Acoustic Chair

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 63/704,327, filed Oct. 7, 2024. U.S. Provisional Application 63/704,327 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to chairs including an acoustic chair with acoustic or visual barrier features that can improve sound control in shared workspaces. In particular, the acoustic chair includes a structural configuration and materials that can better control the transmission of sound.

BACKGROUND

Modern workplaces may feature open floor plans which place many desks within shared environments. While some floor plans include partitions between adjacent desks, others do not have barriers. This lack of physical separation can limit privacy between individual workspaces, which, in turn, may reduce productivity.

Shared workspaces can also be noisy. For example, significant sources of noise may include coworkers engaged in conversation, telephones ringing, music, and other ambient sounds that result from office activities. This persistent background noise can be distracting, making it difficult for some workers to concentrate and limiting overall productivity.

The issue is compounded by the ubiquity of modern communications. With frequent calls and video conferences, workers may generate significant noise in the shared space. To avoid disturbing colleagues, workers may relocate to conference spaces for these conversations. However, these dedicated rooms may be in limited supply or in high demand. Consequently, using valuable meeting and conference space for routine calls can occupy space that may be more appropriate for larger group collaborations. As such, the open office model may present acoustic challenges for workers.

SUMMARY

Aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or can be learned from the description, or can be learned through practice of the embodiments.

One example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an acoustic chair. The acoustic chair can comprise a base and a seat mounted to the base. The acoustic chair can comprise a backrest that is mounted to the seat and comprises a carriage that is moveable along one or more tracks that are mounted to the backrest and extend substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the backrest. The acoustic chair can comprise a positionable member mounted to the carriage. The positionable member can comprise a first wing and a second wing. The first wing is on an opposite end of the positionable member from the second wing. The positionable member can be moveable along the one or more tracks between a lowered configuration proximate the seat, a raised configuration proximate an upper backrest portion of the backrest that is at an opposite end of the backrest from the seat, and one or more intermediate configurations between the lowered configuration and the raised configuration. The acoustic chair can comprise one or more speakers disposed in at least the first wing and/or the second wing.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of various embodiments of the present disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate example embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the related principles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Detailed discussion of embodiments directed to one of ordinary skill in the art is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a side perspective view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 depicts a side perspective view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 depicts a front view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 depicts a front view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 depicts a side view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 depicts a side view of an acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 depicts a rear view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 depicts a rear view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 depicts a top plan view of a positionable member of an acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

Reference numerals that are repeated across plural figures are intended to identify the same features in various implementations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the embodiments, not limitation of the present disclosure. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that aspects of the present disclosure cover such modifications and variations.

As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”).

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, is applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a ten percent (10%) margin.

Though the terms “system,” “component,” and “device” are used to describe the disclosed technology, other embodiments and/or types of structures can be used. For example, the disclosed technology can be embodied as an assembly, an apparatus, or other form. Further, the structures described herein can be used as part of a method of making and/or using the disclosed technology.

In general, the present disclosure is directed to an acoustic chair that may include a positionable member that acts as an adjustable visual and acoustic barrier that includes speakers that reduce the volume of sound that is transmitted proximate to the chair (e.g., within a 6-foot radius of the chair).

As described herein, the acoustic chair is a versatile technology that is configured to control the transmission of sound in a variety of environments. Each component of the acoustic chair can contribute to creating a more focused and protected environment for virtual meetings, video conferences, presentations, and other activities that may benefit from greater privacy. The acoustic chair integrates a positionable member that can be adjusted to suit users that have a range of heights (e.g., heights ranging from 130 centimeters to 200 centimeters). Additionally, the positionable member can include sound blocking or sound absorbing materials that can control the transmission of sound that emanates from speakers (e.g., one or more loudspeakers, one or more tweeters, one or more woofers, and/or one or more subwoofers) of the acoustic chair. The positionable member of the acoustic chair can also be positioned to improve the alignment of speakers and microphones with respect to a user of the acoustic chair. Further, the acoustic chair has a unified design that has improved stability. The distribution of weight in the acoustic chair allows for the positionable member to be moved with less risk of toppling the acoustic chair. Additionally, the acoustic chair can interface with a variety of devices including secondary computing devices (e.g., smartphones, laptop computing devices, smartwatches, tablet computing devices) that can interface with a primary computing device of the acoustic chair to provide audio signals to the acoustic chair. Through seamless integration of these components, the acoustic chair can improve communication and collaboration.

With reference to the figures, an acoustic chair 100 will be described in accordance with example aspects of the present subject matter. As discussed in greater detail below, acoustic chair 100 may include features for reducing the transmission of sound and improving the privacy of hybrid collaboration in a shared workspace. The acoustic chair 100 may define a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T. The vertical direction V, the lateral direction L, and the transverse direction T may be mutually perpendicular and form an orthogonal direction system.

With reference to FIGS. 1-9, an acoustic chair 100 may comprise a base 102, a seat 104, a backrest 106, one or more tracks 108, a carriage 110, a positionable member 112, a first wing 114, a second wing 116, one or more speakers 118, one or more microphones 120, one or more cables 122, a first armrest 124, a second armrest 126, a computing device 128, a control unit 129, and/or one or more wheels 130.

FIGS. 1 and 2 depict side perspective views of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. The base 102 can be used as a support (e.g., a primary structural support) for other components of the acoustic chair 100.

The base 102 can comprise one or more legs (e.g., one or more radially extending legs). For example, as shown in FIG. 1, one or more legs of the base 102 can extend radially and downwards (e.g., downwards to a floor). Further, the one or more legs (e.g., one or more radially extending legs) of the base 102 can comprise one or more wheels 130. The one or more wheels 130 of the one or more legs of the base 102 can be used to position the acoustic chair 100 when in use or to facilitate the transportation of the acoustic chair 100 between different locations. For example, a user seated in the acoustic chair can move the acoustic chair 100 from one location at a desk to a different location at the desk. Further, the one or more wheels 130 of the acoustic chair 100 can be used to roll the acoustic chair 100 from one part of an office to another part of the office. The one or more wheels 130 can be constructed from materials including metal, rubber, and/or polyurethane. Further, the one or more wheels 130 can include one or more locking mechanisms to prevent the acoustic chair 100 from rolling.

As depicted in FIG. 1, the base 102 can be embodied as a four-legged base, with four legs extending radially outward from a central column. This design distributes the weight of the chair across the legs, which can improve stability and prevent tipping, particularly when the user reclines, moves, or moves the positionable member 112 to the raised configuration or one of the one or more intermediate configurations. Each leg of the base 102 can terminate in the one or more wheels 130, which provides mobility, allowing the user to easily move the chair within a workspace. The one or more wheels 130 can be physically coupled to the ends of the legs (e.g., coupled using a pin or stem that inserts into a socket, allowing for both rolling and swiveling motion). In some embodiments, the base 102 can be a sled base with two continuous runners, a fixed four-legged base for stationary applications, or a circular pedestal base.

The base 102 can be configured to support the seat 104, the backrest 106, the positionable member 112, and other components which can include the one or more speakers 118. The base 102 can be configured to provide stability and appropriate positioning of other components of the acoustic chair 100. For example, the base 102 can be configured to be lowered and/or raised. Further, the base 102 can be constructed from materials which can include steel, aluminum, wood, plastic, and/or reinforced composites to provide strength and/or stability. The base 102 can vary in height and design depending on the specific application and/or user preferences. The base 102 may also incorporate adjustable features to accommodate different user heights and preferences.

The base 102 can be configured to prevent the acoustic chair 100 from toppling. For example, the base 102 can have a mass that is greater than the combined mass of the other components of the acoustic chair 100 including the backrest 106, positionable member 112, one or more speakers 118, the one or more microphones 120, one or more cables 122, a first armrest 124, a second armrest 126, the computing device 128, and/or the control unit 129. Further, the legs of the base 102 can be configured to provide a more stable platform for the other components of the acoustic chair 100.

The seat 104, which can provide a surface for a user to sit on, can be mounted to the base 102. The physical connection between the seat 104 and the base 102 can include a mechanism for height adjustment and swiveling. This mechanism, which may be housed within the central column of the base 102, may include a gas lift cylinder. The seat 104 can comprise a structural pan, cushioning, and an upholstery layer. The seat 104 and/or the backrest 106 can comprise a hard surface (e.g., a metal, plastic, and/or wooden surface) or a cushioned surface that can comprise one or more portions of padding. For example, the seat 104 can include a foam cushion and/or a gel cushion. Further, the seat 104 can be covered in a material including a fabric (e.g., cotton, polyester, nylon, silk, and/or linen), polyurethane, rubber, and/or plastic.

A backrest 106 can be mounted to the seat 104 and/or the base 102. For example, the backrest can be affixed and/or attached to the seat 104 by one or more screws, glue, nails, and/or bolts. The backrest 106 can extend vertically from the seat 104 and is ergonomically shaped to support the natural curvature of the spine. It can be divided into a lower backrest portion proximate the seat 104, which provides lumbar support, and an upper backrest portion 107 shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the backrest 106 can be selectively movable. For example, the backrest 106 can be configured to recline or incline.

The backrest 106 can include a support structure, which may be internal or external, providing the primary support. For example, FIG. 9 shows a support structure 140 that may provide structural support for the backrest 106 and/or the positionable member 112. Further, the support structure 140 may also include a hollow interior through which the one or more cables 122 and other components of the acoustic chair 100 may be routed and/or contained.

Further, the backrest 106 can comprise a carriage 110. The carriage 110 can be moveable along one or more tracks 108. The one or more tracks 108 can be mounted to the backrest 106. Further, the one or more tracks 108 can extend substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the backrest. For example, when the acoustic chair is positioned in a substantially vertical configuration with the base 102 proximate a floor and the upper backrest portion 107 at an opposite end from the base 102, the carriage 110 can be moved in a substantially vertical direction from a lowered configuration proximate the seat 104 to one or more intermediate positions or a raised configuration proximate the upper backrest portion 107. In some embodiments, the one or more tracks 108 can comprise one or more rails, one or more channels, one or more guiderails, one or more lanes, and/or one or more paths.

A positionable member 112 can be mounted to the carriage 110. Further, the positionable member 112 can comprise one or more wings. In some embodiments, the positionable member 112 can comprise a first wing 114 and/or a second wing 116. The first wing 114 and the second wing 116 can be substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the backrest 106. For example, a longitudinal axis of the first wing 114 and the second wing 116 can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the backrest 106. Further, the first wing 114 can be on an opposite end of the positionable member 112 from the second wing 116. In some embodiments, a shape, volume, and/or dimensions (e.g. length, width, depth) of the first wing of the acoustic chair are substantially similar to a shape, volume, and/or dimensions of the second wing of the acoustic chair. For example, the first wing 114 can have a volume that is within 5% of the volume of the second wing 116, a length that is within 5% of the length of the second wing 116, a width that is within 5% of the width of the second wing 116, and a depth that is within 5% of the depth of the wing 116. Further, if the first wing 114 is substantially rectangular, the second wing 116 can also be substantially rectangular.

The positionable member 112 can be moveable along the one or more tracks 108 between a lowered configuration proximate the seat 104, a raised configuration proximate an upper backrest portion of the backrest 106 that is at an opposite end of the backrest 106 from the seat 104, and one or more intermediate configurations between the lowered configuration and the raised configuration. In some embodiments, the raised configuration the positionable member 112 can be at upper backrest portion 107 of the backrest 106 that is a fully extended position of the positionable member 112. In some embodiments, the lowered configuration the positionable member 112 can be at a bottom backrest portion of the backrest 106 or the one or more tracks 108 (e.g., a portion of the backrest 106 or the one or more tracks 108 that is proximate the seat 104) that is a fully retracted position of the positionable member 112. Further, in some embodiments, the one or more intermediate positions of the positionable member 112 can be at any position along the one or more tracks 108 that is between the seat 104 and the upper backrest portion 107 (e.g., 50-100% of the length of the backrest 106 from the lowered configuration to the raised configuration). In some embodiments, the positionable member 112 can be attached directly to the one or more tracks 108 and configured to move along the one or more tracks 108.

The backrest 106 can comprise a constant force spring system 109 as shown in FIG. 2. The constant force spring system 109 can be configured to maintain the positionable member 112 in a plurality of configurations including the lowered configuration, the raised configuration, and one or more intermediate configurations.

The positionable member 112 can provide a visual barrier and/or acoustic barrier for a user seated in the acoustic chair 100. For example, the positionable member 112 can be configured to partially block the field of view of a user seated in the acoustic chair 100. In some embodiments, the positionable member 112 can be configured to limit the field of view of a user seated in the acoustic chair 100 to a range between 100 degrees and 120 degrees.

The positionable member 112 can be mounted to the backrest 106 via the carriage 110. The carriage 110 can be configured to slide vertically along the one or more tracks 108 integrated into the backrest 106. This arrangement allows the positionable member 112 to be moved between a lowered configuration, proximate the seat 104, and a raised configuration proximate the upper backrest portion 107, where the positionable member 112 can partially enclose the user's head.

In some embodiments, the positionable member 112 is substantially U-shaped, comprising a central portion that couples with the carriage 110. Further, the positionable member can comprise a first wing 114 and a second wing 116 that extend forward on either side of the acoustic chair 100. In some embodiments, the first wing 114 can comprise a first portion that is substantially parallel to the backrest 106 and a second portion that is substantially perpendicular to the backrest 106. Further, the second wing 114 can comprise a first portion that is substantially parallel to the backrest 106 and a second portion that is substantially perpendicular to the backrest 106. The first portion of the first wing 114 can be adjacent to the first portion of the second wing 116.

In some examples, the positionable member 112 can be configured to engage the backrest 106 such that there is substantially no gap between adjacent surfaces of the positionable member 112 and the backrest 106 (e.g., a gap of less than 4 millimeters between adjacent surfaces of the positionable member 112 and the backrest 106). In some embodiments, adjacent surfaces of the positionable member 112 and the backrest 106 are in contact.

In some embodiments, the positionable member 112 can be selectively movable by at least 30 centimeters between the lowered configuration and the raised configuration. For example, the positionable member 112 can be raised 30 centimeters from an initial position proximate the seat 104 to a raised configuration proximate the upper backrest portion 107.

The first wing 114 is positioned on the first (left) side of the chair, and the second wing 116 is on the second (right) side. The first wing 114 and the second wing 116 are configured to flank the user's head when the positionable member 112 is in a raised configuration or one of the one or more intermediate configurations, creating a personal acoustic zone. The positionable member 112 can assist in blocking external ambient noise from reaching the user and can also better contain audio transmitted from the one or more speakers 118 and/or sound (e.g., speech) produced by a user seated in the acoustic chair 100, thereby increasing the user's privacy and reducing the transmission of sound to nearby colleagues. The first wing 114 and the second wing 116 are integral to the positionable member 112 and can form a rigid or semi-rigid component. The internal structure of the positionable member 112 can be configured to have a mass that can be easily moved by a user and is acoustically effective. The positionable member 112 may comprise a portion of the support structure 140. The support structure 140 can be made from molded polymer and can be filled with sound-absorbing and/or sound blocking materials (e.g., materials like open-cell foam, mineral wool, or specialized acoustic felt). In some embodiments, the positionable member 112 can be covered in a fabric material (e.g., cotton, polyester, nylon, silk, and/or linen).

The transition from the lowered configuration (shown in FIG. 2) to the raised configuration shown in FIG. 1 is facilitated by the carriage 110, which slides vertically along one or more tracks 108 within the backrest 106. Movement of the positionable member 112 can be performed manually (e.g., a user physically lifting the positionable member 112 until it locks into a preferred position) or it can be performed automatically via a positionable member motor unit (e.g., a motor that is configured to move the positionable member 112 along the one or more tracks 108) that is controlled by the control unit 129.

With the positionable member 112 in the raised configuration or one of the one or more intermediate configurations, the one or more speakers 118 can be brought into alignment with a user's ears when the user is seated in the acoustic chair 100. FIGS. 1 and 2 show that the one or more speakers 118 are embedded within the inner faces of the first wing 114 and the second wing 116. This arrangement can facilitate the creation of a stereo soundscape. The sound is directed inward towards the user, allowing for clearer audio, which may further reduce sound leakage into the surrounding workspace. The acoustic performance can be further enhanced by the shape of the wings, which can be contoured to reflect and/or absorb sound waves in a controlled manner, thereby improving clarity for both media consumption and communication.

The one or more microphones 120, which may be integrated into the positionable member 112, can be moved to a more effective position in the raised configuration or one of the one or more intermediate configurations. Positioned on the inner edge of one or both wings, the one or more microphones 120 can be brought closer to the user's mouth in the raised configuration or one of the one or more intermediate configurations, improving voice pickup. This proximity allows for the implementation of advanced audio processing techniques, such as beamforming, where the microphone array can electronically focus on the user's voice while rejecting sounds from other directions. This ensures that the user's voice is transmitted clearly during calls and video conferences, free from the distracting background noise of a busy office. In some embodiments, the one or more microphones can be configured to implement one or more noise suppression and/or noise cancellation techniques.

The one or more speakers 118 can be disposed in at least the first wing 114 and/or the second wing 116. The one or more speakers 118 can be positioned to create an immersive audio experience for the user. In some embodiments, at least one speaker of the one or more speakers 118 is disposed in the first wing 114 and another speaker of the one or more speakers 118 is disposed in the second wing 116, creating a stereo sound field. Further, the one or more speakers 118 can be positioned so that the sound transmitted by a speaker in the first wing 114 is directed towards the second wing 116 and the sound transmitted by the one or more speakers 118 in the second wing 116 is directed to the first wing 114. In this configuration, the sound transmitted by the one or more speakers 118 in the first wing 114 is blocked and/or absorbed by the second wing 116 and the sound transmitted by the second wing 116 is blocked and/or absorbed by the first wing 114.

The one or more speakers 118 can be physically secured within cavities inside the wings and are oriented to direct sound towards the ears of a user seated in the acoustic chair 100. The one or more cables 122 (e.g., cables that include wiring for the one or more speakers 118 and/or the one or more microphones 120), can be routed internally through the positionable member 112, through the carriage 110, and down through the backrest 106, thereby concealing the one or more cables 122 from view and preventing the one or more cables 122 from snagging. The one or more speakers 118 can comprise drivers, ranging from full-range speakers to multi-driver systems with separate tweeters and/or woofers. In some embodiments, the one or more speakers 118 can be configured to receive signals wirelessly (e.g., the one or more speakers 118 can be configured to receive audio data via the Bluetooth wireless protocol).

Further, the acoustic chair 100 can comprise a computing device 128. The computing device 128 can be used to control the one or more speakers 118 and/or the one or more microphones 120. The computing device 128 can comprise an audio input that can be used to receive audio from an audio source (e.g., a smartphone or a laptop computing device). For example, a user of the acoustic chair 100 can connect a laptop computing device that is executing a videoconference to the computing device 128 and output audio from a videoconference call through the one or more speakers 118 and detect audio (e.g., the user speaking) through the one or more microphones 120. Further, the computing device 128 can be configured to manage audio functions (e.g., volume control of the one or more speakers 118).

FIGS. 1 and 2 also show the control unit 129 of the acoustic chair 100. In some embodiments, the control unit 129 can comprise controls that can be used to adjust the positionable member 112 For example, the control unit can comprise controls (e.g., up and down buttons) that can be used to extend and/or retract the positionable member 112. Further, the control unit 129 can comprise and/or control a motor that is used to control movement of the positionable member 112 along the one or more tracks 108.

The acoustic chair 100 can comprise one or more armrests. As depicted in FIG. 1, the acoustic chair 100 includes a first armrest 124 on the left side and a second armrest 126 on the right side. The first armrest 124 and/or the second armrest 126 can be mounted to the underside of the seat 104 or to the backrest 106. In some embodiments, the first armrest 124 and/or the first armrest 126 can be adjustable, allowing for changes in height, width, and/or angle to suit different body types and postures. In the lowered configuration, the positionable member's wing 114 and wing 116 may align horizontally with the first armrest 124 and the second armrest 126.

The backrest 106 also provides structural support for the acoustic chair 100. The backrest 106 can comprise a portion of the support structure (e.g., the support structure 140) which can be configured to be robust enough to support a user's weight as well as the weight of the positionable member 112 and the forces exerted during its movement and use. The one or more cables 122 that supply power and data to the one or more speakers 118 and/or the one or more microphones 120 are routed internally, running from the computing device 128 (housed in the base 102 or under the seat 104) up through the structure of the backrest 106, into the carriage 110, and finally into the positionable member 112. These concealed cables can improve the safety and/or durability of the acoustic chair when the positionable member 112 is in its raised configuration, lowered configuration, and/or one or more intermediate configurations.

FIGS. 3 and 4 depict front views of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 depicts a front view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 depicts a front view of the example acoustic chair 100, showing the positionable member 112 in a raised configuration. This view is the functional counterpart to FIG. 4, which shows the positionable member 112 in the lowered configuration. Raising the positionable member 112 along the backrest 106, the acoustic chair 100 can be transformed from a standard office chair into a personal, focused workspace. FIG. 3 shows the user-facing elements and the spatial enclosure created by the first wing 114 and second wing 116 of the positionable member 112.

In the raised configuration or one of the one or more intermediate configurations, the positionable member 112 can be elevated to a position where the positionable member 112 flanks the head of a user seated in the acoustic chair 100. The first wing 114 and second wing 116 extend forward, creating a partial enclosure that defines the user's personal acoustic zone. The one or more speakers 118, disposed within the inner faces of the first wing 114 and the second wing 116, can be positioned substantially parallel to the ears of a user seated in the acoustic chair 100 and at a height that is within 5 centimeters of the height of the ears of a user seated in the acoustic chair 100.

Further, the one or more microphones 120 can be positioned at the level of a user's mouth or within 15 centimeters of a seated user's mouth. This positioning of the one or more microphones 120 can allow for an immersive, near-field audio experience, directing sound towards the user while minimizing sound leakage into the surrounding environment. Further, this configuration allows for clear communication and media consumption without the need for headphones. The configuration shown in FIG. 3 brings the one or more microphones 120 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) into an improved position for voice capture. By being closer to the user's mouth, the one or more microphones 120 can achieve a higher signal-to-noise ratio, which can result in clearer communication in noisy open-plan offices.

Further, the first wing 114 and the second wing 116 can act as blinders, blocking peripheral distractions and helping the user to maintain focus on the task at hand. The interior surfaces of the wings, which face the user, can include acoustically absorbent materials to further reduce reverberation and enhance sound clarity for a user.

FIG. 4 depicts a front view of the example acoustic chair 100, showing the positionable member 112 in its lowered configuration. In the lowered configuration, the acoustic chair 100 provides a streamlined and unobtrusive profile, suitable for general tasks and open collaboration. In FIG. 4, the positionable member 112 is retracted down along the backrest 106, with its first wing 114 and second wing 116 positioned in substantial horizontal alignment with the first armrest 124 and second armrest 126, respectively. This alignment creates a cohesive and integrated appearance, where the acoustic features are discreetly stowed.

The distance between the inner surfaces of the first wing 114 and the second wing 116 can define the personal space that will enclose a user of the acoustic chair 100 when the positionable member 112 is in the raised configuration. This distance is configured to have a width that can accommodate a range of users (e.g., users with a width between shoulder blades of less than 62 centimeters) without constricting a user's movement and narrow enough (e.g., a distance of less than 62 centimeters between the shoulder blades of a user) to reduce the transmission of sound from the one or more speakers 118 and/or the user's speech. In some embodiments, the distance between the first wing 114 and the second wing 116 is in a range between 52 centimeters and 62 centimeters.

FIG. 5 depicts a side view of an acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 depicts a side view of the example acoustic chair 100, showing the positionable member 112 in a raised configuration. FIG. 5 serves as a functional counterpart to FIG. 6. FIG. 5 shows the positionable member 112 elevated along the one or more tracks 108 integrated into the backrest 106. The first wing 114 is shown in profile, now positioned higher than the first armrest 124. For example, the first wing 114 can be elevated to align with the head of a user seated in the acoustic chair 100 and operate as an acoustic and visual barrier.

FIG. 6 depicts a side view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 depicts a side view of the example acoustic chair 100, showing the positionable member 112 in its lowered configuration.

In the lowered configuration of the positionable member 112, the first wing 114 can be substantially aligned with the first armrest 124. For example, a top portion of the first wing 114 can be within 1 centimeter of a top portion of the first armrest 124. In the lowered configuration, the acoustic chair 100 can be used as a standard office chair and offer a user of the acoustic chair 100 an unobstructed view of the surrounding environment.

FIG. 7 depicts a rear view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 depicts a rear view of the example acoustic chair 100, showing the positionable member 112 in a raised configuration. This view is the direct counterpart to FIG. 8. In a raised configuration, the positionable member 112 is elevated to the upper backrest portion 107 of the backrest 106. This view shows the vertical distance the carriage 110 has traveled up the one or more tracks 108 from its lowered configuration shown in FIG. 8. The positionable member 112 is now positioned to align with the head of a seated user, with its first wing 114 and second wing 116 flanking the upper part of the backrest 106.

Further, FIG. 7 shows the mechanical and electrical integration in the raised configuration. The one or more cables 122 are shown extended along the rear of the backrest 106, following the path of the carriage 110 along the one or more tracks to maintain a continuous connection to the one or more speakers 118 and/or the one or more microphones 120. Further, the backrest 106 can include the support structure 140 which can provide structural support for the backrest 106. In some embodiments, the support structure 140 can provide a platform or channel for the one or more cables 122, wiring, and/or other components of the acoustic chair 100. The clean routing of the one or more cables 122, even when fully extended, can improve operational reliability as well as reducing tangling and clutter. The base 102 of the acoustic chair 100 provides a stable foundation which may be more heavily weighted than other components of the acoustic chair and have legs that extend radially to reduce the risk of the acoustic chair 100 toppling. As such, the base 102 is configured to better support the shifted center of gravity of the positionable member 112. In some embodiments, the one or more cables 122 can be connected to the control unit 129 which can control a motor that is used to raise the positionable member 112 to the raised configuration shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 8 depicts a rear view of an example acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 depicts a rear view of the example acoustic chair 100 with the positionable member 112 in its lowered configuration. In the lowered configuration, the positionable member 112 is fully retracted, resting against the lower portion of the backrest 106. FIG. 8 shows the flush fit between the central portion of the positionable member 112 and the rear surface of the backrest 106, emphasizing the integrated design. The first wing 114 and the second wing 116 are seen extending laterally from the central mounting point on the carriage 110. The outer surfaces of the wing 114 and/or the wing 116 can be configured to absorb ambient noise from the surrounding environment. For example, the first wing 114 and/or the second wing 116 can include sound blocking and/or sound absorbing material.

From this rear view, the path the positionable member 112 travels along the one or more tracks 108 is visible. The one or more tracks 108 on the backrest 106, along which the carriage 110 moves, are clearly delineated. This view also shows the discreet routing of the one or more cables 122, which extend through the support structure 140 of the backrest 106 from the carriage 110 towards the computing device 128 which can be configured to receive a variety of inputs and/or outputs. For example, the computing device 128 can receive data inputs from a computing device that can provide audio that can be outputted via the one or more speakers 118. Further, the computing device 128 can send data from the one or more microphones 120 to a connected computing device. In some embodiments, the one or more cables 122 can be connected to the control unit 129 which can control a motor that is used to raise and/or lower the positionable member 112.

FIG. 9 depicts a top plan view of a positionable member of an acoustic chair according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 shows the thickness of the first wing 114 and the second wing 116. The thickness of the first wing 114 and the second wing 116 is used to house acoustic materials including sound absorbing materials and/or sound blocking materials. For example, the first wing 114 and/or the second wing 116 can include sound-absorbing foam and sound-blocking layers, as well as the electronic components of the one or more speakers 118, the one or more microphones 120, and the one or more cables 122. In some embodiments, the positionable member 112 can comprise sound absorbing material 142 that has a noise reduction coefficient in a range between 0.6-0.8. Further, the positionable member 112 can comprise sound blocking material 144 that has a sound transmission class in a range between 25 and 30. In some embodiments, the positionable member 112 can comprise a support structure 140 that can be used to contain the one or more cables 122 and/or other electronic components.

One example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an acoustic chair. The acoustic chair comprises a base and a seat mounted to the base. The acoustic chair comprises a backrest that is mounted to the seat and comprises a carriage that is moveable along one or more tracks that are mounted to the backrest and extend substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the backrest. The acoustic chair comprises a positionable member mounted to the carriage. The positionable member comprises a first wing and a second wing. The first wing is on an opposite end of the positionable member from the second wing. The positionable member is moveable along the one or more tracks between a lowered configuration proximate the seat, a raised configuration proximate an upper backrest portion of the backrest that is at an opposite end of the backrest from the seat, and one or more intermediate configurations between the lowered configuration and the raised configuration. The acoustic chair comprises one or more speakers disposed in at least the first wing or the second wing.

In some examples, the acoustic chair comprises a first armrest and a second armrest. Further, the positionable member in the lowered configuration is substantially aligned with the first armrest and the second armrest.

In some examples, the first wing is substantially parallel to the first armrest. Further, the second wing is substantially parallel to the second armrest.

In some examples, the positionable member is moveable by at least 30 centimeters between the lowered configuration and the raised configuration.

In some examples, the one or more speakers are at least 20 centimeters from the carriage.

In some examples, the one or more speakers are at least 15 centimeters from outer edges of the first wing and/or the second wing.

In some examples, the acoustic chair comprises a computing device that is connected to the one or more speakers by one or more cables. The computing device is configured to control the one or more speakers. Further, the one or more cables are disposed within the backrest.

In some examples, the positionable member is configured to engage the backrest such that there is substantially no gap between adjacent surfaces of the positionable member and the backrest.

In some examples, the acoustic chair comprises a positionable member motor unit that is operable to selectively move the positionable member between the lowered configuration, the one or more intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.

In some examples, the positionable member comprises a sound absorbing material and/or a sound blocking material.

In some examples, a first portion of the sound absorbing material that is on an exterior surface of the positionable member that is proximate the backrest has a noise reduction coefficient of at least 0.9.

In some examples, a second portion of the sound absorbing material is mounted on exterior surfaces of the first wing and the second wing. Further, the second portion of the sound absorbing material has a noise reduction coefficient of at least 0.7.

In some examples, a first portion of the sound blocking material is disposed within the first wing and the second wing. Further, the first portion of the sound blocking material has a sound transmission class of at least 25.

In some examples, a distance between the first wing and the second wing is in a range between 52 centimeters and 62 centimeters.

In some examples, the positionable member is substantially U-shaped.

In some examples, at least one speaker of the one or more speakers is disposed in the first wing. Further, at least one speaker of the one or more speakers is disposed in the second wing.

In some examples, the one or more speakers disposed in the first wing are oriented towards the second wing. Further, the one or more speakers disposed in the second wing are oriented towards the first wing.

In some examples, one or more microphones of the acoustic chair are disposed in at least one of the first wing of the acoustic chair or the second wing of the acoustic chair.

In some examples, the first wing and the second wing comprise inner edges that are proximate the carriage of the acoustic chair. Further, the first wing and the second wing comprise outer edges that are on opposite ends from the inner edges. The one or more speakers of the acoustic chair in the first wing or the second wing are at least 15 centimeters from the outer edges of the first wing or the second wing respectively.

In some examples, the first wing of the acoustic chair and the second wing of the acoustic chair have a length of at least 35 centimeters.

In some examples, the first wing and the second wing are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the backrest.

The disclosed technology provides a variety of technical effects and benefits related to sound control, user comfort, and system integration. The acoustic chair is configured to control sound transmission and attenuate ambient noise within a variety of environments. By incorporating sound absorbing and/or sound blocking materials into its components, the chair is able to reduce sound that might distract nearby individuals. This creates a more focused and confidential acoustic bubble for virtual meetings, video conferences, and other activities that benefit from greater privacy.

Further, the integrated positionable member offers significant user-centric technical effects. Its adjustable design accommodates users of varying heights, resulting in improved positioning for comfort and acoustic performance. The sound blocking and sound absorbing materials within the positionable member also serve to control external sounds transmitted from the surrounding environment as well as controlling sound emanating from the acoustic chair's speakers, thereby improving audio clarity and reducing leakage. Furthermore, the ability to position the positionable member enhances the alignment of speakers and microphones with the user, optimizing signal capture and delivery for improved communication and collaboration.

Additionally, the unified and lightweight design of the acoustic chair provides notable benefits in stability and usability. The carefully calibrated weight distribution of the chair allows for the positionable member to be adjusted with less risk of the acoustic chair toppling. This improved stability enhances user safety and confidence in the product. The chair also provides the technical effect of seamless device integration, enabling it to interface with a wide range of computing devices to receive and process audio signals, thereby enhancing communication and collaborative experiences. These combined effects produce a stable, adaptable, and acoustically effective platform for workspace activities.

While the present subject matter has been described in detail with respect to various specific example embodiments thereof, each example is provided by way of explanation, not limitation of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of the foregoing, can readily produce alterations to, variations of, and equivalents to such embodiments. Accordingly, the subject disclosure does not preclude inclusion of such modifications, variations and/or additions to the present subject matter as would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such alterations, variations, and equivalents.