Wall Proximity Recliner Linkage Using Weight-Driven Return
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional reclining furniture mechanisms require a large number of moving parts and spring biasing elements, increasing manufacturing time and costs, and often inhibit the rocking action when the leg rest is extended, necessitating an improved mechanism that simplifies the design and eliminates these disadvantages.
Innovation Solution
A furniture member actuation mechanism utilizing opposed side plates with polymeric motion inserts and a pantograph linkage system, which allows for rearward rotation and weight-induced return of the seat back support elements, and a cam system to adjust the load on the leg rest support arms, eliminating the need for spring biasing elements and enhancing the reclining and rocking functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional reclining mechanisms use spring biasing elements and multiple moving parts, then the leg rest can be returned from extended position, but the manufacturing time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes spring biasing elements from the mechanism, extracting the problematic component that caused manufacturing complexity. The leg rest return function is achieved through gravity and geometric linkage design instead of elastic elements, reducing part count and manufacturing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism uses the occupant's own weight and gravity to automatically return the leg rest to the retracted position without requiring external power sources or elastic elements. The linkage geometry is designed so that the return motion is passive and self-driven.
2Ease of operation
If conventional mechanisms include multiple moving parts, then the reclining function can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into fewer components. The linkage system integrates the leg rest support, return mechanism, and positioning functions into a unified geometric structure rather than using separate springs, dampers, and actuators for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using active elements (springs) to push the leg rest back, the patent uses passive elements (linkage geometry and gravity) to achieve the same effect. The mechanism inverts the conventional approach by relying on the natural weight of the leg rest and occupant rather than elastic recovery.
3Adaptability or versatility
If detente mechanism is used to provide multiple functional positions, then the leg rest can be held at successive positions, but the chair frame rocks backward when leg rest moves between positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic linkage system that adapts its geometry throughout the motion range, allowing smooth transitions between positions without rigid detente stops. The mechanism maintains continuous contact and force distribution, preventing sudden shifts that would cause frame rocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage geometry parameters are designed to change continuously throughout the leg rest's motion, providing natural positioning at different angles without discrete detente mechanisms. This continuous parameter variation ensures stable force distribution and prevents frame instability during position transitions.
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 mechanism simplifies the frame structure, reduces the number of parts required, and provides a smooth reclining and rocking experience by using occupant weight for return motion, while allowing for adjustable load support and independent leg rest positioning, thus improving comfort and manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
opposed first and second side plates, having first and second polymeric motion inserts... Each motion insert has an elongated slot. A first pin is inserted through the elongated slot of the first motion insert. A second pin is inserted through the elongated slot of the second motion insert
Implementation Method 2
first forward oriented link member and a first rearward oriented link member both connect the first side plate to the first lateral element. Second forward and rearward oriented link members both connect the second side plate to the second lateral element. A first cross brace connects the first and second forward oriented link members. A second cross brace connects the first and second rearward oriented link members
Data Source
AI summary
A furniture member actuation mechanism includes first and second side plates with polymeric inserts each having an elongated slot each receiving a first or second pin. First and second seat back support elements are provided, the first element rotatably coupled to the first side plate and rotatably linked to the first pin and the second element rotatably coupled to the second side plate and rotatably linked to the second pin. First and second leg rest support arms are each connected by a pantograph linkage set to a drive rod disposed through the side plates. A rearward force applied by an occupant to the support elements rotates them rearward with the first and second pins sliding within the elongated slots. An occupant's weight when the rearward force is removed returns the support elements to a pre-rotation position. A cam adjusts a weight a leg rest can hold.