 140 Seat element 142 Backrest 144 Side rest / armrest 200 Second embodiment of the mechanism 202 Further guide unit 204 Guide rail 205 Guide element 206 Swivel element 208 Locking device 210 Intermediate frame 214 Carrier 216 Extension 218 Lever arm 220 Actuation element 222 Guide element 224 Swivel joint 226 Opening 228 Projection 230 Ring element 231 Recess 232 First ring part 233 Second ring part 234 Seat unit 236 Substructure 238 Seat element 239 Backrest part 240 Coupling means 242 Carrier structure 244 Foot part 300 Third embodiment of theMechanics 302 Support plate 304a, 304b Recesses 306 Intermediate frame 308 Pin element 310 Openings 312 Guide rail sections 314 Sliding blocks 316 Guide rails 318 Cross-connection sections 320 Raise 322 Projections 324 First ring part 326 Swivel ring element 328 Second ring part 330 Rotating stabilizing element 332 Seat unit 334 Substructure 336 Headrest 338 Backrest part 340 Rotation joint 342 Seat surface L Travel path R Rotation axis X Rotation axis M Further travel path FR Direction of force application

Claims

1. Mechanism (1) for a seat and / or lounger with at least one seating element, at least one backrest part hinged to the seating element and at least one substructure for supporting the seating element, wherein the mechanism (1) has at least one guide unit (102;202;302), which is arranged below a rotating element (116,206) and which has at least two guide rails(104;204), which are spaced apart from each other and which are substantially arranged parallel to each other, and at least has two guide elements (105;205) which are designed complementary to the guide rails, wherein guide rails (104;204) and guide elements (105;205) are in an operational connection with each other, wherein the guide unit (102;202) is arrangeable between seating element and substructure (136;236) and the guide unit (102; 202) is designed to be displaceable relative to the substructure (136; 236) so that the at least one seat element with the backrest part hinged thereto can be moved from a first position of use to a second position of use and vice versa, wherein the second position of use is formed in a state where the mechanism (1) is arranged at the seat and / or lounger forwardly displaced relative to the first position of use or wherein the second position of use is formed in a state, where the mechanism (1) is arranged at the seat and / or lounger backwardly displaced relative to the first position of use, wherein the rotary element (206) is formed as multi-part rotating ring element and is at least partially connected to an intermediate frame by a first ring part (232), which is arranged above the intermediate frame, wherein the second ring part (233) is arranged concentric to the first ring part (232) and is freely rotatable around or inside the first ring part (232), wherein further an additional guide unit is provided, which is arranged below the first guide unit (202) in an offset alignment relative to the latter, wherein the second guide unit enables at least one seating element to be displaceable transversely relative to the line of sight of a user, wherein a seat unit designed with the mechanism described here can be moved as a whole, for example, simultaneously to the right and left, and can be moved forwards and backwards and rotated.

2. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, the guide rails (204) each have at least one coupling means (240), which is firmly connected to the guide rails (204) and which is also firmly connected to the rotating element (206) and at the same time arranges the rotating element (206) at a distance from the guide rails (204).

3. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, the mechanism further has at least one locking means (208) for blocking undetermined rotational movements, wherein the locking means (208) has at least one ring element (230) with at least two recesses for position determination, at least one support (214) for arranging the locking means (208) at seats and / or loungers, at least one lever arm (218), which is arranged with one end pivotably mounted at the at least one support (214), and at least one actuation element (220), which is hinged to the at least one lever arm (218), wherein the actuation element (220) is in its position adjustable guided by at least one guiding element (222), which is fixedly arranged on the support (214), and wherein the lever arm (218) has at least one projection (228), which is designed to be at least partially complementary to the at least two recesses (231) of the ring element and in a locked position is in engagement with at least one recess (231) of the ring element (230).

4. Seat and / or lounger with at least one mechanism according to at least one of the previous claims, wherein the seat and / or lounger (332) has at least one substructure (334) for the support of at least one seating element, which is arranged thereon, wherein at least one backrest part is hinged to the seating element, wherein the at least one seating element is designed to be movable relative to the substructure and linearly displaceable along the substructure and rotatable relative thereto, wherein the seating element is further displaceable in at least one additional direction, which is formed to be shifted essentially about 90° relative to the linear displaceability.

5. Use of the mechanism according to one of the previous claims 1 to 4 in furniture, seating furniture, upholstered furniture, seating benches, corner benches, living room furniture, armchairs, chairs and / or stools.