An ergonomic chair for correcting and supporting the sitting posture of the user

Abstract

an ergonomic chair that can correct and support the sitting posture of the user The ergonomic chair prevents or reduces some critical health problems related to thoracic spine, lumbar spine, coccyx pain, varicose veins, prolonged hip flexion, compression of vascular structures and nerves beneath the iliopsoas muscle, tightness in the piriformis muscle, Prostatomegaly, impaired abdominal function. The present ergonomic chair provides a head support, anterior neck support, a chin support, thoracic support valves, lumbar support, abdominal support, and hip support. Further the present ergonomic chair can be adjusted in height and support bending of the back rest with help of a hinge component that functions as seat tilt adjuster.

Description

AN ERGONOMIC CHAIR FOR CORRECTING AND SUPPORTING THE SITTING POSTURE OF THE USERDESCRIPTIONField of the Invention

[0001] The following invention is related to a chair more particularly to an ergonomic chair that improves and supports the posture for the user.Background of the invention

[0002] Chairs are an essential component for almost all working people and cannot be easily replaced, as sitting and working has been a common practice for decades. However, when working for extended periods, it is essential to change positions to relieve tension in the body. Sustained tension can lead to deformities, so taking periodic breaks is crucial to maintain structural integrity. Historically, most tasks were performed while standing, which placed continuous strain on muscles. To relieve this strain, people would stretch to loosen their muscles. However, in modern times, prolonged sitting in a stretched position can lead to numerous health problems. However, prolonged sitting can lead to various health issues, including: Neck pain and neck spasms; Cervical spondylosis; Cervicogenic headaches and migraines; Hand and arm radiating pain due to cervical cord compression; Low back pain from sitting, including sciatica and pseudo-sciatica; Lumbar spondylosis; Coccyx (tailbone) pain; Osteoarthritis of the knee joint and knee pain; Abdominal issues like poor metabolism and weight gain; Erectile dysfunction; Prostatomegaly and prostate cancer; Increased risk of stroke, cerebral atrophy, and brain lesions; Hair loss and impaired vision; Postural hypertension.

[0003] It is essential to address these issues through proper ergonomic design and regular physical activity to mitigate the adverse effects of prolonged sitting. An application RU2297209C1 discloses a chair that has height-adjustable armrests, height-adjustable headrest supporting nape and a neck and fixed in upper part of chair back curved to mate cervical lordosis, mechanism for varying lumbar lordosis curvature in depth and height and chest kyphosis, designed as shape-controlled restmember, and belts for fixing thoracic and pelvic parts of trunk. The mechanism for varying lumbar lordosis curvature in depth and height and chest kyphosis is rigidly mounted on chair back by means of supporting plates in the area the superior lumbar vertebral column segment transition to infer lumbar vertebral column segment takes place. The mechanism is movable in horizontal and vertical direction due to teeth on horizontal and vertical guides being engageable with mating gears, set in motion by means of handles. The back is attached at stable angle of 90° to sit and is vertically movable.

[0004] Another application JP2006075257A discloses a chair that is provided with a sitting section which supports the crural area, a chest and back supporting section which supports the chest and the back areas and can be declined, a lumber vertebrae supporting section which supports the lumber vertebrae area, a pelvis supporting section which supports the pelvis area, a buttock / thigh base area supporting section which supports the groin side of the thighs and which can be shortened in the longitudinal direction along with the decline of the chest and back supporting section, and a cervical vertebrae supporting section which supports the cervical vertebrae area of a person sitting.

[0005] Another application KR200230508Y 1 relates to a chair with a comfortable spine rest that prevent discs, back pains. The chair is composed of a compression spring and an elastic control lever, having an elastic force so that the chair legs, armrests, and backrests are divided and then returned to their original positions. Another application EP3925490A1 refers to an ergonomic seating assembly and method that is configured to support users in multiple postures regardless of their body built, with movable panels that provide continuous full support of the body during seating by flexible back and seat panels, while the user performs various tasks over extended sitting periods and that provide independent and independently adjustable support to the back and seat. By this movable panels the users are able to maintain a stable and constantly consistent posture.

[0006] Yet another application KR200232665Y1 discloses a spinal orthodontic chair that can support the narrow part of the seated person, etc., and can distribute the load due to the weight on the lumbar disc through a structure capable of supporting the armpit of the user. Another application KR20230084789A discloses a posture correcting chair that comprises: a back panel unit which contacts and supports a back region of a user; a seat unit connected to the back panel unit and supporting a buttocks region of the user; a support unit configured in a center area of the back panel unit and wholly or partially supporting a region corresponding to the cervical vertebrae, the thoracic vertebrae, the lumbar, and the sacral vertebrae of the user; a head unit detachably connected to an upper part of the support unit and supporting the head and the cervical vertebrae of the user; and a leg unit which supports the chair from the ground surface at a lower part of the seat unit. Provided is the posture correcting chair having a neck support.

[0007] Yet another application KR100817886B1 discloses a cervical vertebral training chair to enable a user to exercise his / her cervical vertebral and to correct his / her posture in the state that the user sits up by ascending a neck support with an ascending / descending driving device. A cervical vertebral training chair includes a seat portion, a backplate portion, a head rest, a couple of second cylinder devices, a couple of neck supports, a first cylinder device, an ascending / descending driving device and a pivoting driving device. The cylinder devices are installed on the backplate portion in a vertical direction. The ascending / descending driving device is connected to the second cylinder device and stretches the second cylinder device to ascend and descend the neck support. The pivoting driving device is connected to the first cylinder device to stretch the first cylinder device.

[0008] Yet another application KR200222955Y1 discloses a Work Chair with Adjustable Back comprising the lumbar spindle to be detachably fixed to the main body 10 to support the lumbar spine of the user; a thoracic vertebrae connected to the upper end of the lumbar vertebrae so as to support the thoracic vertebrae of the user; a cervical vertebral column mounted to the upper end of the thoracic vertebraeso as to support a cervical spine of the user; respective actuating mechanisms installed to cause vertical movement between the lumbar vertebrae and the thoracic vertebrae and the thoracic vertebrae and the cervical vertebrae; And an operation panel mounted on the main body to intercept an electrical signal applied to the operation mechanism.

[0009] Yet another application KR20060099369A discloses a chair for preventing a neck disc, and to prevent neck discs and to relieve neck muscle fatigue by the traction treatment effect that the head is pulled up by pulling the chin and the back of the head while seated on the chair. The chair constitutes a headrest which can be lifted and fixed by the lifting means on the backrest of the chair, and the head towing the head by walking the user's chin and the back of the headrest to the head. The sphere is comprised. Therefore, this chair can prevent the occurrence of a neck disk or muscle pain by pulling the head by supporting the chin and the back of the head while sitting on the chair.

[0010] Yet another application KR101647461B1 discloses a saddle type spine health chair which is used to sit for working or taking a rest and efficiently maintains the health of lordosis and kyphosis by preventing a burden on a waist by being formed to be able to move the left and right parts of the front side of a seating plate which supports legs when sitting on the seating plate.

[0011] Although the existing equipment in the cited prior art have their own advantages in terms of performance, still there is a need for a compatible chair that can improve the comfortness of the use in seating position for prolonged hours.Summary of the invention

[0012] The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure, and it does not identify key / critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present someconcepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide an ergonomic chair that has a cervical posterior support combined with anterior neck support to relieve the load on the sternocleidomastoid muscle during head movements and cervical flexion.

[0014] It is yet another object to provide an ergonomic chair that has a thoracolumbar support at the center of the spine.

[0015] It is yet another object to provide an ergonomic chair that has a saddle- shaped seat allows the hips to extend up to 180 degrees or more, which helps reduce tightness from the iliopsoas muscle and prevents muscle weakness and loss of tone in the gluteus maximus.

[0016] It is yet another object to provide an ergonomic chair that has a gel pad in the seat redistributes pressure, preventing concentration of weight on one area and reducing the risk of injury to the coccyx joint.

[0017] It is yet another object to provide an ergonomic chair that has an elastic belt to support the anterior and lateral abdominal walls, providing adjustable firmness to support the abdomen and promote metabolism, preventing protrusion of the belly.

[0018] Head and Neck problems: The cause of cervical spondylosis is poor sitting posture. When individuals sit in a relaxed manner, their head often lifts from the headrest as they focus on a subject, leading to muscle imbalances. The sternocleidomastoid muscle can experience severe tension due to constant head movement, creating an imbalanced torsion force from the anterior side of the neck, compressing it. When compressed, it generates a tensile force on the posterior side of the neck and a compressive force on the anterior spine and discs, causing discdegeneration. Additionally, the arteries passing to the head can be compressed, leading to postural hypertension. Insufficient blood supply results in cell aging, hair loss, and vision impairment. Some individuals may develop partial hypertension, increasing the risk of stroke due to inadequate blood supply to the brain (ischaemic stroke), progressive degeneration such as Parkinson's disease, balance problems, ischaemic headaches, and vertigo. Another issue is a stiff neck caused by a tightened trapezius muscle. This occurs due to the load of the arm (static stabilization of the shoulder joint biomechanics). Ideally, the deltoid muscle should act, with the trapezius serving as the secondary muscle. However, many people have weak deltoids, so the static load of the shoulder complex and arm is borne by the trapezius muscle. Furthermore, if the armrest of the chair is not the appropriate length to support the shoulder, the load is transferred to the trapezius muscle, leading to stiffness from continuous load.The existing solutions are:• Ergonomic chairs with proper headrests and adjustable features to support the neck.• Armrests on chairs that are properly designed to support the shoulders and reduce load on the trapezius muscleIn accordance with the first aspect of the present ergonomic chair, the chair comprises a cervical posterior support combined with anterior neck support to relieve the load on the sternocleidomastoid muscle during head movements and cervical flexion.

[0019] Lumbar Spine problems: Prolonged sitting positions keep the hip in a flexed position of 90-120 degrees, leading to structural imbalances. Muscles have an elastic property essential for maintaining their shape, size, and function. However, when kept in a stretched position for an extended period, muscles lose this elasticity and function. Specifically, the gluteus maximus muscle, located in the posterior compartment of the hip joint, undergoes continuous stretching, resulting in the loss of its elastic property and functional capability. This weaknessin the gluteus maximus creates an overload on the erector spinae muscles situated at the lumbar posterior aspect of the spine, which are responsible for straightening the lumbar region. When both the gluteus maximus and erector spinae muscles work together, the load on the lumbar spine is reduced. However, if the erector spinae muscles work alone or with reduced force, it can lead to lumbar disc bulge and disc degeneration. Furthermore, when the gluteus maximus weakens, the hamstring muscles tighten to reduce the load on the pelvis and minimize the force exerted on the lumbar spine. This compensatory tightness can exacerbate lumbar spine issues, leading to further discomfort and potential injury.The existing solutions:• Ergonomic chairs with proper lumbar support to maintain the natural curve of the spine.• Standing desks or sit-stand workstations to reduce prolonged sitting.In accordance with the second aspect of the present ergonomic chair, the chair comprises a modified seat’s shape and such seat allows adjusting height. The present modified seat is in saddle-shape that allows the hips to extend up to 180 degrees or more, which helps reduce tightness from the iliopsoas muscle and prevents muscle weakness and loss of tone in the gluteus maximus. By allowing for more hip extension, the seat helps maintain muscle elasticity and balance, reducing discomfort during and after prolonged sitting.

[0020] Pseudo Sciatica: Prolonged sitting can lead to a condition known as pseudo sciatica or piriformis syndrome. When a person sits for an extended period with their hip in a flexed and externally rotated position, the piriformis muscle shortens and tightens. This tightness can compress the nerve and vascular supply beneath the muscle, particularly the sciatic nerve at the hip level. This compression results in symptoms similar to those caused by disc compression, hence the term pseudo sciatica.The existing solutions:• Ergonomic chairs that encourage proper hip alignment.Physical therapy to address muscle imbalances and nerve compression.In accordance with the second aspect of the present ergonomic chair, the saddle seat that encourages hip extension and internal rotation, to maintain the piriformis muscle in a neutral position and further prevents tightness. As a result, the risk of pseudo-sciatica is reduced.

[0021] Tailbone or coccyx pain can be caused by the weakness of the gluteus maximus muscle, which often results from prolonged sitting. When sitting for long periods, the hip remains in a flexed position (90-120 degrees), causing an imbalance in muscle structures. Muscles have an elastic property essential for maintaining their shape, size, and function. However, when held in a stretched position for an extended period, muscles lose their elasticity and function. In this case, the gluteus maximus muscle, located in the posterior compartment of the hip joint, undergoes continuous stretching, leading to a loss of muscle tone and function. As a result, the greater tuberosity (a bony prominence in the hip) projects downward, creating a pressure point where the skin and soft tissues are severely compressed. Without proper muscle tone, these tissues are more susceptible to damage from compression, causing the tailbone to project outward and come into direct contact with the seat, leading to pain.The existing solutions:• Ergonomic chairs with proper cushioning to reduce pressure on the coccyx.• Using coccyx cushions or pillows designed to relieve pressure on the tailbone.In accordance with the third aspect of the present ergonomic chair, the chair comprises a gel pad in coccyx support portion of the saddle seat that redistributes pressure, preventing concentration of weight on one area and reducing the risk of injury to the coccyx joint.

[0022] Erectile Dysfunction: Prolonged daily sitting can contribute to erectile dysfunction due to the tightness of the muscles in the front of the hip joint. The iliopsoas muscle, which spans from the lumbar spine, passes anteriorly through the hip joint, and inserts at the femur, is particularly affected. When this muscle shortens and tightens, it can compress the many vessels, veins, arteries, nerves, and ligaments in the area. This compression can disturb the normal functioning of the pudendal nerve and reduce nerve conduction, leading to erectile dysfunction.The existing solutions:• Ergonomic chairs designed to promote better posture and reduce pressure on the hip and pelvic area.In accordance with the second aspect of the present ergonomic chair, the saddle- shaped seat allows for hip mobility and prevents prolonged hip flexion, preserving muscle elasticity and preventing compression. According to the agonist-antagonist theory, stretching the gluteus maximus (agonist) can alleviate tightness in the iliopsoas (antagonist), maintaining healthy blood flow and nerve function, and reducing the risk of erectile dysfunction.

[0023] Prostatomegaly: Prostatomegaly, or the enlargement of the prostate gland, can occur due to the tightness of the iliopsoas muscle. This muscle tightness compresses key arteries, including the testicular artery, the artery to the vas deferens, and the cremaster artery. Such compression can restrict blood flow to the prostate, leading to swelling and inflammation. Prolonged sitting can exacerbate this issue by increasing tightness in the anterior compartment of the hip, further reducing blood flow and contributing to Prostatomegaly.The Existing Solutions:• Ergonomic chairs that promote better posture and reduce pressure on the hip and pelvic area.In accordance with the second aspect of the ergonomic chair, the saddle-shaped seat prevents compression of the anterior thigh muscles and promotes healthy circulation, reducing the risk of Prostatomegaly.

[0024] Thoracic Kyphosis: Thoracic kyphosis refers to an increased curvature of the thoracic spine, which is a primary curve of the spine that naturally tends to become more pronounced over time. In contrast, the lumbar lordosis is a secondary curve of the spine that develops as a result of activities and postural adjustments. When the thoracic spine's support system is compromised or imbalanced, it can exacerbate the kyphotic curve, leading to an increased angle of kyphosis. This condition results from various factors, including poor posture, structural abnormalities, or degenerative changes in the spine, which contribute to the exaggeration of the natural kyphotic curve.The existing solutions:• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve posture.• Bracing: Using a spinal brace to help maintain proper alignment and prevent further curvature.• Postural Training: Techniques to correct and maintain proper posture during daily activities.• Medical Intervention: In severe cases, surgical options may be considered to correct the spinal curvature.In accordance with the fourth aspect of the ergonomic chair, the chair comprises a thoraco-lumbar that support at the center of the spine. This support both activates and stabilizes the spine, preventing complete relaxation of the thoracic spine while encouraging extension and providing support.

[0025] Osteoarthritis of the Knee Joint (OA Knee): Osteoarthritis of the knee joint is often caused by impaired biomechanics during walking. This impairment results from an imbalance of forces acting on the spine, hip, knee, and ankle. Whenthe gluteus maximus is stretched due to prolonged sitting with the hip in a flexed position (90-120 degrees), it can lead to biomechanical imbalances. Muscles have elastic properties that help maintain their shape, size, and function, but when a muscle is held in a stretched position for an extended period, it can lose these properties, impairing its function. In this case, the gluteus maximus muscle, located in the posterior compartment of the hip joint, undergoes continuous stretching. This sustained stretch causes a loss of muscle elasticity and function, which in turn overloads the erector spinae muscles in the lumbar region. While both the gluteus maximus and erector spinae work together to stabilize the lumbar spine, excessive strain on the erector spinae alone increases the load on the lumbar spine. Additionally, tightness in the anterior hip joint muscles and the gastrocnemius muscle contributes to the imbalance. The iliopsoas muscle, which runs from the lumbar spine through the hip joint to the femur, can become shortened and tight. These imbalances alter the axial load on the spine and disrupt the normal gait pattern during walking. Consequently, increased load on the anterior knee joint, combined with tightness in the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles, creates excessive compression on the anterior and medial sides of the knee joint. This imbalance is a contributing factor to the development of osteoarthritis of the knee joint.The existing potential solutions:• Physical Therapy: Focused exercises to strengthen the gluteus maximus and erector spinae, and improve overall muscle balance.• Stretching Routines: Regular stretching of hip flexors, quadriceps, and gastrocnemius muscles to maintain their elasticity and function.• Postural Training: Techniques to correct and maintain proper posture, especially during prolonged sitting.• Gait Training: Exercises and interventions to correct gait patterns and reduce abnormal load on the knee joint.• Ergonomic Adjustments: Modifying sitting and working postures to reduce prolonged hip flexion and associated muscle imbalances.• Supportive Devices: Use of knee braces or orthotics to redistribute load and alleviate stress on the knee joint.In accordance with the second aspect of the ergonomic chair, the saddle-shape that allows the hips to extend up to 180 degrees or more, which helps reduce tightness from the iliopsoas muscle and prevents muscle weakness and loss of tone in the gluteus maximus. By allowing for more hip extension, the seat helps maintain muscle elasticity and balance, reducing discomfort during and after prolonged sitting.

[0026] Varicose Veins: Varicose veins are a condition in which damaged valves in the veins cause blood to pool and flow backward. Prolonged sitting can contribute to this condition by compressing the thigh and pressing structures posterior to the thigh under the femur, which affects the blood supply to the lower limbs. Additionally, muscle imbalances can play a role in the development of varicose veins. Weakness in the gluteus maximus muscle increases the load on the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles. This muscle imbalance can prevent the gluteus maximus from effectively performing its actions during walking and standing, leading to over-tightened muscles that put extra pressure on the veins. Furthermore, if the knee remains flexed at less than 90 degrees for extended periods, it creates additional compression on the posterior aspect of the knee joint. This prolonged knee flexion, combined with a tightened calf muscle and pressure on the posterior thigh, can impair circulation and cause blood to backflow, damaging the valves in the veins. This condition, known as varicose veins, can be exacerbated by prolonged sitting, such as in a typical office chair.The existing potential solutions:• Regular Movement: Avoid prolonged sitting by taking regular breaks to stand up and move around, promoting blood circulation.• Strengthening Exercises: Strengthen the gluteus maximus, quadriceps, and gastrocnemius muscles to improve muscle balance and support proper blood flow.• Stretching Routines: Incorporate stretching exercises for the thighs and calf muscles to maintain elasticity and reduce pressure on the veins.• Proper Posture: Maintain proper sitting posture to reduce compression forces on the thighs and knees.• Leg Elevation: Elevate the legs when sitting or lying down to encourage blood flow back to the heart and reduce pooling.• Compression Stockings: Use compression stockings to help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of varicose veins.In accordance with the fifth aspect of the present ergonomic chair, it provides height adjustment to the saddle seat that promotes hip and knee extension, which helps alleviate compression of the thigh’s posterior structures. This extension increases blood flow velocity and reduces muscle compression, decreasing the risk of varicose veins and preventing damage to vein valves.

[0027] Pot Belly and Poor Metabolism (Obesity): A pot belly and poor metabolism, which can lead to obesity, are conditions that can result from prolonged sitting in both traditional and modem ergonomic chairs. When a person sits for an extended period, especially after eating, intra-abdominal pressure increases. This pressure acts against the anterior, lateral, and posterior walls of the abdomen, which are supported by muscles such as the external oblique, internal oblique, transverse abdominis, rectus abdominis, and pyramidalis, as well as the posterior muscles like the psoas major and quadratus lumborum. Extended periods of sitting weaken these abdominal muscles. When sitting after a meal, the increased intra-abdominal pressure causes these muscles to stretch, which can weaken them over time. Abdominal muscles play a crucial role in digestion by promoting peristalsis, the wave-like contractions that move food through the digestive tract. However, sustained stretching from prolonged sitting impairs the muscles' ability to contract effectively. This impairment disrupts digestion and can lead to metabolic issues, eventually contributing to the development of a pot belly and obesity.The existing potential solutions:• Regular Movement: Avoid prolonged sitting by taking regular breaks to stand up and move around, promoting muscle activity and blood circulation.• Abdominal Exercises: Incorporate exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles, such as planks, crunches, and leg raises.• Standing Desks: Consider using a standing desk to reduce the time spent sitting and promote a more active lifestyle.In accordance with the sixth aspect of the present ergonomic chair, the chair comprises an elastic belt that supports the anterior and lateral abdominal walls, providing adjustable firmness to support the abdomen and promote metabolism, preventing protrusion of the belly.Brief description of the drawings

[0028] These features and advantages of the present disclosure may be appreciated by reviewing the following description of the present disclosure, along with the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts. Various embodiments will hereinafter be described in accordance with the appended drawings, which are provided to illustrate, not limit, the scope, wherein similar designations denote similar elements, and in which:

[0029] Fig 1 is the perspective view of the ergonomic chair in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0030] Fig 2 is the side view of the ergonomic chair in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Fig 3a-d discloses different view of the saddle seat of the ergonomic chair in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Fig 4a-d discloses different views of the head rest and neck support structure of the ergonomic chair in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Fig 5a-d discloses different views of the thoracic and lumbar support structure of the ergonomic chair in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] The accompanying drawings illustrate the embodiments of systems, methods, and other aspects of the disclosure. Any person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g., boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent an example of the boundaries. In some examples, one element may be designed as multiple elements, or multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be implemented as an external component in another and vice versa. Furthermore, the elements may not be drawn to scale.Description of the invention

[0035] The present disclosure is best understood with reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. Various embodiments have been discussed with reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed descriptions provided herein with respect to the figures are merely for explanatory purposes, as the methods and systems may extend beyond the described embodiments. As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context dictates otherwise.

[0036] References to “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one example,” “an example,” “for example,” and so on indicate that the embodiment(s) or example(s) may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation but that not every embodiment orexample necessarily includes that particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in an embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0037] Methods of the present invention may be implemented by performing or completing manually, automatically, or a combination thereof, selected steps or tasks. The term “method” refers to manners, means, techniques and procedures for accomplishing a given task including, but not limited to, those manners, means, techniques, and procedures either known to, or readily developed from known manners, means, techniques and procedures by practitioners of the art to which the invention belongs. The descriptions, examples, methods, and materials presented in the claims and the specification are not to be construed as limiting but rather as illustrative only. Those skilled in the art will envision many other possible variations within the scope of the technology described herein.

[0038] The present invention is related to an ergonomic chair that can correct and support the sitting posture of the user. The ergonomic chair prevents or reduces some critical health problems related to thoracic spine, lumbar spine, coccyx pain, varicose veins, prolonged hip flexion, compression of vascular structures and nerves beneath the iliopsoas muscle, tightness in the piriformis muscle, Prostatomegaly, impaired abdominal function. The present ergonomic chair provides a head support, anterior neck support, a chin support, thoracic support valves, lumbar support, abdominal support, and hip support. Further the present ergonomic chair can be adjusted in height and support bending of the back rest with help of a hinge component that functions as seat tilt adjuster.

[0039] In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the present ergonomic chair (100) as shown in Fig 1, comprises a head support (101); a cervical posterior support combined with anterior neck supporting surface (102); a chin supporting extender (103); a lumbar support shaft (104); a thoracic supporting valve (105) on either side of the chair; an arm rest (106) on either side of the chair; an elastic belt (107) for abdominal support, and a saddle- shaped seat (108).

[0040] In accordance with the preferred embodiment, a cervical posterior support combined with anterior neck support (102) is designed to relieve the load on the sternocleidomastoid muscle during head movements and cervical flexion. The thoracic supporting valves (105) and lumbar support shaft (104) support the center of the spine of the user. These thoracic supporting valves (105) and lumbar support shaft (104) activate and stabilize the spine, preventing complete relaxation of the thoracic spine while encouraging extension and providing support to the spine.

[0041] In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the saddle- shaped seat (108) allows the hips to extend up to 180 degrees or more, which helps reduce tightness from the iliopsoas muscle and prevents muscle weakness and loss of tone in the gluteus maximus. By allowing for more hip extension, the seat helps maintain muscle elasticity and balance, reducing discomfort during and after prolonged sitting. The saddle seat (108) encourages hip internal rotation, which helps maintain the piriformis muscle in a neutral position and prevents tightness. As a result, the risk of pseudo- sciatica is reduced. A gel pad in a portion of the saddle seat (108) redistributes pressure, preventing concentration of weight on one area and reducing the risk of injury to the coccyx j oint. By allowing the hip j oint to move and extend, the saddle-shaped seat (108) prevents compression of the anterior thigh muscles and promotes healthy circulation, reducing the risk of Prostatomegaly. Further the height adjustment of the saddle shape seat (108) promote hip and knee extension, which helps alleviate compression of the thigh’s posterior structures. This extension increases blood flow velocity and reduces muscle compression, decreasing the risk of varicose veins and preventing damage to vein valves.

[0042] In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the elastic belt (107) supports the anterior and lateral abdominal walls, providing adjustable firmness to support the abdomen and promote metabolism, preventing protrusion of the belly. The elastic belt (107) extends from one side of the chair to the other side of the chair. The elastic belt (107) is fixated from the side portion of thoracic supporting valves.The elastic belt (107) is fixed at one side, and it can be extended and wrapped around to the front, fastening over the umbilical region of the user like a belt. The elastic belt (107) is firm but not overly tight, providing a universal size fit to gently bind the abdomen and offer additional support.

[0043] Referring to Fig 2, there is height adjusting column (202) below the saddle seat, wherein the height of the seat is adjustable by up to 10 cm more than standard chair heights, allowing the hip joint to extend further and promoting better posture compared to other chairs. The hinge (201) on the middle part of the lumbar-saddle seat junction will make the hip and spine extend to 180 degrees which make the saddle seat tilt anteriorly downwards and make the hip joint straight to 180 degrees wherein the hinge is controlled by a curvature (203) on the lower side of the seat to tilt the angle of the saddle seat in coordination with the lumbar supporting region of the chair of the seat thereby both the saddle seat and the lumbar supporting region in combination move upto 180 degree whenever the user needs.

[0044] Referring to Fig 3a-d, the saddle-shaped seat (301) of the ergonomic chair, a 10 cm wide, 10 cm long, and 10 cm deep cut (302) is made in the center of the seat cushion over the coccyx portion that is at the back portion of the seat, and a sealed gel pad (303) is inserted into this space. The top of the gel pad (303) is covered with a leather cover to create a slightly raised, floating surface that supports the rectum and coccyx without causing hard pressure. The gel pad (303) is doublesealed in a polyethylene cover to prevent leaks and is covered by the full seat cover to protect against damage.

[0045] Referring to Fig 4a-d, the head support (401) is extended downwards to form a cervical support structure that includes a cervical posterior support with an anterior neck support (402) designed to keep the sternocleidomastoid muscle at rest, preventing excessive load during head movements and cervical flexion. Additionally, the cervical posterior support with an anterior neck support (402) tilts downward and backward and is positioned between the head support (401) andthoracic support portion of the chair. This adjustable support helps maintain neck relaxation as the seat back reclines. A chin supporting extender (403) is attached to the neck support (402) and can be pulled down when a person wants to lift their head forward. By pulling the chin support (403) and flexing the chin, the neck receives balanced support from both the front and back, eliminating strain and preventing neck problems caused by sitting for extended periods.

[0046] In accordance with the preferred embodiment (Fig 5a-d), the ergonomic chair features a lumbar supporting shaft (501) that extends up to the 10th thoracic vertebra, offering support for both the lumbar and thoracic regions. This shaft (501) encourages an erect sitting posture and prevents the progression of thoracic kyphosis caused by prolonged sitting. The thoracic supporting valves (502) are designed to fit the spinal curvature and provide support along the midline of the spine, helping to maintain proper posture.

[0047] In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the chair features both horizontal and vertical lumbar supports. The horizontal lumbar support (503) maintains the lumbar curvature at the lower back, while the vertical support (502) extends from the mid-lumbar region to the thoracic region. Additionally, there are side supporting valves (502) on both sides of the chair to provide complete spinal stabilization. The horizontal support (503) includes three sections: one central section (505) and two side sections (504).

[0048] In accordance with the present invention, the ergonomic chair is improvised to reduce the health problems caused by the normal chair while using for long time. The function of the present ergonomic chair is to give rest for the spine and joints when sitting for a long time.

[0049] Features described as separate implementations may be implemented, in combination, in a single implementation, while features described as a single implementation may be implemented in multiple implementations, separately, or in any suitable sub-combination. Operations or processes or methods described andclaimed in a particular order should not be understood as requiring that the particular order, nor that all illustrated operations must be performed (some operations can be optional). As appropriate, multitasking or parallel-processing (or a combination of multitasking and parallel-processing) can be performed.

[0050] No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any nonclaimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0051] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. There is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms enclosed. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention, provided they are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.Dated: 14thSeptember 2024

Claims

CLAIMS:I / We claim:

1. An ergonomic chair (100) for correction and supporting the sitting posture of a user, such chair comprises: a. a head support (101, 401), wherein the head support is extended downward to a cervical support structure that includes a cervical posterior support combined with anterior neck supporting surface (102, 402); b. a chin supporting extender (103, 403), that is attached to the neck supporting surface (102, 402); c. a horizontal and vertical lumbar supports, wherein the vertical support (502) is having a shaft (104, 501), wherein the horizontal lumbar support (503) maintains the lumbar curvature at the lower back of back rest portion of the chair (100), while the vertical support (502) extends from the mid-lumbar region to the thoracic region on the back rest portion of the chair; d. a thoracic supporting valve (105) on either side of the chair; e. an arm rest (106) on either side of the chair; f. an elastic belt (107) for abdominal support, the elastic belt (107) is fixated from the side portion of thoracic supporting valves (105); g. a height adjusting column (202), to adjust the height of the seat, allowing the hip joint to extend further and promoting better sitting posture of the user; h. a hinge (201) on the middle part of the lumbar supporting region and saddle seat junction to allow the hip and spine to extend to 180 degrees, wherein the hinge is controlled by a curvature (203); wherein the chair is characterized by: i. a saddle- shaped seat (108, 301), wherein a hollow space (302) is made in the center of the seat (108) cushion over the coccyx portionthat is at the back portion of the seat (108), wherein a sealed gel pad (303) is inserted into the hollow space (302) of the seat (108) .

2. The ergonomic chair (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the cervical posterior support with an anterior neck support (402) tilts downward and backward and is positioned between the head support (401) and thoracic support portion of the chair (100).

3. The ergonomic chair (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the horizontal lumbar support (503) includes three sections: one central section (505) and two side sections (504).

4. The ergonomic chair (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the chin supporting extender (103, 403) can be pulled down when the user wants to lift their head forward.

5. The ergonomic chair (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the height adjusting column (201) is below the saddle seat (108, 301).

6. The ergonomic chair (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the hinge (201) allows the saddle seat (108, 301) to tilt anteriorly downwards.

7. The ergonomic chair (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the curvature (203) is located on the lower side of the seat that allows the saddle seat to tilt, wherein the angle of the saddle seat is in coordination with the lumbar supporting region of the chair of the seat, such that both the saddle seat and the lumbar supporting region in combination tilt upto 180 degree.

8. The ergonomic chair (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein top surface of the gel pad (303) is covered with a leather cover to create a slightly raised, floating surface that supports the rectum and coccyx portion of the user.

9. The ergonomic chair (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the gel pad (303) is double-sealed in a polyethylene cover to prevent leaks.

10. The ergonomic chair (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the elastic belt (107) is fixed at one side, and it can be extended and wrapped around to the front, fastening over the umbilical region of the user.Dated: Dated: 14thSeptember 2024

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