COLLAPSIBLE AND PORTABLE ROCKING CHAIR

Abstract

A collapsible and portable rocking chair is provided. The rocking chair includes a frame comprising a pair of frame side assemblies and each frame side assembly has a front leg portion and a rear leg portion. The pair of frame side assemblies are movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The rocking chair also includes at least one pair of first cross members and at least one pair of second cross members. Each first cross member is pivotally connected to each other and connected to at least one of the front leg portion and the rear leg portion. Each second cross member is pivotally connected to each other and to the at least one pair of first cross members. The rocking chair also includes at least one rocker mechanism attached to the chair frame for effecting movement of the chair frame between forward and rearward positions.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to rocking chairs, and more particularly relates to improvements in rocking chairs that are foldable and unfoldable between a set-up configuration for use and a substantially collapsed configuration for transportation and storage.

BACKGROUND

This section is intended to provide a background or context. The description may include concepts that may be pursued, but have not necessarily been previously conceived or pursued. Unless indicated otherwise, what is described in this section is not deemed prior art to the description and claims and is not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.

Various chairs have been adapted to be folded for transportation and/or storage. Such chairs typically have a frame fabricated from elongated structural members, preferably metal. The frames of such chairs have transversely spaced-apart left-hand and right-hand frame side assemblies that are substantially parallel to each other. In a set-up configuration, each frame side assembly has a front leg member extending in a generally vertically upward direction and a rear leg member pivotally connected at its upper end directly or indirectly to an upper end of the front leg member and which is rearwardly and downwardly inclined from the upper end of the front leg member. Such frame side assemblies also include an upwardly extending chair back support member which is pivotally connected at its lower end to the rear leg member intermediate the ends of the rear leg member by an over-the-center linkage that positions the back support member so that it is supported at its lower end on the rear leg member and inclined upwardly and rearwardly therefrom when the chair is unfolded from its closed or flatly folded storage configuration to its open or set-up configuration for use. Such frame side assemblies also include a seat support member generally supported by the front and rear leg members in a generally horizontal configuration when the chair is in its set-up configuration.

Due to the intricate interconnection of all the frame members, both front-to-back and side-to-side, such chairs often require all the legs to remain in contact with the ground to ensure safety and structural integrity of the chair during use. However, there is a desire for a rocking chair that is likewise foldable and portable, so that a user at a picnic or an outdoor event can rock in their chair or recline as desired.

Many foldable and portable chairs are not capable of rocking due to their design and construction. Adding components to help the user rock in the chair while seated has often compromised the ability to fold the chair for storage or keep it sufficiently lightweight for easy transportation. Moreover, existing foldable rocking chair designs are typically not suitable for most outdoor uses, especially on soft ground or sand. The limitations of such chairs are mostly due to the use of arched rails to support the chair frame. With arched rails, each side of the chair only maintains a single contact point with the ground, which on sand or soft ground increases the risk that one or both sides of the chair will sink into or get bogged down, affecting rocking of the chair and, more significantly, affecting the integrity and safety of the chair to support a seated user.

An additional limitation of many rocking chairs is that they can only be used as a rocking chair, and cannot be stabilized to be used as a normal chair that does not rock.

Other chair designs have been developed that can be folded to a collapsed or bundled state occupying less storage space. For example, some chair designs can be folded in multiple directions, reducing at least the front/back and left/right dimensions between an unfolded set-up configuration and a folded, storage configuration. However, these chair designs are typically not suitable for certain outdoor uses, such as at the beach or at a picnic. Many multi-directional foldable chairs are not capable of rocking due to the complexity of the means of connecting the various frame members constituting the chair frame, as well as the need to keep all the legs of such chairs grounded to ensure safety and integrity of the chair during use. See further, “Collapsible and Portable Rocking Chair”, U.S. Pat. No. 9,060,611, issued Jun. 23, 2015, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Some folding chairs use a double-V design for the support frame. This design can allow the chairs to collapse into a smaller space than traditional folding chairs.

In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a collapsible rocking chair (that may be a double-V design) that can be rocked by a seated user when in a set-up configuration and that can also be collapsed to reduce the space occupied by the chair in a folded configuration. Further, there is a need for such a chair that can be folded with minimal effort, without limiting or compromising the structural features permitting rocking of the chair. Further, there is a need for a rocking chair that can be rocked by a seated user, as desired, without compromising the folding and transport of the chair, and without affecting the safety and structural integrity of the chair, especially on all types of surfaces, including soft ground and sand. Accordingly, it is a general object of the present invention to provide a foldable and portable rocking chair design that overcomes the problems and drawbacks associated with folding chairs and rocking chairs, and therefore significantly improves the utility of such a chair in the set-up configuration while permitting easy transportation and/or storage in a collapsed configuration.

In general, there is a need for a collapsible rocking chair that can be easily folded by a user with minimal effort, and which, when set-up, can be used both as a rocker or a chair.

The present invention addresses these issues, and provides a means to circumvent the associated drawbacks of such prior art foldable chair designs.

SUMMARY

Example aspects of the present disclosure include:

A collapsible and portable rocking chair according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a frame comprising a pair of frame side assemblies, each frame side assembly having a front leg portion and a rear leg portion, wherein the pair of frame side assemblies are movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, and wherein in the open configuration the frame side assemblies are transversely spaced apart from one another and in the closed configuration, the frame side assemblies are substantially adjacent to each other; at least one pair of first cross members, each first cross member pivotally connected to each other and connected to at least one of the front leg portion and the rear leg portion; at least one pair of second cross members, each second cross member pivotally connected to each other and to the at least one pair of first cross members, wherein the at least one pair of first cross members and the at least one pair of second cross members are moveable between the open configuration and the closed configuration, wherein the first cross members of at least one pair of first cross members and the second cross members of the at least one pair of second cross members are each pivoted apart from each other at a pivot point and define an angle between the first cross members and the second cross members in the open configuration, and wherein the first cross members of at least one pair of first cross members and the second cross members of the at least one pair of second cross members are each disposed substantially parallel to each other in the closed configuration; and at least one rocker mechanism attached to the chair frame for effecting movement of the chair frame between forward and rearward positions.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein the angle is at least 90 degrees.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein said rocker mechanism is attached to the rear of at least one of the frame side assemblies.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein said rocker mechanism comprises a tubular extension member projecting outwardly and downwardly from the rear of at least one of the frame side assemblies and received within a sleeve housing a spring to which the tubular member is attached.

Any of the aspects herein, further comprising a pair of static support runners connected to and supporting each frame side assembly via a load nearing feature associated with each said frame side assembly; wherein the sleeve of the rocker mechanism is supported by at least one of said support runners.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein the rocker mechanism comprises a tubular extension member projecting outwardly and downwardly from the rear of each of the frame side assemblies and received within a respective sleeve pivotally mounted to a respective support runner, each sleeve housing a compression spring to which the respective tubular member is attached.

Any of the aspects herein, said support runner associated with each frame side assembly further defining first and second longitudinally spaced apart contact points; and said chair further comprising a third contact point associated with the lower end of the front leg portion of each frame side assembly; wherein each frame side assembly contacts the support surface on which said frame side assembly is set up with at least two of the first, second and third contact points at all rocking positions of the chair.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein the rocker mechanism is attached to at least one of the front leg portion and the rear leg portion of each side frame assembly.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein the front leg portion includes a tubular front leg member and the rear leg portion includes a tubular rear leg member; and wherein the rocker mechanism comprises a sleeve associated with at least one of the front leg member and the rear leg member, said sleeve further housing a spring to which said leg member is connected.

Any of the aspects herein, further comprising: at least one support brace, each support brace of the at least one support brace connected the at least one second pair of cross members and the frame side assembly.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein each support brace includes a support reinforcement which is configured to support the at least one second pair of cross members when the chair is in the open configuration.

Any of the aspects herein, further comprising: backrest support member connected to each frame side assembly; and a flexible backrest support panel mounted between said backrest support members and defining a generally taut back support when the chair is in the open configuration.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein the at least one pair of first cross members and the at least one pair of second cross members are each substantially V-shaped.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein the substantially V-shape of the at least one pair of first cross members is upside down and the substantially V-shape of the at least one pair of second cross members is right side up, wherein the at least one pair of second cross members has an offset portion that is offset towards a center of the frame.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein the offset portion of the at least one pair of second cross members provide clearance for forward rocking motion of the collapsible and portable rocking chair.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein the flexible seat panel further comprises a backrest panel.

Any of the aspects herein, further comprising a backrest panel separate from the flexible seat panel.

A collapsible and portable rocking chair according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a frame comprising a pair of frame side assemblies having substantially mirrored construction and being relatively movable with respect to one another between a set-up configuration of said chair where said frame side assemblies are transversely spaced apart from one another and a collapsed configuration of said chair where said frame side assemblies are generally adjacent to one another, each frame side assembly including a front leg portion and a rear leg portion; a first straight cross member having a plurality of component struts configured to collapse around a straight cross member pivot; a generally V-shaped cross member pivotally connected to the first straight cross member for pivotal movement between a) an open configuration wherein the generally V-shaped cross member are disposed to generally resemble a V-shaped configuration and b) a closed configuration wherein arms of the generally V-shaped cross member are disposed in generally parallel relationship with one another, wherein the first straight cross member has terminal ends pivotally secured to the front leg portions of the frame side assemblies, and wherein the generally V-shaped cross members collectively defining a seat support when in the open configuration; a flexible seat panel mounted between the generally V-shaped cross member and defining a generally taut seat when the cross members are in the open configuration; and at least one rocker mechanism attached to the chair frame for effecting movement of the chair frame between forward and rearward positions; wherein the open and closed configurations generally correspond to the set-up and collapsed configurations of the chair.

Any of the aspects herein, wherein each frame side assembly maintains at least two contact points with the support surface on which said frame side assembly is set up.

A collapsible and portable rocking chair according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a frame comprising a pair of frame side assemblies, each frame side assembly having a front leg portion and a rear leg portion, wherein the pair of frame side assemblies are movable between a set-up configuration and a collapsed configuration, and wherein in the set-up configuration the frame side assemblies are transversely spaced apart from one another and in the collapsed configuration, the frame side assemblies are substantially adjacent to each other; two sets of a first pair of generally upside-down V-shaped cross members pivotally connected to one another for pivotal movement between an open configuration wherein said cross members are disposed to generally resemble a V-shaped configuration and a closed configuration wherein said cross members are disposed in generally parallel relationship with one another, wherein a first set of the two sets of generally upside-down V-shaped cross members having terminal ends thereof pivotally secured to the front leg portions of the frame side assemblies and a second set of the two sets of generally upside-down V-shaped cross members having terminal ends thereof pivotally secured to the rear leg portions of the frame side assemblies; a second pair of generally V-shaped cross members pivotally connected to one another for pivotal movement between an open configuration wherein said cross members are disposed to generally resemble a V-shaped configuration and a closed configuration wherein said cross members are disposed in generally parallel relationship with one another, said second pair of generally V-shaped cross members collectively defining a seat support when in the open configuration, a flexible seat panel mounted between the second pair of generally V-shaped cross members and defining a generally taut seat when the cross members are in the open configuration; a load bearing feature supporting the chair frame, and about which said chair frame can move between forward and rearward positions; and at least one rocker mechanism attached to the chair frame for supporting the chair during movement of the chair frame between said forward and rearward positions; wherein the open and closed configurations of the cross members generally correspond to the set-up and collapsed configurations of the chair.

The details of one or more aspects of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the techniques described in this disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or” are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “at least one of A, B, or C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, “one or more of A, B, or C” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together. When each one of A, B, and C in the above expressions refers to an element, such as X, Y, and Z, or class of elements, such as X1-Xn, Y1-Ym, and Z1-Zo, the phrase is intended to refer to a single element selected from X, Y, and Z, a combination of elements selected from the same class (e.g., X1 and X2) as well as a combination of elements selected from two or more classes (e.g., Y1 and Zo).

The term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be noted that the terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” can be used interchangeably.

The preceding is a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide an understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the disclosure and its various aspects, embodiments, and configurations. It is intended neither to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor to delineate the scope of the disclosure but to present selected concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the disclosure are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.

Numerous additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the embodiment descriptions provided hereinbelow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects of the described embodiments are more evident in the following description, when read in conjunction with the attached Figures.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible and portable rocking chair in accordance with an embodiment, with the chair in a set-up configuration, and with the chair in a forward, stabilized position.

FIG. 2 is a planar side view of the rocking chair of FIG. 1, also in a forward position.

FIG. 3 is a planar front view of the rocking chair of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a planar rear view of the rocking chair of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a rocker mechanism for use with the rocking chair of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the rocking chair of FIG. 1 with the seat fabric removed.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the rocking chair of FIG. 1 in a partially folded configuration.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the rocking chair of FIG. 1 in a fully folded configuration.

FIG. 9 is a planar view of a support brace that may be used in embodiments of a collapsible and portable rocking chair in accordance with various embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Further, the present disclosure may use examples to illustrate one or more aspects thereof. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the use or listing of one or more examples (which may be denoted by “for example,” “by way of example,” “e.g.,” “such as,” or similar language) is not intended to and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

The use of “substantially” in the present disclosure, when referring to a measurable quantity (e.g., a diameter or other distance) and used for purposes of comparison, is intended to mean within 5% of the comparative quantity. The terms “substantially similar to,” “substantially the same as,” and “substantially equal to,” as used herein, should be interpreted as if explicitly reciting and encompassing the special case in which the items of comparison are “similar to,” “the same as” and “equal to,” respectively.

FIG. 1 shows at least one embodiment of a rocking chair 10 in accordance with the present disclosure. The rocking chair 10 beneficially enables the chair 10 to be rocked while also being able to be folded up and substantially collapsed for transportation and/or storage. Further, the rocking chair 10 remains stable and secure during a rocking motion due to the design of the frame and cross members, as will be described in detail below. The design of the frame and cross members also enables the rocking chair to be folded into a slimmer profile as compared to some conventional folding chairs. Thus, the rocking chair 10 provides for a portable, safe, and secure rocking chair 10 that can be moved and used in different locations.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rocking chair 10 is shown in a set-up configuration (also referred to as an open configuration) and ready for use. The rocking chair 10 includes a frame 12 that supports a seat support panel 14 and a backrest support panel 16. As shown, the seat support panel 14 and the backrest support panel 16 are generally rectangular in shape. In other embodiments, the seat support panel 14 and the backrest support panel 16 can be any shape or size. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the seat panel 14 and the backrest panel 16 comprise generally flexible panels that are connected by a flexible connector panel 18, though the panels 14 and 16 can be separate pieces in other embodiments. The panels 14 and 16 are generally taut when the rocking chair 10 is in its set-up configuration for accommodating and supporting a seated user.

In at least one embodiment, the seat and backrest panels 14 and 16 may be made from fabric or other suitable flexible, durable and weather resistant sheet material. The panels 14 and 16 may be flexible to accommodate the seated user, thereby improving the comfort level of the chair. In the set-up configuration of the chair, the seat panel 14 and the backrest panel 16 extend between side assemblies 20 and are generally taut for supporting a seated user. When the chair is collapsed to a folded configuration, the panels 14 and 16 become flaccid and fold within the collapsed configuration of the chair. Thus, the design can be used with chairs of varying heights, such as an event chair (shorter leg length) or stool (longer leg length) without affecting operation and use of the chair in accordance with the present invention.

In some embodiments, the seat and backrest panels 14 and 16 may be made of nylon mesh, padded fabric, and/or canvas. In other embodiments, the seat and backrest panels 14 and 16 may be made of hinged plastic. In alternate designs, the seat and backrest panels 14 and 16 can be rigid and collapsible with the chair frame 12. For example, the panels 14 and 16 can be formed from plastic panels that hinge in half when the rocking chair 10 is folded, but which snap into a solid panel when the rocking chair 10 is set-up.

In general, the frame 12 is comprised of several frame members rigidly and/or pivotally connected together to define the frame 12 and permit folding and collapsing of the frame 12 to a configuration suitable for easy transportation and storage. The frame members may be fabricated from a durable lightweight material such as a tubular metal, metal alloy, or high-strength plastic. Various elongated structural parts or members that comprise the chair frame 12 may be constructed from tubular material of non-circular cross-section, such as, for example, extruded metal tubing having square, oval, or elliptical cross-section, or, alternately, of circular cross-section.

Referring to FIGS. 1-6, the frame 12 has a pair of side assemblies 20 comprised of frame members having a substantially identical, but mirrored, construction. In other embodiments, the construction of the rocking chair does not require mirrored elements. In other words, the frame 12 can have asymmetrical features, for example, the lengths of the cross members on opposite sides may be dissimilar to cause the elements to fold-up at a particular location, and/or the chair may have a cup holder or tray on one side. Thus, the design of the frame can be varied without departing from the spirit and principles of this disclosure.

Returning to the side assemblies 20, the left and right frame side assemblies, respectively designated as 20L and 20R, are disposed in laterally or transversely spaced apart and generally parallel relation to each other when the rocking chair 10 is in its set-up configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the side frame assemblies 20L and 20R are interconnected to be transversely collapsed, or folded side-to-side, to the folded configuration of the rocking chair 10, generally shown in FIG. 8. The concepts presented are easily adaptable for use with frame designs that are collapsed in different manners, including but not limited to front-to-back folding generally associated with standard folding chairs.

As shown in FIG. 2, the frame side assembly 20 includes a generally closed frame loop 25 constructed from axially-elongated tubular material that is bent to define an armrest portion 22, a front leg portion 24, a lower support portion 26, and a rear leg portion 28. The frame side assembly 20 can have more or fewer portions. For example, the frame side assembly 20 may not include a lower support portion 26. In another example, the frame side assembly 20 may include a front cross bar extending between a pair of frame side assemblies 20.

With reference to FIGS. 6-7, the backrest support member 30 is connected to the frame 12 at backrest support joint 31. The backrest support member 30 may be placed in an upright position where backrest support member 30 is relatively perpendicular to the armrest portion 22 or in a collapsed position (shown in FIGS. 7-8, and also referred to as a closed configuration) where the backrest support member 30 is relatively parallel to the armrest portion 22. In alternate embodiments, the backrest support member 30 can be removably attached to each frame side assembly 20 to facilitate set-up and collapse of the rocking chair 10. Removal of the backrest support member 30 during collapse can further reduce the storage and transportable size of a collapsed rocking chair 10.)

Further, each portion of the illustrated frame loop 25 can be a separate member, with the various frame members being interconnected by rigid or flexible joints to collectively define the frame side assembly 20. Still further, the frame side assembly 20 may be constructed from an open design instead of a closed frame loop 25, including the set-up of a front and rear leg generally associated with standard folding chair designs, where the frame members are interconnected by rigid, pivotal, sliding and/or telescopic joints to effect easy folding and unfolding of the chair between a set-up and collapsed configuration.

The frame members for the frame side assemblies 20L and 20R may be disposed within generally parallel extending vertical planes. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3-4, the frame side assemblies 20 are connected together by one or more first cross members 56 and one or more second cross members 57. The first cross members 56 are pivotally attached to the lower extent of front leg portions 24 of associated frame side assemblies 20, as well as having a first frame hinge 65 which allows the first cross members 56 to close together. The second cross members 57 are pivotally attached to the first cross member 56 at pivot points 63, as well as having a second frame hinge 67 which allows the cross members 57 to close together.

A central front-back extending portion 60 (labeled in FIG. 6) of the second cross member 57 extends between the front portion 58 and the rear portion 62, and defines a seat support member for the rocking chair 10. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the seat panel 14 extends between these seat support portions of the second cross member 57 during a set-up configuration of the rocking chair 10 to define the seat of the rocking chair 10.

As can be seen in FIG. 6, the rear portions 61 of the first cross members 56 are connected between lower portions of respective rear leg portions 28 of the chair frame 12, and generally form a pivotable, downward-facing rear V-frame connected at a first pivot points 65. In other embodiments, the first cross members 56 are pivoted from each other at the first pivot points 65 and define an angle between each other. In such embodiments, the angle may be between 20 degrees and 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle may be less than 20 degrees or greater than 180 degrees. In still other embodiments, the first cross members can form any shape such as, for example, a W-shape, a line, an M-shape, etc.

The second cross members 57 are connected between upper portions of respective rear leg portions 28 of the chair frame 12, and generally form a pivotable, upward-facing rear V-frame connected at second pivot points 67. In other embodiments and similar to the first cross members 56 described above, the second cross members 57 are pivoted from each other at the second pivot points 67 and define an angle between each other. In such embodiments, the angle may be between 20 degrees and 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle may be less than 20 degrees or greater than 180 degrees. In still other embodiments, the second cross members 57 members can form any shape such as, for example, a W-shape, a line, an M-shape, etc.

In embodiments where the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 are V-shaped, the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 together create a double “V-frame” when the rocking chair 10 is opened to the set-up or open configuration, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3-4. The double “V-frame” then collapses when the rocking chair 10 is folded up, as shown in FIG. 8. Similarly, the front portions 58 of the front cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 are connected between respective front leg portions 24 of the chair frame 12, and likewise form a pivotable front double V-frame connected at a central pivot point 66. The front portions 56 also opens into the shape of an “V” when the rocking chair 10 is opened to the set-up or open configuration, and which collapses when the rocking chair 10 is folded up into the closed position.

In embodiments with the double “V-frame”, the frame side assemblies 20L and 20R are joined each to the other, to enable, in part, transverse, or left-right, folding of the frame 12, by the pair of movable double V-frame connector assemblies formed by the pivotable interconnection of the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57. That is, when the rocking chair 10 is being collapsed, the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 are pivoted to close the double V-frame so that the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 are flattened and brought adjacent to one another. As the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 are flattened, the frame side assemblies 20L and 20R are brought inward and adjacent to one another as well.

Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments where the second cross members form a lower “V”, the lower “V” made by the second cross members 57 may include an offset portion 13 that is offset toward a center CL 11 of the chair 10 as shown in FIG. 2. The offset portion 13 provides, for example, clearance for a user's ankles to avoid getting crushed or contacted during the forward rocking motion. In contrast, traditional director chairs are statically sitting on the ground and therefore do not account for such motion.

The first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 also provide support for the frame 12 in the open, set-up configuration by balancing and redistributing the forces exerted on the frame 12 by a person seated on the seat panel 14 and leaning back on the backrest panel 16. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3-4, the second cross members 57 can be further secured to the frame 12 by using support braces 68 pivotally connected between a second cross members 57 and the frame loop 25. Additionally, referring to FIGS. 3 and 6, a first cross member 56 is pivotally connected to the front leg portion 24 of one of the frame side assemblies (e.g., 20L), and the other end of the first cross member 56 is pivotally connected to the front leg portion 24 of the opposite frame side assembly (e.g., 20R), typically at a lower portion of said leg portions 24 and 28. The ends of the rear portions 62 of the other first cross member 56 are similarly pivotally connected to the rear leg portions 26 of the frame side assemblies 20.

The front and rear portions 58 and 62 of the second cross members 57 are connected to respective front and rear leg portions of the frame side assemblies 20 via the support braces 68, shown in detail in FIG. 9. More particularly, each support brace 68 has a first pivot opening 71 connected to the second cross members 57 and a second pivot opening 72 connected to a frame side assembly 20. As the second cross members 57 are pivoted about the pivot points 67 connecting them together, they pull the frame side assemblies 20L and 20R together via the support braces 68. When the rocking chair 10 is in its set-up configuration, the second cross members 57 are in an open V-shaped configuration, and rest on the support reinforcement 73 of the support braces 68 which limit further opening of the second cross members 57 while distributing the weight of the seated user through the frame 12.

In another alternative embodiment, the chair may include a single V-shaped member, similar to cross member 57. A horizontal cross bar may connect to both the single V-shaped member and the side assemblies 20. The horizontal cross bar may also include a pivot/hinge, for example, in the center of the horizontal cross bar, in order to help in collapsing of the chair.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, a rocker mechanism 32 is attached to a rear side of the frame loop 25. As shown, the rocker mechanism 32 extends angularly outwardly and downwardly from a backside of the frame loop 25. The rocker mechanism 32 generally extends at the location where the armrest portion 22 and the rear leg portion 28 are connected together to a support runner 34 that supports and facilitates a back-and-forth rocking movement of the rocking chair 10 when a seated user wants to rock. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the support runner 34 also supports the lower support portion 26 of the frame loop 25 and is generally disposed beneath the rear leg portion 28 of the frame loop 25. The rocker mechanism 32 is preferably attached to a static runner design, such as illustrated, that presents a significant improvement over prior art rocking chair designs using arched rails. For example, the static runner design is beneficially more stable on soft ground or sand, on which prior art rocking chair designs are ill suited.

Referring to FIG. 5, the rocker mechanism 32 can include an axially-elongated tubular member 38 pivotally attached at a first end 47 via a pivot joint 40 and pivot pin 42 to the rear leg portion 28 of the side frame assembly 10, and received at a second end 45 within a sleeve 44. More particularly, the second end 45 is attached to a spring 46 contained within the sleeve 44 and fixed at a lower end to the sleeve 44. The lower end of the sleeve 44 is pivotally connected to the support runner 34 via a universal joint 48 and pivot pins 50 and 52 for movement with the rocking chair 10. The universal joint 48 permits some flexibility in movement to accommodate seated users of varying sizes and weights without compromising the users' ability to recline and rock in the chair. In an alternate design, the lower end of the sleeve 44 may merely be provided with the third foot 36c for direct contact with the support surface in absence of the support runner 34. In a still further alternate design, the tubular member 38 and the sleeve 44 of the rocker mechanism 32 can be designed to move with the rocking movement of the rocking chair 10 such that the lower end of the sleeve 44 (the third foot 36c) lifts off the ground when the rocking chair 10 is in a forward position and contacts the ground as the rocking chair 10 rocks backwards to support the rocking chair 10 in a rearward position.

Again referring to FIG. 5, the chair frame 12 is mounted on or includes a load bearing feature, such as a fulcrum 54, for facilitating the back and forth rocking motion of the chair 10. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the fulcrum 54 is provided on the forward end of the support runner 34 and is pivotally connected to the lower support portion 26 of the frame loop 25 for effecting a pivoting of the frame loop 25 relative to the support runner 34. This pivoting is what allows the rocking chair 10 to rock. In general, as a seated user shifts their weight backward—for example, by leaning back on the backrest panel 16—the frame loop 25 pivots backwards on the fulcrum 54. As the frame loop 25 pivots backward, the tubular member 38 of the rocker mechanism 32 moves with the frame loop 25, generally in a backwards and downwards direction towards the rear end of the support runner 34. As the tubular member 38 moves, it slides downwards within the sleeve 44 applying a force on the spring 46, which dampens the tubular member 38 and prevents the rocking chair 10 from tipping over. The spring 46 further biases the tubular member 38 in the opposite direction—upwards out of the sleeve 44 and upwards and forwards relative to the rear end of the support runner 34. This movement of the tubular member 38 (often combined with an associated shift in the seated user's weight) pivots the frame loop 25 forwards on the fulcrum 54. During such pivoting movement, the rocker mechanism 32 in the illustrated embodiment pivots relative to both the frame loop 25 and the support runner 34 so as to maintain contact with both. As a result, the rocker mechanism 32 does not lift off the ground during rocking, which improves safety of the rocking chair 10 by not having parts that someone can get pinched or crushed by—e.g., by getting a foot caught between the rocking chair 10 and the ground or support surface. In alternate designs, the lower end of the rocker mechanism 32 can move with the frame loop 25 and contact the ground or support surface with movement of the rocking chair 10.

In alternate designs of the chair, such as designs that do not use a closed frame loop 25 as shown, the load bearing feature, such as fulcrum 54, can be connected to a rear leg member or at least a horizontal extension thereof, and still assist the rocking movement of the chair in combination with a rocker mechanism 32, as described above.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the rocking chair 10 is also provided with three feet 36 on each frame side assembly 20, acting as contact points between the rocking chair 10 and the ground or support surface on which the rocking chair 10 is placed for use. In other embodiments, the rocking chair 10 can have one foot, two feet, or more than two feet on each frame side assembly 20. In a preferred use of the rocking chair 10, regardless of embodiment, at least two of these feet 36 or contact points for each frame side assembly 20 are in contact with the ground or support surface on which the rocking chair 10 is resting at all times. In this way, the rocking chair 10 is distinct from traditional rocking chair designs, which commonly utilize runners or rails that maintain only one point of contact with the support surface during rocking. By maintaining more than one contact point, the stability and safety of the rocking chair 10 is improved.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a first foot 36a is provided on a forward portion of the frame side assembly 20, generally beneath the front leg portion 24 of the frame loop 25. Second and third feet 36b and 36c are provided at respective ends of the support runner 34, with the third foot 36c generally being beneath the lower end of the rocker mechanism 32 for supporting the brunt of the weight of the user and rocking chair 10 when the rocking chair 10 is rocked backwards. During use of the rocking chair 10, when the rocking chair 10 is in its forward position, and generally when the rocking chair 10 is not being used to rock, the first and second feet 36a and 36b can sufficiently support the rocking chair 10. As shown, the third foot 36c also maintains contact with the ground, but is not necessary for supporting the rocking chair 10 when in such a forward position. When the rocking chair 10 is rocked backwards, the first foot 36a lifts away from the ground such that the second and third feet 36b and 36c support the rocking chair 10. As noted, the third foot 36c generally maintains contact with the support surface regardless of the position of the rocking chair 10. However, in alternate designs, the third foot 36c can be designed to lift off the ground when the rocking chair 10 is in a forward position.

During use, the frame 12 is generally adapted to rest on a generally horizontally oriented supporting surface, such as a floor or the ground, in a set-up configuration. As previously described, the chair 10 is generally stabilized on the supporting surface by the first, second and third feet 36a, 36b and 36c, respectively. In a forward position of the rocking chair 10, the rocking chair 10 acts as a normal, fully stabilized chair, and is supported by at least the first foot 36a and the second foot 36b, even if the user is leaning on the backrest panel 16. If the user desires to rock in the rocking chair 10, the user can shift their weight backwards, for example, by leaning and pushing backwards on the backrest panel 16, which will cause pivoting of the frame loops 25 of the frame side assemblies 20 relative to the fulcrums 54 on each support runner 34. As the rocking chair 10 pivots backwards, the first foot 36a lifts off the ground, but the rocking chair 10 remains stabilized by the second and third feet 36b and 36c maintaining contact with the support surface. As the rocking chair 10 pivots forwards, the first foot 36a moves into contact with the support surface.

In the set-up configuration, the flexible seat panel 14 defines a generally taut chair seat support and the flexible backrest panel 16 defines a generally taut chair back support, for collectively accommodating an upright, seated chair occupant. The seat panel 14 and the backrest panel 16 are secured to portions of the frame 12 that help define and provide the seat support and the back support for the occupant. As shown, the backrest support members 30 are preferably mounted relative to the rear leg portions 28 and can positioned to extend upward therefrom. In alternate embodiments of the chair, the backrest support members 30 can be foldable to a position adjacent to the armrest portions 22 or, in an alternative embodiment, adjacent to the rear leg portions 28 during collapsed of the chair. Additionally, the backrest panel 16 can be removed from the frame 12—either from the backrest support members 30 or with said members 30—to provide some slack to the backrest panel 16. This helps improve the facility and safety with which the chair is set-up and collapsed, as there can be a great stress on the frame side assemblies 20 when moving the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 to the set-up configuration of the rocking chair 10.

More particularly, as the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 are moved from a relaxed state or closed configuration—where they are disposed adjacent to one another (FIG. 8)—past a partially opened state (FIG. 7)—to a set-up state where they generally form a double V-shape with one another (FIG. 1)—the arc in the side-to-side direction of the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 forces the upper ends of each frame side assembly to bow outward—essentially creating a trapezoidal arrangement in the chair frame 12. This action causes the upper end of the frame side assemblies 20, and more particularly, the backrest support members 30 to push outwardly. Where the backrest panel 16 is connected to the backrest support members 30, the panel material is stressed and provides resistance to the bowing motion of the chair frame 12.

When the rocking chair 10 is folded up for transportation and/or storage, the user simply presses inwardly on each side of the frame 12, which causes the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 to pivot relative to each other about their pivot connections 63 from the double V-shape associated with the set-up configuration of the rocking chair 10 to positions whereby the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 are generally parallelly disposed relative to each other, as shown in FIG. 8. As the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 pivot relative to one another about the pivot points 63 and first and second frame hinges 65, 67, the frame side assemblies 20L and 20R move together within their parallel planes to form the flat collapsed configuration of the rocking chair 10. To set-up the rocking chair 10, the user simply pulls outwardly on each frame side assembly 20L and 20R until the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 pivot to the desired double V-shaped configurations. Alternatively, the user can separate the first cross members 56 and the second cross members 57 and push them outwardly until the chair frame 12 snaps into its set-up configuration.

As shown in FIG. 8, the cross members 56, 57 nest inside each other, for example, with first cross member 56 covering the second cross member 57 when in the closed or collapsed configuration. This gives the chair a “slim-fold” configuration. This nesting may be created due to a “z” shaped profile of the first cross member 56 which also provides necessary additional rigidity to support the rocking motion.

Alternate designs for rocking chair can include alternative side frame assemblies and the leg portions can be used without departing from the focus of the present invention. For example, as illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the frame assemblies 20L and 20R are formed by a closed frame loop 25 mounted on a fulcrum point 54 of a support runner 34. A collapsible and portable rocking chair in accordance with the present disclosure can also utilize an open frame construction whereby the side frame assemblies are formed of interconnected frame members to define independent front and rear legs. In such alternate designs, the frame is still connected to a fulcrum pivot point that facilitates rocking of the chair back and forth—for example, the rear legs, or extensions thereof, can be mounted to a fulcrum point. As noted above, in such alternate designs, each side frame assembly, regardless of construction, maintains at least two contact points with the support surface to ensure sufficient safety and structural integrity during use of the chair.

Additionally, the rocker mechanism 32 can take a variety of forms without departing from the spirit and principles of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 5, the rocker mechanism 32 comprises a compression spring 46 disposed within a sleeve 44 receiving a tubular member 38 extending from the rear of each frame side member assembly 20. In alternate designs, this rocker mechanism 32 can be replaced by torsion springs provided on the lower portion of each frame side member assembly—for example, at the fulcrum point of each frame assembly on a support runner. Further, the rear rocker mechanism design can be replaced by a front rocker mechanism design, namely, a compression spring utilized in connection with the design of the front legs of the chair. Still further, combinations of springs may be used, for example, compression springs provided on both the front legs of the chair, as well as on a rearwardly projecting member to prevent the chair from tipping over as it is rocked backwards.

The rocking chair 10 can also have one or more accessories. For example, referring back to FIG. 1, the seat panel 14 is provide with a handle 80 on one side of the frame 12. Generally, the handle 80 is aligned with the central front-back sections 60 of the second cross members 57 that define with width of the chair seat. The handle 80 may also act as a carrying handle for the fully collapsed rocking chair 10. In other embodiments, the handle 80 can be positioned anywhere on the rocking chair 10 such as, for example, at a top of the backrest panel 16, on both sides of the frame 12, etc. To fold up the rocking chair 10, the user pulls up on the handle 80 mounted to the seat while simultaneously holding firmly on the armrest portion 22 of the frame side assembly 20 adjacent to the handle 80 when the rocking chair 10 is in the set-up configuration. When tautness and rigidity of the seat panel 14 is desired or required for comfortable use of the rocking chair 10, folding of the rocking chair 10 in a standard way—by pressing on the chair frame members to effect folding and collapsing of the chair frame 12—may be difficult. Use of a handle 80 makes the folding process less difficult.

Additionally or alternatively, a transportation handle can be provided. When the rocking chair 10 is collapsed, such a handle can be used to carry the folded rocking chair 10 from place to place.

The rocking chair as described beneficially enables a user to use the rocking chair to rock while also enabling the user to collapse the rocking chair for transportation and/or storage. As previously described, during use the rocking chair remains stable and secure during a rocking motion due to the design of the frame and cross members. Thus, the rocking chair provides for a portable, safe, and secure rocking chair that can be moved and used in different locations.

The foregoing description of embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purpose of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the form disclosed. Obvious modifications and variations are possible in light of the above disclosure. The embodiments described were chosen to best illustrate the principles of the invention and practical applications thereof to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

1. A collapsible and portable rocking chair comprising: a frame comprising a pair of frame side assemblies, each frame side assembly having a front leg portion and a rear leg portion, wherein the pair of frame side assemblies are movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, andwherein in the open configuration the frame side assemblies are transversely spaced apart from one another and in the closed configuration, the frame side assemblies are substantially adjacent to each other;at least one pair of first cross members, each first cross member pivotally connected to each other and connected to at least one of the front leg portion and the rear leg portion;at least one pair of second cross members, each second cross member pivotally connected to each other and to the at least one pair of first cross members, wherein the at least one pair of first cross members and the at least one pair of second cross members are moveable between the open configuration and the closed configuration,wherein the first cross members of at least one pair of first cross members and the second cross members of the at least one pair of second cross members are each pivoted apart from each other at a pivot point and define an angle between the first cross members and the second cross members in the open configuration, andwherein the first cross members of at least one pair of first cross members and the second cross members of the at least one pair of second cross members are each disposed substantially parallel to each other in the closed configuration; andat least one rocker mechanism attached to the chair frame for effecting movement of the chair frame between forward and rearward positions.

2. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 1, wherein the angle is at least 90 degrees.

3. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 1, wherein said rocker mechanism is attached to the rear of at least one of the frame side assemblies.

4. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 3, wherein said rocker mechanism comprises a tubular extension member projecting outwardly and downwardly from the rear of at least one of the frame side assemblies and received within a sleeve housing a spring to which the tubular member is attached.

5. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 4, further comprising a pair of static support runners connected to and supporting each frame side assembly via a load nearing feature associated with each said frame side assembly; wherein the sleeve of the rocker mechanism is supported by at least one of said support runners.

6. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 1, wherein the rocker mechanism comprises a tubular extension member projecting outwardly and downwardly from the rear of each of the frame side assemblies and received within a respective sleeve pivotally mounted to a respective support runner, each sleeve housing a compression spring to which the respective tubular member is attached.

7. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 6, said support runner associated with each frame side assembly further defining first and second longitudinally spaced apart contact points; and said chair further comprising a third contact point associated with the lower end of the front leg portion of each frame side assembly;wherein each frame side assembly contacts the support surface on which said frame side assembly is set up with at least two of the first, second and third contact points at all rocking positions of the chair.

8. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 1, wherein the rocker mechanism is attached to at least one of the front leg portion and the rear leg portion of each side frame assembly.

9. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 8, wherein the front leg portion includes a tubular front leg member and the rear leg portion includes a tubular rear leg member; and wherein the rocker mechanism comprises a sleeve associated with at least one of the front leg member and the rear leg member, said sleeve further housing a spring to which said leg member is connected.

10. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 1, further comprising: at least one support brace, each support brace of the at least one support brace connected the at least one second pair of cross members and the frame side assembly.

11. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 10, wherein each support brace includes a support reinforcement which is configured to support the at least one second pair of cross members when the chair is in the open configuration.

12. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 1, further comprising: a backrest support member connected to each frame side assembly; anda flexible backrest support panel mounted between said backrest support members and defining a generally taut back support when the chair is in the open configuration.

13. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pair of first cross members and the at least one pair of second cross members are each substantially V-shaped.

14. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 13, wherein the substantially V-shape of the at least one pair of first cross members is upside down and the substantially V-shape of the at least one pair of second cross members is right side up, wherein the at least one pair of second cross members has an offset portion that is offset towards a center of the frame.

15. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 14, wherein the offset portion of the at least one pair of second cross members provide clearance for forward rocking motion of the collapsible and portable rocking chair.

16. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 1, wherein the flexible seat panel further comprises a backrest panel.

17. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 1, further comprising a backrest panel separate from the flexible seat panel.

18. A collapsible and portable rocking chair comprising: a frame comprising a pair of frame side assemblies having substantially mirrored construction and being relatively movable with respect to one another between a set-up configuration of said chair where said frame side assemblies are transversely spaced apart from one another and a collapsed configuration of said chair where said frame side assemblies are generally adjacent to one another, each frame side assembly including a front leg portion and a rear leg portion;a first straight cross member having a plurality of component struts configured to collapse around a straight cross member pivot;a generally V-shaped cross member pivotally connected to the first straight cross member for pivotal movement between a) an open configuration wherein the generally V-shaped cross member are disposed to generally resemble a V-shaped configuration and b) a closed configuration wherein arms of the generally V-shaped cross member are disposed in generally parallel relationship with one another,wherein the first straight cross member has terminal ends pivotally secured to the front leg portions of the frame side assemblies, andwherein the generally V-shaped cross members collectively defining a seat support when in the open configuration;a flexible seat panel mounted between the generally V-shaped cross member and defining a generally taut seat when the cross members are in the open configuration;andat least one rocker mechanism attached to the chair frame for effecting movement of the chair frame between forward and rearward positions;wherein the open and closed configurations generally correspond to the set-up and collapsed configurations of the chair.

19. The collapsible and portable rocking chair according to claim 18, wherein each frame side assembly maintains at least two contact points with the support surface on which said frame side assembly is set up.

20. A collapsible and portable rocking chair comprising: a frame comprising a pair of frame side assemblies, each frame side assembly having a front leg portion and a rear leg portion, wherein the pair of frame side assemblies are movable between a set-up configuration and a collapsed configuration, andwherein in the set-up configuration the frame side assemblies are transversely spaced apart from one another and in the collapsed configuration, the frame side assemblies are substantially adjacent to each other;two sets of a first pair of generally upside-down V-shaped cross members pivotally connected to one another for pivotal movement between an open configuration wherein said cross members are disposed to generally resemble a V-shaped configuration and a closed configuration wherein said cross members are disposed in generally parallel relationship with one another, wherein a first set of the two sets of generally upside-down V-shaped cross members having terminal ends thereof pivotally secured to the front leg portions of the frame side assemblies and a second set of the two sets of generally upside-down V-shaped cross members having terminal ends thereof pivotally secured to the rear leg portions of the frame side assemblies;a second pair of generally V-shaped cross members pivotally connected to one another for pivotal movement between an open configuration wherein said cross members are disposed to generally resemble a V-shaped configuration and a closed configuration wherein said cross members are disposed in generally parallel relationship with one another, said second pair of generally V-shaped cross members collectively defining a seat support when in the open configuration,a flexible seat panel mounted between the second pair of generally V-shaped cross members and defining a generally taut seat when the cross members are in the open configuration;a load bearing feature supporting the chair frame, and about which said chair frame can move between forward and rearward positions; andat least one rocker mechanism attached to the chair frame for supporting the chair during movement of the chair frame between said forward and rearward positions;wherein the open and closed configurations of the cross members generally correspond to the set-up and collapsed configurations of the chair.