CHAIR

Abstract

A folding chair may include a seat, a backrest, and a frame connected to the seat and the backrest. The frame may include a right front leg, a left front leg, a right rear leg, and a left rear leg. The folding chair may also include a first bracket and a second bracket, as well as a first guide disposed at least proximate a lower surface of the seat and a second guide disposed at least proximate the lower surface of the seat. The folding chair may further include a cross member slidable relative to the lower portion of the seat and the first and second guides when the chair is moved between folded and unfolded positions.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/929,042, entitled CHAIR, which was filed Jan. 18, 2014; which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

This application is generally directed towards furniture and, in particular, to chairs.

2. Description of Related Art

Conventional chairs typically include a chair seat and a backrest. The chair seat and backrest can be separate structures or part of a single structure. Most chairs are used by one person at a time. Chairs typically include legs to support the seat and backrest above a surface such as a floor.

Chairs may be constructed from a wide variety of materials such as wood, metal and molded plastic. Conventional chairs may have a wide variety of designs depending on factors such as intended use, ergonomics and appearance. In addition, known chairs may have various functional considerations such as size, weight, durability, portability and desired seating position.

Chairs may include padding and/or may be constructed from relatively flexible materials, such as wicker, which may make the chair more comfortable to use especially over long periods of time. Additionally, some chairs may include contoured chair seats and/or backrests for increased comfort of the user.

Some known chairs may be stacked together to form an orderly group, which may facilitate transportation and storage. Conventional chairs may also be aligned to allow the chairs to be more conveniently transported and stored. Chairs that may be stacked together with other chairs may be referred to as “stacking chairs” or “stackable chairs” and these types of chairs are frequently used in assembly halls, banquet halls, convention centers, hotels, schools, churches, and other locations where large groups of people meet. When needed for seating, stackable chairs may be positioned in an assortment of configurations and arrangements. When the stackable chairs are no longer needed for seating, they may be stacked for easy transportation and/or storage.

Because a considerable number of chairs may be needed for a gathering, the space required to store the chairs may be quite large even when the chairs are stacked together. This large storage volume may be particularly problematic for business or facilities such as hotels, schools, and churches. The large storage volume may also be problematic for manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers because a significant number of chairs may have to be stored, transported, and/or displayed. Further, the large amount of required space may also make the chairs difficult to store in homes, apartments and other types of residences.

Folding chairs are also known and most folding chairs are lightweight, portable chairs that can be folded into a collapsed position. Folding chairs are generally used for seating in areas where permanent seating is not possible or practical. Folding chairs may be used during outdoor or indoor events such as performances, presentations and sporting event. Folding chairs may also be used in the home when extra seating is required for parties, card games and temporary seating for guests.

Traditional folding chairs include folding chair legs that can pivot between folded or collapsed positions and unfolded or open positions. Disadvantageously, some known folding chairs are not very sturdy, strong, durable or well-made. In addition, some known folding chairs are difficult to use and may be challenging to secure in the use or collapsed positions. These problems may be especially difficult for chairs that are lightweight and comparatively inexpensive.

Conventional folding chairs may also not be able to support a large amount of weight or force. Further, conventional folding chairs may be rather time-consuming to manufacture and assemble. For example, known folding chairs may include a number of discrete parts that must be carefully assembled, which can undesirably increase the time required to manufacture the chairs.

Folding chairs are often stored in the collapsed position in a stack or row. While traditional folding chairs may save a significant amount of space by allowing the collapsed chairs to be placed in a stack or row, these chairs may still require a considerable amount of space even in the collapsed position. This may make it difficult, inconvenient, or impossible to store a number of chairs in an area of a particular size.

BRIEF SUMMARY

A need therefore exists for a chair that eliminates the above-described disadvantages and problems.

One aspect is a chair that may include a chair seat and a chair back or backrest. A frame may connect the seat and the backrest. The frame may include one or more legs that support the seat and backrest at a desired height or distance from a surface such as a floor. The legs may be attached to the seat and backrest, if desired. The frame, seat, backrest and/or legs may be connected by one or more fasteners. The frame, seat, backrest and/or legs may also be connection by a friction, interference or snap fit connection, or other suitable means.

Another aspect is a chair that may be at least partially constructed from plastic. For example, the seat and/or backrest may be constructed from plastic, such as blow-molded or injection molded plastic. The seat and backrest may be separate components or integrally formed as part of a unitary, one-piece structure. Significantly, chairs including one or more components constructed from plastic may be quickly and efficiently manufactured. Chairs constructed from plastic may also be formed into many different desired shapes and sizes. Advantageously, chairs including one or more components constructed from plastic may be durable, lightweight, easily manufactured, and strong. It will be appreciated that any suitable portions of the chair may be constructed from plastic, and all or a portion of the chair may be constructed from other materials with appropriate properties and characteristics.

Still another aspect is a chair that may be lightweight and easily portable. Advantageously, this may allow the chair to be used in a wide variety of situations and environments. This may also increase the potential uses of the chair and allow the chair to be used for a number of different purposes. In addition, if the chair is lightweight, the chair may be rapidly and easily moved from one location to another. Additionally, the chair may be more easily moved as part of a group. Further, the lightweight chair may be easily stacked and stored.

Yet another aspect is a chair that may include a frame which supports the seat and backrest. The frame may be constructed from a relatively strong material such as metal. In particular, the frame may be constructed from steel but other materials with suitable characteristics and properties may also be used.

A further aspect is a folding chair that may be movable between folded or collapsed positions and unfolded or use positions. The folding chair may include legs that are pivotally connected. For example, the chair may include front legs and rear legs, and the legs may be pivotally connected at least proximate a midpoint of the legs. In particular, a right front leg may be pivotally connected to a right rear leg, and a left front leg may be pivotally connected to a left rear leg. The front legs may be connected to the seat in a fixed position. In particular, the front legs may be pivotally connected to the seat in a fixed position. The rear legs may be movable, such as slidable, relative to the seat. For instance, the rear legs may be slidable between first and second positions relative to the seat. The pivotal connection of the front legs in a fixed position to the seat, and the slidable connection of the rear legs to the seat may allow the legs to be moved between folded and unfolded positions. If desired, the upper portion of the rear legs may be connected to a cross member, such as a cross tube, and the upper portion of the rear legs and/or the cross tube may be movable or slidable between first and second positions. The movement of the upper portion of the rear legs and/or the cross tube may be at least partially controlled by a guide, such as a groove or channel, to facilitate movement between the first and second positions. The movement of the upper portion of the rear legs and/or the cross tube may be at least partially controlled by one or more stops, which may limit the movement of the legs.

Another further aspect is a folding chair that may include legs that are movable between first and second positions. Advantageously, when the legs are in the use position, the legs may be disposed in a generally triangular-shaped configuration, which may help create a strong and sturdy chair. The chair, for example, may include front legs that are attached in a fixed position to the seat and the rear legs may be movable or slidable relative to the seat. When the rear legs are disposed in the use position, the legs may engage or contact a stop, which may help secure the rear legs in a fixed position. In particular, an upper portion of the rear legs, which may include a cross member or tube, may engage or contact the stop and that may prevent further movement of the legs. The stop, for example, may prevent the cross member from moving further towards the front of the chair. The stop may consist of a bracket, portion of the frame, portion of the seat, or the like. The stop may be constructed from a durable, wear resistant material such as metal, steel, etc. If the legs and stop are constructed from metal, this may help create a strong, generally triangular-shaped frame that can support a significant load or force. A metal, generally triangular-shaped frame with metal stops securing the frame in the use position may also create a chair that is able to support a considerable amount of weight.

Yet another further aspect is a folding chair that may be locked into position. For example, the chair may be locked in a use position. In greater detail, the chair may include one or more legs, such as a pair of rear legs, and a cross member may be attached to an upper portion of the rear legs. The upper portion of the legs and/or cross member may be movable or slidable relative to the seat. For instance, the chair may include a seat and a bracket may be attached to the seat. The seat and/or bracket may form at least a portion of a guide, such as a groove or channel, and the upper portion of the legs and/or cross member may be at least partially disposed in or movement may be at least partially controlled by the guide. A stop may be used to secure the legs in a fixed position, such as when the legs are in the unfolded or use position. In particular, when an upper portion of the rear legs and/or cross member contacts or engages the stop, further movement of the rear legs may be prevented. Additionally, the upper portion of the rear legs and/or cross member may include one or more engaging portions which may be disposed in one or more receiving portions to help secure the rear legs in a fixed position. As an example, one or both ends of the cross member may be bent or angled to form engaging portions and, when the legs are in the desired position, the engaging portions may be disposed in the receiving portions. Advantageously, the rear legs may be disposed in a fixed position when the upper portion of the rear legs and/or cross member engages the stop and/or the engaging portions are disposed in the receiving portions. Beneficially, this may lock the rear legs into position and the chair may be disposed in a very sturdy and stable position. If desired, the guide may help control movement of the legs between first and second positions, such as between folded and unfolded positions. In addition, the guide may be disposed at least proximate each side of the seat and the guide may be formed by the seat and/or bracket. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand, after reviewing this disclosure this disclosure, the guide could be formed by the chair, the bracket, or other suitable structure. One of ordinary skill in the art would also understand, after reviewing this disclosure, that the guide could have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the chair.

A still further aspect is a chair than may include a backrest or backrest attached to a frame. The backrest and the frame may include one or more locking, engaging and/or receiving portions that may be sized and configured to contact, abut, engage and/or interlock with each other to connect the backrest to the frame. The locking, engaging and/or receiving portions may be sized and configured to connect the backrest to the frame using a friction, interference and/or snap fit.

Still yet another further aspect is a chair that may include a frame with one or more receiving portions that are sized and configured to receive and/or retain one or more portions of the backrest. The receiving portions, which may consist of one or more slots, channels, grooves and the like, may extend from an open, upper portion of the frame and along a length of the frame. In particular, the frame may include an open, upper end and the receiving portion may be connected to the open end such that at least a portion of the open end and the receiving portion are aligned. The receiving portion may include one or more projections, engaging portions, locking cogs, teeth or the like, which may be referred to as locking portions of the frame, and the locking portions of the frame may be sized and configured to contact and/or engage corresponding portions of the backrest. For example, the backrest may include one or more projections, engaging portions, locking cogs, teeth or the like, which may be referred to as locking portions of the backrest, which may be sized and configured to contact and/or engage the locking portions of the frame. Thus, the backrest may include one or more locking portions that are sized and configured to at least partially contact and/or engage the one or more locking portions of the frame. The locking portions of the frame and/or backrest may have angled or curved surfaces that are sized and configured to facilitate contact and/or engagement. The locking portions of the frame and/or backrest may be sized and configured to allow the backrest to be connected to the frame by a snap, friction and/or interference fit. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, after reviewing this disclosure, that the frame and backrest may be connected in any suitable manner. One of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate, after reviewing this disclosure, that the frame and backrest may include other structures that are sized and configured to contact, abut and/or engage, which may help securely connect the backrest and frame.

Another aspect is a chair that may include a backrest that is secured or locked into a fixed position when it is attached to the frame. For example, the backrest may include one or more locking portions, such as cogs, tabs, ramps, buttons, projections and the like. These locking portions of the backrest may be sized and configured to deform or deflect when the backrest is attached to the frame. Once the backrest is attached to the frame, then the locking portions may resiliently return, at least partially, to their initial configuration to help retain the backrest in the desired position. This may advantageously allow the backrest to be quickly and easily secured in a desired position relative to the frame.

Still another aspect is a chair that may include a frame with one or more locking portions that are sized and configured to allow the backrest to be securely attached to the frame without the use of fasteners, adhesives, etc. For example, the backrest may include one or more locking portions that are disposed at least proximate the sides of the backrest and the frame may include one or more locking portions that are disposed proximate the upper portion of the frame. The locking portions of the frame and/or backrest may be positioned, angled and/or sized to allow the backrest to be securely attached to the frame. For instance, one or more of the locking portions may include narrowed or tapered portions to help secure the backrest in a fixed position. The locking portions may also include other features, such as inwardly and/or outwardly extending protrusions, dovetail portions, teeth and the like, which may help securely attach the backrest and the frame.

Yet another aspect is a chair that may include a frame and backrest with one or more locking portions. For example, the frame may include two leg assemblies and a receiving portion may be disposed in an upper portion of each of the leg assemblies. The receiving portions may include one or more locking portions. The backrest may also include one or more locking portions that are sized and configured to at least partially contact and/or engage corresponding locking portions of the frame. Advantageously, the one or more locking portions may allow the backrest and frame to be securely connected. While the one or more locking portions may allow the backrest and frame to be securely connected without the use of fasteners, adhesives and the like, it will be appreciated that fasteners, adhesives and the like can be used if desired.

Still yet another aspect is a method of attaching a backrest to a frame. The method may include inserting a portion of the backrest, such as an engaging portion, into an opening in an end of the frame. The engaging portion may be connected to the backrest by a connecting portion and the connecting portion may be disposed in a receiving portion extending along a length of the frame. The connecting portion and receiving portion may include corresponding locking portions that are sized and configured to securely connect the backrest to the frame. The method may further include connecting the backrest to the frame by a snap, friction and/or interference fit. If the backrest is constructed from plastic, such as blow-molded plastic, the engaging portion of the backrest may be integrally formed with the backrest as part of a unitary, one-piece structure. Advantageously, the locking portions of the backrest may also be integrally formed with the backrest as part of a unitary, one-piece structure.

A further aspect is a folding chair that may include legs that are movable between first and second positions. For example, the folding chair may include legs and a cross member or cross tube may be connected to an upper portion of the legs. The cross tube may be movable or slidable relative to the seat and one or more stops may be used to control movement of the legs. In particular, the cross tube may be slidable relative to a seat and a guide may help control movement of the cross tube. The stop may be used to prevent further movement of the cross tube relative to the guide. The stop may be at least partially formed by one or more flanges. For instance, the stop may include a first flange that is sized and configured to contact and/or engage the cross tube and a second flange that may provide increased strength, stiffness and rigidity to the stop. The second flange may be at least partially disposed in a portion of the seat, such as an undercut disposed in a lower portion of the seat. Advantageously, the one or more flanges may help create a strong, durable and impact resistant stop. The stop may be formed as part of a bracket that is attached to the seat and the bracket may form at least a portion of the guide. The stop, however, could be a separate component, attached to other suitable portions of the chair or be formed from other portions of the chair. The stop may beneficially secure the chair in a fixed position such as the use position.

Another aspect is a folding chair movable between a folded or collapsed position and an unfolded or use position. The folding chair may include a seat; a backrest; a frame connected to the seat and the backrest, the frame including a right front leg, a left front leg, a right rear leg, and a left rear leg; a first bracket connected to a first side of the seat; a second bracket connected to a second side of the seat; a first guide disposed at least proximate a lower surface of the seat, at least a portion of the first guide formed by the first bracket; a second guide disposed at least proximate the lower surface of the seat, at least a portion of the second guide formed by the second bracket; and a cross member connected to an upper portion of the right rear leg and an upper portion of the left rear leg. The cross member may be slidable relative to a lower portion of the seat, the cross member may be slidable within the first guide the second guide, and the cross member may be slidable relative to the lower portion of the seat and the first and second guides when the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions. A first engaging member may be disposed at a first end of the cross member and a second engaging member may be disposed at a second end of the cross member, the first engaging member may be at least partially disposed within the first guide, and the second engaging member may be at least partially disposed in the second guide. The cross member slides between a first position and a second position relative to the lower portion of the seat and the first and second guides when the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions.

If desired, a first portion of the first guide may be formed by a portion of the seat; a second portion of the first guide may be formed by a portion of the first bracket; a first portion of the second guide may be formed by a portion of the seat; and a second portion of the second guide may be formed by a portion of the second bracket. Additionally, a portion of the cross member may contact a portion of the lower portion of the seat when the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions. In addition, the right front leg and the right rear leg may be pivotally connected to form a first leg assembly; and the left front leg and the left rear leg may be pivotally connected to form a second leg assembly. When the chair is in the unfolded position, a lower portion of the right front leg and a lower portion of the right rear leg may form two sides of a generally equilateral triangle; and, when the chair is in the unfolded position, an upper portion of the right front leg and an upper portion of the right rear leg may form two sides of a generally equilateral triangle. Further, a lower surface of a first end of the cross member may contact a surface of the first guide; a lower surface of a second end of the cross member may contact a surface of the second guide; an upper surface of the first end of the cross member may contact a lower surface of the seat; and an upper surface of the second end of the cross member may contact the lower of the seat.

Yet another aspect is a folding chair that may include a backrest, a seat, and a frame connected to the backrest and the seat. The frame may include a first leg assembly with a front leg and a rear leg, and a second leg assembly may include a front leg and a rear leg. A cross member may connect the rear leg of the first leg assembly and the rear leg of the second leg assembly, and a guide may be connected to the seat. The guide may be sized and configured to guide the cross member as the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions. The chair may further include a groove that is at least partially defined by a portion of the guide and a portion of the seat. The chair may also include a stop that maintains the chair in the unfolded position when the stop contacts the cross member. The stop may be part of the guide and the stop may include a first flange that is sized and configured to contact the cross member. If desired, the seat may form at least a portion of the guide. Further, a portion of the cross member may be angled to form an engaging member, and the engaging member may be disposed in a receiving portion of the guide.

Still another aspect is a folding chair may include a backrest, a seat, and a frame sized and configured to support the backrest and the seat. The frame may include a first leg assembly with a front leg and a rear leg, and a second leg assembly with a front leg and a rear leg. A cross member may connect the rear leg of the first leg assembly and the rear leg of the second leg assembly; a guide may be sized and configured to guide the cross member as the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions; and a stop may be sized and configured to contact the cross member when the chair is in the unfolded position, the stop preventing the cross member from moving further towards a front of the chair. The guide may include a groove and the stop may include a flange that is disposed generally perpendicular to a length of the cross member. In addition, the seat and a bracket form at least a portion of the guide. Further, a lower surface of the cross member may contact a surface of the guide, and an upper surface of the cross member may contact a lower surface of the seat.

These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following brief description of the drawings, the drawings, the detailed description of preferred embodiments, and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments to further illustrate and clarify the above and other aspects, advantages, and features of the present invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict only preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit its scope. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the drawings may illustrate preferred sizes, scales, relationships, and configurations of the invention, the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is an upper perspective view of an exemplary chair, illustrating the chair in a use position;

FIG. 2 is a lower perspective view of the chair shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the chair shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the chair shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a left side view of the chair shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a right side view of the chair shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the chair shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the chair shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is lower perspective view of the chair shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the legs in a partially closed position;

FIG. 10 is another lower perspective view of the chair shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the legs in another partially closed position;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the portion of the chair shown in FIG. 9 along lines 11-11;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of the portion of the chair shown in FIG. 10 along lines 12-12;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary cross member;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary bracket;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the chair shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the legs and the cross member in one position;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional side view of the portion of the chair shown in FIG. 15, illustrating the legs and the cross member in another position;

FIG. 17 is a lower perspective view of an exemplary seat;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional side view of another exemplary chair, illustrating a guide and stop;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional side view of the chair shown in FIG. 18, illustrating a cross member and in a guide;

FIG. 20 is a lower perspective view of a portion of the chair shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 is an upper perspective view of a portion of the chair shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is an upper perspective view of a portion of another exemplary chair, illustrating a backrest and a frame;

FIG. 23 is an enlarged upper perspective view of a portion of the chair shown in FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is another enlarged upper perspective view of a portion of the chair shown in FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the chair shown in FIG. 22;

FIG. 26 is a partial cutaway upper perspective view of a portion of the chair 22, illustrating the backrest connected to the frame; and

FIG. 27 is an enlarged partial cutaway side view of a portion of the chair shown in FIG. 22, illustrating the backrest connected to the frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is generally directed towards chairs. The principles of the present invention, however, are not limited to chairs. It will be understood that, in light of the present disclosure, the chairs disclosed herein may have a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements. It will also be understood that chairs may include any suitable number and combination of features, components, aspects, and the like. In addition, while the chairs shown in the accompanying figures are illustrated as having particular styles, it will be appreciated the chairs may have any suitable style or configuration. Further, the stackable frame structure disclosed herein may be successfully used in connection with other types of objects and devices.

Additionally, to assist in the description of various exemplary embodiments of the chairs, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, sides, right, and left are used to describe the accompanying figures which may be, but are not necessarily, drawn to scale. It will further be appreciated the chairs may be disposed in a variety of desired positions or orientations, and used in numerous locations, environments, and arrangements. A detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the chairs now follows.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary chair 10 in a use position, according to one or more embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of the chair 10 may include a seat 12 with an upper surface or portion and a lower surface or portion. The chair 10 may also include a chair back or backrest 14, which may have a front surface or portion and a rear surface or portion. A frame 16 may be used to support the seat 12 and the backrest 14 in the desired locations. For example, the frame 16 may include a right side portion and a left side portion that are connected to the seat 12 and backrest 14. The frame 16 may also include or be attached to one or more supports or legs 18, which may be used to support the chair 10 above a surface such as a floor or the ground. As shown in FIG. 1, exemplary embodiments of the chair may include a right front leg 18a, a left front leg 18b, a right rear leg 18c and a left rear leg 18d. The frame 16 may include two leg assemblies. For example, a first leg assembly may include the right front leg 18a and the right rear leg 18c, and a second leg assembly may include the left front leg 18b and the left rear leg 18d. After reviewing this disclosure, it will be appreciated that the chair 10 may include any suitable number and configuration of legs 18 depending, for example, upon the intended use and/or design of the chair.

A bracket 20 may be attached to the seat 12 and one or more of the legs may be attached to the bracket. For instance, the front legs 18a, 18b may be attached to a rear portion of the bracket 20. In particular, the front legs 18a, 18b may be pivotally attached to a rear portion of the bracket 20, which may allow the legs to be pivotally attached to a rear portion of the seat 12. As discussed in greater detail below, the bracket 20 may also facilitate connection of the rear legs 18c, 18d to the seat 12. One of ordinary skill in the art, after reviewing this disclosure, will understand that the legs 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d may also be attached directly to the seat 12 or other suitable portions of the chair 10 depending, for example, upon the intended use of the chair.

The chair 10 may be sized and configured for use by a single person, but the chair could also be sized and configured to allow two or more persons to sit on the chair at one time. It will be understood that the chair 10 could have a variety of suitable shapes, sizes and configurations, depending, for example, upon the intended use of the chair. For example, the chair 10 could be larger or smaller, and it may have other suitable designs depending, for example, upon its intended appearance, aesthetics, and the like.

At least a portion of the chair 10 may be constructed from plastic and, in particular, from blow-molded plastic. For example, the seat 12 and/or backrest 14 of the chair 10 may be constructed from blow-molded plastic. One of ordinary skill in the art, in view of this disclosure, will appreciate that any suitable portions of the chair 10 can be constructed from plastic and, for example, the entire chair may be constructed from plastic. In addition, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the seat 12 and backrest 14 may be part of a unitary, one-piece structure. Thus, for example, the seat 12 and backrest 14 may be constructed from blow-molded plastic, and the seat and backrest may be integrally formed as part of a unitary, one-piece structure.

In greater detail, the seat 12 and backrest 14 may be constructed from plastic that is blow-molded into the desired shape and configuration. Advantageously, the blow-molded plastic seat 12 and backrest 14 may allow a strong, durable and/or lightweight chair 10 to be quickly and efficiently manufactured. It will be appreciated that other suitable materials and processes may be used to construct the chair 10. For example, the seat 12 and/or backrest 14 may also be constructed from wood, metal, etc. In addition, the seat 12 and backrest 14 may be formed by other suitable methods or processes such as injection molding, extrusion molding, vacuum forming, tumble molding, and the like. It will also be appreciated that the seat 12 and backrest 14 are not required to be manufactured by the same process. For example, the backrest 14 could be constructed from blow-molded plastic and the seat 12 could be formed from vacuum or injection molded plastic.

The legs 18 and the bracket 20 may be constructed, for example, from a strong and durable material such as metal and, in particular, steel. If the legs 18 and bracket 20, are constructed from steel, that may help create a strong and sturdy chair 10 that is able to support a significant amount of weight.

The chair frame 16 is desirably constructed from a relatively strong and sturdy material such as metal and, in particular, steel. In particular, the frame 16 may be constructed from hollow metal tubes or conduits that are bent or formed into the desired shapes and configurations. The frame 16 may have a generally circular, square, rectangular, oval or other suitable cross-sectional configuration. Advantageously, the metal frame 16 may allow a strong, sturdy and/or lightweight chair 10 to be constructed. The frame 16 could also be constructed from other materials with appropriate characteristics and the frame may have other suitable shapes and configurations. In particular, the size and shape of the frame 16 could depend, for example, upon the intended use of the chair 10. It will be appreciated that the chair 10 could also be constructed without a frame 16, if desired.

As shown in FIG. 2, a cross member 22, such as a cross tube or bar, may be attached to an upper portion of the legs 18. Specifically, the cross member 22 may, for example, be attached to the upper portion of the right rear leg 18c and the upper portion of the left rear leg 18d. The cross member 22 may also be constructed from a relatively strong and sturdy material such as metal and, in particular, steel. The cross member 22 may be securely connected to the upper portion of the rear legs 18c, 18d in a fixed position by welding, fusing, bonding, and the like.

The legs 18 of the chair 10 may be pivotally connected and the pivot point may be disposed at least proximate a midpoint of the rear legs 18c, 18d. In greater detail, the chair may include a front pair of legs 18 and a rear pair of legs. The front pair of legs 18 may include the right front leg 18a and the left front leg 18b. The rear pair of legs 18 may include the right rear leg 18c and the left rear leg 18d. The front legs 18a, 18b may be pivotally connected to the rear legs 18c, 18d, respectively, by one or more fasteners, pins, and the like. In addition, as described above, the front legs 18 may be secured in a fixed position relative to the seat 12. For example, the front legs 18a, 18b may be attached to a rear portion of the seat 12 by the bracket 20, and the front legs may pivot relative to the seat 12.

Advantageously, when the chair 10 is in the use position, the legs 18 and seat 12 may have a generally triangular-shaped configuration and that may help create a strong and sturdy chair that is able to support a significant amount of weight. For example, the front legs 18a, 18b and the rear legs 18c, 18d may have an approximately equal distance from a lower portion or ends of the leg to the pivot point connecting the front and rear legs, such as about fourteen (14) inches. When the chair 10 is in the use position, the distance separating the lower portion or ends of the front leg 18a, 18b and the lower portion of the rear leg 18c, 18d, respectively, may be approximately equal to the distance from the lower portion of the leg to the pivot point, such as about fourteen (14) inches. Thus, the lower portion of the legs 18 may be disposed in an at least approximately equilateral triangle configuration when the chair 10 is in the use position. Similarly, the upper portion of the legs 18 may also be disposed in an at least approximately equilateral configuration when the chair 10 is in the use position. For instance, a distance from the pivot point to the seat 12 for an upper portion of the front legs 18a, 18b and the rear legs 18c, 18d may be approximately the same, such as about six (6) inches. The distance separating the upper portion of the front legs 18a, 18b attached to the bracket 20 or seat 12 and the upper portion of the rear legs 18c, 18d may be approximately equal to the distance from the pivot point to the upper portion of the legs, such as bout six (6) inches. Therefore, the upper portion of the legs 18 may be disposed in an at least approximately equilateral triangle configuration when the chair 10 is in the use position.

Significantly, if the upper portion of the legs 18 and the lower portion of the legs are disposed in generally an equilateral triangle configuration, a strong and sturdy chair 10 may be created. In particular, the equilateral triangles may help create a chair 10 that is balanced and can support a generally equal amount of weight on different portions of the seat 12. The equilateral triangles may also create an aesthetically pleasing design and the upper and lower portions of the legs 18 supporting the seat 12 may be generally symmetrical. It will be understood, after reviewing this disclosure, that the legs 18 may also have other appropriate shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements, including longer or shorter lengths depending, for example, upon the intended use of the chair 10.

As seen in FIGS. 9 and 10, the upper portion of the rear legs 18c, 18d and the cross member 22 may be movable relative to the seat 12. In particular, the upper portion of the rear legs 18c, 18d and the cross member 22 may be slidable relative to a lower portion of the seat 12. For example, the upper portion of the rear legs 18c, 18d and the cross member 22 may be slidable between a first position in which the chair 10 is disposed in an open or use position and a second position in which the chair is disposed in a closed or collapsed position. As described in more detail below, the movement of the upper portion of the rear legs 18c, 18d and the cross member 22 may be controlled so that the legs are secured, held and/or locked in position. For instance, the upper portion of the rear legs 18c, 18d and the cross member 22 may be secured, held and/or locked in position when the chair is in the open and/or closed positions.

As shown in FIG. 11, the ends of the cross member 22 may be disposed in a slot or guide 24, such as a groove or channel. The cross member 22 may be slidable within a guide 24 and the guide may be formed by at least a portion of the bracket 20 and/or seat 12. When the chair 10 is folded and unfolded, movement of the cross member 22 may be at least partially controlled by the guide 24. If desired, one or both ends of the cross member 22 may form at least a portion of an engaging member 26 and the engaging member may be at least partially disposed in the guide 24. For example, the ends of the cross member 22 may be generally straight and aligned with a body of the cross member. Thus, the engaging members 26 may be formed by the opposing ends of the cross member 22. In another exemplary embodiment, the ends of the cross member 22 may be angled or bent to form the engaging members 26. For instance, the opposing ends of the cross member 22 may be disposed at an angle within about 5°, about 10° or about 15° of perpendicular relative to a body of the cross member. It will be appreciated that the engaging members 26 may be disposed at any suitable angle and the engaging portions may have other appropriate shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements. Further, while the chair 10 is illustrated as including two engaging members 26, it will be appreciated that the chair may include one or more engaging members.

The bracket 20 may also include one or more stops 28 and the stops may control the movement of the legs 18 and/or the cross member 22 relative to the seat 12. For example, the one or more stops 28 may engage or contact the cross member 22 and/or the engaging members 26 when the chair 10 is in a particular configuration. In particular, the cross member 22 and/or the engaging members 26 may engage or contact one or more stops 28 when the chair 10 is in the use position, which may prevent movement of the cross member while the chair is being used. The cross member 22 and/or the engaging members 26 may also engage or contact one or more stops 28 when the chair is in the closed or collapsed positions, which may facilitate storage and/or stacking of the chair.

For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the stops 28 may be part of the bracket 20 and the stops may help control movement of the cross member 22 relative to the seat 12. The stops 28 may be constructed from one or more flanges 30 or angled portions of the bracket 20. In particular, the stops 28 may be formed by a first flange 30a and a second flange 30b. The first and second flanges 30a, 30b may increase the stiffness and rigidity of the stop and/or bracket 20. In further detail, the first flange 30a may be disposed at a right angle or generally perpendicular to a portion of the bracket 20. In particular, the first flange 30a may be disposed at an angle relative to a lower portion of the bracket 20, and the lower portion of the bracket may form at least a portion of the guide 24. The first flange 30a may also, for example, generally extend along a length of the cross member 22. The first flange 30a may also be disposed generally parallel to a body of the bracket 20. The stop 28 may include a second flange 30b and the second flange may increase the stiffness and rigidity of the stop. The second flange 30b may be disposed at an angle relative to the first flange 30a, such as a right angle. The first and second flanges 30a, 30 b may be integrally constructed as part of a unitary, one-piece structure. The first and second flanges 30a, 30b could also be separate structures, if desired. The second flange 30b may be at least partially disposed in an opening or receiving portion of the seat 12, such as an undercut or other suitable type of structure. Advantageously, this may help secure the bracket 20 to the seat 12 and/or help prevent the bracket from moving relative to the seat.

When the chair 10 is in the use position, a portion of the cross member 22, such as the engaging portions 26, may contact and/or engage one or more of the stops 28 to help maintain the chair in a fixed position. For example, the cross member 22 or engaging portions 26 may contact or engage the first flange 30a and/or the second flange 30b. Thus, the stops 28 may limit or prevent further movement of the cross member 22 and this may help secure the chair 10 in the use position because the legs 18 may not be moveable relative to the chair. In greater detail, the stops 28 may prevent further movement of the cross member 22 in a first direction but may allow movement of the cross member in a second direction. This may allow the stops 28 to prevent further movement of the cross member 22 in the first direction, which may create a strong and sturdy chair 10 in the use position, and may allow movement of the cross member in a second direction, which may allow the chair to be quickly and efficiently folded or closed.

The bracket 20 may also include other features or structures such as one or more flanges that may extend along at least a majority or at least substantially an entire length of the bracket. For instance, a first flange 32 may extend along all or a portion the bracket 20. The first flange 32 may form a portion of the guide 24, and the flange may increase the stiffness and rigidity of the bracket 20 and/or the guide. A portion of the first flange 32 may be bent, angled or curved, and a portion of the first flange may be sized and configured to allow the cross member 22 and/or the engaging members 26 to move relative to the bracket 20 or the flange. In addition, the bracket 20 may include a second flange 33 and the second flange may extend along at least a majority or at least substantially the entire length of the bracket. The second flange 33 may form a portion of the guide 24 and the flange may increase the stiffness and rigidity of the bracket 20 and/or the guide. A portion of the second flange 33 may be bent, angled or curved, and a portion of the second flange may be sized and configured to allow the cross member 22 and/or the engaging members 26 to move relative to the bracket 20 or the flange.

The first and second flanges 32, 33 may be sized and configured to facilitate attachment of the bracket 20 of the seat 12. The first and second flanges 32, 33 may also be sized and configured to define a portion of the guide 24 and/or contact a portion of the seat 12. Additionally, the bracket 20 may facilitate attachment of the legs 18 to the seat 12. For example, the bracket 20 may include an opening, hole or aperture that is sized and configured to allow the front legs 18 to be secured in a fixed position relative to the seat 12 using a screw, bolt, fastener and the like. This may allow the front legs 18a, 18b to be pivotally connected to the seat 12 and/or the bracket 20.

As shown in FIG. 18, the guide 24 may be formed by the seat 12 and/or the bracket 20. Specifically, the lower portion of the bracket 20, such as the second flange 32, may form at least a portion of the guide 24. The seat 12 may also form a portion of the guide 24. For instance, the second flange 32 may form a lower portion of the guide 24, and a portion of the seat 12 may form an upper portion of the guide. As shown in the accompanying figures, the stop 28 may be at least partially constructed by the first flange 30a and the second flange 30b.

FIG. 19 illustrates a portion of the cross member 22 disposed in the guide 24. In particular, the engaging member 26, which may be a bent or angled portion of the cross member 22, may be disposed in the guide 24. When the engaging member 26 is disposed within a receiving portion of the guide 24, the movement and positioning of the cross member 22 may be controlled. In addition, this may help control movement of the legs and, in particular, the movement of the rear legs 18c, 18d. Further, when the engaging member 26 is disposed within a receiving portion of the guide, that may help secure the legs 18 in a fixed position. Specifically, the rear legs 18c, 18d may be disposed in a fixed position when the upper portion of the legs 18 and/or the cross member 22 engages the stop 28. When the upper portion of the legs 18, the cross member 22 or the engaging members 26 engage the stop 28, the cross member may be prevented from moving further towards the front of the chair 10.

As shown in FIG. 20, the stop 28 may be formed from a portion of the bracket 20. In addition, the guide 24 may be formed from a portion of the bracket 20. FIG. 20 also illustrates the cross member 22 may be connected to the upper portion of the rear legs 18c, 18d.

FIGS. 22-27 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the backrest 14 attached to the chair 10. In particular, FIGS. 22-27 illustrate attachment of the backrest 14 to the frame 16. It will be understood that the backrest 14 may be attached to the frame 16 in one or more suitable manners. For example, as seen in FIGS. 22 and 23, each side of the backrest 14 may include an engaging portion 34 and the engaging portion may have a cross-sectional configuration that is generally the same as the cross-sectional configuration of an upper portion of the frame 16. For instance, the engaging portions 34 of the backrest 14 may have a generally circular cross-sectional configuration and the upper portions of the frame 16 may have a corresponding generally circular cross-sectional configuration, which may allow the engaging portions of the backrest 14 to be inserted into an open end of the frame 16. This may allow the engaging portions 34 to be at least partially disposed within the frame 16. The engaging portion 34 may be connected to the backrest 14 by a connecting structure and the engaging portion 34, the connection structure, and the backrest 14 may be integrally formed as part of a unitary, one-piece structure.

The upper portion of the frame 16 may include an opening 36 and a receiving portion may be connected to the opening. The receiving portion may extend along a portion of the frame 16. For example, the receiving portion may extend along a length of the frame 16. The receiving portion may include one or more frame locking portions 38, such as locking cogs, steps, protrusions, projections, engaging members, and the like. The frame locking portions 38 may include one or more angled surfaces and/or engaging or contact surfaces. For instance, the frame locking portions 38 may include a first surface that is disposed at a first angle relative to the inner surface of the receiving portion such as an angle of about 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40° or 45°. The frame locking portions 38 may also include a second surface that is disposed at a second angle relative to the inner surface of the receiving portion 36 such as an angle between about 60° and about 90°. The second surface of the frame locking portion 38 may be sized and configured to contact and/or engage corresponding portions of the backrest 14, such of a backrest locking portion 40.

The backrest locking portions, which are best seen in FIG. 25, may include one or more locking cogs, receiving portions, steps, indentations, notches, depressions and the like. The backrest locking portions 40 may also include one or more protrusions, projections, engaging members, and the like. The backrest locking portions 40 may include one or more angled surfaces and/or engaging or contact surfaces. For instance, the backrest locking portions 40 may include a first surface that is disposed at a first angle relative to the backrest 14 at an angle of about 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40° or 45°. The backrest locking portions 40 may also include a second surface that is disposed at a second angle relative to the inner surface of the receiving portion such as an angle between about 60° and about 90°. The second surface of the backrest locking portion 40 may be sized and configured to contact and/or engage a corresponding portion of the frame locking portion 38. The frame locking portions 38 and the backrest locking portions 40 are preferably sized and configured to allow the backrest 14 to be securely attached to the frame 16. In particular, the frame locking portions 38 and the backrest locking portions 40 may allow the backrest 14 to be relatively easily connected to the chair 10. Specifically, the frame locking portions 38 and the backrest locking portions 40 may allow the backrest 14 to be easily and quickly connected to the fame 16. The frame locking portions 38 and the backrest locking portions 40 may also prevent or make removal of the backrest 14 from the frame 16 difficult.

As shown in FIG. 26, when the backrest 14 is attached to the frame 16, the engaging portions 34 of the backrest may be inserted into the openings in the upper portion or ends of the frame. The engaging portions 34 of the backrest 14 may then be inserted into the frame 16 so that the connecting portions of the backrest are disposed in the receiving portions in the upper portions of the frame. The backrest locking portions 40 and the frame locking portions 38 may interact to allow the backrest 14 to be inserted into the proper position of the frame 16 and the locking portions may prevent the backrest from being unintentionally disconnected to the frame.

In greater detail, as shown in FIG. 27, the backrest locking portions 40 may include a first surface 42 and the first surface may be disposed at a first angle relative to the backrest 14. For example, the first surface 42 may be disposed at an angle between about 5° and about 45°, such as about 10°, about 15°, about 20°, about 25°, about 30°, about 35°, or about 40°. The backrest locking portions 40 of may also include a second surface 44 and the second surface may be disposed at a second angle relative to the inner surface of the receiving portion. The second surface may be disposed at an angle between about 60° and about 90°, such as about 65°, about 70°, about 75°, about 80° or about 85°. The second surface 44 of the backrest locking portion 40 may be sized and configured to contact and/or engage a corresponding portion of the frame 16, such as the frame locking portion 38. The frame locking portions 38 and the backrest locking portions 40 are preferably sized and configured to allow the backrest 14 to be securely attached to the frame 16.

Advantageously, the backrest 14 and frame 16 may be securely and quickly interconnected without the use of fasteners, adhesives or the like. Additionally, the frame locking portions 38 and the backrest locking portions 40 may allow the backrest 14 and frame 16 to be easily, quickly and securely connected. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand after reviewing this disclosure that the engaging portions 34, the receiving portions, the frame locking portions 38, and the backrest locking portions 40 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the chair 10.

One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate after reviewing this disclosure that the chair 10 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the chair. One of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that different components of the chair 10 may have various shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the chair. Further, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the chair 10 may include any suitable number or combination of features or aspects.

Although this invention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of this invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claims which follow.

Claims

1. A folding chair movable between a folded or collapsed position and an unfolded or use position, the folding chair comprising:

a seat;

a backrest;

a frame connected to the seat and the backrest, the frame including a right front leg, a left front leg, a right rear leg, and a left rear leg;

a first bracket connected to a first side of the seat;

a second bracket connected to a second side of the seat;

a first guide disposed at least proximate a lower surface of the seat, at least a portion of the first guide formed by the first bracket;

a second guide disposed at least proximate the lower surface of the seat, at least a portion of the second guide formed by the second bracket; and

a cross member connected to an upper portion of the right rear leg and an upper portion of the left rear leg, the cross member slidable relative to a lower portion of the seat, the cross member slidable within the first guide the second guide, the cross member slidable relative to the lower portion of the seat and the first and second guides when the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions.

2. The folding chair as in claim 1, further comprising a first engaging member disposed at a first end of the cross member and a second engaging member disposed at a second end of the cross member, the first engaging member at least partially disposed within the first guide, the second engaging member at least partially disposed in the second guide.

3. The folding chair as in claim 1, wherein the cross member slides between a first position and a second position relative to the lower portion of the seat and the first and second guides when the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions.

4. The folding chair as in claim 1, wherein a first portion of the first guide is formed by a portion of the seat;

wherein a second portion of the first guide is formed by a portion of the first bracket;

wherein a first portion of the second guide is formed by a portion of the seat; and

wherein a second portion of the second guide is formed by a portion of the second bracket.

5. The folding chair as in claim 1, wherein a portion of the cross member contacts a portion of the lower portion of the seat when the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions.

6. The folding chair as in claim 1, wherein the right front leg and the right rear leg are pivotally connected to form a first leg assembly;

wherein the left front leg and the left rear leg are pivotally connected to form a second leg assembly;

wherein when the chair is in the unfolded position, a lower portion of the right front leg and a lower portion of the right rear leg form two sides of a generally equilateral triangle; and

wherein when the chair is in the unfolded position, an upper portion of the right front leg and an upper portion of the right rear leg form two sides of a generally equilateral triangle.

7. The folding chair as in claim 1, wherein a lower surface of a first end of the cross member contacts a surface of the first guide;

wherein a lower surface of a second end of the cross member contacts a surface of the second guide;

wherein an upper surface of the first end of the cross member contacts a lower surface of the seat; and

wherein an upper surface of the second end of the cross member contacts the lower of the seat.

8. A folding chair movable between a folded or collapsed position and an unfolded or use position, the folding chair comprising:

a backrest;

a seat;

a frame connected to the backrest and the seat, the frame comprising: a first leg assembly including a front leg and a rear leg; and a second leg assembly including a front leg and a rear leg;

a cross member connecting the rear leg of the first leg assembly and the rear leg of the second leg assembly; and

a guide connected to the seat, the guide sized and configured to guide the cross member as the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions.

9. The folding chair as in claim 8, further comprising a groove, the groove at least partially defined by a portion of the guide and a portion of the seat.

10. The folding chair as in claim 8, further comprising a stop, the stop maintains the chair in the unfolded position when the stop contacts the cross member.

11. The folding chair as in claim 10, wherein the stop is part of the guide.

12. The folding chair as in claim 10, wherein the stop includes a first flange that is sized and configured to contact the cross member.

13. The folding chair as in claim 8, wherein the seat forms at least a portion of the guide.

14. The folding chair as in claim 8, wherein a portion of the cross member is angled to form an engaging member; and

wherein the engaging member is disposed in a receiving portion of the guide.

15. A folding chair movable between a folded or use position and an unfolded or collapsed position, the folding chair comprising:

a backrest;

a seat;

a frame sized and configured to support the backrest and the seat, the frame comprising: a first leg assembly comprising a front leg and a rear leg; and a second leg assembly comprising a front leg and a rear leg;

a cross member connecting the rear leg of the first leg assembly and the rear leg of the second leg assembly;

a guide sized and configured to guide the cross member as the chair is moved between the folded and unfolded positions; and

a stop sized and configured to contact the cross member when the chair is in the unfolded position, the stop preventing the cross member from moving further towards a front of the chair.

16. The folding chair as in claim 15, wherein the guide includes a groove.

17. The folding chair as in claim 15, wherein the stop comprises a flange that is disposed generally perpendicular to a length of the cross member.

18. The folding chair as in claim 15, wherein the seat and a bracket form at least a portion of the guide.

19. The folding chair as in claim 15, wherein the front leg of the first leg assembly is pivotally connected to the rear leg of the first leg assembly;

wherein the front leg of the second leg assembly is pivotally connected to the rear leg of the second leg assembly;

wherein when the chair is in the unfolded position, a lower portion of the right front leg and a lower portion of the right rear leg form two sides of a generally equilateral triangle; and

wherein when the chair is in the unfolded position, an upper portion of the right front leg and an upper portion of the right rear leg form two sides of a generally equilateral triangle.

20. The folding chair as in claim 15, wherein a lower surface of the cross member contacts a surface of the guide; and

wherein an upper surface of the cross member contacts a lower surface of the seat.