Patent Description:
The present application relates generally to a body support assembly, for example a chair, and in particular to a body support member.

Chairs, and in particular office chairs, may have a body support member configured with a suspension material, such as a mesh fabric, that is stretched across a frame. Such suspension materials conform to the body of the user, providing micro compliance along with improved air circulation, and the attendant cooling benefit. Typically, the frame must be rigid in order to maintain an appropriate level of tension in the suspension material. Such rigidity may limit, however, the flexibility of the body support member, and introduce unforgiving pressure points around the perimeter of the frame. In addition, suspension materials installed on a seat of a chair are typically required to sustain higher tensions due to the load being applied thereto by a seated user, which may exacerbate the limited flexibility and rigidity of the supporting structure.

While various mechanical systems, such as lumbar supports and tilt control mechanisms, may be introduced to mitigate the limited flexibility and provide additional adjustment capabilities, such systems are relatively expensive to manufacture, require additional maintenance, are susceptible to wear and tear over time, and may not be appropriately exploited by the user due to the requirement for individual adjustments. In addition, such tilt mechanisms typically include one or more rigid links, and mechanical connections, which are rigid and non-compliant, which result in a more rigid and less forgiving ride, and which may lead to a less desirable user experience. Conversely, systems relying on the materiality of the seating structure to introduce the appropriate kinematics and flexibility may not be suitable to support a suspension material. While body support surfaces may be defined by one or more foam cushions, foam materials may limit air circulation and often do not provide localized support. In addition, body support members configured with plastic shells, supported for example by peripheral frames, typically do not provide a comfortable body-conforming support surface. A body support member is known for example from <CIT>.

The present invention is defined by the following claim, and nothing in this section should be considered to be a limitation on that claim.

The present invention provides a body support member as defined in claim <NUM>.

The foregoing paragraphs have been provided by way of general introduction, and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims presented below. The various preferred embodiments, together with further advantages, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

It should be understood that the term "plurality," as used herein, means two or more. The term "longitudinal," as used herein means of or relating to a length or lengthwise direction <NUM>, <NUM>', for example a direction running from the bottom of a backrest assembly <NUM> to the top thereof, or vice versa, or from the front of a seat assembly <NUM> to the rear thereof, or vice versa. The term "lateral," as used herein, means situated on, directed toward or running in a side-to-side direction <NUM> of a body support assembly <NUM>, shown in one embodiment as an office chair including the backrest assembly <NUM> and seat assembly <NUM>. It should be understood that the body support assembly may be configured as any structure that supports a body, including without limitation automotive, aircraft and mass-transit seating, beds, home furnishings (including sofas and chairs), and other similar and suitable structures. In one embodiment of a backrest assembly disclosed below, a lateral direction <NUM> corresponds to a horizontal direction and a longitudinal direction <NUM> corresponds to a vertical direction, while in one embodiment of a seat assembly, the longitudinal direction <NUM>' corresponds to a horizontal direction. The lateral direction <NUM> may be referred to as an X direction, while the longitudinal direction <NUM>, <NUM>' refers to a Y direction and a Z direction is orthogonal to the body support surface of both the backrest and seat assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>.

The term "coupled" means connected to or engaged with, whether directly or indirectly, for example with an intervening member, and does not require the engagement to be fixed or permanent, although it may be fixed or permanent. The terms "first," "second," and so on, as used herein are not meant to be assigned to a particular component so designated, but rather are simply referring to such components in the numerical order as addressed, meaning that a component designated as "first" may later be a "second" such component, depending on the order in which it is referred. It should also be understood that designation of "first" and "second" does not necessarily mean that the two components or values so designated are different, meaning for example a first direction may be the same as a second direction, with each simply being applicable to different components. The terms "upper," "lower," "rear," "front," "fore," "aft," "vertical," "horizontal," "right," "left," and variations or derivatives thereof, refer to the orientations of an exemplary body support assembly <NUM>, shown as a chair in <FIG>, from the perspective of a user seated therein. The term "transverse" means non-parallel. The term "outwardly" refers to a direction facing away from a centralized location, for example the phrase "radially outwardly" refers to a feature diverging away from a centralized location, for example the middle or interior region of a seat or backrest, and lies generally in the X Y plane defined by the lateral and longitudinal directions <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>. It should be understood that features or components facing or extending "outwardly" do not necessarily originate from the same centralized point, but rather generally emanate outwardly and exteriorly along a non-tangential vector. Conversely, the term "inwardly" refers to a direction facing toward the centralized or interior location.

The term "textile material" refers to a flexible material made of a network of natural or artificial fibers (yarn, monofilaments, thread, etc.). Textile materials may be formed by weaving, knitting, crocheting, knotting, felting, or braiding. Textile materials may include various furniture upholstery materials, which may be used for example to cover a foam cushion, and/or suspension materials, which may be stretched or put in tension across an opening to support a user.

Referring to <FIG>, the body support assembly <NUM> is shown as including a tilt control assembly <NUM>, also referred to as a lower support structure, a base structure <NUM> and the backrest and seat assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>. In one embodiment, the base structure <NUM> includes a leg assembly <NUM> and a support column <NUM> coupled to and extending upwardly from the leg assembly. The tilt control assembly <NUM> is supported by and coupled to a top of the support column <NUM>. The leg assembly may alternatively be configured as a fixed structure, for example a four legged base, a sled base or other configuration. In one embodiment, the support column <NUM> may be height adjustable, including for example and without limitation a telescopic column with a pneumatic, hydraulic or electro-mechanical actuator. The leg assembly <NUM> includes a plurality of support legs <NUM> extending radially outwardly from a hub <NUM> surrounding the support column. Ends of each support leg may be outfitted with a caster, glide or other floor interface member <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, a pair of armrest assemblies <NUM> are coupled to the tilt control assembly <NUM>. Various user interface controls <NUM> are provided to actuate and/or adjust the height of the seat, including for example an actuation lever pivotally coupled to the armrest assembly, or to control the tension and/or return force of the tilt control assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the backrest and seat assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> are operably coupled to the tilt control assembly <NUM>, or lower support structure, which controls the movement thereof, for example during recline. One embodiment of a suitable tilt control assembly is disclosed in <CIT>, entitled "Chair Assembly with Upholstery Covering". The tilt control assembly may include a plurality of rigid control links, which may be mechanically connected, for example via pivot pins, to form a linkage assembly, including for example a four-bar linkage.

In other embodiments, the tilt control assembly include integrally formed links <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, configured for example with strategic deformable locations that allow for predetermined deformations and define "flex regions," otherwise referred to as "flex joints," or virtual pivot locations. The various configurations of the links and flex regions may be configured as shown and disclosed in <CIT>, entitled "Seating Arrangement," and in <CIT>, entitled "Seating Arrangement and Method of Construction".

For example, the tilt control assembly <NUM> may be configured as a four-bar mechanism as shown in <FIG>, with a bottom, or base link <NUM> connected to the base structure <NUM> at a first location, and front and rear links <NUM>, <NUM> connected between the base link and the seat assembly <NUM>. The base, front and rear links <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> define the lower support structure. For example, the front and rear links <NUM>, <NUM> may be pivotally or bendably connected to the base link <NUM> at flex regions <NUM>, <NUM>, whether integrally formed or otherwise. The front and rear links <NUM>, <NUM> may also be pivotally, or bendably connected to the seat assembly <NUM> at flex regions <NUM>, <NUM>, with the portion <NUM> of the seat assembly extending between the flex regions <NUM>, <NUM> defining a link of the four-bar mechanism. The flex region <NUM> is formed in the support platform <NUM> portion of the seat assembly. The various flex regions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be formed as living hinges, or thin flexible hinges made from the same material as the two more rigid pieces the living hinge connects, so as provide for relative rotation or pivoting between the more rigid pieces by bending of the living hinge. It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the links and bars of the mechanism may also be configured as rigid links and bars connected at fixed hinge points.

In operation, a user can move or recline the backrest and seat assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> from an upright position to a reclined position by flexing the four bar mechanism, including portions of the seat assembly. It is contemplated that the four-bar linkage arrangement as used and described herein is inclusive of linkage arrangements comprising additional linkage members, such as five-bar linkage arrangements, six-bar linkage arrangements, and the like. In various embodiments, the thickness of one or more links <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and especially the front, base and seat links <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and predetermined flex regions thereof, may be located to achieve a desired performance characteristic, including for example, the flexibility of the link. Further, in certain embodiments, the thickness of a link may vary along the length of the link to achieve a desired flexibility or rigidity across the link or in a localized portion of the link, for example at flex regions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>. In addition, and for example, the front links and seat assembly link may be more flexible than the rear link <NUM> to achieve the desired flexibility of the four-bar linkage. In some embodiments, the various links may be more flexible in a particular portion or localized area of the link such that the links are generally flexible in the localized area and are generally not flexible or less flexible in any other area of the link. It is noted that the relative areas of reduced thickness may extend along a short distance or the majority of the length of the associated link depending upon the support and bending characteristics desired.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the seat assembly <NUM> is operably coupled to the tilt control assembly <NUM> and supports a seating surface <NUM>. The seat has opposite sides spaced apart in a lateral direction and a front and rear spaced apart in a first longitudinal direction. The seat assembly includes a lower support platform <NUM> having a peripheral edge <NUM>, an upper surface <NUM> and a lower surface <NUM>. In one embodiment, the lower support platform has a generally isosceles trapezoidal shape in plan view (see <FIG>) with a front edge <NUM>, rear edge <NUM> and side edges <NUM> joining the front and rear edges. The rear edge is shorter than the front edge. The peripheral edge <NUM> may be stepped, meaning a peripheral edge portion <NUM> thereof is thinner than a central portion <NUM> thereof.

The support platform <NUM> has a pair of laterally spaced pads <NUM> positioned at a forward portion of the support platform. As shown in <FIG>, the platform <NUM> includes a raised portion <NUM> defining a recess <NUM> and an opening <NUM>. The pads are each defined as a hinge portion <NUM> with a front edge <NUM> secured to a front edge <NUM> of the platform defining the opening <NUM> in the platform. The hinge portion may be formed by overmolding a more flexible material to the support platform. The hinge portion <NUM> extends rearwardly in the opening with a rear edge <NUM> spaced apart from a rear edge <NUM> of the platform defining the opening <NUM>. Each of the pads <NUM> includes at least one mounting component, shown as openings <NUM> shaped and dimensioned to receive mounting members (e.g. fasteners or studs <NUM>) for securing the platform to the tilt control assembly, which may include a flange <NUM> extending forwardly from the link <NUM> to support the platforms. The flange <NUM> is received in the recess <NUM> and includes bosses extending upwardly into the openings <NUM> such that the flange <NUM> may be secured to a bottom surface of the pad, and hinge portion <NUM> in particular, with the plurality of fasteners <NUM>. The flexible hinge portion <NUM> defines the flex region <NUM>. The mounting component, and connection to the link <NUM>, allows for pivoting of the support platform and the front link <NUM> relative to the base link <NUM> about a flex region <NUM>, and for pivoting of the seat assembly <NUM> relative to the front link <NUM> about flex region <NUM>, executed in both cases for example by elastic deformation or bending of portions of the front links at the flex regions <NUM>, <NUM>, or alternatively by bending or flexing of the pads or hinge portion <NUM>. At the same time, the spacing between the pads, and front links, provides relative stability to the front portion of the seat, which resists rotation or torsional movement about a longitudinal axis. A boss structure <NUM> extends downwardly from a rear portion of the support platform. The boss structure <NUM> defines at least one mounting component that is connected to the tilt control assembly <NUM>, and/or defines a portion of a rear link <NUM> forming in part the tilt control assembly and allows for pivoting of the support platform and the rear link <NUM> relative to the base link <NUM> about a flex region <NUM>, which may be executed for example by elastic deformation or bending of portions of the base link <NUM> at flex region <NUM>. In one embodiment, the boss structure <NUM> has a tubular configuration defining a cavity that surrounds or receives an insert portion of the rear link <NUM>, configured with features from the connector <NUM>, the <NUM>. The centrally located rear link, which is the only support for the rear of the seat, allows for rotation or torsional movement of the rear of the seat relative to the front of the seat about a longitudinal axis, with the rotation or torsional movement of the front being restricted as previously explained. The support platform <NUM> has a generally concave upper surface <NUM>, with front and rear portions <NUM>, <NUM> extending upwardly from the boss structure.

The support platform may be made of a flexibly resilient polymer material such as any thermoplastic, including, for example, nylon, glass-filled nylon, polypropylene, acetyl, or polycarbonate; any thermal set material, including, for example, epoxies; or any resin-based composites, including, for example, carbon fiber or fiberglass, thereby allowing the support platform to conforms and move in response to forces exerted by a user. Other suitable materials may be also be utilized, such as metals, including, for example, steel or titanium; plwood; or composite material including plastics, resin-based composites, metals and/or plywood. The support platform may have strategically positioned tensile substrates, made for example of glass reinforced tape, to accommodate bending and deformation of the structure. Strategic locations on the lower support platform also are provided with specific geometries that allow for predetermined deformations and define "flex regions," otherwise referred to as "flex joints," or virtual pivot locations.

For example, the support platform may include an area of reduced thickness defining a laterally extending flex region or flexing zone <NUM> located in front of the boss structure <NUM>, which divides or bifurcates the support platform into front and rear portions, which may have different lengths or dimensions, with the rear portion being downwardly deflectable relative to the front portion during recline as the flex region bends. The portion of the support platform extending between the flex region <NUM> and the flex region <NUM> defines a link of a four-bar mechanism, while a portion of the support platform rearward of the flex region <NUM> defines in part a portion of the rear link <NUM>. It is noted that the relative areas of reduced thickness may extend along a short distance or the majority of the width of the support platform depending upon the support and bending characteristics desired. The phrase "flex region" refers to a portion of the structure that allows for flexing or bending in the designated region, thereby allowing or providing for relative movement (e.g., pivoting) of the component or structure on opposite sides of the flex region, thereby defining a virtual pivot location, for example a horizontal pivot axis, with the understanding that the virtual pivot axis may move during the flexing, rather than being defined as a hard fixed axis. The various configurations and materials of the support platform may correspond to the configuration and materials of various components as shown and disclosed in <CIT>, entitled "Seating Arrangement," and in <CIT>, entitled "Seating Arrangement and Method of Construction".

A support ring <NUM> has an inner ring <NUM> with an interior peripheral edge <NUM> that defines a central opening <NUM>. The interior peripheral edge <NUM> surrounds and is coupled to the outer peripheral edge <NUM> of the support platform, namely the rear edge <NUM>, front edge <NUM> and side edges <NUM>, of the support platform <NUM>, which is received in the opening <NUM>. The inner ring <NUM> has a trapezoidal shape defined by a front member <NUM>, a rear member <NUM> and a pair of side members <NUM> defining the opening <NUM>. The interior peripheral edge <NUM> may be stepped, meaning a peripheral edge portion <NUM> thereof is thinner than a central portion <NUM> thereof, with the edge portion <NUM> overlapping and mating with the edge portion <NUM> of the lower support platform. As shown in <FIG>, the edge portion <NUM> is positioned above the edge portion <NUM>, with an upper surface of the peripheral edge <NUM> lying flush with the upper surface of the support platform <NUM>. The edge portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be secured with fasteners, such as screws and/or adhesive. It should be understood that the support platform <NUM> and support ring <NUM> in combination define a support frame <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the support ring <NUM> further includes an outer ring <NUM> with side members <NUM> joined to side members <NUM> of the inner ring with a pair of front connectors <NUM> and a pair of intermediate connectors <NUM>. A pair of rear three-sided openings <NUM> are defined between an inner edge of the outer ring <NUM>, an edge of the side member and the edges of the connectors <NUM>. The openings <NUM> each have an inner side <NUM>, a longer, outer curved side <NUM>, with the sides <NUM> and <NUM> converging along the rear of the opening <NUM> to define a nose <NUM>, and a third side <NUM> extending along and defining the connector <NUM> and joining the sides <NUM>, <NUM>. A pair of front three-sided openings <NUM> are defined between an inner edge of the outer ring <NUM>, an edge of the side member <NUM> and the edges of the connectors <NUM>. The openings <NUM> each have an inner side <NUM>, a longer, outer curved side <NUM>, with the sides <NUM>. <NUM> converging along the front of the opening <NUM> to define a nose <NUM>, and a third side <NUM> extending along and defining the connector <NUM> and joining the sides <NUM>, <NUM>.

It should be understood that in one embodiment, the intermediate connectors <NUM> may be omitted. The outer ring has a front cross member <NUM> and a rear member <NUM>, which it shares with the inner ring, and which are connected to the side members <NUM>. The front cross member <NUM> is spaced apart from the front member <NUM>, which define an elongated and laterally extending U-shaped opening <NUM> therebetween. A flexible membrane <NUM> covers the opening <NUM>, is connected to the support ring around the perimeter of the opening, and maintains the spacing between the cross member <NUM> and front member <NUM> when the cross member <NUM> flexes relative to the front member <NUM>, for example when undergoing a load applied by a user's thighs. The membrane <NUM> may also serve as a limiter by limiting the amount of deflection of the cross member <NUM> when the load is applied thereto. The membrane <NUM> may be made of urethane, and may be over molded on the support ring <NUM> to cover the opening <NUM>. Side slots <NUM> allow for front portions <NUM> of the side members <NUM> to flex or bend such that the front member <NUM> may deflect when loaded by the user's legs, while the connectors <NUM>, <NUM> provide greater rigidity to the outer ring <NUM>. An outer peripheral edge <NUM> is stepped, meaning a peripheral edge portion <NUM> thereof is thinner than the central portion <NUM> thereof. A pair of lugs <NUM> extend downwardly from the inner ring and are disposed along the sides of the boss structure, where they are supported by the tilt control assembly <NUM>. The support ring <NUM> extends radially outwardly from the lower support platform <NUM>. The support ring, including the outer ring, the inner ring and connectors, defines an upper surface <NUM> and a concave cavity <NUM>. The support ring <NUM> is made of a compliant flexible material, which is configured to position and hold the flexible edge member <NUM>, described in more detail below. The support ring <NUM> is less stiff than the support platform, and has a modulus of elasticity that is less than a modulus of elasticity of the support platform. The support ring may be made, for example, of polyester urethane, or a thermoplastic polyester elastomer.

An upper shell, also referred to as a carrier frame <NUM>, has a central portion <NUM> overlying the inner ring <NUM> of the support ring and the lower support platform <NUM>, and an outer ring <NUM> overlying the outer ring <NUM> of the support ring and the upper surface <NUM> of the support platform. The outer ring <NUM> and central portion <NUM> of the upper shell are coupled with at least two connectors, including a pair of front connectors <NUM> and a pair of intermediate connectors <NUM>, which are curved with an upwardly facing concave curvature such that is rigid and resists outward/downward deflection/deformation.

A pair of rear three-sided openings <NUM> are defined between an inner edge of the outer ring <NUM>, an edge of the central portion <NUM> and the edges of the connectors <NUM>. The openings <NUM> each have an inner side <NUM>, a longer, outer curved side <NUM>, with the sides <NUM>, <NUM> converging along the rear of the opening <NUM> to define a nose <NUM>, and a third side <NUM> extending along and defining the connector <NUM> and joining the sides <NUM>, <NUM>. A pair of front three-sided openings <NUM> are defined between an inner edge of the outer ring <NUM>, an edge of the central portion <NUM> and the edges of the connectors <NUM>. The openings <NUM> each have an inner side <NUM>, a longer, outer curved side <NUM>, with the sides <NUM>, <NUM> converging along the front of the opening <NUM> to define a nose <NUM>, and a third side <NUM> extending along and defining the connector <NUM> and joining the sides <NUM>, <NUM>.

The outer ring <NUM> has a front cross member <NUM> and a rear member <NUM> that are connected to side members <NUM>. The outer ring has a peripheral length defined around the perimeter thereof, with the length being fixed or maintained as a relative constant during recline of the seat. In other words, in one embodiment, the outer ring <NUM>, defined by the side members <NUM>, front cross member <NUM> and rear member <NUM>, does not elongate during recline, or does not undergo elastic deformation along a tangent or length thereof in response to tensile forces, although the outer ring <NUM> is capable of bending or flexing as described in more detail below. The front cross member <NUM> is spaced apart from a front edge <NUM> of the central portion <NUM>, which define an elongated and laterally extending U-shaped opening <NUM> therebetween. Side slots <NUM> allow for front portions <NUM> of the side members <NUM> to flex or bend such that the front cross member <NUM> may deflect when loaded by the user's legs, while the connectors <NUM>, <NUM> provide greater rigidity to the outer ring <NUM>. The connectors <NUM>, <NUM> overlie the connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, with openings <NUM> and <NUM>, along with membrane <NUM>, being aligned. The upper shell includes pads <NUM> that overlie the pads <NUM>. The upper shell <NUM> is secured to the support platform with fasteners, including for example hooks and screws.

The upper shell, or carrier frame <NUM>, is flexible, but stiffer than the support ring <NUM>, and has a modulus of elasticity that is greater than the modulus of elasticity of the support ring, but the carrier frame is less stiff than, and has a modulus of elasticity less than a modulus of elasticity of the support platform <NUM>. The upper shell, or carrier frame <NUM>, may be made of a flexibly resilient polymer material such as any thermoplastic, including, for example, nylon, glass-filled nylon, polypropylene, acetyl, or polycarbonate; any thermal set material, including, for example, epoxies; or any resin-based composites, including, for example, carbon fiber or fiberglass, thereby allowing the support platform to conform and move in response to forces exerted by a user. Other suitable materials may be also be utilized, such as metals, including, for example, steel or titanium; plywood; or composite material including plastics, resin-based composites, metals and/or plywood.

The intermediate connectors <NUM> of the upper shell <NUM> may include an area of reduced thickness defining flex regions or flexing zones <NUM>. The upper shell <NUM> also may have an area of reduced thickness defining a flex region or flexing zone <NUM> that overlies the flex region <NUM> of the underlying support platform, located in front of the boss structure <NUM>,.

The upper shell, or carrier frame <NUM>, has a body facing upper surface <NUM>, a lower surface <NUM> opposite the upper surface <NUM> and a peripheral edge surface <NUM>, or side edge face, extending between the first and second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. In one embodiment, the peripheral edge surface <NUM> is substantially planar and has a vertical orientation, although it should be understood that the edge surface may be curved, curvilinear, or non-planar, and/or may be oriented at angles other than a vertical plane. The carrier frame <NUM> defines a concave cavity <NUM> with the outer ring defining a central opening <NUM>.

A peripheral groove <NUM> is formed in and opens outwardly from the peripheral edge surface <NUM> or face. The groove <NUM> extends around at least a portion of the carrier frame, and in one embodiment, extends continuously around the entire periphery of the carrier frame <NUM>. The peripheral edge portion <NUM> of the support frame <NUM> extends outwardly beyond the face <NUM> of the carrier frame as shown in <FIG>. The peripheral groove <NUM> defines an insertion plane <NUM> oriented at an angle α relative to the peripheral edge surface <NUM>, and relative to a gap G adjacent thereto. In various embodiments, α is greater than <NUM> degrees and less than <NUM> degrees, and is preferably between <NUM> and <NUM> degrees, and more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM> degrees. Defined another way, the insertion plane <NUM> is preferably oriented relative to a landing portion <NUM>, or tangent of a textile material <NUM> supported thereby, such that the insertion plane is parallel to the landing portion and tangent, or forms an angle β that is preferably between <NUM> and <NUM> degrees. The peripheral groove <NUM> has a pair of spaced apart surfaces, e.g., upper and lower surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, and a bottom <NUM> connecting the surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. The upper surface <NUM> of the upper shell has a landing portion <NUM>, which is substantially horizontal, and an angled portion <NUM> that extends away from the landing portion and defines the cavity. The landing portion <NUM> may have a width (W) approaching <NUM>, with the landing portion defined simply by an upper corner of the edge surface <NUM>.

A textile material <NUM> is secured to the carrier frame <NUM> across the central opening <NUM> such that it covers the concave cavity <NUM>. The textile material may be a suspension material, or may cover a cushion supported by the support and/or carrier frames <NUM>, <NUM>. The textile material covers the upper surface <NUM> of the upper shell, and engages the landing portion <NUM>. The textile material <NUM> wraps around and engages a portion of the outer peripheral edge surface <NUM>, and in particular an upper portion <NUM> of the peripheral edge surface extending between the groove <NUM> and the upper surface <NUM>, or landing portion <NUM> thereof. A peripheral edge portion <NUM> of the textile material <NUM> is coupled to the peripheral edge of the upper shell, for example with the edge portion <NUM> of the textile material being disposed in the groove <NUM>. In one embodiment, a stay <NUM> (shown in <FIG> without the textile material), formed for example by a ring (e.g., a plastic or polyester), may be secured to the edge portion of the textile material, for example with adhesives, sewing/stitching, fasteners and other devices, or by forming a loop disposed around the stay. In one embodiment, the stay has one surface <NUM> facing and engaged with the textile material and an opposite surface <NUM> that remains uncovered. The stay <NUM> and edge portion <NUM> of the textile material, which is configured as a suspension material, are disposed in the groove <NUM> to secure the suspension material in tension across the opening. In one embodiment, the stay <NUM> is formed as a continuous ring having a fixed length, with the stay <NUM> being relatively inelastic and resistant to elongation along a length thereof, but which may be flexible and bendable so as to move with the side members <NUM> and outer ring <NUM> during recline of the seat. In one embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, the exposed or uncovered surface <NUM> of the stay <NUM> directly engages the surface <NUM> of the groove, without any textile material or other substrate disposed therebetween. The angular orientation of the groove <NUM> and stay <NUM> relative to the edge surface helps to ensure that the stay <NUM> does not become dislodged from the groove. In one embodiment, the stay <NUM> and textile material <NUM> are inserted into the groove <NUM> without any auxiliary fastening systems, such as adhesive or mechanical fasteners, but rather are engaged only by friction as the textile/suspension material is put in tension as explained hereinafter.

In another embodiment, and referring to <FIG>, the support frame <NUM> includes a bottom wall <NUM> defining a body facing surface and a peripheral edge wall <NUM> having an outer surface <NUM>. A lip <NUM>, or catch, defined in one embodiment by a tab, extends laterally inwardly from the peripheral edge wall <NUM> and defines a channel <NUM> with the bottom wall. Along a side portion of the seat, shown in <FIG>, the lip or catch has an engagement surface <NUM> that angles upwardly and inwardly from the peripheral edge wall while an upper surface of the wall is substantially horizontal. Along a front portion of the seat, shown in FIG. <NUM>, the upper surface of the lip is angled downwardly and inwardly, while the engagement surface <NUM> is substantially horizontal.

A carrier frame <NUM> has a body portion <NUM> with a bottom surface <NUM> overlying and engaging the bottom wall and an insert portion <NUM> that is received in the channel <NUM> and engages the engagement surface <NUM>. As shown in FIG. <NUM>, the carrier frame has an upper surface <NUM> that is angled downwardly and inwardly, matching the top surface of the lip or catch, such that suspension material may deform against the angled surface. As shown in <FIG>, the insert portion <NUM> is angled downwardly and outwardly so as to mate with the engagement surface. The orientation of the insert portion <NUM> facilitates installation as the insert portion may be more easily inserted into the channel when oriented at an angle such that the insert portion is underlying the lip <NUM>. Tension applied by the textile material <NUM>, configured as a suspension material in one embodiment, thereafter applies a moment to the carrier frame causing it to bear up against the bottom surface of the support frame and the engagement surface <NUM>. A flexible edge member <NUM> is coupled to the outer surface <NUM> of the peripheral edge wall of the support frame, with a lip portion <NUM> overlying a top surface of the support frame. The flexible edge member <NUM> has an inner surface spaced apart from and facing inwardly toward the peripheral edge wall of the carrier frame, with the inner surface and the peripheral edge wall of the carrier frame defining a gap therebetween. A portion of the textile material is disposed in the gap, with the textile material covering the body facing surface of the carrier frame. The carrier frame has a peripheral edge <NUM> facing outwardly, and includes a groove <NUM> opening laterally outwardly therefrom. The peripheral edge of the textile material is secured to a stay <NUM>, with the edge portion of the textile material and the stay disposed in the groove <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the textile material is made of an elastomeric woven or knitted material, and may be configured as a suspension material having heat-shrinkable yarns and heat shrinkable elastomeric monofilaments, which shrink in response to the application of energy, for example heat, whether applied by radiation or convection. Various suitable suspension materials are disclosed in <CIT>, entitled "Two-Dimensional Textile Material, Especially Textile Fabric, Having Shrink Properties and Products Manufacture Therefrom". One commercially suitable heat-shrink suspension material is a SHRINX fabric available from Krall + Roth, Germany.

Referring to <FIG>, in one embodiment, the suspension material is made from a fabric blank <NUM> having a plurality of heat shrinkable, elastic (elastomeric) threads <NUM>, configured as monofilaments in one embodiment, running in a first, lateral direction <NUM>, or warp direction, and a plurality of non-extensible threads <NUM>, configured as yarns or monofilaments in various embodiments, running in the same lateral/warp direction <NUM>. It should be understood that the heat shrinkable, elastic threads (e.g., monofilaments) and non-extensible threads (e.g., monofilaments) may also run in the longitudinal direction <NUM>, <NUM>'. In one embodiment, the heat shrinkable, elastic threads <NUM> and the plurality of non-extensible threads <NUM> alternate <NUM>:<NUM> or <NUM>:<NUM>, or are disposed side-by-side as shown in <FIG>, with various embodiments having a weave density of <NUM>-<NUM> elastic threads/cm, more preferably <NUM>-<NUM> elastic threads/cm, and a weave density of <NUM> elastic threads/cm in one embodiment. In other embodiments, the ratio of threads may be altered, with more or less elastomeric threads than non-extensible threads. In one embodiment, the elastic threads are about <NUM> in diameter, with the understanding that the elastic threads may be made thicker or thinner depending on the desired spring rate. It should be understood that more or less elastic threads may be used depending on the cross-sectional area of the thread. For example, the weave density may be defined by a total cross-sectional area of the combined elastic thread(s) per cm (measured longitudinally), including for example elastic thread(s) having a combined cross-sectional area (whether a single thread or a plurality of threads) between <NUM><NUM>/cm and <NUM><NUM>/cm in various embodiments, more preferably between <NUM><NUM>/cm and <NUM><NUM>/cm, and a combined cross-sectional area of <NUM><NUM>/cm in one embodiment.

A plurality of yarn strands <NUM> are interwoven with the elastomeric and non-extensible threads <NUM>, <NUM> in the weft direction, or longitudinal direction <NUM>, <NUM>' in one embodiment. The non-extensible threads <NUM> and the yarn strands <NUM> do not shrink when exposed to heat or energy, and are not elastomeric. Rather, the yarn strands <NUM> provide shape control to the overall suspension material in a final configuration after heat shrinking. The yarn strands <NUM> may be made of various colors, e.g., blue, to provide color to the textile material. The overall color of the blank is thereby easily changed simply by introducing different yarns in the weft direction. In contrast, the elastomeric threads are preferably transparent or black.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an annular stay <NUM> is secured to the fabric blank for example by sewing or with staples or other fastening systems, with the annular stay having first and second annular edges <NUM>, <NUM>. The annular stay is rotatable <NUM> degrees between a first configuration, wherein the first annular edge <NUM> is disposed radially inwardly from the second annular edge <NUM>, and a second configuration, wherein the first annular edge <NUM> is disposed radially outwardly from the second annular edge <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The first annular edge <NUM> on opposite sides of the stay define first and second dimensions therebetween in the first lateral direction <NUM>, <NUM>' when the stay is in the first and second configurations, wherein the first and second dimensions are substantially the same in one embodiment, meaning as the stay is rotated, the first annular edge remains stationary, albeit rotated <NUM> degrees. The stay <NUM> includes open notches <NUM> in the second annular edge, which close and allow for the stay to be rotated from the first to second configurations. The fabric blank <NUM> is initially configured with pockets of extra material at the corners to accommodate the rotation of the stays at those corners. After rotation, the stay <NUM> may be installed in the carrier frame <NUM>, with the carrier frame and fabric then installed or coupled to the support frame <NUM>, with the flexible edge <NUM> connected to the support frame <NUM> and disposed around the periphery of the textile material.

Energy, such as heat, may be applied to the fabric blank from an energy source, causing the heat shrinkable elastomeric threads <NUM> to shrink. In other embodiments, the textile material is wrapped around or covers a cushion or underlying substrate such as a plastic or metal web, which supports the user, with the edge of the textile material secured to the carrier frame as described herein. In those embodiments, the textile material <NUM> may be, but is not necessarily, put in tension around the cushion or across the opening <NUM>.

The flexible edge member <NUM> is configured as a ring surrounding and coupled to the peripheral edge <NUM> of the support frame. It should be understood that the ring may be continuous, or that the flexible edge member may extend only partially around the periphery of the carrier frame <NUM>. The flexible edge member <NUM> extends upwardly from the support frame <NUM> and has an inner peripheral surface <NUM>, or face, facing inwardly toward, and spaced apart from, the peripheral edge surface <NUM> of the carrier frame so as to form a gap G, for example and without limitation having a width of between <NUM> to <NUM> that is communication with the groove <NUM>, meaning the groove and gap form a continuous, but non-linear slotted opening or pathway that receives the textile material <NUM>. In one embodiment, the inner surface <NUM> is substantially planar and has a vertical orientation and extends in the Z direction, although it should be understood that the edge surface may be curved, curvilinear, or non-planar, and/or may be oriented at angles other than a vertical plane. In one embodiment, the inner surface <NUM> has substantially the same shape as the peripheral edge surface <NUM> such that the gap G is maintained constant, regardless of whether either surface or the gap G is linear. In one embodiment, the gap G is the same or slightly larger than the thickness of the textile material, which may have a thickness of about <NUM> to <NUM>, while in other embodiments, there is no gap (i.e. G=<NUM>), or the gap G is less than the thickness of the textile material, with the surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> abutting, and/or squeezing or slightly compressing the textile material <NUM> therebetween. The inner surface <NUM> faces and covers the groove <NUM> and textile material <NUM>. In addition, the flexible edge member <NUM> further entraps the stay <NUM> and textile material <NUM>, thereby further helping to ensure that the stay <NUM> does not become dislodged from the groove <NUM>.

The flexible edge member <NUM> is made of a thermoplastic olefin or thermoplastic elastomer, and may be made of the same material as the membrane <NUM>, such that the flexible edge member may be compressed, for example if impacted. The flexible edge member <NUM> has a greater resilience, or is more flexible and has a substantially lower modulus of elasticity less than the support frame <NUM>, with a durometer in the shore D range, with one embodiment having a durometer of <NUM>-<NUM>. The flexible edge member <NUM> protects the textile material <NUM> from inadvertent impact and wear and has an upper surface <NUM> substantially flush with, or slightly lower than, an upper surface <NUM> of the textile material <NUM>, thereby preventing snags and providing a pleasing appearance. As mentioned, the flexible edge member <NUM> abuts, or is slightly spaced from, the portion of the textile material <NUM> disposed between the flexible edge member <NUM> and carrier frame <NUM>. The flexible edge member has a groove <NUM>, with the peripheral edge <NUM> of the support ring being disposed in the groove <NUM>. In one embodiment, the flexible edge member <NUM> is over molded onto the peripheral edge <NUM> of the support frame <NUM>, or support ring, and may be made of the same material as the membrane <NUM>. In other embodiments, the flexible edge member may be secured to the support frame by friction, or with adhesives, mechanical fasteners, such as staples or screws, or combinations thereof. The geometry of the flexible edge member <NUM> further promotes the protective and elastic properties thereof. For example, the flexible edge member <NUM> may be tapered from a first thickness T1 along the inner surface <NUM> to a second thickness T2 at an outermost peripheral edge thereof, with the thickness being measured parallel to the inner surface <NUM>, or in substantially the Z direction. In one embodiment, the nose tapers to a point where T2=<NUM>. In one embodiment, the flexible edge member <NUM> in cross-section has a rounded nose shape. The flexible edge member <NUM> may be compressed in response to a load applied in the X and/or Y directions, or may deflect in response to a load applied in the Z direction as shown in <FIG>.

In one embodiment, an auxiliary support member <NUM>, shown as a cushion, is disposed between the upper surface <NUM> of the carrier frame <NUM> and a bottom surface <NUM> of the textile material <NUM>, configured as a suspension material, or the space defined therebetween. An upper surface <NUM> of the auxiliary support member <NUM> is spaced apart from the bottom surface <NUM> of the suspension material such that a gap G2 or space is defined therebetween when the suspension material is in an unloaded configuration (i.e., without a user disposed on the suspension material). In various embodiments, the gap G2 may be maintained as a constant, with the cushion having a contoured upper surface <NUM> that matches the contour of the bottom surface <NUM> of the suspension material. In various embodiments, the gap G2 is greater than <NUM> and less than <NUM>, and in one embodiment is <NUM>, such that the suspension material contacts the auxiliary support member <NUM> as soon as the user engages, or sits on, the suspension material. The auxiliary support member <NUM> may have a generally trapezoidal shape in plan view that matches the shape of the central portion <NUM> of the carrier frame or the support platform <NUM>. The auxiliary support member <NUM> extends forwardly to cover the opening <NUM> and support the thighs of the user. The auxiliary support member may be made of foam. The auxiliary support member <NUM> may be secured to the support platform <NUM> and/or carrier frame <NUM> with fasteners, including mechanical fasteners such as screws or adhesive. In one embodiment, the auxiliary support member <NUM> has a bottom substrate <NUM>, for example a plastic or wood sheet, that may be engaged with fasteners and which is connected to, or embedded in, an upper foam cushion <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

In operation, and referring to <FIG>, and <FIG>, as a user sits on the suspension material <NUM>, the load applied to the suspension material <NUM> causes it to deflect downwardly toward the auxiliary support member <NUM>. If the load is such that the suspension material deflects across the distance G2 and comes into contact with the auxiliary support member <NUM>, the auxiliary support member <NUM> thereafter may absorb the additional loading and support the user.

It should be understood that in other embodiments, the auxiliary support member <NUM> abuts and supports the textile material in an unloaded condition. For example, the textile material may simply cover a cushion, which fills the space of the cavity <NUM> of the carrier frame, with the textile material forming an upholstery cover over the top of the cushion.

In one embodiment, a method of manufacturing or assembling a body support member <NUM> includes positioning and securing the auxiliary support member <NUM> on top of the carrier frame <NUM>. The method further includes disposing the peripheral edge portion <NUM>, <NUM> of the textile material <NUM>, <NUM> into the peripheral groove <NUM>, <NUM> formed in the peripheral edge surface <NUM>, <NUM> of the frame, with the stay <NUM>, <NUM> engaging one surface of the groove. As the stay <NUM>, <NUM> is rolled over for insertion into the groove, the suspension material covers the portion of the peripheral edge surface <NUM>, <NUM> between the groove and the upper (or front) surface <NUM> (i.e., body-facing first surface of the frame). The carrier frame <NUM>, <NUM> is then connected to the support frame <NUM>, <NUM>, which has a flexible edge member <NUM>, <NUM> secured thereto for example by way of support ring <NUM>. Conversely, the flexible edge member <NUM> may first be connected to the carrier frame <NUM>, for example by way of the support ring <NUM>, with those components thereafter being coupled to the support platform <NUM>. In one embodiment, the flexible edge member <NUM>, <NUM> is secured to the support frame <NUM>, or support ring <NUM>, by over molding the flexible edge member <NUM> onto the peripheral edge <NUM> of the support frame/support ring. The flexible edge member may be secured in other ways, including with adhesive or mechanical fasteners. Energy, for example thermal energy or heat applied by radiation or convection, may be applied to the suspension material <NUM>, <NUM>, causing the suspension material to shrink and create tension therein. The energy may be applied to the suspension material either before or after the carrier frame <NUM>, <NUM> is secured to the support frame <NUM>, <NUM>. As the suspension material shrinks, the suspension material is put in tension across the opening <NUM> and the stays <NUM>, <NUM> are anchored in the grooves <NUM>, <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the backrest assembly <NUM> includes a back frame <NUM> and a back support <NUM>, otherwise referred to as a support frame. The back frame is relative rigid, meaning it does not substantially flex/bend or otherwise elastically deform during recline. The back frame <NUM> has a lower portion <NUM> that is connected to the rear portion of the tilt control assembly <NUM>. The lower portion <NUM>, or lower support arm, extends generally horizontally in the longitudinal direction <NUM>' along a central axis of the seating structure. The back frame <NUM> is pivotable rearwardly relative to the base <NUM> during recline.

A transition portion <NUM>, which is a curved and defines a rearwardly facing convex bow shape in one embodiment, extends rearwardly and upwardly from the lower portion <NUM>. A pair of laterally spaced uprights <NUM> extend upwardly from the transition portion <NUM>. The back frame <NUM> further includes an upper cross member <NUM> extending between and connecting upper ends of the uprights <NUM>, with the cross member <NUM>, upright <NUM> and lower portion <NUM> defining a central opening. The back support <NUM>, otherwise referred to as a support frame, is flexible, and includes flex regions <NUM>, <NUM> allowing it to bend and deflect in response to the user reclining in the body support structure. The back support, or support frame <NUM>, includes a pair of laterally spaced uprights <NUM>, each having a forwardly facing convex bow shaped portion <NUM> at a first location proximate a lumbar region of the back support, with each bow shaped portion including and defining a flex region.

A bottom portion <NUM> extends between and connects the uprights. The back support <NUM> further includes a lower portion or support arm <NUM> that extends forwardly from the bottom portion, with the support arm or lower portion coupled to the control assembly. The uprights <NUM> of the back support are coupled to the uprights <NUM> of the back frame with connectors <NUM>. The back support <NUM> is pivotable with the back frame <NUM>. In one embodiment, the uprights <NUM>, <NUM> may be pivotally connected with a mechanical pivot joint, including for example the pivot structure disclosed in <CIT>.

The back support <NUM> includes an upper member <NUM> extending between and connected to upper ends of the pair of second uprights <NUM>, and the bottom portion <NUM> extends between and is connected to the lower ends of the pair of second uprights. The upper member <NUM>, uprights <NUM> and the bottom portion <NUM> define a central opening <NUM>. A suspension material <NUM> is stretched across the central opening <NUM> and is secured to the back support <NUM> in a similar fashion as the seat.

Specifically, the upper member <NUM>, the bottom portion <NUM> and the pair of second uprights <NUM> define a support frame <NUM> having a peripheral edge <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. A flexible edge member <NUM> is secured to the peripheral edge of the upper member <NUM> and uprights <NUM>, or along a face of the bottom portion <NUM>. A carrier frame <NUM> is coupled to the support frame <NUM> and includes a peripheral groove <NUM> facing outwardly from a peripheral edge surface or face <NUM>, oriented horizontally between the front and rear surfaces of the carrier frame, which is spaced apart from an inner surface or inwardly facing face <NUM> of the flexible edge member <NUM> and defines a space or gap G therebetween as disclosed above with respect to the seat assembly. The groove <NUM> opens outwardly from the carrier frame <NUM> along the peripheral edge <NUM> thereof. The suspension material <NUM> includes at least one stay <NUM>, configured as a ring in one embodiment, secured along a peripheral edge portion <NUM> of the suspension member, wherein the at least one stay is disposed in the groove <NUM>. The stay <NUM> may be held by friction alone, without any auxiliary support material such as adhesive. In one embodiment, the stay directly <NUM> engages one surface, e.g., a front surface, of the groove <NUM>, while the fabric engages the rear surface. In this way, as with the seat, the stay engages the surface of the groove <NUM> closest to the surface of the carrier frame covered by the fabric. In one embodiment, the stay <NUM> is formed as a continuous ring having a fixed length, with the stay <NUM> being relatively inelastic and resistant to elongation along a length thereof, but which may be flexible and bendable.

In another embodiment, and referring to <FIG>, the support frame <NUM> includes a rear wall <NUM> defining a body facing surface <NUM>, an outer peripheral edge wall <NUM> having an outer surface <NUM> and an inner peripheral edge <NUM> wall, with the walls <NUM>, <NUM> defining a forwardly facing channel <NUM>. A lip <NUM>, or catch, extends laterally inwardly from the outer peripheral edge wall and defines a channel <NUM> with the rear wall <NUM>, with a rear surface of the lip defining an engagement surface <NUM>. A carrier frame <NUM> has a body with a rear flange <NUM> defining a rear surface overlying and engaging the rear wall and an insert portion <NUM>, defined by a plurality of tabs <NUM> spaced apart around the periphery of the carrier frame <NUM> in one embodiment. The insert portion <NUM> is received in the channel <NUM> and engages the engagement surface <NUM>. The carrier frame <NUM> further includes upper and lower pairs of lugs <NUM> that are aligned with lug <NUM> on the support frame <NUM>, with fasteners <NUM> securing the lugs <NUM>, <NUM> to further connect the support frame <NUM> and carrier frame <NUM>. The carrier frame <NUM> includes a second flange <NUM> that forms an outwardly facing groove <NUM> with the flange <NUM> and defines an outer peripheral edge wall <NUM>. The flange <NUM> extends across the channel <NUM> with an edge <NUM> positioned adjacent the inner peripheral edge wall <NUM> and closing the channel. Tension applied by the textile material, configured as a suspension material <NUM> in one embodiment, thereafter applies a moment to the carrier frame <NUM> causing it to bear up against the bottom surface of the support frame and the engagement surface. A flexible edge member <NUM> is coupled to the outer surface of the peripheral edge wall <NUM> of the support frame, with a lip portion overlying a top surface of the support frame. The flexible edge member <NUM> has an inner surface spaced apart from and facing inwardly toward the peripheral edge wall of the carrier frame, with the inner surface and the peripheral edge wall <NUM> of the carrier frame defining a gap therebetween. A portion of the textile material is disposed in the gap, with the textile material covering the peripheral edge wall <NUM> and body facing surface of the carrier frame. The peripheral edge of the textile material is secured to a stay <NUM>, with the edge portion of the textile material and the stay disposed in the groove <NUM>. The carrier frame <NUM> may be secured to the support frame with the overlapping tabs <NUM>, <NUM> and fasteners <NUM>, including mechanical fasteners and/or adhesive.

In operation, and referring to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, a user <NUM> may sit in the body support structure <NUM>. Depending on the weight of the user, and the amount of deflection of the suspension material <NUM>, and the deflection of the side portions of the support/carrier frames coupled to the suspension material, the suspension material may engage the upper surface <NUM> of the auxiliary support member <NUM>, or cushion <NUM>, which thereafter assists in absorbing the load of the user. In essence, the side portions are inwardly deflectable a first amount from a first unloaded configuration to a first loaded configuration in response to a load applied to the elastic material, and define in essence a first spring to absorb the load of the user. The elastic textile material, or suspension material <NUM>, coupled to the side portions <NUM> across the opening is downwardly deflectable a second amount from a second unloaded configuration to a second loaded configuration in response to the load applied thereto, and defines a second spring to absorb the load of the user. Stated another way, the deflection of the frame, or side portions, and the deflection of the suspension material act in combination to provide a first amount of support to the user. The cushion disposed beneath the textile material engages and provides auxiliary support to the elastic material when the first and second amounts of deflection, or first amount of support, result in the elastic material contacting the cushion, which defines a third spring to absorb the load of the user. The upper surface of the cushion <NUM> is spaced apart from the textile material when the side portions <NUM> are in the first unloaded configuration and the elastic suspension material <NUM> is in the second unloaded configuration. In this way, the flexible support/carrier frame, elastic suspension material and cushion provide first, second and third amounts of resilient support to a user engaging and supported by the textile material, with the suspension material and flexible frame working in combination. It should be understood that the elastic suspension material <NUM> is downwardly deflectable a first amount in response to the deflection of the at least one side portion <NUM>, or both side portions depending on where the load is applied.

The resilience and deflection of the side portions <NUM> is primarily a function of the deflection of the at least one connector <NUM>, <NUM> extending between the central portion <NUM> and support platform <NUM> and the side portions <NUM>. The connectors <NUM>, <NUM> extend upwardly and outwardly from the central portion, and curved with an upwardly facing concave surface such that is rigid and resists outward/downward deflection/deformation. As noted above, the connectors <NUM>, <NUM> includes a pair of opposite side connectors that are inwardly deflectable from the first unloaded configuration to the first loaded configuration in response to the load applied to the elastic material.

The user <NUM> may recline, with the tilt control assembly <NUM> providing for the seat and/or backrest assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> to move rearwardly, whether by pivoting, rotation, translation or a combination thereof, for example by way of a four-bar mechanism including links <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, as the seat assembly <NUM> tilts or reclines rearwardly, the support platform <NUM> and the carrier frame <NUM> flex or bend about the flex regions <NUM>, <NUM>, such that the rear portion <NUM> of the seat assembly, and rear portion of the support platform, rotates or deflects downwardly relative to the front portion <NUM> of the seat assembly, and front portion of the support platform, about the flex region. At the same time, and due to the geometry of the seat assembly, including the configuration of the outer ring <NUM>, the geometry of the connectors <NUM>, the concavity of the carrier frame <NUM>, and the configuration of the openings <NUM>, <NUM>, the intermediate connectors <NUM> flex or bend upwardly about flex regions <NUM>, such that the side member <NUM> of the outer ring <NUM> move upwardly relative to the support platform and inwardly toward each other to a new configuration or shape of the side member <NUM>', with the textile material <NUM> assuming a more concavely configured textile material <NUM>' that slightly hammocks and hugs the user. As the connectors <NUM> and outer ring <NUM> deflect, the overall length of the outer ring <NUM> is maintained, and is not increased. It should be understood that referring to the side members <NUM> moving upwardly is relative to the support platform <NUM>, which in part may be moving downwardly, such that the overall or absolute movement of the side members relative to ground is negligible. The support ring <NUM> is sufficiently flexible and compliant that the support ring <NUM> does not interfere with the flexing of the carrier frame <NUM>, but rather provides a decorative and tactile skin covering a bottom surface of the carrier frame. If needed, the support ring <NUM> may also be provided with flex regions to allow such flexing. Due to the geometry of the seat assembly, including the configuration of the outer ring <NUM>, the geometry (e.g., upwardly concavity) of the curved connectors <NUM>, the concavity of the carrier frame <NUM>, and the configuration of the openings <NUM>, <NUM>, the side members <NUM> and connectors <NUM> are relatively rigid, and resist/avoid a downward deformation, in response to downward load applied along the sides of the seat at the perimeter of the chair.

Claim 1:
A body support member (<NUM>) comprising
a carrier frame (<NUM>) comprising a central portion (<NUM>) and a peripheral ring (<NUM>) connected to the central portion (<NUM>) with a plurality of connectors (<NUM>, <NUM>) each comprising a flex region (<NUM>), the peripheral ring (<NUM>) defining a central opening (<NUM>);
an elastic textile material (<NUM>) coupled to the peripheral ring (<NUM>) across the central opening (<NUM>); and
a cushion (<NUM>) disposed between the central portion and the textile material (<NUM>) wherein the cushion comprises an upper surface (<NUM>) spaced apart from the textile material (<NUM>) when the connectors (<NUM>, <NUM>) are in a first unloaded configuration and the elastic textile material (<NUM>) is in a second unloaded configuration;
wherein at least one of the plurality of connectors (<NUM>, <NUM>) is inwardly deflectable a first amount from the first unloaded configuration to a first loaded configuration in response to a load applied to the elastic textile material (<NUM>), and wherein the elastic textile material (<NUM>) is downwardly deflectable a second amount from the second unloaded configuration to a second loaded configuration in response to the load applied thereto and wherein the cushion (<NUM>) engages and provides auxiliary support to the elastic textile material (<NUM>) when the first and second amounts of deflection of the elastic textile material (<NUM>) result in the elastic textile material (<NUM>) contacting the cushion (<NUM>).