Powered Recliner Mechanism for Independent Back and Leg Rest Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing furniture mechanisms require manual effort to rotate the seat back and extend the leg rest independently, and power actuators typically operate these components sequentially, lacking independent and simultaneous control.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism utilizing two electrically operated actuator devices to independently or simultaneously control the seat back and leg rest, with a pantograph linkage set and rocker spring assembly for tilt and rocking motions, allowing for independent operation of both components and automatic tilt during leg rest extension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to rotate seat back and extend leg rest, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to required manual effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with electrically operated actuator devices. The first actuator device rotates the seat back member between upright and reclined positions, while the second actuator device extends and retracts the leg rest member, eliminating the need for manual effort while maintaining controlled movement through automated mechanical systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If power actuators operate seat back and leg rest sequentially, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates due to lack of independent control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the furniture member mechanism into two independently controlled actuator devices: a first actuator device for seat back rotation and a second actuator device for leg rest extension. This segmentation allows each component to be controlled independently or simultaneously, providing versatile operational modes (independent operation, simultaneous operation, or sequential operation) while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular design.
3Loss of time
If leg rest must extend before seat back rotation, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases due to sequential operation requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control capabilities where the actuator devices can operate in different sequences or simultaneously based on user preference. The system allows the seat back member to rotate and the leg rest member to extend in any order or at the same time, eliminating the rigid sequential operation constraint and reducing the time required to achieve the desired furniture member position.
Data Source
AI summary
A furniture member mechanism includes a first actuator device electrically operated to displace first and second seat back actuation links connected to and operating to rotate a seat back member between upright and fully reclined positions. A pantograph linkage set connected to a leg rest member is at least partially supported in an extended position by rotational contact with a support rod. A second actuator device identical to the first actuator device is electrically operated to axially rotate a drive rod connected to a drive link. The drive link is connected to and displaces the pantograph linkage set between the stowed and extended positions. A swing lever rotatably connected to the support rod is rotated during operation of the second actuator device to extend the pantograph linkage set. The swing lever in a fully rotated position displaces the support rod creating a furniture member tilt position.