Collapsible Chair; I.e., Relatively Folding Bottom, Back, And Legs Patents (Class 297/16.1)
  • Patent number: 6729690
    Abstract: A massage chair (10) is provided. The massage chair (10) includes (i) a front lower support (12) including a front attachment section (14), (ii) a rear lower support (16) including a rear attachment section (18), (iii) a seat (48) secured to the rear lower support (12), (iv) a front upper support (22) including an upper attachment section (24), (v) a chest rest (26) secured to the front upper support (22), and (vi) a connector (28). Importantly, the connector (28) connects the front attachment section (14), the rear attachment section (18) and the upper attachment section (24) and allows for relative motion of the front lower support (12), the rear lower support (16) and the front upper support (22) about the connector (28). As a result of this design, the massage chair (10) easily moves between a transport position (32) and an upright position (30). Further, as a result of this design, the profile of the massage chair (10) in the transport position (32) is relatively small.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Earthlite Massage Tables Inc.
    Inventors: Jon W. Roleder, William A. Martin, Paul M. G. Weiskopf, Arthur John Drusch, III
  • Patent number: 6729689
    Abstract: A locking and pivoting mechanism for a rear seat includes a first, approximately horizontal use position; a second, approximately vertical position; and a third lowered position. The seat includes a front and a rear link. A lower end of the front link is attached to the chassis and an upper end is attached to the seat body so that it may be displaced longitudinally, and may be affixed to the seat body by means of a first locking pawl. An upper end of the rear link is attached to the seat body and a lower end is releasably connected to the chassis by means of a second locking pawl. At least one of locking pawl locks the seat in and releases the seat from the first, second, and third positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Faurecia Autositze GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Klaus-Dieter Habedank
  • Patent number: 6702371
    Abstract: A foldable chair includes a foldable chair frame, a seat frame, and a detachable seat arrangement. The seat frame includes a fabric supporting frame and a seat fabric supported thereon. The fabric supporting frame includes a pair of semi-circular seat supporting bars pivotally and foldably connected together to form a complete fabric supporting frame. The detachable seat arrangement includes a pair of fabric frame holders securely mounted on the upper attaching portions of the rear supporting legs respectively, and a pair of securing members provided at the seat portion of the seat fabric for detachably mounting the fabric supporting frame onto the front supporting frame. Moreover, each of the fabric frame holders has an engaging slot formed on an upper portion thereof for engaging with the frame connecting portions of the fabric supporting frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Edward Zheng
  • Publication number: 20040036322
    Abstract: A support structure for foldable furniture to provide support to cross-rods or cross-members when in a crossed, open position and yet permit them to fold into a parallel, closed position. The support structure includes a body having an aperture defined by opposed surfaces and further surfaces. The cross rods or cross-members may rest on or against the further surfaces in their crossed, open position and against the opposed surfaces in their parallel, closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Marian H. Cochran, Richard M. Lehrer
  • Patent number: 6676208
    Abstract: A combined chair and object support for video equipment, telescopes, drawing boards and the like, includes a chair leg assembly, a seat member, an upright support post and a linking member. The chair leg assembly has an upper leg end, and a lower leg end opposite to the upper leg end and adapted to be placed on a ground surface. The seat member is mounted on the upper leg end of the chair leg assembly. The upright support post is adapted for mounting an object removably thereon. The linking member is formed with a first coupling end connected to the seat member, and a second coupling end connected to the support post, thereby forming a horizontal spacing between the seat member and the support post in a longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: Kun-Chung Lu
  • Patent number: 6672011
    Abstract: A modular command post system comprised of removable interconnecting truss elements is provided. The modular command post system is configured to provide shelter and infrastructure to support various electronic equipment used by occupants of the command post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Solipsys Corporation
    Inventors: Paul N. Garner, Lynn J. Adams, Charles P. Richards
  • Patent number: 6669280
    Abstract: A chair includes a first leg frame having first side rails with upper ends and a front cross rail connected to the upper ends; a second leg frame having second side rails; a back frame having back side rails with upper ends and a top cross rail connected to the upper ends of the back side rails; a frame link assembly having frame link members; a flexible support member extending between the top cross rail and the front cross rail; and, a central back link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Christopher C. Wegner
  • Patent number: 6669281
    Abstract: Pull rod-type foldable chair structure. A pull rod is telescopically inserted in the top end of the rear chair leg and pivotally connected with the front chair leg. When folding or unfolding the rear chair leg, the pull rod provides a pneumatic buffing effect. Two J-shaped lateral support boards are previously mounted on inner sides of the chair frame, whereby the seat can be directly assembled with the support boards by insertion. The back is assembled with the upper end of the front chair leg by engaging members. Therefore, the chair frame, the seat and the back can be quickly assembled. The transverse beam of the chair leg is equipped with elastic ground-contacting blocks. Therefore, the chair can be used on any floorboard made of any material such as wooden, plastic and stone floorboards. The ground-contacting block will not scrape the floorboard and the chair can be more stably placed on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Tsung-Chieh Huang
  • Patent number: 6662981
    Abstract: A back-supported load-carrying mechanism that includes a rigid frame having a lower portion that includes an opening between a first vertical side and a second vertical side. A horizontal shaft is mounted to the sides and extends through the opening. A lumbar support element is pivotally mounted on the horizontal shaft. The horizontal shaft is mounted to the vertical sides of the frame with a suspension mechanism that enables each end of the horizontal shaft (and each side of the lumbar support element) to move fore and aft in relation to the frame. Tensioners mounted on the frame apply forward pressure to the shaft. Two rear leg extensions on each side of the frame enable the load-carrying mechanism to stand upright when placed on the ground. The lumbar support can pivot approximately 95 degrees to a position enabling the load-carrying mechanism to be utilized as a chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Azora, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Andrew McUmber
  • Patent number: 6623072
    Abstract: A foldable beach chair with an audio player integrated into the armrest. A compact disk player is hinged at the bottom to open outwardly from the stationary section on the armrest. When closed, the CD player forms a seal that substantially protects the CD from the beach environment. A mechanical clasp holds the CD player closed when the CD is playing. The other armrest has a covered storage compartment and, optionally, a drink holder. Optionally, the chair has a large pouch composed of a mesh material. Optionally, the chair has as set of small pouches. Optionally, the chair has a carrying strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: Leo Mellace
  • Patent number: 6616223
    Abstract: A foldable chair has a plastics seat pad, a plastics backrest, and a chair frame having a pair of metal front leg tubes and a pair of metal rear leg tubes. Each metal front leg tube and the corresponding metal rear leg tube are connected together. The plastics backrest has two lateral posts inserted in the metal front leg tubes. A support bar has two positioning ends connected to the metal front leg tubes. Two U-shaped frames are disposed on two positioning ends of the support bar. Each U-shaped frame is connected to the corresponding metal front leg tube and the corresponding metal rear leg tube. Each metal front leg tube has a blocking bar to block the plastics backrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Maxchief Investments Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Shen Lin
  • Publication number: 20030160478
    Abstract: An infant swinging chair comprises a pair of fixture blocks, a base supporting structure, a seat supporting structure, a seatback supporting structure. The fixture block comprises a first end and a second end. The first end is provided with a horizontal protrusion for fixing the seat supporting structure, and a longitudinal groove for holding the seatback supporting structure. The second end is provided with pivotal hole for pivotally connecting the base supporting structure such that the base supporting structure is able to pivot with respect to the fixture block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: Kenny Cheng
  • Patent number: 6595582
    Abstract: A folding chair with safety latch device. The device includes an anchor unit which has two ends pivotally engaged with a rear leg and a backrest bracket, and a slide unit coupled with the rear leg. The anchor unit and the slide unit have respectively a latch finger and a latch opening corresponding to with each other to form a latched relationship. The slide unit further has a release opening to allow users to undo the latched relationship only through a tool such that a child sitting on the chair may be prevented from falling down resulting from abrupt folding of the chair caused by incidental release of the latched relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Lausan Chung-Hsin Liu
  • Patent number: 6591778
    Abstract: A pet bed (1) for use on a floor, the pet bed (1) including a pair of frames (2), each including a floor engaging end (4) and an upper end (6) distal the floor engaging end (4). Hinge means (8) interconnect the frames (2) intermediate the floor engaging end (4) and the upper end (6), to form a scissor arrangement (10), and a flexible sling (12) extends between the upper ends (6) of the frame (2) to define a support area (14) for a pet. In use, the frames (2) engage the floor at an angle of less than 45°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: John Patterson Alderman
  • Patent number: 6588836
    Abstract: A chaise lounge includes a support device fixed at the rear side of two side rods to expand the two side rods to hold a soft surface sheet. The support device has two pivot bases respectively secured on the two side rods and having a pivot opening. The two pivot openings are respectively combined with a long and a short support member pivotally connected and movable relative to each other. The long support member has one end pivotally combined with the pivot opening and the other end formed with an arcuate edge. The long support member has its upper edge bent inward into a horizontal bend edge for holding the short support member. When the long and the short support member are controlled into a straight line, they will force the two side rods to expand outward together with the soft surface sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Albert Chong-Jen Lo
  • Patent number: 6578913
    Abstract: A compact package comprised of a collapsible seat and climbing aid for advantageous use with a tree stand. The climbing aid comprises a generally H-shaped frame with two hand grips projecting orthogonally out of plane of the frame. One rectangular housing is attached to each vertical upright member of the frame and locking screws engage portions of a supporting cable to adjust the size of loop for encircling an element to be climbed. A collapsible seat has an L-shaped frame sized to fit within the vertical uprights of the climbing aid and a securing nut positions a pivotable frame of the collapsible seat in either a first stored position or a second erect position. The securing nut also fastens the climbing aid to the tree stand when the seat is in the stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Richard W. Wilhelm
  • Patent number: 6572193
    Abstract: A folding seat is provided for the cab of an agricultural vehicle. The seat is provided with a mounting bracket secured by bolts to an inclined -horizontal surface in the cab, such as part of the wheel arch. A seat member is pivotably mounted at its rear end on the mounting bracket for pivotal movement between a horizontal operative position and an inclined storage position in which the seat member lies against the mounting bracket. A stay is mounted to pivot between an operative position in which it extends vertically from the mounting bracket to the seat member in order to support the weight of the seat member on the mounting bracket and a storage position in which it lies between the mounting bracket and the seat member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin W. Downes
  • Patent number: 6564402
    Abstract: A foldable bed frame device has a leg support frame, a flexible rectangular net disposed on the leg support frame, and a plurality of elastic fastening buttons. The flexible rectangular net has a plurality of through apertures. The leg support frame has a plurality of leg devices and a plurality of connection rods. Each connection rod is connected to two of the leg devices. Each leg device has a telescopic tube, and a connector disposed on the telescopic tube. Each connector has a round hole to match the corresponding through aperture of the flexible rectangular net. Each elastic fastening button has a click post inserted through the corresponding through aperture of the flexible rectangular net and inserted in the corresponding round hole of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Chen-Hsiung Lin
  • Patent number: 6547321
    Abstract: A folding chair has a seat, a first leg, a second leg, a first rod connected to the first leg and the second leg, a second rod connected to the first leg and the second leg, and a folding device. The folding device has a first joint and a second joint. The first joint has a guide channel, a circular aperture, and a slant round hole for receiving the first rod. The second joint has a post inserted in the guide channel, a hollow protruded block inserted in the circular aperture of the first joint, a round through aperture, and a slant circular hole for receiving the second rod. A bolt passes through the round through aperture of the second joint and the circular aperture of the first joint. A nut engages with the bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Chung-Sen Wu
  • Publication number: 20030067193
    Abstract: A child support structure includes a locking mechanism that can be selectively moved to place the child support structure in either of a deployed position and a collapsed position and a carriage assembly that enables a seat portion to be positioned at different heights. The child support structure includes a frame and a container removably coupled to the frame. The container holds articles on the support structure and can be used during the washing the articles in a dishwasher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventors: Ronald M. Asbach, Michael T. Kane
  • Patent number: 6536839
    Abstract: A fastening structure for chairs located between a rear foot and a back support of a leisure chair for preventing the leisure chair from unintentionally folding includes a latch sleeve slidably mounted on the rear foot and a fastener pivotally engaged with the rear foot and the back support. When the leisure chair is extended, the latch sleeve may be moved to engage with the fastener to prevent the fastener from moving away from the rear foot such that the rear foot and back support will maintain a latched and engaged relationship thereby to prevent the leisure chair from unintentional folding to ensure users safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: Lausan Liu
  • Patent number: 6523894
    Abstract: A foldable beach chair with an audio player integrated into the armrest. A compact disk player is hinged at the bottom to open outwardly from the stationary section on the armrest. When closed, the CD player forms a seal that substantially protects the CD from the beach environment. A mechanical clasp holds the CD player closed when the CD is playing. The other armrest has a covered storage compartment and, optionally, a drink holder. Optionally, the chair has a large pouch composed of a mesh material. Optionally, the chair has as set of small pouches. Optionally, the chair has a carrying strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Leo Mellace
  • Patent number: 6517151
    Abstract: A simple safety fastening latch for leisure chair comprises a slidable latch member mounted on an upper tubular portion of a foldable leg and a pivotal member fastened to a lower tubulare portion of the leg. The latch member has an inside wall which has a plurality of first ridges formed thereon. The pivotal member has a tongue section formed at an upper edge thereof. The tongue section also has a plurality second ridges formed thereon. When the latch member is slid to the tongue section, the first ridges will engage with the second ridges to enable the leisure chair be positioned securely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Inventor: Lausan Chung-Hsin Liu
  • Patent number: 6511121
    Abstract: A combination of a reinforcing grommet in a D-shape or a closed horseshoe shape and a supporting brace for holding a tensioned surface on an inclined frame element of a frame of a collapsible furniture item, such as a chair, a stool, lounger, table, a cot or a bed. A contact portion of a lower surface of the grommet rests on a brace and a remaining portion of the lower surface spans a recess in the brace. The brace is freely movable to and fro relative to the frame tube so as to minimize tearing forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Atico International USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Marian Harding Cochran, Nelson Liao
  • Patent number: 6494530
    Abstract: A foldable chair includes a seat frame and a back frame constructed to support a fabric seat thereon. The seat frame includes two pairs of side frame legs, and a pair of front frame legs and a pair of rear frame legs foldably supported between the two pairs of side frame legs. Each frame leg is pivotally connected to the side crossed leg at its end portion in such a manner the foldable chair eliminates four connecting ground pads such that the foldable chair is capable of further extending its shape and size, so as to substantially increase a supporting area of the seat frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Tofasco of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward Zheng
  • Patent number: 6491611
    Abstract: A torso exercise machine includes a frame designed to rest upon a floor surface; a seat pivotally mounted on the frame; at least one handlebar pivotally mounted on the frame; and a link pivotally interconnected between the seat and the handlebar. The link constrains the seat and the handlebar to pivot in opposite directions relative to the frame. A resistance device may be interconnected between the handlebar and the frame to resist pivoting of the handlebar and the seat toward one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Stearns
  • Publication number: 20020175540
    Abstract: A safety fastening latch for leisure chairs includes a latch member and a fastener. The latch member is coupled with a rear foot of a leisure chair and slidable thereon for a limited distance. The fastener has a first end pivotally engaged with the rear foot and a second end pivotally engaged with a back support of the leisure chair. When the leisure chair is extended, the latch member may be slid to engage with the fastener to prevent the fastener from moving away from the rear foot such that the rear foot and back support will maintain a latched and engaged relationship thereby to prevent the leisure chair from unintentional folding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventor: Lausan Liu
  • Patent number: 6485095
    Abstract: A transportable seat system that is lightweight and foldable into a compact transporting position. The transportable seat system includes a lower frame, an upper frame pivotally attached about the lower frame, a bar member extending within the frames, a cover attached to the bar member and positioned about portions of the frames, and a strap attached to the frames for allowing convenient transporting of the same. An upper portion of the lower frame is preferably angled forwardly to assist in the transfer of the weight of a user to a central position about the lower frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Albert R. Haubeil
  • Publication number: 20020171268
    Abstract: An improved chair structure for a folding chair includes a front foot support, a rear foot support, a seat frame, a back frame and an armrest. The front foot support has a top end pivotally engaged with the armrest at an inner side of a front section thereof, and pivotally engages with a front section of the seat frame between an upper and middle section thereof. The rear foot support has a top end pivotally engaged with the armrest at the outer side between a middle and rear section thereof, and pivotally engages with a pivot lever between an upper and middle section thereof. The pivot lever has one end pivotally engaged with one lateral side of the back frame at the bottom end thereof. Another side of the bottom end of the back frame is pivotally engaged with a rear section of the seat frame. The rear end of the armrest further pivotally engages with the back frame between a middle and lower section thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: Lausan Liu
  • Patent number: 6478375
    Abstract: A metal folding chair having a tubular frame and a ganging device including female keyslots formed in internally reinforced portions of one side of the frame and male connecting elements including studs mounted in cantilever positions on an opposite side of the frame by tee nuts threadably engaged with the studs within the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Columbia Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: James M. Richardson
  • Patent number: 6464118
    Abstract: A back-supported load-carrying mechanism that includes a molded frame having a lumbar support element pivotally connected to a lower portion of the frame. The lumbar support element extends vertically, approximately halfway up the back of a user and horizontally, the full width of the frame, thus providing a large area of surface contact with the user's back. On the surface that contacts the user's back, the lumbar support element is anthropometrically shaped to fit the user's back. This surface is also covered by a non-sliding foam inlay. The lumbar support element may pivot approximately 95 degrees downwards, with the rear side of the lumbar support element providing a seat for the user. A load-support piece may be connected to the rear of the frame to provide a support shelf for the load being carried and to provide rear support when the back-supported load-carrying mechanism is in a chair configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Azora, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Andrew McUmber
  • Publication number: 20020145311
    Abstract: A transportable seat system that is lightweight and foldable into a compact transporting position. The transportable seat system includes a lower frame, an upper frame pivotally attached about the lower frame, a bar member extending within the frames, a cover attached to the bar member and positioned about portions of the frames, and a strap attached to the frames for allowing convenient transporting of the same. An upper portion of the lower frame is preferably angled forwardly to assist in the transfer of the weight of a user to a central position about the lower frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Albert R. Haubeil
  • Publication number: 20020140255
    Abstract: A simple safety fastening latch for leisure chair comprises a slidable latch member mounted on an upper tubular member of a foldable foot support and a pivotal member fastened to a lower tubular member of the foot support. The latch member has an inside wall which has a plurality of first ridges formed thereon. The pivotal member has a tongue section formed at an upper edge thereof. The tongue section also has a plurality second ridges formed thereon. When the latch member is slid to the tongue section, the first ridges will engage with the second ridges to enable the leisure chair be positioned securely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Lausan Chung-Hsin Liu
  • Publication number: 20020124519
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a furniture including multiple rods, wherein a first rod has a first end rotated about a support shaft, and a second end formed with a first rod end corresponding to a second rod end of a second rod. A positioning base mounted on the second rod end has a locking groove. A fitting base mounted on the first rod end defines a receiving chamber having a wall formed with an opening. A locking base has a locking plate extended into the receiving chamber through the opening. The locking plate is formed with a locking hole. Two elastic member are mounted between the fitting base and the locking base, so that the locking base is normally moved outward. A retaining device may mount the locking base on the fitting base, so that the locking base may move toward the receiving chamber after being assembled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Gao-Shen Chen
  • Publication number: 20020125744
    Abstract: A foldable chair includes first and second legs which are pivotally mounted to each other at intermediate portions thereof so as to be turned between an unfolded position, where upper and lower end portions of the first and second legs are remote from each other, and a folded position, where the upper and lower end portions are closer to each other. Each armrest includes a front end pivoted on the upper end portion of the first leg, a rear end, and a keyway between the front and rear ends such that a key, which is secured on the upper end portion of the second leg, is inserted into and is movable along the keyway between the unfolded and folded positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Chun-Hsien Tseng
  • Patent number: 6435607
    Abstract: A folding massage chair structure, the innovative features of which includes the fixing of guide sleeves at the rear surface of the chair back. The guide sleeves have inserted through them guide rods and the center sections of the guide rods are conjoined to the seat cushion. The lower sections of the guide rods are conjoined to the chair leg. There are support plates installed on the lower guide sleeves, with the upper ends of the support plates conjoined to rear end of the seat frame. When the seat cushion is pulled upward, the pivotably interconnected structure allows the massage chair to be completely folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Tsan-Chin Liu
  • Patent number: 6428033
    Abstract: The present invention is a portable chair with caster wheels that is lightweight in construction and easily collapsed, carried, stored and transported by public or private means. The chair can be configured as an assistive mobility device to fill the unmet needs of aging healthy adults who wish to retain their independence and social interactions. It can also be configured as a collapsible office chair to meet the needs of employers with temporary working staff and for use by college students in crowded dorm rooms. Additional features such as an arm rest, a foot rest, or a reclining back are easily added during manufacture and because of the chairs uncomplicated design and duplicity of parts, it is very economical to manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: R & W Ventures, INC
    Inventors: Richard J. Harrison, William F. Mann
  • Patent number: 6398298
    Abstract: A foldable rocking chair includes a pair of first rods, a pair of second rods respectively associated and crossing the first rods, a pair of stretchers pivoted on the first and second rods adjacent to bottom ends of the first and second rods, a pair of arm supports disposed above the stretchers and pivoted on the first and second rods, and a flexible mat connected to top ends of the first and second rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Sanmaw Lumber & Wood Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kao-Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 6394541
    Abstract: A chair comprises a first leg frame having opposing left and right side rails and at least one cross rail extending therebetween, the side rails each having upper and lower ends; a second leg frame having opposing left and right side rails and a front cross rail extending therebetween, the side rails each having upper and lower ends; a back frame having opposing left and right side rails and a top cross rail extending therebetween, the side rails each having upper and lower ends; left and right frame links each having upper and lower ends; a flexible support member extending between the top cross member and the front cross member; and, wherein the left and right side rails of the first frame are pivotally connected along a first pivot axis to the respective left and right side rails of the back frame are pivotally connected along a second pivot axis to the respective left and right side rails of the second frame, and wherein the left and right frame links are pivotally connected along a third pivot axis to th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Christopher C. Wegner
  • Patent number: 6386627
    Abstract: Rear leg-supported foldable chair including a front leg, a rear leg, a seat and a linking mechanism. The rear leg is pivotally connected with rear end of the seat. A connecting plate is disposed at top end of the rear leg for pivotally connecting with the front leg. Two fixing bent plates respectively extend from lower edges of two lateral fulcrums of the front leg. Each of the fixing bent plates via a linking rod is connected with the other. The linking rod via a movable plate is pivotally connected with the rear end of the seat to form the linking mechanism. When the chair is unfolded, the fulcrums of the rear leg and the linking mechanism directly welded on the front leg will distributively bear the weight loaded on the seat. The front leg and rear leg are firmly connected with each other so that the foldable chair is more rigid and durable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Frank Tsai
  • Patent number: 6378147
    Abstract: An appliance is provided for individuals, especially those with disabilities which render them incapable of readily getting into and out of a bathing position in a bathtub. The appliance consists of an inflatable seat with a top seat surface and side, back, front, and bottom walls made of a resilient material of single ply construction. The seat, when deflated, is flattened and crushed into a thin layer which can then be readily rolled into a compact unit and stored and transported in an accompanying carrying case. A bath mat type extension is secured to the front wall of the seat to supply a non-skid surface to the user while in the bathtub and for facilitating the roll-up aspect of the invention. The appliance employs the use of an air pump and air hose for supplying and delivering air to the seat, along with a valve for controlling the flow of air. A remotely operated device for controlling the operation of the air pump is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: George Halleran
  • Patent number: 6361106
    Abstract: A folding collapsible frame structure for baby rocking chair includes a base frame having two rockers at two opposite lateral sides, two side bars upwardly backwardly extended from the rockers of the base frame, a back frame tube, the back frame tube having two distal ends respectively pivoted to the side bars above the base frame, a seat frame pivoted to the two distal ends of the back frame tube, two front links bilaterally coupled between the side bars and the seat frame, two rear links bilaterally coupled between the rockers of the base frame and the two distal ends of the back frame tube, and two locks installed in the two distal ends of the back frame unit and the top end of the side bars, the locks being locked to stop the back frame tube from being turned relative to the side bars, or unlocked for enabling the back frame tube to be turned forwards and then downwards to a collapsed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventor: Mien Chen Huang
  • Patent number: 6347830
    Abstract: A high chair includes a foldable frame having a pair of front legs and a pair of rear legs, a seat and a backrest mounted on the frame between the front legs and between the rear legs, and a pair of pivotal coupler devices, each of which is connected to one of the front legs and one of the rear legs. Each of the coupler devices includes first and second casing halves respectively having substantially circular opposite base walls which are connected pivotally to two opposite ends of a pivot shaft, and which respectively have peripheral flanges substantially extending circumferentially. The peripheral flanges extend toward and overlap one another. The peripheral flange of the first casing half includes a first slot and a second slot which is spaced from the first slot in an angular direction relative to the pivot shaft. A spring-loaded button is mounted on the base wall of the second casing half, and has a button head biased to extend radially and outwardly of a respective one of the peripheral flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Trident Company Ltd.
    Inventor: Jueh-Cheng Chen
  • Patent number: 6341816
    Abstract: A collapsible rocking chair is collapsed from an unfolded position to a folded position. The rocking chair comprises an upper frame, a lower frame and a seat frame that pivotally mounted by pair of latches. In the unfolded position rocking chair is adapted for children to sit or lie thereon. Upper frame lower frame and seat are collapsed to a compact storage position by pivoting about latches when rocking chair is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: Link Treasure Limited
    Inventors: Er-Jui Chen, Chuan-Tso Tai
  • Patent number: 6332646
    Abstract: A foldable chair frame includes pivotally connected front and rear legs. The front leg has a tubular upper end portion which confines an axial insert hole and which is formed with a radial positioning hole. An extension rod has a lower end portion extending axially into the upper end portion of the front leg, and is provided with a resilient positioning protrusion which projects radially into the positioning hole for positioning the extension rod on the front leg. A seat frame has a rear part pivoted to the upper end portion of the extension rod, and a front part pivoted to the upper end portion of the rear leg. The positioning protrusion is depressible for disengaging from the positioning hole to permit retraction of the extension rod into the front leg, thereby permitting folding of the front and rear legs toward the seat frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Inventor: Chun-Hsien Tseng
  • Publication number: 20010045763
    Abstract: This invention provides a portable folding chair, comprising a back section and a seat section, both formed of impact-resistant material. The back section includes a storage compartment or space for other devices. When open, the back section can be adjusted to a desired angle. In one embodiment, two leg sections attach to the bottom of the seat section. The leg sections can fold against the bottom of the seat section, and the back section can fold into the seat section, to carry or store the chair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Gregory L. Jacoway
  • Patent number: 6305742
    Abstract: A folding chair has a support frame with a back support portion and first and second side supports extending to form front leg members. A seat is pivotally coupled to the support frame, and configured to pivot downwardly with respect to the support frame. First and second rear legs each have an upper member pivotally coupled to a lower member. The lower members are pivotally coupled to the support frame, and the upper members are pivotally coupled to the seat, such that the first and second rear legs include three pivot points and the rear legs fold onto themselves to a shorter length in a closed position. First and second folding systems link the support frame, the fold-down seat, and the rear legs together. The first and second folding systems including four-bar linkage systems with four pivot points and four linkages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Mity-Lite, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale Spendlove, L. E. Tom Atkins
  • Patent number: 6279991
    Abstract: A folding chair has a four-bar linkage folding system with four pivot points and four linkages, and a kick-out tab for urging the four-bar linkage system, and thus the chair, to unfold. A support frame forms a first linkage. Rear legs are pivotally coupled to the support frame at pivot points. At least one of the rear legs extends upwards from the pivot point on the support frame to form an upper extension, which defines a second linkage. A linking member is pivotally coupled to and between the upper extension of the rear leg and the seat to form a third linkage. A seat is pivotally coupled to the support frame and forms the fourth linkage. The rear legs and seat pivot with respect to the support frame between an open unfolded position, and a closed folded position. The seat has at least one engagement surface which is engaged by the upper extension of the rear leg when the chair is in the closed folded position. A kick-out tab may be attached to the seat to provide the engagement surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Mity-Lite, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom Atkins, Dale Spendlove
  • Patent number: 6257659
    Abstract: The infant product of the invention is of the type having an infant receptacle suspended from a frame. The infant product is foldable between a deployed position for use and a compact configuration for shipping and storage. In the assembled configuration, the infant receptacle is convertible between a bassinet configuration in which the infant receptacle has a substantially planar support surface and an infant seat configuration in which the support surface of the infant receptacle is partially titled or disposed at an angle such that the infant can be supported in an elevated or seated position. The infant product may include a fabric canopy incorporating floating webs and a quick connect system for securing the canopy in an open position. When the canopy is closed, it is folded so as to lie flat against the infant receptacle. The infant receptacle may also include a lateral support assembly to cradle the infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Fisher-Price, Inc.
    Inventors: Julia Wilkins, John S. Canna, Sandra M. Darling, Kenneth Von Felten
  • Patent number: 6257660
    Abstract: A portable furniture assembly has a pair of opposed and spaced apart scissor assemblies. A stop mechanism is provided to retain a pair of scissor structures of the portable furniture assembly in a set-up condition and yet permit easy release of the stop mechanism to permit folding of the furniture assembly for transport. A foldable and portable chair has a flexible sling suspended between two scissor assemblies to define a seat and a back for the chair. The portable chair also has two bottom rails connected to front supports of the scissor assemblies via pivots. Rear supports of the scissor assemblies are removably connected to the bottom rails at the stop mechanism to retain the portable chair in a set-up condition and yet permit the chair to be folded to a completely flat or folded condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Kacey J. Calvey