Movement device for a seat, such as a seat of an item of seating furniture

Abstract

The invention relates to a movement device (3) for a seat (2), such as a seat of an item of seating furniture, comprising: - a first, higher plate-shaped element (4) which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat, - a second, lower plate-shaped element (5) which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat below and at a distance from the higher plate-shaped element, - a hinge device (6) which is situated between the higher and the lower plate-shaped element and has a pivot point about which the higher plate-shaped element is pivotable with respect to the lower plate element, and - a damping device (7) which is designed to damp the hinge function of the hinge device.

Description

[0001] Title: Movement device for a seat, such as a seat of an item of seating furniture

[0002] Description

[0003] The present invention relates to a movement device for a seat, such as a seat of an item of seating furniture, that is to say a movement device for a seat that (also) moves in response to movement of a user of the seat, for example in the direction of the pelvis of the person sitting on the seat. To this end, the seat has a degree of instability, wherein a user must correct for instability of the seat and in so doing sits dynamically, or a dynamic movement device.

[0004] Items of seating furniture of this kind are known and have a seat with a base plate on which a layer of open foam material is provided. The base plate and the foam material are surrounded by a cover. For improved action, the seat may be movably fastened to a frame of the item of seating furniture, or the frame may be provided with a gas spring which provides a damping, moving function to the item of seating furniture in response to the mass of a user.

[0005] It is known that long periods of sitting, for example on an office chair, can cause pain, such as back pain, for a user. In order to prevent this, alternative items of seating furniture whose seat is less stable have been devised, forcing a user to correct for the instability. One example is a space hopper-like item of seating furniture, a rubber ball filled with air and having a cross section that corresponds to the height of an office chair. That is to say the cross section is somewhat greater. When a user sits on the ball, the latter is pressed down slightly. When the user moves with respect to an imaginary vertical axis of the ball or the user’s back, the air in the ball pushes in a different direction where less pressure is exerted on the ball. This produces a sensation of instability for the user, which the user, as it were, automatically attempts to correct. A disadvantage of this item of seating furniture is that it is bulky and a user who does not correct quickly enough can fall off the ball onto the ground.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a movement device for a seat, such as a seat of an item of seating furniture, preferably a more or less conventional item of seating furniture, such as an office chair, which exhibits properties that correspond more or less to those of the “space hopper chair”. To this end, the present invention provides a movement device for a seat, such as a seat of an item of seating furniture, comprising:

[0007] - a first, higher plate-shaped element which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat, - a second, lower plate-shaped element which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat below and at a distance from the higher plate-shaped element,

[0008] - a hinge device which is situated between the higher and the lower plateshaped element and has a pivot point about which the higher plate-shaped element is pivotable with respect to the lower plate element, and

[0009] - a damping device which is designed to damp the hinge function of the hinge device.

[0010] The term “plate-shaped element” should be interpreted broadly in the context of the present invention and includes elements which are flat or have a shape that deviates slightly from flat. Plate-shaped elements which instead of running over a full surface exhibit cutouts also fall under this term. (The shape of) the higher plate-shaped element may correspond to (the shape of) a supporting plate-shaped element of a conventional chair, on which a layer of, for example, open-cell foam and / or a cover may or may not be fitted. The lower plate-shaped element may correspond to a support of a seat of a conventional chair, by means of which the seat is supported on a frame. In the case of a conventional chair, this may concern one and the same support, in the present invention it is two separate plate-shaped elements situated at a distance from each other. The movement device according to the invention may be integrated into the seat of the item of seating furniture, but may possibly also be incorporated into a “loose” seat, wherein this loose seat is transportable and can be placed on a usually horizontal underlying surface that provides enough support. This “loose” seat can of course also be fitted to an (existing) seat of a (conventional) item of seating furniture.

[0011] During use, a user sits on the seat. The higher plate-shaped element may, just like in the case of a conventional chair, be covered with a moving layer, such as opencell foam and / or a cover, such as a seat cushion. Moreover, it is also possible to still provide a supporting plate-shaped element, as in the case of a conventional chair, above the higher plate-shaped element. The hinge device having a pivot point about which the higher and the lower plate-shaped element are pivotable with respect to each other may be shaped as a ball joint or as an assembly of hinges which functions collectively as a ball joint. It is important that there are no or barely any limitations in terms of the extent to which the plateshaped elements can pivot with respect to each other about the hinge device. In this respect, the pivot point, either a physical or an imaginary pivot point, lies in a central region of the plate-shaped elements.

[0012] The variant in which the lower plate-shaped element is immovable with respect to the seat and the upper plate-shaped element is movable about the pivot point will mainly be discussed in this document. The functioning of the variant with the reverse mechanical arrangement can be readily derived therefrom. When the user moves their weight forwards, rearwards or sideways, the upper plate-shaped element will pivot in the corresponding direction about the hinge device, providing an unstable sensation for the user. The user will subsequently move their weight back so as to search for a stable position. The dynamic function of the item of seating furniture that is targeted by the invention is thus produced. If the user reacts too late, or not at all, to the instability, the higher plate-shaped element will tend to strike against the lower plate-shaped element. This is, however, prevented by the damping device. This prevents a user, in contrast to the case of a space hopper-like item of seating furniture, from being at risk of falling onto the ground as a result of the limited, with respect to a space hopper, instability of the item of seating furniture.

[0013] The movement device therefore creates a seat with a degree of instability, wherein a user must correct for instability of the seat and in so doing sits dynamically.

[0014] It should also be noted that inherently “unstable” people, having for example excess weight, can often find it difficult to get up from a space hopper-like item of seating furniture, and may even fall. In practice, it has been found that getting up from an item of seating furniture or seat having the present movement device poses no problems whatsoever.

[0015] Here, the hinge device may, as stated, function as a ball joint.

[0016] It is of course also possible for the hinge device to comprise a ball joint. Such a ball joint has a relatively high degree of freedom of movement, and a relatively high degree of freedom from maintenance. Such a ball joint can also be mounted in many ways.

[0017] The hinge device is preferably configured in such a way that the first, higher plate-shaped element and the second, lower plate-shaped element are prevented from rotating with respect to each other about a vertical axis during pivoting in order to prevent an excessive degree of movement instability.

[0018] The hinge device is preferably configured in such a way that a horizontally situated central point of the first, higher plate-shaped element and a horizontally situated central point of the second, lower plate-shaped element remain at an identical vertical distance from each other during pivoting.

[0019] The hinge device may also be formed by an assembly of hinges, by means of which the function of a ball joint is simulated, preferably of two hinge axles arranged at an angle with respect to each other. Using such an assembly of hinges provides the manufacturer of, for example, the item of seating furniture with a high degree of design freedom.

[0020] The hinge axles may extend at an angle of 70-110 degrees, preferably of 85- 95 degrees and most preferably of 90 degrees with respect to each other, in order to thus provide optimal freedom of movement and movement dynamics.

[0021] A hinge connected to the first, higher plate-shaped element is preferably configured to during use extend between the sitting bones of a person sitting on the first, higher plate-shaped element in order to spread out the sitting pressure.

[0022] The hinge device may comprise a third, intermediate plate-shaped element which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat between, and at a distance from, the lower and higher plate-shaped elements, wherein one of the hinge axles is fitted between the higher plate-shaped element and the intermediate plate-shaped element and another of the hinge axles is fitted between the lower plate-shaped element and the intermediate plate-shaped element.

[0023] For formation of a hinge axle, at least one hinge preferably comprises a first hinge part and a second hinge part which extend in the direction of the hinge axle, wherein the first hinge part is hingeable about the second hinge part.

[0024] The first hinge part may comprise a concave element and the second hinge part may comprise a convex element, wherein the concave element engages with the convex element in such a way that the first hinge part is hingeable about the second hinge part.

[0025] The first hinge part may comprise an elongate element with a rounded side and the second hinge part may also comprise an elongate element with a rounded side, wherein the rounded sides of the elongate elements are fitted on each other in such a way that the rounded sides can roll over each other in order to provide the hinge function.

[0026] The elongate elements may be connected to each other by means of bands which are transverse to the hinge axle and are fitted around the elongate elements.

[0027] The damping device may comprise one or more springs, which springs are preferably connected to each other by the two plate-shaped elements. Using such springs makes it possible to readily adapt the degree of damping: more or fewer springs can be fitted in a relatively simple manner, or, on the one hand, springs with a relatively high spring constant, and, on the other hand, springs with a relatively low spring constant can be mounted. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, all kinds of variations are possible here.

[0028] The damping device may, for example, comprise three or more springs which are provided at regular distances with respect to each other about the pivot point, in order to provide uniform, intuitively predictable damping.

[0029] The damping device may also comprise an elastic material which is provided between the two plate-shaped elements, for example as a replacement for the aforementioned springs or in addition to the use of springs.

[0030] The elastic material may comprise an open-cell foam, preferably memory foam.

[0031] The damping device is preferably designed to prevent the higher plateshaped element from contacting the lower plate-shaped element during pivoting (during pivoting of the higher plate-shaped element with respect to the lower plate-shaped element). The damping device also slows the “pivoting”. Without the damping device, the seat may be too unstable, as a result of which long periods of sitting become a challenge.

[0032] Another aspect of the invention relates to a seat, such as a seat of an item of seating furniture, comprising an aforementioned movement device.

[0033] The seat preferably comprises a cover fitted around the movement device in order to protect the movement device and to keep it compact. In addition, such a cover may contribute directly or indirectly to the function of the damping device. The cover is preferably produced from fabric or a similar porous material, such that air can escape from the seat when a person sits down on it. When viewed from the side, in particular the lower half of the cover is preferably provided with porous material, such that air displaced when the person sits down can flow away. Since the cover also provides strength and holds the movement device together, the cover is preferably produced from a non-elastic fabric. When the seat dips enough during sitting, sufficient space in the fabric in the vertical direction at the sides is freed up in order to be able to carry out the pivoting movement.

[0034] The seat may comprise an anti-slip layer fitted below the second, lower plateshaped element in order to prevent the seat from sliding when it is placed loosely on an underlying surface.

[0035] The item of seating furniture may comprise a chair, such as an office chair. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0036] The invention will be explained in more detail below on the basis of exemplary embodiments depicted in the drawings. In the drawings:

[0037] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross section of an exemplary embodiment of a seat provided with a movement device according to the invention, in a non-pivoted state;

[0038] Figure 2 shows the exemplary embodiment of the seat according to Figure 1 , the movement device being in a pivoted state;

[0039] Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of an exemplary embodiment of a seat provided with a movement device according to the invention, comprising a damping device with springs;

[0040] Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device according to the invention, comprising a hinge device with a ball joint;

[0041] Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device according to the invention, comprising a hinge device with two hinge axles fitted at an angle;

[0042] Figure 6 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device according to the invention, comprising a hinge device with two hinge axles fitted at an angle;

[0043] Figure 7 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hinge device according to the invention, with two hinge axles fitted at an angle, elongate elements of the hinge axles being connected to each other by bands;

[0044] Figure 8 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hinge according to the invention, two hinge parts being hingeably connected to each other;

[0045] Figure 9 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device according to the invention, with two hinges that are fitted at an angle and each have two hinge parts which are hingeably connected to each other, one hinge part being provided with an end cap;

[0046] Figure 10 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device according to the invention, comprising a hinge device with two hinge axles fitted at an angle;

[0047] Figure 11 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a seat according to the invention, the seat (at least partially) having a saddle shape; Figure 12 shows an exploded, schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device according to the invention, comprising a first variant of a hinge device with a double ball hinge;

[0048] Figure 13 shows an exploded, schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device according to the invention, comprising a second variant of a hinge device with a double ball hinge;

[0049] Figure 14 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device according to the invention, comprising a third variant of a hinge device with a double ball hinge;

[0050] Figure 15 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device according to the invention, comprising a fourth variant of a hinge device with a double ball hinge;

[0051] Figure 16 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an item of seating furniture, in the form of a height-adjustable chair, provided with a seat comprising a movement device according to the invention; and

[0052] Figure 17 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an item of seating furniture, in the form of a conventional chair with four legs, provided with a seat comprising a movement device according to the invention.

[0053] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0054] Figures 1-17 will be discussed collectively. As mentioned above, Figure 1 shows a schematic cross section of an exemplary embodiment of a seat 2 provided with a movement device 3 according to the invention, in a non-pivoted state. Figure 1 more specifically shows a movement device 3 for a seat 2, such as a seat 2 of an item of seating furniture 1 (for example an item of seating furniture 1 as shown in Figures 12 and 13). The movement device 3 comprises a first, higher plate-shaped element 4 which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat 2. The movement device 3 further comprises a second, lower plate-shaped element 5 which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat 2 below and at a distance from the higher plate-shaped element 4. The movement device 3 also comprises a hinge device 6 which is situated between the higher 4 and the lower 5 plate-shaped element and has a pivot point about which the higher plateshaped element 4 is pivotable with respect to the lower plate element 5. Usually, the lower plate element 5 does not pivot in or with respect to the seat 2, i.e. the lower plate element 5 remains immovable in the seat 2. The higher plate element 4 and / or lower plate element 5 preferably have / has, as seen from above, the shape of a circle. The diameter of the circle may, for example, be 20-50 cm, such as 25-40 cm. The higher plate element 4 and / or lower plate element 5 may have a plate thickness of, for example, 5-15 mm, such as 5-10 mm. The vertical distance between the higher plate element 4 and the lower plate element 5 may, for example, be 5-20 cm in the non-pivoted state. The higher plate element 4 and / or lower plate element 5 may, for example, be produced from wood, although the use of other materials is of course also possible. The seat 2 may further comprise a seat cushion 19 on the higher plate element 4 in order to provide a person with a comfortable seat. In addition, the seat 2 may comprise a cover (not shown) fitted around the movement device 3. The seat 2 may also comprise an anti-slip layer (not shown) fitted below the second, lower plateshaped element 5. As seen from above, the seat 2 may have a saddle shape, the “tip” of the saddle shape being able to be directed either towards the front or towards the rear during use. The movement device 3 must be shaped accordingly, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0055] The movement device 3 additionally comprises a damping device 7 which is designed to damp the hinge function of the hinge device 6. The damping device 7 is preferably provided between the higher plate element 4 and the lower plate element 5, and the damping device 7 is more preferably provided at / between the (horizontal) outer periphery of the higher plate element 4 and / or lower plate element 5, where the distance between the higher plate element 4 and the lower plate element 5 is smallest during pivoting.

[0056] As stated, the hinge device 6 is preferably configured in such a way that the first, higher plate-shaped element 4 and the second, lower plate-shaped element 5 are prevented from rotating with respect to each other about a vertical axis during pivoting in order to prevent an excessive degree of movability of the movement device.

[0057] The hinge device 6 is preferably also configured in such a way that a horizontally situated central point of the first, higher plate-shaped element 4 and a horizontally situated central point of the second, lower plate-shaped element 5 remain at an identical vertical distance from each other during pivoting.

[0058] In effect, the hinge device 6 according to the invention functions as a ball joint, wherein the higher plate element 4 can pivot towards the lower plate element 5 in any way possible. As shown in Figure 1 , the hinge device 6 is formed by an assembly 9 of hinges 10, by means of which the function of a ball joint is simulated. The assembly 9 of hinges 10 comprises two hinge axles 11 arranged at an angle with respect to each other. The hinge axles 11 extend at an angle of 70-110 degrees, preferably of 85-95 degrees and most preferably of 90 degrees with respect to each other. A hinge 10 connected to the first, higher plate-shaped element 4 is preferably configured to during use extend between the sitting bones of a person sitting on the first, higher plate-shaped element 4 in order to spread out the sitting pressure. A hinge axle 11 may, as shown, comprise a pair of parallel-running, elongate elements 20, 21 , such as slats or bars, having the cross section of a semicircle. The rounded sides of the elongate elements 20, 21 thus face each other and “roll”, as it were, over each other during pivoting. In this case, the semicircle may have a radius of, for example, 3-20 mm, such as 3-10 mm. The elongate elements 20, 21 are preferably connected to each other, and therefore the elongate elements 20, 21 are prevented from actually rolling off each other. This can be realized in many ways, for example by weaving the elongate elements 20, 21 together using string or thread. Here, use may for example be made of a lemniscate or figure-eight shape (when viewed in cross section). Figures 5 and 6 also show by way of example such elongate elements (although not explicitly indicated by a reference numeral). Moreover, Figure 5 shows a variant in which one of the elongate elements has a rectangular cross section, this elongate element rolling over another elongate element having the cross section of a semicircle. Such a weave or braid construction also applies in effect to the exemplary embodiment in Figure 7.

[0059] As shown in Figure 1 , the hinge device 6 comprises a third, intermediate plate-shaped element 12 which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat 2 between, and at a distance from, the lower 5 and higher 4 plate-shaped elements. The intermediate plate element 12 may also have a circle shape. The diameter of the intermediate plate element 12 is preferably smaller than the diameter of the higher plate element 4 and / or lower plate element 5, such as 1 / 4 to 3 / 4, for example 1 / 3 to 2 / 3, of the diameter of the higher plate element 4 and / or lower plate element 5. The intermediate plate element 12 is preferably circular and the diameter is preferably no greater than the length of the hinge 10. If the diameter becomes greater than the length of the hinge 10, the intermediate plate element 12 may obstruct the pivoting movement - in which case the higher plate-shaped element 4 could collide with the intermediate plate-shaped element 12 or the intermediate plate-shaped element 12 could collide with the lower plate-shaped element 5. Here, one 13 of the hinge axles 11 is fitted between the higher plate-shaped element 4 and the intermediate plate-shaped element 12 and another 14 of the hinge axles 11 is fitted between the lower plate-shaped element 5 and the intermediate plate-shaped element 12. The damping device 7 may comprise an elastic material 16 which is provided between the two plate-shaped elements 4, 5. The elastic material 16 may comprise an open-cell foam, preferably memory foam.

[0060] Figure 2 shows the exemplary embodiment of the seat 2 according to Figure 1 , the movement device 3 being in a pivoted state. As shown in Figure 2, the damping device 7 is preferably designed to prevent the higher plate-shaped element 4 from contacting the lower plate-shaped element 5 during pivoting. As shown in Figure 2, the damping device 7 is fitted at the outer periphery of the higher 4 and lower 5 plate-shaped elements, wherein during pivoting the damping device 7 is pressed in order to damp the hinge function.

[0061] Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of an exemplary embodiment of a seat 2 provided with a movement device 3 according to the invention, comprising a damping device 7 with springs 15. The springs 15 are preferably connected to each other by the two plate-shaped elements 4, 5. The damping device 7 may comprise three, four, five, six or more springs 15. The springs 15 may be provided at regular distances with respect to each other about the pivot point. Again, the springs 15 are preferably fitted at or near the outer periphery of the higher 4 and lower 5 plate-shaped elements.

[0062] Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device 3 according to the invention, comprising a hinge device 6 with a ball joint 8. The higher plate-shaped element 4 is provided with a spherical ball which rests on a cone that is arranged on the lower plate-shaped element 5 and has a concave, rounded shape at the top side thereof. In this way, the higher plate-shaped element 4 and the lower plate-shaped element 5 can again pivot with respect to each other in any foreseeable way.

[0063] Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device 3 according to the invention, comprising a hinge device 6 with two hinge axles 11 , 13, 14 fitted at an angle. As mentioned previously, Figure 5 shows a variant in which one of the elongate elements has a rectangular cross section, this elongate element rolling over another elongate element having the cross section of a semicircle. Again, the elongate elements may be connected to each other by means of a string or thread, and, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, in such a way that the intended rolling or pivoting movement remains possible.

[0064] Figure 6 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device 3 according to the invention, comprising a hinge device 6 with two hinge axles 11 , 13, 14 fitted at an angle. Although the damping device is not shown in Figure 6 for the sake of clarity (and is also additionally not shown in Figures 4, 5 and 7), this exemplary embodiment exhibits a high level of similarity with the exemplary embodiments as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Again, the hinge axles 11 , 13, 14, each having a pair of “semicircular”, elongate elements, are readily visible.

[0065] Figure 7 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hinge device 6 according to the invention, with two hinge axles 11 fitted at an angle, elongate elements 20, 21 of the hinge axles being connected to each other by bands 22, 23, 24. The elongate elements 20, 21 may be shaped as described in the foregoing, such as with rounded sides which face each other and can roll over each other in order to provide the hinge function. The inner bands 23 may have a width of 2-4 cm, such as 3 cm. The outer bands 24 may have a width of 1-2 cm, such as 1 .5 cm. The bands 22, 23, 24 must be pulled tight before they are secured.

[0066] Figure 8 shows a schematic perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of a hinge 10 according to the invention, two hinge parts 25, 26 being hingeably connected to each other for formation of a hinge axle 11 with a first hinge part 25 and a second hinge part 26 which extend in the direction of the hinge axle 11 , wherein the first hinge part 25 is hingeable about the second hinge part 26. The first hinge part 25 comprises a concave element and the second hinge part 26 comprises a convex cylindrical element, wherein the concave element engages with the convex element in such a way that the first hinge part

[0067] 25 is hingeable about the second hinge part 26.

[0068] Figure 9 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device 3 according to the invention, with two hinges 10 that are fitted at an angle and each have two hinge parts 25, 26 which are hingeably connected to each other, one hinge part 26 being provided with an end cap 32. In effect, this exemplary embodiment makes use of the hinge 10 according to Figure 8, wherein, for formation of a hinge axle 11, a first concave hinge part 25 and a second convex hinge part 26 are connected to each other. In addition, the hinge parts 25 may, as shown, be integrally formed with the higher plate-shaped element 4 and, respectively, the lower plate-shaped element 5. The hinge part

[0069] 26 may also be integrally formed with the intermediate plate-shaped element 12. Here, it is possible for the hinge parts 25, 26 to be click-fitted to each other, or slid into each other. In the latter case, a hinge part 26 may, as shown, be provided with a releasable end cap or end element 32 in order to make this sliding into each other possible. The end cap 32 may be secured for example with a screw. If click-fitting of the hinge parts 25, 26 to each other is selected, the end cap 32 may be integrally formed with the intermediate plate-shaped element 12. In the case of integral forming, the hinge parts 25, 26 and the plate-shaped elements 4, 5, 12 may be cast (from one piece), for example using polyurethane or a similar plastic. If click-fitting is used, it is necessary, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, for the (plastic) substance to be sufficiently flexible.

[0070] Figure 10 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device 3 according to the invention, comprising a hinge device 6 with two hinge axles 11 , 13, 14 fitted at an angle. In this exemplary embodiment, the hinge axles 11 , 13, 14 each comprise rigid hinge elements, as also present in a door or window hinge. The rigid hinge elements may be produced for example from metal.

[0071] Figure 11 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a seat 2 according to the invention, the seat (at least partially) having a saddle shape 27, as mentioned previously. The seat 2, 27 may be made up of a first, bottom layer 28, a second, middle layer 29 and a third, top layer 30. Here, the first layer 28 and second layer 29 may, in effect, form part of the damping device 7. The third layer 30 then forms the seat cushion 19. For the sake of clarity, the movement device 3 is not shown. Cutouts 31 are shown, in which the hinges 10 can be accommodated. Here, it is possible for the top layer 30, when viewed from above, to have a more tapered saddle tip 33 than the middle layer 29 and / or the bottom layer 28. Here, the taper of the saddle tip 33 may, when considered from the bottom to the top, increase gradually across the layers 28, 29, 30. The layers 28, 29, 30 may be produced for example from foam rubber and are preferably at least about 1- 3 cm wider (horizontally) at the periphery than the plate-shaped elements 4, 5, 12.

[0072] Figure 12 shows an exploded, schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device 3 according to the invention, comprising a first variant of a hinge device 6 with a double ball hinge 34. There is again a hinge device 6 with two hinge axles 11 , 13, 14 fitted at an angle. In this exemplary embodiment, the hinge axles 11 , 13, 14 are fitted to a higher ball hinge element 36, fastened to the higher plate-shaped element 4, and to a lower ball hinge element 37, fastened to the lower plate-shaped element 5. A hollow hinge element 35, for example a cup-shaped hinge element as shown, is fitted between the higher ball hinge element 36 and the lower ball hinge element 37. The top end and, respectively, bottom end of the hollow hinge element 35 are provided with cutouts for accommodating the hinge axles 11 , 13, 14.

[0073] Figure 13 shows an exploded, schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device 3 according to the invention, comprising a second variant of a hinge device 6 with a double ball hinge 34. In this second variant, the ball hinge elements 36, 37 and the hollow hinge element 35 have, in effect, “switched places” with respect to the first variant as shown in Figure 12. Here, the hollow hinge element 35 is “split” into a higher hinge element 38 and a lower hinge element 39. By contrast, the ball hinge elements 36, 37 are connected to each other.

[0074] Figure 14 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device 3 according to the invention, comprising a third variant of a hinge device 6 with a double ball hinge 34. This exemplary embodiment is essentially a mix of the first variant as shown in Figure 12 and the second variant as shown in Figure 13. A higher ball hinge element 36 is now connected to the higher plate-shaped element 4, whilst a lower hollow hinge element 39 is fastened to the lower plate-shaped element 5. A higher hollow hinge element 38 is also now connected to a lower ball hinge element 37.

[0075] Figure 15 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a movement device 3 according to the invention, comprising a fourth variant of a hinge device with a double ball hinge 34. A higher hollow hinge element 38 is fastened to the higher plate-shaped element 4. A lower hollow hinge element 39 is fastened to the lower plate-shaped element s. The hinge axles 11 , 13, 14 may be fastened to a central connecting part 40, which allows the higher hollow hinge element 38 and the lower hollow hinge element 39 to pivot with respect to each other, or an inner side of the hollow hinge elements 38, 39.

[0076] Figure 16 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an item of seating furniture 1 , in the form of a height-adjustable chair or stool 17, provided with a seat 2 comprising a movement device 3 according to the invention. As shown in Figure 12, the chair 17 may comprise an office chair 18.

[0077] Figure 17 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an item of seating furniture 1 , in the form of a conventional chair 17 with four legs, provided with a seat 2 comprising a movement device 3 according to the invention.

[0078] In the exemplary embodiments according to Figures 12 and 13, the movement device 3 is integrated into the seat 2 of the item of seating furniture 1.

[0079] When the seat 2 is placed loosely on an item of seating furniture 1 , the item of seating furniture 1 is preferably provided with an upright edge or a similar measure for preventing the seat 2 from sliding off the item of seating furniture 1 or otherwise no longer being correctly positioned with respect to the item of seating furniture 1 .

[0080] Items of seating furniture 1 may also include, for example, car seats, VR constructions, and sofas (“multi-person objects”). Use in items of balancing furniture (in particular in “seat alternatives” such as standing seats or knee seats, or as an alternative to what are known as “Indo Boards”) can also be envisaged. Use in simulation chairs, in which the movement device 3 can not only pivot in response to the seated individual but can also be mechanically / electrically manipulated to pivot against the seated individual (to ‘simulate’ movement), is also conceivable, such as a “pilot chair”, etc.

[0081] It will be clear that the intention of the above description is to illustrate the operation of preferred embodiments of the invention, and not to limit the scope of protection of the invention. Based on the above explanation, many variations which fall within the inventive concept and the scope of the present invention, as described in the claims below, will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0082] LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0083] 1. Item of seating furniture

[0084] 2. Seat

[0085] 3. Dynamic movement device

[0086] 4. First, higher plate-shaped element

[0087] 5. Second, lower plate-shaped element

[0088] 6. Hinge device

[0089] 7. Damping device

[0090] 8. Ball joint

[0091] 9. Assembly of hinges

[0092] 10. Hinge (of assembly of hinges)

[0093] 11. Hinge axle

[0094] 12. Third, intermediate plate-shaped element

[0095] 13. One hinge axle

[0096] 14. Another hinge axle

[0097] 15. Spring

[0098] 16. Elastic material

[0099] 17. Chair

[0100] 18. Office chair

[0101] 19. Seat cushion

[0102] 20. Higher elongate element

[0103] 21. Lower elongate element

[0104] 22. Band

[0105] 23. Inner band

[0106] 24. Outer band

[0107] 25. First hinge part

[0108] 26. Second hinge part

[0109] 27. Saddle-shaped seat

[0110] 28. First / bottom layer

[0111] 29. Second / middle layer

[0112] 30. Third / top layer

[0113] 31. Cutout for hinge

[0114] 32. End cap 33. Tip of saddle shape

[0115] 34. Double ball hinge

[0116] 35. Hollow hinge element

[0117] 36. Higher ball hinge element 37. Lower ball hinge element

[0118] 38. Higher hollow hinge element

[0119] 39. Lower hollow hinge element

[0120] 40. Connecting part between ball hinge elements

Claims

CLAIMS1. Movement device (3) for a seat (2), such as a seat of an item of seating furniture (1), comprising:- a first, higher plate-shaped element (4) which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat,- a second, lower plate-shaped element (5) which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat below and at a distance from the higher plate-shaped element,- a hinge device (6) which is situated between the higher and the lower plate-shaped element and has a pivot point about which the higher plate-shaped element is pivotable with respect to the lower plate element, and- a damping device (7) which is designed to damp the hinge function of the hinge device.

2. Movement device (3) according to Claim 1, wherein the hinge device (6) functions as a ball joint.

3. Movement device (3) according to Claim 2, wherein the hinge device (6) comprises a ball joint (8).

4. Movement device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the hinge device (6) is configured in such a way that the first, higher plate-shaped element (4) and the second, lower plate-shaped element (5) are prevented from rotating with respect to each other about a vertical axis during pivoting.

5. Movement device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the hinge device (6) is configured in such a way that a horizontally situated central point of the first, higher plate-shaped element (4) and a horizontally situated central point of the second, lower plate-shaped element (5) remain at an identical vertical distance from each other during pivoting.

6. Movement device (3) according to Claim 2, 4 or 5, wherein the hinge device(6) is formed by an assembly (9) of hinges (10), by means of which the function of a ball joint is simulated.

7. Movement device (3) according to Claim 6, wherein the assembly (9) of hinges (10) comprises two hinge axles (11) arranged at an angle with respect to each other.

8. Movement device (3) according to Claim 7, wherein the hinge axles (11) extend at an angle of 70-110 degrees, preferably of 85-95 degrees and most preferably of 90 degrees with respect to each other.

9. Movement device (3) according to Claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein a hinge (10) connected to the first, higher plate-shaped element (4) is configured to during use extend between the sitting bones of a person sitting on the first, higher plate-shaped element (4).

10. Movement device (3) according to Claim 7, 8 or 9, wherein the hinge device (6) comprises a third, intermediate plate-shaped element (12) which during use extends substantially horizontally in the seat (2) between, and at a distance from, the lower (5) and higher (4) plate-shaped elements, wherein one (13) of the hinge axles (11) is fitted between the higher plate-shaped element and the intermediate plate-shaped element and another (14) of the hinge axles is fitted between the lower plate-shaped element and the intermediate plate-shaped element.

11. Movement device (3) according to one of Claims 7-10, wherein, for formation of a hinge axle (11), at least one hinge (10) comprises a first hinge part (20, 25) and a second hinge part (21 , 26) which extend in the direction of the hinge axle (11), wherein the first hinge part (25) is hingeable about the second hinge part (26).

12. Movement device (3) according to Claim 11, wherein the first hinge part (25) comprises a concave element and the second hinge part (26) comprises a convex element, wherein the concave element engages with the convex element in such a way that the first hinge part (25) is hingeable about the second hinge part (26).

13. Movement device (3) according to Claim 11 , wherein the first hinge part(20) comprises an elongate element (20) with a rounded side and the second hinge part(21) comprises an elongate element (21) with a rounded side, wherein the rounded sides of the elongate elements (20, 21) are fitted on each other in such a way that the rounded sides can roll over each other in order to provide the hinge function.

14. Movement device (3) according to Claim 13, wherein the elongate elements (20, 21) are connected to each other by means of bands (22, 23, 24) which are transverse to the hinge axle (11) and are fitted around the elongate elements (20, 21).

15. Movement device (3) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the damping device (7) comprises one or more springs (15), which springs are preferably connected to each other by the two plate-shaped elements (4, 5).

16. Movement device (3) according to Claim 15, wherein the damping device (7) comprises three or more springs (15) which are provided at regular distances with respect to each other about the pivot point.

17. Movement device (3) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the damping device (7) comprises an elastic material (16) which is provided between the two plate-shaped elements (4, 5).

18. Movement device (3) according to Claim 17, wherein the elastic material (16) comprises an open-cell foam, preferably memory foam.

19. Movement device (3) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the damping device (7) is designed to prevent the higher plate-shaped element (4) from contacting the lower plate-shaped element (5) during pivoting.

20. Seat (2), such as a seat of an item of seating furniture (1), comprising a movement device (3) according to one of the preceding claims.

21. Seat (2) according to Claim 20, comprising a cover fitted around the movement device (3).

22. Seat (2) according to Claim 20 or 21, comprising an anti-slip layer fitted below the second, lower plate-shaped element (5).

23. Item of seating furniture (1), comprising a seat (2) according to Claim 20, 21 or 22.

24. Item of seating furniture (1) according to Claim 23, wherein the item of seating furniture comprises a chair (17), such as an office chair (18).

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