Multiple chair carry system for folding chairs

Abstract

A first folding chair may include a connector device configured to releasably connect to a second folding chair. The connector device may include two connectors coupled to each other, where the first connector is configured to be attached to the first folding chair and the second connector is configured to be attached to the second folding chair. Each of the first and second connectors may be any of a loop, a hook, a strap, a ring, or a combination thereof. When the first folding chair and the second folding chair are connected by the connector device, the first folding chair functions as a lead chair and is configured to be strapped to a user or carried by the user while bearing weight of the second folding chair. In such manner, multiple folding chairs may be connected to form a stackable multi-chair system.

Description

Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WOMULTIPLE CHAIR CARRY SYSTEM FOR FOLDING CHAIRSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 692,259 filed on September 9, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to outdoor furniture, and more particularly to folding chairs and carry system for a single user to carry multiple chairs or multiple products at once.BACKGROUND

[0003] Folding chairs for outdoor use are a common product in the retail market. Some folding chairs are specified for camping use, others for beach use, etc. Some folding chairs in the market have backpack shoulder straps to facilitate easier transportation for the user to transport the chair to the location where it will be used. Such examples of a backpack chair are disclosed in United States Patent Nos. 8,197,000 and 11,426,002. The backpack straps on these chairs are meant to be worn by users just as one would on a backpack: one strap goes over one shoulder of the user and the other strap over the opposite shoulder of the user, with the chair draping behind the user while they walk.SUMMARY

[0004] In some aspects, a first folding chair includes a connector device configured to releasably connect to a second folding chair, and a shoulder strap or handle. The connector device includes: a first connector configured to be attached to the first folding chair; and a second connector coupled to the first connector and configured to be attached to the second folding chair. When the first folding chair and the second folding chair are connected by the connector device, the first folding chair functions as a lead chair and isAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO configured to be strapped to a user or carried by the user while bearing weight of the second folding chair.

[0005] In some aspects, a stackable multi-chair system for carrying by a single user includes a plurality of folding chairs each having a connector device configured to stackably connect to another folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs. A first folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs includes a shoulder strap or a carry handle, and is configured to act as a lead chair such that, when the plurality of folding chairs are stackably connected, the first folding chair is configured to be strapped to a user or carried by the user while bearing weight of the plurality of folding chairs.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Additional embodiments of the disclosure, as well as features and advantages thereof, will become more apparent by reference to the description herein taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale. Moreover, in the figures, like-referenced numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

[0007] FIG. 1A shows an example of a multiple chair carry system that includes one or more connector devices that connect multiple chairs, according to some embodiments.

[0008] FIG. IB shows an example of a person carrying multiple chairs connected via the multiple chair carry system in FIG. 1A, according to some embodiments.

[0009] FIGS. 2A-2B respectively show a side view and a front view of an example connector device, according to some embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 3 A shows an example stackable multi-chair system including multiple chairs connected together using an example connector device in FIGS. 2A and 2B for easier transport, according to some embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 3B shows another example stackable multi-chair system in which multiple chairs are connected by a dual connection system, where connector devices are positioned to connect to the lead chair at at least two locations rather than a single location, according to some embodiments.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO

[0012] FIG. 3C shows a variation of a connector device for use with a multiple chair carry system, according to some embodiments.

[0013] FIGS. 3D and 3E show a variation of a connector device for use with a multiple chair carry system, according to some embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 4A shows a variation of a connector device for use with a multiple chair carry system, according to some embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 4B shows an example stackable multi-chair system using the connector device shown in FIG. 4A, according to some embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 5 A shows an example connector device including an S-hook that may be configured to connect to another chair via a webbing having a fabric loop, according to some embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 5B shows an example hook of a connector device, where inner diameter of the hook is concentric to the diameter of the carry handle and / or the frame of the chair to which the connector device connects, according to some embodiments.

[0018] FIGS. 6A-6B show an example connector device having intentionally mated parts that connect a second folding chair to a lead folding chair, according to some embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 7 shows two stabilizer devices that are configured to connect multiple chairs on the side, according to some embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 8A shows a variation of a stackable multi-chair system including a folding table, according to some embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 8B shows an example connector device of a folding table for use with the multi -chair system in FIG. 8A, according to some embodiments.

[0022] FIGS. 9A-9C show an example stackable multi-chair system including an umbrella, according to some embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Conventional outdoor furniture, e.g., folding chairs, is intended to allow users to carry their own chairs. For example, a folding chair having a shoulder strap configuration allows users to carry a single chair to its destination but is limited in that it only allowsAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO the user to carry a single chair on their back. It is common for beach goers or campers to have multiple people in their group, each needing a chair to sit in, but not all beach goers or campers are capable of lifting and carrying a chair on their back. Thus, beach goers or campers are burdened with a folding chair on their back, and several other chairs in their hands. Having one’s hands full carrying chairs results in negating the very convenience of the backpack strap chair.

[0024] Accordingly, the inventors have developed a connector device and a multiple chair carry system that allow one chair to be attached to another chair, which can be attached to an additional chair, so on and so forth. This connector device allows a single user to stack multiple chairs together so that the user can carry all of them utilizing just the carrying device (e.g., backpack straps or handles) already attached to the lead chair. Further, the connector device allows a user to also stack other types of outdoor furniture, such as a folding table or an umbrella, and carry them from the lead chair or other chairs in the multiple chair carry system.

[0025] FIG. 1A shows an example multiple chair carry system 100 that includes one or more connector devices 102 that connect multiple chairs 104 (e.g., 104-1, 104-2, 104-3), according to some embodiments. FIG. IB shows an example of a person carrying multiple chairs connected via the multiple chair carry system 100 in FIG. 1 A, according to some embodiments. A folding chair (e.g., chair 104-1) may include a shoulder strap (e.g., 106 in FIG. IB) or a carry handle. Chair 104-1 may be a lead chair that connects other chairs. A lead chair may be a term relative to the chair that connects to it directly or indirectly. Whereas a chair may connect to a lead chair, it may also act as a lead chair for another chair connected thereto. A first lead chair may be strapped to or carried by the user and bears weight of the other chairs (or folding table or umbrella).

[0026] A lead chair (e.g., 104-1) and another chair (e.g., chair 104-2) may be releasably connected in variously ways. For example, lead chair 104-1 may include a connector device 102 configured to releasably connect to a second folding chair (e.g., 104-2). When connected in this manner, the first folding chair (e.g., 104-1) functions as a lead chair and may be strapped to a user or carried by the user while bearing weight of the other folding chairs (e.g., 104-2, 104-3). In such configuration, multiple chairs connected via the connector devices (e.g., 102 in FIG. 1A) can be carried by a single user via a carryingAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO device (e.g., a shoulder strap or a carry handle) of a lead chair. As shown in the example in FIG. IB, the user can carry the multiple stacked chairs using shoulder straps 106 from the lead chair. Carrying in this method allows the user’s hands to be available for carrying other items or to maintain balance.

[0027] FIGS. 2A and 2B respectively show a side view and a front view of an example connector device 200, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, connector device 200 may implement the connector device in system 100 (FIG. 1), e.g., connector devices 102. Connector device 200 may include a first connector 202 and a second connector 204. Connector 202 may be connected to a first folding chair and connector 204 may be connected to a second chair, where connectors 202 and 204 are coupled together. In the example shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, connector 202 may be a strap configured to be attached to a first folding chair and connector 204 may be a hook configured to be attached to a second folding chair. This is further described with reference to FIGS. 3A-3B.

[0028] FIG. 3A shows an example stackable multi-chair system, in which multiple chairs are connected together using an example of the connector device shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B easier transport, according to some embodiments. Connector device 302 may use the connector device 200 shown in FIGS. 2A-2B. As shown, connector device 302 may include a connector 306 (e.g., a strap) and a connector 304 (e.g., a hook) that are connected together. In a non-limiting example, connector 306 may be attached to a chair (e.g., 300-2) using a section of nylon webbing that is sewn to the chair fabric 308-2 of chair 300-2 at one end. Possible methods for attaching the connector 306 to the chair may also include, for example: riveted or bolted to chair frame (e.g., fastener goes through the fabric and secures to the frame metal). In some embodiments, webbing is wrapped around the chair frame and secured to itself (by sewing, buckle, or Velcro). In some embodiments, webbing is secured to the frame or fabric with snaps or other semi-secure method.

[0029] Once the chairs are stackably connected, the carry handle of the lead chair takes the weight of the second chair behind it, and the second chair hangs by gravity. The second chair carry handle takes the weight of a third chair, the third chair carry handle takes the weight of the fourth chair, and so on. When the user arrives at the desiredAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO location, he or she simply removes the shoulder straps and then disconnects the chairs from each other one by one.

[0030] The other end of connector 306 may be fixedly connected to connector 304 (e.g., a hook shaped apparatus). Connector 304 may be configured to connect to a carry handle 310 on another chair (e.g., a lead chair 300-1). As shown, the locations for hook / connector may be the center of the upper chair, either on the front or back of the chair.

[0031] FIG. 3B shows another example stackable multi-chair system in which multiple chairs are connected by a dual connection system, where connector devices 302-1 (including connectors 304-1 and 306-1) and 302-2 (including connectors 304-2 and 306- 2) are positioned to connect chairs 300-1 and 300-2 at two locations rather than a single location. Each of the connector devices 302-1 and 302-2 may have a structure similar to connector device 302 (FIG. 3A) and connect the two chairs (e g., 300-1, 300-2) in a similar manner. For example, connectors 304-1 and 306-1 (shown in FIG. 3B) are connected in a similar as connectors 304 and 306 are connected (shown in FIG. 3A). Connectors 304-2 and 306-2 (shown in FIG. 3B) may also be connected in a similar manner. Similarly, connectors 304-2 and 306-2 may each be attached to folding chair 300-2 in a similar manner as connector 306 is attached to chair 300-2 (shown in FIG. 3A).

[0032] Connectors 304-1 and 304-2 may also be configured to releasably connect to lead chair 300-1 in a similar manner as connector 304 is connected to chair 300-1 (shown in FIG. 3A). In such configuration, when lead folding chair 300-1 and folding chair 300-2 are connected by the connector devices 302-1 and 302-2 and carried by the user, both of these connector devices (instead of one connector device) bear weight of the second folding chair (e.g., 300-2). This prevents the second folding chair (e.g., 300-2) from dangling off the lead chair 300-1, and thus, improve the stability of the stackable multichair system.

[0033] In some examples, the connector devices may be positioned to connect to the lead chair at the sides (e.g., at frames), or left and right sides of a central handle bar, or two sides of the upper section of the lead chair. For example, connector devices 302-1 and 302-2 may be located at positions A and B, which are opposite locations about a verticalAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO center line L of the lead folding chairs 300-1. In non-limiting examples, connectors 304-1 and 304-2 may be configured to be attached to a frame of the folding chair 300-1 (e.g., a top frame 308-1). In other non-limiting examples, connector devices 302-1 and 302-2 may be attached to chair 300-1 on side frames opposite each other with respect to the vertical center line L. For example, connector 304-1 may be configured to be attached to a left side frame of chair 300-1 and connector 304-2 may be configured to be attached to a right side frame of chair 300-1.

[0034] In FIGS. 3A and 3B, connector 304 (or 304-1 and 304-2) may be releasably attached to the folding chair 300-1 in various ways, such as hooking to a handle of the folding chair (e.g., 310 in FIG. 3A), or a frame of the folding chair (e.g., frame 308-1 shown in FIG. 3B). In other variations, FIG. 5A shows an example connector device 500 which may implement connector devices 102 (in FIG. 1A), for example. Connector device 500 may include a first connector (e.g., S-hook 502) and a second connector (e.g., strap 504) connected to the S-hook 502. S-hook 502 may be configured to connect to a chair via a webbing having a fabric loop 506. Strap 504 may be fixedly attached to another chair.

[0035] FIG. 5B shows an example connector device 520 which may implement connector devices 102 (in FIG. 1A). Connector device 520 may have a hook 524, where inner diameter of hook 524 is concentric to the diameter of the carry handle and / or the frame of the chair (e.g., 522) to which the connector device connects. In this example, connector 524 may be adjustable in inner diameter to fit the diameter of the frame (e.g. 522). The hook profile may be configured in such a way that accommodates multiple diameters. In some examples, the hook may be configured to have enough flex in the shape design to accommodate the carry handle sizing and / or the frame sizing of different chair types and manufacturers.

[0036] In other variations, the connector device which implements the connector devices 102 in system 100 (FIG. 1A) may also include a bendable Gear Tie on webbing into fabric loop or plastic receiver or frame from the second chair to the lead chair. The connector device may also include strap (self-securing with Velcro / snaps / other connector) to the carry handle of the chair. The connector device may also include a strap (self-securing with Velcro / snaps / other connector) to the frame of the lead chair. TheAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO connector device may also include a buckle strap (buckles to itself, e.g., both male and female buckles are attached to the same strap) to the carry handle or frame of the lead chair, or buckle straps (for example: lead chair has a female buckle strap, and the second chair has a male buckle strap) where the buckle straps are sewn to fabric of the chairs or sewn to form a closed loop around the frames of both chairs.

[0037] FIGS. 6A-6B show an example connector device 600 may implement connector devices 102 in system 100 (FIG. 1A). Connector device 600 may having intentionally mated parts 604-1 and 604-2 and may connect folding chairs 608-1 and 608-2, such that the two chairs can be releasably connected when the mated parts are mated together. When the mated parts are disengaged, the two chairs can be disconnected.

[0038] In FIG. 6A, connector device 600 may include a first connector (e.g., male connector 604-1) and a second connector (e.g., female connector 604-2 for which inside is shown). Connectors 604-1, 604-2 can be mated to connect chairs 608-1 and 608-2. In some embodiments, the male connector 604-1 may optionally be connected to one end of a strap that is attached a first chair e.g., 608-1, and the female connector 604-2 may be fixedly attached (e.g., sewed) to a second chair (e.g., chair 608-2).

[0039] FIG. 6B shows details of the connector part shown in circle A in FIG. 6A, where the male connector 604-1 is secured into the female connector 604-2 with side release 610. As shown in FIG. 6B, the connector device 600 may be positioned in such a way that the male connector 604-1 is slidably inserted into the female connector 604-2 from top of the chair (shown in arrow). In this manner, with chair 608-2 being the lead chair, the connector device 600 may bear more weight from the second chair 608-1 without breaking or unbuckling.

[0040] In other variations, a connector device (e.g., 102 in FIG. 1A) may be structured in other ways. FIG. 3C shows a variation of a connector device for use with a multiple chair carry system, according to some embodiments. As shown, connector device 350 may include a handle 352 and a hook 356 extending from the handle 352, where the handle 352 is fixedly attached to the folding chair. For example, handle 352 may include a handle strap 358 having two opposite ends 360 each attached to the folding chair (e.g., via webbing). Handle 352 may also include a sleeve 354 wrapping around the strap 358, where hook 356 extends from the sleeve 354. Hook 356 may be configured to beAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO releasably attached to another folding chair in a manner described above and further herein (e.g., embodiments in FIGS. 3A-3B). In some examples, sleeve 354 may be made of rigid materials and curved to offer easy grab for the users. In some examples, the configuration of the connector device 352 may be simplified, for example, sleeve 354 and hook 356 may be a singular molded piece.

[0041] FIGS. 3D and 3E show a variation of a connector device for use with a multiple chair carry system, according to some embodiments. In FIG. 3D, a dual connection system 380 has two loops 386 configured to accommodate two connector devices, where the two loops 386 extend respectively from opposite ends of a handle 382 attached to the folding chair. In the example shown in FIG. 3D (a perspective view) and FIG. 3E (a front elevation view), handle 382 may include a strap 388 having two opposite ends 390 attached to the folding chair (e.g., to the fabric of the folding chair e.g., via webbing) and a sleeve 384 wrapping around the strap. The loops 386 may extend respectively from opposite ends of the sleeve 384. Sleeve 384 may be made of rigid materials and curved to offer easy grab for the users. In a simplified configuration, the loops 386 and the sleeve 384 may be a singular molded piece.

[0042] Having described the connector device 382 in FIGS. 3D-3E, two connector devices in a dual connection multi-chair carry system may respectively include the loops 386, which may be configured to be connected to a second folding chair, for example, via a hooking device (e.g., a ring, a carabiner etc.) as described above and further herein. In other various embodiments, a connector device that may be used in system 100 (FIG. 1 A) may include, in combination with a carabiner, a connector connecting a corresponding ring (e.g., a D-ring) or fabric loops of the lead chair and another chair, as will be further described with reference to FIGS. 4A-4B.

[0043] FIG. 4A shows a variation of a connector device for use with a multiple chair carry system, according to some embodiments. FIG. 4B shows an example multiple chair carry system using the connector device shown in FIG. 4A, according to some embodiments. In FIG. 4A, two connector devices 400-1, 400-2 may each extend from opposite ends 404 of a handle 402, which are fastened to folding chair 401 . Each connector device may include a loop (e.g., 406) and a ring (e.g., 408) coupled to the loop. The loop is attached to the chair, for example, sewed to the fabric of the chair byAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO webbing, or fastened to a frame of the chair by a fastener, at a top area of the chair 412. As shown in FIG. 4A, loops 406 extend from opposite ends 404 of the handle 402, where the opposite ends 404 are sewed to the fabric of the chair by webbing. It is appreciated that the handle can be attached to the chair using any suitable methods. The ring 408 is coupled to the loop 406 and configured to releasably connect to a second folding chair (e.g., 421) via a hooking device (e.g., 410). As shown, ring 408 is a D-ring. It is appreciated that ring 408 can be any suitable hooking device. It is further appreciated that the handle itself could be omitted and only the rings are attached to the chair. Hooking device(s) 410 may be a carabiner such as a D-shaped carabiner or a S-shaped carabiner, or any other suitable hooking system.

[0044] In FIGS. 4A-4B, ring 408 of chair 401 is configured to releasably connect, via a carabiner 410, to a corresponding ring 428 of the chair 421. Ring 428 may be part of a connector device of chair 421. For example, chair 421 may include two connector devices each comprising a loop (e.g., 426) and a ring (e.g., 428) in a similar configuration as connector devices 400-1, 400-2 for chair 401. For example, loop(s) 426 may extend from opposite ends 424 of the handle 422 and attached to chair 421 (e.g., sewed to the fabric or fastened to the frame) at top of the chair 432. Loop 426 is connected to ring 408 of the connector device of the first folding chair (e.g., 401) via the carabiner 410.

[0045] FIG. 7 shows two stabilizer devices 702 that are configured to connect multiple chairs on the side, according to some embodiments. The stabilizer devices 702 may be used with any of the multiple chair carry system described above and further herein. In some embodiments, the stabilizer devices 702 may each include a side strap configured to connect sides of the first folding chair 704-1 and the second folding chair 704-2 to provide stability when the first folding chair and the second folding chair are carried by the user. The stabilizer strap may be fixedly attached to each side of a chair, e.g., with one end looped around the side frame of the chair and sewed to itself (or via other suitable ways), while the other end may be used to attach to other chairs and stabilize the multiple chairs together. The stabilizer strap may include a Velcro or other suitable device such that it can wrap around the frames of the multiple chairs.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO

[0046] In the configuration shown in FIG. 7, a single connector device 706 is used in combination with two side straps 702. It is appreciated that stabilizer devices may also be used in combination with dual connector systems described above and further herein.

[0047] Although various embodiments of a stackable multi-chair system show multiple folding chairs being connected together for carrying by one person, other types of outdoor furniture, such as a folding table or an umbrella may also be connected in the system. In some embodiments, the connector device(s) of a folding chair may be configured to releasably connect to a respective connector device of a folding table or an umbrella so that, when the folding chair and the folding table or the umbrella are connected and carried by the user, the connector device(s) bear weight of the folding table or the umbrella. This is further described with reference to FIGS. 8A-9C.

[0048] FIG. 8A shows a variation of a stackable multi-chair system including a folding table, according to some embodiments. FIG. 8B shows an example connector device of a folding table for use with the stackable multi-chair system in FIG. 8A, according to some embodiments. In FIG. 8A, folding chair 800 may include connector device(s), e.g., 806 / 808 configured in a similar manner as connector devices shown in FIGS. 4A-4B. For example, two loops 806 extend from opposite ends of the handle 802 and attached to the folding chair 800. Two rings 808 are coupled respectively to the loops 806 and configured to releasably connect, via a hooking device (e.g., carabiner 810), to a corresponding loop 816 of the folding table 830. Although the connector device similar to that in FIGS. 4A-4B is shown, it is appreciated that other variations of the connector device such as the embodiments described in the present disclosure can also be used with a multiple chair carry system to carry a folding table.

[0049] FIG. 8B shows details of loop 816. In the configuration shown in FIGS. 8A-8B, folding table 830 has a table top 832 and folded leg frames 834 that open and close at hinges 836. When the leg frames are folded, the buckle straps 818 secure the folded leg frames in position. The loop(s) 816 may be sewed to the buckle straps 818. Alternatively, loop(s) 816 may be attached to a frame 834 of the folding table 830. As shown in FIG. 8A, the folding table may be positioned with the folded legs sandwiched between the table top 832 and the lead chair 800. It is appreciated that other variations are possible.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WOFor example, when the table is connected to the lead chair, the folded legs 834 may be facing back with the table top 832 touching the chair 800.

[0050] FIGS. 9A-9C show an example stackable multi-chair system including an umbrella, according to some embodiments. As shown in FIG. 9A, an umbrella 902 may be positioned in a diagonal orientation and releasably connected to a lead chair 900. The lead chair 900 may have similar connector devices described above in FIGS. 4A-4B. For example, as shown in FIG. 9B, folding chair 900 may include dual connector devices that each has a ring configured to releasably connect, via a hooking device (e.g., carabiner 908), to a corresponding loop 910 of the umbrella 902. Although the connector devices similar to those in FIGS. 4A-4B are shown, it is appreciated that other variations of the connector device described in the present disclosure can also be used with a multiple chair carry system to carry an umbrella.

[0051] In the configuration shown in FIG. 9B, the loops 910 are sewed to a shoulder strap 916 of the umbrella at a distance. The positions at which the loops 910 are attached to the shoulder strap may be configured so that, when the umbrella is attached to the folding chair, it stays at a desirable angle (e.g., a diagonal position). In the example shown in FIG. 9B, the loops 910 are attached to the shoulder strap 916 proximately to the top end of the shoulder strap so that the umbrella will stay high without touching the ground, when it is carried with the lead chair.

[0052] In some embodiments, one or more stabilizer devices may be provided. As shown in FIG. 9C, a stabilizer strap 918 may be provided. The stabilizer strap 918 may include a first piece attached to the umbrella (e.g., sewed to the umbrella case 904 via webbing 922), which is configured to be tied to another strap 920 attached to the folding chair. When the umbrella is connected to the lead chair and carried by the user, the stabilizer strap 918 provides stability of the stackable multi-chair system and prevents the umbrella from moving relative to the lead chair.

[0053] Having described various embodiments, a stackable multi-chair system for carrying by a single user may include a plurality of folding chairs each having one or more connector devices configured to stackably connect to another folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs. The connector devices described in various embodiments above and further herein may be used with the stackable multi-chair system.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO

[0054] When multiple folding chairs are connected using the methods described in the present disclosure, a first folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs may include a shoulder strap or a carry handle, and may be configured to act as a lead chair such that, when the plurality of folding chairs are stackably connected, the first folding chair is configured to be strapped to a user or carried by the user while bearing weight of the plurality of folding chairs.

[0055] It is appreciated that the stackable multi-chair system may also include a folding table configured to be stackably connected to a connector device of a folding chair such that the weight of the folding table can be bore by the lead chair when carried by a single user. It is further appreciated that the stackable multi-chair system may also include an umbrella configured to be stackably connected to a connector device of a folding chair such that the weight of the umbrella can be bore by the lead chair when carried by a single user.

[0056] Having described the example multiple chair carry system and connector devices for releasably connecting multiple folding chairs, a folding table, or an umbrella, it is appreciated that other variations may also be possible. For example, any chair in the multiple chair carry system described above may act as a lead chair. A first lead chair may be strapped to or carried by the user and bears weight of the other chairs (or folding table or umbrella). The connector device (e.g., 200 in FIGS. 2A and 2B) can be attached to any chair or all chairs. Any chair that has a carrying device (e.g., a shoulder strap or a carry handle) can function as a lead chair and be used as the first chair to be strapped to the user or carried by the user. A lead chair may carry the weights of other chairs that are connected to it.

[0057] In other variations, a folding chair, a folding table, or an umbrella may be connected to any chair (including the lead chair). For example, in the stackable multichair system, a second chair is connected to the lead chair, a third chair is connected to the second chair, so on and so forth.

[0058] In other variations, each of the two connectors in a connector device can be any of a loop, a ring, a hook or a strap as shown in various examples in the present disclosure, or a combination thereof. A connector device of a first chair may be releasably connected to a connector device of another chair in various ways, directly or indirectly. Thus, each ofAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO the two connectors in a connector device may be fixedly or releasably attached to a folding chair. For example, a connector device may include a strap configured to be attached (fixedly, e.g., via sewing or a fastener, or removably, e.g., via a Velcro or tying) to the first folding chair and a hook configured to be removably attached to a frame of the second folding chair.

[0059] Alternatively and / or additionally, a connector device may be a combination of connector devices shown in FIG. 5 A and FIG. 5B. For example, a connector device may include a first hook configured to be removably attached to a frame of the first folding chair and a second hook configured to be removably attached to a frame of the second folding chair, where the first and second hooks are coupled. In some examples, the first and second hooks may be fixedly coupled. In other examples, the first and second hooks may be removably coupled (e.g., buckled, pinned, bolted, or mated). The inner diameter of the first hook is concentric to a diameter of the frame of the first folding chair and an inner diameter of the second hook is concentric to a diameter of the frame of the second folding chair.

[0060] In non-limiting examples, a hook may include any fitting that can be removably attached to a frame of a chair. For example, a hook may include a receptor having an opening in the front that receives a frame of a chair and tightens the frame therein (e.g., via compression) or closes (e g., via clamping or a pin) to form a grip onto the frame. The first hook and the second hook can be coupled to form a coupler to join the frame of the first chair and the frame of the second chair. In non-limiting examples, the first hook and the second hook may be configured to form a swivel coupler to allow the frames from two chairs to be joined at any angle. In some examples, the coupler may be configured to allow the frames of chairs to be joined at a fixed angle (e.g., in parallel or perpendicularly).

[0061] In some examples, the first hook and the second hook may be removably coupled. For example, two receptors may respectively include a male fitting and a female fitting in the back, and an opening in the front attachable to a chair frame. When the male fitting and the female fitting are connected (e.g., back to back), the two chairs are joined for carrying.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO

[0062] Alternatively and / or additionally, a connector device may include a loop attached to the first folding chair and a hook configured to be attached to a frame of the second folding chair, where the loop and the hook are coupled. Alternatively and / or additionally, a connector device may include a hook attached to a frame of the first folding chair and a ring configured to be attached to the second folding chair (e.g., to a connector device of the second folding chair via a carabiner), where the hook and the ring are coupled. Thus, it is appreciated that any suitable combination of the various examples as described in the present disclosure are possible.

[0063] In other variations, a chair may have one or more shoulder straps, such as two shoulder straps shown in FIG. IB. Alternatively, the shoulder strap may include a single cross-the-shoulder (diagonal) strap.

[0064] The connector device as described in FIGS. 1 A-9C can be made of various materials. For example, the hook may be made of any of Polypropylene, ABS, Nylon, Fiber-Reinforced Nylon, Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber, Acrylic, Polycarbonate. The buckle may be made of any of Polypropylene, ABS, Nylon, Fiber-Reinforced Nylon, Polycarbonate. The web strap or loop may be made of any of Nylon, Polyester, Polypropylene. The ring may be made of metal or plastic such as Polypropylene, ABS, Nylon, Fiber-Reinforced Nylon, Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber, Acrylic, Polycarbonate, or a combination thereof. The carabiner may be made of aluminum or plastic such as Polypropylene, ABS, Nylon, Fiber-Reinforced Nylon, Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber, Acrylic, Polycarbonate or other commercially available materials in the market. It is appreciated that any other suitable materials may be possible.

[0065] Having described several embodiments of the invention in detail, various modifications, combinations, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such modifications, combinations and improvements are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description is by way of example only, and is not intended as limiting.

[0066] Various aspects are described in this disclosure, which include, but are not limited to, the following aspects:

[0067] 1. A first folding chair comprising: a connector device configured to releasably connect to a second folding chair, the connector device comprising: (1) a first connectorAttorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO configured to be attached to the first folding chair; and (2) a second connector coupled to the first connector and configured to be attached to the second folding chair; and a shoulder strap or a carry handle; wherein, when the first folding chair and the second folding chair are connected by the connector device, the first folding chair functions as a lead chair and is configured to be strapped to a user or carried by the user while bearing weight of the second folding chair.

[0068] 2. The first folding chair of aspect 1, wherein: the first connector comprises a loop attached to the first folding chair; and the second connector comprises a ring coupled to the loop and configured to releasably connect to the second folding chair via a hooking device.

[0069] 3. The first folding chair of aspect 2, wherein the ring is a D-ring.

[0070] 4. The first folding chair of aspect 2, wherein the ring is configured to releasably connect to a connector device of the second folding chair via a carabiner.

[0071] 5. The first folding chair of aspect 4, wherein the connector device of the second folding chair comprises a loop attached to a frame of the second folding chair, the loop configured to connect to the ring of the connector device of the first folding chair via the carabiner.

[0072] 6. The first folding chair of aspect 5, wherein the loop of the first folding chair is sewed to a fabric of the first folding chair by webbing.

[0073] 7. The first folding chair of aspect 5, wherein the loop of the first folding chair is fastened to a frame of the first folding chair by a fastener.

[0074] 8. The first folding chair of aspect 1, wherein the connector device of the first folding chair is a first connector device, and the first folding chair further comprises: a second connector device configured to releasably connect to the second folding chair, the second connector device comprising: (1) a first connector configured to be attached to the first folding chair; and (2) a second connector coupled to the first connector and configured to be attached to the second folding chair; wherein, when the first folding chair and the second folding chair are connected by the first connector device and the second connector device and carried by the user, both the first connector device and the second connector device bear weight of the second folding chair.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO

[0075] 9. The first folding chair of aspect 8, wherein the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device are each attached to a frame of the first folding chair respectively at opposite locations about a vertical center of the first folding chair.

[0076] 10. The first folding chair of aspect 8, wherein each of the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device comprises a loop.

[0077] 11. The first folding chair of aspect 10, wherein each of the second connector of the first connector device and the second connector of the second connector device comprises a ring coupled respectively to the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device, wherein the ring is configured to releasably connect, via a hooking device, to the second folding chair.

[0078] 12. The first folding chair of aspect 10, wherein the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device extend respectively from opposite ends of a handle attached to a top of the first folding chair.

[0079] 13. The first folding chair of aspect 12, wherein the opposite ends of the handle are attached to a fabric of the first folding chair via webbing.

[0080] 14. The first folding chair of aspect 12, wherein the handle includes a strap having two opposite ends attached to a fabric of the first folding chair and a sleeve wrapping around the strap, wherein the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device extend respectively from opposite ends of the sleeve.

[0081] 15. The first folding chair of aspect 14, wherein the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device and the sleeve are a singular molded piece.

[0082] 16. The first folding chair of aspect 8, wherein the first connector device and the second connector device of the first folding chair are configured to releasably connect to a respective connector device of a folding table or an umbrella so that, when the first folding chair and the folding table or the umbrella are connected and carried by the user, the first connector device and the second connector device bear weight of the folding table or the umbrella.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO

[0083] 17. The first folding chair of aspect 16, wherein: each of the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device comprises a loop; each of the second connector of the first connector device and the second connector of the second connector device comprises a ring coupled respectively to the loops of the first connector device and the second connector device, wherein the ring is configured to releasably connect, via a hooking device, to a corresponding loop of the folding table or the umbrella.

[0084] 18. The first folding chair of aspect 1, wherein the connector device comprises a buckle, and wherein the first connector and the second connector of the connector device are matable parts of the buckle.

[0085] 19. The first folding chair of aspect 18, wherein: the first connector of the connector device is positioned on the first folding chair to receive the second part of the connector device from a top of the first folding chair.

[0086] 20. The first folding chair of aspect 1, wherein the first connector of the connector device comprises a strap configured to be attached to the first folding chair and the second connector of the connector device comprises a hook configured to be attached to a frame of the second folding chair.

[0087] 21. The first folding chair of aspect 1, wherein the first connector of the connector device comprises a hook configured to be attached to a frame of the first folding chair and the second connector of the connector device comprises a strap configured to be attached to the second folding chair.

[0088] 22. The first folding chair of aspect 1, wherein the first connector of the connector device comprises a first hook configured to be attached to a frame of the first folding chair and the second connector of the connector device comprises a second hook configured to be attached to a frame of the second folding chair.

[0089] 23. The first folding chair of aspect 22, wherein: the first hook is a male fitting attachable to the frame of the first folding chair; the second hook is a female fitting attachable to the frame of the second folding chair; and the first hook and second hook are configured to be mated to form a coupler to join the frame of the first folding chair and the frame of the second folding chair.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO

[0090] 24. The first folding chair of aspect 23, wherein an inner diameter of the first hook is concentric to a diameter of the frame of the first folding chair and an inner diameter of the second hook is concentric to a diameter of the frame of the second folding chair.

[0091] 25. The first folding chair of aspect 1, wherein the first connector of the connector device comprises a handle and the second connector of the connector device extends from the handle, where the handle is fixedly attached to the first folding chair.

[0092] 26. The first folding chair of aspect 25, wherein the handle comprises a strap having two opposite ends attached to the first folding chair and a sleeve wrapping around the strap, wherein the second connector of the connector device extends from the sleeve and is molded together with the sleeve.

[0093] 27. The first folding chair of aspect 1, wherein one or more stabilizer devices are provided and configured to connect sides of the first folding chair and the second folding chair to provide stability when the first folding chair and the second folding chair are carried by the user.

[0094] 28. A stackable multi-chair system for carrying by a single user, the stackable multi-chair system comprises: a plurality of folding chairs each having a connector device configured to stackably connect to another folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs; wherein a first folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs including a shoulder strap or a carry handle, the first folding chair configured to act as a lead chair such that, when the plurality of folding chairs are stackably connected, the first folding chair is configured to be strapped to a user or carried by the user while bearing weight of the plurality of folding chairs.

[0095] 29. The stackable multi-chair system of aspect 28, further comprises a folding table configured to be stackably connected to the first folding chair or a second folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs via the connector device thereof such that a weight of the folding table can be bore by the lead chair when carried by the single user.

[0096] 30. The stackable multi-chair system of aspect 28, further comprises an umbrella configured to be stackably connected to the first folding chair or a second folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs via the connector device thereof such that a weight of the umbrella can be bore by the lead chair when carried by the single user.

Claims

Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WOCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A first folding chair comprising: a connector device configured to releasably connect to a second folding chair, the connector device comprising: a first connector configured to be attached to the first folding chair; and a second connector coupled to the first connector and configured to be attached to the second folding chair; and a shoulder strap or a carry handle; wherein, when the first folding chair and the second folding chair are connected by the connector device, the first folding chair functions as a lead chair and is configured to be strapped to a user or carried by the user while bearing weight of the second folding chair.

2. The first folding chair of claim 1, wherein: the first connector comprises a loop attached to the first folding chair; and the second connector comprises a ring coupled to the loop and configured to releasably connect to the second folding chair via a hooking device.

3. The first folding chair of claim 2, wherein the ring is a D-ring.

4. The first folding chair of claim 2, wherein the ring is configured to releasably connect to a connector device of the second folding chair via a carabiner.

5. The first folding chair of claim 4, wherein the connector device of the second folding chair comprises a loop attached to a frame of the second folding chair, the loop configured to connect to the ring of the connector device of the first folding chair via the carabiner.

6. The first folding chair of claim 5, wherein the loop of the first folding chair is sewed to a fabric of the first folding chair by webbing.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO7. The first folding chair of claim 5, wherein the loop of the first folding chair is fastened to a frame of the first folding chair by a fastener.

8. The first folding chair of claim 1, wherein the connector device of the first folding chair is a first connector device, and the first folding chair further comprises: a second connector device configured to releasably connect to the second folding chair, the second connector device comprising: a first connector configured to be attached to the first folding chair; and a second connector coupled to the first connector and configured to be attached to the second folding chair; wherein, when the first folding chair and the second folding chair are connected by the first connector device and the second connector device and carried by the user, both the first connector device and the second connector device bear weight of the second folding chair.

9. The first folding chair of claim 8, wherein the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device are each attached to a frame of the first folding chair respectively at opposite locations about a vertical center of the first folding chair.

10. The first folding chair of claim 8, wherein each of the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device comprises a loop.

11. The first folding chair of claim 10, wherein each of the second connector of the first connector device and the second connector of the second connector device comprises a ring coupled respectively to the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device, wherein the ring is configured to releasably connect, via a hooking device, to the second folding chair.

12. The first folding chair of claim 10, wherein the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device extend respectively from opposite ends of a handle attached to a top of the first folding chair.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO13. The first folding chair of claim 12, wherein the opposite ends of the handle are attached to a fabric of the first folding chair via webbing.

14. The first folding chair of claim 12, wherein the handle includes a strap having two opposite ends attached to a fabric of the first folding chair and a sleeve wrapping around the strap, wherein the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device extend respectively from opposite ends of the sleeve.

15. The first folding chair of claim 14, wherein the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device and the sleeve are a singular molded piece.

16. The first folding chair of claim 8, wherein the first connector device and the second connector device of the first folding chair are configured to releasably connect to a respective connector device of a folding table or an umbrella so that, when the first folding chair and the folding table or the umbrella are connected and carried by the user, the first connector device and the second connector device bear weight of the folding table or the umbrella.

17. The first folding chair of claim 16, wherein: each of the first connector of the first connector device and the first connector of the second connector device comprises a loop; each of the second connector of the first connector device and the second connector of the second connector device comprises a ring coupled respectively to the loops of the first connector device and the second connector device, wherein the ring is configured to releasably connect, via a hooking device, to a corresponding loop of the folding table or the umbrella.

18. The first folding chair of claim 1, wherein the connector device comprises a buckle, and wherein the first connector and the second connector of the connector device are matable parts of the buckle.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO19. The first folding chair of claim 18, wherein: the first connector of the connector device is positioned on the first folding chair to receive the second part of the connector device from a top of the first folding chair.

20. The first folding chair of claim 1, wherein the first connector of the connector device comprises a strap configured to be attached to the first folding chair and the second connector of the connector device comprises a hook configured to be attached to a frame of the second folding chair.

21. The first folding chair of claim 1, wherein the first connector of the connector device comprises a hook configured to be attached to a frame of the first folding chair and the second connector of the connector device comprises a strap configured to be attached to the second folding chair.

22. The first folding chair of claim 1, wherein the first connector of the connector device comprises a first hook configured to be attached to a frame of the first folding chair and the second connector of the connector device comprises a second hook configured to be attached to a frame of the second folding chair.

23. The first folding chair of claim 22, wherein: the first hook is a male fitting attachable to the frame of the first folding chair; the second hook is a female fitting attachable to the frame of the second folding chair; and the first hook and second hook are configured to be mated to form a coupler to join the frame of the first folding chair and the frame of the second folding chair.

24. The first folding chair of claim 23, wherein an inner diameter of the first hook is concentric to a diameter of the frame of the first folding chair and an inner diameter of the second hook is concentric to a diameter of the frame of the second folding chair.Attorney Docket No.: DV8-P001WO25. The first folding chair of claim 1, wherein the first connector of the connector device comprises a handle and the second connector of the connector device extends from the handle, where the handle is fixedly attached to the first folding chair.

26. The first folding chair of claim 25, wherein the handle comprises a strap having two opposite ends attached to the first folding chair and a sleeve wrapping around the strap, wherein the second connector of the connector device extends from the sleeve and is molded together with the sleeve.

27. The first folding chair of claim 1, wherein one or more stabilizer devices are provided and configured to connect sides of the first folding chair and the second folding chair to provide stability when the first folding chair and the second folding chair are carried by the user.

28. A stackable multi-chair system for carrying by a single user, the stackable multi-chair system comprises: a plurality of folding chairs each having a connector device configured to stackably connect to another folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs; wherein a first folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs including a shoulder strap or a carry handle, the first folding chair configured to act as a lead chair such that, when the plurality of folding chairs are stackably connected, the first folding chair is configured to be strapped to a user or carried by the user while bearing weight of the plurality of folding chairs.

29. The stackable multi-chair system of claim 28, further comprises a folding table configured to be stackably connected to the first folding chair or a second folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs via the connector device thereof such that a weight of the folding table can be bore by the lead chair when carried by the single user.

30. The stackable multi-chair system of claim 28, further comprises an umbrella configured to be stackably connected to the first folding chair or a second folding chair of the plurality of folding chairs via the connector device thereof such that a weight of the umbrella can be bore by the lead chair when carried by the single user.

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