Collapsible and portable seating apparatus

A collapsible and portable seating apparatus may include a seating assembly and a media mast with at least one image generation device. The seating assembly may be collapsible via at least one linkage assembly or pivot assembly, and portable via at least one wheel assembly. The media mast may be couplable to the seat assembly and removable to be set on a ground surface. The media mast may be portable when coupled to the seating assembly and/or separately portable in a hand-truck configuration when removed from the seating assembly. The media mast and/or the seating assembly may include components to provide increased stability and resistance against external and internal forces, where the components are deployed when the media mast is on the ground surface or the seating assembly is unfolded. A canopy may be couplable to the seating assembly.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to seating and, more particularly, to a collapsible and portable seating apparatus.

BACKGROUND

In scenarios involving athletic coaching, academic teaching, healthcare instructing, and/or film production, the coaches, educators, instructors, and/or filmmakers may discuss potential strategies with other individuals during a select period (e.g., a time-out, a class, or the like). Often, the individuals may sit in chairs, while the coaches, educators, instructors, and/or filmmakers references material shown on a pad or a board. To reduce the amount of time it takes to set up the chairs and/or the board during the select period, multiple individuals may carry the chairs and/or push the pad or board out for the individuals and the coaches, educators, instructors, and/or filmmakers. This set-up can cost the coaches, educators, instructors, and/or filmmakers and the individuals time during the select period, and may require otherwise needed space to be reserved for the individuals carrying out the chairs to sit (e.g., on the side of the sports court or field). In addition, it is noted herein the pad or board is generally an analog device, and is limited in the information it can provide.

In addition, in scenarios where spacing and/or time does not allow for a full seating area, the pad or board may still be desirable as a standalone device for athletic coaching, academic teaching, healthcare instructing, and/or film production, although the pad or board is still generally an analog device, and is limited in the information it can provide.

As such, it would be desirable to provide an apparatus that addresses the limitations of the previous approaches provided above.

SUMMARY

A seating apparatus is disclosed, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the seating apparatus may include a media mast. In another embodiment, the media mast may include a tower including at least one tower section. In another embodiment, the media mast may include a media bracket assembly. In another embodiment, the media bracket assembly may include at least one device mount coupled to the tower. In another embodiment, the at least one device mount may be configured to receive at least one image generation device that is couplable to the at least one device mount. In another embodiment, the media mast may include at least one transportation or support assembly coupled to the tower. In another embodiment, the at least one transportation or support assembly may be configured to provide increased stability and resistance to the media mast against at least one applied force when the media mast is positioned on a ground surface. In another embodiment, the seating apparatus may include a seating assembly. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include a frame. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include a first seat and at least a second seat coupled to the frame. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include at least one leg assembly coupled to the frame via at least one linkage assembly. In another embodiment, the at least one leg assembly is collapsible at the at least one linkage assembly. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include at least one wheel assembly coupled to the frame via at least one pivot assembly. In another embodiment, the frame may be collapsible at the at least one pivot assembly. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may be portable via the at least one wheel assembly. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include a media mast member coupled to the frame. In another embodiment, the media mast may be configured to be removable from and couplable to the media mast member.

A seating apparatus is disclosed, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the seating apparatus may include a media mast. In another embodiment, the media mast may include a tower including at least one tower section. In another embodiment, the media mast may include a media bracket assembly. In another embodiment, the media bracket assembly may include at least one device mount coupled to the tower. In another embodiment, the at least one device mount may be configured to receive at least one image generation device that is couplable to the at least one device mount. In another embodiment, the media mast may include at least one transportation or support assembly coupled to the tower. In another embodiment, the at least one transportation or support assembly may be configured to provide increased stability and resistance to the media mast against at least one applied force when the media mast is positioned on a ground surface. In another embodiment, the seating apparatus may include a seating assembly. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include a frame. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include a first seat and at least a second seat coupled to the frame. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include at least one leg assembly coupled to the frame via at least one linkage assembly. In another embodiment, the at least one leg assembly is collapsible at the at least one linkage assembly. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include at least one wheel assembly coupled to the frame via at least one pivot assembly. In another embodiment, the frame may be collapsible at the at least one pivot assembly. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may be portable via the at least one wheel assembly. In another embodiment, the seating assembly may include a media mast member coupled to the frame.

A media mast is disclosed, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the media mast may include a tower including at least one tower section. In another embodiment, the media mast may include a media bracket assembly. In another embodiment, the media bracket assembly may include at least one device mount coupled to the tower. In another embodiment, the at least one device mount may be configured to receive at least one image generation device that is couplable to the at least one device mount. In another embodiment, the media bracket assembly may include at least one electronics bracket coupled to the tower. In another embodiment, the at least one electronics bracket may be configured to receive one or more electrical components that are couplable to the at least one electronics bracket. In another embodiment, the one or more electrical components may be configured to power the at least one image generation device. In another embodiment, the media mast may include at least one transportation or support assembly coupled to the tower. In another embodiment, the at least one transportation or support assembly may be configured to provide increased stability and resistance to the media mast against at least one applied force when the media mast is positioned on the ground surface. In another embodiment, the media mast may be configured to be removable from and couplable to a media mast member installed on a seating assembly of a collapsible and portable seating apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not necessarily restrictive of the invention as claimed. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention, and, together with the general description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

FIGS.1A-5Din general illustrate a collapsible and portable seating apparatus, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

In scenarios involving athletic coaching, academic teaching, healthcare instructing, and/or film production, the coaches, educators, instructors, and/or filmmakers may discuss potential strategies with other individuals during a select period (e.g., a time-out, a class, or the like). Often, the individuals may sit in chairs, while the coaches, educators, instructors, and/or filmmakers references material shown on a pad or a board. To reduce the amount of time it takes to set up the chairs and/or the board during the select period, multiple individuals may carry the chairs and/or push the pad or board out for the individuals and the coaches, educators, instructors, and/or filmmakers. This set-up can cost the coaches, educators, instructors, and/or filmmakers and the individuals time during the select period, and may require otherwise needed space to be reserved for the individuals carrying out the chairs to sit (e.g., on the side of the sports court or field).

In addition, in scenarios where spacing and/or time does not allow for a full seating area, the pad or board may still be desirable as a standalone device for athletic coaching, academic teaching, healthcare instructing, and/or film production, although the pad or board is still generally an analog device, and is limited in the information it can provide.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a collapsible and portable seating apparatus usable in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. For example, such environments may include, but are not limited to, indoor and/or outdoor sport events (e.g., basketball games, football games, soccer games, lacrosse games, or the like). By way of another example, such environments may include non-sports contexts such as, but not limited to, educational and academic settings, medical and healthcare settings, film production, or the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are also directed to the seating apparatus including a seating assembly, a removable media mast, and a removable canopy.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are also directed to the processes of folding and/or expanding the seating apparatus, storage of the seating apparatus, removing and/or adding components (e.g., the media mast, the canopy, or the like) to the seating assembly of the seating apparatus.

In one aspect, the collapsible and portable seating apparatus is collapsible and/or foldable from a stowable or transportable form to a deployed or operational form. For example, the seating apparatus may collapse into a stowable or transportable form, which reduces the seating apparatus to a fraction of the original footprint of the seating apparatus and results in less space necessary to stow and/or transport the seating apparatus. In another aspect, the seating apparatus is transformable between the stowable or transportable form and the deployed or operational form via a single user (e.g., coach, player, event holder, event attendee, teacher, student, medical professional, patient, filmmaker, acter, or the like). In another aspect, the collapsible and portable seating apparatus is movable and/or portable from a storage location (e.g., either long-term or short-term) to a location of deploying or operation via the single user. In this regard, the seating apparatus as a whole and/or actuatable components of the seating apparatus may be fabricated from materials which a single user may be able to reasonably act upon to transition between the stowable or transportable form and the deployed or operational form.

In another aspect, the media mast may be installable and removable from the seating apparatus such that the media mast and the seating apparatus may be used together or independently of one another (e.g., used with coupled together, used when uncoupled, one being used while the other remains in storage, or the like). In another aspect, the canopy may be installable and removable from the seating apparatus such that the canopy and the seating apparatus may be used together or independently of one another (e.g., used with coupled together, used when uncoupled, one being used while the other remains in storage, or the like).

Embodiments of the present disclosure are also directed to the media mast that may be operated as a standalone device without the seating assembly and/or the removable canopy. The media mast may be self-contained with all necessary electrical components capable of providing power, generating images, or other electrical-based operations. The media mast may be collapsible into a hand-truck configuration, or supported via one or more support assemblies, and/or may be portable via the one or more transportation assemblies, where the one or more support assemblies and the one or more transportation assemblies may be separate or integrated together.

FIGS.1A-1Dillustrate a collapsible and portable seating apparatus100, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. It is noted herein “collapsible and portable seating apparatus” and variants of the phrase including, but not limited to, “seating apparatus” may be considered equivalent, for purposes of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the seating apparatus100includes a seating assembly102. The seating assembly102may be collapsible between a stowable or transportable position and one or more operational positions. The seating assembly102may be stowed when in the stowable or transportable position. The seating assembly102may be portable when in the stowable or transportable position, and/or when in an operational position of the one or more operational positions.

In another embodiment, the seating apparatus100includes a canopy104. The canopy104may include one or more layers of a material. For example, the material may be collapsible (e.g., a fabric, a sectioned piece of plastic or metal, or the like). By way of another example, the material may be rigid (e.g., a solid piece of plastic or metal, or the like). The canopy104may be removable from and/or couplable to the seating assembly102. The canopy104may be portable. For example, the canopy104may be portable independent of the seating assembly102. By way of another example, the canopy104may be portable when coupled to the seating assembly102. In general, the canopy104may be any shade-producing device known in the art including, but not limited to, a cover, a tarp, an umbrella, or the like.

In another embodiment, the seating apparatus100includes one or more media masts106. The one or more media masts106may be collapsible between a stowable or transportable position and one or more operational positions. At least one dimension of the one or more media masts106may be adjustable when in the stowable or transportable position and/or the one or more operational positions. The one or more media masts106may be removable from and/or couplable to the seating assembly102when in the stowable or transportable position. The one or more media masts106may be portable when in the stowable or transportable position, and/or when in an operational position of the one or more operational positions. For example, the one or more media masts106may be portable independent of the seating assembly102. By way of another example, the one or more media masts106may be portable when coupled to the seating assembly102.

It is noted herein the seating assembly102and the media mast106may each be considered in a stowable or transportable form when the media mast106is coupled to the seating assembly102or when the media mast106is separately stowed or transported from the seating assembly102. In this regard, the media mast106need not be coupled to the seating assembly102for the seating apparatus100to be in a stowable or transportable form.

In addition, it is noted herein the seating assembly102and the media mast106may each be considered in an operational form when the media mast106is coupled to the seating assembly102or when the media mast106is set on a ground surface proximate to the seating assembly102. In this regard, the media mast106need not be coupled to the seating assembly102for the seating apparatus100to be in an operational form.

In another embodiment, the seating apparatus100includes one or more image generation devices108. For example, the one or more image generation devices may include, but are not limited to, one or more displays or display devices, one or more projectors, or the like. For example, the one or more image generation devices108may be coupled to the media mast106either directly or indirectly via brackets, linkage assemblies, frame assemblies, or the like. By way of another example, the one or more image generation devices108may be coupled to the canopy104either directly or indirectly via brackets, interlocking assemblies, linkage assemblies, frame assemblies, fasteners, an adhesive, or the like. By way of another example, the one or more image generation devices108may be coupled to the seating assembly102either directly or indirectly via brackets, interlocking assemblies, linkage assemblies, frame assemblies, fasteners, an adhesive, or the like.

It is noted herein the one or more image generation devices108may be mounted on the seating apparatus100at an angle to (e.g., orientated substantially perpendicular to) the users in the seating assembly102. In addition, it is noted herein the one or more image generation devices108may be mounted on the seating apparatus100such that the one or more image generation devices108are at a selected height from the ground (e.g., a height for comfortable viewing by users sitting on the seating assembly102). In another embodiment, the one or more image generation devices108and/or the one or more components of the seating apparatus100to which the one or more image generation devices108are coupled are articulatable to allow height and/or viewing angle adjustment.

In another embodiment, the one or more image generation devices108include a user interface. The user interface may include one or more display devices. The user interface may include one or more user input devices.

The display device may include any display device known in the art. For example, the display device may include, but is not limited to, a liquid crystal display (LCD). By way of another example, the display device may include, but is not limited to, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) based display. By way of another example, the display device may include, but is not limited to a CRT display. Those skilled in the art should recognize that a variety of display devices may be suitable for implementation in the present invention and the particular choice of display device may depend on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, form factor, cost, and the like. In a general sense, any display device capable of integration with a user input device (e.g., touchscreen, bezel mounted interface, keyboard, mouse, trackpad, wireline/wireless linked tablet, and the like) is suitable for implementation in the seating apparatus100.

The user input device may include any user input device known in the art. For example, the user input device may include, but is not limited to, a touchscreen of a mobile communication device (e.g., tablet, smartphone, ultrabook, etc.) communicatively coupled with the display device, a touchscreen of a display device, a digital pen interactable with a display device, a digital pen interactable with a mobile communication device communicatively coupled with the display device, a keyboard, a keypad, a lever, a knob, a scroll wheel, a track ball, a switch, a dial, a sliding bar, a scroll bar, a slide, a handle, a touch pad, a paddle, a steering wheel, a joystick, a bezel input device or the like. In the case of a touchscreen interface, those skilled in the art should recognize that a large number of touchscreen interfaces may be suitable for implementation in the seating apparatus100. For instance, the display device may be integrated with a touchscreen interface, such as, but not limited to, a capacitive touchscreen, a resistive touchscreen, a surface acoustic based touchscreen, an infrared based touchscreen, or the like. In a general sense, any touchscreen interface capable of integration with the display portion of a display device is suitable for implementation in the present invention. In another embodiment, the user input device may include, but is not limited to, a bezel mounted interface.

The one or more display devices may receive digital marking information via a user interface (e.g., tablet, smartphone, a digital pen, etc.). For example, the one or more display devices may be communicatively coupled/couplable to the user input device. For instance, the one or more display device may be coupled to the user input devices via a wireline and/or wireless data link. In the case of a wireless communication link, the display device and the user input device may be communicatively coupled via any wireless protocol known in the art, such as, but not limited to, Low Energy Blue Tooth, WiFi, and etc.

The one or more image generation devices108may include a markable surface. In general, the markable surface may include, but is not limited to, a whiteboard surface, a chalkboard surface, a glass surface, a paper pad, a digital surface, or the like. The one or more image generation devices108may include a markable surface over the display device of the one or more image generation devices108. For example, the display device may be embedded underneath and visible through the markable surface (e.g., the markable surface is a cleanable glass surface, or the like), such that a user may effectively mark the display device by marking on the markable surface. In this regard, the markable surface may act as an overlay over the display device, allowing a user to make markings on the markable surface with reference to pictorial/video data presented beneath the markable surface on a screen of the display device. By way of another example, the display device may be embedded within the markable surface such that a surface of the display device and the markable surface are substantially flush. By way of another example, the display device may be embedded within the markable surface such that the display device is inset within the markable surface a selected depth. It is noted herein, however, the one or more image generation devices108may not include a display device, such that the one or more image generation devices108include only a markable surface.

In another embodiment, the one or more image generation devices108includes a controller. The controller may include one or more processors and memory, where the one or more processors are configured to execute a set of program instructions stored in memory, where the set of program instructions configured to cause the one or more processors to carry out various steps/functions as described throughout the present disclosure.

The controller may be communicatively coupled to one or more components of the seating apparatus100. For example, the controller may be communicatively coupled, either directly or indirectly, to the user interface (e.g., the display device and/or the user input device), the markable surface, or the like. In another, the controller may be integrated within the user interface (e.g., the display device and/or the user input device), the markable surface, or the like.

The controller may be configured to receive and/or acquire data or information from other systems or sub-systems (e.g., one or more sets of information from the user interface (e.g., the display device and/or the user input device), the markable surface, or the like) of the seating apparatus100by a transmission medium that may include wireline and/or wireless portions. The controller may additionally be configured to transmit data or information (e.g., the output of one or more procedures of the inventive concepts disclosed herein) to one or more systems or sub-systems (e.g., one or more sets of information from the user interface (e.g., the display device and/or the user input device), the markable surface, or the like) of the seating apparatus100by a transmission medium that may include wireline and/or wireless portions. In this regard, the transmission medium may serve as a data link between the controller and the other subsystems of the seating apparatus100. Additionally, the controller may be configured to send data to external systems via a transmission medium (e.g., network connection).

The one or more processors may include any one or more processing elements known in the art. In this sense, the one or more processors may include any microprocessor device configured to execute algorithms and/or program instructions. For example, the one or more processors may consist of a desktop computer, mainframe computer system, workstation, image computer, parallel processor, handheld computer (e.g. tablet, smartphone, or phablet), or other computer system (e.g., networked computer) configured to cause the apparatus100to perform one or more of the various steps described throughout the present disclosure. It should be recognized that the steps described throughout the present disclosure may be carried out by a single computer system or, alternatively, multiple computer systems. In general, the term “processor” may be broadly defined to encompass any device having one or more processing elements, which execute the one or sets of program instructions from a non-transitory memory medium (e.g., the memory). Moreover, different subsystems of the seating apparatus100(e.g., one or more sets of information from the user interface (e.g., the display device and/or the user input device), the markable surface, or the like) may include processor or logic elements suitable for carrying out at least a portion of the steps described throughout the present disclosure. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as a limitation on the present disclosure but merely an illustration.

The memory may include any storage medium known in the art suitable for storing the one or more sets of program instructions executable by the associated one or more processors to carry out the various steps described throughout the present disclosure. For example, the memory may include a non-transitory memory medium. For instance, the memory may include, but is not limited to, a read-only memory, a random access memory, a magnetic or optical memory device (e.g., disk), a magnetic tape, a solid state drive, and the like. The memory may be configured to provide display information to a display device of a user interface and/or the output of the various steps described throughout the present disclosure. The memory may additionally be configured to store user input information from a user input device of the user interface and/or the input from the various steps described throughout the present disclosure. The memory may be housed in a common controller housing with the one or more processors. The memory may, alternatively or in addition, be located remotely with respect to the physical location of the processors and/or the controller. For instance, the one or more processors and/or the controller may access a remote memory (e.g., server), accessible through a network (e.g., internet, intranet and the like).

It is noted herein, where the one or more image generation devices108include a projector that is configured to display content on a backdrop, where the backdrop sits separate from the seating apparatus100or is coupled to the seating apparatus100a select projection distance from the projector. It is noted herein the one or more image generation devices108may be replaced with, or used as, a backdrop for the projector, where the projector sits separate from the seating apparatus100or is coupled to the seating apparatus100a select projection distance from the backdrop.

It is noted herein the one or more image generation devices108may be coupled to one or more servers, allowing for one or more remote or external computing devices to connect with the one or more image generation devices108. For example, the one or more remote or external computing devices may receive from and/or transmit information to the one or more image generation devices108, troubleshoot and/or update the one or more image generation devices108, or the like.

In another embodiment, the seating apparatus100includes one or more electrical components or connections110configured to provide power to the seating apparatus100. For example, the seating apparatus100may be operated via one or more electrical power sources including, but not limited to, battery source, a grid-based electrical power source, or an electrical generator, such as a gas-powered electrical generator, a solar-powered generator, a wind-powered generated, and the like. For instance, the one or more electrical components or connections110may include a power supply (e.g., battery pack) that is chargeable through connection to an external electrical grid, through solar panels onboard (e.g., installed on the seating assembly102, the canopy104, the media mast106, or the like) the seating apparatus100, or the like. In another embodiment, the apparatus100includes components necessary for heating and/or cooling any of the components of the apparatus, including, but not limited to, the seating assembly102or the one or more image generation devices108. For example, the seating assembly102or the one or more image generation devices108may be equipped with one or more heater units (e.g., resistive heating elements) or one or more cooling elements (e.g., Peltier devices, fans, water cooling coils, etc.) By way of another example, the seating apparatus100may include slots within the one or more image generation devices108to provide airflow to components of the one or more image generation devices108.

FIGS.2A-2Iin general illustrate example embodiments of the seating assembly102and the canopy104, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the seating assembly102includes one or more sets200of seats202. For example, a set200may include 1, 2, . . . up to an N number of seats202. For instance, a set200may include three seats202. In addition, the seating assembly102may include up to sixteen seats202separated into defined sets200or dispersed at random locations around the media mast106. Further, the seating assembly102may be modular to allow for the addition and/or removal of seats202. Where the seating assembly102includes multiple sets200of seats202, the multiple sets200may be arranged to leave or create an open space between the seats202. For example, users of the seating assembly202may enter the open space to sit on the seats202and/or step over the seats202.

The one or more seats202may be substantially flat surfaces. The he one or more seats202may include one or more contours and/or depressions, where the contours and/or depressions are configured to conform to a user. In general, the one or more seats202may be of any shape known in the art (e.g., circular, rectangular, or the like). It is noted herein one or more cushions may be coupled to the one or more seats202.

In another embodiment, the seating assembly102includes a frame204. For example, the one or more seats202may be coupled to the frame204via one or more seat posts206. It is noted herein, however, the one or more seats202may be coupled directly to the frame204, such that the one or more seat posts206are not necessary. Where the seating assembly102includes multiple sets200of seats202, the frame204may be designed to leave or create an open space between the seats202. For example, the frame204may be U-shaped, having an open side in which users of the seating assembly202may enter the open space to sit on the seats202. It is noted herein the open space may include one or more additional devices positionable between the sets200of seats202. For example, a table or other substantially flat platform may be positionable between the sets200of seats202. By way of another example, a fire pit, grill, barbecue, or other backyard/patio accessory may be positionable between the sets200of seats202.

In general, the frame204may be fabricated from one or more frame members. Where there are multiple frame members, the multiple frame members may be coupled together via welding or other manufacturing process, fasteners (e.g., screws; nuts, washers, and bolts; hitch and cotter pins; spring-loaded pistons; or the like), brackets, an adhesive, or the like. The one or more frame members of the frame204and/or the one or more seat posts206may include any cross-section known in the art. For example, the one or more frame members of the frame204and/or the one or more seat posts206may include, but are not limited to, a circular cross-section, an elliptic cross-section, a polygonal cross-section (e.g., square, rectangle, triangle, hexagonal, etc.), or the like. By way of another example, the one or more frame members of the frame204and/or the one or more seat posts206may include, but are not limited to, a hollow cross-section or a solid cross-section.

The sets200of seats202may be configured to actuate with the frame204when the seating assembly102transitions between a stowable or transportable form and an operational form. For example, the seats202may have seating plane that is parallel (or substantially parallel) to a horizontal (or substantially horizontal) plane of the frame204, and the seats202may maintain an angle relationship with the frame204as the seating assembly transitions between a stowable or transportable form and an operational form.

The frame204may include one or more wheels positioned within one or more frame members. For example, the one or more wheels may face outward from the frame members to allow the seating assembly102to be transported on its side (e.g., as opposed to being transported in a collapsed, upright form). The one or more wheels may be fixed in place by brackets coupled to the one or more frame members or directly to the one or more frame members. The one or more wheels may be retractable against the one or more frame members or within the one or more frame members when the seating assembly102is in an operational form or in a stowed position. It is noted herein the retractable wheels are not limited to the seating assembly102, but may be incorporated in any standing or seating assembly or device with a sub-frame (e.g., foldable tables, park benches, bleachers, stage risers, or the like).

In another embodiment, the seating assembly102includes one or more leg assemblies208. The one or more leg assemblies208may be coupled to the frame204via a linkage assembly210. The one or more leg assemblies208may be actuatable between a stowable or transportable position and one or more operational positions. For example, the linkage assembly210may include one or more linkages coupled together via a hinge assembly causing the linkages to actuate when the leg assembly208actuates between the one or more operational positions and the stowable or transportable position. By way of another example, the linkage assembly210may include a slide or track, along which a runner or pin may actuate when the leg assembly208actuates between the one or more operational positions and the stowable or transportable position.

In another embodiment, the one or more leg assemblies208include one or more legs212. For example, the linkage assembly210may be directly or indirectly coupled to the one or more legs212.

The one or more leg assemblies208may be configured to actuate relative to the frame204when the seating assembly102transitions between the stowable or transportable form and the operational form. For example, the one or more leg assemblies208may be configured to rotate about an axis and/or translate to fold against or unfold from the frame204when the seating assembly102transitions between the stowable or transportable form and the operational form. The one or more legs212may be configured to come into contact with the frame204. For example, the frame204may sit on at least a portion of the one or more legs212when the seating assembly102is in an operational position. By way of another example, at least a portion of the one or more legs212may be in contact with the frame204when the seating assembly102is in the stowable or transportable position. It is noted herein, however, the one or more legs212may be spaced a select distance from the frame204when the seating assembly102is in the stowable or transportable position.

In addition, it is noted herein the one or more leg assemblies208may include one or more wheels coupled to the one or more legs212. Here, the wheels may be fixed in place by brackets coupled to the one or more legs212, or may be retractable against the one or more legs212or within the one or more legs212when the one or more leg assemblies208are in a stowed position. In this instance, the one or more leg assemblies208may be considered wheel assemblies or wheeled assemblies, for purposes of the present disclosure.

In another embodiment, the seating assembly102includes one or more wheel assemblies214. The one or more wheel assemblies214may include one or more legs216. The one or more wheel assemblies214may include one or more members218coupled to the one or more legs216. The one or more wheel assemblies214may include one or more wheels220coupled to the one or more members218. It is noted herein the one or more wheels220may be fixed in place by the one or more members218, or may be retractable against the one or more members218or within the one or more members218when the frame204is uncoupled from the one or more wheel assemblies214(e.g., as illustrated inFIG.2Dversus2E). In this regard, the seating apparatus100may be transported and/or stowed in a collapsed or an expanded (e.g., uncollapsed) form via the one or more wheel assemblies214with a reduced amount of effort from a user.

The frame204may be configured to actuate relative to the one or more wheel assemblies214when the seating assembly102transitions between the stowable or transportable form and the operational form. For example, the frame204may be configured to rotate about an axis and/or translate to fold against or unfold from the one or more wheel assemblies214when the seating assembly102transitions between the stowable or transportable form and the operational form. For instance, the one or more wheel assemblies214may be removable from and/or coupled to the frame204via a pivot assembly222. The one or more wheel assemblies214may be actuatable between a stowable or transportable position and one or more operational positions. For example, as illustrated inFIG.2C, the pivot assembly222may include one or more primary members224which couple to a leg216of a wheel assembly214and one or more auxiliary members226which couple to the frame204. For instance, the one or more primary members224may pivot about an axis through at least one of the one or more auxiliary members226when the seating assembly102actuates between the one or more operational positions and the stowable or transportable position.

It is noted herein the one or more members218may include a baseplate. In addition, it is noted herein the one or more wheel assemblies214may not include the one or more wheels220. In this instance, the one or more wheel assemblies214may be considered leg assemblies, for purposes of the present disclosure

It is noted herein at leastFIG.2Billustrates a portion of the seating assembly102in an operational position, whileFIGS.2D and2Eillustrates a portion of the seating assembly102in a stowable or transportable position. In addition, it is noted herein at leastFIG.2Dillustrates the one or more wheel assemblies214being coupled to the frame204via the pivot assembly222, while at leastFIG.2Eillustrates the one or more wheel assemblies214being removed from the pivot assembly222.

It is noted herein the seating assembly102may include one or more lock assemblies to keep the seating assembly102in an operational form and/or in a stowable or transportable form.

In another embodiment, the seating assembly102includes one or more canopy support assemblies228. A canopy support assembly228may include one or more canopy supports230. Each of the one or more canopy supports230may be coupled to the frame204via one or more brackets232, within which the one or more canopy supports230may actuate between one or more operational positions and a stowable or transportable position. For example, the seating assembly102may include a first canopy support230coupled to the frame204via a first set of brackets232and a second canopy support230coupled to the frame204via a second set of brackets232. For instance, where the seating assembly102includes multiple sets200of seats202, the one or more canopy supports230may rotate about an axis through the one or more brackets232inward, enclosing the open space between the multiple sets200of seats202. It is noted herein the canopy support230may be enclosed, may be U-shaped, or may be a straight member.

The one or more canopy supports230may include any cross-section known in the art. For example, the one or more canopy supports230may include, but are not limited to, a circular cross-section, an elliptic cross-section, a polygonal cross-section (e.g., square, rectangle, triangle, hexagonal, etc.), or the like. By way of another example, the one or more canopy supports230may include, but are not limited to, a hollow cross-section or a solid cross-section.

In another embodiment, the one or more canopy support assemblies228include one or more canopy linkage assemblies234. For example, a canopy support230may be coupled to the frame204via a canopy linkage assembly234. For instance, the canopy linkage assembly234may include one or more linkages coupled together via a hinge assembly causing the linkages to actuate when the canopy support230actuates between the one or more operational positions and the stowable or transportable position. By way of another example, the canopy linkage assembly234may include a slide or track, along which a runner or pin may actuate when the canopy support230actuates between the one or more operational positions and the stowable or transportable position.

In another embodiment, as illustrated in at leastFIG.2F, the canopy104is removable from and/or couplable to the one or more canopy support assemblies228. For example, the canopy104and the one or more canopy supports230may include paired components of one or more coupling or interlocking assemblies. For instance, the paired components may couple or attached together when the canopy104is added to the seating assembly102and/or may be uncoupled or detached when the canopy104is removed from the seating assembly102.

It is noted herein the seating apparatus100may be configured such that the canopy104is coupled to the one or more canopy support assemblies228may be sloped at an angle relative to a plane defined by the seating surfaces of the seats202, and/or the one or more canopy support assemblies228hold the canopy104at the angle. For example, the slope may be necessary to allow water or other fluid run-off from the canopy104should the seating apparatus100be used in a wet environment, to prevent or reduce damage to the canopy104(e.g., excess weight causing stretching, increased wear, or the like). In addition, it is noted herein the seating apparatus100may be configured such that the canopy104is non-sloped or is parallel (or substantially parallel) relative to a plane defined by the seating surfaces of the seats202.

It is noted herein at leastFIG.2Fillustrates the one or more canopy support assemblies228in an operational position, whileFIG.2Gillustrates the one or more canopy support assemblies228in the stowable or transportable position.

It is noted herein the canopy support assemblies228may include one or more lock assemblies to keep the canopy support assemblies228in an operational form and/or in a stowable or transportable form.

In another embodiment, the seating assembly102includes one or more ground sleeves. The one or more ground sleeves may be telescopic and configured to engage a ground surface by being inserted into the ground surface to provide increased stability and resistance against at least one applied force such as an internal force (e.g., unbalanced weight of components, or the like) or an external force (e.g., wind, a force applied by a user, or the like). For example, the one or more ground sleeves may be inserted directly in the ground surface. By way of another example, the one or more ground sleeves may be inserted indirectly into a receiver embedded in the ground surface. By way of another example, the one or more ground sleeves may be inserted indirectly into a receiver of a flange or plate set on the ground surface). The one or more ground sleeves may be inserted into other components of the seating assembly102. For example, the components of the seating assembly102and the one or more ground sleeves may include holes configured to receive fasteners (e.g., fasteners including, but not limited to, screws; nuts, washers, and bolts; hitch and cotter pins; spring-loaded pistons; or the like), where the fasteners hold the one or more ground sleeves at a select height (or depth) within the components of the seating assembly102. By way of another example, the one or more ground sleeves may be gravity-fed from the components of the seating assembly102(e.g., dropped to a select depth), and may be returned to a stowable or transportable position via a pin return assembly (e.g., a pin coupled to the one or more ground sleeves and slidable within a groove in the components of the seating assembly102).

In one non-limiting example, the seating assembly102may include one or more ground sleeves236installed within the one or more legs212of the one or more leg assemblies210, and configured to telescope or slide into/out of the one or more legs212. In another non-limiting example, the seating assembly102may include one or more ground sleeves238installed within the one or more primary legs216of the one or more wheel assemblies214, and configured to telescope or slide into/out of the one or more primary legs216.

It is noted herein the one or more ground sleeves236and/or the one or more ground sleeves238may include a tip (e.g., a spike, or the like) configured to easier insertion into a ground surface and/or a receiver embedded in the ground surface or set on the ground surface. In addition, it is noted herein the one or more ground sleeves236and/or the one or more ground sleeves238may be configured for being fastened or attached to a portion of a building. For example, a mating assembly or components of a mating assembly may be installed on a wall of a building such that when in the collapsed form the seating apparatus100may be transported to the mating assembly and temporarily attached to the wall of the building via one or more brackets of the mating assembly. Such a mating assembly may be installed in the building during construction of the building or may be retrofitted into an already existing building.

In one embodiment, the seating apparatus100is usable in indoor environments. For example, the seating apparatus100may be used on indoor sports courts or fields. For instance,FIGS.5A-5Dillustrate the seating apparatus100in various positions on a basketball court, which may include the mating assembly or the components of the mating assembly configured to receive the one or more ground sleeves236and/or the one or more ground sleeves238. As illustrated inFIGS.5A-5D, the seating apparatus100may be in a stowable or transportable form on the sideline of a basketball court during gameplay, transported onto the court in the stowable or transportable form during a time-out period, and set up in an operational form for use by the coach and players during the time-out period (e.g., either without or with the canopy104). By way of another example, the apparatus100may be usable in a cafeteria, a gymnasium, a lecture hall, a convention center, a field, indoor stadium, an ice rink, or any indoor location implementing movable and/or removable seating.

In another embodiment, the seating apparatus100is usable in outdoor environments. For example, the seating apparatus100may be used on an on an outdoor field, at an outdoor stadium, on a driveway, on a patio, in a backyard, or other outdoor area. For instance, outdoors gatherings may center around the viewing of a sports event or presentation on a display (e.g., a television or a screen). In this instance, the seating apparatus100may be implemented instead of taking down, setting up, dismantling, and/or re-arranging any indoor chairs, benches, tables, televisions, projector screens, and other necessary components. It is noted herein the collapsibility and portability of the apparatus100may provide a greater amount of ease in protecting any weather-sensitive components from being damaged should the weather change abruptly and/or without notice. By way of another example, the seating apparatus100may be usable on an outdoor sports field (e.g., football field, soccer field, baseball field, lacrosse field, ice rink, or the like), at a park, in a common green space, or any outdoor location implementing movable and/or removable seating.

In another embodiment, the seating assembly102includes one or more media mast members240. For example, the one or more media mast members240may be coupled to the frame204. For instance, a first set200with a first seat202may be coupled to a first section of the frame204, at least a second set200including at least a second seat202may be coupled to a second section of the frame204, the media mast member240may be coupled to a third section of the frame204, and the third section of the frame204couples the first second of the frame204and the second section of the frame204.

In another embodiment, the media mast106is removable from and/or couplable to the one or more media mast members240when in the stowable or transportable position or the operational position.

FIGS.3A-4Fin general illustrate example embodiments of the media mast106, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. It is noted herein the one or more image generation devices108and the electrical components or connections110have been removed fromFIGS.3B-3DandFIGS.4B-4Ffor clarity, but should be understood as being similarly couplable to the media mast106as illustrated inFIGS.3B-3DandFIGS.4B-4Fas illustrated inFIGS.3A and4A, respectively.

In one embodiment, the media mast106includes a tower302. For example, the tower302may include a single tower section. By way of another example, the tower302may include multiple tower sections. For instance, the multiple tower sections may be telescopic. In addition, the multiple tower sections may be couplable together. In general, the tower302may include 1, 2, . . . up to an N number of tower sections. In one non-limiting example, the tower302may include tower sections302a,302b,302c,302d. In this non-limiting example, each of the tower sections302a,302b,302c,302dmay include holes configured to receive fasteners (e.g., fasteners including, but not limited to, screws; nuts, washers, and bolts; hitch and cotter pins; spring-loaded pistons; or the like) to hold the tower sections302a,302b,302c,302din place when the tower302is extended or collapsed.

In another embodiment, the media mast106includes a media bracket assembly304coupled to the tower302. The media bracket assembly304may include a main bracket shaft306coupled to the tower302.

For example, the main bracket shaft306may couple to the tower302or a telescopic tower section of the tower302. For instance, the media bracket assembly304may include one or more holes308which align with one or more holes310in a main support shaft312and/or may align with one or more holes314in the tower302, where the one or more holes308,310,314may be configured to receive fasteners including, but not limited to, screws; nuts, washers, and bolts; hitch and cotter pins; spring-loaded pistons; or the like.

By way of another example, the main bracket shaft306may fit over the tower302or a telescopic tower section of the tower302. For instance, at least a portion of the tower section302dmay be inserted directly in the ground surface and held in place within the flange or receiver338with the fasteners, where the fasteners hold the at least a portion of the tower section302dat a select height (or depth) within the flange or receiver338. In addition, at least a portion of the tower section302dmay be inserted indirectly into a receiver embedded in the ground surface. Further, at least a portion of the tower section302dmay be inserted indirectly into a receiver of a flange or plate set on the ground surface). It is noted herein the at least a portion of the tower section302dmay be gravity-fed from the flange or receiver338(e.g., dropped to a select depth), and may be returned to a stowable or transportable position via a pin return assembly (e.g., a pin coupled to the one or more ground sleeves and slidable within a groove in the components of the flange or receiver338).

By way of another example, the main bracket shaft306may fit within the tower302. By way of another example, the main bracket shaft306may be a telescopic tower section of the tower302.

The media bracket assembly304may include one or more electronics brackets316coupled to the main bracket shaft306. For example, the one or more electrical components or connections110configured to provide power to the seating apparatus100may be coupled to one or more electronics brackets316. For instance, where the media mast106(and the seating apparatus100) may be configured to operate on battery power via battery packs, the battery packs may be configured to couple to the one or more electronics brackets316.

It is noted herein, however, the seating assembly102may include one or more electrical components or connections (e.g., the battery packs), and the seating assembly102and the media mast106may be physically coupled and electrically or communicatively coupled together to transmit data and/or power between the seating assembly102and the media mast106.

The media bracket assembly304may include one or more device mounts318. For example, the one or more device mounts318may be configured to hold the one or more image generation devices108. For instance, the one or more device mounts318may include one or more holes or studs320, and the one or more image generation devices108may be configured to couple to the one or more device mounts318via one or more fasteners (e.g., screws; nuts, washers, and bolts; hitch and cotter pins; spring-loaded pistons; or the like), an adhesive, or the like. In addition, the one or more device mounts318may include one or more channels or grooves322, and the one or more image generation devices108or the one or more projectors may include one or more protrusions (or be coupled to plates with one or more protrusions) corresponding to the one or more channels or grooves322. It is noted herein the one or more device mounts318may include the one or more holes or studs320in addition to or instead of the one or more channels or grooves322. It is noted herein the media bracket assembly304may include a cap or bracket configured to engage with the one or more device mounts318(e.g., via a slide-on assembly, an interlocking assembly, friction or interference fit, fasteners, an adhesive, or the like) to keep the one or more image generation device108coupled to the one or more device mounts318(e.g., remain seated within the one or more channels or grooves322, or the like). In addition, it is noted herein a plate with corresponding protrusions or tabs may be coupled to the one or more image generation devices108where the one or more channels or grooves322are implemented.

It is noted herein the one or more ground sleeves236, the one or more ground sleeves238, and/or the at least a section of the tower302(e.g., at least a portion of the tower section302d) may be employed separately or simultaneously to provide increased stability and resistance against at least one applied force such as an internal force (e.g., unbalanced weight of components, or the like) or an external force (e.g., wind, a force applied by a user, or the like).

In another embodiment, the media mast106includes one or more transportation and/or support assemblies.

In one non-limiting example, as illustrated in at leastFIGS.1A,1B, and3A-3D, the media mast106may include a transportation and support assembly324. The transportation and support assembly324may include the main support shaft312. The transportation and support assembly324may include one or more support frames326coupled to the main support shaft312. The one or more support frames326may include members set at an angle relative to one another, ranging from 0 degrees to 90 degrees. For instance, the multiple members may be set at a 45-degree angle. Where there are multiple support frames326, the multiple support frames326may be set at a select angle relative to one another, ranging from 0 degrees to 180 degrees. For instance, the multiple support frames326may be set at 90 degrees. The one or more support frames326may be coupled to a face of the main support shaft312facing a different direction (e.g., facing opposite) as a direction of a face of the media bracket assembly304to which the one or more device mounts318are coupled. The one or more support frames326may be coupled to a face of the main support shaft312facing a same direction as a direction of a face of the media bracket assembly304to which the one or more electronics brackets316are coupled. In this regard, the one or more support frames326may provide support when the media mast106is tilted back to allow for viewing of a display coupled to the one or more device mounts318, where the media mast106is set on a ground surface, while relying on an additional downward force provided by power, circuitry, or other electrical connections which may be coupled directly or indirectly to the one or more electronics brackets316over the one or more support frames326for additional stability.

The transportation and support assembly324may include one or more wheels328coupled to one or more brackets330, where the one or more brackets330are coupled to the main support shaft312. For example, the one or more wheels328may be directly coupled to the one or more brackets330. By way of another example, the one or more brackets330may be coupled to the one or more brackets330via one or more axles332, where the one or more axles332couple to or pass through the one or more brackets330. It is noted herein the one or more wheels328may be fixed in place by the one or more brackets330and/or axles332, or may be retractable when the media mast106is coupled to the media mast member240.

The one or more wheels328may be positioned on a different side (e.g., an opposite side) of the main support shaft312compared to a side of the media bracket assembly304to which the one or more support frames326are coupled. In this regard, the one or more wheels328may be used to transport the media mast106without concern of the one or more support frames326interfering with motion where the media mast is rolled on a ground surface, as the one or more support frames326are held up in the air when the media mast106is tipped.

In another non-limiting example, as illustrated in at leastFIGS.1A,1B, and3A-3D, the media mast106may include a transportation and support assembly334. The transportation and support assembly334may be instead addition to the transportation and support assembly324(e.g., be positioned below the transportation and support assembly324on the tower302), or may be instead of the transportation and support assembly324.

The transportation and support assembly334may include a baseplate336. For example, the baseplate336may be a single piece of material (e.g., a single solid piece, piece with patterned cuts or voids, piece with unpatterned cuts or voids, or the like). By way of another example, the baseplate336may include multiple pieces which are coupled together via a hinge assembly, interlocking assembly, fasteners, or the like. In this regard, the baseplate336may be folded when not in use for easier storage, and may be unfolded to come into contact with a ground surface when in use to provide increased stability and resistance against at least one applied force such as an internal force (e.g., unbalanced weight of components, or the like) or an external force (e.g., wind, a force applied by a user, or the like).

The transportation and support assembly334may include one or more wheels328coupled to one or more brackets330, where the one or more brackets330are coupled to the baseplate336. For example, the one or more wheels328may be directly coupled to the one or more brackets330. By way of another example, the one or more brackets330may be coupled to the one or more brackets330via one or more axles, where the one or more axles couple to or pass through the one or more brackets330. It is noted herein the one or more wheels328may be fixed in place by the one or more brackets330and/or axles, or may be retractable when the media mast106is coupled to the media mast member240.

The transportation and support assembly334may include a flange or receiver338coupled to the baseplate336. For example, the tower302or the main support shaft312may be configured to couple to the flange or receiver338via one or more fasteners (e.g., screws; nuts, washers, and bolts; hitch and cotter pins; spring-loaded pistons; or the like), an adhesive, or the like.

It is noted herein the flange or receiver338and the baseplate336may include aligned holes, such that at least a portion of the tower302may pass through the flange or receiver338and the baseplate336and configured to engage a ground surface by being inserted into the ground surface to provide increased stability and resistance against at least one applied force such as an internal force (e.g., unbalanced weight of components, or the like) or an external force (e.g., wind, a force applied by a user, or the like). For example, at least a portion of the tower section302dmay be inserted directly in the ground surface and held in place within the flange or receiver338with the fasteners. By way of another example, at least a portion of the tower section302dmay be inserted indirectly into a receiver embedded in the ground surface. By way of another example, at least a portion of the tower section302dmay be inserted indirectly into a receiver of a flange or plate set on the ground surface).

It is noted herein the at least a portion of the tower302may include a tip (e.g., a spike, or the like) configured to easier insertion into a ground surface and/or a receiver embedded in the ground surface or set on the ground surface. In addition, it is noted herein the at least a portion of the tower302may be configured for being fastened or attached to a portion of a building. For example, a mating assembly or components of a mating assembly may be installed on a wall of a building such that when in the collapsed form the seating apparatus100may be transported to the mating assembly and temporarily attached to the wall of the building via one or more brackets of the mating assembly. Such a mating assembly may be installed in the building during construction of the building or may be retrofitted into an already existing building.

The transportation and support assembly334may include one or more hanging brackets340. For example, a display coupled to the one or more device mounts318may be configured to couple to the one or more hanging brackets340(e.g., via linkages, straps, or the like). In this regard, being coupled to the one or more hanging brackets340may allow the display to remain on the one or more device mounts318(e.g., seated within the one or more channels or grooves322) to provide increased stability and resistance against at least one applied force such as an internal force (e.g., unbalanced weight of components, or the like) or an external force (e.g., wind, a force applied by a user, or the like) without the need for fasteners, an adhesive, or the like. In addition, being coupled to the one or more hanging brackets340may allow the display to remain on the one or more device mounts318(e.g., seated within the one or more channels or grooves322) to provide increased stability and resistance against at least one applied force such as an internal force (e.g., unbalanced weight of components, or the like) or an external force (e.g., wind, a force applied by a user, or the like) without the need for a cap or bracket configured to engage with the one or more device mounts318(e.g., via a slide-on assembly, an interlocking assembly, friction or interference fit, fasteners, an adhesive, or the like).

In another non-limiting example, as illustrated in at leastFIGS.1C,1D, and4A-4F, the media mast106may include a support assembly400. The support assembly400may in addition to the transportation and support assembly324and/or the transportation and support assembly334(e.g., be positioned below the transportation and support assembly324on the tower302and/or be positioned above the transportation and support assembly334on the tower302), or may be instead of the transportation and support assembly324and/or the transportation and support assembly334. It is noted herein the support assembly400may be removable from the media mast106and separately stowable or transportable.

The support assembly400may include a support shaft402coupled to the tower302, the media bracket304, and/or the main support shaft312. For example, the support shaft402may couple to the tower302or a telescopic tower section of the tower302. For instance, the support shaft402may include one or more holes404which may align with one or more holes314in the tower302, with the one or more holes310in the main support shaft312, and/or the one or more holes308in the media bracket assembly304, where the one or more holes308,310,314,404may be configured to receive fasteners including, but not limited to, screws; nuts, washers, and bolts; hitch and cotter pins; spring-loaded pistons; or the like. By way of another example, the support shaft402may fit over the tower302or a telescopic tower section of the tower302. By way of another example, the support shaft402may fit within the tower302. By way of another example, the support shaft402may be a telescopic tower section of the tower302.

The support assembly400may include one or more support legs406coupled to the support shaft402. For example, the one or more support legs406may be indirectly coupled to the support shaft402. For instance, the one or more support legs406may be coupled to one or more auxiliary support brackets408, and the one or more auxiliary support brackets408may be coupled to the support shaft402. By way of another example, the one or more support legs406may be directly coupled to the support shaft402.

The one or more support legs406may be configured to store against the tower302and unfold to make contact with a ground surface to provide increased stability and resistance against at least one applied force such as an internal force (e.g., unbalanced weight of components, or the like) or an external force (e.g., wind, a force applied by a user, or the like). For example, where the one or more support legs406are coupled to the tower302via the support shaft402a select distance about the ground surface, the one or more support legs406and the ground surface may form an angle between 0 and 90 degrees when the one or more support legs406are unfolded.

It is noted herein one or more components of the transportation and support assembly324, the transportation and support assembly334, and/or the support assembly400as described throughout the disclosure may be interchangeable, swappable, and/or otherwise configured to work together. In addition, it is noted herein the media mast106may not include any transportation and/or support assemblies (e.g.,324,334,400) coupled to the tower302, such that the tower302may include the media bracket assembly304and/or components of the media bracket assembly304, and may include one or more handles342and/or components for the one or more handles342.

Referring in general toFIGS.3A-4F, in another embodiment the media mast106includes one or more handles342. The handle342may be open (e.g., similar to a hook or cane) or closed (e.g., similar to a D-handle). The handle342may be any two-dimensional shape, and have a select amount of thickness in a third dimension.

In one non-limiting example, the handle342may include one or more holes344configured to couple to the tower302or the media bracket assembly304via one or more fasteners (e.g., screws; nuts, washers, and bolts; hitch and cotter pins; spring-loaded pistons; or the like), an adhesive, or the like. For instance, the handle342may be inserted within the tower302or interface with one or more exterior surfaces of the tower302. In addition, the handle342may be inserted within the media bracket assembly304or interface with one or more exterior surfaces of the media bracket assembly304. Further, the handle342may be inserted within the main support shaft312or interface with one or more exterior surfaces of the main support shaft312. Further, the one or more holes344of the handle342may be aligned with the one or more holes314of the tower302, the one or more holes310of the main support shaft312, and/or the one or more holes308of the media bracket assembly304to receive one or more fasteners. In another non-limiting example, a handle342may be coupled to one or more holes346in the baseplate336of the transportation and support assembly334. In another non-limiting example, a handle342may be cut into the baseplate336of the transportation and support assembly334.

It is noted herein the handle342and the collapsible (e.g., the tower302being collapsible with telescopic sections, the transportation and support assembly400being collapsible, or the like) and portable (e.g., the transportation and support assemblies324,334including wheels) natures of the media mast106results in the media mast106having a compact hand-truck configuration for ease of mobility and use.

In addition, it is noted herein the compact hand-truck configuration allows for the media mast106to be used without the seating assembly102(e.g., in a standalone mode). Further, it is noted herein the compact hand-truck configuration allows for the media mast106to be coupled to assemblies other than the seating assembly102, but instead to any assembly with a component capable of and/or configured to receive the media mast106.

It is noted herein the media mast106may include one or more lock assemblies to keep the media mast106in an operational form and/or in a stowable or transportable form.

Referring in general toFIGS.1A-4F, in another embodiment the seating apparatus100includes one or more accessory mounts or storage compartments410. For example, the one or more accessory mounts or storage compartments410may be coupled to the media mast106. For instance, the one or more accessory mounts or storage compartments410may be coupled to the baseplate336of the transportation and support assembly334. In addition, the one or more accessory mounts or storage compartments410may be coupled to the tower302. By way of another example, the one or more accessory mounts or storage compartments410may be coupled to the seating assembly102.

The one or more accessory mounts or storage compartments410may include, but are not limited to, a storage unit or holster for storing the user input device (e.g., electronic tablet, customized electronic communication device, or the like) coupled to the display device or one or more marking devices for the markable surface (e.g., chalk, whiteboard markers, styluses, or the like) proximate to the display device, a mounting location for the user input device coupled to the display device, or the like.

Although embodiments of the present disclosure illustrate the seating apparatus100and/or components of the seating apparatus100as being transitioned between an operational form and a stowable or transportable form by a user unassisted, it is noted herein the seating apparatus100may include any number of components necessary to mechanically, fluidically (e.g., pneumatically or hydraulically), electrically assist the user in transitioning the seating apparatus100and/or the components of the seating apparatus100between the operational form and the stowable or transportable form. For example, the seating apparatus100may include, but is not limited to, motors, pistons, or the like to assist the user in transitioning the seating apparatus100and/or the components of the seating apparatus100between the operational form and the stowable or transportable form.

It is noted herein components of the seating apparatus100as described throughout the present disclosure may be understood as being mechanically coupled together, fluidically coupled together, electrically coupled together, communicatively coupled together, or the like.

Although embodiments of the present disclosure may be interpreted as actuating the seating apparatus100and/or components of the seating apparatus100via motions in select directions in a select listed order to transition the seating apparatus100and/or components of the seating apparatus100between an operational form and a stowable or transportable form, it is noted herein the motions in directions may occur in any order or simultaneously. In addition, although embodiments of the present disclosure may be interpreted as rotating the seating apparatus100and/or components of the seating apparatus100via the motions in directions in a select rotational direction, it is noted herein the motions in direction may be in either rotational direction. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure but merely an illustration. Further, although embodiments of the present disclosure may be interpreted as rotating the seating apparatus100and/or components of the seating apparatus100via the motions in directions in a select translational direction, it is noted herein the motions in direction may be in any translational direction. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure but merely an illustration.

Although embodiments of the present disclosure may be interpreted as the seating apparatus100and/or components of the seating apparatus100via motions including a single stowable or transportable form, it is noted herein the stowable form and the transportable form may be different. For example, the stowable form may be independent of or an intermediary during the transition between an operational form and a transportable form. By way of another example, the transportable form may be independent of or an intermediary during the transition between an operational form and a stowable form. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure but merely an illustration.

As such, advantages of the present disclosure are directed to a collapsible and portable seating apparatus100usable in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. Advantages of the present disclosure are also directed to the seating apparatus100including a seating assembly102, a removable canopy104, and a removable media mast106. Advantages of the present disclosure are also directed to the processes of folding and/or expanding the seating apparatus100, storage of the seating apparatus100, removing and/or adding components (e.g., the media mast106, the canopy104, or the like) to the seating assembly102of the seating apparatus100.

Advantages of the present disclosure are also directed to the media mast106being operated as a standalone device without the seating assembly and/or the removable canopy. The media mast106may be self-contained with all necessary electrical components or connections110capable of providing power, generating images, or other electrical-based operations. The media mast106is collapsible into a hand-truck configuration, or supported via one or more support assemblies324,334,400, and/or may be portable via the one or more transportation assemblies324,334, where the one or more support assemblies324,334,400and the one or more transportation assemblies324,334may be separate or integrated together.

Those having skill in the art will appreciate that there are various vehicles by which processes and/or systems and/or other technologies described herein can be effected (e.g., hardware, software, and/or firmware), and that the preferred vehicle will vary with the context in which the processes and/or systems and/or other technologies are deployed. For example, if an implementer determines that speed and accuracy are paramount, the implementer may opt for a mainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle; alternatively, if flexibility is paramount, the implementer may opt for a mainly software implementation; or, yet again alternatively, the implementer may opt for some combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware. Hence, there are several possible vehicles by which the processes and/or devices and/or other technologies described herein may be effected, none of which is inherently superior to the other in that any vehicle to be utilized is a choice dependent upon the context in which the vehicle will be deployed and the specific concerns (e.g., speed, flexibility, or predictability) of the implementer, any of which may vary.

The previous description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention as provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. As used herein, directional terms such as “top”, “bottom”, “over”, “under”, “upper”, “upward”, “lower”, “down”, and “downward” are intended to provide relative positions for purposes of description, and are not intended to designate an absolute frame of reference. Various modifications to the described embodiments will be apparent to those with skill in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments shown and described, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features herein disclosed.

All of the methods described herein may include storing results of one or more steps of the method embodiments in memory. The results may include any of the results described herein and may be stored in any manner known in the art. The memory may include any memory described herein or any other suitable storage medium known in the art. After the results have been stored, the results can be accessed in the memory and used by any of the method or system embodiments described herein, formatted for display to a user, used by another software module, method, or system, or the like. Furthermore, the results may be stored “permanently”, “semi-permanently”, temporarily”, or for some period of time. For example, the memory may be random access memory (RAM), and the results may not necessarily persist indefinitely in the memory.