Inflatable Seat Cushion Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/677,454, which was filed on Jul. 31, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of seat cushions. More specifically, the present invention relates to an inflatable seat cushion that replicates the benefits of sitting on an exercise ball while ensuring stability, featuring a base that secures an inflatable, dome-shaped cushion. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Sitting on an exercise ball while working has been shown to offer several benefits, including improved posture, reduced fatigue, and enhanced muscle engagement. However, traditional exercise balls are often impractical for office environments due to their instability and bulky design, making them difficult to integrate into standard workspaces. Additionally, exercise balls can roll away when not in use, posing a potential safety hazard in office settings. While ergonomic office chairs exist, they do not fully replicate the benefits of sitting on an unstable surface, which promotes micro-movements and core engagement. Some users attempt to place an exercise ball on an office chair, but this approach lacks stability and does not provide a secure seating experience. Furthermore, maintaining proper spinal alignment and core engagement over extended periods on an exercise ball can be challenging without additional structural support. Many workplaces also discourage the use of traditional exercise balls due to their unconventional appearance and potential to disrupt professional environments.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an inflatable seat cushion device that provides the ergonomic benefits of an exercise ball while ensuring stability for office use. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an inflatable seat cushion device that can be securely integrated with standard office chairs without requiring permanent modifications. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an inflatable seat cushion device that promotes active sitting and core engagement while maintaining a professional and aesthetically appropriate appearance in workplace environments.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises an inflatable seat cushion device. The device is designed to enhance ergonomic seating by replicating the dynamic benefits of an exercise ball while ensuring stability for prolonged office use. The device comprises a base that secures an inflatable cushion in place. A hinged lid with a locking mechanism encloses the cushion and features a dome-shaped inflatable member. A fabric cover encases the cushion, offering a breathable, stretchable surface with a non-slip exterior for added stability. The cushion's inflation level is adjustable via an accessible valve, allowing users to customize firmness and height. When inflated, the cushion has a dome shape that facilitates micro-movements, engaging core muscles and promoting improved posture. The device is used by positioning the base on a chair, securing the cushion assembly within the base, inflating the cushion through the valve, and allowing the user to experience active sitting benefits.

In this manner, the inflatable seat cushion device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides an inflatable, dome-shaped seat cushion that replicates the micro-movements and ergonomic benefits of an exercise ball while maintaining the necessary stability for prolonged office use. Further, the adjustable inflation mechanism allows users to customize the cushion's firmness and height to meet their individual ergonomic needs. The device can also easily be secured to an office chair, providing an effective and visually appropriate solution for workplace environments. By facilitating active sitting and promoting better posture, the inflatable seat cushion device enhances workplace ergonomics without compromising safety or aesthetics.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises an inflatable seat cushion device. The inflatable seat cushion device is a domed, inflatable cushion designed to replicate the benefits of an exercise ball while providing stability for prolonged office chair use. The device promotes micro-movements that engage core muscles, improve posture, and enhance sitting comfort. The device is comprised of a base that provides structural support and secures the inflatable cushion in place. The base rests on or attaches to a chair seat, preventing unintended movement. A bottom surface of the base may include a non-slip rubberized texture to minimize sliding. Additionally, a fastener may be used to secure the base without permanent modifications.

A lid is attached to the base via at least one hinge, allowing it to pivot for cushion insertion and adjustment. The lid secures to the base using a locking mechanism. The inflatable cushion assembly is comprised of an inflatable member that is preferably dome-shaped, allowing for multi-directional movement. A flange extends radially from the inflatable member's base and fits within the base for stability. A fabric cover encases the inflatable member and also includes a flange that aligns with the flange of the inflatable member within the base. When the lid is closed and locked, the flanges are secured, preventing shifting and ensuring the cover remains in place. The exterior surface of the fabric cover may include a non-slip texture made of silicone, rubberized coatings, or raised patterns to provide grip and prevent the user from sliding off.

The lid features an opening through which the inflatable member extends when inflated, allowing user engagement while maintaining structural support. The cushion assembly includes at least one inflation valve for controlled inflation and deflation, allowing for adjustments in firmness and height. The inflation valve may feature a one-way sealing mechanism to prevent air leakage and is accessible through at least one valve opening in the base for adjustments without disassembly.

When inflated, the inflatable member facilitates controlled movement in multiple directions. The degree of movement is adjustable by modifying the inflation level, allowing for customization based on seating preferences and ergonomic needs. The dynamic cushion encourages micro-adjustments in posture, promoting core engagement and reducing pressure points associated with prolonged sitting.

The device is also comprised of a method of use. First, the device, including the base, inflatable cushion assembly, lid, and inflation valve, is provided. The base is positioned onto a chair seat, with its bottom surface engaging the seat for stability. Fasteners may be used for additional security. The inflatable cushion assembly is inserted into the base, with its flange positioned within. The fabric cover is placed over the inflatable member, aligning its flange with the cushion flange. The lid is then closed and secured, ensuring the cushion assembly is held in place. Once secured, the inflatable member extends through the lid's opening when inflated. The inflatable member is then inflated via the inflation valve, which is accessed through a valve opening in the base. The inflation level is adjusted to achieve the desired height and firmness. Finally, the user sits on the inflated cushion, engaging in micro-movements that promote active sitting, core engagement, and improved posture.

Accordingly, the inflatable seat cushion device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides an inflatable, dome-shaped seat cushion that replicates the micro-movements and ergonomic benefits of an exercise ball while maintaining the necessary stability for prolonged office use. Further, the adjustable inflation mechanism allows users to customize the cushion's firmness and height to meet their individual ergonomic needs. The device can also easily be secured to an office chair, providing an effective and visually appropriate solution for workplace environments. By facilitating active sitting and promoting better posture, the inflatable seat cushion device enhances workplace ergonomics without compromising safety or aesthetics.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of an inflatable seat cushion device of the present invention while assembled in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of an inflatable seat cushion device of the present invention while assembled and attached to a chair in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective exploded view of one potential embodiment of an inflatable seat cushion device of the present invention while unassembled in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of an inflatable seat cushion device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an inflatable seat cushion device that provides the ergonomic benefits of an exercise ball while ensuring stability for office use. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an inflatable seat cushion device that can be securely integrated with standard office chairs without requiring permanent modifications. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an inflatable seat cushion device that promotes active sitting and core engagement while maintaining a professional and aesthetically appropriate appearance in workplace environments.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of an inflatable seat cushion device. The inflatable seat cushion device is a domed, inflatable cushion designed to provide the benefits of an exercise ball while ensuring stability for extended office chair use. This device promotes micro-movements that engage core muscles, enhance posture, and improve overall sitting comfort. The device is comprised of a base that offers structural support and secures the inflatable cushion in place. The base either rests on or attaches to a chair seat, preventing unintended movement. A bottom surface of the base may include a non-slip rubberized texture to reduce sliding. Additionally, a fastener may be incorporated to secure the base without requiring permanent modifications.

A lid is connected to the base via at least one hinge, allowing it to pivot for cushion insertion and adjustment. The lid secures to the base using a locking mechanism. The inflatable cushion assembly includes an inflatable member, preferably dome-shaped, enabling multi-directional movement. A flange extends radially from the base of the inflatable member and fits within the base for stability. A fabric cover encases the inflatable member and features a flange that aligns with the flange of the inflatable member within the base. When the lid is closed and locked the flanges are secured, preventing movement and ensuring the cover remains in place. The exterior surface of the fabric cover may include a non-slip texture made of silicone, rubberized coatings, or raised patterns to enhance grip and prevent the user from sliding off.

The lid features an opening that allows the inflatable member to extend when inflated. The cushion assembly includes at least one inflation valve for controlled inflation and deflation, allowing users to adjust the firmness and height as needed. The inflation valve may incorporate a one-way sealing mechanism to prevent air leakage and is accessible through at least one valve opening in the base, allowing for adjustments without requiring disassembly.

When inflated, the inflatable member enables controlled movement in multiple directions. The level of movement can be adjusted by modifying the inflation level, allowing for customization based on seating preferences and ergonomic needs. The dynamic nature of the cushion promotes micro-adjustments in posture while encouraging core engagement and reducing pressure points associated with prolonged sitting.

The device is also comprised of a method of use. First, the device, including the base, inflatable cushion assembly, lid, and inflation valve, is provided. The base is positioned onto a chair seat, with its bottom surface engaging the seat for stability. Fasteners may be used for additional security. The inflatable cushion assembly is inserted into the base, aligning its flange within the base. The fabric cover is then placed over the inflatable member, ensuring its flange aligns with the cushion flange. The lid is closed and secured, holding the cushion assembly in place. Once secured, the inflatable member extends through the lid's opening when inflated. The inflatable member is then inflated via the inflation valve, accessed through a valve opening in the base. The inflation level is adjusted to achieve the desired height and firmness. Finally, the user sits on the inflated cushion, engaging in micro-movements that encourage active sitting, core engagement, and improved posture.

As a result, the inflatable seat cushion device provides a dome-shaped, inflatable seating solution that replicates the ergonomic benefits and micro-movements of an exercise ball while maintaining stability for extended office use. The adjustable inflation mechanism allows users to customize firmness and height based on individual ergonomic needs. The device can be easily secured to an office chair, offering an effective and aesthetically appropriate solution for workplace environments. By promoting active sitting and improving posture, the inflatable seat cushion device enhances workplace ergonomics while maintaining safety and visual appeal.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of an inflatable seat cushion device 100 of the present invention while assembled in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The inflatable seat cushion device 100 is a domed, inflatable seat cushion designed to replicate the dynamic engagement benefits of sitting on an exercise ball while maintaining stability suitable for prolonged office use with office chairs. Furthermore, the device 100 promotes micro-movements that engage core muscles, improve posture, and enhance overall sitting comfort, making it a beneficial addition to ergonomic office furniture.

The device 100 is comprised of a base 102 that provides structural support and secures the inflatable cushion 120 in place. The base 102 is configured to rest on and/or be attached to a chair seat 10 (as seen in FIG. 2) and prevent unintended movement during use. More specifically, in one embodiment a bottom surface 104 of the base 102 is comprised of a non-slip rubberized texture 105 that increases friction between the base 102 and the chair seat 10, thereby minimizing sliding and maintaining stability. The non-slip rubberized texture 105 may be comprised of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), silicone rubber, polyurethane, or natural rubber. Alternatively or additionally, the base 102 may be comprised of at least one fastener 106, such as, but not limited to, a clip, a clamp, a strap, a band, or a hook-and-loop attachment to provide a connection between the base 102 and the chair seat 10 without requiring permanent modifications, as seen in FIG. 2.

The base 102 may further be comprised of at least one handle 107 to facilitate transport and repositioning of the device 100. The handle 107 may be foldable, retractable, or recessed within the base 102 to ensure a compact profile when not in use. In some embodiments, the handle 107 is integrated into the structure of the base 102 as a molded grip or an ergonomic recess, allowing for easy lifting and carrying.

The base 102 is further comprised of a lid 110 that attaches to the base 102 via at least one hinge 108. The hinge 108 allows the lid 110 to pivot between an open position for cushion 120 insertion and adjustment and a closed position for securing the cushion 120. The lid 110 is secured to the base 102 via at least one locking mechanism 112, such as, but not limited to, a clip, a clasp, a latch, or a magnetic fastener.

The base 102 is configured to receive at least one inflatable cushion assembly 120. The cushion 120 is comprised of an inflatable member 122, which is preferably dome-shaped to allow for multi-directional movement when seated. The inflatable member 122 may be comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), latex, or a multi-layered elastomeric material. These materials provide flexibility, puncture resistance, and air retention. The inflatable member 122 is attached to a flange 124 (as seen in FIG> 3) that extends radially outward from the base of the member 122, wherein the flange 124 fits within the base 102.

The cushion assembly 120 is further comprised of a fabric cover 130 that encases the inflatable member 122. The cover 130 may be comprised of a breathable, stretchable material such as polyester, spandex, nylon, or a blend of cotton and elastane. These materials provide softness, moisture-wicking properties, and resistance to wear. The cover 130 is comprised of a flange 132 (as seen in FIG. 3) that is positioned atop the flange 124 of the cushion member 122 within the base 102. The lid 110, when closed and locked to the base 102 (as seen in FIG. 1), then holds the flanges 124, 132 in place, thus preventing shifting of the cushion 120 during use and providing a mechanism that secures the cover 130 around the cushion 120 and within the base 102.

The fabric cover 130 may be further comprised of an exterior surface 134 comprised of a non-slip texture 136 that provides additional grip to prevent a user from sliding off the device 100 during use. The non-slip texture 136 may be comprised of silicone, rubberized coatings, raised patterns, etc. The non-slip texture 136 ensures that the user maintains stability while engaging in micro-movements on the cushion 120.

The lid 110 is further comprised of at least one opening 111 (as seen in FIG. 3), through which the inflatable member 122 extends when inflated. The opening 111 allows the user to engage with the cushion 120 while maintaining the structural support provided by the base 102.

The cushion 120 is also comprised of at least one inflation valve 140, which allows for controlled inflation and deflation of the inflatable member 122. The inflation valve 140 enables users to adjust the firmness and height of the cushion 120 to suit individual preferences. The inflation valve 140 may be comprised of a one-way scaling mechanism 141 to prevent air leakage. Additionally, the inflation valve 140 is positioned for accessibility through at least one valve opening 142 in the base 102. The valve opening 142 ensures that users can adjust the inflation level without the need to remove the lid 110 or disassemble the device 100.

When inflated, the inflatable member 122 provides an active sitting experience by allowing for controlled movement in multiple directions. The degree of movement is adjustable based on the inflation level, enabling customization to accommodate different seating styles and ergonomic needs. The dynamic nature of the cushion 120 encourages micro-adjustments in posture, promoting core engagement and reducing pressure points associated with prolonged sitting.

The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 4. First, a device 100 is provided, wherein the device 100 is comprised of a base 102, at least one inflatable cushion assembly 120, at least one lid 110, and at least one inflation valve 140 [Step 202]. Then, the base 102 is positioned onto a chair seat 10, wherein a bottom surface 104 of the base 102 engages the chair seat 10 to provide stability. In one embodiment, at least one fastener 106 may be used to secure the base 102 to the chair seat 10 [Step 204]. Next, the inflatable cushion assembly 120 is inserted into the base 102, wherein a flange 124 of the cushion 120 is positioned within the base 102. A fabric cover 130 is then placed over the inflatable member 122, wherein a flange 132 of the cover 130 is aligned atop the flange 124 of the cushion 120 [Step 206]. Then, the lid 110 is closed and secured to the base 102 via at least one locking mechanism 112, thereby securing the cushion assembly 120 within the base 102. Once secured, the inflatable member 122 extends through at least one opening 111 in the lid 110 when inflated [Step 208]. Next, the inflatable member 122 is inflated via the inflation valve 140, which is accessed through at least one valve opening 142 in the base 102, wherein the inflation level of the inflatable member 122 is adjusted to achieve a desired height and firmness based on user preference [Step 210]. Finally, a user sits on the inflatable member 122, wherein the inflatable member 122 facilitates micro-movements, promoting active sitting, core engagement, and improved posture [Step 212].

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “inflatable seat cushion device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the inflatable seat cushion device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the inflatable seat cushion device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the inflatable seat cushion device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the inflatable seat cushion device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the inflatable seat cushion device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the inflatable seat cushion device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.