Adjustable Relative To Chair Or Seat To Plural Use Positions Patents (Class 297/423.12)
  • Patent number: 11805904
    Abstract: An apparatus that supports a user in a variety of positions to comfortably perform tasks, such as applying one or more tattoos to skin of a subject is herein disclosed. The apparatus can be reconfigured to optimally position and support the arms and/or chest of the user. A method for using a stool can involve rotating armrests of the apparatus from a stowed position to a deployed position. The armrests can support the user's forearms while supporting the user's chest such that the user can comfortably perform tasks in front of a chest support of the stool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: INKBED, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin Richardson, Edgar Zavala
  • Patent number: 11700948
    Abstract: An assistive device for standing tasks allows for a reduction of effort on the part of a user while engaged in tasks or activities that are stationary or nearly stationary that lessens the strain on the bones, joints, and muscles normally used for standing while ensuring a proper alignment of the pelvis and spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Inventor: David Pearson
  • Patent number: 11564495
    Abstract: An adjustable and angled seat assembly having a base supportable on a ground surface, a wedge support member with a wedge length separating the front and rear ends thereon and a wedge height separating upper and lower ends thereon, with the lower end directly coupled to a support plate and tapering in the wedge height spanning along the wedge length to define a wedge angle ? defined by the upper and lower ends of the wedge support member. The assembly also includes a seat cushion having a seat-support surface disposed above the base and a seat-support angle relative to the base support plane and a lower surface directly coupled to the upper 704 of the wedge support member and a chest cushion having a chest-support surface disposed above the seat-support surface, coupled to the support plate, and disposed at an at an acute angle with respect to the seat-support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: Nuchair Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Arnett
  • Patent number: 11006752
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a multifunctional balance chair comprising a support portion, a seat portion, and a kneeling cushion portion. The seat portion is movably connected to the support portion, and an angle between the seat portion and the horizontal plane is controlled by relative movement between the seat portion and the support portion. The kneeling cushion portion is movably connected to the seat portion and connected to the support portion by a connecting mechanism. The kneeling cushion portion is movable between a first position aligned with the seat portion and a second position in which the kneeling cushion portion constitutes a balance chair cushion. The movement of the seat portion is linked to movement of the kneeling cushion portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Inventor: Longhua Ye
  • Patent number: 9180329
    Abstract: An exercising apparatus is disclosed having a padded support for a user's hips and all, or a portion of, the user's torso. The padded support is positioned on either a fixed-length, or an adjustable support at approximately hip height and it is angled upward from the floor on which the exercise device is resting at approximately midway between horizontal and vertical, and is capable of side to side arcuate movement along an axis that is located in line with and above the upper surface of the padded support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Patrick Doane
  • Patent number: 9149678
    Abstract: According to certain aspects, the invention includes a limb-exercising system for coupling (i.e., attaching, retrofitting) to or manufacturing with the swivel chair. The limb-exercising system includes a rigid framework, at least one limb-exercising unit, a force resistor and a cable. The rigid framework includes at least one chair coupler that couples the rigid framework with the swivel chair (e.g., so that the limb-exercising apparatus is disposed underneath the chair leg base), such that the relative movement between the rigid framework and the swivel chair is minimal. The rigid framework is coupled with the limb-exercising unit and with the force resistor, which in turn is coupled with the limb-exercising unit via the cable. The limb-exercising unit is operative to provide movement exercise for at least one muscle group of the body of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Chair Trainer Ltd.
    Inventor: Misha Shauli
  • Patent number: 8801638
    Abstract: The invention relates to a delordosation device for users of a rehabilitation appliance, in particular for the verticalization of a sit/stand exercise machine or a wheel chair with a seating area and support aids for a user, the seating area supported in a swiveling manner swiveling for verticalization. To avoid hyperlordosis while patients with a restricted mobility are being straightened up in rehabilitation measures or a verticalization in a sit/stand exercise machine 1 or wheel chair, it is provided that the seating area is supported in a swiveling manner, and at least a portion of the seating area is mounted in a movable manner. Thus, a pelvis rotation can be initiated during verticalization, whereby hyperlordosis is avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: In-Tra-Tec GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Gierse
  • Patent number: 8616651
    Abstract: An ergonomic chair for promoting hip flexibility and strength and reducing lower back pain. The ergonomic chair includes a base, a first, lower platform, and a second, upper platform spaced above the first, lower platform. The user sits on the second platform and rests their legs on the first platform in various positions. Use of the ergonomic chair results in the user rotating their pelvis to a position that is comfortable and properly aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: John P. Matthews
  • Patent number: 8590974
    Abstract: An ergonomic kneeling bench or stool for supporting weight of a user in a kneeling position includes a pedestal portion, and a seat portion having a generally central aperture that removably receives at least a portion of an end of the pedestal portion in an assembled configuration of the kneeling stool. The seat portion can include one or more permanent magnets, and the pedestal portion includes one or more corresponding permanent magnets, configured and aligned to magnetically attract each other and to releasably retain the seat portion and the pedestal portion together in either or both of unassembled and assembled configurations of the kneeling stool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Kalayjian
  • Patent number: 8574138
    Abstract: A slidable exercise apparatus includes a pair of platforms, each platform including a base having opposed upper and lower generally planar surfaces and a generally rigid construction. A pad has a lower surface attached to the base upper surface and has a generally cushioned construction. Each platform includes a plurality of skid plates situated on the base lower surface, each skid plate having a smooth outer surface configured to slide on a floor surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Pantelis Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Steven P. Geotsalitis
  • Patent number: 8522907
    Abstract: Provided is a personal mobility device comprising a frame including two side structures. In one embodiment, main mobility wheels are coupled to ones of the side structures, the main mobility wheels configured to contact a surface upon which the mobility device is designed to move. In this embodiment, the mobility device further includes a knee rest rotatably coupleable to the frame, the knee rest being adjustable from a first substantially-vertical position to a second angled position, and further wherein the main mobility wheels are configured such that a kneeling occupant may propel the personal mobility device using the main mobility wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: JGI Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: James Graham Irvine
  • Patent number: 8496292
    Abstract: In one aspect, the invention is directed to an ergonomic bench that includes a horizontal base; a vertical support structure; a seat support assembly that is height-adjustable; a chest support assembly that is height-adjustable and pitch-adjustable; a knee support assembly that is height-adjustable; and a heel rest assembly. In one aspect, the ergonomic bench includes wheels and a handle. In one aspect, the ergonomic bench includes a tool tray assembly. In one aspect, the ergonomic bench includes a horizontal base that is sectional. In one aspect, the ergonomic bench includes bumper guards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Greg Strassberg
  • Patent number: 8480168
    Abstract: The present disclosure concerns embodiments of an operating support that supports a surgeon in a sitting position straddling a patient. By straddling the patient, the surgeon is ideally positioned to perform certain types of laparoscopic surgery, such as pelvic surgery, which requires the use of relatively long surgical instruments. The operating support supports the surgeon in a more ergonomically correct position that reduces the stress and strain on the surgeon's body as compared to the conventional technique of performing laparoscopic surgery in a standing position at one side of the operating table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Ethos Surgical, LLC
    Inventors: Craig Turner, John Economaki
  • Patent number: 8474915
    Abstract: An ergonomic task chair having a front and a rear, including a laterally extending seat having a front and a rear, a back brace disposed above the rear of the seat, and a knee support disposed in the front of the chair, wherein the back brace and the knee support have a first position where there is a first minimum distance between the back brace and the knee support and a second position where there is a second minimum distance between the back brace and the knee support, the second minimum distance being less than the first minimum distance, wherein movement from the first minimum distance to the second minimum distance is triggered by a downward movement of the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Nada Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Toso, Benjamin G. Pratt, David J. Prince
  • Patent number: 8465099
    Abstract: A seating device is proposed for a person sitting in an ergonomic position helpful to relieve pressure on intervertebral disks, which includes a seating surface for supporting the buttocks of the person and where the instep of the person's feet is placed on a foot rest provided. The seating surface is supported by at least one U shaped support which includes a rocker by which the seated person can tilt the seating surface into the most comfortable and ergonomic position. The foot rest is divided into two partial sections which flank the support and which are connected by connecting means so that the rocking motion of the support can proceed unencumbered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Stephan George Ayikwei Addy
  • Patent number: 8317267
    Abstract: An ergonomic chair comprising a saddle seat, frame, and shin supports that are adjustable in position and orientation with respect to the saddle seat. The saddle seat is adjustable in terms of the width of the portion of the seat supporting the user's thighs. The shin supports are adjustable with respect to the position of the saddle seat in three degrees of freedom and freely rotate in a fourth degree of freedom. In one embodiment, the frame comprises a rocking mechanism allowing the seat to rock forward and back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: Jay Stuart Wallace
  • Patent number: 8297706
    Abstract: An ergonomic desk system and chair for promoting hip flexibility and strength and reducing lower back pain. The ergonomic desk system broadly comprises a variably positioned, raised platform, mounting assemblies for office peripherals, a recessed storage unit mounted on an underside of the platform, a lumbar support coupled to the platform, and a stool. Use of the desk system allows a user to sit on the platform in numerous positions while still performing routine office work. The ergonomic chair broadly comprises a base, a first, lower platform, and a second, upper platform spaced above the first, lower platform. The user sits on the second platform and rests their legs on the first platform in various positions. Use of the ergonomic chair results in the user rotating their pelvis to a position that is comfortable and properly aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: John P. Matthews
  • Patent number: 8172023
    Abstract: A personal mobility device comprising a frame having a front structure, a rear structure, and two side structures. In one embodiment, main mobility wheels are coupled to ones of the side structures, the main mobility wheels configured to contact a surface upon which the mobility device is designed to move. In this embodiment, the mobility device further includes a knee rest rotatably coupled to the front structure, the knee rest being adjustable from a first substantially-vertical position to a second rearwardly and downwardly-angled position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: JGI Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: James Graham Irvine
  • Patent number: 8052217
    Abstract: An ergonomic task chair having a front and a rear, including a laterally extending seat having a front and a rear, a back brace disposed above the rear of the seat, and a knee support disposed in the front of the chair, wherein the back brace and the knee support have a first position where there is a first minimum distance between the back brace and the knee support and a second position where there is a second minimum distance between the back brace and the knee support, the second minimum distance being less than the first minimum distance, wherein movement from the first minimum distance to the second minimum distance is triggered by a downward movement of the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: NADA Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Toso, Benjamin G. Pratt, David J. Prince
  • Patent number: 7921953
    Abstract: A personal mobility device comprising an open frame having a front structure, a rear structure, and a side structure. The side structure has an upper rail and a lower rail coupleable to the front structure and the rear structure. In one embodiment, a main mobility wheel is coupled to the side structure, and a knee rest is rotatably coupled to the front structure. The knee rest is adjustable from a first substantially-vertical position coupled to the front structure to a second rearwardly and downwardly-angled position from the front structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: JGI Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: James Graham Irvine
  • Patent number: 7887136
    Abstract: A device (1) for supporting a human body comprising at least one support element (10) defining a cross-sectional area (50) and at least one longitudinal bar (13), whereby the support element (10) is positionable in height and depth. A support bar (11) for each of the at least one support elements (10) is directly connected to the at least one longitudinal bar (13). The support bar (11) extends at least partly along a first longitudinal axis (12) of the at least one support element (10) through the at least one support element (10). The support bar (11) is eccentrically arranged in the cross-sectional area (50) of the at least one support element (10). The invention furthermore discloses an application of the device (1) for supporting a human body in a working system (35).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Stefan Zoell
  • Patent number: 7878513
    Abstract: An embodiment of this invention is an apparatus for floor installation, repair, cleaning or ground proximity work. This apparatus is comprised of a curved base board with the curvature towards the ground covered by a protective cushion with massaging surface for comfort of knees, three or more independently lockable wheels, an adjustable angle and height seat covered by spring loaded matt and cushion for comfort and a brake system with handle for manual braking and exertion of force to the work surface. This apparatus also includes an adjustable length and angle truss covered with cushion for comfortable positioning of legs while working on the work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: Faramarz Damouzehtash
  • Patent number: 7856679
    Abstract: A bath aid device includes a base formed with a padded area for kneeling. A seat is carried by a seat support mounted to the base for movement between a sitting position of the seat away from the padded area for kneeling and a stored position of the seat toward the padded area for kneeling, and a chest support mounted to a chest support extension mounted to the base for reciprocal movement between lowered and raised positions of the chest support relative to the base, and in the raised position of the chest support for pivotal movement between a deployed position of the chest support away from the padded area for kneeling and a stored position of the chest support toward the padded area for kneeling. The chest support extension is supported between the base and the seat support in the stored positions of the seat and the chest support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Rebecca M. Finell
  • Patent number: 7784871
    Abstract: An occupational support chair system and method that provides frontal support to a user. The support chair system includes a lower support frame composed of a dual section hydraulic frame and an upper support frame. The upper support frame can be configured as a spinal column associated with a number of individual locking segments. The upper support frame further includes a breast support and a removable chin support in order to provide frontal support to the user. An adjustable swivel seat can be attached to the upper support frame to relieve stress and fatigue stemming from prolonged periods of standing. The support chair system further includes a stabilizing base segment, which comprises retractable wheels and a housing for batteries, electrical and computer components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Dennis Cochran
  • Publication number: 20100066148
    Abstract: An ergonomic desk system and chair for promoting hip flexibility and strength and reducing lower back pain. The ergonomic desk system broadly comprises a variably positioned, raised platform, mounting assemblies for office peripherals, a recessed storage unit mounted on an underside of the platform, a lumbar support coupled to the platform, and a stool. Use of the desk system allows a user to sit on the platform in numerous positions while still performing routine office work. The ergonomic chair broadly comprises a base, a first, lower platform, and a second, upper platform spaced above the first, lower platform. The user sits on the second platform and rests their legs on the first platform in various positions. Use of the ergonomic chair results in the user rotating their pelvis to a position that is comfortable and properly aligned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: John P. Matthews
  • Publication number: 20090284064
    Abstract: A kneeling chair is provided with tilting seat plate and tilting knee plate with rotational tilt of the seat plate enabling the sitting to individual to sit back on a generally horizontal oriented or partially inclined positions of the seat without leaving the chair. The range of tilt is controllable by varied location of the axis of rotation and stops which can be adjusted. The rotation may be dampened by a brake apparatus provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Stuart Tyrus Maynard, JR.
  • Patent number: 7618090
    Abstract: An abdominal support swivel chair is comprised of a support base with a plurality of leg arms having casters and radiating about the base frame in a common horizontal plane. An adjustable center post assembly extends vertically from the center of the support base and along a central vertical axis. A seat is secured to a frame connected at a top end of the center post. The seat has a rear buttocks support section and a central narrow frontal projecting section merging therewith through opposed side thigh cavities. An abdominal support pad is secured to an adjustable support arm connected to the saddle frame. The support arm has an upper securing end section adapted for securement of the abdominal support pad and to position same inclined forwardly. The adjustable support arm extends forwardly of the frontal projecting section and aligned therewith and has an adjustable connecting mechanism to position the abdominal support pad for the comfort of a user person above the frontal projecting section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Distribution Gablex Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Grenon
  • Publication number: 20090167072
    Abstract: An occupational support chair system and method that provides frontal support to a user. The support chair system includes a lower support frame composed of a dual section hydraulic frame and an upper support frame. The upper support frame can be configured as a spinal column associated with a number of individual locking segments. The upper support frame further includes a breast support and a removable chin support in order to provide frontal support to the user. An adjustable swivel seat can be attached to the upper support frame to relieve stress and fatigue stemming from prolonged periods of standing. The support chair system further includes a stabilizing base segment, which comprises retractable wheels and a housing for batteries, electrical and computer components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Dennis Cochran
  • Publication number: 20090140567
    Abstract: One embodiment of a chair mounted on a swiveling, telescoping column (14) supported by a five-legged base (10), each with its own caster (12). A seat (16) is attached to the top of the swiveling column. A knee support assembly (34) is suspended from the seat base (32). The seat is in a horizontal position, but the seat, back support (18) and knee support may be adjustable as a unit to a forward tilt. Other embodiments are described and shown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Karl Simon Weiss
  • Publication number: 20080143164
    Abstract: A modular ergonomic chair capable of accommodating a variety of users and uses that includes a) a chair base, b) a support column coupled to the chair base, c) a seat base, including a seat base pivot, with the seat base coupled to the support column, d) a seat, including one or more mounts, with the seat coupled to the seat base pivot, and e) one or more knee support pads coupled to a knee support pivot, with the knee support pivot coupled to any of the preceding chair elements. The modular ergonomic chair is capable of supporting a user in a reclined, upright, or inclined position and may accommodate a number of additional task-specific components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Applicant: Waheed Ghilzai
    Inventor: Waheed GHILZAI
  • Patent number: 7367623
    Abstract: An ergonomic chair having a cooperatively adjustable knee support and seat is herein disclosed. The knee support and seat may be adjusted to position a user of the chair in a physiologic attitude that approaches the neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: HealthPostures, LLC
    Inventors: Alan L. Tholkes, DuWayne Dandurand
  • Patent number: 7325868
    Abstract: A tool is provided for supporting the human upper body when having to lean over to work. The tool comprising a platform member for supporting the human upper body in a leaning position thereby reducing back muscle strain and fatigue; a cushioned pad secured to an upper surface of the platform member providing a cushioned interface between the human upper body and the platform; an omni-directional tilt and swivel member secured to a bottom surface of the platform member; an elongated telescopic height adjustment member comprising two or more elongated telescopic sections providing platform height adjustment, said sections being separable from one another so that sections may be removed or added as desired; one or more removable base members, the base member being removable to permit replacing the base member so as to accommodate base member configured for different floor or support conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventors: Steven D. West, Cheryl A. West
  • Patent number: 7306289
    Abstract: The invention provide the seating apparatus to be used on the chair of the horizontal sitting base plate in order to avoid the lower back pain. By sitting on the seating base plate tilted forward from 5 to 45 degree, the person can keep the angle between the spine and the thigh from 95 to 135 degree. As the seating apparatus is equipped with the knee front holder connected with the supporting part, which is connected with the seating base plate by the half fixed joint at an another end of the supporting part, the slip down of the body on the seating base plate is stopped by the knee front holder and the steady sitting is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventor: Tomio Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7293825
    Abstract: A multi-position chair may be positioned into multiple positions including one or more sitting positions at different heights, one or more leaning positions at different angles, and one or more storage positions. The multi-position chair may include a seat, a back and a support for supporting the seat and the back with respect to the floor. The seat and the back may be pivotable with respect to each other and with respect to the support. The seat includes a seating surface configured to receive the user's buttocks in a sitting position. The back may include a front seating surface configured to receive the user's back in a sitting position and a rear leaning surface configured to receive the user's buttocks in a leaning position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Advantage Branch & Office Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Alexander Vergara, Harold Turner
  • Patent number: 7287815
    Abstract: The incentive seating module comprises: a structural frame provided with a gaiter, a frame, disposed above said structural frame and provided with an arch, whereby the structural frame exhibits planar symmetry, means for connecting the frame to the structural frame comprising a joint enabling the frame to swivel in relation to the structural frame about an axis which is perpendicular to the symmetrical plane, and a seating element joining the frame to the gaiter, made of an elastic membrane which is used to define a rest position for the frame in relation to the structural frame and to return it towards said position when a user causes it to tilt in one direction or the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventors: André Leguen, Catherine Cantenot
  • Publication number: 20070246990
    Abstract: An abdominal support swivel chair is comprised of a support base with a plurality of leg arms having casters and radiating about the base frame in a common horizontal plane. An adjustable center post assembly extends vertically from the center of the support base and along a central vertical axis. A seat is secured to a frame connected at a top end of the center post. The seat has a rear buttocks support section and a central narrow frontal projecting section merging therewith through opposed side thigh cavities. An abdominal support pad is secured to an adjustable support arm connected to the saddle frame. The support arm has an upper securing end section adapted for securement of the abdominal support pad and to position same inclined forwardly. The adjustable support arm extends forwardly of the frontal projecting section and aligned therewith and has an adjustable connecting mechanism to position the abdominal support pad for the comfort of a user person above the frontal projecting section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Inventor: Daniel Grenon
  • Patent number: 7261368
    Abstract: An ergonomic seating assembly for comfortably supporting an individual during prolonged periods of time sitting in one position thereby alleviating back and neck strain and increasing productivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Inventor: Todd Clausnitzer
  • Patent number: 7252336
    Abstract: A seat (11) having a seat cushion (12) and a squab (16), the seat (11) being adjustable between a first configuration adapted to provide seating accommodation for a user and a second configuration adapted to provide leaning accommodation for a user, wherein in the second configuration, the squab (16) is positioned forwardly of its position in the first configuration and substantially above the forward most position of the seat cushion (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventor: Matthew Stephen Frisina
  • Patent number: 7144080
    Abstract: A portable massage chair uses a multi-disk friction clamp to permit adjustment of a chest support member. The chair may be collapsed or set up for use by alternately connecting and disconnecting a rigid triangular support structure formed by a seat support frame portion, a chest support frame portion, and a knee support frame portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Inventor: John T. Lloyd
  • Patent number: 7090303
    Abstract: A rehabilitation training and exercise chair where the user can sit comfortably for long periods of time is provided. The chair is comprised of a base having wheels and is coupled to a shaft on one end. The shaft is coupled to a seat on its top end. The seat has an adjustable inclination so the correct ergonomics may be realized for the pelvis and lower spine. A front support bar with an adjustable length is connected to the seat and can be pivoted back or forward. The front support bar has a cushioned front support which rests against a user's abdomen. Furthermore, abductor and adductor extensions are attached to the seat, and foot extensions attached to the base for isometric exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventor: William Kropa
  • Patent number: 7086702
    Abstract: A compactable kneeling stool apparatus includes a base portion and a seat portion which is operably coupled to the base portion via a seat post member disposed between the seat portion and the base portion. The pivot connection selectively enables the seat post member to pivot with respect to the base portion, thereby selectively adjusting a height dimension defined between the seat portion and the base portion to a desired one of a plurality of distinct pivot positions about an axis defined by the pivot connection. The selective adjustment is preferably provided by a releasable locking mechanism that is operable with the seat post member to selectively position the seat portion in a desired one of a plurality of distinct predetermined locations with respect to the base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Legacy Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel P. Hurt
  • Patent number: 7070241
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-posture body support device adapted for working proximate to the floor. The device comprises: a frame extending at floor level, the frame having a front section, a rear section, and an extendible post in the rear section, the post being in a substantially perpendicular orientation relatively to the floor; an upper support adjustably mounted to the post; and a knee support mounted to the frame in front of the post and below the upper support, the knee support having a proximate end positioned proximate to the post and a distal end opposite to the proximate end; the knee support being substantially flat longitudinally between the proximate and distal ends for supporting longitudinally the legs of a worker facing one of the rear section and the front section relatively to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Inventors: Caroline Saulnier, Nicola Tardif-Bourdages, Dominic Thériault
  • Patent number: 7063294
    Abstract: A tool for lifting, relocating, rotating, and holding a commercially available flat-panel display/TV screen and other associated operating components within any computer operator's or TV viewer's optimal viewing and reaching positions, as are necessary to suit the requirements of an operator who chooses to work in any upright or neck supported reclined type chair/bed bodily position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Inventor: Alan Leslie Miller
  • Patent number: 6926365
    Abstract: A mechanic's body support including first and second horizontally-oriented and spaced-apart base rails and first and second spaced-apart support rails. Each of the support rails has one end connected to a respective one of the first and second base rails. Each support rail also extends upwardly from and is in vertical alignment with the base rails for supporting a mechanic as he kneels in an elevated position over the engine compartment of a motor vehicle. A chest pad and a knee pad are mounted in spaced-apart relation between the support rails for securing the support rails in a fixed, spaced-apart relation, and for supporting the chest and knees of the mechanic while in the kneeling position, thus allowing the skeletal structure of the body to support the weight, rather than the back and leg muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Auto Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary D. Bottoms
  • Publication number: 20040245836
    Abstract: A rehabilitation training and exercise chair where the user can sit comfortably for long periods of time is provided. The chair is comprised of a base having wheels and is coupled to a shaft on one end. The shaft is coupled to a seat on its top end. The seat has an adjustable inclination so the correct ergonomics may be realized for the pelvis and lower spine. A front support bar with an adjustable length is connected to the seat and can be pivoted back or forward. The front support bar has a cushioned front support which rests against a user's abdomen. Furthermore, abductor and adductor extensions are attached to the seat, and foot extensions attached to the base for isometric exercises.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventor: William Kropa
  • Patent number: 6811225
    Abstract: A seat apparatus and method particularly well adapted for use in mobile platforms, and more particularly in a commercial aircraft. The seat apparatus includes a seat portion with linkage that enables a user to lift and tilt the seat portion forwardly while simultaneously moving a seat back of the apparatus from a reclined to a fully upright position. An extendable leg rest assembly allows the user to kneel thereon to further relieve lower back stress during prolonged periods of seating and to better enable the seat occupant to make use of a laptop computer or other equipment positioned in front of the occupant. The seat apparatus therefore provides a plurality of different seating positions for the occupant, thus enhancing the comfort of the occupant during prolonged seating periods and while the seat occupant is performing various tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Kazuhide Konya, Seiya Sakurai
  • Patent number: 6769736
    Abstract: A massage chair (10) includes a seat (50), a front upper support assembly (16), a first support surface (18) and a first positioning mechanism (20). The first positioning mechanism (20) movably secures the first support surface (18) to the front upper support assembly (16). The first positioning mechanism (20) includes a guide rail (24) that has a longitudinal axis (26), and a clamping assembly (27) having a rotational axis (28). In some embodiments, with a single adjustment, the clamping assembly (27) can move between a locked position that inhibits movement of the first support surface (18), and an unlocked position that allows movement of the first support surface (18) around the rotational axis (28) and along the longitudinal axis (26). The massage chair (10) can also include a second positioning mechanism (22) that movably secures a second support surface (75) to the front upper support assembly (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Earthlite Massage Tables, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon W. Roleder, William A. Martin, Paul M.G. Weiskopf
  • 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: 6726276
    Abstract: A body-mimicking system ergonomically integrates a user with a work station while promoting active sitting and proactive positioning. Particularly, cooperative structures are provided to timely promote healthy and productive postures in task seating operations through the maintenance of ergonomic access and reach to a work station at all times. The system enables a user to effortlessly and dynamically shift from a conventional seating position to a lean/stand posture, and any health posture in between, without disrupting the task at hand. When viewed in its cooperative aspects of clinically preferred human postures and its anticipation of the next best posture in relation to a specific user the system operates as a synergistic biomechanical system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Health Postures, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan L. Tholkes, Jack Hockenberry
  • Patent number: 6702372
    Abstract: The operator adjustable workstation facilitates adjustments ranging from a seated work level to a standing work level with an infinite number of health posture arrangements and work surface levels in between. Two trigger controlled height and angle adjustment body support actuators and a foot controlled lower leg and lower leg support pivot actuator, provide the operator with independent control to quickly lock into place and/or release each health posture and work surface at any level within the adjustment range. The workstation includes a base structure, a body support area, a work surface area, and lift arm. The work surface area incorporates two substantially planar work surfaces. The body support area incorporates seat, back, lower leg and lower leg support components. The body support and work areas incorporate two separate lift arms. The lift arms have first ends and second ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Health Postures, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan L. Tholkes, Jack Hockenberry, DuWayne Dandurand