Patent Publication Number: US-10772432-B2

Title: Foot and leg support device for a chair

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This application is a U.S. nationalization under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International Application No. PCT/CA2017/050355 filed Mar. 21, 2017 entitled FOOT AND LEG SUPPORT DEVICE FOR A CHAIR, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/222,360 filed Jul. 28, 2016 entitled FOOT AND LEG SUPPORT DEVICE FOR A CHAIR, all the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference into the below DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Example embodiments generally relate to furniture, for example chairs and footrests. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A chair is a common piece of furniture used alone or with any desk or table, for example in an office or a boardroom. With much time spent sitting on a chair, it is important to create a seating position that supports the body, more specifically the feet and legs, and is ergonomically designed for long term comfort. Without proper support, a user can sustain periods of poor posture leading to stiffness, pain or fatigue. Moreover, confining the feet and legs to one position for an extended time may encourage poor circulation of blood flow in the legs and feet which can cause swollen ankles and blood clots. Overall, an incorrect sitting posture can be a threat to a user&#39;s health. 
     Some footrests are used to enhance support of the feet. However, many of these footrests may not sufficiently provide adequate feet and/or leg comfort for users of varying sizes, including adults of shorter stature and children. 
     One type of device for supporting the feet while in a seated position is with a metal ring or circular apparatus secured either to the post or to the horizontal legs of the chair. However, these circular supports are either fixed such that the footrest is set at a specific height typically at the base of the chair, and/or at a specific diameter, whereby the possible feet positions and leg angles are restrictive and dependent on the size of the user. 
     Additional difficulties with existing systems may be appreciated in view of the Detailed Description of Example Embodiments, herein below. 
     SUMMARY 
     Example embodiments generally relate to furniture, for example chairs and footrests. Example embodiments generally relate to an elevated, adjustable, rotational, and extendable foot and/or leg support device which can be removably mounted to a post of a chair. 
     In an example embodiment, there is provided a foot and/or leg support device for a chair, the chair including a central post having a base, a seat supported by the central post, and a plurality of support legs which branch from the base of the central post. The support device includes: a connector for attachment to the central post of the chair, wherein the connector comprises a circular interior having a radius of curvature substantially equal to a radius of the central post of the chair; a cantilever arm which extends from the connector; a pivot which connects the cantilever arm to the connector, the pivot being configured for vertical pivoting; and a support frame located at a distal end of the cantilever arm for supporting a foot and/or leg of a user. 
     In an example embodiment, there is provided a foot and/or leg support device for a chair, the chair including a central post having a base, a seat supported by the central post and having a front seat edge, and a plurality of support legs which branch from the base of the central post. The support device includes: a clamp for attachment to the central post of the chair, mountable to different diameters of the central post, and installed at a tightness which permits rotational movement around the central post, the clamp being supported against vertical loads by at least one or both of the base of the central post or a second clamp that is tightened around the central post; a cantilever arm which extends from the clamp; and a support frame located at a distal end of the cantilever arm for supporting a foot and/or leg of a user, the cantilever arm being a length wherein at least part of the support frame extends past a vertical plane of the front seat edge of the chair. 
     In an example embodiment, the support device can be installed onto the central post of the chair without disassembling the chair. In an example embodiment, the support device can be in an extended configuration to adjust for various lengths. In an example embodiment, the support device can be mounted at different vertical heights or vertical angle adjustable so that the support frame is at different vertical heights. In an example embodiment, the support device can be retracted and/or pivoted away when not in use. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show example embodiments, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a top-front perspective view of a foot and/or leg support system, including a chair and a foot and/or leg support device, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a detail top view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a detail left side view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 1 , the right side view being substantially a mirror image thereof; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a detail top-front perspective view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a detail bottom-front perspective view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a detail front-side sectional view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 1  in a retracted configuration; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates the view of  FIG. 6  in an extended configuration; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a detail sectional top-front perspective view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a detail side sectional view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 1  in the retracted configuration; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates the view of  FIG. 9  in the extended configuration; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a detail top-front perspective view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a detail top-rear perspective view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates top-front perspective view of a foot and/or leg support system, including a foot and/or leg support device having a flip-over support frame, the support frame shown in a flip-closed configuration, in accordance with another example embodiment; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates the view of  FIG. 13 , the support frame shown in a flip-open configuration; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a perspective view of another foot and/or leg support system, including the foot and/or leg support device attached to another type of chair, in accordance with another example embodiment; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a top-front perspective view of a foot and/or leg support system, including a foot and/or leg support device having vertical angle adjustability, in accordance with another example embodiment; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a detail top-front perspective view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a detail left side view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a detail right side view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a detail top view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a detail bottom view of the foot and/or leg support device shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 22  illustrates a side view of the system shown in  FIG. 16  illustrating an extension configuration; 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a side view of the system shown in  FIG. 16  illustrating a support frame storage and support frame use configuration; 
         FIG. 24  illustrates a side view of the system shown in  FIG. 16  illustrating vertical angle adjustment configurations; 
         FIG. 25A  illustrates a perspective view of the system shown in  FIG. 16  with an accessory tray system, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 25B  illustrates a detail perspective exploded view of the accessory tray system shown in  FIG. 25A ; 
         FIG. 25C  illustrates a detail sectional of the accessory tray system shown in  FIG. 25A ; 
         FIG. 26A  illustrates a perspective view of the system shown in  FIG. 24A  with a foldable accessory tray system, in accordance with an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 26B  a detail perspective exploded view of the accessory tray system shown in  FIG. 26A ; 
         FIG. 27A  illustrates a section view of an example embodiment of the system in  FIG. 16  for attachment to a chair post with thin post and thick collar; 
         FIG. 27B  illustrates a section view of an example embodiment of the system in  FIG. 16  for attachment to a chair post with a stepped radius along its axial length; 
         FIG. 27C  illustrates a section view of an example embodiment of the system in  FIG. 16  for attachment to a chair post with a thick gas strut and a thin collar; 
         FIG. 28  illustrates a top-front perspective view of another foot and/or leg support device, in accordance with another example embodiment; 
         FIG. 29  illustrates a top-front perspective view of another foot and/or leg support device, in accordance with another example embodiment; and 
         FIG. 30  illustrates a top-front perspective view of another foot and/or leg support device, in accordance with another example embodiment. 
     
    
    
     Similar reference numerals may have been used in different figures to denote similar components. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS 
     Example embodiments generally relate to an adjustable, rotational and extendable foot and/or leg support device which can be mounted to a post of a chair. 
     An example embodiment is a foot and/or leg support device for a chair such as a task chair. The chair includes a central post having a base, a seat supported by the central post and having a front seat edge, and a plurality of support legs which branch from the base of the central post. The support device includes a connector for attachment to the central post of the chair, wherein the connector comprises a circular interior having a radius of curvature substantially equal to a radius of the central post of the chair; a cantilever arm which extends from the connector; a pivot which connects the cantilever arm to the connector, the pivot being configured for vertical pivoting; and a support frame located at a distal end of the cantilever arm for supporting a foot and/or leg of a user. 
     Another example embodiment is a foot and/or leg support device for a chair such as a task chair. The chair includes a central post having a base, a seat supported by the central post and having a front seat edge, and a plurality of support legs which branch from the base of the central post. The support device includes: a clamp for attachment to the central post of the chair, mountable to different diameters of the central post, and installed at a tightness which permits rotational movement around the central post, the clamp being supported against vertical loads by at least one or both of the base of the central post or a second clamp that is tightened around the central post; a cantilever arm which extends from the clamp; and a support frame located at a distal end of the cantilever arm for supporting a foot and/or leg of a user, the cantilever arm being a length wherein at least part of the support frame extends past a vertical plane of the front seat edge of the chair. 
     Reference is first made to  FIG. 1 , which illustrates a foot and/or leg support system  100 , including a chair  102  and a foot and/or leg support device  104 , in accordance with an example embodiment. Generally, the support device  104  can be used to support the feet and/or legs of the user when seated on the chair  102 . The support device  104  can be removably clamped to various post sizes of the chair  102 , and at various heights, for example. Further, for example, the support device  104  may be used by users of varying sizes and in different positions, for example providing flexibility of use and comfort to the general user. In some example embodiments, users of shorter stature or children may especially benefit. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , in an example embodiment, the chair  102  can be a task chair or office chair. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the chair  102  includes a base  110 , a central post  112 , and a chair body  114 . The support device  104  can be removably clamped to the post  112  without disassembling the chair  102 , for example. In some example embodiments, the system  100  is adjustable in that it may be used for different sizes of the central post  112 , and may be adjusted horizontally and vertically. In an example embodiment, an extension mechanism can be used to provide horizontal extension of the support device  104 , as described in greater detail herein. In an example embodiment, a spacer  130  can be positioned between the support device  104  and the base  110 , to provide vertical adjustment. The spacer  130  can also sometimes be referred to as a bumper. 
     Referring to the chair  102 , the base  110  includes a plurality of support legs  116  (five shown) which branch out from a connection point at the base  110  of the central post  112 . Each support leg  116  can include a respective wheel  118 . Each wheel  118  may, for example, be mounted to the corresponding support leg  116  using castors, axles, pivots, etc., as applicable. The distal end of the support legs  116  can collectively define a circumference or circumferential reference. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the chair body  114  can include a seat  120  which is supported by the central post  112 . The seat  120  has a front seat edge  122 . The chair body  114  can also include, for example, arm rests  124  and a seat back  126 . In some examples, the chair body  114  can comprise a cushion or other ergonomic materials such as nylon mesh. Other types of chairs may be used in other example embodiments, depending on the particular application. In an example embodiment, the chair  102  can include a seat  120  but no back or armrests, for example. In an example embodiment, the chair  102  can include more or less than five support legs  116 . In an example embodiment, the chair  102  includes support legs  116  without wheels. 
     Reference is now made to  FIGS. 1 to 12 , which illustrate the support device  104  in greater detail. In  FIGS. 2 to 12 , aspects of the chair  102  such as the chair body  114  are not illustrated for clarity and for convenience of illustration. The support device  104  includes a connector such as a clamp  140  for clamping onto the central post  112 , a cantilever arm  142  having a proximal end connected to the clamp  140 , and a support frame  144  mounted to a distal end of the arm  142 . The support frame  144  is for supporting the legs and/or feet of the user when sitting on the chair  102 , for example. 
     The cantilever arm  142  is a cantilever, which is understood in the art as being attached at only the proximal end of the arm  142  to the clamp  140  and mounted to post  112 , and the distal end of the arm  142  is freely protruding. In an example embodiment, only exactly one cantilever arm  142  is used. As shown, the cantilever arm  142  can have a tubular cross-section. Other example cross-sections of the arm  142  can include, for example, truss (triangle) cross-section, rectangular cross-section, oval cross-section, hourglass cross-section, or I-beam cross-section. 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 8 , which illustrates the clamp  140  of the support device  104  in greater detail, in accordance with an example embodiment. The clamp  140  has flexibility in use in that it can be used to clamp onto various sizes of the central post  112 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , the clamp  140  includes a first clamp part  146  and a second clamp part  148 . The proximal end of the arm  142  is mounted to the second clamp part  148 . Each clamp part  146 ,  148  comprises an inner radius which is shaped as an arc in order to fit around the central post  112  of the chair  102 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , in an example embodiment, the clamp parts  146 ,  148  are each shaped as an arc of less than 180 degrees and having a radius of curvature of a same circle. In an example embodiment, the arcs can each be on or about 120 degrees. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 8 , the clamp  140  further includes a first fastener such as a first bolt  150  for connecting the first clamp part  146  and the second clamp part  148  at one side of the central post  112 . The clamp  140  includes a second fastener such as a second bolt  152  for connecting the first clamp part  146  and the second clamp part  148  at an opposite side of the central post  112 . Each bolt  150 ,  152  includes a head shaped for receiving a rotary tool such as a Phillips head, Allen key or other suitable shapes. Each bolt  150 ,  152  includes a shaft body that includes screw threads. In an example embodiment, a respective washer (not shown) can be used at the head of each bolt  150 ,  152  to maintain the tightness of the bolt  150 ,  152 . 
     The first clamp part  146  can define channels  154 ,  156  for receiving of the respective bolts  150 ,  152 . The channels  154 ,  156  may be smooth in some example embodiments, or may contain screw threads in other example embodiments. 
     The second clamp part  148  can define screw holes  158 ,  160  for receiving of the respective bolts  150 ,  152 . The screw holes  158 ,  160  contain screw threads to receive the shaft body of the respective bolts  150 ,  152 . For example, a separate nut may not be required for the bolts  150 ,  152 , in such an embodiment. 
     In an example embodiment, the clamp  140  is flexible in use in that it can be used to clamp onto various sizes of the central post  112 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 8 , the first bolt  150  and the second bolt  152  are exposed when the clamp is securely fastened to the central post  112  of the radius shown. For a central post  112  of a smaller radius, the bolts  150 ,  152  can be tightened so that the first and second clamp parts  146 ,  148  are closer to each other. For even smaller central posts  112 , the first and second clamp parts  146 ,  148  can be tightened until such position that the first and second clamp parts  146 ,  148  mate and the bolts  150 ,  152  are no longer exposed, representing a minimum possible radius of the central post  112 . Similarly, the bolts  150 ,  152  can be at a looser setting when clamping onto a central post  112  having a larger radius. Further, some chairs  102  can have different radiuses along the central post  112 , for example for some chairs  102  that have an adjustable height. 
     In an example embodiment, the radius of curvature of the first and second clamp parts  146 ,  148  is at least twice a radius of the central post  112 , for example. 
     The tightness of the clamp  140  can be adjusted based on the particular application. For example, full tightness of the clamp  140  can be implemented when it is desired that the clamp  140  does not rotate around the central post  112 . In an example embodiment, less than full tightness can be implemented so that the clamp  140 , and consequently the support frame  144 , can be rotated about the central post  112  when installed, while still suitably tight enough to support load from the feet and/or legs of the user. For example, the support frame  144  can be rotated away to a rear position when not in use, or into a frontal position when desired to be used. The clamp  140  can be adjusted vertically based on use of one or more spacer(s)  130 . The clamp  140  can have its vertical load supported by the one or more spacer(s)  130 , which can be positioned just below the clamp  140  and wherein the one or more spacer(s)  130  are secured as tight as possible, while the clamp  140  can be slightly looser than full tightness to support the weight of the user on the support frame  144  while still permitting  360  rotational horizontal movement, when installed. 
     In an example embodiment, the clamp  140  is maintained in relative vertical placement on the central post  112  by placing directly on top of the base  110  of the chair. For example, the base  110  of the chair  102  may be sufficiently high to provide vertical height and support against the vertical load of the clamp  140 . In an example embodiment, some chairs  102  can have different radiuses along the central post  112 , and the clamp  140  can be installed on one of the smaller radiuses and vertically supported by one of the larger radiuses located just below where the clamp  140  is attached. 
     In an example embodiment, an interior facing of the clamp  140  can include a friction reducing coating or material to facilitate the  360  rotational movement when installed. 
     The support frame  144  will now be described in greater detail, as best shown in  FIGS. 2 to 5 and 11 to 12 . The support frame  144  provides a structure for resting of the legs and/or feet of the user when sitting on the chair  102 , for example. As shown, the support frame  144  comprises a perimeter of a shape, such as a rounded rectangular. The perimeter is therefore open or unfilled. The perimeter can include frame members  162 ,  164 ,  166 ,  168  which are tubes or rods, and in an example embodiment, each being 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches) in diameter. One frame member  162  is mounted to the cantilever arm  142 . 
     In an example embodiment, the perimeter of the support frame  144  can have a transverse width of about 28 centimeters (11 inches), e.g. for the length of frame members  162 ,  166 . In an example embodiment, the support frame  144  can have a length of about 20.3 centimeters (8 inches), e.g. for the length of frame members  164 ,  168 . In an example embodiment, the cantilever arm  142  can have a length that is on or about 25.4 centimeters (10 inches) in the retracted configuration and 38.1 cm (15 inches) in extended configuration. 
     The perimeter of the support frame  144  defines an aperture  170  which is the entire space within the perimeter. For example, this requires less material to be used. As well, the aperture  170  can be used for receiving one or both shoes or a part of the shoe such as heels or high-heels. Any part of the support frame  144  can be used as a foot rest for shorter individuals, while the distal frame member  166  can be used as a foot rest for relatively taller individuals. The distal frame member  166  may be used as a leg rest, approximately around the ankle, calf or hamstring area when the individual&#39;s legs are extended. 
     In another example embodiment, not shown, the frame members  162 ,  164 ,  166 ,  168  are shaped as flat strips, and in an example embodiment, each being about 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches) in width and about 1.9 centimeters (0.75) inches thick, and having the same lengths as shown in  FIG. 2 . In another example embodiment, the frame members  162 ,  164 ,  166 ,  168  have a tubular cross-section. Other shapes of cross-section may be used in other example embodiments. 
     In another example embodiment, the perimeter of the support frame  144  is filled in or solid, without the aperture  170 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , in an example embodiment, an extension mechanism can be used to further extend the support frame  144  from the clamp  140  to an extended configuration, or can be retracted to a retracted configuration. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , in an example embodiment, in the retracted configuration at least part of the support frame  144  extends past a vertical plane of the front seat edge  122  ( FIG. 1 ) of the seat  120  of the chair  102 . Therefore, in all positions including the retracted configuration and the extended configuration, a distal edge of the support frame  144  (e.g. frame member  166 ) can be horizontally positioned past the vertical plane of the front seat edge  122  ( FIG. 1 ). As well, in the extended configuration, the distal edge of the support frame  144  extends past a vertical plane of the circumference defined by distal ends of the plurality of support legs  116  ( FIG. 3 ). 
     For example, in the retracted configuration, a distal edge of the support frame  144  (e.g. frame member  166 ) can be horizontally positioned past the vertical plane of the front seat edge  122  ( FIG. 1 ) by about 7.62 centimeters (3 inches). For example, in the extended configuration, a distal edge of the support frame  144  (e.g. frame member  166 ) can be horizontally positioned past the vertical plane of the front seat edge  122  ( FIG. 1 ) by about 17.8 centimeters (7 inches). The support legs  116  can provide counter support against the moment of intertia when user weight is applied to the frame  144 . 
     Reference is now made to  FIGS. 5 to 8 , which illustrate the extension mechanism in greater detail. As shown, the cantilever arm  142  includes a first telescopic member  172  and a second telescopic member  174 . The first telescopic member  172  is nested within the second telescopic member  174 . The first telescopic member  172  is slideable with respect to the second telescopic member  174  to adjust the support frame  144  to the extended configuration and to the retracted configuration. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6 to 8 , the second telescopic member  174  defines one or more adjustment holes  176 ,  178  (two shown in an example embodiment). An adjustment fastener, such as a spring-loaded plunger  180  can be inserted into the applicable adjustment holes  176 ,  178  when aligned. Insertion of the spring-loaded plunger  180  into the adjustment hole  176  results in the support frame  144  being maintained in the retracted configuration, while insertion of the spring-loaded plunger  180  into the other adjustment hole  178  results in the support frame  144  being maintained in the extended configuration. Pulling of the spring-loaded plunger  180  allows the spring-loaded plunger  180  to be removed from the applicable adjustment holes  176 ,  178  and the telescopic members  172 ,  174  can therefore be slid with respect to each other. As well, the second telescopic member  174 , along with the support frame  144 , can be entirely pulled out from the first telescopic member  172 , in an example embodiment. As can be appreciated, less or more than two adjustment holes may be provided on either of the telescopic members  172 ,  174  to provide more or less horizontal adjustment positions. 
     In an example embodiment, not shown, a spring-loaded push button is used as the adjustment fastener, and can include a resilient mount or a bias member, such as a V-shaped metal spring or a coil spring. For example, the spring-loaded push button is mounted to the telescopic member  172 , while the other telescopic member can have one or more adjustment holes to position particular lengths. The spring-loaded push button protrudes to engage one of the adjustment holes. The spring-loaded push button can be depressed so that the telescopic members  172 ,  174  can be slid with respect to each other. Additional adjustment fasteners may also be used, in an example embodiment. Other example types of adjustments fasteners include screws, bolts and pins. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , in an example embodiment, the spacer  130  is also mounted to the central post  112  to assist with vertical adjustment of the clamp  140 . In an example embodiment, the spacer  130  is mounted directly on top of the base  110 . In such an example, the spacer  130  is used to distribute downward force and weight from the support device  104  to the base  110  of the chair  102 . Accordingly, clamping or pinching forces of the clamp  140  are not solely relied upon to maintain a position of the support device  104  onto the central post  112 . Further, the face-to-face interaction between the spacer  130 , the clamp  140 , and the base  110  provides additional force transfer against the moment forces applied to the support device  104 . 
     In some example embodiments, more than one of the spacers  130  can be used collectively onto the central post  112 , to mount the support device  104  at higher specific heights, for example. Further, spacers  130  of different heights can be provided, and one or more can be selected to create the desired specific height. 
     In an example embodiment, there is provided a kit of parts containing components of the system(s) described herein, and suitable instructions for assembly thereof. In an example embodiment, the kit of parts can be provided which includes multiple spacers  130  of the same or different heights. In an example embodiment, the kit of parts can include two or more pairs of bolts  152 ,  156 , such as one longer pair of bolts and one shorter pair of bolts. For example, the shorter pair of bolts can be used for installing onto smaller diameters of the central post  112 , while the longer pair of bolts can be used for installing onto standard or larger diameters of the central post  112 , 
     Additional details of the spacer  130  will now be described, as best shown in  FIG. 3 . In an example embodiment, the spacer  130  itself includes a clamp  131  for attachment to the central post  112 . In an example embodiment, the clamp  131  of the spacer  130  can include components which are substantially the same as the clamp  140 , for example comprising two clamp parts shaped as of arcs, and two bolts, and two washers (not shown). In an example embodiment, the clamp  131  is installed at full tightness in order to provide vertical load support for the support device  104 . 
     The height of the clamp  131  or body of the spacer  130  can have a specific height to define the specific desired distance between the support legs  116  and the clamp  140 . In an example embodiment, the height of the clamp  131  for the spacer  130  is approximately the same as the height of the clamp  140  of the support device  104 . 
     An example method of use includes selecting, from a plurality of possible spacers  130 , one or more spacers  130  which collectively provide a desired height along the central post  112  for vertically positioning of the support device  104 . The selected spacers  130  can then be clamped onto the central post  112 . 
     In another embodiment, for example as described herein with respect to at least  FIG. 16 , the arcs  146 ,  148  of the clamp  140  can each be on or about 180 degrees. This can be a specific configuration which is designed for specific radius sizes of the post  112  of the chair  102 , or slightly smaller than such radius sizes which still permits full rotation when installed. 
     An example method of use of the clamp  140  includes installing the clamp  140  to, or removing the clamp  140  from, the post  112 . The clamp  140  can be mounted onto the central post  112 , just above the spacer  130 . For example, the base  110  or the chair body  114  would not need to be disassembled from the chair  102  when mounting the clamp  140 . The support frame  144  can then be extended or retracted with respect to the clamp  140  to a desired horizontal position. 
     Reference is now made to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , which illustrate another foot and/or leg support system  200 , in accordance with another example embodiment. The example embodiment shown differs from the system  100  of  FIG. 1  in that another extension mechanism is illustrated, having a flip-over support frame  202  rather than merely the support frame  144 . The remaining components can be the same or similar than that described with respect to the system  100 , and similar reference numbers may be used for convenience of reference.  FIG. 13  illustrates the flip-over support frame  202  in a flip-closed retracted configuration, and  FIG. 14  illustrates the flip-over support frame  202  in a flip-open extended configuration. This provides another example extension mechanism, in accordance with an example embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , in an example embodiment, the support frame  202  comprises a first support frame part  204  and a second support frame part  206  which can be of substantially same shape as the first support frame part  204 . As shown, the first and second support frame parts  204 ,  206  each comprise an open perimeter of a shape, such as a rounded rectangular. In an example embodiment, the first frame part  204  is rigidly mounted to the distal end of the cantilever arm  142 , and the second frame part  206  is pivotally connected to the first frame part  204 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , in an example embodiment, at least one pivot or hinge (two shown)  208  connects the first support frame part  204  and the second support frame part  206  at the distal end, to adjust the support frame to the extended configuration. The range of rotation of the hinges  208  can be zero degrees in the flip-closed configuration and can be 180 degrees in the flip-closed configuration. The hinges  208  can themselves have 180 degree limitations in an example embodiment. In other example embodiments, a thickness of the first and second support frame parts  204 ,  206  or other stops can be used to limit the pivoting to approximately 180 degrees. In other example embodiments, the second frame part  206  is limited to rotate to a slightly raised position, such as 160 degrees or 170 degrees. In other example embodiments, the second frame part  206  is configured to stop rotation at a slightly downward sloped position, such as 190 degrees or 200 degrees from the starting position. 
     In operation, the flip-over support frame  202  can be in the flip-closed retracted configuration for shorter individuals, and can be in the flip-open extended configuration for taller individuals. Further horizontal adjustment can be combined with the telescopic features of the cantilever arm  142  described above, in accordance with an example embodiment. 
     As would be apparent, in some example embodiments, the support device  104  can be used to securely mount the support device  104  to varying sizes of central posts  112  of the chair  102 , can have a pivoting cantilever arm  142 , can be extended to permit horizontal adjustability, and can include one or more spacers to provide varying adjustable vertical positions on the central post  112  for customized support. In an example embodiment, the support device can be used to support correct posture and/or for customized comfort to a user in a seated position. 
     The support device  104  allows the user to prop the feet up and to rest them on a support so as to encourage the body to adjust to an upright seated position. This allows for the legs to be at approximately 90 degree angle to the hips and the knees to be at approximately 90 to 110 degree angle to the legs with feet in front. With the standard desk or table height, users who are of shorter stature and who require the seat of a chair to be elevated can use the support device  104  to maintain the correct posture. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates a perspective view of another foot and/or leg support system  300 , illustrating the foot and/or leg support device  104  attached to another type of chair  302 , in accordance with another example embodiment. The chair  302  is a type that has a central post  304  and a plurality of support legs  306  which are attached at a relatively higher position to the central post  304 , closer to the seat of the chair  302 . Therefore, the central post  304  of the chair  302  extends vertically below the attachment point or base of the support legs  306 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 15 , in an example embodiment, the clamp  140  is mounted on the central post  304  under the connection point at the base and protrudes between two of the support legs  306 . 
     The spacer  130  and the clamp  131  are positioned just below the support device  104 , which provides support against vertical loads that are effected by the user onto the support device  104 . 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 16 , which illustrates another example foot and/or leg support system  400 , in accordance with another example embodiment. The system  400  includes a foot and/or leg support device  404  for detachable connection to the chair  102 . Generally, in example embodiments, the support device  404  can be configured with vertical angle adjustability and/or has clamp dimensions that generally match the dimensions of the post  112  of the chair  102 . 
     Reference is now made to  FIGS. 16 to 21 , which illustrate the support device  404  in greater detail. The support device  404  includes a connector comprising a clamp  440  for clamping onto the central post  112 , a cantilever arm  442  having a proximal end connected to the clamp  440 , and a support frame  444  mounted to a distal end of the arm  442 . The support frame  444  is for supporting the legs and/or feet of the user when sitting on the chair  102 , for example. In an example embodiment, only exactly one cantilever arm  442  is used. 
     The clamp  440  can be angularly adjusted vertically after installation, in an example embodiment. A first pivot such as a hinge  490  connects the cantilever arm  442  with the  440  clamp. The hinge  490  can be a rod and aperture type of hinge. In an example embodiment, the hinge  490  provides pivoting in only vertical angles, for example, thereby permitting the cantilever arm  442  to correspondingly pivot only vertically. A lock  492  can be used to variably tighten and loosen operation of the hinge  490 . The lock  492  can comprise a manually adjustable knob, as shown. In another example embodiment, the lock  492  can comprise a head shaped to receive a corresponding tool head shape, for example. In another example embodiment, the lock  492  has binary mode of operation, being solely locked and unlocked. 
     A second pivot such as second hinge  494  connects the cantilever arm  442  to the support frame  444 . The second hinge  494  can be a rod and aperture type of hinge. The hinge  494  provides pivoting in only vertical angles, in an example embodiment, thereby permitting the support frame  444  to correspondingly pivot vertically. A lock  496  can be used to variably tighten and loosen operation of the second hinge  494 . In some example embodiments, the lock  496  can comprise a knob, a handle, or have a head shaped to receive a corresponding tool head shape. In another example embodiment, the lock  496  has binary mode of operation, being locked and unlocked. 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 24 , which illustrates the vertical angle adjustment feature of the support device  404 . As shown in  FIG. 24 , the first hinge  490  can be adjusted so that the cantilever arm  442  is set at the desired vertical angle. This, for example, can allow the device  404  to work with variable chair geometry, and also allow the user to adjust to their required level of comfort. As well, the second hinge  494  can be adjusted so that the support frame  444  is at the desired angle. For example, the support frame  444  can be adjusted so that it is always generally horizontal and parallel to the ground, as shown, no matter what is the vertical angle of the cantilever arm  442 . 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 23 , which illustrates a storage or retraction feature of the support frame  444  of the support device  404 . As shown in  FIG. 23 , the second hinge  494  can be pivoted so that the support frame  444  can be stored and retracted. This pivoting feature allows the support frame  444  to be folded up when not in use, for example. In some example embodiments, the support frame  444  can be folded back nearly or all the way back to the cantilever arm  442 . Locks or stops can be used to define the specific stop angle. When desired to be used, the support frame  444  can be folded out to the original extended configuration by pivoting about the second hinge  494 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 17 , the clamp  440  includes a first clamp part  446  and a second clamp part  448 . The proximal end of the arm  442  is mounted to the second clamp part  448  by way of the hinge  490 . Each clamp part  446 ,  448  has an inner arc angle measure of on or about 180 degrees (e.g. semi-circles) which is shaped as an arc in order to snugly fit around the central post  112  of the chair  102 . The central post  112  has a radius which is the same or about the same as the inner radius (radius of curvature) of each clamp part  446 ,  448 . When assembled, the clamp parts  446 ,  448  collectively define an interior cylindrical surface for surrounding the central post  112 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 17 , the clamp  440  further includes a first fastener such as a first bolt (not shown) for connecting the first clamp part  446  and the second clamp part  448  at one side of the central post  112 . The clamp  440  includes a second fastener such as a second bolt (not shown) for connecting the first clamp part  446  and the second clamp part  448  at an opposite side of the central post  112 . 
     For example, the clamp  440 , and consequently the support frame  444 , can be rotated horizontally about the central post  112  when installed. For example, when installed onto the central post  112 , the support frame  444  can be rotated away to a rear position when not in use, or into a frontal position when desired to be used. In an example embodiment, an interior facing of the clamp  440  can include a friction reducing coating or material to facilitate the  360  rotational horizontal movement when installed. 
     In example embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 16 , the clamp  440  can be vertically supported by the base  110  of the chair  102 . In an example embodiment, the clamp  440  can be vertically supported by one or more of the spacers  130  (e.g.,  FIG. 1 ), as described herein. 
     The support frame  444  will now be described in greater detail, as shown in  FIG. 17 . The support frame  444  provides a structure for resting of the legs and/or feet of the user when sitting on the chair  102 , for example. As shown, the support frame  444  comprises a perimeter of a shape, such as a rounded trapezoid. The perimeter is therefore open or unfilled. The perimeter can include frame members  462 ,  464 ,  466 ,  468  which are flat strips, tubes, rods, or other cross-sectional shapes. One frame member  462  is mounted to the cantilever arm  442  by way of hinge  494 . In an example embodiment, the frame member  466  can be on or about 27.94 cm (11 inches) in length, the frame member  462  can be on or about 22.86 cm (9 inches) in length, and frame members  464 ,  468  can be on or about 20.3 centimeters (8 inches). 
     The perimeter of the support frame  444  defines an aperture  470  which is the entire space within the perimeter. For example, this requires less material to be used. In another example embodiment, the perimeter of the support frame  444  is filled in or solid, without the aperture  470 . 
       FIGS. 25A, 25B and 25C  illustrate an example accessory tray system  500  for the foot and/or leg support system  400 , in accordance with an example embodiment. In an example embodiment, the accessory tray system  500  can be used to fill in the aperture  470  of the support frame  444 . The accessory tray system  500  can be assembled as one piece at the manufacturer, in an example embodiment, for delivery to the customer. As shown, the accessory tray system  500  includes a base tray  502  connected to a swatch plate  504 . The base tray  502  may include an attachment mechanism or a fastener, e.g., may be integrally shaped to comprise at least one snap-fit fastener  506  (two in this example) which corresponds to the perimeter shape of the support frame  444 . The accessory tray system  500  fills the unfilled perimeter of the support frame  444 . The base tray  502  can be installed without tools, for example, and can snap onto the support frame  444 . The base tray  502  can be formed of resilient material, such as plastic, in order for the snap-fit fastener  506  to mount onto the support frame  444 . The swatch plate  504  can allow for different colors, designs, materials and/or finishes to be integrated onto the support frame  444  of the support device  404 . The swatch plate  504  can comprise plastic material in an example embodiment. In an example embodiment, the swatch plate  504  can include surface ridges and/or surface bumps to facilitate foot circulation. The swatch plate  504  can comprise rubber material in an example embodiment, for example to increase friction and reduce slippage. In an example embodiment, the swatch plate  504  is not required and the base tray  502  can be standalone, and can have various colors and/or designs. 
       FIGS. 26A and 26B  illustrate another example accessory tray system  600  for the foot and/or leg support system  400 , and which includes an extension mechanism, in accordance with another example embodiment. The accessory tray system  600  includes first tray part  602  and second tray part  604 . The accessory tray system  600  can be assembled as one piece at the manufacturer, in an example embodiment. As shown, the second tray part  604  can be oversized in terms of perimeter dimension when compared to the perimeter shape of the support frame  444 . The first tray part  602  can be of similar dimension to the second tray part  604 , or in other example embodiments can have different perimeter dimension size (not shown). The second tray part  604  may be integrally shaped to comprise at least one snap-fit fastener  608  (two in this example) which connects to the support frame  444 . The accessory tray system  600  fills the unfilled perimeter or aperture  470  of the support frame  444 . The second tray part  604  can be installed onto the support frame  444  without tools, and can snap onto the support frame  444 . The accessory tray system  600  can be formed of resilient material, such as plastic, in order for the snap-fit fastener  608  to mount onto the support frame  444 . 
     A pivot such as a hinge  606  connects the first tray part  602  to the second tray part  604 , which allows pivoting there between. For example, the first tray part  602  can be flipped open (stopping on or about 180 degrees) when it is desired to extend the accessory tray system  600  to an extended position. When it is desired to be in the retracted position, the first tray part  602  can be flipped closed, so that a face of the first tray part  602  engages the second tray part  604 . The polygonal dimensions of the first tray part  602  and the second tray part  604  can be approximately the same, in an example embodiment. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 21 and 22 , in an example embodiment, an extension mechanism can be used to further extend the support frame  444  from the clamp  440  to an extended configuration, or can be retracted to a retracted configuration. 
     Referring to  FIG. 22 , in an example embodiment, in the retracted configuration at least part of the support frame  444  extends past a vertical plane of the front seat edge  122  of the seat  120  of the chair  102 . In an example embodiment, the cantilever arm  442  can have a length that is on or about 25.4 centimeters (10 inches) in the retracted configuration and 38.1 cm (15 inches) in extended configuration. Therefore, in some example embodiments, in all positions including the retracted configuration and the extended configuration, a distal edge of the support frame  444  (e.g. frame member  466 ) can be horizontally positioned past the vertical plane of the front seat edge  122 . As well, in the extended configuration, the distal edge of the support frame  444  extends past a vertical plane of the circumference defined by distal ends of the plurality of support legs  116 . The support legs  116  can provide counter support against the moment of intertia when user weight is applied to the frame  444 . In other example embodiments, in the retracted configuration, cantilever arm  442  is of a length such that the distal edge of the support frame  444  is positioned behind or before the front seat edge  122  of the task chair  102 . 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 21 and 22 , as shown, the cantilever arm  442  includes a first telescopic member  472  and a second telescopic member  474 . The second telescopic member  474  is nested within the first telescopic member  472 . The second telescopic member  474  is slideable with respect to the first telescopic member  472  to adjust the support frame  444  to the extended configuration and to the retracted configuration. In another example embodiment, the first telescopic member  472  is nested within the telescopic member  474 . In such an embodiment, the first telescopic member  472  can have a solid core. This solid core can allow further strength against load moments of inertia from the user&#39;s weight effected onto the support frame  444 , for example. 
     Referring to  FIG. 21 , the first telescopic member and/or the second telescopic member  474  define one or more adjustment holes  476  (three shown in an example embodiment). An adjustment fastener, such as a spring-loaded plunger (not shown) can be inserted into the applicable adjustment holes  476  when aligned. Insertion of the spring-loaded plunger into the applicable adjustment hole  476  results in the support frame  444  being maintained in the retracted configuration or the extended configuration, as applicable. As can be appreciated, less or more than three adjustment holes may be provided on either of the telescopic members  472 ,  474  to provide more or less horizontal adjustment positions. 
     In another example embodiment, not shown, a spring-loaded push button is used as the adjustment fastener. Additional adjustment fasteners may also be used, in an example embodiment. Other example types of adjustments fasteners include screws, bolts and pins. 
       FIGS. 27A, 27B and 27C  illustrate a section view of different example embodiments of clamps of the support device  404  for attachment to different central posts  112  of different task chairs  102 .  FIG. 27A  illustrates the central post  112   a  with thin post and thick collar,  FIG. 27B  illustrates the central post  112   b  with a stepped radius along its axial length, and  FIG. 27C  illustrates the central post  112   c  with a thick gas strut and a thin collar. The radius of the example clamps applies to both the first clamp part  446  and the second clamp part  448 . As shown in  FIG. 27A , in an example embodiment, an inner radius of the clamp  440   a  can be dimensioned so as to match the thick collar of the central post  112   a . As shown in  FIG. 27C , in an example embodiment, an inner radius of the clamp  440   c  can be dimensioned so as to match the thick collar of the central post  112   c.    
     As shown in  FIG. 27B , in an example embodiment, the central post  112   b  can include more than one radius along its axial length, for example thick radius at a lower part and thin radius at a higher part. In an example embodiment, along an axial length or height of the clamp  440   b , there is more than one interior arc angle each corresponding to a respective one of the radiuses of the central post  112   b . Accordingly, the clamp  440   b  includes a larger (thicker) radius at a lower part of its height and a smaller (thinner) radius at an upper part of its height. Further radiuses can be implemented in other example embodiments, depending on the dimensions of the central post  112  of the particular task chair  102 . 
       FIG. 28  illustrates a top-front perspective view of another foot and/or leg support device  700 , in accordance with another example embodiment. The foot and/or leg support device  700  differs from the above-described foot and/or leg support device  400  at the connector  702 , which is a cylindrical connector used to mount the support device  700  to the central post  112  of the task chair  102 . The connector  702  comprises a cylindrical frame  704  which defines a cylindrical interior surface  706  that is generally circular in axial cross-section. The cylindrical interior surface  706  has a radius of curvature that is substantially equal to the radius of the central post  112  of the task chair  102 . In an example embodiment, during assembly, the connector  702  is slid over the central post  112  of the task chair  102 , and then the seat  120  is installed on to the central post  112 . The connector  702  may be horizontally pivotable around the central post  112  when installed. 
     In an example embodiment, the support device  700  is installed onto the task chair  102  during assembly of the task chair  102 . For example, the connector  702  is looped onto the central post  112  of the task chair  102 , and then the seat  120  is installed onto the central post  112 . 
     In another example embodiment, not shown here, the central post  112  may have more than one radius of curvature along its axial length, and the cylindrical interior surface  706  can be shaped accordingly along its axial length. 
       FIG. 29  illustrates a top-front perspective view of another foot and/or leg support device  800 , in accordance with another example embodiment. The foot and/or leg support device  800  differs from the above-described foot and/or leg support device  400  at the connector  802 , which is used to mount the support device  800  to the central post  112  of the task chair  102 . 
     In an example embodiment, the connector  802  comprises a clamp  804  which can include a first clamp part  806  and a second clamp part  808  connected by a hinge  810  at one end, rather than a fastener (bolt) at that end. Each clamp part  806 ,  808  includes a radius of curvature which is substantially equal to the radius of the central post  112  of the chair  102 . When assembled, the clamp parts  806 ,  808  collectively define an interior cylindrical surface for surrounding the central post  112 . A fastener mechanism  812  such as a spring clamp is used to secure one end of the clamp  804  so that the first clamp part  806  is securely fastened to the second clamp part  808 . Accordingly, only one fastener mechanism  812  or fastener is required to be used when installing the clamp  440  onto the central post  112 , in the example embodiment shown. In the example embodiment shown, each clamp part  806 ,  808  has an arc angle measure of 180 degrees. In another example embodiment, not shown, the clamp parts  806 ,  808  do not necessarily have an arc angle measure of 180 degrees, but have different arc angle measures that collectively total 360 degrees. 
       FIG. 30  illustrates another example foot and/or leg support device  900 , in accordance with another example embodiment. The foot and/or leg support device  900  differs from the above-described foot and/or leg support device  400  by having a vertical angle adjustment bracket  904  at the clamp  902 . The vertical angle adjustment bracket  904  allows setting of the vertical angle of the cantilever arm  942 . The vertical angle adjustment bracket  904  is connected to the clamp  902 . The vertical angle adjustment bracket  904  includes a first bracket  906  and second bracket  908 , each defining a plurality of apertures or holes. The holes are positioned at different vertical angle positions, with respect to the axis of rotation of the arm  942 . The holes can receive a pin  910  at a selected vertical operating angle of the arm  942 . When the pin  910  is inserted through the holes of the brackets  906 ,  908 , the arm  942  can rest on top of the pin  910 . Therefore, the arm  942  is restricted from rotating in any further downward vertical angles due to the presence of the pin  910 . The pin  910  therefore supports applicable loads from the feet of the user. The arm  942  can move freely in the upward vertical angle direction. For example, the user can lift the arm  942  from the pin  910  with their foot, and horizontally pivot the arm  942  around other obstacles such as the chair support legs  116 , and drop the arm  942  back onto the pin  910 . In another example embodiment, not shown, the arm  942  itself may also define through-hole(s) which can also receive the inserted pin  910 , providing locking of the selected vertical angle of the arm  942 . 
     In another example embodiment, a bolt or screw can be used instead of the pin  910 , and can be screwed into applicable holes or attached using a bolt, for example. 
     In some example embodiments, suitable materials for at least some or all of the described component parts can be a rigid and light material, including plastic, nylon, stainless steel, metal, aluminum, and/or carbon fiber, for example. 
     In an example embodiment, there is provided a kit of parts containing components of the system(s) described herein, and suitable instructions for assembly thereof. 
     Variations may be made to some example embodiments, which may include combinations and sub-combinations of any of the above. The various embodiments presented above are merely examples and are in no way meant to limit the scope of this disclosure. Variations of the example embodiments described herein will be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art, such variations being within the intended scope of the present disclosure. In particular, features from one or more of the above-described embodiments may be selected to create alternative embodiments comprised of a sub-combination of features which may not be explicitly described above. In addition, features from one or more of the above-described embodiments may be selected and combined to create alternative embodiments comprised of a combination of features which may not be explicitly described above. Features suitable for such combinations and sub-combinations would be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure as a whole. The subject matter described herein intends to cover and embrace all suitable changes in technology. 
     Certain adaptations and modifications of the described embodiments can be made. Therefore, the above discussed embodiments are considered to be illustrative and not restrictive.