FOLDABLE CHAIR

Abstract

A foldable chair is disclosed herein, where the foldable chair includes a first plurality of frame components forming a seat of the chair, a second plurality of frame components forming a backrest coupled with the seat and moveable relative thereto; rear legs; rear joint assemblies enabling the backrest to translate between angles of reclination relative to the seat in a supporting configuration and to collapse the backrest toward the seat and align the rear legs with the first and second horizontal frame components in a transport configuration; front legs coupled with the first plurality of frame components; and first and second engagement structures that allow for an indirect coupling between the first plurality of frame components and the front legs, the engagement structures operating in tandem with the rear joint assemblies to hingedly collapse the front legs against the respective rear legs in the transport configuration.

Claims

1. A foldable chair comprising: a first plurality of frame components forming a seat of the chair, the first plurality of frame components comprising at least first and second horizontal frame components each longitudinally extending between first and second ends; a second plurality of frame components forming a backrest coupled with the seat and moveable relative thereto, the second plurality of frame components comprising at least first and second vertical frame components each longitudinally extending between first and second ends; first and second rear legs; rear joint assemblies coupling the first horizontal frame component with the first vertical frame component and the first rear leg, and coupling the second horizontal frame component with the second vertical frame component and the second rear leg, the rear joint assemblies enabling the backrest to translate between angles of reclination relative to the seat in a supporting configuration and to collapse the backrest toward the seat and align the first and second rear legs with the first and second horizontal frame components in a transport configuration; first and second front legs coupled with the first plurality of frame components; and first and second engagement structures each extending from a respective one of the first and second horizontal frame components and engaged with respective first and second front legs to allow for an indirect coupling between the first horizontal frame component and the first front leg and the second horizontal frame component and the second front leg, the first and second engagement structures operating in tandem with the rear joint assemblies to hingedly collapse the first and second front legs against the respective first and second rear legs in the transport configuration.

2. The foldable chair of claim 1, further comprising a front crossbar engaged with and extending between the first and second front legs.

3. The foldable chair of claim 2, wherein the front crossbar is formed to lie within substantially a same plane as the first and second front legs in the supporting configuration.

4. The foldable chair of claim 1, wherein the first and second rear legs are substantially coplanar with the first and second horizontal frame components in the transport configuration.

5. The foldable chair of claim 1, wherein the angles of reclination are between about 95 degrees and about 160 degrees relative to the seat.

6. The foldable chair of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second horizontal frame components and the first and second vertical frame components has a non-circular shaped cross section.

7. The foldable chair of claim 1, wherein the seat and backrest are formed from a single piece of material engaged with the first and second horizontal frame components and the first and second vertical frame components.

8. The foldable chair of claim 7, wherein the first and second horizontal frame components and the first and second vertical frame components each defines a c-shaped channel extending between the first and second ends and along a respective length thereof, and wherein longitudinal edges of the single piece of material are inserted into and secured within each of the c-shaped channels.

9. The foldable chair of claim 7, wherein the material is a permeable, woven material selected from the group consisting of mesh, canvas, polyester, nylon, water resistant marine fabrics, and combinations thereof.

10. The foldable chair of claim 1, wherein the transport configuration has a height of between about 3 inches and about 4 inches.

11. The foldable chair of claim 1, wherein the second plurality of frame components further comprises an upper crossbar engaged with and extending between the first and second vertical frame components.

12. The foldable chair of claim 11, further comprising a carry strap and a strap attachment mechanism arranged on the upper crossbar or one of the second plurality of frame components, the carry strap being coupled to or engageable with the strap attachment mechanism for transporting the chair in the transport configuration.

13. The foldable chair of claim 1, further comprising first and second armrests each longitudinally extending between first and second ends, the first armrest being engaged with the first vertical frame component proximate the first end of the first armrest and the second armrest being engaged with the second vertical frame component proximate the first end of the second armrest.

14. The foldable chair of claim 13, further comprising a first armrest connecting joint arranged on an underside of the first armrest in between the first and second ends thereof and coupling the first rear leg and the first front leg into a movable relationship, and a second armrest connecting joint arranged on an underside of the second armrest in between the first and second ends thereof and coupling the second rear leg and the second front leg into a movable relationship, the first armrest connecting joint allowing the first front leg to collapse adjacent to the first rear leg and the second arm rest connecting joint allowing the second front leg to collapse adjacent to the second rear leg in a transport configuration.

15. The foldable chair of claim 14, further comprising a clip arranged on the underside of each of the first and second armrests between the respective first ends and the respective first and second armrest connecting joints to securely receive respective ones of the first and second rear legs in the transport configuration.

16. The foldable chair of claim 13, wherein each of the first and second armrests has a substantially constant width along a length between the first end to the second end thereof.

17. The foldable chair of claim 1, further comprising a rear support member engaged between the first and second rear legs, and a front support member engaged between the first and second front legs.

18. The foldable chair of claim 17, further comprising a stability foot arranged at intersections between the rear support member and the first and second rear legs, and intersections between the front support member and the first and second front legs, the stability foot resting on a ground surface when the foldable chair is in the supporting configuration.

19. The foldable chair of claim 1, wherein the first and second engagement structures each comprises a first portion welded to a respective one of the first and second horizontal frame components and a second portion comprising a fastener extending through a respective one of the first and second front legs and into engagement with the respective first portion.

20. The foldable chair of claim 19, further comprising an accessories connecting mechanism engaged with one of the fasteners of the respective first and second engagement structures, wherein the fastener extends through the accessories connecting mechanism, through a respective one of the first and second front legs and into engagement with the respective first portion.

21. The foldable chair of claim 20, further comprising one or more accessories removably engageable with the accessories connecting mechanism.

22. The foldable chair of claim 21, wherein the one or more accessories comprises a cup holder comprising a circumferential wall formed of a neoprene material.

23. The foldable chair of claim 1, wherein the rear joint assemblies comprise a first rear joint assembly with a first translating arm and a first rear connecting joint, and a second rear joint assembly with a second translating arm and a second rear connecting joint.

24. The foldable chair of claim 23, wherein the first and second rear connecting joints each defines a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity, and wherein the first ends of the first and second vertical frame components are pivotably received in the respective first receiving cavity of the first and second rear connecting joints and the first ends of the first and second horizontal frame components are non-movably received in the respective second receiving cavity of the first and second rear connecting joints, such that in configuring the foldable chair between the supporting configuration and the transport configuration, the first and second vertical frame components move toward and away from the first and second horizontal frame components.

25. The foldable chair of claim 24, wherein the first and second translating arms each comprises a first end and an opposing bifurcated end defined by two parallel arms extending from the first end, and wherein each of the first ends of the first and second translating arms is pivotably connected to the respective one of the first and second rear connecting joints via a fastener that acts as a pivot point and extends through the first end of the respective one of the first and second translating arms, through a respective one of the first receiving cavities, and into the respective one of the first ends of the first and second vertical frame components received in the respective one of the first receiving cavities to enable pivotable movement of the first and second vertical frame components toward and away from the first and second horizontal frame components.

26. The foldable chair of claim 25, wherein the first rear leg has a portion arranged and engaged between the two parallel arms of the bifurcated end of the first translating arm, and wherein the second rear leg has a portion arranged and engaged between the two parallel arms of the bifurcated end of the second translating arm.

27. The foldable chair of claim 26, wherein in the supporting configuration, the two parallel arms of the first and second translating arms each extend substantially parallel to the respective first and second rear legs.

28. The foldable chair of claim 24, wherein each of the first and second rear connecting joints defines a third receiving cavity, the foldable chair further comprising a lower crossbar non-movably received in the third receiving cavities of the first and second rear connecting joints and extending therebetween.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE(S)

[0034] In order to assist the understanding of aspects of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the appended drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are provided by way of example to assist in the understanding of aspects of the disclosure, and should not be construed as limiting the disclosure.

[0035] FIGS. 1A-1B are respectively front perspective and side views of a foldable chair in a first recline position according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIGS. 2A-2B are respectively front perspective and side views of a foldable chair in a second recline position according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] FIGS. 3A-3B are respectively front perspective and side views of a foldable chair in a third recline position according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] FIGS. 4A-4B are respectively front perspective and side views of a foldable chair in a fourth recline position according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] FIGS. 5A-5E are respectively front perspective, side, top, front, and rear views a foldable chair in a transport configuration according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIGS. 6A-6C are various views of a rear joint assembly according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of an engagement structure according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0042] FIGS. 8A-8B are various views of an armrest connecting joint according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0043] FIGS. 9A-9C are three example embodiments of a cupholder according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0044] FIGS. 10A-10B are rear views of two example embodiments of a personal items holder according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0045] FIG. 10C is a front view of a personal items holder according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0046] FIGS. 11A-11C are front views of three example embodiments of a pouch according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0047] FIG. 11D is a rear view of a pouch according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which some, but not all embodiments of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0049] For example, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, references to first, second or the like should not be construed to imply a particular order. A feature described as being above another feature (unless specified otherwise or clear from context) may instead be below, and vice versa; and similarly, features described as being to the left of another feature may instead be to the right, and vice versa. Also, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships or the like, unless otherwise stated, any one or more if not all of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to engineering tolerances or the like.

[0050] As used herein, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, the or of a set of operands is the inclusive or and thereby true if and only if one or more of the operands is true, as opposed to the exclusive or which is false when all of the operands are true. Thus, for example, [A] or [B] is true if [A] is true, or if [B] is true, or if both [A] and [B] are true. Further, the articles a and an mean one or more, unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0051] As used herein, the terms bottom, top, upper, lower, upward, downward, rightward, leftward, interior, exterior, and/or similar terms are used for ease of explanation and refer generally to the position of certain components or portions of the components of embodiments of the described disclosure. It is understood that such terms are not used in any absolute sense.

[0052] As used herein, directly engaged, coupled, joined, etc., means that two or more components are connected via direct contact with one another, i.e., touching, whereas indirectly engaged, coupled, joined, etc., means that two or more components do not directly contact one another, but are still connected via one or more intervening component. Such direct or indirect engagement, coupling, joining, etc., may be permanent or may be removable, unless otherwise specified. Likewise, the use of engage, couple, join, connect, fasten, etc., is not to be limited to being indirect or direct, and/or permanent or removable, unless otherwise specified.

[0053] As used herein, fastener(s) may refer to any type of hardware device or mechanism that mechanically, magnetically, chemically, etc., affixes or joins two or more objects together. Though generally a fastener may be used to create a non-permanent joint, as used herein, fastener may refer to both permanent and non-permanent joints unless otherwise specified. Exemplary fasteners may include, but are not limited to, a threaded fastener (e.g., screws, nuts, and bolts, captive threaded fasteners, studs, threaded inserts, and threaded rods), anchor bolt, batten, bolt snap, brass fastener, buckle, button, cable tie, cam, captive fastener, clamp (or cramp), hose clamp, clasp and shackle, bolt snap, carabiner, circle cotter, lobster clasp, cleco, clip, binder clip, BULLDOG clip, crocodile clip, circlip, clothespin, hairpin clip, paper clip, terry clip, clutch, drawing pin (thumbtack), flange, frog, grommet, hook-and-eye closure, hook and loop fastener, VELCRO, latch, nail and rivet, solid/round head rivets, semi-tubular rivets, blind (pop) rivet, pegs, tent peg, PEM nut, pins, clevis fastener, cotter, dowel, linchpin, R-clip, safety pin, split pin, spring pin, tapered pin, retaining rings, e-ring, well nut, rock bolt, rubber band (or bands of other materials), screw anchor, snap fastener, snap-fit engagement, staple, stitches, strap, tie, toggle bolt, tolerance ring, treasury tag, twist tie, wedge anchor, and zipper. Otherwise, components affixed together may be joined using a permanent joint such as, but not limited to, crimping, welding, soldering, brazing, taping, gluing, cement, or the use of other adhesives. Force may also be used, such as with magnets, vacuum (like suction cups), or even friction (like sticky pads). Some types of woodworking joints make use of separate internal reinforcements, such as dowels or biscuits, which in a sense may be considered fasteners as used herein.

[0054] The present disclosure is directed to a foldable chair, designated as 10. As described in more detail below, the chair being foldable means that the chair is designed to be maneuvered between two configurationsa supporting configuration (e.g., FIGS. 1A-4B) in which the foldable chair 10 bears weight from a user and a transport configuration in which the foldable chair 10 is collapsed into a compact arrangement (e.g., FIGS. 5A-5E) for easier transport, though the chair may be transportable in the supporting configuration. As used herein, collapsing means that the components of the foldable chair 10 are brought closer together in one or more of the X, Y, and Z directions, Regardless of whether the foldable chair 10 is in the supporting configuration or in the transport configuration, the foldable chair 10 may be lightweight and easily portable, while simultaneously being sturdy enough to hold up to about 300 pounds, about 400 pounds, about 500 pounds, etc. In one example embodiment of the foldable chair 10, a total weight of the chair is between about 5 pounds to about 10 pounds; typically the chair is about 8 pounds. In other example embodiments of the foldable chair 10, such as a mini version of the foldable chair 10, a total weight of the chair may be reduced to between about 3 pounds to about 7 pounds, while in a tall version of the foldable chair 10, a total weight of the chair may be increased to between about 7 pounds to about 12 pounds. In other example embodiments of the foldable chair 10, the total weight may be more or less than between about 5 to about 15 pounds, depending on various characteristics of the chair, such as, for example, the length(s) and/or weight(s) of various components of the foldable chair 10, materials of the chair, number and type of attached accessories, etc.

[0055] The foldable chair 10 as described herein, may also have components that enable the chair to be folded into the compact arrangement in the transport configuration with as minimal a height as possible. Having the chair fold into the transport configuration with as minimal a height as possible is beneficial for storing and transporting the chair; especially in circumstances where space is limited (e.g., a trunk of a car). For example, in the transport configuration, a height of the chair may be between about 3 inches to about 4 inches; preferably the height is about 375 inches.

[0056] Accordingly, in one example embodiment, and as shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, the foldable chair 10 comprises a first plurality of frame components forming a seat 12 of the chair, the first plurality of frame components comprising at least first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 each longitudinally extending between first and second ends 18, 20; a second plurality of frame components forming a backrest 22 coupled with the seat 12 and moveable relative thereto, the second plurality of frame components comprising at least first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 each longitudinally extending between first and second ends 28, 30; first and second rear legs 32, 34; rear joint assemblies 36 coupling the first horizontal frame component 14 with the first vertical frame component 24 and the first rear leg 32, and coupling the second horizontal frame component 16 with the second vertical frame component 26 and the second rear leg 34, the rear joint assemblies 36 enabling the backrest 22 to translate between angles of reclination relative to the seat 12 in a supporting configuration and to collapse the backrest 22 toward the seat 12 and align the first and second-rear legs 32, 34 with the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 in a transport configuration; first and second front legs 38, 40 coupled with the first plurality of frame components; and first and second engagement structures 42, 44 each extending from a respective one of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 and engaged with respective first and second front legs 38, 40 to allow for an indirect coupling between the first horizontal frame component 14 and the first front leg 38 and the second horizontal frame component 16 and the second front leg 40, the first and second engagement structures 42, 44 operating in tandem with the rear joint assemblies 36 to hingedly collapse the first and second front legs 38, 40 against the respective first and second rear legs 32, 34 in the transport configuration. Each of the components will be discussed in more detail below.

Chair Seat

[0057] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the first plurality of frame components form the seat 12 of the chair. The first plurality of frame components comprises at least first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 (hereinafter referred to collectively as the horizontal frame components unless specified otherwise) each longitudinally extending between first and second ends 18, 20. As shown, the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 are substantially parallel to one another in one or both of the supporting configuration and the transport configuration. The first plurality of frame components may also comprise additional horizontal frame components (not shown), such as, for example, a third horizontal frame component engaged with and extending between the first ends 18 of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16, and/or a fourth horizontal frame component engaged with and extending between the second ends 20 of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. However, and as shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, the first plurality of frame components only comprises the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16, which typically reduce an overall weight of the chair and increase comfort of the seat 12. In some example embodiments, the first plurality of frame components may be removable and replaceable. Otherwise, the first plurality of frame components are permanently joined together either directly or indirectly via fasteners, welding, chemical bonding, adhesive, any combination thereof, and the like.

[0058] A length of each of the horizontal frame components may be defined between the first and second ends 18, 20 thereof. In some example embodiments, the length of each of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 may be between about 35 centimeters (cm) to about 56 cm. As such, a shape of each of the horizontal frame components along the length thereof may be substantially straight, curved, contoured, or otherwise formed with a combination of these shapes at different portions to create a comfortable and ergonomic seating surface. Thus, in some example embodiments, one or both of the horizontal frame components are continuously straight along their lengths. However, in some example embodiments and as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 have a shape that changes along each of their lengths. For example, each of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 may have a first portion having a substantially straight shape along its length beginning from the first ends 18 and ending at a point along the length between the first and second ends 18, 20 thereof, and a second portion extending from the point along the length to the second end 20. The second portions in this embodiment may each be bent at a downward angle from the first portions. Otherwise, the second portions may be bent outward, upward, inward, etc. This angle may be a slight angle (e.g., between about 0 degrees to about 30 degrees; typically about 12 degrees in some example embodiments) to provide a comfortable transition for a user's legs while sitting in the chair in the supporting configuration. In other example embodiments, one or more of the horizontal frame components may comprise third, fourth, fifth, sixth, etc., portions having various shapes along their length to create a further contoured seat 12. The first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 may have the same shape along their length or may be differently shaped.

[0059] The horizontal frame components may also be configured with a cross-section that is substantially circular, square, rectangular, triangular, oval-shaped, or any other geometric shape. For purposes of reducing an overall weight of the foldable chair 10, in the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, each of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 have a non-circular shaped cross-section. In particular, the cross-section may comprise two vertical walls that are connected by arcs. The cross-sectional shape may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 or the cross-section may change along the length thereof to provide additional support and/or comfort. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the cross-sectional shape remains constant along the length of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. The cross-sectional diameter of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 may be defined between the vertical walls or determined by a circumference of the cross-section. In this manner, the diameter may be between about 10 millimeters (mm) to about 30 mm, and may vary depending on the cross-sectional shape along the length of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the diameter between the two vertical walls is about 16 mm, while the diameter between the two arcs is about 25 mm.

[0060] In some example embodiments, one or more of the horizontal frame components may comprise a hollow interior that extends through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the horizontal frame components. Having a hollow interior may beneficially further reduce an overall weight of the foldable chair 10. In other example embodiments, only a portion of each of the horizontal frame components may be hollow and the other portions may comprise an interior support rod or other support structure to provide further stability to the horizontal frame components. In still further example embodiments, interior support rods may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the horizontal frame components. The interior support rods may be of a metallic or metal alloy such as steel or aluminum, a fibrous material such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, or a plastic or natural material (like wood), or any combination thereof. Other materials and interior support structures, such as cells, ribs, etc., are also contemplated herein.

[0061] In some example embodiments, the first and/or second ends 18, 20 of each of the horizontal frame components may be capped with removable or permanently attached caps to prevent debris and other undesirable material from entering into the interior of the horizontal frame components. Should debris enter the interiors, where the caps are removable, they may be simply removed and then replaced when the debris has been removed. Otherwise, the first and second ends 18, 20 may be welded shut or closed off. In some other example embodiments, though, the first and/or second ends 18, 20 of the horizontal frame components may be left open so that debris may not remain trapped within the interiors. To prevent trapped debris from remaining within the interiors of the horizontal frame components, one or more openings may be provided along the length of the horizontal frame components to allow such debris to escape.

[0062] For forming the chair seat 12 between the horizontal frame components, each of the horizontal frame components may comprise a channel that extends along a substantial entirety or an entirety of the length of the horizontal frame components. The channel may begin toward or at the first ends of the horizontal frame components and end toward or at the second ends of the horizontal frame components. The channel may be c-shaped, T-shaped, L-shaped, D-shaped, Z-shaped, or any other shape that will allow for the seat 12 material to be inserted into and secured within the channels on each of the horizontal frame components. For example, and as shown in the embodiment in FIGS. 1A-5E, the channel is a c-shaped channel extending between the first and second ends 18, 20 and along the respective lengths of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16, and longitudinal edges of the seat 12 material are inserted into and secured within each of the c-shaped channels. In this way, the seat 12 material may remain taut when supporting weight. Notably, and as discussed in further detail below, the seat 12 material may be a single piece of material that extends from the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 to the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26, Otherwise, the backrest 22 material and the seat 12 material may be separate pieces of material. However, the seat 12 material may be engaged with or coupled to the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 in other manners, such as for example, the seat 12 material is wrapped around the horizontal frame components and sewn to itself such that the seat 12 material forms a loop and the horizontal frame components extend therethrough, the seat 12 material is wrapped around the horizontal frame components and a fastener extends through the seat 12 material and into the horizontal frame components to retain the seat 12 material, one or more fasteners (e.g., zippers, button snaps, or other fasteners) retain the seat 12 material in place when it is looped around the horizontal frame components, bungee cords extend through eyelets on the seat 12 material and attach to the horizontal frame components, the seat 12 material is formed as a circular loop and extends around both horizontal frame components, the seat 12 material includes padding and rests on top of a foundation extending between the horizontal frame components, and the like.

[0063] The horizontal frame components may comprise a material that is both lightweight and sturdy in order to make the foldable chair 10 easily usable in the transport configuration and the supporting configuration. For example, the material of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 may be an aluminum alloy such as 6 series or 7 series (including but not limited to 6063, 6061, and 7001), Otherwise, the material of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 may be other metallic compositions, steel, plastic, wood, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. The horizontal frame components may be further coated with a coating that resists corrosion, fading, mold and mildew, scratching, absorbs heat to prevent it from being overly hot to the touch, any combination thereof, and the like, Such a coating may be, for example, powder coat, ceramic, paint, hydrodip, anodizing, alodining, urethane, epoxy, and Polyvinylidene Fluoride, Some or all of the material of the horizontal frame components may be fully or partially recycled,

Chair Backrest

[0064] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the second plurality of frame components form the backrest 22 of the chair that is coupled with the seat 12. The manner in which the backrest 22 and the seat 12 couple together is discussed in more detail below with regard to the rear joint assemblies 36. The second plurality of frame components comprises at least first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 (hereinafter referred to collectively as the vertical frame components unless specified otherwise) each longitudinally extending between first and second ends 28, 30. As shown, the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 are substantially parallel to one another in one or both of the supporting configuration and the transport configuration. The second plurality of frame components may also comprise additional vertical frame components (not shown), such as, for example, a third vertical frame component engaged with and extending between the first ends 28 of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26, and/or a fourth vertical frame component engaged with and extending between the second ends 30 of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. In some example embodiments, the second plurality of frame components may be removable and replaceable. Otherwise, the second plurality of frame components are permanently joined together either directly or indirectly via fasteners, welding, chemical bonding, adhesive, any combination thereof, and the like.

[0065] A length of each of the vertical frame components may be defined between the first and second ends 28, 30 thereof. In some example embodiments, the length of each of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 may be between about 45 centimeters (cm) to about 85 cm. As such, a shape of each of the vertical frame components along the length thereof may be substantially straight, curved, contoured, or otherwise formed with a combination of these shapes at different portions to create a comfortable and ergonomic backrest 22 surface. Thus, in some example embodiments, one or both of the vertical frame components are continuously straight along their lengths. However, in some example embodiments and as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 have a shape that changes along each of their lengths. For example, each of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 may have a first portion having a substantially straight shape along its length beginning from the first ends 28 and ending at a point along the length between the first and second ends 28, 30 thereof, and a second portion extending from the point along the length to the second end 30. The second portions in this embodiment may each be bent at a downward angle from the first portions. Otherwise, the second portions may be bent outward, upward, inward, etc. This angle may be a slight angle (e.g., between about 15 degrees to about 25 degrees; and typically about 20 degrees in some example embodiments) to provide a comfortable transition for a user's neck/head while sitting in the chair in the supporting configuration. In other example embodiments, one or more of the vertical frame components may comprise third, fourth, fifth, sixth, etc., portions having various shapes along their length to create a further contoured backrest 22. The first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 may have the same shape along their length or may be differently shaped.

[0066] The vertical frame components may also be configured with a cross-section that is substantially circular, square, rectangular, triangular, oval-shaped, or any other geometric shape. For purposes of reducing an overall weight of the foldable chair 10, in the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, each of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 have a non-circular shaped cross-section. In particular, the cross-section may comprise two vertical walls that are connected by arcs. The cross-sectional shape may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 or the cross-section may change along the length thereof to provide additional support and/or comfort. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the cross-sectional shape remains constant along the length of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. The cross-sectional diameter of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 may be defined between the vertical walls or determined by a circumference of the cross-section. In this manner, the diameter may be between about 10 mm to about 30 mm, and may vary depending on the cross-sectional shape along the length of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the diameter between the two vertical walls is about 16 mm, while the diameter between the two arcs is about 25 mm.

[0067] In some example embodiments, one or more of the vertical frame components may comprise a hollow interior that extends through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the vertical frame components. Having a hollow interior may beneficially further reduce an overall weight of the foldable chair 10. In other example embodiments, only a portion of each of the vertical frame components may be hollow and the other portions may comprise an interior support rod or other support structure to provide further stability to the vertical frame components. In still further example embodiments, interior support rods may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the vertical frame components. The interior support rods may be of a metallic or metal alloy such as steel or aluminum, a fibrous material such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, or a plastic or natural material (like wood), or any combination thereof. Other materials and interior support structures, such as cells, ribs, etc., are also contemplated herein.

[0068] In some example embodiments, the first and/or second ends 28, 30 of each of the vertical frame components may be capped with removable or permanently attached caps to prevent debris and other undesirable material from entering into the interior of the vertical frame components. Should debris enter the interiors, where the caps are removable, they may be simply removed and then replaced when the debris has been removed, Otherwise, the first and second ends 28, 30 may be welded shut or closed off. In some other example embodiments, though, the first and/or second ends 28, 30 of the vertical frame components may be left open so that debris may not remain trapped within the interiors. To prevent trapped debris from remaining within the interiors of the vertical frame components, one or more openings may be provided along the length of the vertical frame components to allow such debris to escape.

[0069] For forming the backrest 22 between the vertical frame components, each of the vertical frame components may comprise a channel that extends along a substantial entirety or an entirety of the length of the vertical frame components. The channel may begin toward or at the first ends 28 of the vertical frame components and end toward or at the second ends of the vertical frame components. The channel may be c-shaped, T-shaped, L-shaped, D-shaped, Z-shaped, or any other shape that will allow for the backrest 22 material to be inserted into and secured within the channels on each of the vertical frame components. For example, and as shown in the embodiment in FIGS. 1A-5E, the channel is a c-shaped channel extending between the first and second ends 28, 30 and along the respective lengths of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26, and longitudinal edges of the backrest 22 material are inserted into and secured within each of the c-shaped channels. In this way, the backrest 22 material may remain taut when supporting weight, Notably, and as discussed in further detail below, the backrest 22 material may be a single piece of material that extends from the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 to the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. Otherwise, the backrest 22 material and the seat 12 material may be separate pieces of material. However, the backrest 22 material may be engaged with or coupled to the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 in other manners, such as for example, the backrest 22 material is wrapped around the vertical frame components and sewn to itself such that the backrest 22 material forms a loop and the vertical frame components extend therethrough, the backrest 22 material is wrapped around the vertical frame components and a fastener extends through the backrest 22 material and into the vertical frame components to retain the backrest 22 material, one or more fasteners (e.g., zippers, button snaps, or other fasteners) retain the backrest 22 material in place when it is looped around the vertical frame components, the backrest 22 material is formed as a circular loop and extends around both vertical frame components, the backrest 22 material includes padding and rests on top of a foundation extending between the vertical frame components, and the like.

[0070] The vertical frame components may comprise a material that is both lightweight and sturdy in order to make the foldable chair 10 easily usable in the transport configuration and the supporting configuration. For example, the material of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 may be an aluminum alloy such as 6 series or 7 series (including but not limited to 6063, 6061, and 7001). Otherwise, the material of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 may be other metallic compositions, steel, plastic, wood, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. The vertical frame components may be further coated with a coating that resists corrosion, fading, mold and mildew, scratching, absorbs heat to prevent it from being overly hot to the touch, any combination thereof, and the like, Such a coating may be, for example, powder coat, ceramic, paint, hydrodip, anodizing, alodining, urethane, epoxy, and Polyvinylidene Fluoride. Some or all of the material of the vertical frame components may be fully or partially recycled.

[0071] In some example embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. JA-5E, the second plurality of frame components comprises the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26, as well as another vertical frame component acting as an upper crossbar 46 engaged with and extending between the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 at points along the lengths of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26, In this example, the points along the lengths of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 are closer to the second end 30, though the upper crossbar 46 may be engaged with the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 at any other location along the lengths thereof. The upper crossbar 46 may be curved along its length, which extends between first and second ends thereof. The curved shape of the upper crossbar 46 may be convex and curved outward and away from the backrest 22 of the chair so as not to interfere with the comfort of the backrest 22 in the supporting configuration, but still provide stability between the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26, Otherwise, the upper crossbar 46 may be straight along its length and wholly lay substantially within a same plane as the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. Other characteristics (e.g., length, cross-section, material, engagement, etc.) of the upper crossbar 46 may be the same as or different from one or both of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. For example, a cross-section of the upper crossbar 46 may be non-circular with a D-shaped cross-section having one flat wall and an arc-shaped wall that together form a D shape, while the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 have a non-circular shaped cross-section with two vertical walls that are connected by arcs. In this example, the material of the upper crossbar 46 is the same as the material of one or both of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26, and the crossbar may be welded into engagement with the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. Other configurations of the upper crossbar 46, such as fasteners like screws or bolts being used instead of welding are also contemplated herein.

Seat and Backrest Material

[0072] The seat 12 and backrest 22 may be formed from material engaged with the horizontal frame components and the vertical frame components. In some example embodiments, such as that shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, for example, the material may be a single piece of material, meaning that the material continuously extends as one and without a break to form the seat 12 and backrest 22 supporting surface. Using a single piece of material provides the benefit of creating a more comfortable experience sitting in the foldable chair 10 in the supporting configuration, as the single piece of material acts as a hammock, effectively suspending the user in the foldable chair 10 in the supporting configuration. While the material does not have to be formed from a monolithic piece of material, and may have multiple types of weaving, panels, etc., to be considered a single piece of material, the material must just not split into separate and discrete components that are separately attached (e.g., a first portion forming the seat 12 and a separate, unconnected portion forming the backrest 22). Otherwise, two or more separate pieces of material may be engaged with the first and second plurality of frame components to form the seat 12 and backrest 22. For example, the two or more pieces material may be a plurality of bungee cords that extend between the vertical frame components and horizontal frame components, strips of material that are woven over and under one another and that extend between the vertical frame components and horizontal frame components, horizontal or vertical panels that extend between the vertical frame components and horizontal frame components, and the like.

[0073] Though the following is described in reference to the material of the seat 12 and backrest 22 being a single piece of material, the following is also applicable to instances in which the material is in separate pieces (e.g., portions or panels). For example, the material may comprise one or more (e.g., two opposed) longitudinal edges that engage with the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 and the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. The longitudinal edges may have total lengths that are substantially the same as, longer than, or shorter than the lengths of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 and the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 either individually or separately. For example, the longitudinal edges may have lengths of between about 80 cm to about 135 cm (about 113 cm in one example embodiment) as compared to the individual lengths of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 and the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 of about 46 cm (for the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16) and of about 70 cm (for the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26), for a total length of about 116 cm for the first horizontal frame component 14 and the first vertical frame component 24/second horizontal frame component and the second vertical frame component. In this example, the longitudinal edges of the single piece of material extend substantially between the first and second ends 18, 20, 28, 30 of each of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 and the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26; though, in some example embodiments, the longitudinal edges may have a longer length than a total length of the first horizontal frame component 14 and the first vertical frame component 24/second horizontal frame component and the second vertical frame component, such that the longitudinal edges of the material extend over and fold, wrap, etc., about the second ends 20, 30 of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 and the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26.

[0074] Along with the longitudinal edges, in some example embodiments, the material may further comprise one or more (e.g., two opposed) lateral edges arranged between the longitudinal edges, Where the material is a single piece of material, the material continuously or substantially continuously extends between the longitudinal edges and the lateral edges. Depending on the shape of the material, the lateral and longitudinal edges may be substantially perpendicular or at other non-perpendicular angles to each other. For example, where the material has a rectangular shape, the two opposing longitudinal edges are perpendicular to the two opposing lateral edges to form the rectangular shape. Lengths of each of the longitudinal edges and the lateral edges (and thus the overall size and shape of the piece of material) may change based on the lengths and/or arrangements of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 and the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. For example, where the material has an oval or circular shapethe material may have no edges and may simply have a circumferential edge engaged with the first and second plurality of frame components to form the seat 12 and backrest 22.

[0075] As shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, for example, the longitudinal edges are inserted into and secured within each of the channels of the first and second plurality of frame components, while the lateral edges remain free and unattached to any frame components. Securing the longitudinal edges within the channels is accomplished by sewing the backrest 22 and seat 12 material into a loop and then inserting a rod into the loop of the material (or sewing the material around the rod to form a loop), then the rod including the looped material is slid through the channels. Such an arrangement of the material is thus beneficial so that the longitudinal edges are pulled taut within the channels to tightly suspend the material between the first and second plurality of frame components, while leaving the lateral edges unattached for some give where the neck/head and knees/legs are in contact with the material. Alternatively, the seat 12 material and/or backrest 22 material is wrapped around frame components and/or crossbars and sewn to itself such that the seat 12 material and/or backrest 22 material forms a loop and the frame components and/or crossbars extend therethrough, the seat 12 material and/or backrest 22 material is wrapped around the frame components and/or crossbars and a fastener extends through the seat 12 material and/or backrest 22 material and into the frame components and/or crossbars to retain the seat 12 material and/or backrest 22 material, one or more fasteners (e.g., zippers, button snaps, or other fasteners) retain the seat 12 material and/or backrest 22 material in place when it is looped around the frame components or crossbars, the seat 12 material and/or backrest 22 material is formed as a circular loop and extends around both of the horizontal and vertical frame components, the seat 12 material and/or backrest 22 material includes padding and rests on top of a foundation extending between the horizontal and vertical frame components, and the like. Other methods for retaining the seat 12 material and/or backrest 22 material in the respective frame components is contemplated herein.

[0076] The lateral edges may be sewn with a fabric band, binding, or other finishing technique to prevent fraying and provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Other possible finishing techniques may include, for example, folding the lateral and/or longitudinal edges upon themselves and then sewing them down (i.e., creating a hem). Where the first and second plurality of frame components comprise additional components, e.g., third and fourth horizontal frame components and third and fourth vertical frame components, the lateral edges may be similarly engaged with channels formed on the third and fourth horizontal frame components and third and fourth vertical frame components, or otherwise engaged with the third and fourth horizontal frame components and third and fourth vertical frame components.

[0077] The type of material used may be a permeable, woven material selected from the group consisting of mesh, canvas, polyester, nylon, water resistant marine fabrics, neoprene, natural fibers (e.g., cotton), and combinations thereof. Other materials may include elastic braided material, SUNBRELLA, etc. The material may also be padded, layered, tufted, etc. For example the weave may be one or more of a plain weave, jacquard weave, twill weave, satin and sateen weave, honeycomb weave, huck a back weave, crepe weave, bedford cord weave, welts and pique, mock leno weave, leno weave, backed cloth, terry pile, velvets and velveteens, double cloth, and tubular cloth. In some example embodiments, the material is a suspension or woven mesh with polypropylene yarns woven with Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer (TPEE). The material may be woven in different panels that are then attached to one another to create a single piece of material, or may be continuously woven to form the single piece of material. The material may also be formed in strips and then woven together like a lattice. The warp and weft threads may be the same or different materials, shapes, colors, thicknesses, etc. Various characteristics of the material, and specifically the fibers used in the weave thereof, may be selected based on their functional and aesthetic properties. For example, the permeable, woven material have a coating or treatment to be anti-microbial, have enough stretch to allow it to contour to a user in the supporting configuration, but not sag in the transport configuration, have an openness that allows sand and other debris to easily pass through, etc. Some or all of the material may be fully or partially recycled. In some embodiments, the material may be a non-woven textile created through bonding by chemical adhesion, mechanical or heat treatment, or some combination thereof.

Rear Legs

[0078] The foldable chair 10 further comprises at least one rear leg. The rear leg may be a component that contacts a ground surface at one point (e.g., an I-shaped component), or may be a component that contacts the ground surface at multiple points (e.g., an I- or T-shaped component). The manner in which the backrest 22 and the seat 12 couple together with the at least one rear leg is discussed in more detail below with regard to the rear joint assemblies 36.

[0079] In some example embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, the foldable chair 10 comprises first and second rear legs 32, 34 (hereinafter referred to collectively as the rear legs unless specified otherwise), which each longitudinally extend between first and second ends 48, 50. The first ends 48 of the respective first and second rear legs 32, 34 may be in contact with a ground surface when the foldable chair 10 is in the supporting configuration, while the second ends 50 may be engaged with respective armrests 92 as described in more detail below. As shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, the first and second rear legs 32, 34 are substantially parallel to one another and may be substantially coplanar with the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 in the transport configuration, such that the foldable chair 10 is as compactly configured as possible in the transport configuration.

[0080] The rear legs 32, 34 may also comprise additional rear leg components, such as, for example, a rear support member 52 engaged between the first and second rear legs 32, 34. The rear support member 52 may be engaged at or with first ends 48 of the respective first and second rear legs 32, 34 so that the rear support member 52 is in contact with the ground surface when the foldable chair 10 is in the supporting configuration (as shown in FIGS. 1A-5E), or may be engaged with the first and second rear legs 32, 34 at other points along the respective lengths of the first and second rear legs 32, 34. The rear support member 52 may be continuously and/or integrally (e.g., welded) formed with the first and second rear legs 32, 34 so that the first rear leg 32, second rear leg 34, and the rear support member 52 form a single member (e.g., a U-shaped member as shown in FIGS. 1A-5E). Otherwise, the first rear leg 32, second rear leg 34, and the rear support member 52 are separate elements permanently or removably and indirectly or directly engaged with one another via fasteners or other permanent or non-permanent engagement techniques.

[0081] A length of each of the rear legs 32, 34 may be defined between the first and second ends 48, 50 thereof. In some example embodiments, the length of each of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 may be between about 30 cm to about 80 cm; and typically about 56 cm in some example embodiments. As such, a shape of each of the rear legs along the length thereof may be substantially straight, curved, contoured, or otherwise formed with a combination of these shapes at different portions. Thus, in some example embodiments, one or both of the rear legs 32, 34 are continuously straight along their lengths. In other example embodiments, one or both of the rear legs 32, 34 may comprise first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, etc., portions having various shapes along their length to create legs having various contours. The first and second rear legs 32, 34 may have the same shape along their length or may be differently shaped. The rear support member 52 may have a different length than the first and second rear legs 32, 34, where the length of the rear support member 52 may be substantially the same as, greater than, or less than a width of the foldable chair 10. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, for example, the length of the rear support member 52 is between about 45 cm to about 70 cm; and typically about 59 cm in some example embodiments, compared to the width of the foldable chair 10, which is between about 50 cm to about 75 cm; and typically about 63 cm in some example embodiments.

[0082] The rear legs 32, 34 may also be configured with a cross-section that is substantially circular, square, rectangular, triangular, oval-shaped, or any other geometric shape. In the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, each of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 have a circular cross-section. The cross-sectional shape may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 or the cross-section may change along the length thereof to provide additional support and/or comfort. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the cross-sectional shape remains constant along the length of the first and second rear legs 32, 34, and through the rear support member 52. The cross-sectional diameter of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 and/or the rear support member 52 may be between about 1.5 cm to about 3 cm; typically about 2.25 cm in some example embodiments, and may vary depending on the cross-sectional shape along the length of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 and/or the rear support member 52.

[0083] In some example embodiments, one or both of the rear legs 32, 34 and/or the rear support member 52 may comprise a hollow interior that extends through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the rear legs 32, 34 and/or the rear support member 52. Having a hollow interior may beneficially further reduce an overall weight of the foldable chair 10. In other example embodiments, only a portion of each of the rear legs 32, 34 and/or the rear support member 52 may be hollow and the other portions may comprise an interior support rod or other support structure to provide further stability to the rear legs and/or the rear support member 52. In still further example embodiments, interior support rods may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the rear legs 32, 34 and/or the rear support member 52. The interior support rods may be of a metallic or metal alloy such as steel or aluminum, a fibrous material such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, or a plastic or natural material (like wood), or any combination thereof, Other materials and interior support structures, such as cells, ribs, etc., are also contemplated herein.

[0084] In some example embodiments, the first and/or second ends 48, 50 of each of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 may be capped with removable or permanently attached caps to prevent debris and other undesirable material from entering into the interior of the rear legs. Should debris enter the interiors, where the caps are removable, they may be simply removed and then replaced when the debris has been removed, Otherwise, the first and second ends 48, 50 may be welded shut or closed off. In some other example embodiments, though, the first and/or second ends of the rear legs 32, 34 may be left open so that debris may not remain trapped within the interiors. To prevent trapped debris from remaining within the interiors of the first and second rear legs 32, 34, one or more openings may be provided along the length of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 to allow such debris to escape.

[0085] The rear legs, and/or the rear support member 52, may comprise a material that is both lightweight and sturdy in order to make the foldable chair 10 easily usable in the transport configuration and the supporting configuration. For example, the material of the first and second rear legs 32, 34, and/or the rear support member 52, may be an aluminum alloy such as 6 series or 7 series (including but not limited to 6063, 6061, and 7001). Otherwise, the material of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 and/or the rear support member 52 may be other metallic compositions, steel, plastic, wood, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. The rear legs 32, 34 and/or the rear support member 52 may be further coated with a coating that resists corrosion, fading, mold and mildew, scratching, absorbs heat to prevent it from being overly hot to the touch, any combination thereof, and the like. Such a coating may be, for example, powder coat, ceramic, paint, hydrodip, anodizing, alodining, urethane, epoxy, and Polyvinylidene Fluoride. Some or all of the material of the rear legs and/or the rear support member 52 may be fully or partially recycled.

[0086] In some example embodiments, the foldable chair 10 may further comprise a stability foot 54 arranged toward the first ends 48 of the rear legs 32, 34 to help stabilize the foldable chair 10 in the supporting configuration. Where the foldable chair 10 does not include a rear support member 52 arranged at and extending between the first ends 48 of the rear legs, one or more stability feet 54 may be engaged with or coupled to the respective first ends of the first and second rear legs 32, 34. Otherwise, where the rear support member 52 is arranged at and extends between the first ends 48 of the first and second rear legs 32, 34, one or more stability feet 54 may be arranged at intersections between the rear support member 52 and the first and second rear legs 32, 34. In some example embodiments, the stability foot 54 rests on the ground surface when the foldable chair 10 is in the supporting configuration. The stability foot 54 may be any type of material, size, shape, etc., to be able to balance the foldable chair 10 on uneven surface, provide support, withstand rugged environments, prevent scratching on the rear support member 52 and/or rear legs 32, 34, and not add significant weight to the chair. For example, the stability foot 54 may be a plastic or other polymer material, polymer blend material, foam, any combination thereof, and any other textile materials. The stability foot 54 may be removable and replaceable or permanently attached to the rear legs 32, 34. Different types of stability feet compatible with different ground surface types (e.g., sand, dirt, concrete) may be removable and replaceable on the foldable chair 10 to be used to improve chair stability in various environments.

[0087] In some example embodiments (though not shown), the foldable chair 10 comprises a rear crossbar directly or indirectly engaged with and extending between the first and second rear legs 32, 34 at points along the lengths of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 in addition to or instead of a lower crossbar 76 described in more detail below. In this example, the points along the lengths of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 that the rear crossbar engages are closer to the second end 50, though the rear crossbar may be engaged with the first and second rear legs 32, 34 at any other location along the lengths thereof. The rear crossbar may be curved or straight along its length, which extends between first and second ends thereof. The rear crossbar may be formed to lie within substantially a same plane as the first and second rear legs 32, 34 in the supporting configuration, such that the rear crossbar is substantially straight along its length so as to allow the foldable chair 10 to be compactly arranged in the transport configuration. However, the rear crossbar may have another shape that curves outward or inward along its length. Regardless, the rear crossbar may be configured so as not to interfere with the comfort of the foldable chair 10 in the supporting configuration, but still provide stability between the first and second rear legs 32, 34, Other characteristics (length, cross-section, material, engagement, etc.) of the rear crossbar may be the same as or different from one or both of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 and/or the rear support member 52. For example, a cross-section of the rear crossbar may be non-circular shaped with two vertical walls that are connected by arcs, while the first and second rear legs 32, 34 have a circular cross-section. In another example, the cross-section of the rear crossbar may be non-circular with a D-shaped cross-section having one flat wall and an arc-shaped wall that together form a D shape. Even with different cross-sections, the material of the rear crossbar may be the same as or different than the material of one or both of the first and second rear legs 32, 34, and the rear crossbar may be welded or permanently affixed into engagement with the first and second rear legs 32, 34 or otherwise joined with a fastener or other removable component.

Rear Joint Assemblies

[0088] In order to couple the first horizontal frame component 14 with the first vertical frame component 24 and the first rear leg 32, and couple the second horizontal frame component 16 with the second vertical frame component 26 and the second rear leg 34, rear joint assemblies 36 are used, which enable the backrest 22 to translate between angles of reclination relative to the seat 12 in the supporting configuration and to collapse the backrest 22 toward the seat 12 and align the first and second rear legs 32, 34 with the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 in the transport configuration. The angles of reclination may be between about 95 degrees to about 160 degrees relative to the seat 12, where there is no angle of reclination when the chair is compactly arranged in the transport configuration. Within the various angles of reclination, there may be four defined recline positions at about 97 degrees (e.g., FIGS. 1A-1B), about 109 degrees (e.g., FIGS. 2A-2B), about 123 degrees (e.g., FIGS. 3A-3B), to about 140 degrees (e.g., FIGS. 4A-4B). Other angles of reclination are also contemplated herein. Optionally, the foldable chair 10 may fully recline to a horizontal position where the seat 12 and the backrest 22 are substantially within the same plane, such that the angle of reclination is about, or more or less than, 180 degrees. How the foldable chair 10 remains in the various recline positions is described in more detail below.

[0089] As shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, for example, the rear joint assemblies 36 comprise a first rear joint assembly with a first translating arm 58 and a first rear connecting joint 60, and a second rear joint assembly (not shown in detail in FIGS. 6A-6C) with a second translating arm and a second rear connecting joint. Though not shown in detail in FIGS. 6A-6C, the second rear joint assembly may mirror the structure and function of the first rear joint assembly. The first and second translating arms (hereinafter referred to collectively as the translating arms unless specified otherwise) and/or the first and second rear connecting joint (hereinafter referred to collectively as the rear connecting joints) may each comprise a molded component formed by known molding techniques (e.g., injection molding, computer numerical control (CNC), 3D printing, rotational molding, blow molding, compression molding, any combination thereof, and the like). The material of the translating arms may be polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, polyamide, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), carbon fiber, fiberglass, metal, metallic alloys, natural or synthetic rubber, any combination thereof, and the like. The translating arms and the rear connecting joints may be separately formed components (e.g., the first rear connecting joint 60 and the first translating arm 58 may be separately formed and then coupled together) or may be integrally formed (e.g., the first rear connecting joint 60 and the first translating arm 58 may be molded or formed together).

[0090] The first and second rear connecting joints may each define a first receiving cavity 62, a second receiving cavity 64, and/or a third receiving cavity 66. The first ends 28 of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 may be pivotably received in the respective first receiving cavity 62 of the first and second rear connecting joints and the first ends 18 of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 may be non-movably received in the respective second receiving cavity 64 of the first and second rear connecting joints, such that in configuring the foldable chair 10 between the supporting configuration and the transport configuration, the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 move toward and away from the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. The first ends 28, 18 of the vertical and horizontal frame components may be retained within their respective receiving cavities 62, 64 by known engagement techniques such as press-fit engagement, snap-fit engagement, friction fit engagement, threaded engagement, magnetic engagement, a fastener (such as a screw or bolt), welding, chemical joining, and the like.

[0091] In some example embodiments, the first and second translating arms 58 may each comprise a first end 68 and an opposing bifurcated end defined by two parallel arms 70 extending from the first end. Each of the first ends 68 of the first and second translating arms may be pivotably connected to the respective one of the first and second rear connecting joints 36 via a fastener 72 that acts as a pivot point and extends through the first end 68 of the respective one of the first and second translating arms, through a respective one of the first receiving cavities 62, and into the respective one of the first ends 28 of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 received in the respective one of the first receiving cavities 62 to enable pivotable movement of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 toward and away from the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. The fastener 72 may be a bolt made of a sturdy material that may be removable and replaceable, if needed. Other types of fasteners that may act as a pivot point are also contemplated herein.

[0092] The first rear leg 32 may have a portion arranged and engaged between the two parallel arms 70 of the bifurcated end of the first translating arm 58, and the second rear leg 34 may have a portion arranged and engaged between the two parallel arms of the bifurcated end of the second translating arm. A fastener 74 may extend through the two parallel arms 70 of a respective translating arm 58 and through the respective rear leg 32, 34, and act as a swivel point to allow the translating arms 58 and respective rear legs 32, 34 to move relative to one another when configuring the foldable chair 10 between the transport and supporting configurations. In the supporting configuration, the two parallel arms 70 of the translating arms 58 may each extend substantially parallel to the respective first and second rear legs 32, 34, while in the transport configuration the two parallel arms 70 of the translating arms swivel between about 120 degrees to about 180 degrees to receive at least a portion of the respective rear leg therebetween.

[0093] In some example embodiments, the foldable chair 10 further comprises a lower crossbar 76. The lower crossbar 76 may be non-movably received in the third receiving cavities 66 of the first and second rear connecting joints 60 and extending therebetween. The lower crossbar 76 may extend between the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 and/or the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. In some example embodiments, the lower crossbar 76 is at an intersection between the vertical and horizontal frame components. The lower crossbar 76 may be considered as being indirectly engaged with the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 and the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 as the lower crossbar 76 is engaged with the rear connecting joints 60 and does not directly contact either of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 and the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. Otherwise, the lower crossbar 76 may be considered as being directly engaged with the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 and the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 where the lower crossbar 76 directly contacts one or both of the vertical and horizontal frame components. The lower crossbar 76 may be curved along its length, which extends between first and second ends thereof. The curved shape of the lower crossbar 76 may be convex and curved downward and away from the backrest 22 and/or seat 12 of the chair so as not to interfere with the comfort of the backrest 22 or the seat 12 in the supporting configuration, but still provide stability between the vertical frame components and the horizontal frame components. Otherwise, the lower crossbar 76 may be straight along its length and wholly lie substantially within a same plane as the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. Other characteristics (length, cross-section, material, engagement, etc.) of the lower crossbar 76 may be the same as or different from one or both of the vertical frame components and/or the horizontal frame components. For example, a cross-section of the lower crossbar 76 may be non-circular with a D-shaped cross-section having one flat wall and an arc-shaped wall that together form a D shape, while the vertical frame components have a non-circular shaped cross-section with two vertical walls that are connected by arcs. Even with different cross-sections, the material of the lower crossbar 76 may be the same as the material of one or both of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 and/or the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. The lower crossbar 76 may be permanently or removably engaged with the rear connecting joints. For example, a fastener, such as a screw, may extend through the respective rear connecting joints, into a respective one of the third cavities and into the respective first or second end of the lower crossbar 76. Other engagement methods may also be used to retain the lower crossbar 76 in the respective third cavity 66 including, for example, press-fit engagement, snap-fit engagement, friction fit engagement, threaded engagement, magnetic engagement, a fastener (such as a screw or bolt), welding, chemical joining, rivets, and the like.

Front Lees

[0094] The foldable chair 10 further comprises at least one front leg. The front leg may be a component that contacts a ground surface at one point (e.g., an I-shaped component), or may be a component that contacts the ground surface at multiple points (e.g., an I- or T-shaped component). The manner in which the seat 12 couples together with the at least one front leg is discussed in more detail below with regard to the first and second engagement structures 42, 44.

[0095] In some example embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, the foldable chair 10 comprises first and second front legs 38, 40 (hereinafter referred to collectively as the front legs unless specified otherwise), which each longitudinally extend between first and second ends 78, 80. The first ends 78 of the respective first and second front legs 38, 40 may be in contact with a ground surface when the foldable chair 10 is in the supporting configuration, while the second ends 80 may be engaged with respective armrests 92 via engagement structures 42, 44 (in one example embodiment), as described in more detail below. As shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, the first and second front legs 38, 40 are substantially parallel to one another, such that the foldable chair 10 is as compactly configured as possible in the transport configuration.

[0096] The front legs 38, 40 may also comprise additional front leg components, such as, for example, a front support member 82 engaged between the first and second front legs 38, 40. The front support member 82 may be engaged at or with first ends of the respective first and second front legs 38, 40 so that the front support member 82 is in contact with the ground surface when the foldable chair 10 is in the supporting configuration (as shown in FIGS. 1A-5E), or may be engaged with the first and second front legs 38, 40 at other points along the respective lengths of the first and second front legs 38, 40. The front support member 82 may be continuously and/or integrally (e.g., welded) formed with the first and second front legs 38, 40 so that the first front leg 38, second front leg 40, and the front support member 82 form a single member (e.g., a U-shaped member as shown in FIGS. 1A-5E). Otherwise, the first front leg 38, second front leg, and the front support member 82 are separate elements permanently or removably and indirectly or directly engaged with one another via fasteners or other permanent or non-permanent engagement techniques.

[0097] A length of each of the front legs 38, 40 may be defined between the first and second ends 78, 80 thereof. In some example embodiments, the length of each of the first and second front legs 38, 40 may be between about 35 cm to about 60 cm: typically, the length is about 46 cm in some example embodiments. As such, a shape of each of the front legs 38, 40 along the length thereof may be substantially straight, curved, contoured, or otherwise formed with a combination of these shapes at different portions. Thus, in some example embodiments, one or both of the front legs 38, 40 are continuously straight along their lengths. In other example embodiments, one or both of the front legs 38, 40 may comprise first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, etc., portions having various shapes along their length to create legs having various contours. The first and second front legs 38, 40, may have the same shape along their length or may be differently shaped. The front support member 82 may have a different length than the first and second front legs 38, 40, where the length of the front support member 82 may be substantially the same as, greater than, or less than a width of the foldable chair 10. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, for example, the length of the front support member 82 is between about 45 cm to about 70 cm; and typically about 59 cm in some example embodiments, compared to the width of the foldable chair 10, which is between about 50 cm to about 75 cm; and typically about 63 cm in some example embodiments. The length of the front support member 82 may be the same as or substantially the same as, may be longer than, or may be shorter than the length of the rear support member 52.

[0098] The front legs 38, 40 may also be configured with a cross-section that is substantially circular, square, rectangular, triangular, oval-shaped, or any other geometric shape. In the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, each of the first and second front legs 38, 40 have a circular shaped cross-section. The cross-sectional shape may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the first and second front legs 38, 40 or the cross-section may change along the length thereof to provide additional support and/or comfort. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the cross-sectional shape remains constant along the length of the first and second front legs 38, 40, and through the front support member 82. The cross-sectional diameter of the first and second front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82 may be between about 1.5 cm to about 3 cm; typically about 2.25 cm in some example embodiments, and may vary depending on the cross-sectional shape along the length of the first and second front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82.

[0099] In some example embodiments, one or both of the front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82 may comprise a hollow interior that extends through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82. Having a hollow interior may beneficially further reduce an overall weight of the foldable chair 10. In other example embodiments, only a portion of each of the front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82 may be hollow and the other portions may comprise an interior support rod or other support structure to provide further stability to the front legs and/or the front support member 82. In still further example embodiments, interior support rods may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82. The interior support rods may be of a metallic or metal alloy such as steel or aluminum, a fibrous material such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, or a plastic or natural material (like wood), or any combination thereof. Other materials and interior support structures, such as cells, ribs, etc., are also contemplated herein.

[0100] In some example embodiments, the first and/or second ends 78, 80 of each of the first and second front legs 38, 40 may be capped with removable or permanently attached caps to prevent debris and other undesirable material from entering into the interior of the front legs 38, 40. Should debris enter the interiors, where the caps are removable, they may be simply removed and then replaced when the debris has been removed. Otherwise, the first and second ends 78, 80 may be welded shut or closed off. In some other example embodiments, though, the first and/or second ends 78, 80 of the front legs may be left open so that debris may not remain trapped within the interiors. To prevent trapped debris from remaining within the interiors of the first and second front legs 38, 40, one or more openings may be provided along the length of the first and second front legs 38, 40 to allow such debris to escape.

[0101] The front legs 38, 40, and/or the front support member 82, may comprise a material that is both lightweight and sturdy in order to make the foldable chair 10 easily usable in the transport configuration and the supporting configuration. For example, the material of the first and second front legs 38, 40, and/or the front support member 82, may be an aluminum alloy such as 6 series or 7 series (including but not limited to 6063, 6061, and 7001). Otherwise, the material of the first and second front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82 may be other metallic compositions, steel, plastic, wood, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. The front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82 may be further coated with a coating that resists corrosion, fading, mold and mildew, scratching, absorbs heat to prevent it from being overly hot to the touch, any combination thereof, and the like. Such a coating may be, for example, powder coat, ceramic, paint, hydrodip, anodizing, alodining, urethane, epoxy, and Polyvinylidene Fluoride. Some or all of the material of the front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82 may be fully or partially recycled.

[0102] In some example embodiments, the foldable chair 10 may further comprise a stability foot 84 arranged toward the first ends of the front legs 38, 40 to help stabilize the foldable chair 10 in the supporting configuration. Where the foldable chair 10 does not include a front support member 82 arranged at and extending between the first ends 78 of the front legs 38, 40, one or more stability feet 84 may be engaged with or coupled to the respective first ends of the first and second front legs 38, 40. Otherwise, where the front support member 82 is arranged at and extends between the first ends of the first and second front legs 38, 40, one or more stability feet 84 may be arranged at intersections between the front support member 82 and the first and second front legs 38, 40. In some example embodiments, the stability foot 84 rests on the ground surface when the foldable chair 10 is in the supporting configuration. The stability foot 84 may be any type of material, size, shape, etc., to be able to balance the foldable chair 10 on uneven surface, provide support, withstand rugged environments, prevent scratching on the front support member 82 and/or front legs 38, 40, and not add significant weight to the chair. For example, the stability foot 84 may be a plastic or other polymer material, polymer blend material, foam, any combination thereof, and any other textile materials. The stability foot 84 may be removable and replaceable or permanently attached to the f front legs. Different types of stability feet 84 compatible with different ground surface types (e.g., sand, dirt, concrete) may be removable and replaceable on the foldable chair 10 to be used to improve chair stability in various environments.

[0103] In some example embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1A-5E, the foldable chair 10 comprises a front crossbar 86 directly or indirectly engaged with and extending between the first and second front legs 38, 40 at points along the lengths of the first and second front legs 38, 40. In this example, the points along the lengths of the first and second front legs 38, 40 are closer to the second end 80, though the front crossbar 86 may be engaged with the first and second front legs 38, 40 at any other location along the lengths thereof. The front crossbar 86 may be curved or straight along its length, which extends between first and second ends thereof. As shown in FIG. 1A-5E, the front crossbar 86 is formed to lie within substantially a same plane as the first and second front legs 38, 40 in the supporting configuration, such that the front crossbar 86 is substantially straight along its length so as to allow the foldable chair 10 to be compactly configured in the transport configuration. However, the front crossbar 86 may have another shape that curves outward or inward along its length. Regardless, the front crossbar 86 may be configured so as not to interfere with the comfort of the foldable chair 10 in the supporting configuration, but still provide stability between the first and second front legs 38, 40. Other characteristics (length, cross-section, material, engagement, etc.) of the front crossbar 86 may be the same as or different from one or both of the first and second front legs 38, 40 and/or the front support member 82. For example, a cross-section of the front crossbar 86 may be non-circular shaped with two vertical walls that are connected by arcs, while the first and second front legs 38, 40 have a circular shape. In another example, the cross-section of the front crossbar 86 may be non-circular with a D-shaped cross-section having one flat wall and an arc-shaped wall that together form a D shape. Even with different cross-sections, the material of the front crossbar 86 may be the same as the material of one or both of the first and second front legs 38, 40, and the front crossbar 86 may be welded into engagement with the first and second front legs 38, 40 or otherwise joined with a fastener.

Engagement Structures

[0104] In order to couple the first horizontal frame component 14 and the first front leg 38, and couple the second horizontal frame component 16 and the second front leg 40, engagement structures 42, 44 are used, which allow for an indirect coupling (i.e., the engagement structures 42, 44 are an intervening component) between the first horizontal frame component 14 and the first front leg 38 and the second horizontal frame component 16 and the second front leg 40. The engagement structures 42, 44 may comprise a first engagement structure 42 and a second engagement structure 44, which may operate in tandem with the rear joint assemblies 36 to hingedly collapse the first and second front legs 38, 40 against the respective first and second rear legs 32, 34 in the transport configuration.

[0105] The first and second engagement structures 42, 44 (hereinafter referred to collectively as the engagement structures 42, 44 unless specified otherwise) may each comprise a first portion 88 connected to a respective one of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 and a second portion comprising a fastener 90 extending through a respective one of the first and second front legs 38, 40 and into engagement with the respective first portion. The first portion 88 may be welded or otherwise integrally formed with the respective one of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16, or may be a separately molded component engaged with the respective one of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. Where the first portion 88 is welded or integrally formed with the respective one of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16, the first portion 88 may be formed of a same or similar material as the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16. As shown in FIG. 7, for example, the first portion 88 is welded to the respective one of the second horizontal frame components 16 at an underside of the second horizontal frame component 16. In other example embodiments, however, the first portion 88 may comprise a molded component formed by known molding techniques (e.g., injection molding, CNC, 3D printing, rotational molding, blow molding, compression molding, any combination thereof, and the like). Where molded, the material of the first portion 88 may be polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, polyamide, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), carbon fiber, fiberglass, metal, metallic alloys, natural or synthetic rubber, any combination thereof, and the like.

[0106] The second portion 90 may comprise a permanent fastener or other removable type fastener. As shown in FIG. 7, the fastener 90 of the second portion is a screw or bolt extending through the respective one of the second front leg 40 and into engagement with the respective first portion 88. The fastener 90 acts as a pivot point, such that as the foldable chair 10 moves between the supporting and transport configurations, the first and second front legs 38, 40 rotate about the pivot point formed by the fastener. In the transport configuration, for example, the first and second front legs 38, 40 move to a position in which they are substantially parallel to the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16, while in the supporting configuration, the first and second front legs 38, 40 are at an obtuse angle of between about 95 degrees to about 105 degrees relative to the ground surface. The first and second legs 38, 40 do not move when the foldable chair 10 is configured into the different recline positions.

Armrests

[0107] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the foldable chair 10 further comprises first and second armrests 92 (hereinafter referred to collectively as the armrests 92 unless specified otherwise) each longitudinally extending between first and second ends 94, 96. A length of each of the first and second armrests 92 may be defined between the first and second ends 94, 96 thereof. In some example embodiments, the length of each of the first and second armrests 92 may be between about 20 cm to about 60 cm; typically about 30 cm, about 46.4 cm, or about 55 cm in different example embodiments. As such, a shape of each of the first and second armrests 92 along the length thereof may be substantially straight, curved, contoured, or otherwise formed with a combination of these shapes at different portions to create a comfortable and ergonomic surface to rest one's arms. Thus, in some example embodiments, one or both of the first and second armrests 92 are continuously straight along their lengths. However, in some example embodiments and as illustrated in FGS. IA-5E, the first and second armrests 92 may have a shape that changes along each of their lengths. For example, each of the first and second armrests 92 may have a first portion having a substantially straight shape along its length beginning from the first ends 94 and ending at a point along the length between the first and second ends 94, 96 thereof, and a second portion extending from the point along the length to the second end 96. The second portions in this embodiment may each be bent at a downward angle from the first portions, and/or bent at an upward, outward, or inward angle. This angle may be a slight angle (e.g., between about 10 degrees to about 20 degrees; typically the angle is about 14 degrees in some example embodiments) to provide a comfortable transition for a user's arms/wrists while sitting in the chair in the supporting configuration. In other example embodiments, one or both of the first and second armrests 92 may comprise third, fourth, fifth, sixth, etc., portions having various shapes along their length to create a further contoured armrest. The first and second armrests 92 may have the same shape along their length or may be differently shaped.

[0108] The first and second armrests 92 may also be configured with a cross-section that is substantially circular, square, rectangular, triangular, oval-shaped, or any other geometric shape. For example, each of the first and second armrests 92 may have a circumferential wall that is covered by a substantially flat top surface on which a user's arms may rest. The transition between the circumferential wall and the top surface may be contoured or rounded for comfort. The cross-sectional shape may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the first and second armrests 92 or the cross-section may change along the length thereof to provide additional support and/or comfort. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E, the cross-sectional shape remains constant along the length of the first and second armrests 92. The cross-sectional diameter of the first and second armrests 92 may be between about 3 cm to about 12 cm, and may vary depending on the cross-sectional shape along the length of the first and second armrests 92. For example, a width of the armrests 92 may be about 6.3 cm and a height of the armrests 92 may be about 2.5 cm. In some example embodiments, each of the first and second armrests 92 has a substantially constant width along the length between the first end 94 to the second end 96 thereof, the width being measured across the circumferential wall, Otherwise, a width of the armrests 92 may change along their respective lengths.

[0109] In some example embodiments, one or both of the first and second armrests 92 may comprise a hollow interior that extends through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the first and second armrests 92. Having a hollow interior may beneficially further reduce an overall weight of the foldable chair 10. In other example embodiments, only a portion of each of the first and second armrests 92 may be hollow and the other portions may comprise interior support ribs, cells, or other structures to provide further stability to the first and second armrests 92. In still further example embodiments, interior support rods may extend through an entirety or a substantial entirety of the lengths of each of the first and second armrests 92. The interior support rods may be of a metallic or metal alloy such as steel or aluminum, a fibrous material such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, or a plastic or natural material (like wood), or any combination thereof. Other materials are also contemplated herein.

[0110] The first armrest may be engaged with the first vertical frame component 24 proximate the first end 94 of the first armrest 92 and the second armrest 92 may be engaged with the second vertical frame 26 component proximate the first end 94 of the second armrest 92. The point along the lengths of the respective first and second vertical frame component 24, 26 at which the respective armrests 92 are engaged therewith may be between the first and second ends 28, 30 of the respective first and second vertical frame components 24, 26. The point may be closer to the first ends 28 of the respective first and second vertical frame component 24, 26. In some example embodiments, the armrests 92 may be configured to swivel and thus move inward or outward relative to the seat 12 at the point at which the armrests 92 are engaged with the respective vertical frame component 24, 26.

[0111] The armrests 92 may also may be engaged with and couple together the first and second rear legs 32, 34 and the first and second front legs 38, 40, respectively. In some example embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 8A-8B, a first armrest connecting joint 98 may be arranged on an underside of the first armrest in between the first and second ends thereof and coupling the first rear leg 32 and the first front leg 38 into a movable relationship, and a second armrest connecting joint 98 arranged on an underside of the second armrest in between the first and second ends thereof and coupling the second rear leg and the second front leg into a movable relationship. The underside of the armrests 92 may be defined as a surface opposite the top surface and within the hollow interior of the armrests 92.

[0112] The first and second armrest connecting joints 98 (hereinafter referred to collectively as the armrest connecting joints 98 unless specified otherwise) may each comprise a molded component formed by known molding techniques (e.g., injection molding, CNC, 3D printing, rotational molding, blow molding, compression molding, any combination thereof, and the like). The material of the armrest connecting joints 98 may be polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, polyamide, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), carbon fiber, fiberglass, metal, metallic alloys, natural or synthetic rubber, any combination thereof, and the like.

[0113] The armrest connecting joints 98 may each define a first receiving cavity 100 and a second receiving cavity 102 in a respective first portion and second portion of the armrest connecting joints 98. The second ends 50 of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 are non-movably received in the respective first receiving cavity 100 of the first and second armrest connecting joints 98 and the second ends 80 of the first and second front legs 38, 40 are non-movably received in the respective second receiving cavity 102 of the first and second armrest connecting joints 98. The second ends 50, 80 of the front and rear legs 38, 40, 32, 34 may be permanently or removably received within the respective receiving cavity 100, 102 by various engagement methods, such as press fit engagement, threaded engagement, friction fit engagement, magnetic engagement, adhesive engagement (e.g., via glue), and the like. Other joining techniques in addition to or instead of the above may also be used to join the second ends 80, 50 of the front and rear legs 38, 40, 32, 34 within the respective receiving cavity 100, 102. For example, first openings may be provided in the front and rear legs 38, 40, 32, 34 that align with second openings in the first and second receiving cavities 100, 102 of the armrest connecting joints 98. Fasteners of some type may extend through the first and second openings to retain the front and rear legs 38, 40, 32, 34 in the cavities 100, 102. The first and second rear and front legs 32, 34, 38, 40 thus extend from the respective receiving cavities 100, 102 at defined angles relative to the ground surface that do not change when the chair is moved into the various recline positions described in more detail below. Thus, the angle of the front legs 38, 40 relative to the ground surface is between about 95 degrees to about 105 degrees, and the angle of the rear legs 32, 34 relative to the ground surface is between about 125 degrees to about 135 degrees in the various recline positions in the supporting configuration. However, other angles of the front and/or rear legs 38, 40, 32, 34 relative to the ground surface is also contemplated by this disclosure, where other angles change exactly how the seat 12 and backrest 22 are oriented/angled relative to the ground surface.

[0114] The first portion and the second portion of each of the armrest connecting joints 98 may be movably coupled with each other. For example, and as shown in FIG. 8B, the first portion including the first receiving cavity 100 may be formed with a slotted opening 104 while the second portion including the second receiving cavity 102 may be formed with a complementary protrusion 106. The protrusion 106 of the second portion may be received within the slotted opening 104 of the first portion. A fastener 108 forming a pivot point may extend through centers of the first portion and the second portion to hingedly couple the two together. When the ends of the rear and front legs 32, 34, 38, 40 are received in the respective receiving cavities 100, 102, the fastener 108 allows the first portion and the second portion of each of the armrest connecting joints 98 to move away from each other (when the chair is in the supporting configuration) and toward each other (when the chair is in the transport configuration). Thus, and in the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 8A-8B, the first armrest connecting joint 98 allows the first front leg 38 to collapse adjacent to the first rear leg 32 and the second arm rest connecting joint 98 allows the second front leg 40 to collapse adjacent to the second rear leg 34 in the transport configuration.

[0115] The armrest connecting joints 98 may each further comprise a positioning mechanism that interfaces with the hollow interior of the respective armrest 92. Each positioning mechanism may be movable along the interior of the length of the respective armrest to engage with a predefined slot 110 therein. Each predefined slot 110 may correspond to a desired angle of reclination. The positioning mechanism may be moved to engage with the predefined slot 110 and then moved again to move the positioning mechanism out of the predefined slot 110 and into a different predefined slot 110. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8B, the predefined slots 110 may be shaped like saw teeth, though other shapes are also contemplated herein. To move the positioning mechanism out of a slot 110/into a slot 110, the armrests 92 need to be simultaneously or substantially simultaneously lifted up and shifted forward or backward. When the armrests 92 are lifted up, the positioning mechanism may be moved out of a slot 110, and when the armrests 92 are shifted forward or backward the positioning mechanism may then be urged into the next slot 110. The positioning mechanism may extend between interior surfaces of the circumferential wall of the armrest 92, such that the positioning mechanism is held between the circumferential wall of the armrest by tension.

[0116] As the angle of reclination translates the backrest 22 into various recline positions, a height of the armrests 92 from the seat 12 may change. In a first recline position (most upright position), shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, the positioning mechanisms may be in a first slot 110, which is closest to the first end 94 of the armrests 92. In the first recline position, the height of the armrests 92 from the seat 12 may be between about 12 cm to about 25 cm; typically, the height is about 20 cm in some example embodiments, and a substantial entirety of the top surface of the armrest may be substantially parallel to the seat 12 such that the height of the armrest is substantially the same along the length of the armrest. When the foldable chair 10 is transitioned to the second recline position (slightly less upright than the most upright position), shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the positioning mechanisms may be in a second slot 110, which is slightly farther from the first end 94 of the armrests 92. In the second recline position, the height of the armrests 92 and the angle at which the armrests 92 are arranged relative to the seat 12 changes slightly, so that the height of the armrest is different along different points along the length thereof, More particularly, a point along the top surface of the armrest corresponding to where the second slot 110 is arranged is at a point higher from the seat 12 than toward the first end of the armrest, which is now lower to the seat 12, at a height of between about 11 cm to about 24 cm from the seat 12; typically the height is about 19.5 cm in some example embodiments. When the foldable chair 10 is transitioned to the third recline position (slightly more reclined than the second recline position), shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, the positioning mechanisms may be in a third slot 110, which is slightly closer to the second end 96 of the armrests 92. In the third recline position, the height of the armrests 92 and the angle at which the armrests 92 are arranged relative to the seat 12 changes slightly from the second recline position, so that the height of the armrest remains different along different points along the length thereof. More particularly, a point along the top surface of the armrest corresponding to where the third slot 110 is arranged is at a point higher from the seat 12 than toward the first end of the armrest, which is now lower to the seat 12, at a height of between about 11 cm to about 24 cm from the seat 12; typically the height is about 19 cm in some example embodiments. When the foldable chair 10 is transitioned to the fourth recline position (most reclined position), shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, the positioning mechanisms may be in a fourth slot 110, which is closest to the second end 96 of the armrests 92. In the fourth recline position, the height of the armrests 92 and the angle at which the armrests 92 are arranged relative to the seat 12 changes slightly from the third recline position, so that the height of the armrest is now most different along different points along the length thereof. More particularly, a point along the top surface of the armrest corresponding to where the fourth slot 110 is arranged is at a point higher from the seat 12 than toward the first end 94 of the armrest, which is now lowest to the seat 12, at a height of between about 10 cm to about 23 cm from the seat 12; typically the height is about 18 cm in some example embodiments.

[0117] In some example embodiments, the foldable chair 10 may recline into a fully horizontal position, where the seat 12 and the backrest 22 are substantially within the same plane. The upper or lower crossbar 76 may act to support the backrest 22 in this configuration. Alternatively, an additional crossbar or the upper or lower crossbars 46, 76 may engage the ground surface in the fully horizontal position to provide additional support. Other mechanisms and techniques for reclining the foldable chair 10 are also contemplated herein. For example, a mechanism that allows a user to choose their preferred angle of reclination is also contemplated using a lever or some other mechanism that changes the angle of reclination of the backrest 22 relative to the seat 12.

[0118] The first and second armrests 92 may comprise a material that is both lightweight and sturdy in order to make the foldable chair 10 easily usable in the transport configuration and the supporting configuration. For example, the material of the first and second armrests 92 may be polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, polyamide, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), carbon fiber, fiberglass, metal, metallic alloys, natural or synthetic rubber, any combination thereof, and the like. The first and second armrests 92 may be further coated with a coating that resists corrosion, fading, mold and mildew, scratching, absorbs heat to prevent it from being overly hot to the touch, any combination thereof, and the like. Such a coating may be, for example, powder coat, ceramic, paint, hydrodip, anodizing, alodining, urethane, epoxy, and Polyvinylidene Fluoride. Some or all of the material of the armrests 92 may be fully or partially recycled.

[0119] In order to help collapse the foldable chair 10 into a compact configuration for transport, a clip 112 may be arranged on the underside of each of the first and second armrests 92 between the respective first ends 94 and the respective first and second armrest connecting joints 98 to securely receive respective ones of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 in the transport configuration. The clips 112 may releasably engage the respective first and second rear legs 32, 34 in the transport configuration to retain the chair in the transport configuration. For example, the clips 112 may be a C-shaped clip that uses a press-fit engagement technique to retain the respective rear leg within. Otherwise, engagement of the first and second rear legs 32, 34 may be achieved by various known engagement techniques, such as the ones described herein. For example, engagement may be achieved by webbing and a buckle, rope and loop, hook and loop, magnets, button snap attaching to a cord or strap, pin and hole, or some other manner of securing the components of the foldable chair 10 in the transport configuration.

Accessories

[0120] In some example embodiments, the foldable chair 10 may comprise one or more mechanisms to aid in transporting the chair in the transport configuration. Such mechanisms may include one or more strap 114 for transporting the chair in the transport configuration. For example, a carry strap 114 may be engaged with or coupled to one or more components of the foldable chair 10, such as one of the crossbars, one of the first or second plurality of frame components, the arrests 92, the front or rear legs, etc. The carry strap 114 may be a single strap (e.g., to be worn on one shoulder or crossbody), two straps, three straps, etc. As shown in FIG. 5E, for example, the foldable chair 10 comprises two carry straps 114 that are engaged with and extend between the upper crossbar 46 and the lower crossbar 76. Each carry strap 114 may longitudinally extend between first and second ends. The first ends of the respective first and second carry straps 114 may be in contact with the upper crossbar 46 or one of the second plurality of frame components, while the second ends may be engaged with the lower crossbar 76. Alternatively, both the first and second ends of the carry straps 114 may be engaged with just the upper or lower crossbar 76. A length of each of the carry straps 114 may be defined between the first and second ends thereof.

[0121] The carry straps 114 may each be engaged with one or more components of the foldable chair 10 via a strap attachment mechanism 115. The strap attachment mechanism 115 may be engaged with each respective end of the carry straps 114. As shown in FIG. 5E, each of the first and second ends of the carry straps 114 have a strap attachment mechanism 115 that is attached to one of the upper crossbar 46 and the lower crossbar 76. The carry strap 114 is coupled to or engageable with the strap attachment mechanism 115 for transporting the chair in the transport configuration. For example, the strap attachment mechanism 115 may be a piece of fabric sewn to or otherwise joined to the carry strap 114 and then looped over the respective crossbar. The strap attachment mechanism 115 may otherwise be a fastener or other type of clip or ring that attaches to the respective crossbar. Regardless of what the strap attachment mechanism 115 is made of/how it functions, the strap attachment mechanism 115 may be permanently or removably engageable with one or both of the respective crossbar and the carry strap 114.

[0122] The type of material used for the carry strap(s) 114 and/or the strap attachment mechanism 115(s) may be a permeable, woven material selected from the group consisting of mesh, canvas, polyester, nylon, water resistant marine fabrics, neoprene, natural fibers (e.g., cotton), and combinations thereof. For example the weave may be one or more of a plain weave, jacquard weave, twill weave, satin and sateen weave, honey comb weave, huck a back weave, crepe weave, bedford cord weave, welts and pique, mock leno weave, leno weave, backed cloth, terry pile, velvets and velveteens, double cloth, and tubular cloth. Other materials may include elastic braided material, SUNBRELLA, etc. The material may also be padded, layered, tufted, etc. The material may be woven in different panels that are then attached to one another to create a single piece of material, or may be continuously woven to form the single piece of material. The warp and weft threads may be the same or different materials, shapes, colors, thicknesses, etc. Various characteristics of the material, and specifically the fibers used in the weave thereof, may be selected based on their functional and aesthetic properties. For example, the permeable, woven material have a coating or treatment to be anti-microbial, have a stretchability from elastic fibers, have an openness that provides airflow and allows sand and other debris to easily pass through, etc. Some or all of the material may be fully or partially recycled. In some embodiments, the material may be a non-woven textile created through bonding by chemical adhesion, mechanical or heat treatment, or some combination thereof. The carry strap 114 may also comprise cushioning or some other type of padding that extends either fully or partially along a length thereof to enhance the comfort of the experience carrying the foldable chair 10.

[0123] In some example embodiments, the carry strap 114 may also comprise an adjustment mechanism, such as a buckle, to adjust the length of the carry strap to accommodate users of different heights and abilities in carrying the foldable chair 10. Additional other straps, handles, etc., may also be provided for these purposes.

[0124] In some example embodiments, the transport mechanisms may include instead of or in addition to the carry strap 114, a container (not shown) for housing and transporting the foldable chair 10, The container may include a one or more strap for transporting the container about the shoulder or in the palm of a user. The one or more strap may be configured to be a handle and/or may be selectively engageable with the container for storage therein. The container may include a drawstring or other closing mechanism for securing the contents of the foldable chair 10 therewithin.

[0125] The container may also act as an anchor for housing weight, or a separate container may be used as an anchor. As used herein, weight refers to some quantity of material that acts as a counterweight to the weight of the foldable chair 10 to retain it in the supporting configuration. For example, weight may be sand, water, dirt, etc. In some example embodiments, the container may be inverted to ensure that whatever material is used to provide the weight is removed after use so that the material is removed before the foldable chair 10 is stored in the container, A cord having a first end and a second end may be engaged with or coupled to an interior of the container for inverting the container. One end of the cord may be engaged with or coupled to a bottom of the container for permitting full inversion, or at a mid-point of the container for permitting half inversion of the container. In some embodiments, one end of the cord may be selectively engaged or coupled with an exterior of the container. The other end of the cord may be engaged with or coupled to the chair at any point on one or more components of the foldable chair 10, such as, for example, to the material of the seat 12 and/or backrest 22, to the first or second plurality of frame components, etc.

[0126] For example, when the foldable chair 10 is removed from the container, the cord may be pulled away from the container while the container is held into position (or pushed away from the cord), thereby inverting the container to serve as the anchor. When one end of the cord is engaged or coupled to an interior and/or bottom of the container, the pulling of the cord may result in the full inversion of the container. When one end of the cord is engaged or coupled to the interior and/or mid-point of the container, the pulling of the cord may result in a half inversion of the container.

[0127] The container may include one or more exterior or interior compartment. The compartment may be engageable with or coupled to the interior of the container. The compartment may be sewn to the interior of the container along a single seam or multiple seams. A drawstring or other closing mechanism may be included on the container for cinching closed an open side of the container.

[0128] The container may also take any other form, such as an open top tote bag, for example. In other example embodiments, all or part of the material of the backrest 22 and/or the seat 12 may convert into the container. For example, the material of the backrest 22 and the seat 12 may be removed from the other components of the chair and folded/secured in such a way that the remaining components of the chair are secured within the material in the transport configuration. In some example embodiments, the container may be large enough to transport more than one foldable chair 10, such as two, three, four, five, six chairs. To that end, the container may be formed of an elastic material that stretches to accommodate multiple chairs.

[0129] In some example embodiments, the foldable chair 10 may comprise one or more cup holders 118, pockets, bags, insulated coolers, phone holders, key holders, sunglasses holder/clip, waterproof and/or wipeable pouches to hold liquids such as sunscreen, aloe, tanning oil, hat holder/clip, phone charger, book holder, wallet holder, etc., that engage with or couple to one or more components of the foldable chair 10. For example, the foldable chair 10 may comprise an accessories connecting mechanism 116. In the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-5E and 7, the accessories connecting mechanism 116 may be engaged with one of the fasteners 90 of the respective first and second engagement structures 42, 44, wherein the fastener 90 extends through the accessories connecting mechanism 116, through a respective one of the first and second front legs 38, 40 and into engagement with the respective first portion 88. In this manner, the accessories connecting mechanism 116 is removably engaged with or coupled to the foldable chair 10, as removal of the fastener 90 enables removal of the accessories connecting mechanism 116. Otherwise, the accessories connecting mechanism 116 may be permanently engaged with or coupled to the respective fastener 90, engagement structure 42, 44, or front leg 38, 40, e.g., by welding or by being integrally formed therewith. In some example embodiments, the accessories connecting mechanism 116 may be a molded component formed by any known molding techniques, or may be otherwise part of the respective fastener, engagement structure, or front leg and/or any other component of the chair. In some example embodiments, the accessories connecting mechanism 116 may be a clip, strap, cord, leash, loop, hook and loop, magnet, etc.

[0130] There may be only a single accessories connecting mechanism 116 (e.g., engaged with only the first or second engagement structures 42, 44) or there may be multiple accessories connecting mechanisms 116, such as, for example, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, etc. One or more accessories connecting mechanisms 116 may be engaged with a single component. For example, the first or second front leg 38, 40 may comprise two accessories connecting mechanisms 116, where one is engaged with one of the fasteners 90 of the respective first and second engagement structures 42, 44, while another is fastened directly to the front leg 38, 40. Additionally, or instead of, each of the first and second engagement structures 42, 44 may have an accessories connecting mechanism 116 engaged therewith, an accessories connecting mechanism 116 may be engaged with the armrests 92, the first plurality of frame components, the second plurality of frame components, one or both of the rear legs, one or all of the crossbars, etc. For example, an accessories connecting mechanism 116 may be engaged with each of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26 so that a large pocket or pouch may extend between the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26.

[0131] The accessories connecting mechanism 116 may also be configured to retain an accessory having significant weight, such as a cooler (not shown). To that end, two or more accessories connecting mechanisms 116 may hold a single accessory. For example, one or more accessories connecting mechanism 116 may be arranged on an underside of each of the first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16 and a cooler may be engaged therewith, such that the cooler is retained under the seat 12 by the accessories connecting mechanisms 116.

[0132] In some example embodiments, the one or more accessories comprises a cup holder 118, such as the various example embodiments illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 9A-9C. The cup holder 118 may be removably engageable with the accessories connecting mechanism 116 so that a cup or other drinking vessel (e.g., can, bottle, insulated container) may be removed from the foldable chair 10 and used, while engaged with the cup holder 118. In this way, the cup holder 118 may act as both an insulting sleeve to thermally insulate the cup and also the mechanism used to attach the cup to the foldable chair 10.

[0133] In one example embodiment, the cup holder 118 includes a cup holder body comprising a circumferential wall formed of a fabric material, such as neoprene, foam, etc. Other materials of the cup holder body are also contemplated, such as, for example, mesh, canvas, polyester, nylon, water resistant marine fabrics, neoprene, natural fibers (e.g., cotton), elastic braided material, SUNBRELLA, similar materials, and/or any combinations thereof.

[0134] The circumferential wall may extend along a longitudinal axis from a closed end to an open end. The circumferential wall may be in any shape or size. A distance that the circumferential wall extends between the closed end and the open end defines a height or length of the cup holder body, while a distance between internal opposing points along the circumferential wall defines a width or diameter of the cup holder body. Depending on a shape of the circumferential wall, the diameter or width may differ at various points along the length of the cup holder body. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9C, the circumferential wall is of a substantially cylindrical shape and circular cross-section with a substantially constant diameter along the length thereof. However, in other example embodiments, the circumferential wall may be of a slightly tapered shape with a diameter that changes along the length thereof (e.g., a smaller or larger diameter toward the closed end than the open end). It is also contemplated that the circumferential wall may be any type of shape and/or cross-section such as, for example, quadrilateral, conical, spherical, and the like. A surface of the circumferential wall may be substantially flat or planar, or may have other surface markings or texture, e.g., ribs to provide a gripping surface.

[0135] In some example embodiments, the cup holder 118 may have dimensions such as, but not limited to, the following: a bottom diameter that is between about 7 centimeters to about 9 centimeters and a height of between about 9 centimeters to about 11 centimeters, a bottom diameter of between about 5 to about 7 centimeters and a height of between about 14 centimeters to about 15 centimeters, and a bottom diameter of between about 8 cm to about 10 cm and a height of between about 9 centimeters to about 11 centimeters. Other diameters, heights, shapes, and sizes are also contemplated by this disclosure in order to accommodate cans, reusable or disposable bottles, insulated mugs, thermoses, and the like in varying sizes and shapes.

[0136] The closed end of the cup holder body may be formed so that the cup holder body may stand upright on the closed end when not in use. To that end, the closed end of the cup holder 118 may comprise a bottom surface formed of a fabric material that is the same as or different than the material of the circumferential wall. For example, the fabric material of the bottom surface of the cup holder 118 may comprise a mesh, polyester, nylon, neoprene, plastics, foam, textile covered foam, or other open weave material to allow debris to fall through. Where the bottom surface of the cup holder 118 is the same material as the circumferential wall, the bottom surface may define one or more outlets or openings through which debris may pass.

[0137] The circumferential wall may define an interior cavity for storage of the cup or vessel. The interior cavity may extend an entirety of the length of the cup holder body or only a portion thereof. For example, the interior cavity may extend from the closed end to the open end. The circumferential wall of the cup holder body may be non-rigid and may contain a certain amount of stretch so as to conform to a size and shape of a cup or vessel received within the interior cavity, More particularly, the circumferential wall may be flexible. A pocket or other compartment may be engaged with the cupholder to further store any other accessories. For example a pocket large enough to hold money, credit cards, keys, swipe cards, a phone, etc., may be engaged internally, externally, about the bottom surface, etc., of the cupholder so that when the cupholder is removed from the foldable chair 10, other items (in addition to the cup) may be stored and carried.

[0138] A complementary fastener 120 engaged with the circumferential wall of the cup holder 118 may attach to the accessories connecting mechanism 116 in such a way that the cup holder 118 can be easily removed from the accessories connecting mechanism 116 and while containing the cup. The complementary fastener 120 may be comprised of a polymer, such as, for example, high density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP), or low density Polyethylene (LDPE), or any other material to allow for the fastener to be retained on the accessories connecting mechanism 116.

[0139] In some example embodiments, the one or more accessories comprises a personal items holder 122, such as that illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 10A-10C. FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate two different example embodiments of a rear view of a personal items holder 122, while FIG. 10C illustrates a front view of a personal items holder 122, The personal items holder 122 may be utilized to carry those personal items that a user may not wish to leave unattended, To this end, the personal items holder 122 may removably engageable with the accessories connecting mechanism 116 so that small personal items, such as a cell phone, other technology device (e.g., PDA, iPod, earbuds, etc.), credit cards, money, room keys, pool passes, keys, and the like, may be stored in the personal items holder 122. The personal items holder 122 is configured so that the personal items may remain in the personal items holder 122 and used while the personal items holder 122 is either engaged with the foldable chair 10 or removed from the foldable chair 10, In this way, the personal items holder 122 may act as both a protective cover and also the mechanism used to store the personal items on the foldable chair 10.

[0140] In one example embodiment, the personal items holder 122 comprises a personal items holder body. The personal items holder body may extend along a longitudinal axis from a closed end to an open end. Within the personal items holder body, one or more compartments may be formed by one or more side walls extending between first and second ends. Additional compartments such as third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh compartments, etc., are also contemplated herein. However, a single compartment is also contemplated herein, Where there are multiple compartments, the compartments may all be a same size, or may be differently sized. The open end of the personal items holder 122 may be open to insert and remove personal items from the compartments, but may also be closeable with a flap or other closing mechanism.

[0141] In example embodiments where there are multiple compartments, the compartments may be serially disposed relative to one another, such that the side walls are aligned with one another about their first ends. The first ends of the side walls may be joined (e.g., glued, sewn, bonded, etc.) to form the closed end of the personal items holder body. The second ends of the side walls may be arranged so that they are not joined and thus form the open end of the personal items holder body. Longitudinal edges of the side walls may also be joined in similar manners. Where there are multiple compartments, the compartments may be arranged so that they share one or more side walls. For example, there may be a first compartment formed by a first side wall and a second side wall, and a second compartment formed by the second side wall and a third side wall. The compartments may be used to store not only a cell phone or other technology device, but other personal items such as credit cards, money, room keys, pool passes, keys, and the like. The removable nature of the personal items holder 122 thus makes it useful for storing and transporting such types of personal items.

[0142] The side walls of the personal items holder body may be formed from a single piece of material folded and joined (e.g., glued, sewn, bonded, etc.) along at least a portion of the edges to create the closed end and closed side walls. Otherwise, the side walls may be formed from two or more pieces of fabric aligned with one another and then joined (e.g., glued, sewn, bonded, etc.) For example, where there is one compartment, two pieces of material may be joined at one of their first and second ends and longitudinal edges to form the compartment with the open end and the closed end. In another example, where there are two compartments, three pieces of material may be joined at one of their first and second ends and longitudinal edges to form first and second compartments with the open end and the closed end.

[0143] The side walls may be in any shape or size. For example, each of the side walls may comprise at least four sides or edges, so that a side wall has a rectangular or square shape. The walls may additionally have one or more sides with a non-linear shape, such as a notched shape, pointed shape, rounded shape, etc. The non-linearly shaped side may be arranged toward the open end of the personal items holder body as a way to make retrieval of items stored in the one or more compartments easier, Where the side walls do not include four sides (e.g., the side walls are triangular, circular, oval-shaped), one or more of the dimensions of the personal items holder body will differ (e.g., a width of the personal items holder 122 will differ at various points along the length). A surface of the side walls may be substantially flat or planar, or may have other surface markings or texture, e.g., ribs to provide a gripping surface.

[0144] A distance that the side walls extend between the closed end and the open end defines a height or length of the personal items holder body, while a distance that the side walls extend between the longitudinal edges defines a width or diameter of the personal items holder body. A thickness or depth of the person items holder body is defined by a thickness of the side walls, Depending on a shape, size, material of the side walls, the various dimensions of the personal items holder body may differ at various points. For example, where there is a side wall of a different length than other side walls (used to create differently sized compartments), the overall length of the personal items holder 122 may be determined by whichever side wall is longest in length. To that end, where there is more than one compartment, the various compartments may have differently sized side walls to enable easier retrieval of the personal item stored inside the compartment. Otherwise, both side walls of a compartment may be the same length. In some example embodiments, the personal items holder 122 may have dimensions such as, but not limited to, the following: a width that is between about 10 centimeters to about 15 centimeters, a height of between about 15 centimeters to about 25 centimeters, and a thickness of about 0.5 cm to about 1.5 cm. Other diameters, heights, shapes, and sizes are also contemplated by this disclosure in order to accommodate person items (e.g., cell phones) in varying sizes and shapes.

[0145] In some example embodiments, the side walls of the personal items holder body may be non-rigid and may contain a certain amount of stretch so as to conform to a size and shape of a personal item received within the compartment(s). More particularly, the side walls may be flexible. To that end, the side walls forming the personal items holder body may be formed of a fabric material, such as neoprene, foam, etc. Other materials of the personal items holder body are also contemplated, such as, for example, mesh, canvas, polyester, nylon, water resistant marine fabrics, neoprene, natural fibers (e.g., cotton), elastic braided material, SUNBRELLA, similar materials, and/or any combinations thereof. Where there is more than one side wall, each side wall may be a different material, e.g., one side wall is mesh or an elastic band, while another is neoprene. An elastic band may be either permanently or removably attached either within a compartment (internally) or to an exterior surface of a side wall (externally) to the personal items holder 122 to hold a personal item. Optionally, a cord or strap may be either permanently or removably attached to the personal items holder 122 (e.g., about the open end of the personal items holder body) to enable easier carrying of the personal items holder 122 when it is removed from the foldable chair 10.

[0146] In some example embodiments, the personal items holder body is substantially waterproof so that the contents stored within the personal items holder 122 remain dry. The material forming the personal items holder 122 in that manner may be plastic (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or any other waterproof material) and the open end of the personal items holder body may be closeable and sealable using a clip or other waterproof fastening means. In this manner, closing and sealing the open end of the personal items holder body may enable the contents within the compartment(s) to remain dry.

[0147] The closed end of the personal items holder body may be formed so that the personal items holder body may stand upright on the closed end when not in use. To that end, the closed end of the personal items holder 122 may comprise a bottom surface formed of a fabric material that is the same as or different than the material of the side walls. For example, the fabric material of the bottom surface of the personal items holder 122 may comprise a mesh or other open weave material to allow debris to fall through. Where the bottom surface of the personal items holder 122 is the same material as the side walls, the bottom surface may define one or more outlets or openings through which debris may pass.

[0148] A complementary fastener 124 engaged with one of the side walls of the personal items holder 122 may attach to the accessories connecting mechanism 116 in such a way that the personal items holder 122 can be easily removed from the accessories connecting mechanism 116 and while containing the personal items. The complementary fastener 124 may be comprised of a polymer, such as, for example, high density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP), or low density Polyethylene (LDPE), or any other material to allow for the fastener to be retained on the accessories connecting mechanism 116.

[0149] In some example embodiments, the one or more accessories comprises a pouch 126, such as that illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 11A-11D. FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate three different example embodiments of a front view of a pouch 126, while FIG. 11D illustrates a rear view of a pouch 126. The pouch 126 may be utilized to hold items that a user may wish to use while sitting in the foldable chair 10 or bring with them when they are not in the foldable chair 10, To this end, the pouch may removably engageable with the accessories connecting mechanism 116 so that items such as books, magazines, tablets, sunscreen, sunglasses, clothing, jewelry, food, drinks, ice packs, solar-powered charger, hair accessories, lotions, cell phones, other technology devices (e.g., PDA, iPod, earbuds, etc.), credit cards, money, room keys, pool passes, keys, and the like, may be stored in the pouch 126. The pouch 126 may be large enough to store many different items and may be configured so that the items may remain in the pouch 126 and used while the pouch 126 is either engaged with the foldable chair 10 or removed from the foldable chair 10. The pouch 126 may be insulated, waterproof, lockable (e.g., have a lock and key), any combination thereof, or the like. In this way, the pouch 126 may act as both a protective cover and also the mechanism used to store the items on the foldable chair 10.

[0150] In one example embodiment, the pouch 126 comprises a pouch body. The pouch body may extend along a longitudinal axis from a closed end to an openable end, and may define one or more interior compartment within and/or one or more exterior compartments The one or more compartments may be formed by one or more side walls extending between first and second ends. Additional compartments such as third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh compartments, etc., are also contemplated herein. However, a single compartment is also contemplated herein. Where there are multiple compartments, the compartments may all be a same size, or may be differently sized. The openable end of the pouch 126 may be open to insert and remove items from the compartments, but may also be closeable with a flap or other closing mechanism.

[0151] The flap or other closing mechanism may fold over the open end of the pouch body and fasten to one of the side walls. For example the flap may be attachable to the side walls using VELCRO, magnets, snaps, rivets, etc., under the flap and on the side wall, a hook shaped fastener that engages a loop on the side wall, an envelope style flap that slides under a strap on the side wall, etc. Other flap or closing mechanism is also contemplated by this disclosure.

[0152] In sone example embodiments, the side walls may be aligned with one another about their first ends. The first ends of the side walls may be joined (e.g., glued, sewn, bonded, etc.) to form the closed end of the pouch body. The second ends of the side walls may be arranged so that they are not joined and thus form the openable end of the pouch body. Longitudinal edges of the side walls may also be joined in similar manners. Where there are multiple compartments, the compartments may be arranged so that they share one or more side walls, such that they are serially disposed relative to one another. For example, there may be a first compartment formed by a first side wall and a second side wall, and a second compartment formed by the second side wall and a third side wall. The compartments may be used to store not only a cell phone or other technology device, but other items such as credit cards, money, room keys, pool passes, keys, and the like. The removable nature of the pouch 126 thus makes it useful for storing and transporting such types of items.

[0153] The side walls of the pouch body may be formed from a single piece of material folded and joined (e.g., glued, sewn, bonded, etc.) along at least a portion of the edges to create the closed end and closed side walls. Otherwise, the side walls may be formed from two or more pieces of fabric aligned with one another and then joined (e.g., glued, sewn, bonded, etc.) For example, where there is one compartment, two pieces of material may be joined at one of their first and second ends and longitudinal edges to form the compartment with the openable end and the closed end. In another example, where there are two compartments, three pieces of material may be joined at one of their first and second ends and longitudinal edges to form first and second compartments with the openable end and the closed end. In either example, one of the pieces of material may be longer in length than the other so that the extra length of material forms the flap. Otherwise, the openable end may be closed without a flap, such that a fastener is arranged at the end of the side walls forming the open end of the pouch body. The fastener could be a drawstring, zipper, button, snap, VELCRO, magnet, etc.

[0154] The side walls may be in any shape or size. For example, each of the side walls may comprise at least four sides or edges, so that a side wall has a rectangular, pentagon-shape, or square shape. The walls may additionally have one or more sides with a non-linear shape, such as a notched shape, pointed shape, rounded shape, etc. The non-linearly shaped side may be arranged toward the openable end of the pouch body as a way to make retrieval of items stored in the one or more compartments easier. Where the side walls do not include four sides (e.g., the side walls are triangular, circular, oval-shaped), one or more of the dimensions of the pouch body will differ (e.g., a width of the pouch 126 will differ at various points along the length). A surface of the side walls may be substantially flat or planar, or may have other surface markings or texture, e.g., ribs to provide a gripping surface.

[0155] A distance that the side walls extend between the closed end and the openable end defines a height or length of the pouch body, while a distance that the side walls extend between the longitudinal edges defines a width or diameter of the pouch body. A thickness or depth of the pouch body is defined by a thickness of the side walls. Depending on a shape, size, material of the side walls, the various dimensions of the pouch body may differ at various points. For example, where there is a side wall of a different length than other side walls (used to create differently sized compartments), the overall length of the pouch 126 may be determined by whichever side wall is longest in length. To that end, where there is more than one compartment, the various compartments may have differently sized side walls to enable easier retrieval of the item stored inside the compartment. Otherwise, both side walls of a compartment may be the same length. In some example embodiments, the pouch 126 may have dimensions such as, but not limited to, the following: a width that is between about 12 centimeters to about 22 centimeters, a height of between about 15 centimeters to about 25 centimeters, and a thickness of about 1 cm to about 2.5 cm. Other diameters, heights, shapes, and sizes are also contemplated by this disclosure in order to accommodate items (e.g., cell phones) in varying sizes and shapes.

[0156] In some example embodiments, the side walls of the pouch body may be non-rigid and may contain a certain amount of stretch so as to conform to a size and shape of a item received within the compartment(s). More particularly, the side walls may be flexible. To that end, the side walls forming the pouch body may be formed of a fabric material, such as neoprene, foam, etc. Other materials of the pouch body are also contemplated, such as, for example, mesh, canvas, polyester, nylon, water resistant marine fabrics, neoprene, natural fibers (e.g., cotton), elastic braided material, SUNBRELLA, similar materials, and/or any combinations thereof. Where there is more than one side wall, each side wall may be a different material, e.g., one side wall is mesh or an elastic band, while another is neoprene. An elastic band may be either permanently or removably attached either within a compartment (internally) or to an exterior surface of a side wall (externally) to the pouch 126 to hold an item, Optionally, a cord or strap may be either permanently or removably attached to the pouch 126 (e.g., about the openable end of the pouch body) to enable easier carrying of the pouch 126 when it is removed from the foldable chair 10.

[0157] In some example embodiments, the pouch body is substantially waterproof so that the contents stored within the pouch 126 remain dry. The material forming the pouch 126 in that manner may be plastic (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or any other waterproof material) and the openable end of the pouch body may be closeable and sealable using a clip or other waterproof fastening means. In this manner, closing and sealing the openable end of the pouch body may enable the contents within the compartment(s) to remain dry.

[0158] The closed end of the pouch body may be formed so that the pouch body may stand upright on the closed end when not in use. To that end, the closed end of the pouch 126 may comprise a bottom surface formed of a fabric material that is the same as or different than the material of the side walls. For example, the fabric material of the bottom surface of the pouch 126 may comprise a mesh or other open weave material to allow debris to fall through. Where the bottom surface of the pouch 126 is the same material as the side walls, the bottom surface may define one or more outlets or openings through which debris may pass.

[0159] A complementary fastener 128 engaged with one of the side walls of the pouch 126 may attach to the accessories connecting mechanism 116 in such a way that the pouch 126 can be easily removed from the accessories connecting mechanism 116 and while containing the items. The complementary fastener may be comprised of a polymer, such as, for example, high density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP), or low density Polyethylene (LDPE), or any other material to allow for the fastener to be retained on the accessories connecting mechanism 116.

[0160] Other accessories may further include a head pillow or headrest (not shown) that attaches to the backrest 22, upper crossbar 46, and/or first and/or second vertical frame component. The head pillow may be formed of a material similar to that of the seat 12 and/or backrest 22, though it may be a different material. The head pillow may be removable and replaceable or may be permanently attached to the one or more components of the foldable chair 10. For example, where the head pillow is removable, the head pillow may be attachable using ribbons or other fabric material that allows the pillow to be adjusted in terms of where it lays on the backrest 22. The head pillow may be movable off the backrest 22, e.g., flipped off the backrest 22, when use is not desired. In another example, the head pillow is built into the material of the backrest 22 such that there is padding sewn into the backrest 22. The padding may be able to be moved around within the fabric of the backrest 22 so that a user may adjust a location of the padding within the backrest 22.

[0161] In some example embodiments, the foldable chair 10 may be attachable to a shade accessory such as a wind-powered shade, folding shade, or umbrella. For example, the foldable chair 10 may have one or more shade connecting mechanisms to allow it to be engaged with or connected to a frame of a wind-powered shade, such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,190,330 to Barnes et al., incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. For example one or more tubes or sleeves may connect at the second ends of the first and second vertical frame components 24, 26, the armrests 92, crossbars, first and second horizontal frame components 14, 16, front and/or rear legs, etc., which may then each receive an end of the frame of the wind-powered shade. Alternatively, in some other example embodiments, a hinged shading device, similar to that described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,631,651 to Besner et al., incorporated by reference in its entirety herein, may attach to the upper crossbar 46 or vertical frame components.

Some Embodiments

[0162] Some example embodiments of a foldable chair 10 are also contemplated by the present disclosure, where the above-referenced description of various components and characteristics similarly applies. For example, in some example embodiments, the foldable chair 10 may collapse in different directions. Where the chair illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E collapses vertically (in a Y direction) to reduce a height of the chair in the transport configuration from the supporting configuration, some embodiments of the foldable chair 10 contemplated herein include collapsing the chair horizontally (in an X direction) to reduce a width of the chair in the transport configuration from the supporting configuration. The chair illustrated in FIGS. 1A-5E may collapse horizontally instead of or in addition to collapsing vertically so that the foldable chair 10 has an even more compact arrangement in the transport configuration. More particularly, one or more mechanisms may be introduced along the lengths of the upper crossbar 46, the front crossbar 86, and the lower crossbar 76 (as well as the rear crossbar) to allow these crossbars to collapse in the X direction. For example, the various crossbars may be telescoping such that application of pressure or activation of a spring loaded actuator button collapses the crossbars along their lengths to make them shorter. In another example, the various crossbars may be removable to configure the foldable chair 10 into the transport configuration in which the chair is both vertically and horizontally collapsed in the X and Y directions. The various crossbars can then be reattached to configure the chair in the supporting configuration. In another example, a hinge, pivot, or joint mechanism can be included along the lengths of the crossbars to fold the crossbars along their lengths. Any of these mechanisms, as well as others, may be used so that the foldable chair 10 may be collapsed in more than one direction.

[0163] In some other example embodiments, the front and rear legs may be configured with a rocking mechanism to allow the foldable chair 10 to rock. The rocking mechanism may include longitudinally extending and curved components that engage the first ends of the front and rear legs. The rocking mechanisms may be accessories included with the foldable chair 10 such that the rocking mechanisms are removable and replaceable as desired. Otherwise, the rocking mechanisms may be permanently attached to the first ends of the front and rear legs. Similarly, casters or other wheels may be attached to the first ends of the front and rear legs.

[0164] Many modifications and embodiments of the disclosure set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated figures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing description and the associated figures describe example embodiments in the context of certain example combinations of elements and/or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and/or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and/or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.