CN104640480B - chair structure - Google Patents

Abstract

A chair back assembly includes a substantially rigid peripheral frame defining a central opening, a substantially flexible back shell coupled to the peripheral frame and spanning at least a portion of the central opening, wherein a first portion of the back shell is fixed relative to the frame in a first position, a second portion of the back shell is fixed relative to the frame in a second position different from the first position, a third portion of the back shell is restrained from movement relative to the frame in at least one direction in a third position between the first and second positions, and wherein a fourth portion of the back shell is unrestrained relative to the frame in a fourth position between the third and second positions.

Description

chair structure

technical field

The present invention relates to the construction of chairs, in particular office chairs, comprising a backrest assembly having different degrees of extensibility along four separate regions, and each backrest assembly is covered by a decorative lining assembly and seat components.

Contents of the invention

One aspect of the present invention is to provide a chair back assembly comprising a substantially rigid peripheral frame defining a central opening and a substantially pliable back shell coupled to the peripheral frame and spanning at least a portion of the central opening, Wherein the first part of the back shell is fixed in a first position relative to the frame, the second part of the back shell is fixed in a second position different from the first position relative to the frame, and the third part of the back shell is in the first position movement relative to the frame in at least one direction between the third position and the second position, and wherein the fourth position of the back shell is relative to the frame at a fourth portion between the third position and the second position Unrestricted.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a chair assembly comprising a support assembly adapted to contact a floor surface, a seat assembly operably coupled to the support assembly and adapted to support a seated user thereon, and comprising a defined A chair back assembly having a centrally open substantially rigid peripheral frame and a substantially pliable back shell. The back shell is coupled to the peripheral frame and spans at least a portion of the central opening, wherein a first portion of the back shell is fixed at a first position relative to the frame, and a second portion of the back shell is fixed at a position different from the first position relative to the frame. movement of the third portion of the back shell relative to the frame in at least one direction is restricted at a third position between the first position and the second position, and wherein the fourth position of the back shell is at A fourth position between the third position and the second position is unconstrained relative to the frame.

Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a chair part assembly comprising a support part adapted to support a portion of a seated user, the support part comprising a shell member having a peripheral contoured edge, the support part further comprising at least one coupling having an opening inwardly and towards the peripheral contour edge of the housing member and at least one tongue member located substantially proximate to the opening of the at least one coupling member and a decorative bushing assembly wrapped around at least a portion of the support member, and A rim is included that is held within the interior of the at least one coupling by the at least one tab member.

Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a chair assembly comprising a support member adapted to support a portion of a seated user, comprising a housing member having a slot and at least one fastener located within the slot, and A decorative liner assembly wrapped around at least a portion of a support member and including a drawstring within a drawstring channel, wherein the drawstring is adapted to draw the decorative liner assembly around the support assembly and wherein the At least one coupling retains at least one of the pull cord and the pull cord channel within the slot.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a chair part assembly comprising a support part adapted to support a portion of a seated user and comprising a shell member having an aperture, wrapped around at least a portion of the support part and including a Drawstring decorative bushing assembly, wherein the drawcord is adapted to draw the decorative bushing assembly around a support member, and wherein the drawcord includes at least one free end, and at least one fastener, which is attached to the shell engaging the aperture of the body member and securing at least a portion of at least one free end of the pull cord within the aperture.

Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a chair assembly comprising a support assembly adapted to contact a floor surface, a seat assembly operably coupled to the support assembly and adapted to support a seated user thereon, and a chair back member The chair back assembly includes a substantially rigid peripheral frame defining a central opening and a groove extending around at least a portion of the central opening and a substantially pliable back shell coupled to the peripheral frame and spanning at least a portion of the central opening body, wherein a first portion of the back shell is fixed at a first position relative to the frame, a second portion of the back shell is fixed at a second position different from the first position relative to the frame, and the back shell is positioned between the first position and the second position. A third position between the two positions is unconstrained relative to the frame, and wherein the back shell is positioned within the groove of the frame.

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art from the following description, claims and drawings.

Description of drawings

1 is a front perspective view of a chair assembly according to the present invention;

Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the chair assembly;

Figure 3 is a side view of the chair assembly showing the backrest assembly and seat assembly in an upright and reclined position, and showing the seat assembly in a retracted and extended position;

Figure 4 is an exploded top perspective view of the control assembly and seat assembly;

Figure 5 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the control assembly and seat assembly;

Figure 6 is an enlarged perspective view of area VI in Figure 4;

Figure 7A is a front view of a section of a seat assembly;

Figure 7B is a front view in section of another embodiment of a seat assembly;

Figure 8A is a bottom plan view of the seat assembly;

Figure 8B is a partial bottom plan view of another embodiment of a seat assembly;

Figure 8C is a partial bottom plan view of another embodiment of a seat assembly;

Figure 9A is a perspective view of the clip;

Figure 9B is a perspective view of the clip and seat assembly in an unassembled configuration;

Figure 9C is a perspective view of the clip and seat assembly in an assembled configuration;

Figure 10 is an exploded front perspective view of the backrest assembly;

Figure 11A is an exploded rear perspective view of the backrest assembly;

11B is an exploded rear perspective view of another embodiment of a backrest assembly;

11C is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a backrest assembly;

Figure 11D is an enlarged view of region XID in Figure 11B;

Figure 12 is a front perspective view of the backrest assembly;

Figure 13A is a cross-sectional side view along line XIIIA-XIIIA in Figure 12;

Figure 13B is a cross-sectional side view along line XIIIB-XIIIB in Figure 12;

13C is a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a backrest assembly;

Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional side view along line XIV-XIV in Fig. 12;

Figure 15 is an enlarged perspective view of area XV in Figure 11A;

Figure 16 is an exploded front perspective view of the waist assembly;

Figure 17 is a cross-sectional side view of the waist assembly;

Figure 18A is an enlarged perspective view of the lumbar assembly engaged with the backrest assembly;

Figure 18B is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of the handle assembly and waist assembly housing;

Figure 18C is an exploded perspective view of the handle assembly and housing;

Figure 19 is an exploded perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a backrest assembly;

20 is a perspective view of a structural reinforcement member of an alternate embodiment of the backrest assembly of FIG. 19;

21 is a cross-sectional view of a top portion of an alternate embodiment of the backrest assembly of FIG. 19;

Figure 22 is a perspective view of the control assembly;

Figure 23 is a bottom perspective view of the seat shell and bracket;

Figure 24 is a side perspective view of the armrest;

Figure 25 is an exploded view of the armrest;

Figure 26 is an exploded side perspective view of the armrest;

Figure 27 is a perspective view of the column showing the first vertical surface of the column including the stopper;

Figure 28 is a front perspective view of a locking member;

29 is a rear perspective view of the locking member of FIG. 28;

Figure 30 is a partial view of the post and locking member;

Figure 31 is a partial view of the post, locking member and actuating rod;

Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of the armrest in a locked position;

FIG. 32A is an enlarged partial view of the annular region XXIXA in FIG. 32;

Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of the armrest of Figure 32, shown in an unlocked position;

Figure 33 A is an enlarged partial view of the annular region XXXA in Figure 33;

Figure 34 is a cross-sectional view of the armrest of Figure 32, shown in an unlocked position;

FIG. 34A is an enlarged schematic view of the circular area XXXIA in FIG. 34;

Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view of the armrest in Figure 32, shown in a locked position;

FIG. 35A is an enlarged schematic view of the annular region XXXIIA in FIG. 35;

Figure 36 is a perspective view of the chair assembly;

Figure 37 is a front view of the chair assembly shown in Figure 36;

Figure 38 is a first side view of the chair assembly shown in Figure 36;

Figure 39 is a second side view of the chair assembly shown in Figure 36;

Figure 40 is a rear view of the chair assembly shown in Figure 36;

Figure 41 is a top view of the chair assembly as shown in Figure 36;

Figure 42 is a bottom view of the chair assembly as shown in Figure 36;

Figure 43 is a perspective view of the upper corner of the backrest assembly of the chair;

Figure 44 is a front view of the upper corner of the backrest assembly as shown in Figure 43;

Figure 45 is a side view of the upper corner of the backrest assembly shown in Figure 43;

Figure 46 is a rear view of the upper corner of the backrest assembly shown in Figure 43;

Figure 47 is a top view of the upper corner of the backrest assembly as shown in Figure 43;

Figure 48 is a perspective view of the handle arrangement of the lumbar assembly of the chair assembly;

Figure 49 is a side view of the handle device shown in Figure 48;

Figure 50 is a rear view of the handle device shown in Figure 48;

Figure 51 is a top view of the handle assembly shown in Figure 48; and

Figure 52 is a bottom view of the handle device.

Detailed ways

For the purposes described herein, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives shall refer to invention. However, it should be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations unless expressly stated to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the particular apparatus and processes shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are only exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Thus, specific dimensions and other characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless expressly stated as such in the claims. Various elements of the embodiments disclosed herein may be described as being operably coupled to each other, which includes elements that are directly or indirectly coupled together.

Reference numeral 10 (Figs. 1 and 2) generally indicates a chair assembly embodying the invention. In the example shown, chair assembly 10 includes a base assembly 12 with casters adjoining and supported by a floor surface 13, a control or support assembly 14 supported by base assembly 12 with casters, each A seat assembly 16 , a back assembly 18 , and a pair of armrest assemblies 20 are each operably coupled to the control assembly 14 . The seat assembly 16 ( FIG. 3 ) and the back assembly 18 are operatively coupled with the control assembly 14 so that the back assembly 18 moves between a fully upright position A and a fully reclined position B, and also so that the seat assembly 16 is fully reclined. Moving between a vertical position C and a fully reclined position D, the fully upright position C and the fully reclined position D correspond to the fully upright position A and the fully reclined position B of the backrest assembly 18, respectively.

The base assembly 12 includes a plurality of base arms 21 extending radially and spaced apart from one another about a hollow central column 22 in which a pneumatic cylinder is housed for adjusting the control assembly 14 , the overall vertical height of the seat assembly 16 and backrest assembly 18 above the floor surface 13 . Each base arm 21 is supported above the floor surface 13 by a caster assembly 24 associated therewith. While the base assembly 12 is shown in the form of a base assembly comprising multiple arms, it should be noted that other suitable support structures may be used, including but not limited to fixed columns, multi-leg arrangements, vehicle seating Support components and the like.

Seat assembly 16 (FIGS. 4 and 5) includes a seat shell member 30 having a front edge 32, a rear edge 34, and a pair of side edges 36 extending between the front edge 32 and the rear edge 34, wherein the front edge 32, The rear edge 34 and the side edges 36 cooperate to form the outer contour of the seat shell member 30 . In the example shown, the seat shell member 30 comprises a unitary piece of integrally molded plastic, however, other suitable structures and materials may also be used. The seat shell member 30 also includes a downwardly opening slot 38 having a C-shaped cross-sectional configuration and extending around the contour of the seat shell member 30 . A plurality of coupling members 40 ( FIG. 6 ) are integral with the seat shell member 30 and are located within and spaced apart from each other along the slot 38 . Each coupling 40 includes a pair of ribs 42 each having a downwardly angled abutment surface 44 . Each coupling member 40 also includes flexible, resiliently engaging teeth 46 spaced between a pair of ribs 42 . The seat assembly 16 also includes a foam cushion member 48 having a front edge 50, a rear edge 52 and a pair of side edges 54 extending therebetween, wherein at least the front edge 50 and the side edges 54 of the cushion member 48 cooperate to form A downwardly opening pocket 56 receives a portion of the seat shell member 30 therein. The seat assembly 16 also includes a trim assembly 58 . In the example shown, the bushing assembly 58 includes a bushing 60 comprising an extensible fabric comprising an upper portion 62 and a plurality of side portions 64 extending around the upper portion 62 and cooperating to define The interior space 66 houses the components of the seat shell 30 and the cushion member 48 therein. Bushing assembly 58 also includes a cord channel 68 extending around the peripheral edge of side portion 64 and receiving a cord 70 therein, wherein cord 70 includes a pair of free ends 72 extending from cord channel 68 .

In assembly, seat shell 30 ( FIG. 7A ) and cushion member 48 are located within interior space 66 of liner assembly 58 such that cord channel 68 ( FIG. 8A ) and cord 70 are located within slot 38 and such that The cord channel 68 and cord 70 are impinged on the rib 42 and engaged by the teeth 46 to secure the cord channel 68 and cord 70 within the slot 38 .

As shown most clearly in FIG. 8A , the free end 72 of the pull cord 70 is secured to the seat shell 30 by a fastener or clip member 80 ( FIG. 9A ). In the example shown, the clip member 80 is a spring clip having a U-shaped resilient body 82 and a pair of flanges 86, the resilient body having engaging teeth 84 spaced from each other along its length, the flanges 86 extending from the U The two sides of the shaped elastic body 82 extend outward. In assembly, the clip member 80 ( FIGS. 8B and 8C ) is vertically aligned with respect to the free end 72 of the pull cord 70 and then inserted into the portion of the slot 38 of the seat shell 30 to hold the free end 72 of the pull cord 70 . within slot 38. Alternatively, clip member 80 ( FIG. 8A ) can engage another aperture 88 in seat shell 30 to secure at least a portion of free end 72 of pull cord 70 within aperture 88 . Alternatively, multiple clip members 80 ( FIG. 8B ) may be used to secure one of the free ends 72 of the pull cord 70 within the slot 38 . As shown most clearly in FIG. 8C , another alternative embodiment includes securing both free ends 72 of the pull cord 70 by a single clip 80 .

Reference numeral 16a (FIG. 7B) generally indicates another embodiment of a seat assembly. Since the seat assembly 16a is similar to the previously described seat assembly 16, similar parts appearing in FIGS. 7B and 7A, respectively, are designated by the same, corresponding reference numerals, except for the suffix "a" following the numerals. In the example shown, seat assembly 16a comprises seat shell 30a and cushion member 48a, and it is positioned among the interior space 66a of lining assembly 58a that plays a decorative role, so that ladder-like or protrusion 73a is positioned at groove 38a. , thereby securing the bushing assembly 58a to the seat shell 30a. As shown, the elastically deformable protrusion 73a has a J-shaped cross-sectional configuration including a hook portion 75a that snap-engages the tooth 46 when the protrusion 73a is inserted into the slot 38a. The bushing 60a is preferably sewn to the protrusion 73a, however, other suitable attachment means may also be used.

The backrest assembly 18 (FIGS. 10 and 11) includes a substantially rigid peripheral frame 90 that includes a transversely extending top end portion 92, a transversely extending bottom end portion 94, and a pair of vertically extending side portions 96, wherein the top portion 92, The bottom portion 94 and the side portions 96 mate with each other to form a central opening 98 . The backrest assembly 18 also includes a lumbar support assembly 100 adapted to support the lumbar region of a seated user and received within slots 102 extending vertically along each lateral portion 96 of the peripheral frame 90 . A pair of lateral extensions 104 extend vertically along and are received in recesses 106 of lateral portion 96 and are secured thereto by a plurality of mechanical fasteners 107 .

The back assembly 18 also includes a substantially pliable back shell 108 comprising a top end portion 110, a bottom end portion 112 and a pair of side portions 114 which are respectively connected to the top end portion 92, the bottom end portion 94 of the peripheral frame 90. and lateral portion 96, and as described below. The back shell 108 also includes a plurality of slats 116 extending between the lateral portions 114, vertically spaced from one another, and defining a plurality of slots 118 therebetween. In assembly, the back shell 108 ( FIG. 12 ) is attached to the peripheral frame 90 in such a way that zones or regions of different elasticity that are vertically spaced apart from each other are defined for the back shell 108 . In particular, the back shell 108 is attached to the peripheral frame 90 such that a top region 120 and a bottom region 122 of the back shell 108 are fixed relative to the peripheral frame 90 and a third region 124 of the back shell 108 is fixed relative to the peripheral frame. 90 is restrained in the forward direction, and the fourth region 126 of the back shell 108 is free to separate from the peripheral frame 90 in the forward direction, wherein the dotted line shows the bent state of the back shell 108 . More particularly, and shown most clearly in FIGS. 13A and 13B , the top portion 92 of the peripheral frame 90 includes a plurality of upwardly extending hooks 130 integral with the top portion 92 and spaced apart from each other across the top portion. portion 92, and the top portion 110 of the back shell 108 includes a plurality of downwardly extending flexible elastic loops 132 integral with the top portion 110, wherein the hooks 130 are engaged with the loops 132, Thereby, during engagement, the ring 132 is caused to flex in a direction 133 and fixedly secures the top end portion 110 of the back shell 108 to the top end portion 92 of the peripheral frame 90 . As shown most clearly in FIG. 12 , the back shell 108 includes a pair of integral tongue members 134 located at the junction of the side portion 114 and the bottom end portion 112 , wherein the tongue members 134 are passed through, for example, bolts 136 . The mechanical fasteners are fastened to the peripheral frame 90 to fixedly fasten the bottom end portion 112 of the back shell 108 to the bottom end portion 94 of the peripheral frame 90 . As shown most clearly in FIG. 14 , the third region 124 of the back shell 108 includes rearwardly and downwardly extending hooks 140 located along the length of the lateral portion 114 of the back shell 108 and aligned therewith. overall. Each hook 140 is accommodated in a recess 142 formed between the lateral extension 104 and the side portion 96 so that the back shell 108 pivots about a pair of shafts 144 extending perpendicularly through the corresponding hook 140. change. The size of the recess 142 located in the third region 124 is also adjusted to allow the hook 140 to be displaced laterally in the direction 146 within the recess 142 so that the lateral portion 114 of the back shell 108 is relative to the outer periphery. The lateral portions 96 of the frame 90 are curved inwardly, thereby, correspondingly, increasing the flexibility and compatibility of the back shell 108 in the rearward direction 148 relative to the peripheral frame 90 . The lateral portions 114 of the back shell 108 located within the fourth region 126 are not fastened to the lateral portions 96 of the peripheral frame 90 such that, relative to the peripheral frame 90 , the back shell 108 is positioned in the lateral direction 146 and in the direction Compatibility and flexibility in the rear direction 148 is maximized. Thus, the movement of the first and second regions 120, 122 of the back shell 108 relative to the peripheral frame 90 is limited, the third region 124 makes the back shell 108 have limited compatibility with respect to the peripheral frame 90 and the fourth region 126 allows for maximum flexion of the back shell 108 relative to the peripheral frame 90 .

Reference numeral 18b (FIG. 1 IB) generally indicates another embodiment of a backrest assembly. Since the backrest assembly 18b is similar to the previously described backrest assembly 18, similar parts appearing in FIGS. 11B and 11A, respectively, are designated by the same, corresponding reference numerals, except for the suffix "b" following the numerals. In the example shown, the decorative liner assembly 150b includes a drawstring 160b and a plurality of ladders or protrusions 151b attached to the side portion 154b of the liner assembly 150b and extend along it. As shown most clearly in FIG. 11C , each protrusion 151b has a J-shaped cross-sectional configuration, is fastened to the bushing assembly 150b via stitching 153b, and also includes a hook portion 155b that engages with the back shell 108b. Teeth 168b of coupler 162b engage. The pull cord 160b is located within the draw cord channel 158b by stitching 157b, the draw cord channel is secured to the side portion 154b associated therewith, and the draw cord is looped around the backrest after the protrusion 151b is secured to the back shell 108b The shell 108b is pulled. The free ends 163b of the pull cords 160b are fastened to each other via the ferrules 165b. In the example shown, the pull cord 160b is relatively incompressible and comprises a single strand of polypropylene material, although a material such as nylon could also be used and in a multi-strand construction.

The backrest assembly 18 also includes a backrest decorative liner member 150 having a front portion 152 and a plurality of side portions 154 that mate to form an interior space 156 that receives the backrest shell 108 therein. The decorative member 150 comprises a stretchable fabric material and includes a cord channel 158 that extends around the inner contour of the side portion 154 and receives a cord 160 therein. As shown most clearly in FIG. 13A , a decorative liner member 150 houses a portion of the back shell 108 . Alternatively, decorative member 150' (FIG. 13C) extends around back shell 108', foam cushion member 155' and a portion of inner fabric layer 157' that separates cushion member 155' from the back shell. 108' apart.

As shown most clearly in FIGS. 13A and 15 , the back shell 108 includes a plurality of coupling members 162 spaced apart from one another about the contour of the back shell 108 . In the example shown, each coupling member 162 includes a pair of outwardly extending fingers 164 shaped to define an opening toward a peripheral contoured edge 166 of the back shell 108 . A plurality of flexible resilient teeth 168 interdigitate with the fingers 164 of the coupling member 162 . When assembled, the decorative member 150 wraps around the edge of the back shell 108 so that the cord channel 158 and the cord 160 are accommodated in the coupler 162 and are engaged by the teeth 168 so that the cord channel 158 and pull cord 160 are retained within the coupling 162 associated therewith.

Lumbar assembly 100 (FIGS. 10, 11A and 16) includes a main body housing 200 that houses a laterally extending trim panel 202, a pair of laterally extending leaf springs 203, a pair of sliding linkage assemblies 204, and a pair of adjustment handles 205 that adjust The handle is configured for a user to grasp to move the lumbar assembly 100 between a lowered position E ( FIG. 2 ) and a raised position F. As shown in FIG. The molded body shell 200 includes a front portion 206 and a rear portion 208 which have an arcuate shape and are vibration welded to each other in back-to-back association to form a pocket 210 ( FIG. 17 ) in which the trim panel 202 is received. . Alternatively, other coupling means for the front and rear portions 206, 208 may be used, including mechanical fasteners such as screws, snaps, ultrasonic welding, adhesives, and the like. The T leaf springs 203 extend along the length direction of the main body housing 200 , are located in the respective recesses 212 , and are juxtaposed across two sides of the recesses 210 . The leaf spring 203 is adapted to provide a forward biasing force against a rearward force exerted by the lumbar region of the user's back. The sliding connection assembly 204 is attached to the end of the waist assembly 100 and is slidably received in an elongated slot 218 ( FIG. 18A ) formed in the receivable side portions 96 and 96 of the peripheral frame 90 . between the lateral extensions 104 so that the waist assembly 100 moves vertically between the lowered and raised positions E,F. In particular, the body shell 200 includes a pair of vertically extending ribs 219 that guide along the receivable lateral extensions 104 to center the lumbar assembly 100 relative to the frame 90 . It should be noted that the relative width of the peripheral frame 90 changes along the path of travel of the waist assembly 100 as vertical adjustments are made, thereby requiring a sliding connection between the sliding connection assembly 204 and the body shell 200 . As shown most clearly in FIG. 18B , each end of the front portion 206 of the body housing 200 includes a pair of tongues 220 with barrel-shaped heads that are slidably received within a pair of corresponding slots 222. It allows sliding adjustment between the connection assembly 204 and the main body housing 200 while preventing separation of the main body housing 200 from the connection assembly 204 . In assembly, and as shown most clearly in FIGS. 12 and 18C , each handle 205 includes a blade portion 207 that is slidably received within a recess 209 of a corresponding connection assembly 204 and is held by a flexible resilient tongue. 211 retained therein, the tongue engages aperture 213 of blade portion 207 to slidably secure waist assembly 100 within slot 102 . Each connection assembly 204 also includes a flexible resilient rod 217 with a detent member 219 selectively engaged with a plurality of stoppers 221 spaced apart from each other vertically along the lateral portion 102 of the peripheral frame 90 (FIG. 10) to hold the lumbar assembly 100 in a selected vertical position relative to the frame 90.

As shown most clearly in FIG. 3 , seat assembly 16 is movable between a retracted position G and an extended position H to provide depth adjustment for chair assembly 10 . Seat assembly 16 ( FIGS. 4 and 5 ) is slidably supported on control assembly 14 . The control assembly 14 ( FIG. 22 ) includes support plates 251 , 252 arranged on generally opposite sides of the control assembly 14 . The control assembly 14 also includes an actuation lever 253, which is generally U-shaped and includes a handle portion 254 disposed under a front portion of the seat assembly 16 and adapted to be grasped by a user, and a pair of handle portions 254 facing rearwardly. Extended arm portion 255 . Handle portion 254 is lifted upwards in direction 256 when actuation lever 253 is actuated, wherein actuation lever 253 pivots in seat housing 30 at pivot point 257 which causes distal end 258 of arm portion 255 downwards in direction 259 Move to engage with the corresponding rocker 260, which is pivotally connected to the seat shell 30 about the pivot 261. Actuation of the actuation lever 253 moves the rocker shaft 260 from the engaged position to the disengaged position, thereby causing the seat assembly 16 to move between the retracted and extended positions G,H. In particular, rocker shafts 260 selectively engage corresponding plurality of slots 262 of bracket 263 to selectively lock seat assembly 16 between retracted and extended positions.

As shown in FIGS. 7A and 23 , the bottom surface 265 of the seat shell 30 includes a downwardly opening integral linear guide support channel 266 that extends from the front to the rear of the seat shell 30 . As shown most clearly in FIG. 20 , the support plate 252 includes a pair of upwardly extending guide portions 270 that slide within the linear guide bearings 266 of the seat shell 30 to advance relative to the position of the support plate 252 and the control assembly 14. Overall, the seat shell 30 is guided linearly. The support plate 252 includes L-shaped guide portions 290 (FIG. 22) received in the support member 291, which are received in corresponding inwardly opening slots 292 so that as the seat assembly moves between the retracted and extended positions Moving between G and H, the guide portion 290 of the support plate 252 is guided within the slot 292 .

Alternatively, a removable stop member 293 may be secured to the underside of the seat shell 30 in a position such that the stop member abuts a portion 295 of the support plate 251, thereby limiting the seat assembly 16 from the extended position. The distance traveled to the retracted position prevents the seat assembly 16 from moving to the rearmost position. In the example shown, the stop member 293 is secured to the seat shell 30 via screws 297, requiring the use of tools for installation and removal.

Each armrest assembly 20 ( FIGS. 3 , 24 and 25 ) is vertically adjustable between a raised position I and a lowered position J, and includes a tubular support 300 configured for attachment to the chair 10, nestedly located An armrest assembly 302 in the tubular support and a height adjustment mechanism 304 slidably received in the armrest assembly. A plate 306 is attached to the top of the armrest assembly 302 and an armrest cover 308 is attached to the plate 306 . In an alternative embodiment, the pivot/slide member 309 may be attached to the plate and the armrest cover 308 attached to the pivot/slide member. The pivot/slide member is similar to that in commonly assigned US Patent No. 5,971,484, filed Dec. 3, 1997, entitled "Adjustable Armrest for Chair," the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference for their teachings.

Referring to Figures 25 and 26, a tubular support 300 comprises an L-shaped structural member having a horizontal first arm portion 310 adapted for connection to a fixed side support structure and a vertically extending second arm portion 312. The second arm portion 312 includes an upper opening 314 for nestingly receiving the armrest assembly 302, a lower opening 316 and a recess 318 including a fastening aperture 319 along one vertical side. When the armrest assembly 302 is inserted into the second arm portion 312, the lower portion of the sleeve 320 passes through the lower opening 316 and is visible. As the armrest assembly is adjusted vertically upward, the visible portion of the sleeve becomes less. The groove 318 and the lower opening 316 are on opposite sides of the second arm portion 312 .

Armrest assembly 302 is nestably received within tubular support 300 and includes sleeve 320 , post 321 , and may include support 322 . The first side 324 may include an aperture 328 adjacent a lower end of the first side. Adjacent the top of the first side 324 is an opening 330 adapted to receive an operable member 370 of the actuation rod 334 . The sleeve 320 tapers outwardly at the top to provide an armrest support 336 . The second side 326 of the sleeve 320 includes a rectangular aperture 338 at the lower end of the second side. On either side of the aperture 338 are vertical ribs 340, while a second vertical rib 341 is aligned with one of the vertical ribs 340, thereby increasing the overall effective length of the aligned and cooperating ribs 340, 341 , and preferably provides a ratio of length l to width w of at least 3:1, preferably at least 10:1, thereby reducing forward and backward movement of the armrest assembly 302 within the tubular support 300. Referring to Figures 25 and 26, the post 321 is rectangular with a lip 342 on its top end and a tongue 344 on its bottom end. The pillar also includes a first vertical surface 346 and a second vertical surface 348 . The first vertical surface 346 includes a series of positionally arranged stops 350 and fastening apertures 352 (FIG. 27). Fastening aperture 352 extends completely through post 321 to second vertical surface 348 . On either side of the positionally aligned stops 350 are vertical grooves 354, one of which extends through the bottom of the column 321, and wherein the grooves 354 are matably received on the sleeve 320. vertical ribs 340, 341 to prevent the armrest assembly 302 from being completely removed from the tubular composition 300. In particular, in the example shown, one of the slots 354 includes an end wall 356 that is adjoined by a corresponding rib 340 to prevent removal of the armrest assembly 302 from the tubular support 300 . A further groove 354 extends through the end of the column 321 to allow the passage of the second vertical rib 341 . Second vertical surface 348 includes ridges 358 . The support 322 provides a support surface and includes two loops 360 connected at their midpoints to a vertical strip 362 . While FIGS. 25 and 26 show the loops 360 at an angle relative to each other, in an alternative embodiment, the loops are parallel relative to each other. Ends 364 of collar 360 are flared to define a space 366 .

The post 321 is matably received in the recess 318 of the second arm portion 312 with a second vertical surface 348 abutting the second arm portion 312 . The fastening device is inserted through the fastening aperture 319 and into the fastening aperture 352 to fasten the column 321 in the groove 318 . Alternatively, it is contemplated that the post 321 is not a separate component fastened to the groove 318 but is molded into the second arm portion 312 . When the sleeve 320 is inserted into the second arm portion 312, the first vertical surface 346 of the post 321 abuts the second side 326 of the sleeve. Additionally, the stop 350 on the first vertical surface 346 of the post 321 covers the aperture 338 of the second side 326 of the sleeve 320 . The vertical ribs 340, 341 on the second side 326 of the sleeve 320 match the vertical grooves 354 of the posts 321 so that when the sleeve is adjusted vertically, the positionally arranged stops 350 Aperture 338 still maintains its position. The support 322 is positioned on the sleeve 320 by a vertical strip 362 abutting the first side 324 of the sleeve 320 such that the loop 360 wraps around the sleeve 320 . The post 321 fits in a space 366 at the end 364 of the collar. A bearing 322 is secured within the second arm portion 312 and functions to limit the horizontal movement of the sleeve within the tubular support.

The height adjustment mechanism 304 includes an actuation lever 368 that includes an operating member 370 , a locking member 372 and a spring 374 . In the example shown, the operating member 370 is located on top of the actuation rod 368 and is generally perpendicular to the elongated portion 378 of the actuation rod 368 . As shown, the operating member 370 is a lever, however it is contemplated that a button or a pull ring could be used. Attached to the operating member 370 is a flange 380 . On the other side of the flange 380 is a ledge 382 with a protrusion 384 . When the adjustable mechanism 304 is slidably engaged with the armrest assembly 302 , the actuating rod 368 is positioned inside the sleeve 320 and the operating member 370 is positioned through the aperture 330 . One end of spring 374 is placed over protrusion 384 and the opposite end of spring 374 is placed over protrusion 386 below plate 306 . Located at the bottom of the actuator rod 334 ( FIG. 33 ) are two angled ramps 388 . The ramp 388 prevents the locking member 372 from falling to the bottom of the sleeve 320 . Above each ramp 388 is at least one angled surface, preferably a pair of angled surfaces 390 . Between the pair of angled surfaces 390 is an angled wedge 392 .

As shown most clearly in FIGS. 28-30 , locking member 372 includes teeth 394 that selectively matably engage with stops 390 above post 321 . Locking member 372 also includes an angled surface 396 that mates with angled wedge 392 . The locking member 372 also includes at least one pair, and preferably two pairs of lateral followers 398 that releasably engage matingly with the two pairs of angled surfaces 390 .

The height adjustment mechanism 304 is slidably engaged in the sleeve 320 . When in the locked position, locking member 372 of height adjustment mechanism 304 is positioned such that teeth 394 of the locking member extend through aperture 338 of sleeve 320 and selectively mate with stop 350 of post 321 . The actuating lever 368 is located above the locking member 372, the angled wedge 392 matingly engages the angled surface 396, and the angled surface 390 releasably matingly engages the lateral follower 398 (Figs. and 32A).

To adjust the height of the armrest vertically, the operating member 370 is lifted upwards, which in turn compresses the spring 374 . When the spring is compressed, the angled surface 390 of the actuator rod 368 lifts upwards and presses against the lateral follower 398, which causes the teeth 394 to retract into the sleeve 320, thereby moving the locking member 372 out of the way. out of engagement with the stop 350 (Figs. 33 and 33A). Once the locking member 372 is disengaged from the stop 350, the armrest can be adjusted vertically up or down to a desired height.

To re-engage the lock 372 and re-lock the armrest assembly to the selected position, the operating member 370 is released, thereby decompressing the spring 374 at the top of the actuation rod 368 . Decompression of the spring causes the inclined wedge 392 to slide into mating engagement with the inclined surface 396 . (Figures 34, 34A, 35 and 35A). With mating engagement of angled wedge 392 and angled surface 396 , lock tooth 394 again extends through aperture 338 and selectively mates with stop 350 of post 321 .

The chair assembly is shown in several views, including a perspective view (Fig. 36), a front view (Fig. 37), a first side view (Fig. 38), a second side view (Fig. 39), a rear view (Fig. 40), and a top plan view (Fig. 41), bottom plan view (Fig. 42). A portion of the backrest assembly is shown in multiple views, including a perspective view (Fig. 43), a front view (Fig. 44), a side view (Fig. 45), a rear view (Fig. 46) and a top plan view (Fig. 47). An embodiment of an adjustment handle is shown in multiple views, including a perspective view (Fig. 48), a side view (Fig. 49), a front view (Fig. 50), a top view (Fig. 51 ) and a bottom view (Fig. 52).

In the foregoing description, those skilled in the art readily recognize alternative combinations of the various parts and elements of the invention and modifications to the invention without departing from the disclosed concept. Such changes are to be regarded as included in the following claims, unless the language of those claims expressly states to the contrary.

Claims (26)

1. A chair back assembly comprising a rigid peripheral frame defining a central opening: and a flexible back shell coupled to the peripheral frame and spanning at least a portion of the central opening, wherein a first portion of the back shell is fixed in a first position relative to the peripheral frame and a second portion of the back shell is fixed relative to the peripheral frame fixed at a second position different from the first position, the third portion of the back shell is restricted from movement relative to the peripheral frame in at least one direction at a third position between the first position and the second position, and wherein A fourth portion of the back shell is free to separate in a forward direction from the peripheral frame at a fourth position between the third position and the second position, wherein the side of the back shell within the fourth portion The lateral portions are not fastened to the lateral portions of the peripheral frame, thereby enabling maximum compatibility and elasticity of the backrest shell relative to the peripheral frame in lateral and rearward directions. 2. The chair back assembly of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the back shell is located proximate an upper edge of the back shell. 3. The chair back assembly of claim 1, wherein the second portion of the back shell is located proximate a lower edge of the back shell. 4. The chair back assembly of claim 1, wherein the fourth portion of the back shell is adapted to support a lumbar region of a seated user. 5. The chair back assembly of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the peripheral frame and the back shell includes a hook member, and the other of at least one of the peripheral frame and the back shell includes a slot for receiving the hook member , such that the hook is laterally movable within the slot and pivotable within the slot about a transverse axis extending across the width of the peripheral frame. 6. The chair back assembly of claim 5, wherein the hook member and the slot cooperate to limit lateral displacement of the edge of the back shell relative to the peripheral frame in the third position to less than that of the edge of the back shell relative to Lateral displacement of the peripheral frame in the fourth position. 7. The chair back assembly of claim 4, wherein at least one of the peripheral frame and the back shell includes a hook member, and the other of at least one of the peripheral frame and the back shell includes a slot for receiving the hook member , such that the hook is movable within the slot laterally about a longitudinal axis extending through the hook member. 8. The chair back assembly of claim 7, wherein the hook member and the slot cooperate to limit lateral displacement of the edge of the back shell relative to the peripheral frame in the third position to less than that of the edge of the back shell relative to Lateral displacement of the peripheral frame in the fourth position. 9. The chair back assembly of claim 5, wherein the hook member is integral with the back shell. 10. The chair back assembly of claim 1, wherein the movement in at least one direction in the third position includes a forward direction relative to the peripheral frame. 11. A chair assembly comprising Suitable for supporting components in contact with the floor surface; a seat assembly operatively coupled to the support assembly and adapted for a seated user supported thereon; A chair back assembly comprising: a rigid peripheral frame defining a central opening: and a flexible back shell coupled to the peripheral frame and spanning at least a portion of the central opening, wherein a first portion of the back shell is fixed in a first position relative to the peripheral frame and a second portion of the back shell is fixed relative to the peripheral frame fixed at a second position different from the first position, the third portion of the back shell is restricted from movement relative to the peripheral frame in at least one direction at a third position between the first position and the second position, and wherein The back shell is free to separate from the peripheral frame in a forward direction at a fourth position between the third position and the second position, wherein the lateral portion of the back shell within the fourth portion is not fastened to the lateral portion of the peripheral frame, thereby enabling maximum compatibility and elasticity of the backrest shell relative to the peripheral frame in the transverse direction and in the rearward direction. 12. The chair assembly of claim 11, wherein the first portion of the back shell is located proximate an upper edge of the back shell. 13. The chair assembly of claim 11, wherein the second portion of the back shell is located proximate a lower edge of the back shell. 14. The chair assembly of claim 11, wherein the fourth portion of the back shell is adapted to support a lumbar region of a seated user. 15. The chair assembly of claim 11 , wherein at least one of the peripheral frame and the back shell includes a hook member, and the other of at least one of the peripheral frame and the back shell includes a slot for receiving the hook member, Such that the hook is movable laterally within the slot and the back shell is pivotable about a longitudinal axis extending through the hook member. 16. The chair assembly of claim 15 , wherein the hook member and the slot cooperate to limit lateral displacement of the edge of the back shell relative to the peripheral frame in the third position to less than that of the edge of the back shell relative to the perimeter. Lateral displacement of the frame in the fourth position. 17. The chair assembly of claim 14, wherein at least one of the peripheral frame and the back shell includes a hook member, and the other of at least one of the peripheral frame and the back shell includes a slot for receiving the hook member, Such that the hook is movable laterally within the slot and the back shell is pivotable about a longitudinal axis extending through the hook member. 18. The chair assembly of claim 17, wherein the hook member and the slot cooperate to limit lateral displacement of the edge of the back shell relative to the peripheral frame in the third position to less than that of the edge of the back shell relative to the perimeter Lateral displacement of the frame in the fourth position. 19. The chair assembly of claim 15, wherein the hook member is integral with the back shell. 20. The chair assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one direction of movement in the third position includes a forward direction relative to the peripheral frame. 21. The chair assembly of claim 11, further comprising: A lumbar support assembly adjoins the fourth portion of the backrest shell and is adapted to support the lumbar region of a seated user. 22. A chair assembly comprising: Suitable for supporting components in contact with the floor surface; a seat assembly operatively coupled to the support assembly and adapted for a seated user supported thereon; and Chair back assembly, which includes a rigid peripheral frame defining the central opening and a groove extending around at least a portion of the central opening; and a flexible back shell coupled to the peripheral frame and spanning at least a portion of the central opening, Wherein the first part of the back shell is fixed at a first position relative to the peripheral frame, the second part of the back shell is fixed at a second position different from the first position relative to the peripheral frame, and the back shell is at the first position and A third position between the second positions is restricted in a forward direction with respect to the peripheral frame, and wherein the third portion of the back shell makes the back shell have limited compatibility with respect to the peripheral frame, and wherein the back shell The body is positioned within the groove of the peripheral frame. 23. The chair assembly of claim 22, wherein the back shell is restricted from movement in at least one direction relative to the peripheral frame in a fourth position between the third position and the second position. 24. The chair assembly of claim 22, wherein the first portion of the back shell is located proximate a top of the back shell, and wherein the second portion of the back shell is located proximate a bottom of the back shell. 25. The chair assembly of claim 22, wherein the groove extends around the entire central opening. 26. The chair assembly of claim 22, wherein the chair back assembly moves between an upright position and a reclined position, and wherein as the backrest assembly moves between the upright and reclined positions, the third portion of the back shell relative to the The peripheral frame moves.