Powered chairs for public venues, assemblies for use in powered chairs, and components for use in assemblies for use in powered chairs
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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 are typically controlled only locally, lacking remote operation capabilities and efficient maintenance solutions.
Innovation Solution
A powered recliner chair system with actuators and a control module that allows local and remote operation, featuring a smart power supply to manage multiple chairs, enabling remote control and automatic reorientation, and incorporating sensors and lighting for enhanced safety 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 linkage mechanism that translates rotational motion into multiple directional movements. This universal motor design eliminates the need for separate motors for each function, reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining full multi-positional capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate drive mechanisms into a unified system where one motor controls all chair movements through interconnected linkages. The linkage mechanism merges the functions of multiple actuators into a single coordinated system, reducing the number of components and simplifying the overall structure
2Strength
If power-assisted chairs are designed to support heavy loads above 300 pounds, then the chair can accommodate heavier individuals, but multiple motors are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces a multi-motor mechanical system with a single motor coupled to a mechanical linkage system. The linkage mechanism provides mechanical advantage through levers and connecting rods, enabling one motor to generate sufficient force for heavy load support without requiring multiple high-power motors, thus reducing system complexity while maintaining strength
3Ease of operation
If only local control is provided, then the chair can be controlled by the occupant, but remote operation capabilities and efficient maintenance solutions are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote control device as an intermediary between the user and the chair's control system. This remote control communicates wirelessly with the chair's controller, enabling remote operation for maintenance personnel or users with mobility limitations, while the local control system remains intact for direct user operation, thus adding versatility without compromising ease of operation
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 reduces maintenance costs and improves operational efficiency by allowing remote control of multiple chairs, automatic reorientation, and enhanced safety features, while maintaining cost-effectiveness and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator having a first input and a second input. The actuator may be configured to reorient at least a portion of the powered recliner chair between an upright orientation and a reclined orientation in response to the first input
Data Source
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AI summary
Powered recliner chairs are currently available that operate individually, such that an occupant of the respective chair may reorient the respective chair between an upright orientation and a reclined orientation via a local control. Powered recliner chairs, assemblies 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.