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(11) | EP 4 230 274 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | ADJUSTABLE BENCH WITH ONE-WAY ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM |
| (57) An adjustable bench includes a frame, a back support frame pivotably secured to the
frame, a back support pad secured to the back support frame, a back arcuate assembly
connected to the back support frame and defining a plurality of back arcuate assembly
apertures, and a back adjustment pin fixed to the frame. The back adjustment pin includes
a plunger that may move between a projected position and a retracted position. In
the projected position, the plunger may project into one of the plurality of back
arcuate assembly apertures. Pivoting the back support frame in a first direction engages
an angled first end of the plunger with one of the back arcuate assembly apertures
and deflects the plunger towards the retracted position. Restraining the plunger in
the retracted position enables pivoting the back support frame in a second direction. |
Priority
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/311,504, titled "Adjustable Bench with One-Way Adjustment Pin" and filed on February 18, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Introduction
[0002] Some exercises are performed while lying down on a bench or seated. These exercises can be performed while holding or using supplemental exercise equipment, such as weights, resistance bands, exercise balls, etc. Benches or seats used when performing these exercises may be in a public facility, such as a gym, or a private facility, such as in home. Portions of the adjustable benches such as a back support and a seat support may be positioned differently based on the exercise being performed.
Summary
[0003] Techniques and apparatus disclosed herein relate to adjustable benches that include one or more adjustment pins. Adjustable benches and the one or more adjustment pins disclosed herein can be used during exercise, although other uses are contemplated.
[0004] In one aspect, the technology relates to an adjustable bench including: a frame; a back support frame pivotably secured to the frame, wherein the back support frame is pivotable in a first direction and a second direction; a back support pad secured to the back support frame; a back arcuate assembly connected to the back support frame and defining a plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures, wherein the back arcuate assembly is selectively movably secured to the frame; and a back adjustment pin fixed to the frame, the back adjustment pin including: a housing comprising a first end, a threaded second end, and a substantially cylindrical bore comprising a flat section; a plunger slidably received in the substantially cylindrical bore between a projected position and a retracted position, the plunger comprising a key slidably engaged with the flat section, an angled first end, and a threaded second end; a retainer threadably secured to the threaded second end of the housing, wherein the retainer defines an opening, wherein the threaded second end of the plunger projects from the opening; a pull threadably secured to the threaded second end of the plunger; and a spring engaged with the plunger and the retainer, wherein the spring biases the plunger into the projected position wherein the angled first end of the plunger projects out of the housing and into one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures, wherein pivoting the back support frame in the first direction engages the angled first end of the plunger with one of the back arcuate assembly apertures and deflects the plunger towards the retracted position, and wherein restraining the plunger in the retracted position enables pivoting the back support frame in the second direction.
[0005] In an example, the adjustable bench further includes a seat support frame pivotably secured to the frame, wherein the seat support frame is pivotable in a first direction and a second direction; a seat support pad secured to the seat support frame; a seat arcuate assembly connected to the seat support frame and defining a plurality of seat arcuate assembly apertures, wherein the seat arcuate assembly is selectively movably secured to the frame; and a seat adjustment pin fixed to the frame, the seat adjustment pin comprising: a housing comprising a first end, a threaded second end, and a substantially cylindrical bore comprising a flat section; a plunger slidably received in the substantially cylindrical bore between a projected position and a retracted position, the plunger comprising a key slidably engaged with the flat section, an angled first end, and a threaded second end; a retainer threadably secured to the threaded second end of the housing, wherein the retainer defines an opening, wherein the threaded second end of the plunger projects from the opening; a pull threadably secured to the threaded second end of the plunger; and a spring engaged with the plunger and the retainer, wherein the spring biases the plunger into the projected position wherein the angled first end of the plunger projects out of the housing and into one of the plurality of seat arcuate assembly apertures, wherein pivoting the seat support frame in the first direction engages the angled first end of the plunger with one of the seat arcuate assembly apertures and deflects the plunger towards the retracted position, and wherein restraining the plunger in the retracted position enables pivoting the seat support frame in the second direction. In another example, the frame of the adjustable bench further includes a seat aperture, wherein the seat arcuate assembly projects into the seat aperture.
[0006] In yet another example, the plunger of the back adjustment pin includes an enlarged head, wherein the angled first end projects from the enlarged head, and wherein the angled first end is disposed at an angle to the key. In still another example, the angled first end of the plunger is oriented so as to contact a driving portion of at least one of the back arcuate assembly apertures when the seat support frame is pivoted in the first direction. In another example, the spring of the back adjustment pin is engaged between the enlarged head of the plunger and the retainer.
[0007] In another example of the above aspect, the frame of the adjustable bench includes a back aperture, wherein the back arcuate assembly projects into the back aperture. In yet another example, the back adjustment pin is fixed to the frame in a position such that the angled first end of the plunger in the projected position engages into one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures proximate the back aperture. In still another example, the retainer has knurled texture. In yet another example, the spring biases the plunger into the projected position thereby engaging the plunger with one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures.
[0008] Another aspect includes an adjustment system for an adjustable bench having a frame and a support pivotably connected to the frame, the adjustment system including an arcuate member defining a plurality of arcuate member apertures, a strike plate secured to the arcuate member and defining a plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality of arcuate member apertures, and including a plurality of bent tabs, each of the plurality of bent tabs extending into a corresponding aperture of the plurality of arcuate member apertures, and an adjustment pin fixed relative to the frame and including a spring and a plunger having an angled face at an end thereof, wherein the plunger projects into at least one of the plurality of arcuate member apertures, and wherein the angled face of the plunger contacts a corresponding bent tab of the plurality of bent tabs.
[0009] In an example of the above aspect, a surface of the corresponding bent tab facing the angled face of the plunger has a rounded profile. In another example, the strike plate has substantially a same shape and size as the arcuate member. In a further example, the strike plate is attached to the arcuate member via one or more attachment devices. For example, the one or more attachment devices include one or more threaded screws.
[0010] In a further aspect of the disclosure, an adjustable bench includes a frame, a back support frame pivotably secured to the frame, the back support frame being pivotable in a first direction and a second direction, a back arcuate member connected to the back support frame and defining a plurality of back arcuate member apertures, wherein the back arcuate member is selectively movably secured to the frame, a back strike plate secured to the back arcuate member and defining a plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality back of arcuate member apertures, and including a plurality of back bent tabs, each of the plurality of back bent tabs extending into a corresponding aperture of the plurality of back arcuate member apertures, and a back adjustment pin fixed to the frame, the back adjustment pin including a first housing including a first end, a threaded second end, and a substantially cylindrical bore including a flat section, a first plunger slidably received in the substantially cylindrical bore between a projected position and a retracted position, the first plunger including a first key slidably engaged with the flat section, a first angled face at an end thereof, and a threaded second end, a first retainer threadably secured to the threaded second end of the first housing, wherein the first retainer defines a first opening, wherein the threaded second end of the plunger projects from the first opening, a first pull threadably secured to the threaded second end of the first plunger, and a first spring engaged with the first plunger and the first retainer, the first spring biasing the first plunger into the projected position so that the first angled face of the first plunger projects out of the first housing and into one of the plurality of back arcuate member apertures, wherein the first angled face of the first plunger contacts a corresponding back bent tab of the plurality of back bent tabs, wherein pivoting the back support frame in the first direction engages the first angled face of the first plunger with one of the back arcuate member apertures and deflects the first plunger towards the retracted position, and wherein restraining the first plunger in the retracted position enables pivoting the back support frame in the second direction.
[0011] In an example of the above aspect, a surface of the corresponding back bent tab that faces the first angled face of the first plunger has a rounded profile. In another example, the back strike plate has substantially a same shape and size as the back arcuate member. In a further example, the back strike plate is attached to the back arcuate member via one or more attachment devices. In yet another example, a material of the back strike plate includes steel.
[0012] In another example of the above aspect, the adjustable bench further includes a seat support frame pivotably secured to the frame, wherein the seat support frame is pivotable in a third direction and a fourth direction, a seat arcuate member connected to the seat support frame and defining a plurality of seat arcuate member apertures, wherein the seat arcuate member is selectively movably secured to the frame, a seat strike plate secured to the seat arcuate member and defining a plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality seat of arcuate member apertures, and including a plurality of seat bent tabs, each of the plurality of seat bent tabs extending into a corresponding aperture of the plurality of seat arcuate member apertures, and a seat adjustment pin fixed to the frame, the seat adjustment pin including a second housing including a first end, a threaded second end, and a substantially cylindrical bore including a flat section, a second plunger slidably received in the substantially cylindrical bore between a projected position and a retracted position, the second plunger including a second key slidably engaged with the flat section, a second angled face at an end thereof, and a threaded second end, a second retainer threadably secured to the threaded second end of the second housing, wherein the second retainer defines a second opening, wherein the threaded second end of the second plunger projects from the second opening, a second pull threadably secured to the threaded second end of the second plunger, and a second spring engaged with the second plunger and the second retainer, the second spring biasing the second plunger into the projected position so that the second angled face of the second plunger projects out of the second housing and into one of the plurality of seat arcuate member apertures, wherein the second angled face of the second plunger contacts a corresponding seat bent tab of the plurality of seat bent tabs, wherein pivoting the seat support frame in the third direction engages the second angled face of the second plunger with one of the seat arcuate member apertures and deflects the second plunger towards the retracted position, and wherein restraining the second plunger in the retracted position enables pivoting the seat support frame in the fourth direction.
[0013] In another example of the above aspect, a surface of the corresponding seat bent tab that faces the second angled face of the second plunger has a rounded profile. In a further example, the seat strike plate has substantially a same shape and size as the seat arcuate member. In yet another example, the seat strike plate is attached to the seat arcuate member via one or more attachment devices. In a further example, a material of the seat strike plate includes steel.
[0014] The details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of these examples will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing summary of the disclosure and the following detailed description are exemplary and intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the disclosure.
Brief description of the drawings
[0015] The following drawing figures, which form a part of this application, are illustrative of described technology and are not meant to limit the scope of the disclosure as claimed in any manner, which scope shall be based on the claims appended hereto.
FIG. 1 depicts a front perspective schematic view of an adjustable bench, according to various examples of the disclosure.
FIG. 2 depicts a rear perspective schematic view of the adjustable bench of FIG. 1, according to various examples of the disclosure.
FIG. 3 depicts a schematic view of an adjustment assembly of the adjustable bench of FIG. 1, according to various examples of the disclosure.
FIG. 4 depicts an exploded side view of the back adjustment pin of FIG. 3, according to various examples of the disclosure.
FIG. 5 depicts an exploded perspective view of the back adjustment pin of FIG. 3, according to various examples of the disclosure.
FIG. 6 depicts a further exploded front perspective view of the back adjustment pin of FIG. 3, according to various examples of the disclosure.
FIG. 7 depicts a schematic view of another back adjustment pin of the adjustable bench of FIG. 1, according to various examples of the disclosure.
FIGS. 8A-8C are perspective views of an angled spring pin with bent tab adjuster slots, according to various examples of the disclosure.
FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of an angled spring pin in attachment with an arcuate member, according to various examples of the disclosure.
Detailed description
[0016] As briefly described above, examples of the present technology are directed to providing an adjustable bench having an adjustment assembly including one or more adjustment pins. Adjustable benches contemplated by this disclosure can be used for various activities, such as exercise activities. The adjustable benches disclosed herein can be utilized as a step, a seat, and/or a support for a prone position. In some instances, the person using the adjustable bench can be oriented generally parallel to, or angled away or towards, a floor upon which the adjustable bench rests. The pivoting supports described below allow an adjustable bench to be used comfortably by a variety of users and can be adjusted to provide individual support and comfort based on a user's particular preferences or needs.
[0017] The adjustment assemblies described herein can include one or more adjustment pins that engage with an arcuate member of the bench to position the one or more supports of the bench with respect to the frame of the bench. In a projected position, the adjustment pin allows the support to pivot in a single direction without actuating (e.g., pulling) the pin. Typically, this single direction is consistent with the support structure being pivoted into a lifted or raised position. Thus, a user need only lift the support structure to adjust the position thereof, without retracting the pin. The structure of the adjustment pin allows the pin to engage with a plurality of openings in the arcuate member as the support structure is raised. Once the desired lifted position is attained, the bench may be used without any further action on the part of the user (e.g., the pin is already engaged with one of the openings to prevent opposite or downward pivoting movement of the support structure). To lower the support structure, the user retracts the adjustment pin, enabling lowering thereof. Further, if the adjustment pin is held in a retracted position, the support structure may be pivoted in either direction, like conventional benches utilizing adjustment pins.
[0018] Another example of an adjustment system includes an angled spring pin (such as described briefly above and in more detail herein) and a strike plate including a plurality of bent tabs secured to an arcuate member. Such an adjustment system may be incorporated in an adjustable bench that allows the seat and/or back pad to move in one direction without retracting the spring pin. There is no user interaction with the spring pin (e.g., retraction or pulling thereof) required to move the seat and/or back pads into an inclined position. The arcuate member may include a body and a strike plate secured thereto. The body defines slots for the pin to insert into, allowing for full pin engagement. The slot has one flat face with two 90° edges, which the pin contacts to engage the body. The opposite face of the opening may be defined by a bent or curved tab extending from the strike plate, which allows for easy disengagement of the pin when the angled face of the pin contacts the tab. The bent tab allows for smoother operation, and the uniformity of the hole sizes removes the potential for partial pin insertion and reduces or eliminates the risk for potential damage as a result.
[0019] FIGS. 1-2 depict various views of an adjustable bench 100 having both a back adjustment pin 162 and a seat adjustment pin 150. The figures are described concurrently and not all components are depicted or labeled in every figure.
[0020] The adjustable bench assembly 100 includes frame 102, seat support 104, and back support 106. Both seat support 104 and back support 106 are connected to frame 102 via pivot arrangement 108. Typically, adjustable bench assembly 100 is used during exercise or to facilitate an exercise. Other examples can include more or fewer components.
[0021] Frame 102 provides stability to adjustable bench assembly 100. Frame 102 also provides structure to which seat support 104 and back support 106 are connected. Generally, frame 102 includes a middle portion 114 connected to two leg portions 110 and 112. For example, leg portions 110 and 112 can be connected to middle portion 114 via welding, bolt members, adhesive, or the like.
[0022] Frame 102 also defines seat aperture 116 and back aperture 118. Preferably, seat aperture 116 is near a front end of frame 102, e.g., in leg portion 110. Back aperture 118 is near a middle of middle portion 114. Seat support 104 allows for independent pivotal adjustability of seat support frame 130 and seat support pad 132 relative to frame 102. Back support 106 allows for independent pivotal adjustability of back support frame 152 and back support pad 158 relative to frame 102.
[0023] Broadly, back support 106 provides a surface to support a user's torso in a sitting or lying down position. Back support 106 is a relatively larger component of adjustable bench assembly 100 than seat support 104. Back support 106 includes back support frame 152, back arcuate assembly 156, and back support pad 158. Back support frame 152 is the structure to which back support 106 and back arcuate assembly 156 connect.
[0024] Back support 106 also pivots relative to frame 102 about pivot axis PA. Pivotal movement of back support 106 is provided by the securing of back support 106 and pivot arrangement 108. Pivot arrangement 108 is secured to frame 102. Generally, pivot axis PA is orthogonal, but skew, to a length of middle portion 114.
[0025] Back arcuate assembly 156 includes back arcuate member 160 connected to back support frame 152 and back adjustment pin 162. Back arcuate member 160 defines a plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures 164. As shown, apertures 164 are not equally-spaced from each other. However, in some instances, apertures 164 are equally spaced along back arcuate member 160. Back support pad 158 provides a cushioned surface for a user and may be connected to back support frame 152 with one or more brackets, fasteners, or other elements.
[0026] Back adjustment pin 162 may be positioned on frame 102 such that back adjustment pin 162 may connect to back arcuate assembly 156, which passes through a back aperture 118. Back adjustment pin 162, in combination with the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures 164 defined by back arcuate member 160, enables selectable pivoting of back support 106. Back adjustment pin 162 is sized to be secured to an outer surface of or be recessed within frame 102 and extend into back aperture 118 and/or one of the back arcuate assembly apertures 164. To adjust the degree of pivoting, a user may pull back adjustment pin 162 away from frame 102 from a projected position to a retracted position, adjust the angle of back support 106, and then align one of the back arcuate assembly apertures 164 with back adjustment pin 162. Back adjustment pin 162 is not required to be pulled back to the retracted position to allow for adjustment of back support 106 in direction 190 shown in FIG. 2. While in the projected position, back adjustment pin 162 prevents adjustment of back support 106 in a second direction, such as direction 192 shown in FIG. 2.
[0027] Back support 106 is pivotably adjustable in a range of motion relative to frame 102. Pivotal motion of back support 106 is independent of pivotal motion of seat support 104. A degree of pivoting of back support 106 is shown as angle θ relative to horizontal H. In examples, the pivotal range of back support is at least 0° (that is, horizontal) and not greater than about 90° (vertical). In some examples, the pivotal range of motion of back support 106 is not greater than about 80°. Relative to the horizontal, back support 106 is capable of being positioned from about 0° to 90°. In another example, the back support 106 is capable of being positioned from about 0° to 85°.
[0028] Broadly, seat support 104 provides a surface to support a user's bottom in a sitting position and a user's bottom and/or torso in a lying down position. Seat support 104 includes seat support frame 130, seat support pad 132, and seat arcuate assembly 126. Seat support frame 130 is the structure to which seat support 104 and seat arcuate assembly 126 connect.
[0029] Seat support 104 pivots relative to frame 102 about pivot axis PA, described above. Pivotal movement of seat support 104 is provided by the securing of seat support 104 to pivot arrangement 108.
[0030] Seat arcuate assembly 126 includes seat arcuate member 136 connected to seat support frame 130 and seat adjustment pin 150. Seat arcuate member 136 defines a plurality of seat arcuate assembly apertures 148. As shown, apertures 148 are not equally-spaced from each other. However, in some instances, apertures 148 are equally spaced along seat arcuate member 136. Seat support pad 132 provides a cushioned surface for a user and may be connected to seat support frame 130 with one or more brackets, fasteners, or other elements.
[0031] Seat adjustment pin 150 may be positioned on frame 102 such that seat adjustment pin 150 may connect to seat arcuate assembly 126, which passes through seat aperture 116. Seat adjustment pin 150, in combination with the plurality of seat arcuate assembly apertures 148 defined by seat arcuate member 136, enables selectable pivoting and positioning of seat support 104. Seat adjustment pin 150 is be secured to an outer surface of or be recessed within frame 102 and extend into seat aperture 116 and/or one of the seat arcuate assembly apertures 148. To adjust the degree of pivoting, a user may pull seat adjustment pin 150 away from frame 102 from a projected position to a retracted position, adjust the angle of seat support 104, and then align one of the seat arcuate assembly apertures 148 with seat adjustment pin 150. Seat adjustment pin 150 is not required to be pulled back to the retracted position to allow for adjustment of seat support 104 in one direction, such as direction 194 shown in FIG. 2. While in the projected position, seat adjustment pin 150 may prevent adjustment of seat support 104 in a second direction, such as direction 196 shown in FIG. 2.
[0032] A degree of pivoting of seat support 104 is shown as angle α relative to horizontal H. Pivoting above H is a positive value of α and pivoting below H is a negative value of α. In examples, the pivotal range of motion of seat support 104 is at least 0° (that is, horizontal) and not greater than about 90° (vertical). In some examples, the pivotal range of motion of seat support 104 is not greater than about 75°. Relative to the horizontal H, seat support 104 may be capable of pivoting from 0° to about -25° or greater.
[0033] FIG. 3 depicts a side view of an adjustment assembly, while FIGS. 4-6 depict various views of a back adjustment pin 162 of the assembly. The figures are described concurrently and not all components of the back adjustment pin 162 are depicted or labeled in every figure. While FIGS. 3-6 refer to back adjustment pin 162 herein, it is to be understood that seat adjustment pin 150 may be interchangeable with, the same as, and/or similar to back adjustment pin 162, and seat adjustment pin 150 and/or the interaction of seat adjustment pin 150 with seat support 104 may be described in the same or similar way as back adjustment pin 162 and/or the interaction of back adjustment pin 162 and back support 106 is described herein. However, the description of FIGS. 3-6 will refer only to back adjustment pin 162 and/or back support 106 for clarity.
[0034] Broadly, back adjustment pin 162 enables selective pivoting of back support 106 with respect to frame 102 in a first direction, while preventing pivoting of back support 106 in a second direction. Back adjustment pin 162 includes housing 200, plunger 210, retainer 220, pull 230, and spring 240. Plunger 210 may include key 212, enlarged head 216, and angled face 214. Back adjustment pin 162 may be connected or otherwise coupled to frame 102 via housing 200. Housing 200 may be connected to frame 102 via welding, mechanical fasteners, adhesive, or the like.
[0035] Housing 200 includes substantially cylindrical bore 202. Substantially cylindrical bore 202 includes a flat section 204 as can be seen in FIG. 5, and which is in sliding engagement with key 212. Other key configurations, e.g., mating projected and recessed elements or features, are contemplated to maintain orientation of the plunger 210 in the bore 202. Housing 200 may be secured to the frame to ensure that angled face 214 is at a correct angle with respect to back arcuate assembly 156 to enable movement in the first direction without retraction of the back adjustment pin 162. Housing 200 may be fixed to frame 102 adj acent back aperture 118, such that the end of the plunger 210 may extend into back arcuate assembly apertures 164, as depicted in FIG. 3.
[0036] Plunger 210 is slidably received in substantially cylindrical bore 202 as can be seen in FIG. 3. Plunger 210 can move in bore 202 between a projected position (such as depicted in FIG. 3) and a retracted position (where the plunger 210 no longer extends into the back arcuate assembly apertures 164). Plunger 210 includes key 212 that is slidably engaged with flat section 204 of bore 202. Plunger 210 includes an angled first end, which includes angled face 214, and a threaded second end 218 that can threadably connect to pull 230 through threaded opening 232. Pull 230 can be pulled or retracted R to move the plunger 210 between the projected position and the retracted position. Pull 230 may be sized and shaped to allow for operation by a user. Plunger 210 also includes enlarged head 216 sized to snugly engage with bore 202 and, optionally, protrude through the first end of housing 200 into back aperture 118. The angled first end projects from enlarged head 216. Thus, the angled first end with angled face 214 will also protrude into back aperture 118 and is operable to engage with one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures 164 when plunger 210 is in the projected position. The angled first end may be disposed at an angle to key 212.
[0037] Retainer 220 threadably connects to the threaded second end of housing 200 as can be seen in FIG. 3. Retainer 220 threadably connects to the threaded second end of housing 200 using threaded end 222 of retainer 220. The threaded second end of housing 200 is not shown in the figures. Retainer 220 defines an opening along axis A wherein the threaded second end 218 of plunger 210 projects from the opening. Pull 230 can be threadably connected to the threaded second end 218 of plunger 210 that extends through the opening of retainer 220. Retainer 220 secures plunger 210 and pull 230 to housing 200. Retainer 220 may also have knurled texturing that may allow a user to easily remove retainer 220 from housing 200 and therefore allow plunger 210 and pull 230 to be removed from housing 200 for maintenance, cleaning, replacement, etc.
[0038] Spring 240 engages with plunger 210 and retainer 220. Spring 240 may engage with plunger 210 via enlarged head 216. Spring 240 biases plunger 210 into the projected position, causing the angled first end of plunger 210 to project out of housing 200 into one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures 164. Retracting R pull 230 compresses spring 240 when plunger 210 is moved toward the retracted position. Spring 240 biases plunger 210 to the projected position when retraction R of pull 230 ceases.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 3, housing 200 is connected to frame 102 at a position on frame 102 such that back adjustment pin 162 protrudes through one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures 164 defined by back arcuate member 160. For example, back adjustment pin 162 is fixed to a side of frame 102 orthogonal to a side of frame 102 that defines back aperture 118. In this example, the angled first end of plunger 210 with angled face 214, in the projected position, engages into one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures 164 proximate back aperture 118. In this depiction, back adjustment pin 162 is in a projected position. In the projected position, back adjustment pin 162, and specifically the angled first end of plunger 210 with angled face 214, protrudes through one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures 164 and therefore allows selective pivoting of the back support 106 in a first direction and prevents pivoting in a second direction. For example, enlarged head 216 and/or the angled first end of plunger 210 will contact braking surface 250 of back arcuate member 160 when back support 106 moves in a downward direction with respect to the orientation of FIG. 3. The contact will prevent back support 106 from moving in the downward direction. If back support 106 is moved in an upward direction with respect to the orientation of FIG. 3, driving surface 252 of back arcuate member 160 will engage with angled face 214. Driving portion 252 will deflect plunger 210 toward the retracted position and allow back support 106 to move in the upward direction. Spring 240 will compress when plunger 210 is deflected by driving portion 252 and bias plunger 210 to the projected position when another one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures 164 aligns with the angled first end of plunger 210.
[0040] Plunger 210 may be moved to the retracted position by pulling pull 230 in direction R shown in FIG. 3. When plunger 210 is in the retracted position, enlarged head 216 and the angled first end with angled face 214 move away from the engaged back arcuate assembly aperture 164, allowing back support 106 to be pivotally adjusted in either direction. Additionally, spring 240 will compress when plunger 210 is moved to the retracted position.
[0041] FIG. 7 depicts a schematic view of another adjustment assembly of the adjustable bench of FIG. 1, according to various examples of the disclosure. The adjustment assembly depicted in FIG. 7 is similar to that of FIG. 3; as such, not all elements depicted in FIG. 7 are described further herein. Further, a person of ordinary skill in the art would be able to correlate the structures described in FIG. 3 with those depicted in FIG. 7. In FIG. 7, a strike plate 161 is attached to an outer surface of the arcuate member 160 so as to provide a friction-reducing surface between the arcuate member 160 and the angled face 214 of the plunger 210. In addition, the surface 166 of the strike plate 161 that faces the angled face 214 is rounded, which reduces friction between the angled face 214 and the edge of the strike plate 161 during movement of the arcuate member 160 in, e.g., a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing 200. In another example, the surface 166 of the strike plate 161 may be formed at an angle to otherwise decrease friction when contacting the angled face 214. The material of the strike plate 161 may be selected so as to further reduce friction with the angled face 214. The rounded surface 166 of the strike plate 161 is configured to contact the angled face 214 when the angled face 214 of the plunger 210 extends into the arcuate assembly aperture 164. Because the surface 166 that comes into contact with the angled face 214 is rounded or disposed at an angle, substantially less friction may be present between the angled face 214 and the rounded surface 166 than if no strike plate 161 was present. An excess of friction between the arcuate member 160 and the angled face 214 may hinder or prevent movement.
[0042] FIGS. 8A-8C are various views of an adjustment system. FIG. 8A illustrates a first side of an arcuate member 805 having a plurality of arcuate member apertures 810 similar to, e.g., the aperture 164 illustrated in FIG. 7. The arcuate member 805 may also include one or more attachment openings 820 configured to receive an attachment pin, threaded screw, or the like, to attach the arcuate member 805 to another structure, such as a back or seat support (not shown).
[0043] FIG. 8B illustrates a side of a strike plate 800 that defines or includes a plurality of openings 815. Into one or more of the plurality of openings 815 may project a tab 830, which may be formed coplanar with the strike plate 800, prior to the bending thereof. The tab 830 may be formed into a bent configuration, as further illustrated in FIG. 8C. The bent tab 830 extends into a corresponding opening 815 and in a direction that is away from the surface of the strike plate 800. For example, the bent tab 830 extends in a direction that is at an angle from the surface of the strike plate 800. The angle may be perpendicular, or may be between about 25° to about 155° from the surface of the strike plate 800. The surface of the strike plate 800 may also include a plurality of markings 840, each marking 840 corresponding to a given angle of the bench when engaged with the corresponding opening 815. A material of the strike plate 800 may include steel, stainless steel, or other relatively low-friction material. The strike plate 800 may have substantially the same outer contour and size as the arcuate member 805 illustrated in FIG. 8A.
[0044] FIG. 8C illustrates a side of the strike plate 800 that is opposite the side illustrated in FIG. 8B. The side illustrated in FIG. 8C is in contact with the arcuate member 805 illustrated in FIG. 8A when the strike plate 800 is attached to the arcuate member 805. In FIG. 8C, the bent tabs 830 extend inward and away from the surface of the strike plate 800. In an example, the bent tabs 830 are formed on the side illustrated in FIG. 8B, and may be bent through the openings 815 to be disposed substantially orthogonal to the strike plate 800. When the strike plate 800 is attached to an arcuate member 805, the bent tabs 830 extend through the arcuate member apertures 810 of the arcuate member 805. The bent tabs 830 are bent on the side that faces the angled face of the plunger (e.g., the angled face 214 illustrated in FIG. 7), thereby forming a rounded surface to engage the angled face. The rounded surface of the bent tabs that is in contact with the angled face may reduce or eliminate friction with the angled face and thus facilitate adjustment of the bench.
[0045] FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of an adjustment system, according to various examples of the disclosure. In FIG. 9A, the strike plate 900 has a shape that is similar to the shape of the arcuate member 960, and has a plurality of openings 915 that correspond in position and in general shape to the arcuate member apertures 910 of the arcuate member 960. The strike plate 900 also includes bent tabs 930 that extend from one edge of each of the openings 915 so as to protrude into the arcuate member apertures 910 of the arcuate member 960. In this configuration, the rounded surface generated by bending the bent tabs 930 faces an angled face of an adjustment pin. FIG. 9B illustrates the strike plate 900 when attached to the arcuate member 960 via, e.g., a plurality of attachment devices 970 such as, e.g., pins, threaded screws, or the like.
[0046] It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but is extended to equivalents thereof as would be recognized by those ordinarily skilled in the relevant arts. It should also be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, as used in this specification, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0047] It will be clear that the systems and methods described herein are well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those inherent therein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods and systems within this specification may be implemented in many manners and as such is not to be limited by the foregoing exemplified examples and examples. In this regard, any number of the features of the different examples described herein may be combined into one single example and alternate examples having fewer than or more than all of the features herein described are possible.
[0048] While various examples have been described for purposes of this disclosure, various changes and modifications may be made which are well within the scope contemplated by the present disclosure. Numerous other changes may be made which will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are encompassed in the spirit of the disclosure.
a frame;
a back support frame pivotably secured to the frame, wherein the back support frame is pivotable in a first direction and a second direction;
a back support pad secured to the back support frame;
a back arcuate assembly connected to the back support frame and defining a plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures, wherein the back arcuate assembly is selectively movably secured to the frame; and
a back adjustment pin fixed to the frame, the back adjustment pin comprising:
a housing comprising a first end, a threaded second end, and a substantially cylindrical bore comprising a flat section;
a plunger slidably received in the substantially cylindrical bore between a projected position and a retracted position, the plunger comprising a key slidably engaged with the flat section, an angled first end, and a threaded second end;
a retainer threadably secured to the threaded second end of the housing, wherein the retainer defines an opening, wherein the threaded second end of the plunger projects from the opening;
a pull threadably secured to the threaded second end of the plunger; and
a spring engaged with the plunger and the retainer, wherein the spring biases the plunger into the projected position wherein the angled first end of the plunger projects out of the housing and into one of the plurality of back arcuate assembly apertures,
wherein pivoting the back support frame in the first direction engages the angled first end of the plunger with one of the back arcuate assembly apertures and deflects the plunger towards the retracted position, and wherein restraining the plunger in the retracted position enables pivoting the back support frame in the second direction.
a seat support frame pivotably secured to the frame, wherein the seat support frame is pivotable in a first direction and a second direction;
a seat support pad secured to the seat support frame;
a seat arcuate assembly connected to the seat support frame and defining a plurality of seat arcuate assembly apertures, wherein the seat arcuate assembly is selectively movably secured to the frame; and
a seat adjustment pin fixed to the frame, the seat adjustment pin comprising:
a housing comprising a first end, a threaded second end, and a substantially cylindrical bore comprising a flat section;
a plunger slidably received in the substantially cylindrical bore between a projected position and a retracted position, the plunger comprising a key slidably engaged with the flat section, an angled first end, and a threaded second end;
a retainer threadably secured to the threaded second end of the housing, wherein the retainer defines an opening, wherein the threaded second end of the plunger projects from the opening;
a pull threadably secured to the threaded second end of the plunger; and
a spring engaged with the plunger and the retainer, wherein the spring biases the plunger into the projected position wherein the angled first end of the plunger projects out of the housing and into one of the plurality of seat arcuate assembly apertures, wherein pivoting the seat support frame in the first direction engages the angled first end of the plunger with one of the seat arcuate assembly apertures and deflects the plunger towards the retracted position, and wherein restraining the plunger in the retracted position enables pivoting the seat support frame in the second direction.
an arcuate member defining a plurality of arcuate member apertures;
a strike plate secured to the arcuate member and defining a plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality of arcuate member apertures, and comprising a plurality of bent tabs, each of the plurality of bent tabs extending into a corresponding aperture of the plurality of arcuate member apertures; and
an adjustment pin fixed relative to the frame and comprising a spring and a plunger having an angled face at an end thereof, wherein the plunger projects into at least one of the plurality of arcuate member apertures, and wherein the angled face of the plunger contacts a corresponding bent tab of the plurality of bent tabs.
a frame;
a back support frame pivotably secured to the frame, the back support frame being pivotable in a first direction and a second direction;
a back arcuate member connected to the back support frame and defining a plurality of back arcuate member apertures, wherein the back arcuate member is selectively movably secured to the frame;
a back strike plate secured to the back arcuate member and defining a plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality back of arcuate member apertures, and comprising a plurality of back bent tabs, each of the plurality of back bent tabs extending into a corresponding aperture of the plurality of back arcuate member apertures; and
a back adjustment pin fixed to the frame, the back adjustment pin comprising:
a first housing comprising a first end, a threaded second end, and a substantially cylindrical bore comprising a flat section;
a first plunger slidably received in the substantially cylindrical bore between a projected position and a retracted position, the first plunger comprising a first key slidably engaged with the flat section, a first angled face at an end thereof, and a threaded second end;
a first retainer threadably secured to the threaded second end of the first housing, wherein the first retainer defines a first opening, wherein the threaded second end of the plunger projects from the first opening;
a first pull threadably secured to the threaded second end of the first plunger; and
a first spring engaged with the first plunger and the first retainer, the first spring biasing the first plunger into the projected position so that the first angled face of the first plunger projects out of the first housing and into one of the plurality of back arcuate member apertures, wherein the first angled face of the first plunger contacts a corresponding back bent tab of the plurality of back bent tabs,
wherein pivoting the back support frame in the first direction engages the first angled face of the first plunger with one of the back arcuate member apertures and deflects the first plunger towards the retracted position, and wherein restraining the first plunger in the retracted position enables pivoting the back support frame in the second direction.
a seat support frame pivotably secured to the frame, wherein the seat support frame is pivotable in a third direction and a fourth direction;
a seat arcuate member connected to the seat support frame and defining a plurality of seat arcuate member apertures, wherein the seat arcuate member is selectively movably secured to the frame;
a seat strike plate secured to the seat arcuate member and defining a plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality seat of arcuate member apertures, and comprising a plurality of seat bent tabs, each of the plurality of seat bent tabs extending into a corresponding aperture of the plurality of seat arcuate member apertures; and
a seat adjustment pin fixed to the frame, the seat adjustment pin comprising:
a second housing comprising a first end, a threaded second end, and a substantially cylindrical bore comprising a flat section;
a second plunger slidably received in the substantially cylindrical bore between a projected position and a retracted position, the second plunger comprising a second key slidably engaged with the flat section, a second angled face at an end thereof, and a threaded second end;
a second retainer threadably secured to the threaded second end of the second housing, wherein the second retainer defines a second opening, wherein the threaded second end of the second plunger projects from the second opening;
a second pull threadably secured to the threaded second end of the second plunger; and
a second spring engaged with the second plunger and the second retainer, the second spring biasing the second plunger into the projected position so that the second angled face of the second plunger projects out of the second housing and into one of the plurality of seat arcuate member apertures, wherein the second angled face of the second plunger contacts a corresponding seat bent tab of the plurality of seat bent tabs,
wherein pivoting the seat support frame in the third direction engages the second angled face of the second plunger with one of the seat arcuate member apertures and deflects the second plunger towards the retracted position, and wherein restraining the second plunger in the retracted position enables pivoting the seat support frame in the fourth direction.
REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION
This list of references cited by the applicant is for the reader's convenience only. It does not form part of the European patent document. Even though great care has been taken in compiling the references, errors or omissions cannot be excluded and the EPO disclaims all liability in this regard.
Patent documents cited in the description