Suspended pixelated seating structure

US8186761B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Herman Miller, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Ryan S. Brill · Allendale, US
• Douglas M. VanDeRiet · Holland, US
• John F. Aldrich · Grandville, US
• Christopher C. Hill · Zeeland, US
• Andrew J. Kurrasch · Saugatuck, US
• James D. Slagh · Holland, US
• Matthew Parkinson · Linz, AT
• Matthew P. Reed · Ann Arbor, US
• Jeffrey A. Weber · Minneapolis, US
• Timothy P. Coffield · Grand Rapids, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 18, 2010
• Grant date: May 29, 2012
• Expiry date: Jun 18, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A47C23/002
• WIPO field: Furniture, games
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

A suspended pixelated seating structure provides ergonomic, adaptable seating support. The suspended pixelated seating structure includes multiple cooperative layers to maximize global comfort and support while enhancing adaptation to localized variations in a load, such as in the load applied when a person sits in a chair. The cooperative layers each use independent elements such as pixels, springs, support rails, and other elements to provide this adaptable comfort and support. The suspended pixelated seating structure also uses aligned material to provide a flexible yet durable suspended seating structure. Accordingly, the suspended pixelated seating structure provides maximum comfort for a wide range of body shapes and sizes.