Styling chair with footrest assembly

Abstract

A displaceable footrest assembly for use on a styling chair including: a mounting assembly configured to mount the displaceable footrest assembly to the styling chair; a fixed strut assembly coupled to the mounting assembly; and a displaceable support strut assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed strut assembly and configured to be displaceable when not in use.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 740,203, filed on 30 Dec. 2024, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates to styling chairs and, more particularly, to styling chairs that have footrest assemblies.BACKGROUND

[0003] The history of styling chairs used by barbers and hair stylists reflects broader developments in grooming culture, industrial manufacturing, ergonomics, and professionalization within the personal services industry. These chairs evolved from simple domestic seating into specialized, mechanically sophisticated equipment designed to support both client comfort and practitioner efficiency.

[0004] In the 18th and early 19th centuries, barbering was typically conducted in homes, taverns, or small shops, and clients sat on ordinary wooden chairs or stools. These chairs had no mechanical features and offered minimal comfort or adjustability. Barbering itself was a multifunctional trade, often combined with minor medical procedures, so furniture was utilitarian rather than purpose-built.

[0005] The mid-to-late 19th century marked the emergence of the first dedicated barber chairs, driven by urbanization and the rise of permanent barbershops. As barbering became a distinct profession, manufacturers began producing chairs specifically designed for grooming services. Early barber chairs incorporated cast iron frames, upholstered seats, footrests, and reclining backs to facilitate shaving. In 1850, the first patent for an adjustable barber chair was issued in the United States, introducing mechanical elevation systems operated by screws or levers. This innovation allowed barbers to work at consistent heights, improving precision and reducing physical strain.

[0006] By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, companies such as Koken, Emil J. Paidar, and Theo A. Kochs became prominent manufacturers, elevating the barber chair into an iconic fixture. Chairs from this era featured heavy porcelain bases, ornate metalwork, hydraulic lift systems (introduced in the early 1900s), and headrests. Hydraulic technology significantly improved ease of adjustment and durability, establishing a standard that persists today. These chairs were often visually elaborate, reflecting the barbershop's role as a social and cultural hub.

[0007] The mid-20th century saw a divergence between barber chairs and styling chairs as hair styling, particularly for women, expanded into its own professional domain. Styling chairs became lighter, more streamlined, and more versatile, prioritizing upright positioning rather than full recline. Materials shifted toward chrome, vinyl, and molded plastics, reflecting mid-century modern design trends and postwar manufacturing efficiencies. The emphasis moved toward sanitation, ease of cleaning, and adaptability for cutting, coloring, and chemical treatments.

[0008] From the late 20th century to the present, styling chairs have continued to evolve with advances in ergonomics, materials science, and aesthetics. Modern chairs commonly feature hydraulic or pneumatic lifts, 360-degree swivel capability, removable footrests, and contoured cushioning for long-duration comfort. Design now varies widely to suit salon branding, ranging from minimalist and industrial styles to luxury, spa-inspired forms. Sustainability and modular repairability have also become growing considerations in contemporary manufacturing.

[0009] Overall, the evolution of barber and stylist chairs mirrors the transformation of grooming from a basic service into a specialized, design-conscious profession. What began as simple seating has become a critical piece of professional equipment, integrating mechanical innovation, ergonomic science, and visual identity within the modern barbershop and salon.SUMMARY OF DISCLOSURE

[0010] In one implementation, a displaceable footrest assembly for use on a styling chair includes: a mounting assembly configured to mount the displaceable footrest assembly to the styling chair; a fixed strut assembly coupled to the mounting assembly; and a displaceable support strut assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed strut assembly and configured to be displaceable when not in use.

[0011] One or more of the following features may be included. The displaceable support strut assembly may include one or more foldable footrests. The one or more foldable footrests may include two foldable footrests. The two foldable footrests may be configured to rotate inward toward displaceable support strut assembly. The two foldable footrests may be configured to straddle the fixed strut assembly when the two foldable footrests are rotated inward toward displaceable support strut assembly and the displaceable support strut assembly is rotated upward into a position under the seat base of the styling chair.

[0012] In another implementation, a displaceable footrest assembly for use on a styling chair includes: a mounting assembly configured to mount the displaceable footrest assembly to the styling chair; a fixed strut assembly coupled to the mounting assembly; and a displaceable support strut assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed strut assembly and configured to be displaceable when not in use, wherein the displaceable support strut assembly includes one or more foldable footrests.

[0013] One or more of the following features may be included. The one or more foldable footrests may include two foldable footrests. The two foldable footrests may be configured to rotate inward toward displaceable support strut assembly. The two foldable footrests may be configured to straddle the fixed strut assembly when the two foldable footrests are rotated inward toward displaceable support strut assembly and the displaceable support strut assembly is rotated upward into a position under the seat base of the styling chair.

[0014] In another implementation, a styling chair includes: a seat base; a seatback; a base assembly; and a displaceable footrest assembly including: a mounting assembly configured to mount the displaceable footrest assembly to the seat base; a fixed strut assembly coupled to the mounting assembly; and a displaceable support strut assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed strut assembly and configured to be displaceable when not in use.

[0015] One or more of the following features may be included. The displaceable support strut assembly may include one or more foldable footrests. The one or more foldable footrests may include two foldable footrests. The two foldable footrests may be configured to rotate inward toward displaceable support strut assembly. The two foldable footrests may be configured to straddle the fixed strut assembly when the two foldable footrests are rotated inward toward displaceable support strut assembly and the displaceable support strut assembly is rotated upward into a position under the seat base of the styling chair.

[0016] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a styling chair for use by a hairstylist; and

[0018] FIGS. 2-6 are diagrammatic views of a displaceable footrest assembly for use with the styling chair of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTSHistory of Styling Chairs

[0020] The history of hair styling spans human civilization and reflects changing social structures, cultural values, technological innovation, and concepts of identity. Across time, hair has functioned not merely as personal adornment, but as a visible marker of status, profession, belief, and self-expression.

[0021] In prehistoric and early societies, hair styling was rudimentary but intentional. Archaeological evidence suggests the use of bone combs, sharpened stones, animal fats, and plant oils to clean, condition, braid, or bind hair. Styles often served practical purposes (e.g., keeping hair out of the face or protecting it from the elements), while also conveying tribal affiliation, age, or rank.

[0022] In ancient civilizations, hair styling became highly symbolic and technically advanced. In ancient Egypt, both men and women styled hair or wore wigs made from human hair and plant fibers, often shaved for hygiene and comfort. Wigs were styled in braids or curls and decorated to indicate social status. In Mesopotamia and Persia, elaborate curled beards and layered hair symbolized authority. In ancient Greece, hairstyles emphasized balance and proportion, with men and women wearing carefully arranged curls and buns. Roman society elevated hair styling to an art form, particularly among elite women, whose complex styles required servants, tools, and imported hair.

[0023] During the Middle Ages, hair styling in Europe became more restrained under religious influence. Modesty was emphasized, and hairstyles were often concealed beneath veils, hoods, or caps, particularly for women. Nonetheless, hair remained socially significant, with length and grooming reflecting morality, marital status, and social class.

[0024] The Renaissance and early modern period reintroduced hair as a prominent visual element. Advances in grooming tools and cosmetics allowed for more elaborate designs. Hair was curled, waved, lightened, and structured using frames, powders, pomades, and false hair. In the 17th and 18th centuries, especially in Europe, hairstyles became increasingly extravagant, culminating in towering powdered wigs and heavily ornamented arrangements that signaled wealth, power, and fashion consciousness.

[0025] The 19th century marked a turn toward practicality and hygiene, influenced by industrialization and shifting social norms. Hair styling became more standardized and domestic, though heated curling irons and early chemical treatments expanded styling possibilities. This period also saw the beginnings of professional hairdressing as a distinct occupation, with the emergence of salons and specialized tools.

[0026] The 20th century transformed hair styling through mass media, technology, and social change. Short hairstyles gained acceptance, particularly for women in the 1920s, reflecting new freedoms. Permanent waves, chemical coloring, and mechanical dryers enabled long-lasting styles. Mid-century trends favored sculpted and polished looks, while later decades embraced natural textures, individuality, and cultural expression. Television, film, and celebrity culture rapidly accelerated trend adoption.

[0027] In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, hair styling became increasingly personalized and inclusive. Innovations in products, tools, and education supported diverse hair types and techniques. Styling now balances fashion, health, and self-expression, with professionals serving both aesthetic and cultural roles.

[0028] Overall, the history of hair styling illustrates how a universal human practice evolved into a complex blend of art, technology, and identity, shaped continually by societal change and human creativity.Utilization of Styling Chairs in Hair Services

[0029] Styling chairs are a foundational piece of equipment in professional hair services, designed to support efficient service delivery, client comfort, and stylist ergonomics. Their utilization directly affects the quality of the service experience as well as workplace safety within salons and barbershops.

[0030] Styling chairs are used to position the client at an optimal working height and orientation for cutting, coloring, styling, and chemical treatments. Most chairs incorporate a hydraulic or pneumatic lift that allows the stylist to raise or lower the client, reducing the need for bending, reaching, or awkward postures. A swivel base enables the stylist to rotate the client rather than walking around the chair, improving workflow efficiency and precision. The chair also stabilizes the client, encouraging an upright, neutral posture that facilitates accurate sectioning, even cutting lines, and consistent styling results.Use of Fixed Footrests

[0031] Fixed footrests are commonly integrated into styling chairs to support the client's feet and lower limbs. By elevating the feet slightly off the floor, footrests reduce pressure on the lower back, hips, and knees, particularly during longer services. They help prevent leg fatigue and promote a more relaxed seated posture, which can reduce client movement during detailed work. Fixed footrests are valued for their structural simplicity and durability, as they are permanently attached to the chair frame and require minimal maintenance compared to adjustable or retractable alternatives.Safety Risks Associated With Fixed Footrests

[0032] Despite their comfort benefits, fixed footrests can present tripping or stumbling hazards in salon environments. Because they extend forward from the chair base and remain in a fixed position, footrests may intrude into walk paths or the client's natural stepping zone when approaching or exiting the chair. Clients (particularly those with limited mobility, visual impairments, or unfamiliarity with salon equipment) may fail to notice the footrest and catch a foot on it, increasing the risk of loss of balance or falls. This risk is heightened when clients step backward after standing, when lighting is subdued, or when the floor surface is wet or cluttered.

[0033] In summary, styling chairs are essential to professional hair services, with fixed footrests playing an important role in client comfort and posture. However, when permanently extended, these footrests can introduce tripping and stumbling risks during entry and exit, necessitating thoughtful design, placement, and salon layout to balance comfort with safety.Styling Chair

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1, a styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10) is a cornerstone of any salon (e.g., salon 12), meticulously designed to balance functionality, durability, and client comfort. The styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10) serves as a central piece of equipment for hairstylists (e.g., stylist 14), enabling them to perform a wide range of services such as cutting, coloring, styling, and other treatments with ease and efficiency. One of the defining features of a styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10) is its adjustable height, made possible by a hydraulic or pneumatic pump system (e.g., pump system 16). Pump system 16 allows the stylist (e.g., stylist 14) to raise or lower the styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10) effortlessly, ensuring proper ergonomics and reducing strain during extended periods of work. Additionally, many styling chairs (e.g., styling chair 10) can swivel a full 360 degrees, enabling the stylist (e.g., stylist 14) to move around the client seamlessly without requiring the client to shift their position.

[0035] Stability is another key aspect, with most styling chairs (e.g., styling chair 10) built on a sturdy base (e.g., base assembly 18) made from heavy-duty materials like chrome or steel to prevent tipping or wobbling during use. Comfort is equally prioritized, with padded seats (e.g., seat base 20), armrests (e.g., armrest 22), seatback (e.g., seatback 24) and often a footrest (e.g., footrest 26) to provide a relaxing experience for clients, especially during lengthy appointments. The upholstery is typically crafted from durable and water-resistant materials such as vinyl or leatherette, ensuring the chair (e.g., styling chair 10) remains easy to clean and resistant to damage from hair products, water, and chemicals.

[0036] Beyond functionality, styling chairs (e.g., styling chair 10) contribute to the salon's overall atmosphere and aesthetic. Styling chairs (e.g., styling chair 10) are available in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes, ranging from sleek and modern to classic and luxurious designs, allowing salon owners to choose chairs (e.g., styling chair 10) that complement their brand identity. Some advanced models even include features like reclining backrests (e.g., seatback 24) for services like shampooing or shaving, further enhancing their versatility.

[0037] As discussed above, styling chairs (e.g., styling chair 10) often include a footrest (e.g., footrest 26) to provide a relaxing experience for clients. Unfortunately, these footrests (e.g., footrest 26) may be problematic for clients entering or exiting the chairs (e.g., styling chair 10). For example, clients may trip or stumble over these footrests (e.g., footrest 26), or get bruised / injured when their feet / shins contact them.Displaceable Footrest Assembly

[0038] Accordingly and referring also to FIGS. 2-6, a styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10) may be configured to include a displaceable footrest assembly (e.g., displaceable footrest assembly 28). This displaceable footrest assembly (e.g., displaceable footrest assembly 28) may be configured to be moveable so that it may be folded out of the way when the client is entering or exiting the styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10).

[0039] For example, the displaceable footrest assembly (e.g., displaceable footrest assembly 28) may include a mounting assembly (e.g., mounting assembly 29) configured to enable mounting of the displaceable footrest assembly (e.g., displaceable footrest assembly 28) to the styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10). As an illustrative example, the mounting assembly (e.g., mounting assembly 29) may be configured to mount the displaceable footrest assembly (e.g., displaceable footrest assembly 28) to the underside of the seat base (e.g., seat base 20) of the styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10).

[0040] The displaceable footrest assembly (e.g., displaceable footrest assembly 28) may include displaceable support strut assembly (e.g., displaceable support strut assembly 30) configured to rotate about pivot point 32 to enable displaceable support strut assembly 30 to pivot upward (in the direction of arrow 34) to a position under the seat base (e.g., seat base 20). Accordingly and in such a configuration, when the displaceable support strut assembly (e.g., displaceable support strut assembly 30) is not in use, it may pivot upward (in the direction of arrow 34) to a position under the seat base (e.g., seat base 20), thus reducing the likelihood of a tripping incident with a user of styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10).

[0041] Additionally / alternatively, the displaceable footrest assembly (e.g., displaceable footrest assembly 28) may include foldable footrests (e.g., foldable footrests 34, 36) configured to pivot upward (in the direction of arrows 38, 40). Once folded, foldable footrests 34, 36 may be positioned so that when rotated about pivot point 32 to a position under the seat base (e.g., seat base 20) of styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10), foldable footrests 34, 36 may straddle fixed strut (e.g., fixed strut 42) of the displaceable footrest assembly (e.g., displaceable footrest assembly 28).

[0042] Accordingly and when a user sits in the styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10), displaceable support strut assembly 30 may be rotated downward (into a horizontal position) and foldable footrests 34, 36 may be rotated outward (into a horizontal position), at which point the client may lift their feet and place them on foldable footrests 34, 36. Conversely and when the client is exiting the styling chair (e.g., styling chair 10), foldable footrests 34, 36 may be rotated inward (into a vertical position) and displaceable support strut assembly 30 may be rotated upward (into a vertical position), at which point the client may lower their feet onto the floor.General

[0043] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0044] The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

[0045] A number of implementations have been described. Having thus described the disclosure of the present application in detail and by reference to embodiments thereof, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the disclosure defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A displaceable footrest assembly for use on a styling chair comprising:a mounting assembly configured to mount the displaceable footrest assembly to the styling chair;a fixed strut assembly coupled to the mounting assembly; anda displaceable support strut assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed strut assembly and configured to be displaceable when not in use.

2. The displaceable footrest assembly of claim 1 wherein the displaceable support strut assembly includes one or more foldable footrests.

3. The displaceable footrest assembly of claim 2 wherein the one or more foldable footrests includes two foldable footrests.

4. The displaceable footrest assembly of claim 3 wherein the two foldable footrests are configured to rotate inward toward displaceable support strut assembly.

5. The displaceable footrest assembly of claim 4 wherein the two foldable footrests are configured to straddle the fixed strut assembly when the two foldable footrests are rotated inward toward displaceable support strut assembly and the displaceable support strut assembly is rotated upward into a position under the seat base of the styling chair.

6. A displaceable footrest assembly for use on a styling chair comprising:a mounting assembly configured to mount the displaceable footrest assembly to the styling chair;a fixed strut assembly coupled to the mounting assembly; anda displaceable support strut assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed strut assembly and configured to be displaceable when not in use, wherein the displaceable support strut assembly includes one or more foldable footrests.

7. The displaceable footrest assembly of claim 6 wherein the one or more foldable footrests includes two foldable footrests.

8. The displaceable footrest assembly of claim 6 wherein the two foldable footrests are configured to rotate inward toward displaceable support strut assembly.

9. The displaceable footrest assembly of claim 8 wherein the two foldable footrests are configured to straddle the fixed strut assembly when the two foldable footrests are rotated inward toward displaceable support strut assembly and the displaceable support strut assembly is rotated upward into a position under the seat base of the styling chair.

10. A styling chair comprising:a seat base;a seatback;a base assembly; anda displaceable footrest assembly including:a mounting assembly configured to mount the displaceable footrest assembly to the seat base,a fixed strut assembly coupled to the mounting assembly, anda displaceable support strut assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed strut assembly and configured to be displaceable when not in use.

11. The styling chair of claim 10 wherein the displaceable support strut assembly includes one or more foldable footrests.

12. The styling chair of claim 11 wherein the one or more foldable footrests includes two foldable footrests.

13. The styling chair of claim 12 wherein the two foldable footrests are configured to rotate inward toward displaceable support strut assembly.

14. The styling chair of claim 13 wherein the two foldable footrests are configured to straddle the fixed strut assembly when the two foldable footrests are rotated inward toward displaceable support strut assembly and the displaceable support strut assembly is rotated upward into a position under the seat base of the styling chair.

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