Locking and / or safety auto-lock feature for a collapsible frame

Abstract

A safety / auto-lock feature for a collapsible architecture frame having with one or more collapsible architecture frame poles. The safety auto-lock feature utilizes a spring-loaded locking feature that engages with a debossed feature / sloped cutout on one or more collapsible architecture frame poles. The debossed feature allows a spring-loaded locking feature to slide freely downwards during the collapsible frame setup while also preventing the spring-loaded locking feature from completely sliding upwards along the one or more collapsible architecture frame poles which would make the chair unstable and unsafe.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 756,867 filed Feb. 11, 2025.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to foldable products and their foldable frames such as chairs and table having an expandable or collapsible frame for use outdoors and / or indoors and more particularly, relates to a safety catch / auto locking mechanism for such a collapsible or foldable frame, to prevent situations where such an item is incorrectly or not fully set up which action might cause the item such as a chair or table to collapse when in use.BACKGROUND INFORMATION

[0003] Campers, hikers, backpackers and others who pursue outdoor activities desire and enjoy the ability to sit down comfortably once they arrive at their final destination or even at some intermediate point. Users of these types of chairs also desire a sitting experience that is comfortable, enjoyable and adjustable.

[0004] Current folding or otherwise transforming chairs having an expandable or foldable chair frame covered by cloth or similar material lack a locking and / or safety mechanism to ensure that the chair frame is properly and fully expanded or extended ensuring that the frame does not collapse if the chair frame is not fully and completely engaged. The same is true for folding tables.

[0005] Accordingly, what is needed is a portable, foldable frame for a product such as a chair or table that includes a safety and / or auto locking mechanism to ensure that the frame is properly and fully expanded or extended ensuring that the frame does not collapse if the frame is not fully and completely engaged.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention features a locking and / or safety auto-lock feature for a collapsible frame such as utilized on a chair or table. The locking and / or safety auto-lock mechanism comprises at least one collapsible frame architecture element configured for use on a collapsible item such as, but not limited to, a chair or a table. The at least one collapsible frame architecture element includes one or more collapsible frame architecture poles, at least one of which includes at least one locking region. The at least one locking region is disposed a first predetermined distance from a first end portion of the least one upright collapsible frame architecture element pole.

[0007] The invention also features a spring-loaded locking feature, configured for engaging with the at least one locking region on at least one of the at least one collapsible frame architecture element poles.

[0008] The at least one collapsible frame architecture element pole further includes a secondary auto-lock or anti-collapse element including a generally debossed feature / sloped cutout on at least one of the one or more collapsible frame architecture poles. The debossed feature / sloped cutout is disposed a second predetermined distance from the first end portion of the least one upright collapsible frame architecture element pole, wherein the second predetermined distance greater than the first predetermined distance.

[0009] The debossed feature / sloped cutout is configured for allowing the spring loaded locking feature to slide freely downwards during the collapsible frame architecture element setup, while also preventing the spring loaded locking feature from completely sliding upwards along the one or more collapsible frame architecture poles which would, but for the secondary auto locking / safety feature of the present invention, make the collapsible frame architecture element unstable and unsafe.

[0010] In the preferred embodiment, the debossed feature / sloped cutout is an upward sloped cutout extending away from said first end portion of said least one upright collapsible frame architecture element pole.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description, taken together with the drawings wherein:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible frame architecture element (in the example a collapsible chair frame on which may include an auto locking / safety mechanism according to the present invention;

[0013] FIG. 2 is a ¾ view of an upright chair support pole illustrating both a locking hole and a debossed feature in the form of a sloping cutout in the upright pole which serves as the auto-lock / safety mechanism, in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;

[0014] FIG. 3 is a close-up prospective view of a locking feature fully engaged with a locking hole provided in an upright chair pole according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a chair locking mechanism engagement hub according to one feature of the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a side perspective of a chair locking feature engaged in the debossed feature safety lock cutout in an upright pole according to the teachings of the present invention; and

[0017] FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of a foldable chair in an unstable condition as prevented by the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] The present invention will be explained and illustrated in connection with a foldable chair 10, FIG. 1, but this is not a limitation of the invention as the invention may be used with other chair designs or even table or other structures that fold and must be unfolded and one or more pieces extended into a secure position for use.

[0019] The present invention utilizes a spring-loaded locking feature 14, FIGS. 3-5 to provide a safety auto / safety lock feature. In one embodiment, the locking feature 14 of the safety / auto-lock mechanism according to one aspect of the present invention utilizes a spring-loaded pin 14 that engages with a debossed feature or sloped / cutout region 16 on one or more collapsible frame architecture poles such as, for example without limitation, one or more chair or table poles 12. The debossed feature cutout 16 allows the locking feature 14 to slide freely downwards during collapsible frame setup while also preventing the locking feature 14 from completely sliding upwards along the upright pole as shown by arrow 26 in FIG. 5, which would, but for the locking feature 14 engaging with the debossed feature or sloped cutout region 16 make the chair unstable and unsafe.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, the debossed feature / sloped cutout 16 is sloped upwardly from a lower region to an upper region forming an upward sloped “ramp” starting at a lower region and becoming deeper moving upwardly. The auto-locking feature using the locking feature 14 and the debossed feature / sloped cutout 16 serve to temporarily hold the chair in a partially open position if the spring-loaded locking feature 14 is not completely engaged in the primary locking hole 18. This design improves user safety by preventing unintended collapses and instability of the chair as shown in FIG. 6 and signaling an improper setup by an indication on the locking feature or pole indicating a percentage engagement / disengagement or red color indication.

[0021] The auto locking mechanism of the chair incorporates a spring-loaded locking feature 14FIG. 4 housed within a hub assembly 20. This locking feature is designed to extend outwardly in the direction of arrow 24 under the force of the spring 22 and engage with a designated hole 18, FIG. 5, in the upright pole 12. When properly aligned, this engagement securely locks the frame of the object such as a chair or table in the open position, ensuring stability during use.

[0022] During the process of setting up the chair or other object, the prior art has indicated that in certain albeit rare instances the user does not fully extend the upright poles to their proper position. In such cases, the hub mechanism 20 fails to slide completely down the upright poles, preventing the locking feature 14 from engaging securely into the designated hole 18. This incomplete setup leaves the chair in an unlocked and unstable state.

[0023] As is known in the prior art, if a user attempts to sit on a chair that has not been properly locked, the upright poles may collapse inward under the applied weight. This structural failure compromises the chair's stability, rendering it unsafe for sitting and posing a risk of injury to the user.

[0024] The prior art has indicated potential scenarios where users may not fully or correctly set up the chair, leading to an incomplete engagement of a locking mechanism in the chair upright pole.

[0025] To address this issue and enhance user safety, the present invention integrates a secondary safety catch into an auto locking mechanism in the form of a debossed feature such as a sloped cutout 16 in the upright pole 12. This additional feature is intended to provide an extra layer of security by preventing unintended collapses in cases where the primary locking mechanism is not properly engaged.

[0026] By providing a debossed feature in the form of a sloped cutout 16 in the upright pole 12, the sloped cutout 16 allows the spring-loaded locking feature 14 to slide freely in and out during the chair's opening process where the hub and locking feature is pushed downwardly.

[0027] In the event the locking feature 14 does not align with and fully engage with the intended locking hole 18, the debossed feature cutout 16 serves as an intermediary or secondary safety mechanism. The engagement of the locking feature 14 with the debossed feature cutout 16 holds the chair in a partially open but secure position, preventing unintended collapses while signaling to the user that the chair is not yet fully secured by visually appearing as unstable with or without a color (i.e. red) indication that the chair or other item is not in a fully locked condition. This feature enhances user safety and ensures stability during the setup process.

[0028] Accordingly, the present invention provides a safety auto-lock feature utilizing a spring-loaded locking feature that engages with a debossed feature (i.e. sloped cutout) on the upright pole of a collapsible frame architecture element such as but not limited to a foldable chair frame. The debossed feature (i.e. sloped cutout) allows the spring-loaded locking feature to slide freely downwards during chair setup while also preventing the locking feature 14 from completely sliding upwards along the upright pole which would make the chair unstable and unsafe.

[0029] Modifications and substitutions by one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention, which is not to be limited except by the allowed claims and their legal equivalents.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]The present invention will be explained and illustrated in connection with a foldable chair 10, FIG. 1, but this is not a limitation of the invention as the invention may be used with other chair designs or even table or other structures that fold and must be unfolded and one or more pieces extended into a secure position for use.

[0019]The present invention utilizes a spring-loaded locking feature 14, FIGS. 3-5 to provide a safety auto / safety lock feature. In one embodiment, the locking feature 14 of the safety / auto-lock mechanism according to one aspect of the present invention utilizes a spring-loaded pin 14 that engages with a debossed feature or sloped / cutout region 16 on one or more collapsible frame architecture poles such as, for example without limitation, one or more chair or table poles 12. The debossed feature cutout 16 allows the locking feature 14 to slide freely downwards during collapsible frame setup while also preventing the locking feature 14 from completely ...

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 756,867 filed Feb. 11, 2025.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to foldable products and their foldable frames such as chairs and table having an expandable or collapsible frame for use outdoors and / or indoors and more particularly, relates to a safety catch / auto locking mechanism for such a collapsible or foldable frame, to prevent situations where such an item is incorrectly or not fully set up which action might cause the item such as a chair or table to collapse when in use.BACKGROUND INFORMATION

[0003] Campers, hikers, backpackers and others who pursue outdoor activities desire and enjoy the ability to sit down comfortably once they arrive at their final destination or even at some intermediate point. Users of these types of chairs also desire a sitting experience that is comfortable, enjoyable and adjustable.

[0004] Current folding or otherwise transforming chairs having an expandable or foldable chair frame covered by cloth or similar material lack a locking and / or safety mechanism to ensure that the chair frame is properly and fully expanded or extended ensuring that the frame does not collapse if the chair frame is not fully and completely engaged. The same is true for folding tables.

[0005] Accordingly, what is needed is a portable, foldable frame for a product such as a chair or table that includes a safety and / or auto locking mechanism to ensure that the frame is properly and fully expanded or extended ensuring that the frame does not collapse if the frame is not fully and completely engaged.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention features a locking and / or safety auto-lock feature for a collapsible frame such as utilized on a chair or table. The locking and / or safety auto-lock mechanism comprises at least one collapsible frame architecture element configured for use on a collapsible item such as, but not limited to, a chair or a table. The at least one collapsible frame architecture element includes one or more collapsible frame architecture poles, at least one of which includes at least one locking region. The at least one locking region is disposed a first predetermined distance from a first end portion of the least one upright collapsible frame architecture element pole.

[0007] The invention also features a spring-loaded locking feature, configured for engaging with the at least one locking region on at least one of the at least one collapsible frame architecture element poles.

[0008] The at least one collapsible frame architecture element pole further includes a secondary auto-lock or anti-collapse element including a generally debossed feature / sloped cutout on at least one of the one or more collapsible frame architecture poles. The debossed feature / sloped cutout is disposed a second predetermined distance from the first end portion of the least one upright collapsible frame architecture element pole, wherein the second predetermined distance greater than the first predetermined distance.

[0009] The debossed feature / sloped cutout is configured for allowing the spring loaded locking feature to slide freely downwards during the collapsible frame architecture element setup, while also preventing the spring loaded locking feature from completely sliding upwards along the one or more collapsible frame architecture poles which would, but for the secondary auto locking / safety feature of the present invention, make the collapsible frame architecture element unstable and unsafe.

[0010] In the preferred embodiment, the debossed feature / sloped cutout is an upward sloped cutout extending away from said first end portion of said least one upright collapsible frame architecture element pole.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description, taken together with the drawings wherein:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible frame architecture element (in the example a collapsible chair frame on which may include an auto locking / safety mechanism according to the present invention;

[0013] FIG. 2 is a ¾ view of an upright chair support pole illustrating both a locking hole and a debossed feature in the form of a sloping cutout in the upright pole which serves as the auto-lock / safety mechanism, in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;

[0014] FIG. 3 is a close-up prospective view of a locking feature fully engaged with a locking hole provided in an upright chair pole according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a chair locking mechanism engagement hub according to one feature of the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a side perspective of a chair locking feature engaged in the debossed feature safety lock cutout in an upright pole according to the teachings of the present invention; and

[0017] FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of a foldable chair in an unstable condition as prevented by the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] The present invention will be explained and illustrated in connection with a foldable chair 10, FIG. 1, but this is not a limitation of the invention as the invention may be used with other chair designs or even table or other structures that fold and must be unfolded and one or more pieces extended into a secure position for use.

[0019] The present invention utilizes a spring-loaded locking feature 14, FIGS. 3-5 to provide a safety auto / safety lock feature. In one embodiment, the locking feature 14 of the safety / auto-lock mechanism according to one aspect of the present invention utilizes a spring-loaded pin 14 that engages with a debossed feature or sloped / cutout region 16 on one or more collapsible frame architecture poles such as, for example without limitation, one or more chair or table poles 12. The debossed feature cutout 16 allows the locking feature 14 to slide freely downwards during collapsible frame setup while also preventing the locking feature 14 from completely sliding upwards along the upright pole as shown by arrow 26 in FIG. 5, which would, but for the locking feature 14 engaging with the debossed feature or sloped cutout region 16 make the chair unstable and unsafe.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, the debossed feature / sloped cutout 16 is sloped upwardly from a lower region to an upper region forming an upward sloped “ramp” starting at a lower region and becoming deeper moving upwardly. The auto-locking feature using the locking feature 14 and the debossed feature / sloped cutout 16 serve to temporarily hold the chair in a partially open position if the spring-loaded locking feature 14 is not completely engaged in the primary locking hole 18. This design improves user safety by preventing unintended collapses and instability of the chair as shown in FIG. 6 and signaling an improper setup by an indication on the locking feature or pole indicating a percentage engagement / disengagement or red color indication.

[0021] The auto locking mechanism of the chair incorporates a spring-loaded locking feature 14FIG. 4 housed within a hub assembly 20. This locking feature is designed to extend outwardly in the direction of arrow 24 under the force of the spring 22 and engage with a designated hole 18, FIG. 5, in the upright pole 12. When properly aligned, this engagement securely locks the frame of the object such as a chair or table in the open position, ensuring stability during use.

[0022] During the process of setting up the chair or other object, the prior art has indicated that in certain albeit rare instances the user does not fully extend the upright poles to their proper position. In such cases, the hub mechanism 20 fails to slide completely down the upright poles, preventing the locking feature 14 from engaging securely into the designated hole 18. This incomplete setup leaves the chair in an unlocked and unstable state.

[0023] As is known in the prior art, if a user attempts to sit on a chair that has not been properly locked, the upright poles may collapse inward under the applied weight. This structural failure compromises the chair's stability, rendering it unsafe for sitting and posing a risk of injury to the user.

[0024] The prior art has indicated potential scenarios where users may not fully or correctly set up the chair, leading to an incomplete engagement of a locking mechanism in the chair upright pole.

[0025] To address this issue and enhance user safety, the present invention integrates a secondary safety catch into an auto locking mechanism in the form of a debossed feature such as a sloped cutout 16 in the upright pole 12. This additional feature is intended to provide an extra layer of security by preventing unintended collapses in cases where the primary locking mechanism is not properly engaged.

[0026] By providing a debossed feature in the form of a sloped cutout 16 in the upright pole 12, the sloped cutout 16 allows the spring-loaded locking feature 14 to slide freely in and out during the chair's opening process where the hub and locking feature is pushed downwardly.

[0027] In the event the locking feature 14 does not align with and fully engage with the intended locking hole 18, the debossed feature cutout 16 serves as an intermediary or secondary safety mechanism. The engagement of the locking feature 14 with the debossed feature cutout 16 holds the chair in a partially open but secure position, preventing unintended collapses while signaling to the user that the chair is not yet fully secured by visually appearing as unstable with or without a color (i.e. red) indication that the chair or other item is not in a fully locked condition. This feature enhances user safety and ensures stability during the setup process.

[0028] Accordingly, the present invention provides a safety auto-lock feature utilizing a spring-loaded locking feature that engages with a debossed feature (i.e. sloped cutout) on the upright pole of a collapsible frame architecture element such as but not limited to a foldable chair frame. The debossed feature (i.e. sloped cutout) allows the spring-loaded locking feature to slide freely downwards during chair setup while also preventing the locking feature 14 from completely sliding upwards along the upright pole which would make the chair unstable and unsafe.

[0029] Modifications and substitutions by one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention, which is not to be limited except by the allowed claims and their legal equivalents.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]The present invention will be explained and illustrated in connection with a foldable chair 10, FIG. 1, but this is not a limitation of the invention as the invention may be used with other chair designs or even table or other structures that fold and must be unfolded and one or more pieces extended into a secure position for use.

[0019]The present invention utilizes a spring-loaded locking feature 14, FIGS. 3-5 to provide a safety auto / safety lock feature. In one embodiment, the locking feature 14 of the safety / auto-lock mechanism according to one aspect of the present invention utilizes a spring-loaded pin 14 that engages with a debossed feature or sloped / cutout region 16 on one or more collapsible frame architecture poles such as, for example without limitation, one or more chair or table poles 12. The debossed feature cutout 16 allows the locking feature 14 to slide freely downwards during collapsible frame setup while also preventing the locking feature 14 from completely ...

Claims

1. A locking and / or safety auto-lock feature for a collapsible frame such as utilized on a chair or table, said locking and / or safety auto-lock mechanism comprising:at least one collapsible frame architecture element configured for use on a collapsible item such as, but not limited to, a chair or a table, said at least one collapsible frame architecture element including one or more collapsible frame architecture poles, at least one of which includes at least one locking region, said at least one locking region disposed a first predetermined distance from a first end portion of said least one upright collapsible frame architecture element pole;a spring-loaded locking feature, configured for engaging with said at least one locking region on at least one of said at least one collapsible frame architecture element poles; andsaid at least one collapsible frame architecture element pole further including a secondary auto-lock or anti-collapse element including a generally debossed feature / sloped cutout on at least one of said one or more collapsible frame architecture poles, said debossed feature / sloped cutout disposed a second predetermined distance from said first end portion of said least one upright collapsible frame architecture element pole, said second predetermined distance greater than said first predetermined distance, said debossed feature / sloped cutout configured for allowing said spring loaded locking feature to slide freely downwards during said collapsible frame architecture element setup, while also preventing the spring loaded locking feature from completely sliding upwards along the one or more collapsible frame architecture poles which would, but for the secondary auto locking / safety feature of the present invention, make the collapsible frame architecture element unstable and unsafe.

2. The locking and / or safety auto-lock feature for a collapsible frame according to claim 1, wherein said debossed feature / sloped cutout is an upward sloped cutout extending away from said first end portion of said least one upright collapsible frame architecture element pole.

Images