Disengagement and reengagement mechanism on motorized seating unit

Abstract

A motorized positioning device for a seating unit includes a motor assembly configured to move a pair of linkage mechanisms through a series of positions that place the seating unit in a stowed position, an open position, or an extended position. The motor assembly is selectively and releasably coupled to the linkage mechanism to allow a user to manually close the motor assembly and automatically couple via the coupling mechanism.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on July 21, 2021, with application number 202180058867.0 and invention title "Disengagement and Re-engagement Mechanism for Selective Manual Control on Motorized Seat Unit". Technical Field

[0002] There are motorized movable furniture / mobile furniture that allows furniture objects such as seating units (e.g., recliners or parts of a combined seating arrangement) to move between a folded position, an open position, a TV position, and a reclining position. Background Technology

[0003] These furniture pieces typically feature a pair of metal linkages to control the positioning of the ottoman, seat, and backrest. In the folded position, the seat is usually horizontal, the ottoman is stored folded, and the backrest is usually upright. In the TV position, the ottoman is extended, and the seat and backrest typically maintain their respective positions. In the reclining position, the ottoman extends further, the seat can move forward and downward, and the backrest is tilted. In motorized versions of this furniture, linear actuators or motors are connected to the linkages that control the movement of the ottoman, seat, and backrest. By engaging the actuators, the furniture piece moves between multiple positions, such as from the folded position to the TV position and the reclining position (and back).

[0004] Typically, if a user of such a movable piece of furniture wants to deactivate it (restore it to its original position), they will engage an actuator (such as a button or switch) to return the furniture to its closed position. For example, if a user places the movable furniture in the TV position and wants to deactivate it, they will press the appropriate button (possibly labeled "back," "return," or "close") to engage the actuator. As the furniture returns to its closed position, the actuator moves a linkage mechanism to control the footrest, seat, and backrest. However, the actuator's movement can be somewhat slow. Allowing the user to manually return the movable furniture to its closed position more quickly would be useful and advantageous. For example, if the user needs to answer a phone call located far from the movable furniture, needs to open a door, or is simply impatient, they might not want to wait for the actuator to return the furniture to its closed position before it deactivates. Even after the movable furniture has been manually returned to its closed position, it is advantageous and useful to be able to use it again in a motorized manner. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure includes a motorized positioning device for a seat unit, comprising a motor assembly configured to move a pair of linkages through a series of positions that position the seat unit in a folded position, a TV position, or an extended position. The motor assembly is selectively and releasably coupled to the linkages to allow selective disengagement of the motor assembly from the linkages, thereby allowing manual folding of the seat unit by a user. The term "selectively and releasably coupled" may also refer to a selectively coupled state and a releasable coupled state, respectively. In some aspects, a drive block of the motor assembly is selectively coupled and disengaged from a motor tube, which in turn is coupled to a pair of linkages. In some aspects, a coupling / connection mechanism, such as a solenoid, is used to control a pin to selectively engage and disengage the drive block from the motor tube.

[0006] The embodiments of this disclosure are defined by the appended claims rather than by this summary. For this purpose, a high-level overview of several aspects of this disclosure is provided herein to give an overview of the disclosure and to introduce some concepts that will be further described in the detailed description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. Attached Figure Description

[0007] This disclosure includes several details that can be referenced in the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference, wherein:

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a motorized multi-position seating unit, in which the seating unit is in the folded position, and a linkage mechanism is not shown for clarity. Figure 2 It is similar to Figure 1 The view shows the seat unit in the TV position, the footrest in the extended position, and the backrest in the upright position; Figure 3 It is similar to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The view shows the seat unit in the folded position, and the motor and drive block disengaged from the motor tube and linkage mechanism; Figure 4A This is an enlarged view showing the drive block and motor detached from the motor tube and linkage mechanism; Figure 4B It is similar to Figure 4A The view shows the drive block detached from the motor tube and in a position relative to... Figure 4A Different locations; Figure 5 It is similar to Figure 4A The view shows an extension of the solenoid pin to connect the motor tube and linkage mechanism to the motor and drive block; Figure 6 It is an enlarged view of the back plate, shaft insert, guide block, and solenoid bracket; Figure 7 This is an exemplary view of a prior art motorized seating unit; Figure 8 This is a perspective view of one embodiment, in which the control box automatically reconnects the drive blocks; and Figure 9 This is an enlarged view showing the drive block and motor disengaging from the motor tube and engaging with the mounting bracket. Detailed Implementation

[0009] To meet statutory requirements, the subject matter is described in detail and specifically in this disclosure. However, the aspects described throughout this disclosure are intended to be illustrative rather than limiting, and the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Rather, the claimed subject matter may be implemented in other ways and include different elements or combinations of elements similar to those described in this disclosure, and in combination with other current or future technologies. After reading this disclosure, alternatives may become apparent to those skilled in the art practicing in relation to the described aspects without departing from the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and can be used without reference to other features and sub-combinations. This principle is considered by the claims and is within the scope of the claims.

[0010] U.S. Patent No. 9,845,852 (“'852 Patent”) illustrates and describes an example of prior art movable furniture. As an example, the '852 Patent… Figure 6 Here it is shown in a simplified form as Figure 7 And it shows one side of the movable furniture linkage mechanism in the retracted position (for illustrative purposes, in...). Figure 7(Text annotations added). The side not shown is a mirror image of the side shown. The two linkages are connected, for example, by a fixed / stationary track and motor tube, such as a rear base track and / or a front base track. Each end of the motor tube is connected to a portion of the linkage. The motor tube is also connected to an actuator. The actuator (or motor) can be engaged to move the drive block forward, causing the linkage to move from the retracted position to the TV position, and then to the reclining position. The actuator can also be engaged to move the drive block backward, causing the linkage to move from the reclining position to the TV position, and then to the retracted position. In the prior art, the motor tube typically has a mounting bracket pivotally connected to the drive block, such that the motor tube always moves with the drive block, and therefore the linkage always moves with the drive tube. The mounting bracket is pivotally connected to the drive block, for example, by bolts or U-shaped pins. This connection is permanent because detaching the motor tube from the drive block requires access to the underside of the movable furniture and usually requires some type of tool. In practice, this means the only way to move the linkage between the folded, TV, and reclining positions is to activate an actuator or motor to move the drive block and motor tube, thereby moving the linkage. As mentioned above, in some cases, moving from the reclining position to the folded position may take longer than the user intends.

[0011] Many aspects have been considered in this application. As described above, the pair of linkage mechanisms described herein can arrange the seat unit in a folded position, a TV position, or an extended position. The linkage mechanism can control only the positioning of the footrest, or control the positioning of the combination of the footrest, seat, and backrest. In the aspect where the linkage mechanism can control only the positioning of the footrest, the backrest and seat can be controlled by independent linkage mechanisms. Even in the aspect where the linkage mechanism only controls the positioning of the footrest, the pair of linkage mechanisms can arrange only the footrest in a folded position, a TV position, or an extended position.

[0012] Figure 1 A new connection arrangement between the linkage mechanism and the actuator is described. More specifically, Figure 1 The motorized seat unit 10 is depicted, and a linkage mechanism 12 is shown, which is operable to move the motorized seat unit 10 from a retracted position. Figure 1 Move to TV position ( Figure 2 The motorized seat unit 10 has a reclining position (not shown) and a return position. Another linkage mechanism for the motorized seat unit 10 is not shown, but it is a mirror image of linkage mechanism 12. Linkage mechanism 12 and the opposing linkage mechanism are connected at a point via a rear base rail 14, which is typically made of bent sheet metal or formed metal. Although at least in Figure 1The diagram shows a fixed track, such as the rear base track 14, connecting the linkage mechanisms together; however, in some respects, other fixed tracks may be considered. A front base track can connect the linkage mechanisms together, and this front base track may be opposite the rear base track shown in the diagram, facing the footrest end of the linkage mechanism 12. In some respects, a combination of the front and rear base tracks can connect the linkage mechanisms together.

[0013] At another point, linkage 12 and the opposing linkage are connected together via motor tube 16. Each end of motor tube 16 is connected to a portion of the corresponding linkage 12, so that when motor tube 16 moves, linkage 12 causes seat unit 10 to move between the folded position, TV position, and reclined position, as well as return to its original position.

[0014] A motor (e.g., an electric linear actuator) 18 is pivotally coupled to a rear base rail 14. For example, a rear motor mount 20 can be coupled to the rear base rail 14. Similarly, the motor housing 22 can have an integrally formed bracket 24, or the bracket 24 can be coupled to the motor housing 22. The bracket 24 and the rear motor mount 20 can be pivotally coupled together, for example, by passing a U-shaped pin 26 through holes in the bracket 24 and the rear motor mount 20. Other attachment arrangements can also be used to pivotally couple the motor 18 to the rear base rail 14.

[0015] In some envisioned aspects, other fixed tracks besides the rear base track 14 can be pivotally coupled to the motor. It is also envisioned that the motor 18 can be pivotally coupled to the front base track, as described herein.

[0016] like Figure 2 As best shown, motor 18 is operable to move drive block 28 along the body 30 of motor 18. In one aspect, motor 18 utilizes a rack and pinion mechanism to selectively move drive block 28 forward or backward along the body 30. Body 30 may be pivotally coupled together with motor 18 to a fixed track, such as the rear base track 14 or the front base track described herein. In some other aspects, body 30 connects the front base track and the rear base track.

[0017] like Figure 4B As best shown, the drive block 28 is coupled to a pair of mounting tabs 32, or the mounting tabs 32 may be integrally formed with the drive block 28. Each mounting tab 32 includes an opening 34. The motor tube 16 has a mounting bracket 36 coupled thereto, for example by welding. The mounting bracket 36 has a pair of extensions, each extension having an opening 38. The openings 34 on the mounting tabs 32 and the openings 38 on the bracket 36 are used to selectively connect the drive block 28 and the motor 18 to the motor tube 16 and the linkage mechanism 12.

[0018] More specifically, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As best shown, the backplate 40 is connected to the motor tube 16. In some aspects, the backplate 40 is made of a robust material such as metal and includes a first set of elongated slots 42. In some aspects, the slots 42 can be used to bolt the backplate 40 to the motor tube 16. In some aspects, the motor tube 16 can have corresponding threaded holes into which bolts 44 are screwed, or it can have corresponding through holes in a nut-bolt connection arrangement. Figure 6 As best shown, in some respects, the back panel 40 has a first opening segment 46 and a second opening segment 48. For example... Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 5 As best shown, when the backplate 40 is coupled to the motor tube 16, the first opening section 46 allows the mounting bracket 36 (coupled to the motor tube 16) to extend through the first opening section 46. In some aspects, the shaft insert 50 is also coupled to the backplate 40, just below the motor tube 16. The shaft insert 50 is also made of metal and has a generally U-shaped opening 52 formed therein, which allows clearance for the body 30 of the motor 18. In some aspects, the surface of the U-shaped opening 52 supports the body 30 of the motor 18. In some aspects, a guide block 54 is also coupled to the backplate 40 on the side of the backplate 40 opposite to the shaft insert 50. In some aspects, the guide block 54 is also made of metal. In some aspects, the shaft insert 50 and the backplate 40 may have aligned holes that also align with the threaded holes in the guide block 54. Bolts can then be passed through aligned holes in the shaft insert 50 and the back plate 40 and screwed into threaded holes in the guide block 54 to connect the shaft insert 50, the back plate 40, and the guide block 54 together. The guide block 54 also has an opening channel 56 that transitions to a side guide surface 58 and a bottom guide surface 60. In some respects, the opening channel 56 corresponds to the size and shape of the second opening segment 48 in the back plate 40. The side guide surface 58 and the bottom guide surface 60 can be formed as bevels or chamfers.

[0019] Returning to the back plate 40, a first pair of adjustment slots 62 are cut or formed at one end of the back plate 40, and a second pair of adjustment slots 64 are cut or formed at the other end of the back plate 40. The first pair of adjustment slots 62 and the second pair of adjustment slots 64 extend vertically on the back plate 40. The first pair of adjustment slots 62 are used to attach a first solenoid support 66 to the back plate 40. The first solenoid support 66 has a first member 68 orthogonal to the second member 70. The first member 68 and the second member 70 can be integrally formed, for example, from a bent sheet metal piece or angle iron. The first member 68 has a plurality of spaced-apart threaded mounting holes 72 formed therein. In some respects, the mounting holes 72 are positioned such that two mounting holes 72 align with each slot in the first pair of adjustment slots 62. Bolts or other attachment mechanisms can then pass through the first pair of adjustment slots 62 and screw into the mounting holes 72 to secure the first solenoid support 66 to the back plate 40. The first pair of adjustment slots 62 allow the first solenoid support 66 to be adjusted vertically on the back plate 40. The second component 70 of the first solenoid bracket 66 includes a pair of slots 74 that extend orthogonally from the plane of the back plate 40 when the first solenoid bracket 66 is attached to the back plate 40.

[0020] like Figure 4A As best shown, the first solenoid 76 is supported on the first solenoid bracket 66 and is connected to the first solenoid bracket 66 by bolts or screws, for example, using a slot 74. Figure 5 As best shown, the first solenoid 76 includes a first pin 78. The first solenoid 76 can be engaged to retract the pin 78, or disengaged to allow the pin 78 to extend from the first solenoid 76. The reverse is also true, as the first solenoid 76 can be engaged to extend the pin 78 and disengaged to retract the pin 78. In either case, the first solenoid 76 is operable to actuate the pin 78, for example, selectively extending and retracting the pin 78.

[0021] Similar to the discussion above, such as Figure 4A and Figure 6As best shown, the second pair of adjustment slots 64 are used to attach the second solenoid bracket 80 to the back plate 40. The second solenoid bracket 80 has a first member 82 orthogonal to the orientation of the second member 84. The first member 82 and the second member 84 can be integrally formed, for example, from a bent sheet metal piece or angle iron. The first member 82 has a plurality of spaced-apart threaded mounting holes 86 formed therein. In some respects, the mounting holes 86 are positioned such that two mounting holes 86 align with each slot in the second pair of adjustment slots 64. Bolts or other attachment mechanisms can then pass through the second pair of adjustment slots 64 and screw into the mounting holes 86 to secure the second solenoid bracket 80 to the back plate 40. The second pair of adjustment slots 64 allows the second solenoid bracket 80 to be vertically adjusted on the back plate 40. The second member 84 of the second solenoid bracket 80 includes a pair of slots 88 that extend orthogonally from the plane of the back plate 40 when the second solenoid bracket 80 is attached to the back plate 40. Figure 5 As best shown, the second solenoid 90 is supported on the second solenoid bracket 80 and is connected to the second solenoid bracket 80 by bolts or screws, for example, using a slot 88. The second solenoid 90 includes a second pin 92. The second solenoid 90 can be engaged to retract the pin 92, or disengaged to allow the pin 92 to extend from the second solenoid 90. The reverse is also true, as the second solenoid 90 can be engaged to extend the second pin 92 and disengaged to retract the second pin 92. In either case, the second solenoid 90 is operable to actuate the pin 92, for example, selectively extending and retracting the second pin 92.

[0022] like Figure 1 As shown, the first solenoid 76 and the second solenoid 90 are connected to a power source (not shown), a control box 93, and a controller 96. In one aspect, a release button 94 is added to the controller 96 of the motorized seat unit 10. The release button 94 is used to convey a desired state change of the first solenoid 76 and the second solenoid 90, as further described below. For example, the controller 96 may also have an open button 98 and an close button 100. In some aspects, the controller 96 is connected to a control box 93, which receives signals from the controller 96 and transmits them to, for example, the motor 18, the first solenoid 76, and the second solenoid 90.

[0023] In the first state, (e.g.) Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5As shown), the first pin 78 of the first solenoid 76 and the second pin 92 of the second solenoid 90 extend through corresponding openings 34 on the mounting tab 32 and 38 on the bracket 36, thereby connecting the drive block 28 and the motor 18 to the motor tube 16 and the linkage mechanism 12. In this first state, for example, when the user activates the open button 98, the operation of the motor 18 moves the drive block 28 forward, or for example, when the user activates the close button 100, the operation of the motor 18 moves the drive block 28 backward. For example, from Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, the user can activate the open button 98 to move to the desired position. Figure 2 The TV position. Similarly, the user can activate the close button 100 to move from the TV position to the folded position.

[0024] For example, if the motorized seat unit 10 is in Figure 2 In the TV position, and if the user wants to leave the motorized seat unit 10 faster than by using the close button 100 (and wait for the motor 18 to move the drive block 28, motor tube 16, and linkage mechanism 12 to their respective retracted positions), the user can press the release button 94. This will change the state of the first solenoid 76 and the second solenoid 90 to retract the first pin 78 and the second pin 92, so that the first pin 78 and the second pin 92 no longer extend through the corresponding opening 34 on the mounting tab 32 and the corresponding opening 38 on the bracket 36, thereby separating the drive block 28 and the motor 18 from the motor tube 16 and the linkage mechanism 12. In this second state, the user can apply force to the footrest linkage 102 of the linkage mechanism 12 (and the corresponding footrest, not shown) to manually move the linkage mechanism 12 and the motorized seat unit 10 to the retracted position, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0025] Note that in Figure 3 In the middle, drive block 28 remains in its Figure 2 The position of the TV is determined because the drive block 28 is separated from the motor drive tube 15. When the release button is activated, the control box 93 communicates with the motor 18 to move the drive block 28 to the retracted position. Figure 4B The drive block 28 is shown slightly before returning to the retracted position, while Figure 4AThe drive block 28 is shown returning to the folded position. When the linkage mechanism 12 is in the folded position (manually moved by the user), the corresponding opening 34 on the mounting tab 32 and the corresponding opening 38 on the bracket 36 are aligned again with the first pin 78 and the second pin 92. When the drive block 28 reaches the position corresponding to the folded position, the control box 93 sends a signal to the first solenoid 76 and the second solenoid 90 to return to the first state, moving the first pin 78 and the second pin 92 through the corresponding openings 34 and 38 to reconnect the drive block 28 and the motor 18 from the motor tube 16 and the linkage mechanism 12, so that the open button 98 and the close button 100 can be used to move the drive block 28, thereby moving the linkage mechanism 12 and the seat unit 10 between the folded position, the TV position, and the reclining position. Figure 5 A first pin 78 and a second pin 92 extending through openings 34 and 38 are shown to reconnect drive block 28 and motor 18 to motor tube 16 and linkage mechanism 12. In one aspect, control box 93 may also signal motor 18 to "jog" or slightly move drive block 28 forward and then slightly backward to ensure that the first pin 78 and the second pin 92 have properly extended through the corresponding openings 34 and 38.

[0026] Although the first solenoid 76 and the second solenoid 90 are described as moving the first pin 78 and the second pin 92 through the openings 34 and 38, the drive block 28 and the motor 18 can be selectively coupled to the motor tube 16 and the linkage mechanism 12 and disengaged from the motor tube 16 and the linkage mechanism 12 from a remote location (e.g., a button on the controller 96) using other coupling mechanisms.

[0027] Other aspects (referred to as "connection mechanisms") connecting the drive block 28 and the motor 18 to the motor tube 16 and the linkage mechanism 12, as well as those connecting from thereto, are also considered. In other embodiments described herein, each of the following aspects can be used to connect the motor 18 and the drive block 28 to the motor tube 16 and the linkage mechanism 12, as well as those connecting from thereto. Reference is made below to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The multiple features shown.

[0028] One coupling mechanism can be a wrap-spring clutch for connecting the linkage mechanism to the actuator. In one aspect, the wrap-spring clutch can consist of an input hub and an output hub, which are respectively attached to the motor 18 and the drive block 28 to move the drive block 28 forward or backward along the body 30. A helical coiled spring can span the two hubs. The inner diameter of the spring can be slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the hub to form an interference fit. Rotating the input hub in the direction of the spring helix forces the spring to wind downward around the hub, thereby engaging the motor 18 and the drive block 28 without slippage. Stopping the motor 18 or reversing its direction can unwind the spring and release the output hub, allowing the drive block 28 to rotate freely (overrun). In other words, the wrap-spring clutch can be unidirectional.

[0029] Another coupling mechanism includes a friction clutch. In one aspect, the friction clutch may consist of a receiving mechanism and an engaging mechanism, respectively attached to the motor 18 and the drive block 28, to move the drive block 28 forward or backward along the body. Engaging the receiving mechanism with the engaging mechanism can connect the receiving mechanism and the engaging mechanism, connecting the motor 18 to the drive block 28. In some aspects, engaging the receiving mechanism with the engaging mechanism may include rotating the engaging mechanism to engage the receiving mechanism. For example, the engaging mechanism may be threaded and rotated by the motor 18. In the same example, the receiving mechanism may be configured to receive the threaded engaging mechanism, thereby engaging the connected motor 18 and the drive block 28. In the same example, reversing the rotation of the engaging mechanism can separate the engaging mechanism from the receiving mechanism. In other words, the friction clutch can be bidirectional.

[0030] Another coupling mechanism includes the use of a magnetic clutch. In one aspect, the magnetic clutch may consist of an armature and an output hub, which are respectively coupled to the motor 18 and the drive block 28. The output hub may include a magnetic mechanism, such as an excitation coil / field coil, configured to engage the armature. When the output hub is engaged, a magnetic field can be generated to couple / connect the armature to the output hub, thereby connecting the motor 18 and the drive block 28. The output hub can be disengaged, removing the magnetic field and separating the armature from the output hub. An electromagnet or a permanent magnet can be used to generate the magnetic field.

[0031] In one aspect, the coupling mechanism can be a residual magnetic clutch for connecting the linkage mechanism and the actuator. Implementing a residual magnetic clutch allows for the provision of residual magnetic force to engage the output hub, and the storage of magnetic force when the output hub disengages. In some aspects, the residual magnetic clutch may include a coil with a magnetizing current to generate magnetic force to couple / connect the armature to the output hub.

[0032] On the other hand, a spring-loaded clutch collet can be used as a coupling mechanism. In one aspect, the spring-loaded clutch collet may include a circular drive member and a receiving member. Each of the circular drive member and the receiving member can be coupled to the motor 18 and the drive block 28, respectively. A spring can be attached to the circular drive member and tightly fitted around it. The receiving member can be configured to receive the spring, and similarly, the spring can be tightly fitted around the circular drive member. In some aspects, the spring is not coupled to the receiving member. The circular drive member can engage and couple the receiving member by rotating the spring connected via the motor 18 in the direction of the spring helix. When the spring is tightly fitted around the receiving member, the spring can tighten and couple the circular drive member to the receiving member. The circular drive member can similarly rotate in the opposite direction to disengage the spring from the receiving member. In this way, the spring-loaded clutch can engage and disengage the motor 18 from the drive block 28.

[0033] In another aspect of the coupling mechanism, a wedge clutch / brace clutch (also known as a "one-way clutch") can be implemented. The wedge clutch can include a drive unit and a receiving unit, respectively connected to the motor 18 and the drive block 28. The receiving unit can include multiple non-rotating and asymmetrical figure-eight wedges or some other one-way element. When a torque is applied in the opposite direction, each wedge may tilt slightly. The receiving unit can be configured to receive the drive block while engaging the wedges. For example, when the torque is applied clockwise, the wedges may tilt slightly, but when the torque is applied counterclockwise, each wedge may slide or freewheel. When the drive block rotates clockwise by the motor 18, the wedges may tilt to prevent the drive block from disengaging from the receiving unit. In this way, the wedge clutch can connect the linkage mechanism and the actuator.

[0034] On the other hand, the control box 93 can automatically reconnect the drive block 28. The control box 93 receives the position of the drive block 28. In some aspects, the control box 93 includes multiple sensors for determining the position of the drive block 28. In some aspects, the multiple sensors can communicate with the control box 93 to automatically reconnect the drive block 28.

[0035] Figure 8 This illustrates an aspect where motor 18 and drive block 28 can be automatically reconnected to motor tube 16 and linkage mechanism 12. As described herein, drive block 28 can disengage in response to an input signal from controller 96. Drive block 28 can be automatically reconnected to controller 93 based on a position indication received by controller 93 indicating that drive block 28 is in an aligned position with linkage mechanism 12.

[0036] When the coupling mechanism is disengaged / decoupled, the drive block 28 can move freely relative to the linkage mechanism 12. The controller 96 can communicate with the control box 93 to engage or disengage coupling mechanisms such as the first solenoid 76 and the second solenoid 90, or other coupling mechanisms described herein. The control box 93 can disengage the coupling mechanism, separating the drive block 28 from the linkage mechanism 12. When the drive block 28 is separated from the linkage mechanism 12, the user can manually move the linkage mechanism 12, for example, retract the linkage mechanism 12. For example, when the drive block 28 is separated from the linkage mechanism 12, the user can move the linkage mechanism 12, for example, at the footrest link 102 (in...). Figure 2 As described in [the document], a force is applied to retract the linkage mechanism 12. When the linkage mechanism 12 is in the fully retracted position, the drive block 28 can be positioned aligned with the linkage mechanism 12 and connected to the connecting mechanism. For example, moving the first pin 78 and the second pin 92 through the corresponding openings 34 and 38 reconnects the drive block 28 and the motor 18 from the motor tube 16 and the linkage mechanism 12, as [the document describes]. Figure 1-6 As shown.

[0037] Location indications can be received from multiple sources. For example... Figure 8 As shown, position indications are received from the first sensor 104 and / or the second sensor 106. As indicated, the first sensor 104 is positioned on or around the drive block 28, and the second sensor 106 may be positioned on or around the motor housing 22. In some aspects, the second sensor 106 may be positioned on the motor tube 16. The control box 93 can receive position indications from both the first sensor 104 and the second sensor 106. In other words, the first sensor 104 and the second sensor 106 can communicate with the control box 93.

[0038] The control box 93 can determine the alignment position based on the received positions of the first sensor 104 and / or the second sensor 106. The alignment position can indicate the position of the first sensor 104 and / or the second sensor 106, where the coupling mechanism can engage to connect the drive block 28 to the motor tube 16. For example, the control box 93 can determine the alignment position by receiving a position indication from the first sensor 104 on the drive block 28, indicating that the drive block 28 is at a distal position relative to the motor 18 along the body 30. The second sensor 106 can be on the motor tube 16 and indicate its proximity position relative to the motor 18 along the body 30. The control box 93 can determine that the motor tube 16 and the drive block 28 are not in a position where the coupling mechanism can engage to connect the motor tube 16 to the drive block 28. Conversely, when the control box 93 receives the positions of the first sensor 104 (on the drive block 28) and the second sensor 106 (on the motor tube 16) at the same position along the body 30, for example, at a position close to the motor 18 along the body 30, the control box 93 can engage the coupling mechanism.

[0039] In some respects, motor 18 may be a linear actuator with an integrated sensor (e.g., second sensor 106). For example, motor 18 may be a linear actuator in which an extension of the motor can move drive block 28 a considerable distance. The position of drive block 28 may be determined by a position indication from motor 18. In other respects, motor 18 may be a worm gear rack assembly in which the position of drive block 28 may be proportional to the number of revolutions of motor 18. Motor 18 may send an indication of the rotation and / or position of drive block 28 to control box 93. The position of drive block 28 may be determined by a position indication from motor 18. In these respects, first sensor 104 may be placed on motor tube 16. In these respects, control box 93 may communicate with motor 18 and first sensor 104. Control box 93 may determine the alignment position by determining the position of drive block 28 by the first sensor 104 on motor 18 and motor tube 16.

[0040] The alignment position may not be a "aligned / consistent" position of the motor tube 16 and the drive block 28. As described herein, the alignment position may be a collinear position of the motor tube 16 and the drive block 28, in which the coupling mechanism can engage and disengage. In some aspects, the motor tube 16 and the drive block 28 may not be on the same straight line, but offset, wherein the engaging coupling mechanism can slightly move the motor tube 16 and / or the drive block 28 to align the motor tube 16 and the drive block 28.

[0041] In some respects, the first sensor 104 may be a proximity sensor to receive position relative to the second sensor 106. In these respects, the first sensor 104 may be positioned on the drive block 28, and the second sensor 106 may be positioned on the motor tube 16. For example, the first sensor 104 may be a proximity sensor that provides alignment indication to the control box 93 when the second sensor 106 is within a specified distance.

[0042] The control box 93 can determine the alignment position using any combination of the methods and systems described herein. The control box 93 may implement a computer device including a processor and memory to store data relating to conditions (e.g., relative positions as described herein) of the first sensor 104 and / or the second sensor 106 indicating the alignment position. Further, in some aspects, the control box 93 may be an electromechanical system in which the alignment position forms circuitry to engage the coupling mechanism. In some further aspects, the control box 93 may be an electromechanical system in which the alignment position submits a signal to engage the coupling mechanism.

[0043] In various aspects, the control box 93 can engage the coupling mechanism at various locations along the body 30. As described herein, the control box 93 can engage the coupling mechanism at an aligned position where it can engage, coupling the drive block 28 to the motor tube 16. The aligned position can be at the midpoint of the body 30 or anywhere along the body 30. The aligned position can be along the body 30 at a proximity position relative to the motor 18, where the drive block 28 and the motor tube 16 are fully retracted, placing the linkage mechanism 12 in a retracted position. In some embodiments, the drive block 28 and the motor tube 16 must reach a specific position along the body 30 to engage the coupling mechanism. For example, the fully retracted position of the linkage mechanism 12 can position the motor tube 16 along the body 30 at a proximity position to the motor 18. In this example, the drive block 28 can be in a position aligned with the motor tube 16, and the motor tube 16 is in a proximity position to the motor 18. In some aspects of this example, when the drive block 28 and the motor tube 16 are aligned at the proximity position, the control box 93 can engage only the coupling mechanism.

[0044] In some respects, when the drive block 28 and / or the motor tube 16 moves, the control box 93 can engage the coupling mechanism at the aligned position. In some respects, the user or other external force can actuate the linkage mechanism 12, and when the linkage mechanism 12 is actuated, the motor tube 16 can move along the body 30. In these respects, if the drive block 28 and the motor tube 16 reach the aligned position during the actuation of the linkage mechanism 12, the control box 93 can engage the coupling mechanism when the linkage mechanism 12 and / or the drive block 28 moves.

[0045] Other optional aspects were also considered. Figure 9 This illustrates the situation where the mounting tab 32 can pull the mounting bracket 36 into the retracted position.

[0046] When the coupling mechanism is released (e.g., automatically or by means of...), Figure 1 (See and discuss the release button 94). The drive block 28 can move freely along the body 30. As mentioned above, when released, the linkage mechanism 12 can move freely. In some respects, it is conceivable that when the linkage mechanism is released and manually adjusted, the linkage mechanism 12 may not be placed in the retracted position (see reference). Figure 8 (as described).

[0047] The drive block 28 can contact the mounting bracket 36 to place the linkage mechanism 12 in the retracted position. The drive block 28 can contact the mounting bracket 36 by shifting towards it. In some respects, the drive block 28 can move along the body 30 beyond the alignment position (see reference). Figure 8 As described, the mounting tab 32 contacts the mounting bracket 36. In some aspects, the mounting tab 32 may abut the mounting bracket 36. The drive block 28 can then be moved along the body 30 to the retracted position, while simultaneously moving the mounting bracket 36 and the linkage mechanism 12 to the retracted position.

[0048] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 In some respects, the control box 93 can determine that the linkage mechanism 12 is not in the retracted position. The control box 93 can cause the drive block 28 to contact the mounting bracket 36 to place the linkage mechanism 12 in the retracted position. In some respects, the control box 93 can place the linkage mechanism 12 in the retracted position via the drive block before engaging the coupling mechanism.

[0049] In summary, the various aspects described herein are well suited to achieving all the purposes and objectives set forth above, as well as other obvious advantages inherent in the structure. It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and can be used without reference to other features and sub-combinations. This is contemplated by the claims and is within the scope of the claims. Since many possible aspects can be made without departing from the scope of the invention, it should be understood that everything set forth herein or shown in the drawings should be interpreted as illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A motorized positioning device for a seat unit, the device comprising: A pair of fundamentally mirror-image linkage mechanisms, the linkage mechanisms having multiple links that control the movement of the footrest; A fixed track connecting the linkage mechanism between the pair of basic mirror images; A motor tube connected to at least one of the plurality of links of each linkage mechanism; a motor assembly including a body connected to a fixed track and a drive block slidably extending through the body, the drive block including a mounting bracket; a coupling mechanism connected to the motor tube and selectively coupled to the mounting bracket, wherein engaging the coupling mechanism means coupling the coupling mechanism to the mounting bracket; and a control box for receiving the position of the mounting bracket relative to the coupling mechanism, determining that the position indicates that the mounting bracket is aligned with the coupling mechanism, and engaging the coupling mechanism with the mounting bracket based on the determination that the mounting bracket is aligned with the coupling mechanism.

2. The motorized positioning device according to claim 1 further includes a fixed track connected between a pair of fundamental mirror images of a connecting mechanism.

3. The motorized positioning device according to claim 1, wherein, Disengaging the coupling mechanism means separating the coupling mechanism from the mounting bracket; the motorized positioning device also includes a controller for receiving input signals, and the input signals received by the controller disengage the coupling mechanism from the mounting bracket.

4. The motorized positioning device according to claim 1, wherein, The motor assembly includes a motor operable to move a drive block along the body.

5. The motorized positioning device according to claim 1, wherein, The coupling mechanism includes a pair of solenoid supports, each solenoid support including a pair of pins; engaging the coupling mechanism includes engaging the pair of pins that can be received by an opening in the mounting bracket.

6. The motorized positioning device of claim 1 further includes a back plate connected to the motor tube, wherein the back plate connects the coupling mechanism to the motor tube, and the back plate includes an opening for receiving the body.

7. The motorized positioning device according to claim 6, wherein, The backplate can slide along the main body, thereby moving the motor tube and the linkage mechanism of the pair of mirrors to control the movement of the footrest.

8. A motorized positioning device for a seat unit, the device comprising: A pair of fundamentally mirror-image linkage mechanisms, the linkage mechanisms having multiple links that control the movement of the footrest, backrest, and seat; The rear base track is connected between a pair of linkage mechanisms; A motor tube connected to at least one of the plurality of links of each linkage mechanism; a motor assembly including a body connected to a rear base track, a drive block, a mounting bracket including an opening, and a motor connected to the drive block to enable the drive block to slide along the body; a coupling mechanism connected to the motor tube and selectively coupled to the mounting bracket, wherein disengaging the coupling mechanism means separating the coupling mechanism from the mounting bracket using the opening, and engaging the coupling mechanism means engaging the coupling mechanism with the mounting bracket; a controller for receiving an input signal, wherein the received input signal disengages the coupling mechanism from the mounting bracket at a first position along the body; And a control box for engaging the coupling mechanism with the mounting bracket at a second position along the body.

9. The motorized positioning device according to claim 8, wherein, The second position is along the proximity of the body to the motor assembly, and the first position is along the distance of the body from the motor assembly.

10. The motorized positioning device according to claim 8, wherein, The selective coupling state enables the drive block to move along the main body to move the motor tube and actuate the linkage mechanism of the pair of basic mirror images.

11. The motorized positioning device according to claim 8, wherein, The control box receives an indication of the position of the mounting bracket along the main body, and engages the coupling mechanism when the control box receives an indication that the mounting bracket is in a second position.

12. The motorized positioning device according to claim 8, wherein, The control box receives an indication from the motor assembly corresponding to the position of the mounting bracket along the body, and engages the coupling mechanism when the control box receives an indication from the motor assembly corresponding to the second position.

Images