RECLINING SWIVEL PORTABLE HUNTING CHAIR AND SYSTEM
20200000084 ยท 2020-01-02
Inventors
Cpc classification
A47C7/622
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A47C1/14
HUMAN NECESSITIES
International classification
A47C1/032
HUMAN NECESSITIES
Abstract
Provided herein are compositions, systems, kits, methods and uses for a chair designed for outdoor use. In particular, provided herein are compositions, systems, kits, methods and uses wherein a swivel mounted chair reclines while maintaining a user's center of gravity.
Claims
1. A chair for outdoor use, comprising: a) a seat comprising a seat frame; b) a seat back comprising a seat back frame; c) a seat back support; d) a left top rail, comprising: 1. a stationary bracket; and 2. a sliding bracket; e) a right top rail, comprising: 1. a stationary bracket; and 2. a sliding bracket f) a front upper cross brace affixed to said left top rail and to said right top rail; g) a rear upper cross brace affixed to said left top rail and to said right top rail; h) a left leg comprising a front foot and a rear foot; i) a right leg comprising a front foot and a rear foot; j) a front lower cross brace affixed to said left leg and to said right leg: k) a rear lower cross brace affixed to said left leg and to said right leg; and 1) a swivel affixed to said front upper cross brace and said front lower cross brace and affixed to said rear upper cross brace and said rear lower cross brace.
2. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, wherein at least one said sliding bracket and at least one said top rail comprises at least one chair back angle adjustment aperture.
3. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, wherein at least one said sliding bracket and at least one said top rail comprises at least one folding transport aperture.
4. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, further comprising at least one arm rest.
5. The chair for outdoor use of claim 4, wherein said at least one arm rest comprises at least one seat angle adjustment slot.
6. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, further comprising a camouflage fabric top shroud.
7. The chair for outdoor use of claim 6, wherein said camouflage fabric top shroud comprises a camouflage window netting, a natural vegetation retaining strap, and a natural vegetation retaining strap anchor point.
8. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, further comprising a seat sling.
9. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, further comprising a seat back sling.
10. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, further comprising a backpack strap.
11. The chair for outdoor use of claim 9, further comprising a back pack strap buckle.
12. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, further comprising a camouflage apron.
13. The chair for outdoor use of claim 12, wherein said camouflage apron comprises a side apron hook and loop fastener, or a grommet.
14. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, further comprising one or more leg extensions configured to be reversible affixed to one or more of said front foot of said left leg, said rear foot of said left leg, said front foot of said right leg, and said rear foot of said right leg.
15. The chair for outdoor use of claim 1, wherein the vertical axis at the center of said swivel is forward of the intersection of a first straight line drawn from the right front corner of the right top rail to the left rear corner of the left rear rail and a second straight line drawn from the left front corner of the left top rail to the right rear corner of the right top rail.
16. A kit, comprising: a) the chair for outdoor use of claim 1; and b) one or more of a leg extension, a camouflage shroud, a camouflage apron, spare and/or replacement parts and pins, a lubricant, a cleaning solution, linkages to attach other outdoor and hunting apparatuses, a beverage holder, detachable pockets, seat padding, flotation devices, a carrying case, packaging and instructions for use.
17. A system, comprising: a) the chair for outdoor use of claim 1; and b) one or more of a leg extension, a camouflage shroud, a camouflage apron, spare and/or replacement parts and pins, a lubricant, a cleaning solution, linkages to attach other outdoor and hunting apparatuses, a beverage holder, detachable pockets, seat padding, flotation devices, a carrying case, packaging and instructions for use.
Description
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
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REFERENCE NUMBERS
[0020] 1 Top rail [0021] 2 Stationary bracket [0022] 3 Sliding bracket [0023] 4 Upper cross brace [0024] 5 Swivel [0025] 6 Leg [0026] 7 Foot [0027] 8 Lower cross brace [0028] 9 Leg extension [0029] 10 Seat frame [0030] 11 Seat back frame [0031] 12 Seat back support [0032] 13 Seat back angle adjustment aperture [0033] 14 Folding transport aperture [0034] 15 Arm rest [0035] 16 Seat angle adjustment slots [0036] 17 Camouflage fabric top shroud [0037] 18 Camouflage window netting [0038] 19 Natural vegetation retaining strap [0039] 20 Natural vegetation retaining strap anchor point [0040] 21 Seat sling [0041] 22 Seat back sling [0042] 23 Backpack strap [0043] 24 Backpack strap buckle [0044] 25 Grommet [0045] 26 Side and rear apron hook and loop fastener [0046] 27 Camouflage fabric side and rear apron [0047] 28 Seat angle adjustment stud [0048] 29 Shaft collar [0049] 30 Shaft collar locking pin
Definitions
[0050] To facilitate an understanding of the present disclosure, a number of terms and phrases are defined below:
[0051] As used herein, chair refers to a seat frame, plus a seat back frame. In some embodiments, the chair further comprises one or more arm rests. In other embodiments, the chair further comprises one or more of an arm rest, a seat sling, and/or a seat back sling.
[0052] As used herein, upper frame refers to top rails plus stationary brackets. In some embodiments, the upper frame further comprises one or more top cross braces.
[0053] As uses herein, lower frame refers to legs plus feet. In some embodiments, lower frame further comprises one or more cross braces.
[0054] As used herein, a grommet is a ring of rubber, plastic, metal or other material placed inside a hole.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0055] Provided herein are compositions, systems, kits, methods and uses for a chair designed for outdoor use. In particular, provided herein are compositions, systems, kits, methods and uses wherein a swivel mounted chair reclines while maintaining stability in all recline positions.
[0056] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises a swivel chair and a layout blind in a light weight, compact and portable blind and system that may be transported to and from an outdoor destination using integrated backpack straps. In certain embodiments, the present invention provides a stable and adjustable reclining chair on a 360 degree swivel base, thereby assuring hunter comfort and safety. In further embodiments, the present invention provides 360 degree shooting opportunities whether in a fully reclined low profile position, an upright high profile position, or any position in between. Changing the recline angle of the chair changes the user's center of gravity relative to the swivel. When the user's center of gravity is not centered over the top of the swivel, an unstable tipping configuration may be generated. In particular embodiments, the present invention corrects for the problem of instability that arises when a user's center of gravity is not centered over the swivel. Changing the recline angle of a conventional outdoor chair shifts the hunter's center of gravity relative of the swivel, and destabilizes the chair. When the user's center of gravity is cantilevered in front of the swivel as occurs in a fully reclined position, the upper frame flexes downwards and may make contact with a lower frame, and thereby prevent the upper frame from swiveling on the lower frame. In specific embodiments of the present invention, the swivel assembly is mounted front of center on the upper frame to minimize cantilever effects and downward flexion of the upper frame. In certain embodiments, the top rails are assembled from high tensile strength aluminum to preclude flexing of the top rails. The forward mounted swivel and high tensile strength top rails assure that the chair's upper frame rotates freely on the lower frame in all recline angles.
[0057] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises an integrated 360 degree swivel that allows a user to view a full 360 horizontal degrees from the supine, semi-supine, or upright position. Conventional waterfowl layout blinds constrain the shooting opportunities for the hunter. In a layout blind, the hunter lays in a supine or semi-supine position which severely restricts the potential target zone of the hunter. Due to ergonomic constraints, a right handed hunter is only able to shoot at birds to the front and left of their seated position. Similarly, a left handed shooter is restricted to shooting at birds to the front and right side of their seated position. Accordingly, hunters are only able to safely shoot at birds in a 90 degree arc to the front and side of the direction they are facing. Of the horizontal 360 degree potential shooting opportunities, 270 degrees are inaccessible to the hunter using a conventional waterfowl layout blind. Moreover, if a hunter were to try to quickly stand up to expand their field of view, and to target birds beyond their 90 degree field of view, the birds will be out of range by the time the hunter is able to stand and attempt a shot. In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises an integrated 360 degree swivel that allows a user to view and shoot a full 360 horizontal degrees from the supine, semi-supine, or upright position.
[0058] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises a low profile in, for example, a fully reclined position. Wild game species typically avoid areas and objects that do not appear to be a part of their natural environment. In certain embodiments, the present invention minimizes the silhouette on the horizon. In other embodiments, the present invention comprises a camouflage apron which encircles the chair. In particular embodiments, the present invention comprises a camouflage shroud over the top of a user. In further embodiments, the present invention comprises a low profile design (for example, an 18 vertical profile) achieved by: 1) use of a low profile swivel (for example, a swivel spanning inches from top to bottom); 2) mounting the swivel to the bottom of the bottom frame rather than to the top side of the bottom frame; 3) adjusting the chair back to a full recline position such that the top of the chair back is in a lower position than if in the upright configuration; and 4) a foot height on the bottom frame of approximately 3 inches from the ground.
[0059] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention allows the user to adjust the recline angle of the seat back, and to adjust the angle between the seat and the seat back using seat angle adjustment slots provided in the arm rests. Conventional layout blinds require the user to lay straight-legged in a supine or semi-supine position. This position severely restricts the user's vertical and horizontal fields of view, thereby limiting the user's ability to spot incoming game. The lack of vision and discomfort of conventional blinds frequently forces the user to move in attempts to identify incoming game, or in attempts to achieve a position of greater comfort. Accordingly, conventional blinds add to the user's challenges to remain motionless, and to avoid scaring game animals that may be nearby. In certain embodiments, the recline angle of the seat back is adjusted by moving the sliding brackets along the top rails to the preferred recline angle. In some embodiments, the sliding brackets and/or the top rails comprise one or more bearings in a closed or open bearing system. In other embodiments, the sliding brackets and/or top rails comprise low friction components that assure movement without binding. In particular embodiments, once the chosen recline angle is achieved, a pin is inserted through the sliding bracket, and through the corresponding top rail to affix the recline angle at the desired position. In further embodiments, the seat angle adjustment slot may be chosen and reversibly affixed to a chair frame stud, thereby allowing the user to select from a diversity of comfortable bent knee positions. In certain embodiments, a clamp and levered locking arm and/or cam-locking apparatus is used to fix the angle of recline. Hunting from a comfortable position assures that a hunter is able to remain motionless for longer periods of time, and enjoy greater hunting success.
[0060] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention can be transformed from a low profile, maximum recline position (for example, a preferred position for waterfowl field hunting), to an intermediate profile semi upright position (for example, a preferred position for turkey or predator hunting), to a high profile upright position (for example, a preferred position for deer hunting). Conventional chairs, systems and blinds have a single fixed configuration, and are only useful for hunting a single particular species in a single specific situation. For example, waterfowl field hunting often demands that the hunter maintain a low profile with an upward field of view, whereas turkey hunting often demands a low profile semi-upright position to allow the hunter to maximize shooting opportunities at ground level. Conventional blinds do not provide versatility to pursue multiple species. In certain embodiments, the present invention allows the user to adjust the recline angle and thereby to determine a chosen height profile of the chair. In further embodiments, leg extensions are added to generate greater elevation above ground level. In particular embodiments, the recline angle is adjusted by sliding the sliding bracket along the top rail to a desired position, and then inserting a pin to lock the sliding bracket in place at a selected recline angle. In still further embodiments, the chair swivels a full 360 degrees in all of the various recline positions and yet maintain a stable, non-tipping configuration.
[0061] In some embodiments, the swivel of an outdoor use chair of the present invention is forward of the intersection of a first straight line drawn from the right front corner of the right top rail to the left rear corner of the left top rail and a second straight line drawn from the left front corner of the left top rail to the right rear corner of the right top rail that identifies a geometric center of the upper frame. In specific embodiments, a vertical axis of the center of the swivel located forward of the geometric axis of the upper chair frame (as described above), minimizes cantilever effects and downward flexion of the top chair frame when, for example, the outdoor use chair is in full recline position with the user's center of gravity furthest forward. In the absence of this orientation of the vertical axis of the center of the swivel forward of the geometric center of the upper chair frame, changing the recline angle of the outdoor use chair may generate an unstable and tilting platform that may jeopardize the safety of the user and others nearby. To the contrary, the present invention mitigates instability generated when a user's center of gravity is not directly over the top of the swivel, and further mitigates downward flexion of the upper frame that may otherwise make contact with the lower frame and thereby prevent the chair from freely swiveling. In other embodiments of the present invention, the top rails are constructed of a high tensile strength alloy to minimize flexing of the top rails. The forward position of the swivel relative to the top chair frame, and high tensile strength of the top rails allow the upper chair frame to rotate freely on the lower base frame independently of the recline angle of the outdoor use chair. In particular embodiments, the swivel of an outdoor use chair of the present invention is at or behind the intersection of a first straight line drawn from the right front corner of the right top rail to the left rear corner of the left top rail and a second straight line drawn from the left front corner of the left top rail to the right rear corner of the right top rail. In other embodiments, the position of the swivel is variably adjustable such that the vertical axis of the center of the swivel may be located to the rear of the geometric center of the upper frame, may be aligned with the geometric center of the upper frame, or may be in front of the geometric center of the upper frame at the preference of the user.
[0062] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention is light weight and collapses into a compact, low profile configuration that is easily transported to and from use locations via backpack straps. Many of the best hunting opportunities occur in remote and difficult to access locations. Conventional outdoor use chairs and systems are heavy, bulky and cumbersome, and have limited portability. In certain embodiments of the present invention, a low profile, folded configuration is achieved by moving the sliding bracket to the most rearward position on the top rail (i.e., adjacent to the stationary bracket), and inserting a pin to lock the outdoor use chair into its folded, transportable configuration.
[0063] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises interchangeable camouflage shrouds and aprons to conceal the outdoor use chair in patterns that are matched to environmental conditions. Because environmental conditions change from locale to locale and from season to season, the present invention provides different camouflage patterns to achieve maximum concealment.
[0064] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises a wide and stable base compatible with portability. Conventional outdoor use chairs are unstable and may generate safety hazards, particularly when the user's center of gravity is furthest from ground level. In certain embodiments, the angle between the foot and leg of the lower base frame generates a progressively wider and more stable base as the distance between the ground and the user increases when, for example, leg extensions are added.
[0065] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises an apron affixed to the top of the seat back frame with, for example, zip ties or similar fasteners, and affixed to the sides of the chair frame with, for example, hook and loop (i.e., Velcro) fasteners to allow easy attachment and detachment to the sides of the chair frame. In conventional outdoor use chairs and systems, permanently affixing a camouflage apron to the chair frame restricts the collapsibility and portability of a blind system, and precludes the user's ability to interchange the camouflage patterns to match the existing environmental conditions. In certain embodiments, the present invention allows the user to roll and secure the camouflage apron beneath the top of the upper chair frame back for easy transport without fully detaching the fabric from the frame.
[0066] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises aluminum components, although a diversity of other plastics, carbon fiber, steel or similar materials are suitable. In certain embodiments, the frame materials are powder coated, painted, anodized or treated with a diversity of other products to maximize concealment and weather and corrosion resistance.
[0067] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises a fixed number of recline position options for simplicity. In other embodiments, the outdoor use chair accommodates a flexible number of recline positions. In certain embodiments, the outdoor use chair comprises a firearm support or rest integrated in the frame to provide a stable shooting rest.
[0068] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention comprises concealment over the front and top of the user by the use of a camouflage blanket. In other embodiments, an outdoor use chair of the present invention provides frame extensions over the front and the top of user such that the top and front of the user are concealed by the outdoor use chair frame itself in addition to or instead of a camouflage blanket.
[0069] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention is used in an indoor environment during, for example, a game as a spectator or participant, a viewer of live or recorded events, employment, or other work or recreation. In other embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention is used in an outdoor environment during, for example, photography, astronomy, and sporting events.
[0070] In some embodiments, an outdoor use chair and system of the present invention is provided in a kit or system together with one or more of, for example, a camouflage shroud, a camouflage apron, spare and/or replacement parts and pins, a lubricant, a cleaning solution, linkages to attach other outdoor and hunting apparatuses, a beverage holder, detachable pockets, seat padding, flotation devices, a carrying case, packaging and instructions for use.
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EXAMPLES
[0083] The following examples are provided in order to demonstrate and further illustrate certain embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure, and are not to be construed as limiting the scope thereof.
Example 1
[0084] A right-handed waterfowl hunter observes targets approaching 140 degrees to the left and just at his line of sight in a recumbent position. Using an outdoor chair of the present invention, the hunter rotates the chair to the left without destabilizing the chair, to achieve an optimal field of view without having to stand to attempt a shot, and thereby alerting the waterfowl.
Example 2
[0085] A hunter wishes to exert a minimal visual impact on the hunter's surroundings. Using a low profile configuration of an outdoor chair of the present invention to minimize silhouette, the hunter attaches a camouflage apron to encircle the chair, and a camouflage shroud to cover the top of the chair and hunter. Use of the chair's low profile swivel (e.g., 1 or less from top to bottom) mounted on the lower frame, adjusting the chair to a full recumbent position, and adjusting the foot height of the lower frame provides the hunter with a minimal silhouette.
Example 3
[0086] A hunter wishes to remain motionless during the possible approach of game. Using an outdoor chair of the present invention, the hunter adjusts the recline angle of the seat back frame by moving the sliding brackets along the top rails to achieve a position of greatest comfort with optimal field of view of the game's anticipated approach. Once the recline angle is chosen, pins are inserted through the sliding brackets and top rails, and a seat angle adjustment slot is chosen to lock the seat into the hunter's preferred position of comfort. Accordingly, the hunter is able to hunt from a diversity of comfortable bent-knee positions, and remain motionless for longer periods of time.
Example 4
[0087] An avid hunter pursues many different species as hunting seasons allow, but wishes to possess a single chair that is adaptable to diverse hunting opportunities. Using an outdoor chair of the present invention, the hunter uses the single chair in a maximum recline position for waterfowl field hunting, in an intermediate profile semi-upright position for turkey or predator hunting, and in a high-profile upright position for deer hunting. Adjusting the recline angle as above determines the height profile of the outdoor chair. To achieve greater above-ground elevation, the hunter attaches leg extensions to achieve a preferred height. Using a chair of the present invention, the hunter swivels a full 360 degrees in all recline and elevation positions without destabilizing or tilting the hunting chair on its frame.
Example 5
[0088] A hunter is aware of a preferred hunting opportunity 15 miles from the nearest vehicle access point, and must hike the distance carrying all of his gear. To avoid the weight, bulk and protuberances of conventional outdoor chairs and blinds, the hunter selects a light-weight chair of the present invention that collapses into a compact low profile configuration that is easily transported to and from remote hunting locations by integrated back pack straps. The hunter achieves the low profile folded configuration by moving the sliding brackets to their most rearward position (e.g., immediately adjacent to the stationary brackets), and inserting a pin to lock the chair into its folded, transportable configuration.
Example 6
[0089] To adjust camouflage requirements to meet diverse environmental conditions and seasonal variations, a hunter selects camouflage from multiple patterns suitable for Spring turkey hunting at the field edge of a pasture, fall waterfowl hunting in a marsh, fall waterfowl hunting in a cornfield, woodland deer hunting in Fall, and woodland deer hunting in Winter. The hunter reversibly affixes a selected apron camouflage pattern to the seat back frame through the grommets with zip ties or similar fasteners, and uses hook and loop (e.g., Velcro) fasteners to affix the apron to the seat back frame, arm rests and seat frame. After use, the hunter rolls the camouflage fabric for storage beneath the seat back frame for transport. In the transport and storage configuration, the camouflage apron may be detached from the chair frame at the Velcro fasteners, but remains reversibly attached to the top of the seat back frame via zip ties. Similarly, the seat sling and seat back sling may be changed to provide diverse camouflage patterns.
[0090] Various modifications and variations of the described method and system of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Although the disclosure has been described in connection with specific embodiments, it should be understood that the disclosure as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the disclosure that are obvious to those skilled relevant fields are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.