Laterally Patents (Class 297/314)
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Patent number: 7434881Abstract: A dynamic chair providing automatic motion in a seat. The chair has bottom, a support means disposed between the base and the seat bottom, a drive motor. A first drive wheel driven by the drive motor has a first mounting point offset from a first distance from the center of the first drive wheel; a second drive wheel driven by the first drive wheel, the second drive wheel having a different diameter from the diameter of the first drive wheel; and a crankshaft having a first crankshaft end and a second crankshaft end, the first crankshaft end connected to the second drive wheel and rotatably driven by the second drive wheel, the second crankshaft end having an eccentric providing a second offset mounting point offset from a second distance from the center of the second crankshaft end.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2007Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Inventor: William E. Wegener
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Patent number: 7401856Abstract: There is provided a sit-stand stool comprising a seat adapted to support a pelvis of a user and a base. The base supports the seat and is adapted to securely engage a floor. The base is adapted to provide a tilting motion of the seat, between a raised position and a forwardly inclined position, in a vertical plane about a pivot axis in accordance with the posture of the user while constraining the movement to prevent lateral tilting or inclination transverse to the vertical plane. The base is also adapted to prevent a rearward motion beyond the raised position, and a forward motion beyond the forwardly inclined position in order to reduce the risks for the user to lose stability. Such a stool permits to the user to stabilize his posture, without being in a completely seated position.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Transfert Plus S.E.C.Inventors: Denis Marchand, Lyne Noiseux
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Publication number: 20080169693Abstract: The chair according to the invention has a seat and a seat mechanism, wherein the seat and the seat mechanism are formed so that, during the sideways pivoting movement of the seat, the one side of the seat is movable independently of the other side of the seat, wherein the seat is mounted so as to be pivotable about a pivoting or rotation axis lying parallel to the knee axis of the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2008Publication date: July 17, 2008Inventors: Erich BECKER, Heiko Buettner, Carsten Gehner
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Publication number: 20080122278Abstract: In its preferred form the invention provides adjustable stretching apparatus for stretching the back, shoulders, and/or the neck, in order to assist with postural and vertebral alignment. A preferred apparatus includes a seat, a headrest positioned above and behind the seat, and a convexly curved reasonbly hard, rigid form separating the seat and headrest. The curved form includes a longitudinal channel defined between two ridges, within which channel the spine is supported when in use. The support is preferably rigid. Provision of legs to raise the apparatus above the ground, and provision of varable head rests and seat, greatly improve the applicability of the apparatus in amelioration of a variety of postural and vertebral alignment problems.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2006Publication date: May 29, 2008Inventor: Warwick Lightbourne
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Patent number: 7338126Abstract: The present invention is directed to a vehicle seat suspension apparatus that is mechanically simple, inexpensive, occupies little space, and operates effectively with force inputs from any horizontal direction. The invention comprises a base, an isolator, and a plurality of links connected to both the base and isolator so that the isolator is suspended from the base and can move or swing horizontally in all directions relative to the base. The isolator has an upper plate with two flanges that depend from the plate. The base is positioned directly below the upper plate and between the two flanges. The links are connected to the base and the flanges of the isolator by means of ball and socket connectors that permit the isolator to move in all horizontal directions relative to the base. A travel limit system is used to permit adjustment in the travel of the isolator relative to the base.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2006Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: Sears Manufacturing Co.Inventor: Dale Ropp
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Patent number: 7338125Abstract: The rehabilitative and recreational armchair constructed of a framework made of tubes, bars and/or other elements, such as flat bars and angle bars, wherein the arms, the backrest and the seat are mounted. The seat is mounted only to the top of the spring whose lower end is fixed to the framework, while the mounting of the backrest to the framework allows for swinging motions. According to special mode of invention at least one head, preferably two heads, made of two extreme vertical connecting elements, connected to each other with two rollers all of these making up a framework. The framework is connected in a swinging manner to the main framework of the backrest, with the connecting rollers, serving as the upper and the lower side of the said framework, being equipped with swivel massage rolls which have an even surface and/or a rack-like shaped one.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2006Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Inventor: Stanislaw Grabowski
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Patent number: 7303234Abstract: A passenger seat includes a frame, a bottom, a back, and a headrest, and incorporates a cylindrical motion support member. The support member includes a stationary member carried by the passenger seat, including a concave surface having a cylindrical curvature. A moveable member has a convex surface with a cylindrical curvature disposed in contact with the concave surface, and a support surface for supporting at least a part of a passenger's body The moveable member is selectively positionable along the concave surface. In another variation, the seat back and/or seat bottom is moveable in a conical motion.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: BE Aerospace, Inc.Inventors: Mark Brian Dowty, Alexander Filip Grauls
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Patent number: 7281749Abstract: A vehicle seat device includes a right side link mechanism and a left side link mechanism adapted to be provided between a vehicle floor and a seat for supporting the seat to move upward and downward relative to the vehicle floor, a first actuator operatively engaged with the right side link mechanism for operating the right side link mechanism, a second actuator operatively engaged with the left side link mechanism for operating the left side link mechanism, and a controller for controlling the first actuator and the second actuator separately.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2004Date of Patent: October 16, 2007Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yukifumi Yamada, Sadao Ito, Hideo Nihonmatsu
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Patent number: 7278688Abstract: The elastic support structure for human body to lean against includes a connecting frame, a swing rack, and an elastic rod. The connecting frame includes a connecting surface and a positioning part for the support structure. The swing rack has its first end placed on one end of the connecting frame, which makes the second end of the swing rack swing. At least two elastic rods are placed on the same side of the connecting frame and swing rack, and two movable parts of the support structure. A multi-directional swing is created. The movable part of the support structure uses the swing feature of the second end of the swing rack, so that the movable part creates a greater range of swing in the corresponding direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2006Date of Patent: October 9, 2007Inventor: Hsiang-Lin Hung
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Patent number: 7216935Abstract: The present invention provides a dynamic chair having a deterministic motion path that allows a variety to different paths to be selected depending of needs of user. By changing the ratio between drive wheels that control the pitch and roll of the seat, motion paths can be selected to help a person assume and/or avoid certain postures while seated. Embodiments of the present invention move the seat of the dynamic chair through a deterministic path to dictate how often and when the seat is in a level position with respect to pitch and roll.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2006Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: William E. Wegener
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Patent number: 7100983Abstract: A buttocks seat is supported by a post tiltably affixed at a lower end to an upper face of a base. The post is also axially rotatable relative to the base, and threadably engaged with an underside of the seat for supporting the seat on the post, the seat squarely facing upright when the post is vertical. A hand wheel is affixed to the post for rotating the post relative to the seat and the base for selectively raising or lowering the seat relative to the base. A resilient bias urges the post to be vertical unless a seated user flexes his or her lumbar with sufficient force to overcome the bias. Preferably the post is tiltable over a conical range and the bias comprises a resiliently compressible, cylindrical ring coaxial with the post, and extending between and abutting the base and the underside of the seat.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2004Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventor: Richard A. Gant
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Patent number: 7083234Abstract: A passenger seat includes a frame, a bottom, a back, and a headrest, and incorporates a cylindrical motion support member. The support member includes a stationary member carried by the passenger seat, including a concave surface having a cylindrical curvature. A moveable member has a convex surface with a cylindrical curvature disposed in contact with the concave surface, and a support surface for supporting at least a part of a passenger's body The moveable member is selectively positionable along the concave surface. In another variation, the seat back and/or seat bottom is moveable in a conical motion.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2004Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: BE Aerospace, Inc.Inventors: Mark Brian Dowty, Alexander Filip Grauls
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Patent number: 7063386Abstract: A tilting seat bottom assembly for a passenger seat includes: a seat pan assembly for supporting a passenger and a pivot assembly for being attached to the seat frame. The seat pan assembly is mounted for pivotal motion about at least two axes relative to the seat frame, and can be locked in a selected orientation by the passenger.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Assignee: BE Aerospace, Inc.Inventors: Mark Brian Dowty, James R. Yurchenco
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Patent number: 7044553Abstract: A vehicle seat suspension apparatus that is mechanically simple, inexpensive, occupies little space, and operates effectively with force inputs from any horizontal direction. The preferred embodiment includes a base, an isolator, and a plurality of links connected to both the base and isolator so that the isolator is suspended from the base and can move or swing horizontally in all directions relative to the base. The isolator has an upper plate with two flanges that depend from the plate. The base is positioned directly below the upper plate and between the two flanges. The links are connected to the base and the flanges of the isolator by means of ball and socket connectors that permit the isolator to move in all horizontal directions relative to the base.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Sears Manufacturing Co.Inventor: Dale Ropp
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Patent number: 7032972Abstract: A seating structure 30 includes spaced housings 34 and 36 between which a seating portion 92 of a platform 60 is located. The platform 60 is also formed with non-seating portions 94a and 94b at opposite sides of the seating portion 92, which are isolated and are within the housings 34 and 36, respectively. The non-seating portions 94a and 94b engage resilient elements 90a through 90h above and below the non-seating portions. When a user sits on the seating portion 92, the resilient elements 90a through 90h provide a buoyant and floating experience for the user. The seating portion 92 is movable relative to the housings 34 and 36 to allow for outward movement and for a rocking action.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2001Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Inventors: Irwin R. Berman, Frank H. Hambright
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Patent number: 7008017Abstract: The present invention provides a dynamic chair having a deterministic motion path that allows a variety to different paths to be selected depending of needs of user. By changing the ratio between drive wheels that control the pitch and roll of the seat, motion paths can be selected to help a person assume and/or avoid certain postures while seated. Embodiments of the present invention move the seat of the dynamic chair through a deterministic path to dictate how often and when the seat is in a level position with respect to pitch and roll.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Inventor: William E. Wegener
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Patent number: 6997511Abstract: A seating device comprising a connecting element having an end portion dimensioned to be releasably and rotatably inserted into an aperture defined in a ground or floor. The aperture is dimensioned to receive the connecting element so as to support the seating device. The seating device also comprises a supporting element connected to a seat. The supporting element is pivotably connected to the connecting element. Moreover, at least one of the connecting element and supporting element comprises at least one stop so as to permit the supporting element to pivot between a first position whereat the supporting element is in a substantially vertical position, and a second position whereat the supporting element is forwardly inclined of 30 degrees or less with respect to the first position. Such a device is particularly useful for persons who need to stabilize their posture while performing a task.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Transfert Plus, s.e.c.Inventors: Denis Marchand, Lyne Noiseux
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Patent number: 6979059Abstract: A rocking chair has a flexible joint between a chair base and a chair component permitting rocking action. The flexible joint includes a housing with a plurality of internal surfaces. A plurality of compressible rods are disposed within the housing and a rigid member extends among the rods to engage the rods against the internal surfaces of the housing. The rigid member is attached to either the chair base or the chair component while the housing is then attached to either the chair base or the chair component whichever is not attached to the rigid member.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: HC Holdings, LLCInventor: Patrick Curtis Conlin
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Patent number: 6910736Abstract: The invention relates to a seat or seat back comprising of seat elements which are arranged to resiliently move with respect to each other and arranged to move with respect to a central axis, running centrally through the seat or seat back parallel to the spine of the occupant in a normally seated position, the first and second seat elements moving in opposite directions on either side of the central axis. The seat elements may rotate and are subject to a restoring force urging them to return them to their rest positions such that the user is able to move in a twisting position and the seat back or seat will also twist with the twisting movement of the user and provide support in the newly adopted position of the user. The seat elements could be formed from a single piece of resilient material.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2002Date of Patent: June 28, 2005Assignee: Factory Design LimitedInventor: Adam White
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Patent number: 6866340Abstract: A chair and standing device includes a mechanism for allowing movement in an individual's hips and lower back while seated in a chair or standing in one's workstation, by letting the pelvis glide unabated through an apparatus made up of a series of balls, round springs or magnets built into a two pad chair seat cushion. Two pads under the respective ilia of the person preferably move in a forward & rearward glide pitch, roll, yaw and opposing medial glide enhanced by a ÂĽ? to ?? raised platform in the center of the apparatus. The chair allows the pelvis to move in a gliding motion that mimics walking while the person is seated or standing, thus reducing the structurally caused lower back pain and stiffness so commonly associated with long periods of standing or sitting.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2000Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Inventor: Richard C. Robertshaw
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Patent number: 6863017Abstract: A safety seat assembly including a seat or like occupant support structured to maintain an occupant, such as a child or infant, in a predetermined, substantially upright orientation relative to the vehicle during travel thereof. A stabilization assembly includes an orientation portion moveable with the vehicle relative to the occupant support throughout a substantially universal range of orientations so as to compensate for any movement of the vehicle including lateral sway, turning, acceleration, de-acceleration, etc, which would tend to displace the occupant and occupant support from the preferred orientation. In one embodiment, the occupant support includes a floatation assembly as well as a ballast structure, wherein the occupant support is removably mounted on a water craft and is structured to maintain an occupant in an above surface, floating orientation in the water in the event of an emergency.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2003Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Inventors: David Charles, Jose Abella
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Publication number: 20040262968Abstract: A seating structure 30 includes spaced housings 34 and 36 between which a seating portion 92 of a platform 60 is located. The platform 60 is also formed with non-seating portions 94a and 94b at opposite sides of the seating portion 92, which are isolated and are within the housings 34 and 36, respectively. The non-seating portions 94a and 94b engage resilient elements 90a through 90h above and below the non-seating portions. When a user sits on the seating portion 92, the resilient elements 90a through 90h provide a buoyant and floating experience for the user. The seating portion 92 is movable relative to the housings 34 and 36 to allow for outward movement and for a rocking action.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventors: Irwin R. Berman, Frank H. Hambright
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Patent number: 6688689Abstract: A seat suspension system includes a first seat (e.g., a base) member and a second seat (e.g., a seat) member preferably overlying the first seat member. At least one spring (e.g., elastic or rubber) mount is interposed between the first and second seat member. The at least one elastic mount provides a projected elastic center spaced from (preferably located above) the second seat member such that the second seat member is pivotable about the projected elastic center. Embodiments describing seat suspension systems having a single focalized mount or a plurality of spaced apart, focalized mounts are included.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1999Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Assignee: Lord CorporationInventor: Richard P. Thorn
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Patent number: 6685268Abstract: A seat arrangement for sitting furniture such as chairs has a seat member and a support arranged underneath the seat member, wherein the support has an elastic body allowing a tilting movement of the seat member about a pivot point arranged at the central seat member area. The elastic body is arranged at the center of the seat member and has an upper side and an underside. The support has a rigid top plate fixedly connected to the upper side of the elastic body and a rigid bottom plate fixedly connected to the underside of the elastic body. The top plate is correlated with the seat member and the bottom plate is correlated with an underframe of the sitting furniture. The same type of tilting support can also be arranged on a back rest of a chair.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Stephan Meyer
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Patent number: 6663061Abstract: A vehicle seat leveling system for adjusting the angle of a seat to compensate for the natural road angle. The vehicle seat leveling system includes a first spacer having a first slot and a second slot, and a second spacer having a third slot and a fourth slot. The first spacer and the second spacer are positioned between the support base of a seat and the floor of the vehicle to achieve the desired side angle to compensate for the road surface side angle. The upper surfaces of both the first spacer and the second spacer have approximately the same angle ranging between 0.5-5.0 degrees. The first spacer and the second spacer may be comprised of a single unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Inventor: William O. Morris
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Patent number: 6644742Abstract: The invention relates to a novel seating device (1) with an elastic support element (2), at least one support leg (3) and a seat element (4), wherein the support element (2) has a substantially toroidal support body (9) standing on the ground. One great advantage provided by the novel seating device is that upward and downward movements can be slightly dampened thereby substantially alleviating the load on the back. Slight circular movements can also be effected which have an especially prophylactic effect against possible back injuries.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Inventor: Thomas Walser
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Patent number: 6626494Abstract: Disclosed is a chair and a method using the chair, which can be not only used easily and comfortably but also utilized in treating an improper alignment of spinal vertebrae. The chair has a seat assembly for seating the user on the seat assembly, the seat assembly being operated by the user in such a manner as that the user can adjust a height of the seat assembly; a backrest assembly for supporting a back of the user, the backrest assembly being operated separately from the seat assembly by the user in such a manner that the user can adjust a height of the backrest assembly; a headrest assembly for resting a head of the user on the headrest assembly, the headrest assembly being assembled with the backrest assembly; and a backrest frame for supporting the backrest assembly and the headrest assembly, the backrest frame being fixed to the seat assembly, the backrest assembly moving along the backrest frame when the height of the backrest assembly is adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Inventor: Han-Keel Yoo
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Patent number: 6595586Abstract: a seating structure provides improved comfort and includes a single, pair, or multiple numbers of moving seating assemblies with independent platforms, especially suited for the automotive or aircraft seating environments. A motion mechanism provides each seating assembly with at least one of total rocking, vertical up and down movement, lateral, and limited slight turning movement and in one embodiment generally constrains the seat members of the seat assemblies from interference with each other. The seating assemblies are provided at a neutral angle that corresponds to the particular application of the seat. Independent up and down movement, and rocking, improves seating comfort health, and safety especially as applied to a seating environment, where a user is likely to be seated for an extended period, such as in an automobile or aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: Seat Revolution, Inc.Inventors: Stephen T. Brightbill, David W. Flesner, Eric Lai Sai Cheong, Tony Wong Hing Leung, Wesley Yau Tze Ming, Albert Poon Wai Tong, Paul A. Repicky, David M. Hensel
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Publication number: 20030080596Abstract: A seating structure 30 includes spaced housings 34 and 36 between which a seating portion 92 of a platform 60 is located. The platform 60 is also formed with non-seating portions 94a and 94b at opposite sides of the seating portion 92, which are isolated and are within the housings 34 and 36, respectively. The non-seating portions 94a and 94b engage resilient elements 90a through 90h above and below the non-seating portions. When a user sits on the seating portion 92, the resilient elements 90a through 90h provide a buoyant and floating experience for the user. The seating portion 92 is movable relative to the housings 34 and 36 to allow for outward movement and for a rocking action.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2001Publication date: May 1, 2003Inventors: Irwin R. Berman, Frank H. Hambright
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Patent number: 6481795Abstract: A therapeutic chair having a seat, a base configured to rest on a surface, and a seat support mechanism configured to couple the seat to the base and to enable the seat to be rocked in any direction while resisting rocking of the seat. Ideally the seat-support mechanism permits universal motion in all directions about a vertical axis, including 360 degrees of rotation, 40 degrees of side-to-side flexion, and 35 degrees of front-to-back flexion on a universal-type joint. The joint includes a first support member having a projecting post and a second support member having a housing with first and second resilient members mounted therein and configured to slidably receive the post. A unique seat design in combination with the universal seat connector reduces pressure on the legs and facilitates therapeutic exercise when seated.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Inventor: Burl Pettibon
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Patent number: 6398303Abstract: The seat cushion of a seat can be tilted about its longitudinal center axis for generating a tilting movement of the pelvis of a seat occupant. For generating the tilting movement, an adjusting element is provided in each of the right and the left area of the seat cushion. The adjusting elements interact to cause an opposite adjusting movement in the vertical direction, whereby the tilting movement of the pelvis is achieved. The adjusting elements are constructed, for example, as liquid-filled rolling bellows, in which case a sliding vane rotary pump changes the volume of the two adjusting elements in a diametrically opposed manner.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2000Date of Patent: June 4, 2002Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Wolfgang Herrmann, Peter Beerbaum, Josef Leitner, Rudolf Lein, Erhard Moser, Ralf Dietz, Juergen Schreiner, Ludwig Faerber
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Patent number: 6386635Abstract: A shock absorbing boat seat assembly for providing a more comfortable ride upon a boat moving upon water. The shock absorbing boat seat assembly includes one or more seat members each having a seat and a backrest connected to the seat; and also includes one or more base assemblies for supporting one or more seat members with each of one or more base assemblies having a base member being adapted to securely mount upon a deck of a boat, and also having a boss-like support member securely disposed upon the base member and having a opening therein, and further having a hollow tubular member being movably disposed in the opening of the boss-like support member, and also having a shock absorbing assembly for absorbing shock, and further having a seat support member securely mounted upon the tubular member.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2000Date of Patent: May 14, 2002Inventor: Gary A. Ralph
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Publication number: 20020043846Abstract: The mounting for a seat (3) is suitable, in particular, for a chair, but also for stools, individual seats (3) on a bench or fixed seats (3). The mounting makes it possible for the seat (3) to swing resiliently in all directions or in defined directions, in accordance with changes in the user's posture. The seat (3) rests on an underframe on which a spring element (4) is arranged, said spring element being restrained in a casing (5,6) and being capable of moving elastically, in a horizontal plane, therein. The casing (5,6) is connected to the seat (3) or forms a part thereof. The spring element (4) is preferably arranged at the top of an axially extensible push rod of a pneumatic spring (2). The outer sleeve (43) of the spring element (4) is a rubber body, while the axial through-passage (45) of the spring element (4) has a preferably metallic core (44) around it. The specific advantages of the mounting result in improved seating comfort.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2001Publication date: April 18, 2002Applicant: Vitra Patente AGInventor: Egon Brauning
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Patent number: 6370716Abstract: A cushioning device for a body support such as a mattress, seat, sofa, or the like where support is obtained from a fluid. The cushioning device is self-inflating, self-adjusting, and provides a low interface pressure under the entire contact surface of a patient. The cushioning device includes a tilting apparatus that provides assistance in rotating the patient from one position to another. Shear force scraping damage is prevented by a sleeve apparatus. A support system apparatus provides separately adjustable pressure support zones. For physical therapy, an alternating pressure system provides alternating lifting and lowering pressure zones under a patient.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 1999Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Inventor: John W. Wilkinson
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Patent number: 6357827Abstract: A portable seat provides improved comfort and includes a single, pair, or multiple numbers of moving seating assemblies. A motion mechanism provides each seating assembly with at least one of total rocking, vertical, lateral, and turning movement and in one embodiment generally constrains the seat members of the seat assemblies from interference with each other. The seating assemblies are provided at a neutral angle that corresponds to the particular application of the seat. The amount of rocking movement and/or vertical movement is based on the neutral angle. In concert, the neutral angle orientation, rocking movement, and vertical movement cause the weight supported by an occupant's seat bones, posterior, and thighs to be optimally distributed on the seating assembly, improving seating comfort as applied to a given seating environment.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Dual Seat Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Stephen T. Brightbill, David W. Flesner, Paul A. Repicky, Eric Lai Sai Cheong, Tony Wong Hing Leung, Wesley Yau Tze Ming, Albert Poon Wai Tong
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Patent number: 6340207Abstract: A seat providing improved comfort includes a pair of moving seating assemblies. A motion mechanism provides each seating assembly with rocking movement and vertical movement. The seating assemblies are provided at a neutral angle that corresponds to the particular application of the seat. The amount of rocking movement and vertical movement is based on the neutral angle. In concert, the neutral angle orientation, rocking movement, and vertical movement cause the weight supported by an occupant's seat bones, posterior, and thighs to be optimally distributed on the seating assembly, improving seating comfort as applied to a given seating environment.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1999Date of Patent: January 22, 2002Assignee: Dual Seat TechnologiesInventors: Stephen T. Brightbill, David W. Flesner
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Publication number: 20010017482Abstract: The system produces movements in a home entertainment chair. It has a motor controller and a plurality of movement generator units for generating small amplitude and low frequency movements in the viewer's chair. The system is intended for home use and can be easily installed under each leg of a chair or of a sofa or at the corners of a platform. The source of movement control signals can be derived from a video presentation soundtrack, and directional movement sensations can be created by inducing controlled movements in each leg of the viewer's chair.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2001Publication date: August 30, 2001Inventors: Philippe Roy, Michel Berube, Michel Jacques
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Patent number: 6213553Abstract: A bicycle seat especially suitable for mountain and road bikes. The bicycle seat includes a seating surface that tilts along an axis positioned at the middle of the distance between the ischial tuberosities.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1999Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Inventor: Wolfgang Fitz
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Patent number: 6206335Abstract: An adaptable frame carrier with triaxial freedom of movement for couches and seats, in which the freedom of movement is achieved in the X-, Y- and Z-direction by a system of elements which can be moved relative to one another and are spring loaded, a connecting element making the moveability between the X-, Y- and Z-direction interdependent. The frame carrier having at least one dome-shaped rolling body (3, 8) which rolls along a pressure-resistant rolling plate (2) in the X- and Y-direction, and two cylinders (6, 7) which slide one into the other and are supported against each other in the Z-direction by a compression spring (4). One of the cylinders (7) which slide one into the other being connected in a spring-loaded and hinged manner to the frame (18) of the couch or seat via a frame connection plate (13).Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1999Date of Patent: March 27, 2001Inventors: Ulrich Huber, Thomas Götze
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Patent number: 6106064Abstract: A chair (1) including a seat (2) coupled to a mounting shaft (3) having an axis of rotation (7), a base (4) and a shaft coupling which allows the shaft (3) to swivel relative to the base (4) about the axis of rotation (7) and allows the shaft (3) to tilt relative to a vertical orientation of the chair (1) to various degrees in the seat (4) direction and sideward directions and prevents the shaft (3) tilting to any substantial extent in the seats (2) rearward direction. The shaft coupling includes a spring bearing allowing the rotation and tilting and includes a cam fitted on the shaft (3) which limits the degree of tilting in accordance with the shape of the cam.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1998Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Claiteal Pty. Ltd.Inventor: Ronald Charles Hibberd
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Patent number: 6068280Abstract: A wheelchair provides a seat mounted to a base preferably through use of a universal joint to provide for selective orientation of the seat. A pair of actuators are interposed between the seat and base so that selective extension and retraction of the actuators orients the seat as desired. A level sensing device(s) provides suitable output signals to control the extension and retraction of the actuators, and thus the final orientation of the seat. This allows a wheelchair occupant to remain level while the chair traverses uneven ground or to selectively reposition the seat to relieve pressure points without the assistance of an attendant.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1996Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Inventor: Hank G. Torres
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Patent number: 6056362Abstract: Chair assembly, in particular a chair assembly for use in virtual reality devices, comprising a substructure which comprises a stationary bottom frame and situated above it a top frame bearing a chair, movement means being present between the bottom frame and the top frame, in order to make the top frame move relative to the bottom frame, which movement means comprise drive means and a connecting arm of fixed length which interacts hingedly by way of a top hinge axis with the top frame and hingedly by way of a bottom hinge axis with the bottom frame, wherein the top hinge axis and the bottom hinge axis extend substantially parallel to each other.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1999Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Assignee: RPI Advanced Technology GroupInventor: Frans de la Haye
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Patent number: 6033021Abstract: A chair with an automatic seat which cyclically inclines is configured with a forward/backward cyclically inclining mechanism (8) which supports the seat (6) supplied separate from and independent of the backrest (2) so that the seat can be inclined forward and backward and driven mechanically to incline by continuously changing its inclining angle. The inclination direction of the seat can be automatically reversed within a specified angle range. In addition, the chair is equipped with a rightward/leftward cyclically inclining mechanism (13) which is rectangularly installed beneath the forward/backward cyclically mechanism (8) to support it along with seat 6 to allow and drive inclination in the rightward and leftward directions.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Inventors: Hiroshi Udo, Akihiro Udo, Stephan Konz
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Patent number: 6019422Abstract: A mounting for a bicycle saddle which allows lateral rocking with respect to a seat post. The mounting features a platform spaced apart from a shoe member by a cylindrical elastomer, with the platform and shoe member maintaining mutual contact through use of a pivot member. The pivot extends downwardly from the platform and fits into a toe portion of the shoe member, while a rearward heel of the shoe member seats the elastomeric cylinder. The forward pivot member allows rocking of the platform and seat, while the rearward elastomeric cylinder provides some shock absorption, depending upon tension placed on the cylinder. The shoe has a pair of rails on the underside with the same spacing and cross-sectional shape as seat rails. This allows the shoe to be fastened to a seat post with a conventional clamp. The same type of clamp is used for securing a bicycle seat to the upper side of the platform.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1998Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Inventors: Joseph S. Taormino, Reginald L. Caselli, Jr.
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Patent number: 6003944Abstract: A bar stool having a seat portion, an intermediate portion and a base portion, wherein the intermediate portion has a spring construction and is mounted tiltably and returnably on the base portion. The intermediate portion comprises a central pillar and a spring arrangement which are connected to distribute the weight between the seat portion and the base portion.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1998Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Inventor: Josef Glockl
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Patent number: 5992933Abstract: An adjustable device to support a seat on a machine or vehicle that is laterally pivotal about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the machine to permit the seat to accommodate uneven terrain. At the will of the operator, this device can be adjusted to a horizontal position, thereby providing comfort and safely when operating a machine on uneven terrain. The device is to provide an improved seat mounting wherein the seat swings from a common point and movement thereof is controlled by an electromechanical linear actuator, activated by a double throw-double pole switch, (voltage determined by equipment manufacturer), located within easy access of operator. Another important object resides in providing a way to secure seat in a fixed horizontal to seat mounting in the event of malfunction or power failure. Spare clevis pins, provided with hair pin clips, could be inserted in pre-drilled holes which will secure seat and movable framework to base assembly parallel to each other.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 1997Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Inventor: James Otto West
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Patent number: 5913568Abstract: A seat providing improved comfort includes a pair of moving seating assemblies. A motion mechanism provides each seating assembly with rocking movement and vertical movement. The seating assemblies are provided at a neutral angle that corresponds to the particular application of the seat. The amount of rocking movement and vertical movement is based on the neutral angle. In concert, the neutral angle orientation, rocking movement, and vertical movement cause the weight supported by an occupant's seat bones, posterior, and thighs to be optimally distributed on the seating assembly, improving seating comfort as applied to a given seating environment.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Inventors: Stephen T. Brightbill, David W. Flesner
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Patent number: 5909925Abstract: The device concerns a rocking stool comprising a seat surface 1 and a support structure 6 having a base 3, wherein arranged at the base end of the support structure 6 is a contact means 5 which can be pressed against the floor when the rocking stool is loaded and which is arranged centrally beneath the seat surface and which serves as a support in the rocking movement. The contact surface is pressed against the floor when the stool is loaded by virtue of elastic deformation of the support devices arranged on the support structure 6 and thus provides such a good frictional connection between the rocking stool and the floor that a travel movement of the rocking stool during the rocking movement is prevented.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 1997Date of Patent: June 8, 1999Inventor: Josef Glockl
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Patent number: 5901612Abstract: A dual axis mechanically actuated motion platform which allows a user to move him or herself through a wide range of angular displacement in two intersecting axes individually or simultaneously by apply manual pressure to a lever in the direction of desired angular displacement. The motion platform is comprised of a base frame, a user support platform mounted on top of a universal joint, and a bearing mounted, preloaded offset linkage system coupled to a joystick lever. The offset linkage system creates enough increased mechanical advantage to move the seat platform in concert with the movement of the joystick lever, providing the user with the feeling of controlling an aircraft and the attendant sensations of pitch and roll motion.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1997Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Inventor: Howard Letovsky
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Patent number: 5871257Abstract: A self-leveling seat is provided including a vehicle having a seat with a horizontally oriented seat portion and a planar floor board. A tubular mounting frame includes a lower horizontal portion having a hollow cylindrical configuration. A pair of mounting brackets encompass the lower horizontal portion and are fixed to the floor board of the vehicle. A pair of upper vertical portions are each equipped with a hollow cylindrical configuration and have a bottom end connected to an associated end of the horizontal portion of the frame. The vertical portions extend upwardly therefrom to terminate at open top ends. The vertical portions are each in fluidic communication with the corresponding end of the horizontal portion. A pair of cylinders are each slidably situated within the top end of a corresponding one of the vertical portions of the frame and have a bottom end and a top end. The top end is coupled to a bottom surface of the seat portion of the seat.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 1997Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Inventor: Kenneth E. Dundes, Sr.