FOLDABLE ROCKING CHAIR

Abstract

A rocking chair includes a body frame supported by a ground support structure configured to maintain contact with a supporting surface during rocking motion. At least one elastic element is positioned between the body frame and the ground support structure to provide restoring forces that facilitate controlled rocking movement. A motion-control structure guides movement of the body frame along a predetermined path and may include features that limit excessive displacement during operation. In certain embodiments, the ground support structure includes a telescoping support member configured to extend during use to increase stability and retract to facilitate compact storage. The rocking chair may further include a folding mechanism configured to transition the chair between deployed and folded configurations. The described configuration provides controlled rocking motion, improved stability, and portability across a range of operating conditions.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 and the Paris Convention to Chinese Utility Model Application No. PCN2252295, filed Nov. 27, 2025, to Chinese Utility Model Application No. PCN2260084, filed Jan. 12, 2026, to Chinese Utility Model Application No. PCN2260148, filed Jan. 21, 2025, and to Chinese Utility Model Application No. PCN2251783, filed Sep. 15, 2025, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates generally to rocking chairs and more particularly, to foldable and portable rocking chairs having improved stability, safety, compactness, and controlled rocking motion.

Folding chairs on the market typically fall into two general categories. A first category includes chairs that are static when unfolded into their ready-to-use condition or those that provide several adjustable positions through a reclining backrest that may be variably set into a static position at a desired angle. A second category includes folding chairs that are designed to create motion, similar to traditional rocking chairs, as a user's weight is variably shifted.

Existing foldable rocking chairs are typically constructed with two side frames that can be selectively collapsed into a folded state and/or selectively opened to provide a seating area in a set-up state. Each side frame may selectively move between forward and backward positions. In many known designs, rocking motion is created primarily by shifting the user's body weight or by pushing against the ground using the user's legs. Over time, continued pushing by the user may lead to fatigue and/or inconsistent motion.

Some rocking chairs include rocker mechanisms such as compression springs mounted toward the rear of the chair. In such systems, the chair pivots about a fulcrum point while the rocker mechanism provides restoring force. However, these designs often allow front legs of the chair to lift off the ground during rocking motion, creating a gap between the chair and the ground surface. The repeated opening and closing of this gap can create a cyclic pinch point that may pose a risk of injury to bystanders, pets, or users. Additionally, when portions of the chair lift off the ground, the effective footprint of the chair is reduced, which can decrease stability and balance. Some known chair designs also position rocker mechanisms behind the chair frame, resulting in increased overall size and reduced portability. Other known rocking chair designs attempt to improve stability or comfort using alternative spring configurations, linkage systems, or frame geometries; however, such designs may still permit intermittent loss of ground contact or introduce additional complexity or bulk.

Accordingly, there exists a need for a rocking chair that maintains continuous ground contact during rocking motion, provides controlled rocking behavior, reduces pinch-point hazards, improves stability, and maintains a compact and portable configuration when folded.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one aspect a rocking chair is provided. The rocking chair includes a body frame, a ground support structure, at least one elastic element, and a motion-control structure. The body frame is configured to support a seated user, and the ground support structure is configured to contact a supporting surface. The at least one elastic element is positioned between the body frame and the ground support structure and is configured to deform under load to permit rocking motion of the body frame relative to the ground support structure. The motion-control structure is configured to guide movement of the body frame relative to the ground support structure along a predetermined path during rocking motion, wherein the ground support structure is configured to maintain contact with the supporting surface throughout a rocking cycle.

In another aspect, a method of operating a rocking chair is provided. The method includes supporting a user on a body frame positioned above a ground support structure and deforming at least one elastic element positioned between the body frame and the ground support structure in response to a load applied by the user. The method also includes guiding movement of the body frame relative to the ground support structure using a motion-control structure and maintaining contact between the ground support structure and a supporting surface throughout a rocking cycle.

Advantages will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiments which have been shown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, the present embodiments may be capable of other and different embodiments, and their details are capable of modification in various respects. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The Figures described below depict various aspects of the systems and methods disclosed therein. It should be understood that each Figure depicts an exemplary embodiment of a particular aspect of the disclosed systems and methods, and that each of the Figures is intended to accord with a possible embodiment thereof. Further, wherever possible, the following description refers to the reference numerals included in the following Figures, in which features depicted in multiple Figures are designated with consistent reference numerals.

FIG. 1 is a front view of an exemplary foldable rocking chair in a set-up configuration.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 1, in the set-up configuration.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 1, also in the set-up configuration, showing an exemplary support base rod, elastic member, and front and rear folding components.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 1, in a collapsed configuration for storage and transport.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 1 in the collapsed configuration.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another exemplary foldable rocking chair in a set-up configuration and illustrating an exemplary four-bar sliding folding linkage with a U-shaped handle.

FIG. 7 is a front view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 6, in the set-up configuration.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 6, in the set-up configuration, showing an exemplary rotating rod and seat support member.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged detail perspective view of the four-bar sliding folding linkage of FIG. 6, showing the upper connecting rod, the lower connecting rod, the sliding sleeve, the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, and the connecting member with transition member.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 6 in a semi-folded configuration, showing the kinematics of the folding linkage during the folding action.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 6 in the fully collapsed configuration.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a foldable rocking chair in a set-up configuration and showing the telescopic support legs and the multi-rod folding linkage with co-hinged connecting shaft.

FIG. 13 is a front view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 12, in the set-up configuration.

FIG. 14 is a side view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 12, in the set-up configuration, showing the armrests and the backrest rod in the in-use position.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged detail perspective view of the multi-rod folding linkage of FIG. 12, showing the first rod member, the second rod member, the upper connecting rod, the lower connecting rod, the connecting shaft, and the wear-resistant rings.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 12 in a partially collapsed configuration.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the foldable rocking chair of FIG. 12 in the fully collapsed configuration, showing the armrests flipped laterally inward and the backrest rods flipped forwardly to lie along the rear of the armrests.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following specification, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments.

The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event occurs and instances where it does not.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” “substantially,” and “approximately,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

Generally, the embodiments described herein relate to foldable rocking chairs and, in some embodiments, compact portable seating systems that achieve a rocking motion using a simplified elastic bending architecture. For example, in one embodiment, the invention includes a telescopic support base rod disposed below the chair body and an elastic member disposed between the chair body and the support base rod. In the exemplary embodiment, the elastic member comprises one or more L-shaped leaf-spring elastic plates that are fixedly connected at a first end to the lower part of the chair body and fixedly connected at a second end to the support base rod. The elastic plates cooperate with the telescopic support base rod to produce controlled rocking motion through elastic bending, maintain ground contact throughout the rocking cycle, and provide a compact folded configuration. Although additional elastic members or alternative spring types may be incorporated for supplemental damping, load balancing, or user-preference tuning, the exemplary embodiment may include the L-shaped leaf-spring elastic plates as a primary rocking mechanism. This architectural configuration reduces system complexity and improves reliability.

As used herein, the terms “elastic member” and “elastic element” may be used interchangeably to refer to one or more resilient components configured to store and release mechanical energy.

In the exemplary embodiment, the rocking chair operates as a functionally integrated unit comprising a chair body, a telescopic support base rod, an elastic member, and one or more sets of folding components. Each folding component includes support legs, upper and lower connecting rods, a first rod member, and a second rod member arranged in a defined linkage geometry. This modular architecture enables scalable adaptation across chair configurations of varying sizes and weight capacities and allows individual components such as the elastic member or the telescopic support base rod to be independently serviced or replaced without disassembling the entire chair.

In certain embodiments, the rocking motion may be configured such that ground-contact components remain in continuous contact with a supporting surface throughout operation of the rocking chair.

In an exemplary embodiment, the rocking chair operates as an integrated motion-control system in which structural components cooperate to provide controlled rocking motion while maintaining stability during use. The system may include a body frame, a ground feet frame, one or more elastic members, and one or more motion-guiding components configured to coordinate movement of the chair during operation. Such an arrangement enables predictable rocking behavior and allows the chair to maintain a stable footprint across a range of user weights and operating conditions.

In one embodiment, the rocking system uses one or more elastic elements positioned between structural members of the chair to generate restoring forces during rocking motion. The elastic elements may include, but are not limited to, leaf springs, coil springs, elastomeric members, flexible plates, and/or any other resilient components capable of storing and releasing energy through bending, compression, extension, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the elastic element may be configured to provide progressive resistance during rocking motion to improve user comfort and reduce abrupt transitions between rocking positions.

In certain embodiments, movement of the rocking chair may be guided by a motion-control structure configured to constrain motion of one or more portions of the chair along a predetermined path. The motion-control structure may include, for example, a slot housing, guide channel, cam track, linkage assembly, or other guiding mechanism. During operation, the motion-control structure may coordinate movement of the body frame relative to the ground feet frame to maintain controlled rocking motion and to limit excessive displacement of structural components.

In an exemplary embodiment, the rocking chair may be configured such that ground-contact components remain in continuous contact with a supporting surface throughout a rocking cycle. Maintaining continuous ground contact may improve stability, reduce tipping risk, and minimize formation of pinch points that could otherwise occur when portions of the chair intermittently lift away from the supporting surface. In certain embodiments, motion-limiting features may be provided to restrict travel of the rocking components and to ensure consistent performance during repeated rocking cycles.

In some embodiments, a protective member is positioned adjacent to a moving component of the rocking chair. In certain embodiments, the protective member may facilitate reducing exposure to moving elements and/or facilitate reducing risk of pinch-point contact during operation. The protective member may include a guard, shield, cover, and/or barrier configured to improve safety and durability of the rocking chair.

In certain embodiments, the rocking chair system may provide improved stability during rocking motion, enhanced user comfort through controlled energy absorption and release, reduced mechanical wear through guided motion of structural components, and improved portability through compact structural configurations. The rocking chair may be suitable for use in a variety of environments, including indoor residential settings, outdoor recreational settings, and temporary seating applications, and may be configured to operate reliably under repeated use and varying load conditions.

In certain embodiments, loads generated during use of the rocking chair may be distributed through one or more structural members configured to transfer forces between the body frame and the ground feet frame. The structural configuration may be arranged to distribute vertical, horizontal, and dynamic forces across multiple contact points to improve stability and reduce localized stress concentrations. In some embodiments, the arrangement of structural members and motion-control components may be configured to balance forces during forward and rearward rocking motion, thereby improving durability and maintaining consistent performance over repeated use cycles.

In certain embodiments, the ground support structure may include a telescoping support member configured to extend during use to increase the effective support footprint and retract during folding to reduce storage dimensions. In certain embodiments, one or more support pads may be positioned at terminal ends of ground-contact members to elevate mechanical components above the supporting surface and/or to facilitate reducing wear or damage during operation. In some embodiments, the support pads may be positioned to maintain clearance between mechanical components and the supporting surface, thereby reducing wear and preventing damage to moving components. In certain embodiments, support pads may be configured to provide access clearance for user-actuated components or control features positioned near the supporting surface.

Referring to the Figures, a rocking chair 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is shown in a set-up condition in FIG. 1. It should be noted that in each Figure, the fabric that is extended over the frame to provide the seating and back surfaces is not shown. Rather, in each illustration, only the support members and frame are illustrated. In the exemplary embodiment, the rocking chair 10 includes a frame 12 that carries a seat panel (not shown) and a backrest panel (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment, the seat panel and the backrest panel are generally flexible panels connected by a connector panel (not shown). In alternative embodiments, the seat and backrest panels may be separate, unconnected pieces.

In certain embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-5, the rocking chair 10 includes a telescopic support base rod 14 and an elastic member 16 as described herein. In alternative embodiments shown in FIGS. 6-11 and FIGS. 12-17, different folding linkages, support configurations, and structural arrangements may be employed while maintaining the functional characteristics described herein.

In one embodiment, the support base rod 14 comprises a front rod 20 and a rear rod 22 arranged in an inner-outer telescopic configuration. A connecting sleeve 26 is disposed on the outer periphery of the rear side of the front rod 20, and a switch button 30 on the connecting sleeve 26 enables the user to selectively extend or retract the rear rod 22. In one embodiment, support pads 32 are disposed at the front end of the front rod 20 and the rear end of the rear rod 22 to suspend the connecting sleeve 26 and the switch button 30 above the ground and to facilitate providing enhanced stability. In the exemplary embodiment, the user extends the rear rod 22 before initiating use, thereby increasing the overall size of the support footprint of the chair 10. Extension may occur manually when the user pulls the rear rod 22 rearward until the switch button 30 engages. In alternative embodiments, the telescopic locking mechanism 14 may use any one or more of the following in addition to, or in the alternative to, a switch button 30: a friction-fit collar, a spring-loaded detent pin, a twist-lock sleeve, a cam-lock mechanism, and/or any other locking system that enables the telescopic rod 14 described herein to function. In some embodiments, the support pads 32 may be used solely for ground-contact protection and stability purposes and not for contributing to the rocking motion or the folding mechanism.

The frame 12 includes a pair of side frame assemblies 36 disposed in laterally spaced-apart and generally parallel relation to each other when the rocking chair 10 is in its set-up condition. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, in the exemplary embodiment, the pair of side frame assemblies 36 are positioned in a mirrored relationship and includes a left frame side assembly and a right frame side assembly. Each frame side assembly 36 includes an armrest portion 38, a front leg portion 50, a lower support portion 52, a rear leg portion 54, and a backrest support member 56.

A support runner 60 is disposed below the frame 12 and provides both stable ground support and rocking functionality for the rocking chair 10. The support runner 60 may form part of, or correspond to, the ground support structure described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, the support runner 60 includes a support base rod 14 having a telescopic rod structure that comprises a front rod 20 and a rear rod 22. The rear rod 22 is configured to be sleeved inside the front rod 20 and is movable in the front-rear direction. In the unfolded state, this telescopic arrangement provides an extended support base that facilitates improving stability and resisting tipping during rocking. In the folded state, the rear rod 22 retracts into the front rod 20 so that the overall length of the support base rod 14 is reduced to within the front-to-back thickness of the folded chair body 10, thereby reducing occupied space and facilitating storage and transportation.

In operation, when the rocking chair 10 is in the unfolded state, the rear rod 22 extends rearward such that its rear side is located at or beyond the rear side of the rearmost end of the chair body 10. This extended position provides a larger support footprint that helps prevent the rocking chair 10 from overturning during use. When the rocking chair 10 is to be folded, the rear rod 22 retracts forward such that its rear side is located at or forward of the front side of the rearmost end of the chair body 10, thereby significantly reducing the overall length of the support base rod 14.

In the exemplary embodiment, a first support pad 70 is disposed at the front end of the front rod 20, and a second support pad 72 is disposed at the rear end of the rear rod 22. The first and second support pads 70 and 72, respectively, are sized and positioned to suspend the connecting sleeve 26 and the switch button 30 above the ground, thereby preventing direct ground contact that could cause wear or damage to those components. The support pads 32 also facilitate user access to the switch button 30 and enhance the stability of the rocking chair 10 in both the unfolded and folded states.

In the exemplary embodiment, a rocker mechanism 88 is associated with the rocking chair 10 for producing rocking motion of the chair body 10 relative to the support runner 60. In contrast to conventional rocking chairs that employ a coil compression spring housed inside a tubular sleeve, the rocker mechanism 88 of the present embodiment employs an elastic member including one or more L-shaped leaf-spring elastic plates 90. Rocking motion is produced by elastic bending of the plates 90 in contrast to certain conventional configurations that employ pivoting about a fulcrum.

The elastic member 16 is positioned between the lower part of the chair body 10 and the support runner 60. In the exemplary embodiment, the elastic member 16 is formed by stacking one or more elastic plates 90 together, wherein, in the exemplary embodiment, each elastic plate 90 is a bent plate body having an L-shaped configuration. Each plate body 90 has substantially the same bending angle, which in some embodiments is an obtuse angle. The number of elastic plates 90 may be variably selected based on the user's weight or the desired rocking amplitude, thereby allowing the rocking characteristics to be tuned for different users and preferences.

A first part of each elastic plate 90 is fixedly connected to the lower part of the chair body 10. In the exemplary embodiment, the lower part of the chair body 10 includes a horizontal straight rod, and the first part of the elastic plate 90 extends generally horizontally therefrom. A second part of each elastic plate 90 is fixedly connected to the front side of the front rod 20 of the support base rod 14. In one embodiment, a fixed connection at each end is achieved through fastening members (not shown) such as fastening bolts, which ensure that deformation of the elastic member under load stably drives the rocking chair 10 to rock.

In the exemplary embodiment, a connecting member 100 is disposed at the front side of the front rod 20. The connecting member 100 may be a component having a surface oriented at an angle, and in some embodiments may be generally triangular, having one side that is inclined upward from front to back, and the second part of the elastic plate 90 is secured in cooperation with this inclined side. When a user sits on the chair body, the elastic member 16 deforms under the applied load, and the elastic potential energy stored during deformation is converted into rocking kinetic energy, thereby producing a smooth and comfortable rocking effect.

In embodiments where the elastic member 16 includes two or more stacked elastic plates 90, the plates 90 may be grouped together through a connecting plate having a concave shape and then fixedly connected to the lower part of the chair body 10 through a fastening member. This stacked configuration provides increased load-bearing capacity and allows further tuning of the rocking characteristics.

In the exemplary embodiment, the rocking motion during operation is produced primarily by elastic bending of the L-shaped leaf-spring elastic plates 90, in contrast to certain conventional configurations that employ pivoting about a fulcrum point. The elastic plates 90 may be fixedly connected at both ends—the first part to the chair body 10 and the second part to the support base rod 14—and rocking occurs through elastic deformation of the bent plate bodies 90. This arrangement is structurally and functionally distinct from conventional rocking mechanisms that employ a coil spring inside a sleeve with the chair pivoting about a fulcrum.

Referring to FIGS. 12-17, the rocking chair 10 is provided with multiple feet 110 on each frame side assembly that serve as contact points between the rocking chair 10 and the ground or other support surface. A first foot 112 is provided on a forward portion of the frame side assembly, generally beneath the front leg portion 50. A second foot 114 and a third foot 116 are provided at respective ends of the support runner 60.

When the rocking chair 10 is placed on a flat surface, a gap 120 is formed between the support legs 202 located at the front side of the chair body 10 and the ground. This gap 120 provides clearance for the rocking chair 10 during the rocking cycle, preventing interference between the front support legs 202 and the ground that would otherwise inhibit rocking motion. In certain embodiments, the size of the gap 120 may be variably selected relative to other structural dimensions to permit rocking motion while preventing interference.

In the exemplary embodiment, the rocking chair 10 includes folding components 130 disposed at the front and rear sides of the chair body 10. Each folding component 130 includes support legs 202 disposed at both lateral sides of the folding component 130, together with upper connecting rods 132, lower connecting rods 134, a first rod member 136, and a second rod member 138.

The upper ends of the two upper connecting rods 132 are respectively hinged to the upper ends of the corresponding side support legs 202, and the lower ends of the two upper connecting rods 132 are hinged together. Similarly, the lower ends of the two lower connecting rods 134 are respectively hinged to the lower ends of the corresponding side support legs, and the upper ends of the two lower connecting rods 134 are hinged together.

One end of the first rod member 136 is hinged to one of the upper connecting rods 134, and the other end of the first rod member 136 is hinged to one end of the second rod member 138. The middle part of the second rod member 138 is hinged to the other upper connecting rod 132. When the chair 10 is in the unfolded state, the first rod member 136 and the second rod member 138 abut against each other without relative rotation, thereby maintaining the chair 10 in the unfolded state.

The other end of the second rod member 138 is configured to be driven by a user to cause the first rod member 136 to rotate relative to the second rod member 138, thereby initiating folding of the chair 10. In the exemplary embodiment, the other ends of the two second rod members 138 are connected by a handle 150 to form a U-shaped handle structure. The U-shaped handle 150 is positioned at the outer side of the support leg on the same side, where it is readily accessible to the user.

When the chair 10 is in the unfolded state, the axis of the first rod member 210 and the axis of the second rod member 212 are either collinear or arranged in a V-shape with an opening facing forward or upward. This collinear or V-shaped abutment provides rigid locking that maintains the chair 10 in the unfolded state.

To fold the chair 10, the user grips the U-shaped handle and pulls it, causing the second rod member 212 to rotate and release the abutment with the first rod member 210. Once the rigid stop is released, the upper connecting rods 214 and the lower connecting rods 216 are free to rotate relative to each other, causing the opposing support legs 202 to move inward and completing the folding action. This folding process may be performed using a single-hand operation of the U-shaped handle, without the need for any additional locking or releasing mechanisms.

In an alternate embodiment, the support legs 202 are configured as telescopic rods, each comprising an inner tube and an outer tube that are movable relative to each other. The outer tube is positioned below the chair, and the overall length of each telescopic rod decreases when the chair 10 is unfolded and increases when the chair is folded.

The upper end of each upper connecting rod 214 is hinged to the upper end of the corresponding inner tube, and the lower end of each lower connecting rod 216 is hinged to the lower end of the corresponding outer tube. This telescopic configuration allows the support legs 202 to compress during folding, further reducing the overall size of the folded chair.

A connecting member 230 is disposed at the upper end of the inner tube, and the upper end of the upper connecting rod 214 is hinged to the lower end of the connecting member 230. A second connecting rod 232 is disposed between the two connecting members 230 on the same side, and a support member for a user to sit on is disposed between the two second connecting rods 214 and 216.

In the exemplary embodiment, the middle parts of the upper connecting rod 214 and the lower connecting rod 216 on the same side are hinged together through a connecting shaft 220 to form a crossed rod structure. The first rod member 210 and the second rod member 212 are arranged at the inner side of this crossed rod, closer to the inner side of the chair 10.

The connecting shaft 220 simultaneously serves as the fixed connection point for one end of the first rod member 210 and the middle part of the second rod member 212, constituting the core transmission node where multiple rods converge. At least two wear-resistant rings are provided on one connecting shaft 220, respectively arranged between the upper connecting rod 214 and the lower connecting rod 216, and between the lower connecting rod 216 and the first rod member 210. The wear-resistant rings isolate direct frictional contact between metal rod members, reducing wear and abnormal noise caused by repeated or high-frequency folding operations.

In the exemplary embodiment, the frame side assemblies 36 are connected together by generally U-shaped cross-members, each pivotally attached to the front leg portion and the rear leg portion of an associated frame side assembly, as well as to each other for pivotal movement between set-up and collapsed conditions of the rocking chair 10.

Each cross-member comprises a front portion, a central front-back portion, and a rear portion. The front portion is pivotally connected to the front leg portion of a respective frame side assembly. The rear portion is pivotally connected to the rear leg portion of the same frame side assembly. The central front-back portion extends between the front and rear portions and, and is configured to function as, or support, a seat support member for the rocking chair 10.

The rear portions of the cross-members are connected between respective rear leg portions of the frame 12, and generally form a pivotable rear X-frame connected at a rear central pivot point, which opens into the shape of an “X” when the rocking chair 10 is opened to the set-up condition and which collapses when the rocking chair 10 is folded up. Similarly, the front portions of the cross-members are connected between respective front leg portions and form a pivotable front X-frame connected at a front central pivot point.

The cross-members can be further secured to the frame 12 by using support braces pivotally connected between a cross-member and the frame 12. In the exemplary embodiment, a support brace may include a first pivot hole on one end pivotally connected to a cross-member and an L-shaped slot on the opposite end pivotally connected to a frame side assembly. The L-shaped slot accommodates bowing forces and lateral motion during folding and unfolding while facilitating stabilization of the seat support in an open, set-up condition when the weight of the seated user is applied.

In the exemplary embodiment, armrests 238 are configured at both sides of the chair 10. The armrests 238 are capable of flipping left and right relative to the support legs 202. A groove 236 is disposed at the outer side of the connecting member 230, and the armrest 238 is configured to be positioned in the groove 236 on the same side. The armrest 238 is configured to be hingedly engaged with the connecting member 230, so that the armrest 238 can flip in a lateral direction.

In one embodiment, a backrest rod is disposed above the rear side of the armrest 238. The backrest rod is configured to be capable of flipping in a front-rear direction relative to the armrest 238. A support member for supporting the user's back is disposed between the two backrest rods. When the chair 10 is unfolded, the backrest rod flips backward to a slightly reclined position, forming effective back support. When folded, the backrest rod flips forward, fitting against the rear side of the armrest, achieving complete concealment of the backrest system within the folded envelope.

In one embodiment, a protective plate is configured at the outer side of the bottom rod between the front and rear support legs. The protective plate is configured to be located at the outer side of the elastic member. The protective plate is an arc-shaped or flat component, covering the outer side of the elastic member to form a closed or semi-closed protective cover, preventing the user or clothing from being caught in the gap between the elastic member and the bottom rod, avoiding pinching injuries.

In operation, when the rocking chair 10 is in the fully unfolded state, the user sits on the seat panel, and body weight is transmitted through the frame 12 to the support runner 60. The first rod member 210 and the second rod member 212 abut against each other, with their axes collinear or in a V-shape, forming a rigid support structure that provides enhanced load-bearing capacity and prevents the folding components from deforming under vertical or lateral forces.

In certain embodiments, structural components of the rocking chair may be formed from materials selected to provide desired strength, durability, weight, and corrosion resistance characteristics. Suitable materials may include metals such as steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or alloys thereof, as well as polymeric materials, reinforced plastics, composite materials, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, surface treatments, coatings, or finishes may be applied to improve wear resistance, corrosion resistance, or aesthetic appearance.

In certain embodiments, the rocking chair may be configured to operate reliably during repeated cycles of use over extended periods of time. Structural components, motion-control features, and elastic elements may function cooperatively to provide consistent rocking behavior across a wide range of operating conditions.

In certain embodiments, movement of the folding components may automatically reposition one or more seating components between a use orientation and a storage orientation without requiring a separate manual adjustment step.

In some embodiments, the rocking chair 10 may selectively transition between a deployed seating configuration and a folded storage configuration. Structural components of the rocking chair 10 may enable the components to selectively pivot or move relative to one another to facilitate reducing an overall size of the rocking chair 10 during storage or transport, for example. In one embodiment, locking mechanisms may be provided to facilitate selectively securing the rocking chair 10 in either configuration. Such locking mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, latches, detents, friction interfaces, and/or any other securing features that facilitate maintaining rocking chair structural stability during use and handling. In certain embodiments, cooperating structural members may be configured to align in a generally linear or angular relationship when the chair is in a deployed configuration to provide a rigid locking condition.

In certain embodiments, cooperating structural members may form a multi-point bracing configuration in a deployed state to provide increased rigidity and resistance to collapse under load.

In certain embodiments, one or more seating components, including armrests or a backrest, may be movable or repositionable between deployed and folded orientations to reduce the overall size of the chair in a storage configuration.

In certain embodiments, structural geometry may position selected components above a supporting surface when the chair is placed in a storage orientation to reduce surface contact and prevent damage during handling or storage.

In the exemplary embodiment, the rocking chair 10 may be configured such that ground-contact components remain in continuous contact with a supporting surface throughout operation of the rocking chair. Maintaining continuous ground contact facilitates improving stability, reducing tipping risk, and minimizing formation of pinch points that could otherwise occur when portions of the chair are intermittently lifted or elevated away from the supporting surface during rocking motion. The arrangement of structural members and motion-control components may be variably selected to facilitate maintaining consistent contact with the supporting surface across a range of user weights and operating conditions.

In an alternative embodiment, the rocking chair 10 may include variations in placement or configuration of the motion-control structure 60. For example, the motion-control structure 60 may be positioned adjacent to a rear portion 62 of the body frame 12 and/or may be positioned at another location suitable for guiding movement of structural components. Such alternative configurations may be variably selected to enable desired motion characteristics, packaging constraints, and/or manufacturing considerations to be achieved, while maintaining controlled rocking motion.

In the exemplary embodiment, load distribution during rocking motion may be influenced by interaction between the body frame 24, the ground feet frame 26, and/or the motion-control structure 32. Forces generated during use may be transferred through structural members and distributed across ground-contact components to maintain stability and reduce localized stress concentrations. In some embodiments, the geometry and relative positioning of structural components may be configured to balance forces during forward and rearward rocking motion, thereby improving durability and maintaining consistent performance over repeated use cycles.

In certain embodiments, dimensional relationships between structural components may be selected to achieve desired performance characteristics while accommodating manufacturing tolerances. Clearances, alignment features, and fastening arrangements may be configured to permit reliable assembly and consistent operation of the rocking chair under normal manufacturing variations.

In some embodiments, components may be manufactured using stamping, casting, molding, machining, extrusion, or additive manufacturing processes.

It will be appreciated that the configurations described herein are provided for purposes of illustration and not limitation. Various modifications, substitutions, and combinations of structural elements may be implemented without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Accordingly, the embodiments described herein are intended to encompass equivalent structures and functional arrangements that achieve controlled rocking motion, stability, portability, and durability.

In certain embodiments, the rocking chair may be configured to maintain consistent performance over an extended service life, including repeated folding, unfolding, and rocking cycles encountered during normal consumer or commercial use.

The present invention provides numerous advantages over conventional rocking chairs and portable seating systems. For example, the coordinated interaction between the ground support structure, elastic elements, and motion-control components facilitates controlled rocking motion while maintaining stability and continuous ground contact. Such configurations may reduce user fatigue, improve comfort, and enhance safety during operation. Moreover, the structural arrangement may facilitate reducing mechanical complexity and improving durability relative to systems that rely on pivoting rocker assemblies or externally mounted spring mechanisms.

Furthermore, the present invention enables implementation of various structural configurations and component arrangements to accommodate different usage requirements, manufacturing constraints, and cost considerations. In certain embodiments, the rocking chair may be adapted for use in outdoor recreational settings, camping environments, patio or deck installations, event seating, or other temporary or semi-permanent seating applications. The modular nature of the structural components may facilitate manufacturing flexibility, simplified maintenance, and adaptability to different product sizes, weight capacities, or performance preferences.

The embodiments described herein relate to rocking chair systems and structures configured to provide controlled rocking motion in an efficient, safe, and cost-effective manner. The coordinated interaction between structural members, elastic elements, and motion-guiding components facilitates predictable movement and stable support during use. Such configurations may enable formation of portable rocking chair systems that combine compact storage capability with reliable performance during deployment.

Exemplary embodiments of rocking chair systems are described above in detail. Although the systems herein are described and illustrated in association with portable and foldable rocking chairs, the invention is not limited to the specific configurations described herein. Rather, the disclosed structures and functional relationships may be applied to other seating devices or support systems that incorporate controlled motion, energy absorption, or stability-enhancing mechanisms. Moreover, aspects of individual components may be utilized independently or in combination with other components and methods described herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

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

Claims

1. A rocking chair comprising:

a body frame configured to support a seated user;

a ground support structure configured to contact a supporting surface;

at least one elastic element positioned between the body frame and the ground support structure and configured to deform under load to permit rocking motion of the body frame relative to the ground support structure;

a motion-control structure configured to guide movement of the body frame relative to the ground support structure along a predetermined path during rocking motion; and

wherein the ground support structure is configured to maintain contact with the supporting surface throughout a rocking cycle such that the body frame moves relative to the ground support structure without lifting the ground support structure from the supporting surface.

2. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein the ground support structure includes a telescoping support member configured to extend during use to increase an effective support footprint and retract during folding to reduce storage dimensions.

3. The rocking chair of claim 2, wherein the telescoping support member includes a first tubular member received within a second tubular member to permit relative sliding movement along a longitudinal axis.

4. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein the at least one elastic element comprises a leaf-spring element configured to store mechanical energy during deformation and release the stored mechanical energy to assist in returning the body frame toward a resting position.

5. The rocking chair of claim 4, wherein the leaf-spring element includes an L-shaped configuration.

6. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein multiple elastic elements are stacked or combined to increase load-bearing capacity or adjust rocking characteristics.

7. The rocking chair of claim 1, further comprising a connecting member having an inclined surface configured to guide deformation of the at least one elastic element during rocking motion.

8. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein the motion-control structure includes a housing defining at least one of a channel, slot, or track configured to receive a corresponding engagement member to guide movement of structural components.

9. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein the motion-control structure includes at least one motion-limiting feature configured to restrict travel of the body frame at predetermined positions within the rocking cycle.

10. The rocking chair of claim 1, further comprising a protective member positioned adjacent to a moving component to reduce exposure to moving elements and reduce risk of pinch-point contact.

11. The rocking chair of claim 1, further comprising a folding mechanism configured to transition the rocking chair between a deployed seating configuration and a folded storage configuration.

12. The rocking chair of claim 11, wherein the folding mechanism includes a multi-linkage assembly comprising pivotally connected members configured to coordinate movement of structural components during folding and unfolding.

13. The rocking chair of claim 11, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to secure the rocking chair in at least one of the deployed seating configuration or the folded storage configuration.

14. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein one or more support pads are positioned at terminal ends of the ground support structure to elevate mechanical components above the supporting surface.

15. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein the body frame and the ground support structure are configured such that a clearance space is defined between selected structural components and the supporting surface during rocking motion.

16. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein structural components of the rocking chair are configured to distribute loads across multiple ground-contact points during rocking motion.

17. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein the ground support structure is configured to maintain stable contact with the supporting surface across a range of user rocking positions.

18. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein one or more seating components are movable between deployed and folded orientations to reduce overall size of the rocking chair in a storage configuration.

19. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein low-friction interface members are disposed between moving structural components to reduce friction and wear during repeated folding and unfolding operations.

20. The rocking chair of claim 1, wherein structural components of the rocking chair are formed from at least one of metal, polymeric material, composite material, or combinations thereof.

21. A method of operating a rocking chair, the method comprising:

supporting a user on a body frame positioned above a ground support structure;

deforming at least one elastic element positioned between the body frame and the ground support structure in response to a load applied by the user;

guiding movement of the body frame relative to the ground support structure using a motion-control structure; and

maintaining contact between the ground support structure and a supporting surface throughout a rocking cycle.

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising extending a telescoping support member to increase an effective support footprint during use.

23. The method of claim 21, further comprising retracting the telescoping support member to reduce an overall length of the rocking chair during storage.

24. The method of claim 21, further comprising limiting travel of the body frame using a motion-limiting feature positioned within the motion-control structure.

25. The method of claim 21, further comprising folding the rocking chair using a multi-linkage assembly to transition the rocking chair from a deployed seating configuration to a folded storage configuration.