Chair assembly

Abstract

A chair assembly has a seat, a backrest, a lumbar support, a headrest and a tilt assembly. The seat has a seat cavity. The backrest has a flexible backrest body and a modular backrest body. The lumbar support has a lumbar maximum that is adjustable. The headrest has a first headrest arm and a second headrest arm. The tilt assembly has a seat receiver. The tilt assembly has a pivot connection.

Description

72491-0003CHAIR ASSEMBLY CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 751,516, filed January 30, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally towards a chair assembly.BACKGROUND

[0003] A chair assembly, such as an office or desk chair assembly, includes a seat, a backrest, and a set of legs. The chair assembly includes a mechanism to allow for the chair assembly, specifically the backrest, to tilt or otherwise recline with respect to the seat. The tilting of the backrest occurs either independently of the seat or in conjunction with the seat where the seat and the backrest move as a singular unit. The chair assembly further has controls to adjust the height, along with controls to adjust lumbar support within the backrest.

[0004] The chair assembly, however, is built for people of ordinary height and weight. Put another way, the chair assembly, while adjustable in some aspects, is made to fit the general population. The chair assembly, however, is limited in the ways that the chair assembly can be adjusted and by how far the chair assembly can be adjusted. As such, users of the chair assembly of smaller stature (height, weight, or proportions) or larger stature may not be able to adjust the chair assembly to fit them.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] A full and enabling disclosure, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures in which:

[0006] FIG. l is a front perspective view of a chair assembly, further illustrating a seat, a backrest, an armrest including an arm pad, a headrest, an upholstery, and a tilt assembly in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the chair assembly of FIG. 1 with the upholstery removed, further illustrating a seat pan having a seat cavity and a modular backrest body in accordance with various aspects described herein.72491-0003

[0008] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the chair assembly of FIG. 1 with the upholstery removed, further illustrating a lumbar support in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a schematic rear perspective view of the seat of FIG. 1, further illustrating the seat pan and the seat cavity with a cushion of the seat removed in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0010] FIG. 5a is a cross-sectional side view of the viewed from sectional line V-V of FIG. 6, further illustrating a seat depth support in a first position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0011] FIG. 5b is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the viewed from sectional line V-V of FIG. 6, further illustrating the seat depth support in a second position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0012] FIG. 5c is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the viewed from sectional line V-V of FIG. 6, further illustrating the seat depth support in a third position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the tilt assembly of FIG. 1, further illustrating a roller body and a support body in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0014] FIG. 7a is a side view of the tilt assembly of FIG. 1, further illustrating a pivot connection and the tilt assembly in an upright position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0015] FIG. 7b is a side view of the tilt assembly of FIG. 1, further illustrating the pivot connection and the tilt assembly in a reclined position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0016] FIG. 8a is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest viewed from sectional line VIII- VIII of FIG. 1, further illustrating a first thoracic support and the lumbar support in a first depth position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0017] FIG. 8b is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest viewed from sectional line VIII- VIII of FIG. 1, further illustrating the first thoracic support and the lumbar support in a second depth position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0018] FIG. 8c is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest viewed from sectional line VIII- VIII of FIG. 1, further illustrating the first thoracic support and the lumbar support in a first vertical position in accordance with various aspects described herein.72491-0003

[0019] FIG. 8d is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest viewed from sectional line VIII- VIII of FIG. 1, further illustrating the first thoracic support and the lumbar support in a second vertical position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a front view of the backrest of FIG. 1, further illustrating a coupling between a flexible backrest body and the modular backrest body in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0021] FIG. 10a is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest viewed from sectional line X-X of FIG. 9, further illustrating the first thoracic support and a second thoracic support in a first position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0022] FIG. 10b is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest viewed from sectional line X-X of FIG. 9, further illustrating the first thoracic support and the second thoracic support in a second position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the backrest of FIG. 1, further illustrating the coupling between the flexible backrest body and the modular backrest body having set of keys and a set of slots in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the headrest of FIG. 1, further illustrating a headrest body, a first arm, and a second arm in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0025] FIG. 13a is a schematic side view of the chair assembly as viewed from sectional line XIII-XIII of FIG. 1, further illustrating the headrest in a first vertical position and a first horizontal position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0026] FIG. 13b is a schematic side view of the chair assembly as viewed from sectional line XIII-XIII of FIG. 1, further illustrating the headrest in a second vertical position and the first horizontal position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0027] FIG. 13c is a schematic side view of the chair assembly as viewed from sectional line XIII-XIII of FIG. 1, further illustrating the headrest in a third vertical position and a second horizontal position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0028] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the armrest of FIG. 1 with the arm pad removed, further illustrating a base, an arm, a arm pad seat, and a arm pad interface in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0029] FIG. 15a is a top view-down view of the armrest of FIG. 14, further illustrating the armrest in a first swivel position, and the arm pad interface in a first horizontal position in accordance with various aspects described herein.72491-0003

[0030] FIG. 15b is a top view-down view of the armrest of FIG. 14, further illustrating the armrest in a second swivel position, and the arm pad interface in a second horizontal position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0031] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the armrest as seen along sectional plane XVI of FIG. 14, further illustrating a spring, a male connector, and a female connector in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0032] FIG. 17 is a schematic side view of the chair assembly of FIG. 1, further illustrating a skeletal model seated in the chair assembly, the chair assembly in a first position in accordance with various aspects described herein.

[0033] FIG. 18 is a schematic side view of the chair assembly of FIG. 1, further illustrating the skeletal model seated in the chair assembly, the chair assembly in a second position in accordance with various aspects described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a chair assembly. The chair assembly has a seat, a backrest, an armrest, a tilt assembly, a headrest, and a lumbar support. The seat has a seat pan including a seat cavity. The seat has a depth adjustment body to adjust a depth of the seat cavity. The backrest has a flexible backrest body and a modular backrest body. The headrest has a first arm and a second arm. The tilt assembly has a support body, a pivot connection and a roller body. The lumbar support is integrated with the backrest. The backrest further defines a first thoracic support and a second thoracic support. The armrest includes a base and an arm. The arm is attached to the base through a swivel joint. The armrest includes an arm pad seat that is horizontally moveable. Each of the seat, the backrest, the armrest, the tilt assembly, the headrest and the lumbar support are adjustable.

[0035] The various adjustment types allow for a wide range of users to ergonomically use the chair assembly. While described in terms of a chair assembly for commercial or residential use (e.g., an office chair), it will be appreciated that the chair assembly can be any suitable chair assembly used in any suitable environment such as, but not limited to, commercial uses, residential uses, or workplace uses.

[0036] The term “fore” or “forward” means in front of something and “aft” or “rearward” means behind something. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “set” or a “set” of elements can be any number of elements, including only one. As used herein, the term “movement axis” refers to a line in space that a body is moveable along.72491-0003

[0037] Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, secured, fastened, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadly and can include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to one another. The exemplary drawings are for purposes of illustration only and the dimensions, positions, order and relative sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto can vary.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a chair assembly 100. The chair assembly 100 includes a seat 102, a backrest 104, a headrest 106, a set of armrests 108, a set of legs 110, and a tilt assembly 114. The backrest 104 includes a front surface 111 and an upholstery 116. The front surface 111 is a forward portion of the upholstery 116. The upholstery 116 can be, for example, leather, linen, mesh, cotton, polyester, velvet, silk, acrylic, chenille, wool, a microfiber, synthetic fiber, acetate, vinyl, nylon, polypropylene, or the like. It will be appreciated that any portion of the chair assembly 100 such as, but not limited to, the seat 102, the backrest 104, the set of armrest 108, the headrest 106, or a combination thereof can include a respective upholstery. For purposes of reference, portions of the chair assembly 100 will be described in relation to a coordinate system having an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis. A positive x-axis is defined relative to the front surface 111 of the backrest 104 when the backrest 104 is in an upright position, as illustrated. Specifically, the positive x-axis is defined as being forward of the front surface 111 of the backrest 104 (e.g., towards a location of the chair assembly 100 that a user would position their torso when seated in the chair assembly 100). The x-axis defines a horizontal direction (Hd) relative to the backrest 104 in the upright position. The positive x-axis defines a forward direction A negative x-axis (e.g., opposite the positive x-axis) defines a rearward direction (not illustrated). A force of gravity on the chair assembly 100 when the chair assembly 100 is positioned along a flat surface defines the y-axis. A vertical direction (Vd) (e.g., a positive y-axis) extends counter to the force of gravity. A downward direction (not illustrated) (e.g., a negative y-axis) extends parallel to the force of gravity. The z-axis defines a lateral direction (Ld). The lateral direction (Ld) is transverse the horizontal direction (Hd). While the vertical direction (Vd), the horizontal direction (Hd), and the lateral direction (Ld) are only shown in the positive axes, it will be appreciated that each of the vertical direction (Vd), the horizontal direction (Hd), and the lateral direction (Ld) extends in the negative axes, too. For example, the vertical direction (Vd) comprises an upward direction (positive y-axis) and a downward direction (negative y-axis), the horizontal direction (Hd) comprises a forward direction72491-0003(positive x-axis) and a rearward direction (negative x-axis), and the lateral direction comprises a right-hand direction (positive z-axis) and a left-hand direction (negative z-axis).

[0039] The seat 102 is defined as a body of the chair assembly 100 where a user’s body corresponding to the pelvis and femur rests on top of. The seat includes a cushion 158. The seat extends to the front 119. When a user of the chair assembly 100 is seated on the seat 102, the users legs or tibia and fibula are located forward of the front 119 of the seat 102.

[0040] The backrest 104 is defined as a body of the chair assembly where a majority of the user’s body corresponding to the spine rests against. Specifically, the user positions a majority of their body corresponding to the spine against the front surface 111. The backrest 104 extends generally vertical and defines a rear or back portion of the chair assembly 100 with respect to the front 119.

[0041] The headrest 106 is defined as a body of the chair assembly 100 where a user’s body corresponding to the skull or neck region of the spine rests against. The headrest 106 is located at an upper portion of the chair assembly 100. While the headrest 106 is illustrated as part of the chair assembly 100, it will be appreciated that the chair assembly 100 can be formed without the headrest 106.

[0042] The set of armrests 108 are defined as bodies of the chair assembly 100 where a user’s body corresponding to the humerus, radius, ulna, carpus and metacarpus can rest against. The set of armrests 108 include two armrests located on opposing sides of the chair assembly 100. Each armrest of the set of armrests 108 includes an arm pad 200, a base 202 and an arm 204. The arm pad 200 is defined as a portion of the respective armrest of the set of armrests that the user physically rests their humerus, radius, ulna, carpus and metacarpus against. The arm 204 is connected to the base 202 through a swivel joint 208. The arm 204 and the base 202 collectively suspend the arm pad 200 in a position where the user can rest their humerus, radius, ulna, carpus and metacarpus against when seated in the chair assembly 100.

[0043] The set of legs 110 define a base for the chair assembly 100. The set of legs 110 can include a set of wheels 112. The set of legs 110 can include any number of one or more legs. The set of wheels 112 can include any number of one or more wheels. As a non-limiting example, a total number of wheels in the set of wheels 112 can correspond to a total number of legs in the set of legs 110. As a non-limiting example, each leg of the set of legs 110 can include one respective wheel of the set of wheels 112. While the set of wheels 112 are illustrated, it will be appreciated that the set of wheels 112 can be omitted from the chair assembly 100.72491-0003

[0044] The set of wheels 112 are used to allow the chair assembly 100 to roll or otherwise slide along a surface that the chair assembly 100 is provided on (e.g., forward and backward in the horizontal direction (Hd) and side to side in the lateral direction (Ld)). When the set of wheels 112 are excluded from the chair assembly 100, it will be appreciated that the chair assembly 100 is statically placed on the surface.

[0045] The set of legs 110 can include any suitable construction. As a non-limiting example, the set of legs 110 can include a telescoping assembly that allows for the set of legs to vary in vertical height in the vertical direction (Vd). As such, the entire chair assembly 100 can vary in vertical height through actuation of the telescoping assembly of the set of legs 110. The set of legs 110 can further be rotated or swiveled in a chair swivel direction (Sd). The chair swivel direction (Sd) is about the z-axis (e.g., the vertical direction (Vd)). As such, the entire chair assembly 100 can swivel in the chair swivel direction (Sd).

[0046] The tilt assembly 114 is defined as an assembly of the chair assembly 100 that allows for at least a portion of the chair assembly 100 to tilt or rotate in a tilt direction (Td). The tilt assembly 114 can include a support body 122. The support body 122 has a bend 123, a first arm 125, and a second arm 127. The bend 123 interconnects the first arm 125 and the second arm 127. The bend 123, the first arm 125, and the second arm 127 collectively form a J-shape or an L-shape. As such, the support body 122 can be defined as a J-bar support or an L-bar support, respectively. The first arm 125 extends generally non-parallel to the second arm 127. While described in terms of the support body 122, it will be appreciated that the support body 122 can have any suitable shape having at least the bend 123, the first arm 125 and the second arm 127. The tilt assembly 114 can a lock (e.g., a lever) to unlock or lock free movement of the tilt assembly 114 in the tilt direction (Td). It will be appreciated that a user of the chair assembly 100 can actuate the lock to lock or unlock the tilt assembly 114 to stop or allow for, respectively, movement of the tilt assembly in the tilt direction (Td).

[0047] The chair assembly 100 further includes a lumbar support adjuster 134. The lumbar support adjuster 134 is located within a lumbar support adjustment channel 135. The lumbar support adjustment channel 135 is located along a respective portion of the tilt assembly 114. As a non-limiting example, the lumbar support adjustment channel 135 is located along a respective portion of the support body 122. As a non-limiting example, the lumbar support adjustment channel 135 is located along a respective portion of the first arm 125 of the support body 122. The use of the lumbar support adjuster 134 will be described in further detail in relation to FIGS. 8-9d.72491-0003

[0048] The tilt assembly 114 rests on top of and is coupled to a respective portion of the set of legs 110. The seat 102 rests on top of and is coupled to a respective portion of the tilt assembly 114. The set of armrests 108 are coupled to the tilt assembly 114 and extend along at least a portion of a periphery of the seat 102. Put another way, the set of armrests 108 are located on opposing sides of the seat 102. The backrest 104 is coupled to a respective portion of the tilt assembly 114. Specifically, the backrest 104 is coupled to the support body 122. The headrest 106 is coupled to a respective portion of the backrest 104.

[0049] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the chair assembly 100 of FIG. 1 with the upholstery 116 (FIG. 1) and the set of armrests 108 (FIG. 1) removed. The chair assembly includes the seat 102, the backrest 104 having the front surface 111, the headrest 106, the set of legs 110 that can have the set of wheels 112, and the tilt assembly 114. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0050] The tilt assembly 114 has the support body 122. The support body 122 has the first arm 125, the second arm 127 and the bend 123. It will be appreciated that the tilt assembly 114 can include two support bodies 122, as illustrated. Each support body 122 has a respective first arm 125, a respective second arm 127, and a respective bend 123.

[0051] The tilt assembly 114 can include an armrest connection slot 216. The armrest connection slot 216 is defined as a portion of the chair assembly 100 where the set of armrests 108 are physically coupled to a remainder of the chair assembly 100. The armrest connection slot 216 can be located, as a non-limiting example, along the second arm 127. While only a singular armrest connection slot 216 is illustrated, it will be appreciated that the chair assembly 100 can include any number of one or more armrest connection slots 216. As a non-limiting example, the total number of armrest connection slots 216 equals a total number of armrests in the set of armrests 108. The armrests connection slots 216 can be located on opposing sides of the chair assembly 100, with respect to the lateral direction (Ld) such that the set of armrests 108 can be mounted to opposing sides of the chair assembly 100, with respect to the lateral direction (Ld), as illustrated in FIG. 1. While descried as a physical connection between the set of armrests 108 and the tilt assembly 114, it will be appreciated that at least a portion of the set of armrests 108 can be coupled to or formed with any suitable portion of the chair assembly 100. As a non-limiting example, the tilt assembly 114 and at least a portion of the set of armrests 108 can be integrally formed such that they define a unitary body.72491-0003

[0052] The seat 102 defines the front 119. The seat 102 further comprises a seat pan 118. The seat pan 118 defines a surface that the cushion 158 (FIG. 1) is coupled to. Specifically, the cushion 158 is coupled to the top 131 of the seat pan 118.

[0053] The backrest 104 includes a flexible backrest body 124 and a modular backrest body 128. The flexible backrest body 124 defines a first thoracic support 164. The modular backrest body 128 defines a second thoracic support 166.

[0054] The flexible backrest body 124 includes any suitable structure that allows for the flexible backrest body 124 to flex or otherwise deform in one or more directions. As a nonlimiting example, the flexible backrest body 124 can include a plurality of flex slots 126 that allow for the flexible backrest body 124 to move in the one or more directions a force is applied to a respective portion of the flexible backrest body 124. Alternatively, the flexible backrest body 124 can be made of a flexible material that deforms in the one or more directions when a force is applied to a respective portion of the flexible backrest body 124. In either case, it will be appreciated that the flexible backrest body 124 is deformable in the one or more directions when a force is applied to a respective portion of the flexible backrest body 124.

[0055] The flexible backrest body 124 flexes due to a force that is applied to a respective portion of the flexible backrest body 124. The force is generated through the actuation of the lumbar support adjuster 134. The mechanism to cause the force will be described in further detail in relation to FIGS. 8a-8d. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at a distal end 170.

[0056] The modular backrest body 128 extends from the flexible backrest body 124 at the distal end 170. The modular backrest body 128 is coupled to the flexible backrest body 124 at a coupling 130. It is contemplated that the modular backrest body 128 is removably coupled to the flexible backrest body 124. The modular backrest body 128 can include a headrest receiver 180.

[0057] The headrest 106 includes a headrest plate 186. The headrest plate 186 is defined as a forward portion of the headrest 106. The headrest 106 is couplable to a remainder of the chair assembly 100 through the headrest receiver 180. Specifically, the headrest 106 is directly couplable to the modular backrest body 128 through use of the headrest receiver 180. The headrest 106 includes a set of relief cuts 109. The set of relief cuts 109 are located along the headrest plate 186. The set of relief cuts 109 allow for the headrest plate 186 to flex when a force is applied to the headrest plate 186. The flexing of the headrest plate 186, in turn, increases the overall perceived comfort of a user of the chair assembly 100. As a non-limiting72491-0003example, the user can rest their head / neck against the headrest plate 186 during use of the chair assembly 100. The

[0058] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the chair assembly 100 of FIG. 1 with the upholstery 116 (FIG. 1) and the set of armrests 108 (FIG. 1) removed. The chair assembly includes the seat 102, the backrest 104 having the front surface 111, the headrest 106, the set of legs 110 that can have the set of wheels 112, and the tilt assembly 114. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0059] The tilt assembly 114 has the support body 122. The support body 122 has the first arm 125, the second arm 127 and the bend 123. The seat 102 defines the front 119. The seat 102 further comprises the seat pan 118 and the seat pan through-hole 120. The backrest 104 includes the flexible backrest body 124 defining the first thoracic support 164, and the modular backrest body 128 defining the second thoracic support 166. The flexible backrest body 124 can include the plurality of flex slots 126. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at the distal end 170. The modular backrest body 128 includes a headrest receiver 180. The flexible backrest body 124 and the modular backrest body 128 are joined at a coupling 130.

[0060] The chair assembly 100 can include a lumbar support 132. The lumbar support 132 is defined as a body of the chair assembly 100 that is configured to provide the force to the flexible backrest body 124 to cause the flexible backrest body 124 to flex in one or more directions. Put another way, the lumbar support 132 is configured to cause the flexible backrest body 124 to flex to change a curvature of the first thoracic support 164.

[0061] The lumbar support 132 is coupled to the lumbar support adjuster 134 located within the lumbar support adjuster channel 135.

[0062] The headrest 106 includes a first headrest arm 182 and a second headrest arm 184. The first headrest arm 182 is at least partially received within the headrest receiver 180. The second headrest arm 184 extends from the first headrest arm 182. The second headrest arm 184 extends between the first headrest arm 182 and the headrest plate 186.

[0063] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the seat 102 of FIG. 1 with the cushion 158 (FIG. 1) removed. The seat pan 118 extends to the front 119. The seat pan 118 comprises a top 131 and a bottom 133. When a user of the chair assembly 100 sits on the seat 102, the femur of the user will be located on a side of the seat 102 corresponding to the top 131. The seat pan 118 includes a seat pan through-hole 120. The seat pan through-hole 120 extends72491-0003from the top 131 and to the bottom 133. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0064] The seat 102 includes a flexible body 161. The flexible body 161 is at least partially aligned with the seat pan through-hole 120. The flexible body 161 is spaced from the top 131 in the vertical direction (Vd). Specifically, the flexible body 161 is spaced below the top 131 in the vertical direction (Vd). The flexible body 161 is more rigid than the seat pan 118. Put another way, the flexible body 161 includes a material having a first elastic modulus. The seat pan 118 includes a material having a second elastic modulus. The first elastic modulus is less than the second elastic modulus.

[0065] FIG. 5a is a cross-sectional side view of the 102 viewed from sectional line V-V of FIG. 6 with the cushion 158 included. The seat pan 118 has the front 119, the top 131, the bottom 133, and the seat pan through-hole 120. The seat 102 has a seat depth adjustment assembly 160. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0066] The seat pan 118 includes a flex arm 101 and a flex arm stop 103. The flex arm 101 defines a respective portion of the front 119 of the seat 102. The flex arm 101 extends along a respective portion of the top 131 of the seat pan 118. The flex arm stop 103 extends from the flex arm 101. The flex arm stop 103 defines a respective portion of the bottom 133.

[0067] The seat depth adjustment assembly 160 includes the flexible body 161, a seat depth support 162, and a seat depth adjuster 137. The flexible body 161 is defined as a plate or support within the seat 102 that is configured to flex when a first force (Fl) is applied to it. As illustrated, the first force (Fl) is not sufficient to cause the flexible body 161 to deform (e.g., the first force (Fl) is 0 Newtons); therefore, the flexible body 161 is in a rested or nonflexed state. The first force (Fl) is any suitable force that would be applied to the seat 102 such as, but not limited to, the weight of a user of the chair assembly 100 sitting on the seat 102.

[0068] The flexible body 161 is spaced from the top 131 of the seat pan 118 in the vertical direction (Vd). The flexible body 161 is located entirely between the top 131 and the bottom 133 when in a non-flexed state, as illustrated. The seat pan through-hole 120 opens to the flexible body 161. The flexible body 161 is at least partially aligned with the seat pan through-hole 120. As illustrated, at least a portion of the flexible body 161 extends beyond the seat pan through-hole 120 along the x-axis (e.g., the horizontal direction (Hd)). The flexible body 161 and the seat pan 118 are made of differing materials. As a non-limiting example, the flexible body 161 is made of an elastic material, while the seat pan 118 is made72491-0003of a material that is less elastic than the flexible body 161. As a non-limiting example, the seat pan 118 can be made of a rigid plastic.

[0069] The seat depth support 162 is coupled to or formed with the seat pan 118. The seat depth support 162 provides a physical barrier to the flexible body 161 that limits the amount that the flexible body 161 can deform in a downward direction (e.g., opposite the vertical direction (Vd)). The seat depth support 162 can be located along opposing sides of the flexible body 161, as illustrated. As such, the seat depth support 162 can provide a structural support for the flexible body 161 along at least a portion of a periphery of the flexible body 161.

[0070] The seat depth adjuster 137 is defined as a body that is configured to adjust how the flexible body 161 flexes when the first force (Fl) is applied to the seat 102. The seat depth adjuster 137 is actuatable by the user of the chair assembly 100. The seat depth adjuster 137 can be formed with another portion of the chair assembly 100. The seat depth adjuster 137 is actuatable by a user of the chair assembly 100 to move the seat pan 118 relative to the flexible body 161. The seat depth adjuster 137 can be, for example, formed as a lever, or handle that is accessible to the user of the chair assembly 100. The user can actuate (e.g., move) the seat pan adjuster to effectively move the seat pan 118 relative to the flexible body 161. Put another way, the user can utilize the seat depth adjuster 137 to effectively move the seat pan 118 in the horizontal direction (Hd) and / or a rearward direction opposing the horizontal direction (Hd).

[0071] The seat pan 118 includes a channel 163. The channel 163 is formed by a portion of the seat pan 118 that defines the bottom 133. The seat depth support 162 is located within the channel 163 formed within a respective portion of the seat pan 118. The flexible body 161 is at least partially located within the channel 163. It will be appreciated that the flexible body 161, when not flexed (e.g., FIG. 5 A), is located entirely within the channel 163. It will be appreciated that at least a portion of the flexible body 161, when flexed (e.g., FIGs. 5B and 5C), is located exterior the channel 163.

[0072] The flexible body 161 contacts the seat depth support 162. The seat depth adjuster 137 is used to move the seat pan 118 relative to the seat depth support 162 along a sliding movement axis (Sdi). Movement of the seat pan 118 through use of the seat depth adjuster 137 effectively moves the seat pan through-hole 120 along the sliding movement axis (Sdi). The sliding movement axis (Sdi) is predominantly parallel to the x-axis (e.g., the horizontal direction (Hd)). As used herein, the term “predominantly” in terms of planes of movement(s) refers to a plane that is within greater than -45 degrees and less than 45 degrees72491-0003from an axis that extends along one of the horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), or the vertical direction (Vd). The sliding movement axis (Sdi) is within greater than -45 degrees and less than 45 degrees of the x-axis (e.g., the horizontal direction (Hd)). The sliding movement axis (Sdi) is illustrated by a double-sided arrow meaning that the seat depth support 162 is moveable in either direction along the sliding movement axis (Sdi).

[0073] It is contemplated that the seat depth adjustment assembly 160 can further be described as a pelvis retainer. Specifically, when a user is seated on the chair assembly 100, the seat pan through-hole 120 aligns with the user’s ischial tuberosities. The user’s pelvis, particularly these ischial tuberosities, follows the contour of the seat pan through-hole 120 defined by the seat depth adjustment assembly 160; specifically, the flexible body 161. This contouring helps support and position the ischial tuberosities in a set location along the flexible body 161 and against the seat depth support 162. By discouraging forward movement of the pelvis, this interface allows the user’s spine to remain in correct ergonomic alignment relative to the backrest 104, thus enhancing anatomical comfort.

[0074] FIG. 5b is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the seat 102 viewed from sectional line V-V of FIG. 6 with the cushion 158 included. The seat pan 118 has the front 119, the top 131, the bottom 133, and the seat pan through-hole 120. The seat 102 has a seat depth adjustment assembly 160. The seat depth adjustment assembly 160 includes the flexible body 161, the seat depth support 162, and the channel 163. The seat pan 118 comprises the flex arm 101 and the flex arm stop 103. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0075] The first force (Fl) is non-zero causing the flexible body 161 to flex as illustrated. When flexed, the flexible body 161 flexes to a minimum 156 with respect to the top 131. The minimum 156 is the lowest point (e.g., the farthest point) that the flexible body 161 flexes in the downward direction (e.g., opposite the vertical direction (Vd)). The minimum 156 is located a straight-line distance from the top 131 in the vertical direction (Vd) to define a depth (D). The minimum 156 is located a length (L) defined as a straight-line distance between the minimum 156 and the front 119.

[0076] It will be appreciated that the flexible body 161 is configured to flex away from the top 131 when the first force (Fl) is applied to the seat 102. The flexible body 161 is configured to flex to the minimum 156. Put another way, the flexible body 161 is configured to flex away from the top 131 and to the minimum 156 when a force (e.g., the first force (Fl)) is applied to the seat 102 in a downward direction (e.g., opposite the vertical direction (Vd)) relative to the top 131.72491-0003

[0077] The seat depth adjuster 137, as illustrated, is in the same position as the seat depth adjuster 137 in FIG. 5a. it will be appreciated that movement of the seat depth adjuster 137 causes variations in the location of the minimum 156. In other words, movement of the seat depth adjuster 137 causes variations in the depth (D) and the length (L).

[0078] When the first force (Fl) is non-zero, the flex arm 101 flexes or moves in the flex direction (Fid). The flex direction (Fid) is a circumferential direction about the z-axis (e.g., the lateral direction (Ld) of FIG. 1). The flex arm 101 is configured to flex away from the top 131 and towards the bottom 133 when the first force (Fl) is applied. As illustrated, the flex arm 101 is non-flexed. The flex arm stop 103 defines a maximum that the flex arm 101 can move in the flex direction (Fid). Specifically, when the flex arm 101 moves clockwise, the flex arm stop 103 will get closer to a respective portion of the seat pan 118 (e.g., the portion defining the channel 163). When the flex arm stop 103 contacts the respective portion of the seat pan 118, the flex arm 101 will cease movement in the flex direction (Fid), thus defining the maximum that the flex arm 101 can move in the flex direction (Fid).

[0079] When a user of the chair assembly 100 is seated in the seat 102, the underside of their femur, and / or the backside of their tibia can rest along or against the flex arm 101. The movement of the flex arm 101 in the flex direction (Fid) increases the perceived comfort of the user by following the natural curvature of the users legs when in a seated position.

[0080] FIG. 5c is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the seat 102 viewed from sectional line V-V of FIG. 6 with the cushion 158 included. The seat pan 118 has the front 119, the top 131, the bottom 133, and the seat pan through-hole 120. The seat 102 has the seat depth adjustment assembly 160. The seat depth adjustment assembly 160 includes the flexible body 161, the seat depth support 162, and the channel 163. The seat pan 118 includes the flex arm 101 and the flex arm stop 103. The flex arm 101 is moveable in the flex direction (Fid). The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0081] The first force (Fl) is non-zero causing the flexible body 161 to flex as illustrated. The flexing of the flexible body 161 results in flexible body 161 having the minimum 156 defined by the depth (D).

[0082] With reference to FIGS. 5b and 5c, the seat depth adjuster 137, and therefore the seat pan 118, is further to the left of the page in FIG. 5c than in FIG. 5b. The movement of the seat depth adjuster 137 from left to right relative to the page is done through actuation (e.g., movement via the user of the chair assembly 100) of the seat depth adjuster 137. The actuation of the seat depth adjuster 137, in turn, causes the seat pan 118 to move in the sliding72491-0003movement axis (Sdi). It will be appreciated that the channel 163, which the flexible body 161 and seat depth support 162 are located within, enables the seat pan 118 to move relative to the flexible body 161. The flexible body 161 is formed such that the seat pan through-hole 120 is always aligned with a respective portion of the flexible body 161 as the seat pan 118 moves along the sliding movement axis (Sdi). In FIG. 5c, the seat pan 118 has been moved to the left of the page with respect to the seat depth support 162 and the flexible body 161 of FIG.5b. As such, the minimum 156 is located further away from the front 119 in FIG. 5c than in FIG. 5b. Put another way, the length (Ld) is larger in FIG. 5c than in FIG. 5c. Put another way, the minimum 156 is located further forward in the horizontal direction (Hd) in FIG. 5b than in FIG. 5c.

[0083] The variation of the length (L) is used to vary the location of where the minimum 156 is. The variation of a location of the minimum 156, in turn, changes how the user of the chair assembly 100 perceives the feeling of the seat 102. The variation in the location of the minimum 156 is used to adjust a perceived comfort to the user of the chair assembly 100. As a non-limiting example, it is contemplated that locating the minimum 156 at a location where the user will apply the largest first force (Fl) will result in the best perceived comfort for the user. Some users may sit closer to the front 119 than other users, which will cause the location of the maximum of the first force (Fl) to vary between users. In other words, if a user places their pelvis closer to the front 119, having the minimum 156 closer to the front 119 increases the perceived comfort of the seat 102 to the user. If, however, the user places their pelvis closer to a back of the seat 102 (e.g., a side of the seat opposing the front 119), having the minimum closer to the back of the seat 102 increases the perceived comfort of the seat 102 to the user. As such, the user can select the location of the minimum based on how they sit in the chair assembly 100; thus, increasing the perceived comfort of the seat 102 to the specific user.

[0084] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the tilt assembly 114 of FIG. 1. The tilt assembly 114 includes the support body 122 having the lumbar support adjustment channel 135, the first arm 125, the second arm 127, and the bend 123. The tilt assembly 114 includes a roller body 138 and a seat receiver 117. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0085] The seat receiver 117 is defined as a structure of the tilt assembly 114 configured to accept a respective portion of the seat 102 (FIG. 1). As a non-limiting example, the bottom 133 (FIG. 4) of the seat 102 rests along or within the seat receiver 117. The seat 102 is then72491-0003coupled to the seat receiver 117 such that the tilt assembly 114 and the seat 102 are coupled to one another.

[0086] The tilt assembly 114 includes a set of roller channels 146. The set of roller channels 146 are located along a respective portion of the seat receiver 117. As a nonlimiting example, each roller channel of the set of roller channels 146 can extend through a respective portion of the seat receiver 117. The set of roller channels 146 include any number of one or more roller channels. As a non-limiting example, the set of roller channels 146 includes two roller channels spaced along the seat receiver 117.

[0087] The roller body 138 is coupled to the seat receiver 117. The roller body 138 interfaces with the set of roller channels 146, which will be described in further detail in relation to FIGS. 7a and 7b. The roller body 138 is coupled to the support body 122. As the seat receiver 117 is coupled to the seat 102, the support body 122, the roller body 138, the seat receiver 117 and the seat 102 are all coupled to one another such that movement of one (e.g., the support body 122) affects a movement of another (e.g., the seat 102). The moment of the seat 102 through the tilt assembly 114 will be described in further detail in relation to FIGS. 7a and 7b.

[0088] FIG. 7a is a side view of the tilt assembly 114 of FIG. 1. The tilt assembly 114 includes the support body 122 having the lumbar support adjustment channel 135, the first arm 125, the second arm 127, and the bend 123. The tilt assembly 114 comprises the seat receiver 117 and the roller body 138. The tilt assembly 114 comprises a pivot connection 144. The first arm 125 can include the lumbar support adjustment channel 135. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0089] The roller body 138 includes a set of rollers 148. The set of rollers 148 can be formed along any portion of the roller body 138. As a non-limiting example, the roller body 138 can include a main body 139 and a protrusion 140 extending from the main body 139 towards the seat receiver 117. The set of rollers 148 can be located along a distal end of the protrusion 140, with respect to the main body 139.

[0090] The protrusion 140 extends from the main body 139 and towards a respective portion of the seat receiver 117. Specifically, the protrusion 140 extends from the main body 139 and to a portion of the seat receiver 117 corresponding to the set of roller channels 146. The set of rollers 148 are received within the set of roller channels 146. The set of rollers 148 include any number of one or more rollers. Specifically, the set of rollers 148 include a total number of rollers corresponding to a total number of roller channels of the set of roller72491-0003channels 146. Each roller of the set of rollers 148 is receivable within a singular one respective roller channel of the set of roller channels 146.

[0091] The support body 122 comprises a support protrusion 107. Specifically, the second arm 127 of the support body 122 comprises the support protrusion 107. The roller body 138 comprises atilt channel 105. Specifically, the tilt channel 105 is formed along a respective portion of the main body 139. The support protrusion 107 is received within the tilt channel 105. The support protrusion 107 effectively couples the support body 122 to the roller body 138.

[0092] The pivot connection 144 has any suitable shape. As a non-limiting example, the pivot connection 144 has a triangular shape with three vertices. Each of the three vertices corresponds to a single point of coupling. Specifically, the pivot connection comprises a support body coupling 150, a roller coupling 152 and a seat receiver coupling 154. The support body coupling 150 couples the pivot connection 144 to the support body 122. The roller coupling 152 couples the pivot connection 144 to the roller body 138. The seat receiver coupling 154 couples the pivot connection 144 to the seat receiver 117. The roller body 138 is located forward of the pivot connection 144 relative to the backrest 104 (FIG. 1) (e.g., in the horizontal direction (Hd)).

[0093] The pivot connection 144 is rotatable in a tilt pivot direction (Pd) about single vertex of the pivot connection 144. Specifically, the pivot connection 144 is rotatable in the tilt pivot direction (Pd) about the support body coupling 150. The tilt pivot direction (Pd) coincides with the tilt direction (Td) (FIG. 1). Put another way, the tilt pivot direction (Pd) that the pivot connection 144 rotates in defense the tilt direction (Td) of the tilt assembly 114. Additional functionality of the pivot connection 144 will be described in further detail below, however, movement of the pivot connection 144 in the tilt pivot direction (Pd) ultimately causes movement of the seat receiver 117 along a seat horizontal movement axis (Hds). The seat horizontal movement axis (Hds) is predominantly along the x-axis (e.g., the horizontal direction (Hd)). The seat horizontal movement axis (Hds) is illustrated by a double-sided arrow meaning that the seat receiver 117 is moveable in either direction along the seat horizontal movement axis (Hds).

[0094] As illustrated, the tilt assembly 114 is in an upright position. The upright position is defined as a non-reclined or non-tilted state of the chair assembly 100. In the upright position, the support protrusion 107 is located on a far left side of the tilt channel 105. In the upright position, the set of rollers 148 are located on a left side of the set of roller channels 146.72491-0003

[0095] While only a single side of the tilt assembly 114 is illustrated, it will be appreciated that an opposing side of the tilt assembly 114 can include aspects of FIGS. 7a and 7b described herein. As a non-limiting example, the tilt assembly 114 can include two support bodies 122 and two pivot connections 144 provided on opposing sides of the seat receiver 117. Each support body 122 of the two support bodies 122 can be coupled to a single respective pivot connection of the two pivot connections 144. The roller body 138 can include two tilt channels 105 on opposing sides of the roller body 138. The roller body 138 can interconnect the two support bodies. The two pivot connections and the two support bodies are located on opposing sides of the seat receiver 117 in the lateral direction (Ld).

[0096] FIG. 7b is a side view of the tilt assembly of FIG. 1. The tilt assembly 114 includes the support body 122 having the lumbar support adjustment channel 135, the first arm 125, the support protrusion 107, the second arm 127, and the bend 123. The tilt assembly 114 includes a roller body 138 and a seat receiver 117. The roller body 138 comprises the main body 139, the tilt channel 105, the protrusion 140, and the set of rollers 148. The seat receiver 117 comprises the set of roller channels 146. The tilt assembly 114 comprises a pivot connection 144. The pivot connection 144 has the support body coupling 150, the roller coupling 152, and the seat receiver coupling 154. The first arm 125 can include the lumbar support adjustment channel 135. The roller body 138 includes the roller channel 146. The support body 122 comprises the protrusion 140 receivable within the roller channel 146. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0097] As illustrated, the tilt assembly 114 is tilted further back in the tilted direction (Td) of FIG. 1 than in the illustrated positioning of FIG. 7a. It is contemplated that the illustrated position in FIG. 7a can be defined as an upright position while the position illustrated in FIG. 7b can be defined as a reclined position. In the reclined position, the support protrusion 107 is located to the right of the support protrusion 107 in the upright position (FIG. 7a) within the tilt channel 105. In the upright position (FIG. 7a), the set of rollers 148 are located to the right of the set of rollers in the upright position within the set of roller channels 146.

[0098] With reference to both FIGS. 7a and 7b, when the chair assembly 100 is in an upright position, the support protrusion 107 is located on a left side of the tilt channel 105, and the set of rollers 148 are located within a left side of the set of roller channels 146, with respect to the page. When the chair assembly 100 is in a reclined position, the support protrusion 107 moves from the left side and towards a right side of the tilt channel 105, and72491-0003the set of rollers 148 move from the left side and towards the right side of the set of roller channels 146, with respect to the page. The movement of the set of rollers 148 and the support protrusion 107 ultimately allows for dynamic movement of the seat receiver 117, and hence the seat 102 (FIG. 1), when the tilt assembly 114 moves in the tilt pivot direction (Pd). Put another way, movement of the tilt assembly 114 in the tilt direction (Td) of FIG. 1 causes movement of the seat 102 in the horizontal direction (Hd). Specifically, the movement of the tilt assembly 114 causes the seat 102 to move along the horizontal direction (Hd) relative to the backrest 104.

[0099] Movement of the pivot connection 144 in the tilt pivot direction (Pd) is enabled through the application of a second force (F2). The tilt pivot direction (Pd) is with respect to the z-axis (e.g., the lateral direction (Ld) of FIG. 1). The second force (F2), for example, can be the force a user of the chair assembly 100 applies to the backrest 104 (FIG. 1), specifically the front surface 111 (FIG. 1) of the backrest 104. The second force (F2) is a rearward force relative to the front 119 (FIGs. 4-5c) of the seat 102. Once the second force (F2) is applied to the backrest 104, and thus the support body 122, the pivot connection 144 rotates counterclockwise in the tilt pivot direction (Pd). The rotation of the pivot connection 144 counterclockwise causes the support protrusion 107 to move towards the right side of the tilt channel 105. The movement of the support protrusion 107 in turn causes the roller body 138 to move in the vertical direction (Vd) from the positioning of the roller body 138 when in the upright position (FIG. 7a). The movement of the roller body 138 in the vertical direction (Vd) causes the set of rollers 148 to move linearly within the set or roller channels 146. The linear movement of the set of rollers 148 within the set of roller channels 146 ultimately causes the seat receiver 117, and thus the seat 102, to move in a linear fashion along the seat horizontal movement axis (Hds). Once the second force (F2) is removed or lessened, the reverse process will happen ultimately causing the seat 102 to move in a linear fashion along the seat horizontal movement axis (Hds) towards the right of the page (e.g., the positioning in FIG. 7a).

[0100] The movement of the seat receiver 117 along the seat horizontal movement axis (Hds) when adjusting the degree of tilt of the chair assembly 100 increases a perceived comfort to the user of the chair assembly 100. Specifically, the movement of the seat 102 in the aforementioned fashion keeps the front 119 (FIG. 1) of the seat at a generally level height from a surface that the chair assembly 100 is provided on. This, in turn, means that the users feet will not lose contact with the surface or the user will not have to otherwise extend their legs to maintain contact with the surface. Further, the movement of the seat receiver 117, and72491-0003hence the seat 102 along the seat horizontal movement axis (Hds) for a users pelvis to move forward along the seat horizontal movement axis (Hds) (e.g., the right of the page) when the user reclines in the chair assembly 100. The forward movement of the users pelvis while reclining increases a perceived comfort of the chair assembly 100 to the user.

[0101] It will be appreciated that the second force (F2) can be defined as a threshold force. Put another way, once the threshold force is met or exceeded, the tilt assembly 114 will rotate in the tilt pivot direction (Pd). It is further contemplated that the tilt assembly 114 can be locked by the user in some instances. For example, if the chair assembly 100 is in the upright position (FIG. 7a) and the user wishes to leave the chair assembly 100 in the upright position even if the second force (F2) is applied to the backrest 104, the user can lock the tilt assembly 114 to prevent rotation of the pivot connection 144 in the tilt pivot direction (Pd). Similarly, if the user wishes to keep the tilt assembly 114 at a certain degree of tilt that is not the upright position, then the user can lock the tilt assembly 114 once the tilt assembly 114 is at the certain degree of tilt in order to keep the tilt assembly 114 at the certain degree of tilt.

[0102] FIG. 8a is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest 104 viewed from sectional line VIII- VIII of FIG. 1. The backrest 104 incudes a flexible backrest body 124 defining a first thoracic support 164. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at a distal end 170. A lumbar support 132 is provided along a respective portion of the flexible backrest body 124; specifically, a rear side of the flexible backrest body 124. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0103] The flexible backrest body 124 further comprises a base 167 and a base plate 168. The base plate 168 extends from the base 167 and towards the first thoracic support 164. It will be appreciated that the base plate 168 and the first thoracic support 164 are part of the same body; the flexible backrest body 124. The base plate 168, however, defines a rigid, nonflexible portion of the flexible backrest body 124. The base plate 168 and the first thoracic support 164 are separated by a slot of the set of flex slots 126. The base 167 is located along an opposing end of the flexible backrest body 124, with respect to the distal end 170.

[0104] The first thoracic support 164 is defined by a lumbar maximum 143. The lumbar maximum 143 is defined as a lumbar depth distance 145 in the horizontal direction (Hd) from where a forward portion of the first thoracic support 164 meets the distal end 170 and to the lumbar maximum 143.

[0105] The lumbar support 132 includes a depth adjustment body 141. The depth adjustment body 141 is configured to adjust the relative curvature (e.g., depth) of the first thoracic support 164. The depth adjustment body 141 has any suitable shape. As a non-72491-0003limiting example, the depth adjustment body 141 is a cam. The depth adjustment body 141 is rotatable in a rotational direction (Rd). The rotation of the depth adjustment body 141 in the rotational direction (Rd) causes movement of the first thoracic support 164 in a depth adjustment movement axis (Da). The depth adjustment movement axis (Da) is predominantly along the x-axis (e.g., the horizontal direction (Hd)). The depth adjustment body 141 is used to vary the lumbar depth distance 145 (e.g., a relative amplitude) that the lumbar maximum 143 is located from the point where the forward surface of the first thoracic support 164 meets the distal end 170. It will be appreciated that the depth adjustment body 141 is rotatable in the rotational direction (Rd) through rotation of the lumbar support adjuster 134 (FIG. 1).

[0106] While described in terms of the base plate 168, it will be appreciated that the base plate 168 can further be defined as a sacral support. When the user is seated in the chair assembly 100, the sacral region of their spine rests against the base plate 168. The base plate 168 is sized and shaped to follow the contour of the sacral region of the spine.

[0107] FIG. 8b is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest 104 viewed from sectional line VIII- VIII of FIG. 1. The backrest 104 incudes a flexible backrest body 124 defining a first thoracic support 164. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at a distal end 170. A lumbar support 132 is provided along a respective portion of the flexible backrest body 124; specifically, a rear side of the flexible backrest body 124. The flexible backrest body 124 further comprises the base 167 and the base plate 168. The first thoracic support 164 is defined by the lumbar maximum 143 that is adjustable through rotation of the depth adjustment body 141 in the rotational direction (Rd) allowing movement of the lumbar support 132 along the depth adjustment movement axis (Da). The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0108] With reference to FIGS. 8a and 8b, the lumbar maximum 143 is larger in FIG. 8b than in FIG. 8a. Put another way, a bump along the flexible backrest body 124 or the first thoracic support 164 defined by the lumbar support 132 is larger in FIG. 8b than in FIG. 8a. As such, the lumbar depth distance 145 is smaller in FIG. 8a than in FIG. 8b. The variation of the lumbar maximum 143 can be made based on a user’s preference. As a non-limiting example, each user of the chair assembly 100 can have variations in their spine in relation to one another. As such, being able to vary the lumbar maximum 143 allows for the backrest to form a contour (e.g., the first thoracic support 164) that best fits

[0109] The variation of the lumbar maximum 143 is done through rotation of the depth adjustment body 141 in the rotational direction. As the depth adjustment body 141 is a cam, a72491-0003respective portion of the lumbar support 132 will follow the contour of the cam such that when the cam is rotated in the rotational direction (Rd), the lumbar support 132 will move horizontally to vary the movement of the lumbar support 132 along the depth adjustment movement axis (Da). As such, the lumbar support 132 can be defined as a cam follower while the depth adjustment body 141 is defined as a cam.

[0110] FIG. 8c is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest 104 viewed from sectional line VIII- VIII of FIG. 1. The backrest 104 incudes a flexible backrest body 124 defining a first thoracic support 164. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at a distal end 170. A lumbar support 132 is provided along a respective portion of the flexible backrest body 124; specifically, a rear side of the flexible backrest body 124. The flexible backrest body 124 further comprises the base 167 and the base plate 168. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0111] The lumbar support 132 is moveable in the vertical direction (Vd) to provide for a movement of the lumbar support 132 along a vertical adjustment movement axis (Va). The vertical adjustment movement axis (Va) is predominantly along the y-axis (e.g., the vertical direction (Vd)). As a non-limiting example, vertical movement of the lumbar support adjuster 134 (FIG. 1) within the lumbar support adjustment channel 135 enables movement of the lumbar support 132 along the vertical adjustment movement axis (Va). Movement of the lumbar support 132 along the vertical adjustment movement axis (Va), in turn, varies the location of the lumbar maximum 143 (FIGS. 8a and 8b) in the vertical direction (Vd).

[0112] FIG. 8d is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest 104 viewed from sectional line VIII- VIII of FIG. 1. The backrest 104 incudes a flexible backrest body 124 defining a first thoracic support 164. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at a distal end 170. A lumbar support 132 is provided along a respective portion of the flexible backrest body 124; specifically, a rear side of the flexible backrest body 124. The flexible backrest body 124 further comprises the base 167 and the base plate 168. The lumbar support 132 is moveable in along the vertical adjustment movement axis (Va). The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0113] With reference to FIGS. 8c and 8d, the lumbar support 132 is moveable between two extremes in the vertical direction (Vd). FIG. 8c illustrates the lumbar support 132 at a vertical minimum (e.g., nearest the base 167), while FIG. 8d illustrates the lumbar support 132 at a vertical maximum (e.g., farthest from the base 167).

[0114] With reference to FIGS. 8a-8d, the variation of the lumbar maximum 143 through movement of the lumbar support 132 along the vertical adjustment movement axis (Va) and72491-0003the depth adjustment movement axis (Da) can be made based on a user’s preference. As a non-limiting example, each user of the chair assembly 100 can have variations in their spine in relation to one another. As such, being able to vary the lumbar maximum 143 allows for the backrest to form a contour (e.g., the first thoracic support 164) that best fits a given users spine.

[0115] FIG. 9 is a rear view of the backrest 104 of FIG. 1 with the upholstery 116 (FIG.1) removed. The backrest 104 includes the flexible backrest body 124 defining the first thoracic support 164, and the modular backrest body 128 defining the second thoracic support 166. The flexible backrest body 124 includes the base 167, the base plate 168, and the plurality of flex slots 126. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at the distal end 170. The modular backrest body 128 and the flexible backrest body 124 are coupled together at a coupling 130. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0116] FIG. 10a is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest 104 viewed from sectional line X-X of FIG. 9. The backrest 104 includes the flexible backrest body 124 defining the first thoracic support 164, and the modular backrest body 128 defining the second thoracic support 166. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at the distal end 170. For reference, the chair assembly 100 has a horizontal direction (Hd) and a vertical direction (Vd) .

[0117] As illustrated, the first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166 are shown as schematic linkages. When the second force (F2) is zero, the first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166 are in their original, manufactured state. In other words, the first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166 do not flex or bend beyond their original, manufactured state when the second force (F2) is zero.

[0118] FIG. 10b is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the backrest 104 viewed from sectional line X-X of FIG. 9. The backrest 104 includes the flexible backrest body 124 defining the first thoracic support 164, and the modular backrest body 128 defining the second thoracic support 166. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at the distal end 170. For reference, the chair assembly 100 has a horizontal direction (Hd) and a vertical direction (Vd).

[0119] As illustrated, the first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166 are shown as schematic linkages. When the second force (F2) is non-zero, the first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166 flex and follow the contour of the second force (F2). Put another way, the second force (F2) is not a singular point force. Instead, the72491-0003second force (F2) is a plurality of forces applied along the backrest 104. The first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166 flex based on a local portion of the second force (F2). As such, regions of the first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166 can flex more than other regions, as illustrated. The uneven flex of the first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166 allows for the backrest 104 to conform to the shape of the users back. As such, the uses of the first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166, specifically the mechanisms that allow for the first thoracic support 164 and the second thoracic support 166 to flex, increases the perceived comfort of the user.

[0120] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the backrest 104 of FIG. 1 with the upholstery 116 (FIG. 1) removed. The backrest 104 includes the flexible backrest body 124 defining the first thoracic support 164, and the modular backrest body 128 defining the second thoracic support 166. The flexible backrest body 124 includes the base 167, the base plate 168, and the plurality of flex slots 126. The flexible backrest body 124 terminates at the distal end 170. The modular backrest body 128 and the flexible backrest body 124 are coupled together at a coupling 130. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0121] The modular backrest body 128 is removable and replaceable. Put another way, the modular backrest body 128 can take many forms. As a non-limiting example, the chair assembly 100 can be suited to be manufactured with one of a first modular backrest body 128a or a second modular backrest body 128b with the two having at least one difference. As a non-limiting example, the first modular backrest body 128a is larger than the second modular backrest body 128b. As a non-limiting example, the first modular backrest body 128a includes the headrest receiver 180, while the second modular backrest body 128b does not. As such, the chair assembly 100 formed with the first modular backrest body 128a can further include the headrest 106, while the chair assembly 100 formed with the second modular backrest body 128b does not include the headrest 106. While the first modular backrest body 128a is shown to include the headrest receiver 180, it will be appreciated that the first modular backrest body 128a can be formed without the headrest receiver 180. It will be further appreciated that the chair assembly 100 can be formed without the headrest 106 as shown. Instead, the modular backrest body 128 can be formed in such a way that the headrest is integrally formed with the modular backrest body 128. Put another way, the modular backrest body 128 can form a headrest of the chair assembly 100.

[0122] The modular backrest body 128 is coupled to the flexible backrest body 124 at the coupling 130. The coupling 130, as discussed herein, is any reversible coupling between the72491-0003modular backrest body 128 and the flexible backrest body 124. As a non-limiting example, the coupling 130 can include a set of keys 174 that interface with a set of slots 176. The set of keys 174 can be located along a respective portion of the modular backrest body 128, while the set of slots 176 can be formed along the distal end 170 of the flexible backrest body 124. The set of keys 174 can be inserted into the set of slots 176, and a fastener (e.g., a set of screws, nails, etc.) can couple the set of keys 174 to the set of slots 176. This effectively couples the modular backrest body 128 to the flexible backrest body 124. A reverse of the aforementioned coupling process can be done to remove the modular backrest body 128 from the flexible backrest body 124.

[0123] It will be appreciated that each of the first modular backrest body 128a, the second modular backrest body 128b, or any other modular backrest body is couplable to the flexible backrest body 124 in the same manner (e.g., through use of the set of keys 174 and the set of slots 176). As such, the flexible backrest body 124 is configured to be coupled with each of the first modular backrest body 128a, the second modular backrest body 128b, or any other modular backrest body.

[0124] The modular backrest body 128 defines an upper portion of the backrest 104 with respect to the vertical direction (Vd). As a non-limiting example, a user of the chair assembly 100 positions their neck and / or head against the modular backrest body 128 when seated in the chair assembly 100.

[0125] The modularity of the modular backrest body 128 allows for variations of the chair assembly 100 that best suit the user. As a non-limiting example, if a user wishes to have the headrest 106 or a larger modular backrest body 128, they can opt to have the first modular backrest body 128a installed on the chair assembly 100. Conversely, if the user does not want the headrest 106 or a smaller modular backrest body 128, the user can opt to have the second modular backrest body 128b installed on the chair assembly 100. Put another way, the use of the modular backrest body 128 allows for a simple substitution of parts to create a plurality of models of the chair assembly 100 rather than substitution of larger parts (e.g., an entirety of the backrest 104).

[0126] The variation of the chair assembly 100 can be based on a users preference or a users stature. As a non-limiting example, a model of the chair assembly 100 can be created for users with a shorter stature that includes a shorter or smaller modular backrest body 128 (e.g., the second modular backrest body 128b). As a non-limiting example, a model of the chair assembly 100 can be created for users with a larger stature that includes a larger modular backrest body 128 (e.g., the first modular backrest body 128a).72491-0003

[0127] The modularity of the modular backrest body 128 improves a manufacturing process of the chair assembly 100. As a non-limiting example, during manufacture of the chair assembly 100, the flexible backrest body 124 and the modular backrest body 128 are formed separately. As the flexible backrest body 124 remains constant between models of the chair assembly 100, a single production line for the flexible backrest body 124 is needed. Separate production lines for the first modular backrest body 128a and the second modular backrest body 128b can be required, however, the parts are smaller when compared to a separate production lines to create two or more backrests 104 formed as a single component (e.g., combinations of the flexible backrest body 124 and the modular backrest body 128). Put another way, the use of the modular backrest body 128 establishes the differences and the similarities between models of the chair assembly 100 and bases production lines off of these differences and similarities. This allows for new models to be easily incorporated into the production process. As a non-limiting example, if a new model having a third modular backrest body different from the first modular backrest body 128a and the second modular backrest body 128b is created, only a new production line for the third modular backrest body need to be made in order to create the chair assembly 100 with the third modular backrest body as the production line for the flexible backrest body already exists.

[0128] The modularity of the modular backrest body 128 improves a repair process of the chair assembly 100. As a non-limiting example, if the modular backrest body 128 needed to be replaced due to wear and tear, only the modular backrest body 128 needs to be replaced as opposed to an entirety of the backrest 104 (modular backrest body 128 plus the flexible backrest body 124).

[0129] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the headrest 106 of FIG. 1. The headrest 106 includes the first headrest arm 182, the second headrest arm 184, and the headrest plate 186. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0130] The first headrest arm 182 includes a height adjustment mechanism that allows the headrest to vary in a perceived height in the vertical direction (Vd). The height adjustment mechanism can include, for example, a plurality of notches 188 or detents formed along the first headrest arm 182. The plurality of notches 188 can be evenly spaced along the first headrest arm 182. As a non-limiting example, the plurality of notches 188 can be vertically evenly spaced along the first headrest arm 182 in the vertical direction (Vd). The plurality of notches 188 can be any suitable shape. As a non-limiting example, the plurality of notches 188 can be rectangular notches, or semi-cylindrical (e.g., a half cylinder).72491-0003

[0131] The first headrest arm 182 is coupled to the second headrest arm 184 at a first coupling 185. The second headrest arm 184 is rotatable about the first headrest arm 182 at the first coupling 185. As such, a first pitch axis (Paxl) is located at the first coupling 185. The first pitch axis (Paxl) is relative to the z-axis (e.g., the lateral direction (Ld) of FIG. 1). The second headrest arm 184 is coupled to the headrest plate 186 at a second coupling 187. The headrest plate 186 is rotatable about the second headrest arm 184 at the second coupling 187. As such, a second pitch axis (Pax2) is located at the second coupling 187. The second pitch axis (Pax2) is relative to the z-axis (e.g., the lateral direction (Ld) of FIG. 1). The second coupling 187 is located on an opposing end of the second headrest arm 184 relative to the first coupling 185.

[0132] FIG. 13a is a schematic side view of the chair assembly 100 as viewed from sectional line XIII-XIII of FIG. 1. The headrest 106 is coupled to the backrest 104. The headrest 106 includes the first headrest arm 182, the second headrest arm 184, and the headrest plate 186. The first headrest arm 182 is coupled to second headrest arm 184 at the first coupling 185 that defines the first pitch axis (Paxl). The second headrest arm 184 is coupled to the headrest plate 186 at the second coupling 187 defining the second pitch axis (Pax2). The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0133] The first headrest arm 182 includes the height adjustment mechanism that allows the headrest to allow movement in the vertical direction (Vd). The height adjustment mechanism can include, for example, the plurality of notches 188 (FIG. 12) or detents formed along the first headrest arm 182. The height adjustment mechanism can include a notch catch 189 configured to interface with and be received within the plurality of notches 188. The notch catch 189 can be formed within the backrest 104. As a non-limiting example, the notch catch 189 can be formed within the headrest receiver 180 (FIG. 2). The notch catch 189 is defined as any suitable structure adapted to fit within and be retained within a respective notch of the plurality of notches 188. As a non-limiting example, the notch catch 189 can be formed as a lever 191 with a hook 193.

[0134] FIG. 13b is a schematic side view of the chair assembly 100 as viewed from sectional line XIII-XIII of FIG. 1. The headrest 106 is coupled to the backrest 104. The headrest 106 includes the first headrest arm 182, the second headrest arm 184, and the headrest plate 186. The first headrest arm 182 is coupled to second headrest arm 184 at the first coupling 185 that defines the first pitch axis (Paxl). The second headrest arm 184 is coupled to the headrest plate 186 at the second coupling 187 defining the second pitch axis72491-0003(Pax2). The headrest 106 includes a height adjustment mechanism. The height adjustment mechanism can include, for example, the notch catch 189 having the lever 191 and the hook 193. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0135] The headrest 106 is moveable along a headrest vertical movement axis (Vmh). The headrest vertical movement axis (Vmh) is predominantly along the z-axis (e.g., the vertical direction (Vd)). The headrest vertical movement axis (Vmh) is illustrated by a double-sided arrow meaning that the headrest 106 is moveable in either direction along the headrest vertical movement axis (Vmh). A disengagement of the notch catch 189 from the plurality of notches 188 (FIG. 12) allows for free movement of the first headrest arm 182 along the headrest vertical movement axis (Vmh). This, in turn, varies a height of the headrest plate 186 in the vertical direction (Vd).

[0136] With reference to FIGS. 13a and 13b, the headrest plate 186 in FIG. 13a and FIG.13b is at varying locations. In FIG. 13a, the headrest plate 186 is located at a minimum height in the vertical direction (Vd) by positioning the notch catch 189 within a notch of the plurality of notches 188 (FIG. 12) located at highest notch of the plurality of notches 188 in the vertical direction (Vd). In FIG. 13b, the headrest plate 186 is located at a maximum height in the vertical direction (Vd) by positioning the notch catch 189 within a notch of the plurality of notches 188 (FIG. 12) located at lowest notch of the plurality of notches 188 in the vertical direction (Vd). The variation of the height of the headrest plate 186 in the vertical direction (Vd) is done through use of the notch catch 189 and the plurality of notches 188. It will be appreciated that a height of the headrest plate 186 can be selected based on the location of a respective notch of the plurality of notches 188 is. Put another way, the headrest plate 186 can be locked in at a height between that illustrated in FIG. 13a and that shown in FIG. 13b by positioning the notch catch 189 within a notch of the plurality of notches 188 between the highest notch and the lowest notch. As such, the plurality of notches 188 and the notch catch 189 collectively form a lock to retain the headrest at a given height (e.g., vertical positioning in the vertical direction (Vd)) relative to the backrest 104.

[0137] FIG. 13c is a schematic side view of the chair assembly 100 as viewed from sectional line XIII-XIII of FIG. 1. The headrest 106 is coupled to the backrest 104. The headrest 106 includes the first headrest arm 182, the second headrest arm 184, and the headrest plate 186. The first headrest arm 182 is coupled to second headrest arm 184 at the first coupling 185 that defines the first pitch axis (Paxl). The second headrest arm 184 is coupled to the headrest plate 186 at the second coupling 187 defining the second pitch axis72491-0003(Pax2). The headrest 106 includes a height adjustment mechanism. The height adjustment mechanism can include, for example, the notch catch 189 having the lever 191 and the hook 193. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0138] The headrest 106 is configured to move along a headrest horizontal movement axis (Hmh) through movement of the second headrest arm 184 about the first pitch axis (Paxl). The headrest horizontal movement axis (Hmh) is predominantly along the x-axis (e.g., the horizontal direction (Hd)). The headrest horizontal movement axis (Hmh) is illustrated by a double-sided arrow meaning that the armrest is moveable in either direction along the headrest horizontal movement axis (Hmh). Specifically, movement of the second headrest arm 184 about the first pitch axis (Paxl) causes the headrest plate 186 to move horizontally away or towards the backrest 104 (e.g., along the horizontal movement axis (Hm)). It will be appreciated that the first coupling 185 can be defined by a pivot coupling. The pivot coupling of the first coupling 185 can be held in place via friction or a locking mechanism. When a user applies a force to the headrest sufficient to move or otherwise unlock the pivot coupling of the first coupling 185, the user of the chair assembly 100 can move the second headrest arm 184 about the first pitch axis (Paxl) to cause the headrest plate 186 to move along the horizontal movement axis (Hm).

[0139] The headrest 106 , specifically the headrest plate 186, is configured to move with a headrest pitch (Hp). This is done by moving the headrest plate 186 about the second pitch axis (Pax2). It will be appreciated that the second coupling 187 can be defined by a pivot coupling. The pivot coupling of the second coupling 187 can be held in place via friction or a locking mechanism. When a user applies a force to the headrest sufficient to move or otherwise unlock the pivot coupling of the second coupling 187, the user of the chair assembly 100 can move the headrest plate 186 about the second pitch axis (Pax2) to cause the headrest plate 186 to follow the headrest pitch (Hp).

[0140] The variation of the headrest pitch (Hp), movement of the headrest 106 along the horizontal movement axis (Hm) and the headrest vertical movement axis (Vmh) allows a user of the chair assembly 100 to select the exact positioning of the headrest plate 186. The selection of the positioning of the headrest plate 186, in turn, allows the user to tailor the location of the headrest plate 186 to a position that maximizes the perceived comfort of the user.

[0141] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the armrest 108 of FIG. 1 with the arm pad 200 (FIG. 1) removed. The armrest 108 is removed from a remainder of the chair assembly 10072491-0003for illustrative purposes. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference. For the purposes of illustration, only a single armrest of the set of armrests 108 is illustrated; specifically a left armrest of the set of armrests 108 relative to a user sitting in the chair assembly 100 in the horizontal direction (Hd). It will be appreciated, however, that the aspects described in relation to the right armrest can be applied to any armrest of the set of armrests 108.

[0142] The armrest 108 includes a base 202, and arm 204, a arm pad seat 206, and an arm pad interface 210. The arm pad seat 206 includes an upper surface 218 with respect to the vertical direction (Vd). The arm pad seat 206 includes a guide channel 214 formed along the upper surface 218. The guide channel 214 has at least two portions; a first opening 220 and a second opening 222. The first opening 220 forms an opening along the upper surface 218. The second opening 222 forms an openin6g into the first opening 220. The second opening 222 forms an opening along the lower surface 219. The first opening 220 has a larger cross-sectional area than a cross-sectional area of the second opening 222 when viewed along a plane extending in the lateral direction (Ld) and horizontal direction (Hd). The variation of the cross-sectional areas between the first opening 220 and the second opening 222 creates a shelf 224 between the first opening 220 and the second opening 222. The first opening 220 and the second opening 222 collectively extend through an entirety of the arm pad seat 206 in the vertical direction (Vd). As such, the guide channel 214 forms a through-hole that extends through the arm pad seat 206 in the vertical direction (Vd).

[0143] The arm pad interface 210 can include bearings on an underside of the arm pad interface 210. The arm pad interface 210 is located within the guide channel 214.Specifically, the arm pad interface 210 rests against the shelf 224 and is located within first opening 220. As such, the arm pad interface 210 is located on an opposing side of the shelf 224 with respect to the arm 204. As a non-limiting example, the arm pad interface 210 can be formed in such a way that the bearings on the underside of the arm pad interface 210 contact the shelf 224. The arm pad interface 210 is coupled to the arm 204. As a non-limiting example, an interface fastener 230 (e.g., a screw, a bolt, etc.) can extend through the arm pad interface 210 and into a respective portion of the arm 204 to secure the arm pad interface 210 to the arm 204. As a non-limiting example, the interface fastener 230 can extend through the second opening 222 and to the arm 204. When the arm 204 is coupled to the arm pad interface 210, the shelf 224 is sandwiched between the arm 204 and the arm pad interface 210. This configuration, in turn, couples the arm pad seat 206 to the arm 204 and the arm pad interface 210.72491-0003

[0144] The arm pad 200 is coupled to the arm pad interface 210. When the arm pad 200 is coupled to the arm pad interface 210, the arm pad rests against at least the upper surface 218 of the arm pad seat 206.

[0145] The arm 204 extends between the arm pad seat 206 and the base 202. The arm 204 is coupled to the base 202 via a swivel joint 208. The base 202 is coupled to a portion of the chair assembly 100 to effectively secure the armrest 108 to a respective portion of the chair assembly 100. As a non-limiting example, the base 202 connects to a remainder of the chair assembly 100 at the armrest connection slot 216 (FIG. 2).

[0146] FIG. 15a is a top view-down view of the armrest 108 of FIG. 14. FIG. 15a illustrates the armrest 108 in a first swivel position, and a first horizontal position. FIG. 15b is a top view-down view of the armrest 108 of FIG. 14. FIG. 15b illustrates the armrest 108 in a second swivel position, and a second horizontal position.

[0147] With reference to FIGs. 15a and 15b, the armrest 108 includes the base 202, the arm 204, the arm pad seat 206, and the arm pad interface 210. The arm pad interface 210 includes the interface fastener 230. The arm pad seat 206 includes the upper surface 218 and the guide channel 214. The arm pad seat 206 includes a lower surface 219. The guide channel 214 has the first opening 220 and the second opening 222, with the shelf 224 formed therebetween. The horizontal direction (Hd), and the lateral direction (Ld) are provided for reference.

[0148] The second opening 222 includes a first horizontal stop 226 (FIG. 15 a) and a second horizontal stop 228 (FIG. 15b). The first horizontal stop 226 and the second horizontal stop 228 define terminations of the second opening 222 axially with respect to an axis extending in at least one of the horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), or a combination thereof. In FIGs. 15a and 15b, the arm pad seat 206 is oriented in such a way that the first horizontal stop 226 and the second horizontal stop 228 define opposing terminations of the second opening 222 in to an axis extending in the horizontal direction (Hd).

[0149] It will be appreciated that the arm pad interface 210 is coupled to the arm 204 in such a way that the arm pad seat 206 is held in frictional contact with the arm pad interface 210 and the arm 204, but is moveable relative to the arm 204. As a non-limiting example, the bearings on the underside of the arm pad interface 210 allow for the arm pad interface 210 to be moveable within the guide channel 210. The arm pad seat 206 is movable along an armrest horizontal movement axis (Hma). The armrest horizontal movement axis (Hma) is predominantly along the x-axis (e.g., the horizontal direction (Hd)). The armrest horizontal72491-0003movement axis (Hma) is illustrated by a double-sided arrow meaning that the armrest 108 is moveable in either direction along the armrest horizontal movement axis (Hma). The first horizontal stop 226 and the second horizontal stop 228 define opposing horizontal limits that that the arm pad seat 206 can move.

[0150] In the first horizontal position (FIG. 15a), at least a portion of the arm 204, the arm pad interface 210, the coupling between the arm 204 and the arm pad interface 210, or a combination thereof is contacting the second horizontal stop 228. As such, the arm pad seat 206 is unable to move further in the horizontal direction (Hd) from the first horizonal position, as the physical contact between at least a portion of the arm 204, the arm pad interface 210, the coupling between the arm 204 and the arm pad interface 210, or a combination thereof and the second horizontal stop 228 prevents the arm pad seat 206 from moving further

[0151] In the second horizontal position (FIG. 15b), at least a portion of the arm 204, the arm pad interface 210, the coupling between the arm 204 and the arm pad interface 210, or a combination thereof is contacting the first horizontal stop 226. As such, the arm pad seat 206 is unable to move further in a direction opposite the horizontal direction (Hd) from the second horizonal position, as the physical contact between at least a portion of the arm 204, the arm pad interface 210, the coupling between the arm 204 and the arm pad interface 210, or a combination thereof and the first horizontal stop 226 prevents the arm pad seat 206 from moving further.

[0152] It will be appreciated that the arm pad seat 206 is horizontally moveable along the armrest horizontal movement axis (Hma) between the first horizontal position and the second horizontal position. The arm pad 200 is located farther forward with respect to the horizontal direction (Hd) in the first horizontal position than in the second horizontal position. It will be appreciated that the user of the chair assembly 100 can vary the horizontal positioning of the arm pad 200 with respect to an axis extending in the horizontal direction (Hd).

[0153] The swivel axis (Paxa) extend primarily in the vertical direction (Vd) (FIG. 14). It will be appreciated, however, that the swivel axis (Paxa) need not extend parallel a line extending in the vertical direction (Vd), however, the swivel axis (Paxa) is non-parallel to lines extending in the lateral direction (Ld) and the horizontal direction (Hd), respectively. The arm 204 is pivotable about base 202 via the swivel joint 208. Specifically, the arm 204 is pivotable about the swivel axis (Paxa) in a swivel movement direction (Pma). The swivel movement direction (Pma) is a circumferential movement about the swivel axis (Paxa). The72491-0003swivel movement direction (Pma) is along a plane parallel to axis’ extending in the horizontal direction (Hd) and the lateral direction (Ld).

[0154] As the arm 204 is coupled to the arm pad seat 206, it will be appreciated that the arm pad seat 206 is moveable about the swivel axis (Paxa) with the movement of the arm 204 in the swivel movement direction (Pma). The first swivel position (FIG. 15a) and the second swivel position (FIG. 15b) differ from one another. It will be appreciated that the arm 204, and hence the arm pad seat 206 is moveable between the first swivel position and the second swivel position. It will be appreciated that the arm 204, and hence the arm pad seat 206 are moveable about an entirety of (e.g., 360 degrees) about the swivel axis (Paxa).

[0155] The swivel joint 208 can be formed in such a way that the arm 204, and hence the arm pad seat 206 are held in position at a given swivel position. As a non-limiting example, the armrest 108 can include a swivel lock (not illustrated), that physically restrains the swivel joint 208 in a specific swivel position when actuated.

[0156] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the armrest 108 as seen along sectional plane XVI of FIG. 14. For the purposes of illustration, the arm pad 200 (FIG. 1) is removed from the armrest 108. The armrest 108 includes the base 202, the arm 204, the arm pad seat 206, the arm pad interface 210, and the swivel joint 208. The arm pad seat 206 includes the guide channel 214, the upper surface 218, the first opening 220, the second opening 222, the shelf 224, the first horizontal stop 226, and the second horizontal stop 228. The arm pad interface 210 includes the interface fastener 230. The swivel joint 208 defines an armrest pitch axis (Paxa). The horizontal direction (Hd), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0157] The arm 204 can include an outer tube 232 and an inner tube 234. The outer tube 232 can include a first male connector 236. The inner tube 234 can include a second male connector 240. The first male connector 236 and the second male connector 240 are any suitable shape. As a non-limiting example, the first male connector 236 and the second male connector 240 each define a frustoconical projection extending from a respective portion of the outer tube 232 and the inner tube 234, respectively. The first male connector 236 includes a first hole 250. The first hole 250 extends through at least a portion of the first male connector 236. The first hole 250 can be a threaded hole. The second male connector 240 includes a second hole 252. The second hole 252 extends through at least a portion of the second male connector 240. The second hole 252 can be a threaded hole. The second male connector 240 is made of any suitable material. As a non-limiting example, the second male connector 240 can be made of plastic, brass, aluminum, or the like.72491-0003

[0158] The inner tube 234 is at least partially received within the outer tube 232. The outer tube 232 can be movable with respect to the inner tube 234. As a non-limiting example, the outer tube 232 can be slidably movable along a respective portion of the inner tube 234 along an armrest vertical movement axis (Vmt). The armrest vertical movement axis (Vmt) is predominantly along the y-axis (e.g., the vertical direction (Vd)). The armrest vertical movement axis (Vmt) is illustrated with a double-sided arrow meaning that the armrest 108 is moveable in either direction along the armrest vertical movement axis (Vmt).

[0159] The armrest 108 includes a first female connector 246. The first female connector 246 is any suitable shape. As a non-limiting example, the first female connector 246 is defined by a frustoconical cavity extending into a respective portion of the arm pad interface 210. The first female connector 246 has an open interior. Put another way, the first female connector 246 defines an open, frustoconical cavity that extends into a respective portion of the arm pad interface 210.

[0160] The base 202 includes a second female connector 242. The second female connector 242 is any suitable shape. As a non-limiting example, the second female connector 242 is defined by a frustoconical cavity extending into a respective portion of the base 202. The second female connector 242 has an open interior. Put another way, the second female connector 242 defines an open, frustoconical cavity that extends into a respective portion of the base 202.

[0161] The base 202 includes a bearing assembly 272. The bearing assembly 272 is any suitable bearing assembly including a set of bearings including, but not limited to, ball bearings, roller bearings, needle bearings, tapered bearings, or the like. The bearing assembly 272 defines the second female connector 242. Put another way, the bearing assembly 272 forms the second female connector. The bearing assembly 272, and hence the second female connector 242, can include any suitable material. As a non-limiting example, the bearing assembly 272 can include a lubricated plastic material.

[0162] The armrest 108 includes a first spring 238 and a second spring 248. The first spring 238, and the second spring 248 can be a leaf spring, a compression spring, a coil spring, or the like.

[0163] The armrest 108 includes an arm fastener 244. The arm fastener 244 can be, for example, a screw, a nail, a clamp, a bolt, or the like. The armrest 108 includes a gasket 247. The gasket 247 is an annular structure located.

[0164] The gasket 247 surrounds a respective portion of the first female connector 246. While shown as two separate bodies, it will be appreciated that the gasket 247 and the first72491-0003female connector 246 can be integrally formed to form a unitary body. The first female connector 246 is sandwiched between (e.g., located between and touching) the arm pad interface 210 and the arm 204. Specifically, the first female connector 246 is sandwiched between the arm pad interface 210 and the first male connector 236. While the first female connector 246 is described as being a separate component from the arm pad interface 210, it will be appreciated that need not be the case. As a non-limiting example, the arm pad interface 210 and the first female connector 246 can be integrally formed to form a unitary body.

[0165] The arm 204 is connected to the arm pad interface 210. Specifically, the outer tube 232 is connected to the arm pad interface 210. At least a portion of the first male connector 236 is positioned within a respective portion of the cavity defined by the first female connector 246. The interface fastener 230 extends through a respective portion of the arm pad interface 210 and into the first hole 250 of the first male connector 236. It will be appreciated that the first hole 250 can be a threaded hole. As such, the interface fastener 230 can be threaded into the first hole 250. The interface fastener 230 couples the arm pad interface 210 to the arm 204.

[0166] The first spring 238 is positioned between the arm 204 and the arm pad interface 210. Specifically, the first spring 238 is positioned between respective portions of the first male connector 236, and the arm pad interface 210. The second spring 248 is located between the arm pad interface 210 and the first female connector 246.

[0167] When assembled, the interface fastener 230 urges the arm pad interface 210 towards the first female connector 246, thus causing the first female connector 246 to be urged onto the first male connector 236. The interface fastener 230 causes the first spring 238 and the second spring 248 to be compressed. The first spring 238, when compressed, applies an upward force onto the gasket 247 and a downward force onto the first female connector 246. The second spring 248 applies an upward force onto the arm pad interface 210 and a downward force onto the first female connector 246 and upward onto the gasket 247. The compression of the first spring 238 and the second spring 248 is used to maintain contact between the first female connector 246 and the first male connector 236.

[0168] It will be appreciated that at least a portion of the gasket 247 a respective portion of the lower surface 219. The upward force onto the gasket 247 causes the gasket 247 to push against the respective portion of the lower surface 219. The pushing against the lower surface 219 by the gasket 247 causes a frictional resistance to be created between the gasket 247 and the lower surface 219. As such, when compressed, the first spring 238 causes the gasket 24772491-0003to retain the arm pad seat 206 at a given (e.g., a desired) position through creation of the frictional resistance. It will be appreciated that the gasket 247 can be made of a slick (e.g., low friction) material. As a non-limiting example, the gasket 247 can be made of a lubricated plastic. As such, the frictional resistance between the gasket 247 and the lower surface 219 can be overcome if an external force is applied to the arm pad seat 206. As a non-limiting example, a user can push against the arm pad seat 206 to overcome the frictional resistance, thus allowing for movement of the arm pad seat 206 along the arm pad horizontal movement axis (Hma) (FIGs. 15A and 15B).

[0169] The arm 204 is connected to the base 202. Specifically, the inner tube 234 is connected to the base 202. At least a portion of the second male connector 240 is positioned within a respective portion of the cavity defined by the second female connector 242. The arm fastener 244 extends through a respective portion of the base 202 and into the second hole 252 of the second male connector 240. It will be appreciated that the second hole 252 can be a threaded hole. As such, the arm fastener 244 can be threaded into the second hole 252. The arm fastener 244 couples the base 202 to the arm 204.

[0170] When assembled, the arm fastener 244 urges the base 202 towards the arm 204, thus causing the second female connector 242 and the second male connector 240 to be urged towards one another. As such, the arm fastener 244 ensures that contact is created between the second female connector 242 and the second male connector 240. The bearing assembly 272 is used to allow for the second male connector 240 to be moveable relative to the second female connector 242 when the first male connector 236 is received within the second female connector 242. Specifically, the bearing assembly enables the second male connector, and thus the arm 204, to move about the swivel axis (Paxa).

[0171] As discussed herein, the arm 204 is moveable relative to the base 202.Specifically, the outer tube 232 is moveable relative to the base 202. With reference to FIGs.15a, 15b, and 16, the armrest 108 is moveable in various directions to enable a user of the chair assembly 100 to vary a relative location of the armrest 108. The movement of the arm pad seat 206 along the swivel armrest movement (Pma), the horizontal armrest movement axis (Hma), the armrest vertical movement axis (Vmt) or a combination thereof allows for the user of the chair assembly 100 to vary the location of the arm pad 200 (FIG. 1).

[0172] The movement of the armrest 108, specifically of the arm pad seat 206 and hence the arm pad 200, along the x-axis (e.g., the horizontal direction (Hd)), the y-axis (e.g., the vertical direction (Vd)), the z-axis (e.g., the lateral directoin (Ld)), or a combination thereof allows for a user of the chair assembly 100 to vary the location of the arm pad 200 to a72491-0003location that has the highest perceived comfort to the user. The armrest 108, as described herein, ensures that the user of the chair assembly 100 has sufficient ergonomic support of their arms to perform various tasks at a desk, table, or the like.

[0173] FIG. 17 is a schematic side view of the chair assembly 100 of FIG. 1 with the upholstery 116 (FIG. 1) and the set of armrests 108 (FIG. 1) removed. The chair assembly includes the seat 102, the backrest 104, the headrest 106, the set of legs 110 that can have the set of wheels 112, and the tilt assembly 114. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0174] The tilt assembly 114 has the support body 122. The support body 122 has the first arm 125, the second arm 127 and the bend 123. The tilt assembly 114 comprises the flexible body 161 having the minimum 156 located at the depth (D) and the length (L). The tilt assembly 114 comprises the roller body 138 and the pivot connection 144. The pivot coupling has the seat receiver coupling 154. The seat 102 defines the front 119. The seat 102 further comprises the seat pan 118 and the seat pan through-hole 120. The headrest 106 comprises the first headrest arm 182, the second headrest arm 184, and the headrest plate 186. The lumbar support adjuster 134 is located within the lumbar support adjustment channel 135.

[0175] As illustrated, the chair assembly 100 is located in an upright (non-reclined) position. A user illustrated with a skeletal model 190 is seated in the chair assembly 100. The skeletal model includes a skull 196, a spine 192, a pelvis 194 and a femur 198. When in the upright position, the skull 196 rests against the headrest plate 186, the spine 192 rests predominately against the backrest 104 and partially against the headrest plate 186 (e.g., at a neck of the skeletal model 190), while the pelvis 194 and the femur 198 rest along the seat 102.

[0176] FIG. 18 is a schematic side view of the chair assembly 100 of FIG. 1 with the upholstery 116 (FIG. 1) and the set of armrests 108 (FIG. 1) removed. The chair assembly includes the seat 102, the backrest 104, the headrest 106, the set of legs 110 that can have the set of wheels 112, and the tilt assembly 114. The horizontal direction (Hd), the lateral direction (Ld), and the vertical direction (Vd) are provided for reference.

[0177] The tilt assembly 114 has the support body 122. The support body 122 has the first arm 125, the second arm 127 and the bend 123. The tilt assembly 114 comprises the flexible body 161 having the minimum 156 located at the depth (D) and the length (L). The tilt assembly 114 comprises the roller body 138 and the pivot connection 144. The pivot coupling has the seat receiver coupling 154. The seat 102 defines the front 119. The seat 10272491-0003further comprises the seat pan 118 and the seat pan through-hole 120. The headrest 106 comprises the first headrest arm 182, the second headrest arm 184, and the headrest plate 186. The lumbar support adjuster 134 is located within the lumbar support adjustment channel 135.

[0178] As illustrated, the chair assembly 100 is located in a reclined position. The user illustrated with the skeletal model 190 is seated in the chair assembly 100. The skeletal model includes the skull 196, the spine 192, the pelvis 194 and the femur 198.

[0179] With reference to FIGS. 16 and 174, various degrees of adjustment of the chair assembly 100 can be made to best fit the skeletal model 190. As a non-limiting example, the headrest 106 is moveable along the horizontal movement axis (Hm), along the headrest vertical movement axis (Vmh), and the headrest pitch (Hp) of FIGS. 13a-13c, which allow for variation of the vertical positioning of, horizontal poisoning of and pitch of, respectively, the headrest plate 186. It is contemplated that the user may position the headrest plate 186 to conform to the contour of their spine 192 where the spine 192 meets the skull 196 (e.g., the neck). As a non-limiting example, the movement of the lumbar support along at least one of the depth adjustment movement axis (Da), the vertical adjustment movement axis (Va), or a combination as shown in FIGS. 8a-8d, allow for the movement of the lumbar maximum 143 (FIGS. 8a-8d) to best follow the contour of the spine 192, as illustrated. As a non-limiting example, the user reposition the seat pan through-hole 120 through adjustment of the depth (D) and the length (L) of the minimum 156. When the user reclines in the tilt direction (Td), the seat 102 follows accordingly. Specifically, the seat moves along the sliding movement axis (Sdi) described in FIGS. 5a-5c.

[0180] With reference to FIGS. 1-18, one or more of the movement of the lumbar support 132 along the depth adjustment movement axis (Da) and / or the vertical adjustment movement axis (Va), the depth (D) adjustment of the seat pan 118, the movement of the headrest along the headrest horizontal plane of movement (Hm) and / or the headrest vertical movement axis (Vmh), movement of the headrest pitch (Hp) of the headrest 106, the degree of tilt of the tilt assembly 114 in the tilt direction (Td), or a combination thereof can be done through use of a set of motors that are activatable through use of an interface (e.g., a button, knob, switch, electronic device, etc.) accessible to a user accessible to the user when the user is utilizing the chair assembly 100. The interface can, for example, be located along a portion of the chair assembly 100 (e.g., the set of armrests 108 of FIG. 1) or otherwise be defined by a device that is exterior the chair assembly 100. As a non-limiting example, the chair assembly 100 can include a controller module that is communicatively couplable with an electronic72491-0003device (e.g., a computer, a phone, a tablet, etc.) external the chair assembly 100. A user of the chair assembly 100 can then utilize the electronic device to control one or more of the movement of the lumbar support 132 along the depth adjustment movement axis (Da) or the vertical adjustment movement axis (Va), the depth (D) adjustment of the seat pan 118, the movement of the headrest along the headrest horizontal movement axis (Hm) and / or the headrest vertical movement axis (Vmh), the degree of tilt of the tilt assembly 114 in the tilt direction (Td), or a combination thereof.

[0181] To the extent not already described, the different features and structures of the various embodiments can be used in combination, or in substitution with each other as desired. That one feature is not illustrated in all of the embodiments is not meant to be construed that it cannot be so illustrated, but is done for brevity of description. Thus, the various features of the different embodiments can be mixed and matched as desired to form new embodiments, whether or not the new embodiments are expressly described. All combinations or permutations of features described herein are covered by this disclosure.

[0182] This written description uses examples to describe aspects of the disclosure described herein, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice aspects of the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of aspects of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

[0183] Further aspects are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0184] A chair assembly comprising a seat comprising a seat pan comprising a top, a bottom, and a seat pan through-hole extending between the top and the bottom, and a seat depth adjustment assembly comprising a flexible body at least partially aligned with the seat pan through-hole, the flexible body being configured to flex away from the top and to a minimum when a force is applied in a downward direction relative to the top, wherein the seat pan is moveable relative to the flexible body.

[0185] A chair assembly comprising a backrest a seat including a front, and a tilt assembly including a support body coupled to the backrest, a seat receiver being coupled to the seat, a roller body, and a pivot connection including a support body coupling, a seat72491-0003receiver coupling, and a roller body coupling configured to couple the roller body, the support body, and the seat receiver.

[0186] A chair assembly comprising a backrest, and a headrest couplable with the backrest, the headrest comprising a first headrest arm, a second headrest arm coupled to the first headrest arm at a first coupling, the second headrest arm being rotatable about the first headrest arm at the first coupling, and a headrest plate defining a forward portion of the headrest, the headrest plate being coupled to the second headrest arm at a second coupling located on an opposing end of the second headrest arm relative to the first coupling, the headrest plate being rotatable about the second headrest arm at the second coupling.

[0187] A chair assembly comprising an armrest comprising an arm coupled to a respective portion of the chair assembly, an arm pad seat including a guide channel, an upper surface, and a lower surface, and an arm pad interface received within the guide channel and being coupled to the arm, wherein the arm pad seat is moveable relative to the arm and the arm pad interface.

[0188] A chair assembly comprising a backrest having a flexible backrest body defining a first thoracic support, the flexible backrest body being deformable in one or more directions when a force is applied to a respective portion of the flexible backrest body, the flexible backrest body having a distal end and a base plate, and a modular backrest body defining a second thoracic support, the modular backrest body being coupled to the flexible backrest body at the distal end.

[0189] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat depth adjustment assembly comprises a seat depth support contacting the flexible body, the seat depth support defining a physical barrier to the flexible body to limit an amount that the flexible body can deform in the downward direction.

[0190] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat depth support is coupled to or formed with the seat pan.

[0191] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat pan includes a channel at least partially formed by a portion of the seat pan defining the bottom, and the seat depth adjuster being located within the channel.

[0192] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the flexible body is at least partially located within the channel.

[0193] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat depth support is located along opposing sides of the flexible body.72491-0003

[0194] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat depth adjustment assembly includes a seat depth adjuster configured to move the seat pan relative to the flexible body.

[0195] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat pan comprises a flex arm defining a front of the seat pan, the flex arm configured to flex towards the bottom when the force is applied.

[0196] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the flexible body is located entirely between the top and the bottom when in a non-flexed state.

[0197] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat pan and the flexible body are made of differing materials.

[0198] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the flexible body has a material with a first elastic modulus, the seat pan has a material with a second elastic modulus, and the first elastic modulus is less than the second elastic modulus.

[0199] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat further comprises a cushion coupled to the seat pan.

[0200] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a backrest, and a tilt assembly coupled to the backrest, the tilt assembly being configured to tilt in a tilt direction causing the seat to move along a horizontal direction relative to the backrest.

[0201] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the tilt assembly comprises a seat receiver coupling the seat to the tilt assembly.

[0202] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a backrest, with the seat being moveable horizontally relative to the backrest.

[0203] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a backrest having a flexible backrest body defining a first thoracic support, and a modular backrest body defining a second thoracic support.

[0204] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the first thoracic support.

[0205] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest comprises a base plate with the flexible body being spaced from the base plate to define a flex slot therebetween.

[0206] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a headrest coupled to the backrest.

[0207] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a set of armrests located on opposing sides of the seat.72491-0003

[0208] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the support body includes a first arm, a second arm, and a bend interconnecting the first arm and the second arm.

[0209] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the pivot connection is coupled to the second arm of the support body.

[0210] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest is coupled to the first arm.

[0211] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the roller body comprises a tilt channel, and the support body includes a support protrusion received within the tilt channel.

[0212] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the support protrusion is moveable within the tilt channel.

[0213] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat receiver includes a set of roller channels.

[0214] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the roller body includes a set of rollers received within the set of roller channels, with the set of rollers being moveable within the set of roller channels.

[0215] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the roller body includes a main body coupled to the pivot connection, a protrusion extending outwardly from the main body and towards the seat receiver, and a set of rollers located at a distal end of the protrusion.

[0216] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the pivot connection is rotatable in a pivot direction about the support body coupling, and movement of the pivot connection causes the roller body to move in a forward direction relative to the backrest when a rearward force is applied to the support body.

[0217] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the roller body is located forward of the pivot connection relative to the backrest.

[0218] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the support body comprises two support bodies located on opposing sides of the seat receiver, with the roller body interconnecting the two support bodies.

[0219] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the pivot connection includes two pivot connections located on opposing sides of the seat receiver.

[0220] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein a movement of the tilt assembly causes the seat to move in a horizontal direction relative to the backrest.72491-0003

[0221] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the seat is moveable horizontally relative to the backrest.

[0222] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest includes a flexible backrest body defining a first thoracic support, and a modular backrest body defining a second thoracic support.

[0223] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the first thoracic support.

[0224] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest comprises a base plate with the flexible body being spaced from the base plate to define a flex slot therebetween.

[0225] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a headrest coupled to the backrest.

[0226] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a set of armrests located on opposing sides of the seat and extending from the support body.

[0227] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first headrest arm includes a plurality of notches.

[0228] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the plurality of notches are evenly spaced.

[0229] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest includes a notch catch.

[0230] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the notch catch is adapted to fit within and be retained within a respective notch of the plurality of notches.

[0231] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the notch catch and the plurality of notches collectively form a lock that retains the headrest at a height relative to the backrest.

[0232] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the notch catch is a hook and lever.

[0233] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest includes a headrest receiver.

[0234] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first headrest arm is receivable within the headrest receiver.

[0235] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest includes a modular backrest body.72491-0003

[0236] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the headrest is couplable to the modular backrest body.

[0237] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest includes a flexible backrest body, and the modular backrest body is removably couplable to the flexible body.

[0238] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest includes a flexible backrest body and a modular backrest body.

[0239] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the modular backrest body is removably coupled to the flexible backrest body.

[0240] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further a seat being moveable horizontally relative to the backrest.

[0241] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the backrest.

[0242] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a set of armrests.

[0243] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a tilt assembly coupled to the backrest.

[0244] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the tilt assembly comprises a support body coupled to the backrest.

[0245] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a set of armrests coupled to the tilt assembly.

[0246] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the armrest comprises a first female connector, and a first male connector formed along the arm, the first male connector being received within the first female connector.

[0247] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first female connector is a frustoconical cavity, and the first male connector is a frustoconical projection.

[0248] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first female connector is located between the arm pad interface and the first male connector.

[0249] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a first spring that urges the first female connector onto the first male connector.

[0250] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a gasket surrounding a respective portion of the first female connector.

[0251] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a first spring urging the gasket against the lower surface.72491-0003

[0252] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the urging of the gasket against the lower surface causes a frictional resistance to be created between the gasket and the lower surface to retain the arm pad seat at a given position.

[0253] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the guide channel includes a first opening forming an opening along the upper surface, and a second opening that opens into the first opening and forms an opening along the lower surface.

[0254] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein a variation in a cross-sectional area of the first opening and the second opening creates a shelf between the first opening and the second opening.

[0255] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the arm pad interface rests against the shelf.

[0256] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the arm pad interface is located on an opposing side of the shelf from the arm.

[0257] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a base extending from the arm and coupling the arm to the respective portion of the chair assembly.

[0258] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the base comprises a second female connector, and the arm includes a second male connector received within the second female connector.

[0259] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a bearing assembly forming the second female connector, the bearing assembly allowing the arm to move relative to a swivel axis.

[0260] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the arm includes an inner tube and an outer tube, with the outer tube being slidably movable along the inner tube.

[0261] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a tilt assembly having a support body, with the armrest being coupled to the support body.

[0262] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a backrest having a flexible backrest body defining a first thoracic support, and a modular backrest body defining a second thoracic support.

[0263] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the first thoracic support.

[0264] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the backrest comprises a base plate with the flexible body being spaced from the base plate to define a flex slot therebetween.72491-0003

[0265] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the flexible backrest body includes a set of flex slots, with the first thoracic support being separated from the base plate by a flex slot of the set of flex slots.

[0266] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the flexible backrest body is made of a flexible material.

[0267] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the modular backrest body is removably coupled to the flexible backrest body.

[0268] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the flexible backrest body includes a set of slots, and the modular backrest body includes a set of keys that interface with the set of slots.

[0269] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the set of slots are located along the distal end.

[0270] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a headrest coupled to the modular backrest body.

[0271] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the modular backrest body includes a headrest receiver, with a respective portion of the headrest being received within the headrest receiver.

[0272] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the modular backrest body forms a headrest.

[0273] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the first thoracic support.

[0274] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the lumbar support includes a depth adjustment body configured to vary a relative amplitude of a lumbar maximum of the first thoracic support.

[0275] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the depth adjustment body is a cam.

[0276] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the lumbar support is vertically moveable relative to the backrest.

[0277] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a tilt assembly having a support body, with the flexible backrest body being coupled to the support body.

[0278] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the support body includes a lumbar support adjustment channel, with the lumbar support being moveable within the lumbar support adjustment channel.72491-0003

[0279] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a headrest coupled to the modular backrest body, with the headrest being vertically moveable relative to the backrest.

[0280] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a set of armrests located on opposing sides of a seat.

[0281] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a tilt assembly, with the seat being moveable when a rearward force is applied to the backrest.

[0282] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising an upholstery coupled to the backrest.

[0283] The chair assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the upholstery is at least one of leather, linen, mesh, cotton, polyester, velvet, silk, acrylic, chenille, wool, a microfiber, synthetic fiber, acetate, vinyl, nylon, or polypropylene.

Claims

72491-0003CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A chair assembly comprising:a seat comprising:a seat pan comprising a top, a bottom, and a seat pan through-hole extending between the top and the bottom; anda seat depth adjustment assembly comprising a flexible body at least partially aligned with the seat pan through-hole, the flexible body being configured to flex away from the top and to a minimum when a force is applied in a downward direction relative to the top;wherein the seat pan is moveable relative to the flexible body.

2. The chair assembly of claim 1, wherein the seat depth adjustment assembly comprises a seat depth support contacting the flexible body, the seat depth support defining a physical barrier to the flexible body to limit an amount that the flexible body can deform in the downward direction.

3. The chair assembly of claim 2, wherein the seat depth support is coupled to or formed with the seat pan.

4. The chair assembly of claim 2, wherein the seat pan includes a channel at least partially formed by a portion of the seat pan defining the bottom, and the seat depth adjuster being located within the channel.

5. The chair assembly of claim 4, wherein the flexible body is at least partially located within the channel.

6. The chair assembly of claim 3, wherein the seat depth support is located along opposing sides of the flexible body.

7. The chair assembly of claim 1, wherein the seat depth adjustment assembly includes a seat depth adjuster configured to move the seat pan relative to the flexible body.

8. The chair assembly of claim 1, wherein the seat pan comprises a flex arm defining a front of the seat pan, the flex arm configured to flex towards the bottom when the force is applied.72491-00039. The chair assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible body is located entirely between the top and the bottom when in a non-flexed state.

10. The chair assembly of claim 1, wherein the seat pan and the flexible body are made of differing materials.

11. The chair assembly of claim 10, wherein the flexible body has a material with a first elastic modulus, the seat pan has a material with a second elastic modulus, and the first elastic modulus is less than the second elastic modulus.

12. The chair assembly of claim 1, wherein the seat further comprises a cushion coupled to the seat pan.

13. The chair assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a backrest; anda tilt assembly coupled to the backrest, the tilt assembly being configured to tilt in a tilt direction causing the seat to move along a horizontal direction relative to the backrest.

14. The chair assembly of claim 13, wherein the tilt assembly comprises a seat receiver coupling the seat to the tilt assembly.

15. The chair assembly of claim 1, further comprising a backrest, with the seat being moveable horizontally relative to the backrest.

16. The chair assembly of claim 1, further comprising a backrest having a flexible backrest body defining a first thoracic support, and a modular backrest body defining a second thoracic support.

17. The chair assembly of claim 16, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the first thoracic support.

18. The chair assembly of claim 16, wherein the backrest comprises a base plate with the flexible body being spaced from the base plate to define a flex slot therebetween.

19. The chair assembly of claim 16, further comprising a headrest coupled to the backrest.72491-000320. The chair assembly of claim 1, further comprising a set of armrests located on opposing sides of the seat.

21. A chair assembly comprising:a backrest;a seat including a front; anda tilt assembly including:a support body coupled to the backrest;a seat receiver being coupled to the seat;a roller body; anda pivot connection including a support body coupling, a seat receiver coupling, and a roller body coupling configured to couple the roller body, the support body, and the seat receiver.

22. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the support body includes a first arm, a second arm, and a bend interconnecting the first arm and the second arm.

23. The chair assembly of claim 22, wherein the pivot connection is coupled to the second arm of the support body.

24. The chair assembly of claim 23, wherein the backrest is coupled to the first arm.

25. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the roller body comprises a tilt channel, and the support body includes a support protrusion received within the tilt channel.

26. The chair assembly of claim 25, wherein the support protrusion is moveable within the tilt channel.

27. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the seat receiver includes a set of roller channels.

28. The chair assembly of claim 27, wherein the roller body includes a set of rollers received within the set of roller channels, with the set of rollers being moveable within the set of roller channels.72491-000329. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the roller body includes a main body coupled to the pivot connection, a protrusion extending outwardly from the main body and towards the seat receiver, and a set of rollers located at a distal end of the protrusion.

30. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the pivot connection is rotatable in a pivot direction about the support body coupling, and movement of the pivot connection causes the roller body to move in a forward direction relative to the backrest when a rearward force is applied to the support body.

31. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the roller body is located forward of the pivot connection relative to the backrest.

32. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the support body comprises two support bodies located on opposing sides of the seat receiver, with the roller body interconnecting the two support bodies.

33. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the pivot connection includes two pivot connections located on opposing sides of the seat receiver.

34. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein a movement of the tilt assembly causes the seat to move in a horizontal direction relative to the backrest.

35. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the seat is moveable horizontally relative to the backrest.

36. The chair assembly of claim 21, wherein the backrest includes a flexible backrest body defining a first thoracic support, and a modular backrest body defining a second thoracic support.

37. The chair assembly of claim 26, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the first thoracic support.

38. The chair assembly of claim 26, wherein the backrest comprises a base plate with the flexible body being spaced from the base plate to define a flex slot therebetween.

39. The chair assembly of claim 26, further comprising a headrest coupled to the backrest.72491-000340. The chair assembly of claim 21, further comprising a set of armrests located on opposing sides of the seat and extending from the support body.

41. A chair assembly comprising:a backrest; anda headrest couplable with the backrest, the headrest comprising:a first headrest arm;a second headrest arm coupled to the first headrest arm at a first coupling, the second headrest arm being rotatable about the first headrest arm at the first coupling; anda headrest plate defining a forward portion of the headrest, the headrest plate being coupled to the second headrest arm at a second coupling located on an opposing end of the second headrest arm relative to the first coupling, the headrest plate being rotatable about the second headrest arm at the second coupling.

42. The chair assembly of claim 41, wherein the first headrest arm includes a plurality of notches.

43. The chair assembly of claim 42, wherein the plurality of notches are evenly spaced.

44. The chair assembly of claim 42, wherein the backrest includes a notch catch.

45. The chair assembly of claim 44, wherein the notch catch is adapted to fit within and be retained within a respective notch of the plurality of notches.

46. The chair assembly of claim 45, wherein the notch catch and the plurality of notches collectively form a lock that retains the headrest at a height relative to the backrest.

47. The chair assembly of claim 44, wherein the notch catch is a hook and lever.

48. The chair assembly of claim 41, wherein the backrest includes a headrest receiver.

49. The chair assembly of claim 48, wherein the first headrest arm is receivable within the headrest receiver.72491-000350. The chair assembly of claim 41, wherein the backrest includes a modular backrest body.

51. The chair assembly of claim 50, wherein the headrest is couplable to the modular backrest body.

52. The chair assembly of claim 51, wherein the backrest includes a flexible backrest body, and the modular backrest body is removably couplable to the flexible body.

53. The chair assembly of claim 41, wherein the backrest includes a flexible backrest body and a modular backrest body.

54. The chair assembly of claim 53, wherein the modular backrest body is removably coupled to the flexible backrest body.

55. The chair assembly of claim 41, further a seat being moveable horizontally relative to the backrest.

56. The chair assembly of claim 41, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the backrest.

57. The chair assembly of claim 41, further comprising a set of armrests.

58. The chair assembly of claim 41, further comprising a tilt assembly coupled to the backrest.

59. The chair assembly of claim 58, wherein the tilt assembly comprises a support body coupled to the backrest.

60. The chair assembly of claim 58, further comprising a set of armrests coupled to the tilt assembly.

61. A chair assembly comprising:an armrest comprising:an arm coupled to a respective portion of the chair assembly;an arm pad seat including a guide channel, an upper surface, and a lower surface; and72491-0003an arm pad interface received within the guide channel and being coupled to the arm,wherein the arm pad seat is moveable relative to the arm and the arm pad interface.

62. The chair assembly of claim 61, wherein the armrest comprises:a first female connector; anda first male connector formed along the arm, the first male connector being received within the first female connector.

63. The chair assembly of claim 62, wherein the first female connector is a frustoconical cavity, and the first male connector is a frustoconical projection.

64. The chair assembly of claim 62, wherein the first female connector is located between the arm pad interface and the first male connector.

65. The chair assembly of claim 62, further comprising a first spring that urges the first female connector onto the first male connector.

66. The chair assembly of claim 62, further comprising a gasket surrounding a respective portion of the first female connector.

67. The chair assembly of claim 66, further comprising a first spring urging the gasket against the lower surface.

68. The chair assembly of claim 67, wherein the urging of the gasket against the lower surface causes a frictional resistance to be created between the gasket and the lower surface to retain the arm pad seat at a given position.

69. The chair assembly of claim 61, wherein the guide channel includes a first opening forming an opening along the upper surface, and a second opening that opens into the first opening and forms an opening along the lower surface.

70. The chair assembly of claim 69, wherein a variation in a cross-sectional area of the first opening and the second opening creates a shelf between the first opening and the second opening.72491-000371. The chair assembly of claim 70, wherein the arm pad interface rests against the shelf.

72. The chair assembly of claim 70, wherein the arm pad interface is located on an opposing side of the shelf from the arm.

73. The chair assembly of claim 61, further comprising a base extending from the arm and coupling the arm to the respective portion of the chair assembly.

74. The chair assembly of claim 73, wherein the base comprises a second female connector, and the arm includes a second male connector received within the second female connector.

75. The chair assembly of claim 74, further comprising a bearing assembly forming the second female connector, the bearing assembly allowing the arm to move relative to a swivel axis.

76. The chair assembly of claim 61, wherein the arm includes an inner tube and an outer tube, with the outer tube being slidably movable along the inner tube.

77. The chair assembly of claim 61, further comprising a tilt assembly having a support body, with the armrest being coupled to the support body.

78. The chair assembly of claim 61, further comprising a backrest having a flexible backrest body defining a first thoracic support, and a modular backrest body defining a second thoracic support.

79. The chair assembly of claim 78, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the first thoracic support.

80. The chair assembly of claim 78, wherein the backrest comprises a base plate with the flexible body being spaced from the base plate to define a flex slot therebetween.

81. A chair assembly comprising:a backrest having:a flexible backrest body defining a first thoracic support, the flexible backrest body being deformable in one or more directions when a force is applied to a72491-0003respective portion of the flexible backrest body, the flexible backrest body having a distal end and a base plate; anda modular backrest body defining a second thoracic support, the modular backrest body being coupled to the flexible backrest body at the distal end.

82. The chair assembly of claim 81, wherein the flexible backrest body includes a set of flex slots, with the first thoracic support being separated from the base plate by a flex slot of the set of flex slots.

83. The chair assembly of claim 81, wherein the flexible backrest body is made of a flexible material.

84. The chair assembly of claim 81, wherein the modular backrest body is removably coupled to the flexible backrest body.

85. The chair assembly of claim 81, wherein the flexible backrest body includes a set of slots, and the modular backrest body includes a set of keys that interface with the set of slots.

86. The chair assembly of claim 85, wherein the set of slots are located along the distal end.

87. The chair assembly of claim 81, further comprising a headrest coupled to the modular backrest body.

88. The chair assembly of claim 81, wherein the modular backrest body includes a headrest receiver, with a respective portion of the headrest being received within the headrest receiver.

89. The chair assembly of claim 81, wherein the modular backrest body forms a headrest.

90. The chair assembly of claim 81, further comprising a lumbar support configured to change a curvature of the first thoracic support.

91. The chair assembly of claim 90, wherein the lumbar support includes a depth adjustment body configured to vary a relative amplitude of a lumbar maximum of the first thoracic support.72491-000392. The chair assembly of claim 91, wherein the depth adjustment body is a cam.

93. The chair assembly of claim 91, wherein the lumbar support is vertically moveable relative to the backrest.

94. The chair assembly of claim 90, further comprising a tilt assembly having a support body, with the flexible backrest body being coupled to the support body.

95. The chair assembly of claim 94, wherein the support body includes a lumbar support adjustment channel, with the lumbar support being moveable within the lumbar support adjustment channel.

96. The chair assembly of claim 81, further comprising a headrest coupled to the modular backrest body, with the headrest being vertically moveable relative to the backrest.

97. The chair assembly of claim 81, further comprising a set of armrests located on opposing sides of a seat.

98. The chair assembly of claim 97, further comprising a tilt assembly, with the seat being moveable when a rearward force is applied to the backrest.

99. The chair assembly of claim 98, further comprising an upholstery coupled to the backrest.

100. The chair assembly of claim 99, wherein the upholstery is at least one of leather, linen, mesh, cotton, polyester, velvet, silk, acrylic, chenille, wool, a microfiber, synthetic fiber, acetate, vinyl, nylon, or polypropylene.

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