A FRONT ABUTMENT ELEMENT"

D E S C R I P T I O N

TEXT OF THE DESCRIPTION

The present invention refers to a seating device, such as for example a seat or an armchair, according to the preamble of claim 1 .

Patent document JP-S55-1 18661 describes a chair comprising a seating, a backrest and an abutment plane, wherein a portion of the backrest is articulated with respect to the seating and the abutment plane is in turn articulated with respect to the articulated portion of the backrest. Patent document US 4,195,882 describes an article of furniture comprising a frame supporting a padded horizontal plane and a pair of tracks, to which backrests are constrained which can be then translated along the perimeter of the padded horizontal plane. Moreover, seating devices wherein the backrest is tiltable with respect to the seating, in order to be capable of acting as a front abutment surface when tilted, are known in the state of the art. Examples of seating devices of such type are known from patent documents CN2568038, CN103431653 and CN105146954. Further, from the state of the art are known seating devices wherein a portion of the backrest is movable and can be tilted with respect to the seating, in order to act as a front abutment surface when tilted, the remaining portion of the backrest instead remains stationary with respect to the seating. Examples of seating devices of such further type are known from patent documents CN201029636, CN104757807, CN201602424, CN2107183, CN103948255, KR1020120045444 and CN102229324. Further seating devices comprising respective portions articulated with respect to the seating are also described in patent documents JP-S49-1364, DE9303222, KR2002-0088335, US780.31 1 , US 2,645,273, UD 3,554,597, US 2,702,584 and US 3,220,765.

The above cited known seating devices, despite they show the advantage of providing the user a front abutment surface which is, without any doubt, useful for writing and/or supporting small-sized objects, are at the same time subjected to substantial inconveniences. First of all, such seating devices are characterized by a poor ergonomics, in fact they are rather uncomfortable particularly when the backrest is tilted, and also are characterized by a low level of comfort (it suffices to say that it is necessary to stand up for tilting the backrest). Secondarily, such seating devices are characterized by a very low flexibility since is very poor the adaptability thereof to an user's preferences with reference to the seating position. In addition, such seating devices are not sufficiently sturdy and generally their reliability is not sufficient. Consequently, it is an object of the present invention to overcome the inconveniences cited with reference to the state of the art.

Further, it is another object of the present invention to make a seating device enabling an user to be provided with a front abutment surface and which is characterized by a constant and substantial ergonomics in every configuration thereof.

Moreover, it is an object of the present invention to make a seating device having a front abutment surface which can be smoothly set up and used.

Moreover, it is an object of the present invention to make a seating device having a front abutment surface which is particularly sturdy and adapted to withstand also weights of a substantial amount.

Further it is an object of the present invention to make an extremely versatile seating device, the flexibility thereof enabling an optimal customization to the preferences of the user with reference to a seating posture.

Moreover, it is an object of the present invention to make an easy-to-assemble seating device and economic if manufactured and mass produced.

Further, it is an object of the present invention to make a seating device which is optimal from an aesthetic point of view and suited to many variants (of plastic, metal, wood, wicker, rubber, fabric, leather, etcetera).

The above cited objects of the present invention are met by any seating device when it incorporates one or more of the following aspects.

A 1 st aspect of the present invention has, as an object, a seating device (9), such as for example a chair or an armchair, said seating device (9) comprising a seating (8) and a backrest (7), at least one portion (7p, 7s) of said backrest (7) being articulated with respect to said seating (8), characterized by the fact the position of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) of said backrest (7) is capable of being switched, with respect to said seating (8), at least between a first predefined position and a second predefined position, said first predefined position of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) being a retracted position in which said at least one portion (7p; 7s) is adapted to act as a rear supporting element, said second predefined position of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) being an advanced position in which said at least one portion (7p; 7s) is adapted to act as a front supporting element.

A 2nd aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 1 , has as an object a seating device (9), configured so that said at least one portion (7p; 7s) can be rotated with respect to an axis, said axis being disposed incident to, optionally substantially orthogonal to, said seating (8), the rotation of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) according to a first sense of rotation being adapted to determine the switching of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) from said first predefined position to said second predefined position, the rotation of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) according to a second sense of rotation opposite to the first one being instead adapted to determine the switching of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) from said second predefined position to said first predefined position.

A 3rd aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 2, has as an object a seating device (9) comprising means for moving said at least one portion (7p; 7s) with respect to said seating (8), said seating (8) comprising a frame (1 ) and said at least one portion (7p; 7s) comprising a bracket (3p; 3s), said movement means being kinematically interposed between said frame (1 ) and said bracket (3p; 3s), said frame (1 ) optionally comprising a perimetral element (1 f) and a central element (1 r), said central element (1 r) being particularly configured in a shape of a crossbar developing between two distinct sectors of said perimetral element (1 f).

A 4th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 3, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said movement means comprise a pin applied to a first between said frame (1 ) and said bracket (3D; 3S), and a seat provided on a second between said frame (1 ) and said bracket (3p; 3s), said pin being housed in said seat or wherein said movement means comprise a first seat (85) provided on said frame (1 ), a second seat (4p; 4s) provided on said bracket (3p; 3s) and a pin (77) housed in said first seat (85) and in said second seat (4p; 4s).

A 5th aspect of the present invention, dependent on anyone of the preceding aspects, has as an object a seating device (9), further comprising blocking means adapted to make stable the stay of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) in at least one relative position with respect to said seating (8), said blocking means being particularly adapted to make stable the stay of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) in said first predefined position and/or in said second predefined position.

A 6th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 4 and on the aspect 5, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said blocking means comprise:

- an arm (5p; 5s) applied to said bracket (3p; 3s);

- an articulation fulcrum (6p; 6s) between said arm (5p; 5s) and said bracket (3p;

3s);

- a protrusion (1 Op; 10s) extending from said arm (5p; 5s) towards said frame (1 ); and

- at least one hole (1 1 a; 1 1 b; 1 1 c; 1 1 d) provided in said frame (1 ) and adapted to house at least partially said protrusion (1 Op; 10s).

A 7th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 6, has as an object a seating device (9), said blocking means further comprising at least one elastic element, particularly at least one extension and/or compression and/or bending and/or torsion springs, configured for applying to said protrusion (1 Op; 10s) a force adapted to thrust it towards said frame (1 ).

An 8th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 7, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said blocking means comprise a ball applied to said arm (5p; 5s), at least one portion of said ball forming said protrusion (1 Op; 10s), said at least one elastic element being a countering spring mounted between said ball and said arm (5p; 5s) and capable of thrusting said ball against said frame (1 ), the diameter of said ball being particularly sliahtly areater than the diameter of said at least one hole (1 1 a; 1 1 b; 1 1 c; 1 1 d).

A 9th aspect of the present invention, dependent on any aspects from the from aspect 6 to aspect 8, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said blocking means comprise at least one first hole (1 1 b; 1 1 c) provided in said frame (1 ) and adapted to house said protrusion (1 Op; 10s) in said first predefined position of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) and at least one second hole (1 1 a; 1 1 d) provided in said frame (1 ) and adapted to house said protrusion (1 Op; 10s) in said second predefined position of said at least one portion (7p; 7s), optionally wherein the rotation of said bracket (3p; 3s) with respect to said frame (1 ) , necessary for said protrusion (1 Op; 10s), when moving from said first hole (1 1 b; 1 1 c), to reach said second hole (1 1 a; 1 1 d), or when moving from said second hole (1 1 a; 1 1 d), to reach said first hole (1 1 b; 1 1 c), is comprised between 45° and 180°, preferably between 80° and 120°, still more preferably about 90°.

A 10th aspect of the present invention, dependent on any aspect from the aspects from 5 to aspect 9, has as an object a seating device (9), further comprising unblocking means, optionally manually activatable, said unblocking means being adapted to remove the degree of constraint between said at least one portion (7p; 7s) and said seating (8) determined by said blocking means, and particularly adapted to make stable the stay of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) in said first predefined position and/or in said second predefined position.

An 1 1 th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 10, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said unblocking means comprise a handle (12p; 12s) fixed to said arm (5p; 5s), said protrusion (1 Op; 10s) and said handle (12p; 12s) being disposed at regions of said arm (5p; 5s) opposite to each other with respect to said fulcrum (6p; 6s), said handle (12p; 12s) being particularly made integrally with said arm (5p; 5s).

A 12th aspect of the present invention, dependent on anyone of the preceding aspects, has as an object a seating device (9), further comprising guiding means adapted to aid in rotating said at least one portion (7p; 7s) with respect to said seat (8) .

A 13th aspect of the present invention, dependent on aspect 3 and aspect 12, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said guiding means comprise at least one rolling surface provided on said frame (1 ) and at least one rolling element, particularly at least one bearing (13a; 13b; 13c; 13d), hinged to said bracket (3p; 3s) and adapted to roll on said at least one rolling surface, preferably said at least one rolling surface developing substantially along a circle or along an arc of a circle.

A 14th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 13, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said guiding means comprise a first rolling surface and a second rolling surface provided on opposite faces of said frame (1 ) and at least one pair of rolling elements, particularly a pair of bearings (13a; 13b; 13c; 13d), hinged to said bracket (3p; 3s), a first element of said pair of rolling elements being adapted to roll on said first rolling surface, a second element of said pair of rolling elements being adapted to roll on said second rolling surface.

A 15th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 8 and on the aspect 14, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said guiding means comprise two pairs of rolling elements, particularly two pairs of bearings (13a; 13b; 13c; 13d) , hinged to said bracket (3p; 3s), optionally said first hole (1 1 b; 1 1 c) being interposed in said first predefined position of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) between the first of said pairs of rolling elements and the second of said pairs of rolling elements, particularly the distance between said first hole (1 1 b; 1 1 c) and the first of said pairs of rolling elements being substantially equal to the distance between said first hole (1 1 b; 1 1 c) and the second of said pairs of rolling elements, and said second hole (1 1 a; 1 1 d) being interposed in said second predefined position of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) between the first of said pairs of rolling elements and the second of said pairs of rolling elements, particularly the distance between said second hole (1 1 a; 1 1 d) and the first of said pairs of rolling elements being substantially equal to the distance between said second hole (1 1 a; 1 1 d) and the second of said pairs of rolling elements.

A 16th aspect of the present invention, dependent on anyone of the preceding aspects, has as an object a seating device (9), further comprising stopping means adapted to limit the breadth of the rotation of said at least one portion (7p; 7s) with respect to said seating (8). A 17th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 15 and on the aspect 16, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said stopping means comprise at least one first projection and one second projection cantilevering from said at least one rolling surface, said first projection being adapted to act as a stop for said first pair of rolling elements, said second projection being adapted to act as a stop for said second pair of rolling elements.

An 18th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 17, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said first hole (1 1 b; 1 1 c), said second hole (1 1 a; 1 1 d), said first projection and said second projection are reciprocally disposed on said frame (1 ) so that said first pair of rolling elements abuts said first projection when said at least one portion (7p; 7s) is in said first predefined position and said second pair of rolling elements abuts said second projection when said at least one portion (7p; 7s) is in said second predefined position.

A 19th aspect of the present invention, dependent on anyone of the preceding aspects, has as an object a seating device (9), said seating (8) comprising a container, particularly of plastic material, and wherein a cavity for housing said frame (1 ) is defined in said container, optionally an external upper wall of said container being substantially horizontal or sloped with an angle less than 10° with respect to a horizontal plane, preferably sloped with an angle less than 3° with respect to a horizontal plane, still more preferably sloped with an angle of about 1 ° with respect to a horizontal plane.

A 20th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 19, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein in at least one wall of said container, particularly in a lateral wall of said container, is provided at least one slit, said at least one slit being adapted to prevent said container from interfering with said at least one portion (7p; 7s), particularly with said bracket (3p; 3s) when said at least one portion (7p; 7s) rotates from said first predefined position to said second predefined position and when said at least one portion (7p; 7s) rotates from said second predefined position to said first predefined position.

A 21 st aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 18 and on the aspect 20, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said frame (1 ) is fixed to said container, a first element (17b) fixing said frame (1 ) to said container being adapted to act as the first projection, a second element (17a; 17c) fixing said frame (1 ) to said container being adapted to act as the second projection.

A 22nd aspect of the present invention, dependent on any aspect from aspect 19 to aspect 21 , has as an object a seating device (9), further comprising at least one floor abutment structure (18), particularly a base and/or a pedestal and/or one or more legs, said floor abutment structure (18) being fixed to said frame (1 ) and/or fixed to said container and/or integrally made with at least one part of said container, one or more bosses (28a; 28b; 28c) optionally cantilevering from said abutment structure (18) for fixing said frame (1 ) and/or at least part of said container.

A 23rd aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 22, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said floor abutment structure (18) is a monolithic piece and comprises a pair of front legs (19a; 19b) and an abutment outline (20) having a substantially inverted "U" shape, said abutment outline (20) developing between said pair of legs (19a; 19b) without interruption.

A 24th aspect of the present invention, dependent on anyone of the preceding aspects, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said at least one portion (7p; 7s) comprises an upright (21 p; 21 s) and an armrest (22p; 22s), said upright (21 p; 21 s) developing from said bracket (3p; 3s) along a substantially vertical direction or sloped with an inclination less than 10° with respect to a vertical plane, preferably sloped with an inclination comprised between 3° and 7° with respect to a vertical plane, said armrest (22p; 22s) developing from said upright (21 p; 21 s) substantially orthogonal to said upright (21 p; 21 s), said armrest (22p; 22s) and said upright (21 p; 21 s) being preferably joined to each other.

A 25th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 10 and on the aspect 24, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said unblocking means, particularly said handle (12p; 12s) are disposed in a position proximal to said upright (21 p; 21 s), preferably in a position proximal to the region of said upright (21 p; 21 s) connected to said bracket (3p; 3s). A 26th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 24 or on the aspect 25, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said upright (21 p; 21 s) is integrally made with said armrest (22p; 22s), optionally said upright (21 p; 21 s) being integrally made also with said bracket (3p; 3s).

A 27th aspect of the present invention, dependent on anyone aspects from aspect 24 to aspect 26, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said armrest (22p; 22s) develops from said upright (21 p; 21 s) with a curvilinear profile, preferably with a profile substantially as an arc of a circle, still more preferably a profile corresponding substantially to one quarter of a circle or half circle.

A 28th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 27, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said armrest (22p; 22s) defines a first abutment surface (23p; 23s) and a second abutment surface (24p; 24s), said first abutment surface (23p; 23s) being substantially vertical or sloped with an inclination less than 10° with respect to a vertical plane, preferably sloped with an inclination comprised between 3° and 7° with respect to a vertical plane, and said second abutment surface (24p; 24s) being substantially horizontal, said first abutment surface (23p; 23s) and said second abutment surface (24p; 24s) being preferably joined to each other.

A 29th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 28, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein the extent of said first abutment surface (23p; 23s) decreases, optionally progressively, away from said upright (21 p; 21 s) and wherein the extent of said second abutment surface (24p; 24s) increases, optionally progressively, away from said upright (21 p; 21 s).

A 30th aspect of the present invention, dependent on any aspect from aspect 24 to aspect 29, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said armrest (22p; 22s) and/or said upright (21 p; 21 s) exhibit at least one partially "C" cross-section or a tubular cross-section, said armrest (22p; 22s) and/or said upright (21 p; 21 s) being preferably made in a material among: fiberglass, plastics, metal, and wood;

A 31 st aspect of the present invention, dependent on any aspect from aspect 24 to aspect 30, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said armrest (22p; 22s) is provided with an accessory such as, for example, a case or a pen-holder compartment or a support for a glass or bottle.

A 32nd aspect of the present invention, dependent on anyone of the preceding aspects, has as an object a seating device (9), said seating device (9) being substantially symmetric with respect to a plane substantially orthogonal to said seating (8), the symmetry plane of said seating device (9) dividing said backrest (7) in a first half and in a second half, wherein said at least one portion (7p; 7s) substantially coincides with said first half.

A 33rd aspect of the present invention, dependent on anyone of the preceding aspects, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein a first portion (7p) and a second portion (7s) of said backrest (7) are articulated with respect to said seating (8), wherein the respective positions of said first portion (7p) and of said second portion (7s) are capable of being switched, with respect to said seating (8), at least between a respective first predefined position and a respective second predefined position .

A 34th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 32 and on the aspect 33, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said first portion (7p) substantially coincides with said first half and wherein said second portion (7s) substantially coincides with said second half.

A 35th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 34, has as an object a seating device (9), comprising first movement means and second movement means, said first movement means enabling the position of said first portion (7p) to be switched between the respective first predefined position and the respective second predefined position, said second movement means enabling the position of said second portion (7s) of being switched between the respective first predefined position and the respective second predefined position, said first movement means and said second movement means being actuatable independently from each other.

A 36th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 35, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said pin (77) is shared between said first movement means and said second movement means.

A 37th aspect of the present invention, dependent on the aspect 36, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein the confiquration of said stopping means is such so that at least one projection is adapted to limit the breadth of the rotation both of said first portion (7p) and of said second portion (7s), with respect to said seating (9), optionally said first fixing element (17b) substantially coinciding with said at least one projection.

A 38th aspect of the present invention, dependent on any aspect from the aspect 35 to the aspect 37, has as an object a seating device (9), comprising connecting means configured for constraining to each other the armrest (22p) of said first portion (7p) and the armrest (22s) of said second portion (7s) when said fi rst portion (7p) and said second portion (7s) are both in the respective second predefined position .

A 39th aspect of the present invention dependent on the aspect 38, has as an object a seating device (9), wherein said connecting means comprise a male-type connector and a female-type connector, said male-type connector being adapted to be housed in said female-type connector when said first portion (7p) and said second portion (7s) are both in the respective second predefined position, said male-type connector being applied to an end of the first between the armrest (22p) of said first portion (7p) and the armrest (22s) of said second portion (7s), said female-type connector being applied to an end of a second between the armrest (22p) of said first portion (7p) and the armrest (22s) of said second portion (7s).

The above aspects will be better understood from the following detailed description of an embodiment of the present invention. Such embodiment, while being a preferred embodiment, is disclosed only i n an illustrative but non-restrictive way, since in any case is adaptable to several variants still falling into the scope which will be defined in the following by the claims. During the following detailed description, it will be made reference to the attached Figures, wherein:

- Figure 1 illustrates an axonometric view of a seating device according to the present invention as is seen by an observer positioned in front of said seating device, said seating device being in a first configuration;

- Figure 2 illustrates an axonometric view of the seating device shown in Figure 1 , as is seen by an observer positioned in front of said seating device, said seating device being in a second configuration; - Figure 3 illustrates an axonometric view of the seating device shown in Figure 1 , as is seen by an observer placed in front of said seating device, said seating device being in a third configuration;

- Figure 4 illustrates an axonometric view of the seating device shown in Figure 1 , as is seen by an observer placed behind said seating device, said seating device being in the first configuration, that is in the same configuration of Figure 1 ;

- Figure 5 illustrates an axonometric view of the seating device shown in Figure 1 , as is seen by an observer placed on the back of said seating device, said seating device being in the second configuration, that is in the same configuration of Figure 2;

- Figure 6 illustrates an axonometric view of the seating device shown in Figure 1 , as is seen by an observer positioned in the back of said seating device, said seating device being in the third configuration, that is in the same configuration of Figure 3;

- Figure 7 illustrates an exploded view of some components of the seating device shown in Figure 1 ;

- Figure 8 illustrates a plan view of a sub-assembly of the seating device shown in Figure 1 , when said seating device is in the first configuration, that is in the same configuration of Figure 1 ;

- Figure 9 illustrates a plan view of the sub-assembly shown in Figure 8, when the seating device is in the second configuration, that is in the same configuration of Figure 2;

- Figure 10 illustrates a plan view of the sub-assembly shown in Figure 8, when the seating device is in the third configuration, that is in the same configuration of Figure 3;

- Figure 1 1 illustrates an axonometric view of the sub-assembly shown in Figure 8, as is seen by an observer placed above said sub-assembly, the seating device being in the first configuration, in other words in the same configuration of Figure 1 ;

- Figure 12 illustrates an axonometric view of the sub-assembly shown in Figure 8, as is seen by an observer placed below said sub-assembly, the seating device being in the first configuration, that is in the same configuration of Figure 1 ;

- Figure 13 illustrates a lateral view of a further sub-assembly of the seating device shown in Figure 1 , the seating device being in the first configuration, that is in the same configuration of Figure 1 ;

- Figure 14 illustrates an axonometric view of the sub-assembly shown in Figure 13, the seating device being in the first configuration, that is in the same configuration of Figure 1 ;

- Figure 15 illustrates an axonometric view of a detail of the seating device shown in Figure 1 , as is seen by an observer positioned above said detail;

- Figure 16 illustrates an axonometric view of the detail shown in Figure 15, as is seen by an observer placed below said detail;

- Figure 17 illustrates a plan view of a component of the seating device shown in Figure 1 ;

- Figures from 18 to 21 are cross-section views of a particular of the component shown in Figure 17, and

- Figure 22 and Figure 23 illustrate a first and a second axonometric views of a further component of the seating device shown in Figure 1 .

The Figures, attached to the present description, show a seating device 9. The device 9 is indeed adapted to be used for seating and can take the configuration of a chair or of an armchair. In the main embodiment thereof, the device 9 is configured such as a single seating device, that is useful for seating only one person. However, this does not jeopardize the possibility of configuring the device as a double seating or multi-seating device. The device 9 is configured for abutting a floor. In order to perform the function thereof, the device 9 comprises a seating 8 and a backrest 7.

The seating 8 exhibits an upper abutment surface substantially horizontal or sloped with an angle less than 10° with respect to a horizontal plane, preferably sloped with an angle less than 3° with respect to a horizontal plane, still more preferably sloped with an angle of about 1 ° with respect to a horizontal plane, such inclination provides a device 9 with an optimal ergonomics. Instead, the backrest 7 exhibits an abutment front surface substantially vertical or sloped with an inclination less than 10° with respect to a vertical plane, preferably sloped with an inclination comprised between 3° and 7° with respect to a vertical plane, such inclination providing the most ergonomic and comfortable abutment for the backrest. In addition, one or more substantially horizontal abutment surfaces, for abutting an arm or both arms of persons sitting on the device 9, are integrated in the backrest 7. In order to ensure a greater comfort to the device 9, a cushion can be applied to the upper surface of the seating 8 and/or to the front surface of the backrest 7 and/or to the arm abutment surface. For providing a better aesthetic appearance of the device 9 (and also a customization of the product), both the seating 8 and backrest 7 can be at least partially covered by leather, fabric, or any other material.

Moreover, the device 9 comprises at least one floor abutment structure 18, adapted to dispose the seating 8 and backrest 7 at a suitable height. Advantageously, the backrest 7 can be placed at a height approximately equal to 890 mm, while the seating 8 can be placed at a height comprised between about 450 mm and about 470 mm (all the heights are measured from the floor). Moreover, the seating 8 can have a substantially shield shape, with a width equal to about 430 mm and a depth equal to about 480 mm.

The abutment structure 18 can be made in many different shapes and can comprise, for example, a base and/or a pedestal and/or one or more legs. In possible variants of the device 9, specifically designed for being used in offices or professional firms, mechanisms for enabling the seating 8 to be rotatable and height-adjustable and/or wheels for enabling the device 9 to slide with respect to the floor, are applied to the base and/or pedestal and/or legs; a braking system being optionally associated with one or more wheels for simultaneously preventing them to rotate.

In the embodiment illustrated in an exemplifying way in the Figures, the abutment structure 18 is a monolithic piece, which comprises a right leg 19a, a left leg 19b (particularly both disposed in the front part of the abutment element 18), and an abutment outline 20 having a substantially inverted "U" shape, the abutment outline 20 developing between the legs without interruptions. Advantageously, the abutment structure 18 is configured so that a connecting sloped surface 39 extending to the front part of the seating 8, develops from the abutment outline 20, such connecting surface 39 preferably exhibiting an inclination of about 35° with respect to the floor. The configuration of the above described abutment structure 18 is advantageous because is fully capable of providing a stable and safe support to all the components of the device 9, and also to the persons sitting on the device 9. The backrest 7, the seating 8 and the abutment structure 18 can be made of materials such as fiberglass and/or plastics and/or metal and/or wood. Analogously to the seating 8 and backrest 7, the abutment structure 18 can be also at least partially covered by leather, fabric, or any other material.

Preferably, as shown in the Figures, both the seating 8 and backrest 7 exhibit a symmetric configuration, the symmetry plane of the seating 8 substantially coinciding with the symmetry plane of the backrest 7, such symmetry substantially follows the symmetry of a human body and consequently makes more comfortable the device 9. Still more preferably, the device 9 generally exhibits a symmetric configuration according to a symmetry plane substantially orthogonal to the seating 8.

According to the present invention, at least one portion of the backrest 7 is articulated with respect to the seating 8. In the embodiment shown illustratively but in a non-restrictive way in the attached Figures, the symmetry plane of the device 9 divides the backrest 7 in a first half and in a second half, the first half forming a first portion 7p articulated with respect to the seating 8, the second half instead forming a second portion 7s articulated with respect to the seating 8.

It is important to point out that the present invention can provide embodiments different from the one shown in the Figures. In an alternative embodiment, only the first portion 7p is articulated with respect to the seating, on the contrary the second portion 7s is a stationary portion. In a further alternative embodiment, only the second portion 7s is articulated with respect to the seating, on the contrary the first portion 7p being a stationary portion. In a further alternative embodiment, the backrest 7 comprises two articulated portions placed at the opposite sides of the backrest 7, the size thereof being however less than half the one of the backrest 7, so that a stationary portion is interposed between the two articulated portions of the backrest 7. In a further alternative embodiment, the backrest 7 is made in a single portion, which is articulated with respect to the seating 8. Consequently, it is understood that the device, according to the present invention, can include one or two articulated portions and such articulated portions can be differently sized.

In the present description, it will be specifically made reference to the embodiment shown in the Figures. However, it is assumed that the teachings given in the following are meant true for all the embodiments of the invention. If an embodiment requires the provision of specific teachings, the same will be certainly cited and will sufficiently specifically indicate such particular teachings.

According to the present invention, the position of the articulated portion of the backrest 7 is adapted to be switched, with respect to the seating 8, at least between a first predefined position and a second predefined position. The first predefined position of the articulated portion of the backrest 7 is a retracted position in which the articulated portion of the backrest 7 is adapted to act as a rear abutment element. On the contrary, the second predefined position of the articulated portion of the backrest 7 is in an advanced position in which the articulated portion of the articulated backrest 7 is adapted to act as a front abutment element.

In the embodiment shown in the Figures, wherein the backrest 7 of the device 9 comprises a first articulated portion 7p and a second articulated portion 7s, the positions of the first portion 7p and second portion 7s are adapted to be switched, with respect to the seating 8, between the respective first predefined position (that is the respective retracted position) and the respective second predefined position (that is the respective advanced position). If the first portion 7p and second portion 7s are both in the respective first predefined position, the distance between them is the smallest, for example equal to about 30 mm. Advantageously, the articulation of the first portion 7b is actuatable independently from the articulation of the second portion 7s, so that the first portion 7p and second portion 7s can be simultaneously placed in the respective retracted position, or simultaneously in the respective advanced position, or one in the respective retracted position and the other in the respective advanced position.

Even though the articulations of the first portion 7p and second portion 7s can be independent from each other, advantageously such articulations can use substantially the same linkage, and can optionally also share some components. Consequently, since the linkage of the embodiment shown in the Figures, which implements the articulation of the second portion 7s, is substantially identical to the linkage, which implements the articulation of the first portion 7p, in the following the present description, will particularly specifically describes such latter linkage, it being understood that all the teachings can be obviously applied also to the linkage which implements the articulation of the second portion 7s. Possible differences between the two linkages will be shown and fully described.

Advantageously, the linkage by which the articulation of the first portion 7p of the backrest 7 is implemented, is configured so that a person sitting on the device 9 is not required to stand up in order to change the position of the first portion 7p, particularly in order to switch it from the first predefined position to the second predefined position and in order to switch it from the second predefined position to the first predefined position. The linkage by which the articulation of the second portion 7s of the backrest 7 is implemented, is in the same way configured so that any variation of the position of the second portion 7s can be performed without requiring a person sitting on the device 9 to stand up.

Preferably, the linkage, adapted to change the position of the first portion 7p of the backrest 7, is such to provide a rotation of the first portion 7p about a substantially vertical axis. The position of the first portion 7p can be switched from the first predefined position to the second predefined position by an anticlockwise rotation of the first portion 7p, while can be switched from the second predefined position to the first predefined position by a clockwise rotation of the first portion 7p. Consequently, the first portion 7p remains always at the right of a person sitting on the device 9, both during the advancement of the first predefined position to the second predefined position, and during the retraction of the second predefined position to the first predefined position. Specularly, the position of the second portion 7s can be switched from the first predefined position to the second predefined position by a clockwise rotation of the second portion 7s, while can be switched from the second predefined position to the first predefined position by an anticlockwise rotation of the second portion 7s. Consequently, the second portion 7s is always at the left of a person sitting on the device 9, both when it advances from the first predefined position to the second predefined position, and when it retracts from the second predefined position to the first predefined position.

Advantageously, the rotary movements of the first portion 7s and second portion 7s have substantially the same breadth, so that the symmetric configuration that the device 9 takes when both the first portion 7p and second portion 7s are in the respective predefined first position, is held also when both portions are in the respective second predefined position. By considering the symmetric configuration of the backrest 7, this prevents the portions 7p and 7s from hitting the legs of a person sitting on the device 9. In the embodiment of the invention wherein the backrest 7 is completely articulated with respect to the seating 8, however an asymmetric configuration of the backrest 7 is instrumental in preventing the legs of a person sitting on the device 9 from being hit.

Figure 1 and Figure 4 show the device 9 according to the present invention as it appears when the portions 7p and 7s of the backrest 7 are both in the respective predefined first position. Since both the portions 7p and 7s are in a retracted position with respect to the seating 8, the backrest 7 completely acts as a rear abutment element. Consequently, a person sitting on the device 9 can comfortably use the backrest 7 for supporting the back and arms.

Figure 2 and Figure 5 show the device 9 according to the present invention as it appears when the first portion 7p is in the respective second predefined position, while the second portion 7s is in the respective first predefined position. Since only the second portion 7s is in the retracted position with respect to the seating 8, the backrest 7 acts as a rear abutment element only with reference to such second portion 7s. On the contrary, since the first portion 7p is an advanced position with respect to the seating 8, a part of the backrest 7 (coinciding with the first portion 7p) acts as a front abutment element. Consequently, a person sitting on the device 9 can comfortably use the backrest 7 for supporting part of his/her back (particularly the left side of the back) and simultaneously can use the first portion 7p for having, on the right side thereof, a front abutment surface useful, for example, for writing or supporting a personal computer and/or further objects. If a person sitting on the device 9 is left-handed and not right-handed, for his/her convenience, he/she will prefer to exchange the positions of the first portion 7p and second portion with respect to what is shown in Figure 2 and in Figure 5, in order to move the front abutment surface to his/her left side.

Figure 3 and Figure 6 show the device 9 according to the present invention as it will appear when the portions 7p and 7s of the backrest 7 are both in the respective second predefined position. Since both the portions 7p and 7s are in an advanced position with respect to the seating 8, the backrest 7 completely acts as a front abutment element. Consequently, a person sitting on the device 9 can have the availability of a large and stable front abutment surface which he/she can use, not just for writing or for supporting a personal computer and/or other objects, but also for having a rest. Indeed, the person sitting on the device 9 can abut the arms and head on the front abutment surface, in order to take a more comfortable and relaxing posture.

On the contrary, Figure 7 is an exploded view of the movement means of the first portion 7p and second portion 7s with respect to the seating 8. In order to give a more understandable representation, Figure 7 does not show the connecting members, such as screws or bolts. Moreover, the description of Figure 7 particularly refers to the elements of the device 9, provided to move the first portion 7p with respect to the seating 8, it being understood that the same elements can be possibly used specularly for moving the second portion 7s with respect to the seating 8.

The movement of the portion 7p of the backrest 7 with respect to the seating 8 is obtained substantially by rotating a bracket 3p integral with the portion 7p with respect to a frame 1 integral with the seating 8. In fact, the bracket 3p is stably connected (typically screwed or welded) to the portion 7p or is integrally made with the portion 7p. On the contrary, the frame 1 is stably connected (typically screwed or welded) to the seating 8 or is integrally made with the seating 8 (in embodiments of the invention in which possibly the seating 8 and abutment structure 18 form an integrated subassembly, the frame 1 is stably connected to such sub-assembly). The movement means of the portion 7p with respect to the seating 8 are kinematically interposed between the bracket 3p and frame 1 . A first seat 85 is provided on the frame 1 . On the contrary, a second seat 4p is provided on the bracket 3p, which is disposed with respect to the frame 1 so that the second seat 4b is substantially coaxial with the first seat 85. A pin 77 in housed in the first seat 85 and second seat 4p for enabling the bracket 3p to rotate with respect to the frame 1 . Alternatively, a pin can be integrated (optionally integrally made with) in the frame 1 and can be housed in a seat provided in the bracket 3p.

If both the first portion 7p and second portion 7s are portions of the backrest 7 articulated with respect to the seating 8 and if such articulations are respectively implemented by means of a first linkage which enables the first bracket 3p (integral with the first portion 7p) to rotate with respect to the frame 1 and by means of a second linkage which enables the second bracket 3s (integral with the second portion 7s) to rotate with respect to the frame 1 , in a first embodiment, the pin 77 is shared with the first linkage and second linkage, in order to cause the first bracket 3p and second bracket 3s to rotate about the same axis. For this purpose, as it is clearly visible in Figure 1 1 , the portion of the first bracket 3p, in which the seat 4p is provided, overlaps the portion of the first bracket 3s in which the seat 4s is made, in order to enable the pin 77 to be housed both in the seat 4p and seat 4s, besides the seat 85 (consequently, only with reference to the portions comprising the respective seats 4p and 4s, the symmetric arrangement between the first bracket 3p and second bracket 3s is locally interrupted). On the contrary, in a second embodiment, the first linkage and second linkage have rotation axes distinct from each other, particularly a first axis being part of the first linkage, is disposed laterally to a second axis which instead is part of the second linkage.

In an embodiment shown illustratively but in a non-restrictive way, the frame 1 comprises a perimetral element 1 f and a central element 1 r. Advantageously, the perimetral element 1 f and central element 1 r are made in one piece, possibly also with further elements of the frame 1 (for example with the pin 77 if is integrated with the frame 1 ). The central element 1 r, on which the first seat 85 is provided, can be configured in the shape of a crossbar developing between two distinct sectors of the perimetral element 1 f. Particularly, the perimetral element 1 f can develop along a circle or along an arc of a circle, and the central element 1 r develops along a diameter of such circle or of such arc of a circle. Advantageously, the upper surface 8x of the perimetral 1 f is a flat surface and/or the lower surface 8y of the perimetral element 1 f is a flat surface, so that such surfaces can be used as rolling and/or guiding surfaces.

In an embodiment, the device 9 comprises blocking means having the function of making stable the stay of the first portion 7p at least in a relative position that such first portion 7p takes with respect to the seating 8. Advantageously, the blocking means are particularly adapted to make stable the stay of the first portion 7p in the first predefined position and/or in the second predefined position. If both the first portion 7p and second portion 7s are portions of the backrest 7 articulated with respect to the seat 8, the blocking means are also adapted to make stable the stay of the second portion 7s in at least one relative position which such second portion 7s takes with respect to the seating 8, particularly in the first predefined position and/or in the second predefined position of the second portion 7s.

The blocking means are partially associated with the bracket 3p and partially to the frame 1 . Specifically, to the bracket 3p is applied an arm 5p articulated with respect to the bracket 3p by a fulcrum 6p. The arrangement of the arm 5p with respect to the bracket 3p and the position of the fulcrum 6p are clearly shown in Figure 13, wherein such components are shown in a side view.

To an end of the arm 5p a protrusion 10p is disposed which extends from the arm 5p towards the frame 1 and which can be made in a single piece with the arm 5p. The purpose of the protrusion 10p consists of making stable the position of the bracket 3p (and consequently of the first portion 7p, with which the bracket 3p is integral), when at least one portion of the protrusion 10p becomes engaged inside one of the holes provided in the frame 1 (particularly in the perimetral element 1 f) at the angular positions in which the bracket 3p is designed to be placed.

Particularly, in the frame 1 one hole 1 1 b is provided in a position so that, when the protrusion 10b is housed inside it, the first portion 7b is placed in the first predefined position, that is in the retracted position, and is stably held in such position. Then, in the frame 1 at least one further hole 1 1 a is provided in a position so that when the protrusion 10p is housed inside it, the first portion 7p is placed in the second predefined portion, that is in the advanced position, and is stably held in such position. In the embodiment of the device 9 shown in the Figures, the angular distance between the holes 1 1 b and 1 1 a is of about 90°. However, the holes 1 1 b and 1 1 a can be differently distanced from each other: for example, the angular distance thereof can be of about 45° or of about 180°, or equal to any value comprised between 45° and 180°, preferably is equal to any value comprised between 80° and 120°. In addition, other holes can be provided in the frame 1 between holes 1 1 b and 1 1 a. Since such holes are positioned with respect to the hole 1 1 b at an angular distance less than the angular distance of the hole 1 1 a, the task thereof consists of making stable one or more positions of the first portion 7p comprised between the first predefined position and second predefined position.

If the arm 5p is mounted below the bracket 3p (as in the embodiment shown in the Figures), also the bracket 3p has a through hole for enabling the protrusion 10b to cross the bracket 3p.

In the embodiment of the device 9 shown in the Figures, blocking means are associated also to the second portion 7s for making stable the stay of the second portion 7s in at least one relative position which such second portion 7s takes with respect to the seating 8 (such blocking means are particularly adapted to make stable the stay of the second portion 7s in the first predefined position and/or in the second predefined position of this latter). The blocking means associated with the second portion 7s are advantageously analogous to the blocking means associated with the first portion 7p both from a structural point of view and from an operative point of view. Particularly, in the embodiment of the device 9 shown in the Figures, at least one hole 1 1 c and one hole 1 1 d are further provided in the frame 1 . When the protrusion 10s of the arm 5s is housed inside the hole 1 1 c, the second portion 7p is in a first predefined portion, that is in the retracted position and is held stably in such position. On the contrary, when the protrusion 10s of the arm 5s is housed inside the hole 1 1 d, the second portion 7p is placed in the second predefined portion, in other words in the advanced position and is stably held in such position. Advantageously, the distribution of the holes on the frame 1 for keeping stationary the first portion 9p and second portion 9s is arranged so that the angular distance between the holes 1 1 b and 1 1 a is substantially equal to the angular distance between the holes 1 1 c and 1 1 d.

The plan view in Figure 8 shows the reciprocal arrangement between the first portion 9p and frame 1 and between the second portion 9s and frame 1 when the portions 9p and 9s are both in the first predefined position, that is in the respective retracted position. It can be particularly observed that the protrusion 10p is engaged in the hole 1 1 b and the protrusion 10s is engaged in the hole 1 1 c.

The plan view of Figure 9 shows the reciprocal arrangement between the first portion 9p and frame 1 and between the second portion 9s and frame 1 when the first portion 9p is placed in the second predefined position, in other words in the respective advanced position, while the second portion 9s is placed in the first predefined position, in other words in the respective retracted position. It can be particularly observed that the protrusion 10p and protrusion 10s are respectively engaged in the hole 1 1 a and in the hole 1 1 c and that the first bracket 3p has been subjected to a rotation of about 90° with respect to the position shown in Figure 8.

The plan view of Figure 10 shows the reciprocal arrangement between the first portion 9p and the frame 1 and between the second portion 9s and frame 1 when the portions 9p and 9s are both in the second predefined position, in other words in the respective advanced position. It can be particularly observed that the protrusion 10p and the protrusion 10s are engaged in the hole 1 1 a and in the hole 1 1 d respectively and that the second bracket 3s has been subjected to a rotation of about 90° with respect to the position shown in Figure 9.

For the purpose of stably coupling at least one portion of the protrusion 10p in the hole 1 1 b and/or in the hole 1 1 a, the blocking means advantageously comprise at least one elastic element, the task thereof being of exerting on such protrusion 10p, or at least on the portion of the protrusion 10p destined to be engaged in the holes provided in the frame 1 , a force adapted to thrust such protrusion 10p or such portion towards the frame 1 , in order to counter in this way the action of the gravity, and also the action of possible further external stresses which could disengage the protrusion 10p from the holes 1 1 b and 1 1 a. In an embodiment of the present invention, the elastic element is a coil spring applied between the arm 5p and bracket 3p. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the elastic element is a torsion spring applied to the fulcrum 6p.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, to the end of the arm 5p a tubular container is applied, in which a ball is housed which can axially move inside such tubular container. The end of the tubular container is open and exhibits a narrowing of the cross-section adapted to enable a portion of the ball to project outside the tubular container. Lastly, a compression spring is disposed between the ball and the bottom of the tubular container, such compression spring thrusts the ball so that the same can take a position wherein a portion thereof projects from the tubular container. When the portion of the ball projecting from the tubular container engages in the hole 1 1 b of the frame 1 , the portion 7p is stably held in the first predefined position. On the contrary, when the portion of the ball which projects from the tubular container engages in the hole 1 1 a of the frame 1 , the portion 7p is stably held in the second predefined position. The embodiment of the present invention which provides to use the ball and the tubular container, is advantageous in that the degree of constraint, created in such embodiment between the arm 5p and frame 1 , despite being sufficiently safe and stable, is anyway rather smooth and comfortable both to be inserted and to be removed. Moreover, such embodiment is advantageous also in that the ball, when is disengaged from one of the holes, can slide along the surface of the frame 1 with a rather low friction, so that the switchings from the position of the portion 7p with respect to the seating 8 are not hampered.

For enabling a person sitting on the device 9 to move the first portion 7p with respect to the seating 8 (particularly for enabling such person to switch the position of the first portion 7p from the first predefined position to the second predefined position and/or from the second predefined position to the first predefined position), the seating device 9 comprises unblocking means enabling to selectively prevent the operation of the blocking means. The unblocking means can be associated both to the first bracket 3p and to the second bracket 3s. Referring specifically to the unblocking means associated with the first bracket 3p, when they are activated, between the first portion 7p and the seating 8, there is only one degree of freedom (represented by the pin 77) and consequently the first portion 7p freely rotates about the pin 77.

Advantageously, the unblocking means are configured for being manually operated. Still more advantageously, the unblocking means are configured so that the manual operation of the unblocking means (for the purpose of enabling to switch the position of the first portion 7p) can be done without causing a person sitting on the device 9 to stand up.

In a possible embodiment of the device 9 according to the present invention, the unblocking means comprise a handle 12p which is applied to the end of the arm 5p opposite to the end to which the protrusion 10p is applied. The handle 12p can be in a single piece with the arm 5p. To the handle 12p a coating can be applied for making safer and comfortable the grip of the handle 12p. Then, the handle 12p is disposed in a position so that it can be comfortably actuated by a person sitting on the device 9 by using his/her right hand (on the contrary the handle 12s associated with the second bracket 3s can be comfortably actuated by the person sitting on the device 9 by using his/her left hand).

Since the fulcrum 6p is interposed between the protrusion 10p and handle 12p, an upwardly movement of the handle 12p is matched by a simultaneous downward movement of the protrusion 10p. The arm 5p and protrusion 10p have a size so that the downward movement of the protrusion 10p caused by actuating the handle 12p is sufficient for causing the protrusion 10p to exit the hole of the frame 1 to which the protrusion 10p is possibly engaged.

Moreover, the device 9 comprises guiding means configured for guiding the rotation of the articulated portions of the backrest 7 with respect to the seating 8. Particularly, such guiding means are effective in aiding the switching of the first portion 7p and/or of the second portion 7s from the respective first predefined position to the respective second predefined position and the switching of the first portion 7p and/or of the second portion 7s from the respective second predefined position to the respective first predefined position, in order to make the movement of the bracket 3p and/or bracket 3s with respect to the frame 1 very smooth and accurate. By specifically referring to the guiding means cooperating with the bracket 3p, these latter comprise, in an embodiment of the present invention, at least one rolling element applied to the bracket 3p and configured for rolling on the upper surface 8x or on the lower surface 8y of the perimetral element 1 f of the frame 1 , indeed such surfaces are suitable for acting as rolling surfaces for the elements following the trajectory of the bracket 3p, since such surfaces substantially develop along a circle or along an arc of a circle. Advantageously, a bearing can be used as a rolling element for minimizing the friction between the rolling element and the rolling surface and for making smoother any movement of the first portion 7p for a person sitting on the device 9. The rotation axis of the bearing is a substantially horizontal axis. The shaft of the bearing is preferably installed in a hole provided in a plate, such plate being integral with the bracket 3p (is welded to the bracket 3p, for example) and forming with the bracket 3p a substantially right angle. Even though the bearing is the most suited rolling element for the device 9, it is important to outline that a different rolling element can be used, such as a roller or a wheel or a ball.

In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the guiding means comprise a pair of rolling elements, for example the bearings 13a and 13b. The bearings 13a and 13b are applied to the plate 31 h itself in positions so that the bearings 13a and 13b can roll one on the upper surface 8x and the other on the lower surface 8y. Advantageously, the rotation axis of the bearings 13a and 13b are substantially parallel to each other.

In a still more advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the guiding means comprise two pairs of rolling elements, preferably two pairs of bearings, for example a first pair of bearings 13a and 13b and a second pair of bearings 13c and 13d. The bearings 13a and 13b are applied to a first plate 31 h integral with the bracket 3p, in positions so that the bearings 13a and 13b can roll one on the upper surface 8x and the other on the lower surface 8y. The bearings 13c and 13d are applied to a second plate 31 k integral with the bracket 3p, in positions so that the bearings 13c and 13d can respectively roll on the upper surface 8x and on the lower surface 8y. Advantageously, the rotation axes of the bearings 13a, 13b, 1 3c and 13d are substantially parallel to each other.

Preferably, the plates 31 h and 31 k are disposed adjacent to the opposite sides of the bracket 3p, so that, when the first portion 7p is in a predefined position (in the first predefined position, for example), the angular position in which the hole provided on the frame 1 is placed which ensures the stay (for example the hole 1 1 b), is comprised between the angular position, in which the bearings of the first pair of bearings 13a and 13b are placed, and the angular position in which the bearings of the second pair of bearings 13c and 13d are placed. In other words, the hole 1 1 b is interposed, in the first predefined position of the first portion 7p, between the first pair of bearings 13a, 13, and the second pair of bearings 13c, 13d and the hole 1 1 a is interposed, in the second predefined position of the first portion 7p, between the first pair of bearings 13a and 13b of the rolling elements and the second pair of bearings 13c and 13d.

Both the presence of two pairs of bearings, and a substantial distance separating the first plate 31 h from the second plate 31 k, contribute to make more stable and balanced the support of the first bracket 3p, and consequently make more stable and balanced the support of the first portion 7p.

Moreover, the device 9 can comprise stopping means adapted to limit the breadth of the allowable rotation of the first portion 7p and/or second portion 7s. Particularly, such stopping means comprise a first projection and a second projection cantilevering from the upper surface 8x and/or from the lower surface 8y of the perimetral element 1 f of the frame 1 . Particularly, the bearing 13a and/or bearing 13b are destined to abut the first projection for limiting the anticlockwise rotation of the first portion 7p, while the bearing 13c and/or bearing 13d are destined to abut the second projection for limiting the clockwise rotation of the first portion 7p. Advantageously, the first projection is positioned on the perimetral element 1 f so that the bearing 13a and/or bearing 13b abut the former slightly after the first portion 7p passes the second predefined position, while the second projection is positioned on the perimetral element 1 f so that the bearing 13c and/or bearing 13d abut the former slightly after the first portion 7p passes the first predefined position. Advantageously, at least one projection is shared between the stopping means associated with the first portion 7p and the stopping means associated with the second portion 7s. Particularly, a projection is destined, on one side, to limit the clockwise rotation of the first portion 7p and, on the other side, to limit the anticlockwise rotation of the second portion 7a.

From the above description, it is clearly understood how is easy and ergonomic doing any switching from the position of the first portion 7p and/or of the second portion 7s. For example, if a person sitting on the device 9 would like to switch the position of the first portion 7p from the first predefined position to the second predefined position, first of all he/she will manually actuate the handle 12p for disengaging the protrusion 10p from the hole 1 1 b, then once released the handle 12p, he/she will manually rotate the first portion 7p with respect to the pin 77 until it reaches the second predefined position. At this point, the force exerted by the elastic element on the protrusion 10p, automatically thrusts such protrusion 10p in order to engage it in the hole 1 1 a, consequently the rotation of the first portion is stopped. Advantageously, when the protrusion 10p engages the hole 1 1 a, a person sitting on the device 9 perceives a slight snap which is interpreted as a confirmation that a position switching of the first portion was correctly and completely performed.

The frame 1 is fixed to the seating 8 by means of sufficiently sturdy connecting means so that the seating 8 is capable of supporting not only the frame 1 but also all the additional components of the device 9 constrained to the frame 1 , among them the first portion 7p and second portion 7s. One or more holes are advantageously provided for fixing the frame 1 to the seating 8, each hole receiving a seating 8 connecting member, such as a pin. In the embodiment of the present invention shown in the Figures, the frame 1 comprises three holes 71 a, 71 b, 71 c uniformly distributed on the perimetral element 1 f. A first pin 17a is housed in the hole 71 a, a second pin 17b is housed in the hole 71 b, and a third pin 17c is housed in the hole 71 c.

As it is clearly visible in Figure 22 and in Figure 23 (which show the seating 8 made in one piece with the abutment structure 18), on the rear surface of the seating 8 are integrally provided three bosses 28a, 28b and 28c. The distance between the first boss 28a and the second boss 28b in the seating 8 is substantially equal to the distance between the hole 71 a and hole 71 b. The distance between the second boss 28b and third boss 28c in the seating 8 is substantially equal to the distance between the hole 71 b and hole 71 c. The distance between the third boss 28c and first boss 28a in the seating 8 is substantially equal to the distance between the hole 71 c and hole 71 a. The end of the first pin 17a becomes gripped in the first boss 28a. The end of the second pin 17b becomes gripped in the second boss 28b. Lastly, the end of the third pin 17c becomes gripped in the third boss 28c.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the holes 71 a, 71 b and 71 c are disposed on the perimetral element 1 f in positions so that the pins 17a, 17b and 17c can act as stopping means because the pins 17a, 17b and 17c can limit the breadth of the rotation of the first portion 7p and/or of the second portion 7s.

In order to better protect the components of the device 9, a lower covering, preferably of plastic material, is advantageously applied to the seating 8, the covering defines a cavity housing the frame 1 . Such covering is applied to the seating 8 by connecting means, such as for example screws enabling to remove the covering for a possible maintenance and/or substitution of components of the device 9. The seating 8 and covering are coupled so that a gap is provided between them wherein a direct contact between the seating 8 and covering would hamper the rotation of the brackets 3p and 3s and of the portions 7p and 7s. Advantageously, coupling the seating 8 to the covering can provide a direct contact between the seating 8 and covering at angular positions which the brackets 3p and 3s and portions 7p and 7s must not reach. In this way, such coupling effectively cooperates with the stopping means in limiting the breadth of the rotation of the first portion 7p and/or of the second portion 7s.

With reference to the portion 7p, it should be remembered that it is connected to the bracket 3p and in an embodiment of the invention, is integrally made with the bracket 3p. Advantageously, the portion 7p (besides the bracket 3p, if this latter is integrally made with the portion 7p) comprises an upright 21 p and an armrest 22p.

The upright 21 p develops from the bracket 3p along a substantially vertical direction or sloped with an inclination less than 10° with respect to a vertical plane, preferably sloped with an inclination comprised between 3° and 7° with respect to a vertical plane. The upright 21 p exhibits a stiffness adapted to support a load caused by the abutment of the back of the person sitting on the device 9. The upright 21 p can be made at least partially of materials such as fiberglass, plastics, metal or wood and can have a hollow cross-section or a solid cross-section. In a first embodiment, it comprises a solid metal core coated by nylon reinforced by glass-fiber. In a second embodiment, it is formed by joining the two elements of plastic material by a welding step, at least one of them exhibiting a plurality of ribs cantilevering from the surface thereof, so that, after the welding step, a boxed structure reinforced by inner ribs is obtained.

The armrest 22p develops from the upright 21 p along a direction substantially orthogonal to the upright 21 p. The armrest 22p can be made of the same material as the upright 21 p and/or with a structure analogous to the one of the upright 21 p. The upright 21 p and armrest 22b can be joined to each other. In an embodiment of the present invention, the upright 21 p is made in a single piece with the armrest 22p.

The plan view of Figure 17 and the cross-section views of Figures from Figure 18 to Figure 21 , provide an exhaustive representation of the development of the armrest 22p. For this purpose, it is pointed out that:

- Figure 18 is a cross-section view of the armrest 22p when is sectioned along the plane indicated in Figure 17 as XVIII-XVIII;

- Figure 19 is a cross-section view of the armrest 22p when is sectioned along the plane indicated in Figure 17 as XIX-XIX;

- Figure 20 is a cross-section view of the armrest 22p when is sectioned along the plane indicated in Figure 17 as XX-XX; and

- Figure 21 is a cross-section view of the armrest 22p when is sectioned along the plane indicated in Figure 17 as XXI-XXI.

The armrest 22p develops from the upright 21 p with a curvilinear outline, preferably with substantially an arc of a circle outline. In the embodiment of the device 9 shown in Figure 17, the development of the armrest 22p substantially describes a quarter of a circle. Such development is optimal when the angular distance between the holes 1 1 b and 1 1 a in the frame 1 is equal to about 90°. If such angular distance is increased (and consequently if is increased the rotation required to switch the articulated portion of the backrest 7 from the first predefined position to the second predefined position), the armrest can advantageously have a development less than a quarter of a circle. On the contrary, if such angular distance is decreased (and consequently if it is decreased the rotation required to switch the articulated portion of the backrest 7 from the first predefined position to the second predefined position), the armrest can have a development greater than a quarter of a circle. When the backrest 7 is completely articulated with respect to the seating 8 and exhibits an asymmetric configuration, the armrest can advantageously have a development substantially corresponding to a half circle.

The armrest 22p defines a first abutment surface 23p and a second abutment surface 24b, preferably joined to each other. The first abutment surface 23p is the surface of the armrest 22p, following a direction with an inclination less than 10° from a vertical plane (at the maximum, a vertical direction) and in the first predefined position of the backrest 7, it acts as an abutment for the person sitting on the device 9. On the contrary, the second abutment surface 24p is the substantially horizontal surface of the armrest 22p. Such second abutment surface 24p, despite being useable in the first predefined position of the backrest 7 as an abutment for the right arm of the person sitting on the device 9, is mainly useful in the second predefined position of the backrest 7 as an abutment surface, for example, as a writing surface or also as an abutment surface for the person sitting on the device 9, if he/she would like to have a rest on the device 9.

As it is clearly shown in the sequence of cross-section views from Figure 18 to Figure 21 , the extent of the first abutment surface 23p decreases, optionally gradually away from the upright 21 p, while the extent of the second abutment surface 24p increases, optionally gradually, away from the upright 21 p. Such variation of the cross- section of the armrest 22p, which by itself suggests an invention, substantially improves the ergonomics of the device 9.

In order to increase the versatility of the device 9, the armrest 22p can be provided with accessories. In a first possible outfit, the armrest 22p exhibits, in proximity of the ends thereof, a hole useable for hooking an articulated support, to which a pen-holder compartment or a plate for abutting a glass or a bottle is associated, for example. In a second possible outfit which can be possibly combined with the first one, the armrest 22p exhibits, in proximity of the end thereof, an internal compartment (having an opening, or a drawer or a door) useable for receiving small objects such as, for example, pens and/or further stationery articles.

It is suitable to point out that what has been represented and specifically described with reference to the first portion 7p and particularly to the first armrest 22p can be applied to the second portion 7s and particularly to the second armrest 22s, by making the necessary changes.

A particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention intends to make the first armrest 22p and second armrest 22f more sturdy when the first portion 7p is placed in the respective second predefined position, and the second portion 7s is placed in the respective second predefined position. Such greater strength is first of all useful when the person sitting on the device 9, places both the portions 7p and 7s in the second predefined position and consequently he/she takes a posture enabling him/her to have a rest on the device 9. Indeed, in such posture, the armrest 22p and 22s support the load mainly composed by the weight of the body of the person.

In such embodiment, the device 9 comprises connecting means configured for constraining to each other the armrest 22p of the first portion 7p and the armrest 22s of the second portion 7s. The connecting means operate when the first portion 7p and second portion 7s are both in the respective second predefined position and connect the armrest 22p to the armrest 22s, so that the continuity between the ends of the two armrest 22p and 22s is actually interrupted.

The connecting means can be obtained by shaping the ends of the armrest 22p and armrest 22s in a complementary way so that, when both the portions 7p and 7s are switched to the respective second predefined position, a first of such ends automatically enters inside the second of such ends. For example, the connecting means can comprise a male-type connector applied to the end of the armrest 22p (possibly also integrally made with the armrest 22p) and a female-type connector applied to the end of the armrest 22s (possibly also integrally made with the armrest 22s). The male-type connector and female-type connector exhibit configurations which are compatible with each other, so that, since the male connector is suitable for being housed in the female-type connector, the continuity between the ends of the two armrests 22p and 22s is de facto interrupted when the first portion 7p and second portion 7s are both in the respective second predefined position.

The present invention achieves many significant advantages. First of all, it enables to make a seating device enabling an user to have a front abutment surface and which is characterized by a constant and substantial ergonomics in all the configurations thereof, and wherein the front abutment surface is particularly sturdy, in order to also withstand weights of substantial amount. Moreover, the present invention provides the user an extremely adaptable seating device, the adaptability thereof enables an optimal customization to the preferences of an user with reference to the posture used for sitting. Further, the present invention enables to make a seating device easy to assemble, optimal also from an aesthetic point of view and is capable of lending itself to many variants, however the modification according to different variants does not cause a degradation of the operabilities of the seating device.

All these advantages, and also further equally significant benefits, are met by the seating device as defined in the following claims, what has been described and claimed lends itself to several variants all fully falling in the scope defined by the claims themselves.