SWIVEL RING BASE FOR OVERSIZED CHAIR

Abstract

A swivel base includes a base having a flat upper surface defining a central longitudinal axis. The swivel base further includes a rotational hub disposed centrally on, and rotatable around, the central longitudinal axis of the base. The rotational hub also includes a coupling. Additionally, the swivel base includes a spoke removably secured to the rotational hub at the coupling, a roller axle telescopically coupled with the spoke, and a connector telescopically coupled with the roller axle.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This non-provisional application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/452,958, filed Mar. 17, 2023, which application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to rotational furniture bases and, more particularly, to a swivel ring base for an oversized chair.

BACKGROUND

Many chairs are designed to pivot or rotate. In various designs, the chair includes a plurality of casters to move and rotate the chair. Alternatively, the chair may include a rotational base assembly including a stationary base and on which the chair rotates via casters, roller bearings, etc. In many examples, the rotational base assembly includes a preset and/or stock bearing assembly centrally disposed on the rotational base assembly and the chair is designed with the appropriate structure to couple with the rotational base assembly.

Some bases are not adjustable in a manner that provides added stability for heavier chairs or chairs that may have weight disposed away from the rotational base causing a tipping force. For example, such bases may have a fixed annular ring base that cannot be adjusted for different furniture sizes, furniture weights, or to account for weight distribution. In one example, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,528,994 to Chen et al., the base includes a set of rollers disposed in a circular recess, and the rollers are unable to be adjusted in a radial direction. The rollers cannot be adjusted because the rollers are stabilized and secured in the recessed track. Because the rollers cannot be adjusted, the base cannot be adjusted for increased stability to account for a larger chair. As a result, larger chairs using that base are more likely to tip under uneven weight distribution.

Many different types of chairs have included rotational base assemblies. For example, many recliners and outdoor patio chairs have been designed to include a stationary base but still provide a seat that rotates. Some chairs are even being designed to seat multiple persons as rotating love seats. Rotating bases for such large chairs must be structurally strong enough to support the weight of the furniture and the persons sitting on the chair and also provide sufficient stability to avoid the furniture tipping.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a swivel base including a base having a flat upper surface defining a central longitudinal axis. The swivel base further includes a rotational hub disposed centrally on, and rotatable around, the central longitudinal axis of the base. The rotational hub also includes a coupling. Additionally, the swivel base includes a spoke removably secured to the rotational hub at the coupling, a roller axle telescopically coupled with the spoke, and a connector telescopically coupled with the roller axle.

In some variations, the base is an annular base. Additionally, the swivel base may include a cross brace coupled to a first inner portion of the annular base and a second inner portion of the annular base opposite the first inner portion. Further, the base may define an outer radius of between 10 inches (in.) and 14 in.

In other variations, the rotational hub comprises a nylon bushing. Additionally, the coupling may define an aperture. Additionally, the spoke may be at least partially disposed in the aperture of the coupling, and the coupling may include a pivotable coupling passing through the aperture and the spoke. Further, the coupling can define a radial axis and a rotational plane, extending out from the rotational hub. In such examples, the spoke is pivotable approximately five degrees)(° about the pivotable coupling in either direction of the radial axis in the rotational plane.

In some variations, the swivel base further includes a roller wheel disposed on a distal end of the roller axle. In some examples, the roller wheel includes at least one annular groove and the covering is at least partially disposed in the annular groove. The roller wheel may include a covering disposed on a circumference of the roller wheel, and the covering may be made of a sound-dampening material. In some such examples, the sound-dampening material is a synthetic material.

In further variations, the roller axle has a proximal end disposed within the spoke and a distal end extending beyond the spoke. The roller axle has a contracted state and an extended state, the distal end of the roller axle may extend between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 4 in. further beyond the spoke in the extended state compared to the contracted state. Additionally or alternatively, the connector has a proximal end disposed within the roller axle and a distal end extending beyond the roller axle, and the connector has a contracted position and an extended state. In such examples, the distal end of the roller axle extends between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 9 in. further beyond the spoke in the extended state compared to the contracted state.

In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a swivel base including an annular base having a flat upper surface and defining a central longitudinal axis. The swivel base may further include a rotational hub disposed centrally on, and rotatable around, the central longitudinal axis of the annular base and including a plurality of couplings, each coupling of the plurality of couplings defining an aperture. Additionally, the swivel base includes a plurality of spokes, each spoke of the plurality of spokes removably secured to the rotational hub at one coupling of the plurality of couplings. Also, the swivel base may include a plurality of roller axles, each roller axle of the plurality of roller axles defining a proximal end and a distal end and telescopically coupled with one spoke of the plurality of spokes, each roller axle of the plurality of roller axles including a roller wheel disposed on the distal end of the roller axle. Further, the swivel base may include a plurality of connectors, each connector telescopically coupled with one roller axle of the plurality of roller axles.

In some variations, the swivel base includes a cross brace coupled to a first inner portion of the annular base and a second inner portion of the annular base opposite the first inner portion. In some examples, the annular base defines an outer radius of between 10 inches (in.) and 14 in.

In other variations, the rotational hub is a nylon bushing.

In yet other variations, each spoke is at least partially disposed in the aperture of the corresponding coupling, and each coupling includes a pivotable coupling passing through the aperture and the spoke. In some such examples, each coupling defines a radial axis and the plurality of couplings define a rotational plane, extending out from the rotational hub. Each spoke may be pivotable approximately five degrees)(° about the pivotable coupling in either direction of the corresponding radial axis in the rotational plane.

In further variations, the roller wheel includes a covering disposed on a circumference of the roller wheel. In some such variations, the roller wheel includes at least one annular groove and the covering is at least partially disposed in the annular groove. The covering may be a sound-dampening material, and the sound-dampening material may be a synthetic material.

In some variations, the proximal end of each roller axle is disposed within the corresponding spoke and the distal end of each roller axle extends beyond the corresponding spoke. Each roller axle may have a contracted state and an extended state, the distal end of each roller axle may extend between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 4 in. further beyond the corresponding spoke in the extended state compared to the contracted state. Additionally or alternatively, each connector has a proximal end disposed within the corresponding roller axle and a distal end extending beyond the corresponding roller axle. In such examples, the connector has a contracted state and an extended state such that the distal end of each roller axle extends between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 9 in. further beyond the corresponding spoke in the extended state compared to the contracted state.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure is described in the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a swivel base for an oversized chair made in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective, exploded view of an example rotational hub as used in the swivel base for an oversized chair of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example spoke as used in the swivel base for an oversized chair of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example roller axle as used in the swivel base for an oversized chair of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example connector as used in the swivel base for an oversized chair of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the swivel base of FIG. 1 in a fully contracted state.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the swivel base of FIG. 1 with the roller axle in an extended position.

FIG. 6C is a perspective view of the swivel base of FIG. 1 with the connector in an extended position.

FIG. 6D is a perspective view of the swivel base of FIG. 1 in a fully extended state.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the swivel base of FIGS. 1 and 6A-6D.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example roller wheel as shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the roller wheel of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the roller wheel of FIG. 8 including an overmolded surface.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and/or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments. It will further be appreciated that certain actions and/or steps may be described or depicted in a particular order of occurrence while those skilled in the art will understand that such specificity with respect to sequence is not actually required. It will also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary technical meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions by persons skilled in the technical field as set forth above except where different specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure provides a swivel base for an oversized chair. The swivel base includes telescopic roller axles and telescoping connectors that provide a stable base for a chair. By extending the roller axle and connector out, the swivel base can be configured to provide support and rotational features to large pieces of furniture (e.g., large chairs configured for multiple persons). For example, some love seats and small couches are being designed with rounded features and configured to rotate. Further, the swivel base is adjustable to fit a wide variety of chairs. For example, the telescoping roller axles and connectors can be adjustable to fit a wide variety of chairs of different sizes.

The swivel base made in accordance with the present disclosure is capable of providing a stable, rotatable base for large furniture without disposing casters along the edge of the furniture. Further, the swivel base provides sufficient stability to reduce the chance of the rotating furniture tipping. Further, the adjustability of the presently disclosed swivel base permit the swivel base to be used in a wide variety of furniture.

The adjustability of the present swivel base provides added stability for larger chairs that may have large tipping forces. For example, the swivel base includes roller wheels with an adjustable radial dimension. As a result, the swivel base is able to provide a larger base, providing improved stability and better weight distribution, to accommodate the larger furniture (e.g., rotatable love seats), and loads imparted to the supported furniture at locations away from a central axis. Other furniture bases, that are not as adjustable, may be difficult to couple with furniture or provide inadequate stability.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example swivel base 100 for an oversized chair. But in various other examples, the swivel base 100 may be used to provide a stable, rotational base for other furniture. The swivel base 100 includes an annular base 102 having the general shape of a flat disc (herein after base 102), a rotational hub 104, and a plurality of support arms 106. In the illustrated example, the swivel base 100 includes four support arms 106, but could include more or fewer support arms 106. Additionally, the support arms 106 are disposed symmetrically on the rotational hub 104, but could be disposed asymmetrically.

The base 102 has a flat upper surface 112 and, as shown in FIG. 1, comprises four panels 114a, 114b, 114c, 114d. As used herein, “flat” generally means an even and uniform surface without bumps, grooves, recess, ridges, etc. The base 102 may include feet or pedestals (not shown) to elevate the base 102 off of a surface or may be made with sufficient thickness to not require feet. But, in various examples, the base 102 may be formed as a more or fewer panels, and may even be formed as a unitary piece. One method of manufacturing the annular base in a cost-effective manner includes slicing a metal pipe of appropriate diameter and wall thickness. For example, pipes used in high-pressure oil and gas processes may have solid material wall thicknesses of approximately 3-4 inches. Slicing such high-pressure pipes to a desired thickness is one way to manufacture a unitary, annular base 102. Alternatively, the metal could be rolled and welded together to form the annular base. In the present example, the base 102 is an annular ring defining an outer circumference 116a and an inner circumference 116b. The outer circumference 116a may be defined by an outer radius of between approximately 10 inches (in.) and 14. In various examples, width of the annular base is between approximately 0.5 in. to 6 in. In some examples, the base 102 further includes a cross brace 118 coupled to the base 102 at a first inner portion 120a and a second inner portion 120b. As shown, the cross brace 118 is coupled to the base 102 at two points, but in other examples, the cross brace 118 may couple to one or more points on the base 102.

The rotational hub 104 is disposed centrally on the base 102. Additionally, both the base 102 and the rotational hub 104 define a central longitudinal axis 122. As a result, the rotational hub 104 is rotatable around the central longitudinal axis 122 and rotatable relative to the base 102. In the present example, the rotational hub 104 is freely rotatable, but in some examples, the rotational hub 104 is restricted to rotate within a discrete range. For example, the rotational hub 104 may include a first and second stop that restrict rotation to approximately 180 degrees, approximately 90 degrees, or approximately 60 degrees.

The rotational hub 104 includes couplings 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d. Each coupling 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d receives one of the plurality of support arms 106. For example, the first coupling 126a receives a first support arm 132a, the second coupling 126b receives a second support arm 132b, the third coupling 126c receives a third support arm 132c, and the fourth coupling 126d receives a fourth support arm 123d. Each support arm 132a, 132b, 132c, 132d of the plurality of support arms 106 includes a spoke 134 (discussed in greater detail in connection with FIG. 3), a roller axle 136 (discussed in greater detail in connection with FIG. 4), and a connector 138 (discussed in greater detail in connection with FIG. 5).

Each coupling 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d forms a radial axis 152, although FIG. 1 only illustrates the radial axis 152 with respect to the second coupling 126b and the third coupling 126c. Each radial axis 152 is disposed on the same rotational plane 154 (shown between the second coupling 126b and the third coupling 126c). The rotational plane 154 is parallel to the upper surface 112 of the base 102. As discussed in greater detail in connection with FIG. 7, each support arm 106 is pivotable about the respective coupling 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d in the rotational plane 154.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the rotational hub 104. As shown, the rotational hub 104 includes the cross brace 118, a central shaft 202, the coupling assembly 204, and the low-friction rotational bearing 206.

The coupling assembly 204 includes each coupling 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d. In the present example, the first coupling 126a is disposed opposite the third coupling 126c and the second coupling 126b is disposed opposite the fourth coupling 126d. Further, the first coupling 126a is disposed orthogonal to the second coupling 126b. As a result, the couplings 126a, 126b, 126cc, 126d are equidistantly disposed around the coupling assembly 204.

The couplings 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d each include an aperture 212. Additionally, each coupling 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d includes a pivotable coupling 214. In the illustrated example, the pivotable coupling 214 is a smooth pin and can be made of any suitable material (e.g., wood, metal, polymer, etc.). In some examples, the pivotable coupling 214 may be configured to be removably secured to the couplings 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d via a cotter pin, spring loaded ball bearing, removable fastener, etc. As discussed in greater detail in connection with FIG. 7, below, the pivotable coupling 214 can assist in the connection of the swivel base 100 onto a piece of furniture.

The coupling assembly 204 further includes a central aperture 222. The central shaft 202 passes through the central aperture 222. In some examples, the coupling assembly 204 is removably secured to the cross brace 118. As illustrated in FIG. 2, a fastener 224 may tighten on threads 226 disposed on the central shaft 202. The fastener 224 can tighten on a washer 228 to secure the coupling assembly 204 to the cross brace 118.

The coupling assembly 204 further includes the low-friction rotational bearing 206. In some examples, the low-friction rotational bearing 206 includes a first bushing 232 and a second bushing 234. In various examples, one or both of the first bushing 232 and the second bushing 234 may be made of low-friction materials include smooth stainless steel, titanium, or nylon. In some examples, the low-friction rotational bearing 206 may utilize a lubricant (e.g., oil or grease) to further decrease friction or extend the operational utility of the low-friction rotational bearing 206.

In some examples, the cross brace 118 may include a plurality of apertures 252 configured to receive fasteners and couple the cross brace 118 to the base 102 of FIG. 1. In other examples, the cross brace 118 may be welded or integrally formed with the base 102.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the spoke 134 of FIG. 1. The spoke 134 includes a proximal end 302, a distal end 304, and a cylindrical body 306 defining a cylindrical passageway 308. Although the spoke 134 is cylindrical, in some examples, the spoke could have a non-circular cross-sectional area (e.g., elliptical, rectangular, or hexagonal) with a corresponding non-circular passageway.

The cylindrical body 306 defines an outer diameter 312 and an inner diameter 314. The dimensions of the outer diameter 312 are configured to loosely secure the cylindrical body 306 in the aperture 212 of any of the couplings 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d. In various examples, the outer diameter 312 is between 0.5 inches (in.) to 3 in. in diameter. Additionally, the inner diameter 314 is configured to telescopically receive the roller axle 136, thereby permitting each roller axle 136 to extend or retract in a radial direction, for variable placement along the radial extent of the base 102.

The proximal end 302 of the spoke 134 includes a coupling aperture 322 configured to receive the pivotable coupling 214 as shown in FIG. 2. Although only one coupling aperture 322 is illustrated, a second coupling aperture is disposed diametrically opposite the coupling aperture 322 shown in FIG. 3. In such an example, the pivotable coupling can pass through the spoke 134 and any of the couplings 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d.

The distal end 304 of the spoke 134 includes an aperture 332 and a locking fastener 334. When the roller axle 136 is disposed within the cylindrical passageway 308, the locking fastener 334 can pass through the aperture 332 and removably secure the roller axle 136 in the cylindrical passageway 308. The locking fastener 334 can removably secure the roller axle 136 at any point along the length of the roller axle 136. The locking fastener 334 shown in FIG. 3 is a set screw, but in other examples, the locking fastener 334 could be a thumb screw, spring-loaded ball bearing, cotter pin, or any other adjustable fastener. But in other examples, the locking fastener 334 may be configured to engage the roller axle 136 at discrete points (e.g., via corresponding aperture disposed in the roller axle). Additionally or alternatively, the locking fastener 334 may be disposed on the roller axle 136 and configured to engage the aperture 332 (e.g., a spring-loaded bearing or spring-loaded pin).

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the roller axle 136 of FIG. 1. The roller axle 136 includes a proximal end 402, a distal end 404, and a cylindrical body 406 defining a cylindrical passageway 408, and a roller wheel 410 disposed on the distal end of the roller axle. Although the roller axle 136 is generally cylindrical, in some examples, the roller axle 136 could have a non-circular cross-sectional area (e.g., elliptical, rectangular, or hexagonal) with a corresponding non-circular passageway. In various examples, the roller axle 136 may include an aperture and locking fastener similar to the aperture 332 and locking fastener 334 of FIG. 3.

The cylindrical body 406 defines an outer diameter 412 and an inner diameter 414. The dimensions of the outer diameter 412 are configured to secure the cylindrical body 406 in the cylindrical passageway 308 of the spoke 134. In various examples, the outer diameter 412 is between 0.5 inches (in.) to 2.75 in. in diameter. Additionally, the inner diameter 314 is configured to telescopically receive the connector 138.

The roller axle 136 includes a roller wheel 432 disposed on the distal end 404 of the roller axle 136. A more detailed view of the roller wheel 432 is shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 10 The roller wheel 432 may comprise any rolling apparatus (e.g., caster or roller bearing). Additionally, the roller wheel 432 may be secured to the roller axle 136 via an adhesive (e.g., glue or epoxy) or a mechanical connection (e.g., weld, threads, or an interference fit). In some examples, the roller wheel 432 includes a covering 434 disposed on the circumference of the roller wheel 432. The covering 434 may be a natural or synthetic, durable, sound-dampening material (e.g., rubber or polymers). In some examples, the covering 434 reduces most or all noise of the roller wheel 432 when rolling on the annular base 102. The covering 434 may be overmolded onto the roller wheel 432. In other examples, the covering 434 may be secured to the roller wheel 432 via an adhesive or mechanical connection (e.g., nails).

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the connector 138 of FIG. 1. The connector 138 includes a proximal end 502, a distal end 504, and a cylindrical body 506 defining a cylindrical passageway 508. Although the connector 138 is generally cylindrical, in some examples, the connector could have a non-circular cross-sectional area (e.g., elliptical, rectangular, or hexagonal) with a corresponding non-circular passageway.

The cylindrical body 506 defines an outer diameter 512. The dimensions of the outer diameter 512 are configured to secure the cylindrical body 506 in the cylindrical passageway 408 of the rolling axle 136. In various examples, the outer diameter 512 is between 0.5 inches (in.) to 2.5 in. in diameter.

The connector 138 may also include a coupling interface 540. The coupling interface 540 is disposed on the distal end of the connector 138. In the example of FIG. 5, the coupling interface 540 includes a supporting surface 542 on which a piece of furniture (e.g., an oversized chair) may rest. Additionally, the supporting surface 542 may include an aperture 544 through which a fastener may removably secure furniture to the coupling interface 540 (e.g., a bolt passing through the aperture 544 into a T-nut disposed in the furniture). The coupling interface 540 may be secured to the connector 138 through any adhesive or mechanical means. For example, a fastener may pass through aperture 552 to screw into the connector 138. Alternatively, the coupling interface 540 may be welded or glued to the connector 138. In yet other examples, the supporting surface 542 may be off-center yet parallel with the connector 138. As a result, a portion of the coupling interface 540 may be disposed at an angle 556 relative to the supporting surface 542. In various examples, the angle 556 may be between approximately 90 degrees)(° and approximately 150°.

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate different configurations of the swivel base 100 of FIG. 1. Although FIGS. 6A-6B show the different configurations with respect to the second support arm 132b, but the first, third, and fourth support arms 132a, 132c, 132d are designed to operate similarly or identically to the second support arm 132b. FIG. 6A illustrates the second support arm 132b in the fully contracted state. FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C illustrate the second support arm 132b in a partially extended state. And FIG. 6D illustrates the second support arm 132b in a fully extended state.

In FIG. 6A, the second support arm 132b defines a length 610 from the central longitudinal axis 122 to a distal end of the connector 138. The length 610 is the sum of an axle length 620 and a connector length 630. The axle length 620 is measured from the central longitudinal axis 122 and the distal end of the roller axle 136. The connector length 630 is measured from the distal end of the roller axle 136 and the distal end of the connector 138. As shown in FIG. 6A, the contracted length 612 is the sum of an initial roller axle length 622 and an initial connector length 632. In various examples, the contracted length 612 may be between approximately 9 inches (in.) and 14 in.

FIG. 6B illustrates the second support arm 132b in a first partially extended state. As shown in FIG. 6B, the roller axle 136 is in a fully extended position and defines a final axle length 624. In various examples, the difference between the final axle length 624 and the initial axle length 622 is between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 4 in. However, the axle length 620 may be any length between the initial roller axle length 622 and the final axle length 624. The first partially extended length 614 is the sum of the final axle length 624 and the initial connector length 632. As a result, the first partially extended length 614 is longer than the contracted length 612 by the difference between the final axle length 624 and the initial axle length 622.

FIG. 6C illustrates the second support arm 132b in a second partially extended state. As shown in FIG. 6C, the connector 138 is in a fully extended position and defines a final connector length 634. In various examples, the difference between the final connector length 634 and the initial connector length 632 is between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 9 in. However, the connector length 630 may be any length between the initial connector length 632 and the final connector length 634. The second partially extended length 616 is the sum of the initial axle length 622 and the final connector length 634. As a result, the second partially extended length 616 is longer than the contracted length 612 by the difference between the final connector length 634 and the initial connector length 632.

FIG. 6D illustrates the second support arm 132b in a fully extended state. As shown in FIG. 6D, the roller axle 136 is in the fully extended position and defines the final axle length 624 and the connector 138 is also in the fully extended position and defines the final connector length 634. The fully extended length 618 is the sum of the final axle length 624 and the final connector length 634. Based on the examples of FIGS. 6A-6D, the length 610 may be any length between the contracted length 612 and the fully extended length 618. As a result, the final extended length 618 may be between 12 inches (in.) and 27 in.

Based on the examples of FIGS. 6A-6D, the diameter of the swivel base 100 is based on the length of opposing support arms (e.g., the first and third support arms 132a, 132c or the second and fourth support arms 132b, 132d). Thus, in the fully contracted state, the diameter of the swivel base 100 may be between approximately 18 inches (in.) and 24 in. And, in the fully extended state, the diameter of the swivel base 100 may be between approximately 24 in. and 54 in., or more.

As can be seen in FIG. 6D, the spoke 132 is telescopically coupled with the roller axle 136 and the roller axle 136 is telescopically coupled with the connector 138. As a result, the roller axle 136 is configured to smoothly slide through the interior of the spoke 132 and the connector is configured to smoothly slide through the interior of the roller axle 136. With the assistance of appropriate fasteners (e.g., locking fastener 334 of FIG. 3), the roller axle 136 can be removably secured relative to the spoke 132 and the connector 138 can be removably secured relative to the roller axle 136.

FIG. 7 is a partial top view of the swivel base 100 of FIGS. 1 and 6A-6D. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the support arm 132a is configured to pivot about the pivotal coupling 214. As a result, each of the spoke 134, roller axle 136, and the connector 138 are pivotable in either direction of the radial axis 152. In various examples, the support arm 132a is able to pivot a first angle 702a or a second angle 702b relative the radial axis 152. In various examples, the first angle 702a and the second angle 702b are identical or substantially identical. And the first angle 702a and the second angle 702b may be approximately 3 degrees)(°, 5°, 10°, 15° or more. The ability of the support arm 132a to pivot about the pivotal coupling 214 facilitates easier assembly of the swivel base 100 on a piece of furniture (e.g., an oversized chair). For example, if the fasteners to couple the swivel base to the furniture are not disposed at 90° angles from each other, the aperture 544 can be pivoted to any position between a first adjusted position 704a and a second adjusted position 704b.

Although FIG. 7 is described with respect to the support arm 132a, each of the support arms 132a, 132b, 132c, 132d can pivot about the pivotal coupling 214.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example roller wheel 800 that could correspond to the roller wheel 432. The roller wheel 800 includes an outer ring 802, an inner ring 804, and a rolling element 808 (e.g., balls or rollers). The roller wheel 800 provides a low-friction rolling interface. For example, the inner ring 804 can be rotationally fixed about a central rotational axis 812 while the outer ring 802 is able to rotate about the central rotational axis 812. The rolling element 808 facilitates the smooth rotation of the outer ring 802 relative to the inner ring 804. In some examples, the roller wheel 800 further includes a rolling cage. As shown in FIG. 8, the outer ring 802 includes a first groove 822 and the inner ring 804 includes a second groove 804. The first groove 822 and the second groove 824 cooperate to function as a rolling cage, preventing the rolling element 808 from separating from the outer and inner rings 802, 804. In various other examples, the rolling cage could be configured to retain the rolling element 808 differently. For example, instead of first and second grooves 822, 824, the outer ring 802 and/or the inner ring 804 may include an annular shoulder to retain the rolling element 808.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view 900 of the roller wheel 800 of FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 9, the rolling element 808 includes at least a first roller bearing 902 and a second roller bearing 904. The first and second roller bearings 902, 904 are disposed opposite each other and each of the first and second roller bearings 902, 904 engage both the inner and outer rings 802, 804. In some examples, each of the roller bearings 902, 904 are spherical and have identical diameters. In various other examples, the roller bearings 902, 904 could be differently shaped and differently sized.

FIG. 10 illustrates the roller wheel 800 including an overmolded coating 1002 (corresponding to the covering described in connection with FIG. 4). The overmolded coating 1002 covers the outer ring 802 and the rolling element 808. The overmolded coating 1002 could be made from any material suitable to overmolding a roller bearing. For example, the overmolded coating 1002 could be a natural material, synthetic material (e.g., rubber, silicon, plastic), or metallic (e.g., aluminum, steel). The overmolded coating 1002 is configured to engage the outer ring 802 by physically coupling the overmolded coating 1002 and the outer ring 802, using an adhesive to secure the overmolded coating 1002 to the outer ring 802. In the illustrated example, the overmolded coating 1002 partially fills annular grooves 1004 (shown in FIG. 9) disposed in the outer ring 802. In such an example, the overmolded coating 1002 is fixedly secured to the outer ring 802.

In the illustrated example of FIGS. 9 and 10, the overmolded coating 1002 provides a rolling surface to engage the base 102. The material of the overmolded coating 1002 could be selected to be sustainable (e.g., made from natural materials), selected to reduce rolling friction (e.g., metal, plastic), selected to be quiet when rolling (e.g., rubber, silicon). In some such examples, the overmolded coating 1002 reduces most or all noise when rolling. Further, the overmolded coating 1002 could include a rolling surface 1006. In the illustrated example, the rolling surface 1006 is smooth. In other examples, the rolling surface could include a rough surface, an annular groove, or another tread pattern.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of modifications, alterations, and combinations can be made with respect to the above described examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention(s) disclosed herein, and that such modifications, alterations, and combinations are to be viewed as being within the ambit of the inventive concept(s).

Claims

1. A swivel base, comprising:

a base having a flat upper surface and defining a central longitudinal axis;

a rotational hub disposed centrally on, and rotatable around, the central longitudinal axis of the base and including a coupling;

a spoke removably secured to the rotational hub at the coupling;

a roller axle telescopically coupled with the spoke; and

a connector telescopically coupled with the roller axle.

2. The swivel base of claim 1, wherein the base comprises an annular base.

3. The swivel base of claim 2, further comprising a cross brace coupled to a first inner portion of the annular base and a second inner portion of the annular base opposite the first inner portion.

4. The swivel base of claim 1, wherein the base defines an outer radius of between 10 inches (in.) and 14 in.

5. The swivel base of claim 1, wherein the rotational hub comprises a nylon bushing.

6. The swivel base of claim 1, wherein the coupling defines an aperture.

7. The swivel base of claim 6, wherein the spoke is at least partially disposed in the aperture of the coupling, and

the coupling includes a pivotable coupling passing through the aperture and the spoke.

8. The swivel base of claim 7, wherein the coupling defines a radial axis and a rotational plane, extending out from the rotational hub, and

wherein the spoke is pivotable approximately five degrees)(° about the pivotable coupling in either direction of the radial axis in the rotational plane.

9. The swivel base of claim 1, further comprising a roller wheel disposed on a distal end of the roller axle.

10. The swivel base of claim 9, wherein the roller wheel includes a covering disposed on a circumference of the roller wheel.

11. The swivel base of claim 10, wherein the roller wheel includes at least one annular groove and the covering is at least partially disposed in the at least one annular groove.

12. The swivel base of claim 10, wherein the covering includes a sound-dampening material.

13. The swivel base of claim 12, wherein the sound-dampening material is a synthetic material.

14. The swivel base of claim 1, wherein the roller axle has a proximal end disposed within the spoke and a distal end extending beyond the spoke; and

wherein the roller axle has a contracted state and an extended state, the distal end of the roller axle extending between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 4 in. further beyond the spoke in the extended state compared to the contracted state.

15. The swivel base of claim 1, wherein the connector has a proximal end disposed within the roller axle and a distal end extending beyond the roller axle; and

wherein the connector has a contracted position and an extended state, the distal end of the roller axle extending between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 9 in. further beyond the spoke in the extended state compared to the contracted state.

16. A swivel base, comprising:

an annular base having a flat upper surface and defining a central longitudinal axis;

a rotational hub disposed centrally on, and rotatable around, the central longitudinal axis of the annular base and including a plurality of couplings, each coupling of the plurality of couplings defining an aperture;

a plurality of spokes, each spoke of the plurality of spokes removably secured to the rotational hub at one coupling of the plurality of couplings;

a plurality of roller axles, each roller axle of the plurality of roller axles defining a proximal end and a distal end and telescopically coupled with one spoke of the plurality of spokes, each roller axle of the plurality of roller axles including a roller wheel disposed on the distal end of the roller axle; and

a plurality of connectors, each connector telescopically coupled with one roller axle of the plurality of roller axles.

17. The swivel base of claim 16, further comprising a cross brace coupled to a first inner portion of the annular base and a second inner portion of the annular base opposite the first inner portion.

18. The swivel base of claim 16, wherein the annular base defines an outer radius of between 10 inches (in.) and 14 in.

19. The swivel base of claim 16, wherein the rotational hub comprises a nylon bushing.

20. The swivel base of claim 16, wherein each spoke is at least partially disposed in the aperture of the corresponding coupling, and

each coupling includes a pivotable coupling passing through the aperture and the spoke.

21. The swivel base of claim 16, wherein each coupling defines a radial axis and the plurality of couplings define a rotational plane, extending out from the rotational hub, and

wherein each spoke is pivotable approximately five degrees)(° about the pivotable coupling in either direction of the corresponding radial axis in the rotational plane.

22. The swivel base of claim 16, wherein the roller wheel includes a covering disposed on a circumference of the roller wheel.

23. The swivel base of claim 22, wherein the roller wheel comprises at least one annular groove and the covering is at least partially disposed in the annular groove.

24. The swivel base of claim 22, wherein the covering includes a sound-dampening material.

25. The swivel base of claim 24, wherein the sound-dampening material is a synthetic material.

26. The swivel base of claim 16, wherein the proximal end of each roller axle is disposed within the corresponding spoke and the distal end of each roller axle extends beyond the corresponding spoke; and

wherein each roller axle has a contracted state and an extended state, the distal end of each roller axle extending between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 4 in. further beyond the corresponding spoke in the extended state compared to the contracted state.

27. The swivel base of claim 16, wherein each connector has a proximal end disposed within the corresponding roller axle and a distal end extending beyond the corresponding roller axle; and

wherein the connector has a contracted state and an extended state, the distal end of each roller axle extending between approximately 0.5 inches (in.) and 9 in. further beyond the corresponding spoke in the extended state compared to the contracted state.