Powered Recliner Chair Control for Remote Venue Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional powered recliner chairs require multiple motors for multi-positional functions, leading to large and expensive units, and lack remote control capabilities, limiting user convenience and venue management efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A venue seating management system with a chair controller that integrates local and remote control inputs, sensors, and actuators, allowing for centralized management of multiple powered recliner chairs, including electric power supply and demand management, to enable efficient operation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple motors are used for multi-positional functions, then the chair can provide lift, tilt, leg rest, and reclining functions, but the chair becomes extremely large and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple chair functions (lift, tilt, leg rest, reclining) into a single motor system. The motor is capable of performing all these functions through a unified drive mechanism, eliminating the need for separate motors for each function. This reduces device complexity while maintaining full adaptability and versatility of the chair.
2Adaptability or versatility
If power drive and power return functions are incorporated, then the chair can extend and retract the leg rest and produce reclining movement, but the drive mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power drive function and power return function into a single integrated drive mechanism. The same motor and transmission system that extends the leg rest and produces reclining movement also automatically returns these components to their initial positions. This merging of functions simplifies the overall drive mechanism while maintaining full operational versatility.
3Ease of operation
If only local control is provided, then the chair can be operated by the occupant, but remote control capabilities and venue management efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to accept multiple types of control inputs through a single unified controller. It can process both local control signals from the occupant and remote control signals from external devices. This multi-functional control capability enhances adaptability while maintaining ease of local operation.
4Strength
If the chair is designed to support heavy loads above 300 pounds, then it can accommodate heavier individuals, but multiple motors are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves heavy load support capability by changing the parameters of a single motor system rather than adding multiple motors. The motor is designed with increased torque capacity and the drive mechanism is optimized for high-load operation. This allows the chair to support loads above 300 pounds while maintaining a simple single-motor configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Powered recliner chairs, assemblies for use in the chairs, and components for use in the assemblies are provided. Electrical systems for use in the chairs, and components for use in the assemblies are provided. Control systems and methods for operating powered recliner chairs are also provided. Any given chair may be locally and/or remotely controlled.