FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a surface chair. In this context, a surface chair is one in which the seat base makes direct contact with the surface on which the chair is positioned.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] The following discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgment or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known or part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction as at the priority date of the application.

[0003] Chairs typically comprise a seat base and a seat back. The seat base may be attached to a structure that seeks to elevate the seat base relative to the surface on which the chair is located. Alternatively, the seat base may be designed to rest directly on a surface.

[0004] In situations where the chair is intended to be carried between locations, the latter configuration is preferable as it relieves the carrier of the weight of the attendant structure. This makes it the perfect type of chair for campers. However, when combined with a low height seat back, these types of chairs are also of beneficial use at events such as festivals and concerts as the overall low height of the chair facilitates better sightlines to the event stage for all patrons.

[0005] A common type of chair adopting this configuration comprises a padded seat base linked to a padded seat back. Strapping is also used to connect the sides of the seat base to the sides of the seat back. In its travel state, the padded seat back rests on the padded seat base. This removes tension from the strapping, allowing it to be pushed in to the space between the padded seat back and padded seat base and thus out of the way of the person who will be carrying the seat.

[0006] However, when the person wishes to sit on this type of seat, the padded seat back is moved to be substantially perpendicular to the padded seat base (i.e. a cross-sectional view of the padded seat base and padded seat back adopts a shape similar to a reverse “L”). This also tensions the strapping such that a substantially right angled triangle is formed between the padded seat base, padded seat back and strapping, with the strapping acting as the hypotenuse of the triangle.

[0007] A significant problem with these chairs is that the seat base and seat back require internal struts to stiffen them at least longitudinally. Without these struts the seat base and seat back curl and distort making the chair unusable. A minimum of four such struts are required, with the resultant added weight and reduced packability being disadvantageous.

[0008] While such a chair configuration has the benefit of being easy to carry and set up, it has other significant disadvantages. Primary among these is that if the person seeks to relax by lying into the padded seat back, the whole chair often collapses backwards under the applied weight unless a counteracting force exists. Such a counteracting force generally only exists when the person has their legs outstretched.

[0009] A further problem with these types of chairs is that if the person sitting in the chair adjusts their position so as to reach for articles either side of the chair, the chair again collapses under the applied weight - but this time sideways.

[0010] These problems also arise in relation to other prior art chair configurations that are designed for the seat base to rest directly on a surface.

[0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an alternative design for a chair configuration in which the seat base rests directly on a surface. Ideally, the alternative design solves, or at least ameliorates in part, one or more of the aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Throughout this document, unless otherwise indicated to the contrary, the terms “comprising”, “consisting of”, and the like, are to be construed as non-exhaustive, or in other words, as meaning “including, but not limited to”.

[0013] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there is a surface chair comprising: a seat base for resting directly against a surface; a back rest having a base end and a free end; and a flap connected to the seat base at a position proximate the base end; at least two upper retaining means positioned proximate the free end; and at least two poles, where the seat base is connected to the back rest at the base end and where the flap has at least two lower retaining means provided in a free end, and where a first end of each pole is received in an upper retaining means while a second end of each pole is retained by lower retaining means, such that the poles cross each other and each pole inclines from the second end to the first end.

[0014] In one variation, the poles are collapsible hiking poles having a hand grip and a thickened ground tip, the hand grip adapted to be received within the lower retaining means while the thickened ground tip is adapted to be retained by upper retaining means.

[0015] Other variations may be employed. For instance, one end of each pole has a ground tip and each of the lower retaining means has an eyelet of size and dimension as to receive a ground tip of a pole. Alternatively, one end of each pole has a retaining disc attached thereto, and each of the lower retaining means has an eyelet of size and dimension as to receive the retaining disc. In this latter configuration, the lower retaining means may incorporate a flexible piece of material having an aperture provided therein, the aperture concentric with the eyelet when normally positioned but of smaller diameter than the eyelet.

[0016] At least one of the poles may be slightly bent at a position proximate its intended crossing point with the other pole.

[0017] In an alternate configuration, each pole comprises a pair of pole segments, each pole segment having a retaining end and a spoke end, the spoke end of each pole segment being adapted to be received in a hub, while the retaining end is adapted to be received within an upper retaining means or lower retaining means, as appropriate.

[0018] Each pole may be connected to the other by way of at least one “O”-ring. In a preferred arrangement, the poles are connected by way of two “O”-rings bound together. However, in another alternative arrangement, each pole is connected to the other by way of a block of resilient material. [0019] In one configuration, the poles are collapsible hiking poles having a hand grip and a thickened base, the hand grip adapted to be received within the lower retaining means while the thickened base is adapted to be retained by upper retaining means.

[0020] Each of the lower retaining means may include retention webbing.

[0021] The flap may be trapezoidal in shape and each corner of the flap not adjacent base end has a lower retaining means provided therein. This is a preferred general shape, but a scalene trapezoid shape is preferred when the poles are collapsible hiking poles while an isosceles trapezoid shape is preferred when the poles are more uniform in construction.

[0022] In alternate configurations, the flap comprises a plurality of interconnected strips or comprises a pair of straps and the poles are interconnected at a point proximate the lower retaining means.

[0023] The flap may be detachable from the back rest. Alternatively, or in conjunction, the flap may have at least one adjustable strap attached thereto and the backrest has at least one buckle attached thereto, the adjustable strap being threaded through the buckle. This arrangement may be configured in reverse, i.e. where the flap has at least one buckle attached thereto and the backrest has at least one adjustable strap attached thereto, the adjustable strap being threaded through the buckle.

[0024] The buckle may be provided at one end of a trailing lead. The trailing lead may have an aperture provided therein. In other configurations, the back rest may have a pair of narrow sleeves extending from a point proximate the free end to a point proximate the base end, each sleeve having an open end adapted to substantially receive a thin rod the open end is proximate the point of connection of the trailing lead. In this manner, when the surface chair is assembled for use, the thin rod may be received within the narrow sleeve at a position that allows a bulbous end thereof to be seated on, or pass through, the aperture in the trailing lead.

[0025] The seat base may have a first open edge, padding material being able to be installed in an internal envelope of the seat base by way of the first open edge. Similarly, the back rest may have a second open edge, padding material being able to be installed in an internal envelope of the back rest by way of the second open edge. In one configuration, the first open edge faces the second open edge and a single piece of padding material is installed in the internal envelopes of both the seat base and back rest. Alternatively, the padding material may be permanently installed in the internal envelopes of both the seat base and/or back rest. In a further variation, at least one of the seat base and the back rest has means for attaching at least one item of padding material thereto. In yet a further alternative, an additional cushioned segment may be hingedly attached to the seat base.

[0026] A seated surface of the seat base may be made from, or has applied thereto, a non-slip material. Furthermore, or as an alternative, a textured pattern may be applied to the seated surface to assist in preventing slippage of a person sitting on the surface chair.

[0027] The poles may be collapsible and interconnected by way of an elastic cord while the surface chair further comprises a bridging portion, the bridging portion operable to connect the back rest to the seat base. This allows the collapsed poles to be stored in a pocket incorporated as part of the bridging portion when the surface chair is not assembled.

[0028] The upper retaining means may include a directional flap. The directional flap may include a loop and the lower retaining means has a hook. In another arrangement, the upper retaining means includes a reinforced cup, the end of the pole received into the upper retaining means following assembly operable to make contact with the reinforced cup.

[0029] Preferably, the distance between the upper retaining means is greater than the distance between the lower retaining means.

[0030] The surface chair may include at least one securing strap. Alternatively, the back rest and seat rest may be zipped together. Similarly, the surface chair may include a handle or strapping system to facilitate carrying of the surface chair when not assembled for use.

[0031] In a second aspect of the present invention there is a surface chair kit comprising: textile material configured into a seat base portion, a back rest portion and flap portion; and at least two poles, where the seat base portion is connected to the back rest portion at a base end and the flap portion is connected to the seat base portion at a position proximate the base end, and where at least two upper retaining means are positioned proximate a free end of the back rest, such that, when the components of the kit are assembled, the seat base portion rests directly on a surface while a first end of each pole is received in an upper retaining means while a second end of each pole is retained in a lower retaining means, such that the poles cross each other and each pole inclines from the second end to the first end.

[0032] In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, there is a surface chair kit comprising: textile material configured into a seat base portion and a back rest portion; and a flap portion detachably connected to the back rest portion, where the seat base portion is connected to the back rest portion at a base end and the flap portion is connected to the seat base portion at a position proximate the base end, and where at least two upper retaining means are position proximate a free end of the back rest such that, when the components of the kit are assembled in conjunction with two poles, the seat base portion rests directly on a surface while a first end of each pole is received in an upper retaining means while a second end of each pole is retained in a lower retaining means, such that the poles cross each other and each pole inclines from the second end to the first end.

[0033] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is a surface chair comprising: a seat base for resting directly against a surface; a back rest having a base end and a free end; and a flap connected to the seat base at a position proximate the base end; and at least two upper retaining means positioned proximate the free end, where the seat base is connected to the back rest at the base end and where the flap has at least two lower retaining means provided in a free end, and where each upper retaining means is adapted to receive a first end of a pole while each lower retaining means is adapted to retain a second end of a pole and in doing so position the poles such that they cross each other and each pole inclines from the second end to the first end. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a side plan view of a surface chair according to a first embodiment of the invention in a pre-assembly state.

Figure 2 is a top plan view of the surface chair as shown in Figure 1 .

Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of the surface chair as shown in Figure 1 in an assembled state.

Figure 4 is a rear view of the surface chair as shown in Figure 3.

Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of a surface chair according to a second embodiment of the invention in an assembled state

Figure 6 is a perspective view of a hub as used in the surface chair as shown in Figure 5.

Figure 7 shows an upper retaining means as used in the surface chair as shown in Figure 5.

Figure 8 is a side plan view of a surface chair as shown in Figure 5

Figure 9 is a side plan view of a surface chair according to a third embodiment of the invention.

Figure 10 is a rear plan view of a surface chair as shown in Figure 9.

Figure 11 is a rear view of a surface chair according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.

Figure 12 is an enlarged view of the poles shown in Figure 11 at their point of crossing.

Figure 13 is a plan view of a thin rod as used in the surface chair as shown in Figure 11 . Figure 14 is a selected view of the corners shown in Figure 11 with the poles received therein.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0035] In accordance with a first embodiment of the invention there is a surface chair 10. The surface chair 10 has a seat base 12 and a seat back 14. When used as intended, the seat base 12 makes direct contact with the surface 1 on which the surface chair 10 is intended to be set up.

[0036] The seat base 12 is substantially rectangular in shape. The seat base 12 has a front edge 16 and a back edge 18. Each corner 20 located along the front edge 16 is rounded. A securing loop 22 extends from each rounded corner 20.

[0037] In this embodiment, the back edge 18 is open ended. To elaborate, the seat base 12 can be viewed as consisting of two layers 24a, 24b of textile material which are sewn together along all bar the back edge 18. The open ended nature of the seat 12 base allows for padding material 26, such as a cushion, to be inserted between the two layers 24a, 24b.

[0038] The seat back 14 comprises a back structure 28 and a support structure 30.

[0039] The back structure 28 comprises a back rest 32 and a flap 34. The back rest 32 is substantially rectangular in shape, having a front edge 36 and a back edge 38. The front edge 36 is open ended. As with the seat base, this open-ended arrangement is formed by way of the back rest 32 being formed from two layers 40a, 40b of textile material which are sewn together along all bar the front edge 36. As with the seat base 12 the open ended nature of the back rest 32 allows for padding material 26 to also be inserted between the two layers 40a, 40b.

[0040] Each corner 42 located along the back edge 38 is reinforced for strength. Additionally, extending from each corner 42 is an upper retaining means 44. The upper retaining means 44 comprises a reinforcing ring 46 and a wrapping 48 of textile material.

[0041] The wrapping 48 is configured as an open ended cylinder that is attached along its length (L) to layer 40a. Open end 50 of wrapping 48 proximate corner 42 is adapted to receive the reinforcing ring 46. [0042] While open end 50 of wrapping 48 is positioned proximate corner 42, the wrapping 48 is arranged such that its longitudinal axis X-X is directed substantially towards its diagonally opposite corner of the back rest 32.

[0043] The flap 34 is similar in shape to a scalene trapezoid. For the purposes of this embodiment, the flap 34 will be described as having a connecting side 52, a free side 54 and diagonal sides 56. Connecting side 52 is substantially parallel to free side 54.

[0044] Connecting side 52 is permanently attached to layer 40a at a point proximate front edge 36.

[0045] Each diagonal side 56 meets the free side 54 at a reinforced corner 58. Each reinforced corner 58 has retention webbing 60 attached thereto. The retention webbing 60 includes crossover straps 62.

[0046] The support structure 28 comprises a pair of poles 64 arranged into an “X” shape.

[0047] While layers 24a, 40a have been described as separate pieces of textile material in the preceding description, in this embodiment, layers 24a, 40a are portions of an elongate piece of textile material 66. In this manner, the elongate textile material 66 also incorporates a bridging portion 68 (i.e. a piece of textile material that connects the seat base 12 to the seat back 14).

[0048] This embodiment of the invention will be described in the context of its intended use.

[0049] Before describing assembly, it is to be understood that this embodiment is directed to a surface chair 10 in which, ideally, the padding material 26 and the pair of poles 64 are items that the person has other uses for when not being used as part of the surface chair 10. As non-limiting examples, but those to be described for the purpose of this embodiment:

• the padding material 26 may take the form of a whole, or part, of a camping mattress that the person uses to sleep on; and/or

• A pair of collapsible hiking poles are reduced to their minimal length to form the pair of poles 64. Each hiking pole has an upper end 70, which includes the handgrip, and a ground tip 72. [0050] The surface chair 10 is laid flat on the surface 1 where it is intended to be located in preparation for assembly. When laid flat, the flap 34 is positioned between the back rest 32 and the surface 1 . In this position, the open ends of both the seat base 12 and the seat back 14 face each other either side of the bridging portion 68.

[0051] The person then manipulates the camping mattress 26 such that one end thereof is received within the internal envelope of the seat base 12, while the other end is received within the internal envelope of the back rest 32. In this embodiment, this also means that part of the camping mattress 26 overlays the bridging portion 68.

[0052] With the padding 26 now installed in the seat base 12 and the back rest 32, the person then manipulates the back rest 32 to an upright position. The flap 34 remains in place resting on the surface 1 .

[0053] A ground tip 72 of a first collapsed hiking pole, taking on the role of the first pole 64a, is then manipulated until such time as it is adjacent open end 50 to a wrapping 48. The ground tip 72 of a second collapsed hiking pole, taking on the role of the second pole 64b, is then manipulated until such time as it is adjacent the open end 50 of the other wrapping 48. Once both ground tips 72 are appropriate positioned, the poles 64 are pushed into the areas enclosed by the wrappings 48 until such time as ground tips 72 are substantially received therein.

[0054] The now secured hiking poles 64 are then manipulated to form an “X” shape in profile. This “X” configuration sees upper ends 70 of the collapsed hiking poles 64 being free, while the ground tips 72 are substantially received within the wrappings 48.

[0055] It is to be noted that as the hiking poles 64 cross rather than intersect, it is not possible for the poles to sit in the same plane as coplanar upper retaining means 44 and comers 58 (hereafter referred to as the “crossover problem”). For this reason, the shape of the flap 34 as a scalene trapezoid provides a means to allow the hiking poles 64 to cross over while maintaining some aspect of symmetry in the wrappings 40. This is important, as without such symmetry, the seat back 14 becomes twisted.

[0056] Additionally, the telescopic nature of the collapsible hiking poles 64 means that segments of the hiking poles 64 are thicker than others. If the hiking poles 64 are arranged so as to cross over each other at these thicker segments, this exacerbates the crossover problem. Thus, in this embodiment, the scalene trapezoid shape of the flap 34 also operates to position the hiking poles 64 such that at least one intersects the other at a position other than at a thicker segment.

[0057] The upper ends 70 are now manipulated towards reinforced corner 58. On an upper end 70 abutting, or being located above, reinforced corner 58, the upper end 70 is secured in place using retention webbing 60. More specifically, a first strap 62a is manipulated to pass through an eyelet (not shown) in the upper end 70 of the hiking pole 64 and knotted in place using a second strap 62b.

[0058] It is important to note here that the distance between the connecting side 52 and the free side 54 must be such that, once the surface chair 10 has been assembled as described, the flexible poles 64a, 64b are diagonally inclined towards the corners 42 of the back rest 32.

[0059] With the surface seat 10 now assembled, the person is able to sit thereon, applying their backside to layer 24a of the seat base 12 and reclining until their back rests against layer 40b of the back rest 32. As the person reclines against the back rest 32, the applied force is counteracted by the intersecting poles 64.

[0060] Furthermore, if the person moves side to side while reclining against the back rest 32, this results in a greater force being applied to one pole 64 relative to the other. However, in each case the flexibility of the poles 64 closer to the ground tips 72 reacts in a manner that tensions the surface chair 10 laterally so as to accommodate the movement. In this manner, the surface chair 10 remains stable during substantial twisting or leaning by the person seated therein.

[0061] To assist the person in maintaining the surface seat 10 in place, the person may insert one or more tent pegs (not shown), or other like items, through the internal space of each securing loop 22 into the surface 1 .

[0062] In a similar manner, the flap 34 provides the surface chair 10 with an additional benefit when used on a soft surface 1 , such as beach sand. Specifically, the configuration of the flap 34 prevents the lower ends of the poles 64 from sinking into the soft surface 1 .

[0063] When the person no longer has a use for the surface chair 10, it can be disassembled by reversing the above process, i.e. by first unknotting the straps 62 and, subsequently, removing the ground tips 72 from the upper retaining means 44 and then removing the camping mattress 26 from the internal envelopes of the seat base 12 and back rest 32. The hiking poles 64 may then be reconfigured for either storage or use, as needed at the time, while the camping mattress 26 may be used for sleeping as and when needed.

[0064] In accordance with a second embodiment of the invention, where like numerals reference like parts, there is a surface chair 200. The surface chair 200 is identical to the surface chair 10 as described in the first embodiment, except for the following modifications.

[0065] In this embodiment, the upper retaining means 44 takes the form of a textile socket 202. The textile socket 202 has a length (L). Ideally, the length (L) of the textile socket 202 is just long enough to prevent inadvertent removal of a pole 64 when received therein.

[0066] The textile socket 202 has a closed end 204 and an open end 206. The open end 206 takes on the role of open end 50 in the first embodiment. The open end 206 has a width (W). In its preferred arrangement, the width (W) of the open end 206 is just wide enough for a pole 208 to be received therein.

[0067] The textile socket 202 of this embodiment also includes a directional flap 210. The directional flap 210 is triangular in shape with its hypotenuse 212 also forming part of the textile socket 202. In this manner, the directional flap 210 assists in placing the textile socket 202 at an angle that facilitates receipt and movement of a pole 64 as required by the invention.

[0068] For this embodiment, the “X” arrangement of the poles 64 is formed by a combination of poles 208 and hub 214.

[0069] Poles 208 are of equal shape and cross-sectional dimension. Each pole 208 has a hub end 216 and a retention end 218. However, the poles 208 are preferably of differing lengths as further described below.

[0070] Hub 214 is shown in Figure 6. In this embodiment, the hub 214 is circular in shape with four spoke apertures 220 provided about its peripheral side 222. Each spoke aperture 220 is in axial alignment with its opposing spoke aperture 220. [0071] This embodiment of the invention will be described in the context of its intended use. With this in mind, it is to be noted that the surface chair 200 is initially set up as per the first embodiment but only to the point where poles 64 are to be installed.

[0072] Retention ends 218 of poles 208a, 208b are inserted into reinforcing rings 224 forming part of reinforced comers 58. Similarly, retention ends 218 of poles 208c, 208d are inserted into textile sockets 202 by way of open ends 206. As each retention end 218 is received within its intended destination, hub end 216 is directed towards a central location. It is to be noted here that directional flap 210 assists in directing the hub end 216 of these poles 208c, 208d towards this central location.

[0073] Hub 214 is then positioned within this central location and arranged such that each spoke aperture 220 is in reasonable alignment with a hub end 216 of a pole 208. When so aligned, the user first manipulates hub end 216 of poles 208a, 208b into their aligned spoke apertures 220. Once received therein, a similar process is followed to manipulate hub end 216 of poles 208c, 208d into their aligned spoke apertures 220. It is to be noted here that poles 208a, 208b are shorter than poles 208c, 208d in order to account for the greater distance between the upper retaining means 44 compared to the distance between the reinforcing rings 224.

[0074] As with the first embodiment, when finally assembled, the poles 208 and hub 214 inclines towards the back rest 32. The result is an arrangement functionally similar, if not identical, to the crossed hiking poles 64 of the first embodiment. This also means that all of the advantages of the first embodiment are also present in this embodiment.

[0075] When the user no longer has a use for the surface chair 200 in its assembled form, the user again reverses the assembly procedure indicated above. Disassembly of the surface chair 200 includes removing the poles 208 and the hub 214. Furthermore, disassembly is intended to separate the poles 208 from the hub 214. In doing so, this embodiment provides all elements of the surface chair 200 while still allowing for its full disassembly.

[0076] It is to be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that these two embodiments of the invention provide a significant benefit to those engaged in camping activities due to their ability to handle multiple directional movements such as occur when cooking. The surface chair’s 10, 200 reuse of items that such a person would otherwise take with them during camping provides a further significant benefit as it reduces the overall weight such a person need carry when compared to similar chairs of the prior art.

[0077] In accordance with a third embodiment of the invention, where like numerals reference like parts, there is a surface chair 300. The surface chair 300 of this embodiment is intended as a complete product, rather than one that repurposes items the person may otherwise be taking with them.

[0078] To elaborate, in this embodiment, both the seat base 12 and the back rest 32 already have the padding material 26 pre-installed. Furthermore, each is fully enclosed, i.e. there is no open-ended arrangement as per the first embodiment. This means that the padding material 26 cannot be removed in this embodiment.

[0079] In a similar manner, each pole 64 is also permanently received within the upper retaining means 44. The upper retaining means 44 is configured so as to allow certain movement of the pole 64 as described further below.

[0080] Flap 34, in this embodiment, has a shape of an isosceles trapezoid. Each reinforced corner 58 of the flap 34 has an eyelet 302.

[0081] This embodiment of the invention will now be described in the context of its intended use.

[0082] The surface seat 300 is placed on the surface 1 in its intended orientation (i.e. with layers 24a, 40a and flap 34 lying against the surface 1 ). Back rest 32 is then manipulated into an upright position. By reason of their permanent connection to the upper retaining means 44, this also draws the poles 64 up, but because of the directional alignment of the wrapping 48, points free end 304 of the poles 64 towards the centre of the back rest 32.

[0083] The flap 34 is then stretched out so that the eyelets 302 are substantially parallel to the surface 1 .

[0084] The user then manipulates the free end 304 of each pole 64 through its furthest eyelet 302. This results in the poles 64 crossing over to form the desired “X” configuration.

[0085] While this arrangement does not solve the crossover problem as already described, the applicant is of the view that the poles 64 typically to be used in such an embodiment are those akin to “tent tube” aluminium poles of approximately 10mm diameter. This small diameter of the poles 64, combined with their general flexibility, means that the crossover problem can still be overcome even when the flap 34 takes the shape of an isosceles trapezoid.

[0086] As with the other embodiments, it is important that the size of the flap 34 is such that the crossed poles 64 incline from the eyelets 302 towards the wrapping 48.

[0087] To return the surface chair 300 to its carry state, the user withdraws the free end 304 of a first pole 64 from its eyelet 302. This action is then repeated in respect of the free end 304 of the second pole 64. The released poles 64 are then manipulated to a position adjacent layer 40a while the back rest 32 is lowered towards the flap 34 and surface 1 .

[0088] The user then turns the surface chair 300 over. This places layers 28b, 40b against the surface 1 . Gravity ensures that flap 34 and poles 64 rest on layer 40a.

[0089] The user then manipulates seat base 12 to fold about the bridging portion 68 so that it overlays the back rest 34. In this position, the flap 34 and poles 64 are sandwiched between the seat base 12 and back rest 34. If needed, the user can adjust the position of the flap 34 and/or poles 64 to ensure that they either do not protrude, or protrude in a manner that minimises the potential for injury or damage.

[0090] This embodiment of the invention has particular utility at events such as festivals, where the flat nature of the surface chair 300 when in a carry state as shown in Figure 7 still provides a lightweight alternative to the prior art, but space may not be readily available to facilitate insertion of a camping mattress and/or a hiking pole as per the first embodiment.

[0091] In accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention, where like numerals reference like parts, there is a surface chair 400. The surface chair 400 has a seat base 12 and a seat back 14.

[0092] The seat base 12 is substantially rectangular in shape. The seat base 12 has a front edge 16 and a back edge 18. Each of the edges 16, 18 is closed so as to retain padding material 26. [0093] In this embodiment, the size of the seat base 12 is significantly smaller than the size of the seat back 14. This allows the overall weight of the surface chair 400 to be significantly reduced.

[0094] Layer 24b of the seat base 12 is, in this embodiment, made from non-slip silicone.

[0095] The seat back 14 comprises a back structure 28 and a support structure 30.

[0096] The back structure 28 comprises a back rest 32 and a detachable flap 404. The back rest 32 is substantially rectangular in shape. However, in this embodiment, there is no padding material 26 provided in the back rest 32 provided between layer 40a and layer 40b.

[0097] Located on underside 406 of the back rest 32 at positions proximate back edge 18 are a pair of adjustable buckles 408. Each adjustable buckle 408 is also proximate flank sides 410. The role of the adjustable buckles 408 will be explained in more detail below.

[0098] Sleeves 412 are formed along substantially the full length of flank sides 410. Each sleeve 412 is formed by appropriate stitching together of layer 40a to layer 40b. The sleeve 412 is open ended at end 414 at a point proximate adjustable buckle 408. In this manner, the longitudinal axis of the sleeve 412 intersects the buckle 408.

[0099] The sleeve 412 is adapted to receive a thin rod 416 as shown in Figure 13 through the open end 414.

[0100] The thin rod 416 has a shaft portion 418 and opposing ends 420. Each opposing end 420 is bulbous in shape.

[0101] Each corner 42 located along the back edge 38 is reinforced for strength. Additionally, extending from each corner 42 is an upper retaining means 44. The upper retaining means 44 comprises a reinforcing ring 46 and a wrapping 48 of textile material.

[0102] The wrapping 48 is configured as an open ended cylinder that is attached along its length (L) to layer 40a. Open end 50 of wrapping 48 proximate corner 42 is adapted to receive the reinforcing ring 46. [0103] While open end 50 of wrapping 48 is positioned proximate corner 42, the wrapping 48 is arranged such that its longitudinal axis X-X is directed substantially towards its diagonally opposite corner of the back rest 32.

[0104] The detachable flap 404 is similar in shape to a scalene trapezoid with a semi-circular portion cut out therefrom. In this manner and for the purposes of this embodiment, the flap 34 will be described as having adjustable arm portions 422 and a retaining portion 424.

[0105] Each arm portion 422 has a diagonal side 56 and a free end 426. The retaining portion 424 has a free side 54. In this configuration, the detachable flap is similar to a “U” in shape, with the free side 54 forming the lower base of the “U” while the free ends 426 form the tips of the “U”.

[0106] Attached to each free end 426 is an adjusting strap 428. Each adjusting strap 428 is of a width to allow it to be threaded through, and securely retained by, its respective buckle 408.

[0107] Each diagonal side 56 meets the free side 54 at a reinforced corner 58. Reinforcement of the reinforced corner 58 takes the form of a triangular patch 430 of chlorosulfonated polyethylene synthetic rubber (commonly known by the generic trade name “Hypalon” as originally manufactured by DuPont Performance Elastomers. This material will be referred to by this trade name in the remainder of this specification) stitched to the upper side 432 of the retaining portion 424. Located centrally in the triangular patch 430 is an eyelet 434.

[0108] A rectangular patch 436 is stitched to the under side 438 of the retaining portion 424 at two points. In this manner, there is flexibility of movement of the rectangular patch 436 relative to the retaining portion 424. Located centrally in the rectangular patch, so as to be concentric with eyelet 434, is aperture 440. Aperture 440 is, however, smaller in diameter than eyelet 434.

[0109] The support structure 28 comprises a pair of collapsible poles 442 arranged in an “X” shape. One end 444 of each pole 442 terminates in a retaining disc 446.

[0110] The poles 442 are connected to each other by “O”-rings 448. [0111] This embodiment of the invention will be described in the context of its intended use.

[0112] The surface chair 10 is laid flat on the surface 1 where it is intended to be located in preparation for assembly. When laid flat, the detachable flap 404 is positioned between the back rest 32 and the surface 1 . In this position, the open ends of both the seat base 12 and the seat back 14 face each other either side of the bridging portion 68.

[0113] The person then manipulates the back rest 32 to an upright position. The detachable flap 404 remains in place resting on the surface 1 .

[0114] Each pole 442 is then manipulated such that its retaining disc 446 is positioned proximate eyelet 434. Each pole 442 is then directed such that its retaining disc 446 is pushed through its corresponding eyelet 434 and the aperture 440. As the aperture 440 is smaller than the eyelet 434, and the eyelet 434 just allows the retaining disc 446 to narrowly pass therethrough, it is the aperture 440 which effectively captures the retaining disc 446 and ensures its retention even in the face of the forces generated during installation and operation.

[0115] It is to be noted here that as the poles 442 are manipulated so as to connect with the detachable flap 434, the “O”-rings 448 deform as shown in Figure 12. This deformation acts to ensure that the unconnected ends 450 of each pole 442 are forced away from one another and towards an open end 50 of wrapping 48. At the same time, the torque applied by the scissored poles 442, by reason of the presence of the “O”-rings 448, prevents them from falling out of the wrappings 48 once inserted therein.

[0116] Once both unconnected ends 442 are appropriate positioned adjacent their respective open ends 50, the poles 442 are pushed into the areas enclosed by the wrappings 48 until they are substantially received therein.

[0117] It is to be noted that as the poles 442 cross rather than intersect, it is not possible for the poles to sit in the same plane due to the crossover problem already described. For this reason, keeping the external perimeter shape of the detachable flap 404 as a scalene or isosceles trapezoid provides a means to allow the poles 442 to cross over while maintaining some aspect of symmetry in the wrappings 40 - depending on the diameter of the poles. This is important, as without such symmetry, the seat back 14 becomes twisted. [0118] Additionally, the telescopic nature of the collapsible poles 442 means that segments of the poles 442 may be thicker than others. If the poles 442 are arranged so as to cross over each other at these thicker segments, this exacerbates the crossover problem. Thus, in this embodiment, the scalene or isosceles trapezoid shape of the external perimeter of the detachable flap 404 also operates to position the poles 442 such that at least one intersects the other at a position other than at a thicker segment.

[0119] The person than operates to install a thin rod 426 into each sleeve 412.

[0120] The detachable flap 404 is then connected to the remainder of the surface chair 400 by threading the adjusting straps 428 through buckles 408. In doing so, the rear of the back rest 32, the poles 442 and the detachable flap 404 form a triangle when viewed in side cross-section. This is important as the distance between the back rest and the free side 54 must be such that the poles 442 are always diagonally inclined towards the corners 42 of the back rest 32.

[0121] If the person is not happy with the current position of the back rest 32, the person may adjust the length of one or more of the adjusting straps 428 as threaded through its respective buckle 408 in a manner as would be readily apparent to the person skilled in the art (i.e. by increasing the length of the adjusting strap 428 to decline the back rest 32 or decreasing its length to incline the back rest 32). However, it is important to ensure that, following adjustment, the poles 442 remain diagonally inclined towards the comers 42 of the back rest 32.

[0122] With the surface chair 400 now properly assembled, an opposing end 420 of each thin rod 416 now makes contact with its respective buckle 408. The bulbous nature of the opposing end 420 ensures that no damage is done to the buckle 408. At the same time, the presence of the buckle 408 prevents the thin rod 416 from being removed during intended use.

[0123] The presence of the thin rods 416 provides sufficient rigidity to the otherwise flimsy back rest 32 as to prevent its collapsing in on the seat base 12 when the person is not sitting thereon.

[0124] The general operation of this surface chair 400 is otherwise identical to that of the other embodiments described herein. [0125] When the person no longer has a use for the surface chair 400, it can be disassembled by reversing the above process. To elaborate, this involves first unthreading the adjusting straps 428 from the buckles 408. Once unthreaded, the thin rods 416 can then be removed from the sleeves 412 before removing the rods 416 from the wrappings 48.

[0126] At this point in the disassembly process, the rods 416 remain connected to the adjustable flap 404 by way of the retaining disc 446 and eyelet 434 and aperture 440. This retention also forces apart poles 436.

[0127] Following the first retaining disc 446 being manipulated so as to be removed from its pairing of eyelet 434 and aperture 440, the “O”-rings 440 seek to return to their original shape. In doing so, the “O”-rings 448 now apply pressure to the poles 442 to bring them back into parallel with each other. This configuration then facilitates easy stowage of the poles 442.

[0128] The remaining retaining disc 446 may then be manipulated so as to be removed from its eyelet 434, thereby completing disassembly of the surface chair 400.

[0129] In the case of each embodiment, it is to be appreciated that it is the reactive, self-tensioning scissor action of the crossed poles 64, 208, 442 placed behind the back rest 34, that is a key element of the invention.

[0130] While each of the above described embodiments may be sold as a premade unit, it is possible that the componentry may also be sold in a kit form. When sold in kit form, one or more of the components may be omitted where it is intended that such component may be supplied independently by the purchaser - for example, poles 64, 208, 442 may be omitted from a supplied kit.

[0131] It should also be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the above invention is not limited to the embodiment described. In particular, the following modifications and improvements may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention:

• [0132] The flap 34 may take any shape provided that it allows for the poles 64, 208, 442 to be arranged as described above.

[0133] The first and/or second embodiment may be further modified to include one of either fixed poles 64 or permanent padding material 26 as described in the third embodiment. Similarly, the third and fourth embodiments may be modified to facilitate removable padding material 26 as described in the first embodiment.

• [0134] Additional securing loops 22 may form part of the surface chair 10, 200, 300. For instance, additional securing loops 22 may be attached to an underside of the bridging portion 68. In this manner, the securing loops may protrude away from the back rest 32 when the surface chair 10, 200, 300, 400 is in an assembled state to facilitate retention of additional tent pegs. As a further example, securing loops 22 may also be added to the flap 34 to secure its position relative to the seat base 12.

• [0135] In an alternative arrangement, the securing loops 22 may be omitted in their entirety.

• [0136] Surface chair 10, 200, 300, 400 may further incorporate a strapping system or handle (not shown) to further facilitate carrying of the surface chair 10, 200, 300 when in its travel or carry state.

• [0137] The surface chair 10, 200, 300, 400 may be adapted to provide either an elongate seat base 12 or an elongate seat back 32 or both. In this manner, the surface chair 10, 200 can be adapted to accommodate camping mattresses of varying lengths according to personal preferences.

• [0138] The poles 64, 208, 442 are intended to be made from a strong, lightweight material that is capable of flexing under force, but otherwise remains in a rigid state.

• [0139] The poles 64, 442 used in the first and fourth embodiment may be adapted from other equipment that the person may carry with them during camping or could be found in their environment. For instance, the poles 64, 436 may be adapted from tent pole structures or could simply be sticks of sufficient size and strength.

[0140] The hub 214 has use in aligning the received poles 208 into desired angles. • [0141] The hub 214 may be adapted for use with poles 64. In such an arrangement, it is preferable that channels (not shown) used to receive the poles 64 are configured so that the upper ends of the poles 64 are spaced further apart than the space between the eyelets 304 or retention webbing 60. In this manner, the poles 64 are required to be naturally tensioned in order to be received within the eyelet 304/retention webbing 60. This removes the need to have retention webbing 60.

• [0142] The upper retaining means 44 may be modified from the version described above. For instance, the wrapping 48 may be modified to include a reinforcing ring with the intent that a pole 64, 208 which includes at least one centralised end tip at one end can be received therein.

• [0143] Preferably, the wrapping 48 is able to receive the tip of a pole 64 of up to 13mm in diameter.

• [0144] The padding material 26 serves no function other than in providing comfort to the person when seated. As such, the padding material 26 may be omitted where not required. Padding material 26 may also be omitted in situations where the textile material used to form either of the layers 24, 40 can itself provide the desired level of comfort to the person when seated.

• [0145] In a similar manner, the embodiments of the invention may be modified to facilitate external attachment of padding material 26, i.e. to facilitate attachment of the padding material 26 to layers 24b, 40b. This padding material 26 may be additional to, or in place of, padding material 26 installed as part of the seat base 12 or the back rest 32. Ideally, external attachment of the padding material 26 is achieved by webbing, toggle loops or wide textile bands (not shown) that holds the padding material 26 in place relative to the remainder of the surface chair 10, 200, 300, 400.

• [0146] The applicant has found that if padding material 26 is used and is not sufficiently stiff, the back rest 32 has a tendency to collapse on top of the seat base 12 when not in use. This problem can be resolved through the use of the narrow sleeve 402 and thin rod 406 arrangement of the fourth embodiment or, alternatively, by using sufficiently stiffened padding material 26.

• [0147] Periphery of layer 24b may be provided with one side of a chain of a zip (not shown), while periphery of layer 40b is provided with the other side of the chain. This allows the seat base 12 to be zipped to the seat back 32 when the surface chair 10 is configured in its travel state. To prevent injury to the person while in use, the sides of the chain may be covered by additional fabric material when not connected.

• [0148] Any embodiment of the invention may be modified to include a further padded section (not shown) connected by a hinge joint to the front edge 16 of the seat base 12. This additional padded section may be used as additional padding for the seat base 12 or be rotated out to provide padding for the person’s legs. In the latter configuration, the additional padded section can again be used to accommodate camping mattresses of varying lengths.

• [0149] In a modification to the second embodiment of the invention, the textile socket 202 may include a reinforced cup (not shown) embedded therein at a position proximate its closed end 204. The use of a reinforced cup assists in prevent wear to the textile socket caused by the pole end.

• [0150] The textile socket 202 may be further adapted to include a circular strap (not shown). The circular strap may be used to further assist in retaining a pole 64, 208, 436 within the textile socket 202.

• [0151] In a variation of the hub 214 and pole 208 arrangement described in the second embodiment, the poles 208 are permanently connected to the hub 214 and held in place using an elastic cord such as that commonly known as shockcord or bungee cord. This has an additional benefit of keeping all of the poles 208 and hub 214 together even when not in use.

• [0152] The invention can be modified to include additional hubs 214. In one variation, there is a pair of linked hubs 214 located to the respective sides of the surface chair 200 (such that there is a “right” hub 214 and a “left” hub 214). In such a configuration, each hub 214 is attached to the poles 208 that extend on its side (i.e. as shown in Figure 5, the “left” hub 214 would be attached to poles 208a, 208d, while the “right” hub 214 would be attached to poles 208b, 208c.

• [0153] In a variation of the third embodiment, one of the poles 64 may be slightly bent at the intended crossover point as a means of resolving, or minimising the effect of, the crossover problem.

• [0154] The flap 34, 404 may be made of a material other than textile. This material may be rigid in nature (such as a metal) or flexible (such as a thin plastic). In a further preferred arrangement, the side of the flap 34, 404 intended to make contact with the surface 1 may be overlayed with a high density polyethylene (HDPE) sheet.

• [0155] The flap 34, 404 need not take the form of a solid shape. To elaborate, the flap 34, 404 may simply be a set of interconnected strips that, when stretched out to their intended position, take on the desired perimeter shape (i.e. a scalene trapezoid or isosceles trapezoid).

• [0156] In a yet further arrangement, the flap 34 may be replaced with two strips of material that extend from the seat base 12 such that, when stretched out to their intended position, place the poles 64, 208, 442 at the required locations. In such an arrangement, a strut must extend between the lower sections of the poles 64, 208, 436, to ensure that they are appropriately spaced apart.

• [0157] The modification of the flap 404 to include adjustable straps 428 and buckles 408 as described in the fourth embodiment of the invention may be adapted for use in each of the other described embodiments.

• [0158] Other means of facilitating the adjustment of the position of the flap 404 beyond those described in this specification may be employed without departing from its scope. For instance, the flap 404 may connect to the remainder of the surface chair through a clip and buckle arrangement, with the strap threaded through the clip operating to facilitate adjustment of the position of the flap 404 on that side. However, anything that facilitates adjustment of the distance from a corner to its respective lower edge 36 and that does not easily come undone may be used. • [0159] In an alternative arrangement, the buckles 408 may be provided on the free ends 426 of arm portion 422, with layer 40a of the back rest 32 having the adjustable straps 428 extending therefrom. In such a configuration, there is no change to how the adjustable straps 428 are threaded through the buckles 408 compared to the fourth embodiment described above.

• [0160] In a variation of the third embodiment, the poles 64 may also be telescopic to facilitate storage. The telescopic nature of the poles 64 may also be achieved by shockcord and such poles also serve as a good alternative for use as poles 436 in the fourth embodiment.

• [0161] Bridging portion 68 may be modified to operate as a pocket for the stowage of the poles 64, 436 when disassembled. Alternatively, a sleeve made from hook and loop fasteners may be used to retain the poles 64.

• [0162] In a further variation of the third embodiment, the poles 64 are not only collapsible and connected by shockcord, but the shockcord is also used to secure, or is attached to, the upper retaining means 44 and the reinforcing rings 224.

• [0163] The upper retaining means 44 need not terminate at back edge 38. Rather the upper retaining means 44 may terminate a distance from the back edge 38. In such an arrangement, it is preferable that this distance be sufficiently limited so that the seat back 14 does not fold over at a point above the upper retaining means 44.

• [0164] As shown in Figure 7, the directional flap 210 may include a loop. The loop is intended to hook an elastic cord that runs up from the corner 58 on the same side of the surface chair 10 as the directional flap 210. This variation has particular, if not exclusive use, where the poles 64 take the form of collapsed hiking poles as described in the first embodiment.

• [0165] The upper surface 402 may be made from other non-slip materials besides silicone, or have other non-slip materials applied to it. Additionally, or as an alternative, the upper surface 402 may be textured with an appropriate pattern to assist with slip prevention (such as a diamond patterning). • [0166] Buckles 408 may extend from the back rest 32 by way of a trailing lead. The trailing lead may have a separate eyelet provided therein to receive the bulbous opposing ends 420 of its corresponding thin rod 416. In an alternative arrangement, the eyelet does not receive the bulbous opposing ends 420, but allows it to sit just above it and thus prevent removal of the thin rod 416. In its preferred arrangement, the trailing leads is made from Hypalon.

• [0167] The combination of sleeves 412 and thin rods 416 may be adapted for use in any of the first to third embodiments described above.

• [0168] The fourth embodiment of the invention has been described using two “O” -rings 446. While it is possible to perform the invention using a single “O”-ring 446, or more than two “O”-rings 446, the applicant has identified two “O”-rings bound together as the best configuration to deploy.

• [0169] By allowing the straps to be adjustable, the shape of the flap 404 can differ from that described above. However, it is still preferable that the flap have a trapezoidal shape.

• [0170] The detachable nature of the flaps 404 provide an advantage in that various flap 404 configurations can be used with the surface chair 400 as required to meet the intended support structure 28. For example, if the support structure 28 is intended to be formed from trekking poles, a flap 404 incorporating retention webbing 60 may be attached in place of the flap 404 described.

• [0171] Free ends of the adjusting straps 428 may be folded back and stitched together to prevent them from working their way out of the buckles and to act as a grip on their ends.

• [0172] As an alternative to “O”-rings 446, a block made from resilient material, such as polyurethane, silicone or another durable elastomer, deigned to receive the crossed poles may be used. The resilient nature of such a block operates to provide the “spring-back” scissor action as per the “O”-rings 446.

[0173] In a variation of the first embodiment, crossover straps 62 need not be used to secure the hiking poles 54. Rather, the hiking poles 64 may engage the retention webbing 60 more generally, by simply hooking the underside thereof.

[0174] It should be further appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the above variations and modifications, not being mutually exclusive, can be combined to form yet further embodiments that fall within the scope of the present invention.