Patent ID: 8944977
Filing Date: 2015-02-03
Classification: A47C,A63B,Y10S

Abstract:
1. An apparatus that combines a task chair with an exercise device for the lumbar extensors of an occupant of the apparatus, said apparatus comprising: a seat for supporting the occupant; a pair of arm rests each adjustable to engage a forearm of the occupant when said apparatus is in a chair configuration, each of said pair of arm rests adjustable to restrain an anterior portion of the pelvis of the occupant when said apparatus is in an exercise device configuration; a lumbar support positioned to restrain a posterior pelvic region of the occupant when said apparatus is in said exercise device configuration; a seatback having a substantially upright position when said apparatus is in a chair configuration, said seatback movable between a first position and a second position with said apparatus in said exercise device configuration, said first position corresponding to a lumbar extension position, said second position corresponding to a lumbar flexion position; and a resistance mechanism connecting said seatback to said seat, said resistance mechanism applying a seatback force to said seatback that substantially corresponds with a strength curve of the lumbar extensors of the occupant across a range of motion of said seatback, and said resistance mechanism including a plurality of springs biasing a first member of a linkage mechanism, said linkage mechanism converting a spring force applied by said plurality of springs to said seatback force wherein said seatback force applied to said seatback has a descending resistance curve, said linkage mechanism includes a stationary member, said first member, a second member, and a third member, said first and second members pivotably connected to opposite ends of said stationary member, said third member having a first distal end pivotably attached to said first member at an end of said first member opposite said stationary member, said third member having a second distal end pivotably attached to said second member at an end of said second member opposite said stationary member, said second member attached to said seatback with said seatback moving in tandem with said second member.