Single-Motor Powered Recliner Chairs with Remote Venue Control

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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 which could simplify maintenance and venue management.

Innovation Solution

A powered recliner chair system that includes multiple chairs assigned to control groups, allowing remote operation via a master controller using hardwired or wireless networks, with actuators and control modules enabling independent orientation and integrated smart power supplies to manage chair operations efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple motors are used for multi-positional functions, then chair functionality is improved, but device size and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-positional functionVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple motor functions into a single integrated motor unit. The motor assembly includes a motor, drive shaft, and multiple linkages that work together to provide both lifting and reclining functions, eliminating the need for separate motors for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single motor is designed to perform multiple functions through different mechanical linkages. The same motor can drive the chair lifting mechanism and the reclining mechanism, making one component serve universal purposes that previously required multiple specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple motors are used for multi-positional functions, then chair functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-positional functionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple motor functions into a single integrated motor unit. The motor assembly includes a motor, drive shaft, and multiple linkages that work together to provide both lifting and reclining functions, eliminating the need for separate motors for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single motor is designed to perform multiple functions through different mechanical linkages. The same motor can drive the chair lifting mechanism and the reclining mechanism, making one component serve universal purposes that previously required multiple specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If local control only is used, then chair operation simplicity is maintained, but maintenance and management efficiency decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation simplicityVSAvoidmaintenance efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a control system with sensors and processors that act as intermediaries between the user and the motor mechanisms. The control system can detect chair position, monitor motor status, and enable both local user control and remote maintenance management, bridging the gap between simple operation and efficient maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates sensors that provide feedback about chair position, motor status, and system health to both local controls and remote monitoring systems. This feedback mechanism enables automated diagnostics and remote management while preserving simple local operation for users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3788913A1Powered chairs for public venues, assemblies for use in powered chairs, and components for use in assemblies for use in powered chairs
Publication Date: 2021.03.10 JACOBS FREDERICK
  • EP3788913A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3788913A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3788913A1 patent drawingFigure 3

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.