Linear actuator and linkage system for an ottoman of riser-mounted theater seat chairs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ottoman systems in theater seat chairs with coiled springs and over-center locking mechanisms are inefficient, difficult to manipulate, and require additional locking mechanisms to maintain the ottoman in extended or retracted positions, lacking mechanical advantage and ease of movement.
Innovation Solution
A linear actuator and linkage system with horizontally oriented forces, eliminating the need for over-center locking mechanisms, where the actuator exerts push and pull forces perpendicular to the ottoman linkage system, enhancing mechanical efficiency and ease of movement between extended and retracted positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If coiled springs and over-center locking mechanisms are used to bias the ottoman toward extended position, then the ottoman can be moved from retracted to extended position, but the system requires additional locking mechanisms and exhibits poor mechanical advantage making it difficult to manipulate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the coiled springs and over-center locking mechanisms from the system, replacing them with a linear actuator that directly controls ottoman movement. This extraction of problematic components eliminates the need for additional locking mechanisms and simplifies the overall system while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical spring-based biasing system with a linear actuator that uses motorized control to move the ottoman. This substitution transforms the mechanical advantage problem into a controlled actuation system that requires no locking mechanisms and operates with superior mechanical efficiency.
2Force
If coiled springs are stretched to bias the ottoman toward extended position, then the ottoman can be held in extended position, but the springs exert forces parallel to the retracted ottoman board requiring overcoming of over-center locking disposition
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using springs to pull the ottoman forward (along the direction of motion), the linear actuator pushes the ottoman backward (opposite to the spring direction). This inversion of the force application direction eliminates the need to overcome spring tension and over-center locking forces, providing superior mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the spring-based force generation system with a linear actuator that generates force through motorized means. This substitution eliminates the directional force limitations of springs and provides controlled push/pull forces that optimize mechanical advantage throughout the ottoman's travel range.
3Reliability
If over-center locking mechanism is used to maintain ottoman at retracted position, then the ottoman can be held in place, but additional locking mechanisms are required and the system exhibits poor mechanical advantage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the over-center locking mechanism entirely from the system. The linear actuator maintains the ottoman in both extended and retracted positions through controlled actuation, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms while maintaining reliable position holding through the actuator's inherent control capabilities.
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
The linear actuator and linkage system provides superior mechanical advantage, enabling efficient and effortless movement of the ottoman, eliminating the need for locking devices and allowing the system to be compactly stored beneath the seat, suitable for riser-mounted theater seats.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator which has its motor end pivotally connected to a mounting bracket fixedly mounted upon a frame member of the chair, and the extendable/retractable tube or rod pivotally connected to a cross-beam
Data Source
AI summary
A linear actuator and linkage system for an ottoman of a powered chair is disclosed an comprises an ottoman support upon which an ottoman is to be supported, a frame member, a plurality of linkage members operatively connecting the ottoman support to the frame member and for moving the ottoman support between a first closed/retracted position and a second open/extended position, and a linear actuator operatively connected to the plurality of linkage members for exerting a push force, in a first horizontally oriented direction, upon the plurality of linkage members, and for exerting a pull force in a second oppositely oriented horizontal direction upon the plurality of linkage members, the horizontally oriented forces providing the system with an enhanced mechanical advantage for easily moving the ottoman support. The powered chair is also uniquely adapted for use as a theater seat within stadium-type seating.