POSTURE SEAT

Abstract

Systems, devices and methods including a foundation member comprising: a front Portion configured to receive a user's upper legs, where the front portion comprises a first protrusion and a second protrusion; a pommel configured to guide the user to a proper location on the foundation member, where the pommel is proximate the front portion and between the first protrusion and the second protrusion; and a rear portion configured to receive a user's lower pelvic area, the rear portion comprising a central portion and an upwardly inclined lateral portion, where the lateral portion and the front portion collectively surround the central portion.

Description

FIELD OF ENDEAVOR

The invention relates to orthosis, and more particularly to a seating orthosis.

BACKGROUND

Individuals may have poor posture, which can lead to discomfort while sitting for a prolonged period of time. Existing seating orthosis may mitigate posture issues. However, a user may use these existing seating orthoses incorrectly resulting in an undesired effect.

SUMMARY

A device embodiment may include: a foundation member comprising: a front portion configured to receive a user's upper legs, where the front portion may include a first protrusion and a second protrusion; a pommel configured to guide the user to a proper location on the foundation member, where the pommel may be proximate the front portion and between the first protrusion and the second protrusion; and a rear portion configured to receive a user's lower pelvic area, the rear portion comprising a central portion and an upwardly inclined lateral portion, where the lateral portion and the front portion may collectively surround the central portion.

In additional device embodiments, the central portion and/or the lateral portion may have plural portions of varying flexibility. In additional device embodiments, the pommel may guide the user to a sitting location such that each upper leg of the user is disposed on either side of the pommel in the front portion. In additional device embodiments, the pommel may be partially surrounded by the front portion. In additional device embodiments, a top surface of the pommel may include an outward curve relative to the foundation member.

In additional device embodiments, a bottom surface of the pommel may have a corresponding curve such that the bottom surface of the pommel is elevated above a surface when the device is placed on the surface. In additional device embodiments, the pommel may have a visual indication to the user of where to sit in the foundation member such that each upper leg of the user is disposed on either side of the pommel in the front portion. In additional device embodiments, the pommel may include a sloped shape such that a portion of a leg of the user placed on the pommel will be guided to a respective side of the pommel such that each upper leg of the user is disposed on either side of the pommel in the front portion.

Additional device embodiments may include a grip disposed on a bottom surface of the pommel for aiding the user in adjusting a position of the foundation member. In additional device embodiments, the grip may include a generally undulating surface to provide a holding surface for one or more fingers of the user. In additional device embodiments, the grip may include two or more connected arcs to provide one or more holding surfaces.

Additional device embodiments may include one or more anti-slip grip areas, where each of the one or more anti-slip grip areas may provide an area of increased friction. In additional device embodiments, an anti-slip grip area of the one or more anti-slip grip areas may be disposed on at least one of: the lateral portion and the front portion.

Additional device embodiments may include a pad gripping portion disposed on a bottom surface of the foundation member, where the gripping portion may include an anti-skid material to prevent sliding of the device relative to a surface.

Another device embodiment may include: a front portion configured to receive a user's upper legs; a pommel configured to guide a user to a proper location on the foundation member, where the pommel may be partially surrounded by the front portion; a grip disposed on a bottom surface of the pommel for aiding the user in adjusting a position of the foundation member; and a rear portion configured to receive a user's lower pelvic area, the rear portion comprising a central portion and an upwardly inclined lateral portion, where the lateral portion and the front portion may collectively surround the central portion.

Additional device embodiments may include: a pad gripping portion disposed on a bottom surface of the device, where the gripping portion may include an anti-skid material to prevent sliding of the device relative to a surface. In additional device embodiments, the pad gripping portion may include a Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR). In additional device embodiments, the TPR may prevent sliding of the device relative to a surface the device is placed on. In additional device embodiments, the TPR may prevent scratching of a surface the device is placed on by the bottom surface of the device. In additional device embodiments, the pad gripping portion may generally be triangular with rounded edges. In additional device embodiments, a center portion of the pad may generally be flat to provide a neutral balance point for the device to sit flat when not in use. In additional device embodiments, a center portion of the pad may be rounded to require the user to use more core and gluteal muscles to balance the device on a harder surface.

An additional device embodiment may include: a front portion configured to receive a user's upper legs; a pommel configured to guide a user to a proper location on the foundation member, where the pommel may be partially surrounded by the front portion, and where the pommel may guide the user to a sitting location such that each upper leg of the user is disposed on either side of the pommel in the front portion; a grip disposed on a bottom surface of the pommel for aiding the user in adjusting a position of the foundation member, where the grip comprises a generally undulating surface to provide a holding surface for one or more fingers of the user; a pad gripping portion disposed on a bottom surface of the device, where the gripping portion may include an anti-skid material to prevent sliding of the device relative to a surface; a rear portion configured to receive a user's lower pelvic area, the rear portion comprising a central portion and an upwardly inclined lateral portion, where the lateral portion and the front portion may collectively surround the central portion; and one or more anti-slip grip areas, where each of the one or more anti-slip grip areas may provide an area of increased friction where an anti-slip grip area of the one or more anti-slip grip areas may be disposed on at least one of: the lateral portion and the front portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principals of the invention. Like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views. Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a seating apparatus for correcting posture and restricting gluteal spreading in a human user, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a left side view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a right side view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a side view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 1 in a first position resting on a surface, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9B is a side view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 9A in a second position with a user contacting the seating apparatus, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 10A shows a top aerial view of the seating apparatus in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention, according to one embodiment.

FIGS. 10B-10N show cross-sections B-B, C-C, D-D, E-E, F-F, O-O, H-H, I-I, K-K, L-L, M-M, N-N, respectively, as indicated in FIG. 10A, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11A shows a top aerial view of the seating apparatus in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention, according to one embodiment.

FIGS. 11B-11E show cross-sections B-B, C-C, D-D, E-E, respectively, as indicated in FIG. 11A, according to one embodiment.

FIGS. 12A-12B show perspective and top views, respectively, of an alternate seating apparatus having one or more anti-slip grip areas, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12C shows a top view of a pattern for the one or more anti-slip grip areas, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12D shows a top view of an alternate pattern for the one or more anti-slip grip areas, according to one embodiment.

FIGS. 13A-13F show perspective, rear, front, top, bottom, and side views, respectively, of a grip, according to one embodiment.

FIGS. 14A-14D show perspective, front, rear, and side views, respectively, of a pad gripping portion, according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is made for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the embodiments discloses herein and is not meant to limit the concepts disclosed herein. Further, particular features described herein can be used in combination with other described features in each of the various possible combinations and permutations. Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, all terms are to be given their broadest possible interpretation including meanings implied from the description as well as meanings understood by those skilled in the art and/or as defined in dictionaries, treatises, etc.

The disclosed system and apparatus improves the posture of a user while sitting. The device receives a portion of a user's upper legs and lower pelvic area. A pommel disposed at a front end of the device guides the user to a proper location on the device such that their upper legs are disposed on either side of the pommel. A grip disposed on an underside of the pommel allows the user to hold the device in a desired position while the user sits on the device. Sitting on the device causes a forward rotational tilting of the user's lower pelvic area into a forward lordotic position. The device has plural regions of varying flexibility and when the user is sitting on the device, the device applies an upwardly and inwardly compressive force.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a seating apparatus for correcting posture and restricting gluteal spreading in a human user, according to one embodiment. A posture seat 100 includes a foundation member 102. In some embodiments, the foundation member 102 may include plural regions of varying thickness and flexibility. In some embodiments, the foundation member 102 may be made of a polypropylene, memory retentive nylon, or other plastic material. A padding layer 104 may be disposed on top of the foundation member 102. In some embodiments, the padding layer 104 may include foam, Ethyl Vinyl Acetate (EVA), gel, spacer fabric, or other cushioning material attached to the top of the foundation member 102. In some embodiments, the foam thickness of the padding layer 104 may be contoured as to not negatively affect the function of the foundation member 102. In other embodiments, the posture seat 100 may include a foam padding layer 104 that may be covered with a fabric. In some embodiments, a portion of the foundation member 102 and/or foam padding layer 104 may include one or more anti-slip grip areas. In some embodiments the padding layer 104 maybe permanently affixed to the foundation member. In other embodiments the padding layer 104 may be a removable cover to allow for the padding layer 104 to be cleaned, exchanged, or replaced.

The foundation member 102 includes a rear portion 106. In some embodiments, the rear portion 106 may include a handle 108 formed via an opening 110. The handle 108 may allow a user to transport the posture seat. The handle 108 may also allow the user to adjust a location or orientation of the posture seat 100 position on a surface. The handle 108 may also provide a way of storing or hanging the posture seat 100. In some embodiments, the handle 108 and rear portion 106 may not include any padding from the padding layer 104. In other embodiments, the handle 108 or rear portion 106 may include padding, such as a handle grip. The handle 108 may be recessed below the padding layer 104 so as not to contact a user when sitting in the posture seat 100 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the handle 108 may form a generally triangular shape. In other embodiments, the handle 108 may form a generally rectangular, ovular, or circular shape. The handle 108 may form the shape of any closed polygon in accordance with the disclosed posture seat 100.

The foundation member may include a first upwardly inclined lateral portion 112, a second upwardly inclined lateral portion 114, a central portion 116, a front portion 120, a pommel 122, and one or more ventilation holes 118. The upwardly inclined lateral portions (112, 114) and front portion 120 may collectively surround the central portion 116. The pommel 122 may be flanked and partially surrounded by and proximate the front portion 120. The upwardly inclined lateral portions (112, 114) and central portion 116 may receive a user's lower pelvic area. The central portion 116 may include a concave channel to provides a concave coccyx cup area, allowing variable coccyx angles so as to keep the surface of the posture seat 100 from ever coming in contact with the lower Sacral joints and coccyx of the user.

The front portion 120 may receive a user's upper legs. The upwardly inclined lateral portions (112, 114) may apply an upwardly and inwardly compressive force on the user seated in the posture seat 100. The posture seat may provide a forward tilting of the entire pelvis of the seated user as well as cupping and cradling effect around the lower pelvis and ischial tuberosities of the seated user. The pelvic area may include the pubic arch, sacrum, coccyx, crest of the ilium, symphysis pubis crest, posterior pelvic girdle, hip socket, ischial tuberosities, muscle tissue, pelvis, spine, thigh, and soft tissues of various widths.

In response to a user sitting on the posture seat 100, the action of the first upwardly inclined lateral portion 112, the second upwardly inclined lateral portion 114, and the central portion 116 may cause cupping and cradling of gluteus muscles of the user in the lower pelvic area. When a user is seated on the posture seat 100, the foundation member 102 may continually apply dynamic support to stabilize the pelvis and holds the pelvis in a correct lordotic curve, regardless of how a sitting user moves while seated.

In some embodiments, a plurality of regions of varying flexibility in the foundation member 102 may allow the foundation member 102 to effectively “reset” in shape such that the user may be held essentially in a constant, perpetuating process of tilting of the user's lower pelvic area into a forward lordotic position after the lower pelvic area is placed in the bowl portion. This position may provide a distinct orthopedic benefit, which may be greater than any benefit brought about by conventional seating devices specifically designed to provide pelvic stabilization and comfort for a seated user.

Unlike conventional seat pans, the posture seat 100 does not simply conform to the gluteus shape of a seated user, but rather counter-intuitively, the upwardly inclined lateral portions (112, 114) move inward and upward to cup the gluteus. A supporting surface, such as shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, may be a conventional static seat pan upon which the posture seat 100 may be placed. The width of the posture seat 100 may provide for increased inward and upward cupping and increased comfort as compared to narrower seat pans. The width of the posture seat 100 may also provide for quicker, easier, and more proper placement of a user in the posture seat 100 as compared to narrower seat pans. The width and deep bowl shape of the posture seat 100 may fit a variety of body types, including those who are uncomfortable in narrower seat pans. In other embodiments the width of the posture seat 100 may be: narrower to provide more gluteal support to smaller body types or wider to provide more gluteal support to larger body types.

The pommel 122 may guide the user to a proper location on the foundation member 102. A top surface of the pommel 122 includes an outward curve relative to the foundation member 102 to guide the user's pelvic area to the proper location on the upwardly inclined lateral portions (112, 114) and the upper legs to either side of the pommel 122 on the front portion 120. The height of the pommel 122 is designed to not intrude on the user's pubic area, but prevent them from crossing their legs or moving them into an improper position. By way of example, and not limitation, the pommel 122 may prevent and/or discourage a user from placing their leg or a portion of their leg over the pommel. In other embodiments the height of the pummel may be higher or lower to adjust the level of correction the pommel has on the user's position.

The downward sloping of the pommel 122 may gradually move a user's leg or a portion of the user's leg into the respective portion of the front portion 120 on either side of the pommel 122. In some embodiments, a bottom surface of the pommel 122 may include a corresponding curve. In other embodiments, the bottom surface of the pommel 122 may be flat. In other embodiments, the bottom surface of the pommel 122 may be any shape or contour. The pommel 122 may provide a visual indication to a user of how to sit in the posture seat 100. An incorrect seating position, such as having a portion of a leg disposed over the pommel 122 will provide an indication to the user that the seating position is not correct. The sculpted and sloped shape of the pommel 122 may naturally guide the seated user to the correct seating position with one leg on either side of the pommel 122. Moving a portion of the leg over a portion of the pommel 122, such as when crossing the user's legs, may cause mild discomfort and cause the user to move their legs back to the ideal seating position with one leg on either side of the pommel 122. In some embodiments, placing a portion of a leg over the pommel 122, such as when the user crosses their legs, may cause the leg to return to its original position as the sculpted and sloped shape of the pommel 122 causes the user's leg to slide down the sloped shape of the pommel 122.

In some embodiments, the top surface of the pommel 122 may not include any padding. In other embodiments, the top surface of the pommel 122 may be made from a low friction material to encourage an object placed on the pommel, such as a portion of a user's legs, to slide off of the pommel 122 and onto the front portion 120 of the foundation member 102. In other embodiments, the pommel 122 may be made from an inflexible material, such as a rigid plastic, to reduce comfort when a portion of a user's leg is placed over the pommel 122 so as to encourage the user to place their legs on the front portion 120 of the foundation member 120 in the optimal seating position.

A grip 124 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the pommel 122. In embodiments with a curved bottom surface of the pommel 122, this curved bottom surface may provide space for easy access to the grip 124 by a seated user. The grip 124 may allow the user to adjust the position and orientation of the posture seat 100 relative to a sitting surface. In some embodiments, the grip 124 may have one or more contours. The one or more contours of the grip 124 may allow for handling by a portion of one or more fingers of the seated user. In one embodiment, the grip 124 may include two contours for gripping by one, two, or more fingertips so as to adjust the position of the posture seat 100 on a surface. The grip 124 may be used by the user prior to sitting on the posture seat 100. In other embodiments, the grip 124 may be used by the used once seated on the posture seat 100. For example, the user may engage the grip 124 with one or more fingertips while adjusting their position. The grip 124 may ensure that the posture seat 100 does not move in an undesired way while adjusting position, sitting in the posture seat 100, and/or getting out of the posture seat 100. The position of the grip 124 on the underside of the pommel 124 may allow the user to control the posture seat 100 without needing to touch a top surface of the posture seat 100 and/or without needing to touch an area that the user will be sitting on once the posture seat 100 has been adjusted.

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the seating apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. The underside 200 of the posture seat 100 includes a pad gripping portion 202. The pad 202 may contain an anti-skid material made out of Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) or other Rubber or alternative anti-skid material to prevent sliding of the posture seat relative 100 to a surface the posture seat 100 is placed on. The anti-skid material serves a dual purpose to prevent scratching of a surface softer than the foundation member 200. The pad 202 is depicted as generally triangular with rounded edges. The center portion of the pad 202 may be generally flat to provide a neutral balance point for the device to sit flat when not in use or for the user in a neutral position to find a central balance point on harder surfaces. In other embodiments the central portion of the pad 202 may be more convex or rounded to intentionally require the user to use more core and gluteal muscles to balance the device on a harder surface. The pad 202 may be any suitable shape such as a circle, square, rounded rectangle, oval, etc.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the seating apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a rear view of the seating apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a left side view of the seating apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a right side view of the seating apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. The posture seat 100 includes an underside 200 that may be partially in contact with a surface, such as a bench, chair, ground, or other suitable surface. A top side 300 of the posture seat 100 may be on the opposite side of the posture seat 100 for receiving the lower pelvic area and upper legs of a user.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the seating apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. The posture seat 100 may include a plurality of ventilation holes 118. The ventilation holes 118 may not be required, but assist with breathability and with thermal comfort. The ventilation hole pattern helps the surface to breathe, providing comfort and allowing conduction of heat and dispersion of moisture away from the surface of the user. The front portion 120 may include a first protrusion 700 and a second protrusion 702. The first and second protrusion 700, 702 may partially surround the pommel 122. The first and second protrusion 700, 702 may extend out and away from the central portion 116 of the posture seat 100. The front portion 120 may have a generally “W” shape. In other embodiments, the front portion 120 may have a generally “U” shape.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the seating apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. The grip 124 may include a generally undulating surface to provide a holding surface to one or more fingers of a user. In one embodiment, the grip 124 may include two connected arcs to hold two fingers of a user. In some embodiments, the grip 124 may have a width to accommodate one or more fingertips of a user. The width of the grip 124 may be narrow to prevent the grip 124 from catching on a surface and/or objects on the surface. In other embodiments, the width 124 of the grip may be narrow to prevent trapping the fingertips and/or fingers of the user.

FIG. 9A is a side view of the seating apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 in a first position resting on a surface, according to one embodiment. The posture seat 100 may be placed on a surface 900, such as a chair cushion. The posture seat 100 is in a first position 902 when placed on the surface 900 and a user is not in contact with the posture seat 100.

FIG. 9B is a side view of the seating apparatus 100 of FIG. 9A in a second position with a user contacting the seating apparatus, according to one embodiment. As the user sits 902 in the posture seat 100 the posture seat 100 rotates 904 forward from the first position shown in FIG. 9A to a second position 906. This rotation 904 causes a forward rotational tilting of the user's lower pelvic area into a forward lordotic position. The pommel 122 provides a gap between the bottom surface of the pommel 122 and the surface 900. This gap between the bottom surface of the pommel 122 and the surface 900 allows a user to reach underneath the pommel 122 and grab the grip 124, as shown in FIG. 8 so as to adjust the posture seat 100 on the surface 900.

FIG. 10A shows a top aerial view of the seating apparatus in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention. FIGS. 10B-10N show cross-sections B-B, C-C, D-D, E-E, F-F, O-O, H-H, I-I, K-K, L-L, M-M, N-N, respectively, as indicated in FIG. 10A, according to one embodiment. FIGS. 10A-10N show general cross-section thicknesses of the foundation member 102, and further indicate said gradual change in the depth and thickness of the concave channel 1000, according to one embodiment. The concave channel 1000 protrudes from the underside of the foundation member 102. The foundation member 102 may have varying thickness. This varying thickness may collectively provide the foundation member 102 with a highly advantageous weigh bearing (secondary shape) during use. The thicker portions of the foundation member 102 are less flexible to bending forces than thinner portions.

The foundation member 102 has an underside, at least a portion of which is arcuate and configured to rotate on a supporting surface from a first position, as shown in FIG. 9A, to a second position, as shown in FIG. 9B, rotationally forward of the first position. The foundation member 102 is in the first position during a non-weight bearing position when the user's lower pelvic area is not disposed in the device. The foundation member 102 is in the second position when the user's lower pelvic area is disposed in the device. At least a portion of the underside of the foundation member 102 is arcuate along an underside of the concave recessed channel 1000 and configured to rotate on a seating surface between the first position and the second position.

The concave channel 1000 may functions as a downwardly extending wheel-like structure, protruding from a portion of the underside of the foundation member 102, promoting the forward rotation of the foundation member 102 from the non-weight bearing to the weight bearing position of the device under the user's body. The channel 1000 may allow for rotation of the device on all types of seating surfaces, such as shown in FIGS. 9A-9B. The user's pelvic floor may be supported on the concave channel 1000. Different flexibility regions of the foundation member 102 may be achieved by portions of different relative thickness of the foundation member material which collectively provide the foundation member 102 with a highly advantageous weigh bearing (secondary shape) during use. Thicker portions are less flexible to bending forces than thinner portions.

FIG. 11A shows a top aerial view of the seating apparatus 100 in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention. FIGS. 11B-11E show cross-sections B-B, C-C, D-D, E-E, respectively, as indicated in FIG. 11A, according to one embodiment. The seating apparatus 100 may have one or more portions of varying, i.e., different, flexibility.

FIGS. 12A-12B show perspective and top views, respectively, of an alternate seating apparatus 1200 having one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, according to one embodiment. The posture seat 1200 may include a foundation member 102. In some embodiments, the foundation member 102 may include plural regions of varying thickness and flexibility. In some embodiments, the foundation member 102 may be made of a polypropylene, memory retentive nylon, or other plastic material. A padding layer 1202 may be disposed on top of the foundation member 102. In some embodiments, the padding layer 1202 may include foam, Ethyl Vinyl Acetate (EVA), gel, or other cushioning material attached to the top of the foundation member 102. In some embodiments, the foam thickness of the padding layer 1202 may be contoured as to not negatively affect the function of the foundation member 102. In other embodiments, the posture seat 1200 may include a foam padding layer 1202 that may be covered with a fabric.

The foundation member 102 includes a rear portion 106. In some embodiments, the rear portion 106 may include a handle 108 formed via an opening 110. The handle 108 may allow a user to transport the posture seat. The handle 108 may also allow the user to adjust a location or orientation of the posture seat 100 position on a surface. The handle 108 may also provides a way of storing or hanging the posture seat 100. In some embodiments, the handle 108 and the rear portion 106 may not include any padding from the padding layer 1202. In other embodiments, the handle 108 or rear portion 106 may include padding, such as a handle grip. The handle 108 may be recessed below the padding layer 1202 so as not to contact a user when sitting in the posture seat 100 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the handle 108 may form a generally triangular shape. In other embodiments, the handle 108 may form a generally rectangular, ovular, or circular shape. The handle 108 may form the shape of any closed polygon in accordance with the disclosed posture seat 100.

The foundation member may include a first upwardly inclined lateral portion 112, a second upwardly inclined lateral portion 114, a central portion 116, a front portion 120, a pommel 122, and one or more ventilation holes 118. The upwardly inclined lateral portions (112, 114) and front portion 120 may collectively surround the central portion 116. The pommel 122 may be flanked and partially surrounded by and proximate the front portion 120. The upwardly inclined lateral portions (112, 114) and central portion 116 may receive a user's lower pelvic area. The central portion 116 may include a concave channel to provides a concave coccyx cup area, allowing variable coccyx angles so as to keep the surface of the posture seat 100 from ever coming in contact with the lower Sacral joints and coccyx of the user. The front portion 120 may receive a user's upper legs. The upwardly inclined lateral portions 112, 114 may apply an upwardly and inwardly compressive force on the user seated in the posture seat 100.

In some embodiments, a portion of the foundation member 102 and/or foam padding layer 1202 may include one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210. The one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be placed in positions to maintain the user in a correct position in the posture seat 1200. The one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may include a silicon or similar material having increased friction, surface indicia, or the like to prevent slipping and/or movement of an object in contact with the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210. By way of example, a user seated in the posture seat 1200 may remain in an optimal seating position as the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 prevent the posture seat 1200 from moving relative to the person seated in the posture 1200.

The one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be disposed anywhere on the top surface of the foundation member 102 and/or padding layer 1202. In some embodiments, one of the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be disposed in each of the upwardly inclined lateral portions 112, 114. In some embodiments, one of the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be disposed in the front portion 120, such as on either side of the pommel 122. The one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be disposed in areas prone to movement or slippage by a seated user, such as the upwardly inclined lateral portions 112, 114 and/or the portion of the front portion 120 proximate where a user's legs may be placed when the user is seated in the posture seat 1200.

In some embodiments, the location of the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 on either side of the pommel 122 may prevent a user from moving a portion of their legs onto the pommel, crossing their legs so that a portion of their leg covers the pommel 122, or the like. In some embodiments, one of the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be generally triangular in shape. In other embodiments, one of the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be generally rectangular in shape. In some embodiments, the user may add the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 to the foundation member 102 and/or the padding layer 1202. In some embodiments, the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be detachably attached to the foundation member 102 and/or the padding layer 1202. In some embodiments, the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may be fixedly attached to the foundation member 102 and/or the padding layer 1202, such as by an adhesive.

FIG. 12C shows a top view of a pattern 1212 for the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, according to one embodiment. The pattern 1212 may be an undulating series of raised, or lowered, areas. In some embodiments, the pattern 1212 may be a series of connected arcs. The pattern 1212 may be in a direction substantially perpendicular to a centerline of the posture seat, such that the direction of the pattern is opposed to a direction of movement of a user as the user sits in the posture seat. The pattern 1212 may increase friction and reduce slipping of a user seated in the posture seat. As a user shifts in the posture seat during movement, the pattern 1212 of the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may maintain the user in an optimal seating position.

FIG. 12D shows a top view of an alternate pattern 1214 for the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, according to one embodiment. The alternate pattern 1214 may include one or more partially overlapping circles. The alternate pattern 1212 may include repeating raised, or lowered, areas. The alternate pattern 1212 may increase friction and reduce slipping in all directions. As a user shifts in the posture seat during movement, the alternate pattern 1214 of the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 may maintain the user in an optimal seating position. In some embodiments, alternate patterns may be used for of the one or more anti-slip grip areas 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210 depending on user preference, desired amount of anti-slip, and the like.

FIGS. 13A-13F show perspective, rear, front, top, bottom, and side views, respectively, of a grip 124, according to one embodiment. The grip 124 may have a top surface 1302. The top surface 1302 may include an indentation 1304. The indentation may reduce the weight of the grip 124 and/or provide flexibility to the grip 124. A protrusion 1306 may extend from the top surface 1302 of the grip. The protrusion 1306 may fit into a corresponding aperture in a bottom surface of the pommel. In some embodiments, the grip 124 may be detachably attached to the underside of the pommel via the aperture and protrusion 1306. In some embodiments, various grips may be interchanged via the protrusion 1306 and pommel. By way of example, one grip may accommodate one finger and/or fingertip while another grip may accommodate two or more fingers and/or fingertips for movement of the posture seat.

A bottom surface 1308 of the grip 124 may be disposed distal from the top surface 1302 of the grip. A front face 1310 of the grip 124 may include a generally undulating surface to provide a holding surface to one or more fingers of a user. In one embodiment, the grip 124 may include two connected arcs 1312, 1314 to hold two fingers of a user. In some embodiments, the grip 124 may have a width to accommodate one or more fingertips of a user. The width of the grip 124 may be narrow to prevent the grip 124 from catching on a surface and/or objects on the surface. In other embodiments, the width 124 of the grip may be narrow to prevent trapping the fingertips and/or fingers of the user.

A rear face 1316 may have corresponding connected arcs 1318, 1320 that form a generally undulating surface to provide a holding surface to one or more fingers of a user. In some embodiments, only the front face 1312 or the rear face 1316 may have a generally undulating surface.

FIGS. 14A-14D show perspective, front, rear, and side views, respectively, of a pad gripping portion 202, according to one embodiment. The underside of the posture seat may include the pad gripping portion 202. The pad gripping portion 202 may contain an anti-skid material made out of Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) or other Rubber or alternative anti-skid material to prevent sliding of the posture seat relative 100 to a surface the posture seat 100 is placed on. The anti-skid material serves a dual purpose to prevent scratching of a surface softer than the foundation member. The pad gripping portion 202 is depicted as generally triangular with rounded edges. The center portion 1400 of the pad 202 may be generally flat to provide a neutral balance point for the device to sit flat when not in use or for the user in a neutral position to find a central balance point on harder surfaces. An outer portion 1402 of the pad 202 may surround the center portion 1400. The outer portion 1402 of the pad 202 may be curved to correspond to the curve of the foundation member to which it may be attached. In other embodiments, the central portion 1400 of the pad 202 may be more convex or rounded to intentionally require the user to use more core and gluteal muscles to balance the device on a harder surface. The pad 202 may be any suitable shape such as a circle, square, rounded rectangle, oval, etc.

The pad 202 may include one or more protrusions 1404, 1406, 1408 extending from an inner surface 1410 of the pad 202. The protrusions 1404, 1406, 1408 may fit into one or more corresponding apertures in a bottom surface of the posture seat. In some embodiments, the pad 202 may be detachably attached to the underside of the posture seat via the one or more apertures and the one or more protrusions 1404, 1406, 1408. In some embodiments, various pads 202 may be interchanged based on a desired grip, an amount of stabilization desired by the user, or the like. The outer surface 1412 of the pad 202 may be in contact with a surface when the posture seat is placed on the surface and a user is seated in the posture seat.

It is contemplated that various combinations and/or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the above embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. Further, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed by way of examples should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above.

Claims

1. A device comprising: a foundation member comprising: a front portion configured to receive a user's upper legs, wherein the front portion comprises a first protrusion and a second protrusion;a pommel configured to guide a user to a proper location on the foundation member, wherein the pommel is proximate the front portion and between the first protrusion and the second protrusion; anda rear portion configured to receive a user's lower pelvic area, the rear portion comprising a central portion and an upwardly inclined lateral portion, wherein the lateral portion and the front portion collectively surround the central portion.

2. The device of claim 1 wherein the central portion has plural portions of varying flexibility.

3. The device of claim 1 wherein the lateral portion has plural portions of varying flexibility.

4. The device of claim 1 wherein the pommel guides the user to a sitting location such that each upper leg of the user is disposed on either side of the pommel in the front portion.

5. The device of claim 1 wherein the pommel is partially surrounded by the front portion.

6. The device of claim 1 wherein a top surface of the pommel comprises an outward curve relative to the foundation member.

7. The device of claim 1 wherein a bottom surface of the pommel comprises a corresponding curve such that the bottom surface of the pommel is elevated above a surface when the device is placed on the surface.

8. The device of claim 1 wherein the pommel comprises a visual indication to the user of where to sit in the foundation member such that each upper leg of the user is disposed on either side of the pommel in the front portion.

9. The device of claim 1 wherein the pommel comprises a sloped shape such that a portion of a leg of the user placed on the pommel will be guided to a respective side of the pommel such that each upper leg of the user is disposed on either side of the pommel in the front portion.

10. The device of claim 1 further comprising a grip disposed on a bottom surface of the pommel for aiding the user in adjusting a position of the foundation member.

11. The device of claim 10 wherein the grip comprises a generally undulating surface to provide a holding surface for one or more fingers of the user.

12. The device of claim 10 wherein the grip comprises two or more connected arcs to provide one or more holding surfaces.

13. The device of claim 1 further comprising: one or more anti-slip grip areas, wherein each of the one or more anti-slip grip areas provide an area of increased friction.

14. The device of claim 13 wherein an anti-slip grip area of the one or more anti-slip grip areas is disposed on at least one of: the lateral portion and the front portion.

15. The device of claim 13 further comprising: a pad gripping portion disposed on a bottom surface of the foundation member, wherein the gripping portion comprises an anti-skid material to prevent sliding of the device relative to a surface.

16. A device comprising: a front portion configured to receive a user's upper legs;a pommel configured to guide a user to a proper location on the foundation member, wherein the pommel is partially surrounded by the front portion;a grip disposed on a bottom surface of the pommel for aiding the user in adjusting a position of the foundation member; anda rear portion configured to receive a user's lower pelvic area, the rear portion comprising a central portion and an upwardly inclined lateral portion, wherein the lateral portion and the front portion collectively surround the central portion.

17. The device of claim 16 further comprising: a pad gripping portion disposed on a bottom surface of the device, wherein the gripping portion comprises an anti-skid material to prevent sliding of the device relative to a surface.

18. The device of claim 17 wherein the pad gripping portion comprises a Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR).

19. The device of claim 18 wherein the TPR prevents sliding of the device relative to a surface the device is placed on.

20. The device of claim 18 wherein the TPR prevents scratching of a surface the device is placed on by the bottom surface of the device.

21. The device of claim 17 wherein the pad gripping portion is generally triangular with rounded edges.

22. The device of claim 17 wherein a center portion of the pad is generally flat to provide a neutral balance point for the device to sit flat when not in use.

23. The device of claim 17 wherein a center portion of the pad is rounded to require the user to use more core and gluteal muscles to balance the device on a harder surface.

24. A device comprising: a front portion configured to receive a user's upper legs;a pommel configured to guide a user to a proper location on the foundation member, wherein the pommel is partially surrounded by the front portion, and wherein the pommel guides the user to a sitting location such that each upper leg of the user is disposed on either side of the pommel in the front portion;a grip disposed on a bottom surface of the pommel for aiding the user in adjusting a position of the foundation member, wherein the grip comprises a generally undulating surface to provide a holding surface for one or more fingers of the user;a pad gripping portion disposed on a bottom surface of the device, wherein the gripping portion comprises an anti-skid material to prevent sliding of the device relative to a surface;a rear portion configured to receive a user's lower pelvic area, the rear portion comprising a central portion and an upwardly inclined lateral portion, wherein the lateral portion and the front portion collectively surround the central portion; andone or more anti-slip grip areas, wherein each of the one or more anti-slip grip areas provide an area of increased friction wherein an anti-slip grip area of the one or more anti-slip grip areas is disposed on at least one of: the lateral portion and the front portion.