Attachable Seating Cushion Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/726,409, which was filed on Nov. 29, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of attachable seating devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to a detachable seating attachment to various surfaces such as coolers, toolboxes, workbenches, and tailgate platforms. 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

In numerous outdoor, industrial, and recreational environments, individuals often encounter limited options for comfortable seating. Common scenarios such as construction sites, tailgating events, campsites, or outdoor gatherings frequently lack readily available seating accommodations. Users may resort to sitting on the ground or on rigid surfaces such as coolers, toolboxes, or workbenches. These makeshift seating solutions often result in physical discomfort and potential soiling of clothing, particularly in wet or unclean surroundings. The discomfort may be exacerbated by prolonged sitting, uneven support, or exposure to environmental elements such as moisture and debris. Traditional solutions, such as portable chairs or stools, can be cumbersome to transport and may not integrate well with existing equipment or setups. Furthermore, many portable seating options fail to accommodate the need for flexibility, stability, or water resistance in demanding environments. As such, a device that enables secure and comfortable seating directly atop common work or leisure surfaces is of considerable utility.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an attachable seating cushion device that enables users to comfortably sit on surfaces without requiring dedicated furniture. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an attachable seating cushion device that securely attaches to various support structures while maintaining resistance to moisture and outdoor conditions. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an attachable seating cushion device that offers optional ergonomic support, including a backrest, to improve comfort during extended use.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises an attachable seating cushion device. The device is configured for detachable attachment to various surfaces such as coolers, toolboxes, workbenches, and tailgate platforms, comprising a water-resistant construction designed for outdoor, industrial, or recreational environments. The device comprises a standalone or integrated cushion assembly with an optional foldable backrest, both fabricated from waterproof materials with sealed joints to resist moisture intrusion. The seat body comprises ergonomic features for comfort and a non-slip base incorporating high-friction grip elements for stability. Additionally, a mounting interface comprising fasteners or engagement mechanisms ensures secure attachment to support surfaces. The backrest assembly comprises a hinged connection with optional locking mechanisms or adjustable recline settings, constructed to endure wet conditions. An associated method of use comprises steps for positioning, securing, adjusting, and utilizing the apparatus to provide an elevated, stable, and moisture-resistant seating solution across varied applications.

In this manner, the attachable seating cushion device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a portable seating solution configured to attach onto coolers, toolboxes, tailgates, and similar platforms to provide a comfortable seating surface. Additionally, the optional foldable backrest provides customizable support, with locking and adjustable features to accommodate user preferences. The combination of waterproof construction, ergonomic design, and adaptability enables the device to fulfill seating needs across diverse environments while improving portability and convenience for users.

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 attachable seating cushion device. The device is comprised of a portable seating apparatus configured for detachable mounting to a range of flat surfaces and support structures, including coolers, toolboxes, workbenches, and tailgate platforms. The device provides an elevated and stable seating solution suitable for outdoor, industrial, or recreational environments, incorporating water-resistant construction to protect against moisture, rain, and incidental water exposure.

In one embodiment, the device is comprised of a standalone cushion assembly. In another embodiment, the device is comprised of a cushion assembly combined with an integrated foldable backrest assembly. Both assemblies are fabricated from waterproof or hydrophobic materials and may include sealed or over-molded joints to prevent fluid ingress.

The cushion assembly is comprised of a seat body that may feature various geometric configurations, including contoured, convex, or flat surfaces, and may incorporate ergonomic elements such as a central depression, peripheral support zones, or lateral bolsters. The underside of the seat body is comprised of a non-slip base featuring at least one grip element made from high-friction, waterproof materials such as silicone or thermoplastic rubber. These grip elements are arranged to maximize frictional contact with underlying surfaces, including in wet conditions.

The underside of the seat body may further be comprised of a mounting interface comprising one or more fastener systems for attachment to items such as coolers or toolboxes. One embodiment may include molded protrusions configured to engage with recessed zones of a support surface.

The seat body may also be comprised of an attached backrest assembly. The backrest assembly includes a back cushion constructed from waterproof materials and connected to the seat body by at least one hinge. The hinge enables rotational movement of the back cushion between a stowed horizontal position and an upright position oriented at an angle of at least 90 degrees. The hinge may further be comprised of at least one locking mechanism configured to secure the back cushion in either the upright or folded position.

The invention is also comprised of a method for using the device. The method includes providing the device with a seat body, a non-slip base, and optionally a mounting interface and foldable backrest assembly. The device is positioned on a selected support surface, where the non-slip base reduces slippage. If a mounting interface is included, it may be secured to the surface using molded protrusions or alternative attachment mechanisms. If a backrest assembly is present, the back cushion may be rotated into an upright position and secured using the locking mechanism. The device is then used as an elevated, water-resistant seating solution.

Accordingly, the attachable seating cushion device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a portable seating solution configured to attach onto coolers, toolboxes, tailgates, and similar platforms to provide a comfortable seating surface. Additionally, the optional foldable backrest provides customizable support, with locking and adjustable features to accommodate user preferences. The combination of waterproof construction, ergonomic design, and adaptability enables the device to fulfill seating needs across diverse environments while improving portability and convenience for users.

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 attachable seating cushion device of the present invention while unattached to an item in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of an attachable seating cushion device of the present invention while attached to an item in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of an attachable seating cushion device of the present invention while attached to an item in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of an attachable seating 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 attachable seating cushion device that enables users to comfortably sit on surfaces without requiring dedicated furniture. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an attachable seating cushion device that securely attaches to various support structures while maintaining resistance to moisture and outdoor conditions. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an attachable seating cushion device that offers optional ergonomic support, including a backrest, to improve comfort during extended use.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of an attachable seating cushion device. The device is comprised of a portable seating apparatus configured for detachable mounting to various flat surfaces and support structures, such as coolers, toolboxes, workbenches, and tailgate platforms. The device offers an elevated and stable seating solution designed for use in outdoor, industrial, or recreational settings and features water-resistant construction to protect against moisture, rainfall, and incidental water contact.

The device in one embodiment is comprised of a standalone cushion assembly. In another embodiment, the device is comprised of a cushion assembly combined with an integrated foldable backrest assembly. Both assemblies are constructed from waterproof or hydrophobic materials and may feature sealed or over-molded joints to prevent fluid ingress.

The cushion assembly is comprised of a seat body that may exhibit various geometric profiles, including contoured, convex, or flat surfaces, and may integrate ergonomic features such as a central depression, peripheral support zones, or lateral bolsters. The underside of the seat body is comprised of a non-slip base with at least one grip element made from high-friction, waterproof materials such as silicone or thermoplastic rubber. These grip elements are arranged to enhance frictional engagement with underlying surfaces, even in wet conditions.

The underside of the seat body may also be comprised of a mounting interface that includes one or more fastener systems for securing the device to structures such as coolers or toolboxes. One embodiment may include molded protrusions designed to engage recessed zones of the support surface.

The seat body may further be comprised of an attached backrest assembly. The backrest assembly includes a back cushion constructed from waterproof materials and is connected to the seat body through at least one hinge. The hinge enables rotational movement of the back cushion between a stowed horizontal position and an upright position oriented at an angle of at least 90 degrees. The hinge may additionally be comprised of at least one locking mechanism configured to secure the back cushion in either position.

The invention also encompasses a method for using the device. The method involves providing the device with a seat body, a non-slip base, and optionally a mounting interface and foldable backrest assembly. The device is positioned on a chosen support surface, where the non-slip base minimizes slippage. If present, the mounting interface may be secured to the surface using molded protrusions or other attachment means. When included, the backrest assembly allows the back cushion to be rotated into an upright position and locked using the associated mechanism. The device then functions as an elevated, water-resistant seating solution.

As a result, the attachable seating cushion device described offers significant advantages by delivering a portable seating option configured for attachment to coolers, toolboxes, tailgates, and similar platforms, providing a comfortable seating surface. The optional foldable backrest offers adjustable support, with locking features that accommodate user preferences. The combination of waterproof construction, ergonomic design, and versatility allows the device to address seating requirements across various environments while enhancing user convenience and portability.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of an attachable seating cushion device 100 of the present invention while unattached to an item in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 may be comprised of a portable seating apparatus configured for detachable mounting to a variety of flat surfaces and items, including, but not limited to, coolers, toolboxes, workbenches, tailgate platforms, and similar support structures. The device 100 may provide an elevated, stable seating solution for use in outdoor, industrial, or recreational environments, thereby reducing user discomfort associated with ground-level seating or rigid surfaces of the aforementioned items. In one embodiment, the device 100 may incorporate water-resistant construction features that protect against environmental moisture, rain exposure, and incidental water contact.

In one embodiment, the device 100 may be comprised of a standalone cushion assembly 102, as seen in FIG. 2. In an alternate embodiment, the device 100 may be comprised of a cushion assembly 102 in combination with an integrated foldable backrest assembly 120, as seen in FIG. 3. To enhance durability and outdoor usability, each of these assemblies may be fabricated from waterproof or hydrophobic materials, and may include sealed or overmolded joints to prevent fluid ingress into internal regions.

The cushion assembly 102 may be comprised of a seat body 104. The seat body 104 may be fabricated from durable, waterproof materials such as, but not limited to, molded thermoplastic polyurethane, coated ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, or other resilient synthetic polymers. The surface of the seat body 104 may be sealed with a hydrophobic outer coating 105 to minimize the absorption of liquids and resist the penetration of water under pressure. In various embodiments, the seat body 104 may exhibit different geometric shapes and configurations including, but not limited to, contoured, convex, or flat shapes that form integrated features such as a central depression, peripheral support zones, lateral bolsters, or other ergonomic elements designed to enhance comfort and load distribution.

In one embodiment, the underside 103 of the seat body 104 may be comprised of a non-slip base 106, as seen in FIG. 1. The non-slip base 106 may be comprised of at least one grip element 108 fabricated from high-friction materials such as, but not limited to, silicone, thermoplastic rubber (TPR), or similar elastomers. These materials may be selected for their waterproof properties and ability to maintain grip performance under wet or humid conditions. The grip element 108 may be disposed in any suitable pattern or configuration to maximize frictional contact with surfaces the device 100 may be placed on, even when moisture is present.

In one embodiment, the underside of the seat body 104 may be comprised of a mounting interface 110, as seen in FIG. 1. The mounting interface 110 may be comprised of one or more fastener systems configured to facilitate attachment to an item such as, but not limited to, a cooler, toolbox, or other support surface that may have recessed areas present. More specifically, in one embodiment, the mounting interface 110 may include a protrusion-and-recess engagement structure, wherein the interface 110 is one or more molded protrusions 112 are arranged to interlock with correspondingly shaped recessed zones 10 located on a surface of an item 12. In an alternate embodiment, the mounting interface 110 is in the form of a clip, a clamp, a strap, an adhesive fastener, a magnet, or other known securing mechanisms to enable detachable engagement with item 12, each of which may be constructed from corrosion-resistant materials and sealed to limit moisture intrusion. The body 104 can also be removed from the item and used as a stand-alone kneeling pad.

In one embodiment, the seat body 104 may be comprised of an attached backrest assembly 120, as seen in FIG. 3. The backrest assembly 120 may be comprised of a back cushion 122, which may be constructed using the same or different waterproof materials as the seat body 104. The back cushion 122 may be fixedly or removably connected to the seat body 104 via at least one connecting fastener 124, such as but not limited to a hinge that is configured to enable rotational movement of the back cushion 122 between a stowed horizontal position parallel to the seat body 104 and an upright position oriented at an angle of at least 90 degrees relative to the seat body 104. The hinge 124 may be sealed or partially enclosed to protect internal components from water exposure and prevent corrosion or mechanical degradation over time. In a different embodiment, the backrest assembly 120 attaches via a non-rotational connecting fastener 124 such as snap fasteners, male and female fasteners, etc. such that the backrest assembly 120 is fully removable from the seat body 104 when not in use and does not fold.

In one embodiment, the hinge 124 may be comprised of at least one locking mechanism 126 configured to secure the back cushion 122 in the upright position and/or a folding position for transport. The locking mechanism 126 may be comprised of a spring-loaded latch, a sliding interlock, or a detent-based engagement system. Each locking component may be fabricated from stainless steel, anodized aluminum, or polymeric materials with water-resistant properties. In an alternate embodiment, the hinge 124 may be adjustable to support multiple recline angles. In this embodiment, the hinge 124 may be in the form of a combination of a hinge, detents, gear indexing features, or friction-based clamping elements, thereby enabling users to select and maintain a preferred backrest position even in wet environments.

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 comprised of a seat body 104, a non-slip base 106 with at least one grip element 108, and optionally a mounting interface 110 and a foldable backrest assembly 120 [Step 202]. Then, the device 100 can be positioned onto a selected support surface, such as a cooler, toolbox, workbench, or tailgate platform, wherein the non-slip base 106 engages the surface to reduce slippage [Step 204]. In an embodiment of the device 100 with a mounting interface 110, the interface 110 can be engaged with the support surface by aligning and securing one or more molded protrusions 112 into correspondingly shaped recessed zones 10 of an item 12, or by using at least one alternate attachment mechanism including a clip, clamp, strap, adhesive fastener, or magnet to detachably secure the device 100 to the item 12 [Step 206]. Following this, the user may optionally rotate the back cushion 122 (in an embodiment of the device 100 with a back cushion 122) from a stowed horizontal position to an upright position by actuating the hinge 124 connecting the backrest assembly 120 to the seat body 104 [Step 208]. Then, the locking mechanism 126 can be engaged to secure the back cushion 122 in the upright position or another preferred recline angle, depending on the configuration of the hinge 124 [Step 210]. Finally, the user may sit on the seat body 104 and utilize the device 100 as an elevated, water-resistant seating solution in the desired environment [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, “attachable seating cushion device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the attachable seating cushion device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the attachable seating 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 attachable seating cushion device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the attachable seating cushion device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the attachable seating cushion device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the attachable seating 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.