Rotatable suntanning chair device

Abstract

A rotatable suntanning chair device for adjusting a position of a user relative to the sun includes a chair and a base assembly having an upper mount coupled to the chair. A lower mount is rotatably engaged with the upper mount. A drive assembly selectively rotates the upper mount and the chair relative to the lower mount. The drive assembly includes an motor with a drive shaft in communication with the upper mount. The drive shaft rotates a motor gear. A ring gear is engaged with the motor gear and the upper mount. Rotation of the motor gear rotates the ring gear and rotation of the ring gear rotates the upper mount. A support element is coupled to the lower mount A plurality of couplers coupled to the chair are pivotable into a locked configuration to secure the chair to the base assembly.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] I hereby claim the benefit under 35 U.S.C., Section 120 of U.S. application Ser. No. 18 / 384,006, filed Oct. 26, 2023.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not ApplicableTHE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

[0003] Not ApplicableINCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC OR AS A TEXT FILE VIA THE OFFICE ELECTRONIC FILING SYSTEM

[0004] Not ApplicableSTATEMENT REGARDING PRIOR DISCLOSURES BY THE INVENTOR OR JOINT INVENTOR

[0005] Not ApplicableBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION(1) Field of the Invention

[0006] The disclosure relates to rotating chairs and more particularly pertains to a new rotating chair for assisting a person in adjusting a position of a user relative to the sun as the sun moves across the sky.(2) Description of Related Art Including Information Disclosed under 37 CFR 1.97 and 1.98

[0007] The prior art relates to rotating chairs. Some rotating chairs are designed for use in office settings, so that a user can easily pivot around a workspace while remaining seated. Other rotating chairs are designed for use in a home setting, such as a living room. Some rotating chairs have also been designed for outdoor use, for example as patio furniture. Such chairs are often manually rotated or moved. Some are used for sunbathing or tanning because the user can lay comfortably on the chair while exposing their skin to the sun's rays. However, because the sun moves through the sky throughout the day, the chairs also need to move throughout the day so that the user can maintain exposure to the sun's rays. If the user does not reposition the chair, the user can receive an uneven tan. Thus, there is a need in the art for a rotating chair assembly that can be electrically rotated thereby facilitating the user in maintaining exposure to the sun's rays throughout the day.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An embodiment of the disclosure meets the needs presented above by generally comprising a chair and a base assembly having an upper mount coupled to the chair. A lower mount is rotatably engaged with the upper mount. A drive assembly selectively rotates the upper mount and the chair relative to the lower mount. The drive assembly includes a motor with a drive shaft in communication with the upper mount. The drive shaft rotates a motor gear. A ring gear is engaged with the motor gear and the upper mount. Rotation of the motor gear rotates the ring gear and rotation of the ring gear rotates the upper mount. A support element is coupled to the lower mount A plurality of couplers coupled to the chair are pivotable into a locked configuration to secure the chair to the base assembly.

[0009] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of the disclosure in order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features of the disclosure that will be described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

[0010] The objects of the disclosure, along with the various features of novelty which characterize the disclosure, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

[0011] The disclosure will be better understood and objects other than those set forth above will become apparent when consideration is given to the following detailed description thereof. Such description makes reference to the annexed drawings wherein:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a bottom isometric view of a rotatable suntanning chair device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a top view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a front view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5 is a side view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7 is an in-use view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a top view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a top view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a box diagram view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a top view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 14 is a side view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 16 is a detail view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 17 is a detail view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 18 is a side view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 19 is a detail view of an embodiment of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] With reference now to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1 through 19 thereof, a new rotating chair embodying the principles and concepts of an embodiment of the disclosure and generally designated by the reference numeral 10 will be described.

[0032] As best illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 19, the rotatable suntanning chair device generally comprises a chair 12 having a top side 14, a bottom side 16, a first lateral edge 18, a second lateral edge 20, a front edge 22, and rear edge 24. The chair 12 may further include a first section 26, a second section 28, and a third section 30. The second section 28 is between the first 26 and third 30 sections. The third section 30 includes the rear edge 24 and the first section 26 includes the front edge 22. Each of the first 26 and third 30 sections is pivotably coupled to the second section 28. For example, a first hinge 32 may pivotably couple the first section 26 to the second section 28 and a second hinge 34 may pivotably couple the third section 30 to the second section 34. For example, the chair 12 may be a lounge chair, of the type used for sunbathing. The hinging mechanisms herein are conventional to lounge chair type assemblies and variations thereof having the ability to releasably lock at a desired angle.

[0033] A base assembly 36 is coupled to the chair 12. The base assembly 36 includes an upper mount 40 being removably coupled to the bottom side 16 of the chair 12. Preferably, the upper mount 40 is centered on the bottom side 16 of the second section 28. A lower mount 42 is rotatably engaged with the upper mount 40. A drive assembly 44 is mechanically engaged with the upper mount 40 to selectively rotate the upper mount 40 and the chair 12 relative to the lower mount 42.

[0034] In the specific embodiment provided in the Figures, the drive assembly 44 includes a motor 46 with a drive shaft 48 in communication with the upper mount 40. In preferred embodiments, the motor 46 is an electric motor configured for being powered by electricity. The motor 46 can rotate the drive shaft 48 in 360 degrees. Though this may be achieved in any conventional manner, in a preferred example of the base assembly 36, as shown in FIG. 6, a ring gear 54 may be coupled to the upper mount 40. A motor gear 56 can be coupled to the drive shaft 48 to engage the ring gear 54 to rotate the upper mount 40 as the motor 46 rotates the drive shaft 48. This embodiment ensures the base assembly 36 is the load-bearing structure beneath the chair 12 and that the base assembly 36 also rotates the chair 12. It also ensures that the upper mount 40, and the chair 12, can rotate the full 360 degrees about a center point of the ring gear 54.

[0035] FIGS. 18 and 19 provide another preferred embodiment. Here, the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 are again rotationally engaged. The upper mount 40 is centered on the bottom side 16 of the second section 28. The lower mount 42 is configured for positioning on a ground surface 38. More specifically, the lower mount 42 has a size exceeding a size of the upper mount 40 wherein the lower mount 42 is configured to increase a surface area across which a weight on the chair 12 is positioned on the ground surface 38.

[0036] The drive assembly 44 is mechanically engaged with the upper mount 40 to selectively rotate the upper mount 40 and the chair 12 relative to the lower mount 42. The drive assembly includes the motor 46 having the drive shaft 48, the motor 46 rotating the drive shaft 48. A drive wheel 136 is in communication with the drive shaft 48. The drive wheel 136 is in physical contact with the upper mount 40 wherein rotation of the drive shaft 48 rotates the drive wheel 136 and wherein rotation of the drive wheel 136 rotates the upper mount 40. The drive wheel 136 may be made of rubber wherein the drive wheel 136 is configured for being frictionally engaged with the upper mount 40. The drive wheel 136 is offset from a center point of the upper mount 40.

[0037] A base 138 is coupled to the lower mount 42. The base 138 extends upwardly from the lower mount 42. An arm 140 couples the motor 46 to the base 138. The arm 140 includes a primary member 142 being statically coupled to and extending from the base 140. A secondary member 144 is pivotably coupled to the primary member 142. The secondary member 144 is statically coupled to the primary member 142. The arm 140 may be one of a pair of arms positioned on opposing sides of the motor 46.

[0038] A spring 146 may extend upwardly from the lower mount 42 toward the upper mount 40. The spring 146 has a spring constant, the spring constant being configured to expand the spring 146. The spring 146 is biased to expand wherein a one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20 is configured for being positioned to rest on the spring 146 when a weight of a user 94 is positioned on the one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20 whereby the spring 146 is configured to inhibit the chair 12 from tipping while the weight of the user 94 is positioned on the one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20.

[0039] The spring 146 is generally one of a plurality of springs. The plurality of springs are spaced from each other across the lower mount. The spring 146, or the plurality of springs, is also spaced laterally from the upper mount 40 as shown in FIG. 19. The spring 146 only comes into contact with the bottom side 16 of the chair 12 when the chair 12 is tipped to the side, to prevent the chair 12 from falling over to one side.

[0040] A column 148 extends upwardly from the lower mount 42, the column 148 being centered relative to each of the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 wherein the column 148 is configured to support a weight of the user 94 on the chair 12. A bearing 112 is positioned between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42. More specifically, the bearing 112 is located between the column 148 and the upper mount 40. The bearing 112 is configured to reduce friction between the upper mount 40 and the column 148, or between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42, as described further below.

[0041] The motor 46 continuously rotates the drive shaft 48 while the motor 46 is turned on, unless, as described below, a safety feature is activated (for example because the one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20 of the chair 12 comes into physical contact with an object positioned the ground surface next to the chair 12.) Continuous rotation of the drive shaft 48 facilitates continuous rotation of the upper mount 40 and the chair 12. When using the chair 12 to suntan, this facilitates even exposure of the skin of the user to the sunlight, allowing the user to achieve an even tan without manually repositioning the chair 12.

[0042] More specifically, the motor gear 56 is engaged with the drive shaft 48 such that the drive shaft 48 rotates the motor gear 56. Looking to FIGS. 16 and 17, the motor gear 56 generally includes a base 100 and a plurality of fingers 102 extending from the base 100. Each finger of the plurality of fingers 102 comprises a resiliently defrmable material wherein the plurality of fingers 102 are configured to bend when a pressure on the upper mount 40 increases beyond a baseline pressure. The plurality of fingers 102 extend outwardly from the base 100 along a transverse plane, or, a plane that is parallel to a plane on which the second section 28 of the chair 12 lies, which is generally parallel to a plane on which a ground surface 38 lies.

[0043] The ring gear 54 is engaged with the motor gear 56 and the upper mount 40. Rotation of the motor gear 56 rotates the ring gear 54 and rotation of the ring gear 54 rotates the upper mount 40. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 15, the ring gear 54 is rotated about a pivot point 106 that is offset from the drive shaft 48 on the transverse plane. The pivot point 106 is centered on the upper mount 40 wherein the pivot point 106 is centered beneath the second section 28 of the chair 12. This positioning centers the torque generated by rotation of the ring gear 54 on the second section 28 and the upper mount 40, facilitating even distribution of the torque across the upper mount 40 and the chair 12.

[0044] The ring gear 54 generally includes a body 108 having a size exceeding a size of the base 100 of the motor gear 56. More specifically, the body 108 surrounds the base 100. A plurality of teeth 110 extend from the body 108. Each tooth of the plurality of teeth 110 comprises a rigid material configured to inhibit deformation of each tooth of the plurality of teeth 110. The plurality of fingers 102 are in physical contact with the plurality of teeth 110 wherein the plurality of fingers 102 are configured to urge the body 108 to rotate while the baseline pressure is applied to the upper mount 40. The plurality of fingers 102 are configured to bend when the pressure on the upper mount 40 is increased beyond the baseline pressure to inhibit rotation of the upper mount 40.

[0045] In other words, when the chair 12 collides with an object such as a tote bag or a person, the pressure on a peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40 is increased because pressure on one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20 of the chair 12 is increased. The increased pressure inhibits rotation of the body 108, such that the plurality of fingers 102 bend against the plurality of teeth 110, allowing the base 100 of the motor gear 56 to continue rotating while the body 108 of the ring gear 54 remains stationary. The upper mount 40 and the chair 12 remain stationary without turning off or burning out the motor 46. This safety feature prevents forced rotation of the chair 12 if the chair 12 physically contacts a person, object, or other obstruction that is next to the chair 12 instead of sitting on top of the chair 12.

[0046] The plurality of teeth 110 extend outwardly from the body 108 along the transverse plane wherein the plurality of fingers 102 are configured to bend only when the pressure is increased beyond the baseline pressure from the peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40. This inhibits the plurality of fingers 102 from slipping past the plurality of teeth 110 when downward pressure is applied along a longitudinal plane (or axis) by the user sitting, laying, or reclining on the chair 12. Rotation of the upper mount 40 thereby stops when the pressure above the baseline pressure is applied to the first lateral edge 18 or the second lateral edge 20 of the chair 12 while the motor 46 continues to rotate the drive shaft 48.

[0047] A bearing 112 is preferably positioned between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 to reduce friction between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42. Thus, the bearing 112 facilitates smooth rotation of the upper mount 40 relative to the lower mount 42. The bearing also helps distribute the weight of the user and the chair 12 around the peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40, rather than centering the weight on either the drive shaft 48 or the pivot point 106. Examples of the bearing 112 include, but are not limited to, a plurality of balls or rollers on which the upper mount 40 can roll while rotating relative to the lower mount 42. The bearing 112 can also facilitate handling both the axial and the radial load on the drive shaft 48 of the motor 46, increasing the lifetime of the motor 46.

[0048] The upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 define an interior space 114. The drive assembly 44 is positioned within the interior space 114. The upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 are configured to inhibit penetration of water into the interior space 114. Moreover, the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 are configured to inhibit penetration of debris into the interior space 114.

[0049] For example, the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 may be sealed by a gasket or another appropriate structure positioned between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 to inhibit the water and the debris from penetrating into the interior space 114 and damaging any components of the drive assembly 44. In simpler terms, the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 are connected together in a weather-resistant manner, particularly because the rotatable suntanning chair device 10 is envisioned for use outdoors.

[0050] In another example, the upper mount 40 may overlap the lower mount 42, as shown in FIG. 15, to seal off the interior space 114. For example, the peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40 may extend downwardly past a lower edge 132 of the lower mount 42. A lip 130 may extend from the peripheral side 128 over the lower edge 132. The upper mount 40 rotates, including rotation of the lip 130 beneath the lower edge 132 of the lower mount 42.

[0051] A support element 58 is coupled to and extends downwardly from the lower mount 42, which is centered beneath the chair 12. This centers the weight of the user and the chair 12 across the entirety of a top surface 134 of the upper mount 40 of the drive assembly 36, rather than centering the weight of the user and the chair 12 on either the drive shaft 48 or the pivot point 106. The support element 58 is configured for positioning on the ground surface 38 to support the chair 12 above the ground surface 38.

[0052] The embodiment shown in the Figures details that the support element 58 includes a plurality of legs 116 that are each angled to extend downwardly from the lower mount 42 and outwardly relative to each other wherein a distance between adjacent legs of the plurality of legs 116 increases moving away from the lower mount 42 whereby the plurality of legs 116 are configured to increase a surface area across which a weight on the chair 12 is positioned on the ground surface 38. A rail 118 is coupled to and extends between the plurality of legs 116.

[0053] The rail 118 is configured to distribute pressure from the weight on the chair 12 evenly across the surface area compared to the discrete points of pressure which would be caused by using the plurality of legs 116 alone. By nature of the plurality of legs 116 being angled to extend downwardly from the lower mount 42 and outwardly relative to each other, an area within a perimeter defined by the rail 118 exceeds an outer diameter, or width, of the lower mount 42.

[0054] The support element 58 not only supports the chair 12, the upper mount 40, the lower mount 42, and the drive assembly 44 above the ground surface 38, it also stabilizes them on the ground surface 38 to inhibit the chair 12 from tipping or falling over when a user is positioned on the chair 12 and shifts their weight. FIG. 13 shows the area within the perimeter defined by the rail 118 exceeds a width of the second section 28 of the chair 12 to further stabilize the chair 12 over the ground surface 38.

[0055] A plurality of couplers 120 are pivotably coupled to the bottom side 16 of the second section 28 of the chair 12. The plurality of couplers 120 may be pivotable between a locked configuration 122 and an unlocked configuration 124. While in the locked configuration 122, the plurality of couplers 120 are engageable with the upper mount 40 to secure the chair 12 to the base assembly 36. When pivoted into the unlocked configuration 124, the plurality of couplers 120 disengage the upper mount 40 to facilitate removal of the chair 12 from the base assembly 36. Each coupler of the plurality of couplers 120 is statically positioned on the chair 12 to inhibit movement of the plurality of couplers 120 relative to the chair 12 while the upper mount 40 is rotated.

[0056] For example, the plurality of couplers 120 may be pivotably coupled to a belt 98 secured to the chair 12. The belt 98 has an inner diameter exceeding an outer diameter of the upper mount 40 wherein the belt 98 is positioned around a perimeter edge of an upper surface of the upper mount 40 while the upper mount 40 is coupled to the chair 12. Because the belt 98 is secured to the chair 12, the base assembly 36 can be removably attached to any chair with the belt 98 and the plurality of couplers 120.

[0057] In another example, the upper mount 40 may be threadably engaged to the belt 98. More specifically, the belt 98 may have a threading that is complementary to a threading on the upper mount 40. In yet another example, an upper portion of the upper mount 40 may have a size that is complementary to a size of the belt 98 wherein the upper mount 40 is secured to the belt 98 via a friction fit. Other couplers are also contemplated, so long as the chair 12 can be repeatedly and removably secured to the base assembly 36.

[0058] The chair 12 is a preferred embodiment for the benefit of achieving an even tan in an outdoor environment, but other types of chairs are also contemplated. Critically, the base assembly 36 can be removably attached to a chair to support the chair above a ground surface while bearing the load of the user sitting on the chair and while rotating the chair about the pivot point 106.

[0059] A power source 60 is electrically coupled to the drive assembly 44. In some embodiments, the power source 60 may be coupled to both the motor 46 and the central processing unit 50, as shown in FIG. 10. In other embodiments, the power source 60 may include a power cord 62 that is coupled to the motor 46, as shown in FIG. 6. The power cord 62 extends outwardly through the lower mount 42 and is configured to receive an alternating current power source. Because the drive assembly 44 is positioned within the interior space 114, the power cord 62 is the only cord which extends from the lower mount 42.

[0060] The lower mount 42 remains stationary above the ground surface 38, such that the power cord does not rotate or become wound on the ground surface 38 or around the support element 58. The power source 60 may also include a battery 64 that is coupled to the motor 46 and positioned within the interior space 114, as shown in FIG. 9. The battery 64 may be rechargeable. The power source 60 may also include a solar panel 66 that is electronically coupled to the motor 46, as shown in FIG. 8.

[0061] In embodiments according to FIGS. 18 and 19, the power source 60 includes a first cord 150 extending from the motor 46. A second cord 152 is coupled to the first cord 150. The second cord 152 extends outwardly from the column 148. A third cord 154 is coupled to the second cord 152. The third cord 154 extends upwardly from the column 148 through the upper mount 40. The third cord 154 is rotatably coupled to the column 148. Though this may be achieved in any conventional manner, an example includes a rotor 156 coupling the third cord 154 of the power source 60 to the column 148 wherein the rotor 156 is configured to facilitate rotation of the third cord 154 with the upper mount 40 while the lower mount 42 remains stationary.

[0062] A central processing unit 50 may be electronically coupled to the motor 46. A receiver 52 for receiving wireless signals may be electrically coupled to the central processing unit 50. A remote 68 may be in wireless communication with the receiver 52 to actuate the motor 46. For example, the motor 46 may be actuated to rotate the drive shaft 48 in a first direction, such as clockwise, a second direction, such as counterclockwise, or a stationary, or stopped, condition.

[0063] The chair 12 can accordingly rotate in the first or second direction and can be stopped at a particular orientation when the motor 46 is in the stationary condition. For example, the first direction may be clockwise and the second direction may be counter clockwise. As shown in FIG. 7 and described above, the motor 46 can thereby rotate the chair 12 so that the user 94 can be repositioned relative to the position of the sun. In another example, the motor 46 may be actuated to revolve the chair 12 in only one of the first or second directions.

[0064] A misting device 70 for cooling a user may be coupled to the chair 12. The misting device 70 may be positioned on the first section 26, as shown in FIG. 1. The misting device 70 is generally configured to expel a fluid 72 under pressure over the top side 14. A reservoir 74 is configured to hold the fluid 72. A pump 76 is fluidly coupled to the reservoir 74. The pump 76 is configured to receive and to pressurize the fluid 72. A hose 78 is fluidly coupled to the pump 76. A nozzle 80 is fluidly coupled to the hose 78. The nozzle 80 dispenses the fluid 72 when the fluid 72 is pressurized. For example, the nozzle 80 may be a misting nozzle.

[0065] A pillow 82 may be coupled to the chair 12, preferably adjacent to the front edge 22. A fan 84 may be coupled to the chair 12 and may be directable toward the top side 14. A wireless speaker assembly 86 that is configured to wirelessly communicate with an external electronic device 88 may also be coupled to the chair 12. A power outlet 90 may be mounted on the chair 12 and would typically be coupled to the power source 60. For example, the power outlet 90 may include one or more USB power outlets. A cup holder 94 may also be coupled to the chair 12, for example being positioned on the second section 28 within comfortable reach of the user 94.

[0066] Each of the pump 76, the fan 84, and the wireless speaker assembly 86 may be directly electronically coupled to the power source 60, as shown in FIG. 10. In such embodiments, the power source 60 can provide an electrical current to power each device. Alternatively, each of the pump 76, fan 84, and wireless speaker assembly 86 may include individual power sources, such as individual batteries for each device. If the devices include individual batteries, those individual batteries may be rechargeable and couplable to the power outlet 90. In such embodiments, the power outlet 90 can recharge the individual batteries which power the devices.

[0067] A sensor 126 may be in communication with the drive assembly 44. The sensor 126 is coupled to the upper mount 40, preferably positioned within the interior space 114. The sensor 126 is configured to identify the increase in the pressure beyond the baseline pressure on the upper mount 40 of the base assembly 36. For example, the sensor 126 may sense the increase in pressure caused by an object exerting pressure in an opposite direction relative to a direction in which the ring gear 54 and the upper mount 40 are rotating, or by an object being in a static position in physical contact with one of the first lateral edge 18 or the second lateral edge 20 of the chair 12, which would increase pressure directed toward the peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40.

[0068] The central processing unit 50 may be configured to deactivate the motor 46 when the sensor 126 identifies the increase in pressure. This is another safety feature of the rotatable suntanning chair device 10. If someone or something collides with the chair 12, the central processing unit 50 will deactivate the motor 46 completely. The sensor 126 can also determine when the pressure on the upper mount 40 increases beyond the baseline pressure. This provides an electronic fallback should the mechanical safety features of the motor gear 56 and the ring gear 54 fail or take longer to respond than a predetermined time limit.

[0069] In use, the user 94 can sit comfortably on the chair 12, for example resting their head on the pillow 82 coupled to the front edge 22. The user 94 can use the remote 68 to rotate the chair 12 to their preferred position relative to the sun 96. While sunbathing, the user 94 can cool themselves with the misting device 70 or the fan 84. The user 94 can enjoy a beverage, using the cup holder 92 to conveniently hold the drink glass. The user 94 can also use the wireless speaker assembly 86 to listen to music, podcasts, or other audio files while relaxing in the sunshine. If the external electronic device 88 of the user 94 needs to be charged, the user 94 can plug the external electronic device 88 into the power outlet 90. As the sun 96 moves throughout the sky during the day, the user 94 can rotate the chair 12 to avoid getting caught in the shade or receiving an uneven tan.

[0070] With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of an embodiment enabled by the disclosure, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0071] Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the disclosure. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the disclosure to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the disclosure. In this patent document, the word “comprising” is used in its non-limiting sense to mean that items following the word are included, but items not specifically mentioned are not excluded. A reference to an element by the indefinite article “a” does not exclude the possibility that more than one of the element is present, unless the context clearly requires that there be only one of the elements.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0031]With reference now to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1 through 19 thereof, a new rotating chair embodying the principles and concepts of an embodiment of the disclosure and generally designated by the reference numeral 10 will be described.

[0032]As best illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 19, the rotatable suntanning chair device generally comprises a chair 12 having a top side 14, a bottom side 16, a first lateral edge 18, a second lateral edge 20, a front edge 22, and rear edge 24. The chair 12 may further include a first section 26, a second section 28, and a third section 30. The second section 28 is between the first 26 and third 30 sections. The third section 30 includes the rear edge 24 and the first section 26 includes the front edge 22. Each of the first 26 and third 30 sections is pivotably coupled to the second section 28. For example, a first hinge 32 may pivotably couple the first section 26 to the second section 28 and a second hinge 34 may pivotably couple ...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] I hereby claim the benefit under 35 U.S.C., Section 120 of U.S. application Ser. No. 18 / 384,006, filed Oct. 26, 2023.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not ApplicableTHE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

[0003] Not ApplicableINCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC OR AS A TEXT FILE VIA THE OFFICE ELECTRONIC FILING SYSTEM

[0004] Not ApplicableSTATEMENT REGARDING PRIOR DISCLOSURES BY THE INVENTOR OR JOINT INVENTOR

[0005] Not ApplicableBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION(1) Field of the Invention

[0006] The disclosure relates to rotating chairs and more particularly pertains to a new rotating chair for assisting a person in adjusting a position of a user relative to the sun as the sun moves across the sky.(2) Description of Related Art Including Information Disclosed under 37 CFR 1.97 and 1.98

[0007] The prior art relates to rotating chairs. Some rotating chairs are designed for use in office settings, so that a user can easily pivot around a workspace while remaining seated. Other rotating chairs are designed for use in a home setting, such as a living room. Some rotating chairs have also been designed for outdoor use, for example as patio furniture. Such chairs are often manually rotated or moved. Some are used for sunbathing or tanning because the user can lay comfortably on the chair while exposing their skin to the sun's rays. However, because the sun moves through the sky throughout the day, the chairs also need to move throughout the day so that the user can maintain exposure to the sun's rays. If the user does not reposition the chair, the user can receive an uneven tan. Thus, there is a need in the art for a rotating chair assembly that can be electrically rotated thereby facilitating the user in maintaining exposure to the sun's rays throughout the day.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An embodiment of the disclosure meets the needs presented above by generally comprising a chair and a base assembly having an upper mount coupled to the chair. A lower mount is rotatably engaged with the upper mount. A drive assembly selectively rotates the upper mount and the chair relative to the lower mount. The drive assembly includes a motor with a drive shaft in communication with the upper mount. The drive shaft rotates a motor gear. A ring gear is engaged with the motor gear and the upper mount. Rotation of the motor gear rotates the ring gear and rotation of the ring gear rotates the upper mount. A support element is coupled to the lower mount A plurality of couplers coupled to the chair are pivotable into a locked configuration to secure the chair to the base assembly.

[0009] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of the disclosure in order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features of the disclosure that will be described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

[0010] The objects of the disclosure, along with the various features of novelty which characterize the disclosure, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

[0011] The disclosure will be better understood and objects other than those set forth above will become apparent when consideration is given to the following detailed description thereof. Such description makes reference to the annexed drawings wherein:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a bottom isometric view of a rotatable suntanning chair device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a top view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a front view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5 is a side view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7 is an in-use view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a top view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a top view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a box diagram view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a top view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 14 is a side view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 16 is a detail view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 17 is a detail view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 18 is a side view of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 19 is a detail view of an embodiment of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] With reference now to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1 through 19 thereof, a new rotating chair embodying the principles and concepts of an embodiment of the disclosure and generally designated by the reference numeral 10 will be described.

[0032] As best illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 19, the rotatable suntanning chair device generally comprises a chair 12 having a top side 14, a bottom side 16, a first lateral edge 18, a second lateral edge 20, a front edge 22, and rear edge 24. The chair 12 may further include a first section 26, a second section 28, and a third section 30. The second section 28 is between the first 26 and third 30 sections. The third section 30 includes the rear edge 24 and the first section 26 includes the front edge 22. Each of the first 26 and third 30 sections is pivotably coupled to the second section 28. For example, a first hinge 32 may pivotably couple the first section 26 to the second section 28 and a second hinge 34 may pivotably couple the third section 30 to the second section 34. For example, the chair 12 may be a lounge chair, of the type used for sunbathing. The hinging mechanisms herein are conventional to lounge chair type assemblies and variations thereof having the ability to releasably lock at a desired angle.

[0033] A base assembly 36 is coupled to the chair 12. The base assembly 36 includes an upper mount 40 being removably coupled to the bottom side 16 of the chair 12. Preferably, the upper mount 40 is centered on the bottom side 16 of the second section 28. A lower mount 42 is rotatably engaged with the upper mount 40. A drive assembly 44 is mechanically engaged with the upper mount 40 to selectively rotate the upper mount 40 and the chair 12 relative to the lower mount 42.

[0034] In the specific embodiment provided in the Figures, the drive assembly 44 includes a motor 46 with a drive shaft 48 in communication with the upper mount 40. In preferred embodiments, the motor 46 is an electric motor configured for being powered by electricity. The motor 46 can rotate the drive shaft 48 in 360 degrees. Though this may be achieved in any conventional manner, in a preferred example of the base assembly 36, as shown in FIG. 6, a ring gear 54 may be coupled to the upper mount 40. A motor gear 56 can be coupled to the drive shaft 48 to engage the ring gear 54 to rotate the upper mount 40 as the motor 46 rotates the drive shaft 48. This embodiment ensures the base assembly 36 is the load-bearing structure beneath the chair 12 and that the base assembly 36 also rotates the chair 12. It also ensures that the upper mount 40, and the chair 12, can rotate the full 360 degrees about a center point of the ring gear 54.

[0035] FIGS. 18 and 19 provide another preferred embodiment. Here, the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 are again rotationally engaged. The upper mount 40 is centered on the bottom side 16 of the second section 28. The lower mount 42 is configured for positioning on a ground surface 38. More specifically, the lower mount 42 has a size exceeding a size of the upper mount 40 wherein the lower mount 42 is configured to increase a surface area across which a weight on the chair 12 is positioned on the ground surface 38.

[0036] The drive assembly 44 is mechanically engaged with the upper mount 40 to selectively rotate the upper mount 40 and the chair 12 relative to the lower mount 42. The drive assembly includes the motor 46 having the drive shaft 48, the motor 46 rotating the drive shaft 48. A drive wheel 136 is in communication with the drive shaft 48. The drive wheel 136 is in physical contact with the upper mount 40 wherein rotation of the drive shaft 48 rotates the drive wheel 136 and wherein rotation of the drive wheel 136 rotates the upper mount 40. The drive wheel 136 may be made of rubber wherein the drive wheel 136 is configured for being frictionally engaged with the upper mount 40. The drive wheel 136 is offset from a center point of the upper mount 40.

[0037] A base 138 is coupled to the lower mount 42. The base 138 extends upwardly from the lower mount 42. An arm 140 couples the motor 46 to the base 138. The arm 140 includes a primary member 142 being statically coupled to and extending from the base 140. A secondary member 144 is pivotably coupled to the primary member 142. The secondary member 144 is statically coupled to the primary member 142. The arm 140 may be one of a pair of arms positioned on opposing sides of the motor 46.

[0038] A spring 146 may extend upwardly from the lower mount 42 toward the upper mount 40. The spring 146 has a spring constant, the spring constant being configured to expand the spring 146. The spring 146 is biased to expand wherein a one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20 is configured for being positioned to rest on the spring 146 when a weight of a user 94 is positioned on the one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20 whereby the spring 146 is configured to inhibit the chair 12 from tipping while the weight of the user 94 is positioned on the one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20.

[0039] The spring 146 is generally one of a plurality of springs. The plurality of springs are spaced from each other across the lower mount. The spring 146, or the plurality of springs, is also spaced laterally from the upper mount 40 as shown in FIG. 19. The spring 146 only comes into contact with the bottom side 16 of the chair 12 when the chair 12 is tipped to the side, to prevent the chair 12 from falling over to one side.

[0040] A column 148 extends upwardly from the lower mount 42, the column 148 being centered relative to each of the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 wherein the column 148 is configured to support a weight of the user 94 on the chair 12. A bearing 112 is positioned between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42. More specifically, the bearing 112 is located between the column 148 and the upper mount 40. The bearing 112 is configured to reduce friction between the upper mount 40 and the column 148, or between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42, as described further below.

[0041] The motor 46 continuously rotates the drive shaft 48 while the motor 46 is turned on, unless, as described below, a safety feature is activated (for example because the one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20 of the chair 12 comes into physical contact with an object positioned the ground surface next to the chair 12.) Continuous rotation of the drive shaft 48 facilitates continuous rotation of the upper mount 40 and the chair 12. When using the chair 12 to suntan, this facilitates even exposure of the skin of the user to the sunlight, allowing the user to achieve an even tan without manually repositioning the chair 12.

[0042] More specifically, the motor gear 56 is engaged with the drive shaft 48 such that the drive shaft 48 rotates the motor gear 56. Looking to FIGS. 16 and 17, the motor gear 56 generally includes a base 100 and a plurality of fingers 102 extending from the base 100. Each finger of the plurality of fingers 102 comprises a resiliently defrmable material wherein the plurality of fingers 102 are configured to bend when a pressure on the upper mount 40 increases beyond a baseline pressure. The plurality of fingers 102 extend outwardly from the base 100 along a transverse plane, or, a plane that is parallel to a plane on which the second section 28 of the chair 12 lies, which is generally parallel to a plane on which a ground surface 38 lies.

[0043] The ring gear 54 is engaged with the motor gear 56 and the upper mount 40. Rotation of the motor gear 56 rotates the ring gear 54 and rotation of the ring gear 54 rotates the upper mount 40. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 15, the ring gear 54 is rotated about a pivot point 106 that is offset from the drive shaft 48 on the transverse plane. The pivot point 106 is centered on the upper mount 40 wherein the pivot point 106 is centered beneath the second section 28 of the chair 12. This positioning centers the torque generated by rotation of the ring gear 54 on the second section 28 and the upper mount 40, facilitating even distribution of the torque across the upper mount 40 and the chair 12.

[0044] The ring gear 54 generally includes a body 108 having a size exceeding a size of the base 100 of the motor gear 56. More specifically, the body 108 surrounds the base 100. A plurality of teeth 110 extend from the body 108. Each tooth of the plurality of teeth 110 comprises a rigid material configured to inhibit deformation of each tooth of the plurality of teeth 110. The plurality of fingers 102 are in physical contact with the plurality of teeth 110 wherein the plurality of fingers 102 are configured to urge the body 108 to rotate while the baseline pressure is applied to the upper mount 40. The plurality of fingers 102 are configured to bend when the pressure on the upper mount 40 is increased beyond the baseline pressure to inhibit rotation of the upper mount 40.

[0045] In other words, when the chair 12 collides with an object such as a tote bag or a person, the pressure on a peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40 is increased because pressure on one of the first lateral edge 18 and the second lateral edge 20 of the chair 12 is increased. The increased pressure inhibits rotation of the body 108, such that the plurality of fingers 102 bend against the plurality of teeth 110, allowing the base 100 of the motor gear 56 to continue rotating while the body 108 of the ring gear 54 remains stationary. The upper mount 40 and the chair 12 remain stationary without turning off or burning out the motor 46. This safety feature prevents forced rotation of the chair 12 if the chair 12 physically contacts a person, object, or other obstruction that is next to the chair 12 instead of sitting on top of the chair 12.

[0046] The plurality of teeth 110 extend outwardly from the body 108 along the transverse plane wherein the plurality of fingers 102 are configured to bend only when the pressure is increased beyond the baseline pressure from the peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40. This inhibits the plurality of fingers 102 from slipping past the plurality of teeth 110 when downward pressure is applied along a longitudinal plane (or axis) by the user sitting, laying, or reclining on the chair 12. Rotation of the upper mount 40 thereby stops when the pressure above the baseline pressure is applied to the first lateral edge 18 or the second lateral edge 20 of the chair 12 while the motor 46 continues to rotate the drive shaft 48.

[0047] A bearing 112 is preferably positioned between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 to reduce friction between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42. Thus, the bearing 112 facilitates smooth rotation of the upper mount 40 relative to the lower mount 42. The bearing also helps distribute the weight of the user and the chair 12 around the peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40, rather than centering the weight on either the drive shaft 48 or the pivot point 106. Examples of the bearing 112 include, but are not limited to, a plurality of balls or rollers on which the upper mount 40 can roll while rotating relative to the lower mount 42. The bearing 112 can also facilitate handling both the axial and the radial load on the drive shaft 48 of the motor 46, increasing the lifetime of the motor 46.

[0048] The upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 define an interior space 114. The drive assembly 44 is positioned within the interior space 114. The upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 are configured to inhibit penetration of water into the interior space 114. Moreover, the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 are configured to inhibit penetration of debris into the interior space 114.

[0049] For example, the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 may be sealed by a gasket or another appropriate structure positioned between the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 to inhibit the water and the debris from penetrating into the interior space 114 and damaging any components of the drive assembly 44. In simpler terms, the upper mount 40 and the lower mount 42 are connected together in a weather-resistant manner, particularly because the rotatable suntanning chair device 10 is envisioned for use outdoors.

[0050] In another example, the upper mount 40 may overlap the lower mount 42, as shown in FIG. 15, to seal off the interior space 114. For example, the peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40 may extend downwardly past a lower edge 132 of the lower mount 42. A lip 130 may extend from the peripheral side 128 over the lower edge 132. The upper mount 40 rotates, including rotation of the lip 130 beneath the lower edge 132 of the lower mount 42.

[0051] A support element 58 is coupled to and extends downwardly from the lower mount 42, which is centered beneath the chair 12. This centers the weight of the user and the chair 12 across the entirety of a top surface 134 of the upper mount 40 of the drive assembly 36, rather than centering the weight of the user and the chair 12 on either the drive shaft 48 or the pivot point 106. The support element 58 is configured for positioning on the ground surface 38 to support the chair 12 above the ground surface 38.

[0052] The embodiment shown in the Figures details that the support element 58 includes a plurality of legs 116 that are each angled to extend downwardly from the lower mount 42 and outwardly relative to each other wherein a distance between adjacent legs of the plurality of legs 116 increases moving away from the lower mount 42 whereby the plurality of legs 116 are configured to increase a surface area across which a weight on the chair 12 is positioned on the ground surface 38. A rail 118 is coupled to and extends between the plurality of legs 116.

[0053] The rail 118 is configured to distribute pressure from the weight on the chair 12 evenly across the surface area compared to the discrete points of pressure which would be caused by using the plurality of legs 116 alone. By nature of the plurality of legs 116 being angled to extend downwardly from the lower mount 42 and outwardly relative to each other, an area within a perimeter defined by the rail 118 exceeds an outer diameter, or width, of the lower mount 42.

[0054] The support element 58 not only supports the chair 12, the upper mount 40, the lower mount 42, and the drive assembly 44 above the ground surface 38, it also stabilizes them on the ground surface 38 to inhibit the chair 12 from tipping or falling over when a user is positioned on the chair 12 and shifts their weight. FIG. 13 shows the area within the perimeter defined by the rail 118 exceeds a width of the second section 28 of the chair 12 to further stabilize the chair 12 over the ground surface 38.

[0055] A plurality of couplers 120 are pivotably coupled to the bottom side 16 of the second section 28 of the chair 12. The plurality of couplers 120 may be pivotable between a locked configuration 122 and an unlocked configuration 124. While in the locked configuration 122, the plurality of couplers 120 are engageable with the upper mount 40 to secure the chair 12 to the base assembly 36. When pivoted into the unlocked configuration 124, the plurality of couplers 120 disengage the upper mount 40 to facilitate removal of the chair 12 from the base assembly 36. Each coupler of the plurality of couplers 120 is statically positioned on the chair 12 to inhibit movement of the plurality of couplers 120 relative to the chair 12 while the upper mount 40 is rotated.

[0056] For example, the plurality of couplers 120 may be pivotably coupled to a belt 98 secured to the chair 12. The belt 98 has an inner diameter exceeding an outer diameter of the upper mount 40 wherein the belt 98 is positioned around a perimeter edge of an upper surface of the upper mount 40 while the upper mount 40 is coupled to the chair 12. Because the belt 98 is secured to the chair 12, the base assembly 36 can be removably attached to any chair with the belt 98 and the plurality of couplers 120.

[0057] In another example, the upper mount 40 may be threadably engaged to the belt 98. More specifically, the belt 98 may have a threading that is complementary to a threading on the upper mount 40. In yet another example, an upper portion of the upper mount 40 may have a size that is complementary to a size of the belt 98 wherein the upper mount 40 is secured to the belt 98 via a friction fit. Other couplers are also contemplated, so long as the chair 12 can be repeatedly and removably secured to the base assembly 36.

[0058] The chair 12 is a preferred embodiment for the benefit of achieving an even tan in an outdoor environment, but other types of chairs are also contemplated. Critically, the base assembly 36 can be removably attached to a chair to support the chair above a ground surface while bearing the load of the user sitting on the chair and while rotating the chair about the pivot point 106.

[0059] A power source 60 is electrically coupled to the drive assembly 44. In some embodiments, the power source 60 may be coupled to both the motor 46 and the central processing unit 50, as shown in FIG. 10. In other embodiments, the power source 60 may include a power cord 62 that is coupled to the motor 46, as shown in FIG. 6. The power cord 62 extends outwardly through the lower mount 42 and is configured to receive an alternating current power source. Because the drive assembly 44 is positioned within the interior space 114, the power cord 62 is the only cord which extends from the lower mount 42.

[0060] The lower mount 42 remains stationary above the ground surface 38, such that the power cord does not rotate or become wound on the ground surface 38 or around the support element 58. The power source 60 may also include a battery 64 that is coupled to the motor 46 and positioned within the interior space 114, as shown in FIG. 9. The battery 64 may be rechargeable. The power source 60 may also include a solar panel 66 that is electronically coupled to the motor 46, as shown in FIG. 8.

[0061] In embodiments according to FIGS. 18 and 19, the power source 60 includes a first cord 150 extending from the motor 46. A second cord 152 is coupled to the first cord 150. The second cord 152 extends outwardly from the column 148. A third cord 154 is coupled to the second cord 152. The third cord 154 extends upwardly from the column 148 through the upper mount 40. The third cord 154 is rotatably coupled to the column 148. Though this may be achieved in any conventional manner, an example includes a rotor 156 coupling the third cord 154 of the power source 60 to the column 148 wherein the rotor 156 is configured to facilitate rotation of the third cord 154 with the upper mount 40 while the lower mount 42 remains stationary.

[0062] A central processing unit 50 may be electronically coupled to the motor 46. A receiver 52 for receiving wireless signals may be electrically coupled to the central processing unit 50. A remote 68 may be in wireless communication with the receiver 52 to actuate the motor 46. For example, the motor 46 may be actuated to rotate the drive shaft 48 in a first direction, such as clockwise, a second direction, such as counterclockwise, or a stationary, or stopped, condition.

[0063] The chair 12 can accordingly rotate in the first or second direction and can be stopped at a particular orientation when the motor 46 is in the stationary condition. For example, the first direction may be clockwise and the second direction may be counter clockwise. As shown in FIG. 7 and described above, the motor 46 can thereby rotate the chair 12 so that the user 94 can be repositioned relative to the position of the sun. In another example, the motor 46 may be actuated to revolve the chair 12 in only one of the first or second directions.

[0064] A misting device 70 for cooling a user may be coupled to the chair 12. The misting device 70 may be positioned on the first section 26, as shown in FIG. 1. The misting device 70 is generally configured to expel a fluid 72 under pressure over the top side 14. A reservoir 74 is configured to hold the fluid 72. A pump 76 is fluidly coupled to the reservoir 74. The pump 76 is configured to receive and to pressurize the fluid 72. A hose 78 is fluidly coupled to the pump 76. A nozzle 80 is fluidly coupled to the hose 78. The nozzle 80 dispenses the fluid 72 when the fluid 72 is pressurized. For example, the nozzle 80 may be a misting nozzle.

[0065] A pillow 82 may be coupled to the chair 12, preferably adjacent to the front edge 22. A fan 84 may be coupled to the chair 12 and may be directable toward the top side 14. A wireless speaker assembly 86 that is configured to wirelessly communicate with an external electronic device 88 may also be coupled to the chair 12. A power outlet 90 may be mounted on the chair 12 and would typically be coupled to the power source 60. For example, the power outlet 90 may include one or more USB power outlets. A cup holder 94 may also be coupled to the chair 12, for example being positioned on the second section 28 within comfortable reach of the user 94.

[0066] Each of the pump 76, the fan 84, and the wireless speaker assembly 86 may be directly electronically coupled to the power source 60, as shown in FIG. 10. In such embodiments, the power source 60 can provide an electrical current to power each device. Alternatively, each of the pump 76, fan 84, and wireless speaker assembly 86 may include individual power sources, such as individual batteries for each device. If the devices include individual batteries, those individual batteries may be rechargeable and couplable to the power outlet 90. In such embodiments, the power outlet 90 can recharge the individual batteries which power the devices.

[0067] A sensor 126 may be in communication with the drive assembly 44. The sensor 126 is coupled to the upper mount 40, preferably positioned within the interior space 114. The sensor 126 is configured to identify the increase in the pressure beyond the baseline pressure on the upper mount 40 of the base assembly 36. For example, the sensor 126 may sense the increase in pressure caused by an object exerting pressure in an opposite direction relative to a direction in which the ring gear 54 and the upper mount 40 are rotating, or by an object being in a static position in physical contact with one of the first lateral edge 18 or the second lateral edge 20 of the chair 12, which would increase pressure directed toward the peripheral side 128 of the upper mount 40.

[0068] The central processing unit 50 may be configured to deactivate the motor 46 when the sensor 126 identifies the increase in pressure. This is another safety feature of the rotatable suntanning chair device 10. If someone or something collides with the chair 12, the central processing unit 50 will deactivate the motor 46 completely. The sensor 126 can also determine when the pressure on the upper mount 40 increases beyond the baseline pressure. This provides an electronic fallback should the mechanical safety features of the motor gear 56 and the ring gear 54 fail or take longer to respond than a predetermined time limit.

[0069] In use, the user 94 can sit comfortably on the chair 12, for example resting their head on the pillow 82 coupled to the front edge 22. The user 94 can use the remote 68 to rotate the chair 12 to their preferred position relative to the sun 96. While sunbathing, the user 94 can cool themselves with the misting device 70 or the fan 84. The user 94 can enjoy a beverage, using the cup holder 92 to conveniently hold the drink glass. The user 94 can also use the wireless speaker assembly 86 to listen to music, podcasts, or other audio files while relaxing in the sunshine. If the external electronic device 88 of the user 94 needs to be charged, the user 94 can plug the external electronic device 88 into the power outlet 90. As the sun 96 moves throughout the sky during the day, the user 94 can rotate the chair 12 to avoid getting caught in the shade or receiving an uneven tan.

[0070] With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of an embodiment enabled by the disclosure, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0071] Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the disclosure. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the disclosure to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the disclosure. In this patent document, the word “comprising” is used in its non-limiting sense to mean that items following the word are included, but items not specifically mentioned are not excluded. A reference to an element by the indefinite article “a” does not exclude the possibility that more than one of the element is present, unless the context clearly requires that there be only one of the elements.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0031]With reference now to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1 through 19 thereof, a new rotating chair embodying the principles and concepts of an embodiment of the disclosure and generally designated by the reference numeral 10 will be described.

[0032]As best illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 19, the rotatable suntanning chair device generally comprises a chair 12 having a top side 14, a bottom side 16, a first lateral edge 18, a second lateral edge 20, a front edge 22, and rear edge 24. The chair 12 may further include a first section 26, a second section 28, and a third section 30. The second section 28 is between the first 26 and third 30 sections. The third section 30 includes the rear edge 24 and the first section 26 includes the front edge 22. Each of the first 26 and third 30 sections is pivotably coupled to the second section 28. For example, a first hinge 32 may pivotably couple the first section 26 to the second section 28 and a second hinge 34 may pivotably couple ...

Claims

1. A rotating chair assembly comprising:a chair;a base assembly being attached to the chair, the base assembly including:an upper mount being coupled to the chair;a lower mount being rotatably engaged with the upper mount;a drive assembly being mechanically engaged with the upper mount to selectively rotate the upper mount and the chair relative to the lower mount, the drive assembly including:a motor including a drive shaft in communication with the upper mount;a motor gear being engaged with the drive shaft, the drive shaft rotating the motor gear; anda ring gear being engaged with the motor gear and the upper mount wherein rotation of the motor gear rotates the ring gear and wherein rotation of the ring gear rotates the upper mount; anda support element being coupled to and extending downwardly from the lower mount, the support element being configured for positioning on a ground surface to support the chair above the ground surface;a coupler being coupled to the chair, the plurality of coupler being engageable with the upper mount to secure the chair to the base assembly, the coupler disengaging the upper mount to facilitate removal of the chair from the base assembly; anda power source being electronically coupled to the drive assembly.

2. The rotating chair assembly of claim 1, the motor gear further comprising:a base; anda plurality of fingers extending from the base, each finger of the plurality of fingers comprising a resiliently deformable material wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to bend when a pressure on the upper mount increases beyond a baseline pressure.

3. The rotating chair assembly of claim 2, the ring gear further comprising:a body having a size exceeding a size of the base of the motor gear, the body surrounding the base; anda plurality of teeth extending from the body, each tooth of the plurality of teeth comprising a rigid material configured to inhibit deformation of each tooth of the plurality of teeth, the plurality of fingers being in physical contact with the plurality of teeth wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to urge the body to rotate while a baseline pressure is applied to the upper mount, the plurality of fingers being configured to bend when the pressure on the upper mount is increased beyond the baseline pressure to inhibit rotation of the upper mount.

4. The rotating chair assembly of claim 3, wherein the plurality of fingers extending outwardly from the base along a transverse plane.

5. The rotating chair assembly of claim 4, wherein the plurality of teeth extend outwardly from the body along the transverse plane wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to bend only when the pressure is increased beyond the baseline pressure from a peripheral side of the upper mount.

6. The rotating chair assembly of claim 1, the chair further comprising a top side, a bottom side, a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge, a front edge, and a rear edge, the chair including a first section, a second section, and a third section, the second section being between the first and third sections, the third section including the rear edge and the first section including the front edge, each of the first and third sections being pivotably coupled to the second section, the upper mount being centered on the bottom side of the second section.

7. The rotating chair assembly of claim 6, wherein the ring gear is rotated about a pivot point being offset from the drive shaft, the pivot point being centered on the upper mount wherein the pivot point is centered beneath the second section of the chair.

8. The rotating chair assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a central processing unit being electronically coupled to the motor; anda receiver for receiving wireless signals being electrically coupled to the central processing unit; anda remote being in wireless communication with the receiver to actuate the motor.

9. The rotating chair assembly of claim 8, further comprising a sensor being in communication with the drive assembly, the sensor being coupled to the upper mount, the sensor being configured to identify an increase in the pressure beyond the baseline pressure on the upper mount of the base assembly, the central processing unit being configured to deactivate the motor when the sensor identifies the increase in pressure.

10. The rotating chair assembly of claim 1, the drive assembly further comprising a bearing positioned between the upper mount and the lower mount, the bearing being configured to reduce friction between the upper mount and the lower mount.

11. The rotating chair assembly of claim 1, the base assembly further comprising interior space defined by the upper mount and the lower mount, the drive assembly being positioned within the interior space.

12. The rotating chair assembly of claim 11, wherein the upper mount and the lower mount are configured to inhibit penetration of water into the interior space.

13. The rotating chair assembly of claim 11, wherein the upper mount and the lower mount are configured to inhibit penetration of debris into the interior space.

14. The rotating chair assembly of claim 1, the support element further comprising a plurality of legs being angled to extend downwardly from the lower mount and outwardly relative to each other wherein a distance between adjacent legs of the plurality of legs increases moving away from the lower mount whereby the plurality of legs are configured to increase a surface area across which a weight on the chair is positioned on the ground surface.

15. The rotating chair assembly of claim 14, the support element further comprising a rail coupled to and extending between the plurality of legs.

16. The rotating chair assembly of claim 1, wherein each coupler of the plurality of couplers is statically positioned on the chair to inhibit movement of the plurality of couplers relative to the chair while the upper mount is rotated.

17. The rotating chair assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a misting device being coupled to the chair, the misting device being configured to expel a fluid under pressure over the chair, the misting device comprising:a reservoir being configured to hold the fluid;a pump being fluidly coupled to the reservoir, the pump being configured to receive and to pressurize the fluid;a hose being fluidly coupled to the pump; anda nozzle being fluidly coupled to the hose, the nozzle dispensing the fluid when the fluid is pressurized, the nozzle being a misting nozzle;a fan being coupled to the chair and being directable toward the chair; anda wireless speaker assembly being coupled to the chair and being configured to wirelessly communicate with an external electronic device.

18. The rotating chair assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a pillow being coupled to the chair; anda cup holder being coupled to the chair.

19. A rotating chair assembly comprising:a chair having a top side, a bottom side, a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge, a front edge, and a rear edge, the chair including a first section, a second section, and a third section, the second section being between the first and third sections, the third section including the rear edge and the first section including the front edge, each of the first and third sections being pivotably coupled to the second section;a base assembly being coupled to the chair, the base assembly including:an upper mount being removably coupled to the bottom side, the upper mount being centered on the bottom side of the second section;a lower mount being rotatably engaged with the upper mount;a drive assembly being mechanically engaged with the upper mount to selectively rotate the upper mount and the chair relative to the lower mount, the drive assembly including:a motor including a drive shaft in communication with the upper mount;a motor gear being engaged with the drive shaft, the drive shaft rotating the motor gear, the motor gear including:a base; anda plurality of fingers extending from the base, each finger of the plurality of fingers comprising a resiliently deformable material wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to bend when a pressure on the upper mount increases beyond a baseline pressure, the plurality of fingers extending outwardly from the base along a transverse plane;a ring gear being engaged with the motor gear and the upper mount wherein rotation of the motor gear rotates the ring gear and wherein rotation of the ring gear rotates the upper mount, the ring gear being rotated about a pivot point being offset from the drive shaft, the pivot point being centered on the upper mount wherein the pivot point is centered beneath the second section of the chair, the ring gear including:a body having a size exceeding a size of the base of the motor gear, the body surrounding the base; anda plurality of teeth extending from the body, each tooth of the plurality of teeth comprising a rigid material configured to inhibit deformation of each tooth of the plurality of teeth, the plurality of fingers being in physical contact with the plurality of teeth wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to urge the body to rotate while the baseline pressure is applied to the upper mount, the plurality of fingers being configured to bend when the pressure on the upper mount is increased beyond the baseline pressure to inhibit rotation of the upper mount, the plurality of teeth extending outwardly from the body along the transverse plane wherein the plurality of fingers are configured to bend only when the pressure is increased beyond the baseline pressure from a peripheral side of the upper mount;a central processing unit being electronically coupled to the motor;a receiver for receiving wireless signals being electrically coupled to the central processing unit; anda bearing positioned between the upper mount and the lower mount, the bearing being configured to reduce friction between the upper mount and the lower mount;the upper mount and the lower mount defining an interior space, the drive assembly being positioned within the interior space, the upper mount and the lower mount being configured to inhibit penetration of water into the interior space, the upper mount and the lower mount being configured to inhibit penetration of debris into the interior space; anda support element being coupled to and extending downwardly from the lower mount, the support element being configured for positioning on a ground surface to support the chair above the ground surface, the support element including:a plurality of legs being angled to extend downwardly from the lower mount and outwardly relative to each other wherein a distance between adjacent legs of the plurality of legs increases moving away from the lower mount whereby the plurality of legs are configured to increase a surface area across which a weight on the chair is positioned on the ground surface;a rail coupled to and extending between the plurality of legs;a plurality of couplers being pivotably coupled to the bottom side of the second section of the chair, the plurality of couplers being pivotable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, the plurality of couplers being engageable with the upper mount to secure the chair to the base assembly while the plurality of couplers are in the locked configuration, the plurality of couplers disengaging the upper mount to facilitate removal of the chair from the base assembly when the plurality of couplers are pivoted into the unlocked configuration, each coupler of the plurality of couplers being statically positioned on the chair to inhibit movement of the plurality of couplers relative to the chair while the upper mount is rotated;a power source being electronically coupled to the drive assembly, the power source being selected from the group comprising:a power cord being coupled to the motor, the power cord extending outwardly through the lower mount, the power cord being configured to receive an alternating current power source;a battery being coupled to the motor, the battery being rechargeable; ora solar panel being electronically coupled to the motor;a remote being in wireless communication with the receiver to actuate the motor in a first direction, a second direction, or a stationary condition;a misting device being coupled to the chair, the misting device being positioned on the first section, the misting device being configured to expel a fluid under pressure over the top side, the misting device comprising:a reservoir being configured to hold the fluid;a pump being fluidly coupled to the reservoir, the pump being configured to receive and to pressurize the fluid;a hose being fluidly coupled to the pump; anda nozzle being fluidly coupled to the hose, the nozzle dispensing the fluid when the fluid is pressurized, the nozzle being a misting nozzle;a pillow being coupled to the chair adjacent to the front edge;a fan being coupled to the chair and being directable toward the top side;a wireless speaker assembly being coupled to the chair and being configured to wirelessly communicate with an external electronic device;a power outlet being mounted on the chair and being electronically coupled to the power source, the power outlet being one or more USB power outlets; anda cup holder being coupled to the chair, the cup holder being positioned on the second section.a sensor being in communication with the drive assembly, the sensor being coupled to the upper mount, the sensor being configured to identify the increase in the pressure beyond the baseline pressure on the upper mount of the base assembly, the central processing unit being configured to deactivate the motor when the sensor identifies the increase in pressure.

20. A rotating chair assembly comprising:a chair having a top side, a bottom side, a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge, a front edge, and a rear edge, the chair including a first section, a second section, and a third section, the second section being between the first and third sections, the third section including the rear edge and the first section including the front edge, each of the first and third sections being pivotably coupled to the second section;a base assembly being attached to the chair, the base assembly including:an upper mount being coupled to the chair, the upper mount being centered on the bottom side of the second section;a lower mount being rotatably engaged with the upper mount, the lower mount being configured for positioning on a ground surface, the lower mount having a size exceeding a size of the upper mount wherein the lower mount is configured to increase a surface area across which a weight on the chair is positioned on the ground surface;a drive assembly being mechanically engaged with the upper mount to selectively rotate the upper mount and the chair relative to the lower mount, the drive assembly including:a motor including a drive shaft, the motor rotating the drive shaft;a drive wheel being in communication with the drive shaft, the drive wheel being in physical contact with the upper mount wherein rotation of the drive shaft rotates the drive wheel and wherein rotation of the drive wheel rotates the upper mount, the drive wheel being made of rubber wherein the drive wheel is configured for being frictionally engaged with the upper mount, the drive wheel being offset from a center point of the upper mount;a base being coupled to the lower mount, the base extending upwardly from the lower mount;an arm coupling the motor to the base, the arm including:a primary member being statically coupled to and extending from the base;a secondary member being pivotably coupled to the primary member, the secondary member being statically coupled to the primary member;the arm being one of a pair of arms positioned on opposing sides of the motor;a column extending upwardly from the lower mount, the column being centered relative to each of the upper mount and the lower mount wherein the column is configured to support a weight of the user on the chair;a bearing positioned between the upper mount and the lower mount, the bearing being configured to reduce friction between the upper mount and the lower mount, the bearing being coupled to the column;a spring extending upwardly from the lower mount toward the upper mount, the spring having a spring constant, the spring constant being configured to expand the spring, the spring being biased to expand wherein a one of the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge is configured for being positioned to rest on the spring when a weight of a user is positioned on the one of the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge whereby the spring is configured to inhibit the chair from tipping while the weight of the user is positioned on the one of the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge;a power source extending from the base assembly, the power cord including:a first cord extending from the motor;a second cord being coupled to the first cord, the second cord extending outwardly from the column;a third cord being coupled to the second cord, the third cord extending upwardly from the column through the upper mount, the third cord being rotatably coupled to the column;a rotor coupling the third cord of the power source to the column wherein the rotor is configured to facilitate rotation of the third cord with the upper mount while the lower mount remains stationary;a speaker assembly being coupled to the chair and being configured to wirelessly communicate with an external electronic device, the speaker assembly being electrically coupled to the third cord of the power source;a power outlet being mounted on the chair and being electronically coupled to the power source, the power outlet being one or more USB power outlets, the power outlet being electrically coupled to the third cord of the power source; anda fan being coupled to the chair and being directable toward the top side, the fan being electrically coupled to the third cord of the power source.

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