GROUND BASED PORTABLE SEAT

Abstract

A ground based portable seat which is capable of elevating the user up and off the ground and provides for a variable seating position independently or in combination with an object on terrain of varying slopes and undulating surfaces. A frame structure includes first and second generally U-shaped frame members pivotally attached to each other at their open ends and with a sling member suspended between the distal lateral closed ends. The sling member is shorter than a length that allows the pivotal connections to be opened to a pivot angle of 180 degrees magnitude. Placing the two pivotal connections on the ground for use of the seat, makes two point contact with the ground as a base. A third, stabilizing point of ground contact is provided by the user's foot.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/779,976, filed Mar. 7, 2006 by Gausman.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a ground based portable seat. In particular, the invention relates to a ground based portable seat that is adapted for use independently or in combination with an object. In particular, the invention relates to a ground based portable seat that is adapted for use independently or in combination with an object on terrain of varying profile and slope.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

In sporting activities such as hunting, bird watching, field studies or the like it is desirable for a person to find a location to sit and observe their surroundings. While observing the surroundings it is important to blend in with the surroundings and not stand out. In particular, the outline or silhouette of the body should be broken up or minimized. One way this is achieved is by standing or sitting in close proximal relation to an object such as a tree, rock, fence post, hay bale or the like. Specific to the activity of hunting, this close proximal relation to an object provides for the additional safety benefit of protecting the hunter from an errant shot or a shot at unidentified game from behind.

Specific to the activity of hunting, there are essentially two main observation perspectives, namely elevated structures such as a tree stand or from the ground. In the past, a variety of types of tree stands have been available to and used by hunters. Hunters may choose not to utilize such tree stands for a number of reasons, including the hunter's physical condition, the cumbersome weight of tree stands, the hunter's fear of heights, the potential for accidental falls, or the hunter's age. Ground-based hunters are faced with problems such as finding a suitable place to sit and the weight of ground based seats. Although portable ground-based seats exist, none are capable of providing the hunter with the ability to sit comfortably in close proximal relationship to an object such as a tree, rock, fence post, wall or the like due to the fixed relationship between the seat surface and the ground. Further, in the past many portable ground-based seats have been unnecessarily heavy and/or otherwise difficult to carry and required separate support structures to maintain the hunter in a fixed seated position.

In particular to the close proximal relationship to a tree the variability of the “root radius” has not been overcome. Root radius is defined as the geometry created by the relationship of ground and a tree that is adjacent and contiguous to where the two meet. This geometry contains the ground segment, the tree segment and the radius of the root there between. The combinations that result are numerous and range from acute to obtuse angles between the ground and tree segments with large and small root radius. Additionally, the ground located in the root radius region is capable of being undulated and not conducive to a line contact as required by prior seats for stability.

Prior seats required a separate structural member attached to both the seat portion and back portion to prevent rotation of the back portion away from the seat portion. This structure limited the seat to a single angle between the seat portion and back portion and thus limited the ability of the user to adjust their position.

Further to the activity of hunting is the transportation of gear into the field. In particular, on route to the final destination it is advantageous to carry gear such as additional clothing items that are to be worn once arriving at the final destination. This enables the hunter to maintain a lower body temperature and perspire less. Once at the final destination the gear that was carried is dry and free of perspiration.

Further to the activity of hunting is the safe transportation of game out of the field. In particular, game can be a turkey, coyote, or similar sized harvested game animal.

Separate to the act of hunting are activities where sitting on the ground or other surface with or without the aid of a support structure. In particular these activities can take place outdoors and include such spectator events as watching a concert, baseball game, soccer game, and the like. Additionally these activities can take place indoors as well and include such events as watching TV, playing board games, and the like.

Accordingly, it is desirable and advantageous to provide a portable ground-based seat which is adapted for use in close proximal relation to an object. It also is desirable and advantageous to provide a portable ground-based seat which is lightweight and easily carried.

An object of the present invention is to provide a portable ground-based seat which may be utilized in close proximal relation to an object which may itself be on terrain that is flat or steep sloped, as well as terrains having slopes there between.

Another objective of the invention is to provide a portable ground-based seat which may be utilized independent of an object on substantially flat terrain.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a portable ground-based seat which includes a sling structure and support means for enabling the user to adjust their position in the seat.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a portable ground-based seat which is convenient to carry and can be set up in a short amount of time.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a portable ground-based seat which is convenient to carry and can be used to haul other items such as game or gear.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention contemplates an apparatus that provides for a comfortable ground based seat for use in close proximal relation to a stationary object, is light weight, sets up quickly and can be used as a means for hauling gear and game.

The invention provides in one aspect a ground-based seat. The seat structure comprises a first and second rigid frame member, the first and second frame members being formed in generally a “U”-shaped configuration and joined in pivotal relationship near their two open ends. The first frame member is preferably greater in length than the second frame member. The frame members support a sling member.

Another aspect of the invention provides means for hauling gear or game. The seat structure comprises a first and second rigid frame member, the first and second frame members being formed in generally a “U”-shaped configuration and joined in pivotal relationship near their two open ends. The first frame member is preferably greater in length than the second frame member. The frame members support a sling member. The sling member attaches to the lateral end regions of the frame members. The sling member includes a strap member for holding the game. A strap member connects and holds in position the two frame members while game or gear is supported by the sling member.

The present invention contemplates an apparatus that provides for a comfortable ground based seat for use independently to a stationary object, is light weight, sets up quickly.

The present invention contemplates an apparatus that provides for a comfortable ground based seat that is integral with a vest worn by the user.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view of a prior art portable seat.

FIG. 2 is an environmental view depicting the “root radius” of a tree.

FIG. 3 an isometric view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a view of an embodiment of the invention in a stored or carried condition.

FIG. 7 is a view of an embodiment of the invention in use in a first position.

FIG. 8 is a view of an embodiment of the invention in use in a second position.

FIG. 9 is a view of an embodiment of the invention hauling game or gear.

FIG. 10A is a view of a simple embodiment of a sling member of the invention.

FIG. 10B is a view of a vest embodiment of a sling member of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the prior art has contemplated in some degree a ground based portable seat, said prior art known to the inventor has been limited in achieving the optimum seating position, contains additional and un-needed structure or is limited in where it can be used.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,783 issued to Black, U.S. Pat. No. 1,625,106 issued to Sullivan, U.S. Pat. No. 1,963,708 issued to Marvin and U.S. Pat. No. 5,385,390 issued to Freeman all contemplate a portable ground based seat that places the occupant in a fixed relation to the ground, places the seat in line contact with the ground and includes additional structure not required in the present invention. The additional structure further limits the seating position of the user.

Further, another example of the prior art, depicted in FIG. 1, is limited in where it can be used based upon suitability of the ground upon which it is placed. Prior art seat 10 is comprised of a lower seat portion 12 and an upper seat portion 14 connected in pivotal relation by hinge 16. Lower and upper seat portions require seat support means 20, which place the lower and upper seat portions in a fixed relationship. Seat 10 may optionally be held in constant contact to a stationary object 19 by either straps or hooks 18.

FIG. 2 depicts the “root radius” of a tree that may be part of the environment in which the invention is used. In the instance of utilizing a tree 50 as a stationary object to conceal an individual's silhouette it is advantageous to get within close proximal relation to the tree. Root radius 52 is defined as the region where the lower portion of the tree trunk 54 enters the ground 56. Depending upon the angle of the ground 56 and the shape of the tree trunk 54 a variety of geometries can result.

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Seat 100 includes a long frame member 102 and a short frame member 104. The long and short frame members 102 and 104 are formed in generally a “U”-shaped configuration. Whereas the long frame member 102 contains generally parallel sections 102a and 102b, which are joined by a long frame lateral end region 102c. Short frame member 104 contains generally parallel sections 104a and 104b, which are joined by a short frame lateral end region 104c. Long and short frame members 102 and 104 are joined in pivotal relationship near their open ends 102′ and 104′ by hinges 106. Thus the long frame lateral end region 102c is distal to the short frame lateral end region 104c.

The long frame member 102 length is greater than or equal to the short frame member 104 length. In the instance the long frame member 102 is greater than the short frame member 104 the long frame member 102 is roughly the length of the torso on an average adult male while the short frame member 104 is roughly the length of thigh of an adult male. In the instance the long frame member 102 is equal in length to the short frame member 104 the long and short frame members 102 and 104 are roughly the length of thigh of an adult male. Long and short frame members 102 and 104 are preferably metallic with the metals of choice being aluminum for its lightweight or of galvanized steel such as electrical conduit for greater strength although heavier than the aluminum. As well, the preferred shape of first and second frame members is tubular, however, it can be appreciated that a variety of materials and shapes are possible in order to achieve the necessary support.

Supported by the frame members is a sling member 108. The sling member 108 is comprised of a sling lower region 110, a sling upper region 112 and a sling central region 114. The sling lower region 110 attaches to the short frame lateral end region 104c. The sling upper region 112 attaches to the long frame lateral end region 102c. The sling 108 is made of a flexible material such as fabric (e.g. canvas, cordura, cotton duck, nylon). The invention is functional and usable in this condition. The additional components now described enhance the practicality and durability of the invention.

Attached to the sling upper region 112 is an optional upper support strap 116. Optional upper support strap 116 attaches to the sling upper region 112 by sewing, gluing or the like. Optional upper support strap 116 is at its ends attached to the long frame member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b. Optional upper support strap 116 provides for centering the sling upper region 112, as well as supporting the long frame member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b by preventing outward displacement (spreading apart) when the user is seated.

Attached to the sling central region 114 is an optional central support strap 120. Optional central support strap 120 attaches to the sling member central region 114 by sewing, gluing or the like. Optional central support strap 120 is at its ends attached to the long frame member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b. Optional central support strap 120 provides for centering the sling central region 114, as well as supporting the long frame member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b by preventing outward displacement (spreading apart) when the user is seated.

Attached to the sling lower region 110 is an optional lower support strap 118. Optional lower support strap 118 attaches to the sling lower region 110 by sewing, gluing or the like. Optional lower support strap 118 is at its ends attached to the short frame member parallel sections 104a and 104b. Optional lower support strap 118 provides for centering the sling lower region 110, as well as supporting short frame member parallel sections 104a and 104b preventing outward displacement (spreading apart) when the user is seated.

It can be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the practical aspects of optional support straps 116, 118 and 120 are to keep the sling 108 centered on the long and short frame members 102 and 104, as well as supporting frame member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b, 104a and 104b by preventing outward displacement (spreading apart) when the user is seated. Of course, if a support strap 116, 118, 120 is rigid, then it would also prevent inward displacement of the frame member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b, 104a and 104b. As a result of using one or more flexible or rigid support straps 116, 118, 120, a heavier load can be supported by a light weight seat. As such, integrating these straps directly into the sling 108 is anticipated.

Located between hinges 106 is an optional ground strap 122. Optional ground strap 122 provides for the practical aspect of preventing the open ends 102′, 104′ at the pivotal connections 106 from being driven into soft ground under the weight of the user. All straps 116, 118, 120 and 122 are preferably made of a flexible material (e.g. nylon webbing, rope, canvas).

Located and affixed to sling upper region 112 is a transport strap 124. Transport strap 124 is attached at one end to the sling upper region 112 by sewing, gluing or the like. Transport strap 124 is attached at the opposite end to hinges 106. The practical aspects of this transport strap are to carry the seat and game or gear as appropriate.

FIGS. 4 and 5 depict a side and front elevation view respectively of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 4 illustrates pivot angle α (alpha) resulting between the long and short frame members 102 and 104. Angle α (alpha) is variable and can range from 0 (zero) to less than 180 degrees; preferable ranging from 60 to 120 degrees, most preferably ranging from 80 to 100 degrees. The practical aspects of this variability is allowing the user to change their body position all the while being supported by the sling 108 as the long and short frame members 102 and 104 pivot about hinges 106. The length of sling 108 with respect to the lengths of the long and short frame members 102 and 104 controls the maximum angle α (alpha). In practice, the length of sling 108 is less than the distance between the lateral end regions 102c and 104c of the long and short frame members 102 and 104 when the pivotal connections at hinge 106 are opened to a pivot angle of 180 degrees.

FIG. 6 is a view of the invention in the stored or carried condition. Of particular interest is the location of the stored position of short frame member 104. In this view the short frame member 104 is stored between the transport strap 124 and the long frame member 102. Such a position enables the user to quickly prepare the seat for use even while it is still being transported by the user. This is possible by rotating the short frame member 104 (as viewed) counterclockwise opening the sling for the user to sit. It can be appreciated that by changing the location of where the ends of optional central support strap 120 contact the long frame member generally parallel sections 102a and 102b the short frame member 104 can be rotated either counterclockwise (in this use) or clockwise (as used in FIG. 9). Transport strap 124 is reversible enabling the seat 100 to be carried with the short frame section 104 either facing towards or away from the user.

FIG. 7 is a view of the invention in use in a first position. This position depicts the invention in close proximal relation to a stationary object, in this instance the stationary object is a tree 50. As can be seen, the “root radius” 52 has been avoided and does not compromise the comfort of the user 80. In this position the seat 100 is contacting the ground twice (at the pivotal connections 106) and once where the long frame lateral end region 102c contacts the stationary object (tree trunk 54). The resulting 3-point-contact is inherently stable. The user 80, is elevated up and off the ground 56 and the degree to which the user 80 is up and off the ground depends upon the pivot angle α (alpha) (not shown) which is controlled by the user's body position. The further away the user's feet are from his/her body, the more the angle α (alpha) increases as his/her thigh tilts down toward the ground and thereby increases an angle measured between thigh and back. The closer the user's feet are to his/her body the more the angle α (alpha) decreases.

FIG. 8 is a view of the invention in use in the second position. This position depicts the invention independent of an object on substantially flat terrain. The ability for the user 80 to “lean backwards” is controlled by placement of the users foot on the ground and using their legs as a counterbalance. The users foot is the 3^rd point of contact for stability. In this manner, it is possible to sit with minimal effort in a position where the short frame member 104 is either parallel with the ground or creates an angle with respect to the ground.

FIG. 9 is a view of the invention hauling game or gear. This depicts the present invention as a convenient means to carry or haul other items such as game or gear. In this view the user 80 is transporting the seat 100 via transport straps 124. Contained on the seat 100 is a package 130 such as game (example is a harvested wild turkey or a coyote) or gear (example is a coat or ground blind material). The package 130 is supported by sling 108 and is prevented from falling out by a retaining strap 132, which is attached to long and short frame members 102 and 104. Retaining strap 132 can be made of more than one piece and secured by a variety of methods. In this instance, retaining strap 132 is made up of two pieces 132a and 132b. Retaining strap section 132a is attached to short frame member 104 and retaining strap section 132b is attached to long frame member 102. Retaining strap section 132a and retaining strap section 132b are then joined by joint member 134. Joint member 134 can be a knot, a clip, Velcro, etc. As such, once the package 130 is placed in the sling 108 the retaining strap sections 132a and 132b will draw and hold the long and short frame members 102 and 104 in position to retain the package 130. It can be appreciated that a variety of anchor positions for the retaining strap 132 can be contemplated to serve the purpose of securing the package.

FIGS. 10A and B contemplate two different sling options for the seat 100. In FIG. 10A the sling 108 shown is in the unassembled state that once assembled is depicted in FIGS. 3 through 9. In this configuration the sling 108 provides support for either the user 80 or a package 130. Sling 108 optionally contains a storage compartment 109. Storage compartment 109 is either permanently attached to sling 108 or is removable. In FIG. 10B a vest sling 208 is shown in the unassembled state that, once assembled similar to sling 108, can similarly be depicted in FIGS. 3 thru 9 with the following additions. Vest sling 208 contains either integral or detachable panels 212, and contained within panels 212 are arm holes 214. Panels 212 may be of similar material to the rest of the sling 208 and serve to create the functionality of a vest. As such, when the vest sling 208 is assembled to the long and short frame members 102 and 104, the vest panels 212 with arm holes 214 replace the transport strap(s) 124. Contained on the vest sling 208 are storage compartments 216. Storage compartments 216 are either permanently attached to vest sling 208 or are removable (e.g., a pocket removably affixed by snaps or hook and loop fabric). In the instance of hunting, storage compartments 109 and 216 function to carry game calls, food or ammo; and in the instance of a spectator sport it could be to carry binoculars, camera or food. Panels 212 can be either integral or detachable. To be detachable a zipper (for example) can be located along the lines 210. As such, the vest sling 208 can be flexible and expandable. An example of flexible and expandable is the basic seat can be provided at a cost X and include a sling 108 with only half a zipper located at 210 and panels 212 can be sold separately. Alternatively, the seat can be provided at a cost X+Y and include a vest sling 208 with panels 212 attached at zippers 210 which can be removed when not needed.

Claims

1. A ground based portable seat comprising:

a first frame member and a second frame member, wherein each frame member is formed in a generally “U”-shaped configuration having an open end and a closed end, and having first and second generally parallel and equal length longitudinal side sections joined at the closed end by a lateral end section that is longitudinally opposite to first and second frame ends that are at the open end of the frame member;

a pivotal connection of the first frame end of the first frame member to the first frame end of the second frame member;

a pivotal connection of the second frame end of the first frame member to the second frame end of the second frame member; and

a seat comprising a flexible sling member that extends from an attachment near the closed end of the first frame member to an attachment near the closed end of the second frame member, wherein the length of the sling member is less than a length that allows the pivotal connections to be opened to a pivot angle alpha of 180 degrees magnitude.

2. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, wherein:

the first frame member is greater in length than the second frame member.

3. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further comprising:

a support strap that extends from an attachment on the first side section to an attachment on the second side section of a one of the first and second frame members.

4. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 3, wherein:

the support strap is configured to prevent spreading apart of the first and second side sections between which it extends.

5. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 3, wherein:

the support strap is affixed to the sling member.

6. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 3, wherein:

the support strap is attached on the first and second side sections near the pivotal connections; and

the support strap is flexible.

7. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further comprising:

a transport strap loosely extending from an attachment near the closed end of a frame member to an attachment near the open end of the same frame member.

8. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 7, wherein:

the transport strap can be moved to a position on either side of the plane within which the respective frame member lies.

9. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further comprising:

a retaining strap extending from an attachment on the first frame member to an attachment on the second frame member.

10. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 9, wherein:

at least one of the attachments is removable.

11. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 9, wherein:

the retaining strap has two portions that are separably connected by a joint member.

12. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further comprising:

a vest that is integral with the sling member, wherein the sling member has a side panel with an arm hole therethrough.

13. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 12, wherein:

the side panel is detachable.

14. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 12, further comprising:

a storage compartment attached to the sling member.

15. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 14, wherein:

the storage compartment is removable.

16. A ground based portable seat as set forth in claim 1, further comprising:

a storage compartment attached to the sling member.

17. A method for supporting a sitting person's buttocks above ground level using a portable seat, the method comprising the steps of:

creating a buttocks-supporting seat portion by attaching a flexible sling member between two distal lateral ends of a longitudinally extended oblong support frame that has two longitudinal side frame sections and two distal lateral ends;

providing a pivotal connection in each of the longitudinal sides;

making the sling member shorter than a length that allows the pivotal connections to be opened to a pivot angle alpha of 180 degrees magnitude;

placing the two pivotal connections on the ground for use of the seat, thereby making two point contact with the ground as a base.

18. The method of claim 17 further comprising the steps of:

the sitting person using a foot as a stabilizing third point of ground contact; and

the sitting person controlling the pivot angle by positioning a thigh at a desired angle with respect to the ground and by positioning his/her back at a desired angle with respect to the thigh.

19. The method of claim 17 further comprising the steps of:

the sitting person leaning the frame against a stationary object that extends above the elevation of the pivotal connections on the ground; and

the sitting person controlling the pivot angle by positioning a thigh at a desired angle with respect to the ground.

20. The method of claim 17 further comprising the step of:

providing a support member that prevents lateral movement of the longitudinal sides with respect to the sling member.