Powered Glider Recliner Linkage With Sequenced Actuator Phases
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing glider recliners require complex linkage mechanisms for powered adjustment between reclined, extended, and closed positions, which limits the integration of motors and interferes with internal crossbeams or the glide assembly.
Innovation Solution
A simplified, compact linkage mechanism that uses a linear actuator with sequenced phases to adjust the glider recliner between positions, ensuring the footrest is extended before the backrest reclines, allowing for full powered adjustment without interfering with crossbeams or the glide assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a complex linkage mechanism is used to provide powered adjustment between reclined, extended, and closed positions, then full adjustment capability is achieved, but the device complexity increases and motor integration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: a first linkage portion connecting the motor to the footrest assembly for extension/collapse, and a second linkage portion connecting to the backrest for reclining/raising. This segmentation allows independent control of different adjustment phases and simplifies the overall mechanism design.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism is designed to perform preliminary actions in a specific sequence: the footrest assembly extends or collapses first (first phase), and only after this phase is substantially complete does the backrest begin to recline or raise (second phase). This sequencing is achieved through the mechanical design of the linkage portions and their connection points.
2Extent of automation
If a complex linkage mechanism is used for powered adjustment, then full position adjustment is achieved, but interference with internal crossbeams and glide assembly occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism utilizes the vertical dimension and diagonal spacing between crossbeams to route its components. By connecting attachment points at different heights and locations on the seat assembly, the mechanism achieves full adjustment range without requiring excessive horizontal space that would interfere with the glide assembly's movement path.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism components are arranged to nest within the existing structural framework of the glider recliner. The linkage portions are positioned to fit within the space defined by the crossbeams and side frames, allowing the mechanism to operate without expanding the overall footprint or interfering with the glide assembly.
3Device complexity
If the linkage mechanism is simplified and compacted, then motor integration and space efficiency improve, but the ability to provide sequenced adjustment may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A sequence link acts as an intermediary component between the two linkage portions. This single additional element mechanically couples the footrest linkage and backrest linkage, ensuring that the footrest assembly completes its extension or collapse before the backrest begins its reclining or raising motion. The sequence link translates the motor's linear motion into the required sequential rotational motions of both linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The sequence link merges the control functions of both linkage portions into a single coordinated system. By attaching this intermediate link to both the first and second linkage portions, the mechanism combines their movements into a unified sequenced operation, achieving complex coordinated motion through a simple additional component rather than requiring complex control systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables cost-effective, automated, and space-efficient adjustment between reclined, extended, and closed positions, providing zero-wall clearance and versatile styling options without compromising the movement of the glide assembly.
Implementation Method 1
Generally, the glider recliner is powered by a linear actuator that assists adjustment of a linkage mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A glider-recliner-style seating unit (glider recliner) that includes a linkage mechanism adapted to move the glider recliner between closed, extended, and reclined positions is provided. The glider recliner is powered by a linear actuator that facilitates automated adjustment of the linkage mechanism. This adjustment of the linear actuator is sequenced into a first phase and a second phase. A stroke of the linear actuator in the first phase acts to adjust the linkage mechanism between the closed and extended positions by extending or retracting ottoman(s) attached to a footrest assembly. A stroke in the second phase acts to adjust the linkage mechanism between the extended and reclined positions by translating a seat-mounting plate forward or rearward at a consistent inclination angle while, concurrently, tilting a back-mounting link. Accordingly, the phase sequencing ensures that the linkage mechanism commences adjustment within the second phase only once the first-phase adjustment is substantially complete.