CA2189347C - Variable apex back support - Google Patents
Variable apex back support Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2189347C CA2189347C CA002189347A CA2189347A CA2189347C CA 2189347 C CA2189347 C CA 2189347C CA 002189347 A CA002189347 A CA 002189347A CA 2189347 A CA2189347 A CA 2189347A CA 2189347 C CA2189347 C CA 2189347C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- support
- seatback
- central body
- body portion
- longitudinal
- Prior art date
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- Chair Legs, Seat Parts, And Backrests (AREA)
- Orthopedics, Nursing, And Contraception (AREA)
- Seats For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
A single-piece strong, flexible back support (62) for use in seats such as automobile seats or office chairs, includes a central body portion (72) with outwardly extending support fingers (80) such that an arch having a variable apex is formed when the back support is subtended longitudinally. The longitudinal location of an apex and the shape of the arch formed on the back support changes responsively to a load imposed by a person's back. The inventive back support is capable of taking a variety of shapes thereby providing maximum comfort and support regardless of the user's spinal curvature or posture and position relative to the back support.
Description
~'~ 95/3d9IS r~ ~', ~ ~ J' ~i' ~ PC°T/~JS95I06462 _1_ I L~ AP CS P~
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The present invention relates to back supports and more particularly to back supports used in seatbaeks.
A variety of seatback back support devises provide added support and comfort to a person's back. These devices are especially common in vehicle seats or ceffice chairs as lumbar supports.
Second, typical back supports are relatively heavy and add undesirable weight to automotive vehicles, thereby limiting the availability of such supports.
G~~ ~F I I~
The present invention relates to back supports and more particularly to back supports used in seatbaeks.
A variety of seatback back support devises provide added support and comfort to a person's back. These devices are especially common in vehicle seats or ceffice chairs as lumbar supports.
Second, typical back supports are relatively heavy and add undesirable weight to automotive vehicles, thereby limiting the availability of such supports.
Fourth, typical back supports form a single apex within the supporting arch.
The apex preferably should be at varying locations within the seatback to provide support to a variety of people. Therefore, complicated mounting and gearing mechanisms are needed to adjust the position of the support apex relative to the seat. Such mounting and gearing mechanisms are subject to breakdown and further add undesirable weight to the seat.
All the above-described limitations and drawbacks are undesirable. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a flexible, strong back support that simplifies manufacture and assembly of back supports and, correspondingly, vehicle seats or chairs.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a back support that has an automatically adjusting apex that effectively moves along the longitudinal length of the back support. A back support in accordance with the present invention therefore properly conforms to a user's back to provide greater comfort and support.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a flexible support member having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to the other end within the seatback in which the back support is employed 2 0 and the flexible support member being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to the seatback, the engagement permitting one of the first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to the seatback and another of the first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of the horizontal rod segments.
2 5 In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a flexible support member including: a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to the other end within the seatback in which the back support is employed, and the central body portion being configured for 3 o engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to the seatback, the engagement permitting one of the first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to the horizontal rod segments and another of the first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of the -2a-horizontal rod segments; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the central body portion, the support fingers have a rounded end distal from the central body portion and have a bent perimeter, the bent perimeter bent toward a back of the seatback to enhance the comfort provided by the back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with the seatback.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a flexible support member formed of a thin piece of metal and including:
a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of 1 o the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to the other end within the seatback in which the back support is employed, and the central body portion being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to the seatback, the engagement permitting one of the first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to the horizontal rod segments and another of the first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of the horizontal rod segments; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the central body portion, the support fingers have a rounded end distal from the central body portion and have a bent perimeter, the bent perimeter bent toward a back of the seatback to enhance the comfort provided by the back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with the seatback.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a seat support comprising: a seat support frame having first and second horizontally disposed rod segments, each having a longitudinal axis and a fixed position relative to a top of the seat support frame; a single-piece flexible support member having two longitudinal ends, a first longitudinal end having a 2 5 clamping member rotatably attaching the first end to the first horizontally disposed rod segment and a second longitudinal end having a holding member pivotably and slidably attaching the second end to the second horizontally disposed rod segment such that the holding member pivots about and relative to the longitudinal axis of the second horizontally disposed rod segment; and means, attached to the support member proximate to the first longitudinal end, for 3 0 longitudinally subtending the support member, whereby the support member arches outwardly to support a user's back.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a -2b-seatback comprising: a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the central body portion; the support fingers each have a bent perimeter and a rounded end distal from the central body portion and project generally forward from a plane generally defined by the central body portion when the support member is in a relaxed position such that the rounded end on each the support finger is forward of the plane;
the first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a rod segment on a seatback wherein the back support is employed; the second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple the second end to a second portion of the seatback; and wherein the central body portion, the clamping member and the holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a seat comprising: a base member; a seatback member attached to one end of the base member, the seatback member having first and second horizontally disposed bars, each having a longitudinal axis and a fixed position relative to a top of the seatback member; a single-piece flexible support member having two longitudinal ends, a first longitudinal end having a clamping member rotatably attaching the first end to the first horizontally disposed bar and a second longitudinal end having 2 o a holding member pivotably and slidably attaching the second end to the second horizontally disposed bar such that the holding member pivots about and relative to the longitudinal axis of the second horizontally disposed bar; and means, attached to the support member proximate the longitudinal end, for longitudinally subtending the support member, whereby the support member arches outwardly to support a user's back.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular 3 o to the longitudinal axis of the central body portion; the first longitudinal end having a pair of clamping members projecting away from the central body portion and having opposite clamping surfaces such that the clamping members are adapted to rotatably engage a bar on the seatback wherein the back support is employed; the second longitudinal end having a holding member -2c-adapted to slidably and pivotally couple the second end to a second portion of the seatback;
wherein the central body portion, the clamping member and the holding member are integrally formed from a sidle piece of material.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal is of the central body portion; the first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a bar on a seatback wherein the back support is employed; the second longitudinal end having three holding members, a first the holding member lying in a first plane and at least a second the holding member lying in a second plane that is essentially parallel to the first plane, the first and second planes being spaced apart such that the three holding members are adapted to cooperatively engage a second portion of the seatback wherein the back support is employed such that the holding members may be pivotally and slidably moveable on the second seatback portion; and wherein the central body portion, the clamping member and the holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material.
2 o In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support forgers extending outwardly from the central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the central body portion; the first longitudinal end having a clamping 2 5 member adapted to be rotatably attached to a bar on a seatback wherein the back support is employed; the second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple the second end to a second portion of the seatback; wherein the central body portion, the clamping member and the holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material; means for longitudinally subtending the support member attached to the 3 0 support member proximate the second longitudinal end, whereby the support member arches outwardly to support a user's back and wherein the subtending means comprises a flexible cable attached to the support member, a spool, a bar partially disposed within a central bore defined in the spool, a clutch spring surrounding a portion of the bar and engaging the spool, the clutch -2d-spring being biased such that the spool and the clutch spring rotate in only one direction about the bar, and a lever handle for rotating the spool about the bar whereby the cable is wound around a portion of the spool to thereby shorten an effective length of the cable, whereby shortening the effective length of the cable longitudinally subtends the support member by drawing the support member second longitudinal end toward the support member first longitudinal end.
In some aspects, a unitary flexible support member can be formed from a single sheet of material. The support member preferably has a central body portion with a longitudinal axis 1 o and opposite ends at each end of the axis. In some aspects, a number of support fingers extend outwardly from the central body portion in a generally horizontal direction.
In some aspects, a means for arching the support member is attached to the support member to arch the support member outwardly to support a person's back.
When an arch is formed on the back support, a person receives comfortable support for their back. The apex of the W~ 95/31918 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ PC'lYtIJS95106462 arch effectively moves longitudinally along the length of the support to conform to the shape of the user°s back and to provide maximum support wherever that is most needed.
These and other features and objects of the present invention will become apparent to a person skilled in the art from the following detailed description and the appended drawings.
~I~F I7ESC~IPTI~~F D: T GS
Figure 1 is a diagramatic representation of a person sitting in a seat including the inventive 'back support.
Figure 2 is a front perspective view of the presently preferred embodiment of the inventive back support.
Figure 3 is a rear plan view of t:he presently preferred embodiment of the inventive back support.
Figure 4 is a side plan view illustrating how the preferred embodiment of the inventive back support arches outward to support a user's back.
Figure 5 is a bottom plan view cef the inventive back support as it would appear in a relaxed state~
Figure b is a perspective view of the inventive back support as it would be attached to a seat frame.
Figure 7 is a front plan view of a portion of the inventive back support~
Figure 8 is a side plan view of the inventive back support.
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seat 10 ~~de up9 in ~~r~9 ~f ~ ~~a~~ack 12 ~ig~ ~ t~~~e l~s piv~tally ~.~ec~ed ~~ ~e~~b~~k 12 0 ~~~k ~a~~~~~°~ ~a i~
a~ec~s,~ ~.~ ~eat~~ck 12 ~n~ ~ea~~i~n ~aes~ber 11~; is ~~~~~p~i~~~l~
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on" bar 64 as the support member is moved generally upward against bar 64. The mounting provided by clamping members 86 and 88 enables efficient assembly requiring a minimum amount of tools and a minimum amount of parts. This further enhances one of the major advantages of the present invention; providing a lightweight back support system that provides enhanced manufacturing and assembling economies. Extension tabs 92 are angled and provided at the distal end of clamping members 86 and 88 to further facilitate assembly. As will be more fully explained below, cable guide 90 is provided near first longitudinal end 66.
A second plate portion 94 is preferably provided near the second longitudinal end 70 of the single-piece support member 62. The second plate 94 is preferably essentially flat for a portion of its length and then branches out, forming holding member 96 and holding member 98. Holding members 96 and 98 are preferably at each transverse end of the second plate 94 and effectively straddle holding plate 100. Bar 68 is received between holding members 96, 98 and holding plate 100. A polyurethane sleeve (not illustrated specifically) is preferably provided around bar 68 to facilitate more frictionless movement along bar 68. Further, beads 101 are preferably provided on plate 100 to further facilitate a frictionless engagement between bar 68 and plate 100 and beads 101 add strength. Raised beads 101 effectively ride on bar 68 to provide less surface contact and, therefore, less friction.
2 0 The mounting of the single-piece support member 62 upon bars 64 and 68 is characterized by a movable and pivotal mounting near the second longitudinal end 70. Holding member 96 and 98 have first and second longitudinal ends 102 and 104, respectively. Ends 102 and 104 serve as stops or abutments for the longitudinal positioning of the second plate 94 relative to bar 68. As will be described in more detail below, the movement ~~ ~ ~9 ~~~7 W~ 95131918 ~ ~CT'lLTS95106462 _7_ of an actuating cause holdingplate 100 and holding means will members 96 and 98 to move pivotally and longitudinally (generally upwardor downward the drawing) relative according to to bar 68. Thatisq the support memberbottom end or second longitudinal 70 pivotsabout bar end 68 and moves in an upward direction (according drawing) whenan actuating means to the or adjustment meanscauses support member to the single-piece 'bow outward.
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Cable h~using 114 din the cab~di~cen~ ~~' ~°i~~~e 3d extends Fr~m sleeve 116 t~ are ~~enin~ in hca~sin~ 126 0 ~~~si~.~ 126 is a p~~°~i~n ~F ~~ae sh~rtening jeans 12~m The sh~rtening ~~a~s is cased t~ sh~rten the efFective length ~~ the Flexible cable 11~0 1'~ae Flexible cable 110 cable h~using 114 and sh~rgening ~ea~s 12~ t~gether c~~prase the ad,~us~~ent jeans ~~° ac~~a~in~ jeans 130 m T°he h~aasing 126 and sh~rtening jeans 12~ age ~~°eFe~°ably disp~sed al~ng an ~uter s~a~°face near a seat saach tYaat a ~,se~ has c~nvenient access ~~ handle 1320 handle 132 is °~sed tc manipulate the sh~rtening weans 12~ s~c~a that ~~ae eFFecgi~ae length ~f Flexible cable 11~ is sh~rtened ~r lengthened as desiredo W~ 95/3191 jJ ~ ~ '~ "~ ~l ~ PCT//1JS95106462 _g_ comfort and supporto When the effective length of cable 110 is shortened the second longitudinal 70 of flexible support member 62 end is drawn generally toward the first longita;tdinal end 66~ If the effective length of cable is increased or lengthened, the then the second longitudinalend 70 moves in a direction away from the first longitudinalnd ~6m It is ts' be understood e by one skilled in the art the illustrated 4mbodiment includes that the second longitudinal being positioned at the bottom end of a seatback relative first longitudinal end and that to a those positions could be reversed or the illusi:rated embodiment could be modified accordinglyin order to accommodate such need or situation~
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Supp~rt st~°ips 20 ~~e inters~s~ected ~y ~1 ~ag~ ~1~~t~
~~~ ~e~~in~ ~e~ber 26 pref~s~ably f~~~~ t~n~ t~~ ~~~ ~~' ~~c~
supp~rt 16 ~cc~rdin~ t~ ~sae ~a~~a~di~ent a T~~ b~~~s~~ ~~~~e~ 26 inchade~ c~~ctitab 2~ f~~° c~uplgn~ t~ns~.~n ~e~a~~~ 1~ t~
~~ck sup~~°t 160 ~3'~ 9513191 PCTII1Tg95106462 fearing incl~a~des vertex3~. Vertex member 26 preferably 3~ providestwo ularly ad3acentfaces on bearingmember 26, and therebyincreases rigidityof bearing member26~ Vertex the 3g providesthe advantageof allowing 26 to bear bearing ~ae~ber against move along reactionsurface 36 in relatively and a frictionlessmanner.
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lera~th ~f tensi~n ~ae~nber l~ by ~~nv~nti~nal ~ctu~tin~ ~~~~s ~~c~
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'W~ 95/31918 PCTlL1S95106462 to connecting tab 28. The position of 'back support 16 illustrated in Figure 8 corresponds to the longest effective length. of tension member 18.
Assume that a different person sits on the seat containing back support 16. It is likely that the shape and posture of this second person is different from that of the first person.
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The second person°s posterior laambar side is represented by line 50 ° shown in phantomo The curvature of the spine of the person cor~espondin~ to line 50° and their posture relative to the setback and the distribution of their body weight imposes a maximaam load on back support 1~ at the point indicated as ~~°o Accordin~lys the shape of taack support 16 responsively conforms to the imposed lo~,d~ fora~in~ arch ~S6 ° shown in phantomo ~p exists at the point of relatively li~hte~° 1~ad on back support 16o Therefores back support 16 provides maximaam c~mfort and support to back 50° because arch ~S6° aid apex ~~°
effectively adjust to the load imposed by back 50°0 ~ back.
support designed in accordance with this invention automatically provides variable support without further adjustment by the usero The design of back support 16 provides an arch 45 or ~~°
that responsively conforms to a back 50 or 50°9 respectivelya Similarlyg the longitudinal position of apex ~~ or ~~° varies accordir~~ to the load imposed by back 50 or 50°0 a len~thenin~ or sh~rtenin~ of the effective ien~th of flexible cable 110 (from the preferred embodiments in order to actuate or adjust the curvature of flexible supp~rt member 52 can be acc~mplished through a variety of meanso ~irst~ tb.e '? ~ ~7~ ~ ~ III .~
~~ 9513y91~ I~c~"I('~'FtlS~6l~D6~62 360 ~~~reos around spool 226a In other wordsa one ~a~ll rotation of spool 226 c~rresponds to ~covin~ the flexible support ~e~be~°
62 from a relaxed position to a ~a~lly or oo~ple~~3y lon~i~.udinally subtended position pro~idi~~ the r~axi~u~ support available ~ro~ the support ~e~ber 62m Spring clutch 232 is received upon bar 224 and fits ~ithi~a the sleeve porn~n 230 of spool 226m One of the extending ends on spring clutch 232 nests within slot 233 on sleeve portion 230 of spool 236 such that sp~~1 226 rotates in unison pith spring clutch 2320 Spria~ clutch 234 is received ~ver sleeve portio~a 230 as can best be seen in Figure lIa Spring clutch 234 is also referred to as the drive spring because it is biased in a direction that facilitates a user shortening the effective length ~f flexible cable 110 to thereby cause an increased curvature and greater outward boe~in~ of the flexible support ~e~ber 62a Sleeve 236 is also received over bar 224 and abuts the end ~f sleeve porn ~n 230 that is distal fr~~ porn on 22So Sleeve 236 includes slot 237 that receives a pro~ecti~n ~n spring clutch 232 such that sleeve 236 ~°otates iaa unison pith sp~ol 2260 i~~ 95/31918 PC'T/IJS95I06462 _17_ Lever handle 243 is fixedly connected to secondary housing 240 such that rotation of lever handle 243 rotates the secondary housing 240 within housing 222. Rotation of secondary housing 240 causes spring clutch 234 or 238 to engage and rotate sleeve portion 230 or sleeve 236 depending on the direction that lever handle 243 is moved. For example, in the embodiment of Figure 109 when lever hdle 243 is rotated generally downward (according to the drawing) spring clutch 234 engages sleeve portion 230 of spool 226 such that the :movement of the handle imparts a rotation to the spool 226. en spool 226 is rotated in this direction flexible cable 110 is wound about and received within the circumferential notch 231 such that the effective length of cable 110 is shortened and the flexible support member 62 bows outwardly.
Slot 244 is provided in housing 222 to receive flexible cable 110 such that cable 110 can be wo~tand about spool 226.
Pf ~'~ 95/3~91~ I~~~'ltU~9~l~662 -1~-D~wel 246 ~.s recc~.ved. In h~le 247 in h~usi~~ 222 1~ ~~~e~ ~~
~~int~in sp~~1 226 ~.n the ~ppr~~ri~~e 1~1 ~~sigg~n ~cl~~f~~ ~~
central b~~°e 227 snd h~using 222 n Ci~ca~afe~cntlal n~~ch 24~ is pr~vided ~n sp~~1 226 such ~h~~ sp~~1 226 c~~ ~°~~~~c ~~~&ag~
h~tasin~ 222 gad ~e~~ln ~ci~ll~ Axed Any ~~~el 246 0 ~~c s~Z111c~T
in the srg X111 ~ppreclste ~ha~ d~~el 246 as inse~°'~e~. ~~ve~ the entige assembly ~s c~~pleted es ~.llus~r~~ed in Fi~~a~e llo ~' LY
W~ 95/31918 PCT/L1595/46462 causing the flexible cable to be wound or unwound in an undesirable direction upon the lever handle°s return to the central position.
It is to be further appreciated that some applications of winding mechanism 220 will not require the sophistication needed A,J
'~~ ~5131~1~ '-_ ~ (,1 r .J t ~ ~cCII°/1~J~~~1~~a~62 _2~_ to provide ttae infinite ad~tasta'bility and rc~cr~ix~~ features desired in the preferred embodiment of the back support system disclosed hereino Accordin~ly~ another emhodime~t of ~~.~di mechanism 220 does not include spring clutches 234 ~.~d 23~ ~~.d sleeve 2360 In this emtsodiment9 lever handle 243 directly en~a~es sprig claztch 2329 which moves shout rod. 224 ~rhen ~ein~
driven by movement of lever handle 243 and 1~cks in the p~si'eion that it is last moved into by the handlem In this emhodiment9 spool 226 can he wound i~ an ~awindior wirldin~ direction because lever handle 243 is adapted to en~a~e either end of spring clutch 2329 depending on the direction of rotat3or~~ of the handleo the preceding description is exemplary rather than limiting in natureo A preferred embodiment was disclosed to enable a skilled artisan to practice the inventiono Ndodifications are possible without departing from the purviec~
and spirit of the present invention9 the scope of which is limited only by the following claims,
The apex preferably should be at varying locations within the seatback to provide support to a variety of people. Therefore, complicated mounting and gearing mechanisms are needed to adjust the position of the support apex relative to the seat. Such mounting and gearing mechanisms are subject to breakdown and further add undesirable weight to the seat.
All the above-described limitations and drawbacks are undesirable. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a flexible, strong back support that simplifies manufacture and assembly of back supports and, correspondingly, vehicle seats or chairs.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a back support that has an automatically adjusting apex that effectively moves along the longitudinal length of the back support. A back support in accordance with the present invention therefore properly conforms to a user's back to provide greater comfort and support.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a flexible support member having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to the other end within the seatback in which the back support is employed 2 0 and the flexible support member being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to the seatback, the engagement permitting one of the first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to the seatback and another of the first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of the horizontal rod segments.
2 5 In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a flexible support member including: a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to the other end within the seatback in which the back support is employed, and the central body portion being configured for 3 o engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to the seatback, the engagement permitting one of the first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to the horizontal rod segments and another of the first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of the -2a-horizontal rod segments; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the central body portion, the support fingers have a rounded end distal from the central body portion and have a bent perimeter, the bent perimeter bent toward a back of the seatback to enhance the comfort provided by the back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with the seatback.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a flexible support member formed of a thin piece of metal and including:
a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of 1 o the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to the other end within the seatback in which the back support is employed, and the central body portion being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to the seatback, the engagement permitting one of the first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to the horizontal rod segments and another of the first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of the horizontal rod segments; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the central body portion, the support fingers have a rounded end distal from the central body portion and have a bent perimeter, the bent perimeter bent toward a back of the seatback to enhance the comfort provided by the back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with the seatback.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a seat support comprising: a seat support frame having first and second horizontally disposed rod segments, each having a longitudinal axis and a fixed position relative to a top of the seat support frame; a single-piece flexible support member having two longitudinal ends, a first longitudinal end having a 2 5 clamping member rotatably attaching the first end to the first horizontally disposed rod segment and a second longitudinal end having a holding member pivotably and slidably attaching the second end to the second horizontally disposed rod segment such that the holding member pivots about and relative to the longitudinal axis of the second horizontally disposed rod segment; and means, attached to the support member proximate to the first longitudinal end, for 3 0 longitudinally subtending the support member, whereby the support member arches outwardly to support a user's back.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a -2b-seatback comprising: a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the central body portion; the support fingers each have a bent perimeter and a rounded end distal from the central body portion and project generally forward from a plane generally defined by the central body portion when the support member is in a relaxed position such that the rounded end on each the support finger is forward of the plane;
the first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a rod segment on a seatback wherein the back support is employed; the second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple the second end to a second portion of the seatback; and wherein the central body portion, the clamping member and the holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a seat comprising: a base member; a seatback member attached to one end of the base member, the seatback member having first and second horizontally disposed bars, each having a longitudinal axis and a fixed position relative to a top of the seatback member; a single-piece flexible support member having two longitudinal ends, a first longitudinal end having a clamping member rotatably attaching the first end to the first horizontally disposed bar and a second longitudinal end having 2 o a holding member pivotably and slidably attaching the second end to the second horizontally disposed bar such that the holding member pivots about and relative to the longitudinal axis of the second horizontally disposed bar; and means, attached to the support member proximate the longitudinal end, for longitudinally subtending the support member, whereby the support member arches outwardly to support a user's back.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular 3 o to the longitudinal axis of the central body portion; the first longitudinal end having a pair of clamping members projecting away from the central body portion and having opposite clamping surfaces such that the clamping members are adapted to rotatably engage a bar on the seatback wherein the back support is employed; the second longitudinal end having a holding member -2c-adapted to slidably and pivotally couple the second end to a second portion of the seatback;
wherein the central body portion, the clamping member and the holding member are integrally formed from a sidle piece of material.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from the central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal is of the central body portion; the first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a bar on a seatback wherein the back support is employed; the second longitudinal end having three holding members, a first the holding member lying in a first plane and at least a second the holding member lying in a second plane that is essentially parallel to the first plane, the first and second planes being spaced apart such that the three holding members are adapted to cooperatively engage a second portion of the seatback wherein the back support is employed such that the holding members may be pivotally and slidably moveable on the second seatback portion; and wherein the central body portion, the clamping member and the holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material.
2 o In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a back support for use within a seatback, comprising: a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support forgers extending outwardly from the central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the central body portion; the first longitudinal end having a clamping 2 5 member adapted to be rotatably attached to a bar on a seatback wherein the back support is employed; the second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple the second end to a second portion of the seatback; wherein the central body portion, the clamping member and the holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material; means for longitudinally subtending the support member attached to the 3 0 support member proximate the second longitudinal end, whereby the support member arches outwardly to support a user's back and wherein the subtending means comprises a flexible cable attached to the support member, a spool, a bar partially disposed within a central bore defined in the spool, a clutch spring surrounding a portion of the bar and engaging the spool, the clutch -2d-spring being biased such that the spool and the clutch spring rotate in only one direction about the bar, and a lever handle for rotating the spool about the bar whereby the cable is wound around a portion of the spool to thereby shorten an effective length of the cable, whereby shortening the effective length of the cable longitudinally subtends the support member by drawing the support member second longitudinal end toward the support member first longitudinal end.
In some aspects, a unitary flexible support member can be formed from a single sheet of material. The support member preferably has a central body portion with a longitudinal axis 1 o and opposite ends at each end of the axis. In some aspects, a number of support fingers extend outwardly from the central body portion in a generally horizontal direction.
In some aspects, a means for arching the support member is attached to the support member to arch the support member outwardly to support a person's back.
When an arch is formed on the back support, a person receives comfortable support for their back. The apex of the W~ 95/31918 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ PC'lYtIJS95106462 arch effectively moves longitudinally along the length of the support to conform to the shape of the user°s back and to provide maximum support wherever that is most needed.
These and other features and objects of the present invention will become apparent to a person skilled in the art from the following detailed description and the appended drawings.
~I~F I7ESC~IPTI~~F D: T GS
Figure 1 is a diagramatic representation of a person sitting in a seat including the inventive 'back support.
Figure 2 is a front perspective view of the presently preferred embodiment of the inventive back support.
Figure 3 is a rear plan view of t:he presently preferred embodiment of the inventive back support.
Figure 4 is a side plan view illustrating how the preferred embodiment of the inventive back support arches outward to support a user's back.
Figure 5 is a bottom plan view cef the inventive back support as it would appear in a relaxed state~
Figure b is a perspective view of the inventive back support as it would be attached to a seat frame.
Figure 7 is a front plan view of a portion of the inventive back support~
Figure 8 is a side plan view of the inventive back support.
~~ 9513i~i~ ,~ ~ % ~ 1-~ ~ ~~'T/IiT~95/~b46~
Fi~u~°e 9 is ~ di~gr~tic ~e~res~n~~a~i~~ ~f ~h~ i~~~~aa~i~~
back ~u~p~~~ illa~s~r~tin~ the ~~ryi~~ ~~~igi~~ ~f ~~~ ~~e~
f~r~ed in the back supp~rta Fi~~~e 30 is an expl~ded ~erspecti~e ~ie~ cf the ~~~~e~~l~
p~eferx°ed ~~b~dig~ent ~f the ~~a~~.~ndin~ ~~~ ~xn~e~ ~ig~
inventi~re back supp~~°to ~'i~u~°e 11 i~ ~ c~°~ss-~ec~i~nal ~l~~a vi~~ ~f ~~ a~~e~a~l~~
~rindin~ ~ec~i~~a th~~ is used as ~~.~t ~f t3~e ~~~~en~i~a~ ~e~a~o DA1 19 D~SC~I I~~F
~°i~~are 1 di~~~ atically ~h~~~ ~ ~e~°~~~ ~ ~i~~i~~
seat 10 ~~de up9 in ~~r~9 ~f ~ ~~a~~ack 12 ~ig~ ~ t~~~e l~s piv~tally ~.~ec~ed ~~ ~e~~b~~k 12 0 ~~~k ~a~~~~~°~ ~a i~
a~ec~s,~ ~.~ ~eat~~ck 12 ~n~ ~ea~~i~n ~aes~ber 11~; is ~~~~~p~i~~~l~
c~nraected ~~ back supp~~~
on" bar 64 as the support member is moved generally upward against bar 64. The mounting provided by clamping members 86 and 88 enables efficient assembly requiring a minimum amount of tools and a minimum amount of parts. This further enhances one of the major advantages of the present invention; providing a lightweight back support system that provides enhanced manufacturing and assembling economies. Extension tabs 92 are angled and provided at the distal end of clamping members 86 and 88 to further facilitate assembly. As will be more fully explained below, cable guide 90 is provided near first longitudinal end 66.
A second plate portion 94 is preferably provided near the second longitudinal end 70 of the single-piece support member 62. The second plate 94 is preferably essentially flat for a portion of its length and then branches out, forming holding member 96 and holding member 98. Holding members 96 and 98 are preferably at each transverse end of the second plate 94 and effectively straddle holding plate 100. Bar 68 is received between holding members 96, 98 and holding plate 100. A polyurethane sleeve (not illustrated specifically) is preferably provided around bar 68 to facilitate more frictionless movement along bar 68. Further, beads 101 are preferably provided on plate 100 to further facilitate a frictionless engagement between bar 68 and plate 100 and beads 101 add strength. Raised beads 101 effectively ride on bar 68 to provide less surface contact and, therefore, less friction.
2 0 The mounting of the single-piece support member 62 upon bars 64 and 68 is characterized by a movable and pivotal mounting near the second longitudinal end 70. Holding member 96 and 98 have first and second longitudinal ends 102 and 104, respectively. Ends 102 and 104 serve as stops or abutments for the longitudinal positioning of the second plate 94 relative to bar 68. As will be described in more detail below, the movement ~~ ~ ~9 ~~~7 W~ 95131918 ~ ~CT'lLTS95106462 _7_ of an actuating cause holdingplate 100 and holding means will members 96 and 98 to move pivotally and longitudinally (generally upwardor downward the drawing) relative according to to bar 68. Thatisq the support memberbottom end or second longitudinal 70 pivotsabout bar end 68 and moves in an upward direction (according drawing) whenan actuating means to the or adjustment meanscauses support member to the single-piece 'bow outward.
ra .'1 ~ ,r ..l ~'~ 9513~9~~ i_ ? ~~: ,~ J '~' ~ ~~~°lf~J~~SI~6~6~
Cable h~using 114 din the cab~di~cen~ ~~' ~°i~~~e 3d extends Fr~m sleeve 116 t~ are ~~enin~ in hca~sin~ 126 0 ~~~si~.~ 126 is a p~~°~i~n ~F ~~ae sh~rtening jeans 12~m The sh~rtening ~~a~s is cased t~ sh~rten the efFective length ~~ the Flexible cable 11~0 1'~ae Flexible cable 110 cable h~using 114 and sh~rgening ~ea~s 12~ t~gether c~~prase the ad,~us~~ent jeans ~~° ac~~a~in~ jeans 130 m T°he h~aasing 126 and sh~rtening jeans 12~ age ~~°eFe~°ably disp~sed al~ng an ~uter s~a~°face near a seat saach tYaat a ~,se~ has c~nvenient access ~~ handle 1320 handle 132 is °~sed tc manipulate the sh~rtening weans 12~ s~c~a that ~~ae eFFecgi~ae length ~f Flexible cable 11~ is sh~rtened ~r lengthened as desiredo W~ 95/3191 jJ ~ ~ '~ "~ ~l ~ PCT//1JS95106462 _g_ comfort and supporto When the effective length of cable 110 is shortened the second longitudinal 70 of flexible support member 62 end is drawn generally toward the first longita;tdinal end 66~ If the effective length of cable is increased or lengthened, the then the second longitudinalend 70 moves in a direction away from the first longitudinalnd ~6m It is ts' be understood e by one skilled in the art the illustrated 4mbodiment includes that the second longitudinal being positioned at the bottom end of a seatback relative first longitudinal end and that to a those positions could be reversed or the illusi:rated embodiment could be modified accordinglyin order to accommodate such need or situation~
~~ ~ 3~
Supp~rt st~°ips 20 ~~e inters~s~ected ~y ~1 ~ag~ ~1~~t~
~~~ ~e~~in~ ~e~ber 26 pref~s~ably f~~~~ t~n~ t~~ ~~~ ~~' ~~c~
supp~rt 16 ~cc~rdin~ t~ ~sae ~a~~a~di~ent a T~~ b~~~s~~ ~~~~e~ 26 inchade~ c~~ctitab 2~ f~~° c~uplgn~ t~ns~.~n ~e~a~~~ 1~ t~
~~ck sup~~°t 160 ~3'~ 9513191 PCTII1Tg95106462 fearing incl~a~des vertex3~. Vertex member 26 preferably 3~ providestwo ularly ad3acentfaces on bearingmember 26, and therebyincreases rigidityof bearing member26~ Vertex the 3g providesthe advantageof allowing 26 to bear bearing ~ae~ber against move along reactionsurface 36 in relatively and a frictionlessmanner.
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lera~th ~f tensi~n ~ae~nber l~ by ~~nv~nti~nal ~ctu~tin~ ~~~~s ~~c~
~s fin~~rti~ sr~it~hes ~g baztt~n~, a ~re~~~atl~ ~~~f~~°~e~
a~justin~ jeans gill be ~a~re fa~lly ~iesc~°i~~d bel~~o ~~ t~~~«~
'W~ 95/31918 PCTlL1S95106462 to connecting tab 28. The position of 'back support 16 illustrated in Figure 8 corresponds to the longest effective length. of tension member 18.
Assume that a different person sits on the seat containing back support 16. It is likely that the shape and posture of this second person is different from that of the first person.
V 1 J t '~~ 9513i91~ _~. . ~ i . ~ ~ ~c~'If'/~J~~S/~~~~~
The second person°s posterior laambar side is represented by line 50 ° shown in phantomo The curvature of the spine of the person cor~espondin~ to line 50° and their posture relative to the setback and the distribution of their body weight imposes a maximaam load on back support 1~ at the point indicated as ~~°o Accordin~lys the shape of taack support 16 responsively conforms to the imposed lo~,d~ fora~in~ arch ~S6 ° shown in phantomo ~p exists at the point of relatively li~hte~° 1~ad on back support 16o Therefores back support 16 provides maximaam c~mfort and support to back 50° because arch ~S6° aid apex ~~°
effectively adjust to the load imposed by back 50°0 ~ back.
support designed in accordance with this invention automatically provides variable support without further adjustment by the usero The design of back support 16 provides an arch 45 or ~~°
that responsively conforms to a back 50 or 50°9 respectivelya Similarlyg the longitudinal position of apex ~~ or ~~° varies accordir~~ to the load imposed by back 50 or 50°0 a len~thenin~ or sh~rtenin~ of the effective ien~th of flexible cable 110 (from the preferred embodiments in order to actuate or adjust the curvature of flexible supp~rt member 52 can be acc~mplished through a variety of meanso ~irst~ tb.e '? ~ ~7~ ~ ~ III .~
~~ 9513y91~ I~c~"I('~'FtlS~6l~D6~62 360 ~~~reos around spool 226a In other wordsa one ~a~ll rotation of spool 226 c~rresponds to ~covin~ the flexible support ~e~be~°
62 from a relaxed position to a ~a~lly or oo~ple~~3y lon~i~.udinally subtended position pro~idi~~ the r~axi~u~ support available ~ro~ the support ~e~ber 62m Spring clutch 232 is received upon bar 224 and fits ~ithi~a the sleeve porn~n 230 of spool 226m One of the extending ends on spring clutch 232 nests within slot 233 on sleeve portion 230 of spool 236 such that sp~~1 226 rotates in unison pith spring clutch 2320 Spria~ clutch 234 is received ~ver sleeve portio~a 230 as can best be seen in Figure lIa Spring clutch 234 is also referred to as the drive spring because it is biased in a direction that facilitates a user shortening the effective length ~f flexible cable 110 to thereby cause an increased curvature and greater outward boe~in~ of the flexible support ~e~ber 62a Sleeve 236 is also received over bar 224 and abuts the end ~f sleeve porn ~n 230 that is distal fr~~ porn on 22So Sleeve 236 includes slot 237 that receives a pro~ecti~n ~n spring clutch 232 such that sleeve 236 ~°otates iaa unison pith sp~ol 2260 i~~ 95/31918 PC'T/IJS95I06462 _17_ Lever handle 243 is fixedly connected to secondary housing 240 such that rotation of lever handle 243 rotates the secondary housing 240 within housing 222. Rotation of secondary housing 240 causes spring clutch 234 or 238 to engage and rotate sleeve portion 230 or sleeve 236 depending on the direction that lever handle 243 is moved. For example, in the embodiment of Figure 109 when lever hdle 243 is rotated generally downward (according to the drawing) spring clutch 234 engages sleeve portion 230 of spool 226 such that the :movement of the handle imparts a rotation to the spool 226. en spool 226 is rotated in this direction flexible cable 110 is wound about and received within the circumferential notch 231 such that the effective length of cable 110 is shortened and the flexible support member 62 bows outwardly.
Slot 244 is provided in housing 222 to receive flexible cable 110 such that cable 110 can be wo~tand about spool 226.
Pf ~'~ 95/3~91~ I~~~'ltU~9~l~662 -1~-D~wel 246 ~.s recc~.ved. In h~le 247 in h~usi~~ 222 1~ ~~~e~ ~~
~~int~in sp~~1 226 ~.n the ~ppr~~ri~~e 1~1 ~~sigg~n ~cl~~f~~ ~~
central b~~°e 227 snd h~using 222 n Ci~ca~afe~cntlal n~~ch 24~ is pr~vided ~n sp~~1 226 such ~h~~ sp~~1 226 c~~ ~°~~~~c ~~~&ag~
h~tasin~ 222 gad ~e~~ln ~ci~ll~ Axed Any ~~~el 246 0 ~~c s~Z111c~T
in the srg X111 ~ppreclste ~ha~ d~~el 246 as inse~°'~e~. ~~ve~ the entige assembly ~s c~~pleted es ~.llus~r~~ed in Fi~~a~e llo ~' LY
W~ 95/31918 PCT/L1595/46462 causing the flexible cable to be wound or unwound in an undesirable direction upon the lever handle°s return to the central position.
It is to be further appreciated that some applications of winding mechanism 220 will not require the sophistication needed A,J
'~~ ~5131~1~ '-_ ~ (,1 r .J t ~ ~cCII°/1~J~~~1~~a~62 _2~_ to provide ttae infinite ad~tasta'bility and rc~cr~ix~~ features desired in the preferred embodiment of the back support system disclosed hereino Accordin~ly~ another emhodime~t of ~~.~di mechanism 220 does not include spring clutches 234 ~.~d 23~ ~~.d sleeve 2360 In this emtsodiment9 lever handle 243 directly en~a~es sprig claztch 2329 which moves shout rod. 224 ~rhen ~ein~
driven by movement of lever handle 243 and 1~cks in the p~si'eion that it is last moved into by the handlem In this emhodiment9 spool 226 can he wound i~ an ~awindior wirldin~ direction because lever handle 243 is adapted to en~a~e either end of spring clutch 2329 depending on the direction of rotat3or~~ of the handleo the preceding description is exemplary rather than limiting in natureo A preferred embodiment was disclosed to enable a skilled artisan to practice the inventiono Ndodifications are possible without departing from the purviec~
and spirit of the present invention9 the scope of which is limited only by the following claims,
Claims (31)
1. ~A back support for use within a seatback, comprising:
a flexible support member having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of said first longitudinal end and said second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to said other end within said seatback in which said back support is employed and said flexible support member being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to said seatback, said engagement permitting one of said first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to said seatback and another of said first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of said horizontal rod segments.
a flexible support member having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of said first longitudinal end and said second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to said other end within said seatback in which said back support is employed and said flexible support member being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to said seatback, said engagement permitting one of said first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to said seatback and another of said first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of said horizontal rod segments.
2. ~A back support for use within a seatback as claimed in claim 1, wherein a polymeric sleeve is disposed between said flexible support member and at least one of said horizontal rod segments.
3. ~A back support for use within a seatback as claimed in claim 2, wherein said flexible support member includes:
a central body portion including said first and second longitudinal ends; and a plurality of support fingers formed integral and unitary with said central body portion as a single unit therewith, and extending outwardly from said longitudinal axis of said central body portion, said support fingers having a rounded end distal from said central body portion and said support fingers having a bent perimeter, said bent perimeter being bent toward a back of said seatback to enhance the comfort provided by said back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with said seatback.
a central body portion including said first and second longitudinal ends; and a plurality of support fingers formed integral and unitary with said central body portion as a single unit therewith, and extending outwardly from said longitudinal axis of said central body portion, said support fingers having a rounded end distal from said central body portion and said support fingers having a bent perimeter, said bent perimeter being bent toward a back of said seatback to enhance the comfort provided by said back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with said seatback.
4. ~A back support for use within a seatback as claimed in claim 3, wherein said flexible support member is formed of a thin piece of metal.
5. ~A back support for use within a seatback as claimed in claim 1, wherein said flexible support member includes:
a central body portion including said first and second longitudinal ends; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said longitudinal axis of said central body portion, said support fingers having a rounded end distal from said central body portion and said support fingers having a bent perimeter, said bent perimeter being bent toward a back of said seatback to enhance the comfort provided by said back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with said seatback.
a central body portion including said first and second longitudinal ends; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said longitudinal axis of said central body portion, said support fingers having a rounded end distal from said central body portion and said support fingers having a bent perimeter, said bent perimeter being bent toward a back of said seatback to enhance the comfort provided by said back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with said seatback.
6. ~A back support for use within a seatback as claimed in claim 5, wherein said flexible support member is formed of a thin piece of metal.
7. ~A back support for use within a seatback, comprising:
a flexible support member including:
a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of said first longitudinal end and said second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to said other end within said seatback in which said back support is employed, and said central body portion being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to said seatback, said engagement permitting one of said first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to said horizontal rod segments and another of said first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of said horizontal rod segments; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said longitudinal axis of said central body portion, said support fingers have a rounded end distal from said central body portion and have a bent perimeter, said bent perimeter bent toward a back of said seatback to enhance the comfort provided by said back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with said seatback.
a flexible support member including:
a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of said first longitudinal end and said second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to said other end within said seatback in which said back support is employed, and said central body portion being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to said seatback, said engagement permitting one of said first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to said horizontal rod segments and another of said first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of said horizontal rod segments; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said longitudinal axis of said central body portion, said support fingers have a rounded end distal from said central body portion and have a bent perimeter, said bent perimeter bent toward a back of said seatback to enhance the comfort provided by said back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with said seatback.
8. ~A back support for use within a seatback as claimed in claim 7, wherein a polymeric sleeve is disposed between said flexible support member and at least one of said horizontal rod segments.
9. ~A back support for use within a seatback as claimed in claim 8, wherein said flexible support member is formed of a thin piece of metal.
10. ~A back support for use within a seatback, comprising:
a flexible support member formed of a thin piece of metal and including:
a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of said first longitudinal end and said second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to said other end within said seatback in which said back support is employed, and said central body portion being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to said seatback, said engagement permitting one of said first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to said horizontal rod segments and another of said first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of said horizontal rod segments; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said longitudinal axis of said central body portion, said support fingers have a rounded end distal from said central body portion and have a bent perimeter, said bent perimeter bent toward a back of said seatback to enhance the comfort provided by said back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with said seatback.
a flexible support member formed of a thin piece of metal and including:
a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, one of said first longitudinal end and said second longitudinal end being displaceable relative to said other end within said seatback in which said back support is employed, and said central body portion being configured for engagement with a pair of horizontal rod segments affixed to said seatback, said engagement permitting one of said first and second longitudinal ends to pivot relative to said horizontal rod segments and another of said first and second longitudinal ends to slide relative to another of said horizontal rod segments; and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said longitudinal axis of said central body portion, said support fingers have a rounded end distal from said central body portion and have a bent perimeter, said bent perimeter bent toward a back of said seatback to enhance the comfort provided by said back support and to reduce the amount of wear on a seat cushion associated with said seatback.
11. ~A seat support comprising:
a seat support frame having first and second horizontally disposed rod segments, each having a longitudinal axis and a fixed position relative to a top of said seat support frame;
a single-piece flexible support member having two longitudinal ends, a first longitudinal end having a clamping member rotatably attaching said first end to said first horizontally disposed rod segment and a second longitudinal end having a holding member pivotably and slidably attaching said second end to said second horizontally disposed rod segment such that said holding member pivots about and relative to said longitudinal axis of said second horizontally disposed rod segment; and means, attached to said support member proximate to said first longitudinal end, for longitudinally subtending said support member, whereby said support member arches outwardly to support a user's back.
a seat support frame having first and second horizontally disposed rod segments, each having a longitudinal axis and a fixed position relative to a top of said seat support frame;
a single-piece flexible support member having two longitudinal ends, a first longitudinal end having a clamping member rotatably attaching said first end to said first horizontally disposed rod segment and a second longitudinal end having a holding member pivotably and slidably attaching said second end to said second horizontally disposed rod segment such that said holding member pivots about and relative to said longitudinal axis of said second horizontally disposed rod segment; and means, attached to said support member proximate to said first longitudinal end, for longitudinally subtending said support member, whereby said support member arches outwardly to support a user's back.
12. ~A back support for use within a seatback comprising:
a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support forgers extending outwardly from said central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said central body portion;
said support fingers each have a bent perimeter and a rounded end distal from said central body portion and project generally forward from a plane generally defined by said central body portion when said support member is in a relaxed position such that said rounded end on each said support forger is forward of said plane;
said first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a rod segment on a seatback wherein said back support is employed;
said second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple said second end to a second portion of the seatback; and wherein said central body portion, said clamping member and said holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material.
a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support forgers extending outwardly from said central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said central body portion;
said support fingers each have a bent perimeter and a rounded end distal from said central body portion and project generally forward from a plane generally defined by said central body portion when said support member is in a relaxed position such that said rounded end on each said support forger is forward of said plane;
said first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a rod segment on a seatback wherein said back support is employed;
said second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple said second end to a second portion of the seatback; and wherein said central body portion, said clamping member and said holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material.
13. ~A seat comprising:
a base member;
a seatback member attached to one end of said base member, said seatback member having first and second horizontally disposed bars, each having a longitudinal axis and a fixed position relative to a top of said seatback member;
a single-piece flexible support member having two longitudinal ends, a first longitudinal end having a clamping member rotatably attaching said first end to said first horizontally disposed bar and a second longitudinal end having a holding member pivotably and slidably attaching said second end to said second horizontally disposed bar such that said holding member pivots about and relative to said longitudinal axis of said second horizontally disposed bar; and means, attached to said support member proximate said longitudinal end, for longitudinally subtending said support member, whereby said support member arches outwardly to support a user's back.
a base member;
a seatback member attached to one end of said base member, said seatback member having first and second horizontally disposed bars, each having a longitudinal axis and a fixed position relative to a top of said seatback member;
a single-piece flexible support member having two longitudinal ends, a first longitudinal end having a clamping member rotatably attaching said first end to said first horizontally disposed bar and a second longitudinal end having a holding member pivotably and slidably attaching said second end to said second horizontally disposed bar such that said holding member pivots about and relative to said longitudinal axis of said second horizontally disposed bar; and means, attached to said support member proximate said longitudinal end, for longitudinally subtending said support member, whereby said support member arches outwardly to support a user's back.
14. ~The seat of claim 13, wherein said single-piece flexible support member comprises:
a central body portion;
a first plate portion disposed at one end of said central body portion, one end of said first plate portion distal from said central body portion defining said first longitudinal end of said support member;
a second plate portion disposed at a second end of said central body portion distal from said first plate portion, said second plate portion defining said second longitudinal end of said support member; and a plurality of support fingers projecting horizontally outward from said central body portion.
a central body portion;
a first plate portion disposed at one end of said central body portion, one end of said first plate portion distal from said central body portion defining said first longitudinal end of said support member;
a second plate portion disposed at a second end of said central body portion distal from said first plate portion, said second plate portion defining said second longitudinal end of said support member; and a plurality of support fingers projecting horizontally outward from said central body portion.
15. The seat of claim 14, wherein each said support finger has a bent perimeter and a rounded end distal from said central body member.
16. The seat of claim 15, wherein said support fingers project forward from a plane generally defined by said central body portion when said support member is in a relaxed position such that said rounded end on each said support finger is forward of said plane.
17. The seat of claim 14, wherein said central body portion comprises a lattice structure further comprising a pair of vertically disposed longitudinal strips interconnected by a plurality of horizontally disposed transverse strips.
18. The seat of claim 14, wherein said first plate portion includes said clamping member and wherein said clamping member comprises a pair of partially rounded clamping arms that extend away from said central body portion to engage said first horizontally disposed bar on said seatback member, whereby said first longitudinal end of said support member is rotatably attached to said first bar.
19. The seat of claim 14, wherein said second plate portion includes said holding member and said holding member comprises a pair of holding members and a holding plate disposed at opposing transverse ends on said second plate portion, said holding members and said holding plate straddling said second horizontally disposed bar on said seatback member, whereby said second longitudinal end of said support member is pivotally and slidably attached to said second bar.
20. The seat of claim 19, wherein said holding members further comprise a stop at first and second longitudinal ends of said holding members, respectively, whereby movement of said second longitudinal end of said support member relative to said second horizontally disposed bar is limited by said stops.
21. The seat of claim 14 wherein said support member comprises a single-stamped piece of low carbon, alloy-free, pretempered cold rolled steel.
22. The seat of claim 14, wherein said support member is formed from a single sheet of material.
23. The seat of claim 13, wherein said subtending means comprises a flexible cable attached to said support member proximate said support member second longitudinal end, and a means for shortening an effective length of said cable disposed adjacent said seat;
whereby shortening said effective length of said cable longitudinally subtends said support member by drawing said support member second longitudinal end toward said support member first longitudinal end.
whereby shortening said effective length of said cable longitudinally subtends said support member by drawing said support member second longitudinal end toward said support member first longitudinal end.
24. The seat of claim 23, wherein said shortening means comprises a spool and a means for rotating said spool, said cable being wrappingly received around a portion of said spool to thereby shorten said effective length of said cable.
25. The seat of claim 24, wherein said effective length of said cable is adjustable in infinitely small increments by rotating said spool.
26. The seat of claim 13, wherein said flexible support member bows outwardly defining a curved portion with an apex, said apex being automatically adjustable in the longitudinal direction depending upon the application of force to said curved portion.
27. A back support for use within a seatback, comprising:
a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said central body portion;
said first longitudinal end having a pair of clamping members projecting away from said central body portion and having opposite clamping surfaces such that said clamping members are adapted to rotatably engage a bar on the seatback wherein said back support is employed;
said second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple said second end to a second portion of the seatback;
wherein said central body portion, said clamping member and said holding member are integrally formed from a sidle piece of material.
a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said central body portion;
said first longitudinal end having a pair of clamping members projecting away from said central body portion and having opposite clamping surfaces such that said clamping members are adapted to rotatably engage a bar on the seatback wherein said back support is employed;
said second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple said second end to a second portion of the seatback;
wherein said central body portion, said clamping member and said holding member are integrally formed from a sidle piece of material.
28. A back support for use within a seatback, comprising:
a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to said longitudinal is of said central body portion;
said first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a bar on a seatback wherein said back support is employed;
said second longitudinal end having three holding members, a first said holding member lying in a first plane and at least a second said holding member lying in a second plane that is essentially parallel to said first plane, said first and second planes being spaced apart such that said three holding members are adapted to cooperatively engage a second portion of the seatback wherein said back support is employed such that said holding members may be pivotally and slidably moveable on the second seatback portion; and wherein said central body portion, said clamping member and said holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material.
a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to said longitudinal is of said central body portion;
said first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a bar on a seatback wherein said back support is employed;
said second longitudinal end having three holding members, a first said holding member lying in a first plane and at least a second said holding member lying in a second plane that is essentially parallel to said first plane, said first and second planes being spaced apart such that said three holding members are adapted to cooperatively engage a second portion of the seatback wherein said back support is employed such that said holding members may be pivotally and slidably moveable on the second seatback portion; and wherein said central body portion, said clamping member and said holding member are integrally formed from a single piece of material.
29. The back support of claim 28, wherein said holding members are essentially flat and one of said holding members has a raised bead that is adapted to facilitate said holding members sliding along the second seatback portion.
30. The back support of claim 28, wherein said holding members further comprise a stop at first and second longitudinal ends of said holding members, respectively, for limiting movement of said second longitudinal end of said support member relative to the second seatback portion.
31. A back support for use within a seatback, comprising:
a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said central body portion;
said first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a bar on a seatback wherein said back support is employed;
said second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple said second end to a second portion of the seatback;
a unitary flexible support member including a central body portion having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal ends, and a plurality of support fingers extending outwardly from said central body portion in a direction generally perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said central body portion;
said first longitudinal end having a clamping member adapted to be rotatably attached to a bar on a seatback wherein said back support is employed;
said second longitudinal end having a holding member adapted to slidably and pivotally couple said second end to a second portion of the seatback;
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/247,829 | 1994-05-23 | ||
| US08/247,829 US5518294A (en) | 1993-04-05 | 1994-05-23 | Variable apex back support |
| PCT/US1995/006462 WO1995031918A1 (en) | 1994-05-23 | 1995-05-15 | Variable apex back support |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2189347A1 CA2189347A1 (en) | 1995-11-30 |
| CA2189347C true CA2189347C (en) | 2005-11-01 |
Family
ID=35429654
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002189347A Expired - Fee Related CA2189347C (en) | 1994-05-23 | 1995-05-15 | Variable apex back support |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2189347C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN103182973A (en) * | 2009-11-16 | 2013-07-03 | Schukra奥地利股份两合有限公司 | Adjusting device for lumbar support and method of adjusting lumbar support |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6189972B1 (en) | 1998-06-05 | 2001-02-20 | Teknion Furniture Systems Inc. | Lumbar support adjustment mechanism |
-
1995
- 1995-05-15 CA CA002189347A patent/CA2189347C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN103182973A (en) * | 2009-11-16 | 2013-07-03 | Schukra奥地利股份两合有限公司 | Adjusting device for lumbar support and method of adjusting lumbar support |
| CN103182973B (en) * | 2009-11-16 | 2016-01-27 | Schukra奥地利股份两合有限公司 | For the setting device of Lordosis support and the method for adjustment Lordosis support |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2189347A1 (en) | 1995-11-30 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |