Powered Recliner Chair with Single-Motor Multi-Position Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional powered recliner chairs require multiple motors for multi-positional functions, leading to large and expensive units, and are typically controlled only locally, lacking remote operation capabilities and efficient load support mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A powered recliner chair system with an actuator drive motor and controller that uses electrical pulses to reorient the chair, incorporating a recliner mechanism system with components like cables, hard stops, or gas-charged pistons, and a seating assembly with a reorientable tray and electrical components, along with a venue management system that includes remote control and sensing features for 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:
A single motor is designed to perform multiple functions (lift, tilt, leg rest extension, and reclining) through a unified drive mechanism with selective engagement, eliminating the need for separate motors for each function and reducing overall system complexity and cost
2Adaptability or versatility
If power drive and power return functions are incorporated, then the chair can extend leg rest and recline, but the drive mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The power drive mechanism and power return mechanism are merged into a single integrated system where the same motor and linkage structure perform both extension and retraction functions, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall drive mechanism
3Strength
If the chair is designed to support heavy loads above 300 pounds, then it can accommodate heavier users, but multiple motors are required
Solution Approach 1:
A single high-capacity motor with optimized mechanical advantage through the linkage system replaces what would traditionally require multiple lower-capacity motors, achieving heavy load support (above 300 pounds) through improved mechanical efficiency rather than increased motor quantity
4Ease of operation
If only local control is provided, then the chair can be operated by the occupant, but remote operation capabilities are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed with dual control modes (local and remote) that share the same actuator and control circuitry, allowing the chair to be operated either by the occupant locally or by a caregiver remotely through a wireless interface, expanding operational versatility without adding separate 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
The system enables cost-effective, remotely controlled, and efficient operation of powered recliner chairs, reducing maintenance and cleaning time, while supporting heavy loads and providing enhanced user interaction and venue management capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator having an actuator drive motor
Implementation Method 2
a recliner mechanism system with components like cables, hard stops, or gas-charged pistons
Data Source
AI summary
Powered chairs, assemblies for use in the powered chairs, and components for use in the assemblies are provided. Electrical systems for use in the powered chairs, and components for use in the electrical systems are provided. Control systems and methods for operating powered chairs are also provided. Any given chair may be locally and/or remotely controlled.