Arm assembly for chair

Abstract

An arm assembly 100 for a chair has a post 1, a first member 2, and an armrest 4. The first member 2 is angularly adjustable relative to the post 1 about a first axis 3 through a first limited range of angular movement, providing an infinite number of angular adjustment positions of the first member 2 relative to the post 1. The armrest 4 is operably connected to the first member for translationally sliding movement generally back and forth relative to the first member through a first limited range of translational movement, providing an infinite number of translational adjustment positions of the armrest relative to the first member 2. The armrest 4 is angularly adjustable relative to the first member 2 about a substantially upright second axis 5 through a second limited range of angular movement, providing an infinite number of angular adjustment positions of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an arm assembly for a chair. (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority from New Zealand Patent Application No. 766466, filed on July 22, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Chairs with fixed arms are known in the art and typically do not provide sufficient adjustability to accommodate a range of body sizes, types, and seating preferences of chair users. Adjustable arm assemblies developed to this end typically provide adjustability in various directions. However, increased adjustability usually comes at the expense of more complex and bulky internal mechanisms.

[0003] Adjustable armrests often require releasing an actuator to adjust the armrest, complicating adjustment. Some adjustable armrests have indexed or discrete adjustment positions that make the adjustment action uncomfortable, cumbersome, or tedious.

[0004] References herein to patents, other external documents, or other sources are for the purpose of providing a context for generally discussing features of the present invention. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the reference to such external documents or sources shall not be construed as an admission that such documents or such sources are prior art or part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction.

[0005] It is an object of at least preferred embodiments of the present invention to provide an arm assembly with an armrest that is substantially freely adjustable in width and depth between limited ranges of movement. It is an additional or alternative object of at least preferred embodiments of the present invention to provide the public with at least a useful solution. Summary of the Invention

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention provides an arm assembly for a chair. The arm assembly comprises: a post having a substantially upright inner post member a post; and a first member operatively connected to the post; the first member is slidably attached to the inner post member and includes an outer housing that telescopically receives the inner post member; a first member angularly adjustable relative to the post about a substantially upright first axis through a first range of angular travel limits, the arm assembly having an infinite number of angular adjustment positions of the first member relative to the post through the first range of angular travel limits; and an armrest operably connected to the first member for translationally sliding movement generally back and forth relative to the first member through a first range of translational travel limits, the arm assembly having an infinite number of translational adjustment positions of the armrest relative to the first member through the first range of translational travel limits, the armrest being angularly adjustable relative to the first member about a substantially upright second axis through a second range of angular travel limits, the arm assembly having an infinite number of angular adjustment positions of the armrest relative to the first member through the second range of angular travel limits. The armrest includes a sliding plate having a slot, and a substantially upright second axis extends through the slot of the armrest to allow translational sliding and angular adjustment of the armrest relative to the first member. .

[0007] In one embodiment, the inward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post and the outward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member together provide lateral inward width adjustment of the armrest.

[0008] In one embodiment, the outward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post and the inward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member together provide lateral outward width adjustment of the armrest.

[0009] In one embodiment, the outer housing is angularly adjustable relative to the inner post member about a substantially upright first axis between a first limited range of angular movement.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first member includes an upper angular stop positioned on a substantially upright second axis.

[0011] In one embodiment, slot Accepts upper angle stop It is configured as follows: .

[0012] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes a first friction structure associated with the upper angular stop, the first friction structure configured to provide a first friction force that a user must overcome to translate and angularly adjust the armrest relative to the first member.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first friction structure comprises a biasing device for biasing the slide plate into contact with the upper angular stop to provide the first friction force.

[0014] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes an adjuster for adjusting the first friction force provided by the first friction structure.

[0015] In one embodiment, the leading and trailing edges of the slot and the leading and trailing edges of the upper angular stop are configured to define a first translational movement limit range such that the armrest can slide translationally generally forward relative to the first member until the trailing edge of the slot contacts the trailing edge of the upper angular stop, and such that the armrest can slide translationally generally rearward relative to the first member until the leading edge of the slot contacts the leading edge of the upper angular stop.

[0016] In one embodiment, the rear edge of the upper angular stop contacting the rear edge of the slot defines a forward most translational position of the armrest relative to the first member, and the front edge of the upper angular stop contacting the front edge of the slot defines a rearward most translational position of the armrest relative to the first member.

[0017] In one embodiment, the slot is configured to allow the armrest to move sideways when moved generally forward and backward during at least a portion of the armrest's movement.

[0018] In one embodiment, the rear portion of the path of the slot is non-linear such that generally forward translational sliding of the armrest relative to the first member from the rearmost translational position results in outward lateral movement of the armrest relative to the first member, and generally rearward translational sliding of the armrest relative to the first member toward the rearmost translational position results in inward lateral movement of the armrest relative to the first member.

[0019] In one embodiment, the periphery of the upper angular stop and the sidewalls of the slot are configured to define a second angular travel limit range.

[0020] In one embodiment, the periphery of the upper angle stop comprises an outer surface having front and rear wall portions oriented at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees relative to each other, and an inner surface having front and rear wall portions oriented at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees relative to each other, wherein the front wall portion of the outer surface is substantially parallel to the rear wall portion of the inner surface, and the rear wall portion of the outer surface is substantially parallel to the front wall portion of the inner surface.

[0021] In one embodiment, a front wall portion of the outer surface is configured to engage an outer wall of the slot and a rear wall portion of the inner surface is configured to engage an inner wall of the slot to define an inward angular adjustment limit of the second angular travel limit range. Also, a rear wall portion of the outer surface is configured to engage an outer wall of the slot and a front wall portion of the inner surface is configured to engage an inner wall of the slot to define an outward angular adjustment limit of the second angular travel limit range.

[0022] In one embodiment, the periphery of the upper angular stop is configured such that the maximum outward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member is approximately 21° from the neutral position of the armrest relative to the first member.

[0023] In one embodiment, the periphery of the upper angle stop is configured such that the maximum inward angular adjustment of the leading edge of the armrest relative to the first member is approximately 10° from the neutral position of the armrest relative to the first member.

[0024] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes a second friction structure configured to provide a second friction force that a user must overcome to angularly adjust the first member relative to the post.

[0025] In one embodiment, the second friction structure comprises a biasing device for biasing a portion of the first member into contact with the post to provide the second frictional force.

[0026] In one embodiment, the component secured to the first member and attached to the post includes a lower angular stop positioned on a substantially upright first axis, the lower angular stop configured to define a first angular travel limit range.

[0027] In one embodiment, the component secured to the first member and attached to the post comprises a lock housing, and the lower angular stop is provided by a portion of the lock housing engageable with a complementary engagement surface on the inner post member to define the first angular travel limit range.

[0028] In one embodiment, the lower angular stop is configured such that the maximum outward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post is approximately 10° from a neutral position of the first member relative to the post.

[0029] In one embodiment, the lower angular stop is configured such that the maximum inward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post is approximately 45° from a neutral position of the first member relative to the post.

[0030] In one embodiment, the outer housing slidably receives the post in a telescoping configuration such that the height of the first member is adjustable relative to the post.

[0031] In one embodiment, the outer housing includes a plurality of recesses disposed within and along the length of the outer housing, the inner post member includes a locking member biased to engage one of the plurality of recesses in the outer housing to lock the position of the outer housing relative to the inner post member, the outer housing includes a release member operatively connected to the actuator and having a plurality of recesses with raised surfaces therebetween, the release member being slidably movable relative to the outer housing between a first position in which at least one of the recesses in the release member aligns with and engages at least one of the recesses in the outer housing to prevent telescopic movement of the outer housing relative to the inner post member, and a second position in which one or more of the raised surfaces of the release member align with one or more recesses in the outer housing to provide a surface along which the locking member can slide to disengage from the recess(es) and allow relative movement between the outer housing and the inner post member.

[0032] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes a lock housing that houses a lock member, the lock housing being rotatably mounted to the inner post member and fixed to the outer housing to prevent relative rotation between the lock housing and the outer housing such that angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post results in a corresponding angular adjustment of the lock housing relative to the post.

[0033] In one embodiment, the arm assembly includes a damping structure between the outer housing and the inner post member, the damping structure configured to inhibit lateral movement of the first member relative to the post.

[0034] In one embodiment, the damping structure includes at least one first biasing member extending between the lock housing and the inner wall of the outer housing, and at least one second biasing member extending between the inner post member and the inner wall of the outer housing, the at least one first biasing member and the at least one second biasing member being vertically spaced apart.

[0035] In one embodiment, the damping structure includes at least one first biasing member extending between the lock housing and the inner wall of the outer housing, and at least one rib extending between the inner post member and the inner wall of the outer housing, the at least one first biasing member and the at least one rib being vertically spaced apart.

[0036] In one embodiment, the at least one first biasing member is integrally formed with the lock housing.

[0037] A second aspect of the invention provides a chair comprising two of the arm assemblies generally described in relation to the first aspect above.

[0038] As used in this specification and claims, "comprises" means "comprises at least a portion." When interpreting phrases in this specification and claims that include "comprises," there may be other features in addition to the feature preceding the term in each phrase. Words related to "comprises" are to be interpreted similarly.

[0039] Reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (e.g., 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to every rational number within that range (e.g., 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9, and 10), and also incorporates any range of rational numbers within that range (e.g., 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5, and 3.1 to 4.7), and therefore, every subrange of every range expressly disclosed herein. These are only examples of what is specifically intended, and it is to be understood that all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the lowest and highest values ​​recited are likewise specified in this application.

[0040] The invention may also be broadly said to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of this application, individually or collectively, and in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

[0041] Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will recognize modifications of the structure of the present invention and widely different embodiments and applications thereof without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined in the claims. The disclosures and descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be limiting in any way. Where a specific entity having a known equivalent in the art to which this invention pertains is referred to herein, that known equivalent is deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0042] As used herein, "(one or more)" before a noun refers to the plural and / or singular form of that noun.

[0043] As used herein, "and / or" means "and" or "or," or both where the context allows. The invention consists essentially in the foregoing and contemplates the configurations given below by way of example only. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0045] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of a chair having arm assemblies. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the arm assembly. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the arm assembly in the default position. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the arm assembly and its first angular movement limit range. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a plan view of the arm assembly and its second angular movement limit range. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the arm assembly and its lateral inward position. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the arm assembly and its side-outward position. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a plan view of the arm assembly and its upper angle stop and slide plate. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a plan view of the arm assembly and its first translational movement limit range. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the arm assembly and its first translational movement limit range. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a plan view of the arm assembly and its second angular movement limit range. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a plan view of the arm assembly and its first angular movement limit range. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a plan view of the arm assembly and its maximum inward angle adjustment position. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13A is a plan view of the arm assembly in its forward most translated position and its maximum outward angular adjustment position of the arm rest. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is a plan view of another configuration of the arm assembly with the armrest in a forward most translated position. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the arm assembly with the release member in its first position. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional side view of the arm assembly with the release member in its second position. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the outer housing of the arm assembly. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the lock housing of the arm assembly with the lock member in its engaged position. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the lock housing of the arm assembly with the lock member in its disengaged position. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional side view of the first friction structure of the arm assembly. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional side view of the second friction structure of the arm assembly. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the outer housing of the arm assembly. [Figure 22]FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the outer housing of an alternative type arm assembly. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of the outer housing, actuator and release member of an alternative type arm assembly. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the lock housing of the alternative type arm assembly with the lock member in its engaged position. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the lock housing of the alternative type arm assembly with the locking member in its unlocked position. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternative type arm assembly with the release member in its first position. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of a second friction structure of an alternative type arm assembly. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional side view of a second friction structure for an alternative type arm assembly. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the lock housing of an alternative style arm assembly, showing the bosses below the lock housing. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 shows the upper end of the arm post of an alternative type of arm assembly, showing the engagement surface for engaging the boss. [Figure 31A] FIG. 31A shows the boss and engagement portion in a neutral position of the first member relative to the arm post. [Figure 31B] FIG. 31B shows the boss and engagement surface at the maximum outward angular adjustment position of the first member relative to the arm post. [Figure 31C] FIG. 31C shows the boss and engagement surface at the maximum inward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the arm post. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the lock housing and its biasing portion of an alternative type arm assembly. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is a top view of the biasing portion of the lock housing of an alternative type arm assembly engaging with the arm post. [Figure 34]FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the outer housing of an alternative style arm assembly, showing one of the ribs adjacent the bottom of the housing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0046] 1 shows arm assemblies 100 for a chair 200 installed on either side of the chair 200. The chair 200 shown is a task chair, although other types of chairs are possible as outlined below.

[0047] 2 is a detailed view of arm assembly 100. Arm assembly 100 includes post 1 for attachment to a chair and a first member 2 operably connected to post 1. First member 2 is angularly adjustable relative to post 1 about a substantially upright first axis 3 within a first limited range of angular movement, and arm assembly 100 has an infinite number of angular adjustment positions for first member 2 relative to post 1 within the first limited range of angular movement. By having an infinite number of angular adjustment positions, first member 2 can be freely angularly adjusted relative to post 1 about the substantially upright first axis 3 to move smoothly, continuously, and seamlessly within the first limited range of angular movement.

[0048] 2 also shows the armrest 4 operably connected to the first member 2 for translationally sliding movement generally back and forth relative to the first member 2 through a first translational movement limit range, with the arm assembly 100 having an infinite number of translational adjustment positions for the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 through the first translational movement limit range. By having an infinite number of translational adjustment positions, the armrest 4 can be freely translationally adjusted relative to the first member 2 for smooth, continuous and seamless movement through said first translational movement limit range.

[0049] The armrest 4 shown includes an armrest slide 16, described below in connection with Figure 8, but the armrest 4 is typically an assembly of the slide 16 and a cushion or other support surface. The cushion is shown in Figure 1 but not in the other figures to allow the moving parts of the arm assembly 100 to be clearly shown.

[0050] The armrest 4 is also angularly adjustable relative to the first member 2 about a substantially upright second axis 5 within a second limited range of angular movement, and the arm assembly 100 has an infinite number of angular adjustment positions for the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 within the second limited range of angular movement. By having an infinite number of angular adjustment positions, the armrest 4 can be freely angularly adjusted relative to the first member 2 about the substantially upright second axis 5 so as to move smoothly, continuously and seamlessly within the second limited range of angular movement.

[0051] The infinite number of angular adjustment positions and infinite number of translational adjustment positions described herein may be considered to be indefinite and / or infinite adjustment positions.

[0052] The transition from one adjustment position to the next is smooth, continuous and / or jerky within each of the travel limits noted above.

[0053] While Figures 3-13 show arm assembly 100 in some of its various adjustment positions, representative features or components that provide the functionality of arm assembly 100 are described in more detail below with reference to Figures 14-21.

[0054] Figure 3 is a top plan view of arm assembly 100 in a default position. In the figure, first member 2 is in a neutral position relative to post 1, in which position the angular position of first member 2 about substantially upright first axis 3 has not changed, and therefore the angular position of first member 2 relative to post 1 is 0°. Similarly, armrest 4 is in a neutral position relative to first member 2, in which position the angular position of armrest 4 about substantially upright second axis 5 has not changed, and therefore the angular position of armrest 4 relative to first member 2 is 0°.

[0055] 1 and 2, the illustrated post 1 has an attachment portion 1A extending laterally inward from the lower end of the post 1 with an attachment end 1B for securing the post 1 to a chair 200. The attachment end 1B can have any suitable structure for connecting the post 1 to the chair 200, such as, for example, a flange and fastener structure or a clip structure. The flange can have any suitable structure. For example, the flange can extend from the inner end of the post in any one or more of the following directions: upward, downward, forward, or backward.

[0056] The arm assembly 100 of Figures 2-13 and 21 is suitably connected to the right side of chair 200. The embodiments in all figures described herein also show this "right" configuration, but to accommodate a "left" configuration, the arrangement need only be mirrored across the vertical. Thus, any descriptions of the functions and features of the arm assemblies disclosed herein apply equally to the arm assembly in the "left" configuration.

[0057] 1 shows mounting portion 1A connected to transom 210 of chair 200, mounting portion 1A may be of any suitable length and may be connected to any suitable component of chair 200 at any angle relative to that component. For example, mounting portion 1A may be connected to seat underside 220, another portion of seat 230, or backrest 240 of chair 200.

[0058] Additionally, "inward" and "outward," as used herein and in the claims, shall be interpreted as "inward" with respect to chair 200 and "outward" with respect to chair 200. Inward movement of any component of arm assembly 100 described herein moves that component closer to chair 200, and outward movement of any component of arm assembly 100 described herein moves that component further away from chair 200.

[0059] Additionally, the position of the substantially upright first axis 3 relative to the substantially upright second axis 5 defines the references of "forward" and "rearward" as used herein and in the claims, with the substantially upright first axis 3 being rearward relative to the substantially upright second axis 5. Similar terms such as "forward," "rearward," "forwardly," "rearward," "front end / portion," and "rear end / portion" shall be interpreted similarly. In some embodiments, the substantially upright first axis 3 is offset from the substantially upright second axis 5 in a horizontal plane.

[0060] 4 illustrates the arm assembly 100 and its first angular travel limit range. In this embodiment, the armrest 4 is shown remaining in a neutral position relative to the first member 2, and the first member 2 is shown at either end of the first angular travel limit range of the first member 2 relative to the post 1.

[0061] The first member 2 is shown in its maximum outward angular adjustment position 6 relative to the post 1. At this maximum outward angular adjustment position 6, the first member 2 has moved outward an angular displacement A6 of approximately 10° from the neutral position of the first member 2 relative to the post 1. The first member 2 is also shown in its maximum inward angular adjustment position 7 relative to the post 1. At this maximum inward angular adjustment position 7, the first member 2 has moved inward an angular displacement A7 of approximately 45° from the neutral position of the first member 2 relative to the post 1.

[0062] 5 shows the arm assembly 100 and its second angular limit range. In this embodiment, the first member 2 remains in its neutral position relative to the post 1, and the armrest 4 is shown at either end of the second angular limit range of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0063] The armrest 4 is shown in its maximum outward angular adjustment position 8 relative to the first member 2. In this maximum outward angular adjustment position 8, the front end of the armrest 4 has moved outward an angular displacement A8 of approximately 21° from the neutral position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2. The armrest 4 is also shown in its maximum inward angular adjustment position 9 relative to the first member 2. In this maximum inward angular adjustment position 9, the front end of the armrest 4 has moved inward an angular displacement A9 of approximately 10° from the neutral position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0064] It should be appreciated that the front edge of the armrest 4 is used herein as a reference for the direction of inward or outward angular movement relative to the chair 200. Because the entire armrest 4 moves as a unit, movement of the front edge of the armrest 4 described herein applies equally to the entire armrest 4.

[0065] 6 and 7 show how the combination of angular adjustment of first member 2 about substantially upright first axis 3 and angular adjustment of armrest 4 about substantially upright second axis 5 advantageously provides inward and outward width adjustment of armrest 4 relative to chair 200 while maintaining armrest 4 substantially parallel to chair 200. Thus, the distance between armrests located on opposite sides of chair 200 can be adjusted to accommodate a user's body size, type, and sitting preference while maintaining armrests substantially parallel to chair 200.

[0066] 6 , the inward angular adjustment of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 and the outward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 together provide a lateral inward width adjustment of the armrest 4. In this lateral inward position 10, the front end of the armrest 4 has moved outward to an angular displacement A10 of approximately 21° from its neutral position relative to the first member 2, and the first member 2 has moved inward to an angular displacement A10 of approximately 21° from its neutral position relative to the post 1. As a result, the armrest 4 has moved inward approximately 34 millimeters from its neutral position relative to the post 1 and its neutral position relative to the first member 2, as indicated by lateral inward displacement A11.

[0067] 7, the outward angular adjustment of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 and the inward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 together provide a lateral outward width adjustment of the armrest 4. In this lateral outward position 12, the front end of the armrest 4 has moved inward to an angular displacement A12 of approximately 10° from the neutral position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2, and the first member 2 has moved outward to an angular displacement A12 of approximately 10° from the neutral position of the first member 4 relative to the post 1. As a result, the armrest 4 has moved outward approximately 16 millimeters from the neutral position of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 and the neutral position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2, as shown as lateral outward displacement A13.

[0068] 8, the first member 2 includes an upper angular stop 15 positioned on the substantially upright second axis 5 such that the center of the upper angular stop 15 is aligned with the substantially upright second axis 5. The illustrated armrest 4 includes a slide plate 16 having a slot 17 with an upper recess for receiving the upper angular stop 15, and the slot 17 has a lower slit 17F for passing through or through which a portion of the upper angular stop 15 passes.

[0069] In the illustrated form, the shank of the mounting bolt 44 extends through the slit 17F, as described below in connection with FIG.

[0070] The leading edge 17A and the trailing edge 17B of the slot 17 and the leading edge 15A and the trailing edge 15B of the upper angular stop 15 are configured to define a first translational movement limit range such that the armrest 4 can translate generally forward relative to the first member 2 until the trailing edge 17B of the slot contacts the trailing edge 15B of the upper angular stop (as shown in FIG. 12 ), and the armrest 4 can translate generally rearward relative to the first member 2 until the leading edge 17A of the slot contacts the leading edge 15A of the upper angular stop. The leading and trailing edges 17A, 17B of the slot 17 and the periphery of the lower slit 17F can be formed, for example, by walls, bumps or stops.

[0071] The first translational movement limit range is shown in Figure 9, where the rear edge 15B of the upper angular stop 15 contacting the rear edge 17B of the slot defines the forward most translational position 19 of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2, and the front edge 15A of the upper angular stop contacting the front edge 17A of the slot defines the rearmost translational position 20 of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2. This causes the armrest 4 to move approximately 80 millimeters forward or rearward when moving from either the forward most translational position 19 or the rearmost translational position 20 to the other of the forward most translational position 19 or the rearmost translational position 20, as shown by translational displacement A21.

[0072] 10 shows how the translation direction of the armrest 4 corresponds to the angular position of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 when the angular position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 is 0°. However, it should be appreciated that if the angular position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 is changed, translation of the armrest 4 will occur in a direction corresponding to the angular position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2. However, as noted above, the approximately 80 millimeters forward or rearward translation of the armrest 4 remains the same regardless of the angular position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2, as shown by translational displacement A21.

[0073] In some embodiments, the slot 17 is configured to cause the armrest 4 to move laterally when moving generally forward or backward through at least a portion of its movement. For example, the rear portion 17C of the path of the slot 17 is non-linear or curved, as shown in FIG. 9 , such that the armrest 4 translating generally forward from the rearmost translational position 20 relative to the first member 2 causes outward lateral movement of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2. Thus, the armrest 4 translating generally rearward relative to the first member 2 toward the rearmost translational position 20 causes inward lateral movement of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0074] This can be seen in Figure 9, where the lateral position of the armrest 4 is more outward at the forward most translational position 19 than at the rearmost translational position 20. The armrest 4 moves from the rearmost translational position 20 to the forward most translational position 19 as shown by the lateral translational displacement A22, which moves the armrest 4 outward from the rearmost translational position 20 by approximately 7 millimeters.

[0075] Alternatively, the path of the slot 17 can have any other shape or curvature such that the armrest 4 moves laterally as it moves forward or backward through at least a portion of its translational movement. Thus, the path of the slot 17 can be configured to result in a desired inward or rearward lateral movement of the armrest 4 during translational movement of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2, for example to accommodate different seating preferences of users.

[0076] In some embodiments, the path of the slot 17 may be linear or substantially straight so that no lateral movement of the armrest 4 occurs during translational sliding of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 .

[0077] In some embodiments, the periphery of the upper angular stop 15 and the sidewall of the slot 17 are configured to define a second angular travel limit range. In other words, the interface between the periphery of the upper angular stop 15 and the sidewall of the slot 17 defines the range over which the armrest 4 can be angularly adjusted relative to the first member 2.

[0078] 11A and 11B, in which the periphery of the upper angle stop 15 has an outer surface with a front wall portion 15C and a rear wall portion 15D oriented at an angle greater than 90° but less than 180° relative to each other. The periphery of the upper angle stop 15 also has an inner surface with a front wall portion 15E and a rear wall portion 15F oriented at an angle greater than 90° but less than 180° relative to each other.

[0079] In various preferred configurations, the angle between front wall portion 15C and rear wall portion 15D can be greater than 90°, greater than 95°, greater than 100°, greater than 105°, greater than 110°, greater than 115°, greater than 120°, greater than 125°, greater than 130°, greater than 135°, greater than 140°, greater than 145°, or greater than about 150°. Additionally or alternatively, the angle can be less than 180°, less than 175°, less than 170°, less than 165°, less than 160°, less than 155°, or less than about 150°. Additionally or alternatively, the angle may be about 91°, about 92°, about 93°, about 94°, about 95°, about 96°, about 97°, about 98°, about 99°, about 100°, about 101°, about 102°, about 103°, about 104°, about 105°, about 106°, about 107°, about 108°, about 109°, about 110°, about 111°, about 112°, Approximately 113°, approximately 114°, approximately 115°, approximately 116°, approximately 117°, approximately 118°, approximately 119°, approximately 120°, approximately 121°, approximately 122°, approximately 123°, approximately 124°, approximately 125°, approximately 126°, approximately 127°, approximately 128°, approximately 129°, approximately 130°, approximately 131°, approximately 132°, approximately 133°, approximately 134°, approximately 135°, approximately 136° , approximately 137°, approximately 138°, approximately 139°, approximately 140°, approximately 141°, approximately 142°, approximately 143°, approximately 144°, approximately 145°, approximately 146°, approximately 147°, approximately 148°, approximately 149°, approximately 150°, approximately 151°, approximately 152°, approximately 153°, approximately 154°, approximately 155°, approximately 156°, approximately 157°, approximately 158°, approximately 159°, approximately 160 The angle may be about 161°, about 162°, about 163°, about 164°, about 165°, about 166°, about 167°, about 168°, about 169°, about 170°, about 171°, about 172°, about 173°, about 174°, about 175°, about 176°, about 177°, about 178°, about 179°, or an angle between any two of these values.

[0080] In various preferred configurations, the angle between the front wall portion 15E and the rear wall portion 15F can be greater than 90°, greater than 95°, greater than 100°, greater than 105°, greater than 110°, greater than 115°, greater than 120°, greater than 125°, greater than 130°, greater than 135°, greater than 140°, greater than 145°, or greater than about 150°. Additionally or alternatively, the angle can be less than 180°, less than 175°, less than 170°, less than 165°, less than 160°, less than 155°, or less than about 150°. Additionally or alternatively, the angle may be about 91°, about 92°, about 93°, about 94°, about 95°, about 96°, about 97°, about 98°, about 99°, about 100°, about 101°, about 102°, about 103°, about 104°, about 105°, about 106°, about 107°, about 108°, about 109°, about 110°, about 111°, about 112°, about 113°, approximately 114°, approximately 115°, approximately 116°, approximately 117°, approximately 118°, approximately 119°, approximately 120°, approximately 121°, approximately 122°, approximately 123°, approximately 124°, approximately 125°, approximately 126°, approximately 127°, approximately 128°, approximately 129°, approximately 130°, approximately 131°, approximately 132°, approximately 133°, approximately 134°, approximately 135°, approximately 136°, Approximately 137°, approximately 138°, approximately 139°, approximately 140°, approximately 141°, approximately 142°, approximately 143°, approximately 144°, approximately 145°, approximately 146°, approximately 147°, approximately 148°, approximately 149°, approximately 150°, approximately 151°, approximately 152°, approximately 153°, approximately 154°, approximately 155°, approximately 156°, approximately 157°, approximately 158°, approximately 159°, approximately 160° , about 161°, about 162°, about 163°, about 164°, about 165°, about 166°, about 167°, about 168°, about 169°, about 170°, about 171°, about 172°, about 173°, about 174°, about 175°, about 176°, about 177°, about 178°, about 179°, or an angle between any two of these values.

[0081] In some embodiments, the front wall portion 15C of the outer surface is substantially parallel to the rear wall portion 15F of the inner surface, and the rear wall portion 15D of the outer surface is substantially parallel to the front wall portion 15E of the inner surface.

[0082] In some embodiments, the front wall portion 15C of the outer surface is configured to engage with the outer wall 17D of the slot 17, and the rear wall portion 15F of the inner surface is configured to engage with the inner wall 17E of the slot 17 to define the inward angular adjustment limit of the second angular travel limit range.

[0083] This is shown in Figure 11A, where the armrest 4 is in a maximum inward angular adjustment position 9 relative to the first member 2. In this maximum inward angular adjustment position 9, the front end of the armrest 4 has moved inward from the neutral position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 to an angular position of approximately 10°, as described above in relation to A9 of Figure 5. Figure 11A therefore makes clear how the periphery of the upper angular stop 15 can be configured to define the maximum inward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0084] In some embodiments, the rear wall portion 15D of the outer surface is configured to engage with the outer wall 17D of the slot 17, and the front wall portion 15E of the inner surface is configured to engage with the inner wall 17E of the slot 17 to define the outward angular adjustment limit of the second angular movement limit range.

[0085] This is shown in Figure 11B, where the armrest 4 is in a maximum outward angular adjustment position 8 relative to the first member 2. In this maximum outward angular adjustment position 8, the front end of the armrest 4 has moved outward from the neutral position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 to an angular position of approximately 21°, as described above in relation to A8 of Figure 5. Figure 11B therefore makes clear how the periphery of the upper angular stop 15 can be configured to define the maximum outward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0086] 12 shows an adjusted position of the arm assembly 100, with the first member 2 in its maximum inward angular adjustment position 7 and the armrest 4 in its forwardmost translational position 19, with the rear wall portion 15F of the inner peripheral surface of the upper angular stop 15 fully abutting the inner wall 17E of the slot 17. This thereby defines the maximum inward angular adjustment position 24 of the armrest 4, in which the front end of the armrest 4 has moved inward to an angular displacement A24 of approximately 55° from the neutral position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2. Although the figure shows a gap between the rear wall portion 15D of the outer peripheral surface of the upper angular stop 15 and the outer wall 17D of the slot 17, the outer wall 17D of the slot may have a shape that contacts and fully abuts the rear wall portion 15D.

[0087] 13A shows an adjusted position of the arm assembly 100, with the first member 2 in its maximum outward angular adjustment position 6 and the armrest 4 in its forward-most translational position 19, with the rear wall portion 15D of the peripheral outer surface of the upper angular stop 15 fully abutting the outer wall 17D of the slot 17. This thereby defines the maximum outward angular adjustment position 25 of the armrest 4 when it is in its forward-most translational position 19, in which the front end of the armrest 4 has moved outward to an angular displacement A25 of approximately 10° from the neutral position of the armrest 4 relative to the post 1. In the configuration shown, the angular displacement of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 is unchanged.

[0088] Although the figures show a gap between the rear wall portion 15F of the inner peripheral surface of the upper angular stop 15 and the inner wall 17E of the slot 17, the inner wall 17E of the slot can be shaped to contact and completely abut the rear wall portion 15F. Such a configuration is shown in Figure 13B. In the illustrated configuration, in the forward-most translational position 19, the armrest 4 cannot be angularly adjusted outwardly relative to the first member 2 about the substantially upright second axis 5 because the peripheral edge of the upper angular stop 15 is substantially surrounded and engaged by the inner and outer walls 17D, 17E and rear edge 17B of the slot 17, providing no clearance for outward angular adjustment of the armrest 4 around the peripheral edge of the upper angular stop 15.

[0089] This increases the stability of the armrest 4 when in the forward most translational position 19. However, in the configuration of Figure 13A, the armrest 4 is angularly adjustable inwardly relative to the first member 2 about a substantially upright second axis 5 when in the forward most translational position 19.

[0090] Alternatively, the rear portions and rear edge 17B of the inner and outer walls 17D, 17E of the slot 17 may be configured to allow angular adjustment of the first member 2 about a substantially upright second axis 5 when the first member 2 is in the forwardmost translation position 19.

[0091] In the configuration of Figure 13A, the angle of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 does not change as a result of the armrest 4 being moved to its forward-most position. In other configurations, the angle of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 changes as a result of the armrest being moved to its forward-most position. For example, in the configuration of Figure 13B, the front end of the armrest 4 has been moved inward from the neutral position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 to an angular displacement A26 of approximately 10°.

[0092] In some configurations, the inward angular displacement A26 can be the same as the outward angular displacement A25. In other configurations, the inward angular displacement A26 can be less than the outward angular displacement A25.

[0093] In some embodiments, the features, functions and operating principles of the slot 17 and upper angular stop 15 described above in relation to the translational movement of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 are exchanged or replaced, such that the slot 17 is instead provided in the upper surface of the first member 2 and the upper angular stop 15 instead extends from the lower surface of the armrest 4 into the slot 17. In such embodiments, the features, functions and operating principles described above in relation to the translational adjustment of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 remain substantially the same.

[0094] 14-21, post 1 includes a substantially upright inner post member 26, and first member 2 includes an outer housing 27 slidably mounted to and telescopically receiving inner post member 26 such that the height of outer housing 27 is adjustable relative to inner post member 26. Outer housing 27 is also angularly adjustable relative to inner post member 26 about a substantially upright first axis 3 within a first limited range of angular movement.

[0095] Thus, height adjustability of the armrest 4 relative to the inner post member 26 is provided by the structure described below for the outer housing 27 and the inner post member 26.

[0096] 16 and 21, the outer housing 27 includes a plurality of recesses 29 disposed on the interior 28 of the outer housing 27 and spaced along its length. The recesses 29 also have raised surfaces 30 therebetween that are flush with the interior 28 of the outer housing 27. The outer housing 27 can include a single row of recesses 29 and raised surfaces 30, or it can have two or more spaced-apart rows of recesses 29 and raised surfaces 30.

[0097] The recess 29 can be integrally formed with the outer housing 27 or can be located on a liner component 51 that is assembled with the outer housing members to form the outer housing 27. In such a configuration, the liner component 51 is assembled such that the raised surface 30 remains flush with the interior 28 of the outer housing 27.

[0098] 14 and 15 show the inner post member 26 with a locking member 31 biased to engage one of a plurality of recesses 29 in the outer housing 27 to lock the position of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26.

[0099] The outer housing 27 includes a release member 32 operatively connected to an actuator 33. The release member 32 is an elongated member having a plurality of recesses 34 with raised surfaces 35 therebetween, the release member 32 being disposed within an interior 28 of the outer housing 27. The housing 27 may have an elongated cavity for receiving the release member 32. The elongated cavity may be adjacent to a row of recesses 29. The release member 32 is slidably movable relative to the outer housing 27 between a first position shown in FIG. 14 and a second position shown in FIG. 15.

[0100] 14 , at least one of the recesses 34 of the release member 32 aligns with at least one of the recesses 29 of the outer housing 27, and the locking member 31 engages with at least one of the recesses 29 of the outer housing 27 to prevent telescopic movement of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26. Thus, in this first position, height adjustment of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26 is prevented.

[0101] 15, one or more of the raised surfaces 35 of the release member 32 align with one or more recesses 29 in the outer housing 27 to provide a surface over which the locking member 31 can slide to disengage the locking member 31 from the recess(es) 29 and allow relative movement between the outer housing 27 and the inner post member 26. Thus, in this second position, height adjustment of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26 is possible.

[0102] 14 and 15 is an integral component formed with the release member 32. In some configurations, the actuator 33 may be a separate component operatively coupled or connected to the release member 32 rather than being an integral component formed with the release member 32.

[0103] The illustrated outer housing 27 has an opening on its underside through which the actuator 33 is disposed, such that a user can push the actuator 33 upward to move the release member 32 upward. While the opening through which the actuator 33 is disposed as shown in Figures 1, 2 and 14-16 is located on the underside of the outer housing 27 and is generally circular, it can instead be located on another surface of the outer housing 27 and can have any suitable shape for easy and intuitive access and operation by a user of the chair 200.

[0104] The recess 34 of the illustrated release member 32 has an inclined lower surface 36 shown in Figures 14 and 15 that corresponds to the inclined lower surface 37 of the locking member 31 shown in Figures 17 and 18. Thus, upward movement of the release member 32 actuated by operation of the actuator 33 causes the inclined lower surface 36 of the recess 34 to slide along the inclined lower surface 37, thereby moving the locking member 31 inwardly toward the inner post member 26 and out of engagement with the recesses 29, 34 according to the second position of the release member 32.

[0105] 17 and 18 show locking member 31 having rectangular or square protrusions 38 that correspond to the overall profile 39 of recesses 29 in outer housing 27. Thus, various portions of locking member 31 engage with recesses 29 in outer housing 27 and recesses 34 in release member 32. Figures 17 and 18 show the positions of locking member 31 when engaged or disengaged depending on the first and second positions of release member 32.

[0106] When there are two spaced apart rows of recesses 29 and raised surfaces 30, the locking member has two spaced apart projections 38.

[0107] The travel of release member 32 from the first position to the second position, and the dimensions of recess 29, raised surface 30, recess 34, and raised surface 35 are suitably configured so that in the second position, raised surface 30 aligns with recess 34 and raised surface 35 aligns with recess 29, such that locking member 31 remains disengaged as it slides over raised surface 35 of release member 32 or raised surface 30 of outer housing 27 during sliding movement of outer housing 27 relative to inner post member 26. Thus, when release member 32 is in the second position, the sliding movement of outer housing 27 relative to inner post member 26 is smooth, seamless, and uninterrupted.

[0108] The locking member 31 can be biased toward engagement with the recesses 29, 34 by any suitable means, such as a spring member. Similarly, the actuator 33, and therefore the release member 32, is biased toward the first position by any suitable means, such as a spring member. Thus, when the actuator 33 is released by the user, the release member 32 returns to its first position, but the locking member 31 will not re-engage with the recesses 29, 34 until the height of the outer housing 27 is adjusted to a position where the recesses 29, 34 are aligned.

[0109] 14, 15, 17, and 18 also show lock housing 40, which houses lock member 31. Lock housing 40 is rotatably mounted to inner post member 26 such that when first member 2 is angularly adjusted relative to post 1 and outer housing 27 is angularly adjusted relative to inner post member 26, lock housing 40 undergoes corresponding angular adjustment relative to post 1 and inner post member 26, and is fixed to outer housing 27 to prevent relative rotation between the lock housing and outer housing. As a result, all of the above-described components that provide height adjustability to arm assembly 100 rotate equally relative to one another about substantially upright first axis 3 while remaining aligned to allow height adjustment regardless of the angular position or adjustment of these components.

[0110] During height adjustment of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26, at any arbitrary vertical translation position of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26, the outer housing 27 slides substantially along the inner post member 26 as well as the lock housing 40, but the bottom of the outer housing 27 always remains in contact with the inner post member 26.

[0111] 19 is a cross-sectional view of a first friction structure 300 associated with the upper angle stop 15. The first friction structure 300 is configured to provide a first friction force that a user must overcome in order to translate and angularly adjust the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2. This means that the position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2 will not be moved unless the user intentionally applies a force that exceeds the first friction force.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first friction structure 300 comprises a biasing device for biasing the slide plate 16 into contact with the upper angle stop 15 to provide a first frictional force.

[0113] 19, the biasing device comprises a spring member 41 acting against an upper surface 42 of the first member 2 and a spring plate 43 located below the spring member 41. Essentially, this creates a reaction force that causes the upper angle stop 15 to push the sliding plate 16 or the sliding plate 16 to press against the upper surface 42 of the first member 2, thereby providing friction for both translational sliding and angular adjustment of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0114] The spring member 41 may be a leaf spring or any other suitable spring or resilient member.

[0115] In some embodiments, an adjuster is provided to allow adjustment of the first friction force provided by the first friction structure 300. For example, FIG. 19 shows mounting bolts 44 operatively coupled to the first friction structure 300 by locking nuts 44a. Torque applied to the locking nuts 44a determines the extent to which the mounting bolts 44 press against the first friction structure 300. These mounting bolts 44 extend through lower slits 17F of the slot 17. The overall shape or path of the lower slits 17F can therefore correspond to or adapt to the overall shape or path of the slot 17 so that the mounting bolts 44 do not contact the periphery of the lower slits 17F at any position of the armrest 4 relative to the first member 2.

[0116] Therefore, the torque applied to these lock nuts 44a determines the magnitude of the biasing force of the spring member 41 and the resulting reaction force that causes the upper angle stopper 15 to push the sliding plate 16 or press the sliding plate 16 against the upper surface 42 of the first member 2. As a result, these lock nuts 44a generally govern the amount of the first friction force provided by the first friction structure 300. The torque applied by these lock nuts 44a can be set during assembly of the arm assembly 100.

[0117] 20 shows a cross-sectional view of the arm assembly 100 having a second friction structure 400. The second friction structure 400 is configured to provide a second friction force that a user must overcome to adjust the angle of the first member 2 relative to the post 1. This ensures that the position of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 will not be moved unless the user intentionally applies a force that exceeds the second friction force.

[0118] In some embodiments, the second friction structure 400 comprises a biasing device for biasing a portion of the first member 2 into contact with the post 1 to provide a second frictional force.

[0119] In some embodiments, this portion of the first member 2 can be the lock housing 40 described above, as shown in Figure 20. Figure 20 shows that the biasing device of the second friction structure 400 comprises a spring member 46 acting against an upper member 45 mounted on the spring member 46. Essentially, this creates a reaction force that causes the lock housing 40 to push or press against the bearing member 48 on which the lock housing 40 is mounted. Because this bearing member 48 is rotatably mounted to the inner post member 26, this structure thereby provides friction against angular adjustment of the lock housing 40, and therefore the outer housing 27, relative to the inner post member 26 and therefore the post 1.

[0120] In some embodiments, an adjuster is provided to allow adjustment of the second friction force provided by the second friction structure 400. For example, Figure 20 shows a starlock washer 49 operatively coupled to the second friction structure 400 and positioned on the upper member 45. The compression applied by the starlock washer 49 thereby determines the extent to which the upper member 45 presses down on the second friction structure 400.

[0121] The compression exerted by the starlock washer 49 therefore determines the magnitude of the biasing force of the spring member 46 and the resulting reaction force that causes the lock housing 40 to push against or press against the bearing member 48 onto which the lock housing 40 is mounted. As a result, this starlock washer 49 generally governs the amount of second friction force exerted by the second friction structure 400. The compression exerted by the starlock washer 49 can be set during assembly of the arm assembly 100.

[0122] In the above-described embodiment, the arm assembly is height adjustable and may include the locking member 31 and lock housing 40 required for height adjustability. Thus, as described above, part of the first member 2 described above is the locking housing 40.

[0123] However, in another embodiment, the arm assembly may not be height adjustable and therefore may not include the locking member 31 and lock housing 40. In this configuration, the portion of the first member 2 described above may be a component fixed to the first member 2 to allow angular adjustment of the first member 2 and outer housing 27 relative to the post 1 and inner post member 26 about the substantially upright first axis 3. This component may also act substantially similarly to the locking housing 40 in terms of providing a portion within which the second friction structure 400 is disposed, as shown in FIG.

[0124] In some embodiments, the component secured to the first member 2 and attached to the post 1 and / or lock housing 40 according to the configurations described above comprises a lower angular stop 47 positioned on the substantially upright first axis 3. In any case, the upper member 45 described above in relation to the second friction structure 400 comprises the lower angular stop 47.

[0125] The lower angular stop 47 is configured to define a first angular travel limit range, as described above in connection with FIG. 4, and therefore to define the maximum outward angular adjustment of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 and the maximum inward angular adjustment of the first member 2 relative to the post 1.

[0126] In other words, the interface between the lower angular stop 47 and the post 1 and therefore the inner post member 26 defines the range over which the first member 2 and outer housing 27 can be angularly adjusted relative to the post 1 and inner post member 26 .

[0127] 17 and 18, in which the lower angular stop 47 abuts the post 1 and therefore the inner post member 26 in a manner that prevents angular adjustment relative to the post 1 and therefore the inner post member 26. Thus, upon angular adjustment of a component secured to the first member 2 and attached to the post 1 and / or angular adjustment of the lock housing 40 (both corresponding to angular adjustment of the first member 2 and outer housing 27 about the substantially upright first axis 3), the sidewall of the recess 50 of the component secured to the first member 2 and / or the lock housing 40 abuts the protrusion 52 of the lower angular stop 47 to prevent further angular adjustment of the first member 2 and outer housing 27 relative to the post 1 and inner post member 26.

[0128] 21 shows an embodiment of the arm assembly having an outer housing 27 shown in an exploded view. Disposed between the outer housing 27 and the inner post member 26 is a damping structure configured to inhibit lateral movement of the first member 2 relative to the post 1.

[0129] In one embodiment, the damping structure comprises at least one first biasing member 53 extending between the lock housing 40 and the inner wall 51 of the outer housing, and at least one second biasing member 54 extending between the inner post member 26 and the inner wall 51 of the outer housing 27, the at least one first and second biasing members 53, 54 being vertically spaced apart.

[0130] As described above in connection with the height adjustment component, the outer housing 27 can be integrally formed with at least one first biasing member 53 extending between the lock housing 40 and the inner wall 51 of the outer housing 27 and at least one second biasing member 54 extending between the inner post member 26 and the inner wall 51 of the outer housing 27.

[0131] However, if instead a liner component 51 is included that is assembled with outer housing 27 to form outer housing 27, at least one first biasing member 53 instead extends from lock housing 40 to the interior wall of liner component 51, and at least one second biasing member 54 instead extends from the interior wall of liner component 51 that forms the interior wall of outer housing 27 to inner post member 26, as shown in FIG. 21 .

[0132] At least one of the first and second biasing members 53, 54 may comprise any suitable biasing means, such as a spring or a resilient member. The damping structure serves to reduce any play or wobble between the outer housing 27 and the inner post member 26 during translational sliding or height adjustment of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26, and during angular adjustment of the first member 2 and the outer housing 27 relative to the post member 1 and inner post member 26. Thus, the sliding movement of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26 during height adjustment of the outer housing, and the rotational movement of the outer housing 27 relative to the inner post member 26 during angular adjustment of the outer housing 27, are smooth and seamless with minimal or no lateral translational movement.

[0133] In some embodiments, the outer housing 27 slidably receives the post 1 in a telescoping configuration such that the height of the first member 2 is adjustable relative to the post 1. In such embodiments, the features, functions, and operating principles of the inner post member 26 described above in connection with the height adjustment structure, second friction structure, lock housing structure, and damping structure, as described in connection with Figures 14-18 and 20, apply equally to the post 1.

[0134] In some embodiments, the first member 2 does not include the outer housing 27, but instead can include first and second housings, where the first housing is fixedly or non-rotatably attached to the post 1 and includes the features, functions, and operating principles of the outer housing 27 associated with the height adjustment structure, lock housing structure, and damping structure described above, and the second housing is rotatably attached to the first housing so as to be angularly adjustable about the substantially upright axis 3 between the first travel limit ranges and also includes at least some of the features, functions, and operating principles of the outer housing 27 associated with the lock housing structure described above. Thus, angular and height adjustment of the first member 2 relative to the post 1 is provided by separate housings to allow for easier or more modular assembly of the arm assembly.

[0135] In some embodiments, the outer housing 27 may be integrally formed or a unitary component, or may include a subassembly of outer housing members and liner components assembled together to form the outer housing 27.

[0136] In any of the above-described embodiments of the first member 2, the damping structure is positioned between the interior of the first member 2 and the outer surface of the post 1 so as to engage with the first member 2 and the post 1 without the need to connect to or be formed together with either the first member 2 or the post 1.

[0137] The arm assemblies described herein are particularly suitable for use in work or office chairs, such as task or office chairs having a pedestal-type height-adjustable base and / or a swivel base. The arm assemblies described herein can also be used in any other suitable seating applications, including, but not limited to, dining chairs, utility chairs, cafeteria chairs, restaurant chairs, break room chairs, and conference chairs.

[0138] The arm assemblies described herein allow adjustment in multiple directions or planes, such as height, width, and depth, for a chair. Width and depth adjustment of the armrests of the arm assembly is achieved by a combination of angular adjustment in a generally horizontal plane about multiple axes and translational adjustment in a generally horizontal plane. Height adjustment of the armrest is achieved by translational adjustment in a generally vertical direction or plane.

[0139] The arm assemblies described herein also allow for substantially free adjustment in each of the width and depth directions between limited ranges of movement, allowing the user to smoothly adjust the lateral and longitudinal position of the armrest relative to the chair without the uncomfortable, cumbersome, or tedious movements typical of knurled or discrete adjustment mechanisms that do not have an indeterminate or infinite number of adjustment positions.

[0140] The friction structures described herein can be installed to prevent lateral and longitudinal adjustment of the armrests without user-applied force. This allows users to position the armrests relative to the chair to suit their seating preferences, relying on the fact that the armrests will not change position unless the user intentionally applies force that overcomes the friction structure. This is particularly beneficial for chairs with arm assemblies on both sides of the chair, allowing users to symmetrically position both armrests to suit their seating preferences. The friction structures also help improve the smoothness of armrest adjustment in width and depth. In some configurations, one or more of the friction structures can be adjusted to increase or decrease resistance to movement.

[0141] The friction mechanism also simplifies adjustment by allowing the user to adjust the width and depth position of the armrest without having to release the actuator.

[0142] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described by way of example only and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0143] For example, the specific values ​​of displacements A6-A26 described herein in connection with the movement of components of the arm assembly 100 represent only one preferred configuration of the arm assembly 100. The specific values ​​of the displacements depend, in part, on the magnitude of the first and second angular movement limit ranges and the first translational movement limit range. Accordingly, these specific values ​​may vary in other preferred configurations of the arm assembly 100 in which the magnitudes of the first and second angular movement limit ranges and the first translational movement limit range differ from those described herein and in the claims. This also applies to the physical configuration and shape of any components of the arm assembly 100 that determine, define, or affect the magnitude of these movement limits.

[0144] For example, Table 1 below shows representative ranges of possible values ​​for each of displacements A6-A26 when the magnitudes of the first and second angular movement limit ranges increase or decrease by various degrees and when the magnitude of the first translational movement limit range increases or decreases by various millimeters.

[0145] The "low" value indicates the lowest possible value for each of the respective displacements when the travel limits are adjusted, the "high" value indicates the highest possible value for each of the respective displacements when the travel limits are adjusted, and the "default" value indicates the nominal value as described herein and in the claims.

[0146] Any value within these ranges is possible, and values ​​outside these ranges are also possible in alternative configurations of the arm assembly.

[0147] [Table 1]

[0148] In various preferred configurations, displacement A11 can be at least about 0 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 10 mm, at least about 15 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 25 mm, or at least about 30 mm. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A11 can be at most about 94 mm, at most about 90 mm, at most about 85 mm, at most about 80 mm, at most about 75 mm, at most about 70 mm, at most about 65 mm, at most about 60 mm, at most about 55 mm, at most about 50 mm, at most about 45 mm, at most about 40 mm, or at most about 35 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A11 may be about 0 mm, about 1 mm, about 2 mm, about 3 mm, about 4 mm, about 5 mm, about 6 mm, about 7 mm, about 8 mm, about 9 mm, about 10 mm, about 11 mm, about 12 mm, about 13 mm, about 14 mm, about 15 mm, about 16 mm, about 17 mm, about 18 mm, about 19 mm, about 20 mm, about 21 mm, about 22 mm, about 23 mm, about 24 mm, about 25 mm, about 26 mm, about 27 mm, about 28 mm, about 29 mm, about 30 mm, about 31 mm, about 32 mm, about 33 mm, about 34 mm, about 35 mm, about 36 mm, about 37 mm, about 38 mm, about 39 mm, about 40 mm, about 41 mm, about 3mm, approximately 24mm, approximately 25mm, approximately 26mm, approximately 27mm, approximately 28mm, approximately 29mm, approximately 30mm, approximately 31mm, approximately 32mm, approximately 33mm, approximately 34mm, approximately 35mm, Approximately 36mm, approximately 37mm, approximately 38mm, approximately 39mm, approximately 40mm, approximately 41mm, approximately 42mm, approximately 43mm, approximately 44mm, approximately 45mm, approximately 46mm, approximately 47mm, approximately 48m m, about 49 mm, about 50 mm, about 51 mm, about 52 mm, about 53 mm, about 54 mm, about 55 mm, about 56 mm, about 57 mm, about 58 mm, about 59 mm, about 60 mm, about 61 mm, about 62 mm, about 63 mm, about 64 mm, about 65 mm, about 66 mm, about 67 mm, about 68 mm, about 69 mm, about 70 mm, about 71 mm, about 72 mm, about 73 mm, about 74 mm, about 75 mm, about 76 mm, about 77 mm, about 78 mm, about 79 mm, about 80 mm, about 81 mm, about 82 mm, about 83 mm, about 84 mm, about 85 mm, about 86 mm, about 87 mm, about 88 mm, about 89 mm, about 90 mm, about 91 mm, about 92 mm, about 93 mm, about 94 mm, or a value between any two of these values.

[0149] In various preferred configurations, displacement A13 can be at least about 0 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 10 mm, or at least about 15 mm. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A13 can be at most about 66 mm, at most about 65 mm, at most about 60 mm, at most about 55 mm, at most about 50 mm, at most about 45 mm, at most about 40 mm, at most about 35 mm, at most about 30 mm, at most about 25 mm, or at most about 20 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A13 may be about 0 mm, about 1 mm, about 2 mm, about 3 mm, about 4 mm, about 5 mm, about 6 mm, about 7 mm, about 8 mm, about 9 mm, about 10 mm, about 11 mm, about 12 mm, about 13 mm, about 14 mm, about 15 mm, about 16 mm, about 17 mm, about 18 mm, about 19 mm, about 20 mm, about 21 mm, about 22 mm, about 23 mm, about 24 mm, about 25 mm, about 26 mm, about 27 mm, about 28 mm, about 29 mm, about 30 mm, about 31 mm, about 32 mm, about 33 mm, about 34 mm m, about 35 mm, about 36 mm, about 37 mm, about 38 mm, about 39 mm, about 40 mm, about 41 mm, about 42 mm, about 43 mm, about 44 mm, about 45 mm, about 46 mm, about 47 mm, about 48 mm, about 49 mm, about 50 mm, about 51 mm, about 52 mm, about 53 mm, about 54 mm, about 55 mm, about 56 mm, about 57 mm, about 58 mm, about 59 mm, about 60 mm, about 61 mm, about 62 mm, about 63 mm, about 64 mm, about 65 mm, about 66 mm, or a value between any two of these values.

[0150] In various preferred configurations, displacement A21 can be at least about 40 mm, at least about 45 mm, at least about 50 mm, at least about 55 mm, at least about 60 mm, at least about 65 mm, at least about 70 mm, at least about 75 mm, or at least about 80 mm. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A21 can be at most about 120 mm, at most about 115 mm, at most about 110 mm, at most about 105 mm, at most about 100 mm, at most about 95 mm, at most about 90 mm, at most about 85 mm, or at most about 80 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A21 may be about 40 mm, about 41 mm, about 42 mm, about 43 mm, about 44 mm, about 45 mm, about 46 mm, about 47 mm, about 48 mm, about 49 mm, about 50 mm, about 51 mm, about 52 mm, about 53 mm, about 54 mm, about 55 mm, about 56 mm, about 57 mm, about 58 mm, about 59 mm, about 60 mm, about 61 mm, about 62 mm, about 63 mm, about 64 mm, about 65 mm, about 66 mm, about 67 mm, about 68 mm, about 69 mm, about 70 mm, about 71 mm, about 72 mm, about 73 mm, about 74 mm, about 75 mm, about 76 mm, about 77 mm, about 78 mm, about 79 mm, about 80 mm, about 81 mm, about 82 mm m, about 83 mm, about 84 mm, about 85 mm, about 86 mm, about 87 mm, about 88 mm, about 89 mm, about 90 mm, about 91 mm, about 92 mm, about 93 mm, about 94 mm, about 95 mm, about 96 mm, about 97 mm, about 98 mm, about 99 mm, about 100 mm, about 101 mm, about 102 mm, about 103 mm, about 104 mm, about 105 mm, about 106 mm, about 107 mm, about 108 mm, about 109 mm, about 110 mm, about 111 mm, about 112 mm, about 113 mm, about 114 mm, about 115 mm, about 116 mm, about 117 mm, about 118 mm, about 119 mm, about 120 mm, or a value between any two of these values.

[0151] In various preferred configurations, the displacement A22 can be at least about 0 mm, at least about 0.5 mm, at least about 1 mm, at least about 1.5 mm, at least about 2 mm, at least about 2.5 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 3.5 mm, at least about 4 mm, at least about 4.5 mm, at least about 5 mm, at least about 5.5 mm, at least about 6 mm, or at least about 6.5 mm. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A22 can be up to about 21.8 mm, up to about 21.5 mm, up to about 21 mm, up to about 20.5 mm, up to about 20 mm, up to about 19.5 mm, up to about 19 mm, up to about 18.5 mm, up to about 18 mm, up to about 17.5 mm, up to about 17 mm, up to about 16.5 mm, up to about 16 mm, up to about 15.5 mm, up to about 15 mm, up to about 14.5 mm, up to about 14 mm, up to about 13.5 mm, up to about 13 mm, up to about 12.5 mm, up to about 12 mm, up to about 11.5 mm, up to about 11 mm, up to about 10.5 mm, up to about 10 mm, up to about 9.5 mm, up to about 9 mm, up to about 8.5 mm, up to about 8 mm, up to about 7.5 mm, or up to about 7 mm.Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A22 may be about 0 mm, about 0.2 mm, about 0.4 mm, about 0.6 mm, about 0.8 mm, about 1 mm, about 1.2 mm, about 1.4 mm, about 1.6 mm, about 1.8 mm, about 2 mm, about 2.2 mm, about 2.4 mm, about 2.6 mm, about 2.8 mm, about 3.0 mm, about 3.2 mm, about 3.4 mm, about 3.6 mm, about 3.8 mm, about 4 mm, about 4.2 mm, about 4.4 mm, about 4.6 mm, about 4.8 mm, about 5 mm, about 5.2 mm, about 5.4 mm, about 5.6mm, approx. 5.8mm, approx. 6mm, approx. 6.2mm, approx. 6.4mm, approx. 6.6mm, approx. 6.8mm, approx. 7mm, approx. 7.2mm, approx. 7.4mm, approx. 7.6mm, approx. 7.8mm, approx. 8mm, approx. 8.2mm, approx. 8.4mm, approx. 8.6mm, approx. 8.8mm, approx. 9mm, approx. 9.2mm, approx. 9.4mm, approx. 9.6mm, approx. 9.8mm, approx. 10mm, approx. 10.2mm, approx. 10.4mm, approx. 10.6mm, approx. 10.8mm, approx. 11mm, approx. 11.2mm, approx. 11.4mm, approx. 11.6 mm, approx. 11.8mm, approx. 12mm, approx. 12.2mm, approx. 12.4mm, approx. 12.6mm, approx. 12.8mm, approx. 13mm, approx. 13.2mm, approx. 13.4mm, approx. 13.6mm, approx. 13.8mm, approx. 14mm, approx. 14.2mm, approx. 14.4mm, approx. 14.6mm, approx. 14.8mm, approx. 15mm, approx. 15.2mm, approx. 15.4mm, approx. 15.6mm, approx. 15.8mm, approx. 16mm, approx. 16.2mm, approx. 16.4mm, approx. 16.6mm, approx. 16.8mm, approx. 17mm, approx. It can be 7.2 mm, about 17.4 mm, about 17.6 mm, about 17.8 mm, about 18 mm, about 18.2 mm, about 18.4 mm, about 18.6 mm, about 18.8 mm, about 19 mm, about 19.2 mm, about 19.4 mm, about 19.6 mm, about 19.8 mm, about 20 mm, about 20.2 mm, about 20.4 mm, about 20.6 mm, about 20.8 mm, about 21 mm, about 21.2 mm, about 21.4 mm, about 21.6 mm, about 21.8 mm, or a value between any two of these values.

[0152] In various preferred configurations, the displacement A6 can be at least about 0°, at least about 2°, at least about 4°, at least about 6°, at least about 8°, or at least about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A6 can be at most about 40°, at most about 35°, at most about 30°, at most about 25°, at most about 20°, at most about 15°, or at most about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A6 can be about 0°, about 1°, about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, about 10°, about 11°, about 12°, about 13°, about 14°, about 15°, about 16°, about 17°, about 18°, about 19°, about 20°, about 21°, about 22°, about 23°, about 24°, about 25°, about 26°, about 27°, about 28°, about 29°, about 30°, about 31°, about 32°, about 33°, about 34°, about 35°, about 36°, about 37°, about 38°, about 39°, about 40°, or a value between any two of these values.

[0153] In various preferred configurations, the displacement A7 can be at least about 0°, at least about 5°, at least about 10°, at least about 15°, at least about 20°, at least about 25°, at least about 30°, at least about 35°, at least about 40°, or at least about 45°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A7 can be up to about 90°, up to about 85°, up to about 80°, up to about 75°, up to about 70°, up to about 65°, up to about 60°, up to about 55°, up to about 50°, or up to about 45°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A7 may be about 0°, about 1°, about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, about 10°, about 11°, about 12°, about 13°, about 14°, about 15°, about 16°, about 17°, about 18°, about 19°, about 20°, about 21°, about 22°, about 23°, about 24°, about 25°, about 26°, about 27°, about 28°, about 29°, about 30°, about 31°, about 32°, about 33°, about 34°, about 35°, about 36°, about 37°, about 38°, about 39°, about 40°, about 41°, about 42°, about 43°, about 44°, about 45°, about 46°, The angle can be about 47°, about 48°, about 49°, about 50°, about 51°, about 52°, about 53°, about 54°, about 55°, about 56°, about 57°, about 58°, about 59°, about 60°, about 61°, about 62°, about 63°, about 64°, about 65°, about 66°, about 67°, about 68°, about 69°, about 70°, about 71°, about 72°, about 73°, about 74°, about 75°, about 76°, about 77°, about 78°, about 79°, about 80°, about 81°, about 82°, about 83°, about 84°, about 85°, about 86°, about 87°, about 88°, about 89°, about 90°, or a value between any two of these values.

[0154] In various preferred configurations, the displacement A8 can be at least about 0°, at least about 2°, at least about 4°, at least about 6°, at least about 8°, at least about 10°, at least about 12°, at least about 14°, at least about 16°, at least about 18°, or at least about 20°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A8 can be up to about 45°, up to about 40°, up to about 35°, up to about 30°, or up to about 25°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A8 can be about 0°, about 1°, about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, about 10°, about 11°, about 12°, about 13°, about 14°, about 15°, about 16°, about 17°, about 18°, about 19°, about 20°, about 21°, about 22°, about 23°, about 24°, about 25°, about 26°, about 27°, about 28°, about 29°, about 30°, about 31°, about 32°, about 33°, about 34°, about 35°, about 36°, about 37°, about 38°, about 39°, about 40°, about 41°, about 42°, about 43°, about 44°, about 45°, or a value between any two of these values.

[0155] In various preferred configurations, the displacement A9 can be at least about 0°, at least about 2°, at least about 4°, at least about 6°, at least about 8°, or at least about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A9 can be up to about 40°, up to about 35°, up to about 30°, up to about 25°, up to about 20°, up to about 15°, or up to about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A9 can be about 0°, about 1°, about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, about 10°, about 11°, about 12°, about 13°, about 14°, about 15°, about 16°, about 17°, about 18°, about 19°, about 20°, about 21°, about 22°, about 23°, about 24°, about 25°, about 26°, about 27°, about 28°, about 29°, about 30°, about 31°, about 32°, about 33°, about 34°, about 35°, about 36°, about 37°, about 38°, about 39°, about 40°, or a value between any two of these values.

[0156] In various preferred configurations, the displacement A10 can be at least about 0°, at least about 2°, at least about 4°, at least about 6°, at least about 8°, at least about 10°, at least about 12°, at least about 14°, at least about 16°, at least about 18°, or at least about 20°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A10 can be up to about 45°, up to about 40°, up to about 35°, up to about 30°, or up to about 25°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A10 can be about 0°, about 1°, about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, about 10°, about 11°, about 12°, about 13°, about 14°, about 15°, about 16°, about 17°, about 18°, about 19°, about 20°, about 21°, about 22°, about 23°, about 24°, about 25°, about 26°, about 27°, about 28°, about 29°, about 30°, about 31°, about 32°, about 33°, about 34°, about 35°, about 36°, about 37°, about 38°, about 39°, about 40°, about 41°, about 42°, about 43°, about 44°, about 45°, or a value between any two of these values.

[0157] In various preferred configurations, the displacement A12 can be at least about 0°, at least about 2°, at least about 4°, at least about 6°, at least about 8°, or at least about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A12 can be at most about 40°, at most about 35°, at most about 30°, at most about 25°, at most about 20°, at most about 15°, or at most about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A12 can be about 0°, about 1°, about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, about 10°, about 11°, about 12°, about 13°, about 14°, about 15°, about 16°, about 17°, about 18°, about 19°, about 20°, about 21°, about 22°, about 23°, about 24°, about 25°, about 26°, about 27°, about 28°, about 29°, about 30°, about 31°, about 32°, about 33°, about 34°, about 35°, about 36°, about 37°, about 38°, about 39°, about 40°, or a value between any two of these values.

[0158] In various preferred configurations, displacement A24 can be at least about 0°, at least about 5°, at least about 10°, at least about 15°, at least about 20°, at least about 25°, at least about 30°, at least about 35°, at least about 40°, at least 45°, at least 50°, or at least about 55°. Additionally or alternatively, displacement A24 can be up to about 90°, up to about 85°, up to about 80°, up to about 75°, up to about 70°, up to about 65°, up to about 60°, or up to about 55°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A24 may be approximately 0°, approximately 1°, approximately 2°, approximately 3°, approximately 4°, approximately 5°, approximately 6°, approximately 7°, approximately 8°, approximately 9°, approximately 10°, approximately 11°, approximately 12°, approximately 13°, approximately 14°, approximately 15°, approximately 16°, approximately 17°, approximately 18°, approximately 19°, approximately 20°, approximately 21°, approximately 22°, approximately 23°, approximately 24°, approximately 25°, approximately 26°, approximately 27°, approximately 28°, approximately 29°, approximately 30°, approximately 31°, approximately 32°, approximately 33°, approximately 34°, approximately 35°, approximately 36°, approximately 37°, approximately 38°, approximately 39°, approximately 40°, approximately 41°, approximately 42°, approximately 43°, approximately 44°, approximately 45°, approximately 46°, The angle can be about 47°, about 48°, about 49°, about 50°, about 51°, about 52°, about 53°, about 54°, about 55°, about 56°, about 57°, about 58°, about 59°, about 60°, about 61°, about 62°, about 63°, about 64°, about 65°, about 66°, about 67°, about 68°, about 69°, about 70°, about 71°, about 72°, about 73°, about 74°, about 75°, about 76°, about 77°, about 78°, about 79°, about 80°, about 81°, about 82°, about 83°, about 84°, about 85°, about 86°, about 87°, about 88°, about 89°, about 90°, or a value between any two of these values.

[0159] In various preferred configurations, the displacement A25 can be at least about 0°, at least about 2°, at least about 4°, at least about 6°, at least about 8°, or at least about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A25 can be at most about 40°, at most about 35°, at most about 30°, at most about 25°, at most about 20°, at most about 15°, or at most about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement A25 can be about 0°, about 1°, about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, about 10°, about 11°, about 12°, about 13°, about 14°, about 15°, about 16°, about 17°, about 18°, about 19°, about 20°, about 21°, about 22°, about 23°, about 24°, about 25°, about 26°, about 27°, about 28°, about 29°, about 30°, about 31°, about 32°, about 33°, about 34°, about 35°, about 36°, about 37°, about 38°, about 39°, about 40°, or a value between any two of these values.

[0160] In various preferred configurations, the inward displacement A26 can be at least about 0°, at least about 2°, at least about 4°, at least about 6°, at least about 8°, or at least about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the inward displacement A26 can be at most about 40°, at most about 35°, at most about 30°, at most about 25°, at most about 20°, at most about 15°, or at most about 10°. Additionally or alternatively, the inward displacement A26 can be about 0°, about 1°, about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, about 10°, about 11°, about 12°, about 13°, about 14°, about 15°, about 16°, about 17°, about 18°, about 19°, about 20°, about 21°, about 22°, about 23°, about 24°, about 25°, about 26°, about 27°, about 28°, about 29°, about 30°, about 31°, about 32°, about 33°, about 34°, about 35°, about 36°, about 37°, about 38°, about 39°, about 40°, or a value between any two of these values.

[0161] 22-34 show alternative forms of arm assemblies. Unless otherwise described below, the features, functions, and options are the same as those outlined herein for arm assembly 100. Like reference numbers indicate like parts increased by 1000.

[0162] Any one or more of the features of the arm assembly 1100 may be used in combination with any one or more of the features of the arm assembly 100 .

[0163] 22, the outer housing 1027 includes a plurality of recesses 1029 disposed within the interior 1028 of the outer housing 1027 and spaced along its length. The recesses 1029 also have raised surfaces 1030 therebetween that are flush with the interior 1028 of the outer housing 1027. The outer housing 1027 can have a single row of recesses 1029 and raised surfaces 1030, or it can have two spaced-apart rows of recesses 1029 and raised surfaces 1030.

[0164] The recess 1029 is integrally formed with the outer housing 1027. In this embodiment, no liner component is installed.

[0165] The recess 1029 shown has a profile 1039 that is rounded in shape.

[0166] 23, the actuator 1033 is formed as a separate component that is connected to the release member 1032. This allows the release member 1032 to be inserted into the first member 1002 from above the first member 1002, and the actuator 1033 to be inserted into the first member 1002 from below the first member.

[0167] The actuator 1033 can be connected to the release member 1032 via any suitable connection. For example, the actuator 1033 and release member 1032 can have complementary engagement features, such as snaps, clips, or protrusions and recesses or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator 1033 and release member 1032 can be connected to each other via a suitable fastener 1034, for example as shown in FIG. 26.

[0168] As shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, the locking member 1031 has a rounded protrusion 1038 that corresponds to the general profile 1039 of the recess 1029 in the outer housing 1027 .

[0169] Where there are two spaced apart rows of recesses 1029 and raised surfaces 1030 , the locking member has two spaced apart protrusions 1038 .

[0170] As shown in FIG. 26, the first friction structure 1300 comprises a biasing device for biasing the sliding plate 1016 between the upper angle stop 1015 and the top cap 1042 to provide a first friction force.

[0171] The biasing device comprises a spring member 1041 acting against an upper surface 1042 of the first member 1002 and against a head 1043 of a fastener 1044. The head 1043 is located below the spring member 1041. Essentially, this creates a reaction force that causes the upper angle stop 1015 to push the sliding plate 1016 or the sliding plate 1016 to press against the upper surface 1042 of the first member 1002, thereby providing friction for both parallel sliding and angular adjustment of the armrest 1004 relative to the first member 1002.

[0172] In some embodiments, an adjuster is provided to allow adjustment of the first friction force provided by the first friction structure 1300. For example, Figure 26 shows a fastener 1044 that is operatively coupled to the first friction structure 1300 by threading through a threaded opening in the upper angle stop 1015. The fastener 1044 of the arm assembly 1100 is inverted compared to the fastener 44 of the arm assembly 1100.

[0173] The extent to which the fastener 1044 is threaded into the opening in the upper angular stop 1015 adjusts the magnitude of the biasing force of the spring member 1041. The desired position of the fastener 1044 relative to the upper angular stop 1015 can be locked by a nut 1044a.

[0174] The fasteners 1044 may be of any suitable type, such as, for example, studs, bolts, or screws.

[0175] 27 and 28 show a second friction structure 1400 that includes a biasing device for biasing the portion of the first member 1002 that is in contact with the post 1001 to provide a second frictional force. This portion of the first member 1002 is the lock housing 1040.

[0176] The biasing device of the second friction structure 1400 comprises a spring structure 1046 provided by a plurality of washers, such as Belleville or disc spring washers in the form shown. A flat washer 1046a is located between the base of the spring structure 1046 and a face 1040a of the lock housing 1040.

[0177] The fastener 1045 is threaded into the threaded opening 1026 a of the inner post member 1026 to sandwich the spring structure 1046 between the head 1045 a of the fastener and the face 1040 a of the lock housing 1400 .

[0178] The fasteners 1045 may be of any suitable type, such as, for example, studs, bolts, or screws. In the illustrated configuration, the fasteners 1045 are shoulder bolts.

[0179] A spring structure 1046 acts against the fastener head 1045a. Essentially, this creates a reaction force that causes the lock housing 1040 to push or press against the bearing member 1048 on which the lock housing 1040 is mounted. Because this bearing member 1048 is rotatably mounted to the inner post member 1026, this structure provides friction against angular adjustment of the lock housing 1040, and therefore the outer housing 1027, relative to the post member 1026 and therefore the post 1001.

[0180] The extent to which the fastener 1045 is threaded into the threaded aperture 1026a, and therefore the height of the head 1045a of the fastener 1045, determines the magnitude of the biasing force of the spring structure 1046 and the resulting reaction force that causes the lock housing 1040 to press against or onto the bearing member 1048 onto which the lock housing 1040 is mounted. As a result, the fastener 1045 generally dominates the second friction force provided by the second friction structure 1400. The compression applied by the fastener 1045 can be set during assembly of the arm assembly 1100.

[0181] A surface 1040a is provided at the bottom of a recess on the lock housing 1040. The fastener head 1045a, spring structure 1046 and washer 1046a are located in this recess during use.

[0182] Referring to Figures 29-31C, in this form of arm assembly 1001, a lower angular stop 1047 is provided by a portion of lock housing 1040 engageable with a complementary engagement surface on inner post member 1026 to define a first angular travel limit range.

[0183] The lower end of the lock housing 1040 includes a boss 1040b. The boss has a substantially elongated shape transverse to the upright first axis 1003. In the illustrated form, the boss 1040b has a substantially rectangular shape with parallel elongated side walls including an outer wall 1040b' and an inner wall 1040b" and rounded ends 1040b'". Alternative shapes may be used.

[0184] The engagement surface is provided by opposing engagement members 1026c that project from the inner wall of the recess 1026b at the upper end of the inner post member 1026 toward the substantially upright first axis 1003. In the form shown, the engagement members 1026c are wedge-shaped. Alternative shapes may be used.

[0185] The engagement member 1026c defines a front outer engagement surface 1026d', a rear outer engagement surface 1026d'', a front inner engagement surface 1026e' and a rear inner engagement surface 1026e''.

[0186] The lower angular stop 1047 is configured to define a first angular travel limit range, and therefore a maximum outward angular adjustment A6 of the first member 1002 relative to the post 1001 and a maximum inward angular adjustment A7 of the first member 1002 relative to the post 1001, as described above in connection with FIG. 4.

[0187] As shown in FIG. 31B , contact between the outer wall 1040b′ of the boss 1040 and the front outer engagement surface 1026d′ and / or contact between the inner wall 1040b″ of the boss 1040 and the rear inner engagement surface 1026e″ defines a maximum outward angular adjustment A6 of the first member 1002 relative to the post 1001. As shown in FIG. 31C , contact between the inner wall 1040b″ of the boss 1040 and the front inner engagement surface 1026e′ and / or contact between the outer wall 1040b′ of the boss 1040 and the rear outer engagement surface 1026d″ defines a maximum outward angular adjustment A6 of the first member 1002 relative to the post 1001.

[0188] 32 and 33 illustrate another configuration of at least one first biasing member 1053 of the damping structure configured to inhibit lateral movement of the first member 1002 relative to the post 1001. FIG.

[0189] In this configuration, the at least one first biasing member 1053 extending between the lock housing 1040 and the interior wall 1051 of the outer housing 1027 is integrally formed with the lock housing 1040. That is, an integral part of the lock housing 1040 provides the at least one first biasing member 1053.

[0190] At least one first biasing member 1053 comprises a resilient cantilevered flange of the lock housing 1040 configured to contact an interior wall 1051 of the outer housing 1027. The flange 1053 has a convex outer surface that engages the concave interior wall 1051. The flange 1053 is shaped and configured to require compression or bending to fit within the interior wall 1051. The compression and bending act to provide a biasing force between the first member 1002 and the post 1001.

[0191] In the configuration shown, there are two circumferentially spaced biasing members 1053 on the lock housing 1040. In alternative configurations, there can be one, three, or more biasing members 1053.

[0192] 34, rather than the at least one second biasing member, the damping structure comprises at least one rib 1054 extending between the inner post member 1026 and the interior wall 1051 of the outer housing 1027. The at least one first biasing member 1053 and the at least one rib 1054 are vertically spaced apart.

[0193] In the illustrated form, at least one rib 1054 is integrally formed with the outer housing 1027 .

[0194] The rib 1054 is elongated in the longitudinal direction of the arm post corresponding to the substantially upright first axis 1003 .

[0195] Although only one rib 1054 is shown in Figure 34, there can be one, two, three or more ribs circumferentially spaced about the interior wall 1051 of the outer housing 1027. The rib(s) have a close tolerance to the inner post member 1026. In some configurations, three or more ribs are possible to maintain alignment of the axis of the post and outer housing.

[0196] In another configuration, one or more ribs 1054 may be provided on the outer surface of the inner post member 1026 for contacting the interior wall 1051 of the outer housing 1027 . The present invention has the following aspects (configurations). [Aspect 1] 1. An arm assembly for a chair, comprising: The arm assembly includes: a post for attachment to the chair; a first member operably connected to the post, the first member being angularly adjustable relative to the post about a substantially upright first axis through a first limited range of angular movement, the arm assembly having an infinite number of angular adjustment positions of the first member relative to the post through the first limited range of angular movement; an armrest operably connected to the first member for translationally sliding movement generally back and forth relative to the first member through a first translational movement limit range, the arm assembly having an infinite number of translational adjustment positions of the armrest relative to the first member through the first translational movement limit range; Equipped with the armrest is angularly adjustable relative to the first member about a substantially upright second axis through a second limited range of angular movement, the arm assembly having an infinite number of angular adjustment positions of the armrest relative to the first member through the second limited range of angular movement; Arm assembly. [Aspect 2] The arm assembly of claim 1, wherein the inward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post and the outward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member together provide lateral inward width adjustment of the armrest. [Aspect 3] 3. The arm assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein outward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post and inward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member together provide lateral outward width adjustment of the armrest. [Aspect 4] An arm assembly as described in any one of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the post comprises a substantially upright inner post member, and the first member comprises an outer housing slidably attached to the inner post member and receiving the inner post member in a telescoping configuration. [Aspect 5] 5. The arm assembly of claim 4, wherein the outer housing is angularly adjustable relative to the inner post member about the substantially upright first axis between the first angular movement limit ranges. [Aspect 6] Aspect 6. The arm assembly of any one of aspects 1 to 5, wherein the first member includes an upper angular stop positioned on the substantially upright second axis. [Aspect 7] 7. The armrest of claim 6, wherein the armrest comprises a sliding plate, the sliding plate comprising a slot for receiving the upper angle stop. [Aspect 8] 8. The arm assembly of claim 7, further comprising a first friction structure associated with the upper angular stop, the first friction structure configured to provide a first friction force that a user must overcome to translate and adjust the angle of the armrest relative to the first member. [Aspect 9] 9. The arm assembly of claim 8, wherein the first friction structure comprises a biasing device for biasing the slide plate into contact with the upper angular stop to provide the first friction force. [Aspect 10] 10. The arm assembly of aspect 9, further comprising an adjuster for adjusting the first friction force provided by the first friction structure. [Aspect 11] 11. The arm assembly of any one of aspects 7 to 10, wherein the leading and trailing edges of the slot and the leading and trailing edges of the upper angular stop are configured to define a first translational movement limit range, such that the armrest can slide translationally generally forward relative to the first member until the trailing edge of the slot contacts the trailing edge of the upper angular stop, and the armrest can slide translationally generally rearward relative to the first member until the leading edge of the slot contacts the leading edge of the upper angular stop. [Aspect 12] The arm assembly of claim 11, wherein the rear edge of the upper angular stop contacting the rear edge of the slot defines a forwardmost translation position of the armrest relative to the first member, and the front edge of the upper angular stop contacting the front edge of the slot defines a rearmost translation position of the armrest relative to the first member. [Aspect 13] Aspect 13. The arm assembly of any one of aspects 7 to 12, wherein the slot is configured to allow the armrest to move sideways when moving generally forward and backward during at least a portion of its movement. [Aspect 14] An arm assembly as described in aspect 11, 12 or aspect 13 when dependent on aspect 11, wherein the rear portion of the path of the slot is non-linear, such that the armrest sliding translationally in a generally forward direction relative to the first member from the rearmost translational position results in outward lateral movement of the armrest relative to the first member, and the armrest sliding translationally in a generally rearward direction relative to the first member towards the rearmost translational position results in inward lateral movement of the armrest relative to the first member. [Aspect 15] Aspects 7-14. The arm assembly of any one of aspects 7-14, wherein a periphery of the upper angular stop and a sidewall of the slot are configured to define the second angular travel limit range. [Aspect 16] An arm assembly as described in aspect 15, wherein the periphery of the upper angle stop comprises an outer surface having a front wall portion and a rear wall portion that face at an angle of more than 90° and less than 180° relative to each other, and an inner surface having a front wall portion and a rear wall portion that face at an angle of more than 90° and less than 180° relative to each other, wherein the front wall portion of the outer surface is substantially parallel to the rear wall portion of the inner surface, and the rear wall portion of the outer surface is substantially parallel to the front wall portion of the inner surface. [Aspect 17] An arm assembly as described in aspect 16, wherein the front wall portion of the outer surface is configured to engage with the outer wall of the slot, the rear wall portion of the inner surface is configured to engage with the inner wall of the slot, defining an inward angular adjustment limit of the second angular movement limit range, the rear wall portion of the outer surface is configured to engage with the outer surface of the slot, and the front wall portion of the inner surface is configured to engage with the inner surface of the slot, defining an outward angular adjustment limit of the second angular movement limit range. [Aspect 18] An arm assembly as described in any one of aspects 15 to 17, wherein the periphery of the upper angle stop is configured such that the maximum outward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member is approximately 21° from the neutral position of the armrest relative to the first member. [Aspect 19] An arm assembly as described in any one of aspects 15 to 18, wherein the periphery of the upper angle stop is configured such that the maximum inward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member is approximately 10° from the neutral position of the armrest relative to the first member. [Aspect 20] 20. The arm assembly of any one of aspects 1 to 19, comprising a second friction structure configured to provide a second friction force that a user must overcome to angularly adjust the first member relative to the post. [Aspect 21] 21. The arm assembly of aspect 20, wherein the second friction structure comprises a biasing device for biasing a portion of the first member into contact with the post to provide the second friction force. [Aspect 22] An arm assembly as described in any one of aspects 1 to 21, wherein a component fixed to the first member and attached to the post includes a lower angular stop positioned on the substantially upright first axis, the lower angular stop configured to define the first angular movement limit range. [Aspect 23] 23. The arm assembly of claim 22, wherein the lower angular stop is configured such that the maximum outward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post is approximately 10° from a neutral position of the first member relative to the post. [Aspect 24] 24. The arm assembly of claim 22 or 23, wherein the lower angular stop is configured such that the maximum inward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post is approximately 45 degrees from a neutral position of the first member relative to the post. [Aspect 25] An arm assembly described in any one of aspects 5 to 24 when dependent on aspect 4, wherein the outer housing slidably receives the post in a telescoping structure so that the height of the first member is adjustable relative to the post. [Aspect 26] the outer housing includes a plurality of recesses disposed within the outer housing and provided along a length thereof; the inner post member includes a locking member biased into engagement with one of the plurality of recesses in the outer housing to lock the position of the outer housing relative to the inner post member; the outer housing includes a release member operatively connected to the actuator and having a plurality of recesses with raised surfaces therebetween; the release member is slidably movable relative to the outer housing between a first position in which at least one of the recesses on the release member aligns with at least one of the recesses on the outer housing and the locking member engages with at least one of the recesses on the outer housing to prevent telescopic movement of the outer housing relative to the inner post member, and a second position in which one or more of the raised surfaces on the release member align with the one or more recesses on the outer housing to release the locking member from engagement with the one or more recesses and provide a surface against which the locking member can slide to allow relative movement between the outer housing and the inner post member. An arm assembly according to embodiment 25. [Aspect 27] 27. The arm assembly of claim 26, further comprising a lock housing that houses the lock member, the lock housing being rotatably attached to the inner post member and fixed to the outer housing to prevent relative rotation between the lock housing and the outer housing, and wherein angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post causes the lock housing to undergo angular adjustment relative to the corresponding post. [Aspect 28] An arm assembly as described in any one of aspects 5 to 27 when dependent on aspect 4, further comprising a damping structure between the outer housing and the inner post member, the damping structure configured to inhibit lateral movement of the first member relative to the post. [Aspect 29] An arm assembly as described in claim 28 when dependent on claim 27, wherein the damping structure comprises at least one first biasing member extending between the lock housing and the inner wall of the outer housing, and at least one second biasing member extending between the inner post member and the inner wall of the outer housing, and the at least one first biasing member and second biasing member are vertically spaced apart. [Aspect 30] A chair comprising two arm assemblies according to any one of aspects 1 to 29.

Claims

1. 1. An arm assembly for a chair, comprising: The arm assembly includes: a post for attachment to the chair, the post having a substantially upright inner post member; a first member operably connected to the post, the first member slidably attached to the inner post member and including an outer housing that receives the inner post member in a telescoping arrangement, the first member being angularly adjustable relative to the post about a substantially upright first axis through a first limited range of angular travel, the arm assembly having an infinite number of angular adjustment positions of the first member relative to the post through the first limited range of angular travel; an armrest operably connected to the first member for translationally sliding movement generally back and forth relative to the first member through a first translational movement limit range, the arm assembly having an infinite number of translational adjustment positions of the armrest relative to the first member through the first translational movement limit range; Equipped with the armrest is angularly adjustable relative to the first member about a substantially upright second axis through a second limited range of angular movement, the arm assembly having an infinite number of angular adjustment positions of the armrest relative to the first member through the second limited range of angular movement; the armrest comprises a sliding plate having a slot, the substantially upright second axis extending through the slot of the armrest to allow translational sliding and angular adjustment of the armrest relative to the first member; Arm assembly.

2. 2. The arm assembly of claim 1, wherein the inward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post and the outward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member together provide lateral inward width adjustment of the armrest.

3. 3. The arm assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein outward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post and inward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member together provide lateral outward width adjustment of the armrest.

4. 4. An arm assembly according to claim 1, wherein the outer housing is angularly adjustable relative to the inner post member about the substantially upright first axis between the first angular movement limit ranges.

5. An arm assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first member comprises an upper angular stop positioned on the substantially upright second axis.

6. The arm assembly of claim 5 , wherein the slot is configured to receive the upper angular stop.

7. 7. The arm assembly of claim 6, further comprising a first friction structure associated with the upper angular stop, the first friction structure configured to provide a first friction force that must be overcome by a user to translate and angularly adjust the armrest relative to the first member.

8. 8. The arm assembly of claim 7, wherein the first friction structure comprises a biasing device for biasing the slide plate into contact with the upper angular stop to provide the first friction force.

9. The arm assembly of claim 8 , further comprising an adjuster for adjusting the first friction force provided by the first friction structure.

10. 10. The arm assembly of claim 6, wherein a leading edge and a trailing edge of the slot and a leading edge and a trailing edge of the upper angular stop are configured to define a first translational movement limit range, such that the armrest can slide in translation generally forward relative to the first member until the trailing edge of the slot contacts the trailing edge of the upper angular stop, and the armrest can slide in translation generally rearward relative to the first member until the leading edge of the slot contacts the leading edge of the upper angular stop.

11. 11. The arm assembly of claim 10, wherein the rear edge of the upper angular stop contacting the rear edge of the slot defines a forward most translational position of the armrest relative to the first member, and the front edge of the upper angular stop contacting the front edge of the slot defines a rearmost translational position of the armrest relative to the first member.

12. An arm assembly as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the slot is configured to allow the armrest to move sideways when moving generally forwards or backwards during at least part of its movement.

13. 13. An arm assembly as claimed in claim 10, 11 or claim 12 when dependent on claim 10, wherein a rear portion of the path of the slot is non-linear, such that sliding translation of the armrest generally forward relative to the first member from a rearmost translational position of the armrest results in outward lateral movement of the armrest relative to the first member, and sliding translation of the armrest generally rearward relative to the first member towards the rearmost translational position results in inward lateral movement of the armrest relative to the first member.

14. An arm assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein a periphery of the upper angular stop and a side wall of the slot are configured to define the second angular travel limit range.

15. 15. The arm assembly of claim 14, wherein the periphery of the upper angle stop comprises an outer surface having front and rear wall portions oriented at an angle of more than 90° and less than 180° relative to each other, and an inner surface having front and rear wall portions oriented at an angle of more than 90° and less than 180° relative to each other, wherein the front wall portion of the outer surface is substantially parallel to the rear wall portion of the inner surface, and the rear wall portion of the outer surface is substantially parallel to the front wall portion of the inner surface.

16. 16. The arm assembly of claim 15, wherein the front wall portion of the outer surface is configured to engage an outer wall of the slot and the rear wall portion of the inner surface is configured to engage an inner wall of the slot to define an inward angular adjustment limit of the second angular travel limit range, and the rear wall portion of the outer surface is configured to engage an outer surface of the slot and the front wall portion of the inner surface is configured to engage an inner surface of the slot to define an outward angular adjustment limit of the second angular travel limit range.

17. 17. An arm assembly as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the periphery of the upper angular stop is configured such that the maximum outward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member is 21° from a neutral position of the armrest relative to the first member.

18. 18. An arm assembly as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the periphery of the upper angular stop is configured such that the maximum inward angular adjustment of the front end of the armrest relative to the first member is 10° from a neutral position of the armrest relative to the first member.

19. 19. An arm assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising a second friction structure configured to provide a second friction force that must be overcome by a user to angularly adjust the first member relative to the post.

20. 20. The arm assembly of claim 19, wherein the second friction structure comprises a biasing device for biasing a portion of the first member into contact with the post to provide the second friction force.

21. 21. An arm assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein a component fixed to the first member and attached to the post comprises a lower angular stop positioned on the substantially upright first axis, the lower angular stop being configured to define the first angular travel limit range.

22. 22. The arm assembly of claim 21, wherein the lower angular stop is configured such that the maximum outward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post is 10° from a neutral position of the first member relative to the post.

23. 23. An arm assembly according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the lower angular stop is configured such that the maximum inward angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post is 45° from a neutral position of the first member relative to the post.

24. An arm assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the outer housing slidably receives the post in a telescoping arrangement such that the height of the first member is adjustable relative to the post.

25. the outer housing includes a plurality of recesses disposed within the outer housing and provided along a length thereof; the inner post member includes a locking member biased into engagement with one of the plurality of recesses in the outer housing to lock the position of the outer housing relative to the inner post member; the outer housing includes a release member operatively connected to the actuator and having a plurality of recesses with raised surfaces therebetween; the release member is slidably movable relative to the outer housing between a first position in which at least one of the recesses of the release member aligns with at least one of the recesses of the outer housing and the locking member engages with at least one of the recesses of the outer housing to prevent telescopic movement of the outer housing relative to the inner post member, and a second position in which one or more of the raised surfaces of the release member align with the one or more recesses of the outer housing to release the locking member from engagement with the one or more recesses and provide a surface against which the locking member can slide to allow relative movement between the outer housing and the inner post member.

25. The arm assembly of claim 24.

26. 26. The arm assembly of claim 25, further comprising a lock housing that houses the lock member, the lock housing being rotatably mounted to the inner post member and fixed to the outer housing to prevent relative rotation between the lock housing and the outer housing, such that angular adjustment of the first member relative to the post causes angular adjustment of the lock housing relative to the corresponding post.

27. 27. An arm assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising a damping structure between the outer housing and the inner post member, the damping structure configured to inhibit lateral movement of the first member relative to the post.

28. 28. The arm assembly of claim 27 when dependent on claim 26, wherein the damping structure comprises at least one first biasing member extending between the lock housing and an inner wall of the outer housing, and at least one second biasing member extending between the inner post member and the inner wall of the outer housing, the at least one first biasing member and second biasing member being vertically spaced apart.

29. A chair comprising two arm assemblies according to any one of claims 1 to 28.

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