FOLDING CHAIR WITH ENHANCED STABILIZATION FOR THE HANDICAPPED OR DISABLED

Description

RELATED CASES

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/737,356, filed Dec. 20, 2024 and titled “FOLDING CHAIR WITH ENHANCED STABILIZATION,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/908,415, filed Oct. 30, 2025, and titled “FOLDING CHAIR WITH ENHANCED STABILIZATION FOR THE HANDICAPPED OR DISABLED,” which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to folding chairs. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a folding chair with improved stability as a user transitions into and out of the chair.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a chair in a deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the chair of FIG. 1 in the deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of the chair of FIG. 1 in the deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the chair of FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 5A illustrates a lateral view of the chair of FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 5B illustrates a lateral view of the chair of FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 6 illustrates a lateral view of the chair of FIG. 1 in a deployed configuration with an armrest being rotated, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 7 illustrates a lateral view of the chair of FIG. 6 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a chair featuring a leg bar, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a chair in a deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a chair in a deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of the chair of FIG. 10 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a chair in a deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Folding chairs are widely used for their portability and ease of storage. Conventionally, folding chairs feature a folding frame with a collapsible seat and backrest. Collapsing such a chair into a diminished profile (when compared to the un-collapsed, or deployed configuration) allows for increased transportability and storage.

One challenge faced by conventional folding chairs is that increased collapsibility and diminished profile can come at the cost of stability and sturdiness once deployed. Conventional chairs can be particularly prone to tipping or shifting when users lean forward or use armrests for support while transition into or out of the chair.

Accordingly, aspects and implementations of the present disclosure address these challenges and other by providing a foldable chair with enhanced stability when deployed. In some embodiments, a chair is provided with forward and/or outwardly splayed legs and extended armrests. These features can enhance stability and balance, offering increased support to handles and/or armrests of the chair while a user is sitting down or standing up.

The phrase “coupled to” is broad enough to refer to any suitable coupling or other form of interaction between two or more entities, including mechanical interaction. Thus, two components may be coupled to each other even though they are not in direct contact with each other. The phrases “attached to” or “attached directly to” refer to interaction between two or more entities which are in direct contact with each other and/or are separated from each other only by a fastener of any suitable variety.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a folding and collapsible chair 100 in a deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein. Chair 100 includes a frame 102 including a seat frame 122, front legs 110, and rear legs 112. Frame 102, including seat frame 122, front legs 110, and rear legs 112 are configured to support a seat 120. Front legs 110 can be splayed outwardly to provide additional stability when chair 100 is in the deployed configuration. Rear legs 112 can be angled backward to further increase the footprint of the base and improve the chair's stability. In some embodiments, front legs 110 and rear legs 112 may comprise telescoping components to increase or decrease the length of front legs 110 and rear legs 112.

Seat 120 is supported by frame 102 and includes a seating surface 126. Seating surface 126 can be attached to seat frame 122 using fasteners 124, which secure the seat 120 to seat frame 122 while allowing it to fold compactly when the chair transitions to a collapsed configuration. A back portion or seatback 108 of chair 100 can rise vertically to support the back of a user of chair 100. Seatback 108 can be attached to frame 102 using fasteners 124 which secure seatback 108 to frame 102.

Chair 100 may further comprise a pair of armrests 133 with handles 128 disposed at the end of the armrests 133. Armrests 133 and handles 128 can be pivotably coupled frame 102, including rear legs 112. Handles 128 can be equipped with handle grip 132 to enhance user comfort and improve grip during use.

In some cases, frame 102, (e.g., including the legs and armrests) of chair 100 can be made of steel, aluminum, etc.

Chair 100 includes pivot joints 118 that connect front legs 110 to rear legs 112. In some embodiments, pivot joints 118 can allow the chair to fold in the forward-rear direction and/or the side-to-side (lateral) direction. In some cases, when the chair is in the deployed configuration, pivot joints 118 can lock the chair in place to ensure stability during use.

At the bottom of front legs 110 and rear legs 112, footpads 114 can be attached to increase the surface area in contact with the ground, improving stability onto a supporting surface. In some cases, footpads 114 can be wider than conventional chair feet, further enhancing the stability of chair 100.

In some embodiments, handles 128 extend a distance beyond a front edge 127 of seat 120. The extended length of handles 128 from the armrests 133 can provide enhanced support to a user as he or she sits down or stands up from chair 100. Otherwise stated, handles 128 can provide stable grip point with the ability to support enhanced downward pressure or force as the user is transitioning into or out of chair 100 (e.g., or when a user leans forward). This may be particularly helpful for user that has trouble sitting and standing, such as the elderly, disabled, and the like.

Additionally, or alternatively, to further enhance the stabilizing effect of handles 128, a front edge of front legs 110 (e.g., front edge 111 of footpads 114 seen in FIG. 2) can be positioned a distance beyond front edge 127 of seat 120. For example, the front edge of front legs 110 may help prevent chair 100 from tipping or collapsing at higher amounts of downward pressure or force as the user is transitioning into or out of chair 100. Otherwise stated, the location of front edge 111 of footpads 114 beyond front edge 127 of seat 120 helps prevent chair 100 from tipping or collapsing at higher amounts of downward pressure or force as the user is transitioning into or out of chair 100, particularly in comparison to conventional chairs.

In some embodiments, handles 128 can extend in a forward distance to be even with footpads 114 of front legs 110. In some embodiments, handles 128 can be aligned with front edge 111 of front legs 110. In some cases, handles 128 can extend slightly beyond the front edge 111 of the front legs 110, with both extending beyond front edge 127 of front legs 110, ensuring that the user has sufficient forward support when sitting or standing. In some cases, the front edge 111 of front legs 110 can extend slightly beyond handles 128, with both extending beyond front edge 127 of seat 120.

Chair 100 includes a folding mechanism that allows chair 100 to transition between the deployed and collapsed configurations. In some embodiments, chair 100 can fold in a forward-rear direction only. In some embodiment, chair 100 can fold in a side-to-side (lateral) direction only. In some embodiments, chair 100 can fold in both the forward-rear direction and in the side-to-side (lateral) direction.

Frame 102 of chair 100 can be constructed from lightweight and/or durable materials e.g., aluminum or reinforced plastic.

As will be further discussed, in the deployed configuration, chair 100 can present a wider base than when folded or collapsed. This can be achieved through an enhanced outward angle and/or length of front legs 110 and rear legs 112, when compared to conventional chairs. A wider base and footprint, in conjunction with footpads 114 and extended handles 128, can help prevent the chair from tipping. This can be particularly true as a user of chair 100 is sitting into, or standing from, chair 100.

In some cases, any of the above features, alone or in combination, can shift the chair's 100 center of gravity so that the center of gravity is located behind a midpoint between feet of front legs 110 and feet of rear legs 112 (e.g., closer to the rear of chair 100). This can optimize weight distribution within chair 100 and increasing stability for the user transitioning from or into chair 100.

In some cases, any of the above features, alone or in combination, can enhance or increase a moment of inertia around footpads 114 of front legs 110 when compared to a moment of inertia around the front legs of conventional chairs. Such increased moment of inertia can enhance stability by resisting forward and/or lateral tipping of chair 100 and increasing stability for a user transitioning from or into chair 100.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the chair 100 of FIG. 1 in the deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein. Front legs 110 and rear legs 112 are connected by front crossbars 104, providing structural support and rigidity to frame 102.

Seating surface 126 can be supported by seat frame 122 and can accommodate the user's weight. Seating surface 126 and seatback 108 can be constructed from a flexible material, such as fabric, allowing it to collapse along with the frame 102 when the chair is collapsed.

Armrests 133 and handles 128 can be pivotably coupled to the front legs 110 and seat frame 122. For example, a support bar 135 can be coupled to armrest 133 at pivot joint 134. As illustrated, handles 128 extend beyond the front edge 127 of the seating surface 126. In some cases, armrests 133 can provide additional support to the user when sitting down or standing up. In some embodiments, each of armrest 133 can include a slight curve near the pivot point 130 where armrests 133 attach to rear legs 112. The curve in each armrest 133 enables armrest 133 to couple to frame beneath pivot joint 118.

In some cases, armrests 133 can be removably attachable to pivot joint 134 and/or support bar 135. In other words, the armrests 133 can be detached and attached to the pivot joint 134 and/or support bar 135. Detaching armrests 133 from support bar 135 can aid in storing and/or transporting chair 100.

Front edge 111 of front legs 110 can be positioned even with terminal end 129 of handles 128. In the illustrated embodiment, terminal end 129 of handles 128 extend beyond front edge 111 of front legs 110.

As shown, front legs 110 are splayed forward and/or outwardly to form a wider base, including a deployed base length 140, which increases overall stability of chair 100 when deployed. In some embodiments, rear legs 112 can be similarly angled backward and/or outward, enhancing a footprint of the chair's base. In some embodiments, a width or distance between each of front legs 110 can be wider (or shorter) than the distance between each of rear legs 112, creating a trapezoidal base or footprint when in the deployed state to further increase stability.

In some embodiments, the base formed by front legs 110 and rear legs 112 can enhance both lateral and/or longitudinal stability. For example, outwardly splayed front legs 110 can create a longer and/or wider front portion of the base. This feature can resist lateral and/or longitudinal tipping forces, particularly when weight is applied unevenly onto seat 120 or handles 128.

Additionally, in some cases, rear legs 112 can further widen and/or expand chair 100's footprint and provide counterbalance to applied forward, or uneven, weight.

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of chair 100 of FIG. 1 in the deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

As shown, front crossbars 104 are positioned between each of front legs 110, providing additional structural integrity and preventing lateral movement of the legs. Front crossbars 104 can be fixed in place when chair 100 is in a deployed configuration.

Rear crossbars 106 can similarly be positioned between each of rear legs 112.

In some embodiments, in the deployed configuration, deployed base width 142 between front legs 110 of chair 100 can be more than twice the distance of front legs 110 when in the collapsed configuration. Otherwise stated, a 2:1 ratio or greater between the deployed base width 142 and the collapsed base width 146 can provide chair 100 with enhanced portability and stability.

In some embodiment, chair 100 can further include a cup holder 152. Cup holder 152 can be coupled to one of the front legs 110. In some embodiments, cup holder 152 is pivotably coupled to one of the front legs 110.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of chair 100 of FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

As seen in the illustrated embodiment, in the collapsed configuration, front legs 110 and rear legs 112 can be positioned close together, reducing or decreasing the footprint of the chair 100.

The folding mechanism includes pivot joints 118 connecting front legs 110 to rear legs 112. Pivot joints 118 can be configured to allow chair 100 to fold or collapse in both the forward-rear direction and the side-to-side direction. Such a dual-folding capability provides a more compact structure when the chair 100 is collapsed.

Armrests and handles 128 are pivotably coupled to the front legs 110. In the collapsed configuration, armrests 133 can be collapse inwardly along with the frame 102, reducing the overall length of chair 100. In the collapsed configuration, armrests 133 and handles 128 pivot upwards, fitting within the height of seatback 108. This can have the effect of maintaining the collapsed configuration of chair 100 compact.

In some embodiments, the folding mechanism can include a locking mechanism integrated into frame 102. A locking mechanism can secure chair 100 in its collapsed position, preventing accidental unfolding during transport. In addition, chair 100 features a carrying strap attached to the frame, allowing the user to easily transport chair 100 in its compact, collapsed state.

As shown, chair 100 can include a collapsed footprint including a collapsed base width 146 and a collapsed base length 144. In some embodiments, the collapsed footprint can be rectangular, or square. Collapsed base width 146 and/or collapsed base length 144 can be shorter than deployed base width 142 and deployed base length 140, respectively.

As shown, chair 100 can collapse along multiple dimensions. For example, in some cases, chair 100 can collapse laterally e.g., in the direction of collapsed base width 146. Additionally, or alternatively, in some cases, chair 100 can collapse longitudinally, e.g., in the direction of collapsed base length 144.

To collapse chair 100, pivot joints 118 (e.g., translating pivot connections) can slide along a track or guide of the frame 102, allowing front legs 110 and rear legs 112 to move relative to each other during folding and unfolding. This sliding mechanism is positioned at the midpoint between the legs, enabling a smooth transition between the collapsed and deployed configurations. The sliding mechanism can adjust a distance between front legs 110 and rear legs 112.

Front legs 110 and rear legs 112 also features additional structural support via front crossbars 104, which provide rigidity and stability when the chair is deployed. Front crossbars 104 prevent excessive movement between the legs and maintain the overall integrity of the frame.

FIG. 5A illustrates a lateral view of chair 100 of FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

As shown, handles 128 can rotate upwards when chair 100 is pulled into a collapsed configuration. Handles 128 can extend an expanded handle length 148 when in the collapsed configuration. Handles 128 can extend this length within the deployed configuration as well.

FIG. 5B illustrates a lateral view of chair 100 of FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

As shown, handles 128 can be expanded or retracted, when in the collapsed configuration or deployed configuration. In some embodiments, retracting handles 128 to a retracted handle length 150 can facilitate storage and transportation.

This feature can diminish the overall profile of the collapsed chair 100. In such a case, the handles 128 may not protrude vertically beyond the top of the seatback 108. In some cases, this can enhance the portability and ease of transportation for chair 100.

FIG. 6 illustrates a lateral view of chair 100 of FIG. 1 in a deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

As seen in the illustrated embodiment, armrests 133 can be decoupled or detached from pivot joint 134 and/or support bar 135. In some cases, armrests 133 can be rotated back and around pivot point 130, as seen in FIG. 6. FIG. 6 illustrates armrest 133 partially rotated back following the illustrated arrows with the deployed position of armrest 133 in broken lines. Such can aid, enhance and/or minimize a profile of chair 100 when transitioned into the collapsed state. When chair 100 is deployed, armrest 133 can be rotated forward and around pivot point 130 and attached to the pivot joint 134 and/or support bar 135.

FIG. 7 illustrates a lateral view of chair 100 of FIG. 6 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein.

As seen in the illustrated embodiment, armrests 133 can be rotated (as discussed with respect to FIG. 6) so as to be pointed downward, and substantially parallel with the legs of the chair. Armrests 133 in the collapsed configuration illustrated in FIG. 7 do not extend beyond footpads 114 of rear legs 112. As discussed, such can aid, enhance and/or minimize a profile of chair 100 when in the collapsed state. When chair 100 is deployed form the illustrated configuration, armrests 133 can be rotated forward and around corresponding pivot points 130 and attached to corresponding pivot joints 134 and/or support bars 135.

As will be discussed, any of the embodiments or features described herein with respect to FIGS. 8-11 can be manufactured via the components and processes described with respect to FIGS. 1-7. Accordingly, the disclosure provided with respect to FIGS. 1-7 can be applied thoroughly and are meant to be taken in light of or in combination with all further disclosure within this specification.

Accordingly, FIGS. 8-11 illustrate embodiments of chair 100 described above in certain respects. Accordingly, like features are designated with like reference numerals, with the leading digits incremented to “2” through “4”. For example, the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8 includes chair 200 that may, in some respects, resemble chair 100 of FIGS. 1-7. Relevant disclosure set forth above regarding similarly identified features thus may not be repeated hereafter. Moreover, specific features of chair 100 and related components shown in FIGS. 1-7 may not be shown or identified by a reference numeral in the drawings or specifically discussed in the written description that follows. However, such features may clearly be the same, or substantially the same, as features depicted in other embodiments and/or described with respect to such embodiments. Accordingly, the relevant descriptions of such features apply equally to the features of the chairs and related components depicted in FIGS. 8-11.

Any suitable combination of the features, and variations of the same, described with respect to chair 100 and related components illustrated in FIGS. 1-7 can be employed with the chairs and related components of FIGS. 8-11, and vice versa. This pattern of disclosure applies equally to further embodiments depicted in subsequent figures and described hereafter, wherein the leading digits may be further incremented.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a chair 200 featuring a leg bar 250, according to embodiments described herein. Chair 200 can be generally similar in operation and/or design to chair 100 described above, but with an addition of leg bar 250 to further enhance structural rigidity and stability. As seen in the illustrated embodiment, leg bar 250 can span across front legs 210. Otherwise stated, leg bar 250 can span from a first leg of front legs 210 to a second leg of front legs 210. In some embodiments, leg bar 250 may act as a footrest for a user to place their feet on while using chair 200.

Leg bar 250 can further stabilize chair 200. For instance, in some embodiments, leg bar 250 can enhance resistance against lateral movement of front legs 210, as well as aid in maintaining proper spacing between front legs 210 during use. Additionally, leg bar 250 can aid in distributing weight supported by chair 200 more evenly between front legs 210.

In some embodiments, a joint 254 can be positioned at or near a midpoint of leg bar 250. Joint 254 can allow leg bar 250 to fold, hinge, or otherwise collapse in half as chair 200 is transitioned into the collapsed configuration from the deployed configuration. For example, in some embodiments, when chair 200 is collapsed or folded, joint 254 can rotate or pivot to reduce the horizontal or lateral length of leg bar 250, thus allowing front legs 210 of chair 200 to move closer together. When in the deployed configuration, joint 254 can lock or secure in place, thus providing leg bar 250 with enhanced rigidity and stability across front legs 210.

Similar to chair 100, front legs 210 and rear legs 212 can be positioned close together in the collapsed configuration, reducing or decreasing the footprint of the chair 200.

Additionally, leg bar 250 can include or be supported by a support foot 252. Support foot 252 can extend downward from leg bar 250 to engage with a supporting surface (e.g., the ground). In some cases, support foot 252 can be centrally located along leg bar 250, so as to distribute weight and pressure from the seat or handles into the ground. At the point of contact with the ground, support foot 252 can include a widened pad or non-slip surface, for instance, to prevent sinking, sliding, etc.

Handles 228 extend a distance beyond a front edge 227 of seat 220. Additionally, a front edge 211 of front legs 210 can be positioned a distance beyond front edge 227 of seat 220. In some embodiments, front edge 211 of front legs 210 can be positioned even with terminal ends 229 of handles 228. In the illustrated embodiment, terminal ends 229 of handles 228 extend beyond front edge 211 of front legs 110. In the illustrated embodiment, support foot 252 may be disposed in front of a front edge 227 of seat 220 but behind footpads 214. In some embodiments, support foot 252, front edge 211 of front legs 210, terminal ends 229 of handles 228 may be even with each other and disposed beyond front edge 227 of seat 220.

In some embodiments, leg bar 250, joint 254, and/or support foot 252 can provide structural or rigidity benefits beyond those of conventional folding chairs. For example, in some embodiments, leg bar 250 can prevent front legs 210 from spreading apart under heavy loads; joint 254 can facilitate collapsibility and portability of chair 200, and support foot 252 can deliver an additional ground contact point to resist tipping, sliding, sinking, and so on.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a chair 300 in a deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein. Chair 300 can be generally similar in operation and/or design to chair 100 described above. However, chair 300 may differ in how the chair 300 transitions from a deployed configuration to a collapsed configuration. For instance, to transition to the collapsed configuration, chair 300 may exclusively collapse in a lateral, or side-to-side direction.

Chair 300 can include a seat 320 supported by a frame 302, with front legs 310 and rear legs 312 extending downward to contact a supporting surface (e.g., the floor or ground). Seat 320 can include a seating surface 326 and may be coupled to frame 302 using fasteners or pivot joints that permit the seating surface to fold when chair 300 transitions into the collapsed configuration. A seatback 308 can extend upward from seat 320 and provide back support for a user. As previously discussed, seat 320 and seatback 308 can be constructed from flexible or semi-rigid materials, such as fabric or reinforced textile, so as to collapse or fold with frame 302 when chair 300 is folded.

In some embodiments, each set of front legs 310 and rear legs 312 can be connected via pivot joints that are configured to permit lateral folding. When collapsing, pivot joints enable front legs 310 to move toward each other, decreasing the base width of chair 300. However, when transitioning into the collapsed configuration, alignment between front and rear portions of frame 302 may otherwise be maintained. Otherwise stated, the chair 300 may only collapse laterally. This lateral folding arrangement can allow chair 300 to achieve a compact footprint and enhance the storage and portability of the chair.

Similar to the embodiments previously discussed, in some cases, a width of the base of the chair 300 when in the deployed configuration can be substantially wider than a width of the base of the chair when in the collapsed configuration. For instance, in some embodiments, a ratio of the width of the base between deployed and collapsed configurations can be at least 2:1.

As discussed with respect to previous embodiments, chair 300 can include handles 328 (and armrests) similar to those described in chair 100. Armrests can be pivotably coupled to frame 302. Handles 328 can extend beyond a front edge 327 of seat 320.

Handles 328 extend a distance beyond front edge 327 of seat 320. Additionally, a front edge 311 of front legs 310 can be positioned a distance beyond front edge 327 of seat 320. In some embodiments, front edge 311 of front legs 310 can be positioned even with terminal end 329 of handles 328. In the illustrated embodiment, terminal end 329 of handles 328 extend beyond front edge 311 of front legs 310.

In the illustrated embodiment, chair 300 includes a side table 360 that can collapse in the collapsed configuration of chair 300. Side table 360 may include a cup holder 362, and slots 364 and 366 that can hold things, such as phones and the like. Chair 300 may further include a side pouch 370 with pockets to hold things.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a chair 400 in a deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein. Chair 400 can be generally similar in design and operation to chair 200 and/or chair 300 described above with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. However, unlike chair 300, which omits a leg bar, chair 400 includes a leg bar 450 spanning across the front portion (e.g., front legs 410) of chair 400 so as to enhance stability and structural reinforcement. Similar to chair 300, chair 400 may exclusively collapse in a lateral, or side-to-side direction.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, chair 400 includes seat 420, supported by frame 402 that includes front legs 410 and rear legs 412. As previously discussed, seat 420 can include a seating surface and a seatback 408.

As seen in the illustrated embodiment, leg bar 450 spans laterally across front legs 410, extending from a first front leg to a second front leg. Similar to leg bar 250 of chair 200, leg bar 450 can stabilize front legs 410, and in some cases prevent front legs 410 from spreading apart when a load is applied to the chair. Accordingly leg bar 450 can enhance rigidity and structural integrity of chair 400 by coupling both sides of frame 402 at front legs 410. In some embodiments, leg bar 450 may act as a footrest for a user to place their feet on while using chair 400.

Similar to leg bar 250 of chair 200, leg bar 450 can include or be supported by a support foot 452. Support foot 452 can extend downward from leg bar 450 to contact a supporting surface. Support foot 452 can be centrally located along leg bar 450. Support foot 452 may feature a widened or padded contact area, such as a footpad, to resist slipping, sinking, etc. Support foot 452 may be disposed in front of a front edge 427 of seat 420.

Similar to joint 254 of chair 200, joint 454 can allow leg bar 450 to fold, hinge, or otherwise collapse in half as chair 400 is transitioned into the collapsed configuration from the deployed configuration. For example, in some embodiments, when chair 400 is collapsed or folded, joint 454 can rotate or pivot to reduce the horizontal or lateral length of leg bar 450, thus allowing front legs 410 of chair 200 to move closer together. Support foot 452 may thus rotate, collapse, or detach when chair 400 transitions to the collapsed state.

Similar to chair 300, handles 428 extend a distance beyond front edge 427 of seat 420. Additionally, a front edge 411 of front legs 410 can be positioned a distance beyond front edge 427 of seat 420. In some embodiments, front edge 411 of front legs 410 can be positioned even with terminal end 429 of handles 428. In the illustrated embodiment, terminal end 429 of handles 428 extend beyond front edge 411 of front legs 410. In the illustrated embodiment, support foot 452 may be disposed in front of a front edge 427 of seat 420 but behind footpads 414. In some embodiments, support foot 452, front edge 411 of front legs 410, terminal ends 429 of handles 428 may be even with each other and disposed beyond front edge 427 of seat 420.

In the illustrated embodiment, chair 400 includes a side table 460 that can collapse in the collapsed configuration of chair 400. Side table 460 may include a cup holder 462, and slots 464 and 466 that can hold things, such as phones and the like. Chair 400 may further include a side pouch 470 with pockets to hold things.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of the chair 400 of FIG. 10 in a collapsed configuration, according to embodiments described herein. As discussed with respect to previously collapsed configuration, when collapsed frame 402 of chair 400 is compacted to reduce its footprint. However, with respect to the current embodiment, the chair footprint may be collapsed exclusively in the lateral direction.

To transition into the collapsed state, leg bar 450 can be folded, hinged, or otherwise collapsed in half about joint 454. Otherwise stated, when chair 400 is transitioned into the collapsed configuration, joint 454 can permit leg bar 450 to fold inward, reducing its lateral span between front legs 410, and thus allowing front legs to move toward one another.

In some embodiments, joint 454 can include a locking or fixing mechanism that secures leg bar 450 in one or both of the collapsed and/or deployed configurations. For example, when chair 400 is deployed, joint 454 may lock to prevent leg bar 450 from folding unintentionally. When chair 400 is collapsed, joint 454 may lock or latch in the folded position, thus aiding in maintaining the collapsed configuration and preventing accidental deployment of chair 400. As seen in the illustrated embodiment, support foot 452 can translate upward, fold inward, or retract, in the collapsed state.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a folding and collapsible chair 500 in a deployed configuration, according to embodiments described herein. Chair 500 can be generally similar in operation and/or design to chair 300 described above. Chair 500 can include a seat 520 supported by a frame 502, with front legs 510 and rear legs 512 extending downward to contact a supporting surface (e.g., the floor or ground). Seat 520 can include a seating surface 526 and may be coupled to frame 302 using fasteners or pivot joints that permit the seating surface to fold when chair 500 transitions into the collapsed configuration. A seatback 508 can extend upward from seat 520 and provide back support for a user. As previously discussed, seat 520 and seatback 508 can be constructed from flexible or semi-rigid materials, such as fabric or reinforced textile, so as to collapse or fold with frame 502 when chair 500 is folded.

In some embodiments, each set of front legs 510 and rear legs 512 can be connected via pivot joints that are configured to permit lateral folding. When collapsing, pivot joints enable front legs 510 to move toward each other, decreasing the base width of chair 500. However, when transitioning into the collapsed configuration, alignment between front and rear portions of frame 502 may otherwise be maintained. Otherwise stated, the chair 500 may only collapse laterally. This lateral folding arrangement can allow chair 500 to achieve a compact footprint and enhance the storage and portability of the chair.

As discussed with respect to previous embodiments, chair 500 can include handles 528 (and armrests) similar to those described in chair 500. Armrests can be pivotably coupled to frame 502. Handles 528 can extend beyond a front edge 527 of seat 520.

Handles 528 extend a distance beyond front edge 527 of seat 520. Additionally, a front edge 511 of front legs 510 can be positioned a distance beyond front edge 527 of seat 320. In some embodiments, front edge 511 of front legs 510 can be positioned even with terminal end 529 of handles 528. In the illustrated embodiment, terminal end 529 of handles 528 extend beyond front edge 511 of front legs 510.

Rear legs 512 may further include an anti-tip feature 513. Anti-tip feature 513 are angled rearward relative to rear legs 512. Anti-tip feature 513 increases the footprint of the base and improves the stability of chair 500.

As seen in the illustrated embodiment, a leg bar 550 spans laterally across front legs 510, extending from a first front leg to a second front leg. Leg bar 550 is similar to leg bar 250 and 450. Accordingly leg bar 550 can enhance rigidity and structural integrity of chair 500 by coupling both sides of frame 502 at front legs 510. In some embodiments, leg bar 550 may act as a footrest for a user to place their feet on while using chair 500.

Similar to leg bar 250 and 450, leg bar 550 can include or be supported by a support foot 452.

Similar to joint 254 and 454, joint 554 can allow leg bar 550 to fold, hinge, or otherwise collapse in half as chair 500 is transitioned into the collapsed configuration from the deployed configuration.

Reference throughout this specification to “an embodiment” or “the embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the quoted phrases, or variations thereof, as recited throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Any methods disclosed herein include one or more steps or actions for performing the described method. The method steps and/or actions may be interchanged with one another. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is required for proper operation of the embodiment, the order and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may be modified. Moreover, sub-routines or only a portion of a method described herein may be a separate method within the scope of this disclosure. Stated otherwise, some methods may include only a portion of the steps described in a more detailed method.

Similarly, it should be appreciated by one of skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure that in the above description of embodiments, various features are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim requires more features than those expressly recited in that claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in a combination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following this Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment. This disclosure includes all permutations of the independent claims with their dependent claims.

Recitation in the claims of the term “first” with respect to a feature or element does not necessarily imply the existence of a second or additional such feature or element. It will be apparent to those having skill in the art that changes may be made to the details of the above-described embodiments without departing from the underlying principles of the present disclosure.